Our History - Knox College
Our History
Consider the principles upon which Knox College was founded in 1837, and it's no wonder Knox is a place of great debate and action.
Circular and Plan
Knox Presidents
Knox Fast Facts
Our Mission
Our Values
Our Leadership
Our History
Knox College Circular & Plan
History of Knox College Presidents
Knox College Honorary Degrees
Visits to Knox College by U.S. Presidents
Knox & Galesburg History
Green Oaks
Visitor Information
Venture Boldly
Five things nearly everyone here can tell you about our history
We were founded in 1837
. Our founders opposed slavery in all forms—physical, spiritual, intellectual—and believed deeply in the potential of every human being to learn, grow, and contribute to the greater good of the community. This was a radical idea at the time. Our roots matter. They also described their intentions for the College in their
Circular and Plan
, which still resides in our Special Collections and Archives.
Our first president stood up in opposition to discrimination against women
. Our nineteenth president, Teresa Amott, developed an innovative community partnership with
Galesburg
KnoxCorps
). We live out our ideals.
Our alumni make good things happen
. From long ago: Samuel McClure, Class of 1882, joined other Knox alumni to found
McClure's
, a magazine that championed the work of muckrakers-progressive, activist journalists. From right now: Matt Berg '00 was named one of
Time
's 100 most influential people for his work to improve health care through the Millennium Villages Project.
The fifth Lincoln-Douglas debate was held on campus in 1858
. Lincoln used the occasion to denounce slavery on moral terms for the first time. This was not a coincidence.
Our
Honor Code
was developed by students
. One of those students, Ismat Kittani '51, came to Knox from Iraq; he went on to become president of the United Nations General Assembly. Students shaping the character of their community; students coming here from around the world; students going on to attain leadership roles on a global stage—again, not a coincidence. Just Knox. Consider the principles upon which the College was founded, and it's no wonder Knox is a place of great debate and action.
Together Since 1837
George Washington Gale set out for the Illinois prairie more than 175 years ago, he fully intended to found both a college and a town, both supporting and sustaining the other. Knox and Galesburg have been together ever since.
Explore Knox & Galesburg History
Founders Day
Knox Stories
Five Ways to Celebrate Knox College Founders Day
At Knox College, Founders Day is a time to celebrate the rich history and vibrant community that makes Knox special. For anyone in the community who wants to celebrate this special day, here are five ways you can participate and show your Prairie Fire pride.
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Honorary Degrees
U.S. Presidential Visits
US