He founded the eponymous Vassar College in 1861 .
Matthew Vassar ( April 29 , 1792 -- June 23 , 1868 ) was an English - born American brewer , merchant and philanthropist .
Matthew Vassar founded the eponymous Vassar College in 1861 .
Matthew Vassar ( April 29 , 1792 -- June 23 , 1868 ) was an English - born American brewer , merchant and philanthropist .