who invented homecoming

The tradition of homecoming is claimed by several universities, but the University of Missouri is most widely credited with inventing it in 1911. Chester L. Brewer, the Director of Athletics at Missouri, invited alumni to “come home” for the annual football game against the University of Kansas, organizing a celebration that included a parade, a spirit rally, and a bonfire. This event drew a crowd of over 9,000 and is considered the first modern homecoming with both a parade and a football game, setting the precedent for future celebrations. However, Baylor University held a similar event in 1909, and the University of Illinois also claims an early homecoming tradition starting in 1910, making the origins somewhat debated but with Missouri receiving the most recognition from sources like Jeopardy! and Trivial Pursuit. In summary, the University of Missouri's 1911 homecoming, organized by Chester Brewer, is most commonly recognized as the origin of modern homecoming celebrations.