San Diego State University Twirlers in Indian Headdress

Historic Pics of SDSU Twirlers in Headdress

San Diego State University (SDSU) has faced significant controversy over its Aztec mascot since the early 2000s. Based on our research, it appears that twirlers stopped wearing headdresses in the 1970s. There is ongoing debate in the United States and beyond about cultural appropriation of Native Americans. Some twirlers and majorette lines still wear headdresses and Native American-inspired costumes including some high schools. 

Twirlers in the Aztec Bowl Stadium, 1960s

Unidentified baton twirlers perform in costume during a day game halftime show in the Aztec Bowl stadium, 1960s.

Five twirlers from SDSU pose in front of Hepner Hall, 1965
Twirlers in Indian Headdress

Nancy Gorrell, Sue Shoop, Nancy Orell, Barbara Stuckey and Judy Tschogl, 1965

 

University of Kentucky Sweetheart Head Majorettes and Feature Twirler

Unidentified Twirler dressed in the same costume, circa 1965.

Judy Tschogl, 1965
SDSU Twirlers 1965

Betty Blair, Marilyn Taliaferro, and Donna Almgren, 1948

 

Three San Diego State baton twirlers in Aztec-themed costumes complete with headdress. The twirlers are Betty Blair, Marilyn Taliaferro, and Donna Almgren.

Neon Majorette
The Neon Majorette, one of the most iconic Greater San Diego landmark was a big favorite at a local drive-in theater beginning in the 1940s. It was moved to a new cinema at College Grove Center in the late 1980s. Following the demolition of that theater, it was was relocated in 2000 and was rededicated during a festive lighting ceremony. It remains the most iconic majorette sign in the world.
University of Kentucky Sweetheart Majorettes

Jonnie Long, Jeri Berg, Janet Hall, Sharon Hicks, and June Keith, 1957

 

Kentucky Twirlers 1973
Majorette Boot Clipart

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