FERGUSONVILLE BOARDING ACADEMY.

This institution was founded in 1848, by the Rev. Samuel D. Ferguson, and Sanford I. Ferguson, A. M. It is located in the valley of the Charlotte, a section of the country distinguished for the salubrity of its climate and the beauty of its scenery.

The establishment of a boarding academy, so remote from large cities, in a region of country but sparsely settled, and where but little interest had been manifested in educational matters, was considered a scheme of very doubtful expediency. The success however, which has attended this enterprise, has not only surpassed the expectations of its patrons and friends, but has formed an essential element in the educational interests in this county, and marks an important era in the history of the literary institutions of central New York.

With a mild but strict discipline, and a thorough and efficient course of instruction, it has risen to an elevated position among the seminaries of the State.

Connected with its almost unparalleled success, there are three points worthy of observation: 1st. Its location is such, that students are not exposed to the corrupting influences of tippling, gambling, and other collateral vices, which are the usual concomitants of cities and large villages.

2nd. Physical education receives its regular and appropriate attention. A systematic course in the instruction and practice of Gymnastics, has contributed much to the proper physical health of the students, both male and female.

3rd. Its social character. The examining committee in their report add: "The domestic character of this institution produces a parental, a filial, and a fraternal feeling, which gives to it a close resemblance to a well regulated and wisely governed family."

Connected with the institution, there is an excellent and improved farm, containing about two hundred acres, valued at five thousand dollars. The buildings cost $7000, including the Gymnasium, erected a year since, at a cost of $1000. The buildings are commodious, and accommodate one hundred and twenty boarders.

Rev. Samuel D. Ferguson, and Sanford I. Ferguson, A. M., retired from the institution in the summer of 1855, having devoted seven years of arduous and unremitting labor to the educational interests of the community. They were succeeded in the duties and proprietorship of the institution by James Oliver, Esq., whose elevated character, high standing and well known ability, afford the strongest guarantee of its future destiny, and recommend its earnest efforts to the patronage of all.

The institution is located in the town of Davenport, Delaware county. It is accessible by stage, either from Albany or Catskill, on the Hudson, daily.
 

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