The Namesake of SMU's Mascot
A Brief History
This Prohibition era "medicine," which just happened to be about 18% alcohol, was "famous for its kick." Being 1932, SMU students enjoyed singing (to the tune of "She'll be Comin' Round the Mountain") "She'll be loaded with Peruna when she comes..." Thus, what better name for their new mascot than Peruna! Since then, each pony to serve as the university's mascot has taken the name Peruna as a representation of the fighting spirit that SMU has.
Jack Sullivan has compiled a terrific history of Peruna Tonic and even includes a section about Peruna the horse!
Jack Sullivan has compiled a terrific history of Peruna Tonic and even includes a section about Peruna the horse!