n September 14, 1854 Salem Normal School welcomed its first class of "young ladies who wish to prepare themselves for teaching". The fourth such institution in Massachusetts and the tenth in America, the school was born of the humanitarian endeavors of Horace Mann. One hundred and fifty years later, Salem State College continues to promote and promise the tradition of excellence envisioned by its founders. History of Salem State College 1854 - 2004: The Sesquicentennial Timeline The Presidents of Salem The Story of Charlotte Forten What was it like in... The 1850's The 1860's The 1870's The 1880's The 1890's The 1900's The 1910's The 1920's The 1930's The 1940's The 1950's The 1960's The 1970's The 1980's The 1990's But Wait, There's More! Play What Year Was It? Send an E-card to a Friend © 2003 Salem State College