The Pioneer School: A History Of Shurtleff College, The Oldest Educational Institution In The West (1900) is a comprehensive account of the history of Shurtleff College, which was the oldest educational institution in the western United States at the time of its publication. The book is written by Austen Kennedy De Blois, an American author and historian who was also a former student and professor at Shurtleff College.De Blois provides a detailed narrative of the founding and development of Shurtleff College, which was established in 1827 in Upper Alton, Illinois. He discusses the challenges faced by the college in its early years, including financial difficulties and the struggle to attract students. He also highlights the important role played by the college in the education of the local community and its impact on the broader region.The book is divided into several sections, each of which covers a different aspect of the college's history. These include chapters on the early years of the college, its growth and expansion in the mid-19th century, and its role in the Civil War. De Blois also explores the college's changing curriculum and the various academic departments that were established over the years.Throughout the book, De Blois provides numerous anecdotes and personal recollections from his time at Shurtleff College, which add a personal touch to the historical narrative. He also includes photographs and illustrations of the college and its surroundings, as well as portraits of key figures in its history.Overall, The Pioneer School: A History Of Shurtleff College, The Oldest Educational Institution In The West (1900) is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of education in the United States, particularly in the Midwest. It provides a fascinating insight into the challenges and triumphs of one of the country's oldest and most influential colleges.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.