Marilyn Monroe 1942 University High School “Chieftain” Yearbook

This original 1942 University High School “Chieftain” yearbook documents Marilyn Monroe during her final year of formal education, when she was still known as Norma Jeane Baker. At just sixteen years old, Norma was a tenth grade student preparing to leave behind her school life and step into adulthood. Within weeks of the school year’s end, she would marry her sweetheart, James Dougherty, on June 19, 1942. He was twenty one. She was sixteen.

The book comes from the personal collection of her classmate, Mrs. Ruby Plank Wilson, who sat across from Norma in several classes. Ruby recalled Norma as quiet, kind, and gentle, remembering most clearly their shared English class and the time they spent together during lunch. Like many students, they often gathered at a local drug store in Sawtelle after school, a familiar meeting place for friends.

One day, Norma wrote Ruby a note explaining that she would be leaving school because she was getting married. She invited Ruby to meet her fiancé later that afternoon at the drug store. Ruby met both Norma and Jimmy that day and wished them happiness, unaware that Norma was then living with a foster family, something Norma rarely discussed.

Ruby also recalled a classroom performance assigned by their English teacher, Mr. Henley, who had selected Norma, Ruby, and another student to perform scenes from A Tale of Two Cities. Ruby played the role of Miss Lucy, a nickname Mr. Henley continued to use affectionately even when signing Ruby’s yearbook.

Reflecting on Norma’s character, Ruby remembered her as shy and reserved, yet warm and gracious.

“Norma was not exceptionally popular with the male students in their class, but a very lovely young lady.”

This yearbook captures Marilyn Monroe at the threshold of transformation. Still Norma Jeane Baker, still a student, and still unknown to the world, she stood only weeks away from leaving school, marrying, and beginning the journey that would ultimately lead to the creation of one of the most enduring figures in cultural history.