Very superstitious

By David Schaeffer

Friday, May 20, 2005

Numerous myths and superstitions have accumulated during the 150 years since the founding of the University of Kansas. While some Jayhawks shrug off the notion of mysterious superstitions controlling the fate of students, many of these myths and legends have managed to grow into tall tales and exaggerations.

For instance, many Jayhawks believe that if students walk through the Campanile during their undergraduate years, they will not make it to graduation day.

This superstition most likely grew from campus pride in and respect for the Campanile.

Another popular KU myth is if a woman graduates from the University as a virgin, the Jayhawk statue in front of Strong Hall will turn into a real bird and fly away.

Numerous students likewise believe that Wescoe Hall was originally planned to be a parking garage, but that is not the case. Wescoe was planned to be the tallest building on campus, but the University ran short of funding and had no choice but to finish the building with only four floors, none of which were supposed to be a parking garage.

One of the most talked about myths at the University is the story of the origin of the Jayhawk. The Jayhawk was born during the “Bleeding Kansas” era before the Civil War.

The Confederate sympathizers from Missouri created the word “Jayhawk” to describe the tactics and characteristics of Kansas abolitionists. Kansans were infamous for being aggressively territorial, like the Blue Jay, and also impressive attackers, similar to hawks.

Because Kansans exhibited both of these bird’s characteristics, people began to call Kansans “Jayhawks.”

Myths and rumors seem to grow with time no matter what. Historians discuss how things really happened and develop numerous theories. The same goes with many of the legends lurking around campus today. Whether these legends are true, one must admit they all lend more authenticity and character to the University’s history and humble beginnings.

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