When Auburn University (as East Alabama Male College) opened in 1859, classes were held in a structure named "Old Main" on the current site of Samford Hall.

[3] Through the late 19th century, Samford Hall was the college's main classroom building and contained the library.

[5] Today, Samford Hall houses the school's administration, accounting, planning, and public relations offices.

The original clockworks were built by the Seth Thomas Clock Company of Thomaston, Connecticut.

These clockworks were replaced in 1995 by a clock and electronic carillon made by the Verdin Company of Cincinnati, Ohio.