Marquette University began publishing The Hilltop student annual in 1915. Advisors from the nascent College of Journalism provided administrative oversight, while the Marquette University Press directed printing.

The Hilltop yearbooks offer a glimpse into the evolution of Wisconsin's largest private university. The 82 volumes contain more than 28,000 pages and include a wealth of information about the faculty, the physical growth of the Marquette campus, intercollegiate athletics, and student activities. Prepared by undergraduates, they feature the serious and the silly, including generational fads spanning most of the twentieth century. As products of their era, The Hilltop yearbooks occasionally feature terminology and references which are objectionable today.

The yearbooks also provide a fascinating look at the surrounding neighborhood and the City of Milwaukee. Hilltop photographers documented the development of Lake Park, the construction of Interstate 43, the growth of Summerfest, and the always changing face of Wisconsin Avenue, among scores of other events and activities.

In 1997-1999 the yearbooks were issued in a CD-ROM format in order to reduce production costs. These electronic editions are not yet available via this site, but may be viewed in the Raynor Library and the University Archives. Waning student interest led to the discontinuation of the Hilltop in 1999.

Obtaining a Yearbook or Photograph

Copies of many yearbooks may be purchased from the University Archives. Editions from 1922-1949 are available for $25.00; 1950-1996 cost $15.00. Shipping and handling fees are included.

Copies of original photographic prints appearing in The Hilltop may be available for a small fee. Please write to an archivist or telephone (414) 288-7256 for additional information regarding obtaining a yearbook or photograph