He then founded the first lyceum school in the United States.[10] It was formed in Millbury, Massachusetts later in 1826. Towns in other States followed his example and by 1827 these other schools were combined together, forming the first nationwide organization of lyceum schools. He wanted a broad social structure that would provide a common education for young adults to help in their future careers.[5] Holbrook was successful in his Boston business and used his profits for producing equipment to use in educational establishments.[11] He traveled throughout the New England states promoting the lyceum school idea with instruction pamphlets he created and lectures he did.