In its original meaning, an association formed for mutual improvement, or for the advancement of science or art; in later use, a species of educational institution, of a grade between tbe common school and the college. Academy of Fine Arts v. Pliila-delphia County, 22 Pa. 496; Commonwealth v. Banks, 198 Pa. 397, 48 Atl. .277; Blackwell v. State, 36 Ark. 178