[1][2]After contemplating the idea since the 1850s, Isaiah Williamson spent the final decade of his life formulating and developing the concept for a new trade school for underprivileged boys to be located in a suburb of Philadelphia.

[7] On March 6, 1889, the day before he died, Isaiah Williamson approved the purchase of 220 acres of land to be used for the school's campus in Middletown Township, near Elwyn, Pennsylvania.

The campus was later described by John Wanamaker as "... gently rolling country with its springs and water courses, its broad pastures, its woodland acres of old oaks and chestnuts, its distant views of fertile farms, thriving towns—natural beauties enhanced by wise and not overdone landscape gardening, winding macadamized drives, and an artistic as well as convenient grouping of the various school buildings".

[11] The historical marker (#HM1D5B) reads: Founded in 1888 by philanthropist Isaiah V. Williamson to teach underprivileged young men "some trade, free of expense" via a character-based curriculum.

[7]: 95 Williamson is the only trade college in the United States that gives all students full scholarships covering tuition, textbooks, and room and board.

Courses are offered in the following trades: Graduates receive an associate degree in their chosen field, but may opt for a diploma in carpentry or masonry.