Lambuth University by
Students, alumni, and friends of Lambuth University recollect with fond memory the many accomplishments of the school throughout its history, from its early days as a female institution through its growth as a university. Located in the West Tennessee city of Jackson, Lambuth reaffirms the Wesleyan emphasis on the necessity for academic excellence and authentic faith. Since 1843, when it began as the Memphis Conference Female Institute, the institution has recognized the interdependence of education and religion. As a university committed to the liberal arts, Lambuth provides resources and encouragement for students to reach an understanding of the cultural heritage of people throughout the world that will broaden their perspectives, enrich their personalities, and enable them to think and act wisely. The university provides a congenial atmosphere where people of all faiths work together to fully develop their total lives.
Many photos and photo captions in this guide were sourced from Lambuth University by Pam Dennis and Susan Kupisch.
The Lambuth campus has a rich history. Several institutions have called this campus home over time: MCFI; Lambuth College, later known as Lambuth University; and now the University of Memphis at Lambuth. Here at the library, we preserve our campus history through digital and physical archives. Review this guide to learn more about Lambuth history!
The Richard E. Womack Chapel, completed in 1957 and occupying a commanding position at the center of the quadrangle, emphasized the centrality of religion in the life of Lambuth University.
Memphis Conference Female Institute (MCFI) began in 1843 as an educational institution for young women, under the auspices of the Memphis Conference of Methodist Episcopal Church, South.
The Euzelian Literary Society, one of two literary circles, was one of many societies enjoyed by the ladies of MCFI.
Lambuth College was named for Walter Russell Lambuth, born in Shanghai, China, of missionary parents.
Lambuth College was opened on September 10th, 1924.
Members of Lambuth's first faculty were Sarah V. Clement (English); Katherine Clement (languages); Marvin Edward Eagle (history and physical education); Arthur D. Oxley (biology); Emory Earl Walden (mathematics); J.R. Walker (religion); and Lousie Mercer (director of fine arts).
The library at Lambuth College was located on the first floor of the Administration Building in the 1920s and housed reference books and special subject references.
Tennis, golf, basketball, and archery are represented in this 1941 composite.
Dr. Luther L. Gobbel became the second president of Lambuth College in 1953, having arrived on campus to meet the faculty and student body on October 12th, 1952.
Luther L. Gobbel Library, first occupied in fall 1961, was built with funds contributed by the Kresge Foundation and other contributors.
The Black Student Union was one of the largest student organizations in 1972 and sponsored social nights, talent events, Martin Luther King services, Black Extravaganza, Ebony Ball, and Black Band Day.
The Social Work Club was organized in September 1978 for those students interested in social work as a profession.
At the first football game in 38 years, the Eagles set the field in blue and white.
Fans catch the Eagle spirit during a Lambuth football game in 1985.
Students and friends are shown together after the International Banquet in 1991. Lambuth enrollment included 43 international students that year.
Study abroad opportunities flourished over the years. In 1996, this group of students studied in Mexico.
The 1989-1999 theatre opened with the musical Guys and Dolls. Main cast members were Jack Seabury, Bob Brown, Jamie Boyd, and Christie Garrett.