Found in the Archives: Bathroom Tissue

Travel abroad sometimes inspires people to collect rather unusual souvenirs, an example of which was recently found in the University Archives.  In 1949 St. Catherine’s sponsored a group of 13 students and their group leader to travel across Europe. From July 1st to August 25th they visited England, Scotland, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and France through the program American Youth Abroad. 

Among the documents recording their travel plans we found an envelope labeled “Samples of Bathroom Tissue in Europe 1949.” Inside there were in fact 8 pieces of bathroom tissue, sadly not labeled by country. Was this tissue paper particularly unique or was it simply an inexpensive and amusing souvenir? So far no other information has been found so we can only guess.

As we discover more of these interesting artifacts we’ll keep you updated with our new Found in the Archives blog series.

The tour group with members of the Swiss Guard
in the Pontifical Chambers in Vatican City, July 29, 1949.

Update: February 27, 2014

Your request is granted.  Below is a picture of the sheets of tissue, along with the envelope they were in.  You may not be able to tell from the photo, but Charmin they are not!