Redbirds Wordmark Logo

The Illinois State Redbirds wordmark logo has a long and storied history in college athletics. Dating back to the late 19th century, the iconic design has been used by many teams across multiple sports at the NCAA level. The classic redbird silhouette is one of the most recognizable logos in all of college sports, and it continues to be an important symbol for fans of ISU Athletics today.

The original version was designed by Einar Forseth in 1895 when he created a logo for his alma mater - Augustana College (now known as Augustana University). This simple but effective design featured two wings spread outwards with a small bird perched atop them - thus creating what would become known as “the redbird” emblem that we know today. While this initial version was used exclusively at Augustana until 1936, other schools began adopting similar designs throughout Illinois during this time period; eventually leading to its widespread use among collegiate athletic programs throughout America over time.

In 1965, Illinois State University adopted its own unique variation on this timeless symbol when it unveiled its first official school colors: cardinal red and white along with black accents being added later on down the line (in 1976). With these new colors came an updated take on Forseth’s original concept which featured two bolder-looking wings flanking either side of an enlarged central bird figure – giving us what we now recognize as ISU’s current primary wordmark logo which still remains unchanged even after five decades!

Although there have been some minor tweaks made over the years such variations including different font styles or color schemes depending upon context/usage – ultimately it is clear that ISU Athletics will always stand proudly behind their beloved Redbirds mascot no matter how far into the future may lie ahead!