It doesn't have to be held on campus to be Aggie Bonfire. The tradition of Bonfire is for students...which in all actuality almost every tradition at Texas A&M is for the students. Bonfire is built by Aggies...for Aggies. I understand why many people want it back on campus but you also have to remember that Bonfire didn't always use to be like this. It started off campus without yell leaders, band, etc... around 1902 (or somewhere close to that). It was then moved on the University grounds and A&M first documented it in 1909. When Bonfire first started, it was students building a fire (made of pure trash) to get prepared for the t.u. game. A&M found out and decided to help with it (providing land, funds, advertise it), which Student Bonfire does all of that. Bonfire has never been the same. It changed designs, height, locations. I don't think the circling of the stack was held when it first started. The students added that many years down the line. As long as Bonfire is built Aggies for Aggies and the students have the experience that Bonfire brings, the tradition is there. People are just so use to having "official" yell leaders and a band that they think if those aren't present that it's not the tradition. You have to remember, Bonfire isn't built to burn, it's burned to destroy it to make room for next year so that future students will have the same experience. The main part of the tradition us during cut and stack, where students learn teamwork, hardwork, discipline, leadership, etc... Thousands them come out to see it burn to get prepared to beat the Hell Outta t.u. There is so much pride, spirit, and effort that goes into Bonfire that makes this tradition so special, which is also why I attend every year. I grew up in College Station and around Bonfire. The tradition is very much alive and growing. The Spirit of Bonfire is very much alive and I feel it everytime I watch Bonfire being lit and burning. Build the Hell Outta Aggie Bonfire!
