Smells like School Spirit: South Dakota Mines Unveils New Version of University Mascot
What do a gopher, bulldog, duck and prospector have in common?
They're not just mascots — they're the heart and soul of their universities, bringing the fun amid the stress of college life and the excitement through the highs and lows of game day.
These iconic figures rally students, unite alumni and embody the essence of pride in school. Since the 1890s, mascots have cheered, danced and strutted their way into the collegiate tradition, standing as proud symbols of community and spirit.
Many mascots, including South Dakota Mines’ beloved Grubby, are inspired by the university's history and hold interesting stories behind their masks.
In celebration of Grubby’s 72nd birthday in February, the university is unveiling the newest evolution of its iconic prospector. Illustrated by Travis Kowalski, Ph.D., head of the university’s mathematics department, the new full-size miner will be revealed during the Center for Alumni Relations and Advancement’s Raising for Rockers Day Feb. 20-21. Beginning at noon on Feb. 20, the life-size figure will be unveiled piece by piece as donations pour in, bringing Grubby to life in an exciting and interactive way! Check out Grubby’s birthday video.
Grubby has undergone many transformations throughout the years, reflecting changing
eras, designs and student engagement. First appearing as "Shiftless Sam" in the 1953
university yearbook “The Engineer”, the gruff prospector was created by 1955 Mines
graduate Jack Ihli at the request of editor Bob Bieren. Early illustrations show Sam
with a jug of unknown substance and an occasional cigar, embodying the spirit of the
times.
Page one from the 1957 student newspaper “The Tech” features an anonymous poem titled “Ode to a Miner” that describes the mascot as “a guy whose clumsy boots are worn, and faded jeans are soiled and torn. Who needs a haircut and a shave, and looks like something from a cave. Who drinks a keg of beer a night and does his physics while he’s tight.”
The first evolution of Grubby as he is known today appeared in the 1959 student newspaper with the caption, “Grubby Sez: See You M-Day” referring to the university’s homecoming.
Over the decades, the "finer miner" has held different meanings for students. Don Hamann (ME 71) recalled not feeling a strong connection to the mascot but noted its constant presence. "Some saw him as a reflection of how we dressed—'grubby miners'—which was true until more girls joined campus," he joked.
Baylee Jewell, a junior mechanical engineering major, said Grubby represents the joy and fun of embracing who you are. “Grubby is the kind of guy that smiles through the pain of a basketball loss, and his goofy antics inspire the winning spirit in all of us.”
A bronze statue of Grubby prominently displayed on campus echoes Jewell. Donated by James Green (ME 74) and his wife Connie, in 2011, the statue is dedicated to the students at Mines as a “reminder of the hard-working, fun-loving spirit that has made this institution great.”
Whether a reflection of the student body or a fun-loving, slightly inappropriate prospector, Grubby and his story enrich the history and traditions of South Dakota Mines. The newest evolution of Grubby will ensure his legacy lives on for generations to come.