Introduction
Located in Montevallo, Alabama, the University of Montevallo is a public liberal arts university with a rich history and diverse student body. Founded in 1896 as Alabama Girls’ Industrial School, the university has undergone several changes and is now a coeducational institution offering over 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the fascinating and fun facts about the University of Montevallo.
The Bell Tower:
One of the most iconic landmarks on the University of Montevallo campus is the Bell Tower. Located in the center of the campus, the tower is a popular spot for students to relax and socialize. But did you know that the Bell Tower has a unique history? The tower was originally part of the Alabama Girls’ Industrial School, which was the predecessor to the University of Montevallo. It was built in 1908 and served as a water tower for the school. The tower was converted into a bell tower in 1920, and a bell was added to the top of the tower in 1922. Today, the Bell Tower is not only a symbol of the university but also a popular spot for graduation photos.
The Ghosts of Reynolds Hall:
Reynolds Hall is one of the oldest buildings on the University of Montevallo campus, and it is also rumored to be haunted. The building was built in 1823 and has served as a dormitory, classroom, and administrative building throughout its history. Legend has it that the ghost of a young girl named Condie Cunningham haunts the halls of Reynolds Hall. According to the story, Condie was a student at the Alabama Girls’ Industrial School in the early 1900s. She fell in love with a young man who did not return her affections, and she was heartbroken. One night, she climbed to the top of Reynolds Hall and jumped to her death. Today, students report seeing Condie’s ghost in the halls of Reynolds Hall, and some even claim to have heard her singing.
The Honors Program:
The University of Montevallo’s Honors Program is one of the most prestigious programs of its kind in the region. The program is designed to challenge and engage high-achieving students by providing them with unique opportunities for academic and personal growth. But did you know that the Honors Program has a special connection to the university’s history? The program was founded in 1978 by Dr. Michael E. Malone, who was a professor of history at the University of Montevallo. Dr. Malone was also the author of “The University of Montevallo: A History,” which is still considered the definitive history of the university. Today, the Honors Program is a thriving community of scholars who are committed to academic excellence and civic engagement.
The Montevallo Falcons:
The University of Montevallo is home to the Montevallo Falcons, the university’s athletic teams. The Falcons compete in NCAA Division II and are members of the Gulf South Conference. But did you know that the Falcons have a unique mascot? The university’s mascot is Freddie the Falcon, a friendly and energetic bird who can be seen cheering on the Falcons at sporting events. Freddie was introduced in 2007 and quickly became a beloved symbol of the university. Today, you can find Freddie’s image on t-shirts, hats, and other university merchandise.
The Alabama School of Fine Arts Connection:
The University of Montevallo has a special connection to the Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA), which is a public, residential school for gifted and talented students in grades 7-12. Many ASFA graduates go on to attend the University of Montevallo, and the university has a special program designed for ASFA graduates. The program
is called the ASFA/Montevallo Connection, and it provides ASFA graduates with unique opportunities for scholarships, internships, and other academic and professional experiences. The program also helps ASFA graduates transition to college life by providing them with support and guidance.
The University of Montevallo’s Art Collection:
The University of Montevallo is home to an impressive art collection that includes over 1,000 works of art, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photographs and textiles. The collection is housed in the university’s Carmichael Library and includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, and Salvador Dali. But did you know that the art collection also includes works by University of Montevallo alumni? The university is committed to supporting the arts and providing opportunities for its students and alumni to showcase their talents.
The Orr Park Tree Carvings:
Located just a few miles from the University of Montevallo, Orr Park is a popular destination for students and community members alike. The park is home to over 30 tree carvings, created by local artist Tim Tingle. The carvings are made from dead or dying trees and include depictions of animals, fairy tale characters, and historical figures. The carvings have become a beloved symbol of Montevallo and are a testament to the community’s commitment to the arts.
The American Village:
The University of Montevallo is located just a few miles from the American Village, a living history museum and educational center dedicated to teaching American history and civics. The American Village offers a variety of programs and activities for students and community members, including historical reenactments, interactive exhibits, and educational workshops. The university has a special partnership with the American Village, and many students and faculty members participate in the center’s programs.
Conclusion:
The University of Montevallo is a unique and vibrant community that is committed to academic excellence, civic engagement, and the arts. From the iconic Bell Tower to the haunted halls of Reynolds Hall, the university has a rich history and a bright future. Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or community member, there’s always something new and exciting to discover at the University of Montevallo.