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In early October 1872, Charles Minor opened a small land-grant institution, consisting of 29 students, 3 faculty members, and a single building, in the town of Blacksburg, Virginia. Now, 130 years later, the once small agricultural college is recognized as Virginias largest university -- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Out of its humble beginning of donated livestock, seeds, machinery, and books, Virginia Tech has emerged as a leading research university that is consistently ranked as one of the nations top engineering and business schools. The university is also home to a tremendous athletic program that continually produces many of the nations top ranked athletes. Today, Virginia Tech also serves as a major economic engine for the economy of Southwestern Virginia. The Campus History Series: Virginia Tech illustrates the universitys emergence through over 200 archival photographs, including images that capture the essence of student life, featuring happenings such as the old cadet rat parades, the first ring dance, the Highty-Tighties, the Huckleberry, sports events, and even the evolution of the schools mascot, the Hokie Bird.
About the author
Author Nelson Harris has a life-long interest in the history of Southwestern Virginia. In addition to pursuing his passion for history, Harris is a father of three sons and a member of Roanoke City Council. His previous Arcadia titles include Roanoke in Vintage Postcards, Downtown Roanoke, and Norfolk and Western Railway.
