Pointing to accidental injuries and deaths on other campuses related to horseplay, 1929 Sophomore Class President Harry Stone explained that the class was voluntarily abolishing the traditional paddle line for freshmen because it would become a “serious menace.” Besides, noted Stone in the Oklahoma A&M Magazine, the school’s administration was moving to stop the practice itself if necessary.

Whew! One less thing for a freshman to worry about. Now, where's that beanie?