On the cover page of the first issue of Ariel, published on December 1, 1877, the editors printed a general overview with details about the University illustrated by a drawing of the Main Building.
In a “Salutatory” article, the editors greeted their readers and outlined their vision for the undertaking:
"...The want of a college paper is now seriously felt by all interested in the growth and prosperity of our University. The people of Minnesota who so cheerfully sustain the University desire a medium by which they may be kept informed upon all matters of interest pertaining to its management and routine work...
...The students also need a paper which shall be an exponent of their interests, which will keep them informed upon passing events in other colleges and upon matters of scientific and literary interest... In response to this want the Senior and Junior classes have elected, from their number, six editors to conduct a paper devoted to the interests of the Minnesota University. In order that this journal may be a worthy exponent of our interest we must have, and we expect the hearty co-operation of every friend of the University, and that each one will contribute every effort that in him lies to make Ariel worthy of our great and growing University.
Ariel for the coming year belongs exclusively to the editors, not to the students, not to the Faculty, nor will it be the organ for any party, class, society or clique; but it will be our endeavor to make it the independent outspoken exponent of the interests of our University. These interests, which, in our long connection with this institution, have become very dear to us, we shall manfully support; and if we should see them neglected or abused, by those whose duty it is to protect them, no personal considerations shall prevent us from protesting modestly, but firmly, against such neglect or abuse. The interests of the Faculty, Regents and Students are identical, but there are sometimes honest differences of opinion as to what these interests are, and in all such cases it will be our bounden duty to espouse the cause of those we think are in the right and to do justice to all."
Select the image of Ariel, Volume 1, Number 1, December 1, 1877, above to read the full “Salutatory” editorial and browse the articles and other features of the first issue.
