College Scholarship Fund

“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent” — Victor Hugo

Frederick Smyth’s History

Marion C. Smyth founded the Smyth Trust in 1949 in memory of her husband Frederick Smyth, former governor of the State of New Hampshire from 1865 to 1867. In addition, Mr. Smyth was a four term Mayor of the City of Manchester from 1852 to 1854 and again from 1863 to 1864. Mayor Smyth was instrumental in the planning of Manchester's municipal infrastructure.

Many of the decisions he made as mayor are still with us today including building the city's first highways, providing the city's first water and sewer systems, building the city's first sidewalks, lighting our streets and his idea to plant trees along our streets to provide shade and maintaining the natural beauty of our city.

Purpose

Mrs. Smyth stated in her will: " This institute is established not only for the cultural benefit of the citizens of Manchester and the State of New Hampshire, but also for the purpose of giving aid and encouragement to the deserving youth of Manchester and adjacent towns who lack adequate financial means of increasing their knowledge in the field of music".

Although it was her original intent that an institute of music be established physically at her Manchester home, known as the "Willows", through the years and with subsequent court approval, the Trustees decided not to build an actual institute but rather to commit the Trust resources toward the financial support of her intended beneficiaries.

The Smyth Trust provides scholarships for Greater Manchester students pursuing college degrees in music and annual grants for New Hampshire music education and performing organizations. (Under special circumstances, capital grants may be granted to organizations.

Who is Eligible for a Smyth Trust Scholarship

  • Greater Manchester residents residing in Manchester, Bedford, Hooksett, Goffstown, Merrimack, Amherst, Derry, Londonderry, Auburn, Candia, Litchfield or other nearby communities who are attending a Manchester area High School.
  • Must show a financial need for the scholarship.
  • Must maintain a satisfactory grade average level.
  • On occasion, special exceptions have been made for students that do not fit the traditional guidelines but are otherwise worthy.
  • Late and/or incomplete applications will not be considered.
  • Scholarships are for Undergraduate students only.

How to Apply for a Trust Scholarship

Please download the PDF file to the right, fill out your application, save it and mail it to: The Frederick Smyth College Scholarship Fund 1001 Elm Street Manchester, NH 03101 or email to smythtrust@comcast.net

To download PDF, right click on image and click on "Save link as" for Google Chrome, or "Save target as" for Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer.

Who is eligible for a Smyth Trust Grant

Any New Hampshire organization established for the musical education, enrichment and enjoyment of the citizens of the State of New Hampshire.

How to apply for a Trust Grant

Send a letter addressed to the Trustees of the Frederick Smyth Institute of music stating:

  • History of organization
  • Purpose and scope of grant
  • Amount requested
  • Expected audience
  • Location of performance
  • Financial information (budget, balance sheet, etc.)
  • Other funding requested or received (if applicable)
  • Other information integral to program or institution
  • Attached copy of IRS 501(c)(3)