DAVIDSON college

Old Chambers Building, c. 1880 ("Old Chambers" [modified])

CHANGED BY the

      When President Lincoln prevailed in the election of 1860, current political discrepancies between the North and the South mounted, leading to the secession of many southern states. As political unrest rifled through the country, the nation mobilized for war. On April 12th, 1861, the Civil War began, unfolding a chain of reactions throughout the nation.  The war affected colleges throughout the country, including Davidson College. 

       Although Davidson College was one of only two Southern schools to remain open from 1861 to 1865, the school’s administration, student body, and spirit were heavily impacted by the tumultuous times.  Dr. J. L. Kirkpatrick began his presidency with vast monetary funds at his disposal.  Even though the president and his administration had great ambitions for the college, the dawning of war altered these plans. The focus of the college went from flourishing ambition to dire sustenance as the school struggled to maintain attendance and uplift school spirit.

       The Civil War called upon many Davidsonians to abandon their studies and join the Confederate forces.  The reduction opened Davidson up to new students that were often younger and differed from the students whom they replaced, lacking discipline and diligence. As a result, the student body changed in size, content, and work ethic. Additionally, the spirit of the student body underwent change.  Initially students remained dutiful to their studies; however, Lincoln’s call to arms transformed their apathy to patriotism.  Thus, the Civil War profoundly affected the administration, student body, and spirit of Davidson College.