Cornerstone of Pride
History of Utica Free Academy
by Malio J. Cardarelli
Illustrious high school began back in 1813
After several months of effort, the history of Utica Free Academy is in its
first, limited printing. The text, coupled with fourteen pages of old and some rare photos, help to recreate what
the school meant to its thousands of students and to the city of Utica. The story goes much further back than the
Kemble Street edifice. In fact, the first beginning of the school dates back to 1813 when a group of nineteen community-minded
citizens petitioned the Regents of the State of New York to charter an Academy in the city, a request granted in
1814 for a school that for four decades was named Utica Academy, open only to boys. Back then it was a tuition
school, and only those who could pay the fees were allowed to apply for admittance. Later, as described in the
text, it became a free, public-supported and co-educational facility. Its student population exploded when education
became compulsory for young men and ladies between the ages of 8 and 14. Thus, the school building built in 1818
on Bleecker and Academy Streets and rebuilt after a fire five decades later, was no longer sufficient to accommodate
the expanding student population, requiring a new and larger facility. It opened in 1899 on Kemble Street. After
almost nine decades of service, the school closed in 1987 but is still devotedly remembered by thousands who there
received a quality education coupled with never-diminished memories.
Book reveals much more than historical data
Scattered throughout the text are several vignettes of old Utica and the early Academy--wonderful tales that not
only demonstrate the texture of the periods they represent, but also resurrect the emotions that prevailed for
Academy students when the corridors were student sanctuaries, much-less demanding and stoic than the classrooms.
While not all who distinguished themselves in their post-high-school endeavors can be included, several are with
a brief account of their achievements. Also mentioned are many of the significant events etched in time such as
three very destructive fires, some intentionally set; plagues; terrible accidents, etc., all of which had an impact
on the school. An index helps the reader to locate events of interest.
"Cornerstone of Pride; History of Utica Free Academy" is $13.95. Shipping is $2.50 for one copy and .50 for each additional copy going to the same address in the same shipment. Books are mailed same day payment is received. To Order and to view other offerings by this author, please visit: http://www.BooksByMalio.com/