Founded by farmers in 1859, Bryan began as a small-town stop along the expanding state railway system. Established in 1871, the all-male Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas quickly grew too large to accommodate its students. As a result, AMCT professors developed College Station 6 mi (10 km) from Bryan. College Station and Bryan have been given the title of twin cities, since they are often referred to collectively. Bryan predominantly serves as an agricultural supply center while College Station accommodates students of Texas A&M University, which has a 5,200-acre (2104 ha) campus and more than 42,000 students in several faculties. Supporters of the university and its football team refer to themselves as Aggies, short for agricultural. In Bryan, numerous intimate bed and breakfast accommodations offer direct access to Lake Bryan. In addition to providing recreational spaces and equipment rentals, this lake also hosts the Bryan Bluegrass Festival.