The Collegiate School of Connecticut was officially chartered in Old Saybrook after a group of ten ministers recognized the critical need for an institution dedicated to higher education in the region. The founders aimed to create a place where young men could be trained for Christian ministry and public service, reflecting the values of the Congregationalism that shaped much of early New England society. The charter, granted by the Connecticut Colony's General Court, marked a significant transition in the educational landscape of colonial America, moving away from European models. The initial curriculum focused on a classical education, emphasizing Latin, Greek, and theology to prepare students for various roles in society.

The institution experienced early challenges, including financial difficulties and the lack of a permanent campus. In its first years, the school was housed in various locations, and the need to secure an enduring site became apparent. By 1716, the school would relocate to New Haven, where it would grow and evolve. This move was significant as it coincided with the area's increasing prominence and the growing aspirations of the colony. In the following years, the Collegiate School would expand its curriculum and adapt to the changing educational needs of its students, eventually becoming Yale College in 1718, which solidified its status in American higher education.

Yale's growth continued throughout the 18th century, contributing significantly to American intellectual life and the development of new ideas. The institution's alumni would go on to influence various sectors, including law, government, and the sciences, serving as leaders in the burgeoning republic. The chartering of The Collegiate School was instrumental in establishing the tradition of higher education in America, setting a precedent for future institutions across the colonies and eventually the nation.