Episode 96: Theta Pond

Arguably one of the most beautiful spots on Oklahoma State’s campus, Theta Pond has a notoriously chaotic past of dunking newlyweds, games of tug of war and even an alligator. Built in 1895, the iconic campus landmark was formerly known as Horse Pond due to its intended use as a water reservoir for the horses as well as its near proximity to the campus horse barn that burned down in 1922. After that, it was renamed to Theta Pond due to its proximity to Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. While students in the 50s were rightfully fearful of being Theta’s next soggy victim, Theta Pond stays pretty calm and alligator-free these days minus the occasional stolen goal post.

Today, we’re going to recap the highlights of Theta Pond at the height of its chaos, with stories of post-engagement dunking and once again investigating just how Sam the Alligator made it to Theta Pond. We’ll also hear from Landscape Services Director John John Lee about what goes into taking care of Theta Pond and how it serves OSU’s students every year.