College History Series: Georgetown University

co-author Paul R. O'Neill

College History Series: Georgetown University

Georgetown University, the oldest Catholic university in America, rests in Washington, D.C. and predates the district's creation by several years. Founded in 1789 and chartered by Congress in 1815, Georgetown experienced many of the same trials faced by the United States, and like the country, triumphed to enjoy extended prestige and prosperity.

Georgetown University is a photographic journey through the school's past, celebrating the heritage of one of today?s premier education facilities. More than 200 vintage images illustrate the beloved campus, early classes, annual events, and prolific leaders. The story begins with the school?s founder Archbishop John Carroll, who experienced religious persecution in Europe. Twice during the 1800s, the schools enrollment dropped so low that consideration was given to relocating the school or closing it completely. The Civil War turned students into soldiers and classrooms into hospitals; school colors of blue and grey remind us even today of North and South reunited after the war. Rev. Patrick Healy, known as the school's second founder, obtained university status for Georgetown and transformed the physical campus by constructing the massive Romanesque building that now bears his name. The 20th century brought about further development to the campus curriculum, and cultural programs, while facility, staff, and supporters from all backgrounds and races joined the Georgetown experience.