The Baylor Bear mascot has long been an integral part of the Baylor University community and has come to symbolize the spirit and pride of the institution. The bear, which has served as the official mascot since 1914, represents the strength, power, and determination associated with Baylor. The name of the Baylor bear mascot has varied over the years, with different bears being given different monikers. The tradition began with the first bear mascot, which was known simply as "Teddy." Teddy was a small, black bear that was acquired by Baylor in 1917. Over time, the name Teddy became synonymous with the Baylor bear, and subsequent bears were also referred to by this name.
Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor, and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me "to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness. Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be. That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks, for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country previous to their becoming a Nation, for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interpositions of his providence, which we experienced in the course and conclusion of the late war, for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed, for the peaceable and rational manner, in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted, for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us. And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions, to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually, to render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed, to protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shown kindness unto us) and to bless them with good government, peace, and concord. To promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the encrease of science among them and Us, and generally to grant unto all Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best.Given under my hand at the City of New York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789.
Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor, and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness. This is a day we are asked to give thanks to whatever supreme being we believe in as well as our families, said Melanie Kirkpatrick, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute and author of the book Thanksgiving The Holiday at the Heart of the American Experience.
Over time, the name Teddy became synonymous with the Baylor bear, and subsequent bears were also referred to by this name. However, in 2006, the decision was made to change the name of the Baylor bear mascot to "Judge." This change was implemented to celebrate the unique history and tradition of Baylor Law School, which has produced many notable judges throughout its existence.
BEYOND LOCAL: The medieval Christian roots of Thanksgiving
President Abraham Lincoln instituted the celebration of Thanksgiving as a national holiday in 1863 after the Union victory at the battle of Gettysburg, during the American Civil War. It was not a new idea – in 1789, President George Washington had proposed a yearly presidential proclamation of each annual Thanksgiving holiday, but President Thomas Jefferson refused to issue one after he was elected, as he considered it a religious event. Later presidents followed his example, and the holiday was effectively discontinued on the national level until Lincoln’s declaration.
Today, Thanksgiving Day has come to be celebrated every year on the fourth Thursday of November. As a specialist in Catholic history and worship, I am aware that behind the history and legend of the first Thanksgiving lies a rich story that illuminates the medieval Christian roots of the holiday.
The name Judge was seen as a fitting tribute to this legacy and was met with great enthusiasm and support from the Baylor community. Since then, the Baylor bear has continued to be known as Judge, and the name has become an integral part of the Baylor identity. Judge makes appearances at various Baylor sporting events and campus activities, serving as a symbol of school spirit and pride. The mascot is adored by students, alumni, and fans alike, and the name Judge is recognized and revered throughout the Baylor community. Overall, the name of the Baylor bear mascot holds great significance and represents the history, tradition, and values of the university. The choice to name the bear Judge was a strategic and meaningful decision that has only further solidified the role of the Baylor bear as a beloved symbol of the institution..
Reviews for "The Ultimate Fan Guide to Baylor's Mascot Name"
1. Jenna - 1 star - As a long-time fan of Baylor University, I was extremely disappointed to hear that they named their bear mascot "Baylor". It is unimaginative, unoriginal, and lacks any creativity. The university had an opportunity to come up with an iconic and memorable name for their mascot, but instead, they settled for the easiest option. It just feels lazy and uninspired, and it definitely doesn't capture the spirit and uniqueness of the university. I hope in the future they reconsider and choose a name that truly represents Baylor's values and traditions.
2. Mark - 2 stars - While I understand that Baylor wanted to keep it simple with their bear mascot name, I can't help but feel that "Baylor" is a missed opportunity. There are so many other names that could have been chosen to evoke a sense of pride and excitement among fans. "Baylor" doesn't really have any personality or character attached to it. It feels like a generic name that was thrown on without much thought. I think the university could have done better and given their mascot a more meaningful and memorable name.
3. Melissa - 1 star - The decision to name the Baylor bear mascot simply "Baylor" is utterly disappointing. It lacks originality and creativity. A university with such a rich history and vibrant community could have chosen a name that embodies their unique identity. "Baylor" is just too generic and doesn't evoke any emotions or convey the spirit of the university. I expected more from Baylor, and this naming choice falls short of what the mascot should represent.