What we now know as Florida State University (FSU) has a long and ever-changing history. It was established in 1851 and officially opened to students in 1855. In 1905, legislature named the Buckman Act was passed and as a result the college became exclusive to women. At the same time, the college we now know as the University of Florida was exclusive to men. It stayed that way until 1947 when Florida’s governor signed a bill making both colleges coeducational. At that point it earned it’s current name, Florida State University. Between 1851 and 1947 it held several names including: The City Seminary, Florida Institute, West Florida Seminary, Florida State College, Florida Female College and Florida State College for Women.
For more history on FSU, watch the video below: