DAVIS HISTORY
How the University Farm became UC Davis
The Davis campus began as the University Farm, created by state legislation in 1905, with land acquired near Davisville in 1906 and instruction beginning in 1908.
UC Davis began as the University Farm, an agricultural teaching and research site connected to the University of California. State legislation established it in 1905, the Regents acquired land near Davisville in 1906, the first buildings went up in 1907, and short courses began in 1908. Over the following decades it evolved into the comprehensive UC Davis campus.
1905State legislation establishes the University Farm.
1906The Regents acquire land near Davisville.
1907The first four campus buildings are constructed.
1908Short courses begin.
1959The Regents declare Davis a general UC campus.
Period1905–1959
EvidenceDocumented
Last checked2026-08-18
SourceUC Davis Library — History of UC Davis