Wheeler JCL torch Wheeler JCL Torch September | Page 5

ON CULTURE:
Wheeler JCL's hand-crafted
bullae
WORDS BY
Oliver Long
    One of the most notable
meetings of Wheeler JCL, as
well as an opening ritual for
each year, took place in early
September.
     This event consisted of a
unique means of inducting
each member via a simple
arts-and-crafts project.
Bullae, ancient Roman
charms worn by children,
were simulated by placing a
thin metal sheet around a
core of firm corrugated
cellulose (a.k.a. cardboard!). 
     Designs were then etched
into them, and they were
strung so they could be
worn around the necks of
club members.
     Bullae were a hallmark of
ancient Roman culture. Boys
were given these amulets at
a young age and wore them
at all times until a ceremony
at about age fifteen. Young
girls wore a different form of
the amulet, which they
similarly kept until the time
of their marriage. 
THE TORCH | 5