The Making of Today's Clemson University
As with any institution over time, the spirit of a place – its buildings, its people and its community – moves traditions to unfold. A simple action evolves into a rite of passage or an annual event, a word into a legendary saying or a rallying call for fans. A place becomes a gathering spot for friends long after their student days are past.
Clemson University knows such traditions. Steeped in its history as a military college, and now as a major research university, Clemson has a unique essence that pervades its campus and the surrounding community. From the stories of old military days to campus buildings to the people who have made Clemson special, get acquainted with the traditions that are Clemson University.
Alma Mater Salute/Rat Caps — Freshmen wore rat caps during Clemson's military days and for a short while afterward. The hats were waved in the air during every football game up until the end of the Homecoming game. If the Tigers lost, however, rat caps had to be worn until the next victory. Today, the tradition is continued by waving the hand in the air (with thumb folded underneath so the fingers appear to be holding a cap) at the end of the singing of the alma mater.
Clemson Ring — The first Clemson class rings were issued in 1896. The "C" surrounding a palmetto tree on a black background is one of the most recognizable of all college rings today. Copyrighted so that only Clemson alumni and students with more than 95 hours may have the honor of wearing it, the ring contains art elements representing the University's land-grant and military heritages as well as the motto: "Who shall separate us now?" Seniors may receive their rings from President Jim Barker at a Ring Ceremony sponsored by the Clemson Alumni Association and the Student Alumni Association.
Running Down "The Hill" — Running down "The Hill" originally started out of practicality. Before the west stands were built, the football team dressed at Fike Field House and ran from there to the gate and down the hill onto the field. Today, it's the sound of "YOUR CLEMSON TIGERS," a cannon fires, the band plays "Tiger Rag," and thousands of orange-clad fans cheer the moment when the Tiger football team runs down the grassy hill and onto the field. This tradition has been dubbed "the most exciting 25 seconds in college football."
Orange, Purple and the Tiger — The first "colors" of Clemson can be seen in an early diploma displayed on campus. But to everyone's surprise, they're red and blue! The orange and purple began when Walter Merritt Riggs formed Clemson's first football team in 1896. Because Riggs had come from Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama (later renamed Auburn), he borrowed ideas from their team colors, orange and purple, and their mascot, the Tiger. Although the football team was known as the Tigers and often used "Eat 'Em Up, Tigers" as a slogan, it wasn't until 1954 that a Clemson student donned the mascot suit. In 1993, the Tiger was joined by the Tiger Cub.
Homecoming and Tigerama — The excitement, spirit and enthusiasm of Homecoming celebrations have been a Clemson tradition since 1914. During the week preceding the game, student organizations crowd onto Bowman Field to construct Homecoming displays that will be judged on game day. On every Homecoming Friday night since 1957, Tigerama - one of the nation's largest student-run pep rallies - has featured the crowning of Miss Homecoming, skits by student organizations and spectacular fireworks. Tigerama began thanks to the vision and efforts of then-Alumni Director Joe Sherman.
Howard's Rock — Howard's Rock, named for legendary Coach Frank Howard, was brought to Clemson from Death Valley, Calif., by 1919 alumnus S.C. Jones. The rock was first placed on a pedestal at the top of "The Hill" on September 24, 1966. Before a game against Wake Forest on September 23, 1967, Howard told his players that if they would give 110 percent, they could have the privilege of rubbing the rock. The Tigers won that game with a 23-6 victory. The white flint rock still sits at the top of "The Hill," and Tiger football players rub it for good luck before each home game.
Military Heritage — Clemson University has a proud tradition of military excellence. Founded as a military school in 1889, Clemson built its reputation by consistently graduating well-prepared officers. Today, Clemson Army and Air Force ROTC cadets carry on the rich tradition of the historic Corps of Cadets. Clemson's military spirit is commemorated through sites such as the Clemson Military Heritage Plaza, which overlooks Bowman Field and features an array of ribbons and honors, the footprints of brave service men and inscriptions from a variety of alumni classes.
First Friday Parade — Since 1974, the First Friday Parade has been held the Friday afternoon before the first home football game to celebrate the new football season. Student floats move through campus down Highway 93 and end up at the Outdoor Theater for a pep rally.
Founder's Day — Founder's Day commemorates the anniversary of Thomas Green Clemson's death on April 6, 1888, with a prayer service at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Pendleton, S.C., where Mr. Clemson is buried.
Welcome Back Festival — Held the Monday after University housing opens in the fall, this street festival along College Avenue in downtown Clemson gives students a taste of the surrounding restaurants and businesses, which offer food samples, merchandise and prizes. The Student Alumni Council and the Clemson Alumni Association sponsor the event, and all proceeds go toward a scholarship endowment.