History of The Boilermaker
The year was 1891.
A college known for its proud heritage
for educating the sons and daughters of the
working class began to dominate opponents
in football. After a 44-0 thrashing of
Wabash College, a headline writer provided
inspiration for a most unique nickname. "Wabash Snowed Completely Under by
the Burly Boiler Makers from Purdue" chronicled a victory by the "Herculean wearers
of the black and old gold." Never intended as
a compliment, the insult appealed to students
of the day. The indomitable spirit of the
boilermaker is embodied in the tireless
laborer you see before you.
Dedicated with pride by
Purdue University and the Purdue
Alumni Association in honor of
Carl Christian Grotnes
November 4, 2005 |