Astoria, OR — The iconic wooden ‘O’ at Skinner Butte Park in Eugene, a prominent symbol of the University of Oregon Ducks, was defaced on the morning of December 31, 2024, when vandals splattered it with red paint. While the exact motive behind the act remains unclear, there is speculation among the community that the vandalism may have been an expression of support for the Ohio State Buckeyes, a rival team to the Ducks.
The ‘O,’ which stands as a beloved landmark in Eugene, was quickly spotted by local residents who took immediate action. By the afternoon of the same day, several community members, including one longtime Ducks fan, had stepped in to restore the symbol to its rightful color—vibrant “Ducks” yellow.
One supporter, a Eugene resident who chose to remain anonymous, expressed his determination to repair the damage. “I’ve got plenty more paint where that came from,” he said, underscoring the strong sense of local pride and rivalry between the Ducks and the Buckeyes.
The swift repair was celebrated by many in Eugene, with the restoration of the ‘O’ serving as a testament to the community’s commitment to protecting local traditions and symbols. Despite the vandalism, the Oregon ‘O’ now stands once again in its original hue, a reminder of the city’s enduring support for the University of Oregon Ducks.
