1902
Modern day founder Frank L. Boyden accepts an offer to be principal of Deerfield Academy, with an annual salary of $800. He plans to soon move on to law school, but instead stays for 66 years, becoming one of the country’s most renowned educators.
1905
Helen Childs (1905-1968) accepts a position as science and mathematics instructor. In 1907, she marries Mr. Boyden. A charismatic scholar and scientist, she reaches legendary status through intelligence, wit, and “inexhaustible patience”.
1911
Tom Ashley, local farmboy, Deerfield icon, US Marine, and friend and collaborator of Mr. Boyden, graduates. After attending Amherst College and graduating in 1916, he returns to the Academy as a teacher, coach, and advisor to Mr. Boyden. Ashley is credited with establishing the Academy’s boarding department and drafting its first school catalog. In 1918, he is killed in action at the Battle of Belleau Wood.
