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Founded in 1821, Amherst College developed from Amherst Academy, first established as a secondary school. The college was originally suggested as an alternative to Williams College, which was struggling to stay open. Although Williams survived, Amherst was formed and developed as a distinct institution.
- Rural, 1,000 acres (4.0 km²)
- Michael A. Elliott
College is founded as Amherst Collegiate Institution. § Zephaniah Swift Moore, clergyman and former president of Williams College, begins term as first president (1821-23). 1822
Amherst College began in 1821 to educate “indigent young men of piety and talents.” From its start, Amherst enrolled students who might not commonly have had access to higher education. Some “Firsts” at Amherst Mission Statement. An Amherst Timeline. See a timeline of Amherst College milestones and notable moments, in our Bicentennial section.
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Amherst’s History. For two centuries, Amherst has been educating a talented, diverse student body. Amherst’s historical “firsts” include the world’s first intercollegiate baseball game, the country’s first collegiate athletics program and the nation’s first undergraduate neuroscience program.
First “Class Day” celebration. June 30, 1852: Amherst’s first "Class Day" is celebrated when the class of 1852 marks the end of exams with a gathering to hear an oration and poem, followed by a procession to various professors’ homes. Most of the College and much of the town join in, led by a band.
For over two centuries, Amherst has been educating a talented, diverse student body. Amherst’s historical “firsts” include the world’s first intercollegiate baseball game, and the country’s first undergraduate neuroscience program and first collegiate athletics program.
See a timeline of Amherst College milestones and notable moments, in our Bicentennial section.
