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September 9, 2002

Reamer Club releases book on Purdue history and traditions

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – How Purdue's colors came to be old gold and black and which Purdue building stood for only four days are just two of the stories which unfold in a newly released book of Purdue history published by the Purdue University Press.

"A University of Tradition: The Spirit of Purdue" is the product of nearly 10 years of research by the Purdue Reamer Club. The 215-page book covers a wide variety of Boiler trivia, from the establishment of Purdue traditions to biographies of important Purdue people to university landmarks and historical events. It also features more than 125 photos and a listing of university buildings, including University Hall, the single 19th century building which remains standing on campus.

Purdue University President Martin C. Jischke calls "A University of Tradition" the definitive collection of Purdue memorabilia.

"This book ... is a magnificent collection of many things that make Purdue both a great academic institution and a beloved alma mater," Jischke says. "It is a celebration of our past and present and a prelude to our future. The Reamers have done an excellent job of putting together this great book. It will be for their sons and daughters to add the future chapters, which will come as surely as people gather to sing 'Hail Purdue.'"

Reamer treasurer Amanda Juntunen, a former Reamer Traditions Committee chair, says she enjoyed working on the book.

"I love the traditions and find myself enthralled with the idea that each day, each of us continues to make the amazing history of Purdue," Juntunen says. "Most people do not realize how rich our history is, but when they do, I think they will gain a greater pride in Purdue. I'm also very pleased with the pictures in the book, because I think they will catch a lot of attention and generate interest in the written traditions."

The book, which costs $24.95, can be purchased through the Purdue University Press by calling (800) 247-6553 or visiting the press Web site. Purdue University Press information manager Bryan Shaffer says most Greater Lafayette bookstores also plan to stock the book.

CONTACT: Bryan Shaffer, (765) 494-8428, bshaffer@purdue.edu; Amanda Juntunen, (765) 746-3329, juntunea@purdue.edu.

Writer: Marydell Forbes, (765) 496-7704, mforbes@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu


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