In 2025, Lexington celebrates 250 years of history, community and culture, and for more than two centuries, Transylvania University has been part of that story. Founded just five years after the city itself, Transy has grown alongside Lexington, helping shape its identity as a center of learning, innovation and civic pride.
From the earliest days of the Kentucky frontier to today’s thriving Bluegrass metropolis, the university and its hometown have developed hand in hand—educating leaders, fostering creativity and serving as anchors of progress. As Lexington marks its milestone year, Transylvania also looks ahead to its own 250th anniversary in 2030, celebrating not only the past they’ve shared but the future they continue to build together.
A Timeline of Connection
The Virginia Assembly charters Transylvania Seminary, the first institution of higher learning west of the Alleghenies.
The seminary relocates to Lexington, occupying a building in what is now Gratz Park.
Lexington leaders donate land in Gratz Park—the “College Lot”—ensuring Transy’s permanent home in the city.
The Kentucky Legislature recharters the institution as Transylvania University, home to the first medical and law schools in the West, establishing Lexington as a regional center for professional training.
Transy earns Lexington the nickname “Athens of the West” as leading scholars and students, including statesman Henry Clay, make the city a hub of intellect and culture.
After a fire destroys the main classroom building, Old Morrison rises under Clay’s supervision, becoming Lexington’s most recognizable landmark.
During the Civil War, Old Morrison serves as a military hospital for both Union and Confederate soldiers.
Transy merges with Kentucky University. Later, the Agricultural and Mechanical College (which becomes the University of Kentucky) and the College of the Bible (later Lexington Theological Seminary) grow from this shared history
The university reclaims the name Transylvania, reaffirming its independent identity in the heart of Lexington.
Transy transfers the “College Lot” to the city, creating Gratz Park, one of Lexington’s most beloved public spaces.
President Dwight D. Eisenhower visits campus for Transy’s 175th anniversary, dedicating a new library and underscoring its role in Lexington’s civic and cultural life.
The William R. Kenan Lecture Series launches, bringing global thinkers such as Elie Wiesel and Kurt Vonnegut to Lexington audiences.
PumpkinMania begins on the steps of Old Morrison. The community event now features more than 500 glowing jack-o’-lanterns and has become a fall tradition citywide.
As Lexington celebrates 250 years, Transy joins in with events honoring its shared heritage and future. The university’s new Center for Entrepreneurship partners with Awesome Inc and the University of Kentucky to connect students with Lexington’s innovation ecosystem and strengthen community ties.
