Monmouth University

When Monmouth gained university status in 1995, it was the culmination

of a long dream. Founded as a junior college in 1933, the school

developed into Monmouth College and eventually grew into a modern

learning institution that now boasts extensive undergraduate and graduate

programs. This book tells the remarkable story of Monmouth’s advances

and trials as it evolved through the decades into a respected university on

the Jersey Shore.

Monmouth University explores the origins of Wilson Hall, from its $10.5

million building costs and frequent summer visits by Pres. Woodrow Wilson

to its destruction by fire, rebuilding, and eventual sale to Monmouth

College. This unique collection of photographs captures the filming of

the 1980 movie Annie, presents visits from such dignitaries as Elizabeth

Dole and Martin Luther King Jr., and explains the connection between the

university and the influential Guggenheim family. Sports victories, 1950s

social events, and the journey to becoming a university are all stories told

within Monmouth University.