The Charity School was set on foot before the first term had expired, but could not be accomplished without a proper head. At the meeting of 9 April, 1751 "The Trustees taking into consideration that, by their Engagements, the Charity School ought to be open'd very speedily; and it being mentioned that Mr. Martin had recommended some person in Trenton who was well qualified for Master of such a school, the President is desired to speak to Mr. Martin to write to that person in order to know whether he will accept of that charge, and upon what terms." Mr. Martin wrote in compliance with this request, but at the May meeting he was not able to report an answer. At the June meeting "it appearing to the Trustees that the Person formerly proposed for Master of the Charity School, is not so well qualified as could be wished, and that his Terms are high, some other person is to be sought for to undertake that charge." The some other person came in time in George Price. The Trustees on 13 August, 1757, reported "having made a proposal to George Price to teach a Charity School consisting of twenty Boys, and do some services in the other schools, for the consideration of Thirty Pounds per annum, to be paid him, besides his House Rent and Living during the Winter Season; which proposal he desired some Time to consider of. But having since signified his Willingness to accept of the Terms offer'd him the President is requested to reduce the Agreement to Writing, and get the said Price to sign it." And "publick advertizement" was directed to be made, so soon as the Trustees were ready to open a Charity School. Accordingly the announcement was made in the Pennsylvania Gazette of 12 September, 1751.
By Order of the Trustees of the Academy
Notice is hereby given, That on Monday, the 16th of this instant September, a Free-School will be open'd (under their Care and Direction) at the New Building, for the Instruction of poor Children gratis in Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic. Those who are desirous of having their children admitted, may apply to any of the Trustees.
