Auburn. The name resonates among generations who have studied, taught, or worked on the campus. No matter what the university has been formally named over the years-from East Alabama Male College to Alabama Polytechnic Institute-people have fondly called it Auburn since it was chartered in 1856. Professor George Petrie's Auburn Creed emphasizes the refrain "I believe," which the Auburn family of Plainsmen, Tigers, and War Eagles have embraced. In this fitting tribute to a landmark Southern institution, vintage photographs depict people, places, experiences, and traditions beloved by the Auburn community. Virtues such as loyalty, patriotism, service, and hard work have been encouraged on the campus from the school's inception. With a cooperative spirit, students and faculty alike applaud each other's successes in the classrooms and laboratories as well as in stadiums and on athletic fields. Numerous significant accomplishments in both academics and athletics are associated with Auburn and they are celebrated within these pages. Images of the campus as it has evolved over the years; memorable students, faculty, staff, and alumni; and unforgettable events have been gathered and preserved in this keepsake volume.
Author Elizabeth D. Schafer is proud to call the Auburn community home. She was born and raised in the area and earned three history degrees from Auburn, where she worked in the archives. Schafer compiled this engaging collection with the Auburn Creed in mind: I believe in Auburn and love it.