The Beginnings, 1881-1900
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John Stockwell, a local astronomer and friend of Case, was appointed as instructor of mathematics and astronomy and tasked to define the courses of instruction and to find faculty. The School opened with five faculty and sixteen students. Stockwell decided on a four-year course, where the first two years would consist of training in mathematics, chemistry, physics, civil engineering and drawing, and modern languages, and the last two years of study would provide specialized training in one of the sciences or civil engineering, culminating with a thesis.
Students were admitted if they passes an examination in algebra, geometry, chemistry, physics, English, and German. The $100 tuition was reduced to $50 in the second year when the School also started authorizing twelve tuition scholarships for students in, or graduates of, Cleveland high schools.
Stockwell hired as faculty several scientists who later become renowned. Charles Frederic Mabery, was a Chemistry professor at Case between 1883-1911 and was known for his work in petrolium and electrochemistry. John Eisenmann, a professor of civil engineering and drawing between 1882-1886 designed Case Main Building, Wade Park, Euclid-Superior Arcade, and Ohio flag. Albert Abraham Michelson , first American to win the Nobel Prize in Science, was hired in 1881 as the Physics professor. Michelson, in collaboration with Professor Edward Williams Morley of the neighboring Western Reserve University, became famous for their 1887 ether-drifting experiment that contributed to Albert Einstein's theory of relativity. Michelson left Case in 1889.