In the late 19th century, Alabama native Martha Berry recognized a need for place-based education (using the environmental surroundings to foster a sense of place while learning) in her home region. With means, connections, and a generous spirit, Martha created educational opportunities for young men in 1902 (Boys Industrial School) and young women in 1909 (Martha Berry School for Girls).  Berry Junior College was developed in 1926, followed by Berry Senior College in 1928. The first class graduated in 1932.

Students from Georgia, the United States, and beyond, have passed through the Gate of Opportunity, learning and working to contribute to the campus for the next generation of students. The Berry College Archives is the primary repository for materials pertaining to the Berry Schools, Berry College, and founder, Martha Berry. The Berry College Digital Archives is a work in progress. True to Martha’s vision to provide meaningful work in combination with rigorous learning, much of the digital archives is made possible by student staff who assist with scanning and describing. We continue to add materials periodically, ensuring that our history is documented and accessible.

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We seek to represent the history of Berry College honestly and critically, rather than selectively.