Dunbar Family Leo D. Canine papers

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: ARCH170

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The collection consists of letters, cards, newspaper clippings, and press releases saved by the Dunbar Family pertaining to Leo D. Canine. This includes cards that were sent by students and staff when Leo was sick, as well as a fundraising letter and flier pertaining to the class of 1977 senior gift which raised money to create a portrait of Leo.

Dates

1977 - 1987

Creator

Dunbar Family (Family)

Language of Materials

English

Conditions Governing Access

The collection is open to all researchers.

Conditions Governing Use

The materials in this collection may be protected by copyright law (U.S. Code: Title 17). Any use of the material which exceeds fair use requires permission from the copyright holder. Researchers are solely responsible for obtaining the proper permission(s) for their use of the material.

Biographical / Historical

Leo D. Canine was a basset hound who belonged to Peter Dunbar, who lived with his parents David and Margaret Dunbar in a house neighboring the University. Leo was prone to getting loose and often spent time on campus with students. Leo was so frequently sighted and beloved that he became the mascot for the class of 1977. In the summer of 1978, students successfully enrolled Leo D. Canine in five engineering courses. The prank was not discovered until the bursar’s office noticed that there was no zip code provided for the student. The prank, and Leo, received national attention as a result. Afterwards, students continued the prank by ordering magazine subscriptions and having mail sent to the University’s address for Leo. Leo passed away in his sleep in January 1982 at about 15 years old.

Extent

0.08 Linear Feet (2 containers)

Additional Description

Abstract

The collection contains materials saved by the Dunbar family, regarding their basset hound Leo who was a beloved mascot for University students during the 1970s and early 1980s.