What’s a Hoosier? Here Are Several Answers

INDIANAPOLIS — An ear, a greeting or a rustic?

The word Hoosier, used to denote an Indiana native or resident, has a colorful and controversial history.

Mayor William Hudnut notes in his new book “Minister Mayor” that the word has been around for more than 150 years, but no one is certain of its origin.

There has been speculation, he said, that it comes from a pioneer’s habit of calling ‘Who’s yere?’ when a stranger approached his cabin.

Hudnut also said it may have originated from Samuel Hoosier, a contractor on the Louisville and Portland Canal, whose workers were called ‘Hoosier’s men.’

A third explanation mentioned in the book comes from James Whitcomb Riley, an Indiana poet, who said the state’s early settlers were vicious fighters and frequently bit off ears and noses. The practice became so common that settlers walking into a bar the morning after a fight would see an ear on the floor, kick it aside and ask, ‘Who’s ear?’

Hudnut notes that even though many people think the word suggests a country bumpkin, the name ‘Hoosier Dome’ was chosen for Indianapolis’ new stadium from 50,000 contest entries.

Some people still aren’t satisfied. Sen. Dan Quayle recently asked Merriam-Webster Inc. to alter its definition after Indiana won the NCAA basketball championship.

One definition in Webster’s Third International Dictionary defines ‘Hoosier’ as “an awkward, unhandy or unskilled person, especially an ignorant rustic.”

Quayle introduced a non-binding resolution on the Senate floor, noting the basketball team displayed the real meaning of “Hoosier:” someone who is quick, smart and skillful.

Last month, Quayle received a letter from Webster’s president saying no insult was intended. But no change will be made.