Episcopal High School founded in Alexandria, Virginia

Founding and Early Status. Episcopal High School was founded in 1839 in Alexandria, Virginia, by the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia. It holds the distinction of being the first high school established in the state. The school operates as a boarding institution located approximately seven miles from Washington, D.C., maintaining its historical roots in the Alexandria locality.

Initial Expansion. Following its establishment, the school experienced rapid growth in its student population. By 1840, the student body had tripled in size, accommodating more than 100 boys. This expansion occurred during the school's first decade, prior to its formal incorporation in 1854 and the later separation of governance from the diocese in 1923.

Later Institutional Context. While the school's founding occurred in 1839, its institutional structure evolved significantly in later decades. The organizations were permitted to be incorporated in 1854, and governance was separated from the diocese in 1923. The school also adopted an Honor Code by 1857, though these developments fall outside the primary scope of the founding era.