oct 30, 1926 - Chief Illiniwek becomes the official symbol of the University of Illinois
Description:
Ray Dvorak conceived of the idea, and Eagle Scout Lester Leutwiler created the costume and performed the dance based on his experience in the Boy Scouts.A Native American war dance was performed for the first ever during the halftime of the football game against the University of Pensylvania.
The two men credited with the creation of Chief Illiniwek are Ray Dvorak and Scout Lester. At the time, Dvorak was the assistant director of bands at the University. Lester was the one that actually created the official chief costume. He also performed the dance at halftime based on his experience in Boy Scouts.
Added to timeline:
Date:
oct 30, 1926
Now
~ 99 years ago