The Duke University Marching Band (DUMB) has been an integral part of the success of Duke’s athletic teams since its rise to prominence in the 1930s. As part of the new West Campus built for the freshly endowed Duke University, Wallace Wade Stadium heightened the profile of Duke’s football team, allowing Duke’s bands to enter the spotlight alongside the athletes. Now, DUMB puts on a field show in the fall for football games, in addition to supporting other teams via their pep band presence. During basketball season, they can be seen and heard rooting for Duke both at home and away. Featured in this exhibit are photographs and publications that tell the story of the students who have made the marching band their home over the decades: basketball games, leadership experiences, and camaraderie. This spring, as basketball season continues to rage on and March Madness ensues, be sure to turn an ear to the tunes that cultivate the energy of Cameron Indoor Stadium and spur the Blue Devils on to victory!
Exhibit curated by University Archives Intern for Student Engagement, Meredith Mobley. Special thanks to Rebecca Pattillo, Neal Shipe, and the exhibits team for their guidance and assistance in preparing materials.
Full Material Citations:
Ye Olde Dumb Hymnal, c. 1974, Box 1, Duke University Marching Band Records, Duke University Archives, David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Duke University.
Drum Majorettes, undated, Box 57, University Archives Photograph Collection, Duke University Archives, David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Duke University.
DUMBugle Vol II No 7, 1972, Box 1, Duke University Marching Band Records, Duke University Archives, David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Duke University.
Pep Band Drummer, undated, Box UA2013-0034.93, Sports Information Office Records, Duke University Archives, David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Duke University.
"We're Not Crazy, We're Just Dumb," 1978 October 4, v.74: no.1-70(1978: Aug.-Dec.), Duke University Chronicle, Duke University Archives, David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Duke University.
