Tyler University opens as a Baptist academy

Name: Tyler University opens as a Baptist academy
Start: 1852
End: 1853

Beginning1852 or 1853, sources differ (see the note). Card 19 of 165.

Tyler University, an academy sponsored by the Cherokee Baptist Association, opened in 1852 or 1853.

In 1857 its men’s department burned and soon reopened as the Masonic Male Academy.

Its women’s department became Eastern Texas Female College, also called Tyler Female Seminary.

Note

The Handbook of Texas says it opened in 1852 or 1853; the city’s National Register documentation says it was established in 1854.

Handbook of Texas: Smith Countytshaonline.orgTyler University, an academy sponsored by the Cherokee Baptist Association, opened either in 1852 or 1853.In 1857 the men's department was destroyed by fire but soon reopened under the name Masonic Male Academy.
National Register Multiple Property Documentation Form: Historic and Architectural Resources of Tyler, Texas (Diane E. Williams, 2000; THC Atlas)atlas.thc.texas.govTyler University was established in 1854 by the Cherokee Baptist Association.

Checked October 15, 2026. How the cards are filed