What was the original purpose of Duke University?

Duke University was originally established in 1838 as Brown's Schoolhouse, a small private subscription school in Randolph County, North Carolina. Its primary purpose was to provide education and training to local students. In 1892, it was renamed Duke University in honor of Washington Duke and his family, who were significant benefactors and supporters of the Methodist Church and education. The university's mission expanded to focus on higher education, research, and public service.