It began 40 years ago with a plan that must have seemed a bit crazy to some: Take a former luxury hotel that had seen better days and convert it to an all-women’s liberal arts college in the heart of the Nation’s Oldest City.

With fewer than 200 students, Flagler first started classes in 1968 and the college struggled through its early years before it was reorganized in 1971 under the leadership of new President William L. Proctor.

But 40 years later — with a rising reputation, thriving enrollment and award-winning programs — no one would doubt what an incredible idea it was to put a college in what is today a National Historic Landmark.

As Flagler celebrates its 40th anniversary, take a look back at those formative years when cars still rolled through the breezeway and students sent letters — not e-mail — to folks back home.

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