Garland, Texas embraces its storied tradition of homecoming mums with the latest exhibit at Garland City Hall, titled 'MUMENTOUS: Football, Glue Guns, Moms and a Super-Sized High School Tradition Born Deep in the Heart of Texas.' The exhibit, which is open to the public free of charge, will run from August 10 to October 12, according to the City of Garland.
The historic Texas homecoming mum gets a spotlight in an exhibit that aims to thoroughly explore the tradition's evolution from the 1920s to the present day. Documenting the craze through photographs and narratives, the exhibit delves into the intersections of high school football, fan culture, the DIY spirit, entrepreneurship, and women's roles in perpetuating this unique Texan tradition.
In partnership with the Texas Lakes Trail Region, the exhibit not only showcases mums from Garland's seven independent school district high schools but also includes local school memorabilia and photos from the Garland Landmark Museum Archive. This compilation serves as an extensive insight into the social and cultural fabric that has woven together generations of Texans. Garland's Heritage Crossing Manager, Kim Nurmi, said, as per the City of Garland, "This is an exhibit for all Texans," and elaborated on the exhibit's inclusive appeal for both native Texans and those who've made the state their home later in life.
The exhibit is based on Amy Schultz's 2023 book, which captures the essence and quirky traditions surrounding homecoming mums. “While the mum is a stunning visual in and of itself, it’s the evolution of the mum tradition that really makes it come to life,” Schultz said, as per the City of Garland. Her research highlights the personal and community significance of mums, as well as their humorous and relatable aspects through the perspectives of students, schools, and communities.
Additionally, the exhibit will tie into a series of community events, including mum-making clinics and a homecoming film series. Augmenting the cultural showcase, a book signing by Schultz is also slated as part of the programming. Interested parties are encouraged to attend 'Your Grandmother’s Mum' and 'Build Your Mum,' where they can engage hands-on with the tradition.
