Floyd of Rosedale

Floyd of Rosedale is a bronze trophy, in the form of a pig, awarded to the winner of the annual American football rivalry game between the University of Iowa Hawkeyes and the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers. The trophy originated from a 1935 wager between the governors of Iowa and Minnesota to ease tensions surrounding a racially charged incident. Since then, it has become one of the most iconic and cherished trophies in college football, symbolizing a historic Big Ten Conference rivalry.

History

The trophy's origin is rooted in the 1934 football game played at Memorial Stadium in Minneapolis. During that contest, Minnesota's aggressive play, particularly against Iowa's star African American tackle Ozzie Simmons, led to accusations of racially motivated targeting and threats of retaliation from Iowa partisans. To defuse the volatile situation ahead of the 1935 rematch, Minnesota Governor Floyd B. Olson and Iowa Governor Clyde L. Herring made a friendly wager. Governor Olson bet a prize Minnesota dairy hog from his Rosedale Farms against Governor Herring's prize Iowa turkey. After Iowa's 13–6 victory in Iowa City, Governor Herring collected the hog, which he named "Floyd" after his counterpart. The live animal was soon replaced by the current bronze sculpture to ensure its permanence as a traveling trophy.

Trophy description

The permanent trophy, commissioned in 1936, is a 21-inch long, 15-inch high bronze sculpture of a hog, created by artist Charles Brioschi. It rests on an oval-shaped base made of Brazilian walnut. The figure is depicted in a trotting pose, with a finely detailed, muscular build that conveys both strength and agility, qualities valued in the sport it represents. The names of the winning team and the game score are engraved on the base each year. The trophy's design was inspired by the original live hog from Rosedale Farms, and its creation was overseen by the Minneapolis-based St. Paul Dispatch-Pioneer Press.

Cultural significance

Floyd of Rosedale transcends a typical sports trophy, representing a successful diplomatic resolution to a period of intense regional and racial strife. The governors' wager is often cited as an early example of using sportsmanship to bridge social divides. The trophy is a central icon in the border rivalry between the two Midwestern states, featuring prominently in pre-game festivities and alumni events. Its unique porcine form has inspired countless traditions, including the University of Iowa's "Herky" mascot occasionally "walking" a replica hog during homecoming week. The story is a staple in the lore of both athletic departments and is taught as part of the history of Big Ten football.

Game results

Since the trophy's inception, the series has been highly competitive. Minnesota held the initial advantage, but the Hawkeyes have held a lead in the trophy series since the late 1970s. Notable games include the 1985 contest where Iowa, ranked #1 in the nation, defeated Minnesota to retain the trophy en route to a Big Ten championship and a Rose Bowl berth. The 2010 game saw Iowa win on a last-second field goal at TCF Bank Stadium. The trophy has changed hands several times in the 21st century, including a three-game winning streak for Minnesota from 2014 to 2016 under coach Tracy Claeys.

Legacy

The legacy of Floyd of Rosedale is one of enduring rivalry tempered by mutual respect, born from a deliberate act of political goodwill. It is listed among the most prized trophies in college football, alongside such awards as the Old Oaken Bucket and the Little Brown Jug. The trophy's history is frequently recounted by media outlets like ESPN and the Big Ten Network during broadcasts of the rivalry game. It remains a powerful symbol of Midwestern identity, collegiate athletics, and the capacity of sports to address and move beyond societal conflicts. The governors' bet ensured that the rivalry's fierceness would be channeled into a celebrated tradition rather than further discord. Category:American football trophies and awards Category:Sports in Iowa Category:Sports in Minnesota Category:University of Iowa Category:University of Minnesota