The Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, PA had very distinguished beginnings with a primary donation from Benjamin Franklin back in 1787 to open the college, which was housed in an old brewery.
The Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, PA had very distinguished beginnings with a primary donation from Benjamin Franklin back in 1787 to open the college, which was housed in an old brewery.
The hope was that the college would draw noted intellectuals and scholars and become a force to be reckoned within the German Pennsylvania population and beyond. Miles away and a few later, another college named after Chief Justice John Marshall who had just died were established.
Both colleges experience growing pains and financial difficulties and decided to merge as one in 1853 with James Buchanan taking a seat on the Board of Trustees just a few years before he became President of the United States. Franklin & Marshall College has led a colorful and historical life and is flourishing today.
You can visit the college, whether you are a prospective student or just curious about its historic origins. It is close to the airport in Harrisburg, about 40 minutes away as well as a short distance by car, train or bus to a number of other major areas. As Lancaster is in Amish country, you will have plenty of shopping choices with local Amish wares and there are plenty of restaurants and attractions to keep you busy.
There is a museum on the Franklin & College grounds you can likely peruse through as well as a performing arts center which hosts a variety of events, both for the college and the general public. The Phillips Museum of Art is housed next to the Steinman College Center and is an interesting place to see as well. With successful sports teams and a variety of guest lecturers and visitors like Pulitzer Prize winners and well known authors, this college offers quite a bit of things to do for visitors.
