McKinley Administrations - Education

Education

McKinley attended Poland Academy, a Methodist seminary, for eight years. Soon after entering to academy, he publicly committed himself to the Methodist faith at a revival meeting. He remained an involved Methodist throughout his life. At Poland Academy McKinley participated in debating clubs and eventually became president of the local debating society.

After completing his studies at Poland Academy, McKinley attended Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania, for a year. He was forced to drop out of college, however, due to poor health and financial difficulties. After serving in the American Civil War (1861–65) McKinley returned to Ohio and studied law at the office of county judge Charles E. Glidden (See also, Career). In 1866 McKinley briefly attended law school in Albany, New York. After winning admission to the Ohio bar, he began practicing law in March 1867.