Remember the chief.

After an 80 year old tradition, Chief Illiniwek will retire his headdress after Wednesday’s game.

Facts (from Wikipedia)

  • The first performance occurred on October 30, 1926.
  • The feathers in the chief’s headdress are actually dyed turkey feathers.
  • 35 students have preformed the role as the chief. The only women to portray the chief was Idelle Stith Brooks in 1943 due to the shortage of male students during WWII.
  • None of the performers has been Native American.

  • http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chief_Illiniwek

    1 Response to “Remember the chief.”


    1. 1 Catherine

      I don’t think that game is going to be broadcast over here in KC. Really wanted to see the last chief appearance. So sad too.

      I really think that if we have to remove our mascot than other schools need to change theirs that are demaning too (ND Fightin’ Irish for example).

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