Albany State University Tours

Joseph Winthrop Holley, born in 1874 to former slaves in Winnsboro, South Carolina, founded the institution in 1903 as the Albany Bible and Manual Training Institute. W. E. B. Du Bois inspired Holley to return to the South after he read Du Bois's writings on the plight of Albany's blacks in The Souls of Black Folk. Holley relocated to Albany to start a school. With the help of a $2,600 gift from the Hazard family, Holley organized a board of trustees and purchased 50 acres (200,000 m2) of land for the campus, all within a year. The aim of the institution at the time was to provide elementary education and teacher training for the local Black population. It was turned over to the state of Georgia in 1917 as Georgia Normal and Agricultural College, a two-year agricultural and teacher-training institution.

In 1932, the school became part of the University System of Georgia and in 1943 it was granted four-year status and renamed Albany State College. The transition to four-year status heavily increased the school's enrollment. In 1981 the college offered its first graduate program, a prelude to the school being upgraded to university status in 1996.

Visit Albany State University

Activities

Albany Travel Guide

Popular places to visit

Ray Charles Plaza

Appreciate a beautiful park that commemorates the revered musician Ray Charles. Listen to his music while enjoying fantastic river views in the background.

Flint RiverQuarium

Have a fun and exciting day at this famous aquarium in Albany. Watch amazing sea creatures and learn about the world through interactive and entertaining exhibits.

Thronateeska Heritage Center

In this cultural center learn about South Georgia’s history. All ages can have fun exploring science in a dynamic and entertaining way.

Theater Albany which includes heritage elements and a house

Theatre Albany

Discover a landmark building and picturesque theater that is considered one of the most highly regarded cultural organizations in the city of Albany.

Radium Springs Gardens

Explore a natural wonder in the state of Georgia that was once one of its most famous resort areas. Find out what a radium spring is.

James H. Gray Sr. Civic Center

Catch an event at James H. Gray Sr. Civic Center during your trip to Albany. While in this family-friendly area, find time to visit its shops.

Best Lodging Options Near Albany State University

Check availability on hotels close to Albany State University

Red Roof Inn & Suites Albany, GA

1400 Dawson Road Albany GA

Hilton Garden Inn Albany

101 S Front St Albany GA

Merry Acres Inn

1500 Dawson Rd Albany GA

Noble Suites

911 E Oglethorpe Blvd Albany GA

Hotel Inn Albany

406 W Oglethorpe Blvd Albany GA

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Albany by IHG

2713 Pointe North Blvd Albany GA

Luxury Inn by OYO Albany

201 Thornton Dr Albany GA

Regent Motel

840 W Oglethorpe Blvd Albany GA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Albany, GA

2809 Nottingham Way Albany GA

See all 175 properties in Albany State University

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.