A deep and forgotten history of UT comes to light

A new book about the University of Tennessee provides images of its 200-year history, from its earliest days as Blount College in 1794 to present. The book, called University of Tennessee was published as part of Arcadia Press’ Campus History Series. It was written by Aaron Purcell, who served as University Archivist from 2000-2007 and earned a PhD in history from UT in 2006.

The book uses photographs from the rich holdings of the University Archives to trace the development of the University of Tennessee. Included are seldom seen images of buildings, students, faculty, famous alumni, campus activities, athletic teams, student and university publications, handwritten documents, and statewide programs in action.

The military heritage of UT, especially the school’s role during the Civil War is detailed, as is information on past university traditions, many of which have been forgotten. The book recounts the importance of the university as a land-grant institution, as per the Morrill Act of 1862, and how that statewide mission of service continues into the twenty-first century.

The university’s role in nationally significant programs like the Summer School of the South are also covered in this book. All campuses and centers across the state, not just the growth and activities of the Knoxville campus, are explored.

All proceeds for the book will be donated to the University Libraries. For more about the book, visit its page at Arcadia Press.