Founding of the University of Michigan

Background. The history of the University of Michigan begins with colonial Christian schools near Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit. In 1817, following agitation by Gabriel Richard, the territorial government established the Catholepistemiad, or University of Michigania. This entity is recognized as the oldest institution of higher education in Michigan, serving as the direct legal antecedent of the current university.

Legislative Act. The Territorial government enacted an act to establish the Catholepistemiad, or University of Michigania, in 1817. The act consolidated existing schools into one institution. It defined thirteen fields of knowledge, including Literature, Mathematics, and Natural History, and granted authority over education in the territory, including the power to establish various literary and scientific institutions.

Early Operations. Shortly after its founding, the institution received a $250 subscription from the Freemason Zion Lodge of Detroit. The cornerstone for the first university building on Bates Street was laid on September 24, 1817. The city library of Detroit, incorporated on August 26, 1817, was initially located in the university building, with university teachers serving as librarians.