As IU approaches its 200th birthday, we're taking a look back at the past two centuries. Check back Monday as we cover the bicentennial festivities.
Letter from the editor
The school that would eventually become known as Indiana University was formed Jan. 20, 1820, in Corydon, Indiana, as the State Seminary.
I don’t know if the founders believed the school would last — in whatever form — for 200 years, but it is still incredible to think this institution has been here for so long.
IU’s cream-and-crimson-streaked history has touched the world in more ways than many of us even realize, from fluoride toothpaste to Steak ‘n Shake.
It is impossible to know what will be added to IU’s legacy by the students who are here today or those who will come after us, but we can only hope the next two centuries will be as good as the last.
Being here in this moment, able to witness such a big milestone, is a wonderful reminder that each one of us is also part of IU’s history.
The IDS is celebrating IU this coming week by taking a look back at what has happened over the past two centuries to see how the campus, its people and its ideas have evolved over time.
Our Thursday paper is a special commemorative edition filled exclusively with content examining IU and its 200-year history, from a selection of notable alumni to what your favorite places on campus used to look like.
We will continue to update online content as bicentennial-related events take place Monday, so you can see the celebration no matter where you are in the world.
Happy birthday, IU. Here's to many more.
Lydia Gerike
Editor-in-chief