Celebrate Your Place in History
FHU traces its history to the 1869 establishment of Henderson Male and Female Institute, located on Main Street on what is currently referred to as the Milan-Sitka property. History professor Dr. Greg Massey has spent years researching and writing this account of FHU’s past. His meaningful book not only gives facts but also provides a glimpse into the people who created and sustained the university. This edition will include beautifully designed pages with historic photographs.
Catch a Glimpse
As the first book chronicling the entirety of FHU’s history is produced, you can add your or your family’s name in it. For a gift of $250, your name will be included and you will be among the first to receive a copy of this extraordinary book when it is printed in 2020. This limited opportunity is available only to early respondents.
A book like this has never before been produced and may never be again. Permanently etch your name in this historic piece of FHU memorabilia by responding at fhu.edu/dreams.
Chapter One
“From Masonic Institute to Christian College: Higher Education in Henderson, Tennessee 1869-1897”
The history of education in Henderson begins with one woman teaching in a one-room school on the corner of Main and Cason streets. When that school failed, the Tennessee legislature granted Henderson businessmen a charter for the Henderson Male and Female Institute in 1869. The school, built on the northwest corner of Main Street and White Avenue, is eventually purchased by the local Christian Church which changes its name to West Tennessee Christian College, marking the first time the school is labeled explicitly religious.
Chapter Five
“A College Campus Is Born: 1928-1939”
With the construction of Oakland Hall for women, the college turns its focus to building a residence hall for men. Paul Gray Hall is completed in 1929. To further enhance the college campus atmosphere, intercollegiate sports and social clubs, along with other student activities, make their debut.
Chapter Nine
“Recovery and Renewal: Freed-Hardeman College, 1950-1959”
Under the steady hand of President H.A. Dixon and the enthusiastic recruiting of W.A. Bradfield, FHC builds enrollment once again. It’s a heady time: intercollegiate athletics after a wartime hiatus, state approval of the teacher education program, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation as a junior college and the beginning of Mid-South Youth Camp. FHC is “teaching how to live and how to make a living.”