For four games this spring, the Eugene Emeralds are set to make waves with a new identity: the Exploding Whales. That’s right – the baseball team will be paying homage to a bizarre moment in local history by emblazoning a whale clutching a stick of dynamite on their jerseys. It all stems from an event in 1970, when officials in nearby Florence, Oregon, decided to dispose of a beached sperm whale by blowing it up with explosives. The Emeralds’ re-branding may only be temporary, but it’s sure to capture the attention of fans both near and far.
The fallout from a 45-ton dead whale explosion was as disgusting and gruesome as one might expect. Everyone on the scene was covered in small particles of dead whale, remnants of the massive animal that came crashing down in chunks of blubber. Though officials had attempted to minimize the damage by creating smaller pieces for animals to consume, the reality was messy and destructive. Despite this, the Eugene Emeralds have found a unique way to spotlight the event in the hopes of raising awareness about climate change and its effects on whale migration patterns. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most horrifying moments can also be opportunities for education and change.
The idea of an alternate identity goes beyond just changing a logo for a day. It’s about fully immersing the team and fans in a new concept, altering everything from the jerseys to the stadium decor. This complete overhaul is truly transformative, and can help bring positive change by raising awareness and drawing attention to the team’s new identity. Recently, the Emeralds had the chance to work with the city of Florence to create an amazing alternate identity. Through this experience, they hope to bring recognition to the city and show the world what a great place it is.
The exploding whale incident may have been a mistake, but Florence city councilor Jo Beaudreau believes in turning mistakes into learning opportunities. With the temporary re-brand that pays homage to the event, Beaudreau sees potential for economic development in the community, alongside a celebration of nature and its processes. The re-brand also highlights the importance of local pride, as it channels morbid curiosity into positive channels that promote the area’s unique flavor. What was once a debacle has now become a local legend, and even gained recognition worldwide. In the end, Beaudreau believes that the re-brand serves as a lesson that anything can be turned into a positive, and history should be celebrated even if it is absurd.
