Pioneer Pete
Scope and Contents Note
The collection contains mostly publications of the Oakland University Athletics Department, including programs, schedules, and brochures. There are also documents related to the management of the Department and some photographs. This collection was assembled from various sources and does not cover all aspects of athletics at OU. Additional athletics photographs can be found in the Oakland University Photograph collection.
Dates
- 1959 - 2014
Access and Use
The Oakland University Athletics collection is open for research.
History
The item is a depiction of Oakland University's first mascot, Pioneer Pete, and was created in 1977 by Charles "Chick" Conklin (SBA alum, 1979). Performers wearing the mascot head paired it with "buckskin" costuming and carried a toy rifle. The mascot costume was in use from 1977 to 1998, when Pioneer Pete was replaced by the Grizz as OU's official mascot.
Extent
From the Collection: 3 Linear Feet
Language of Materials
English
Physical Description
Collection item consists of a single mascot head (approx. 2.5 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide). The "head" portion of the item is crafted from paper mache, structural wire, foam, and acrylic paint. Atop the "head" is an additional portion of faux fur fabric in the shape of a raccoon-skin hat.
Repository Details
Part of the Oakland University Archives and Special Collections Repository
Kresge Library
100 Library Drive
Rochester MI 48309 USA