EDUCATION IN PHILADELPHIA[124]
On ye 27th day of October, 1682, arrived before ye Towne of New
Castle from England, William Penn, Esqe., whoo produced twoo
deeds of feofment for this Towne and twelve myles about itt,
and also for ye twoo lower counties, ye Whoorekills and St.
Jones’s—wherefore ye said William Penn received possession of
ye Towne ye 28th of October, 1682.[125]
[Sidenote: The date of Penn’s coming disputed]
It is probable that Penn reached Philadelphia in the latter days of
October or the early part of November,[126] though no student of
Philadelphia history has yet been able to settle the question of the
day absolutely. Tradition says he came up the river in an open boat
and landed at the landing on Dock Street near the new tavern, the Blue
Anchor, which had just been erected by George Guest, a Quaker.[127] The
formal ceremony of transferring the territory which had been arranged
between Penn and the Duke of York before leaving England,[128] was
accomplished with the Duke’s commissioners, Moll and Herman,[129] and the
official debut of Pennsylvania in colonial society was no longer a hope
but a reality.
[Sidenote: Education provided for in first Frame of Government]
The foundation of the colony’s educational institutions had, however,
not been delayed till the formalities of “making” a colony were over.
Education received early consideration in the Frame of Government which
was drawn up from England by Penn and agreed to on April 25, 1682, before
he prepared to depart for Pennsylvania.[130] In that document it is
clearly set forth that education was the function of the civil authority,
though the intentions of the author were not realized fully for more
than a hundred and fifty years.[131] The same idea is present in each of
the three Frames of Government which were drawn up; the first, April 25,
1682;[132] the second, April 2, 1683;[133] and the third, November 7,
1696,[134] under Governor Markham. The instrument drawn on April 2, 1683,
contained in part the following stipulations, which bear the impression
of the Quaker ideal of education.
[Sidenote: The provisions]
Tenth. That the Governor and the Provincial Council shall erect
and order all public schools and encourage and reward the
authors of useful sciences and laudable inventions in the said
provinces and territories thereof.
Eleventh. That one-third of the Provincial Council residing
with the Governor from time to time shall, with the Governor,
have the care and management of public affairs relating to
peace, justice, treasury and improvement of the province
and territories, and to the good education of the youth,
and sobriety of the manner of the inhabitants therein
aforesaid.[135]
[Sidenote: Quaker Council provides a school]
The plan for education as above set forth was not destined to be the one
followed consistently for more than a century and a half of development,
though throughout the first decades the relations between the schools
of Friends and the governing Council were very close.[136] It is
significant that the first school was actually ordered by the Council, in
keeping with Penn’s provisions. About one year after Penn’s arrival in
Philadelphia the educational problem came to the attention of the Council
and received decided recognition, as the following witnesses:
The Governor and Provincial Council having taken into their
serious consideration the great necessity there is of a
schoolmaster for the instruction and sober education of the
youth in the town of Philadelphia, sent for Enock Flower,
an inhabitant of said town, who for twenty years past has
been exercised in that care and employment in England, to
whom having communicated their minds, he embraced it upon the
following terms: to learn to read English 4s by the quarter, to
learn to read and write 6s by the quarter, to learn to read,
write and cast accounts 8s by the quarter; for boarding a
scholar, that is to say, diet, washing, lodging, and schooling,
ten pounds for one whole year.[137]
[Sidenote: Additional provisions or books]
[Sidenote: Charter of 1701 does not refer to education as did the former
ones]
Thus the first impetus to education in Pennsylvania came through properly
constituted governmental authority. The Council records show that the
interest in educational affairs was maintained for some time. In the
month following a law was proposed for making several sorts of books for
the use of persons in the province, and also recommended that care be
taken about “Learning and Instruction of youth, to witt: a school in the
arts and sciences.”[138] This interest in, and the close relation of the
Council to, education were not long continued however; for this there is
no satisfactory explanation, though it is very clear that the attitude
on the part of the government did change.[139] This change is evidenced
in the policy as outlined by the Charter of 1701, in which there is no
reference made to education or the responsibility of the Governor or
Council therefor.[140] To the writer it seems that the withdrawal of the
Council from any very active participation in the affairs of education
may have been due to two reasons: _first_, the willingness evinced by
private interests to establish schools and thus take over to themselves
the duties of educators (evidenced by the establishment of Keith’s school
by Friends in 1689 without the assistance or advice of the Council);[141]
and _second_, the urgent details of establishing a new government, which
occupied their first attention.
If further proof of the withdrawal of the colonial government from the
active establishment of schools, and of the fact that they did accept
and recognize the assistance of private agencies is desired, it is to
be found in various acts of legislation of the first half century.
Specific instances of such permissive legislation were the acts of May
28, 1715,[142] and also of February 6, 1730-1.[143] This legislation is
chiefly concerned with granting privileges to purchase and hold land and
erect buildings for the use of institutions stated therein, among which
schools are mentioned. In this connection the statute of 1715, which
evidences the facts stated above, is quoted.
Be it enacted by Charles Gookin, Esq., by the royal approbation
Lieutenant-Governor, under William Penn, Esq., Proprietary
and Governor-in-Chief of the Province of Pennsylvania, by
and with the advice and consent of the freemen of the said
provinces in General Assembly met, and by the authority of the
same, that it shall and may be lawful to and for all religious
societies or assemblies and congregations of Protestants,
within this province, to purchase any lands or tenements for
burying grounds, and for erecting houses of religious worship,
_schools_ and hospitals; and by trustees, or otherwise, as they
shall think fit, to receive and take grants or conveyances
for the same, for any estate whatsoever, to and for the use
or uses aforesaid, to be holden of the lord of the fee by the
accustomed rents and services. And be it further enacted by
the authority aforesaid, that all sales, gifts or grants made
to any of the said societies, or to any person or persons in
trust for them, or any of them, for or concerning any lands,
tenements or hereditaments within this province, for and in
any estate whatsoever, to and for the use and uses aforesaid,
shall be and are by this Act ratified and confirmed according
to the tenor and true meaning thereof, and of the parties
concerned therein. And where any gifts, legacies or bequests
have been or shall be made by any person or persons to the poor
of any of the said respective religious societies, or to or
for the use or service of any meeting or congregation of the
said respective societies, the same gifts and bequests shall
be employed only to those charitable uses, or to the use of
those respective societies or meetings, or to the poor people
to whom the same are or shall be given or intended to be given
or granted, according to what may be collected to be the true
intent and meaning of the respective donors or grantors.
[Sidenote: The first meeting of record]
[Sidenote: The probable length of Flower’s tenure as teacher]
On “11th month, 9th, 1682,” the Friends met and enacted business relating
chiefly to the sick, a meeting house, purchase of books and such other
details of importance, but made no reference to schools or the education
of youth.[144] This remained true for all meetings till 1689,[145] the
chief part of business in the meantime having to do with either (1)
strictly religious affairs or (2) raising money for the poor and the
orphans. The absence of any remarks or any plans for schools from 1682
to 1689 is more easily understood when it is recalled that the school
under Enock Flower was set up in 1683.[146] There is no evidence to prove
definitely that Flower continued as schoolmaster during the whole of
this time, but (1) the absence of any record of change, (2) no record
of schools kept by the Friends Meeting, (3) the fact that he was a
teacher of long experience (twenty years) and probably as satisfactory
as any to be found, and (4) the absence of keen competition on the part
of neighboring places to draw him away, would lead one to believe it
probable that he remained there for the greater part of the period at
least.
In 1689 Friends determined to establish a school, designed to meet the
demands of rich and of poor,[147] which does not seem at all strange
since they were known to have been supporting their poor and the orphans
by subscriptions since their first establishment.[148] The transaction
of the business relating thereto was performed in the monthly meeting
and referred to the quarterly meeting (higher) for its approval. The
following extract from the records of the meeting gives the result of
their decision:
[Sidenote: Friends school set up under Geo. Keith]
Friends being to encourage a school in this town, and in order
hereunto they have agreed with George Keith to assure him a
certain salary of 50 pounds per year to be paid quarterly,
with house rent, convenient for his family and school, with
the profit of his school for one year, and for two years more
to make his school worth to him 120 pounds per year, if he
shall think fit to stay in this place, the said George also
promiseth to teach the poor (which are not of ability to pay)
for nothing. The abovesaid Keith having heard the proposals
of Friends, readily assented and agreed thereto, his salary
beginning from the time school begins. It is agreed that it
be also mentioned to the next Quarterly Meeting for their
concurrence with the same, as also agreed that Anthony Morris
give notice to the several monthly meetings in this county.[149]
[Sidenote: A larger school needed]
[Sidenote: Makin hired as usher]
The number of children who attended this school is not known, but
it is clear that it grew rapidly. In January, succeeding the first
establishment, the new master complained of the “inconvenience and
straitness” of his school and Anthony Morris and Samuel Carpenter
were appointed to consult with Robert Turner for a more convenient
situation.[150] The first interpretation of “straitness” would
undoubtedly be that it was crowded, and that might well have been true
without there having been an increase in the size of the school; more
conclusive proof of the rapid increase in numbers is to be found in the
fact that Thomas Makin was hired as usher to assist Keith,[151] probably
about February, 1690.[152] A more convenient room for the school was
arranged for with John Fuller at thirteen pounds per year, three pounds
more than was paid for the first.[153]
[Sidenote: Thomas Makin recommended by Keith to be master]
[Sidenote: Makin chosen]
In the 3rd month, 1691, Keith made known his intention of leaving the
school,[154] whether because of dissatisfaction with the school itself
or the beginning of the feeling against the Quakers which resulted
in his rupture with them,[155] it is not known, and recommended to
the meeting the appointment of his usher, Thomas Makin, to take his
place.[156] It was Keith’s desire to leave on 4th month, 10th and he
may have discontinued teaching at that time, but it appears that his
account against the meeting was not settled until the eleventh or the
twelfth month, 1691.[157] According to his suggestion concerning Makin,
the meeting appointed a committee to consult with him,[158] the outcome
of which was a satisfactory agreement. It would appear from numerous
references to the subject, that the matter of getting the subscriptions
and keeping them paid was a chief source of trouble, which required their
constant energies and attention.[159] In 1693 Thomas Makin brought in
a bill against the meeting for £12/15/7, which was still owing for his
services as usher in 1690.[160]
[Sidenote: Penn said to have written letter to Lloyd about the school]
The last four years of the century saw greater strides made in the better
establishment of education as a system. In 1696 it was agreed that
there should be established four meetings a year, the chief function
of which was the religious education of the youth in the principles of
Friends.[161] Steps were shortly taken for the establishment of the
so-called “free school.” Penn had written to Thomas Lloyd, President of
the Council, in 1689, advising that a grammar school be set up (that of
George Keith)[162] and it was this same school which in 1697 the meeting
desired to make a “free school.” On 10th month, 31st, 1697:
A paper for the encouragement of a free school was this day
read, whereupon Samuel Carpenter and James Fox are desired to
treat with Daniel Pastorius and Thomas Makin concerning the
same, and—they desire the Friends of the town to meet together
this day week, about the 1st hour at this meeting house to
consider further of it, and that Daniel Pastorius and Thomas
Makin be present.[163]
[Sidenote: Pastorius and Makin in the school]
In the month following (11th month) Samuel Carpenter reported to the
assembly that the committee had met with Daniel Pastorius and Thomas
Makin and agreed to pay each of them forty pounds per year for keeping
school.[164] The means of support was the familiar subscription blank,
Samuel Carpenter and James Fox being the first appointed to take them.
School was to begin the first of the following month, in the room over
the meeting house, which had been prepared for that purpose.[165] In the
12th month a petition was sent to the Governor and Council, requesting
the ordaining and establishment of the “Public School.” The text of the
petition is as follows:
[Sidenote: Petition to Council to incorporate the school]
The humble petition of Samuel Carpenter ... in behalf of
themselves and the rest of the people called Quakers, who are
members of the Monthly Meeting, ... showeth that it has been
and is much desired by many that a school be set up and upheld
in this town of Philadelphia, where poor children may be freely
maintained, taught and educated in good literature, until they
are fit to be put out as apprentices, or capable to be masters
or ushers in the same schools. And forasmuch as in the laws and
constitution of this government it is provided and enacted that
the Governor and Council shall erect ... public schools ...
reward the authors of useful sciences and laudable inventions
... therefore, may it please the Governor and Council to ordain
and establish that in the said town of Philadelphia a public
school may be founded, where all children and servants, male
and female, whose parents, guardians and masters be willing to
subject them to the rules and orders of the said schools, shall
from time to time with the approbation of the overseers thereof
for the time being, be received and admitted, taught and
instructed; the rich at reasonable rates, and the poor to be
maintained and schooled for nothing. And to that end a meet and
convenient house or houses, buildings and rooms may be erected
for the keeping of the said school, and for the entertainment
and abode of such and so many masters, ushers, mistresses and
poor children, as by orders of said meeting shall be limited
and appointed from time to time. And also that the members
of the aforesaid Meetings ... make choice and admit such and
so many persons as they think fit, to be masters, overseers,
ushers, mistresses and poor children of the said school, and
the same persons ... to remove or displace as often ... as they
shall see fit. And that the overseers and the school aforesaid,
may ... be ... in name and deed, a body politic and corporate,
to have continuance forever by the name of the Overseers of
the Public School founded in Philadelphia at the request of
the people of God called Quakers. And that they, the said
overseers, may have perfect succession, and by that name they
and their successors may hold and enjoy, all lands, tenements
and chattels, and receive and take all gifts and legacies as
shall be given, granted or devised for the use and maintenance
of the said school and poor scholars, without any further or
other license or authority from this Government in that behalf;
saving unto the chief Proprietary his quitrents of the said
lands. And that the said overseers by the same name shall and
may, with consent of said meeting, have power and capacity to
devise and grant by writing, under their hand and seal and of
said lands and tenements and to take and purchase any other
lands ... for ... advantage of said school. And to prescribe
such rules and ordinance for the good order and government
of the same school ... successively, and for their and every
of their stipends and allowances, as to members of the said
Meeting for the time being ... shall seem meet; with power also
to sue and to be sued, and to do and perform and execute all
and every other lawful act and thing, good and profitable for
the said school, in as full and ample manner, as any other body
politic or corporate more perfectly founded or incorporated,
may do.[166]
[Sidenote: The petition granted and charter issued by Penn in 1701]
This request was immediately granted by the Council,[167] and the school
thus incorporated in 1697.[168] In 1701 Penn confirmed its incorporation
by the following charter:
WILLIAM PENN True and absolute Proprietary and Governor in
Chief of the Province of Pennsylvania and territories thereunto
belonging. To all to whom these presents shall come sendeth
greeting. _Whereas_ Charles the Second, late King of England
by his letters patents bearing date the fourth day of March in
the three and thirtieth year of his reign did grant unto me my
heirs and assigns the said Province And Absolute Proprietary
thereof with full power to me by the assent of the freemen
there to make laws for the good and happy government of the
same with divers other powers preheminsures jurisdictions,
privileges and immunities therein specified. _And Whereas_ I
with a great colony of the People of God called Quakers for
the free enjoyment of liberty of our consciences in matters
of religion as of other privileges and advantages in the
said patent granted as well to me the said Proprietary and
Governor as also to the said people did transport ourselves
unto the said Province and at our own risk costs pains and
charges settled and planted the same the soil also of the said
Province being first by me purchased of the Indian Natives.
And forasmuch as by the laws of the said Province since
enacted the Governor and Council have power to erect and order
all public schools of literature and science. _And Whereas_
Samuel Carpenter—Edward Shippen—Anthony Morris—James Fox—David
Lloyd—William Southby and John Jones in behalf of themselves
and the rest of the said people called Quakers Members of their
Monthly Meeting at Philadelphia in the said Province by their
petition to the Governor and Council of the said Province and
territories at Philadelphia the tenth day of the twelfth month
Anno Domini one thousand six hundred ninety seven (eight) set
forth that it was the desire of many that a school should be
set up and upheld in the said town of Philadelphia where poor
children might be freely maintained taught and educated in good
literature until they should be fit to be put apprentices or
capable to be masters or Ushers in the said school requesting
the Governor and Council in the said petition to ordain that
at the said town of Philadelphia a Public School might be
founded where all children male and female whose parents
guardians or masters might be willing to subject them to the
rules and orders of the school should from time to time with
the approbation of the overseers thereof for the time being
be received or admitted taught and instructed the rich at
reasonable rates and the poor to be maintained and schooled for
nothing. _And_ that to that end a meet and convenient house or
houses buildings or rooms might be erected for the keeping of
the said school and for the entertainment and abode of such
and so many Masters Ushers Mistresses and poor children as by
the order and direction of the said Monthly Meeting should
be free from time to time limited and appointed and also that
the members of the aforesaid meeting for the time being might
at their respective monthly meeting from time to time make
choice of and admit such and so many persons as they should
think fit to be Overseers Masters Ushers Mistresses and poor
children of the said school and the same person or any of them
to remove and displace as often as the said meeting shall see
occasion, and that the overseers and school aforesaid might
forever thereafter stand and be established and founded in name
and in deed a body politic and corporate to have continuance
forever by the name of the Overseers of the Public School
grounded in Philadelphia at the request cost and charges of
the people of God called Quakers. And that the said Overseers
might have perpetual succession, and by that name they and
their successors forever, have hold and enjoy all the lands
tenements and chattels and receive and take all gifts and
legacies that should be given granted or devised for the use
and maintenance of said schools and poor scholars without
further or other license or authority from the government on
that behalf. _Saving_ unto the Chief Proprietary his quit rents
out of the said lands and that the said Overseers by the same
name might with consent of the said Meeting have power and
capacity to demise and grant by writing under their hand and
common seal any of the said lands and tenements and to take
and purchase any other lands and tenements and hereditaments
for the best advantage of the said schools and to prescribe
such rules and ordinances for the good order and government of
the said school and of the masters ushers mistresses and poor
children successively and for their and every of their stipends
and allowances as to them members of the said monthly meeting
for the time or the major part of them should seem meet, with
power also to sue and be used and to do perform and execute all
and every other lawful act and thing good and profitable for
the said school in as full and ample manner as any other body
politic and corporate more perfectly founded and incorporated
might do and by the said petition which I have seen may more
fully appear whereupon my then lieutenant Governor and Council
did grant and order that the said schools should be founded
and erected with the incorporation privileges and powers as
desired. _Now_ forasmuch as those of the said petitioners that
are living have made fresh application to me in Council for
confirming the said lieutenant Governor and Councils order
and grant upon the said petition which being well weighed and
considered by me I greatly favor the good inclinations and
just and laudable desires and conscientious regards of the
said petitioners and people for the education instruction and
literature of their children and posterity and more especially
their care and concerns for the poor on that behalf....
_Therefore Know Ye_ that pursuant to the powers to me granted
as aforesaid and to the laws of the said Province already
enacted I have (by and with the consent of my Provincial
Council) granted and confirmed all and every request matter
and thing ... contained in the said petition and do by
these presents for me my heirs and assigns grant ordain and
establish that the said Public School shall be erected and
founded, and I do grant, ordain and found the same to be kept
forever hereafter in the said town of Philadelphia or in some
convenient place adjacent as the overseers of the said school
for the time being shall see meet and I do likewise grant and
ordain that in the said school all children and servants as in
the school petition requested shall from time to time (with
approbation of the said Overseers) be received admitted taught
and instructed as in the same petition is mentioned and desired
and to the end that all meet and convenient houses, rooms,
chambers and buildings may be erected for keeping of the said
schools and entertainment of the masters ushers mistresses and
poor children to be therein admitted as hereinafter mentioned.
I do by these presents for me my heirs and successors grant and
ordain that from the day of the date of these presents forever
hereafter the members of the Monthly Meeting of the said People
called Quakers in the town of Philadelphia for the time being
shall have full and absolute power and authority and the same
power is hereby given unto them in their respective monthly
meetings from time to time to make choice of and admit such and
so many persons as they shall think fit to be Overseers Masters
Ushers Mistresses and poor children of the said school and the
same persons or any of them to remove and displace as often
as the said Meeting shall see occasion and likewise that the
said Overseers shall have like powers and authority (with the
direction and consent of the said Meeting) from time to time to
frame and erect or cause or procure to be framed and erected
such and so many houses and buildings as they shall see meet
for the use and service of the said schools. _And_ moreover I
do by these presents for me my heirs and successors grant and
ordain that the overseers and schools aforesaid shall forever
hereafter stand and be established and founded and are hereby
founded erected and established in name and in deed a body
politic and corporate to continue forever by the name of _The
Overseers_ of the Public School founded in Philadelphia at the
request cost and charges of the People of God called _Quakers_.
And also that they the said overseers shall have perpetual
succession and by the said name they and their successors shall
forever have hold and enjoy (to the use of the said school) all
the messuages lands tenements hereditaments goods and chattels
and receive and take all gifts and legacies already given
granted and devised or that shall be hereafter given granted
or devised to the use and maintenance of the said school and
masters ushers mistresses and poor scholars thereof without
further or other leave license authority or power whatsoever
from me my heirs or successors or from this government or any
therein on that behalf saving unto me my heirs and successors
the respective quit rents and other duties and payments out
of the said messuages lands tenements and hereditaments and
every of them reserved and payable in and by their several
original grants and patents and furthermore I do by these
presents for me my heirs and successors give and grant unto the
said Overseers by the name aforesaid full power license and
authority to give grant bargain sell alien enfeoff or demise
with the consent of the said meeting by writing under their
hands and common seal (or the hands and said seal of so many of
them as shall make a quorum) to such person or persons his or
her heirs or their heirs executors administrators and assigns
as shall be willing to purchase or rent the same all or any of
the aforesaid messuages lands tenements and hereditaments goods
and chattels and likewise to purchase receive and enjoy all or
any other messuages houses lands tenements and hereditaments
for the best advantage of the said school. _And also_ to frame
make and prescribe such rules orders and ordinances for the
good order and government of the said school and of the masters
ushers mistresses and poor children thereof successively and
for their and every of their stipends salaries and allowances
as to the members of the said Monthly Meeting for the time
being or the major part of them (in their respective meetings)
shall seem meet with power also to the said overseers by
the name aforesaid to sue and be sued and to do perform and
execute and suffer to be done all and every other lawful act
and thing good and profitable for the said school in as full
and ample manner as any other body politic or corporate more
perfectly founded and incorporated may and can do. And I do for
me my heirs and assigns ordain and grant that the said school
and the masters ushers members officers and scholars and all
other persons placed or to be placed in the said school shall
forever hereafter be accepted and freed from all visitation
punishment and connection to be had used or exercised by any
person or persons whatsoever other than the said Overseers for
the time being and their successors. _In Witness_ whereof I
have hereunto set my hand cause the Great Seal to be affixed
dated at Philadelphia the five and twentieth day of the eighth
month in the thirteenth year of the reign of William the third
over England etc. King etc. and the one and twentieth of my
government Anno Domino one thousand seven hundred and one 1701.
Recorded the 5th 10th 1701.[169]
WM. PENN.
For Aaron K. DUNKEL, Sec’y of Internal Affairs, W. B. HUSTON.
[Sidenote: Rechartered in 1708, and 1711, extended privileges]
[Sidenote: Made a self-perpetuating corporation]
The charter of 1701 was confirmed and enlarged by another of 1708,[170]
according to which the corporation was to consist of fifteen persons
(Quakers) by the name of “The Overseers of the Public School, founded in
Philadelphia, at the request of, cost and charges of the people called
Quakers.” The charter of 1711[171] contained extended privileges[172]
and also provided that the election of new members of the board of
overseers should be the right of the overseers themselves, thus
constituting them a self-perpetuating corporation.[173] From this the
reader might expect that the school at once became independent of the
Friends’ meeting, but this did not occur, since the original members
or overseers were Friends and continued to appoint Friends as their
successors. Reports on the various details of the business of the
school continued to come into the monthly meeting, but it is not to be
considered that we find there a complete story of its existence.[174] In
1699 it was found that the affairs of the school took too much time in
meeting and therefore it was decided that Friends in the care of schools
and press should meet on sixth day before monthly meeting, transact their
business and keep a record thereof in books provided for the purpose.[175]
[Sidenote: Mistresses employed in schools]
The affairs of the school continued much the same as though no charter
had been requested or granted. The records lead one to think that the
growth was very rapid. Pastorius and Makin had become the masters in 1697
and by 1699 the indications are that “mistresses” were also employed,
money being turned over to Anthony Morris to “pay the schoolmasters’ and
the mistresses’ salaries.”[176] This is the first mention made of women
as teachers. Pastorius having severed his connections with the school
in 1701 steps were taken to fill the vacancy, it being decided that the
newcomer should show his ability by competing with the one remaining
master, Thomas Makin.[177]
[Sidenote: Cadwalader to fill vacancy made by Pastorius’ leaving]
Griffith Owen ... recommended John Cadwalader as a person very
fit for an assistant in the school, and it being proposed a
good method for the better improvement of the scholars that
they be equally divided between them for trial to see which
of them best discharged their duty, there having been great
complaint of former neglect. The meeting approves thereof and
desires the said Griffith to acquaint John Cadwalader thereof,
and that he may have twenty pounds for a half year for a trial,
as the former master had, and Anthony Morris is desired to show
Thomas Makin this minute for his information in the matter.[178]
MASTERS AND MISTRESSES FROM 1700 TO 1800
[Sidenote: Makin plans to leave school]
[Sidenote: Cadwalader becomes headmaster]
[Sidenote: Salaries increased]
Nothing like a complete or connected story can be given with reference
to the masters and mistresses of this period, due to a lack of adequate
available records. In August, 1701, Thomas Makin announced his intention
of leaving the school and requested that his accounts be settled.[179]
John Cadwalader, who had been his assistant since 1700, was interviewed
as to his ability to undertake the headship of the school; intimating
if he thought himself fit, he would be further considered.[180] There
is no direct record of how Mr. Cadwalader rated himself as teacher,
but he was continued in the capacity of master. He found the limited
salary[181] almost too small for the support of his family and upon his
request it was soon raised to fifty pounds per year.[182] At the same
time the salary of a mistress, Olive Songhurst, whom we meet for the
first time and with scant introduction, was increased five or ten pounds.
The prospect of a higher salary does not appear to have attracted him
much for we learn of his intended separation from the school in May,
1702. It is not clear that he did actually sever his connection therewith
at that time, for in June, 1703, it was desired that John Cadwalader,
schoolmaster, be paid ten pounds that was left by Robert Jones for the
use of the Public School.[183] This sum may have been for other services
such as copying, which he frequently performed,[184] but it is more
probable that he was convinced of the advantages of remaining at a salary
of fifty pounds per year, with the additional sums paid for the copying
work.[185]
[Sidenote: John Every, usher]
[Sidenote: Makin returns]
[Sidenote: Jacob Naylor suggested for teacher]
John Every’s connection with the school as usher is first announced in
April, 1702, when he made demands for an increase of salary to thirty
pounds, which was agreed to.[186] He remained there nearly two years
and then departed, making a place for Thomas Makin, who returned at
his request, agreeing to accept the salary previously paid to Every.
These two masters, Makin and Cadwalader, appear to have been employed
continuously until 1706, when they decided the school could not furnish a
competent living for both of them and Cadwalader accordingly left.[187]
There were further suggestions considered at that time and Friends
appointed to endeavor to secure a qualified master from England. So far
as the meeting’s minutes record, it seems that Thomas Makin was the only
master employed from 1706 to 1708, when it was suggested that Jacob
Naylor be employed as a teacher.[188]
[Sidenote: Extra school room duties]
The duties of the schoolmasters were by no means limited to the routine
of the schoolroom. They were required to be careful of their several
scholars and often had to do police duty among them during the meetings
on first day.[189] The master’s only hope for any respite from the
imposition of such duties was to stand firmly for his rights, else he
might have been given charge of all the children in the meeting. John
Walby, a master, when asked to perform a similar service, made answer
that “he would take care of his own scholars, but did not care to
undertake any further.”[190] His objection was sustained and another
Friend endeavored to perform the task.
[Sidenote: William Robbins]
[Sidenote: Richard Warden]
[Sidenote: Thomas Makin]
[Sidenote: Richard Brockden]
In 1711 William Robbins[191] came to wield the rod in Friends School,
having requested permission to keep school in a part of the Friends’
schoolhouse, which was “granted for the present.”[192] It cannot be
determined how long he remained in that capacity, but the following
year it was proposed that Richard Warden be allowed to teach school in
one end of the schoolhouse, and it is quite probable that he filled the
place of Robbins.[193] On the other hand, if Robbins did leave at that
time he had returned again to the school in 1715.[194] Thomas Makin
had in the meantime severed his connection with the school, but not
permanently. Seven years after the employment of Richard Warden (1719)
a vacancy occurred and a committee was appointed to visit the overseers
requesting them to take action regarding the vacancy.[195] From this it
may be judged that the overseers were at times remiss in their attention
to their trust. The overseers were set in action, and Thomas Makin was
secured to fill the place, provided he would agree to teach six children
of the poor and give up the house when Friends ordered him to do so.[196]
He doubtless filled a minor position at this time, though he was offered
a better one, later in 1722, provided Richard Brockden were willing to
leave it, which does not appear to have met with the said Brockden’s
approval.[197] Of Richard Brockden little is known, save that he had
been schoolmaster at Byberry about 1710 or 1711.[198] In 1724 William
Robbins[199] mentioned above as a teacher some years earlier, applied
for a place as master. It was agreed that he be allowed to teach on the
condition that he would agree to teach at least four children for the use
of the house, if ordered to do so.[200]
[Sidenote: J. Walby]
[Sidenote: Death of T. Makin]
It is quite probable that for most of the ten years preceding 1730 the
school was under the charge of three or four masters just mentioned,
Robbins, Brockden, Makin and Warden. They shifted quite often, that
is certain. In 1730 mention is made of a John Walby as master; but no
further account of him is given.[201] Thomas Makin’s career as teacher
very likely came to an end in that period, as he was getting aged, though
he may have taught up to the time of his death. An account of his death
is given in the _Weekly Mercury_ of 1733.[202]
[Sidenote: Anthony Benezet employed 1742]
[Sidenote: Robert Willian master in 1748]
From 1730 there is only an occasional mention made of the masters
employed at the public school, until we come to the period about 1770
when the names were occasionally given in committee reports on the
condition of the schools. However, with the fourth decade came a period
of real greatness, for in 1742[203] began the services of Anthony
Benezet, of whom considerable mention is made elsewhere, who continued
in the public school till 1782.[204] He had throughout his life been
interested in the Negroes and for several years previous had cherished
a desire to work in their schools. His request, in that regard, was
accordingly granted in 1782, after John Houghton relinquished that
position.[205] He continued to teach the Negro school, until the time of
his death two years later.[206] In 1748 Robert Willian came from England
for the purpose of keeping Friends school, and was accordingly accepted
into their meeting, having produced the customary certificate from his
home meeting at Scarborough in Yorkshire.[207] The next mention of a new
master in the ranks is concerned with Josai, who married in 1763.[208]
Encouragement was at all times given to women as teachers, mention having
already been made to their employment as early as 1699.[209] In 1764:
[Sidenote: Ann Brientnall establishes small school]
The meeting being informed that Ann Brientnall is desirous
of keeping a small school for the instruction of Friends
children only in reading and sewing and not being at present
able to hire a place suitable for the purpose, requests the
use of a vacant lower room in one of the alms-houses, and
Friends approving her proposal, it is agreed that she may
make use of one of these rooms for that purpose until she can
accommodate herself elsewhere, or it may be wanted (for other
purposes).[210]
The recommendations of the Yearly Meeting of Philadelphia in 1778,[211]
produced a very beneficial effect upon the school affairs in all of
its monthly meetings. Thereafter, reports were sent in, bad, good and
indifferent, which were much superior to anything that had been done
previously, though they were still too infrequent and abbreviated in
regard to information contained. A digest of the report of 1779 follows,
which shows the number of teachers in the several schools at that
time:[212]
[Sidenote: Schools reported in 1779]
1. The Grammar School was presided over by John Thompson who
also taught writing and arithmetic.
2. John Todd taught reading, English, writing, arithmetic and
some branches of mathematics.
3. Another master was Joseph Yerkes, who taught the same
branches as Todd.
4. George Smith taught reading, writing and arithmetic to the
children of Friends and others.
5. Anthony Benezet at this time was employed in teaching the
Girls’ School in which were received also the children of other
denominations besides Friends.
6. Sarah Lancaster taught the younger children of both sexes
the rudiments of learning, and other branches suitable to girls.
7. Rebecca Jones and Hannah Cathrall taught together in the
same school, which was for girls, a large number of them poor.
8. A school for younger boys and girls of various societies was
taught in Pine Street by Essex Flower.
9. Spelling and reading were taught the younger children by Ann
Rakestraw.
It appears from the meeting’s records that these masters and mistresses
were all Friends, and that the schools which they taught were under the
direction of the overseers of the public school.[213] Five years later
another report was prepared and presented on the state of schools. At the
later date several new names are found among the teachers.[214]
[Sidenote: Schools and teachers reported in 1784]
1. The Latin and Greek Grammar School is under the direction of
Robert Proud, the historian.[215]
2. John Todd still continues in his old place.
3. Isaac Weaver teaches boys reading, writing, and arithmetic.
4. Sarah Lancaster continues in her old position as teacher of
young children.
5. William Brown, engaged in teaching a girls’ school.
The five schools above mentioned were under the direction of the school
corporation of overseers, and poor children were taught there free of
expense. The committee also reported on five other schools, whose masters
and mistresses were either Friends or made the professions of that
religious society.[216]
[Sidenote: Other schools reported]
1. Mary Harry, teaching in Charters Alley.
2. Joseph Clarke, teaching in the girls school.
3. Mrs. Clarke (wife of Joseph).
4. Ann Marsh, teaching about fifty girls.
5. Mary McDonnell, teaching fifteen children.
[Sidenote: Richard Hartshorne superintendent of the new school
established at Westtown]
This report of 1784 is the best during the century which gives a
clew to the members in the teachers’ ranks. The growth from a school
employing one teacher to a system employing ten does not seem great when
measured by our present standards of increase, but for that century it
is significant of rapid growth. Many of the teachers were people of no
great importance, whose names were probably never known outside of Quaker
circles; others were distinctly well known. In 1799 we find one other
Quaker schoolmaster mentioned, Richard Hartshorne. The idea of a boarding
school for Friends’ children had received quite an impetus about 1791,
due largely to the interest and influence of Owen Biddle,[217] and by
1799 the school was ready to begin operations.[218] Richard Hartshorne
was chosen to serve as its first superintendent and with the permission
of the Monthly Meeting of Philadelphia moved to Westtown in 1799.[219]
SUPPORT OF THE SCHOOLS
[Sidenote: Three chief means of support]
From the very beginning of the schools in Philadelphia their primary
means of support lay in _voluntary subscriptions_. We have already seen
that this was the accepted means of raising money to maintain the poor
and orphans,[220] and also to build their meeting houses; it was quite
the natural way, really about the only way then familiar to them for
maintaining their school system. As the meeting grew and the schools also
increased many members were led to believe that it was advisable to endow
them with _legacies_. This being in accordance with the recommendations
of the Yearly Meetings of London and Philadelphia,[221] it became quite a
common procedure in Philadelphia, as also in the other monthly meetings.
Their third means of support was the _rate_ which was paid by all
children whose parents were able to bear the expense of their education.
[Sidenote: Subscriptions urged, but not compulsory]
[Sidenote: Subscription method not entirely satisfactory]
As has been stated, subscriptions were made voluntarily, though they
might be rigorously solicited, enough at least to make some feel
uncomfortable who did not contribute when they were able. There are
instances which might be considered as mandatory though such cases are
very rare. One such occurred in 1701 when, Tobias Dinnock desiring a
certificate, the meeting reported there was nothing to hinder it save
that he had not paid anything toward the school.[222] This does not mean
that he had to subscribe but it was doubtless unpleasant pressure to
have brought to bear on one. Subscriptions were usually made and paid
at the subscriber’s convenience, or on a date which he designated when
making the subscription. Though this was ideally satisfactory it often
failed to work out just at the right time, so it was necessary to appoint
a committee to go out after the subscriber and get that which he had
promised to pay. The first record of a committee appointed on a service
of this kind was in 1691. The work of such committees was continued
throughout the century, and the following extract will indicate very well
their function, without further explanation or reference.
Whereas several of the subscriptions towards the school are
unpaid, the Meeting being engaged for the same, they have
requested Alexander Beardsley, Anthony Morris, Francis Rawles,
John Delavall and Samuel Richardson to use their endeavors to
get what is unpaid of the said subscriptions, and they are
desired to pay what money they receive unto Robert Turner and
give account thereof to the next Monthly Meeting.[223]
[Sidenote: Rates charged]
The rates paid by parents in the earlier years of their colony are seen
in the establishment of Flower’s school in 1683.[224] The next references
made to the amounts paid for instruction, under the rate system, are in
the report of the school committee of the Overseers in 1784.[225] Flower
received four shillings per quarter for teaching reading, six shillings
for reading and writing, and eight for reading, writing and casting
accounts; if by the year, then everything was furnished for ten pounds.
In 1784 Isaac Weaver received thirty shillings per quarter for teaching
the same subjects which Flower had taught for eight.[226] William Brown
also received the same amount for the same subjects which he taught
the whole day.[227] Joseph Clarke was teaching for thirty shillings.
For instruction in the three R’s it appears that the general tendency
for the cost in 1784 was about twenty-two shillings higher than it was
in 1683.[228] Small children were taught generally at about fifteen
shillings per quarter, or half the customary price for older pupils
whatever that might be. The general custom was that in cases where the
school corporation sent poor children to a teacher they were admitted for
a lesser rate than the others; if fifteen shillings were paid by others,
then ten shillings might be paid for the poor children, schooled at the
trustees’ expense. These prices for teaching among the Quaker masters are
quite comparable with those demanded by other private masters in the city
at about the same dates.[229]
[Sidenote: Special bequests and legacies recommended and their probable
effect]
As was cited previously in this work,[230] the practice of making special
donations, bequests and legacies was urged by the yearly meeting as a
proper means of support for the schools or other institutions. These
recommendations of the yearly meeting which were written in the form of
letters, were transmitted to the quarterly meetings and through them
reached all members of the monthly and preparative meetings in the
compass of the general assembly. It cannot be doubted that they were a
very important means to instill a desire to give to a worthy cause, and
the very similar procedure in all monthly meetings seems to indicate that
they constituted the most effectual means for getting anything definite
done towards establishing any permanent foundation.
[Sidenote: Will of John Lineham]
[Sidenote: Legacies of Wade and Richards]
Nothing in the way of a complete survey of various legacies and donations
given to the schools in Philadelphia will be attempted here, even
granting that it might be interesting enough, but a few of them will
be treated briefly. The first example of this individual philanthropy
came before the monthly meeting in 1699, when the will of John Lineham
was read, by which he proposed to leave “twenty pounds for the use of
the public school.”[231] This sum was not to be expended at once for
present needs but was to be kept as a “stock forever for that use.” Two
members, John Kinsey and Ralph Jackson, were ordered to pay in the said
amount that it might be turned over to Edward Shippen the treasurer.
Other legacies were left by Robert Wade[232] and Mary Richards.[233] In
regard to the former there was trouble about getting it settled, which
lasted for many years.[234] The above names are only a few of the many
who are mentioned by the minutes up to 1700 as having left donations for
the school. There were indeed many others. In that year (1702) it was
considered advisable that an account be kept of all legacies which had
been granted to the use of the public school, as also those granted for
the poor. Isaac Norris was appointed to prepare this account. Its purpose
was probably to straighten out the tangle into which some of them had
fallen (especially that of Robert Wade) and that one man might be held
responsible for the expenditure of funds. No funds were to be paid out
for the use of schools by Norris, except on the order of the overseers.
Funds for the poor might be expended at the order of the monthly
meeting.[235]
[Sidenote: Trouble over the R. Wade legacy]
The appointment of some one to see that an account of legacies be kept,
resulted in some investigation of those already granted. It appears that
that of Robert Wade, who probably died before 1686,[236] had not been
paid at all according to the stipulation of the donor, which stated that
£5 should be paid yearly for the use of the school. The first record of
a payment of the £5 was in 1699.[237] David Lloyd and John Jones were
accordingly appointed to attend to it.[238] Their success does not seem
to have been very marked as in 1704 the minute again urges them to treat
with John Wade (brother) concerning the legacy.[239] This was done, but
their efforts met with a refusal to pay the money,[240] so a committee
of three Friends was appointed with others to advise whether it should
be sued for or not. Such activity continued without any significant
variant features until 1707, when it was proposed by those “concerned,”
presumably his brother, to buy off the legacy. Having been unpaid for
several years past, it was considered best that something be gotten out
of it, so a committee of three of the overseers was appointed to treat
with the buyers and make as satisfactory terms as they could.[241]
The minutes point to the fact that it was not settled to any one’s
satisfaction. In 1712 it was still before the meeting and again in 1727
the overseers are directed to use “their care to get the legacy left by
Robert Wade secured.”[242] Among other legacies, obtained more easily,
was one devised by Jonas Langford, which was brought to the attention of
the meeting in 1711. The amount of it was £50 in Antigua money.
[Sidenote: Negro school likewise received gifts]
The Public School, established by charter, was not the only recipient
of such permanent endowments. The Negro School was a popular and proper
object of philanthropy and was benefited by bequests very early after
its establishment in 1770.[243] The first donation came in 1771 when £2,
Pennsylvania currency, were given to Israel Pemberton and Anthony Benezet
or their executors to be appropriated for the promotion of the school
for Negroes, and to be paid to such trustees as might be appointed to
the care of the said school.[244] In the year following another legacy
of £10 was left for the instruction of the Negroes, and paid to Richard
Blackham, treasurer of that institution.[245] Anthony Benezet at his
death left a considerable sum as a legacy, which, added to the amount of
salary which was still owing him for services in the said school, had
amounted by 1800 to £103 and 4s.[246] The amount of other donations to
that institution up to date amounted to £117/5/11.[247]
[Sidenote: Funds also raised by _bonds_, rarely]
In addition to the ways already mentioned there was also occasional
recourse to a _bond_ issue for raising funds, but the last was not
common, being used only in emergency cases. The first example of it,
which has come to the writer’s attention, was in 1701, when it had been
decided to build a school house and the work being begun, a lack of funds
occurred which prevented continuing. To meet this emergency it was agreed
that the committee having charge of the financial matters should “take up
100 pounds upon interest for one year, giving bond jointly for the same
and this meeting does engage to indemnify them for the payment.”[248]
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
[Sidenote: Place of first school]
[Sidenote: School in loft of the meeting house]
Various items on buildings and grounds occupy a considerable amount
of attention on the part of the monthly meeting though the minutes
are usually of general nature. The place of Keith’s school (1689) was
doubtless no more than an ordinary house procured for the use of his
family and the school at the same time.[249] This proved satisfactory
only for a short time, and to remedy Keith’s complaint (1690)[250] of
its “straightness” another more convenient room was arranged for by the
committee with John Fuller for the rent of £13 a year. The former had
cost but ten.[251] It is likely that the school continued to be held in
the same house, others similarly, for about seven years; there is, at
any rate, no mention of change of place or location for that period of
time. At the end of that time the meeting made preparation to receive the
school into the “inner chamber over the meeting house,” the expense of
fitting it up being paid out of the meeting’s stock.[252] It was in this
school in the loft of the meeting house that Daniel Pastorius and Thomas
Makin first taught the school together.[253] The meeting house served
thus as schoolhouse until early in the year 1698, when property was
purchased for the purpose, the meeting minute of the transaction being as
follows:
[Sidenote: Property purchased for the Public School]
Whereas Friends have purchased an house and lot of Lionell
Brittain for the service of the public schools, according to
that has already been agreed to by this meeting, and the said
purchase is approved, and David Lloyd is desired to draw the
writings for confirmation of the same unto Edward Shippen until
he be secured the money, and then he to reconvey it again for
the use aforesaid.[254]
[Sidenote: First record of house built for school]
In 1701 we find the first record for building a house for the sole
use of the school, presumably on the lot previously purchased by the
meeting.[255] Robert Burrough and Nathaniel Edgcomb were appointed to
get the subscription for the building and pay to Anthony Morris, who was
to agree with suitable workmen for the building.[256] The dimensions,
“20 feet wide by 60 feet long,” were, at first consideration, thought to
be satisfactory, but it was finally decided to build it 24 feet by 60
feet.[257] The work was at first to be supported by subscriptions, but
before its completion it became necessary to issue bonds for the amount
of £100.[258]
[Sidenote: Property acquired by gift]
The acquisition of property, this time by gift, continued. In 1701,
Daniel Lloyd reported that a deed for the lot in High Street, given by
Samuel Carpenter to Friends for the use of the free school, was signed
to the said Samuel, and the meeting directed him to get another drawn to
the overseers of the school.[259] It might easily appear that the new
schoolhouse, just proposed, was to be built on this lot and not that
previously purchased of Lionell Brittain. After due consideration it
seems, however, that the greater weight is in favor of its having been
built on the Lionell tract. The minutes show that as late as 2d month,
24th, 1708, the deed for the lot from Samuel Carpenter to the meeting had
not been drawn up.[260] But as was previously mentioned, Anthony Morris
had been told to engage workmen (3d, 30th, 1701)[261] and the statement
that £100 had to be raised by bond to carry on the work (2nd month, 28th,
1701)[262] would indicate that the work had actually been begun and was
perhaps well towards completion by the end of that year. It seems quite
impossible that any such building program would have been carried on so
long before the transfer of property was properly drawn up and signed.
The years 1704 and 1705 are busy with the details of getting several
pieces of property, purchased and received as gifts, confirmed by the
commissioners of property.[263] Late in 1705 it is stated:
[Sidenote: Property confirmed]
All is done, viz.: a patent for a front lot, a High Street lot
and twenty acres of liberty land and also a patent for a bank
lot.... But this meeting house, ground and schoolhouse ground,
being only in the name of Edward Shippen, in case of mortality,
Friends think there is a necessity for a speedy reconveying
thereof to more hands and for the particular use intended ...
desired that the said Edward Shippen may convey them to Samuel
Carpenter, R. Hill and Anthony Morris, being the persons in
whose name the Patents are granted unto, adding the names of
all the overseers of the Free School in the part belonging to
the said school.[264]
[Sidenote: Heating facilities]
[Sidenote: An iron stove placed in the school]
Some light is thrown upon the interior arrangement of the school. In 1712
Thomas Griffith was ordered to pay Christer Thomason 12 for “making” a
stove in the schoolhouse,[265] presumably an old fashioned brick stove,
such as a few years later was condemned by William Robbins as being
“injurious to many of the scholars.”[266] Mr. Robbins proposed that a
“chimney might be erected,” and Samuel Preston was appointed to have
it done, if not inconvenient or expensive. He reported that it would
be a greater charge than represented and would hardly answer the end
proposed nearly so satisfactorily as an iron stove, which he had thought
necessary and had accordingly had set up, to be removed however if the
meeting did not approve of his action.[267] The charge for the iron stove
was £7.[268] Such items as the foregoing were brought up in the monthly
meeting which appointed some one to attend to this or that detail; as the
schools grew these were left more in the hands of the school committee or
overseers, who reported occasionally thereon.
[Sidenote: Overseers assume greater responsibility]
This tendency on the part of the meeting to turn over the details of
management to the overseers came to a head about 1725,[269] when it was
agreed by the meeting that all titles to the schoolhouses and other
property be conveyed the overseers of the public schools and a minute
be drawn up relating to such decision.[270] In the month following, the
minutes of the committee’s report were made referring to the transfer:
[Sidenote: Titles to property to be transferred to the overseers]
Anthony Morris, Ebenezer Sorge, Samuel Powell and Jones being
appointed by the Monthly Meeting of Philadelphia the 2-30-1725,
to meet with the overseers of the public school, do acquaint
them that the said meeting being concerned for the promotion of
the public school have unanimously agreed that the title of the
school house and ground with the lots, tenements ... now in the
tenure of Evan Owen and Thomas Cannon with all the other titles
of real estate and annuities appertaining to the public school,
be vested in the overseers thereof and desire for the future
distinct accounts may be kept of all legacies and donations
made to the said schools in order that the same may be duly
applied pursuant to the intentions of the donors respectively.
Then follows a minute of the overseers stating their appreciation of the
meeting’s coöperation in the work of the school.
[Sidenote: An account of funds to be made]
The Monthly Meeting of Philadelphia expressing the same kind
inclination to encourage that at first led them to erect the
public school and to procure the same to be established by
the proprietor’s charter, as it is now under the care of the
present overseers, having thought it necessary that an exact
account should be taken of all the benefactions intended by the
several donors for the use of the said school, the moneys or
effects whereof might have come under the direction of the said
meeting. In order thereunto appointed some friends to adjust
the said accounts with the overseers, which being carefully
done, it appears the meeting has received of such benefactions
as aforesaid for the use of the school the sum of £226 ... and
that they expended in the building the school house which was
begun, carried on and finished under their care and direction
the sum of £264 and 3d, whereby the meeting is in disburse
for the public schoolhouse, above what they received in the
sum of £37/15/3, which last sum or balance they were pleased
freely to ... grant and release to the said school, together
with the lot belonging to it and all those (equipages) and
tenements now in the occupation of Evan Owen and Thomas Cannon
with their appurtenances and all the rents, profits and issues
thereof, and have accordingly ordered the persons who are by
legal deeds or instruments vested with the right to the said
tenements in trust for the meeting to (grant) and absolutely
convey the said schoolhouse and ... with the lots and grounds
on which they stand and appurtenances to the overseers of the
school, to be held by them and their successors for the use of
the public school founded by charter in the town and county of
Philadelphia in Pennsylvania, forever.[271]
[Sidenote: Papers to be executed conveying the properties]
This transfer was at once acknowledged by the overseers in a minute of
the same date, and Thomas Griffiths and John Goodson were desired to
execute the proper papers conveying the properties to the said overseers
of the public schools, which was accordingly done before the next meeting
(4th month, 1725).[272]
[Sidenote: New building proposed]
By this time (1733) the old building erected in 1701 was badly in need of
repairs, but on a closer examination it was decided more economical to
pull down the old and build a new one, more convenient, on the north side
of the school lot.[273]
[Sidenote: and begun]
[Sidenote: New meeting house built large to contain school rooms]
The work was begun immediately, though a lack of funds hindered its
completion for some time.[274] The demand for an increase of building
space seems to have been regular and urgent, indicating a healthy
growth of the system. In 1740, when the consideration for a new meeting
house came up, it was decided to build it large, “with chambers over
it commodious for school rooms.”[275] In 1744 the overseers, finding
the old school building inconvenient in divers respects, requested the
monthly meeting to name a committee to confer with them on a plan,
location and dimensions of a new building. Michael Lightfoot and twelve
others were named.[276] The committee decided to locate the building on
the south side of the lot devised by William Forest, the dimensions to be
about 60 feet by 35 feet in the clear and two stories high, also a cellar
under it, rising three feet above the surface of the ground. This quite
pretentious building was not to be finished entirely at this time. The
plan was to enclose all of it and finish the interior as the size of the
school demanded.[277]
[Sidenote: New school building requested on the Fox lot]
[Sidenote: Tenement buildings erected on lots as an investment for the
school]
For twelve years apparently no further building projects were launched.
Then the overseers appealed to the meeting for permission to erect a
school on the middle of the lot left to them by George Fox. This was
agreed to by that assembly and a committee named to remove the present
incumbent of the lot who had not paid the rent for some years past.[278]
Their next building was begun, not for the purpose of a place of
instruction, but as investment: It was proposed to the monthly assembly
in 1760 that several houses be erected on the schoolhouse lot fronting
Chestnut Street, expenses defrayed out of the treasury of the overseers,
for the purpose of increasing the yearly income of the property.[279] The
suggestion was well received and the liberty granted to erect one or more
such houses.[280] In 1767 the accommodations for the Girls’ School, being
unsatisfactory, the overseers of the school requested permission to have
the chamber of the meeting house fitted up as a place for them, which was
taken under consideration by a committee of the meeting appointed for
that purpose.[281]
[Sidenote: Building for negro school requested about 1771]
The Negro School, established 1770, was first housed in a building
rented for that use,[282] in which it continued for nearly a year. The
plans for a permanent school made a building for that purpose desirable,
and in 1771 the committee on education of the Negroes requested that a
house be built on the lot where the alms-houses were situated, which was
granted.[283] This house was occupied by the school until charge of it
was assumed by Anthony Benezet (1782), who held the school in his own
house.[284]
[Sidenote: Restatement of points considered]
In the foregoing pages we have mentioned some of the facts of the
establishment and development of the school in Philadelphia, with
reference to (1) founding, (2) support, (3) masters, (4) properties,
buildings and grounds. It is deemed advisable to omit from this chapter
any presentation of curriculum, excepting as that has been mentioned at a
few places, reserving such presentation to a chapter comprising all the
schools established in Pennsylvania. As a fitting close to the previous
discussion of the century’s development, we present, almost entire, one
of the reports returned by the committee of the meeting, which in a fair
way will tell the reader more about the growth up to, and the status of
the system in 1784, than will any discussion. Portions of the report are
discussed in other chapters.
[Sidenote: The report to the monthly meeting (1784) indicates status of
schools on that date]
The schools under their direction and care within the limits of
this meeting, are:
(1) One under the tuition of Robert Proud, by whom about 30
boys are instructed in the Latin and Greek languages and some
branches of the mathematics; his salary is fixed at £250 per
annum, having an usher who is allowed £80 per annum, at the
expense of the estate under the care of the overseers. The
present £6 per annum for each scholar for which he accounts
to the said overseers and has for one year past received one
Guinea entrance to his own use and charges 5/ for fuel. We
had some conversation with him on the case necessary to guard
against the use of such books, whose contents have a tendency
to prepossess the youthful minds with sentiments unfavorable to
the Christian faith and the true spirit of the gospel; which
appears had his attention, having observed a care therein
agreeable to what the occasion requires. In this school are
read Barclay’s _Apology_ in Latin and the Testament in Latin
and Greek. The overseers have enjoined the attendance of the
scholars who are chiefly members of our own religious society,
at our meeting on the fifth day of the week, but it had not
been sufficiently observed.
(2) One under the care of John Todd, in which are taught
reading, writing, the English Grammar, Arithmetic and some
other branches of the mathematics. It consists of 88 boys on
this list, for 83 of whom he has 20/ per quarter, 2/6 for pen
and ink, 5/ for fuel; on the entrance of each 15/ except where
the parents or guardians are not of ability to afford it, the
other 5 being put to him by the school corporation, he teaches
for 10/ per quarter. He remarked there are each day about 70
together. The master appears careful to observe good order in
his school and frequently attends our meeting on the 5th day
with his scholars. He also kept a night school in the winter
season consisting of 82 scholars.
(3) One by Isaac Weaver consisting of about 28 boys, being
limited to 10/ per quarter, 2/6 for pen and ink and 5/ a
year for fuel, he takes no entrance fee and teaches reading,
writing, and arithmetic, and is careful to keep good order in
the school, also frequently brings his scholars to the meeting
fifth day.
(4) William Brown teaches girls reading, writing and
arithmetic, language, 8 whole days at 30/ per quarter 14 in
mornings 15/ per quarter 13 in afternoon 15/ per quarter
and for some time has been in the practice of taking 7/6
entrance fee, except for those placed with him by the school
corporation—he represents some difficulty in enforcing the
rules and regulations provided for the schools on account of
the greater number of his scholars children of persons not
professing with us.
(5) Sarah Lancaster has a school for young children of both
sexes consisting of about 64 scholars of whom:
35 attend whole days at 15/ per Q.
18 attend, sent by school corporation, 10/ per Q.
11 attend half days, also sent by them, 7/6 per Q.
Also pay for fuel. She teaches both sexes to spell and read and
the girls to sew and appears to have an orderly school.
In all the foregoing schools, which are under the direction of
the school corporation, 41 poor children are taught at their
expense. We also visited the following schools, the masters and
mistresses of which are either members or make profession with
our religious society, but are not immediately under the care
of the board. (I give here only a digest of their report).
(1) Mary Harry.
School in Charters Alley; 15-16 children at 15/ per Q.
Income is about 40 pounds per year.
Not a Friend but attends our meetings.
(2) Joseph Clarke.
School in Fifth St.; about 30 girls.
Curriculum—reading, writing and arithmetic.
For 25 he receives 30/ per Q. and others gratis.
(3) Mrs. Clarke (wife) and Joseph Clarke.
Same house; 15-16 boys reading; and the girls, sewing at 15/
per Q. each; they try to attend our fifth day meetings.
(4) Anna Marsh.
50 (approximately) girls and boys.
Taught reading, and the girls, needlework; 20/ per Q.
Each has a right of membership with Friends.
(5) Mary McDonnell.
15 young children at 15/ per Q.
In the most of the schools there are nearly one-half if not
more of the children of the people of the societies and we wish
Friends children may not be too frequently excluded for want
of room, evident inconvenience being very observable in the
present mixed state of schools, it is much to be desired that a
more select mode of education could be effectually promoted; in
the meantime it would be well that master be not too lax in the
observance of the rules.[285]
[Sidenote: Boarding school encouraged by Owen Biddle]
[Sidenote: Approved by quarterly and yearly meetings]
[Sidenote: Rules drawn up therefor]
The other item of very great interest, though not in reality immediately
connected with the schools in Philadelphia, concerns the establishment of
a boarding school, which was to be founded and planned after one of the
oldest and largest schools of the society, the great Ackworth School in
England.[286] The project was greatly encouraged by Owen Biddle, who (6th
month, 10th, 1790) published a pamphlet of 52 pages in which the plea for
such a school was elaborated.[287] A committee was appointed to confer
with him, and reported they wished to present their wishes also to the
other monthly meetings of the city,[288] and they concurring, to present
the wishes of the monthly meetings to the quarterly and so on to the
yearly meeting.[289] The report, when presented to the other two monthly
meetings, met with favor,[290] and it was accordingly agreed (1792) to
bring the matter before the quarterly meeting.[291] The approval of
the quarterly and yearly meetings[292] in the time immediately ensuing
resulted in the plans being set on foot for a subscription of £5000 and
which was made open to all members of the yearly meeting in whatsoever
quarter; the amount of these, in 1797, was £247/10.[293] The school
established at Westtown on the tract of land purchased by the yearly
meeting, was opened in 1800,[294] with Richard Hartshorne as the first
superintendent.[295] Rules and regulations for its conduct had been drawn
up by a committee appointed by the yearly meeting in 1794.[296]
OTHER SCHOOLS IN PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
[Sidenote: First school probably as early as 1710 or 1711]
The date of the first school in Byberry has not been definitely
determined, though it can surely be placed at a very early period in its
history, as early as 1710 or 1711. Richard Brockden, who later taught
school in Philadelphia,[297] was a teacher in the school at Byberry,
for a minute of Abington monthly meeting states in the 4th month of the
later year that “At this meeting Richard Brockden, late schoolmaster at
Byberry, had a certificate granted him in order to go to England.”[298]
[Sidenote: Greater activity near middle of century]
This would indicate that the said Richard had been teaching at Byberry,
and it is quite probable that he had, but it is not conclusive evidence
that he did so. About the middle of the eighteenth century the Byberry
Meeting became very active in schooling the children of poor Friends.
This movement, it seems from all records found, was due in large measure
to an apportionment received from a legacy left by William Carter to the
charge of Abington Meeting, for the schooling of the children of Friends
in poverty.[299] In 1755, it was:
... agreed that Horsham, Germantown, Byberry meetings shall
have 40 shillings each for the ensuing year, and Oxford twenty
shillings, Abington three pounds for the same time, (of the
annuity left by William Carter) in order that the same may be
employed in paying for the schooling of such children as the
said meetings may think proper objects thereof if they find
any, and the Friends of the said meeting are desired to see
that the same be well applied and that the children who partake
of the benefit thereof do go regularly to school.[300]
[Sidenote: Donations under care of trustees, used for schooling poor]
The money thus devised to the meeting was in the care of the committee
appointed by the same, whose duty it was to receive requests and to
investigate all cases where help was requested or found to be necessary.
The accounts of the said committee were audited at a period when
necessary by Friends appointed especially for that purpose.[301] This
form of philanthropy became very popular here, as in other meetings,
almost every meeting bearing forward a new record of it. In 1758 James
Thorntown and Giles Knight reported that they had received of James
Paul (treasurer of Abington Monthly Meeting) the sum of £6, part of the
donation left for the poor children’s schooling, and had applied £2/5
of the same to that use, leaving a remainder of £3/15 in the hands of
Knight.[302] In 1770 the records run in this manner:
It appears that Phillip Wells stands in need of some of the
moneys that were given to the use of schooling poor Friends
children; Thomas Townsend is therefore ordered to pay forty
shillings of the money in his hands.[303]
Though very few references are made throughout the early period of
the schools, it is quite certain from the nature of these reports on
education of the poor that the schools were continued regularly. When
the yearly meeting began to demand reports on the condition of the
schools, there was no stir about the matter whatever, the first report
being that those who have our school under care “report that it is in
good order.”[304] The requests coming into the preparative meeting
for information on schools, were referred to the standing school
committee.[305]
[Sidenote: Case of schools under standing committee]
The standing committee performed all duties in connection with the
school, with the exception of certain cases of difficulty, where it was
necessary to call on the meeting for assistance, at which time that
body coöperated with them through specially appointed committees.[306]
The Byberry Preparative Meeting was, of course, not independent in this
matter of school organization; their place was very much in accord with
that suggested by a committee report to the various preparative meetings
in 1790:
[Sidenote: General plan for encouragement of better schools]
We of the committee appointed to attend the preparative
meetings with the extracts in order to spread the concern of
our last yearly meeting, have attended to the appointment
and taken into due consideration that part of them relating
to schools, and being desirous to adopt it in so far as our
present circumstances will admit, and in order to encourage
any charitably disposed persons who may incline in their last
will and testament or otherwise to give or bequeath something
towards so laudable a purpose as to raise a certain fixed union
for the support of schools, it is our desire that it may be
safely counted to the care of the preparative meetings, he or
she appointing, if they see fit, their own trustees and that
Friends earnestly endeavor to provide for the schoolmasters a
house lot, ground, etc., either purchasing or renting, whenever
it may be necessary, and that our minds being deeply impressed
with a sense that a guarded religious education of the rising
youth is a matter of great importance it is our sense of
judgment that Friends within the compass of this meeting should
be pressingly urged to consider the necessity of employing
conscientious and pious persons as schoolmasters, being members
of a religious society and that the preparative meeting
continue to appoint committees from time to time as occasion
may require to have the care and oversight of such schools
and that they visit the respective schools at least once in
six weeks to see that good order be observed, and for the
encouragement of the children in their learning, and render an
account thereof to the preparative meeting once in six months.
Signed the 28th of the 4th month, 1790.
By SAMUEL GUMMERE, SILAS WALMSLEY, THOS. WALMSLEY,
JOHN TOWNSEND and NAYLOR WEBSTER.[307]
In the month following the reception of these suggestions from the
monthly meeting’s committee, the Byberry school trustees made the
following report on the conditions of the schools, and the nature of
their own activities.
[Sidenote: Byberry report on schools]
We, the trustees appointed by the meeting to have the care of
the schools under the direction of the meeting, do inform,
agreeable to our trust, we have several times met within the
year past at the school in order to encourage the children in
their learning, also to see that good order be kept by the
master and children and we believe this a good measure complied
with, and we further inform, that we have endeavored to comply
with the intentions of the donor, by distributing the donations
of William Carter, by schooling such children as we apprehended
proper objects and have engaged as many as to take most of the
money now in hand. (Clerk asked to give the committee a copy
of the monthly meetings extracts that they comply with the
regulations concerning schools.)[308]
[Sidenote: Summary of a later report]
The gist of their report six months thereafter is as follows:[309]
1. The trustees have met several times at the school in the last six
months.
2. Afternoons are usually spent hearing the scholars read and in
examining their learning.
3. The masters keep strictly the rules, which the trustees have laid down.
4. We believe the school is kept in good order.
[Sidenote: School house to be enlarged]
In 1792 it was considered necessary to enlarge the schoolhouse to make
adequate facilities for the increasing number of children. The committee
appointed on the subject decided there should be an addition of ten feet
for the length; their suggestion was approved and a subscription begun
to carry forward the work as speedily as could be done.[310] Thomas
Walmsley was appointed to have oversight of the work.[311] The status of
the school at the end of the century is stated in the report to Horsham
Monthly Meeting, as follows:
[Sidenote: School’s status at end of century]
We have one school under the care of the meeting, to which
our members send their children, except some Friends who live
remote. It is supported by subscription; the tutor is a Friend
and we believe endeavors to discharge the important trust
committed to him. The children of such as are in straightened
circumstances are schooled by donations left for that purpose—A
committee appointed by the meeting frequently visits the said
school and reports the state thereof.[312]
GERMANTOWN
[Sidenote: Pastorius in Philadelphia]
It has already been mentioned that Francis Daniel Pastorius taught
in the Friends School at Philadelphia during the period from 1697 to
1700.[313] While in the school at Philadelphia it appears that he left
his residence at Germantown vacant and took up his abode in the city.
The following letter, written by his children, to their grandfather in
Windsheim, indicates their longing for their “own home” at Germantown and
the tedium of their school days in the Philadelphia school.
Wir Wünschen gar offt bey dir zu seyn / ach dass du hier wärest
und in unserm Hause zu Germanton Wohntest / welches einen
schönen Obsgarten hat / und der Zeit leer stehet / indeme wir
zu Philadelphia wohnen / und täglich 8 Stunden lang in die
Schul gehen müssen / ausgenommen den letzen Tag in der Wochen /
da wir Nachmittag daheim bleiben dörffen.[314]
[Sidenote: Early school at Germantown]
The school at Germantown was opened on January 11, 1702, though Dr.
Seidensticker thinks that this must have been preceded for some time by
an evening school.[315]
[Sidenote: Contributors]
The first overseers chosen were Aret Klincken, Peter Schumacher, and
Paul Wulff.[316] Those who contributed voluntarily to the school were:
Anton Loof, Peter Schumacher, Paul Wulff, Jacob Delaplaine, Jonas Potts,
Isaak Schumacher, Walter Simons, Levin Herberdink, Johann Bleikers,
Dirck Jansen ... Johannas Umstett, Heifert Papen, Jan Lensen, Peter Bon,
Hermann Bon, Dirck Keyser, Claus Tamson, Gerhard Ruttinghusen (and two
others whose names can not be deciphered).[317]
[Sidenote: Patrons of the school]
The patrons of the school for the first year were: Aret Klincken, Reinert
Tysen, Tünes Künders, Wilhelm Strepers, Paul Kästner, Reinier Hermans,
Abraham op de Graeff, Christian Warmer, Arnold van Vossen, Johann Cunrad
Codweiss, Cornelis Sivert, Aret Küster, Jan Doeden and Lanert Arets.[318]
[Sidenote: Tuition]
[Sidenote: Evening school]
The school admitted both boys and girls for instruction. The amounts
paid by voluntary contributors varied from 2/ to 15/ per year, while the
tuition charged was from 4d. to 6d. per week.[319] The evening school
was intended for those who were forced to work during the day time, or
for others who, because of their age, could not enter the regular day
school.[320] Among the patrons from 1706-1708 there are to be found a
great number of English names,[321] which may no doubt indicate that the
school under the German master was recognized by English inhabitants to
be of very high standard. His experience in Philadelphia would speak for
that.
[Sidenote: The school probably taught in English]
Some question has been raised as to whether Pastorius taught the school
in the English or the German tongue. Though in his manuscript it is found
that he did use somewhat broken English,[322] we know that he taught
the English school at Philadelphia, where most of the children were
English.[323] The majority of his pupils at Germantown were, of course,
German,[324] and doubtless German was spoken between them, and the
teacher at times. The fact, however, that the titles of Pastorius’ school
books were written in English, is pointed out by Seidensticker as an
indication that the language of the province was given preference in the
school.[325] It is also to be noted that the General Court had in 1696
ordered that the minutes of the Ratsbuch be transcribed into English,
lending further evidence to the idea that the importance of the official
language was recognized.[326] The length of continuation of the Friends’
school at Germantown is not known, though it seems likely that Pastorius
may have continued in its service till the time of his death, or at least
until 1718.[327]
SCHOOLS AT EXETER MONTHLY MEETING
[Sidenote: Youths meetings established 1758]
Exeter Monthly Meeting, established 1737, being set off from Gwynedd
Monthly,[328] did not have any schools under their jurisdiction at a
very early date. The first indication that the subject of education
was being seriously considered was about 1758 when youths’ meetings
were established, two each year, one at Exeter and the other at Maiden
Creek.[329] These youths’ meetings, sanctioned by the quarterly
meeting,[330] and another at Robeson several years later,[331] were the
first steps taken for education of youth, and controlled by the meeting.
It is true, there was a school (day school) even at this time situated
near Samuel Lea’s, as we learn from a chance reference,[332] but though
it was attended by Friends children in part, it was neither controlled
by them, nor under the monthly meeting. This condition lasted until the
recommendations of the yearly meeting of 1777 and 1778 caused the monthly
meeting to look into the educational situation.
[Sidenote: Committee appointed on schools]
[Sidenote: A new committee to visit the preparatives]
In accord with the recommendations concerning “the proper education of
youth” published in these years, and sent out, the meeting at Exeter
appointed Samuel Hughes, Abel Thomas, Benjamin Pearson, Mordecai
Lee, James Thomas and John Scarlet to take the question under their
consideration.[333] For two years and a half the substance of the reports
of the above named committee and its successors, was to the effect that
not much had been accomplished.[334] In 1781 the committee reported they
had visited the preparative meetings (two of them), and recommended to
them the careful consideration of the youths’ education, under good moral
tutors.[335] A year later, the committee was released, having, according
to reports, accomplished nothing.[336] Those delegates who attended the
quarterly meeting in 1783, brought back new advices, and were directed
to furnish each preparative meeting with a copy and request a report on
school conditions among them; at the following monthly assembly more of
the preparatives were ready to report.[337] Despairing of any report,
unless of their own making, the monthly meeting appointed a committee of
nine men to visit all the preparatives and report what they thought of
their schools.[338] They produced the following statement.
[Sidenote: Report of the committee]
[Sidenote: No school of Exeter Preparative]
[Sidenote: A school at Maiden Creek]
[Sidenote: School at Reading]
[Sidenote: School at Robeson]
Most of the committee appointed two months ago to take into
consideration and report the state of schools have given
attention to the service; and divers of us have attended each
of the preparative meetings belonging to this meeting and
after a time of conference thereon, ’tis agreed to report,
there is no school within the village of Exeter Preparative
Meeting under the care of Friends; But we are of the mind that
it is necessary that one be established there; and although
work has been begun, yet we have but little expectation of its
accomplishment in a short time;
That there is a ... school at Maiden Creek kept by Thomas
Pearson, a Friend, who is at present engaged for a year,
has 15 scholars entered for that time and 8 quarterly ditto
scholars at the rate of 40/ per annum for each, which is under
the direction of three overseers chosen by the employers. The
school house built on a piece of ground belonging to a Friend
which contains about five acres. There is likewise a school at
Reading kept by Benjamin Parks and wife in their own house;
they are members of the society and have about 50 scholars;
such as spell at 7/6 and others at 10/ per quarter but is not
under the direction of the meeting, nor are there any overseers
chosen to superintend the same, yet we are of the mind a school
established there under proper regulations and care of the
monthly meeting, might be useful and deserves encouragement.
The schools within the verge of Robeson Monthly Meeting are
kept by a person who inclines to go to our meetings, has about
20 scholars, amounting to about £34 per annum. Endeavors are
also used to get a school established there upon a better plan
and near the direction of the yearly meeting, but how far
they may be successful is at present unknown. We do therefore
recommend the whole to the notion of alleviation of the Monthly
Meeting as a matter wherein friends are deeply interested.
Which we submit to the Meeting.
Amos Lee, Thomas Lightfoot, Samuel Hughes, Fannie Ambree,
Owen Hughes, (which was approved by the Monthly Meeting, and
decided that the substance be made a report to the Quarterly
Meeting—The Committee to be continued to the service of Schools
and report in the future).[339]
[Sidenote: Maiden Creek secures land for school]
[Sidenote: Attempt to establish school at Reading]
Maiden Creek was at this time (1784) making earnest efforts to meet
the standards set by the general meeting. In the eleventh month they
requested a number of persons to be named to whom they might give a deed
of trust for the ground agreed upon for the use of their school.[340]
Three were suggested and the deed and declaration of trust accordingly
drawn up. Efforts in the meantime had been made towards establishing a
school at Reading and a committee to conduct a subscription for that
purpose named.[341] Help was solicited from the yearly meeting, but
James Pemberton answered for that body that there was no money to be
spared at the time, so Reading was advised to build such a house as their
circumstances would permit.[342] Near the close of 1787 those having
direct charge thereof made the following report of their progress:
[Sidenote: Committee report on Reading school]
We the committee appointed to have the school education of
youth under care, have given close attention to a school
proposed to be opened in a short time at Reading by Caleb
Johnson, in a house now in building by Friends there, and
nearly finished, which we are of the mind should be under
particular care and direction of the monthly meeting; and
that it may be well that a committee be thereby appointed
to superintend and monthly to visit said school; we have
also drawn up and agreed on certain rules to be observed and
attended to by the employers, master and scholars concerned
therein for the regulation and well ordering thereof: which we
have ready for the examination and inspection of the monthly
meeting if thought necessary. All which we submit thereto.
Signed on behalf of the committee, Francis Parvin.... Which
minute being read was allowed of and it was directed that a
copy thereof be kept in open view in said school and that the
original be lodged among the meeting papers; Benjamin Pearson,
Samuel Jackson, John Mears, Francis Parvin, Johannes Lee,
Jr., and James Iddings are appointed to have the said school
under care and visit it once a month or oftener as necessity
may require and report of their care. The former committee is
continued.[343]
[Sidenote: School discontinued]
After the school had been in progress two years, Samuel Jackson reported
that it “appeared to be in an increasing way”[344] but its prosperity was
not to be long continued. In 1705 it was reported “discontinued,”[345]
and no reason assigned for it excepting “the situation of the Friends
there” which, taking into consideration the shortage of funds when it
was begun, we may infer, had reference to the financial situation. The
action of the monthly meeting in regard to it was left entirely to their
own judgment.[346]
SUMMARY
[Sidenote: Scope of chapter]
In this chapter we have considered the schools of Philadelphia (city and
county), and also those at Exeter Monthly Meeting, which belonged to the
Philadelphia Quarter.
[Sidenote: Education to be function of government]
[Sidenote: First school]
[Sidenote: School established by monthly meeting]
[Sidenote: Overseers made independent]
Education in the Quaker colony was initially provided for in the
instrument of government, drawn up before the Proprietary left England;
in accord with said provisions the first school (Flower’s) was set up
by the Council in 1683. Thereafter, however, the initiative was usually
taken by the Quaker meeting, which in 1689 set up a school and in 1697
applied for a charter under the laws of the province. This petition was
granted and Penn gave the first charter in 1701. Later charters, in
1708 and 1711, granted extended privileges; by the last one the body of
overseers were made self-perpetuating, and thus as independent of the
meeting as they wished to be. The letter said to have been written to
Thomas Lloyd, which credits Penn with suggesting the school of 1689, has
not yet been discovered.
[Sidenote: Earliest masters and mistresses]
[Sidenote: Growth of system]
The earliest masters were Keith, Makin, Pastorius, and Cadwalader.
Mistresses were mentioned in connection with the schools from about 1699,
Olive Songhurst being the first one named. Salaries were not high and
seem in some cases to have hardly sufficed for the family of the master;
increases were made upon complaint. Extra duties for the teacher included
keeping charge of the boys and girls in meeting. From 1689 to 1779 the
system increased from employing one to one which required nine. In 1784
ten were reported.
[Sidenote: Means of support]
Philadelphia Friends’ schools were first supported by (1) _rates_ and (2)
_subscriptions_, while (3) _legacies_ and _special gifts_ soon came to
form a considerable item in their support. Bequests were also a factor in
the support of the Negro School. Funds were occasionally raised by bond
issues, and derived from tenements built on school property.
[Sidenote: Place of first schools]
[Sidenote: Property by purchase and gift]
[Sidenote: Overseers more independent]
Schools were first held in rented property and in the meeting house, but
in 1698 steps were taken to purchase property of Lionell Brittain for the
use of schools. Property was received as a gift from Samuel Carpenter
in 1701. The first record of a schoolhouse was the one to be begun in
1701. In accord with their charter rights the power and independence of
the overseers increased. In 1725 the monthly meeting conveyed to them
all money and the titles for all school property. The Negro School was
provided with a building in 1771. The end of the century is marked by the
establishment by the yearly meeting of a Boarding School at Westtown in
Chester County.
[Sidenote: Byberry]
The exact date of Byberry’s first school is not determined; but must have
been early, since Richard Brockden is reported to have been schoolmaster
there in 1711. School activity, however, seems to have increased greatly
near the middle of the century. The school was under the care of a
standing committee, which was to visit schools every six weeks and
make two reports thereon each year. Poor children were schooled by the
trustees of the school funds.
[Sidenote: Germantown]
Germantown school began in 1702, though perhaps an evening school existed
before that date. Pastorius continued in this school as master, at
least until 1718. The official language used in the school was probably
English. The names of the first patrons were all German; a large number
of English names among them in 1708 is an indication of how the school
and its master were regarded.
[Sidenote: Exeter Monthly]
[Sidenote: Maidencreek Reading Robeson]
In 1758 youths’ meetings were established by Exeter, but no school
committee was appointed until 1778. This committee accomplished nothing
and made no report of value. By a report of 1784, Maidencreek, Reading,
and Robeson were credited with one school each, which measured up in some
ways to the desired standards. Exeter had none. The Reading School was
discontinued in 1795.
The total number of schools reported at Philadelphia, Germantown,
Byberry, and Exeter monthly meeting, was fifteen.