Faculty members who had graduated from Yale insisted that their academic lineage and Yale blue not be overlooked. In 1896, crimson and blue were adopted officially. The University Seal KU s first chancellor, Rev. R.W. Oliver, chose the seal in 1866. It pictures Moses kneeling in awe before a bush that is engulfed in flames but is not burnt. The story of Moses vision is from the Bible s third chapter of Exodus.
Fire symbolizes knowledge in many stories and myths.
Moses is thought to represent the humble attitude of the scholar who recognizes the unquenchable nature of the pursuit of truth and knowledge. Birth of the Songs College students and faculty used to make up school songs - and sing them. Many have faded away. Two at KU struck a responsive chord and still are sung enthusiastically. In 1891, Professor George Barlow Penny searched for a school song for the Glee and Mandolin Club to sing on a tour.