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Carson Long Military Institute

Bloomfield, Perry County, Pennsylvania

Marker Inscription

A military school since 1919, it is the oldest in Pennsylvania. Originally Bloomfield Academy, founded in 1837. Owned 1914-21 by Theodore K. Long and renamed as a memorial to his son, William Carson Long. First building, "The Maples," was completed in 1840.

Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

The Story

This institution began in 1837 as Bloomfield Academy, its first building, "The Maples," completed in 1840. In 1914 Theodore K. Long acquired the school and, after his son William Carson Long died, renamed it in his memory. It has operated as a military school since 1919—the oldest such school in Pennsylvania.

Why it matters

Carson Long reflects the long American tradition of the military boarding school, shaping generations of young men through discipline and education across nearly two centuries.

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Related people

  • · Theodore K. Long
  • · William Carson Long

Themes & tags

EducationSchool

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