Texas Tech University’s campus is adorned with various landmarks and monuments, each holding a unique significance in the institution’s history and culture. Among these, the Will Rogers statue stands prominently, capturing the essence of the university’s spirit and traditions. This article delves into the captivating story behind the statue, exploring its origins, the tradition of wrapping it in crepe paper, and its symbolic importance to the Texas Tech community.
Key Facts
- Tradition: The tradition of wrapping the statue in red crepe paper before home football games was started by a student organization called the Saddle Tramps. They began this practice in the 1950s as part of a ceremony called “Painting the Campus Red”. Wrapping the statue has become a recognizable tradition at Texas Tech.
- Protection: One reason for wrapping the statue is to protect it from vandalism. In 1969, after the Texas Tech football team defeated the Texas A&M Aggies, fans found the statue covered in maroon paint. To prevent further damage, the Saddle Tramps started wrapping the statue to “protect” it.
- Commemoration: The Saddle Tramps also wrap the statue in black crepe paper to commemorate national tragedies and the passing of individuals close to the university. This includes events like the 9/11 10th anniversary, the death of Jack Dale (a Texas Tech Hall of Fame broadcaster), and the deaths of former university presidents.
A Gift of Friendship and Admiration
The Will Rogers statue, a bronze sculpture depicting the renowned humorist and actor Will Rogers astride his beloved horse, Soapsuds, was a gift to Texas Tech University from its longtime friend and supporter, Amon G. Carter. Carter, a prominent figure in the Fort Worth community and the founder of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram newspaper, held a deep admiration for Rogers and his connection to West Texas. In 1950, he commissioned the statue as a tribute to Rogers’ legacy and his embodiment of the cowboy spirit.
A Place of Honor on Campus
The statue was strategically positioned at the main entrance of the university, facing northwest, creating the illusion that Rogers and Soapsuds were riding into the sunset. This placement resonated with the statue’s title, “Riding into the Sunset,” and the inscription etched upon it: “Lovable Old Will Rogers on his favorite horse, ‘Soapsuds,’ riding into the Western sunset.” The statue quickly became a beloved landmark, serving as a welcoming symbol for visitors and a source of pride for the Texas Tech community.
The Saddle Tramps’ Tradition
One of the most distinctive traditions associated with the Will Rogers statue is the practice of wrapping it in crepe paper before every home football game. This tradition, initiated by the Saddle Tramps, a student organization dedicated to promoting school spirit, began in the 1950s as part of a broader campus beautification effort known as “Painting the Campus Red.” The Saddle Tramps would wrap the statue in red crepe paper, along with decorating the rest of the campus with streamers, to create a festive atmosphere for game day.
A Protective Measure
In addition to its role in enhancing school spirit, the tradition of wrapping the statue also serves a protective purpose. Following an incident in 1969, when the statue was vandalized with maroon paint after a football game against Texas A&M University, the Saddle Tramps began wrapping the statue to safeguard it from further acts of vandalism. This practice has continued to the present day, ensuring the statue’s preservation and protecting it from potential harm.
Commemorating Solemn Occasions
The Saddle Tramps also utilize the statue as a means of commemorating national tragedies and honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the university. During solemn occasions, such as the 9/11 10th anniversary, the death of Jack Dale (a Texas Tech Hall of Fame broadcaster), and the passing of former university presidents, the statue is draped in black crepe paper as a gesture of mourning and respect. This practice serves as a tangible reminder of the university’s resilience and its commitment to honoring those who have left an indelible mark on its history.
A Symbol of Unity and Pride
The Will Rogers statue has transcended its initial purpose as a tribute to a beloved figure and has evolved into a symbol of unity and pride for the Texas Tech community. Its prominent placement at the university’s entrance, the tradition of wrapping it in crepe paper, and its role in commemorating significant events have collectively transformed the statue into an iconic representation of the university’s spirit and values. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Will Rogers, the unwavering dedication of the Saddle Tramps, and the deep sense of pride shared by all members of the Texas Tech family.
Sources
- Riding into the Sunset – Wikipedia
- Weird West Texas: All about the Will Rogers and Soapsuds statue – Lubbock Online
- Saddle Tramps: Student organization wraps statue in decades-old ritual – The Daily Toreador
FAQs
Why is the Will Rogers statue wrapped in crepe paper?
- The Saddle Tramps, a student organization dedicated to promoting school spirit, wrap the statue in red crepe paper before every home football game to create a festive atmosphere and show support for the team.
When did this tradition start?
- The tradition of wrapping the statue in crepe paper began in the 1950s as part of a broader campus beautification effort known as “Painting the Campus Red.”
Why is the statue sometimes wrapped in black crepe paper?
- The Saddle Tramps also wrap the statue in black crepe paper to commemorate national tragedies and honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the university.
What is the significance of the statue’s location at the university’s entrance?
- The statue’s prominent placement at the university’s entrance symbolizes the welcoming spirit of Texas Tech and serves as a reminder of the institution’s rich history and traditions.
What is the story behind the statue’s original positioning?
- The statue was initially positioned to face northwest, creating the illusion that Rogers and Soapsuds were riding into the sunset. However, this positioning caused the horse’s hindquarters to face Downtown Lubbock, which some believed could be interpreted as an insult to the local business community.
Is it true that the statue was turned to face Texas A&M University?
- While there is a popular legend that the statue was turned 23 degrees to face Texas A&M University in retaliation for an act of vandalism, this claim has been refuted by university officials.
How does the tradition of wrapping the statue contribute to the university’s sense of community?
- The tradition of wrapping the statue fosters a sense of unity and pride among Texas Tech students, alumni, and supporters. It serves as a tangible representation of the university’s spirit and values, bringing the community together in shared experiences and traditions.
What does the Will Rogers statue represent to the Texas Tech community?
- The Will Rogers statue has become an iconic symbol of Texas Tech University. It embodies the institution’s commitment to excellence, its rich history, and its unwavering spirit. The statue serves as a reminder of the university’s founding principles and inspires generations of students to carry on the legacy of Will Rogers and the Saddle Tramps.