Introduction
Washington College is a small, liberal arts college located in Chestertown, Maryland. Founded in 1782, it is one of the oldest colleges in the country, with a rich history and tradition. Over the years, Washington College has produced many notable alumni, including four signers of the Declaration of Independence, two U.S. Senators, and numerous other political and cultural figures. In this post, we will explore some fun facts about Washington College that you may not have known.
Fun facts about Washington College
The College was originally named after a famous revolutionary figure
When Washington College was first founded, it was named after George Washington, who was then serving as the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. The idea for the college came from the Reverend William Smith, who was a close friend of Washington and a fellow member of the Continental Congress. Washington himself was a strong supporter of the idea, and he made a significant donation to help fund the college’s construction.
The College has a unique honor code
Washington College is one of only a few colleges in the country that has an honor code. The code is taken very seriously by students, faculty, and administrators, and it is an important part of the school’s culture. Under the honor code, students are trusted to behave with integrity and to hold themselves and others accountable for their actions. Cheating, lying, and other forms of academic dishonesty are not tolerated, and violations of the code can result in serious consequences, including expulsion.
The College has a famous sailing program
Washington College is located on the Chester River, which provides an ideal location for the school’s sailing program. The program is one of the most successful in the country, and the school has won numerous championships over the years. The sailing team is open to all students, regardless of their experience level, and it is a popular extracurricular activity on campus.
The College has a unique tradition involving cannons
One of the most unique traditions at Washington College involves two cannons that are fired after the football team scores a touchdown. The cannons were originally used as signal cannons during the Civil War, and they were donated to the college in the early 1900s. Today, they are fired by members of the school’s ROTC program, and they are a popular part of the football game experience.
The College has a strong environmental focus
Washington College is committed to environmental sustainability, and it has taken many steps to reduce its impact on the environment. The school has a comprehensive recycling program, and it has implemented energy-saving measures throughout the campus. In addition, the school offers a major in environmental science, and it has a number of student-led environmental groups that work to promote sustainability on campus and in the community.
The College has a famous ghost story
Like many old buildings, Washington College has its share of ghost stories. The most famous of these involves the ghost of a young woman who is said to haunt the dormitory known as Minta Martin. According to legend, the woman was a student at the college in the early 1900s, and she committed suicide by jumping from a window in the dormitory. Her ghost is said to appear on the anniversary of her death, and she is often seen walking the halls of the building.
The College has a unique literary magazine
Washington College is home to a unique literary magazine called The Collegian. The magazine has been in continuous publication since 1941, and it features poetry, fiction, and non-fiction written by students, faculty, and alumni. The magazine is edited and produced entirely by students, and it is a popular outlet for creative expression on campus.
The College has a strong tradition of community service
Washington College is committed to serving its community and the world beyond. The school has a number of community service programs, including an annual Day of Service, which brings together students, faculty, and staff to participate in service projects throughout the community. In addition, the school has a strong focus on social justice, and it offers a number of courses and extracurricular activities that explore issues related to inequality, diversity, and inclusion.
The College has a unique study abroad program
Washington College has a unique study abroad program called the Global Education Initiative. The program offers students the opportunity to study in a variety of countries around the world, including Australia, China, Germany, and Spain. The program is designed to provide students with a global perspective on their academic studies, and it is a popular option for students who want to experience new cultures and languages.
The College has a rich artistic tradition
Washington College has a rich artistic tradition, and it offers a number of programs and activities for students interested in the arts. The school has a strong theatre program, and it puts on several productions each year, including a Shakespeare play in the fall. In addition, the school has a vibrant music program, and it offers courses in music theory, history, and performance.
Conclusion
Washington College is a small, but vibrant institution with a rich history and tradition. From its unique honor code to its famous ghost story, the college has many interesting and fun facts that make it a special place. Whether you are interested in sailing, environmental sustainability, or the arts, there is something for everyone at Washington College. As the college continues to grow and evolve, it will undoubtedly continue to provide students with a unique and enriching educational experience.