By Alabama Public Radio
Auburn, AL – A Founder's Day celebration was held at Auburn University's Samford Hall Wednesday to mark the school's 150th anniversary. Former Alabama Governor John Winston signed the charter to establish the East Alabama Male College on February first, 1856. The college was donated to the state of Alabama in 1872 and renamed the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama . In 1899 it became the Alabama Polytechnic Institute before finally being named Auburn University in 1960. Auburn is one of the largest universities in the South and is ranked 38th nationally among public universities by U-S News and World Report. A block party will be held Saturday on Samford lawn and downtown Auburn to honor the 150th anniversary.