Frog statue caused opposition in 1984
Some said art inappropriate for campus
Editor’s Note: This editorial originally ran in the April 17, 1984 edition of the Skiff

If certain members of the TCU House of Student Representatives get their wish today, there could soon be an eyesore in front of Reed-Sadler Mall.

The House will vote today on allocating $4,000 from the Permanent Improvement Fund to erect a 6-foot stone statue of a horned frog sitting atop a cliff.

The location of this statue would be inappropriate for a number of reasons. First, the horned frog as an animal is ugly, frightening creature that would not present the most welcoming invitation for those viewing the TCU campus for the first time. With a scaly back and primeval face, the inanimate replica would fit in with the TCU campus about as well as a shack would in Beverly Hills.

Also, the asymmetrical design of the horned frog statue would make its presence inappropriate in the location currently desired by members of the House. Sadler Hall and Reed Hall are stately buildings that deserve something with a bit more class than an off-centered statue of a scaly reptile that intimidates its enemies by squirting blood out of its eyes.

Instead of a 6-foot sculpture of the TCU mascot, the House should consider a structure honoring the founders of the university, Addison and Randolph Clark, or some other distinguished individual who has contributed greatly to this institution. Something like this would stand out as a work of art in its own right, yet blend in nicely with the rather conservative surroundings.

If the various members of the TCU House are adamant about putting forth money for a statue of a horned frog, then they should consider relocating it. While the sculpture of the TCU mascot would be out of place in the front of the university, the fierce and intimidating look of the horned frog would be the perfect greeting for an opposing team in the area of the athletic facilities, preferably in front of Daniel-Meyer Coliseum and Amon G. Carter Stadium.

The members of the House try to think up new ways in which to better the TCU campus, and they should be commended for their efforts. However, they should also be expected to use discretion when deciding how and where these improvements are to be implemented.

TCU Daily Skiff © 2002