History

National Park Seminary was founded by John and Vesta Cassedy, with classes opening for 48 students on September 27, 1894.  The goal of the school was to provide the educational experiences that would prepare girls to assume the role of educated, socially adept wives and mothers.   Under the Cassedy’s, N.P.S. offered a three-year program of studies.  

With direction from their parents, the girls were encouraged to develop their own curriculum.  But curriculum choices included those domestic arts courses that would enable them to run a household and the business courses that would enable them to earn a living if it became necessary.

 

The 1924 catalog shows an enrollment of 354 girls, representing 38 states and three foreign countries.  Pennsylvania, Illinois, Texas, New York, Ohio, Missouri, and Massachusetts produced the most students.  The girls came from wealthy families and had to be recommended for admission by three social and two financial references.  HABS reported that about a third of the girls continued to a university.  But most stated their goals as marrying the “right” Prince Charming, becoming happy wives and good mothers, and doing social work.

 

The Cassedys realized that only a small part of the desired educational experience would come from the classroom, so school activities were emphasized.  The school sponsored eight social sororities, open to all girls.  Participating in sorority activities helped girls develop the social skills essential for a lifetime of working in groups to organize and plan events.  In addition, the school calendar was filled with musicals, dances, and plays, providing opportunities for planning and participation.  Above all, the location of the school meant that the girls could attend football games, dances and entertainments in both Annapolis and Washington.  

 

Enrollment dropped to fewer than 100 students during the 1930’s but rebounded to 346 by 1942, the last year.  That year the U.S. Army purchased the campus, closing the school.