 In the late 1880s , many Texas residents saw no need for two colleges in Texas and clamored for an end of Texas A.M.C. In 1891 , Texas A & M was saved from potential closure by its new president Lawrence Sullivan Ross , former governor of Texas , and well @-@ respected Confederate Brigadier General . Ross made many improvements to the school and enrollment doubled to 467 cadets as parents sent their sons to Texas A & M " to learn to be like Ross " . During his tenure , many enduring Aggie traditions were born , including the creation of the first Aggie Ring . After his death in 1898 , a statue was erected in front of what is now Academic Plaza to honor Ross and his achievements in the history of the school . 
