This post is in reference to the November photo challenge created by @sophieskye . When I saw that the category (for the 5th) was bonfire night, I felt the need to share a bit of history. Many of us are fans of building the wood puzzles so here is a different kind of build from wood. I live in a town which some refer to as “Aggieland”. Our college football team is named the Aggies. Since 1907, the Aggies have built
a bonfire each year to represent their “burning desire” to beat their longstanding rivals (the Longhorns). In 1969, the bonfire was nearly 110 feet tall, earning a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest. The tradition still continues, but was halted for 5 years after a tragedy occurred on November 18, 1999. 12 Aggies were killed when the structure being built collapsed. We now have a huge memorial in the place where it happened. It’s a beautiful piece of architecture with so many things so well planned in commemorating the loss of those 12 Aggies. It’s worth checking out here. Truly heartwarming to see the time and dedication efforts put forth to remember those students. Well worth the read.
That’s such a touching story — thank you for sharing it. It’s amazing how traditions like this carry so much meaning and history through generations.
The memorial they created is just amazing. @Wenbare This is not just your average everyday college. The whole valley has the “fightin Aggie Spirit”. Our football stadium holds almost 103,000 fans. Each piece of the architectural structure in the memorial represents something very internal. I was in awe when I visited and read each little plaque.
Wow that’s amazing. Thank you for sharing @Nita_Davis . Learn something new today. 
Wow, that’s a very sad, and touching story. After reading the article, it looks like they really put a lot of thought into the architecture of the memorial to really throughly recognize and honour the individuals who perished. 
That sounds absolutely incredible! I can imagine how powerful it must feel to be there and see how much meaning is built into every part of the memorial. It’s wonderful that they created such a thoughtful tribute.
Oh yes, they did…I was in awe of how much they did to represent so many things about the Aggie traditions. Thank you for reading the article. @Atropex It’s truly just an amazing thing to experience. Somber, yet so thoughtful.
There is an awe-inspiring story behind this. I hope you read the link to get the true feeling of this memorial.
That’s amazing. Thank you for sharing, a sad story
It wasn’t about sharing a sad story. It’s about the remembrance the architects and designers made for those who lost their lives doing something they were so dedicated to. @ThaoNguyen I’m always inspired by the effort put forth with the designers @Robotime . This is what I am in awe about. The link tells it all.
Thank you for sharing this touching story with us
Wow this is such a sad story! The memorial is incredible!!! 
Agreed @Nectarines The memorial is just so well thought out and beautifully done.
We had a tragedy here a few years ago where 6 young kids lost their lives after a jumping castle took flight in high wind gusts. I would love to see something built for them with the samw sort of thought and care
Oh my goodness…That is extremely heartbreaking. @Nectarines 
It was and still is so so sad. I really feel for all of the families. In a small community where everyone knows everyone it just hits so hard.
A very touching story I appreciate you taking time to share it🍁
It’s a Wonderful photo challenge that you are doing and I will absolutely be participating everyday. This one just felt worthy of its own post. I am having a lot of fun taking part in your challenge @sophieskye
My sister when to Texas A&M for vet! and I remember her talking about this tradition and I remember when the big accident happened! So sad