Practicing proper social distancing means we don’t get to see a whole lot of town. If you’re missing the Loveliest Village on the Plains, you can always learn more about our city! Let’s step back in time with these cool, quick facts from Auburn history.
A College of Many Names
Auburn University has gone by many names! In 1856, it was East Alabama Male College. Next, in 1872, it changed its name to the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama. Then, in 1899, it became the Alabama Polytechnic Institute. Finally, in 1960, it officially got the name we all know quite well: Auburn University!
A Great Deal
Do you love Chewacla State Park? Well, according to one our quick facts from Auburn history, you have president Franklin Delano Roosevelt to thank for it. He drew on the Civilian Conservation Corps to make the park what is today. In fact, this New Deal project is even responsible for making a lake there!
“Macon” History
Currently, Auburn is a part of Lee County. Back around when it was first founded, though, it was a part of Macon County.
Fall Friends
Auburn has a history of hosting. Each fall, Auburn hosts new guests—and new friends! Football brings a bunch of new faces to town—around 100,000 of them each autumn.
What’s in a Nickname?
Another name for Auburn is the “Loveliest Village on the Plains.” So, where did our town get that nickname? The answer: a poem by Oliver Goldsmith, called “The Deserted Village.” This 1770 poem even uses the name Auburn, which inspired the name our town goes by to this day.
Closure of Auburn University
Though Auburn University has been around since the 19th century, it took a bit of a break. It shut its doors from 1861 to 1866, due to the Civil War.
Toomer’s Drugs
Toomer’s Drugs has been an Auburn mainstay for ages! How long do you think it’s been around? You may be surprised to know that it was established in 1896!
Auburn Football
You can’t mention Auburn history without mentioning Auburn football! The college has had teams on the field since 1892, back when it was called the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama. Since then, we’ve won five National Championships. War Eagle!
Summary
Our town sure is cool—and these quick facts from Auburn history prove it. Plus, whether you’re teaching the kids, bored at home, or simply a huge fan of your hometown, you’ve probably just learned something new! Well, here’s one more fact: Ryan Roberts can help you buy, sell, or both in the Auburn, Opelika, and Lake Martin area. Fill out our contact form to begin. As for learning more about our town, check out our blog here.
