Time and Change is a weekly series highlighting the history of some of Ohio State's storied traditions.
THEN
Homecoming was the brainchild of George Rightmire, an Ohio State alumnus and future President of the University, in 1912. Originally, it was called “Ohio State Day” and served as an alumni reunion the night before an Ohio State football game, but alumni days had been happening long before, starting in the 1880’s.
Homecoming was originally scheduled for the last football game of the season, but starting in 1953, Ohio weather in November caused Homecoming to be held earlier in the season.