Proclamation Convening the Board of Regents of the
University of Texas,
October 19, 1881
The idea for the University of Texas had its roots in
the Republic of Texas era, but the tumultuous problems of early statehood,
the Civil War, and Reconstruction kept anything from actually being
done for decades. In 1871, the legislature established Texas A&M
College, which was to emphasize agricultural and engineering studies
with a strong military bent. The Constitution of 1876 specified the
creation of a "University of Texas" that would teach literature
and the arts and sciences.
Finally, in 1881, Austin was chosen in an election as
the site for the university, with Galveston selected for the medical
branch. A board of regents was appointed by Governor Roberts. This
proclamation calls for the regents to have their first meeting in
Austin on November 15, 1881.
The cornerstone of the first Main Building was laid
a year later, and the University formally opened on September 15,
1883.
"The
Wild West"
|
Proclamation
By the Governor of the State of
Texas convening the Board of
Regents of the University of Texas:
Whereas the official returns of
the Election held Sept. 6th 1881,
which said returns are now on
file in the office of the Secretary
of State, show that Austin has
been selected by the people as the
location of the University of
Texas with the medical branch
at Galveston.
Now therefore I O.M. Roberts
Governor of Texas by virtue of the
authority vested in me by the
laws of this State do hereby call
the Board of Regents of the University
of Texas to convene at the city
of Austin on Tuesday the fifteenth
day of November 1881 to effect the
permanent organization of the Board
and to take such action as the law
requires for the establishment and
organization of the University.
In testimony whereof I hereto sign
my name and cause the seal
of state to be affixed at the city
of Austin this 19th day of October A.D. 1881.
O.M. Roberts
Governor
By the Governor
T.H. Bowman
Sec of State
|
"The
Wild West"
Proclamation Convening the Board of Regents
of the University of Texas, October 19, 1881, Records of Oran Milo
Roberts , Texas Office of the Governor, Archives
and Information Services Division, Texas State Library and Archives
Commission.
