Gainesville Keepers Sustain Historic Gator Band Drum

David Snedeker and Richard Steirer maintain the 1953 Big Boom drum that remains a symbol of Florida tradition.

Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Cultural

Bold vector editorial illustration of a massive antique marching drum on a three-wheeled iron cart, representing university band heritage. — David Snedeker and Richard Steirer continue the tradition of maintaining the historic 1953 Gator Band drum at the University of Florida. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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David Snedeker and Richard Steirer continue a long-standing Gainesville tradition by maintaining and transporting the historic Gator Band Big Boom drum. The massive instrument, which features original cowhide drumheads, serves as a centerpiece for the university marching band during homecoming festivities.

Why it matters

The drum serves as a tangible link to university history, preserving a legacy that dates back over seven decades. Its continued use maintains the Gator Band's connection to its past through the dedicated efforts of long-term stewards.

The Big Boom drum has been in existence since 1953, with its original cowhide drumheads still in use after 73 years. Snedeker has personally pulled the drum for 51 years, with 340 alumni scheduled to join the performance.

The players

David Snedeker

He is a former Gator Band member who has managed the maintenance and history of the Big Boom drum for over five decades.

Richard Steirer

He has provided essential assistance with the transportation and duties associated with the historic drum since 1998.

Gator Band Alumni Association

This organization provides the necessary funding to ensure the preservation and continued use of the iconic instrument.

The details

Snedeker and Steirer transport the drum across the university campus using a specialized three-wheeled cart to ensure its arrival at the stadium. The drum is stored at the Steinbrenner Band Hall when not in use, supported by funding from the Gator Band Alumni Association.

The Big Boom drum was created in 1953.
Snedeker restored the antique drum for field use in 1976.
Steirer began assisting with drum operations in 1998.
The drum began its tradition of leading the band into the stadium in 2012.
This report was published on October 10, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

This effort mirrors the preservation of the Yale University 1894 bass drum by maintaining a unique physical artifact that defines a school's musical identity. It reflects a broader trend among long-standing collegiate marching bands to protect specific, irreplaceable legacy equipment from the mid-20th century.

Fans attending the upcoming matchup against South Carolina can see the Big Boom drum on the field as it leads the band into the stadium. The drum's presence provides a unique historical viewing experience for attendees witnessing the homecoming performance.

The takeaway

Preserving historical instruments requires long-term dedication from individual volunteers to keep specific traditions alive for future generations. Organizations can effectively maintain their cultural heritage by establishing dedicated scholarships and alumni-funded support networks for their artifacts.