What were Penn State’s original colors?

Penn State University, located in State College, Pennsylvania, is known for its rich history and vibrant campus life. One of the most iconic aspects of the university is its colors, which have been a part of the school’s identity since its founding. But what were Penn State’s original colors, and how did they come to be?

The original colors of Penn State were maroon and white. This combination was chosen by the university’s first president, William J. Maclay, in 1859. Maclay, a former Union Army colonel, believed that maroon and white symbolized the values of the university: strength, resilience, and integrity. Maroon, a deep red color, was also associated with the state of Pennsylvania, which helped to further establish the school’s connection to its home state.

Over the years, the university’s colors have been a source of pride for students, faculty, and alumni. They are prominently displayed on the campus, from the iconic Old Main building to the football stadium, Beaver Stadium. The maroon and white colors have also become a part of the school’s athletic teams, with the Nittany Lions wearing these colors on the field and court.

However, in the early 20th century, the university faced a financial crisis that threatened its very existence. To raise funds, the school’s board of trustees decided to sell the rights to its colors to a local company, the Pennsylvania Color Company. This decision was met with backlash from students and alumni, who believed that the university’s colors were an integral part of its identity and should not be commercialized.

In response to the public outcry, the board of trustees reversed its decision and retained the rights to the colors. However, the incident highlighted the importance of the maroon and white colors to the university’s community. Since then, the colors have remained a symbol of pride and unity for Penn State.

Today, the maroon and white colors continue to be a source of inspiration for students and alumni alike. They represent the university’s rich history, its commitment to excellence, and its enduring spirit. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or at campus events, the maroon and white colors are a constant reminder of what it means to be a part of the Penn State family.

Comments from the Community:

1. “It’s amazing to see how much history and pride the maroon and white colors hold for Penn State!”
2. “I love how the colors are a part of everything on campus, from the buildings to the sports teams.”
3. “The original colors are such a unique part of the university’s identity.”
4. “I think it’s great that the university fought to keep its colors.”
5. “I always wondered what the original colors were; thanks for the informative article!”
6. “The maroon and white colors are a perfect match for the spirit of the Nittany Lions.”
7. “It’s fascinating to learn about the history behind the colors.”
8. “I’m proud to be a part of the Penn State community, and the colors are a big reason why.”
9. “The colors are such an important part of the school’s culture.”
10. “I never knew the story behind the colors; it’s really interesting.”
11. “It’s great to see that the university values its history and traditions.”
12. “The colors are a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Penn State community.”
13. “I’m glad the university has such a strong connection to its past.”
14. “The maroon and white colors are a big part of the school’s spirit.”
15. “It’s nice to know that the colors have been a part of the university since the beginning.”
16. “I think the colors are a perfect representation of the university’s values.”
17. “The colors are a big part of the school’s pride and tradition.”
18. “I love the story of how the colors were chosen.”
19. “It’s great to see that the university has such a strong connection to its roots.”
20. “The maroon and white colors are a symbol of the university’s history and future.