Discover the Purdue Pete Story and More
Boilermaker Special
Hailed as the world's largest college mascot, the Boilermaker Special V is a 9,000-pound, 23-foot vehicle designed to look like an old-time locomotive.  
The idea to create the mascot as a symbol of Purdue's invincibility and ingenuity first developed in 1939.  

Since then four Boilermaker Specials have preceded the current one that made its debut at the Sept. 25, 1993, Notre Dame game.
Wherever it travels, the heavy mascot serves a reminder of the traditions that are loved most by alumni and fans.
Besides making a statement in University athletics, the Boilermaker Special also makes different ‘special’ appearances.

World's Largest Drum
This Big Bass Drum has served the University since 1921 and is a fan-favorite on Football Saturdays.  With drum heads made from animal hides, it originally cost $800.

 Today the mammoth musical instrument that stands 10-feet tall, serves a focal point of the school's "All-American" Marching Band.  Band members make it "dance" in circular fashion during performances and the drum sounds off each time the team scores a TD.  

Purdue University Gamedays
Ross-Ade Stadium is where the Boilermakers are mixed with their Big 10 opponents.
 
The stadium was first dedicated in 1924 with a seating capacity of 13,500.  

Currently the University's home venue can seat 62,500.  On Football Saturdays, Ross-Ade Stadium is alive in Black and Gold!

Football jersey numbers worn by famous Purdue players
9	Former Boilermakers QB Mark Herrmann wore Purdue jersey No. 9
12	Bob Griese wore Purdue jersey No. 12 while quarterbacking the Boilermakers.  Former QB Curtis Painter donned No. 12 as well.
15	Purdue QB's Mike Phipps and Drew Brees both donned Boilermakers football jersey No. 15
16	Before leading Kansas City to a Super Bowl title, Len Dawson wore jersey No. 16.
23	RB Leroy Keyes wore jersey No. 23 before his NFL career
26	Before becoming an NFL defensive force and Super Bowl champions, Rod Woodson donned No. 26
40	Mike Alstott sported jersey No. 40 before joining the NFL
80	Paul Moss was the University's first two-time All-American.