Don't forget to stop by Shafer Library for our Archives Open House! Learn about the University of Findlay's history, see some fun artifacts, and enjoy light refreshments!
Congratulations on making it to another Friday, Oilers! Did you know that our UF mascot took on different names before "Derrick the Oiler?" Before Findlay College's athletic teams adopted the name "Oilers" in 1937, they were commonly called "The Orange" or "Kisselmen" (The Argus, 1993). This is likely where UF's colors (orange and black) originated. Check out the photos below to see our previous mascots and what they looked like. You may be surprised to see how it has changed!
Oiler Man (1984)
Findlay College had a very basic mascot in the 1980s. It mostly required a volunteer or student to wear an "Oiler Man" t-shirt and a head costume. Oiler Man was commonly spotted at campus events, such as pep rallies and homecoming festivities.
Ollie the Oiler (1991)
Ollie the Oiler joins in on campus festivities in the gymnasium. What do you think of the costume head?
Original Drawing of New Mascot (2000)
In fall 2000, UF held a "Design the Mascot" contest where students submitted creative designs to become the new mascot. The winner was Sarah King (class of 2002) with the iconic drawing above. It became UF's official mascot in 2001 as "Derrick the Oiler," named after an oil derrick.
Derrick the Oiler (2016)
Since 2001, Derrick the Oiler has been involved in several events on campus including homecoming, athletic events, and more! To learn more about the history of UF's mascot, click here.
You can also follow the official UF mascot Instagram by clicking here.
Happy (almost) Halloween, Oilers! We wanted to share another cool item from the University Archives this week that ties to the theme of fall. Check out the photo below from 1977, which features Findlay College students bobbing for apples. We aren't sure what kind of conversation they were having at the time, but they certainly won't be talking while getting those apples!
How good are you at bobbing for apples, or have you ever tried? Let us know by commenting below or emailing us at library@findlay.edu. We hope you all have a great weekend!