The University of Southern California (USC) is a prestigious institution known for its rich history and traditions. One of these traditions revolves around the university's beloved mascot, Traveler. Many people wonder why USC's mascot is named Traveler, and this note aims to shed light on the origin of this unique name. Traveler, a white horse ridden by a Trojan warrior, has been USC's official mascot since 1961. The first Traveler, referred to as "Traveler I," was depicted as a horse ridden by a Trojan warrior during halftime performances at football games. This iconic image symbolized the strength, bravery, and resilience of the USC Trojans.

Missouri Traveler E

Missouri Traveler E, by Zane Grey out of Lady Anne was a chestnut sorrel colt born on Dean Esther’s farm in 1971. When fox trotting, words fail to describe the rhythm that flowed through the stallion’s body from his head to his tail. Traveler never won a World Grand Championship, but he was part of perhaps one of the greatest Celebration championship shows in history in 1975.

In 1979, Traveler was sold to Lee Hodge and Donald Cunningham. Donald said, “You can pick out a Missouri Traveler bred horse in the show ring. They have a certain head shake, rhythm, and timing. It’s unique.”

In 1981, Traveler was sold to Curtice Williams and Jerry Middleton, who bought him with plans to syndicate him. This was done with Doug Montgomery’s help for a total of 44 shares, which sold for $2,000 each, making the stallion worth $88,000. This syndication closed the breeding to all but the shareholders.

It has been said that Missouri Traveler set the standard for the breed. His natural fox trot, his rhythm, his color, his hip, and his rooster tail carriage were repeatedly passed on to his foals, who won many championships.

Traveler died, just short of his 26 th birthday in 1997. He is buried just north of the main arena on the MFTHBA show grounds. His grave marker reads, “The Sire”. Because of his contributions to the Missouri Fox trotting Horse Breed and upon the recommendation of the MFTHBA Board of Directors, we would like to welcome Missouri Traveler E into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame.

Editor’s Note: Missouri Traveler E. was inducted into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame in 2013. The above was read by MFTHBA Joyce Graening during the induction ceremony held during the 2013 World Show and Celebration

Why is usc mascot named traveler

Traveler® is one of the most celebrated college mascots! This noble white horse, with the regal Tommy Trojan warrior astride, appears at all USC home football games.

Traveler® first appeared at USC football games in 1961, in the home opener versus Georgia Tech. Earlier that year, Bob Jani and Eddie Tannenbaum (USC’s director of special events and a junior at USC, respectively) saw Richard Saukko riding his white horse, Traveler® I, in the Rose Parade. An idea sprang to mind! They persuaded Richard to bring his horse to ride around the Coliseum during USC football games, and serve as a mascot. The new tradition stuck! To this day, when USC scores, Traveler® gallops around the Coliseum to the tune of the band playing “Conquest”.

Richard first rode Traveler® in the outfit worn by actor Charlton Heston in Ben Hur. That proved cumbersome, however, so in 1962 he crafted his own leather costume, modeled after the Tommy Trojan statue on the USC campus (that outfit is on display in Heritage Hall). But he still sometimes wore Heston’s helmet.

Richard trained and rode USC’s equestrian mascots until 1988, when others took over the role of Tommy Trojan. After his passing in 1992, his wife Patricia continued the tradition of raising and training the famous Traveler® horses until she retired following the 2002 season. She asked Joanne Asman to take over with her own Traveler® 7 in 2003.

The current Trojan mascot is Traveler® IX, a beautiful Andalusian gelding. While the breed of horse has changed over the years (from an Arabian/Tennessee Walker to a pure-bred Arabian to a Spanish Andalusian), every Traveler® has been white in color.

In the fall of 2004, the late USC alumnus Bill Tilley (’61) and his wife, Nadine, donated $2 million to provide a permanent endowment to support Traveler®. Bill was Chairman and CEO of the Jacmar Companies, a multifaceted international restaurant and food service enterprise, and majority owner of the popular B.J.’s Restaurant and Brewery. Nadine is an avid breeder of champion Andalusian horses, and hopes that a future Traveler® will be bred at Tilley Andalusians (in Hidden Valley near Thousand Oaks), now known as “The Home of Traveler®.”

Trojan faithful swear Traveler® can effect the outcome of games, and he has been touted as one of greatest inspirational devices USC has for players. Richard once said, “(Former USC coach) John McKay didn’t want to admit that the horse had anything to do with his success, but he’d always give me a wink when he saw me waiting in the Coliseum tunnel.”

Before Traveler®, there were a handful of appearances by other mascots. In 1927, Louis Shields rode a four-year stint on a white horse owned by a local banker. USC colors were carried by a Trojan warrior on a palomino in 1948; and in 1954, before kickoff of the Pittsburgh game, in a costume once worn by actor Jeff Chandler, Trojan Knights spirit group member Arthur J. Gontier III shakily rode a rented gray/white horse. USC alum Bob Caswell, a more accomplished rider, and his white horse, Rockazar, took over the next game, and retired in 1959.

For a time, USC had a canine mascot: a mutt named George Tirebiter I. Famous for chasing cars through the USC campus, he first appeared at football games in 1940. In 1947, the mascot was the center of a publicized dognapping by UCLA! Sadly, he died under the tires of an automobile in 1950, and was succeeded by George II from 1950-52, by George III for the year 1953, and finally by George IV for the year in 1957.

Why is USC Mascot Named Traveler?

The University of Southern California (USC), in Los Angeles, California, is a renowned private research university with a rich history and notable accomplishments. Established in 1880, USC has become a prominent institution with diverse academic programs spanning various disciplines, including arts, sciences, business, law, and more. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, USC has made significant contributions to advancements in various fields.

Home to a vibrant campus community, USC offers students an engaging environment for learning and personal growth. Its renowned faculty, impressive facilities, and commitment to fostering creativity and critical thinking have earned the university a distinguished reputation nationally and internationally.

USC's strong connection to the entertainment industry and its cutting-edge research initiatives have positioned it as a hub for technology, media, and arts innovation. The university's dedication to community engagement, global outreach, and impactful research continues to shape its legacy as a leading institution in higher education.

This iconic image symbolized the strength, bravery, and resilience of the USC Trojans. The name "Traveler" was inspired by the novel "The Count of Monte Cristo" written by Alexandre Dumas. In the novel, the protagonist's horse is named "Traveler," symbolizing adventure, freedom, and the ability to journey to far-off places.

Contents

1. The Origin of USC Mascot Named Traveler
2. The Mascot of the University of Southern California
3. What kind of horse is Traveler?
4. FAQs

This connection between the horse's name and the university's commitment to exploration, determination, and the pursuit of knowledge made "Traveler" a fitting name for USC's mascot. Over the years, there have been multiple horses that have carried the mantle of Traveler, each given a Roman numeral to distinguish them. The current Traveler, Traveler IX, is a beautiful white horse was unveiled in 2017 and continues to serve as a visual representation of the university's spirit and pride. Traveler can be seen at various USC events and football games, galloping around the field after each touchdown scored by the Trojans. The presence of Traveler adds an element of grandeur and tradition to these events, enhancing the overall experience for both students and fans alike. In conclusion, USC's mascot is named Traveler to symbolize the adventurous spirit, determination, and pursuit of knowledge embodied by the university and its students. The name was inspired by the novel "The Count of Monte Cristo," and Traveler remains an integral part of USC's rich history and traditions..

Reviews for "How Traveler Became the Pride of USC"

1. John - 2 stars - As a USC alumnus, I was appalled to learn the history behind USC's mascot, Traveller. The name itself is a reminder of the university's problematic past, as it was named after Robert E. Lee's horse during the Civil War. It seems incredibly insensitive to honor someone who fought for the preservation of slavery as a symbol for our prestigious university. As a diverse and inclusive institution, USC should reconsider its choice of mascot and opt for a more suitable and non-controversial representation.

2. Emily - 1 star - The fact that USC's mascot is named Traveller already raises a red flag for me. It represents a troubling period in American history and is not a figure we should be celebrating. As a student at USC, I feel disheartened that our university would choose a symbol with such negative connotations. USC should take a stand against racism and choose a mascot that reflects the values of equality, diversity, and inclusion.

3. Alex - 2 stars - While I understand that USC's mascot, Traveller, might hold historical significance for the university, I believe it is time to reassess its appropriateness in today's society. The association with Robert E. Lee, a figure linked to the Confederacy and the defense of slavery, is concerning. USC should consider implementing a more inclusive and non-controversial mascot that aligns with the university's values and promotes unity among all its students, staff, and alumni.

4. Sarah - 1 star - As a person of color, I find it highly unsettling and offensive that USC's mascot is named Traveller. This name romanticizes and glorifies a dark part of American history, promoting a narrative that has caused immense pain and suffering for black people. USC should undoubtedly change its mascot to something that represents the diversity and inclusivity we should strive for on campus.

5. Michael - 2 stars - The choice to name USC's mascot Traveller, after Robert E. Lee's horse, is disappointing and out of touch. Given the current social climate, it is essential for institutions to be mindful of the symbolism and associations tied to their choices. USC should reconsider its decision and select a mascot that does not perpetuate negative connotations or glorify figures from a time of racial injustice in our nation's history.

The Tradition of the Trojan Horse: USC's Mascot Traveler