June 28, 2025 9:45p
(WGTD)---The namesake of Racine’s DeKoven Center was a principled Episcopalian priest and educator who harbored progressive teaching ideas and at times was controversial. That’s according to John Magerus, the author of the definitive new biography on James DeKoven’s life, titled “James DeKoven: Biography of a Famous Yet Forgotten Man.”
Speaking on WGTD's Morning Show, Magerus told Greg Berg that he developed a great admiration for the man that led what was known as Racine College from 1859 to the time of his death in 1879 at the age of 48. "He believed strongly in education and the importance of spiritual life," Magerus said. "He loved humor. He loved being with the students and the family he created at Racine College. He was an interesting character," he said.
DeKoven was controversial at times because he didn’t hold back in voicing his opinion on the future of the Episcopalian Church.
DeKoven also had strong ideas on how the Episcopal college should operate. For instance, faculty members and their families were required to live on campus and share the same meals as students.
At its peak, Racine College had an enrollment of 240.
The college closed in the 1930s and the campus of buildings on Racine’s lakefront eventually became known as the DeKoven Center, hosting various gatherings including conferences and retreats.
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