Smokey the Cannon Historical Marker
historical marker
This historical marker in Austin, Travis County, Texas, commemorates Smokey the Cannon. The marker was erected on November 2, 2020. Smokey the Cannon originated in 1953, created by the University of Texas at Austin's mechanical engineering lab. It became a part of the pageantry for University of Texas Longhorns football games. This tradition began in response to shotgun blasts heard at the Red River Rivalry. The cannon has evolved through several versions. Smokey I was modified in 1955 to become Smokey II, firing twin 10-gauge shotgun shells. The current version, Smokey III, was built in 1988 and weighs 1,200 pounds, firing up to four blank 10-gauge shells. The historical marker specifically recognizes a replica of Smokey II, built in 2020, located at the Texas Cowboy's Pavilion. Smokey the Cannon continues its role as a significant tradition, operated by the Texas Cowboys student organization, firing at scores, kick-offs, and after "The Eyes of Texas" at games. This site marks a long-standing aspect of the university's athletic and ceremonial history.