RIT Bengal Tiger, Rochester Institude of Technology
Posted by: 
monkeykat
N 43° 05.052 W 077° 40.532
18T E 282214 N 4773639
Quick Description: A sculpture of the RIT Tiger, the mascot of the Rochester Institude of Technology in Rochester, NY. The tiger is located on the RIT campus on the Quarter Mile between the Student Alumni Union and the Wallace Library.
Location: New York, United States
Date Posted: 1/27/2007 8:13:58 AM
Waymark Code: WM160K
Views: 136
Long Description:This is a bronze sculpture created by DHS Wehle. Approximate
dimensions are 3'x10'x3'.
Mascot History (from the RIT website):
From 1829-1955 Institute athletic teams referred to themselves
as “The Techmen” and “The Blue Grey.” Harry Watts, head of the
Rochester Institute of Technology News Bureau, wanted to find a
name that would best personify RIT sports. After meeting with
several RIT lettermen, he decided to use the nickname “Tigers” in
his news releases.
The RIT Tiger Committee was formed in 1963. Its purpose was to
maintain the mascot of the Institute; manage the use and display of
the mascot; and to secure and distribute needed funds. A two-month
old Bengal tiger was purchased in 1963 for the sum of $1,000. The
Tiger Committee sold shares issued for $1.00 each to students,
faculty, and staff.
The tiger, named “Spirit”, was flown to Rochester from a zoo in
Dallas, Texas and subsequently nicknamed “Flying Tiger.” The tiger
as a feature at many Rochester Institute of Technology athletic
events. To celebrate Tiger spirit, a student-commissioned Bengal
tiger statue was dedicated on November 10, 1989. The eight foot,
bronze Bengal tiger statue is located adjacent to Campus
Connections bookstore.
Today, the sculpture serves as a symbol of student pride and
achievement at the Institute. Students have developed the tradition
of touching the statue for good luck.
A portion of the plaque reads: "In pursuit of Tradition, Spirit,
and Pride" November 1989.
RIT's campus is open to visitors, but be sure to obey parking
restrictions or you will surely get a ticket. The campus safety
officers are notoriously thorough in their job.