James Bushee papers (MSS-0097)

Biographical/Historical Note

Born October 15, 1805, Professor James Bushee was a New England educator and principal in the nineteenth century. In 1831, Bushee served as principal at the Old Smithfield Academy for twelve years. After becoming a resident of Worcester, Massachusetts in 1852, he was a professor of chemistry for several years at Worcester Medical College. Bushee then served as the principal and teacher of mathematics and physical science at the Young Ladies Institute in Worcester, Massachusetts from 1855-1864. Between 1864-1876, he served as the principal of the scientific department at Highland Military School in Worcester, Massachusetts. Bushee was one of the founders of the Worcester Natural History Society; vice president for eight years and president between 1872-1873. In 1879, Bushee moved to Woonsocket to teach private classes and died on December 20, 1888.