MAPLEWOOD, NJ – Columbia High School, established in 1814 and known for being the first public school to observe Earth Day, stands as New Jersey’s oldest still-operating high school and the 17th oldest in the United States.
Situated in Maplewood, the school continues its all-day Earth Day observances, featuring scientist speakers, seminars, and environmental-themed folk songs. The tradition has become a hallmark of its commitment to education and social responsibility.
Before Columbia High School’s establishment, a one-room stone schoolhouse existed near the present intersection of South Orange Avenue and Academy Street in South Orange.
This building was removed in 1814 to make way for a new toll highway connecting Newark and Morristown.
A group of 73 “Proprietors and Associates” gathered on August 3, 1814, to construct a new two-story wooden building topped with a steeple and weather vane, completed by the fall term of 1815.
The trustees set the tuition at $1.75 per quarter for basic education, including spelling, reading, and writing. Additional costs were levied for arithmetic, grammar, and geography.
The cost of firewood was divided equally among the students.
On May 10, 1816, the school adopted a seal featuring a spread eagle standing on a globe, with the word “Excelsior” written underneath in Roman Capitals.
The school continues operation today as a public school.