This is a common grump from Ohio State haters, ‘Why do you call yourselves “THE” Ohio State Buckeyes”, do you think your better than everyone else?’ No we don’t think we’re better than everyone else, ok well maybe we do because we are, but we’re not that conceited – give us a break! There’s a lot of theories and rumors as to why but the “official” answer can be found on The Ohio State University Archive site. Here’s what it says with a link:
In 1986, a new University logo was introduced in the hopes of moving away from the “OSU” symbol, which had been used since 1977. The change from simply “OSU” was said to “reflect the national stature of the institution.” University officials wanted the institution to be known as “The Ohio State University,” again, since OSU could also mean Oregon State and Oklahoma State University.
However, the “The” was actually part of the state legislation when the university was renamed in 1878. The following excerpt is from the Board of Trustee minutes:
“…the educational institution heretofore known as the ‘Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College,’ shall be known and designated hereafter as ‘The Ohio State University.'”
Those who wanted the name change thought the original name was too narrow in scope, and that it was inadequate for the institution that was the only beneficiary of the land grant act. President Edward Orton was insistent that a new name would separate the institution from other colleges in Ohio.
Legend also has it that “The” was used to show the other colleges which institution was supposed to be the leader in the state – both in size and in financial support from the legislature.
link to library – http://library.osu.edu/sites/archives/resources/faqpage.php#THE
Hopefully this squashes some of the haters reasonings. It really does make sense and helps us to stand out especially when there is an Ohio University in the state which could confuse people. I would like to add however, that having “THE” does make us sound pretty darn great though and thats cause we are!
