Building memories one bonfire at a time

BY LESLIE POSADAS

Multimedia Journalist

Burning brighter each year, the L.V. Risinger Memorial Bonfire ignited the start of a weekend full of Tarleton State University homecoming festivities.

Built by the Plowboys, one of Tarleton’s oldest spirit groups, the bonfire began taking shape in early September and burned brightly on Friday, Oct. 17, during homecoming weekend.

For many students, this homecoming tradition is a fan favorite because of the crowd energy, quality time with friends and, in Paulina Guevara’s case, the opportunity to become part of history.

“From the moment I transferred to Tarleton, I’ve looked forward to Homecoming and the chance to be part of something bigger than myself and experience the university’s traditions like the historic bonfire,” Guevara said.

Festivities commenced at 6 p.m. as students began arriving at the bonfire site.

Tarleton provided complimentary shuttle services from 6 to 11 p.m., ensuring students could travel safely and efficiently to and from the event.

The Purple Poo kicked things off with their signature flair, firing up the crowd and getting everyone in the homecoming spirit.

Lathes Towns, known to students as “Momma T,” took the stage to recognize the many people who helped bring the beloved tradition to life.

As the bonfire burned, more students gathered around, soaking in the moment. For Guevara, the event was about more than the flames; it was about community.

“My favorite part of the night is getting ready and hanging out with all of my friends and enjoying this tradition, especially in my first year at Tarleton as a transfer student,” Guevara said.

For Savannah Wade, an animal science major attending the bonfire for the second time, the bonfire brings a sense of community like no other.

“Being surrounded by other students, alumni and the Stephenville community truly makes Tarleton feel like a home away from home,” Wade said.

Guevara shares Wade’s connection.

“Being surrounded by events like these makes me feel like I have a place I can call home besides my hometown, and I’ll be able to talk about these memories for years to come,” Guevara said.

As the 16th university president, James Hurley, set the bonfire into flames, he was surrounded by students who helped ignite the mountain of wood pallets for the crowd. What began as a small tradition in the 1920s has grown into a monumental event that now welcomes not only students but the entire community.

“Seeing alumni return for homecoming events makes me excited for my own future, knowing I’ll always be part of these traditions even after graduation,” Wade said.

The Tarleton bonfire stands as a lasting symbol of pride and unity, one that will continue to shine brighter in the years ahead.