The Woman Is Required to Pay, otherwise known as TWIRP week, is a long-standing Milligan tradition that many have come to love (or for the women, maybe despise). Behind this iconic event though is many years of history worth exploring.
Piloted in 1949, TWIRP is all about “shooting your shot,” but with a twist. The woman must ask the man out, arrange the date herself, as well as pay for whatever is necessary.
It’s worth noting that past rules for women were a lot stricter than the one’s today. Perhaps the biggest difference is “Daily Court,” which students had to attend if they were caught breaking the rules. The rules include, but are not limited to: picking the guy up for their date, opening doors for them, and carrying their books.
In a pamphlet from 1961 that listed the rules for TWIRP week, it stated “all girls were required to have at least one TWIRP date each day.” If a girl was accused of violating a rule, “they would be called before the daily court to stand trial.”
“It’s strange to see the difference between TWIRP week then and now,” said sophomore Brooke Anderson. “If I had to guess though, I imagine the stereotypes of women making the first back were much more common back then hence the event’s popularity.”
In past years, the activities of this Milligan tradition included talent shows, movie nights in Seeger Auditorium, and track competitions. Today, however, the events are most commonly bowling, roller skating, sports tournaments, and the famous Sadie Hawkins Dance at the end of the week.
Milligan alumnus Justin Ciralsky met his current wife from a TWIRP date in 2004.
“Friday was a date night at the movies, and it was one of the first dates my future wife and I would go on,” said Ciralsky. “TWIRP week was an awesome experience for me because it led to many more dates with her.”
After their movie date, Ciralsky and his wife attended a costume party at Leisure Lanes Bowling alley. This has become a church of which Ciralsky happens to be the pastor of.
“We now have the privilege of serving here each week,” he said. “It’s a pretty cool connection.”
Traditionally, students would be notified that TWIRP has begun by paper hearts sprinkled around campus. Over the years, this activity hasn’t been kept either; students are usually informed by email.
To stay updated on all events and activities happening on Millian’s campus, be sure to visit https://today.milligan.edu.
Headline photo caption: A Newspaper from The Stampede (1953)