**Governor Dummer Academy** (legal name), operating as **The Governor's Academy**, is the oldest boarding school in New England, founded in 1763 through the bequest of Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor William Dummer. Located in Byfield, Massachusetts, the school initially operated as **Dummer Academy** and later incorporated under its current legal name in 1782.

### History  
Established over a decade before American independence, the academy's incorporation documents were signed by notable Revolutionary-era figures, including Governor John Hancock and Senate President Samuel Adams[2][3]. Early records include trustees' ledgers maintained by John Quincy Adams, who served as clerk during his tenure under Chief Justice Theophilus Parsons[2]. The school's original seal was designed by Paul Revere, reflecting its colonial-era origins[5].

### Institutional development  
The 19th century saw fluctuating fortunes, with financial challenges leading to the creation of an alumni association in 1822[3]. Under headmaster Charles Ingham (1908–1930), the academy regained prominence as a preparatory school for Ivy League colleges[3]. It remained an all-male institution until becoming coeducational in 1972[3].  

In 2005, trustees adopted **The Governor's Academy** as the operational name while retaining the original legal designation, citing concerns that "Dummer" discouraged applicants due to derogatory puns[3]. The decision generated controversy among alumni prioritizing historical preservation over modern branding[3].

### Campus and archives  
The 456-acre campus borders the Parker River and includes environmentally controlled archives preserving colonial-era documents, incorporation records, and artifacts related to notable historical figures[4][5]. Recent initiatives include a $100 million fundraising campaign (2017–2024) emphasizing financial aid[3].