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.
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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.