If you’re new to Auburn University or just curious, here’s a quick answer: Auburn is a public university in Alabama with a vibrant spirit and many unique traditions, quirky campus stories, and a strong sense of community. From its iconic battle cry “War Eagle” to its famous Toomer’s Corner, Auburn’s fun facts reflect a campus culture that’s both historic and playful. Below, you’ll find a beginner-friendly guide to Auburn’s most interesting facts, traditions, and what makes the university special.
Background: Auburn University at a Glance
Auburn University, located in Auburn, Alabama, is one of the largest universities in the state and is classified as an R1: Doctoral University with very high research activity. Founded in 1856 as the East Alabama Male College, the university has grown to enroll over 30,000 students and offers more than 140 degree options. Its mascot, Aubie the Tiger, and the university’s signature burnt orange and navy blue colors are widely recognized symbols of school pride.
Campus Landmarks and Their Stories
Auburn’s campus is home to several landmarks that carry fascinating stories and traditions:
- Samford Hall: The clock tower of Samford Hall is an iconic symbol. Legend says if a couple kisses at midnight under Samford Hall, they’ll marry.
- Toomer’s Corner: Home to the famous rolling of the oak trees after sports victories or major events. The tradition started in the 1950s and is uniquely Auburn.
- The Lathe: An old Civil War-era lathe sits on campus. According to legend, it brings good luck on exams if you walk around it the correct way—but bad luck if you walk the wrong way!
- The Eagle’s Flight: Auburn’s pregame tradition features an eagle soaring over the stadium, rousing the crowd before kickoff.
Traditions That Make Auburn Special
Tradition is central to Auburn’s identity. Here are some of the most beloved:
- War Eagle: Not just a mascot, but the university’s spirited greeting and battle cry. Students, alumni, and fans use it to say hello or show school pride.
- Rolling Toomer’s Corner: After big wins, the oak trees at Toomer’s Corner are covered in toilet paper—an Auburn-exclusive celebration.
- A-Day: An annual spring football game that brings the Auburn community together for festivities, tailgating, and a preview of the football team.
- Hey Day: Each fall, Auburn celebrates Hey Day, where everyone is encouraged to wear name tags and greet each other, promoting friendliness across campus.
- Tiger Walk: Before home football games, fans line Donahue Drive to cheer on the football team as they walk to the stadium.
Fun Facts and Quirky Details
- Why “War Eagle”? The origin is debated, but one story involves a Civil War veteran’s pet eagle inspiring a football comeback in 1892. Another theory is that it’s simply a battle cry adopted over time.
- Aubie the Tiger: Aubie is more than a mascot—he’s a 10-time UCA national champion mascot, known for his playful antics and crowd-pleasing dance moves.
- Oldest Building: Langdon Hall is the oldest building on campus still in use, dating to 1846 and relocated to its current site in 1883.
- Toomer’s Lemonade: The Toomer’s Drugs soda fountain is famous for its hand-squeezed lemonade, a must-try for visitors and students alike.
- No “Auburn” in the Fight Song: The school fight song, “War Eagle,” never actually mentions the word “Auburn.”
- Misspelled Street: College Street, a main road through campus, was misspelled as “Collage Street” on a prominent sign for years, becoming a campus joke before it was corrected.
How to Experience Auburn’s Traditions
New students and visitors can easily get involved in Auburn’s traditions. Here’s how:
- Attend a football game at Jordan-Hare Stadium and participate in the Tiger Walk and War Eagle chant.
- Visit Toomer’s Corner after a win to see or join in the rolling of the trees.
- Stop by Toomer’s Drugs for their famous lemonade—especially on a hot Alabama day.
- Participate in Hey Day or just greet people with a “War Eagle” as you walk across campus.
- Tour Samford Hall and learn about the campus legends associated with it.
Even if you’re not a student, Auburn’s welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to join in the fun.
Comparisons: Auburn vs. Other SEC Schools
Auburn is part of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), a group of universities known for their strong traditions and athletic programs. What sets Auburn apart?
- Community Spirit: Auburn’s “family” atmosphere is repeatedly cited by students and alumni. The friendliness of the campus is a point of pride.
- Unique Traditions: While many SEC schools have pregame rituals, Auburn’s eagle flight and Toomer’s Corner rolling are uniquely its own.
- Rivalries: Auburn’s biggest rivalry is with the University of Alabama, culminating each year in the Iron Bowl football game—one of the most intense in college sports.
- Size: Auburn is large but not the biggest SEC school, which some say helps maintain its close-knit community feel.
Other SEC schools like the University of Alabama, University of Georgia, and LSU have their own storied traditions, but Auburn’s blend of friendliness and unique rituals makes it stand out.
Common Misconceptions About Auburn
- “War Eagle” is Not the Mascot: The school’s mascot is Aubie the Tiger, not the eagle. The eagle is a live symbol used in traditions, but Aubie is the official mascot.
- Auburn is Not Just About Football: While known for athletics, Auburn has strong programs in engineering, architecture, agriculture, and more, with a robust research presence.
- Anyone Can Join In: Auburn’s traditions aren’t just for students. Alumni, families, and visitors are welcome to participate in campus celebrations.
Costs and Visiting Auburn
Visiting Auburn University is generally free for walking tours and to see most outdoor landmarks. Some events, like football games, require tickets, which can range from affordable to expensive depending on the opponent and seat location. Toomer’s Drugs and other campus eateries are open to the public, and prices are typical for a college town—expect to pay a few dollars for a famous lemonade. Parking for major events can be limited and may require a fee. Campus tours for prospective students are offered at no cost but usually require advance registration.
Campus Safety and Student Life
Auburn University is considered a safe campus, with its own police department and a range of safety resources. Emergency call boxes, late-night transportation, and safety escorts are available to students. The university also emphasizes inclusivity and support for new students through orientation programs, student organizations, and events like Welcome Week. Auburn’s student life is vibrant, with over 500 clubs and organizations that cater to diverse interests, from academic societies to intramural sports and service groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the meaning of “War Eagle”?
“War Eagle” is Auburn’s battle cry and a common greeting among students, alumni, and fans. Its exact origin is debated, but it symbolizes Auburn pride and spirit. - Why do people roll Toomer’s Corner?
Rolling Toomer’s Corner is a tradition where students and fans throw toilet paper into the oak trees after a big victory or important event, celebrating together as a community. - Who is Aubie the Tiger?
Aubie is Auburn’s official mascot, a costumed tiger known for entertaining crowds at athletic events. He’s won multiple national mascot championships. - Can visitors participate in Auburn traditions?
Yes! Visitors are welcome at most Auburn events and can join in many traditions, from rolling Toomer’s Corner to greeting people with “War Eagle.” - Is Auburn University only known for sports?
No. While its athletics are highly visible, Auburn is also recognized for strong academic programs, research, and a welcoming campus culture. - How do I tour the campus?
Auburn offers guided tours for prospective students and families, which can be booked online. Self-guided walking tours are also available year-round.
Conclusion: Auburn’s Lasting Appeal
For beginners, Auburn University is more than just a college—it’s a place where traditions are cherished, newcomers are welcomed, and every student is part of the Auburn Family. Whether you’re rolling Toomer’s Corner, sipping lemonade at Toomer’s Drugs, or just shouting “War Eagle” across campus, you’ll quickly see why Auburn’s fun facts and quirky customs have created a loyal, lifelong community. Exploring Auburn’s traditions is a rewarding experience for students, visitors, and anyone interested in college culture.