New location History of Princeton University

nassau hall, university s oldest building.

princeton university s position on pre-civil war disputes on slavery , abolitionism fall on conservative side, not favoring slavery opposing radical antislavery. resulted princeton s adhering conservative old school wing of presbyterian denomination. ironically, surrounding town had lively free black community during period, formed own congregations, including witherspoon street presbyterian church. late 1850s, conservative middle gave way , increasingly supported lincoln , republican party positions on slavery issues.

a panoramic view princeton s campus c1895

the debate between james mccosh (1811–94), president of college (1868–88), , charles hodge, head of princeton seminary, during late 1860s , 1870s exemplified classic conflict between science , religion on question of darwin s evolution theory. mccosh offered first public endorsement of evolution american religious leader. however, 2 men showed greater similarities regarding matters of science , religion popularly appreciated. both supported increasing role of scientific inquiry in natural history , resisted intrusion philosophy , religion. debate vitalized college , helped propel school future recognition excellence in scholarship.

although genuinely loved many princetonians, president of princeton during 1888-1902 francis landey patton (1843–1932) viewed many hindrance princeton s progress. model of higher education frustrated plans of new princetonians, desired graduate school, not graduate department. further, insistence on rigid christian education program - limited academic freedom - coupled outdated administrative methods, alienated hoped make princeton major american university. finally, in 1902, patton ousted presidency.