|
Prior to 1891, Purdue
University's football teams were called such names as the "Cornfield
Sailors", "Blacksmiths", "Pumpkin Shuckers", "Hayseeds", "Farmers",
and "Rail Splitters". The nickname "Boilermakers" emerged as a term
of mockery by a rival school to describe Purdue athletes. Needless
to say, the "Boilermaker" name caught on with Purdue players and has
been the nickname of athletic teams ever since. For over 40 years,
"Purdue Pete", the costumed mascot, and the train, the "Boilermaker
Special", have symbolized Purdue's invincibility, immortality, and
ingenuity. |
