History
The Academy was founded by Dr. Lyman Ward in 1898 as a non-profit, non-denominational, co-educational institution for rural youth. The original purpose was to provide a secondary education for those with the ability to learn and the willingness to work. A long list of illustrious alumni attests to the need and the effect of the program.
A charter was granted in 1901 by the State of Alabama, the school being incorporated in the name of "The Southern Industrial Institute, Inc.". Shortly after the death of Dr. Ward in 1948, the military department was added and the school became Lyman Ward Military Academy.
While keeping pace with modern educational methods over the years, much of the original philosophy of the school's founder has been retained. Precedence is given to the development of Christian ideals and self-reliance. The high standards set by the Academy have fitted Lyman Ward Military Academy students for acceptance by outstanding universities throughout the country.
"I would invest my very last cent in such boys as these!"
Dr. Lyman Ward, 1928
Historical Timeline
| 1898 | Founding of Southern Industrial Institute by Dr. Lyman Ward |
| 1901 | Southern Industrial Institute (SII) receives charter by the General Assembly of Alabama |
| 1930 | Tallapoosa Hall erected |
| 1942 | J. Brackin Kirkland appointed President of SII |
| 1948 | Dr. Lyman Ward passes away suddenly. Eli Howell appointed President of SII. |
| 1955 | SII renamed as Lyman Ward Military Academy, with deletion of elementary and co-ed programs and implementation of military program. |
| 1959 | Wesley P. Smith appointed President of LWMA |
| 1966 | LWMA becomes a member of the ROTC program, and is assigned two active duty personnel by the Department of Army |
| 1970 | LWMA adds grades 5-12 to program |
| 1972 | LWMA receives accreditation from The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools |
| 1973 | New gymnasium constructed at LWMA |
| 1980's | Solon and Martha Dixon Foundation provide funds for construction of the chapel, administrative building, supply building, and the Martha Dixon Library. |
| 1991 | Lyman Ward Adventure Camp receives accreditation by the American Camping Association. |
| 1994 | Colonel Albert Hovey appointed President of LWMA |
| 1998 | LWMA celebrates its 100th year |
| 1999 | Major General Clyde A. Hennies appointed President of LWMA |
| 2003 | Dr. Chester C. Carroll appointed President |
| 2007 | COL Albert Jenrette appointed as LWMA President & Lyman Ward designated as Alabama Historic Site |
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