South Carolina, a state with a deep and storied past, is also home to one of the most historic institutions of higher learning in the United States. The title of the oldest college in the Palmetto State belongs to the College of Charleston, an institution whose origins predate the American Revolution. Its beautiful, historic campus is a cornerstone of one of the nation's most beloved cities and a testament to an enduring legacy of academic excellence.
A Legacy of Learning: The Story of South Carolina's Oldest College
The College of Charleston's roots are firmly planted in the colonial era, making it a true contemporary of the nation's founding.
- Established in 1770: The college was officially founded in 1770, making it the 13th oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and the oldest south of Virginia.
- Chartered in 1785: The institution was formally chartered just after the Revolutionary War in 1785. Its first classes were held in 1790, with the first class of six students graduating in 1794.
Fun Facts About "CofC"
The College of Charleston's long history is filled with fascinating details and unique traditions.
- Founded by Founding Fathers: The college's founders were a distinguished group of Charleston leaders that included six Founding Fathers of the United States. Three were signers of the Declaration of Independence (Thomas Heyward Jr., Arthur Middleton, and Edward Rutledge), and three were signers of the U.S. Constitution (Charles Pinckney, Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, and John Rutledge).
- First Municipal College: In 1837, the College of Charleston became the very first municipal college in the United States, supported by the city of Charleston.
- Unique Graduation Tradition: The college is famous for its picturesque and unique spring commencement ceremony. Instead of traditional caps and gowns, female graduates wear white dresses and male graduates wear white dinner jackets. The ceremony takes place in the stunning Cistern Yard, under a canopy of ancient live oak trees draped in Spanish moss.
- A Hollywood Backdrop: The beautiful and historic campus has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including The Patriot, The Notebook, and Dear John.
The College Today
Today, the College of Charleston is a thriving public university that is an integral part of the city's historic and cultural landscape. Its main campus is a beautiful blend of modern facilities and historic buildings, several of which are designated as National Historic Landmarks. It continues to be a pillar of education in the Southeast, honoring its 250+ year legacy while looking toward the future.
Sources:
- The College of Charleston Official Website, "History & Traditions"
- The South Carolina Encyclopedia
- U.S. National Park Service (National Historic Landmark Program)
- The State Library of South Carolina
- Wikipedia - "College of Charleston"
