When was Chapman University established?

Chapman University was founded as Hesperian College, the school began classes on March 4, 1861. The year 2011 marked the 150th anniversary of Chapman University's founding as Hesperian College.

In 1920, the assets of Hesperian College were absorbed by California Christian College, which held classes in downtown Los Angeles. In 1934, the school was renamed after the chairman of its board of trustees (and primary benefactor), C.C. Chapman.