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The first "badgers" in Wisconsin
The discovery of lead in Wisconsin attracted coal miners. These coal miners were nicknamed "badgers" because they spent the cold winters "living like badgers" in the mines. -
The badger became the official UW mascot
With the birth of the University of Wisconsin football team, the badger became the official mascot of UW. It was only fitting for the "badger state". -
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Badger mascot evolves
The first mascot for UW was a live badger. The badger threatened the safety of both player and fans and was later replaced with a raccoon. This mascot was passed off as a "badger in a raccoon suit". -
First depiction of Bucky
Bucky was first depicted in a cartoon. -
Bucky earned copyright
Bucky's birthday is October 2, 1940 because this is the day he earned copyright. The year 1940 was also the first time Bucky was depicted in his red striped sweater we see him in today. This drawing was by illustrator Art Evans. -
First student as Bucky Badger
Bill Sagal wore the first Bucky costume to the homecoming game. The costume consisted of a papier-mache head designed by Connie Conrad. -
Attempt to dethrone Bucky
Assistant Attorney General Howard Koop attempted--and failed-- to replace Bucky with a cow mascot named Henrietta Holstien. -
Bucky is played by an imposter
Rick Telander, a writer for Sports Illustrated dressed up in the Bucky suit for a volleyball game. He claims that the experience helped him overcome "terminal claustrophobia". -
Bucky inducted into hall of fame
Bucky was inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame. -
Bucky's highest ranking
At the 2008 UCA National Mascot Competition, Bucky placed second, his highest ranking ever!