Happy Birthday, Fordham!

On this day in 1841, with a student body of six, Saint John’s College opened in the Rose Hill (or Fordham) section of the Bronx. Founded by Bishop John Hughes of New York, the college was also named for him. During the college’s first four years, its faculty consisted oif Vincentians and diocesan clergy. (The diocesan seminary, St. Joseph’s, was located on the campus as well, until 1860.) In July 1846, the Jesuits came to Rose Hill, where they have remained ever since. In 1907 the college’s charter was amended, and Saint John’s College became Fordham University.