Purple Poo Celebrated With Statue on Tarleton State Campus

STEPHENVILLE, Texas —Tarleton State University’s beloved Purple Poo spirit organization was commemorated on campus with the unveiling of a new statue in Heritage Park Saturday after the Homecoming Parade.

Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley and First Lady Kindall Hurley, along with members of the university’s executive cabinet, academic deans, campus operations representatives and Purple Poo members present and past were among the guests on hand for the statue reveal.

“This isn’t just a statue — it’s a statement about what tradition truly means to Tarleton State University,” said Dr. Hurley. “It stands as a lasting tribute to the spirit, pride and passion that the Purple Poo have carried for generations. And while we all know the Purple Poo will always be a part of Tarleton State, this statue ensures that their legacy and spirit will be forever etched into the heart of our campus.”

Formed in 1921 and 1923, respectively, the Ten Tarleton Peppers (TTP) and the Ten Tarleton Sisters (TTS), are the oldest spirit organizations in Texas. The groups formed to boost school morale by painting and hanging inspiring banners around campus. They became known collectively as the Purple Poo after a paint glob splattered on a sign they were making, inspiring the moniker.

From the beginning, new members have been hand-selected by current members, keeping the organization close-knit and steeped in tradition. Poo members attempt to keep their identities secret, a custom stemming from the original students having the Dean’s permission to be out after campus curfew. Over the years their costumes have evolved from robes with hoods to masks and fanciful accessories, and while each Poo creates their own look, the anonymity puts the focus on embodying the spirit of Tarleton State rather than the individual.

The newly revealed statue captures that legacy — a classic Poo veiled in robe, gloves and hat holding an inspirational “Poo Say” sign, face obscured to represent focusing away from individual identity to embody the true spirit of Tarleton State.

The statue’s creator, Fort Worth artist and sculptor Braedon Meadors, has worked as a set designer, prop maker, costume designer and scenic painter. He has a special connection to the project, being married to Poo alumna Tori Meadors (Poo Sister Dobby), and his passion and dedication are evident in the finished work.

Funding for the statue was provided by the Purple Poo alumni group, donations and a generous match from Tarleton State.

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of more than 21,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For over 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.