Marking 140 Years Since 1885
On Sept. 8, the University of St. Thomas marks an important milestone: the 140th anniversary of its founding as the St. Thomas Aquinas Seminary.
University Archives
The University Archives collections document the history of the University of St. Thomas, the Saint Paul Seminary, Nazareth Hall Seminary, St. John Vianney Seminary, St. Thomas Military Academy (to 1965), and the Catholic Digest (1939 – 2001).
Among the Archive’s holdings are the official records of administrative offices, academic departments, and student organizations; theses and dissertations; St. Thomas college newspaper, The Aquin; University of St. Thomas and St. Thomas Military Academy yearbooks; plus, selected professional papers and publications of St. Thomas faculty and administrators.
Many of the archival resources are available online. Explore digitized content from the archives below.
Audiovisual Archives
A selection of audiovisual materials documenting events throughout the history of the University of St. Thomas
Athletics Films and Videos
A selection of athletics footage from the collections of the University of St. Thomas Archives.
Photos from the Archives
A sample of the historic images found in the collections of the University Archives related to the history of the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul Seminary, and St. Thomas Military Academy.
Historic University Publications
Digital access to University of St. Thomas publications from 1905 including the Aquin, yearbooks, and more.
Timeline of the University
View a detailed timeline of the History of the University of St. Thomas, including related digitized historical images.
Buildings of the University
A detailed list of the buildings of the University of St. Thomas from 1885 to present.
University Award Winners
A list of recipients for various university awards including Tommie of the Year, Professor of the Year, and Distinguished Alumni.
Records Management
The Records Management program provides information and instruction relating to the management of records held in the University's academic and administrative offices.
Featured Posts from Head of Special Collections and University Archivist Ann Kenne
Tales from the Archives
The Grotto
Amid the hustle and bustle of campus, it is sometimes difficult to find a quiet spot to pause and reflect. But tucked near the Archbishop Ireland Memorial Library on the south campus, the Grotto provides a peaceful retreat.
10 Gems Revealing St. Thomas History
The University of St. Thomas archives hold fascinating materials that offer a window into the history and evolving story of campus life, academics, and community. These collections preserve the moments, both monumental and everyday, that have shaped the university’s identity.
St. Thomas Aquinas in Campus Art
As we mark the 800th birthday of St. Thomas Aquinas in 2025, it's a good opportunity to reflect on the many depictions of our university's namesake that that adorn the St. Thomas campus.
Memories of Tommies Who Served in World War II
As Memorial Day approaches and the world marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, it's a good time to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of the St. Thomas community during that time.
St. Thomas Day
This year, the University of St. Thomas will celebrate St. Thomas Day on April 23. The annual Mass and dinner continue a tradition that has endured for 139 years. St. Thomas Day was originally observed on or around March 7, the traditional feast day on the liturgical calendar of our school’s patron, St. Thomas Aquinas.