The definition of the time when Concord established its first schools under the meeting’s care, is only possible within rather extended limits. We can only say that at such a time certain schools were in existence; earlier than that we have no authentic source of information. Jordan, in his _History of Delaware County_, places the date of Birmingham’s first school as 1806,[738] it being built on a lot conveyed for that purpose by John Burgess. From the report of the Concord Monthly Meeting in 1779, which will be presented later, it appears that Birmingham had a school at that date which was established “in some measure agreeable to the demands of the yearly meeting.”[739] It is spoken of as a regularly established school, which the writer has found in most meetings to mean that a house, master, funds, and sometimes a permanent lot were provided. This is merely suggestive. It certainly does not prove that there was a lot and building provided, but the indications are in favor of that, rather than against it. The same author, in reference to Upper Chichester, states, In 1793 the Society of Friends established a school in Upper Chichester which was maintained by the Society until the public school system was introduced.[740] The source for the statement is not given, but it appears it must be subject to the like inaccuracy suggested above in reference to Birmingham. The report of the school committee which seems to contravert the time of the establishment of schools, given by Jordan, is herewith included. [Sidenote: Report of 1779] We of the committee appointed to the care of schools and education of the youth, report we have in some degree attended to the importance of the service, have lately visited two schools, which are now established in some measure agreeable to the concern of the Yearly Meeting as recommended in the extracts for that purpose.... [Sidenote: Two schools] One of which in the verge of Chichester, the other Birmingham particular meeting; which visits, on observing the economy and regularity of said schools, have afforded us much satisfaction. With increasing desires for the establishment of another in the verge of Concord which unitedly appears to be much wanting as divers Friends now labor under very considerable inconvenience for want thereof. Signed by nine of the committee.[741] [Sidenote: Committee visits preparatives]