"Weems"? (Williams trivia)

Colleges and Universities A-Z Williams College
1

<p>I have a friend who swears that there was at one time a custom, among Social Register-types who had affiliations with Williams, of pronouncing the name of the college as "Weems."</p>

<p>Is this true? If so, what is the back story on this odd practice?</p>

<p>P.S. The anecdote that claims to corroborate this practice dates back to the mid-60's; it would have already been an anachronism at that point. Perhaps a Williams history/trivia buff can help out here?</p>

2

<p>Hahaha I'm not sure of the historical context, but there are a couple of teachers at my school who I've been talking to about Williams, and I do know that they both pronounce it "Weeyums." I'm guessing the anecdote has at least some truth to it, but I don't know why.</p>

3

<p>Where is your school? Is it a private/prep school?</p>