What is the history and significance of the Leavenworth Lamp?
What we know of the history and symbolism of the Leavenworth Lamp is contained in a pamphlet in the CAFLA titled “The Leavenworth Lamp” dated 7 May 1956 (CARL Special 355.007 1173 L438 1956). The Lamp was conceived by College Commandant MG Garrison H. Davidson as a symbol for the college to be presented on the 75th anniversary. The idea may have originated in the Camberley Owl of the British Staff College. MG Davidson first asked the Post Historical Committee to develop design ideas. While pleased with the suggestions he decided to solicit more ideas from a broader cross section of post and, in September 1955, appointed a committee to conduct a post-wide search for designs. Eighty-three entries were submitted, seven finalists were chosen and ultimately the top three designs received prizes. But MG Davidson was not completely satisfied with the designs and put off selecting one of the designs for a symbol of the College. In March 1956 Davidson and his Aide-de-Camp made up their own desi
