Institute for Colored Youth founded in Philadelphia

Background. Richard Humphreys, a Quaker philanthropist born in the West Indies, established the African Institute in Philadelphia in February 1837. He bequeathed $10,000, one-tenth of his estate, to create a school for people of African descent. Concerned about the struggles of free African Americans, Humphreys sought to prepare them as teachers. The institution was renamed the Institute for Colored Youth in April 1837.

Mission and Curriculum. The Institute provided a classical education to young African Americans in Philadelphia. The curriculum included advanced mathematics, sciences, English, philosophy, social sciences, and classical languages. Although operated by the Quaker Board of Managers, the faculty consisted entirely of African-American men and women. The school aimed to address the lack of educational opportunities for Black people in a society where public policy often prohibited their education.

Historical Significance. The Institute for Colored Youth became the first college for African Americans in the United States, although earlier schools admitted Black students. It is recognized as the oldest historically black college and university (HBCU). The institution was followed by Lincoln University in Pennsylvania (1854) and Wilberforce University in Ohio (1856). Its founding marked a significant development in higher education for Black Americans.