Introduction

The history of Dartmouth College's mascot is intriguing and full of interesting twists. While the mascot has changed over the years, one mascot that gained significant attention is Keggy the Keg. This article explores the history of Keggy the Keg and the evolution of Dartmouth's mascot identity.

The Shift from the Native American Mascot

Dartmouth's Mascot History illustrates that the Native American mascot was retired in the early 1970s. This decision came amid growing sensitivity and awareness regarding the potential offense and historical inaccuracy associated with the representation.

The Emergence of Keggy the Keg

After the retirement of the Native American mascot, Keggy the Keg emerged as a substitute. According to Dartmouth humor magazine reports, Keggy the Keg was a joke mascot conceived by Christopher Plehal and Nicholas Duquette, who were then writers for the humor magazine. Although Keggy the Keg was not intended to be a permanent mascot, it managed to stick around and even gained national attention.

Keggy the Keg: The Mascot's Birth

According to Wikipedia, Keggy the Keg first appeared after a contest in 2003 where a new mascot was to be selected. The mascot "Moose" won the initial vote, but in a subsequent vote, "none of the above" won. The idea for a mascot based on a beer keg was satirically proposed by the Jack-O-Lantern humor magazine and quickly became popular.

The Legacy and Current Standing of Keggy the Keg

The popularity of Keggy the Keg has waned over the past decade, but the mascot remains a symbol of campus humor and creativity. Despite its unofficial status, Keggy the Keg remains a cherished part of Dartmouth's campus culture and has been featured in numerous student publications and events.

Popularity and Criticism

While Keggy the Keg gained rapid popularity, it is also subject to criticism. Some academic studies and student publications have discussed the appropriateness of the mascot, especially in light of the ongoing debates about representation and diversity on college campuses. Despite these discussions, the mascot continues to inspire art, jokes, and various campus traditions.

The Future of Dartmouth’s Mascot

Reflecting on the past, it is evident that the mascot's evolution reflects the changing attitudes and sensibilities of the student body and broader community. As the mascot shifts, so too does the identity of the college itself. In the current era, where inclusivity and diversity are critical, the search for an appropriate mascot continues.

Public Domain and Recreational Ideas

The discussion about the mascot also touches on broader cultural and intellectual property debates. For instance, the character from the board game Monopoly, Rich Uncle Pennybags, may soon enter the public domain, leading to recreational ideas for a new mascot. This idea poses an interesting challenge and opportunity for the college to consider.

Conclusion

While Keggy the Keg was a brief stint as a mascot, it represented a significant period of transition and creativity at Dartmouth. As the college continues to innovate and evolve, the mascot will undoubtedly continue to play a role in shaping the campus culture and its identity.