Introduction
Tennessee Wesleyan University (TWU) is a small, private liberal arts college located in Athens, Tennessee. Established in 1857, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study. With a long and rich history, TWU has some fascinating fun facts that many people may not know about. In this blog post, we will explore some of these interesting facts and trivia about TWU.
TWU’s Campus and Location
TWU’s beautiful and expansive campus is home to many unique features that make it a fascinating place to visit. Here are some fun facts about the university’s campus and location:
The university is located in Athens, Tennessee, which is known as the “Friendly City.” Athens is a small town with a population of around 15,000 people.
The campus is situated on 150 acres of land, with a variety of modern facilities and historic buildings.
The campus is home to a 42-foot tall cross that is illuminated at night. The cross is a prominent feature of the university’s skyline and is visible from miles away.
TWU is located just a few miles from the Great Smoky Mountains, which is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as stunning natural scenery.
The campus features a beautiful lake that is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and bluegill.
TWU has a thriving arboretum that features over 70 different species of trees and shrubs. The arboretum is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, with plenty of benches and walking paths.
TWU’s History and Traditions
As one of the oldest universities in Tennessee, TWU has a rich and storied history. Here are some interesting facts and traditions related to the university’s past:
TWU was founded in 1857 as the Athens Female College. The college was one of the first institutions of higher education for women in the southeastern United States.
During the Civil War, the Athens Female College was used as a hospital for wounded soldiers from both the Union and Confederate armies. Many of the buildings on campus were used as makeshift hospitals, and some of them still bear the scars of the war.
In 1894, the college was renamed Tennessee Wesleyan College in honor of John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist Church.
TWU has a long tradition of service and community outreach. The university’s motto, “Non nobis solum,” which means “Not for ourselves alone,” reflects this commitment to serving others.
The TWU Bulldogs are the university’s athletic teams, and they compete in a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, softball, and volleyball. The Bulldogs have a strong tradition of excellence and have won numerous conference championships over the years.
Each year, TWU celebrates Homecoming, which is a time for alumni to return to campus and reconnect with old friends and classmates. The week-long celebration includes a variety of events and activities, including a parade, a bonfire, and a football game.
Conclusion
Tennessee Wesleyan University is a small but vibrant institution that has played an important role in the education and history of the southeastern United States. With a beautiful campus, rich history, and strong commitment to service, TWU is a unique and fascinating place to visit and learn. Whether you’re a student, an alum, or just a curious visitor, there are many fun facts and trivia about TWU that are sure to surprise and delight you.