IU is full of interesting sights, restaurants, historical events and customs. Whether you are an incoming student, local, or a visitor exploring this engaging town, here are some of the known and obscure IU traditions that you should know about.
Herman B Wells Statue
The first tradition worthy of mention is of course the Herman B Wells statue located west of campus outside the Student Building. Wells was the 11th president of IU and the first chancellor of IU. His statue was installed in 2000, which is the same year he passed away. The statue serves to commemorate his accomplishments at the university. It’s been said that if a student shakes Wells’ hand before the semester or any exam, they will receive academic success.
Eskenazi’s color show
The Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art’s color show is a fun and colorful tradition for anyone to experience. This is where many students and residents come at night, lay on the ground and put their feet against the wall to watch the color show display provided by the Light Totem. The LED lights are reflected off the wall of the museum which creates an alluring aura of light.
Hep’s Rock
If you get the chance to go to an IU football game, get the Hoosier Pre-game pass for a tour of the stadium and an opportunity to take a picture with an IU tradition. Behind the north end zone, is a limestone boulder called “Hep’s Rock.” It’s named after former head coach Terry Hoeppner, who tragically passed away in 2017. It is believed to symbolize the team’s immovable strength, team unity, and pays homage to southern Indiana’s notable limestone industry. “Hep’s Rock was originally called "The Rock,” and was installed inside the stadium in 2005. Each home game, Indiana football players and coaches touch the rock before taking the field.
USS Indiana Battleship
Another IU football gameday tradition at the west side of Memorial Stadium. Many fans take pictures in front of pieces of the USS Indiana battleship, the cannon guns, mainmast and prow, that honor the sailors and marines who served on the ship from 1942- 1947. The battleship was used during World War II, and it took part in several notable Pacific campaigns and invasions.
This article is part of the Source Visitors Guide, an IDS special publication
