The Influence of Boston’s Mayors on Boston University: A Historical Analysis

Boston University, founded in 1839, has a rich and storied history. However, one of the common questions often asked is whether the mayor of Boston at the time of the university's founding, Nathaniel Shurtleff, had any role in its establishment. This article aims to explore this question and shed light on the historical context surrounding Boston University’s inception.

Introduction to Boston University

Boston University, located in the heart of Boston, has a distinct identity shaped by its history and the city itself. It was founded in 1839 by a group of prominent Bostonians, including minister Lemuel Shattuck, who also served as the first president of the university. The university has evolved significantly over the years, becoming a leading institution in higher education.

The Role of Boston's Mayors

Boston has a long tradition of mayors who have played crucial roles in shaping the city's landscape. Mayors in the early 19th century, such as Nathaniel Shurtleff, often had significant influence over local governance and development. However, the establishment of private universities like Boston University was primarily the responsibility of private individuals and religious institutions.

Nathaniel Shurtleff: The 20th Mayor of Boston

Nathaniel Shurtleff, the 20th mayor of Boston, served in the city from 1834 to 1836. During his tenure, he was known for his efforts to improve the city's civil institutions and infrastructure. However, as a mayor of a private institution like Boston University, his role was minimal. His primary focus was on municipal matters and not the establishment of private educational institutions.

The Founding of Boston University

Boston University was established in 1839 by the Boston Congregational Association, a group of local clergy and educators. The university was designed to provide higher education for young men and women, with a particular emphasis on preparing them for professional careers and service to society. The founders were motivated by a desire to offer more accessible and comprehensive educational opportunities, which were previously limited.

The Context of Private Universities in 19th Century Boston

In the early 19th century, Boston was a bustling hub of education. A number of private universities and colleges were established, including Harvard, Boston Latin School, and Boston Normal Art School, to name a few. The establishment of private universities was typically driven by self-organized groups who saw the need for accessible and diverse educational opportunities. These institutions were generally autonomous and not influenced by municipal governance.

No Direct Involvement of Boston’s Mayor

Given the historical context, it is clear that the mayor of Boston at the time, Nathaniel Shurtleff, had no direct involvement in the establishment of Boston University. The founding of the university was a result of the efforts and vision of private proponents and religious associations, not municipal governance. This is consistent with the broader trend of private institutions in the early 19th century, where local city mayors played a minimal role in their establishment and development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Nathaniel Shurtleff, the 20th mayor of Boston, served during the period when Boston University was founded, he did not have any say in its establishment. Boston University was a private endeavor driven by local leaders and religious figures who sought to improve education for Boston's youth. The historical context of the time underscores the fact that private universities like Boston University were established independently of municipal involvement.

References and Further Reading

For further understanding of Boston University’s historical context and the roles of influential figures, the following sources may be consulted:

Boston University Libraries. Timeline of Boston University History. https://www.bu.edu/library/timeline/ Hawke, David. The First American: A Life of John Adams. Alfred A. Knopf, 1974. Bell, Rose. Boston University's Urban Development: A Historical Perspective. Journal of Urban History, vol. 35, no. 4, 2009, pp. 629-648.