The Pee-Chee folder, officially known as the “Pee-Chee All Season Portfolio,” is an American stationery item that gained widespread popularity among students in the mid-20th century. First produced in 1943 by the Western Tablet and Stationery Company of Kalamazoo, Michigan, the folder was originally available only in a peach-yellow color, which inspired its name.
Designed for practicality, Pee-Chee folders are made of card stock and feature two internal pockets located on the sides rather than the bottom. This unique design helps prevent papers from falling out if the folder is stored upside down. The inside pockets are printed with useful reference information, such as multiplication tables and unit conversion charts, catering to students’ academic needs.
In 1964, artist Francis Golden, known for his watercolors of fishing and hunting scenes, created the iconic cover illustrations depicting high school students engaged in various sports and activities. These illustrations became a canvas for student creativity, as it was common for users to personalize their folders with doodles and additional artwork.
Over the years, the Pee-Chee folder underwent several updates, including the introduction of additional colors and design modifications. Despite a decline in usage by the 2000s, the folders remained available from Mead as of 2014. The original peach-colored version continues to be the most popular choice among users.
Beyond their functional use, Pee-Chee folders have influenced popular culture and art. For instance, artist Patrick Martinez reimagined the classic Pee-Chee design to comment on contemporary social issues, such as police brutality, by depicting scenes of real-life events in the familiar folder style.
Today, Pee-Chee folders are celebrated as nostalgic symbols of American school life, reflecting both their practical utility and cultural significance over the decades.
