Georgia Military College * Tradition in Three Centuries

Colonists found a wild frontier in Middle Georgia upon arrival in the late 18th century, but the area would quickly become important to the future of America. Georgia was accepted as the Union's 10th state in 1788, and Milledgeville was named its capital in 1804. It was a time of prosperity and promise - in agriculture, in education and innovation. But a half-century later, the nation was torn apart by the Civil War, and the old Capitol building was abandoned. Through the struggle of Reconstruction and into the 20th century, Milledgeville once again became a center of hope. Plans for an agricultural and military college began to manifest in 1871. In 1878, the Georgia legislature allocated funds to establish a branch of the state university here, utilizing the former Capitol grounds and other state-owned properties to open in January 1880 as the Middle Georgia Military and Agricultural College. In many ways it was an institute of primary education that attracted students from across the region - even actively recruiting female students - while incorporating the military aspects that made it unique. When the University of Georgia withdrew its financial support of the college in 1893, the community rededicated itself to civic and institutional pride, supported by municipal bonds and contributions from alumni and friends. Georgia Military College was introduced in 1900. In the 120 years since, through global military conflicts, financial crises and cultural evolutions, GMC has stood steadfast and true, producing the country's next generation of leaders both in the Prep School and the Junior College, which under General Bill Acker's pivotal leadership was expanded to included several satellite campuses across the state. From 1992 to 2013, GMC flourished under General Peter Boylan's presidency. New campuses were established, and a phased master plan was implemented on the main campus, including a new Prep School Building in 2009. When Lieutenant General William B. Caldwell IV became president of Georgia Military College, he entered an institution with a great foundation already laid. Indeed, the true promise of Georgia Military College lies in the potential of what is yet to come.