Howard University had very humble beginnings. It was an intense showcase of leadership for Howard in terms of politics and was also known as the Civil Rights Arena. The university also was not dependent upon city power and light. It had its own powerpoint. The University was founded and chartered in 1867 by Oliver Otis Howard. Throughout the years, Howard has developed. Initially, it was 150 acres. Today, Howard University owns 256 acres. Freedmen's hospital closed and transferred services to the Howard University hospital that is seen on Georgia Avenue today.

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Howards agriculture was very important and intentional. The first master plan for the development of the campus was developed in 1919.  In 1932, the 20 year great master plan was developed by Albert Ikasell and Albert I Cassell covering 24 buildings, about 4 Blocks S-N and 2 E-W.  It set the tone for contemporary Howard University that we are still seeing today. The 5th campus master plan was proposed in 1966.  

 It was said that Oliver Otis Howard did not have a bunch of money, so he lived on campus. While Founders library and Douglass Hall are both significant structures on campus, Howards house is the oldest building at Howard University. Howards home was 8,000 sq ft and was restored in 1987. 

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Howard is filled with many significant places that provide direction that people may be drawn to. The stairs of the carnegie were a meeting place. The larger quadrangle quickly became an important area on campus that is still very important today. These places have emotion, history, and historic personality.

The Long Walk documentary is based on the book by Harry Robinson and Hazel Edwards. It highlights the development of the Main Campus. The Long Walk is a metaphor, meaning that Howard works on a cycle. At Howard, The Long Walk is more than a path. It is a legacy. Howards legacy is rich in culture and history and that was extremely prevalent in the documentary.

 

Physically, The Long walks is from the top of the hill (Founders) to the east entrance. The Long Walk is the vessel that contains the history of Howard. It symbolized the Movement of people throughout their academic careers and the long journey of Howard from its small beginnings.

Initially, it was tradition that freshmen couldn't step on the long walk until they were Sophomores. It was interesting to hear that everyone walked on the long walk - including celebrities. Learning more about Howard University's rich legacy and history was eye opening and it allowed me to appreciate the University more.