When did Texas Aggies start tailgating?

It appears that tailgating or picnics at Texas A&M go back at least to the 1960s, picked up popularity in the 1980s, followed by an increase in the late 1990s, and got a big boost in 2012 when Texas A&M joined the SEC.

Does that match up with Aggies' experience? Do you have great tailgating stories from any era?

Let us know!

Read more about what we think we know so far --> Current timeline

Share your tales and photos --> tx.ag/TailgateStories

I remember, in the '70s, when we could drive up to most any campus building parking lot. Back up to the curb, unload our stuff on the grass, and have a good time. I'm talking within shouting distance from Kyle field.

Of course, then, tailgating was more like a picnic than what it is now.

I don't remember tailgating being that big a deal when I was in school ('98-'04). I'm sure it was happening, but nothing like the last 10 years.

In the mid-late 80's we would go to "The Bus" after a game….. It was parked just outside the NW corner of Kyle not that many steps away from the old ramps.

Was not much else besides NG happening in those days leading up to games, aka The Chicken and Duds.