St. Mary’s University unveils rich History Embodied in New Rattler Ring Design
SAN ANTONIO, TX – St. Mary’s University has launched a newly designed official ring, the “Rattler Ring,” meticulously crafted to represent the institution’s enduring traditions, Marianist values, and past milestones. The ring serves as a tangible connection for students and alumni to the University’s legacy and a symbol of thier academic achievements.
Beyond a simple piece of jewelry, the Rattler Ring is a miniature compendium of St. Mary’s history, woven with symbolism reflecting its founding principles and evolution. Here’s a detailed look at the meaning behind the design elements:
Honoring Marianist Roots & the University’s Namesake:
The ring prominently features imagery honoring the Society of Mary (Marianists) and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Interlocking “A” and “M” letters – representing “Ave, Maria” – are encircled by olive branches, symbolizing Our lady of Peace. This imagery directly references Our Lady of Grace,a statue welcoming visitors to campus. The sunburst design originates from our Lady of the pillar Cathedral in Zaragoza, Spain, a site of daily prayer and inspiration for Blessed Chaminade, the founder of the Society of Mary.
A Texas Legacy & Founding Year:
The Marianists first established a presence in San Antonio in 1852, marking their initial venture into Texas. the Lone Star State is thus a key element of the ring’s seal, alongside the year “1852,” commemorating the University’s founding. The five-pointed star also holds symbolic importance, representing Mary herself.
St.Louis Hall: The Cornerstone of Campus:
Originally known as St. Louis College, the building now called St. Louis Hall opened in 1894 to accommodate boarders.It was built on land northwest of downtown san Antonio and quickly became the focal point around which the campus grew. St. Louis Hall remains a defining landmark and the University’s oldest structure.
The Pecan Grove & Beloved Traditions:
A historic grove of pecan trees on campus has long served as a gathering place for students. This location is central to two of St. Mary’s most cherished traditions: the Alumni Association’s “Baby Bake” and the larger Oyster Bake fundraiser. Oyster Bake,which celebrated its centennial in 2016,has become a popular event during San Antonio’s Fiesta celebrations. A subtle oyster and pearl are incorporated into the ring’s design as a nod to this tradition.
from Rattlesnakes to Gold & Blue:
The University’s mascot,the rattlesnake,originated from the practical need for students to clear fields of snakes before athletic competitions.A “snakeskin” texture is subtly included on the ring. The official school colors, gold and blue, were adopted in the 1920s (the exact date is currently unconfirmed) and continue to be proudly displayed by Rattler athletic teams. The University’s magazine, Gold & Blue, further reinforces this color scheme.
Remembering Barrett Tower & the Alma Mater:
Barrett memorial Bell Tower, funded by Charles T. Barrett Jr. and his family, pays tribute to Barrett’s mother’s favorite film, “The Bells of St. Mary’s.” The movie’s theme song inspired the lyrics to the University’s Alma Mater, penned by Brother Louis Schuster, S.M. The Tower’s bells chime daily, coinciding with the recitation of The Marianists Three O’clock Prayer around the world.The Four Goals of Education:
The cross featured in the St.Mary’s logo represents the University’s four core educational goals: fostering authentic human progress, nurturing personal, social, and institutional relationships, understanding our connection to nature, and exploring our relationship with the transcendent reality of God.
Personalization & Ordering Data:
The Rattler Ring will be personalized with each graduate’s year and degree. Space is also available for internal engraving.
To order a Rattler ring, contact Balfour at 1-866-225-3687 (weekdays, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. CST) or visit www.balfour.com/stmu.
Crucial Facts Preserved:
Founding year of St. Mary’s University: 1852
Marianist arrival in San Antonio: 1852
Opening of St. Louis Hall: 1894
Origin of the rattlesnake mascot
Centennial of Oyster Bake: 2016
Connection between Barrett Memorial Bell Tower and “The Bells of St. Mary’s”
The four goals of education represented by the cross.
Ordering information for the ring.
