What is The Oldest College in The State of Delaware?

The University of Delaware: Tracing the Roots of the First State's Oldest College

This article explores the fascinating history of the University of Delaware, tracing its evolution from a colonial-era school to a modern institution of higher learning.

From Presbyterian Petition to Newark Academy (1743)

The University of Delaware's roots extend back to the colonial era. Its origins lie in a petition from the Presbytery of Lewes, seeking to establish a school to educate clergy. In response to this request, Reverend Dr. Francis Alison, a prominent Presbyterian minister and educator, founded the Newark Academy in 1743 (Source: University of Delaware Archives, historical accounts of early Delaware education). This small academy, initially located in New London, Pennsylvania, and later moved to Newark, Delaware, provided a classical education to a small group of students.

The academy's first class included several individuals who would later achieve prominence, including three signers of the Declaration of Independence (George Read, Thomas McKean, and James Smith) and one signer of the Constitution1 (George Read), demonstrating the school's early influence on American history (Source: Biographies of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution).

Transformations and Growth: From Academy to University

The Newark Academy underwent several transformations over the years, reflecting the changing needs of the community and the evolving landscape of higher education:

• 1834: Newark College Opens: In 1834, Newark College opened in Newark, Delaware, as a degree-granting institution, building upon the foundation laid by the Newark Academy (Source: University of Delaware historical records). This marked a significant step towards the development of a full-fledged college.
• 1843: Renamed Delaware College: A decade later, in 1843, the college was renamed Delaware College, further solidifying its identity as the state's premier institution of higher learning (Source: Delaware legislative records).
• 1921: A Landmark Merger: In 1921, a pivotal moment in the university's history occurred: Delaware College merged with the Women's College of Delaware (founded in 1914), creating the modern University of Delaware (Source: University of Delaware historical records). This merger expanded the university's scope and mission, paving the way for its growth into a comprehensive institution.

A Modern University: Research, Innovation, and Service

Today, the University of Delaware is a major public research university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. It's known for its strengths in engineering, science, business, and the humanities, and it plays a vital role in the state's economic and intellectual life.

The University of Delaware, Delaware's oldest college, has a rich and storied history, stretching back to the colonial era. From its humble beginnings as a small academy founded to educate clergy to its present-day status as a major research university, the University of Delaware has consistently adapted and evolved to meet the changing needs of its students and the state. Its legacy of academic excellence, its commitment to service, and its deep roots in Delaware history make it a cornerstone of the First State's educational landscape.

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Sources:

• University of Delaware Archives
• Historical accounts of early Delaware education
• Biographies of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution
• University of Delaware historical records
• Delaware legislative records
• University of Delaware website