History of Randolph-Macon College, Virginia: The Oldest Incorporated Methodist College in America

"History of Randolph-Macon College, Virginia" by Richard Irby is a historical account likely written in the late 19th century. The work chronicles the establishment and evolution of Randolph-Macon College, recognized as the oldest incorporated Methodist college in America, detailing the efforts leading to its founding and the early challenges it faced. This book is essential for those interested in the history of education, particularly in the context of religious institutions in the United States. The opening of the book presents a resolution from the Board of Trustees that acknowledges Irby’s efforts in gathering historical information about the college, positioning him as a dedicated chronicler of its legacy. It discusses the early initiatives by Methodists like John Wesley and Bishop Asbury to establish educational institutions amidst various challenges in post-Revolutionary America. The narrative thus sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the college's origins, the key figures involved in its founding, and the socio-economic climate that shaped its development, inviting readers into a detailed account of its storied history.