Georgetown University

Georgetown University, the oldest Catholic university in America, is located in Washington, D.C. 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 first 200 years and celebrates the heritage of one of today's premier universities. More than 200 vintage images illuminate the historic campus, early classes, annual events, and prolific leaders. The story begins with the school's founder, Archbishop John Carroll, who first envisioned Georgetown as an academy for training young clergy for the new Catholic Church in America. Twice during the 1800s, the school's 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, S.J., 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 faculty, staff, and supporters from all backgrounds and races joined the Georgetown experience.