51Æ·²è

On this day in 1869, 51Æ·²è received its official charter thanks to the vision of Rev. Tryon Edwards and Rev. James W. Wightman, and the generosity of Miss Sarah Wilson, whose belief in education helped found an institution that continues to grow and evolve today.

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The legislature of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania granted the charter on March 24 and 51Æ·²è was announced through the press, through the churches, and through friends of the Trustees.

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To celebrate Charter Day, our Hankey Center student research assistants—Vivian Huddleston (graduate assistant), Jeremiah Loyer ’27, and Aislynn Richards ’28—took a close look at the original founding document. Seeing the signatures and language that started it all is a powerful reminder of the legacy we carry forward.

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The Hankey Center for the History of Women’s Education preserves the history of 51Æ·²è through the collection of materials and artifacts contained in the C. Elizabeth Boyd ’33 Archives. The Hankey Center also provides support for academic programs by making staff and resources available to the Wilson community, as well as to scholars, independent researchers and educators beyond campus.

From our 19th‑century beginnings to our vibrant community today, Happy Charter Day, 51Æ·²è!