A Legacy of Pioneering Education and Community Service
Marietta College, with its deep historical roots and tradition of academic excellence, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and community service.
The Foundations of Marietta College
Marietta College traces its origins back to the community's Muskingum Academy, established in 1797. Officially chartered in 1835, with Rev. Joel H. Linsley as its first president, the College quickly became a beacon of higher learning and social justice. In the antebellum period, Marietta College students actively supported abolitionism, transforming the campus into a station on the Underground Railroad, aiding fugitive slaves in their quest for freedom.
A Tradition of Excellence
The College's commitment to academic rigor was recognized early on when it became the sixteenth college to receive a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, the world's oldest academic honor society, in 1860. This accolade set the standard for the institution's ongoing pursuit of intellectual and scholarly excellence.
Serving Beyond Borders
Marietta College's legacy is also marked by its students' dedication to service. During the Great War, even before the United States entered the conflict, a group of students formed the Marietta College Volunteer Ambulance Corps, serving with distinction in France. Their service is commemorated by a French monument gifted to the city of Marietta, a symbol of the College's enduring commitment to global engagement and service.
A Diverse and Inclusive Community
In the modern era, Marietta College boasts a diverse student body, drawing scholars primarily from Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, and significantly from New England states and Asia. This diversity enriches the College's community, fostering a global perspective among its students.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, Marietta College remains a hub of learning and community service, staying true to its pioneering roots while evolving to meet contemporary educational needs. From its historic involvement in social justice to its current role as a leader in higher education, Marietta College continues to forge a path of excellence and service.