The Literary Casket

The Literary Casket, also referred to as the Young Ladies Portfolio, in Newburgh, Orange County, N.Y. Editors of the newspaper include Marion Beveridge, Sarah E. Scott, Alice G. Hancock, Ann Marie Veazy, Sally Ann Simpson, Francis Penoyer, Sophie Parsons, Mary Oakley, Hattie Weston, and Rachel Drake. This newspaper allowed for contributions from its readers, stating that "the columns of the 'Casket' are open for contributions from any who desire to avail themselves of this means of improvement." Most of the articles are moralistic or religious reflections, and there is often talk of self-improvement either through contributions or reading. Some of the entries include "Things That I Admire," "Avarice," "The Convent Bell," "The Wandering Child," and "Language of Autumn."

The Newburgh Academy was built in 1797, with additions made soon after, making it a site for a school, a courtroom, town meetings, and political organizations in Newburgh, Orange County, N.Y. In 1807, tuition rates were issued, charging $2.05 per quarter for the study of writing and arithmetic and $5.00 for the study of Greek, Latin, or French. A Female Department was established in 1809, and reading, writing, sewing, and drawing were taught. In 1852, the New York State Legislature established free public education in Newburgh. The Board of Education took control of Newburgh Academy, which became part of the Newburgh Public Schools. Today, it is known as Newburgh Free Academy.