Charles Frederick Allison established the Mount Allison University in 1839. It was a boys' academy, initially owned and operated by the Methodist Church, though it openly accepted students of other denominations.

In 1847, at a joint meeting of Methodist districts of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia a joint resolution was passed to establish an academy for the education of young girls and women. This led to the establishment of Wesleyan Academy, which later became known as Ladies' College.

On August 17, 1854 a branch for women was opened in the three storey building called White Hall. The enrollment rose very quickly making this facility very crowded. As a result a north wing was added.

The institution attained degree granting status in 1858 and then it was called Mount Allison College. Mount Allison University was the first university in British Empire to confer a bachelor's degree to a woman.

In 1875 Grace Annie Lockhart was the first female recipient of a baccalaureate degree (B.Sc.).  For more information read the article, 'Ladies' College Buildings'.