Columbia University began as an all-boys school in 1754 in New York City’s lower Manhattan area. It was originally called King’s College and was created via a royal charter granted by Great Britain’s King George II. The first class was held in a schoolhouse that was part of Trinity Church.
Many of the students of King’s College went on to illustrious careers. These include Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and Robert R. Livingston.
During the American Revolution, classes were suspended from 1776 to 1783. In 1784, King’s College changed its name to Columbia College. In 1857, the college moved from Park Place to Madison Avenue. It was moved once again in 1896 to its current location in Morningside Heights. It was also renamed again to Columbia University. The university started admitting women in 1983.
Historical Marker Inscription
In 1752 Trinity Church gave a grant of land for a new college.
On July 17, 1754, the first class of King’s College, which was to become Columbia University, met in the schoolhouse of Trinity Church located across this street.
The charter for the college was granted on October 31, 1754, during the reign of King George II.
Location
40° 42’ 28.458” N, 74° 0’ 44.930” W
75 Broadway, New York, NY 10006, United States
Historical Markers of the World 