A smoker was a social event popular during the early 20th century in which the sophomore class would organize a program including food, athletic activities (such as a basketball game in 1909), music, presentations, speeches, singing, and of course, smoking.
The tradition began with Trinity's Class of 1908 and smokers were a popular way for students to gather with others from other New England schools as well as each other. In particular, the Sophomore Smokers seemed to invite younger students onto campus, perhaps as a way to recruit students. One Trinity Tripod article stated, “The Smoker boosts the college; we must all do our bit to help it along.”
Juniors also hosted events, called Junior Smokers, and the two classes each had a committee of students dedicated to their planning.
Eventually, the smoker as a student social activity declined and then disappeared altogether.
What is a College Smoker, also know[n] as a Sophomore Smoker or Junior Smoker?, 06/14/2022.
History of Trinity College (1967) by Glenn Weaver, pp. 254, 284.
Trinity Tripod, 02/15/1921.
Trinity Tripod, 03/30/1909.