Wilson College

Wilson College is a private liberal arts institution in Chambersburg, south-central Pennsylvania, spreading across 300 acres (120 hectares) with academic buildings, residence halls, and laboratories. The campus borders residential neighborhoods and sits just a few streets from the town's historic center.

The college was founded in 1869 by Presbyterian clergy to provide women with access to academic education when most American universities still admitted only men. After financial struggles in the 1970s, the institution opened its doors to male students in 1979 and expanded its programs.

The campus carries the name of philanthropist Sarah Wilson, who provided the funds for its founding and advocated for women's education. Today, traditional brick buildings mix with newer structures as students of all genders use the libraries and study spaces.

The campus is open to the public and visitors can walk through the grounds on public pathways, with the historic main building and older sections particularly worth seeing. Parking is available at the edge of the grounds, from where most areas can be reached on foot.

The college was among the first in the United States to reopen after a closure due to financial hardship in the 1970s through negotiations led by students and alumnae. Several buildings on campus date from the late 19th century and display Victorian architectural elements.

Location: Pennsylvania

Inception: 1869

Industry: higher education

Address: 1015 Philadelphia Ave, Chambersburg, PA, 17201-1285

Website: http://wilson.edu

GPS coordinates: 39.94800,-77.65300

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28