The Cole Memo

Long before the implementation of regulations and taxation on cannabis in Illinois, a rich and vibrant cannabis culture thrived. This archive stands as one of the most comprehensive records of that era.

Below, you will find photographs, newspaper headlines, press releases, notes, signage, and more, all directly shared with me by participants of past Hash Wednesdays at the University of Illinois.

To view the conversations that I captured with participants of past Hash Wednesdays at the University of Illinois, go here.

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1981’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1982’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1985’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1988’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1989’

I interviewed Joshua Sloan and Debby Goldsberry (pictured below).

• You can view my interview with Joshua Sloan here.
• You can view my interview with Debby Goldsberry here

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1991’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1993’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1994’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1995’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1996’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1997’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1998’

Data from folder that was entitled ‘1999’

Data from Tony Schor

Data from archive that was provided by Danielle Schumacher

CUPCJ Archives

UIUC NORML SSDP Archives

Latest posts on TheColeMemo

• Episode 247 – What could rescheduling mean for cannabis policy?
• Episode 246 – Arrests continue in “legal” Illinois
• Episode 245 – Live From the Oval Office: Trump Directs AG to Expedite Cannabis Rescheduling Process
• Episode 244 – Talking Cannabis Rescheduling With Its Harshest Critics
• Episode 243 – Social Equity, Transporters, Rescheduling, and the Future of Hemp With Ali Jubelirer