Vintage Swingin' Purdue Pete HoodiePurdue Pete is found in many forms, but rarely without his trusty hammer. Modeled after old time boilermakers who used hammers to mold steel, Purdue Pete first appeared in the 1940s as a mascot to advertise the bookstore. He may be swinging here, but hes still the personification of the Boilermakers hammering down. Products are mocked up on a size S. Graphics may appear smaller on larger sizes.