HASSAM'S PRIVATE ACADEMY, 1819.
[John H. Hassam was a native of New Hampshire. He came to Raleigh in 1819 as a travelling teacher of English Grammar. Here he remained and began a private school in association with George W. Freeman. His private school did not prosper and he entered upon the practice of law. Hassam was evidently a man of some ability. What inventions he left, I have been unable to find. The notice of his death, contained in The Raleigh Register, would lead one to conclude that he had some mechanical turn.—C. L. C]
The Acquisition of
English Grammar,
Rendered pleasing, expeditious and
permanent.
The Ladies and Gentlemen of Raleigh and its vicinity, who are desirous of speaking and writing their own language correctly, are presented with an opportunity of acquiring a correct and practical knowledge of English Grammar and Punctuation, in twenty-four lectures of two hours each.
No previous knowledge of the Latin or Greek Languages, or of English Grammar is necessary; nor will the memorising of more than fifteen lines be required in the course of instruction.
Lectures will be delivered to select classes, not exceeding ten, on the days and hour most convenient to the learner.
In the above course, the learner, by a regular attendance, will be enabled, not only to correct all the errors of Syntax and Punctuation in Murray's Exercises but to make a practical application of the principles of such corrections, in speaking as well as in writing.
J. H. Hassam.
Enquire at the dwelling house of Mr. Robert Harrison, near the Academy. No compensation will be received from Ministers of the Gospel who may please to attend.
August 26.
—Raleigh Register, August 27,1819.
(Source: North Carolina Schools and Academies, 1790-1840, By Charles L. Coon 1914)
