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NavyCrimson wrote:Great job Rayburn.

I had read that the 'direction' of the mustang differentiates the Ford version from SMU's. Have you heard that one?

I also noticed that SMU uses 'TM' on their logo for trademarked. Your thoughts?

The Ford Mustang logo runs right to left. The SMU logo, like with most universities, runs left to right.

Yep, SMU's version is trademarked and protected. I think that we started using the current Galloping Mustang back in 1966 (put it on the helmet in 1968). It is different enough from Fords' to make it our own, but I have a feeling that there was a tacit understanding beween the university and the automaker over the symbol. Most college logos weren't as popular or even as unique back then as they are now. Back in the 1950s and 1960s, it wasn't unusual to see the same logo used by four or five schools with the same mascot. I've seen the same tiger head logo from that era used by LSU, Auburn, Clemson and College of the Pacific all at the same time, the same indian brave logo used by FSU, Syracuse, Alcorn and Illinois. Back in the late 1950s, we used a raring Mustang that is still in use today by many high schools and junior highs.

The Galloping Mustang says SMU as well as the Longhorn head says Texas; its very, very recognizable and closely associated with the university.

"... It is different enough from Fords' to make it our own, but I have a feeling that there was a tacit understanding between the university and the automaker over the symbol..."

You're correct. From what I understand from the old articles back in the 70's or 80's there was an understanding of sorts between the two parties.

As for the rearing Mustang of '63 through '66, that was my favorite. Both unique & 'SMU original'. I have now learned to appreciate the current running pony through the years. Unfortunately I am dating myself. LOL!!!

NavyCrimson wrote:I had read that the 'direction' of the mustang differentiates the Ford version from SMU's. Have you heard that one?

Of course you've heard the joke about how to tell if it's a Ford Mustang or an SMU one. Ford Mustangs never run right.

LOL!!! That's a good one!

ponyboy wrote:Of course you've heard the joke about how to tell if it's a Ford Mustang or an SMU one. Ford Mustangs never run right.

An oldie but a goodie.

NavyCrimson, are you talking about the rearing Mustang that went on the helmet in those days? This guy:

Absolutely! That's it.

Are there any quotes from or interviews with the players who were in the locker room the day that Iacocca stood on that training table? And are there any pictures of that red, white & blue Mustang that Fry got?

I don't have a picture of Hayden Fry's Ford Mustang but I saw it when I was a student at SMU

bubba pony wrote:I don't have a picture of Hayden Fry's Ford Mustang but I saw it when I was a student at SMU

You could see it parked in his reserved spot - marked by a red and blue sign - in front of Ownby Stadium. Sharp looking car. Bet he wishes he had it today (if he doesn't).

Bergermeister wrote:

bubba pony wrote:I don't have a picture of Hayden Fry's Ford Mustang but I saw it when I was a student at SMU

You could see it parked in his reserved spot - marked by a red and blue sign - in front of Ownby Stadium. Sharp looking car. Bet he wishes he had it today (if he doesn't).

In his book he said he wishes he still had it.

I think there's some mythology in the Lee Iacocca story. I read somewhere that Ford was already going to name the car the Mustang, but whatever. I've never seen any verification about Peruna killing the Fordham Ram, either, so whatevs. If no one is going to dispute it, might as well keep it as gospel. Makes for good filler for TV announcers.

The official SMU logo IS slightly different from the Ford Mustang logo. It's more than just the direction of the horse. Do a google image search of the Ford Mustang logo and you'll see.

As for the "rearing Mustang" - my personal name for that logo is The Prancing Pony. But I don't fault anyone for liking it.