Chris Akin Adams was first Miss Homecoming in 1963 and then Miss Auburn from 1965 to 1966. She is the only lady in Auburn’s history to serve both titles. As Miss Auburn, she desired to do more for the title than be a figurehead. She saw the need for a group of hostesses for different events on campus. It was then determined, with the assistance of SGA President George McMillan, that the girls would be named the War Eagle Girls. Then, 25 girls were selected by a panel of judges to begin one of Auburn’s most unique traditions.
In 1968, Tom Eden, a 1950 graduate of Alabama Polytechnic Institute, was appointed by the Vice President of Extension, Dr. Fred Robertson, as the first Conference Director for Auburn University. While in that position, he was mindful of the fact that projecting a good image was a vital factor in attracting groups to hold meetings and conferences in Auburn.
Under the direction of the President’s office, the War Eagle Girls served as official hostesses for campus visitors and various administration meetings. He wanted to stabilize this student group as the face of Auburn, projecting an outstanding image. Initially, he proposed official male escorts for these young ladies to provide support and safety for their well-being. After receiving approval and support from the War Eagle Girls, he developed a Constitution and By-Laws that included the male escorts to be named the Plainsmen. Eden then proceeded to canvas the university for male students who had already been elected to prominent positions on campus.
In the fall of 1968, the student body, administration, faculty, Auburn Alumni Association, and the City of Auburn recognized the War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen as the official hostesses and hosts of the university. The uniforms, duties, and size of the group have varied since the first year, but the group’s dedication to Auburn University has never wavered.
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