New book by Courtney Tollison celebrates Furman’s 200 years of impact
February 9, 2026
In celebration of Furman University’s 200th anniversary, Courtney Tollison has written “Furman University: A Bicentennial History, 1826-2026” (Duke University Press).
The hardbound, full-color coffee table book spans Furman’s history from its humble beginnings as an academy-seminary in Edgefield, South Carolina, to its rise as a university in downtown Greenville in 1851, to its move 100 years later to an expansive campus north of the city. Featuring a foreword from President Elizabeth Davis, 1,180 historic and contemporary images, and more than 350 pages of narrative, the book traces Furman’s evolving mission, identity and aspirations across two centuries.
Tollison, Distinguished University Public Historian and Scholar at Furman, said an official history of the university has not been written since 1976, at the school’s 150th anniversary. Commissioned by Davis, this latest history follows those written by Professor of English Al Reid (1976), Dean Robert Norman Daniel (1951), and President William Joseph McGlothlin at Furman’s centennial in 1926.
“This history illuminates the people and moments – both the well-known and the under-recognized – that have shaped the university,” Tollison said. “I hope readers will develop a greater appreciation for how deeply rooted and connected Furman is in South Carolina and southern history.”
Founded in 1826, Furman University is only 50 years younger than the country itself, Tollison noted. “Our namesake, Richard Furman, was an influential patriot in the American Revolution,” she said. “We have shaped and been shaped by events beyond our campus gates. My hope is that readers will be moved by the many men and women who spent their lives dedicated to Furman. Their loyalty to the institution and to each other is endearing and inspiring.”
Christine Velasquez, Furman assistant vice president for marketing and communications, said, “This volume represents the most comprehensive history in Furman’s 200 years. It illustrates our leadership in, and commitment to, a liberal arts and sciences education.”
Two 2025 Furman alumni, Bryant Garrison (accounting) and Emily Anne Harris (history), worked with Tollison on the project from start to finish. History and music major Pender Raymond ’27 also contributed and continues to work on bicentennial initiatives with Tollison.
“It was an incredible honor to write this and a responsibility our team took very seriously,” Tollison said. “It is a gorgeous book. In addition to Furman’s fascinating past, the book features nearly 1,200 images that capture our campus, which in recent years has been named one of the most beautiful in America.”
Proceeds from the book will go toward supporting the ongoing work of Furman University. “Furman University: A Bicentennial History, 1826-2026” is due out Feb. 12 and will be available through the Furman University Bell Tower Bookstore, Duke University Press, Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other outlets.
For more information, contact Courtney Tollison at [email protected]. Or contact Brian Edwards at [email protected], and 864-294-2608.
