Eugene Colby Hall (CHA)

Eugene Colby

Eugene C. Colby was the first principal of the Mechanics Institute from 1885-1905, and first director of its art school.  He taught both mechanical drawing and freehand drawing.
He wrote an early history of the Institute, tracing its development from 1885-1925. In it, he writes,"foundations have been set up for many other schools of the type of Mechanics Institute, but nowhere else in America has a community been so completely and effectively mobilized behind a private educational project."  Mr. Colby was also very active on the Rochester City Board of Education.