Historic Colleges and Universities in the U.S. You Need to Know About

1. Harvard University (1636) – Cambridge, Massachusetts

As the first college in the American colonies, Harvard University paved the way for higher education in the U.S. Established in 1636, it hosted its first graduation in 1642 with just nine students. Notable alumni include John F. Kennedy, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Original Harvard Hall burned down in 1764.
    • Home to multiple U.S. presidents and revolutionary figures.
    • Renowned for graduate programs in business, law, and science.

2. William & Mary (1693) – Williamsburg, Virginia

Founded by royal charter, William & Mary is the second-oldest college in the U.S. It played a central role in educating founding fathers like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Houses the Sir Christopher Wren Building, the oldest academic building in the U.S.
    • Home to the nation’s first law school.

3. St. John’s College (1696) – Annapolis, Maryland

Known for its “Great Books” curriculum, St. John’s College is one of the oldest institutions still using historic academic buildings like McDowell Hall.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Alumni include Francis Scott Key, author of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
    • Opened its Santa Fe campus in 1964.

4. Yale University (1701) – New Haven, Connecticut

Initially established in Saybrook, Yale moved to New Haven in 1716. It boasts several historic firsts, including founding the first college-based art museum and law school.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Produced four Declaration of Independence signers.
    • Campus served as a military training center during WWII.

5. University of Pennsylvania (1740) – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Planned by Benjamin Franklin, Penn became a university in 1779 and founded America’s first medical school.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Alumni include Benjamin Franklin and numerous political figures.
    • First university to establish dual-degree programs.

6. Moravian University (1742) – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Initially established as separate schools for men and women, Moravian later merged to become the first coeducational institution in the Lehigh Valley.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Among the oldest continuously operating institutions.
    • Known for its historic role in the Moravian Church.

7. University of Delaware (1743) – Newark, Delaware

Starting as a small academy, it later became the University of Delaware, with alumni like President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Founding students signed both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
    • Renowned for its School of Public Policy.

8. Princeton University (1746) – Princeton, New Jersey

Originally the College of New Jersey, it played a role in the American Revolution, with Nassau Hall briefly serving as the U.S. Capitol in 1783.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Site of the famous 1777 battle led by George Washington.
    • Competed in the first intercollegiate football game in 1869.

9. Washington and Lee University (1749) – Lexington, Virginia

Named after George Washington and Robert E. Lee, this institution began as Augusta Academy and received financial aid from Washington in 1796.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Endowed by Washington’s gift of James River Canal Company stock.
    • Led by Robert E. Lee as president from 1865 to 1870.

Explore the HistoryEach of these colleges tells a unique story of American heritage, shaping the nation’s educational and cultural landscape. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or considering college options, these institutions are worth exploring for their academic excellence and historical significance.

January 5, 2025 | 7:41 pm