Unveiling the Evolution of UCLA's Beloved Mascots: Joe and Josephine Bruin

When one thinks of UCLA, it's nearly impossible not to conjure images of Joe and Josephine Bruin, the beloved mascots that have become synonymous with the university's spirit and pride. However, the journey to adopting the Bruin as UCLA's official mascot was a fascinating evolution that unfolded over several years, leaving behind a trail of Cubs and Grizzlies before settling on the iconic Bruin.

UCLA's mascot saga traces back to its early years when it was still finding its identity as the younger sibling to UC Berkeley. In those formative days, the natural choice for a mascot was the Cubs, embodying the youthful vigor and potential of the university. Interestingly, during this time, UCLA even had a live mascot in the form of a stray dog named Rags, adding a touch of spontaneity to its early years.

However, in 1924, UCLA embarked on a rebranding journey, ready to shed its cub status and embrace a fiercer persona as the Grizzlies. Unfortunately, this plan hit a roadblock when the University of Montana had already claimed the Grizzlies as their own mascot. Undeterred, UCLA pivoted once again and finally settled on the Bruin, a symbol of strength and resilience that has endured to this day.

The Bruin, however, underwent its own transformation over the years. Initially sporting a design reminiscent of Mickey Mouse in the 1920s and 1930s, it gradually evolved into the recognizable image we know today. From turtlenecks in the 1940s to basketball jerseys in the 1960s and 1970s, the Bruin's fashion sense mirrored the changing times while maintaining its timeless appeal on Mascot Design.

One of the most intriguing chapters in UCLA's mascot history involves the presence of live bear mascots between 1950-1960, which inspired the names Joe and Josephine Bruin. These real-life Bruins added a dynamic dimension to the university's spirit, embodying the ferocity and grace of their fictional counterparts.

Whether in the form of a live bear or a cartoon character, Joe and Josephine Bruin symbolize the unwavering spirit and pride of UCLA, serving as enduring icons of the university's rich history and vibrant community.