The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, often referred to simply as A&M, was founded in 1876 as the first public institution of higher learning in Texas. The establishment was made possible through the Morrill Land-Grant Acts which promoted college education in agriculture and the mechanical arts as a means of enhancing education tailored to the needs of the working class. The college opened its doors in College Station, a location chosen for its accessible rural area conducive to agricultural studies.

Initially, the college was intended to serve a population of farmers and laborers, embodying the goal to educate America’s working class. The curriculum was heavily influenced by practical skills, and the institution provided hands-on training in agriculture, mechanics, and the sciences. As a result, A&M not only focused on traditional academic subjects but also emphasized vocational training, which would modernize agriculture and industry in Texas over the following decades.

Throughout its early years, the college faced several challenges, including fluctuating enrollments, rising costs, and the need for increased state support. However, it continued to expand over the decades, becoming a vital educational resource for Texans and shaping the workforce of the region. As a land-grant institution, A&M played a significant role in the state’s higher education system and influenced the policies related to public education in Texas.