Photographs Collection

The Photographs Collection consists of photographic prints, slides, and negatives documenting nearly all facets of campus life. These images document people, places, and events in the long history of the institution from its beginnings as the Maryland State Normal School to the present-day Towson University. Subjects include: student organizations; commencements; graduating classes; alumni and alumnae; theater; presidents; administrators; students; faculty and staff; buildings; the Lida Lee Tall School; campus views; sports; awards; social events; dedications; and others. A selection of these photographs have been digitized and are accessible online, with new ones added on an ongoing basis.

In these historic archives, you may encounter words, images or other language used that were reflective of the tenor of our nation, and thus university, at that time in history. Those images may be disturbing and offensive, as they reflect the prejudice of the time. However, they do not reflect Towson University’s values and our commitment toward building a welcoming, diverse and inclusive campus that supports all the members of our community to thrive, regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or levels of ableness.