History Bytes: Homework in Colonial Newport

September 27, 2013
William Engs workbook showing the geometric calculations of a sphere. This item is featured in the new exhibit "The Children's Hour" at the Museum of Newport History.

William Engs workbook showing the geometric calculations of a sphere. This item is featured in the new exhibit “The Children’s Hour” at the Museum of Newport History.

One of the early school masters in Newport was Capt. William Engs (1720-1800), who moved from Boston to Newport as a master mariner with experience as a book keeper and clerk. In 1772 he established a school, and took on boarders, to study navigation, astronomy, astrology, geography, geometry, double entry accounting and penmanship. The school lasted through the Revolution until 1797 leaving a record of students, subjects and tuition payments (made by parents or wealthy patrons).