Inside, the gymnasium was a marvel. The College hired the Scot George Goldie --described as "the eminent gymnast of New York City" -- as its first instructor in physical education. This appointment led some to joke of the danger of having Scotsmen in charge of both the mental and physical development of the students. Gymnastics was the most popular sport of the period, and Goldie outfitted the high-ceilinged second floor of the gym with gymnastic apparatus, climbing ropes, and weights.