In 1858, Reverend Charles E. Bailey and four families from his Ohio Congregational parish founded Benzonia colony. Modeled after earlier Congregational settlements, it was to be an “educational Christian colony”. As an integral part of the new community, Grand Traverse College was chartered in 1863. Dedicated to educating both sexes, and people of all colors and ethnic origin, it provided college preparatory work and teacher training. The school reorganized in 1891 as Benzonia College. It supplied college level education until 1900 when it became Benzonia Academy. Both Benzonia College and Academy served as a center for cultural and recreational activities for citizens of the surrounding villages. Benzonia Academy provided an education deep in music and arts, for approximately $2.75 a week, including room and board. Due to improved transportation and increase in availability of public schools, Benzonia Academy closed in 1918, with a graduating class of 10.