Penn's Y.M.C.A. began in 1882, and its Y.W.C.A. began in 1884. The main objectives of the Y.M. and Y.W. were to hold prayer meetings, maintain Bible study, encourage individual efforts, support mission enterprises, and contribute to the betterment of…
Penn College was founded by Quakers, who believed education to be a necessity in their lives, but public schooling had not yet come to Iowa in the late 19th Century. Oskaloosa seemed like the perfect location for a Quaker college due to the two…
In 1890, Miss Amy Hutchinson came to Penn College as its first Music Professor in both vocal and instrumental. Over 75 students enrolled in her department. After the three years she worked at Penn, the Music Department became a well-established part…
Penn Academy started as Friend's High School on November 5th, 1872. John W. Woody was the first principal with Mary Chawner Woody and Anna Gove as additional teachers. When Penn College opened on September 24, 1873, the high school continued as the…
Penn Day was the day Penn students celebrated William Penn's birthday, but it rarely landed on his actual birthday. Starting October 1911, Penn College had a Penn Pageant that took place on Penn Day that performed episodes of William Penn's life.…
The first Commencement was in 1875 with Linda Ninde Dorland graduating. Commencement typically lasted all day starting with the Baccalaureate, and ending either with the President or a professor hosting the Commencement Dinner. In later years, it…
Penn Day was the day Penn students celebrated William Penn's birthday, but it rarely landed on his actual birthday. Starting October 1911, Penn College had a Penn Pageant that took place on Penn Day that performed episodes of William Penn's life.…
