Welcome to the Athens State University Archives!  The mission of our Archives is to provide information services and resources to support and protect the history of Athens State University. 

Athens State University began in 1822 and today carries the distinction as the oldest institution of higher education in Alabama.  For 189 years, through epidemics, the Civil War, even the Great Depression era, this institution has never closed its doors.  The Archives is committed to the continuation of this tradition by preserving today’s history for future generations.

In 1999 the Archives Room was dedicated in honor of Dr. Elva Bell McLin, Professor Emeritus and Archivist.  Located on the second floor of the Library, the Archives Room manifests Dr. McLin’s dedication to the University and its history.  

Please explore our Web site to find out more about our collections.  We are here to assist you with your research and information needs.  You can contact us via phone, email, or in person.  It is always a pleasure to share our history.