Messiah began in Harrisburg

Before Messiah College held a single class in Grantham, the institution began in a little house owned by S.R. Smith in Harrisburg.

With the help of the Brethren in Christ General Committee, Smith served as the president of the Messiah Bible School and Missionary Training Home—in his home at 46 North 12th St.

According to Morris Sider’s book “Messiah College: A History,” the house quickly became crowded. Students learned from the few donated books and relied on the proximity of the state library and public lectures in the city for education. The committee also became concerned that “city life” tempted students with alcohol consumption and dangerous nighttime endeavors. It was time to relocate.

Even before Messiah began in his home, Smith was already looking for a place to expand his noodle company. At that time, the up-and-coming town of Grantham showed economic potential because of the railroad. So when Smith relocated to Grantham, Messiah followed.

Old Main was built in 1911, and the rest is history. And even though Messiah College changed locations, the mission and the vision of the institution did not.

Director of the Brethren in Christ Historical Library and Archives Glen Pierce said, “More than 100 years ago, the general committee that founded Messiah College put together a purpose statement that said any student is welcome regardless of race, gender or ethnicity. The College was founded on a vision to be welcoming to everyone who is serious about their studies, and I believe we continue to do that even today.”

—Jake Miaczynski ’20