The History and Charm of Theta Pond

Built in 1895, Theta Pond on the Oklahoma State University campus has been a part of Stillwater’s history since before statehood. From its utilitarian beginnings to its present status as a beloved landmark, Theta Pond has remained an integral part of OSU’s campus life and Stillwater’s allure.

A Storied Past

Theta Pond’s history dates back to 1895, when it was constructed to address water shortages on the then Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College campus. Under the direction of Dr. James C. Neal, director of the Agricultural Experiment Station, students built the pond using teams of horses to remove the top layers of soil and create a dirt embankment to catch runoff water. Initially known as College Pond and Horse Pond (due to its proximity to the horse barn), it played a crucial role in campus life. Water was pumped by a windmill into the pond and then distributed across the campus.

In 1922, the horse barn burned down and the pond was no longer needed as a water source. The pond was subsequently renamed Theta Pond, after the nearby Kappa Alpha Theta sorority house, marking the beginning of its transformation into a beloved scenic landmark.

Theta Pond underwent several enhancements over the years. In 1928, the pond was drained and enlarged. During the 1930s, pre-war Civilian Conservation Corps workers are believed to have constructed the two smaller satellite ponds, further enhancing the area’s beauty. Then, in 1943, a major project added a rock spillway, an island, and an ornamental rock bridge and increased the pond’s depth to twenty-two feet at its deepest point. Further construction projects and upgrades have continued to beautify the Theta Pond area over the years to make it a centerpiece of campus life.

A Hub of Activity

Theta Pond is not just a beautiful spot; it's a hub of activity and tradition. In the early years of OSU, the pond hosted various student activities, including class tug-of-war competitions that began in 1907 across the pond, leaving the losers soaked and slimy. This playful tradition set the tone for the pond’s role as a center of student life and camaraderie.

Throughout the decades, Theta Pond has remained central to many campus traditions. By the 1950s, “ponding” was a ritual part of campus life where sorority and fraternity pledges were thrown into the pond. Many proposals have happened on the benches in the romantic setting of the shade trees growing around the pond. And many ‘grooms to be’ have been dunked in the pond after proposing.

In the 1970s more than just pledges and fiancés were thrown into Theta Pond. In the mid 70s, streaking was gaining national popularity as the Ray Stevens’ song “The Streak” climbed the charts. In March 1975, just before spring break, a rowdy group of students decided to streak through The Strip. But to ensure that their naked dash became the stuff of legends, they “liberated” the giant Sirloin Stockade bull and several rode atop it through town and right down to Theta Pond where the bull became a victim of ponding. The ponding tradition lives on as demonstrated by the fact that a goal post from the final Bedlam game in 2023 was removed from the stadium and paraded to Theta Pond where it was triumphantly tossed in.

During Homecoming week each year, the pond is adorned with lights and decorations, transforming it into a glowing orange centerpiece for the Walk Around and other celebrations.

Wildlife and Scenery

The pond is home to various wildlife including ducks and geese, and you might even spot a swan paddling across the pond. In the past, Theta Pond was even home to an alligator. Sam the alligator was allegedly relocated to Theta Pond in the late 1940s by a student who had been keeping him in his room until he became too large. As Sam grew, he was frequently spotted by students who were fishing in the pond or just relaxing near it. But when the pond's ducks started disappearing and students witnessed them being pulled underwater, Sam was relocated to a cage in one of the smaller ponds until he passed away in the early 1950s.

The surrounding benches and shaded areas offer a peaceful retreat for students and visitors alike. They can enjoy a stroll on the path known as Greek Walk, which is lined with plaques detailing the histories of fraternities and sororities, adding a unique historical element to a walk around the pond.

Theta Pond has a long-standing reputation as a romantic spot. Many couples choose this scenic location for dates, engagements, and even wedding photos.

Alumni Memories

For many alumni, Theta Pond is a place of nostalgia. Stories of memorable moments, such as the hilarity of students attempting to stand on the frozen pond while not getting caught by campus police, are fondly recalled. For some it was the setting for raucous college adventures like being tossed into the water by fraternity brothers or sorority sisters or getting into mischief like ponding the Sirloin Stockade bull. Many couples have romantic memories of young love blooming at Theta Pond. The memories vary, but the pond remains a constant, connecting generations of OSU students and alumni.

Visiting Theta Pond

Today, Theta Pond continues to be a centerpiece of beauty and tradition at OSU. Whether you are enjoying the shade of the trees, feeding the ducks, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Theta Pond is a place where memories are made. Its rich history and enduring charm make it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Stillwater.

Whether you are an alum reminiscing about your college days or a visitor looking to experience a piece of Stillwater’s history, Theta Pond is a great place to pass a little time in a peaceful, scenic spot or snap some great selfies.

Location

View a map to Theta Pond's location on campus and more.

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