Freeborn County, Minnesota - Chapter 14: County Schools, 1911 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 14: County Schools

State and County School System - First Schools and First Districts in Freeborn County - State Aid - Equipment - Literary Societies - Meetings for Officers, Teachers and Pupils - Exhibits and Contests - Institutes and Summer Schools - Parochial Schools - Story of the Districts - Prepared with the Assistance of Professor Harold Dahlen.

However, at the formation of the Union, and later, when the federal government was established, there was no definite line of action as to public education, although at the same time that the Constitution was adopted the last session of the Continental Congress was being held in the city of New York, and the Ordi¬ nance of 1787 was passed, regulating the affairs pertaining to the Northwest territory, including that portion of Minnesota lying east of the Mississippi river. In this ordinance much attention was given to the question of providing a means of public educa¬ tion, by giving one section in each congressional township for educational purposes. Later, when the purchase of Louisiana was effected, and Minnesota sought admission into the Union, still further provision was made for education by giving two sections in each congressional township for such purposes. This gave impetus to the natural tendency toward educational mat¬ ters, and we find that one of the first efforts in the new settle¬ ments was to prepare to educate the children. The church and the school building, when not one and the same, were practically always found side by side. The hardy pioneers of the Great Northwest - of which Minnesota was a part - did not wait even for a territorial government, but set to work at once to establish schools. The first one in Minnesota, for the education of white children, was organized by Dr. Williamson, at the present site of the city of St. Paul. AATe are told that investigation demon¬ strated that there were about thirty-six children in the settle¬ ment who might attend a school. A log house, 10x12 feet, covered with bark and chinked with mud, previously used as a black¬ smith shop, was secured and converted into a schoolhouse, and taught by Miss Bishop. Here, then, while the United States troops were gaining such signal success in the war with Mexico, was begun the system of education which lias become one of the best in this great nation. In this same little schoolhouse, in November, 1849, was held a meeting for the purpose of estab¬ lishing a system of public education, based upon the congressional svt of March, 1849, establishing Minnesota territory. Alexander Ramsey, of Pennsylvania, when appointed governor, proceeded at once to assume the duties of his office. In his first message to the territorial legislature, in the fall of 1849, he emphasized the need of wise measures looking to the establishment of a system of public education in these words: "The subject of education, which has ever been esteemed of first importance in all new American communities, deserves, and, I doubt not, will receive your earliest and most devoted care. From the pressure of other and more immediate wants it is not to be expected that your school system should be very ample, yet it is desirable that what¬ ever is done should be of a character that will readily adapt itself to the growth and increase of the country, and not in future years require a violent change of system."

In response to this appeal for legislation in school matters, we find that a committee on education was appointed, and a very able report was made by the chairman, Hon. Martin McLeod. This report was formulated into an act relating to public schools in Minnesota, which act was passed on the last day of the session, November 1, 1849. It organized the territory into districts, of which the township was the unit, and provided that if-a township had within its limits five families it should be considered as one district, but if it contained ten families it should be divided into two districts. Tax levy was provided, and a system of manage¬ ment arranged. The first superintendent of common schools for the territory was Rev. E. D. Neill, who served till 1853. His salary was $100 a year.

I he first school instruction in Freeborn county was given in t he pioneer homes by mothers, who, though they had come to a new country, did not wish their children to grow up in ignorance. The public system in the county started in 1857.

The first schoolhouse in the county was erected in Shell Rock, and completed August 18, 1857. Emily Streeter was the first teacher employed in this district. During the following year another schoolhouse was erected in the county, making but two in 1858.

In 1857 the county commissioners organized 16 districts. District 1. organized April 6. included sections 33, 34, 35 and 28, also the southwest quarter of section 27, in township 103, range 19. now Moscow. District 2 was organized April 8, and embraced sections 19. 20, 29, 30. 31, and 32 in the township of Moscow. The boundaries of district 3 are not given in the records. District 4 was in Shell Rock township. District 5 was also in Shell Rock township. At the request of George P. Hoopes and others district 6 was set apart, embracing sections in Hayward and Albert Lea townships. District 7 was set apart in Bancroft township at the request of Alf. P. Swineford and others. The next district located was number 8, and this in the townships of Newry and Moscow. District 9 was created in September and was located in Bancroft township. District 10 was created in Moscow, October 5, as the result of a petition of J. M. Stage and others. District 11 was located in the townships of Bath and Geneva. District 12 was located in Moscow township, October 7. District 13 was organ¬ ized in Freeborn township at the request of John W. Ayers and others. On November 16, district 14 was created in the township of Oakland. District 15 was organized September 9, and included a part of Albert Lea, Bancroft and Manchester townships. District 16 was created September 9 and included sections of Carlston and Freeborn townships.

In 1858, sixteen districts were organized by the board of county commissioners. District 17 was created in February and comprised about two-thirds of the township of Bancroft. In April, eight school districts were authorized. District 18 was located in Manchester and Carlston townships. District 19 was established in Pickerel Lake and Nunda townships. District 20 was organized in the townships of Nunda and Freeman. District 21 was located in Nunda. District 22 was created in Bancroft township. District 23 was the south half of Shell Rock township, and district 24 in Riceland and Bancroft townships. District 25 was in Pickerel Lake. District 26 was set apart in September and included the whole township of Hartland. In October dis¬ trict 27 came into existence and was in Freeborn township. District 28 was organized at the same session and located in Hartland township. On the same date district 29 was also organized in Hayward. District 30 was organized at this time in London, and district 31, in Geneva. In the fall of 1858 district 32 was created in the townships then called Liberty and Springfield, now Manchester and Carlston.

In 1859 the board of county commissioners met and organized thirteen new school districts. District 33 was organized with others up to and including number 37, January 13, 1859. Their locations were to be in Freeman, Manchester, Carlson, Bancroft and Geneva. The following September more districts were organized, making a total of 45, which included the whole number in the countv at that time.

The schools in the common districts are under the immediate supervision of a board ot trustees in each distiict, consisting of three members, the special and independent districts having a board of education, consisting of from five to seven members. The county superintendent has general supervision of the schools the county. It is his duty to visit the schools, advise teachers and officers as to the best methods of instruction, the most im¬ proved plans for building, improving and ventilating schoolhouses and ornamenting school grounds; conduct teachers' and officers' meetings and make reports to the state superintendent of public instruction.

The state grants special aid to schools coming up to certain standards of requirements - $1,750 to high schools, $600 to graded schools, $300 to semi-graded schools, and $150 to first class rural schools. Second class rural schools open seven months receive $75 and those open eight months receive $100. Freeborn county at present receives special state aid for two high schools, three graded schools, live semi-graded schools, seventeen first class rural and twenty second class rural schools.

Progressive educators hopefully look forward to the time, in the near future, when the country boys and girls will be afforded facilities equal to the best in the cities - when as a result of con¬ solidation and the establishment of local agricultural, graded and high schools, no teacher will be required to teach more grades than she can handle to best advantage, and the pupils be enabled to secure a good elementary and high school education without leaving home. With tin* new law granting special state aid to seven-month schools, t lie number of schools on the state aid list is rapidly increasing.

There are 133 organized districts in the county. Of these, two, Albert Lea and Alden, are city schools with first class high schools. The Albert Lea school has an agricultural and normal department. Three are graded schools, Glenville, Hartland and Geneva, each in charge of four teachers. Five are semi-graded, Freeborn and Emmons, each with three teachers, and Gordonsville, Hayward and district 16 Carlston township, each with two teachers. The others are one-roomed schools. There are eleven districts joint with other counties and in five of these the build¬ ings are out of Freeborn county. One school has an enrollment of loss than ton pupils, and twenty-seven have an enrollment of from ton to twenty. The largest enrollment is fifty-three pupils, in district 20, Bancroft township, and the smallest is eight pupils in district 68. Albert Lea township. During the past year four- teen districts had nine months of school ; fifty schools, eight months ; thirty-four schools, seven months ; twenty-four schools, six months; and ten schools, five months. One school is closed for want of enough pupils.

Many of the schools are well equipped with those things which are required for efficient work. Many of the schoolhouses are new and the old ones are in excellent state of repair. In the whole county there are probably not more than six schools that could be called in poor condition. Thirty-two have patented heating plants, and about thirty more are being installed. Nearly all the schools have libraries.

The teachers' training schools, which are conducted in the county every summer, do much to increase the efficiency of the teachers. These schools are paid for by the state and are con¬ ducted under the direction of the county superintendent and a conductor appointed by the state department of public instruc¬ tion. Instruction is given in all the branches required for a teacher's certificate. These schools are free and well attended, and 165 teachers were enrolled during the summer of 1910.

There are various literary and debating societies in the schools and the reading circle for the teachers is well patronized. Three or more teachers' meetings are held annually. At the county fair each vear the exhibits of the children make an excellent showing. Last year fifty prizes were awarded children between the ages of eight and sixteen, for the excellence of their exhibits.

In the following mention of the various school districts, it is not the intention of the managers of this publication to give a complete history of the districts from the beginning down to the present time. An effort has been made, however, to mention the starting and the building of the earlier schoolhouses in the older districts, and to give the present location of all the schoolhouses.

Alden. District 40. - This district effected an organization in 1867, and the following year erected a school house in the south¬ eastern corner of section 10. The first officers were : AVilliam Townsend, clerk; George Larman, treasurer; Harrington Austin, director. The first term was taught by Miss Maxson, who re¬ ceived $15.00 per month for her services and boarded at different homes in the district. There were eleven pupils enrolled this first term. District 80 was organized at a meeting held August 24, 1866, at the home of Ira Russell, and the following officers were elected : Director, Ira Russell ; treasurer, William B. Humes ; clerk, James H. Whitehead. A school house was erected in 1869 at a cost of $600, in the northeastern corner of section 2. The first school was taught by E. J. Russell with an attendance of nine pupils. District <0. - A meeting was held March 24, 1805, at the house of O. T. Hull, at which the organization of this dis¬ trict was effected by the election of the following officers: Director, X. L. Bassett; treasurer. O. T. Hull; clerk. E. F. ('lark. The first school in the neighborhood was taught at the house of Russell Maxson in the fall of 1868, by Ada Bassett, with nine scholars present. The first instruction given in the schoolhouse was by Angelia Langdon, in the spring of 1869, with eighteen scholars present, and for $12 per month. A house was erected in the winter of 1868-69, size 18x26, at a cost of $600, in the northwest corner of section 17. District 81. - The first meet¬ ing was held at the house of S. T. Brown, March 26, 1869. at which the district was organized and the following officers elected : A. II. Stevens, director; I. A. Blackman, clerk; F. F. Blackman, treasurer. The sum of $400 was voted for the pur¬ pose of constructing a schoolhouse, and the following summer it was erected at a cost of $500, size 22x28 feet, in the south¬ western part of section 27. being equipped with patent seats and all necessary apparatus. The first school was taught in a sod house in section 27, in the summer of 1869, by Olivia Burdick, and after this there were three terms taught in the same primitive structure. Later a schoolhouse was located in the south¬ east corner of section 29, which, in recent years, has been moved one mile to the west. District 89 effected an organization in the winter of 1869. The following spring a schoolhouse was erected in tlie southwestern part of section 25. The first term of school was taught by Dette Stillman, with an attendance of twelve pupils. In 1874 a new schoolhouse was erected at a cost of $250. District 9:1. - This district erected a schoolhouse in the village of Alden in the summer of 1875, which was two stories in height, had two rooms and cost $2,300. The first term of school was taught by George Miller, who received for his services $45 a month. Alden now has a fine high school. District 130 was created from districts 81 and 92 and the schoolhouse is located in section 28.

Albert Lea. District 38. - This district embraces the city schools of Albert Lea, which are treated elsewhere; district 37 has a schoolhouse in the northwest part of section 12; district 14 has a schoolhouse in the northeast part of section 14; district 54 has its schoolhouse in the northwest part of section 35; dis¬ trict 110 has a schoolhouse in the west part of section 28; district 68 lias a schoolhouse in tin' southwest part of section 20.

Bath. District 5. - This organization was effected in October. 1863. at a meeting held at the cabin of James M. Drake, in section 25. Several terms of school had been held prior to this, and the whole town had been partially organized as a single district, so that when tins was organized it embraced tlic entire eastern half of the town. The first school within the limits of this district was held in the summer of 1860, and was taught by Lucia Thomas. In 1864, an old log house was purchased of Torkel Ludwigson, in the northeastern part of section 26. and in it school was held for five months of the same year, taught by the same teacher as is mentioned above. In 1871 a new schoolhouse was erected in the eastern part of section 26, at a cost of between $1,000 and $1,200. A new schoolhouse was erected some years ago across the street in section 27. District 7. This- dis¬ trict was organized May 14, 1864, at a meeting held at the residence of R. Fitzgerald, and the following were the first officers: Director, James Fitzgerald; treasurer, G. Oleson ; clerk, R. Fitzgerald. During the summer a small log schoolhouse was constructed in the eastern part of section 30, at a cost of about $100, which did service until 1875, when a new building was com¬ pleted on the same site, size 18x28 feet, at a cost of $600. The first teacher in the district was Mrs. Reynolds, who received $20 per month. District 64. - This district held its first term of school in the summer of 1863, in the residence of H. Green, and Mrs. Mary Johnson was engaged as teacher. For her services she received $1.50 per week and fifteen pupils were enrolled. A schoolhouse was erected near the center of section 14 in 1873, the district having been organized in 1871. The present schoolhouse is located in the northeast part of section 14. District 82 was formerly a part of district 5, but in 1874 it was set apart and organized at a meeting held in the Baptist Church October 16. The first officers were: Nels Larson, director; Nels Jensen, clerk; J. P. Larson, treasurer. The first term of school was held in the log church during the summer of 1874, with Susan Kinnear as teacher. A new schoolhouse was erected in 1875 near the center of section 25. District 90 was organized in 1859 at a meeting held at the home of John Sheehan, and officers elected were : M. S. Sheehan, director ; Hans Rasmussen, treas¬ urer; John J. Sheehan, clerk. A schoolhouse was erected in 1860. The present building is located in the west part of section 30. District 103. - The organization of this district was effected many years ago, at a meeting held at the residence of Michael Sheehan in section eight, and their schoolhouse was erected shortly after in the northwestern corner of the same section. District 114 (joint with Steele county) has its schoolhouse in the northwest part of section 1. District 131 has been created from districts 5, 23, 82 and 7, in Bath and Bancroft townships, and its schoolhouse is located in the village of Clarks Grove. District 133, which was created out of districts 103 and 90, in Bath township,

Bancroft. District 20. - This district was originally organized in 1857 as a part of District No. 9, and a log house was soon afterwards erected in which Mary Prescott taught the first school to an attendance of about twenty-five pupils. The first officers were Ole Stuga, Daniel Prescott, and A. Loomis. In 1859, it was made a part of District No. 2, and three years later, in 1862, it was reorganized. A new schoolhouse was erected in 1875, in the southeast corner of section 5, size 24x30, furnished with patent seats, and cost about $1,000. The officers were: Director, Asa Ward; treasurer, G. II. Prescott; clerk, W. FI. Long. District 04. _ This district effected an organization in 1862, the first meet¬ ing being held at the residence of Knute Tolloftson. April 19 of that year, and the following officers were elected: Director, Lars Johnson; treasurer, G. J. Johnson; clerk, Knute Tolloftson. A log house was at once erected, 16x16 feet, at a cost of $150, which lasted until the year 1881, when a new school structure was built, occupying a place in the eastern part of section 14. This structure cost $600, being supplied with patent seats and improved furniture. The first school was taught in 1863 by Lida Ilewitt. She received the sum of $45 for her services for two months. ^District 58. - This district was organiezd in 1863, and April 10, that year, the first meeting was held, at which officers were elected as follows: (lerk, Andrew Bottelson ; direc¬ tor, B. Frost; treasurer, John Hermanson. This meeting was held at tin* residence of Benjamin Frost in section 19. (The first school commenced May 9, 1863, with sixteen scholars present, in the back room of A. Bottelson 's house, with Mary Frost teacher, she receiving $1.50 per week. The log schoolhouse was finished in^J.864. The schoolhouse is now located in the southwestern pari of section 20. District 22. - The first school in this district was taught by Mrs. Margaret Fitzgerald for $1.50 per week, in the summer of 1860. The district was organized at a meeting held i?i the spring of that year and the. first officers were: Ole Narveson, J. Fitzgerald, and D. N. Ostrander. A log schoolhouse was erected some time later which lasted until 1872, when a new building was put up which cost $700. District 23. - This district effected an organization in 1861, the first meeting being held at the house of William English, in the fall of 1860. The same gentlemen donated a site, and a schoolhouse was secured and moved upon it in 1862. A new schoolhouse was erected in 1874, on the southeast quarter of section 2, at a cost of about $1,200, size 18x26 feet, equipped with patent seats for sixty pupils. District H>7 was organized in 1878. The first meeting was held at tin* residence of Daniel Peterson and officers were elected as follows: John Slater, director; I. Hammer, clerk; 0. 0. Sty ve, treasurer. A sehoolhouse was erected soon after this meeting, costing $770, and it was located in the southern part of section 33. The first term of school was taught by Ella Slater. District 53 has a sehoolhouse at Itasca city which was erected in the eighties, and at that time wras regarded as one of the model schools of the county.

Carlston. District 15. - This educational subdivision came into existence by organization late in 1859, and the following summer, 1860, the first school was taught in a log house, by Martha Stane, with nine scholars in attendance, the teacher receiving as com¬ pensation the sum of $18 per month. A new sehoolhouse was erected in 1877, at a cost of $640, equipped with patent seats for forty scholars. The sehoolhouse is now located in the western part of section 10. District 16. - This district effected an organi¬ zation in the year 1860, and during the following year the first school was held at the residence of James Cook, taught by Mary J. Trigg, with ten scholars present ; the teacher received for services the sum of $1.50 per week, and "boarded around." The school was held here and in other residences until the fall of

1865, when a log house was erected at a cost of $800, size 22x30 feet, equipped with patent seats and the necessary apparatus. The present sehoolhouse is located on the eastern line of the western half of section 13. District 61. - The first school meeting was held at the residence of William W. Coon, March 27, 1874, at which the organization of the district was effected, and later in the same month these people again met and elected the fo1- lowing officers: Director, William W. Coon; clerk, John L. Garlack; treasurer, David Horning; and soon after, the sehoolhouse was erected in the eastern part of section 22, at a cost of $600. The size of the building was 20x30 feet, supplied with patent seats and all the necessary apparatus. The first school consisted of eighteen scholars, and was instructed by Chandler Sweet, who received $30 per month for his services. District 67. - This dis¬ trict effected an organization in 1865, by the election of the fol¬ lowing officers : Director, David Clark ; treasurer. Charles Sweet ; clerk, D. T. Clinton. A little shanty was thrown together, with no floor and a board roof, in which the first school was taught by Aclelia Bassett, to an attendance of nineteen or twenty. She received for her services $18 per month. The following year,

1866. a new building was constructed, a short distance from the board shanty, in the eastern part of section 30. at a cost of $500. size 20x26 feet, equipped with patent seats and the necessary apparatus. Adventists' Academy. - A select school under this caption was instituted in the village of Alden. over the line in Carlston township, in the upper story or hall of Henry Ernst's house, by the gentleman in whose house it was kept. I he school commenced Deceihber In, 18/ o, with from forty to fifty students in attendance; the tuition being from $5.00 to $7.00 per term, in accordance with the studies pursued. The teachers were Henry Ernst and his sister, Minnie Ernst. The school prospered for several years, but was finally discontinued, as this method of education was too advanced to find its entire support in the local neighborhood in which it was founded. District 134 absorbed old 118 (joint) district and took portions from districts 67. 15, 117 and 61. A schoolhouse was erected in section 18. District 117 embraces territory in Carlston and Freeborn townships, and the schoolhouse is located in the southeast corner of the north¬ west quarter of section >), Carlston township.

Freeborn. District 11. - This district effected the first organi¬ zation in the township in 1857, and school was first held in a house 12x14, in section 3, taught by Normand Olin. to an attend¬ ance of about twelve scholars. In 1860 a schoolhouse was con¬ structed in section 3. size 20x24 feet, at a cost of $350. In 18/4 it was removed to the eastern part of section 4, remodeled and partly rebuilt at a cost of $400. District 12. - It is said that this district did not arrive to the dignity of an organization until 1865, and soon afterward a building was purchased for $50 to be used for school purposes. The first school was taught by Minnie Caswell with an attendance of twelve pupils. In 1870, a school edifice was constructed at a cost of about $400. size 16x20 feet. A schoolhouse was located in the northeastern part of section 23. District 13. - This is the district embracing the village* of Freeborn and immediately surrounding country. The* organization was effected in 1858, and the first term of school was held at the private residence of E. S. Dunn, on the site of tin* present village, shortly afterward being taught by Joel Southwick. with an attendance of ten scholars. The school was held in private houses for about two years, when a little shanty twelve feet square was erected, costing about $20, and three years later another school building was substituted, size* 20x30 feet, at a cost of $700. In 1876, the latter structure was dispensed with and a new. neat and commodious schoolhouse was built at a cost of $1,500, size 30x40 feet, two stories high, then considered the finest schoolhouse in the township. District 98. - This district effected an organization in 1872. The first school was taught by Mrs. Mattie B. Frisbv in the residence of R. I). Burdick in section 1, with an attendance of twelve pupils. In 1873. a schoolhouse was erected in the southwestern part of section 1. size 16x24 feet, at a cost of $350. The schoolhouse is now located in the central part ot section 1. District 101. This district effected an organi¬ zation in the spring of 1876. and the same year erected a school- house in section 28, size 18x22 feet, at a cost of $450. The first teacher was Emily Blighton, with an attendance of ten scholars. The schoolhouse is now located in the southwest corner of section 2. District 113 has its schoolhouse in the southeast corner of section 6. District 63 has its schoolhouse located in the south part of section 18. District 122 (joint) has but eighty acres in this, county, and its schoolhouse is located in AYaseca county.

Freeman. District 46. - This organization was effected in 1862, and the first term of school was taught by Orfa Skinner at the residence of William Eaton, with seventeen scholars present. Shortly afterward a schoolhouse was constructed in the southern part of section 3 at a cost of $600, equipped with common furni¬ ture and the necessary apparatus. District 47. - The first school in this district was taught in 1865, at the residence of Swan Anson, by Altba Young, with eighteen pupils enrolled. Shortly after, the district effected an organization. School was held in private houses until 1873, when a building was decided upon and a schoolhouse constructed, at a cost of about $125, in which Alary Buchanan first called school to order, with an average attendance of twenty-two. The building was located in the center of section 16. District 48. - The first school in this educational locality was taught by Airs. AY. H. Aloore with an attendance of thirty scholars. In 1873, a substantial school structure was erected, at a cost of $800, being well furnished and well kept. The attendance of the school was about forty pupils. The dis¬ trict embraced the territory in the southwestern part of the town, with the schoolhouse in the northwestern part of section 32. The present building is located in the western part of section 29. District 65. - It is claimed that the first school taught in this township was in this district, although at that time the district was not organized. The first school was taught in Charles Grimm's house, in the winter of 1862, by Charles Grimm, with an attendance of fifteen pupils. This district effected an organiza¬ tion and continued holding school in private residences until 1870, when a schoolhouse 16x20 was erected in the northeastern part of section 29. The first school in this district was taught by Jemima Blighton, with an attendance of twenty pupils. District 66 was created about 1867, and during that year a schoolhouse was erected in section 6 at a cost of $150. The first term of school was taught by S. Carter, and fifteen pupils were enrolled. District 115 embraces land in the south central part of Freeman township and the schoolhouse is located in the northern half of the south¬ east quarter of section 28. District 128 was created in Freeman and Shell Rock townships from districts 65 and 50. The schoolhouse is located in section 36, Freeman township.

house belonging to John Brown, in section 15, in the summer of 1858. Mrs. Henry King wielded the ferule during this term. The next year the citizens succeeded in building a schoolhouse on section 14. Lucy Thomas called the first school to order in the new house, which was a log affair, 20x24 feet, erected by a regular "bee/' each farmer contributing something. This served until 1877, when a frame building was erected on section 23, at a cost of about $400. District 4. - A school was opened in a claim shanty on the town site in 1878. Mrs. Clark was the constituted authority during this term. Afterwards the school was kept in the store of Loyhed & Matison, and later in a building erected for a saloon. A schoolhouse was built in 1865. This is the Geneva village district and maintains an excellent school. District 97. - This was organized in 1875. That same year the schoolhouse was built on the Voi'thwest corner of section 14. The first teacher was Ella Davis.

Hartland. District 8. - The organization of this district was effected in the spring of 1863 at a meeting held at the house of Aaron Carr in section 10. The first officers were: Director, AY. J. McClelland; treasurer, William Wrangham; clerk, William Beede. A log schoolhouse was bought for $9, and located in section 11. The first school was taught by Alary Bliss, with eight scholars enrolled. District 9. - This district embraces the terri¬ tory in the southwestern part of the township, and was one of the lirst districts organized in the county, although the records previous to 1869 have been lost. The present schoolhouse is located in the northeastern part of section 35. District 10. - It is claimed that this district was organized in the summer of 1858, and the first school was taught in the same year by Airs. Charles Alorehouse at her residence, with six pupils present. The first school meeting was held in the fall of 1858, at the residence of ( . Alorehouse, six voters present, and the following officers were elected: Clerk, George AIcColley; director, J. P. Duncan; treas¬ urer, Charles Alorehouse. In 1863, a schoolhouse was erected near tin* center of the district, size 26x30, frame, at a cost of $800. The present schoolhouse is located in the northern part of section 32. District 62. - The first school held within the boundaries of this district was called in the summer of 1860, with twelve pupils present, and Elizabeth Sibbey was instructor. In the spring of 1862 the district effected an organization, the officers being L. K nudson, (). Sheldon, and Levi Jones, and the first school after organization was taught by C. Reynolds in a private house. In 1368 the school structure was erected in the center of section 14 at a cost of $415. District 109. - This district is the Hartland village school, and prior to its organization the children attended school in other districts. In the fall of 1878 a frame schoolhouse

Hayward. District 34. - The first school in this district was held in Grange hall, October 2, 1875. The officers elected were E. A. Campbell, Lars Lunde and Peter Lunde. A schoolhouse was erected later which cost about $700 and seated forty scholars. W. Cooley was the first teacher and received $32 per month for his services. The present schoolhouse is located in the village of Hayward, and the people of this district have voted $1,000 toward the erection of a fine new school building. District 35. - This was organized in 1866 at the house of Watson Brown. The "first officers were O. Andrews, James Andrews and Watson Brown. In the summer of that year they succeeded in getting up a log house, 16x20 feet. In 1880, the old house becoming inadequate to the wants of the district, a new one was buili, a frame structure, 18x30 feet, with room for eighty scholars, and which cost $700. The present schoolhouse is in the northeast pa rt of section 32. District 36. - In 1864 this district assumed form ; the meeting for organization being in the house of Peter Lunde, April 12. A log house was later constructed on section 18, 16x18 feet. The first school had fourteen pupils. It was called to order and managed by Esther Lowry, for $20 a month. The first school officers were Peter Lund, Andrew Sanderson, and L. R. Luce. The present schoolhouse is in the western part of section 20. District 60. - This district was taken from district 35 in 1864, and the first meeting for its organization was held at the home of Daniel Chute, June 2, of that year. The officers elected were Daniel Chute, Luther Phelps and David Ansley. A log house was constructed which had a sod roof and no floor, but which served their needs and was the best which could at that time be constructed. Emma Fenholt was the first teacher employed in this district and thirteen pupils were enrolled that term. For her services she received $2.00 a week and she paid board from this salary. In 1875 a new building was erected which cost $400, and had a seating capacity of thirty-five pupils. District 116 has its schoolhouse in the southwestern corner of section 25. District 132 is located in Hayward and Riceland townships and was created from districts 91, 27 and 34. The schoolhouse is located in section 3, Hayward township.

London. District 51. - This district effected an organization in 1862, and the following year the first term of school was held at the residence of H. B. Riggs, in section 11, by Orplia Skinner, with an attendance of about twelve scholars. Then, in 1867, a schoolhouse was erected in the western part of section 12. The present schoolhouse is located in northern part of section 14. District 59 had its first schoolhouse located in the north part of section -12. The present sehool building is located across the .street i ii the southern part of section 29. District 71. - This dis¬ trict was organized in 1865, and the first school was held in Morgan Eckert s granary, in section 18. The first teacher in this school was Dora Sabin, and tin* enrollment numbered about six pupils. After t his, school was held in private houses and gran¬ aries until the summer of 1869, when a schoolhouse was completed at a cost of $220. This schoolhouse was located in section 8, and Carrie Harrison taught the first school in it. The building was later remodeled and improved at an expense of $500. Later another schoolhouse was erected in section *16. 1 his is the only rural district in the county in which school is kept in two different schoolhouses. District 94. - This district was organized in 1874, and a schoolhouse erected during the year, which was located in the southern part of section 25. The building cost $1,025. and John Bewick was the first teacher, having fifteen pupils enrolled. The people of this district have a new building, in tin* village of London. This is a two-roomed semi-graded school, modern in every respect, and was erected at a cost of $5,500. District 125 was created from districts 59 and 94 and its schoolhouse is located in section 28. -

Mansfield. District 41 was organized about 1872. during which year the schoolhouse was erected in the north part of section 52 at a cost of $100. Ilattie Coblett was the first teacher with an attendance of nine scholars. District 74. - This district effected an organization about 1870, and held school in the private residence of John Kraus Ilaar in section 2. with Rhoda Gripman as teacher and twelve pupils to answer the roll call. In 1872 a new schoolhouse was erected in the southwestern corner of section 2 at a cost of $400. District 84. - This district com¬ menced its existence by erecting a school edifice in section 26, the size of which was 16x24 and cost $500. The first teacher was C. 11. Emmons, with an attendance of about twenty-five. District 86, organized in 1872. the first school being taught in Hellek Knudson's house in section 56, the teacher being Jennie L. Romanson, with twenty-five students present. In the year 1874, two years after organization, a new school building was erected in the southeastern corner of section 55, at a cost of about $200, the size being 18x24. District 87 is claimed by some to have been organized in 1867 ; fourteen pupils were in attendance and Ivey Thomas was the teacher. The following year a schoolhouse was erected in the northwest corner of section 8 at a cost of $400. I In* lumber in this building was hauled from Austin. Some years ago the location of the schoolhouse was changed to the southwest <piartt r of section 6. District 92 was organized some time during the year 1875, and a schoolhouse erected in the southwest part of section 10. This building cost $400; the first term of school was taught by Aubrus Morey, and the enrollment of pupils amounted to twenty-one. A few years ago the site of this sclioolhouse was changed to a few rods further west. District 121 has a schoolhouse in section 20.

Manchester. District 17 is one of the oldest districts and has its sclioolhouse in the southwest corner of section 29. District 18 was organized in 1861. The previous year a sclioolhouse had been erected in section 15, in which thirty scholars were taught by Emergene Walker. The first officers of this district were : Thorson Knuteson, John Ellingson and 0. F. Fossum. In 1867 the school building was moved to the site now occupied by the present schoolhouse, in the northeast corner of section 22. District 19. - A meeting was held May 8, 1862, at the residence of Christian Jacobson, at which the organization of this district was effected and made permanent by the election of officers, as follows: Director, Tosten Knutson: clerk, Charles Olson; treasurer, Charles Johnson. In the same summer Mr. Henderson taught the first school, a term of three months, in Charles Oleson's house in section 13, with seven or eight pupils present. In 1864 Christian Jacobson donated a site, and the schoolhouse was erected in the center of section 12. District 21. - This district effected an organization in 1864, the first meeting being held at the house of Erick Olson, in section 9, at which the following officers were elected : Director, Carl Gustaveson ; treasurer, Halver Peterson ; clerk, August Peterson. The first school was taught by Emma King in Erick Olson's house, in section 9, with twenty pupils present. In 1867 a frame house was erected hi the western part of section 9, size 16x22, at a cost of $300. District 55. - This dis¬ trict was organized in the fall of 1864 in E. D. Hopkins' house, on section 34, and the following officers were elected : Director, O. Kenfield ; treasurer, J. Welcor; clerk, E. D. Hopkins/' The first school was taught by Maggie Colby in 1864. in a log house belonging to A. M. Johnson, on the bank of Lake Albert Lea. The following year a log house, 18x16 feet, was procured, which was later moved to the southeast corner of section 34.

Moscow. Xine districts are located all or partially in this township: 78, 72 (joint), 120, 30 (joint), 28, 95, 96. 31, 127. District 78 has its schoolhouse in the southeast corner of section 4; district 72 has its schoolhouse over the line in Mower county; district 120, in the southeast corner of section 8; district 30, ^n 1 he northeast corner of section 13; district 29, in the village of Moscow ; district 28, in the northeast corner of section 31 ; district 95, in the central part of section 28: district 96, in the northwest corner of section 25; district 127, in the middle of section 19; district 31, in the village of Oakland. This latter district is planning to build a fine new schoolhouse at a cost of *2,000. Most of this district is located in Moscow township, but it also takes in some land from Oakland.

Newry. There are nine districts wholly or partly in this town¬ ship - -126, 106, 123, 111, 119, 1, 2, 73, and 79. District 2 has a iit»w schoolhouse erected at a cost of $2,000 at the northwest corner of section 20; district 123 is joint with Steele county and no school is kept; district 126 is a new district lying in Geneva and Ncwrv townships and Steele county, the schoolhouse being in the latter county; district 106 has its schoolhouse in the south¬ ern part of section o; district 111 is located in the eastern part of section 12? district 1, in the eastern part of section 14; district 119 (joint), in the eastern part of section 24; district 73. in the northwest part of section 28; district <9 (joint) has its schoolhouse over the line in Mower county.

Nunda. District 42 - The first school in this district was held at the residence of Samuel Clark and taught by Mary Ann White, with an attendance of 12 pupils, in the winter of 1858. In 1870 a frame building was erected at a cost of $550, and this schoolhouse was located in section 4. District 43. - The first school held in this district met in the residence of John Hoffman, in the spring of 1858, and was taught by Joseph White. The district effected an organization by the election of the following officers: P. Fitzsimmons, clerk; John V. Wohlhuter, director; Michael Donahue, treasurer. In 1868 a new building was erected in the west part of section 16, which cost $400. District 44. - It is stated that this district was organized in 1858 with IT. G. Emmons as its clerk. The first school was held in an empty house and taught by Sarah Emery. In 1870 a frame schoolhouse was erected in the northeastern part of section 32, at a cost of $650. This school is now located in the present four-roomed building in the village of Emmons. District 45 effected an organization in the fall of 1861, and its first officers were: Messrs. Rupson, Danahue and Berry. In 1862 a log schoolhouse was erected in the north¬ east part of section 14. A new frame building was constructed in the west part of section 24 in 1871 which was destroyed by fire June 9. 1881. In tin* fall of that year a frame building was erected on the old site. District 76 was formerly a part of dis¬ trict 45, but was set apart from the latter in 1863 and organized by the election of B. 11. Carter, clerk; Elof Knudson. director; J. M. Tanner, treasurer. In 1865 a schoolhouse was erected in the village of Twin Lakes and this cost $500. In March, 1881,* this building was destroyed by fire, caused by a passing engine. Upon being sued by tin* district the company was forced to pay $560 and costs, with which a new building was erected that spring at a cost of $1,000. District 99 effected an organization in 1875, and the officers elected were: AY. J. Morey, clerk; Fer¬ nando Fessenden, director; E. T. AYeadon, treasurer. A schoolhouse was erected in the spring of 1876, in the southwest part of section 6, at a cost of .4475. The present school is located in the north central part of section 6. District 105. - This district ef¬ fected an organization in 1864, and the first school was taught in the house of Peter Knutson in the spring of that year. In the spring of 1866 a small building was erected in section 35 at a cost of about $100, the labor being donated by the residents. This building was used until 1879, when a new house was erected upon the same site at a cost of $300, in which the first school was taught by Priscilla Y. Plemon, with an attendance of thirty scholars. The first officers were: Clerk, Silas AYhite ; treasurer, Peter Knutson; director, Plelga Larson. District 108. - This dis¬ trict is really a division of, or it might be called a reorganiza¬ tion of No. 84, coming into existence as a separate organization in 1879 by electing John Larson, clerk; Knute Hovland, director, and Hogen Rasmusson, treasurer. In 1881 a neat school building was erected in the southern part of section 19, at a cost of $350. The first school in this house was taught by Eslen Nerverson.

Oakland. District 6. - This district was organized in 1867, at a meeting held at the home of Mitchell Clark. Officers were elected as follows: Clerk, John Lightly Jr.; treasurer, James Hand. A schoolhouse was erected soon after which was located in the western part of section 12, and the first teacher was Libbie Phelps. Eight pupils made up the total attendance at this time. District 32. - In 18t>6 this district was organized and a schoolhouse erected at a cost of $600. This building was located in the eastern part of section 22. The first officers of the board - were John Alurane, Adam Chista and Peter lroung. A. J. Cliista taught the first term of school, which was held in a private house. There were thirty-five pupils in attendance. District 33 was set apart from District 32 soon after the organization of that district. It is supposed that the first school meeting was held at the home of Ira Fuller in 1861. The first term of school was taught by Thomas Parker in the home of George Carpenter, and thirteen pupils were in attendance. Early in the summer of 1865 a log schoolhouse was erected in the northeastern part of section 2, with dimensions of 16x24 feet. District 75. - This district was organized in 1865 at a school meeting held at the home of Daniel Kennevan, March 27, and officers were elected as follows : E. R. Earle, director; A. D. AYait, clerk; A. D. AYait Sr., treasurer. AY. E. AYait taught the first term of school in the same borne in which the meeting had been held and six pupils attended. In 1868 a frame building was erected which cost $500, and was located in the southwest part of section 29. In 1910 a modern schoolhouse was erected on the same site. District 83 m ss organ¬ ized in 1870, and during this same year a log schoolhouso was constructed in the eastern part of section 7. I lie first officers of the district were S. Bullock, < '. Skinner and S. Dishart. Katie Dishart taught the first school in II. Wyant's house and she re¬ ceived for her services $lo.00 per month. District 112. Bing partly in Oakland and partly in London, has its schoolhouse in the eastern part of section 34.

Pickerel Lake. District 89. - This was the first district to conic into official existence in the township, effecting an organiza¬ tion in 1862, with the following as its officers: Director. John Murphy; clerk, Charles Norton; treasurer, John Ruble. The first school was taught in John Ruble's log house, by Miss Bas¬ sett. with ten scholars present. Various provisions were made until 181)"). when a frame house was erected on land owned by George S. Ruble, in section 11, at a cost of $700. District 56. - This dis¬ trict was organized in 1864 by the election of: Director, h redcrick Rickard; clerk, L. L. Lovell, and treasurer, N. II. Spoon. The next year a school building was constructed, 14x16 feet, at a cost of $150. which occupied a site in section 8 until 1868. when it was moved into the southeastern part of section 7. In 1879 a new structure was erected on the same location, size. 16x22 feet, at a cost of $300. The first school in this district was taught in the fall of 1864, in Mr. Lovell's house, in section 8, by Kate Nichols, with seven scholars present. District 57 was created in April. 1869. with Fred Fink, Henry Weisser and Henry Eberhardt as officers. A schoolhouse was erected that year in tin* southeast part of section 22. on land donated by Henry Weisser. This building cost $300. Nancy Ruble was the first teacher, with twelve pupils enrolled. District 69. - A special meeting was held at August Yost's house in section 19, April 16, 1881. at which bonds were voted to the amount of $300 to build a schoolhouse, and organization was effected by the election of the following officers: Director. Fred Fink; clerk, August Yost; treasurer. II. Schulenhurg; there were ten votes cast. In the same year tin* house was erected on land belonging to C. M. McKee, size 16x24. at a cost of $316. The first school was taught bv Katie Eberhardt, to an attendance of twelve. The present schoolhouse is located in the northeast part of section 30. Dis¬ trict 102. - School in this district was first taught in the summer of 1876. in a carpenter shop on Mr. Widman's land, by Katie Eberhardt, with eighteen or twenty scholars. The following year, 1877. a neat frame house was erected in tin* southwestern corner of section 24, at a cost of $300. The district was organized by the election of the following officers: Clerk, George Widman :

Riceland. District 25. - The first board of school officers in this district was as follows : Clerk, K. Ingebrigtson ; treasurer, 0. Henry; director, John Johnson. In 1872 the first schoolhouse' was erected at a cost of $700, size, 18x20 feet, which answered the purpose for about ten years, Avhen it was dispensed with, and a neat frame building was erected, size 26x36 feet, at cost of $800, the location being in the southeastern part of section 7. District 26. - The first school held in this district was taught by Miss Will¬ iams, with twenty-five pupils present. In the summer of 1861 the citizens of the district erected a log schoolhouse in section 29. A new frame building was later erected in the western part of section 29. District 27 was organized in 1878 and a frame schoolhouse erected in the northeast part of section 27. District 88. - In 1867 the first schoolhouse in this district was erected in section 9, at a cost of $250. The logs with which this building was erected were given by residents of the district. In 1881 a new schoolhouse was completed at a cost of 800, and this building was located in section 9. District 91. - This district comprised the territory in the southeastern part of section 35, and the first schoolhouse was built in 1872. The present building is located on the site of the former. The people of districts 25 and 26 are contemplating uniting with district 24 of Bancroft township, and then erecting a fine new schoolhouse near the Lerdahl Creamery. Norwegian School. - Knud Ingebrigtson started a Norwegian school in this township in 1869.

Shell Rock. District 50. - The first school held in this district met in the home of Peter Beighley, on his farm in section 32, in the fall of 1858. Mrs. Catherine Hawk was the first teacher and the attendance was small. Later a frame building was erected in the northeastern corner of section 32, which cost $600. Jane Buchanan was the first teacher in this institution, and there were about twenty-five pupils in attendance. The district embraces the village of Gordonsville and has an excellent school. District 52. - The first school in this district was taught in a granary owned by J. S. Corning. Emily Streeter was the first teacher employed, and the attendance numbered eight. In 1866 a schoolhouse was erected in the northeast corner of section 8, at a cost of $765. District 49. - This district effected an organization in 1857, and the first school meeting was held at the home of A. H. Bartlett. The erection of a schoolhouse was soon begun, which was completed August 18, 1857, and cost $500. One week after this building was completed, Emily Streeter assumed charge as teacher. This was the first schoolhouse built in the county. In 1878 a new building was erected, which cost $2,200. This district embraces the village of Shell Rock and includes land in Shell Rock, Freeman and Albert Lea townships. District 77. - The first school taught in this district was in 1866, at a granary owned by Mr. Bailey, the teacher being Lena Doris, with an attendance of eight scholars. The schoolhouse is a neat structure, and cost about $400, and it is located in t he southern part of section 14. District 100. - A school edifice was erected in 1876, size 18x20 feet, at a cost of about $500, being furnished with folding desks and the most improved furniture. The first school was taught by Hannah Buchanan, to an attendance of eight scholars. The schoolhouse js located in the southeastern corner of section 2. District 104. - A schoolhouse was erected in 1878, being a neat frame building 24x30 feet, which cost about $850, equipped with all necessary apparatus. The first school was taught by Elizabeth Beighlev to an attendance of about twenty scholars. The schoolhouse is located in the southeastern corner of section 27. District 129. - This district was created from 49, 50 and 52 in Shell Rock and Freeman townships, and the schoolhouse is located in section 17, Shell Rock township.

Up to July, 1865, no well-defined management of schools existed. In speculating upon the best system, the legislature created first a town superintendency, then an examiner for each commissioner district, and lastly the present plan for one general superintendent for each county. Under this, S. Batehelder was appointed in July. 1865, and served until 1869; E. C. Stacy, from 1869 until 1870; Henry Thurston, from 1870 until the election of Charles AY. Levens. O. K. Hausen took office Januarv 1, 1889, and was followed in 1891 by John AY. Olsen, who served until January 1, 1901. George P. Lattin was in office for eight years, and on January 1, 1909, Harold Dahlen took charge of the county schools and is still serving.

Albert Lea Schools

The schools of Albert Lea had their beginning in 1857, on the block in which the postoffice is now located. Martin A7. Kellar, a pupil in this first school, has written the following account of the early schools of the city: "On the southeast corner of the postoffice block, corner of William and Elizabeth streets, there had been erected late in 1856 a small log building to be used as a store, but was never occupied as such. Here, on Monday, Decem¬ ber 5. 1857, began our first school. Austin D. Clark, brother of Mrs. Alary F. Armstrong, was employed as teacher. But few today could hardly appreciate the disadvantages met with in this first school. But three small windows furnished the light, for seats three long slabs from Ruble's mill were made into benches without backs; a wide slab resting on substantial woodeu pegs in the north wall was the only desk ; an old fashioned box stove, always smoking with green wood, furnished by the patrons, was all of our furniture. No bell sent forth its pleasant notes an¬ nouncing that Albert Lea had a school, for the only bell yet heard in this county was on the old brindle cow. School was' called by vigorous pounding on the window with a book or slate. About twenty pupils were enrolled, a few coming from distant parts of the county to attend. Our most serious problem was the scarcity and want of uniformity in books. Only such as had been used by the pupils at their eastern homes were at hand, and scarcely four in the whole school of the same series. One family of three attended and all brought only two books, all they had. We shall never forget our embarrassment by being compelled to sit by a little girl of this family during the whole term, that she might study with me from my books. The teacher of this school, I understand, is still living in Wisconsin. Of the pupils, those known to be living, are : M. V. Kellar, C. B. Kellar, Heman Blackmer, C. D. Marlett and Nathan Babcock.

"Our second school was taught in this building during the summer of 1858 by Lucy Parker, who remained here but a short time. The winter term of 1858-9 was held in Clark's log store, the second building to be erected on the townsite.

"It stood on the north side of Clark street, directly opposite Hotel Freeborn. Mrs. A. C. Wedge was our teacher. She also taught at the same place our summer school of 1859.

"Our winter term of 1859-60 was held in the ladies' parlor of the old Webber house, on the corner of Broadway and Main streets, with Aclrain K. Norton, of Alden, as teacher. Our sum¬ mer term of 1860 was held in a small shoe shop, erected by the late William Thompson, brother of Walter. It stood away out on the prairie, where the Presbyterian Church now stands. Mrs. William Lowe, now of Greeley, Colo., handled the rule. Now there has always been a contention between Judge Blackmer and myself as to the kind of wood used in the construction of that rule - he claiming it was sawed out of the knotty end of a buroak slab - I, that it was choice second-growth hickory. We are agreed, however, that it was a home-made affair, very serviceable and scientifically used.

"We now come to the most memorable school ever taught in Albert Lea - the winter term of 1860-61. A Miss Rice was teacher and though a most estimable young lady, she had no more control over a number of the very large boys than us farmers have over a pen of hunscrv pigs. No room could stand the knocks of that crowd more than a few weeks, which resulted in our school being held in four different places, and at last to be suddenly closed, and all books left at the old Webber house, where the owners could get them. This school began in a small office, where Barlow & Spicer's store now stands, from thence to a two story store building on West Clark street, now torn down. The first and second floors, respectively, were used. When the owner became dissatisfied over the destruction, which did not take long, our school was moved to another two-story vacant store, standing on Broadway and Main streets. Both first and second floors, respec¬ tively, were used, when one Monday morning we found the build¬ ing closed. This school, however, bore good fruit, for a building fever struck the whole community. "A school house" was the slogan on every tongue.

"At a special school meeting $400 was voted, and October 1 found a small building completed on the site of our beautiful main building, and John L. Gibbs installed as teacher. Let me say here that our first school building yet stands, though having been twice moved. It is now on the corner of Main and Newton streets, occupied by C. P. Johnson as a blacksmith shop.

"rl'h is school house, from its erection until 1869, was much used for church and Sabbath school work. Those who taught in it during our school days were Lucy Watkins, B. W. Pritchard, Nelson Laniard, F. AT . McReynolds, S. S. Sutton and Henry Thurston. For the winter term of 1868-9 this old school house, now being too small, our school board rented an old building standing on the site of our postoffice, that was erected by John Brownsill in 1858 for a wagon shop, and our school was divided. Henry Thurston teaching in the old building the older pupils, and his most excellent wife teaching the young in the newly prepared rooms. This was the beginning of graded schools in Albert Lea."

In 1870, a two-story frame building was erected on the present high school block. In the fall of 1872 it was found necessarv to erect a small two-room building on the same block, for the use of the large number of pupils enrolled. In 1881 a beautiful brick building was completed at a cost of .+15,000, its location being on the site of a previous building, in the middle of the schoolhouse block facing the public park. In 1895 a brick building was erected on the north side of the high school block, at a cost of $15,000. In 1903, the Ramsey school, in the third ward was erected, at a cost of $16,000. The building is of brick, with eight well equipped school rooms. In 1903, the New Denmark school was also erected. In 1911, a beautiful high school building, the finest in southern Minnesota, is being completed at a cost of $100,000; t lie high school building erected in 1881 being an integral part of the new building.

The first man to bear the title of principal of Albert Lea schools was C. W. Levens, who served from about 1870 to 1881, when the special act organizing the school district of Albeit Lea passed the legislature. Under the reorganization, R. H. Battey served as principal from 1881 to 1882, followed by J. C. Ailing, from 1882 to 1883. E. Chilcoat became principal in 1883 and served until 1886, when he was succeeded by Edward Brady. In 1888, AY. J. Schmitz became principal, and 1897 was given the title of superintendent of Albert Lea schools. He served until 1904, when he was succeeded by E. M. Phillips. When Mr. Phillips resigned, in 1911, to take up state educational work, he was succeeded by E. E. Baker. In 1897, when Professor Schmitz was made superintendent of Albert Lea schools, Mary C. Higgins became principal. She was followed, in 1906, by Mary 0.* Lathrop, and in 1907, by Lina Gjems, who, in 1911, was succeeded by Mrs. M. P. Fuller.

The records of the Albert Lea school board, still preserved, date back to 1872. From that year until 1881, when the district was organized by the legislature, the members of the board were the following names, the term of service shown in the records being one year, unless otherwise specified : E. B. Jasett, A. E. Johnson, A. M. Lyon, PI. D. Brown, AY. C. Lincoln (6), D. R. P. Hibbs (7), D. G. Parker (4), Isaac Botsford (3), C. W. Ballard, W. P. Sergeant (3), D. N. Gates (2).

The present school board consists of IP. C. Carlson, president; Robert Anderson, clerk; Edward Olson, treasurer; J. A\ . Gilbert, A. C. Sorenson and AUctor Gillrup.

Agricultural Work. The industrial work of the Albert Lea schools had its beginning about 1900, when E. M. Phillips, then city superintendent of the Dawson schools, conceived the idea that something should be done to keep the country boys and girls on the farms. After a careful study of the courses of study he decided to ask his board to put in agricultural work. The board simply considered the idea a new fad and gave it no time.

When Mr. Phillips accepted the superintendency of the Albert Lea schools he brought with him the agricultural idea, determined if possible, after getting acquainted, to interest his board in this work. In the spring of 1905 the idea that had originated in the western Minnesota town began to receive careful thought. That spring the board saw fit to make a start by putting in the manual training work. After this work had been in operation two years, so much interest had been developed along industrial lines that agriculture was added.

A. B. Lathrop came to take charge of the work. The work at this time consisted of one class in the high school and the grade and garden work. This work proved to be not only inter¬ esting, but so practical that the board decided to continue the work another year. The work during the second year, under Mr. Lathrop, was quite as successful as the first, and was one of the factors that led to the passage of the Putnam bill in April of 1909. This bill gave to a limited number of schools $2,500.00 a year, state aid to be used in agricultural and domestic science work.

In September, 1909, Theo. Sexauer came to take charge of the department. At this time the work was placed in the regular high school course and for credits given. The policy at this time was to reach the country people by taking the work to them. The farmers were reached by institute's Short Courses, Cow Test¬ ing Associations, and Corn Trains. This department originated the Farmers' Week Short Course, and held the first one in the state. The work of this department in cow testing was the first of its kind in the state. This school can boast of having the only four associations in Minnesota.

In January, 1911, the first corn train was run under the direc¬ tions ol the school, on which 6,500 people were addressed during the four days' trip.

It seems to have been left for this school to organize the Min¬ nesota State Corn Growers' Association, which was completed January 8, 1910, and now consists of over 200 members.

The .week now so prominent among state and college men, known as "Seed Corn Harvest Week,'' also had its beginning in this department at Albert Lea.

work, and the farmers have come to realize that instead of the once mistaken idea of an agricultural fad they have one of the most helpful departments of the school.

Business Colleges

The Albert Lea Business College was organized in 1901, by C. T. Helgeson, and has enjoyed a successful career in several different locations. It was moved to its present location in the spring of 1909. The school furnishes an excellent opportunity for a business education, and many of the successful young people of the county have passed through its doors. James W. Hawley is in charge. At various times there have also been other business colleges in the city.

Albert Lea College

There are two reasons why Christian churches of all denomina¬ tions must be dissatisfied with state schools. The first is the fact that colleges and universities maintained by the state are usually over-crowded to a degree that renders individual instruction im¬ practical and scholarship often superficial. The second reason for dissatisfaction is the fact that state schools make no prevision for religious training and the establishment of religious character. All this is professedly left to the home and the church; but the home is often so constituted or so situated that the needed in¬ struction and training cannot there be given. Hence arises the necessity for the denominational college, with its Bible study, its daily worship and its religious atmosphere. Accordingly most of the prominent churches in Minnesota early established higher institutions of learning for the purpose of building up the king¬ dom of Christ; but the Presbvterians of Minnesota were not among the pioneers and were almost the last to enter upon the work of founding a college.

The presbytery of Mankato had adopted resolutions looking in that direction. The presbytery of Winona had also passed similar resolutions, and both had overtured the Svnod to make a beginning upon broad and firm foundations, before the morning promise should fade away. But the leading ministers and elders of the stronger churches in the cities thought the time immature and counseled patronizing the state university, and endeavoring to render it positively Christian in its teaching and influence. A few men in various parts of the Synod thought differently.

Prof. James Thompson, of Indiana, endeavored to found a college at Mankato; but he died without a spiritual heir. Rev. Sheldon Jackson began a school in Rochester that gave some promise of growing into a college; but he was providentially called to Alaska. Dr. Rineldaffer inaugurated an excellent female sem¬ inary at St. Paul; but it was not endowed and not permanent. Dr. E. 1). Neill, of Philadelphia, had begun the Baldwin school for girls, at St. Paul, and Macalester College for boys, at Minne¬ apolis. Rev. R. B. Abbott had opened a select school at Albert Lea and had obtained a charter for a college but proceeded no further. There was no institution in the state that was regarded as a Presbyterian college. There was nothing definitely estab¬ lished. fixed or permanent. All was not far from chaos, though the time was ripe and circumstances favorable for a forward movement.

At the annual meeting of the Presbyterian Synod of Minne¬ sota in October, 1878. the following resolutions were introduced by Rev. 1). R. Breed, and unanimously adopted. ''Resolved: First, that a committee of five be appointed to consult and cooperate with the trustees of Macalester College with a view to the immediate establishment of an educational institution in connection with this Synod. Second, that this committee be empowered to solicit funds, if need be, and if they find the first resolution impracticable, to act as trustees for another institution, to be hereafter incorporated, to be under the supervision of this Synod. Third, that this committee may employ, when found necessary, an agent, at a salary which they shall fix and for which they may provide." The following persons were appointed to constitute this committee, with instructions to report at the next annual meeting of Synod: Chairman, Rev. R, B. Abbott, Rev. 1). R. Breed, Rev. Daniel Rice, D.D.. Hon. C. E. Vanderburgh and D. \Y. Ingersoll. During the subsecpient year, until the next annual session of the Synod, which was held at Albert Lea in 187!), this committee held seven sessions, four of them in con¬ junction with ti e trustees of Macalester College. In their report to the Synod, they recommended that this committee should be enlarged, and instructed to proceed with the preliminary work of establishing a college. This recommendation was unanimously adopted, and a permanent committee appointed to carry out its provisions, as follows: R. B. Abbott, chairman; Daniel Rice, D.D.. I). R. Breed, I). AY. Ingersoll, S. G. R. McMillan. R. F. Sam¬ ple, D.D., S. A. Harris. C. E. Vanderburgh, AY i Ilia m Alitehell, Rev. R. F. McLaren. J. N. Treadwell, Rev. H. A. Newell, Rev. D. L. Kiehle.

Cargill Science Halt

report recommending Macalester College as the institution to be adopted and fostered by the Synod; the minority report recom¬ mending the acceptance of the offer of a delegation from Albert Lea to contribute $20,000 toward the founding of a college in that place. The majority was adopted by a vote of 47 to 15. The next day, on motion of R. B. Abbott, this was made unanimous by a rising vote. This action settled the question, and made Macalester the Presbyterian college under the fostering care of the Synod. But the donor of the foundation of the college, Charles Macalester, of Philadelphia, through Dr. E. D. Neill, his agent, had already stipulated that his donation would be made only on condition that the college should be open exclusively to young men, and not as a co-educational institution. This fact is mentioned to account for the further action of the Synod in the provision for another college. For their sons they had adopted a college to whose classes their daughters were not to be admitted. The only just and feasible method to adopt was to undertake the establishment of a college for young women. One half of the Presbyterian field of education in the northwest was left un¬ occupied. A region several hundred miles in extent in every way, remarkable for fertility of soil, healthfulness of climate, excellence, of institutions, natural resources and rapidity of development, bound to have in two or three generations a population of six or eight millions, possessed every needed enterprise apparently ex¬ cept one - that one, namely, a real college of high order and appointment for young women equal to the best in America for young men. A few of the prophets saw the vision. The influence of the Spirit came upon the whole assembly. The following reso¬ lutions were formulated, presented and prayerfully considered : "Resolved (1), That this Synod deems it wise and expedient to found a female college under its patronage and fostering care. Resolved (2), That whereas the citizens of Albert Lea have offered a large sum conditioned upon the erecting of a Synodical college at that plac ; therefore this Synod proposes to them that if they will turn over to this Synod the subscription they have made to the amount of at least $15,000, on condition that the Synod secures an amount equal to what they offer, for the purpose of founding a female college at Albert Lea, this Synod will undertake to raise this equal sum, and will if successful in this effort, locate a female college at that place, under its care and direction, the Albert Lea subscription to be placed in the hands of the Synod, as soon as the amount to be furnished by the Synod is secured. Resolved (3), That a committee be appointed, of which Rev. R. B. Abbott shall be chairman, to meet the Albert Lea subscribers and learn their will; and if they shall agree to the proposition above made, this committee shall undertake to raise the amount required from

The committee appointed by the Synod proceeded to elect Rev. Daniel Rice, D.D., of Minneapolis, to act as financial agent for both projected colleges - Macalester and Albert Lea - to can¬ vas the churches of the Synod in a vigorous effort to secure sub¬ scriptions amounting to $45,000, two-thirds of this sum for the former, and one-third for the latter, and sufficient in addition to meet expenses of the canvass. A little more than two years were taken to complete this canvass, when in June, 1883, Dr. Rice informed tin* trustees of the two colleges that the work was done and the money and subscriptions ready to be turned over to them. The Albert Lea trustees adopted a plan drawn by W. B. Dunnell, architect, and made a contract with Mr. Craig, of Mankato, for the erection of the first building. The foundation was laid in the autumn of the same year, and the corner stone laid with due ceremonies in October, 1883. The building was erected during the spring and summer of the next year, 1884, which is regarded as the date of the founding of the college; but because its com¬ pletion was too late in the season to furnish the rooms and provide all needed equipment, the opening of the college for academic work was delayed until September 8. 1885. At that date the organization of preparatory classes was effected, with an enrollment of fifty-one, and the actual work of instruction commenced. The faculty was composed of Rev. R. B. Abbott, president; Laura A. Watson, principal; Katherine Hutchison, Georgiana Hodgkins, and Helen E. Briggs. One more was soon added to the teaching force - Katherine E. Oliver. The following was the succession of principals of the college up to its suspension in 1903 : Laura S. Watson, 1885, two years; Martha Harger, 1887, two years; Ella Young, 1889, three years; Margaret L. Hill, 1892, four years; Ella Young, 1896, two years; Virginia Southgate, 1898, two years ; Ella Young, 1900, two years ; Katherine I. Hutchi¬ son, 1902, one year.

The second year of the operation of the college was such as to warrant the conclusion that before two years more there would be imperative need of new buildings as the first building was designed for recitation rooms as well as for household and dormi¬ tory purposes. Application was made to Cyrus LI. McCormick, Jr., for assistance, and he consented to furnish plans for the buildings. A plan was projected for the additional building during the year of 1887, and forwarded to A. Page Brown, of New York City, with orders to draw designs mainly for dormitory uses. lie accordingly prepared them, not expensively elaborate, but of excellent architectural style and much beauty of appearance, with all needed sub-drawings and specifications, entirely at the expense of Mr. McCormick. The plans were so arranged that the building could be erected in three sections, making, when completed, one uniform, handsome and suitable edifice. The trustees, although with very little means at command, resolved to undertake the erection of one section of this building. The entire building, when completed was designed to be the main hall of the college although because of its location and appearance it has usually been known as the wing. The completion of this section, fitting it with furnace, laundry and other appliances incurred a con¬ siderable debt, which, added to the small debt already existing, obliged the board to adopt some means for securing funds. After due consideration it was decided to effect a loan of $15,000 by mortgaging the property and selling bonds, if this could be done. The bonds were accordingly prepared, secured and put on the market. They Avere disposed of at par, bearing interest at se\ren per cent. This did away with nearly all the floating debts, col¬ lected them all in one sum and furnished financial relief for the time.

Rev. Daniel Rice, D.D., at his decease in April, 1889, left Albert Lea College a bequest of $25, -000 for the endowment of a professorship of Biblical history and literature. Phis bequest was in the form of real estate within the limits of the city of St. Paul. Nearly four years Avere spent in perfecting title and effecting sale of this property to rentier it productive. In the meantime Dr. Abbott was elected to the chair thus endowed, to enter at once upon its duties, and to receive a salary when this bequest should become available. The property was sold to the trustees of Macalester College about January 1, 1893, and a note of $25,000 received from them bearing interest at 6 per cent per annum. This was to be the salary of the chair in question. It was expected to be a permanent endowment, but was paid for only two years and three months, when, owing to financial embar¬ rassment, the interest on the note was no longer forthcoming and the endowment was practically annulled. .

in hold relief - a man whose clear vision, strong hope and firm faith carried the college through many a dark day - Dr. R. B. Abbott. His untiring purpose and devotion will ever be held in loving memory by all who recall the sacrifice and struggle of those earlv years.

In 1901 C. B. Augur was appointed financial secretary to undertake to secure funds and settle the entire debt of the college. After three years of active work, during which he also assisted in the general management of the college and in putting in some much needed repairs, Mr. Augur informed the trustees that he had secured subscriptions, discounts and money suffi¬ cient to cancel all debts. The difficulty for some time had been this: that the endowment was not sufficient to insure the college against indebtedness for current expenses. In order to afford an opportunity to recover from the financial embarrassment so in¬ curred. and to provide against it so far as possible for the future, active operations were suspended for one year, pending a special effort to secure adequate endowment. The. executive committee of the board of trustees was authorized to adopt and carry out such measures as seemed to them wise in attaining this end. Un¬ fortunately the time was necessarily prolonged for four years, and during this time the college doors were closed. Things were not long to remain in this condition. The college was to be reor¬ ganized on a broader and more effective scale, and was designed within a few years to become an institution in which Albert Lea should take its greatest pride. The first step towards the reorgan¬ ization was the meeting of a citizens* committee, which discussed ways and means, and appointed Rev. H. J. Petran special agent to solicit funds. In 1905 John F. I). Meighen took the place of Rev. R. B. Abbott, C. B. Augur the place of Dr. A. 0. TVedge and Rev. George 11. Mueller the place of TV. A. Morin, as trustees. Plans were at once set on foot for the reopening, and Rev. T. N. Weaver was employed as special agent. As a first move toward a new beginning the music department was opened by Charlotte Elliekson.

Early in 1906 the prospects took on a brighter aspect. On March 12 a letter was received from Andrew Carnegie, offering to donate the last $25,000 of a permanent $50,000 endowment fund. April 13 Mary L. Marquis was engaged as principal; later her title was changed to dean and president of the faculty. Dean Marquis remained three years, until 1909, when she mar¬ ried Rev. C. H. Hubbard and retired from college work. Her executive influence, her scholarship and her personality have stamped themselves upon the history of the reorganized college. In June an excellent faculty was chosen and in the fall the college was opened under favorable circumstances. This was in 1906.

In 1907 Rev. T. N. Weaver was instructed to take up active work in canvassing for students, and C. B. Augur was requested to solicit endowments. Mr. Augur, with great personal sacrifice, and with but nominal expense to the college, conducted an active campaign for funds during the next two years, and succeeded in collecting nearly $50,000, in addition to a gift from W. W. Cargill of nearly $9,000, which was the result of joint effort, and for which Mr. Augur modestly disclaimed the credit. In 1907, largely through the kindness of T. B. Janney, of Minneapolis, whose advice and wise counsel are as valuable to the college as the material aid so generously and continuously proffered, the most easterly wing of the main building was erected ; and on January 22, 1909, Cargill Science Hall, a splendid structure, and a finely equipped heating plant, were dedicated, the principal donation for the former being made by W. W. Cargill, and for the latter by James J. Hill. At this notable occasion the dedi¬ catory address was delivered by Gov. John A. Johnson.

Upon the retirement of Dean Marquis, Anna B. Kiermeier, of Haddenfield, N. J., was named as her successor. Dean Kiermeier is still dean of the faculty and her devoted service is a potent factor in the development of the college. The college now has a faculty of fourteen talented instructors, and the students num¬ ber 125.

The faculty for the college year of 1911-1912 is as follows: Anna B. Kiermeier, dean, German Katherine M. Palmer, French and history ; Pearl I. Catlin, science ; Marguerite M. Fisher, math¬ ematics ; Erminia M. Whitley, Bible training department ; Mary E. Burgoyne, Latin and history; Julia B. Hensel, Latin and sociology ; Emily C. Moore, English ; Modest F. Faneuf, expres¬ sion and physical culture ; Irma Haight, director of School of Music, voice; Margrethe Petterson, piano; S. Edith Taylor, piano

In view of the previous financial condition of the college, the latest financial statement, just from the hands of Mellis, Pirie & Co.. Minneapolis, expert accountants, is of interest. August 25. 1911, the assets were as follows: Permanent endowment, $69,326.55; real estate and buildings, $142,842.83; furniture and fixtures, $7,491.58; library, $3,700.67; current assets, $3,964.15; accrued assets, insurance and earned interest, $2,296.67; total,

This is an increase of more than $2,000 over the assets of the previous year, while the income from students showed an increase of over $3,000. The permanent endowment, as above set out, approximates $70,000. It is proposed to increase this to $150,000, and something like $50,000 has been pledged toward the $80,000 necessary to bring the total permanent endowment to $150,000.

It is but just to say in connection with this hopeful statement that both before and since the reorganization of the college the greatest credit for its continuance and support is due to C. B. Augur, the largest resident contributor, most successful solicitor, and the mainstay of the board in all difficulties and emergencies.

Dr. A. C. Wedge, who was vice-president of the board of trus¬ tees, became acting president on the resignation of Dr. Abbott ; in 1906 C. B. Augur was duly elected president of the board of trustees, and he has since served in that capacity. At the same time Clarence Wedge, who had previously been secretary, was elected vice-president and still retains that position. John F. D. Meighen, who had been assistant secretary under Clarence Wedge, has been secretary since 1906. In 1907 D. C. Armstrong was made assistant treasurer, and in 1909 succeeded C. B. Kellar as treas¬ urer. In 1911 Alfred Christ opherson succeeded D. C. Armstrong as treasurer and is now serving in that position.

The trustees since the opening in 1906 have been as follows: Terms expiring in 1906 - J. G. Godley, C. B. Kellar. ( larence Wedge, R. F. Sulzer and George Stickney. Terms expiring in 1907 - C. B. Augur, Rev. George R. Mueller, W. A. Funk, B. H. Knatvold and E. M. Phillips. Terms expiring in 1908 - George P. Lattin, John F. I). Meighen, D. C. Armstrong, Robert N. Adams, D.D., and Mrs. C. E. Vanderburgh. Terms expiring in 1909 - John W. Olsen, John G. Godley, Curtis B. Kellar, Clarance Wedge and R. F. Sulzer. Terms expiring in 1910 - William A. Funk. C. B. Augur, E. M. Phillips, B. II. Knatvold and Rev. G. H. Mueller. Terms expiring in 1911 - George P. Lattin, John F. D. Meighen, Robert N. Adams, 1).D., Mrs. C. E. Vanderburgh, Thomas B. Janney, DeWitt C. Armstrong and Rev. L. F. Badger. Terms expiring in 1912 - John W. Olsen, Herbert E. Skinner, Curtis B. Kellar, Clarence Wedge, R. F. Sulzer and Alfred Chris-

Luther Academy

The idea of founding an academy in Albert Lea was conceived by Rev. E. Wulfsberg and by Rev. 0. H. Smeby, then and still pastor of the Norwegian Lutheran Church in Albert Lea. It was discussed with others at a meeting held at the residence of the late Rev. J. Th. Tlvisaker September 17, 1887. A committee was then agreed upon, consisting of Rev. T. A. Torgerson, president ; Rev. 0. H. Smeby, secretary, and Rev. J. Th. Ylvisaker, to further consider the matter and report at a future time. It was finally decided to inaugurate the project, and various locations were dis¬ cussed, Albert Lea, Northwood and Forest City being the three chiefly favored. At a meeting October 21, 1886, it was voted to locate the school at Albert Lea, provided suitable grounds could be obtained and sufficient aid in the way of subscriptions were offered. The aim of the founders was to afford the advantage of a liberal education, which should be truly in accord with Chris¬ tian principles, the English language to receive the most promi¬ nent place in the curriculum. At a meeting held in Albert Lea February 23, 24 and 25, 1888, articles of incorporation and a constitution were adopted and signed by the following : Rev. T. A. Torgerson, Rev. J. Th. Ylvisaker, Rev. L. P. Jenson, Vegger Gulbrandson, G. A. Hauge, S. N. Storre, J. B. Thompson, Hans Kristopherson, A. 0. Moen, Ole Johnson, John Thompson and B. H. Skaug. The temporary board of trustees were : Rev. T. A. Torgerson, president; Rev. 0. H. Smeby, secretary; S. N. Storre and G. A. Hauge. Besides these Rev. J. Th. Ylvisaker was chosen vice-president and Vegger Gulbrandson secretary. At the first annual meeting, November 15, 1888, the four principal officers above named were elected, and the following were chosen trus¬ tees : Rev. T. A. Torgerson, president ; Rev. 0. II. Smeby, secre¬ tary ; E. K. Flaskerud, G. A. Hauge and B. IT. Skaug. The first term of the school was opened November 1, 1888, in the fine suite of rooms in the second story of the Syndicate block, on the north¬ west corner of Broadway and Main street, with about fifty students and the following corps of teachers : Prof. L. S. Swen¬ son, A.M., principal ; J. F. Granrud, A.B. ; Caroline Nygren and Rev. 0. H. Smeby. For some years the institution was known as the Albert Lea Lutheran High School.

By circulating subscription lists among the members of the congregations of the Albert Lea special conference, and the citi¬ zens of Albert Lea, sufficient funds were raised for the erection of a three-story brick building at a cost of $18,000. The cornerstone

L. S. Swenson, the first principal of the school, resigned in the spring of 1897. He has since attained considerable distinction, being successively a regent of the l niversitv of ^Minnesota, United States ambassador to Denmark, United States ambassador to Sweden, and United States ambassador to Norway, which latter position he occupies at present. L. I. Strom became principal in 1907 and served until 1902. He is now a prominent clergyman, and is located at Watson, Minn. After his departure, M. L. Ullensvang. who had been a teacher at the academy for some time, assumed the office of principal for one year. He is now a success¬ ful teacher and fruit grower in California. In 1903 a call was extended to J. E. Thoen, educator and clergyman. Rev. Thoen is still serving, and his devoted and conscientious service has done much toward giving to the school its present standing.

In addition to the officers of the school that have been men¬ tioned Hans Gulbrandson will long be honored for his many years' efficient service as treasurer. Vegger Gulbrandson also gave faithful service as a trustee from the beginning of the school practically to the present time. The present trustees are: Rev. (). T. Lee (president), Rev. H. J. Strand (secretary), J. M. Ander¬ son. A. C. Erickson and A. E. Landsrud. The officers of the corporation are: Rev. O. T. Lee (president), Re^ . A. J. Torgerson (vice-president), Rev. H. J. Strand (secretary), Rev. B. T. Olson ( treasurer) . The faculty consists of the following: Rev. J. E. Thoen, principal; B. T. Olson, B.L.I. ; J. A. C. Torgerson, B.A.; Irvin T. Simley, Edna Johnson, Mary Grimsgaard and J. C. Hanson. Among teachers of other days whose services should be noted are Prof. E. O. Kaasa, Rev. 0. H. Smeby and Anna Thvkesen. J. A. C. Torgerson was associated with M. L. Ullensvang as principal in 1892-1893.

Sixty-two pupils are enrolled the present year. On August 20, 1911, the cornerstone was laid for a beautiful new brick build¬ ing, which will be completed this year. This building will be used for dormitory and culinary purposes, with space also for the music department. The buildings are beautifully located on a spreading campus of well-kept lawns, shaded with some grand old trees. In the distance is beautiful Lake Albert Lea, with stretches of water and moor land, against a background of hills and farm lands.

The school is connected with the Norwegian Lutheran Evangelican Synod, and aside from the income from pupils is sup¬ ported by the devout Lutherans of this and neighboring counties. The course covers the usual college preparatory subjects, with business and musical departments also.

One of the most delightful organizations at the school is the band, which ordinarily numbers about twenty-five members. Regular practice periods are observed the same as class recita¬ tions ; this helps to stimulate interest in the band and to hurry its development.

Two literary societies are maintained by the students. One, the Amphictyonic literary society, meets every other Friday evening to render programs, consisting of recitations, readings, essays, vocal and instrumental music, etc. A public program is given about every six weeks. The Erosophian debating society meets every Saturday evening. As the name implies, the chief work done in this society is debating.

An athletic association has been organized, the object of which is to promote general interest and participation in healthful out¬ door games, such as lawn tennis, baseball and croquet. To meet the necessary expenses incurred by the association contributions are solicited among the students and teachers and friends of the school.