From 1853 to 1906, the Board of Visitors served alongside the Chancellor to oversee the internal functions of the College.

The term “Visitor” with regards to the Board is considered an overseer of an entity. This was a function of the Chancellor, who was also the Bishop of Connecticut for some time, and a Board was formed to assist in the College's internal administration. Early members included Bishop Brownell, who served until his death.

The members of the Board of Visitors primarily consisted of former Chancellors, who would serve until their death. Eventually, many of these leaders died without replacement.

Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

History of Trinity College (1967) by Glenn Weaver, pp. 93, 230, 240.