Grand Canyon University- Historical Collections

The archival materials in The Grand Canyon University-Historical Collections detail the early years of Grand Canyon University when it was known as Grand Canyon College (GCC) from 1949 to 1984. There are two distinct collections represented: Campus Life which highlights the daily life of students, and Campus Development which shows the University’s growth over time.

Campus Life showcases historic photos and slides of students participating in athletics, performing arts, and graduations throughout the decades. Additionally, a 16mm silent film depicts GCC students, faculty, and the campus during the College’s open house in 1951.

Campus Development includes historic photos and slides of the various groundbreaking ceremonies, building construction development, and campus signage. Included are images of Grand Canyon College in Prescott, Arizona, the College’s original campus location from 1949-51, followed by images of the campus once it moved to Phoenix, Arizona in September 1951.

This collection is a representative sample of the Grand Canyon University Historical Archives. The full GCU Historical Archives Collection is available for online access.

This project is supported by the Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records, a division of the Secretary of State, with federal funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.