Education in America has changed many times over the years. Initially, schooling in America was mostly for boys. As more towns and states began providing education, the one-room schoolhouse became common in many areas. Eventually, there was a desire for the involvement of the federal government in education. Thomas Jefferson believed education was essential to preserving democratic rights, and in 1819, he established the University of Virginia. In 1823, schools opened to train teachers. This led to the opening of schools in the public school system. By 1833, Oberlin College opened to the public, including women. To further advance education, the land grant system gave states land to sell so that the money could be used to set up colleges. Horace Mann was an influential person in education. He served as the first secretary for the Board of Education in Massachusetts and brought about standardized public education. Other influential people in education include Noah Webster and Washington Irving, who contributed to literature and education. Noah Webster standardized American spelling, and Washington Irving influenced readers and American education with his short stories.