BUC ECU Mascot
These press releases describe Buc, the first ECU mascot. These and other sources of East Carolina University history are available to researchers in the University Archives.
BUC
The summer of 1958 was a historical one in East Carolina College's fast growing history. For the first time, a mascot became a part of the "Fighting Pirate" contingent. It was a bright summer afternoon when a weak-legged stranger from the north, still unable to climb stairs, arrived on the ECC campus and was soon to acquire the name "Buc" and be christened as the first mascot in the school's history. Weighing in at less than fifty pounds and having only four months of life behind him, the Great Dane joined the rapid growth of the college and exceeds one hundred pounds and ceases to slow down. Being a little shy at this time last year, "Buc" has become a favorite on campus and will be a permanent fixture at our football games.
East Carolina's First Mascot Arrives on Campus
August 18, 1958 Greenville, N.C. -- A 50-pound 4-months-old Great Dane has arrived on the the East Carolina College campus to become the fist mascot in the college's history. The pedigreed dog from championship parentage is a gift from the Summer School Student Government Association, announces its president, Johnny P. Hudson of Wadesboro.
In balloting by the summer session students, the Great Dane was voted the preference of several mascots nominated as a campus symbol. Hudson says the animal, purchased from Henry E. Crawford, Dover, Del. school principal and dog breeder, has a blood line which dates back several generations with all his ancestors holders of championship titles.
Hudson said the Great Dane will be six months old at the opening of the football season on Sept. 13, and that as a symbol of strength he will be great inspiration to the students.
Buc the Great Dane, East Carolina College Mascot, is Dead
July 4, 1961
Greenville, N.C. -- Buc the Great Dane, mascot of East Carolina College, is dead. The handsome dog, pet of the campus community since 1958, was a familiar sight at football games and on other occasions at the college. A friendly animal, he often roamed the campus and stopped at intervals to "shake hands" with admires and to get a pat on the head from a student or faculty friend.
On June 22 Buc began to show signs of illness and was placed in a Greenville animal clinic. he did not respond to treatment and died during the past weekend.
Purchased by the Student Government Association in 1958 from a breeder in Delaware, Buc was 3 years and 4 months old. He was chosen by SGA representatives as a symbol of "strength, speed, and courage."
At the college Buc had a specially constructed pen on the campus and was cared for by an appointee of the SGA.
