History of Augusta: Summerville
By Makenzy Veldboom | Managing editor
Augusta is a city filled with many mysteries, including some right here on our campuses. At Augusta University, we have four main campuses, each holding a story of its own. One in particular holds a rich history, Summerville.
One can take a walk around Summerville or have a mere glance, and see the rich history that surrounds us every day when walking to our classes. New students or even students or faculty that have been here for years might not know the history or the mystery surrounding the campus.
Although being nearly the same age as our oldest campus, Health Sciences, Summerville did not become a part of the college until 1955. Prior, Summerville was used as the Augusta arsenal for 129 years. The arsenal served as the place for equipment repair and check-ups and was a part of three wars including the Spanish-American War, World War I and World War II. The campus also housed German prisoners during WWII in some of the historic warehouses.
There are only four original buildings from the arsenal that are used today, one of them being Payne Hall which was the headquarters.
Summerville also has an onsite museum, for anyone wanting to seek out more of the story of where they are at every day. The Guard House Museum, opening in 2004, showcases the history of the arsenal and the history of AU’s other institutions such as the Medical College of Georgia and Richmond Academy.
With such a rich history, students are encouraged to take a walk around campus and find out about our school. There are plaques and signs everywhere to tell readers more information.
For a more in-depth recount of the history of all of our campuses, visit the Guard House Museum and visit the History of Augusta University page.
Contact Makenzy Veldboom at kveldboom@augusta.edu
This story is published in the Wednesday, April 24, 2024 print edition of The Bell Ringer on page 4.
Top Photo: (photo from Augusta University)
“The Quad” is a well-known sight of AU today. (Photo by Makenzy Veldboom)
