Reinhardt University

Reinhardt University stands as a living testament to a profound vision born from the ashes of the American Civil War. In 1883, former Confederate Army Captain Augustus M. Reinhardt and Lieutenant-Colonel John J. A. Sharp recognized a critical need in their impoverished Cherokee County community. Their shared ambition was simple yet revolutionary: to provide quality education and opportunity where it was desperately lacking, laying the groundwork for a brighter future for local citizens.

Opening its doors in 1884 as Reinhardt Academy, initially in a modest cabinet and wood shop, the institution quickly demonstrated its resilience and the community's unwavering support. Named in honor of Augustus Reinhardt's father, Lewis W. Reinhardt, the school persevered even after a tornado struck Waleska, providing a fortuitous supply of timber. This collective spirit rapidly transformed the initial vision into a tangible reality, with students moving into a newly constructed, three-story permanent building by January 1885, ready to house 11 classes.

Today, Reinhardt University continues to embody this legacy of community-driven education and unwavering determination. Though its humble 19th-century structures are gone, its spirit endures, fostering an environment where students can thrive, inspired by a history rooted in profound purpose and collective endeavor. From a foundational commitment to accessible learning, the campus has expanded significantly, now encompassing a 90-acre building site within a sprawling 540-acre university landscape.