GSU Pioneer Mascot Collection

GSU Pioneer Mascot Photo Collection (1933-present)

This collection includes a photograph of each GSU Pioneer Mascot, from the first one in 1933 to the present. A framed collection of GSU Pioneers now hangs on the main floor of the Heflin Administration Building.

In the early years, the Pioneer rode in an ox-cart pulled by a team of yoked oxen in the parade. His regalia of a suit of buckskin, coonskin cap, muzzle loading rifle, and a jug has varied through the years, but the idea has remained the same.

In 1933, Charles Barnett had the distinction of becoming the first official Glenville Pioneer. His duties were to participate in the Homecoming parade and to "rouse the spirit" of the student body in support of the football team at the Homecoming game.

WWII made it necessary to cancel the Homecoming activities until the fall of 1946.

When the tradition of the Pioneer Mascot began, a candidate had to be a male senior of good academic standing who had never lettered in any sport at Glenville. Times have changed, and Glenville has had several women serve as Pioneers, the first being in 1990-91.