Castleton Medical College

Castleton, Vermont, United States · Est. 1818

About

Official

Vermont's first medical college (1818–1862), now a historic building on Castleton University's campus.

  • Founded in 1818 as the first medical college in Vermont
  • First private degree-granting medical school in the United States
  • Closed in 1862 after 44 years of operation
  • Building constructed in 1821, believed to be the oldest surviving medical school building in the US
  • Now part of Castleton University campus; used for special meetings and performances
  • Listed on the National Register of Historic Places (1971)

History

Castleton Medical College was founded in 1818 and operated until 1862, making it the first medical college in Vermont and the first private degree-granting medical school in the United States. The chapel-like building was constructed in 1821 and is believed to be the oldest surviving medical school building in the country. The structure was moved approximately 200 yards in the 20th century to accommodate new construction on the Castleton University campus.

Architecture & Current Use

The building is a two-story wooden structure with timber framing, wooden clapboards, and a gabled roof. It features a projecting vestibule with a pedimented gable end and a two-stage tower with an open octagonal cupola. The building now houses classroom facilities for Castleton University's art department and is used for special meetings and performances.

Notable Alumni

The college produced several notable physicians and public figures, including Smith A. Boughton (leader of the Anti-Rent War), Charles M. Crandall (New York State Assembly member), Samuel Denton (Michigan physician and politician), Isaiah H. Hedge (Baptist philanthropist at Bates College), and John Gould Stephenson (Librarian of Congress).

Founded
1818
Courses
1
Total intake
Not yet verified
HousingNot available
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
1
Avg career outcomes
Not yet verified
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
No
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources