History
In 1868, Jesup Wakeman Scott had a dream. The Toledo newspaper editor believed that the center of world commerce was moving westward and by 1900 would be located in Toledo. In 1872, Scott donated 160 acres of land as an endowment for a university to train the city's young people. (That land later became the Scott Park Campus.)
The Toledo University of Arts and Trades was incorporated on Oct. 12, 1872. It created the foundation for 150 years of life-changing education, cutting-edge research and thousands of alumni who make an impact around the world.
Founder’s Day Lecture
“Ten Events That Shaped 150 Years”
Oct. 12, 2022
Ward M. Canaday Center for Special Collections, fifth floor of Carlson Library
The anniversary historical exhibition opened with a lecture by Barbara Floyd, retired university archivist. Floyd focused on 10 events that were key in shaping the University. She is the author of the book “An Institution for the Promoting of Knowledge: The University of Toledo at 150.” President Gregory Postel will offer opening remarks.
Sesquicentennial Exhibitions
The Art and Design of the Blockhouse
August 29, 2022 - May 5, 2023
Carlson Library
A look at how the art and design of The Blockhouse evolved throughout its 50 year existence.
The idea for The Blockhouse began in 1920 and debuted in 1922. For the next 50 years, the Blockhouse staff faithfully published the annual to document the activities of The University of Toledo.
The Blockhouse Reading Room
August 29 - November 4, 2022
Carlson Library
Come and enjoy our new South Gallery space on the first floor of Carlson Library and take the opportunity to flip through a collection of The Blockhouse yearbooks provided by the Canaday Center for Special Collections. There will also be a multimedia slide show of student life over the past 100 years.
Vision, Faith and Hard Work
Opens Oct. 12, 2022
Ward M. Canaday Center for Special Collections, fifth floor of Carlson Library
The exhibition explores the main events that shaped The University of Toledo since its founding in 1872. It features photographs, correspondence, newspaper clippings, ephemera and artifacts.
The Story of UToledo
“An Institution for the Promoting of Knowledge: The University of Toledo at 150,” by author Barbara Floyd, explores the vision behind the University’s founding, from the moment Jesup W. Scott donated 160 acres of land to its current role as a pillar of northwest Ohio.
A Walking Tour Through History
Our self-guided tour visits Main and Health Science campus locations that have been important throughout UToledo’s 150-year history. You can take this tour virtually or in person.