Students passing by Walton Hall this semester may have noticed something unusual happening in the trees and grass nearby. What first appeared to be a normal gathering of campus squirrels has gradually evolved into something far more organized: a worship band. The group, which now performs regularly outside Walton Hall, calls itself Acorn Anthem.
The band’s origin story, according to both witnesses and the squirrels themselves, traces back to the music drifting from McInnis Auditorium. During rehearsals and worship gatherings inside the building, squirrels were often spotted lingering nearby. At first, students assumed the animals were simply searching for food or scraps left behind after events, but as it turns out, they were listening.
Over time, a small group of squirrels began returning consistently to the same area outside Walton. Eventually, the gatherings became coordinated, and the squirrels began producing what could only be described as their own version of worship music.
The band’s lead vocalist, Charles W. Nutworth II spoke about how the band came into existence. “At first, we were curious about the sounds coming from McInnis,” Nutworth explained. “But after hearing enough rehearsals, something changed. We realized we were created for more than collecting acorns. We were created to praise the God who created us.”
According to Nutworth, the formation of the band happened quickly after what was known as their “musical awakening.” The members began experimenting with various objects they found around campus. Nutworth now leads the group vocally while also shaking a makeshift tambourine fashioned from a bottle cap and a small stick.
The rest of Acorn Anthem fills out the sound in creative ways. One squirrel, known among the group as Woodchip Wells, handles percussion by drumming on a discarded metal lid near the Walton trash cans. Another member uses rubber bands wrapped around a box with a hole in it to create a bass guitar sound. The final member, by the name of Elton Acorn, contributes what the band calls “keys,” repeatedly pressing the buttons of a toy keyboard that was apparently recovered near the library.
The performances, which often take place outside Walton, have attracted a variety of reactions from students walking to class. Some find the phenomenon entertaining. “I didn’t expect to see a squirrel standing upright shaking a fake tambourine,” said Jason Karch, “but honestly, the commitment is impressive.”
Others remain skeptical, particularly those who live nearby. Several Doane residents have noted that the band occasionally practices early in the morning, which can make the otherwise quiet area feel slightly more energetic than expected. Those students have to walk from their residence hall to get breakfast, and the squirrels may be disturbing what is otherwise a peaceful walk.
Despite the mixed reception, the squirrels appear committed to their musical mission. “Our goal is to bring the campus together,” Nutworth said. “Not just students. All creatures. Worship is universal.”
However, Acorn Anthem is not the only animal musical group on campus. Near the campus pond, a separate band made up of geese has reportedly formed its own worship collective called Honk & Harmony. The geese, known for their volume and territorial instincts, have taken issue with the squirrels’ growing presence.
“They act like they invented campus worship,” the lead for the band, Walter Stewart II, said. “We have been around longer. If my dad was still here, he would be furious with these squirrels.”
The rivalry between the two groups has become well known among students who spend time around Walton pond and the Walton patio. The squirrels’ sound is generally described as acoustic and mellow, while the geese tend toward a louder, more aggressive performance style. The geese use their hissing as a bass line, while the squirrels use their rare squeaking as a soprano descant.
Despite their differences, both groups appear determined to continue their musical activities. The squirrels have already begun planning several upcoming performances around campus. According to Nutworth, Acorn Anthem’s spring concert schedule currently includes April 10 outside Walton Hall, April 24 near McInnis Auditorium, May 3 at the top of KG Hill and May 9 on Walton Terrace, where a rumored “battle of the bands” with the geese may eventually take place.
Admission to these performances is expected to be simple. According to Nutworth, “one acorn is appreciated but students with ID can attend for free.” Seating will likely remain informal, with the band encouraging attendees to “bring their own branch or leaf to sit on.”
For now, the squirrels continue their performances with enthusiasm. Students walking by may pause briefly to watch, take a photo or simply shake their heads before heading to class. Meanwhile, perched confidently on branches and stone ledges, Acorn Anthem carries on with its mission. As long as music continues to echo from McInnis, the squirrels outside Walton appear determined to keep playing along.
