During preparation for the construction of the Clement Recreation Center a treasure trove was discovered. While cleaning out a storage shed used by the athletic department boxes of old football game films were discovered, lost for years. They covered approximate half a century, starting in 1940, of college sports, activities and traditions.

It is to the credit of those who found these films to recognize their worth and preserve them for posterity. As a result, it has been decided to make these films available to the public via Otterbein’s Digital Commons. The first part of the project covers the years 1940-1958. The films not only show athletic contests but also some show pregame activities, homecoming celebrations and school spirit, some in color. Essentially, they show college life in a simpler time before society’s transition to the world we know today.

All films are silent. There is no audio.

Digitization of these films was made possible through the generosity of the Otterbein "O" Club and the Clements Foundation.