For children of professors and faculty, growing up on a college campus is like growing up on the world’s largest playground – especially when that campus is as beautiful as Baylor. The University grounds are full of secret hiding spots, sprawling landscapes, and endless adventure.
Albert Meroney, son of William Penn Meroney — professor and chair of the sociology department from 1922 until he died in 1938 — was raised at Baylor. Albert grew up on South Seventh Street, where he had a clear view of campus activities at all times of day. He was surrounded by the children of other faculty members, the younger generation of Braggs, Harrells, Harrises, Guittards, Hawkinses, Tranthams, Sendons, Briscoes, Perrys, and others, who lived nearby.
Years later, Meroney could still recall his childhood memories of exploring campus grounds – sneaking into the swimming pool behind the girls’ dormitory, roller-skating along the campus sidewalks, sliding ramps whenever campus would ice over, and getting into all sorts of mischief.
Eventually, Albert would have to start actually attending classes at Baylor once he enrolled as a student, graduating in 1948 after completing his military service in World War II. But his whole time at Baylor, he never struggled with getting lost or homesickness. After all, the Baylor campus was his backyard!
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