The Lowell Normal School (Lowell State College) was Founded in 1894 Coburn Hall : Intersection of Broadway and Wilder (original classroom) Originally a teacher training institution for women

The Lowell Normal School was the tenth and final Normal School to be Established in Massachusetts “Normal” is what Napoleon called schools in France for teaching : L’Ecole Normale Superierure. Opened in 1898 / Had 108 Students / Five Faculty members HISTORY

Frank Coburn (Coburn Hall was named after him) was the schools first principal until 1908 Main Mission of the normal school in the States/Canada was to train students for teaching elementary level education whereas in Europe students were trained to teach higher level education. Classes normally lasted 2 years. 3-4 years were optional due to space. HISTORY (CONTINUED)

Almost forced to close during the great depression Convinced state officials that the school was important. Resulted in expansion of the school with multiple buildings (south campus) Eventually merged with Lowell Technological Institute to form University of Lowell Since 1991 the school is known as University of Massachusetts Lowell EXPANDING THE COMPLEX

Originally a school for women training to be elementary school teachers Faced closing many times, but the school stayed open and eventually grew Merged with Lowell Tech and then finally became part of the Umass system Still continues to grow and buildings are put up constantly SUMMARY