Editing Concord University (section)

===Foundation===
The genesis of Concord University goes back to February 28, 1872, when the West Virginia State Legislature officially established a Branch State Normal School in the community then known as "Concord Church." The residents chose the name "Concord" to symbolize harmony and fellowship, a poignant reflection of the post-Civil War era in which it was founded. Despite the initial legislative act, a lack of immediate state funding meant that local efforts by five prominent families were instrumental in securing land and constructing a rudimentary building.

Classes at the newly established institution officially commenced on May 10, 1875, welcoming an inaugural class of 70 students. Early years were marked by dedication and community support. A significant milestone occurred in 1887 when the West Virginia legislators finally appropriated state funds to construct a new, more substantial brick building erected on the present Athens Middle School site. This expansion underscored the state's growing commitment to public education.

In 1896, a practical challenge led to a symbolic change: due to confusion with another post office named "Concord" in Hampshire County, West Virginia, the town's name was officially changed to "Athens." This renaming was a deliberate nod to the ancient Greek city, renowned as a center of learning and culture, thus aligning with the aspirations of the burgeoning educational institution. Despite the town's name change, the school retained its original designation, "Concord."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harvey |first1=Jeff |title=What's in a name? A lot, if you lived in Athens, or Concord |url= https://www.ptonline.net/news/local_news/what-s-in-a-name-a-lot-if-you-lived/article_ba965731-125c-539e-a3bf-be42493d4109.html |work=Princeton Times |date=May 8, 2017 |access-date=February 21, 2021}}</ref>