One of Oklahoma State University’s must see attractions: Theta Pond. Theta Pond is right in between the student union and all of Greek life. Many people use Theta pond for different things, whether that be a nice spot to sit down and study, a calm jog or walk around the pond, or even watching fraternity members get thrown into the pond. Theta Pond is the perfect picture place on the campus of Oklahoma State University, all of the fountains and bridges make for a perfect backdrop. Theta Pond is at the center of homecoming because of all of the traditions held at the pond and all of the lights. Theta Pond has so much to offer, which is why it is one of Oklahoma State Universities top must see attractions.

In 1895, when Theta Pond was built it was originally across from a barn, so the original name of Theta Pond is Horse Barn after the barn that used to be there. This pond served as a reservoir for the horses at Horse Barn back in the day. The barn ended up burning down in 1922, but the pond was expanded upon and renamed. Horse Pond then took after the name, Theta Pond, because the closest building to the barn had been the sorority house Kappa Alpha Theta. In the earlier years of Oklahoma State University, the college often held tug-of-war competitions where the losers would get dunked into the lake. Theta Pond showcases some of Oklahoma State University’s history around the pond. The pond has many traditions, especially during homecoming. During Homecoming week, they set up lights all around the pond so it appears to be orange. Across from the pond, all of the sorority and fraternity homecoming decks are up during the entire week. Theta Pond during Homecoming is at the center of homecoming activities and greek life decks.

Today, Theta Pond is no longer across from Kappa Alpha Theta, but it is across from Zeta Tau Alpha. Zeta Tau Alpha purchased Kappa Alpha Theta’s land after Kappa Alpha Theta burned down. Zeta Tau Alpha takes pride in being the house across from Theta Pond, not only is it a beautiful sight, but also a great place to go sit and think. Zeta Tau Alpha has many balconies which someone can sit out on and look over at the pond. When asked what Lauren Millis used Theta Pond for she responded, “I used Theta Pond as a calming place to do homework, especially across the street from the pond at Zeta. I also used it as a place to have nice walks with my friends.” Many girls from Zeta Tau Alpha enjoy taking their photos at Theta Pond because of how close to the house it is.

Theta Pond is home to many different types of wildlife. There are geese, ducks with funky feather styles, and at one point there even used to be an alligator in the pond. Lauren Millis commented on why she believes Theta Pond is so special, “I think the ducks make theta special. Everyone in the community can come feed the ducks at Theta Pond, which makes it more than just an on campus attraction. It is also between some of the Greek houses and campus which makes for a really pretty walk to class for lots of students.” There are benches scattered around the pond, so that someone can sit down and enjoy the view. “It was so calming to walk outside and see the pretty trees and hear the running water. It brightens my day walking to class.” In between the ponds is a path named Greek Walk. Greek Walk has little information plaques built into the bricks with every fraternity and sorority on campus. The plaques contain information such as the founding of the fraternity or sorority and the date. On the other side of the pond there is a small garden. The garden is a great spot to stop and think or admire. It has a small OSU statue in it where smaller birds will occasionally come and sit on top of it. There are many trees spread out around the pond to offer a place to sit under the shade on a warm day. Theta Pond highlights the beauty of the college campus. It is placed near the top of all activity lists as a must see attraction in Stillwater.

Theta Pond holds many traditions that people have participated in for decades. Theta Pond is known as a very romantic spot because it is known for all of the dates, engagements, and more. A walk around Theta Pond and one might start to notice all of the couples spread out around the pond. Theta Pond is a popular date spot whether that be just a picnic, a chat on the bench, or just walking around the pond together. Many people also choose to get engaged at Theta Pond because of the beautiful backdrop. It is a great place to get engaged because of its romantic side to it. Many Fraternity members who get engaged, even if it is not at Theta Pond, will get thrown into the pond by the other members as a sort of ‘well done’. Sometimes newly weds decide to take their wedding photos there because of the beautiful scenery.

Theta Pond holds so many memories and history. Lauren Millis said her favorite memory is “when the pond froze over, everyone wanted to go stand on top of it and it was hilarious to see them get yelled at by the campus police.” The pond is near the student union which makes it very accessible to all students. It is a great place to go and relax on a hot day or sit down and study. Theta Pond got its name after Kappa Alpha Theta, but it was originally named after Horse Barn which burned down. Theta Pond is right across from Zeta Tau Alpha which has many balconies or porches to sit out and look at Theta Pond. Theta Pond also has a romantic angle to it. People choose the pond to go on dates, get engaged, and take wedding photos too. Oftentimes one will see fraternity members being thrown into the lake which most of the time is a funny sight. Theta Pond holds so many memories of the people who go there every day to run, relax, do homework or catch up with a friend. No matter who someone is or what their major is, they will have passed Theta Pond at least once throughout their college experience. Theta Pond is a sight that everyone must see.