AGNR History

The Cornerstone College

Take a Stroll through AGNR's History

Historic image of a couple walking through trees along path on UMD's campus — A walk across campus in 1927

1856 - The Cornerstone College

Chartered as the Maryland Agricultural College on March 6, 1856, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is the cornerstone of the University of Maryland system, built upon a foundation of sound science, ground breaking research, and Maryland pride.

1862 - The Land Grant Act

In 1862, President Lincoln signed the Morrill Land Grant Act providing federal support for each state to develop a college to teach agriculture, mechanics and military tactics, and in 1865, state government officials chose Maryland Agricultural College as Maryland's Land Grant institution.

1887 - The Hatch Act

The Hatch Act created federal funding to establish Agricultural Experiment Stations, allowing scientists the off-site facilities to conduct research in agricultural and applied sciences.

Old AGNR Building

1914 - The Smith-Lever Act

After noting the need to disseminate the knowledge from the university to the public, Congress enacted the Smith-Lever Act in 1914 which established Cooperative Extension throughout the state. AGNR's Extension program has faculty and staff in every county and Baltimore City, in Maryland.

Historic image of men standing and kneeling around an agricultural tool

Today

Through academics, research, and extension, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is a world-renowned institution on the forefront of innovation and education. From the classroom to the lab, to the farm, AGNR faculty and students make an impact in their field and in their communities.