Edith Stella had saved enough money to enter Colorado Agricultural College in the fall of 1908 at the age of 23 1/2. After finishing high school in Longmont, she worked as a teacher in Greeley, Colorado, saving her money so that she could attend college.
Edith majored in Domestic Science and was a serious student. Among her activities Edith was a member of the debate team, conservatory of music and involved in the YWCA. In summer of 1909 she worked at Steads Ranch in Estes Park with other college girls. She completed her studies in December 1911 and graduated in the class of 1912.
Orville started college as a part time student in 1904 and graduated in 1910. He rented a room in Mrs. Nelson’s barn. When Edith entered college, she also lived with the Nelson's but inside their home. This is where Edith and Orville first met one another.
“Here we stayed up at night studying college algebra together,” Orville wrote. “One day, Edith and I took a very pleasant walk along the Cache-La-Poudre River at Fort Collins, Colorado. At another occasion we attended a senior football game. We also made a trip to Highlandlake where she first attended school.” O.G.B.
“In April 1910, another trek was made to Horsetooth Mountain, west of Fort Collins, Colorado. Several of mother’s friends and myself made the trip with horse and buggies. Everybody climbed the middle tooth. It was on this trip that Edith and I became affectionate. I kissed her and one girl caught us in the act. After that we were very careful. All went well, everyone had a wonderful time.” O.G.B.
The Domestic Science Club was organized in October 1909. The objectives of the DSC as stated in the booklet: “The object of this organization is to discuss the events and activities occurring in the lines of home economics, to promote the interest of the girls in such work, and incidentally to increase the social spirit among the girls. The club holds its meetings the third Monday of each month.”
“While attending the Colorado State University, Mother (Edith) and a group of girls made a trip to the top of Pikes Peak. I gave her the 4 x 5 camera and all folders filled with unexposed slides. She took several pictures. Everybody had a wonderful time and returned to the college safely and happy.” O.G.B.
Over 100 years after her parents graduated from what is now Colorado State in Ft. Collins, Edith May Babcock visited the library to look through yearbooks and other items from the years her parents attended. She also brought along photographs of her parents, Edith and Orville, from those early years which she donated to the school.
