Smithfield Adademy Under A. W. Gay, 1827
The Public are informed, that the exercises of this Institution are in successful operation, under the immediate superintendence of Rev. A.W. Gay. The Trusteees can with pleasure state, that their expectations concerning this gentleman, have been more than realized since witnessing his superior management in the business of instruction. The school year, in this Academy, is divided into two sessions, of 5 months each; provides for two examination, a private and public, and but one vacation, to continue from the middle of August until the middle of October, allowing the scholars the privilege of being at home two months in the fall. Students may here prepare themselves for either of the classes in the University.
S. Mitchenor, Pres't.
---Raleigh Register, March 9, 1827
(Source: North Carolina Schools and Academies, 1790-1840, by Charles L. Coon, 1915, pg. 192-195)
