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Special Collections and Archives Guide

Explore primary sources, university history, and significant archival research topics.

Overview of Texas State University History

Explore how Texas State University has grown from a normal school in 1899 to a dynamic public university serving the state and beyond. This page highlights key events, leadership, publications, and resources, both official and community-created, that reflect over a century of institutional history.

Official Histories of the University

These commemorative publications were produced to mark major milestones in Texas State’s development and are the most complete institutional narratives available.

Buildings, Landmarks, and Traditions

Explore the growth of the campus, iconic spaces, and evolving student traditions.

Historical Writings and Theses About the University

Researchers and students have studied the university's growth through independent research.

Historical Course Descriptions and Enrollment Data

Course catalogs are a great source for exploring what students studied, who taught, and how the curriculum evolved.

Community and Regional History Resources

These external resources are helpful for placing the university's history in a broader local or regional context.