East Alabama Male College was chartered 161 years ago on Feb. 1, 1856.
In 1960, the college changed its name to one more widely known today: Auburn University.
The name change served as an acknowledgement of the growing curriculum at the University at the time. It would also later serve as a more appropriate name for when women were admitted 32 years later.
"Women were admitted in 1892, making Auburn the oldest four-year, coeducational school in the state and the second-oldest in the Southeast," according to the University webpage.
The University took to Facebook to announce the birthday celebration and display their Samford Hall lookalike cake from Cakeitecture Bakery.
"We've come a long way since East Alabama Male College was chartered Feb. 1, 1856—161 years ago. We're celebrating today with a Samford Hall cake! #HappyBirthdayAuburn"
J&M Bookstore chimed in on the celebrations via Twitter.
"161 years old and still looking mighty fine! Go Auburn it's your Birthday!"
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
