TwelfthAG
10-06-2006, 04:23 PM
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4c/AggieRing.jpg/300px-AggieRing.jpgAggie Traditions - The Aggie Ring
The Aggie Ring is worn by students and graduates of the University, and each aspect of the ring is used to promote school spirit. It was designed by E. C. Jonas in 1894 and the design has been used since with only the class year changed, as well as the university's official name (it was called the Agricultural & Mechanical College of Texas until 1963).
The top of the ring depicts an eagle and shield. The shield at the top of the ring symbolizes protection of the reputation of the alma mater. The thirteen stripes in the shield represent the thirteen original states and symbolize patriotism. The five stars in the shield refer to the facets of student's development: mind, body, spirit, emotion, and integrity. The eagle denotes agility, power, and ability.
On one side of the ring is a large star, borrowed from the seal of the state of Texas. The oak leaves symbolize strength.
On the other side of the ring are a cannon, a saber, and a rifle, symbolizing Aggies' preparedness and valor in defending their land. The crossed flags of the United States and Texas symbolize allegiance to both nation and state.
Traditionally, students wear their ring with the class year facing them to signify the fact that their time at A&M is not yet complete. During Senior Weekend at the annual Ring Dance, the student's ring is turned around.
It is tradition, among willing students, to take their newly earned ring to a bar of their choice (usually the Dixie Chicken on Northgate) and "Dunk It." The ring is dropped in a pitcher of beer and the student chugs the entire pitcher, attempting to do it as fast as possible. However dunking has since been 'outlawed' in the Northgate area so the ring dunks are done mostly at home with a large group of friends.
The Aggie Ring is worn by students and graduates of the University, and each aspect of the ring is used to promote school spirit. It was designed by E. C. Jonas in 1894 and the design has been used since with only the class year changed, as well as the university's official name (it was called the Agricultural & Mechanical College of Texas until 1963).
The top of the ring depicts an eagle and shield. The shield at the top of the ring symbolizes protection of the reputation of the alma mater. The thirteen stripes in the shield represent the thirteen original states and symbolize patriotism. The five stars in the shield refer to the facets of student's development: mind, body, spirit, emotion, and integrity. The eagle denotes agility, power, and ability.
On one side of the ring is a large star, borrowed from the seal of the state of Texas. The oak leaves symbolize strength.
On the other side of the ring are a cannon, a saber, and a rifle, symbolizing Aggies' preparedness and valor in defending their land. The crossed flags of the United States and Texas symbolize allegiance to both nation and state.
Traditionally, students wear their ring with the class year facing them to signify the fact that their time at A&M is not yet complete. During Senior Weekend at the annual Ring Dance, the student's ring is turned around.
It is tradition, among willing students, to take their newly earned ring to a bar of their choice (usually the Dixie Chicken on Northgate) and "Dunk It." The ring is dropped in a pitcher of beer and the student chugs the entire pitcher, attempting to do it as fast as possible. However dunking has since been 'outlawed' in the Northgate area so the ring dunks are done mostly at home with a large group of friends.