Fountain runs
The fountain run tradition at Purdue consists of students running through three campus fountains and drinking water from the last. New Boilermakers learn about this relatively new tradition during their orientation week, Boiler Gold Rush. Students normally participate in fountain runs during the beginning of school and spring finals to alleviate stress.
Fountain runs have existed at Purdue since the class of 1939 dedicated the “Class of 1939 Water Sculpture” (The Engineering Fountain) during homecoming of 1989. In its early years, the Engineering Fountain was not very safe; there were multiple injuries and one girl was even sent to the hospital for a broken arm.
In 2000, the University Architecture Landscape Planning Committee decided the Engineering Fountain was too dangerous and something had to be done. At first the plan was to fence the water feature off. After the Exponent featured an article on this this issue, students were out raged. The UALPC decided to delay the decision to the summer when students weren’t around to protest.
In September of the next school year the committee erected a steel cylinder in place of the fences. The steel cylinder would prevent students from running directly over the power water jets while retaining the visual appeal of the fountain. However, students were still displeased with the change.
Later, the same issue arose with the Loeb Fountain. Instead of using fences, the administration decided to smooth out the rough surfaces and ease the water pressure.
Today, the fountains run during fall and spring months and students still participate in fountain runs. The steel cylinder in the Engineering Fountain has not had a lasting negative effect. Most do not even know all the past controversy related to this fun tradition.
Memorial Fountain
Built in 1895
Donated by class of 1894
Located Next to John Purdue’s grave,
on the Memorial Mall
Lion Head Fountain
Built in 1904, donated by class of 1903
Disconnected in 1923 for Stanley Coulter Annex construction
Restored in 2001 by funds from Purdue Reamer Club
People drink from all 4 heads for good luck
It roars when a virgin walks by
Loeb Fountain
Built in 1959 with funds from the Loeb family
Originally in front of Hovde Hall
Put in storage in 1988 during Purdue Mall renovation (Engineering fountain built)
Became Founders park centerpiece in 1993
Class of 1939 Water Sculpture (Engineering Fountain)
Built in 1989
50 anniversary gift from class of 1939
Steel cylinder added in 2001
