Iconic Skeletons: Albert the Alligator

In 1957, Ross Allen, a reptilian entrepreneur and benefactor to the University of Florida, donated the first large alligator to the University. This animal became known as “Albert” and was brought to the field during football games and other events. The University continued to use live mascots throughout the ’50s and ’60s, until they were replaced with a costumed version of Albert in 1970.