Students may have noticed a unique flag flying in front of Tillman Hall, also referred to as Old Main. The flag makes its appearance from time to time and is displayed beneath the South Carolina state flag. This flag is known as Clemson University’s “Grand Old Flag” also known as the Centennial Flag.
The Centennial Flag was designed by a Clemson alumnus, Connie Floyd, who wanted to create a simple yet intricate flag design for Clemson University’s 100th anniversary. According to an article in the April 1, 1988 edition of The Tiger, the flag design is described and the meaning is explained. The three bands represent the three regions of South Carolina. The top orange band represents the Upstate, the middle white band represents the Midlands, and the bottom purple band represents the Lowcounty. Each region is environmentally different, yet they come together to form one state: one community.
In the very center of the flag, there is a metallic gold-colored circle which is a special university color. In the middle of this circle is a differently styled tiger face that many would not normally associate with Clemson. Three symbols surround this center emblem. The open books symbolize teaching and learning. The calipers represent the University’s importance toward research. The sheaves of wheat represent the agricultural background with which Clemson was founded. There are three sets of each symbol to represent the nine colleges founded upon humanities, technology, and science.
The flag was first raised April 6, 1988 to celebrate the 100 years of the University’s achievements. Since there are so many academic symbols on the flag, the celebration “would emphasize the academic celebration of the University’s history more than its athletic connections” according to Dr. Alan Grubb, a Clemson history professor. It was a celebration of 100 years of teaching, research, and service. The Centennial event truly was a grand day full of celebration and entertainment.
Students should have a sense of pride after seeing the Centennial Flag. Dr. Jerry Reel, Clemson alumnus and Clemson historian since 2002, said in an April 1988 edition of The Tiger, “We wanted to remind everybody that Clemson is a statewide institution.” The Centennial Flag stands to be our official academic university flag and “can exit as long as the University wants it to exist,” according to Dr. Jerry Reel.
