Recent discussions have reignited the debate over changes made to the iconic Sammy Saxon logo. Traditionalists are advocating for the retention

of the original design: a simple outline of Sammy, horns on his helmet, holding a sword in one hand, and winking at the crowd. This beloved design has been a staple since Loara High School opened in 1962.

However, a shift began around a decade ago when historians noted that Sammy’s depiction was not historically accurate. The debate centered on the horns on his helmet and the smaller sword he carried. Research revealed that Saxons did not wear horns on their helmets. Instead, they adorned their helmets with wings to signify superiority and honor in battle.

When John Dahlem became principal, he asked a graphic designer friend to create new logos. Eight different designs were produced, ranging from tough to playful, including a risqué Samantha Saxon. These designs were used only in printed materials and were not featured on any school graphics.

In 2000, a new design emerged when a class painted a mural in the big gym. This version omitted the sword entirely, replacing it with a victory flag and wings on the helmet. This change was part of a broader trend towards political correctness, as many schools were updating mascots to avoid cultural insensitivity. During this period, Loara aimed to maintain its Saxon identity while making Sammy appear less violent and more noble.

As time passed, it became clear that many people appreciated Sammy’s toughness. This led to a renewed discussion: Should Sammy revert to his original winking, comic style, or undergo another transformation?

For the 50th anniversary, Sammy was updated once more. The design reinstated the sword and emphasized a tougher, more defined appearance. Historians felt that without horns or wings, Sammy looked incomplete. Ultimately, they chose wings to symbolize victory. The updated design also aimed to present a more fit Saxon, reflecting contemporary concerns about obesity in schools.

Despite these changes, the original Sammy Saxon logo has not been forgotten. It continues to appear in print documents, classroom settings, graphic T-shirts, notebooks, and online. As with any great organization, Loara High School adapts to modernize and appeal to new generations. For those interested in retro wear, visit our online store for more details and stay tuned for updates.