Who Knew WashU? 4.13.16

Thurtene Carnival brought students, faculty, St. Louisans, and about 1,900 alumni and friends to campus for a weekend of fun. (James Byard/WUSTL Photos)
Thurtene Carnival brings students, faculty and staff, St. Louisans, and hundreds of alumni and friends to campus for a weekend of fun. (Photo: James Byard/Washington University)

Question: What was the name of the precursor to Thurtene Carnival (which will take place this weekend, April 15-17, in front of Brookings Hall on the Danforth Campus)?

A) St. Louis Children’s Festival B) Univee Surkuss C) Carnaval Université D) Twelve

Answer: B) The first student-run carnival, Univee Surkuss, was held in May 1907. General admission was 10 cents, sideshows were a nickel, and proceeds were donated to the Athletic Association. (The Thurtene honorary group began sponsoring the carnival in the 1930s.)