Logan County, Illinois - Chapter 11: Educational, 1886

Chapter 11: Educational

Impoetanoe of Fbee Schools. - Early Schools. - How Built. - Progress in Methods. - General Remarks. - First School IN Logan CouNTr. - Schools of the Present. - Statistics and General Information. - Teachers' Institittes. - Lincoln Uni-

" That people which has the best books and the best schools is the best people; if it is not so to-day, it will be so to-morrow." These words, from the pen of the French educator and statesman, Jnle Simon, deserve to become a bonsehold quotation the world over for no more potent nor expressive truth was ever uttered. Of course all progress and education is not derived from the study of books, and, as Hosea Ballou has said, "Education commences at the mother's knee," and every word spoken within the hearing of little children tends toward the formation of character; but at the same time no other one agency is so powerful as the common school in developing a nation of self-governing people.

The citizens of this county feel a just pride in their progress in educational methods, which have fully kept pace with the advancement in wealth and the development of material resources. As soon as the county was sufficiently settled to enable any neighborhood to open a school, a school-house was provided and the services of a teacher secured. Often a room of a private house was occupied, and sometimes the deserted cabin of a squatter became a temporary school room, in which the old-time masters, who worked on the tuition plan, flourished the rod and taught the rudiments of reading, writing and arithmetic. The first school-houses built were structures of the rudest kind, such as no pioneer would be content to occupy as a dwelling. Built of logs, with floors and. benches of puncheons, with a huge fireplace and a stick and mud chimney, they were little calculated for comfort or convenience. Window-glass was too expensive an article to be used in the construction of a school-house, and therefore greased paper was sub- stitnted for it. The writing desir was a notable feature in every school-room. It generally extended across one end or one side of the room, and was made of a slab, held in its place by wooden pins. For architectural effect, probably, certainly not for convenience, it was fastened high up on the wall, and the pupil, in order to use it, must climb upon a high wooden bench and sit there without a support for his back or his feet.

Of the qualifications of the teachers of those days, the less said the better. Many were accounted good teachers who, in these days, would be unable to secure a certificate even ofthe third grade. Yet the most of them put to the best use the little talent and less training they had, and succeeded in planting good seeds in the minds of their pupils. Some ofthe best minds this county has produced were those of men whose whole School education was received in the log school-houses of pioneer days.

The progress of education here is only a miniature reproduction of what has taken place more slowly among all civilized nations. In recent years improved methods of mental culture have aided the teachers in securing better results. The primary object of educating children is not that they may escape labor thereby, but that they may labor more intelligently. Children should be taught that employment leads to happiness, indolence to misery, and that all trades and professions whereby an honest livelihood is obtained are honorable. Right living is the end to be achieved, and it is the workers that do the most good in the world. The man who constantly and intelligently thinks, is above temptation. The women who honorably labor in the various trades are to be preferred and honored above those who sit with folded hands. It is education that makes duty more apparent, lessens toil and sweetens life. It is by true education that the moral responsibilities of the human family are better understood.

Methods are now sought for and followed in the school-room. The child's character and capacity are better understood now than in the pioneer days. The rod is laid aside, and children are no longer forced, under the lash, to order and apparent studiousness. Fretful and cruel teachers are giving way to those who love children, and again will mankind draw nearer to the millennium through the influence of the law of love. In this age better attention is paid to hygiene and ventilation in the school-room. Houses are lighted, aired and warmed in a rational manner. Since the introduction ofthe "automatic" school desks there need be no more disagreeable seating in our school room. The inventor of this desk will have a reward in the blessings of the countless thousands of healthy men and women who, in this generation, as children, are comfortably seated in many of our best schools.

New and better studies have been added to the course of study in our common schools within the last decade. Now, the child is taught to apply what he learns, directing his course of study in the line of his mental activity, cultivating the good and restraining the evil propensities. The time was, not far back, when only a limited knowledge ot "reading, 'riting and 'rithmetic" could be acquired in the common schools. The highest aim of the youth of the pioneer days was to write a fair hand, spell orallj', and solve mathematical puzzles. This age is moving in a better educational sphere. The change was, of course, gradual. It was a long struggle of ignorance and bigotry against education, in which the latter has beenoro\yned the victor. But few teachers cling to the old theory. Little by little they are growing away from the old system. A few teachers who do not improve are yet votaries at the shrine of their idols - the birch, the dunce-cap and other old-fashioned methods. But,

In this struggle for better methods, opinions, covered with age and honors, have been marched off the stage of human action and supplanted by facts and principles which have cost years of toil to discover, and more years to establish. To the close student and observer this theory is new only in its application to our schools. It is the normal or natural method. This is the theory of education that antedates all others. The ancients taught by objects, when but few of the most wealthy men of that day could afford books. In fact, text- book knowledge is a new thing to the world. The first teachers gave instruction orally. They were, by the- force of circumstances, independent of text-books. To this excellent plan has been added the written method. Then, it was principally by observation that the pupils received instruction. By placing the objects before the pupils the teacher could easily reach their minds by his lecture. In this age blackboards, spelling-tablets, slates, charts and other school apparatus is in general use in our best schools. In the schools of to-day, it is through the eye that a mental picture is formed from the printed page which children draw upon paper or boards from the ends of their fingers. "Wellqualified teachers do not think of depending upon text-books at their recitations, but rather imitate the ancient normal methods. In order to meet the demand for better qualified teachers, normal training schools have been established in this and other States. The teachers' institute is also an outgrowth of the demand for teachers of a higher standard. Now, true education is admitted to be the drawing-out and developing of that which the child already possesses, instead of the old crowding theory of pioneer days.

There is perhaps no question which can so deeply interest the people of a county as that of obtaining teachers of known and tried ability. In the period of the early settlement of this county almost any one could teach. That time, with all of its rude school appliances, has rolled away. The claims of to-day can no longer be met by appliances of even a decade ago, for experience is beginning to show that teaching, like every other department of human thought and activity, must change with the onward movements of society, or fall in the rear of civilization and become an obstacle to improvement. The educational problem of to-day is to obtain useful knowledge - to secure the practical part of education before the ornamental, and that in the shortest time. In truth, a free nation's safety is wrapped in the intelligence of its citizens. Only an educated people can long sustain a free republic; therefore it is the duty of the State to educate that her free institutions may stand through all ages as sacred and endeared monuments of the enlightened people.

Education sweetens and hedges in the family circle and drives away frivolity and gossip from a community, protecting the members from the inroads of vice and immorality. It is the strong bulwark of education that binds the nation of 56,000,000 people together for advancement that she may shine in the near future the brightest star in the constellation of governments. Rapid strides have been made in education within the last half century, but the field of improvement is yet boundless, and the work of education must still go on, and make perhaps greater changes than those from the time when

" The sacred seer with scientific truth In Grecian temples taught the attentive youth, With ceasless change, how restless atoms pass From life to life, a transmigrating mass."

Fikst Schools

The first school taught in Logan County was kept in James Latham's house, by Erastus Wright. This, as were all schools then, was supported by subscription. Mr. "Wright afterward became one of the best known men in the State. Colonel Latham well remembers that he would be taken on the teacher's knee, the letters pointed out to him with the teacher's pocket knife, and when he did not pay good attention the teacher would gently prick him in the forehead to retain his attention, and to aid him in remembering the names of the letters. Sjon after Robert Buckles settled, a stable on his farm was cleaned and a few rude benches placed therein, and school opened. The teacher was Judge Skinner, afterward one of the most prominent men in the county. William Copeland was also a teacher here. There was no window in this primitive structure, and a small door gave ingress and egress to the inmates. Cracks through the logs gave the necessary light. They were not bothered about the ventilation, as fresh air was abundant. Some of the lads and lasses were John Cnckles, Mart. Tnrley, Amelia Cass, Isom Birks and Leonard Scroggin. When Mr. Wright came to James Latham's to commence his school, he wheeled his trunk on a wheelbarrow, and took it away in the same manner. The first school-house in the county was built on Lake Fork, near John Turner's. It was a log structure, and to supply light a log from one side was entirely removed "and window glass inserted. Pegs were inserted in the wall on one side of the room, on which a long board was placed ; on this the pupils learned to write, standing during that exercise. The seats were always of slabs, with legs sufficiently high to keep the feet of the smaller ones from the floor, while the older ones were in an equally awkward iposition from the seats being too low. Gradation in seats or backs was seldom thought of, and scarcely ever adopted. Webster's Elementary Spelling Book and the Testament were the principal books used. The former was the established authority on orthography, and in after years it was considered an honor attained by few to be able to spell all the words in that book. Many of the old settlers now greatly delight in narrating their experiences in these early spelling contests, commonly known as "spellingschools," and look back with pride and pleasure to the evenings passed in this intellectual amusement. The spellinw-schobl is now seldom eondncted, as the profit derived tlierefrom is nearly always overbalanced by other considerations. Spellino; by writing is much better, and more productive of good results, and is rapidly superseding the oral method.

Schools Of To-Day

In the cliapters devoted to the different towns are given proper mention of the several graded schools. In this place we insert some of the more important general statistics of the county, as taken from the report of the superintendent of public instruction for 1884.

The average number of days of school is 172.5; average daily attendance, 3,895; per cent, of children of school age enrolled during the year, 71.4; per cent, of pupils enrolled during the year in daily attendance, 63; average number of days pupils were in graded schools, 129; in ungraded schools, 97; average for all the schools, 108; average monthly wages paid male teachgrs, $50.79; female teachers, $39.75; cost per pupil, on census of persons between the ages of six and twenty-one years, $6.67; on enrollment, $9.35; on average daily attendance, $14.87; cost per pupil for amount raised by local taxation, on census of persons between the ages of six and twenty-one years, $7.85; on enrollment, $11; on average daily attendance, $17.50; cost per pupil for total expenditures, on census of persons between the ages of six and twenty-one years, $9.31; on enrollment, $13.04; on average daily attendance, $20.79.

Total number of teachers employed, 171; males in graded schools, 10; in ungraded schools, 60; females in graded schools, 36; in ungraded schools, 65; average age of males in graded schools, 39.9; of females, 26.1; of males in ungraded schools, 27.1; of females, 23.7; whole number of minors, 14.

Average number of months taught by teachers in graded schools, 118 by males and 43 by females; in ungraded schools, 37 by males and 18 by females; number of teachers who have received instruction in public normal schools, 25.

Number of males unJer twenty-one years of age, 6,274; females, 6,022; total, 12.296; males between ages of six and twenty-one years, 4,263; females, 4,034; total, 8,297; male pupils enrolled in graded schools, 937; females, 1,103; male pupils enrolled in ungraded schools, 2,268; females, 1,917; total, 6,226.

Number of brick school-houses, 6; frame, 119; total number of echool-houses, 125; number built during year, 7; number of public high schools, 1; graded schools, 11; ungraded schools, 115; total number of schools, 126; average number of months of school, 8.33; number of male teachers in graded schools, 9; female teachers in graded schools, 35; male teachers in ungraded schools, 77; female teachers in ungraded schools, 96; total number of teachers, 217.

Highest monthly wages paid any male teacher, $120; female, $65; lowest paid any mile teacher, $30; female, $25; average monthly wages paid male teachers, $50.51; female, $37.85; number of districts having libraries, 6; number of private schools, 7; number of male pupils in private schools, 137; female, 222; total, 359; male teachers, 6; female, 1; total, 7.

Balance of distributable funds on hand July 1, 1882, $606.92; income of township fund during the year, $3,124.10; received from County Superintendent, $8,778.87; total receipts, $12,509.89; distributed to districts, $9,590.23; other expenses, $1,659.58; balance on hand July 1, 1883; $1,261.30; amount paid to male teachers in graded schools, $5,490.38; in ungraded schools, $21,- 368.96; female teachers in graded schools, $12,982.56; in ungraded schools, $18,169.60; whole amount paid teachers, $58,- 011.50; paid for new school-houses built and purchased, $3,946.24; paid for school sites, $251.98; paid for repairs and improvements, $4,246.44; paid for school furniture, $1,246.16; paid for school apparatus, $387.45; paid for books for poor children, $61.25; paid for fuel and other incidental expenses, $7,562.10; paid clerks of district boards, $221.20; interest paid on district bonds, $2,597.57; paid on principal of district bonds, $1,755; total expenditures, $81,030.34; amount of loans of district funds, $3,000; balance on hand, June 30, 1883, $17,448.45; amount of district tax levy for support of district schools, $67,380.06; estimated value of school property, $203,395; estimated value of school libraries, $210; estimated value of school apparatus, $2,106; amount of bonded school debt, $34,485.

We owe "our present free-school system, of which we are justly proud, in no small degree to the influence of the teachers' institutes and associations held in the State, the first of which, called the "Illinois Institute of Education," met at Vandalia in 1833.

Our school system is, in fact, the product of the meetings of these organizations. Of course, the discussions and exercises of these educational gatlierings were at first general in their character; and this is to some extent true of the State Association yet; but county teachers' institutes have a specific purpose - the better fitting of teachers for the scliool-room.

Nothing helps more than a good institute to give teachers a proper appreciation of the responsibilities which rest upon them; nothing does more to give them an enthusiasm for their work, a love for it, and an earnest desire to find out and use diligently the very best methods for instructing children. Indeed, as a rule, those teachers who attend institutes are the ones who become most faithful, diligent and eflScient in the school-room. Mingling with those engaged in the same calling, they receive their sympathies, and the benefit of their experience. They learn, perhaps, to think better of their profession than ever before; come to appreciate fully the noBleness there is in it; and when they go back to their school-room again it is with a determination to be successful in the truest sense, however much labor it may cost them.

An institute is in some sense a short term of school, in which a few points in the copimon branches, such as are not usually well uaderstood or well taught by teachers, are seized upon and presented by competent instructors. The best methods, not those which are simply new, but methods which have been proven by actual trial in the school-room, whether new or old, to be the best, are the ones aimed to be insisted upon by those who conduct exercises in the institute. Greater accuracy and thoroughness in the teaching of the common branches is evidently needed in many of our schools now; and the institute is an important means for the attainment of this end. It is well, as is often done, to introduce a few general exercises, such as the reading of essays and the delivering of short orations, so that general intellectual culture may be encouraged ; for teachers ought not to be one-sided men and women. So much importance is attached to teachers' institutes by our best educators that in several cities teachers are compelled by the school regulations to attend the city institute. In Chicago teachers must attend or forfeit their wages. "" feetod until 1862. June 21 of that year a number of school officers and teachers of the county met at the court-house in Lincoln. For temporary organization, W. H. Bennetwas elected President; John A. Smallwood and 0. M. Grapes, Yice-Presidents; John Blain, Recording Secretary; and George W. Dominique, Corresponding Secretary. Mr. Beidler, School Commisaioner of the county, stated the object of the meeting to be a permanent organization of school officers and teachers for the general advancement of the educational interests of the county. Committees were appointed on permanent organization, constitution and by-laws, and programme, and a number of topics were introduced and discussed. The meeting then adjourned till July 18. On that date was formed, a constitution and by-laws adopted, and the following officers chosen : President, A. Johnson; Yice-Presidents, A. M. Miller and D. Vanhise; Recording Secretary, C. H. Miller; Executive Committee, C. M. Grapes, "W". G. Starkey and J. C. Halina. A few meetings were held, of one and two days each, and then the organization was dropped.

First Semi-Anndal Institute

No more teachers' institutes were held in Logan County until 1867, when County Superintendent J. G. Chalfant issued a call to the teachers interested in the progress of education to meet at Lincoln, April 3. The sessions were held in the high school building, and were attended by a moderate number of teachers and a goodly number of spectators. J. G. Chalfant presided, and prior to permanent organization B. F. January was chosen secretary pro tern. The following committees were appointed: On reception, B. F. January, J. G. Chalfant, W. G. Starkey, Miss Jennie Wheelock and Miss Ada Secompt; on constitution and by-laws, B. F. January, J. F. McGaw and S. G. Benedict; on finance, J. G. Chalfant, G. F. Carl and George Colvin; on general arrangements, A. S. Guthrie, G. F. Garland B. F. January: executive, Miss Wakefield, Miss Mollie Morris, A. S. Guthrie, S. G. Benedict and J. F. McGaw. After an address by a Mr. Rolfe, of Chicago, the institute proceeded with a programme of exercises which was briefly as follows : - and object teaching, by A. S. Guthrie. 4. Exercises in practical arithmetic, by George F. Golvin, of Atlanta, and Prof. McGlumphy, of Lincoln University. 5. Exercises in English grammar an elocution, by B. F. January, of Lincoln. 6. Exercises in modern geography, by Miss M. A. Eastman, of Atlanta, and Miss D. Wheelock, of Lincoln. 7. Exercises in history, by J. F. McGaw, of Mansfield, Ohio.

The evenings were occupied by able addresses from Prof. Mc- Glumphy, Ron. ITewton Biteman, State Superintendent of Public Instructions, J. G. Chalfdntand Prof. McGaw. At the close of the institute a constitution and by-laws were adopted, a permanent organization perfected, and the next meeting was appointed for Saptember of the same year. President Chalfant appointed a vice-president from each township in the county, as follows: -(Etna, G. W. Pleasant; Atlanta, Dr. J. B. Tenney; Broadwell, Theodoric G. Keller; East Lincoln, Andrew McGalliard; Elkhart, Dr. Charles Orendorff; Eminence, Lieutenant John Beezley; Hurlbut, William N. Bjck; Laeana, R. D. Clark; Lake Fork, Henry A. Williams; Middletown, William McMasters; Madison^ Jeremiah Mathes; Gran, J. B. Curry; Orvil, M. A. Miles; Mt. Pulaski, W. P. Leatliers; Prairie Creek, Nelson Chesnut; Sheridan, Joseph Coflfman; West Lincoln, W. A. K. Oowdrey.

Second Institute

The meeting held during the week commencing September 3, 1 867, was called the second semi-annual institute. J. G. Chalfant presided. The first exercise was in reading and elocution, conducted by B. F. January. Prof. Richards, of Lincoln University, lectured in the evening of the first day. On the second day Mr. January conducted work in mental arithmetic and Dr. -A. M. Miller lectured upon physiology. The question of teaching penmanship was then earnestly debated by a number of the teachers. In the evening Prof. Edwards, of the Normal University, lectured. On the third day the question was discussed of teaching vocal music with the branches of a common-school education. Exercises in arithmetic were led by Prof. McGaw, E. Lynch and others, and in English grammar by Mr. January, and in the evening Prof. McGaw lectured upon astronomy. The same instructor gave illustrations of object-lesson work the next day, and he was followed by a number of speeches in regard to text books. After an animated discussion of some two or three hours the following text books were adopted for uniform use throughout the county ; Wilson's spellers, readers and charts ; Spencer's system of penmanship ; Eay's series of arthmetios (second part excepted, and Stoddard's substituted); Monteith'sandMcNally's system of geography, and Mitchell's maps ; Greene's grammar ; Quackenbos' history. In the evening Prof. McGlumphy lectured. On the fifth and last day exercises in history were conducted by S. G. Benedict, arrangements were made for the next session of the institute, and the meeting closed.

Third Institute

The next meeting began April 6, 1868, at Elkhart, with a lecture on orthography by Prof. McGaw. J. G. Chalfant lectured the first evening on the subject of American literature. This discourse was eloquent, patriotic and instructive. The following day Prof. Mitchell, of Springfield, lectured on penmanship, giving practical illustrations, and was followed by F. M. Jordan, of Broadwell, in an exercise in mental arithmetic. In the afternoon J. B. Ourry conducted an exercise in reading, followed by a lecture upon the same subject by S. S. Haraill, the well-known elocutionist. In the evening R. H. McOord lectured upon the subject of teachers' institutes, and B. F. January upon schools and school government. Prof. Thomas Metcalf, of the State Normal University, lectured upon practical arithmetic during the third day, and Miss L. H. Kanaga, of Elkhart, read an essay. The exercises of the fourth day were : First, a lengthy and important discussion upon the best method of teaching United States history in our public schools, resulting in the adoption of the topic method ; second, a lecture ou modern geography, by J. C. Scullin, of Atlanta ; and, third, an evening lecture, by Prof. McGaw, entitled, " The earth as it was and as it is." The work of the fifth.day consisted of an interesting and practical lecture on English grammar by Kev. W. R. Goodwin, a lecture on physical geography by Prof. McGaw, and short addresses upon school government.

Fourth Institute

The fourth session was held in the Christian church at Atlanta during the week beginning August 24, 1868. The exercises on the regular programme were: Yocal analysis, by Prof. McGaw; history, by B. F. Conner ; intellectual arithmetic, by J. W". Monser and W. C. Howard ; geography, by William C. McMasters ; object teaching by K. H. McOord and Prof. McGaw ; practical arithmetic, by J. C. Scallin ; English grammar, by W. R Goodwin ; reading and elocution, by J. B. Carry ; and physical geography, by Prof. J. F. McGaw. Essays were read by Miss Amanda S. Thomas, of Atlanta, and Miss M. S. Pegrarn, of Lincoln. In the evenings J. 0. Scullin gave a pointed lecture upon the " Worth of Manhood ;" M. D. Bevan, of Atlanta, spoke eloquently of Oliver Cromwell ; J. W. Monser read a poem ; Eev. W. R. Goodwin discoursed upon the " Live Teacher ;" and J. G. Ohalfant gave a careful address upon the subject of "Popular Education and the Duties of Teachers and Parents in Relation Thereto."

Fifth Institute

was held in the Cumberland Presbyterian church at Lincoln, and commenced March 29, 1869, J. G. Chalfant again presiding, and delivering the opening address. An exercise was then conducted in geography by J. B. Curry, followed by a lively discussion on the part of Profs. McGlumphy and Harris, J. C. Scullin, W. C. McMasters and others. Prof. Scullin then led the institute in calisthenics. Miss Viola Emery read a graceful essay, and Prof. Hewett, of Formal University, lectured in the evening. On the remaining days the principal exercises were as follows : In written arithmetic, by Prof. Scullin ; mental arithmetic, by Prof. Hewett ; object teaching, by Prof. McGlumphy ; English grammar, by Prof. J. C. Scnllin and Alexander Peabody ; elocution and reading, by Eev. George W. Minier ; physical geography, by Prof. McGaw ; orthography, by J. S. Wren, Prof. McGaw and Rev. W. E. Goodwin ; United States history, by S. G. Benedict and W. C. McMasters; physiology, by Prof. Scallin. Essays were read by Miss Anne Tibbets, Miss A. A. Ingols, Miss Carrie Prince and Miss Nellie Wakefield, all of Lincoln, and Miss M. B. McOrea, of A.tlanta. The evening addresses wera by Prof. McGlumphy, George W. Minier, and the prominent educator. Dr. J. M. Gregory, then regent of the Illinois Industrial University. On the morning of the fifth day the members of the institute visited Lincoln University in a body. The institute closed with a sociable, which was a most pleasant affair. Speeches were made by Judge Parks, Rev. W. R. Goodwin, Prof. Scullin and Prof. McGaw. J. S. Wren was chosen secretary, and Miss Nellie Wakefield, treasurer for the ensuing year.

Sixth Institute

The next institnte in the public scliool building at Mt. Pulaski occupied the five days beginning August 31, 1869, and was presided over by Mr. Chalfant. A feature of this meeting was the appointment at the beginning of each half day's session of two critics. The work of instruction was divided as follows: B. F. Conner, orthography; L. T. Eegan, United States history and geography; Dr. 0. A. Holbrook, physiology; Dr. M. Wemple, reading and elocution, and physiology and hygiene; Prof. J. C. Scullin, English grammar; S. Qt. Benedict, written arithmetic; W. 0. McMasters, reading and intellectual arithmetic. Ou Thursday Miss Sallie Towner, of Broadwell, read an essay upon the "Past, Present and Future of Free Schools." The evenings were occupied bj lectures, as usual. J. C. Scullin delivered the first. Kev. W. R. Goodwin gave the second, on " Hobbies," which was amusing as well as instructive. The lecture on Wednesday evening was by J. G. Chalfant, and was pronounced one of his best efibrts. A vote of thanks was tendered him. Thursday evening Prof. McGlumphy discoursed upon the " Free School System of Illinois," gave a lengthy review of the duties and responsibilities of school oifieers, and paid a high compliment to County Superintendent Chalfant for the earnestness, zeal and eflSciency with which he had promoted the cause of popular education in Logan County. The institute closed with an interesting discussion upon "School Government," by Messrs. Conner, W. P. Jones, Howe, Kent, Benedict, J. S. Wren, Regan, Peabody, Scullin and Matchett. J. S. Wren resigned as secretary of the institute, and his place was filled by the election of F. L. Matchett.

The seventh semi-annual institute convened in Atlanta, at Good Templars' Hall, on Monday, March 28, 1870. The first part of the afternoon was spent in organization. B. F. Conner conducted the only exercise of the day, in intellectual arithmetic. In the evening the hall was filled to overflowing to listen to a lecture by Dr. Newton Bateman, which was pronounced by the audience to have been the ablest ever delivered in Logan County upon the subject of education. The school-room exercises of the remaining days of the session were conducted by the following instructors: W. C. McMasters, orthography; D. W. Carl, fractions; G. F. Mc- Allister, longitude and time, also gymnastics; E. A. Leeper, elo- cutioii; O. Scott, arithmetic; Mr. Montgomery, physiology; J. B. Cnrry, grammar; President Edwards, of Normal, vocal analysis and reading; A. H. Hinman, Spencerian penmanship.

Mrs. Jennie Goodsell read an essay on " Growth and Culture," winning a vote of thanks from the institute. J. Wood Miller delivered an address upon "The Orator, the Architect of Society," which was instructive and full of high moral sentiment. E. A. Leeper read a paper entitled, "Some Hints on Mental Discipline." J. R. Curry spoke at length in favor of abolishing corporal punishment, but tlie institute voted that teachers should be wise in the use of corporal punishment, but that it should not be abolished. Miss Lizzie Splaln read a pleasing essay on " High Aims." J. T. Galford read a paper on "Moral Education," claiming that the Bible and the true teacher go together. An instructive hour to the teachers was one which was occupied by President Edwards in answering queries.

The evenings were occupied by special lectures. Dr. Bateman was the first, as before stated. Prof. Harris, of Lincoln University, addressed a large audience on "The True Christian Teacher." County Superintendent L. T. Regan lectured on the " Object of Education and the Means to be Employed." B. F. Conner took the next evening, his topic being " The Secrets of Success." Friday evening eighty-five teachers assembled, and the church was filled to its utmost capacity to hear Dr. Edwards.

" That we do hereby pledge ourselves as teachers to use our influence toward the universal adoption of the Spencerian system of penmanship throughout Logan County, and that if not qualified to teach this system that we will so qualify ourselves that we can do so at as early a date as possible; and that our object in so doing is to prevent the changes of styles of writing with every change of teachers in our schools."

Eighth Institute

1870, at the Baptist church in Lincoln, and was presided over by President L. T. Regan. The officers elected for the ensuing year were: Vice-President, A. Peabody, of Sheridan; Recording Secretary, J. F. Hyde, of Lincoln; Corresponding Secretary, J. I. Houts, of Lincoln; Treasurer, J. S. Wren, of Lincoln; Executive Committee. J. S. Galford, of Broad well; D. J. Carne.^, of Mt. Pulaski; G. F. McAllister, of Eminence; Miss B. Wakefield, of Atlanta, and Mrs. F. St. Clair, of Chester.

Prof. E. C. Hewitt, of Normal University, conducted two exercises in geography during the morning session on Tuesday, and also two in United States history in the afternoon of the same day. Prof. L Wilkinson, Superintendent of Lincoln City schools, illustrated the principles of English grammar on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Miss S. Vaughn, of the city schools, gave a series of interesting exercises with a primary class in reading, phonic analysis and object lessons, on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. J. C. Scullin, of Mt. Pulaski, conducted an exercise in fractions on Monday, and in reading and algebra on Friday. On Thursday George J. Turner, of Atlanta, illustrated the principles of arithmetic and natural philosophy. Other exercises were conducted by A. Peabody in the elements of English grammar, W. D. Eutledge in penmanship, W. C. McMasters in reading. Prof. McOlumphy, of Lincoln University, on "algebraic formulas as applied to square and cube roots," and Prof. O. Blackman, teacher of music in the public schools of Chicago, music.

The following essays and papers were read during the week: Miss B. Wakefield, "Cherish Humanity's Best;" L. T. Regan, "Gleanings from Ancient History;" Miss S. C. Vaughn, "Object Teaching;" R. W. Lawrence, "Utility of Education;" W. C. Howard, "Mathematics an Educational Agent;" W. C. Mc- Masters, "Facts of Physical Geography and their Influence;" George F. McAllister, "Teachers' Institutes."

The evening sessions were well attended by the citizens, who were highly entertained by lectures from Prof. S. M. Etter, Superintendent of City Schools of Bloomington, on "Teachers' Missions;" Prof. E. C. Hewitt, of Normal University, "Outside and Inside; "Prof. McGlumphy, of Lincoln University, " The Art of Teaching;" Rev. J. K. McLean, of Springfield, "Climate of the School-room;" Prof. I. Wilkinson, " Probability of the Planets being Inhabited."

that had accumulated on the preceding days. The institute was appointed for an annual occurrence for the future, instead of semiannual, and Lincoln was chosen as the place for the next session. There were 107 members in attendance on this occasion, 28 of whom now signed the constitution.

Ninth Institute

County Superintendent L. T. Regan presided over the session held October 16-20, 1871, in the Baptist church at Lincoln. For permanent organization, George F. McAllister was elected Vice- President; E. G. Hudson, Recording Secretary; S. P. Beers, Corresponding Secretary; and D. C. Hicks, Treasurer. The instructors of the week and their respective topics, were:

Prof. A. J. McG-lumphy, object teaching as applied to geography and arithmetic; Prof. Hewitt, of Normal, arithmetic, spelling, geography, and the theory and art of teaching; Prof. S. S. Hamill, of Wesleyan University, elocution; Prof. H. L. Boltwood (principal of the Princeton High School, and author of Boltwood's grammar), grammar. Prof. Hewitt gave almost his whole time for three days.

No essays or papers were read, but as a change from the customary routine a number of discussions were held. " Importance of mental arithmetic, and how to teach it, " was discussed by Messrs. Wegener, McAllister, D. J. Carnes, McFarlane, James, Hewitt, Regan and Tabor. "How shall we teach the alphabet to children?" was participated in by Messrs. J. S. Wren, E. J. Carnes, W. C. McMasters and M. N. Wren. " Resolved, That every teacher should take an educational journal," was discussed by Messrs. Holbrook, McMasters, Frost and Hewitt, and Miss Mattie A.Richards. "How shall we teach spelling?" brought out Miss Richards and Messrs. Kent, Wren and Wagoner. "Are teachers' institutes beneficial to the country school teacher?" interested Misses Minier and Richards, and Messrs. James, McMasters, Denny, Frost, J. S. Wren, McAllister, Ambrose and Lawrence.

Dr. Newton Bateman spoke on Monday evening at the church on " Higher Education." Dr. J. C. Bowdoin, President of Lincoln University, spoke at the Cumberland Presbyterian church Tuesday night on " The Teacher Considered in View of the Difficulties of his Work." Wednesday evening Prof. S. S. Hamill gave an entertainment consisting of selected readings, at the Baptist church. The evening lecture on Thursday was given by Prof. I.Wilkinson,

Superintendent of the Lincoln City schools, on various educational topics. On the last evening, at the Cumberland Presbyterian church, Presideut R. Edwards discussed "Causes of Failure among Teachers."

First Annual Institute

In 1872 a four-weeks session was lield, convening July 15, and adjourned August 9. The officers elected were : Vice-President, Miss M. A. Richards ; Secretary, R. Brooks Forrest ; Corresponding Secretary, Miss Emina Mayheld ; Treasurer, E. G. Hudson. Superintendent Regan was ex-officio President and Conductor of the institute. Sixty-five members were 'enrolled. Daily instruction was given as follows :

Botany and vocal analysis, Superintendent L. T. Regan; zoology and theory and art of teaching. Prof. I. "Wilkinson; arithmetic and grammar, Prof. A. J. McGlumphy; natural philosophy, Prof. D. M. Harris. Definite lessons were assigned, and every member of the school was requested to recite regularly on each subject. A correct standing of the work done by each was kept, as was also a record of attendance. On the closing of the institute an executive committee, consisting of A. M. Scott, T. P. Longan, W. H. Derby, Emily F. Hughes and Hettie O. Shrock, was appointed to act during the coming year.

The Board of Supervisors having failed to make an appropriation to bear the expenses of the institute, the professors imparting instruction received no remuneration. The teachers, feeling that they could not separate from the earnest men who had sacrificed their summer vacation without expressing to them their high estimation of their services rendered, determined to make each of the instructors a valuable present. Accordingly, at the sociable which closed the institute. Profs. Wilkinson and Regan were each given a fine silver pitcher, and Profs. McGlumphy and Harris beautiful silver cake baskets.

Second Annual Institute

Another four-weeks session was held in 1873, beginning July 14. Fifty-eight teachers attended. Superintendent Ragan conducted the exercises in botany and vocal analysis ; Prof. D. H.

Third And Fourth Annual Institute

A twenty-days institute was held in the summer of 1874, but the details are not recorded. Likewise one in 1876. These sessions were of the nature of a normal school.

Fifth Annual Institute

In 1876 about eighty teachers attended a session beginning July 17 and closing August 11. Prof. George Turner, of Atlanta, a gentleman of experience and scholarship, had charge of all the classes during the first two weeks. In addition to the regular institute work, the executive committee made arraugements for a course of educational lectures, the first of which was delivered by Dr. Sewell, of Normal, at the Cumberland Presbyterian church; the second, at thej same place, by President Adams, of Illinois "Wesleyan University, on " The Responsibility of the Teacher;" and the third, by S. M. Etter. Prof. Turner being incapacitated by illness from going through with the work, his place was filled, the latter part of the term, by J. Chalfant, in physical geography and grammar ; C. L. Hatfield, philosophy, zoology, arithmetic and botany; John R. Barnett, in reading, orthography, physiology and tr. S. History. The officers of the institute were : J. C. Chalfant, Superintendent and Treasurer ; George H. Cox, Secretary ; Rev. John R. Curry, Chaplain ; John R. Barnett, Lizzie Splain and Mattie Bobbitt, Executive Committee.

Sixth Annual Institute

In the summer of 1877 the Logan County Teachers' Institute met in joint session with the Lincoln University Normal Institute, July 16 to August 10. The sessions were held in the chapel of the University. The following were the officers : J. G. Chalfant, President ; A. R. Taylor, Vice-President ; John R. Barnett, Secretary; H. F. Reed, Assistant Secretary; H. G. Bergen, Treasurer. The instructors of the institute were Profs. Taylor, McCord and Turner. Prof. S. S. Hamill, the elocutionist, was also engaged to give instruction in reading and elocution. Dr. George J. Turner delivered a public lecture ou one evening, on " The Means of Success." Prof. Hamill gave two public readings, and Dr. J. M. Gregorj', President of the Illinois Industrial University, gave the closing lecture.

Seventh Annual Institute

In 1878 only a two-weeks session was held, beginning July 22 and ending August 2. County Superintendent Derby presided, and was assisted by Profs. A. R. Taylor and D. M. Harris. About thirty teachers attended. The afternoon of Friday, the last day, was devoted to the relation of experience. S. M. Guttery, of Lincoln, offered practical and suggestive thoughts on the manner of conducting recitations. Mr. Guttery is an energetic, wide-awake teacher, and has since been chosen County Superintendent. M. B. Eansdell, Assistant Principal of the Atlanta High School, delivered a most excellent lecture on school government and the mode of securing it. Short and interesting speeches were made by Messrs. West, Campbell, Cox, Rooney, Lowe, Starkey and Glessner, Misses Roach, Seick and others, after which Superintendent Derby gave a few words of parting advice and appointed the following persons an executive committee for the ensuing year: George H. Cox, M. B. Ransdell, J. G. Kolan, Louise Roach and Florence Verbrycke. The session, which was held at the University building, was closed with a sociable at Amasagacian Hall.

Eighth Annual Institute

A two-weeks session was held in 1879, from August 4 to Au gust 15. Superintendent Derby acted as President; I. N. Ewing, Vice-President; Miss Alma Braucher, Secretary; and S. M. Guttery, Treasurer. About forty teachers attended. The principal instructor was Prof. A. R. Taylor. The institute closed with a social at Amasagacian Hall, which was attended by some fifty couples. Prof. Taylor was presented with a large and finely illustrated copy of " The Gallery of Great Composers." It was decided to hold a township institute in each township at some time within the next year.

Ninth Annual Institute

But one week was given to the institute in 1880, which began on the 9th of August and closed on the 13th. Most of the townships had held institutes during the preceding year, and several had held monthly or bi-monthly meetings. Over the annual county institute County Superintendent W. H. Derby presided again. P. H. Quaid was chosen Secretary and Miss Lois Dwyer, Treasurer. Prof. A. R. Taylor acted as instructor. Only about thirty-five teachers attended. The week closed with a lecture by Prof. John W. Cook, of Normal. The executive committee for the succeeding year included Misses Lois Dyer and Lydia H. Porter, and Messrs. John S. Wren, R. B. Lorimer and J. S. Cole.

Tenth Annual Institute

A magnificent two-weeks programme was arranged for 1881, but at the close of the first week the institute adjourned, on account of the extreme heat of the weather and small attendance of teachers. The session began August 8, and was in charge of Superintendent Derby and Prof. Taylor.

Eleventh Annual Institute

The teachers met for one week, or five days, on Monday, August 20, 1882. There was a good attendance and a profitable session. Each evening a meeting of a literary nature was held which was entertaining and instructive. State Superintendent James P. Slade lectured one evening. The conductors of the different classes were: George "W. Reeder, J. S. Wren, J. L. Ring, J. J. Armstrong, C. H. Dixon, George W. Walker, J. B. Curry, A. R. Museller, T. W. Butcher, William C. McMasters, B. F. Simpson, W. B. Miller, T. G. Seely, W. H. Derby, W. B. Lloyd, and John Blain. Ttie association was reorganized under the name of and it was agreed to hold, besides the regular annual session in August, meetings on the last Saturdays of Novetaber, February and May. The officers chosen were: President ex-officio, County Superintendent Guttery; Vice-Presidents, W. B. Lloyd and T. G. Seely; Recording Secretary, Miss Lizzie Anderson; Treasurer, G.

First Meeting

Various topics were discussed, according to a previously advertised programme, and among them the advisability of organizing township institutes and delivering educational lectures. On motion, the County Superintendent appointed a teacher in each township to effect such organization.

One-day sessions were held according to appointment, in November, 1882, and February and May, 1883. Monday, August 20, 1883, the teachers met for another week's session, at the Christian church, at Lincoln. Superintendent Guttery acted as chairman and D. E. Ambrose as secretary. The topics were assigned as follows: Reading, Superintendent Guttery; arithmetical analysis, W. C. Holman ; geography and map drawing, Miss Carrie Wren and J. S. Cole; grammar, the participle and the infinitive, T. G. Seely; object lessons, C. E. Selby; preparation for recitation, Dr. A. J. McGlumphy. A number of interesting discussions took place, among them being: "Teachers' help," introduced by MN. Wren; "Literary exercises," Joseph Barry; "A course of study, and how to establish it," D. E. Ambrose and J. S. Cole; "How to secure good lessons," W. H. Emmons, T. G. Seely, and J. B. Curry; " Monthly examinations," W. S. Welch, A. R. Museller, J. S. Cole and J. S. Wren; "Teachers' qualifications, W. C. Holman, W. C. McMasters and others; " Examination fees," J. B. Curry, J. S. Wren, W. C. McMasters, William King, Superintendent Guttery and others; " Manner of conducting recitations," A. R. Museller and others. The most important subject before the institute was the adoption of a uniform course of study, which was effected. It was deemed desirable to adopt a sytem of grades and examinations, and a committee was appointed to report a plan at the November meeting. A committee was also chosen to report upon the advisability of establishing a Logan County school journal.

The township institute idea not having proved an unqualified success, it was modified at tliis session by dividing the county into eight districts, for holding local instiiutes. The districts were made by grouping the townsliips as follows: Oran and ^tna; Laenna and Lake Fork; Atlanta, Eminence and East Lincoln; Mt. Pulaski and Chester; Orvil and Prairie Creek; Sheridan and West Lincoln; Corwin and Broadwell; Hurlbut and Cornland. About sixty-five teacliers were enrolled this session. Two evenings were devoted to social enjoyment.

The annual session this year was from the 18th to the 22d of August, and was conducted by Prof. O. F. McKim, of La Harpe, Illinois, and Superintendent Glittery. In all, 108 teachers attended. The daily programme was about as follows: Opening exercises and roll-call; theory and practice in teaching spelling and reading; recess; theory and practice in teaching language and grammar; noon intermission; theory and practice in teaching geography and history; recess; theory and practice in teaching arithmetic and in school management. Evening sessions were held. Wednesday evening a literary entertainment was given, consisting of music and recitations.

Prof. W. B. Powell, of Aurora, was present and gave some instructive talks. Thursday evening William Hawley Smith, of the Peoria Call, gave an address of high character on "What to read, and how to read it."

Friday was set apart as " Directors' Day, and the following topics were discussed: "Systematizing the work in our pnbHc schools;" "Monthly examinations and reports to parents;" "Sanitary regulations and school supplies;" " Yentilation of schoolrooms;" "Duties of teachers and school directors."

In 1885 a four-weeks normal institute was held at the University, beginning July 27. It opened with a good attendance in spite of very hot weather, and was presided over by Superintendent S. M. Gruttery. W. L. Pillsbury delivered a good lecture at the Baptist church on the opening evening, on " How to teach." The work of the institute was conducted by Superintendent Glittery and Professors B. F. McCord and I. H. Brown. Two musical and literary entertainments and three sociables were given, relieving the routine of the work.

District No. 1, Atlanta, Eminence and East Lincoln, J. B. Curry, chairman. First meeting to be held at Walnut Row school, Saturday, September 19.

District No. 7, Laenna, Lake Fork, Chester and Mt. Pulaski townships, E. B. Hart, chairman. First meeting in Mt. Pulaski, Saturday, September 19.

Lincoln University

This institution of learning, located in the city of Lincoln, in the State of Illinois, was incorporated by an act of the General Assembly of said State, approved on the 6th day of February, 1865. The building is a massive structure of stone and brick, four stories in height, situated near the center of a beautiful campus of ten acres. It is under the control of five synods of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, to wit: The synod of Indiana, located in the State of Indiana: the synod ol Iowa, located in the State of Iowa; and the synods respectively of Illinois, Central Illinois and Sangamon, located in the State of Illinois. The authority of said synods in the management of the aifairs of the University is delegated to fifteen trustees, each of which appoints three.

The University was intended to be, and is, the principal institution of learning of that denomination of Christians in those three States, known at the time of its establishment as the "Great Northwest." In order to meet the wants of that entire section of country, in all of its phases, the co-educational plan of teaching was adopted and has been strictly adhered to. Young men and women are grouped together in the same classes, study the same lessons and recite together. What has been regarded as evils connected with the co-education of the sexes have not appeared in Lincoln University.

The University was formally opened on the first Monday of November, 1866, with Rev. Azel Freeman, D. D., President; Rev. A. J. McGlumphy and Joseph F. Latimer, professors.

Rev. A. J. McGlumphy, D. D., President, and Professor of Mental and Moral Philosophy; Rev. B. F. McCord, A. -M., Professor of Mathematics; Theodore Brantly, A. M., Professor of Latin and Greek; A. E. Turner, A. M., Professor of Natural Sci- ences; Charles Eckhardt, M. M., Director of Conservatory of Music; Wm. E. Whetsler, Principal of Commercial Department. All are thoroughly educated and thorough teachers. Dr. McGlnmphy has been a member of the faculty continuously from the time its work commenced, and president since June, 1873; Professor Mc- Cord's work was commenced in 1873; though Professors Brantly and Turner have not long been connected with the institution none better qualified or more competent as teachers have ever tilled the positions which they respectively occupy ; Dr. Freeman, who was a very learned and profound man, resigned the presidency in 1870, and was succeeded by Kev. J. C. Bowdoin, D. D., an excellent man for the position, who, in 1873, in consequence of ill health, relinquished his work and soon after died; Eev. S. Eichards, D. D., was a member of the faculty after the first year until June, 1873, a portion of the time as professor of languages and the remainder as professor of systematic theology in the theological department; Eev. D. M. Harris, D. D., now one of the editors of the Cumlerland Presbyterian, became a member of the faculty in 1868, which position he held, except one year, until June, 1883, as professor, first, of natural sciences, and after 1873, of languages; A. R. Taylor, now president of the State Normal School of Kansas, was professor of natural sciences from 1872 to 1882. Other persons have been members of the faculty for brief periods in the department of natural sciences: Professor O. A. Keach, one year; Professor Charles E. Krane, a little less than two years; and Eev. J. "W. David, who, after a few weeks' service, found it necessary to resign in consequence of feeble health.

It has been the policy of the Board of Trustees to provide the means of acquiring a thorough education. The curriculum embraces courses of study as thorough as is required in the best institutions of the country, and graduates have been required to complete the courses prescribed. Nor have they been negligent in affording facilities for education in music, drawing and painting. The Conservatory of Music, which for nine years was under the direction of Professor F. H. Zimmerman and now of his successor, Charles Eckhardt, is not inferior to the best conservatories of the country. Few, if any, better commercial schools exist than that now connected with the University.

Prior to the year 1861, Cumberland University, located at Lebanon, Tennessee, was the principal institution of learning controlled by the Cumberland Presbyterians in the United States. It sue- cumbed to the influence of the war which waged in that State from 1861 to 1865. A portion oF its buildings were destroyed. It seemed very improbable that it would ever be resuscitated or the buildings replaced. Or, should either or both be done, that it would as a school ever regain its popularity was equally improbable. At that time the Cumberland Presbyterian church had no schools in either of the States of Indiana, Illinois or Iowa; at least none of commanding influence. The ministers and others connected with that denomination saw, as they believed, the necessity of establishing not a sectarian but a denominational school in the then Northwest.

The first movement in that direction was made in the synod of Indiana in either 1862 or 1863, by Kev. Elim McCord, an aged and talented minister who urged the necessity of establishing a college or university to be under the control of the five synods before mentioned. Thus the matter was given definite shape. The other four synods, on invitation, co-operated with that of Indiana and the result was the founding and building up of Lincoln University.

The granting of the charter was but the beginning. Funds had to be provided to pay for the erection of, the building and for a permanent endowment. The ministers who were the members of those synods co-operated in that branch of the work and gave lavishly of their time and means, among whom should be specially mentioned Eevs. Elim McCord, James Ritchey, Azel Freeman, D. D., "W. T. Ferguson, James White, J. B. Logan, D. D., James M. Miller, J. R. Brown, D. D., J. R. Lowrance, J. A. Chase and J. E. Roach. To these we may add that Dr. McGlumphy, in the spring of 1883, by a special effort to increase the endowment fund, secured more than $30,000. Citizens of Lincoln and Logan County, owners of property and business men, without regard to their church affiliations, have been liberal in donating money and property to the University and otherwise assisting in placing it on a substantial basis. Among them we may mention Geo. H. Campbell, John Howser, Geo. W. Edgar, R. B. Latham, Colbey Knapp, John Wyatt, A. Mayfield, Frank Froser, Joshua Howser, James Coddington, Jno. D. Gillett, Erastus Wright, J. S. Randolph, S. A. Foley, Hon. I. T. Foster, A. J. McGJumphy, D. D., B. F. Mc- Cord, Rev. J. M. Hubbert, Luther Jenisen, John Happerly, F. Altman, E. JSf. Davis, Jno. Evans, J. J. Friend, M. Grieshara, Gillespie &Co., David Gilchrist, Robert Gilchrist, Wm. R. Gilchrist,

Mrs. Emma K. Good, Mrs. E. R. Harrington, C. J. Head, Frank Hatton, G. I. Harry, Wm. Hungerford, Levi Hatton, Geo. W. James, Frank Klatt, C. M. Knapp, R. N. Lawrence, J. A. Lutz, Jacob Mundy, T. Newkirk, H. Patterson, John Scully, Mrs. L. M. Switzer, S. Stern, W. M. Dustin, J. M. Starkey, B. H. Brainerd and Daniel P. Bryan (now deceased), the latter having donated his entire estate and founded a professorship. Other devoted friends of the enterprise residing in Logan County and elsewhere have also been liberal in their donations to the University. Donations of |5,000 each, to become available after the death of the respective donors, have been made by Thomas Burnett, Martha Beatty, Wm. Gait, J. R. Newman and J. T. Drennan.

The charter members of the Board of Trustees were: Rev. Elim McGord, R. B. Latham and John Howser, for Indiana Synod; Rev. David Lowry, Geo. W. Edgar and J. F. D. Elliott, for Iowa Synod; Rev. J. B. Logan, A. G. Boyd and James Coddington , for Central Illinois Synod; Rev. J. M. Miller, Rev. J. E. Roach and John Wyatt, for Illinois Synod; and Geo. H. Campbell, J. S. Metcalf and Abram Mayfield for Sangamon Synod.

The Trustees at this time are: Rev. W. T. Ferguson, Rev. Jas. Best and J. S. Randolph, for Indiana Synod; Hon. Wm. B. Jones, Rev. W. C. Bell and Rev. J. A. Chase, for Sangamon Synod; Hon. T. T. Beach, Hon. W. T. Moffitt and T. H. Perren for Central Illinois Synod; Geo. W. Edgar, Thos. Quisenberry and Rev. R. A. Ferguson, for Iowa Synod; and J. A. Hudson, Geo. I. Harry and Rev. T. H. Padgett, for Illinois Synod. Officers: J. A. Hudson, President; J. A. Chase, Yice-President; Wm. B. Jones, Treasurer; and W. C. Bell, Secretary.

The alumni of the institution, as well as those students who did not complete the regular courses, have, with very few exceptions, reached honorable and some high positions in the pulpit, at the bar, in the medical profession, as professors and teachers, editors, bankers, merchants, and in other branches of business.

The instruction received and lessons taught make the students not theorists only, but also practical business men and women, capable of maintaining honorable positions in the great congress of thinkers of the present age.