October 3, 1887. It began classes with 15 students and two (2) instructors. Thomas DeSaille Tucker (1887-1901), an attorney from Pensacola, was chosen to be the first president. Former State Representative Gibbs joined Mr. Tucker as the second faculty member.

President Nathan B. Young (1901-1923) directed the growth of the College to a four-year degree-granting institution, despite limited resources, offering the Bachelor of Science degree in education, science, home economics, agriculture, and mechanical arts.

Under the administration of John Robert Edward Lee Sr. (1924-1944), the College acquired much of the physical and academic image it has today.

In 1949, under William H. Gray Jr. (1944-1949), expansion and reorganization continued.

Perhaps one of the most outstanding achievements came under the presidency of Dr. George W. Gore (1950-1968).

With Dr. Benjamin L. Perry, Jr., at the helm, the 1970s brought further growth to the University.

The 1980s served as a model for productive development. Under the administration of Dr. Walter L. Smith, the University grew to eleven schools and colleges and a division of graduate studies, research, and continuing education.

In 1985, the construction of a new corridor of history began as Dr. Frederick S. Humphries became the eighth president of Florida A&M University. Under his leadership, FAMU experienced significant growth and unsurpassed accomplishments.

Under Dr. Robinson’s leadership, FAMU continues to thrive, has implemented new recruitment and retention strategies, has strengthened the university’s academic programs, and more!

Location: AC.2.B.2.3.2 - AC.2.B.2.3.5

Reverend Dr. James L. Hudson, Sr. (1904–1980) was a minister, educator, and civil rights leader. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, he graduated from Morehouse College in 1926 and later earned a divinity degree from Colgate-Rochester School of Religion in 1931. He served as a chaplain at Leland College until 1946 before completing doctoral studies at Boston College. Dr. Hudson later joined Florida A&M University as a chaplain and professor, where he founded the Department of Religion and Philosophy and served as its first chair. A close associate of Rev. Charles K. Steele, he played a key role in civil rights efforts, including the 1956 Tallahassee Bus Boycott, and was active in organizations such as the Tallahassee Ministerial Alliance and the Inter-Civic Council.

The Reverend Dr. James Hudson, Sr. Collection documents Hudson’s career in ministry, education, and civil rights activism. The collection contains materials related to his work at Florida A&M University, including records associated with the establishment of the Department of Religion and Philosophy, as well as documents reflecting his role as a chaplain and educator.

Additional materials highlight his involvement in civil rights initiatives in Tallahassee, including his collaboration with local religious and community leaders. The collection may include correspondence, sermons, speeches, and organizational records that illustrate his leadership in religious and civic life. Collectively, these materials provide insight into Hudson’s lasting contributions to higher education, faith leadership, and the advancement of social justice.

Location: AC.3.A.3.5.6

The Reverend Elvis W. Spearman Collection consists of one box of materials documenting the professional and spiritual life of Rev. Elvis W. Spearman. Spearman served as postmaster at Florida A&M University until his retirement in 1964 and also held the role of hospital chaplain from 1955 to 1964. He earned an A.B. degree from Legal College and pursued additional studies at Florida A&M University, the University of Chicago, and Deering Community Center.

The collection primarily contains speeches and sermons delivered by Rev. Spearman, reflecting his work in ministry and his engagement with religious and community life. Most of the materials are undated, though they provide valuable insight into his theological perspectives, public speaking, and role as a spiritual leader.

In addition to sermons, the collection includes a small number of documents related to his administrative duties at Florida A&M University. Collectively, these materials offer a glimpse into Spearman’s dual roles in institutional service and religious leadership, highlighting his contributions to the university and its broader community.

The FAMU Yearbook Collection consists of yearbooks published by the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical College (FAMC), Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), and Florida A&M University Developmental Research School (FAMU DRS). The collection documents the academic, social, and cultural life of students, faculty, staff, and alumni through photographs, senior portraits, student records, campus events, athletics, organizations, clubs, fraternities and sororities, academic achievements, and faculty activities. Spanning multiple decades, the collection provides a comprehensive visual and documentary record of the university community and serves as an important resource for research on student life, institutional history, African American education, and the development of Florida A&M University and its affiliated programs.