History of FAMU Collection
Item Set
Collection Title
History of FAMU Collection
Alternate Title
History of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Collection
Collection ID
AR_0007
Creator
Florida A&M University
Date
1887-Present
Abstract
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) has a rich and impactful history that dates back to its founding on October 3, 1887. Established as the State Normal College for Colored Students, it was part of the effort to provide higher education to African Americans during the post-Reconstruction era. FAMU started with 15 students and 2 instructors and has since grown into one of the most prominent Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States.
The institution went through several name changes and expansions over the years. In 1909, it became the State Normal and Industrial College for Colored Students, reflecting its broader mission to offer a range of industrial and agricultural courses. By 1953, it had achieved university status and was renamed Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.
FAMU played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement, with its students and faculty participating in sit-ins, protests, and other forms of activism. The university's commitment to social justice and equality has remained a significant aspect of its identity.
Academically, FAMU has developed a wide array of programs and has been recognized for its contributions to science, engineering, pharmacy, business, and law. The university has produced notable alumni who have excelled in various fields, including politics, arts, sciences, and athletics.
Throughout its history, FAMU has maintained a strong emphasis on fostering leadership, service, and community engagement among its students. Today, it continues to be a leader in providing high-quality education to a diverse student body, upholding its mission to offer educational opportunities to historically underrepresented groups.
The institution went through several name changes and expansions over the years. In 1909, it became the State Normal and Industrial College for Colored Students, reflecting its broader mission to offer a range of industrial and agricultural courses. By 1953, it had achieved university status and was renamed Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.
FAMU played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement, with its students and faculty participating in sit-ins, protests, and other forms of activism. The university's commitment to social justice and equality has remained a significant aspect of its identity.
Academically, FAMU has developed a wide array of programs and has been recognized for its contributions to science, engineering, pharmacy, business, and law. The university has produced notable alumni who have excelled in various fields, including politics, arts, sciences, and athletics.
Throughout its history, FAMU has maintained a strong emphasis on fostering leadership, service, and community engagement among its students. Today, it continues to be a leader in providing high-quality education to a diverse student body, upholding its mission to offer educational opportunities to historically underrepresented groups.
Owned By
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Meek-Eaton Black Archives
Related Collections
Credit Line
Courtesy of the Meek-Eaton Black Archives/ History of FAMU Collection
Restrictions and Rights
All rights reserved. The use of any part of these objects and photographs transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, or stored in a retrieval system without the prior written consent of Meek-Eaton Black Archives is an infringement of the copyright law.
