Big Bertha 2024 in Texas

Big Bertha is about a 100-year-old bass drum used by the Longhorn Band of The University of Texas in Austin.

The World's Largest Drum

Big Bertha, the world's largest drum, measures 2.44 meters in diameter, 1.12 meters in depth, and stands 3 meters tall, weighing over 230 kilograms. It is transported on a four-wheeled cart and typically features in halftime shows at varsity football games. The drum also makes appearances at parades and spirit rallies, occasionally traveling internationally. Managed by a dedicated crew known as the "drum wranglers," Big Bertha is affectionately dubbed the "Sweetheart of the Longhorn Band."

Big Bertha's Journey

Big Bertha, crafted by C.G. Conn, first appeared at a Chicago stadium in 1922 during a game against Princeton University. After its debut, it saw limited use until it was later transported to Austin, Texas, where it was repainted and given a new wheeled cart. For the past century, Big Bertha has captivated audiences, rallying support for the team.

Big Bertha II

On October 15, 2022, during halftime of Texas' game against Iowa State, the original Big Bertha made its final appearance, marking its 100th year before being inducted into the Frank Denius Family Athletics Hall of Fame. Alongside it, Big Bertha II was unveiled and wheeled to the center of Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Crafted by Austin-based A&F Drum Co., Big Bertha II boasts a diameter of over 9.5 feet and a depth of 55 inches, claiming the title of the world's largest bass drum.

Big Bertha's New Home

The original Big Bertha now resides in the north end zone of DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium, where she has been for many years. However, instead of her old chain-link enclosure from the 1960s, she is now housed in a special section of the Frank Denius Family UT Athletics Hall of Fame.