This year marks the 129th anniversary of Prairie View A&M University. Prairie View is one of the oldest and most prominent institutions of higher learning in the state of Texas. The university’s humble beginnings date back to 1876; unfortunately many students aren’t familiar with the extensive historical background of the prestigious African American university.Prairie View A&M University serves as the second oldest public institution in the state of Texas, originating in the Texas constitution of 1876.
Subsequent to the establishment of the Agriculture and Mechanical College of Texas (Texas A&M University) in 1871, and in accordance with constitutional provisions pledging “separate schools shall be provided for white and colored children, and impartial provisions shall be made for both,” Prairie View was established for the education of African Americans.
The board of directors appointed a principal teacher to administer the college which was ultimately under the direction of the president of Texas A&M College. L.W. Minor was appointed as the first principal of Prairie View, serving for one year. At this point the foundation for the university had been laid. On March 11, 1878 eight African American men became the first students of the university, and the first of their race to enroll in a state supported college in Texas.
Following further expansion, in 1919 the four-year senior college program was begun, and in 1937 a division of graduate studies was added, offering master’s degrees in agricultural economics, rural education, agricultural education, school administration, and supervision, and rural sociology.
In 1945, Prairie View was authorized to offer “as need arises,” all courses offered at the University of Texas. Additionally, in 1945 the name of the institution was changed from Prairie View Normal and Industrial College to Prairie View University. The name was changed once again in 1947, to Prairie View Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas after the Texas Legislature provided that courses are offered in culture, the mechanics arts, engineering, and natural sciences. On August 27, 1976 the name was changed once again to its present one of Prairie View A&M University, and was established as an independent unit of the Texas A&M University System.