The Bruin Bear Statue: A Symbol of UCLA History and Pride

The Bruin Bear statue, a prominent fixture in Westwood Plaza, stands as a powerful symbol of UCLA's history, traditions, and enduring spirit. This imposing bronze sculpture has become an integral part of the Bruin experience, embodying the university's strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Origins and Creation

The story of the Bruin Bear statue begins with the UCLA Alumni Association's 50th anniversary in 1984. As a gift to the campus, the Association commissioned the creation of a monumental Bruin statue, an idea conceived out of a desire to establish a formidable Bruin symbol on campus. More than 900 alumni contributed to bring this vision to life. Sculptor Billy Fitzgerald of Albuquerque, N.M., took on the challenging task of creating this larger-than-life mascot.

On September 30, 1984, the Bruin Bear was unveiled to the public during a ceremony commemorating the Alumni Association's golden anniversary. Standing at 10 feet, 7 inches from nose to heel and 6 feet, 2 inches from claws to shoulders, the statue immediately captured the hearts of the Bruin community. At the time of its installation, the Bruin Bear was considered the largest bear sculpture in the United States, weighing over two tons.

A Physical Description

The Bruin Bear statue is a solid, imposing structure that exudes strength and quiet coolness. Its chiseled profile and powerful stance command attention, conveying the essence of the Bruin spirit. Cast in bronze, the statue has a timeless quality, as if it has stood guard over Westwood Plaza for generations.

Despite its impressive size, the Bruin Bear is not fat, as some might jokingly suggest. Rather, its bulk represents the strength and resilience of the Bruin community. The statue's weight, exceeding two tons, is a testament to its solid construction and enduring presence.

Significance and Symbolism

The Bruin Bear statue represents more than just a mascot; it embodies the values and traditions that define the UCLA experience. It symbolizes the university's strength, academic excellence, and unwavering spirit. The statue serves as a gathering place for students, alumni, and visitors, fostering a sense of community and shared pride.

For many Bruins, the Bruin Bear statue is a source of inspiration and motivation. Students often rub the statue's paw for good luck before exams, seeking a boost of confidence and a connection to the Bruin spirit. The statue is also a popular spot for photographs, capturing memories of the UCLA experience that will last a lifetime.

Traditions and Rituals

Over the years, the Bruin Bear statue has become the focal point of several UCLA traditions and rituals. Incoming students often pose for photos with the statue during Bruin Day, marking their official welcome to the Bruin family. Graduates also seek out the Bruin Bear, commemorating their accomplishments and their connection to the university.

One of the most notable traditions associated with the Bruin Bear statue is its hibernation during rivalry week against USC. To protect the statue from vandalism by Trojan fans, it is covered in a heavy tarp and enclosed in a large box. This tradition, while lighthearted, underscores the intensity of the UCLA-USC rivalry and the importance of protecting the Bruin symbol.

The Bruin Bear and UCLA Traditions

Becoming a student at UCLA means experiencing time-honored customs that unite Bruins across diverse backgrounds and interests. The Bruin Bear statue plays a significant role in several of these traditions:

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Academic Success: During midterms and finals, students can be seen rubbing the Bruin Bear’s paw for good luck.
Protecting the Bruin Bear: During the week before the big game against USC, the Bruin is covered in heavy tarp with a sign reading, “The Bruin Bear is hibernating.”

Mascot History

UCLA's mascot history dates back to the early 1920s when the campus was known as the Southern Branch of the University of California. Initially, UCLA students were referred to as "Cubs," but this moniker was soon replaced by the more ferocious "Grizzly" in 1924. However, in 1926, UCLA's pursuit of membership in the Pacific Coast Conference led to a conflict with the University of Montana, which already claimed the Grizzly as its mascot.

Faced with potential legal action, UCLA students embarked on a search for a new mascot. After considering various options, they ultimately settled on "Bruins" in October 1926. This decision also prompted the student newspaper to change its name from the "California Grizzly" to the "Daily Bruin."

In the early days, UCLA's mascots were live bears that entertained crowds at football games. These bears were given various names, but "Joe Bruin" eventually became the standard. In 1961, alumni presented the campus with "Josephine Bruin," a Himalayan bear. Costumed student mascots took over in the mid-1960s.

Vandalism and Protection

The Bruin Bear statue has been a target of vandalism over the years, particularly by fans of rival schools like USC. In one instance, vandals tossed red paint at the statue, leading to concerns about potential damage. To protect the statue, UCLA students often guard it in anticipation of the annual UCLA-USC football game, covering it in a large box with a sign that reads, "The Bruin Bear is hibernating."

These acts of vandalism underscore the importance of protecting the Bruin Bear statue as a symbol of UCLA pride and tradition. The efforts to safeguard the statue demonstrate the Bruin community's commitment to preserving its history and values.

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The Alumni Association's Role

The UCLA Alumni Association has played a vital role in shaping the university's traditions and preserving its history. In addition to commissioning the Bruin Bear statue, the Association has supported various initiatives aimed at strengthening the Bruin community and promoting school spirit.

In 1984, the Association established the Student Alumni Association (SAA) to foster connections between current students and alumni. The SAA has taken the lead in organizing many student programs, including Dinners for 12 Strangers and Homecoming Week.

The Alumni Association also played a key role in reviving student traditions that had been dormant for nearly a decade, such as the Homecoming Parade and Spring Sing. These efforts have helped to create a vibrant campus culture and a strong sense of community among Bruins.

Other UCLA Icons

While the Bruin Bear statue is a central landmark, UCLA's campus is home to several other iconic locations that contribute to the university's unique identity. Royce Hall, with its stunning architecture, provides a glimpse into the school's rich history. The statue of John Wooden in front of Pauley Pavilion honors the legendary basketball coach and his unparalleled achievements. The Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden and the Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden offer tranquil escapes from the urban environment, showcasing the beauty of art and nature.

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