York County, Nebraska - Chapter 21: York County in the World War, 1921 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 21: York County in the World War

YORK county's service "bACK HERE" - THE MILITIA BOYS CALLED - FLAG TO COMPANY M - FIRST HOME ACTIVITIES - THE ELKS RESOLUTION RECRUITING BEGINS

Biographical Sketches 839 Chaptee Xiii

TEACHERS LATER SCHOOL BOARDS - TEACHERS IN 1921 - YORK COLLEGE - REVEREND scHELL - York's support - the tore academy, 1871 - the methodist EPISCOPAL college (1879-1886) - york business college - the ursuline convent - school reports in 1881 - gresham schools in 1920 - school consolidation.

The first public school in the western half of York County was held in a little dugout over on Lincoln Creek in 1872, with Mrs. A. Linsley as teacher. The district was eight by twelve miles in extent and known as District No. 15. As the country was settled up the district was divided and other little soddies were built. Then a "frame school" was started in Owens Bros', old store building, which stood on Mr. Steinberg's farm. In 1881 the first little school house was built in Bradshaw. To this additions were made from time to time as needed. But this, the toil and savings of many years, like the most of Bradshaw was laid in ruins in one brief hour.

Bradshaw has graduated two uf her principals into the office of county superintendent, Mr. E. S. Franklin, in 1887, and E. C. Bishop in 1899.

The following teachers have served as principals of the Bradshaw schools since 1881: Misses Sylvia Butler and Carrie Moftitt; Messrs. George Greer, A. B. Codding, E. S. Franklin, Charles Harlan, William Bartz, H. B. McDermed, W. T. Oats, Fred Archard, W. S. Wright, W. T. Utterbeck, T. A. Gierins, J. H. Frew, E. C. Bishoi?, B. F. Marquis and J. N. Peck.

The beginning of school work, which in almost every instance was practically coincident with the settlement of the locality, is detailed througliout the accounts of the settlement of the various townships and towns.

York School District

York School District was organized June 14, 1871. It included a territory five miles square, in which the city occupied aljout the central position. Notice of the fornuition of this district was served upon the entire voting population residing in its limits. In the school records the names of the male residents of the district are entered, which will give the reader an idea of how sparsely the county was settled at this period, and also the names of the early settlers of the now prosperous city. The total number then claiming a residence in the above territory, which included the City of York, was only twenty-two and were the following persons : H. M. Detrick, G. W. Dixon, W. L. Draper, Thomas Myers, Gottleib Hofer. J. II. Bell, F. 0. Bell, A. B. Tutton, K. S. Tutton, A. E. Hendricks. J. P. Miller. James .1. Holley, Ichabod Cook, M. B. Noel, A. J. Day, Isaac Crable, C. F. Day, Edward Bates, L. D. Brakeman, D. A. Ritner, R. Charlton, and August Bonge.

A. B. Tutton was elected director, A. C. Montgomery, moderator, and Dr. Thomas L. Myers, treasurer. No further steps were made towai'ds perfecting the organization until January 15, 1873. At a meeting held at this date, the district voted to issue bonds to the amount of $2,000 for the purpose of purchasing a building site and erecting a schoolhouse. This building was completed in season for a summer school, which was taught by Miss M. A. Hill. During the winter session of this year J. Cochran was employed as teacher. The first school established in York was taught by A. C. Montgomery in the winter of 1870-71. The old pre-emption house served as a schoolhouse, and twenty-two pujnls were in attendance, some coming a distance of eight miles. It was maintained by subscription and was of two mouths' duration. Mr. Montgomery received his wages in wood, grain, cash, or whatever the settlers could best give from an individual standpoint.

At the annual meeting of the board in 1879, it was decided to call a special election, and submit a proposition to the citizens of York, for issuing the bonds of the district to the amount of $58,000 for the purpose of erecting a new school building, the old house having become too small to accommodate the fast growing school population. This election took place May 16, and was universally favored. A building was commenced immediately, and it was completed in 1881.

Yore School Boaeds

There are numerous offices in each community which are real labors of love. One of these is a membership upon the Board of Education. Not for munificent salary, nor for high honor, does the enterprising citizen of the community serve at this post year after year, but for the love of doing some service in building np the public school system. It is the public school system which is the real bulwark of this wonderful nation of ours. It is the public school where the sons and daughters of rich and poor, capitalist and laborer, banker, farmer, clerk, merchant, business man and every class and creed attend upon an equal basis, that has served the most to leaven our i\.merican melting pot into a real democracy.

Right from the start, in the earlier days when a board of three ruled the school affairs of the little Village of York, certain faithful spirits began their perennial careers of service in this field. In 1876, Cliarles Le Count was director, T. D. Knapfi, miidcTiitdr, and II. ('. Kleiiischinidt. treasurer of School District No. Vi. tbe York district. Mr. Kleinsclimidt remained as treasurer until 1878, when Charles Le Count assumed this post and held it until 1883. A. C. Montgomery scrxed as director in 1879 and in 1880 F. A. Bidwell became director and served until ISS.".. n. T. ;Moore was iiiodrrator in 1870 and 1880. T. D. Knajip in 1881

In 1883 the board was composed of Henry Seymour, chairman; F. A. Bidwell, secretary; Charles Le Count, treasurer; H. M. Detrick, and L. J. Gandy. In 1884

5. A. Newell came on. In 1887 Henry Seymour and S. A. Newell were still serving, N. V. Harlan had come onto the board, destined to perform a long period of service, and L. L. Sorrick, M. Sovereign, and B. A. Gilbert finished the roster.

Eaelt Teachers

Among the very earliest contracts for teachers shown on the board's minutes in the office of the secretary of the Board of Education at York are those with Albert Logan, made July 8, 1876, for three months' service for $150. And on September

6, 1876, a contract with Mary L. Betcher provided for three months' service for $120 and Nellie Gunnell was hired in 1879 at $30 per month. Prof. M. Bridges was principal of York schools in 1880, at a salary of $80 per month. His teaching staff consisted of Kate Keckley, grammar room, and Emma Hays, intermediate room; Effie Cutter and Annie Knapp, the other rooms.

In 1884 Mr. Bridges was still principal, with a salary of $100 a month, and his staff of teachers, receiving $40 per month, were Hattie Woolley, Anna Knapp, Ada S. Eoe, Mary McCray, Alice Crownover, Vana Crownover, Sylvia Butler and Flora WyckofE. The staff' in 1887 showed: Central Building, between Grant and Nebraska avenues on Seventh Street, Prof. C. S. Edwards, principal; Misses Carrie Matthews, Lucy Gould, Ella Montgomery, Appa Linch, Jennie Eaper, Ella Graves, and Bella Vance. At the West Ward Building, southeast corner of Sixth and Division Avenue, Misses Vana Crownover, Effie Detrick and Mary McKenzie were teaching. In the North Building, on the southwest corner of Pine and Fifth streets. Misses Hattie Woolley and Flora A. Barton held out.

Lateh School Boards

In 1890 the board roster shows Mrs. Wing, F. B. Daggy, N. V. Harlan, L. L. Sorrick, Mrs. Carscadden, and E. A. Gilbert. Prof. Corbett was principal. The year 1891 found the same members serving, e.xcept that upon the resignation of L. L. Sorrick, Mrs. W. F. Reynolds was chosen to fill his place. In 1892 Mrs. Wing, Mrs. Reynolds, Messrs. Daggy and Harlan remained, and Mr. Marcellus came on the board. In 1893 the board was Reynolds, Myers, Harlan, Daggy, Newman, and Gilbert. In 1894 Mrs. Ella Harrison and E. S. Franklin and E. A. Baker came on the board, Harlan, Mrs. Reynolds, and Gilbert holding over.

B. G. Moulton was elected principal in 1894 and Eunice Coy as assistant. In 1895, Mrs. Harrison, Mrs. Reynolds, Messrs. Baker, Franklin, Harlan, and Gilbert continued to serve together. The year 1896 found Mrs. D. C. Bell serving, the balance of the board being the older members. In 1897 Reverend Baker was succeeded by J. E. Evans. In 1898 the board remained intact, Evans, Franklin, Harlan, Gilbert, Mrs. Bell, and Mrs. Reynolds. In 1899 Mrs. Reynolds gave way to Mrs. Jerome and the balance of the board remained.

On June 3, 1895, the board had entered into a contract to employ Prof. W. W. Stoner as principal of the high school and Mrs. W. W. Stoner as eightli grade teacher, at a joint salary of $1,000 per auiium. At this time Professor Moulton stepped up to the elevation of superintendent of York Schools. Doris McMaster was made assistant principal of the high school in 1897.

This brings us down to 1900, when the board of 1899 remained in office, except that Mrs. Bell was succeeded by Mrs. E. A. Warner. Prof. C. R. Atkinson succeeded Superintendent Moulton in 1900. This left the board as Mrs. Jerome, Mrs. Warner, Messrs. Gilbert, Harlan, Evans, and Franklin. The year 1901 brought a couple of noticeable changes, when Messrs. Franklin and Harlan gave way to Doctor McConaughy and H. M. Childs, the remaining members being Gilbert, Evans, Mrs. .Teronic and Mrs. Warner. In 1902, two more new members came on, George W. Slirerk and G. H. Holdeman succeeding Gilbert and McConaughy. The board in 1903 were Harris M. Childs, George W. Shreck, G. H. Holdeman, John E. Evans, Adelaide Jerome and Phila H. Warner. Professor Atkinson had resigned the superintendency and Prof. Stoner assumed this post. In 1904 Dr. McConaughy succeeded Evans and began a long term of service. Nineteen hundred and six witnessed some changes, Jessie R. Myers, Julia T. Bell and Etta Hoyt coming on the board to serve with Childs, Shreck and McConaughy. Nineteen hundred and seven found the same board serving. In 1908 one change took place, George M. Spurlock succeeding Mrs. Myers. In 1909 Mrs. Jessie R. Myers returned, A. M. White succeeded Mrs. Julia Green Bell, and Mrs. Hoyt remained with Messrs. Childs, Spurlock, and McConaughy: 1910 and 1911 saw no changes in the hdiii-d ami tliis sextette served harmoniously together for three years. In 1912 five of them remained at the task and Mrs. Mary E. Bradwell displaced Mrs. Etta Y. Hoyt. In 1913, four of the faithful se.xtette and five of the 1912 board remained, Childs giving way to Henry W. Brott ; 1914 found this board remaining intact. At a bond election on June -5, 1912, to provide $80,000 bonds for building three new school houses, the vote was decisively against the proposition, being 123 for and 586 against. The vote was distriliuted by wards:

Til 1915 a IVw ciianges resulted upon the board. Dr. W. L. Bernard and King taking the phices of Myers and Bradwell. The year 1916 saw Dr. McConaughy succeeded by A. C. Hubbell. Nineteen seventeen saw two new members, W. W. Wyckoir ami C. R. Keckley succeed Spurlock and White. On March 20, 1917, an election was held at which $225,000 bonds were voted for the construction of three new buildings. This resulted in a vote by wards:

For some time, W. B. Johns had been serving as principal of the high school and Geo. S. Cook as treasurer for the board. Nineteen seventeen saw not only the inauguration of the very heavy program for the building of the three new buildings, but the necessity of another election on August 7, 1917, called for another issue of $60,000 bonds for the new Central School Building. With the money realized from sale of property and these two issues, the new Central Building was built at a cost of some $175,000 and the other two buildings completed, over $.300,000 being put into this new, but tiioroughly modern school plant. The election of August 7, 1917, showed a vote upon the $60,000 bond issue, of

In 1918 Wyckoff, King, Brott, Keckley and Hubbell remained on the board and Mrs. Pearle Felton succeeded Doctor Bernard. Sui)erinteudent Stoner resigned and Prof. James B. Crabbe, of Laramie, Wyoming, was elected on June 5, 1917, to take his place. M. S. Jones was principal of the high school. Nineteen nineteen saw two changes on the board, Dean C. E. Ashcraft of York College and EfRe Detrick displaced HnblK'H and Brott. This leaves the same board as have been serving in 1920 and early 1921, Miss EfRe Detrick, Mrs. Pearle Felton, Dean C. E. Ashcraft, Atty. W . W. Wyckoff, who is secretary of the board. Mr. King, and C. E. Keckley. Superintendent Crabbe resigned in 1918 and was succeeded by York's present efficient superintendent, F. A. Graham, who came here from Missouri Valley, Iowa. W. E. Nelson is the present principal of the high school.

York now has a thoroughly modern school plant that will compare with any in the state. Its high school gives a complete college preparatory course, a splendid normal training course, a vocational agricultural department (Smith-Hughes courses and home economics), and a splendid commercial course.

G2G History Of York County Histoby Of Youk L'Ollege

The foreruimer of 'fork College was Cihbon Collegiate Institute at Gibbon, Nebraska. This institution had been bought in 1886 from the Baptist people, and was conducted as an academy. It was a success for three or four years, but the size of the town and the lack of full co-operation made it impracticable to continue its existence.

In the summer of 1890 several cities made propositions to the trustees for the re-location of the school and for making it full college grade. Kearney and York were the leading bidders, and the following persons constituted the first board of trustees: Judge D. T. Moore, Rev. E. A. Leeper, D. D., Lee Love, Judge N. A. Dean, C. J. Nobes, I). E. Sedgwick, I\t. I)., Judge A. C. ilontgomeiT, Rev. J. C. Countermine, D. I).. F. 0. Bell, Judge G. W. Post, Rev. G. F. Deal, and Rev. F. W. Jones.

Its Beautiful Site. A more beautiful site .could not be fmiiid in the State of Nebraska - a gentle eminence in the eastern i)art of the city, the highest ground in York County. Here, on a campus of eleven acres, the first building was erected, and dedicated in June, 1892. It is a splendid edifice of brick and stone, 88x99 feet, basement and three stories, beautiful in architectural design and in approaching the city from any direction can be seen for many miles.

Excellent Equi/nnents. The building is well furnished and well equipped and unusually well planned for college purposes. The recitation rooms are large and light. The commercial room covers nearly half of the second floor. The chapel will seat about six hundred. The literary halls are among the finest in the state. The library contains about 1,500 volumes, and the reading tables are constantly supplied with an abundance of the liest periodicals of the day. The museum has several hundred feet of shelf-room filled with specimens in geology, zoology and botany. The laboratories are well supplied with apparatus to facilitate the work in the natural sciences.

Anotlier HuUding. Another liuilding has lieen projected and the work begun. The foundation was laid and struiture was completed in 190.3. Its dimensions are 80x36 feet, four floors, containing thirty-five rooms, besides halls, closets and bathrooms. It is heated by steam, as is the main building, and lioth supplied with city water and electric light. Tliis Iniiiding is devoted to the conservatory of music and ladies" dormitory.

Reverend George, A. M., D. D., served as president from August, 1890, to August, 1894. Tlie average yearly enrollment during his term was 176.

Eev. W. S. Eeese, Ph. M., D. D., succeeded President George and served three years. During this time the average yearly enrolhiient was 149. Tlie large debt incurred by the erection of the main building became a heavy burden during this administration, owing to financial jianic and crop failure.

1897. That was a dark hour in the history of the institution. Every dollar of a great debt .was due and suits entered for collection. There was nothing in the treasury to stay the impending crisis. Some of the trustees advised giving up the -work. Every member of the faculty had resigned except J. E. Maxwell, M. S., professor of Natural Sciences, and Mrs. D. E. Sedgwick, director of tiie music department. Xo catalogue had been issued.

The details of the five succeeding years cannot here be given. It is enough to say that the entire situation has been changed. The debt is liquidated. The sum of $8,000 dollars has been expended for additional equipments and $6,000 in good pledges is now on hand for another building. The courses of study have been strengthened, the faculty enlarged, and York College has taken high rank among the institutions of Nebraska and the West. The average yearly enrollment during the five years of President SchelTs term has been 281 - over three hundred yearly for the last three years.

William E. Schell, A. M., D. D., president and professor of philosopliy (Western College, Toledo, Iowa, June, 1890, A. B. ; June, 1893, A. M. ; Lane University, Lecompton, Kas,., June, 1902, D. D.).

Sareva Dowell, A. M., professor of Latin and Greek (Amity College, College Springs, Iowa, June, 1893, A. B. ; June, 1898, A. M. ; post-graduate work in Europe).

M. D. Adams, M. Acc'ts, principal of the College of Commerce and professor of commercial branches and shorthand (Gem Ciity Business College, Quincy, 111., June,

Euth Smith, director of the Conservatory of Music and instructor of piano, pipe organ, reed organ, harmony, general theory, history of music and voice culture (Western College Conservatory, June, 1899, diploma in piano course; June, 1901, dij^loma in voice; Victoria College of Music, London, June, 1902, diploma as associate in piano).

Max Baumeister, instructor on violin (studied in Omaha and St. Louis, then five years at the Bavarian Conservatory, Wuerzburg, Germany, court musician).

L. E. Porter, principal of the School of Expression and instructor in elocution and physical culture (studied at York College, and Cohnubia School of Oratory, Chicago).

Lauriette Dowell, principal of the Art Department and instructor in drawing and all lines of art work (studied at Tarkio College, Tarkio, Mo., and Nebraska State University).

Students. The aggregate of the enrollment for 1892-1904 was 2,556. The students have always been of a most excellent class and the graduates are toiling in fields of usefulness this wide world over, even in India, China and Philippine.-. In Chicago, Washington, St. Louis, Onuiha, Kansas City, Denver, Cheyenne, St. Paul, Miimeapolis, San Francisco, Lincoln and in almost all the cities and towns of Nebraska they are doing a good and honorable part in the business and professional work of the world. Their ranks include college professors, ministers, missionaries, civil service men, lawyers, physicians, merchants, musicians, machinists, superintendents of schools, teachers, public officers and other vocations worthy of note. And many, tliougli not completing courses, have gone forth after terms of years of profitable association and study, with increased knowledge, improved gifts and larger life, and are now filling useful positions in the industrial pursuits and professions of this busy age. The passing days, ever and anon, bring back the story of their success and their joy in having made York College their choice.

Fifty-eight of the business men of York and eighty-four of the teachers in charge of schools in York County in 1901: were old York College students.

Public Library History Of York Couxty 631

Charles E. Ashcraft, dean of the Liberal Arts College; A. B., Campbell College; A. M., University of Chicago; B. D. Bonebrake Seminary; one year post-graduate work at the University of Chicago; philosophy and English Bible (1913).

Charles Bissett, treasurer and registi-ar; Ph. B., San Joaquin Valley College; A. M., University of Kansas; B. D., Bonebrake Theological Seminary; graduate work. University of Chicago, one year; history and social science (1913).

Standing Committees Of The Faculty

William E. Schell was born iu Carroll County, Indiana, October 25, 1861. He is of German decent, related to some of the best families of the land and his kin are found in the United States Congress, among financiers, bishops and scholars of wide reputation.

His mother died when he was but a child. His father, a prominent Chicago business man, went down iu the panic of 1873. This left the lad to face the world alone, long before he had reached his teens. With the true spirit of German independence he remained away from his relatives, leaning upon his own efforts for success. He taught school at the age of fifteen, was in the mercantile business in his early twenties, bending his energies, meanwhile, in the direction of a college course, which he completed in due time at Western College, Toledo, Iowa, iu June, 1890, with the degree A. B. and with highest honors.

The next two years he was tlie York College pastor. Being an indefatigable worker, fully appreciating the various needs of the church and one upon whom God has set his seal of approval, his years in pastoral labor were fruitful in an unusual degree, many being added to the church year by year. But during these years so crowded with pastoral duties he still found time for study, and in June, 1893, he took the degree A. M.

Then followed nearly three years of service as presiding elder of Y^ork district before he was called a second time to the presidency of Y'ork College, the first call being declined three years before.

Though a modest, unassuming man. President Schell is an excellent financier, prepossessing in appearance, an eloquent speali^r, possessed of good judgment, keen insight, rare tact, and a faculty of bringing things to pass.

director of the board of missions. He has served a four years' term on the board of education, which lias the supervision of all the colleges of the denomination.

He has been a member of the Nebraska College Association for several years and has served as secretary and as president of the same. He has been elected to membership in a number of national associations of scholars, and his name appears in several biographical cyclopedias, while in June, 1903, Lane University, LeCompton, Kan., honored him with the degree D. D.

His services have been repeatedly sought by other institutions, but at the earnest solicitation of his many friends he has continued in his present relation.

Student Activities

Y. M. C. A. and Y. W. C. A. Two Christian associations are maintained by the students. The Y. M. C. A. and Y. W. C. A. both have meetings every week in their own halls. Both are branches of the international Christian associations. The Christian associations help to develop and maintain the moral and religious life of the student body.

Various conmiittees are at work. Bible and mission study classes are conducted, making the associations a most valuable auxiliary to the spiritual life of the college.

Student Volunteer Band. The Student Volunteer Band is composed of young men and young women who have pledged themselves to foreign missionary service and who are considering the great problems of world-wide missions.

Literary Societies. The college has four literary societies - the Amphictyon and Zetagathean for young men, and the Philomathean and Zetaethean for young women, each of which offers its privileges to students in any department. These societies have large and well furnished halls and direct their own affairs. They afford excellent means for social and literary culture under the most wholesome Christian influences.

College Periodicals. The Sandburr is a monthly college paper edited and published by the students; its contents are interesting and helpful and it furnishes a live link between the college and the students of other days. The Sandburr will be mailed free of charge to each regularly enrolled student.

A neat pocket manual for free distribution, containing valuable information for new students, is published yearly by joint committees of the Y. M. and the Y. W. C. A.

Athletics. The athletic association of York College is composed of all the students. They elect their own board for the control of the difEerent sports. Two members of the faculty are elected to act with the board. Coaches are provided for all the sports. Football, baseball, track, tennis and basketball are encouraged. Our gymnasium is one of the best in the state, having regulation size floor, running track, lockers and shower baths. The college backs the athletic association financially.

Oratory and Delate. An oratorical and debating association is maintained. Its affairs are managed by an executive committee of four members, consisting of three student members and the debating coach. It has charge of all inter-class debates, inter-collegiate and oratorical contests. College credit is given for work properly done in this department. In addition to the credit given, the ahimni offers a prize of twenty dollars to the one winning first place in the preliminary state oratorical contest. All students winning places on college teams will be given instruction and training under the head of the expression department at the expense of the college. Some features of the present plan are new, and under the new system a lively interest in debate and oratory has developed.

The Administration Building is 88x99 feet. It is built of brick and is three stories high above the basement. It contains the chapel, recitation rooms, library, ofBce, literary halls and laboratories.

Hulitt Conservatory is 36x80 feet and is modern throughout. It is built of brick with limestone trimmings and is three stories above the basement. The first story is used by the conservatory of music and the other two are used as a ladies' dormitory and will accommodate forty-two girls. The basement is well equipped for serving meals.

The Gymnasium is 40x80 feet. It is made of brick and is one of the best college gynmasiums in the state. It is modern in every way, having a hard maple floor of regulation size, a running track, lockers and shower baths.

The college has a commodious campus of eleven acres where all the out-of-door sports can be maintained. In addition to this the city of York grants the privilege of using the city park located just south of the college campus.

Laboratories And Library

The college is provided with chemical, physical, biological and geological laboratories. The chemical laboratories are well equipped with all the apparatus for general, inorganic and organic chemistry ; also qualitative and quantitative analysis. The laboratories are supplied with water, sinks, gas and other necessities. The physics laboratory is thoroughly equipped with all the necessary apparatus for teaching of physics in a first class way. The biological laboratory is well equipped fldth first class compound microscopes, microtome, camera, etc. The geological laboratory has a large number of fine specimens of fossils, rocks and minerals. A special room is fitted up for the geological work.

Lihriinj. The library has received a substantial gift of $10,000 from Andrew Carnegie. The interest, amounting to $500 a year, is spent in purchasing the best books for a working library. Our library ranks among the best in the state. It is of sufficient size now to offer a number of library courses. Daily papers and many of the best magazines are to be found on the reading tables of the library.

A majority of its students are from Christian homes. The college therefore seeks to furnish such religious training as will supplement and conserve the sacred influences of the home. It believes in heart culture as well as head culture and encourages every agency and activity that tends to promote Christian influence.

Every school day chapel exercises are held in the college chapel and all students are required to attend. Members of the faculty and occasionally students lead these exercises. Bible classes are conducted and credit given both in the college and academy. Mission study classes are conducted by the Y. M. C. A. and Y. W. C. A. Study of comparative religions and non-Christian faiths is presented in the college.

We want posterity to know of the interest York County takes in this institution, so allot the space to let the York Republican of August 26, 1930, tell that story:

The prologue in the final act of the drama, entitled "Eaising the Endowment of York College," was given at the Y. M. C. A. rooms on Monday evening. On that occasion members of the county organization met with the trustees of the school for the purpo-se of launching the campaign in Y^'ork County outside the city of York. The drive in the city was made last spring and netted $103,000 before the subscription takers folded up their subscription blanks and left the field. Now the county is to be invited to do its part.

The financial goal of the college has been fixed as follows: $150,000 for York County, $150,000 for the United Brethren denomination in Nebraska and Colorado, $200,000 from tlie denominational funds devoted to Christian education.

These sums invested in securities are expected to raise the sum which is yearly needed to bridge over the financial gap between what the students pay in tuition and what the expenses of the institution are. Witli the endowment raised and the finances of the school established, improvements, both in the equipment and the work of the school, can be undertaken; without the endomnent the school is headed for the financial rocks.

A number of progressive peojile from the county attended the meeting. A dinner was served at 7:00 o'clock. After that had been properly discussed and disposed of, C. A. McCloud, chairman of the board of trustees of the school, took charge of affairs and in a brief speech outlined tlie financial needs of the college.

The college is the property of the people of Y'ork County, declared Mr. McCloud, and they should for financial reasons, if for no other, come to its support. He declared that if another community were bidding for the school and there was a prospect of its being moved elsewhere, a sum of a half million dollars could be raised over night to retain it. Some of the same spirit should be showing itself when the school is in financial need to guarantee the stability of its finances so that the future work of the school can be laid out and protected. Mr. McCloud declared that every acre of land in York County is enhanced in value by reason of the school being located here, and that if every acre has been increased one dollar - a conservative estimate - that increase alone is sufficient to raise an endo\nnent to provide the present and future financial needs of the school.

Other speakers, whose remarks brought out the value of the school to the community and the duty devolving upon the citizens of Y^ork County to assist it with their gifts toward the endowment and also witli their good will and interest, were A. W. Thompson, Dr. 0. M. Moore and J. G. Alden.

Dr. H. U. Roop, president of the school, gave much interesting detail about the work of the school. They have two goals in view, a financial goal and student goal. Their financial goal is the one above detailed, creating a total endowment of a half million dollars. The student goal is twice the number of students enrolled last year.

Doctor Roop stated that two things are essential before the school can avail itself of aid from the. large educational funds established for the aid of colleges by the men of great finance interested in educational objects - there must be an endowment of not less than $100,000 and a student body of not less than 100. These conditions will soon be met and then the college can apply for aid from the foundations in establishing professorships, founding chairs and erecting new buildings. He is sanguine the endowment hopes will be realized and the college put on its financial feet so that it can with this school year begin to stretch out for its waiting, beckoning future.

A very complete canvass of the county is to be made under direction of a captain and team for each township. Some work in the county has already been done with good report. The captains of the teams who will do the soliciting work in company with volunteers from the school and from Y^ork City are: Stewart, Herman Diers; Thayer, David Price; West Blue, A. E. Caldwell; McFaddeu, Merl Harner; Henderson, J. R. Mouer : Brown, P. H. Epp; Waco, R. F. Getty; Morton, Wm. ilyers: Arborville, S. Harvey; Bradshaw, Dr. Geo. Morrison; Lockridge, R. L. Brill; Baker, B. S. Kuhn ; Leroy, Harvey Pickrel.

The Yoek Academy

In the fall of 1871 C. S. Harrison of Eastville, 111., was asked by Geo. Harris, land commissioner of the B. & M. Railroad, to take charge of a colony to be located in York, N'eb., with F. A. Bidwell, land agent. He first came to view the situation in September, 1871. There were then but six buildings and those on a very small scale, one being a sod house. At this time there was not a tree, shrub or flower on the whole towusite. It was simply a dry, dreary, monotonous prairie. The grass was short and the country had a parched and pinched appearance.

He told the commissioner that if he took charge of a colony he must have a nucleus around which to build it. So the commissioner asked him what he wanted. He told him that he wanted forty acres of land deeded to the Congregational Church for an academy and wanted it joining town on the west side. The forty acres were received without the cost of a dollar and deeded to the Congregational Church when it was organized. Then circulars were put out calling attention to the "Mayflower Colony," with a New England academy attachment, and that began to draw the people till by such advertising about six hundred people came to York County. It brought in a better class of people than the other towns secured. This was due to the fact that church and school was the watchword instead of saloons and gambling dens.

The next thing to be done was to make the land available. So Mr. Harrison and Mr. Bidwell bouglit lots on the west side of town and when other people came in they commenced to settle near the academy land. G. P. Chessman came soon. after and also built in that locality.

When an impetus was given in that direction, then it was thought best to sell thirty acres of the land and put up the building from the proceeds, retaining ten acres for the campus. To Mr. Chessman and Henry Seymour the community was largely indebted for the success of the enterprise. Sufficient land was sold to commence the building of a two story building 30x50 feet with an addition for entrance and bell tower. It was in the awful year of the grasshopper scourge, but the noble building went up like a great hope rising out of despair. For the times it was a large building. The lumber was hauled from Fairmont as there was no railroad in those days. As it was to be a Congregational school the advisability of opening it was brought before the Blue Valley Association, and a committee of three brought in a report against opening it, as it was too near Doane College. Sentiment has changed since then. Doane College realizes the need of academies as feeders. There are now four of these in the state sending students to Doane.

The Methodist Episcopal College Of Nebraska

This institution of learning, located in this city, owes its origin to the Nebraska Annual Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, which, at its session in the fall of 1879, established it under the name of the Nebraska Conference

Seminary. However, during the first three years of its existence the school developed so rajjidly that tlie Annual Conference, at its session in 1873, found it necessary to raise the grade of the institution ; and it was accordingly incorporated as the Methodist Episcopal College of Nebraska, and opened as such in September, 1883.

The educational advantages offered here to the youth of our young state are certainly of a high grade. A full classical course of six years is preparing many of our young men for the learned professions. The philosophical course, requiring five years for its completion, pays special attention to the philosophies and physical sciences. The scientific course, also of five years, differs from the last principally in that it carries the student farther into the higher mathematics, paying somewhat less attention to the study oi languages; it is arranged with the design of qualifying the student, by a thorough drill and study in mathematics and physical science for scientific pursuits.

Other shorter courses are open to the student who does not wish to remain so long at college, yet desires to enter upon life's work with a better preparation than he can get at the high schools, ^uch is the literary course, requiring but three years of study. It embraces studies from various departments of art, science, history, philosophy and language. This is a very popular course.

There is also a normal course requiring three years' work, specially designed for those wishing to qualify themselves for the profession of teaching. It introduces those studies which are essential to the teacher in his special work, and gives prominence to those studies required under the hnvs of Nebraska for a first grade certificate.

The fact is also recognized tliat there is necessarily among us a class of youngpeople who must fit themselves for business with the least possible delay, having no leisure for the acquirement of any knowledge, however nseful and desirable except such knowledge as develops the indispensal)le qualifications of the business man. With special reference to such needs we have the business course, discarding all studies but those absolutely indispensable to the successful prosecution of business. In this course the student is taught bookkeeping, practical rapid business penmanship, commercial law, l)usiuess forms, commercial aritlimetic, rajjid calculation, etc.

As an ajjpropriate introduction to any of these courses we have an English preparatory course of one year, covering the common English branches of study.

If for any special reason the student wishes to select studies from the various courses, he may do so under the advice and discretion of the faculty.

The museum of this institution is a noteworthy feature. Fine collections have been added from time to time. Lately the Bower's cabinet, one of the finest collections in the West, representing the patient toil of a lifetime of an eminent scientist, has been purchased by the trustees and added to the museum.

Students have free access to the library, are furnished with apparatus to illustrate natural science, and with instruments for surveying, etc.

Great care and Judgment have been exercised in the selection of the faculty for our college; the chairs of the varidus departments are filled with persons of wide experience, broad culture, of acknowledged competency and literary standing. As at present constituted, the faculty in the literary department consists of the following :

The art department of the college is accomplishing a great work in our midst. It is certainly a rare treat to visit the art rooms, study the fine productions of art, and note the skill and progress of the students. This department is taught by Ella Thomson, instructor in portrait painting and crayoning.

Our music department offers a fine opportunity to the student for music culture. It is constantly growing in magnitude and influence. The instructors in this department are:

Connected with the college is the ladies' hall, in which young ladies may room and live in the family of the president, under the special charge of the preceptress.

The financial basis of the college is good. While its endowment fund is indeed not yet sufficient to sustain the heavy financial burden of an institution of this kind, yet this fund is daily increasing. As an evidence of the hold this college has upon the sympathies of the people of this state may be mentioned the fact that one man, Hon. J. W. Small of Fairfield, contributed lately the sum of $15,000 to its support. Besides this, the simple fact that the college is under the control and management of one of the great religious denominations of the land, which is pledged to its support, is sufficient to insure its permanency and success.

Voters should bear the fact in mind that the location of the imiversity at this place largely depends upon the result of the vote next Saturday. Three of the board of control have expressed themselves as willing to vote for the location at York if the bonds carry. The great complaint that has always been urged against our city in matters of this kind has been our want of railroad facilities. Parties living north or south of this place find it impossible to reach York unless by traveling a hundred miles out of their way. With this great drawback removed, we are informed that our chances are good to secure the university. There is no question whatever that the bonds will carry in the City of York, and there should be none in the adjacent townships. A vote for the bonds is a vote indirectly for the location of a great institution of learning in our midst.

The following press excerpt describes tbe development of Nebraska Wesleyan as the outgrowth of pioneer experience. Over forty years ago a college was founded at York. For five years there were graduating classes. In 1886 a joint university commission representing tlie annual conferences and the then existing colleges of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Nebraska evolved a plan of consolidation for one university. A board of trustees was organized to consist of seven trustees from each conference in Nebraska. The charter was granted in 1887. Since then the alumni have been given places on the board. With the opening of classes on the present site of Wesleyan in University Place, September 18, 1888, there were thirty students. The institution has multiplied that number many times.

Nebraska Wesleyan alumni are found in twenty-eight states of the Union and aliout a dozen countries. The student body is drawn mainly from Nebraska, but large numbers of students from neighboring states also attend. The faculty has been largely increased this summer. Also a number of the professors have received this summer advanced degrees for work completed in other institutions.

York Business College

The York Business College was founded during the summer of 1901, and commenced operations September 10th of that year. President Jacobs, the founder of this school, has had four years' experience as teacher of commercial and shorthand branches, and this, combined with his business and executive ability, has accounted in large part for the success of the school.

Before the opening of the school the second floor of the Wirt Block, consisting of ten large and convenient rooms, was secured for the use of the school. Two of these rooms have since been thrown into one to make room for the greatly increased attendance and other rooms have been secured until in 1903 the York Business College occupies in all thirteen rooms.

The furniture and equipment are everything that could be desired for business college work. The offices for business practice, the furniture of which was manufactured ex])rcssly for its use, contain large counters, containing drawers, book vaults, and every convenience known to the modern accounting house. The typewriting room is well equipped with new Eemington and Smith Premier type^Titers, mimeograph, etc. A lilirary of several hundred volumes occupies one end of the large recitation room. An elegant piano, which is used in the chapel exercises, literary, etc., occupies a corner in the large commercial room. The furniture tlirongliout is such as might be expected in a \vell-0(|ui[)])ed business college.

For night school, literary, receptions, lectures, etc., the school is lighted by electric lights. The city water in the hall connecting the rooms is a great convenience.

The attendance at the York Business College has shown a remarkable growth. While the school opened September 10, 1901, with nine students and increased, to 135 during the first year, it began its second years work with an enrollment of twenty-five the first day, and on January 1, 1903. had a much larger attendance than it had one year before.

The graduates of the first year numlier thirty-five, many of whom hold some of the most important positions in the business world. Among its graduates may be found the must successful teachers, stenographers and accountants, while manv have entered other fiekls of usefulness. But whatever vocation they have entered, they are eminently successful and their success reflects credit upon their alma mater.

Five courses of study were oiferoil by this school, viz., commercial, post-graduate commercial, shorthand and typewriting, reporting shorthand and normal. These courses are practical, and while short they give the student the training necessary in Ills chosen line.

The teachers were specialists in their respective branches and took great interest in the individual welfare of each student. Professor Eberly, the penmanship specialist, made a wide reputation as a ]ilain and ornamental penman. The colored cards written by him were very attractive. Professor Jacobs was eminently successful in placing his students and graduates in good positions. During the year he recei\ed many calls that he could nut fill.

A 1)1 ief history of the York Business College would not be complete without mentioning in a siiecial way the great commencement exercises which were held in the York auditorium, April 10, 1902. The large auditorium was packed with friends, and Chancellor Aylsworth of Cotner University delivered a very interesting address upon "The Modern Era of Education." Excellent music was rendered and at the close of the exercises President Jacobs presented diplomas to twenty-six graduates. After the commencement exercLses a banquet was held in the business college. A graduation banquet was also held June 15, at which time the second class of the York Business College graduated. The next commencement exercises were held about April 1, 15)03.

In the brief period which marks the existence of the York Business College it has made a remarkable record, and its future even promises a greater success than the past has achieved. It has already taken front rank among the business colleges of the West.

After President Jacobs terminated his connection with this institution, about 1905, it was taken over and for many years very successfully conducted l)y Buckley Brothers.

President G. M. Jacobs

Sketches of Professor and Mrs. Jacobs prepared in 1903 showed that President Jacobs, founder of this school, was born in Xemaha County, Kansas, November 10, 1878. His education began in a little country schoolhouse, and, upon graduating from the common school, he entered the commercial department of Campbell University, Holton, Kan., from which he graduated in the spring of 1896. The next year was spent in the Western Normal College, Shenandoah, Iowa, from which he graduated Marcli 22, 1897. Mr. Jacobs is also a graduate of the shorthand department of the Fremont Normal School. He holds five diplomas, two of which confer degrees. In his work as teacher, which covers a period of nearly six years, he has ever been a close student, which accounts in a large measure for his success. September 3, 1901, he was married to Miss Iniogene Houser, a charming young lady of Illinois.

Mrs. G. M. Jacobs was a native of Illinois. She, like her husband, was reared in the country, and after completing her course in the district school entered the high school at Lincoln, 111., and upon her graduation she entered the Illinois Woman's College at Jacksonville, where her literary education was obtained.

Mrs. Jacobs, having a strong desire for business college work, entered the commercial department of the Eureka (111.) Business College, graduating in the spring of 1900. The following year was spent in the study of shorthand at York, Neb., where she graduated with high honors June 12, 1901. She is conversant with both the Pitman and Gregg systems, and has proved an eminently successful teacher. Mrs. Jacobs took an active part in teaching and management of the York Business College, and its early success was due in no small degree to her untiring efforts.

The Ubsuline Convent

This wonderful institution was located at York in 1890. The following account details the part played by the citizens of this community in receiving it and starting it upon its grand work here :

' Considerable talk and some little work has been indulged in the past week, in regard to securing the TJrsuline School for York. The board of trade has held two meetings and on Tuesday night a mass meeting, was held and the matter thoroughly discussed. The committee appointed by the board was endorsed and considerable enthusiasm was manifested. It was decided to relieve the syndicate property of debt which is about $9,000 by subscribing ninety shares of $100 each. To aiiect this indebtedness it is estimated that nearly or about $6,000 can be collected from the contracts of the lots that have been sold, leaving but about one-third of the indebtedness to raise in cash. A person who subscribes one share or $100 will probably not be called upon to pay over $30 of the amount, the balance of his $100 being realized from the lots already sold. Judge Post, C. J. Xobes, and F. 0. Bell each headed lists with subscriptions of five shares, or $500 each. Other good subscriptions have been taken, and with one last effort the matter can Ije brought to a successful issue and the necessary amount pledged in a very short time. From the Peoria Journal of Monday morning we learn that the Sisters have made the sale of the convent property at Peoria and are ready to come to York just as soon as their proposition is accepted here. The citizens' committee who have the matter in charge are M. Sovereign, G. W. Post, C. J. Xobes, N. P. Lundeen and George F. Corcoran. If the committee does not find yon, hunt them and p>it down your name for a few hundred.

In deference to tlie wishes of those who condiict this institution, the compiler has refrained from any personal roster of those iu charge or attendance thereat, and given the space that is allotted to this noble enterprise to a short, historical account of the order. So thoroughly and completely does each member of this order merge her personality into the order to which she dedicates her life, that this is entirely appropriate, for they prefer the tribute paid to the noble order rather than to the individual. The institutinn at Ydvk was opened by a band of Ursulines driven from their German home by the Kulterkampf. after they had worked for some time in the diocese of Peoria, 111.

St. Angela's Hall, a more recent addition to the Ursuline Convent, was dedicated on Thursday, May 6, 1909, by the Rt. Rev. Thomas Bonacum, bishop of Lincoln. This new building, fully equipped, was an addition of much worth to the TJrsuline Convent and an improvement which the patrons of the school fully appreciated.

The Ursulines. A religious order founded by St. Angela de Merici for the sole purpose of educating young girls. It was the first teaching order of women established in the church, and up to the present date has adhered strictly to the work of its appointed mission to lay the foundations of an educational order. Angela for seventeen years could do no more than direct a number of young women who were known as "The Company of St. Ursula," but who continued to live in the midst of their own families, meeting at stated times for conferences and devotional exercises. The many difficulties that hindered the formation of the new institute gave way at last, and in 1535 twelve members were gathered together in a community with episcopal approbation, and with St. Angela de Merici as superioress. The movement was taken up with great enthusiasm and spread rapidly throughout Italv, (iermany and France. Within a few years the company numbered many houses, each independent. Constitutions suited to the work of the institute were developed and completed shortly before the death of the foundress in 1540. In 1544 the first approbation was received from Paul III and the Rule of St. Augustine adopted. Many important details were left unsettled at this time, ajid as a result several congregations developed, all calling themselves Ursulines but differing widely in dress and customs. The largest and most influential of these were the Congregation of Paris and tlie Congregation of Bordeaux. In 1572 St. Charles Borromeo, cardinal archbishop of Milan, obtained for the new congregation the status of a monastic order with enclosure. In some of the older European convents, in Canada and Cuba, strict enclosure is still observed : in other sections, though nowhere entirely abolished, the enclosure has been modified to meet local conditions. A bull of final approbation was given in 1618 by Paul V.

In the early part of the seventeenth century an appeal was made from Canada for bands of religious women to undertake the arduous task of training the Indian girls to Christian habits of life. It met with an instant and generous response. In 1630 Madame de la Peltrie, a French widow of comfortable means, offered herself and all that she had to found a mission in Canada. In May of that year she sailed from Dieppe accompanied by three Ursulines and three hospital sisters. At Quebec the latter founded a Hotel Dieu, the former, the first Ursuline convent on the western continent.

The superioress of the new foundation was Mother Marie de Tlncarnation Guyard, whose heroic virtues won from the Holy See the title of venerable in the year 1877, and the process of whose canonization is about to be presented. The earliest establishment of the Ursulines in the United States also owes its origin to French initiative. In 1727 Mother Marie Trancliepain, with ten companions, embarked from L'Orient to found their convent at New Orleans. After years of struggle a firm foothold was secured, and the Ursulines still flourish in the city of their original foundation. A notable feature of Ursuline labors in the United States may be found in the history of the Rocky Mountain missions, where for years they have labored for the Indians, and have established ten flourishing centers. From these western foundations have sprung two branches in Alaska.

In accordance with the wish of Leo XIII, a congress of Ursulines from all parts of the world convened at Rome during the fall of the year 1900. Representatives were sent from the United States, South America, Java, and all parts of Europe. Under the auspices of the Sacred Congregation of Bishops and Regulars, the Roman Union of Ursulines was then formed, with the Most Reverend Mother Mary of St. Julien as the first mother-general. Cardinal Satolli was appointed the first cardinal protector. To this union belong over a hundred communities, and aggregations are made from year to year. The united communities are divided into eight provinces as follows: Italy, Austro-Hungary, Hungary, the East of France, the West of France, Holland-Belgium-England-Germany, the Xorth of the United States, the South of the United States, Spain and Portugal. Many large and important communities still retain their independent organization. Of late years the Ursulines have suffered severely in France and Portugal. The members of the expelled communities have become aflaliated with other foundations both in Europe and the United States.

The habit of the order is of black serge, falling in folds, with wide sleeves. On ceremonial occasions a long train is worn. The veil of the professed religious is black, of the novice wliite. The guiiiipe and bandeau are of plain white linen, the cincture of black leather. There are two grades in each community: the choir religious, so called from their obligation to recite the office daily in choir; and the lay sisters. The former are occupied in teaching, the latter in domestic duties. Candidates for either grade pass six months' probation as postulants in the community in which they desire to become stabilitated. This period is followed by two years of preparation in a central novitiate at the expiration of which the three vows of religion are pronounced temporarily for a term of three years. At the end of the third year the profession is made perpetual. In some Ursuline communities solemn vows are taken, and there papal enclosure is in force. The vows of the Ursulines in the United States, though perpetual, are simple. From their earliest foimdations the Ursulines have been thorough and progressive teachers. Their system might be termed eclectic, utilizing the effective points of all methods. The European houses are for the most part boarding schools; in the United States combinations of boarding and day schools. The nuns also conduct many parochial schools, which, like the others, comprise all grades, elementary, academic, and college courses. The first Catholic college for women in Xew York State was founded by the Ursulines at New Rochelle in 1904. The Ursulines in several other parts of the United States have followed this precedent, and are laboring practically to further the higher education of women. TJie German Ursulines, who were expelled through the influence of the Kiilterkamjif and readmitted after an exile of ten years, are permitted to resume their teaching, but for pupils of high school grade only. In Europe and America alike the Ursulines make it a point to secure state approval, and avail themselves of every advantage offered liy the ]niljlic institutions.*

Eaelt School Status

The following reports prepared in 1881 will show the status of the public school system in York County at that time, and the various data upon the school system of the present, some forty years later, will show the great progress made during that period :

It is not improper to remark in this connection that the last named amount includes all expenses connected with the office, they being paid by the superintendent.

In this respect, it will be seen he has fallen somewhat short of his duty, as the law requires him to visit each school at lea.st once during the year. But, owing to the great amount of other work, the severe wnter, and several weeks lost by sickness, he has been unable to meet this requirement.

The committee on text-books met Saturday and after carefully examining several standard series selected the following which they recommend for adoption through-

It will be observed that these books are extreiuely cheap, nuu-h clieaper than those now in use, and by examination they will be found to be decidedly better. Of course the action of this committee is simply advisory. Districts are at liberty to adopt or not as they think best. I am not in favor of a frequent change of books but the great variety which we now have in our schools render them very ineffectual and calls for a united effort to remedy the evil. The publishers through their agents agree to keep these books on sale in the county for the prices as given in the righthand column. It will be understood that each district is expected to make its own arrangements with agents about the introduction of the books. Where the districts buy their books in quantities to sell td the scholars or for use free, better prices than either the "exchange" or "retail" prices as given above can usually be made. A full and authoritative report from tlie committee will appear in the next issue.

Typical of the progress nuidc tlu-dughout the county by the various towns, may be taken the following description of the progress of scIkidI work in (iresham in 1920.

A fine report of the activities of the Gresham schools dui-iiig tlic first week and much interesting information about the schools was given in tbc (iresham (iazette. Since many friends of education' in other parts of the county may be interested in knowing what their ideals and plans are in Gresham the items are here reprinted.

Gresham schools opened Monday morning with a nn-onl attendance in all departments. In the high school every seat is occupied, with ninre students still coming.

twenty boys. This work is given under tlie auspices of the National Government, the State of Nebraska and the Gresham School District. Three-fourths of the salary of the instructor is paid by the state. Mr. W. A. Dunbar of De Kalb, Mo., a graduate of our State University, and for the past three years in charge of vocational agriculture in Scottsbluff, is the teacher in charge of the new course in Gresham.

The high school course has further been enriched by initiating a teachers' training last year and this year this course is being carried out in strict conformity with the state requirements. Fifteen pupils from the junior and senior grades are registered for the normal training work. The State of Nebraska provides a fund of one thousand dollars for the biennium which is paid to schools otforing this course as prescribed by law.

Gresham is fully accredited to the State University and all students who finish the course of study and graduate are prepared and are given a certificate of entrance to any college or university without examination.

The work in the grades below the high school is carefully graded and is in charge of able, well trained and experienced teachers so that the education of the children through the common branches is thorough and well done. The teachers are : Miss Fllen Doan, primary ; Miss Euth Gudgel, intermediate : Miss Cordia Brittell, second intermediate; Miss Elma McGinley, grammar; Mrs. Bertha M. Lindstrom, music ; Miss Alma Ash, English and history ; Mrs. Beryl Walford, Latin; Miss Annie G. Davidson, mathematics and normal training; Mr. AV. A. Dunbar, vocational agriculture; A. F. Becker, superintendent of school and instructor in science.

Consolidated Schools

In 1920 considerable effort has been directed by school authorities to launching the new consolidation law. A very large amount of work lias been accomplished in the state during the year along the lines of consolidating rural schools under the act passed by the 1919 Legislature. Thirty-two districts have been formed, and others are in progress. This nmkes a total of nearly 100 consolidated districts in the state, the others having been made under the act that has been in force for a numbers of years. The fact that half as many have been made in two years under the new act as under the old one, which has been in force for a number of years, is pointed to as proof of its superior value as a method, and of its popularity.

Under the old act, whenever a group of rural districts desired to consolidate, all they had to do was to get together and lay out the territorial lines. Then if each district, at an election, approved of it, it came into being. As this work developed it was seen that between these districts there would be many, strips of territory tliat it would be neither desirable or possible to consolidate or annex at some time in the future.

The new law aims to prevent this. The first step is the organization, made mandatory under the law, of a redistricting committee. This lays out the limits of various consolidated districts. Its action is binding on no school district except as to territorial limits. The initiative must be taken by those who want the district. In the open territory - that is, outside of the high school districts - if twenty-five per cent of the people file a petition an election is called and the district created or the proposition defeated. Tliis latter has happened in a few cases only.

How New Law Works

W]iere a high school district exists, a consolidated district can be created if fifty-one per cent of those living outside the high school district file a petition and the high school district board consents.

The objections to the consolidated system are based largely on the fact that the taxes are higher under it than under the old small district plan, and also to the methods of transportation. Children are picked up by the motor bus or horsedrawn vehicle at the junction of the road with the farmhouse lane or grounds, and it sometimes happens that they must walk through a lot of snow or mud and then wait in the cold. Routes are arranged, however, and a time table adhered to that reduce their discomfort to a minimum.

The consolidated school does cost more to each individual taxpayer, but ho gets more for his money. It gives him a four-year high school course in addition to the eight grades, and enables the boys and girls to stay at home while taking high school. The parents are spared the expense of board and tuition where, as in the past, they went to the nearest high school.

The first election to approve or reject the work of the county school re-districting committee was held on Saturday last in Benedict and the decision was decidedly in favor of ajiproving the work of the committee. This newspaper has heretofore and many times called attention to the amount and perplexities of the work which has been done by Messrs. Geo. Westwood, H. B. Bottum, and Supt. T. C. Lord, members of the re-districting committee. They spent many long hours in digesting information and facts which would enable them to comprehensively establish district boundary lines. It required much travel, many conferences with patrons and the exercise of good judgment to arrive at a general conclusion. Even then changes were forced by the pressure of public opinion. But when at last the job of the committee was completed, the members surveyed their work, concluded they had done the best they could and have since stuck unanimously and unswervingly to their findings. It brings the mendjers of the committee a decided sense of satisfaction that the first verdict upon their work is favorable.

The election, held in Benedict, effects a readjustment of boundary lines of a number of districts. Districts 84, 68, 100, 59, 91, and 16 are entirely or almost so absorbed in the newly created district. Districts 57, 53, 85, 78, and 79 are partially included. The vote stood 191 for and 98 against. There are about 325 voters in the proposed district and the number who voted is large considering the condition of the roads which made going to the polls a difficult matter.

The territory affected by the new district contains about two hundred school pupils. There are possibly fifty more children in the territory eligible to attend the school. The district will include a fraction over thirty-three sections. The assessed valuation of the property in the district is $722,000.

It will become the duty of the county superintendent to call a school meeting for the new district shortly. The patrons will elect a school board of si.x members and from thi.s board the officers of the district will be selected.

It is very probable that this election will be followed soon by aiuither in the Bradshaw neighborhood. Petitions are being circulated there and it is reported that a sufficient number of .signatures have been obtained to issue the call.

The .success of the first election gives courage to the friends of consolidated schools to believe that other elections in prospect will have a favorable verdict at the hands of the voters.

Residents in the boundaries of a proposed new school district Xo. 6 voted on the con.solidation of the districts now in the territory on Wednesday, January 5th. The election was held in the Bradshaw Town Hall. If District No. 6 had been established the Town of Bradshaw would have been the center of the territory and adequate buildings to accommodate the larger schools would have been called for-, but it was voted down, 148 for to 186 against consolidation. District No. 3, which was established at Benedict recently, will probably arrange to begin school work under the new plan in the fall of 1921, and the facilities afforded by the Benedict schoolhouse will be supplemented by moving one or more of the schoolhouses from the country districts to town.

Chaptee Xiv The Methodist Episcopal Church Of York

The York Methodist Episcopal Church traces its history back to June, 1871, when a little class of sixteen Methodists was enrolled at the home of David Baker, who lived on Beaver Creek about two miles from the present city. Brother Baker was a pioneer Methodist class leader, and it seems that his zeal and leadership brought about the organization of the class. The details of the proceedings are not obtainable, for the organization of a Methodist class is not a stately affair in worldly terms and in those pioneer times it was far away from being formal and ostentatious.

The records show that on May 14, 1871, the Eev. W. E. Morgan of the Eock Eiver Conference preached in Brother Baker's house. Mr. Morgan was looking up a homestead and intended to remove to Nebraska in the fall. The knowledge of this fact seems to have caused Mr. Baker to collect the names of Methodists in the vicinity of York and informally to constitute a class. This was undoubtedly in June. On July 2, 1871, the presiding elder of the Beatrice district, the Eev. J. B. Maxfield, held the first quarterly meeting in a grove near Mr. Baker's house. The little class at that time, or perhaps a few weeks before, was placed in charge of W. H. B. Wilson, a local preacher. The first relation this minister held to the York class is not clear, but it is plain that on the 2d of July he was in charge and the following persons had been enrolled : David and Elvira Baker, J. H. Bell, Thomas Bassett and wife, L. D. Brakeman, Mary Brakeman, Ella Brakeman, Thomas Myers and wife, John and Mary Murphy, S. W. Pettis and Amanda Pettis, Mrs. M. Shackelford, and Mrs. Sarah N. Moore.

During the summer occasional services Avere held at Mr. Baker's house. On Octolier 16. 1871, Mr. Morgan was transferred to the Nebraska conference and appointed to York circuit, then consisting of the entire county. On the 29th of October the first services by a Methodist preacher in York were held by Mr. Morgan, in an unfinished building on the west side of the square, known as Brahmstadt's and Kleinschmidt's store. There were no doors or windows in the building. Carpenters" benches, nail kegs and l)oards served as seats.

Histoey Of York Couxty 657

During the winter services were held at Mr. Baker's. On February 9, 1873, the first trustees were appointed, as follows: David Baker, J. li. Bell, T. C. Tagg, and

The first quarterly meeting in the town was held by Eev. H. T. Davis, presiding elder of the Lincoln district, in April, 1872. The meeting was held in the old

At this meeting steps were taken for the building of the first M. E. Church of York. Its dimensions were to be 21x36 feet. The lumber to build the church was hauled from Lincoln on wagons, L. D. Brakeman being one of those who thus assisted in the construction. The church was located on Seventh Street and Platte Avenue, where the old jDarsonage now stands. It was enclosed during the summer and while the church walls were being built the people did not neglect the assembling of themselves together, and services were conducted in a store building, in the schoolhouse, and afterwards in the church home of the Presbyterians, who had completed their house of worship.

In 1873 the sum of $100 was secured from the Church Extension Society. The house was completed and dedicated on September 14th by Dr. Miner Eaymond of Garrett Biblical Institute at Evauston, 111. All who remember that day unite in pronouncing it one of the great days in the history of York, and especially of the York M. E. Church. Eleven hundred dollars were subscribed and the building presented to the church with several hundred dollars more than the indebtedness provided for.

Edwin Buck was the next pastor. He held a very encouraging revival meeting in the winter of 1875 and 1876. The interest spread all over the county and people came ten and twelve miles to attend the services. As one result of this revival the first Methodist Sunday school was organized February 27, 1876.

The first parsonage was built in 1877 and consisted of two rooms, which afterward formed the west part of the remodeled parsonage, so long occupied and so fondly renunnliered by the later pastors.

Following Edwin Buck as pastors were E. J. Willis, 1877-78, and W. S. Blackburn, lS7i)-S0. The increase in congregation and membership was so great that the need for a larger room in which to worship became imperative.

In 1880 the church building was sold to the Swedish Lutherans and removed to its present site, southwest corner of Eighth Street and Platte Avenue. Then for five years services were held first in the old City Hall, the building long occupied by Marshall's carriage factory, and then in Bell's Hall. God continued with his people in these places, and during the three years" pastorate of Rev. G. A. Smith, 1881-83, the work was carried nn with faitli and courage, with corresponding rewards for faithful work.

In 1883 Eev. H. T. Davis was appointed to the York station. There were 271 members. The history of the church during the three years of Brother Davis' pastorate is full of interest and is fittingly told in his book, "Solitary Places Made Glad."

In the winters of 1883 and 1881 Bell's Hall was the scene of revival meetings that will never l)e forgotten. After these meetings all seemed to think that the time had come to build a church, as the results of the meetings had added largely to the memljership. After some discussion as to place, the board decided upon the corner of Seventh Street and Kebraska Avenue as the most desirable location. It was decided that the c-him-li should not cost more than twelve thousand dollars, and the work was not to begin until ten thousand dollars was subscribed.

On the 20tli of April, 1885, the subscrijition for the new church was taken, amounting to $10,360. Work was immediately begun, and at conference time the church was well under way. Brother Davis was returned to York to complete his work. This occupied the most of the time during the first i)art of the year. The work was pushed, the basement was finished and informally dedicated December fi, 188.5. The press account of this occasion stated that :

"The new M. E. Church was dedicated last Sunday by Bishop Warren. The day was all that could be asked, a beautiful sunshine invited hundreds of our people to attend the impressive service. The church has a seating capacity of about nine hundred and fifty but over thirteen hundred were crowded into the building and a number turned away. The dedication services were conducted by the bishop, who announced that $8,000 was needed to clear the church from debt. In an incredibly short space of time over $8,600 was ])ledged for this ]nirpose. The other churches in the city were closed on Sunday morning to allow all their members to attend. The church is beautifully finished and furnished throughout and is a credit to the painstaking congregation who June acccinijijishcd its erection and the pride of the liberal people, of the city."

February 27, 1886, the church was completed and dedicated by Bisho]) H. W. Warren. Tlie seating capacity was larger than the present auditorium, with basement and classrooms.

Rev. Duke Slavens followed Brother Davis with a pastorate of two years of good and efficient work. Rev. W. K. Beans was the pastor one year, and held a revival meeting which will always be held dear in t4ie memory of those attending. It was wonderful, indeed. Brother T. B. Hilton was the pastor one year and continued the work, and Rev. A. C. Crosthwaite gave three years of his most ea»rnest effort with the best of results. In fact, when Rev. J. W. Stewart came as the pastor the members had begun to feel as old people do who have gone through many hardships and have at last builded a home in which to spend their old age, and welcome their children and grandchildren, and feel that their troubles were about over. But alas! misfortune will come. One calm, beautiful night on October 16, 1895, while prayer meeting was in session, in the lecture room, fire was steadily making its way through the roof of the building, and by the time it was discovered it was too late to save the building; and while members and friends stood by and watched with tears running down their cheeks, and exclamations of sorrow and regret coming from their lips, the beautiful church home was burned to the ground. It was the second year of the drouth, and it was deemed almost an impossibility to rebuild.

Sister congregations offered to share their church homes, but the membership was large and it was thought best to secure a room, though it might be small and inconvenient, where regular services could be held without interfering with the rights of others. As in the early days there was no room suitable for a place of worship. But the Sunday after the fire found the congregation assembled in an empty store room on the south side of the square, fitted up with a pulpit, a few pews, and the organ, which had been saved from the fire, and chairs sufficient for the seating capacity. After a stirring sermon from the pastor, Brother Stewart, made an appeal foi- money to rcluiild the clmnli, and in an incredibly short time

The task was an arduous one, and many who had been very helpful in building both of the other churches were unable, because of the financial stress, to suljscribe even one dollar and be sure of paying it.

The work of collecting went on, and the people assembled in their uncomfoi'table quarters through the frosts of one winter and the heat of the next summer, holding regular services. Sunday school and prayer meetings, the pastor talking and preaching at such a disadvantage that he was advised by his physicians to stop, or his throat might be permanently injured. But he persevered, trusting in his Heavenly Father for strength to carry on his work. The building went on, and Wednesday night, October 17th, the anniversary of the burning of the brick church, the new stone church was dedicated to the Lord amid the rejoicings of members, friends and neighbors. The church had cost $12,000, and was dedicated entirely free from debt. Bishop McCahe officiated, aided by tlie untiring and faithful pastor. Brother Stewart.

Since the building of the stone tliurch, the growth of the church has been steady. The membership enrolled in January, 1903, was 74.3, of whom ninety-eight were probationers.

In 1904 Kev. F. A. Colony became pastor and served for some five years, when Rev. Ale.vander G. Bennett eame and served this congregation for another five years; then Rev. W. C. Wasser, who came in 1914, was his successor. In 1918 Bev. F. M. Sisson was sent to this congregation, and in 1920 he was succeeded by Reverend De Wolfe.

" 'Dr. A. G. Bennett delivers his last sermon in the M. E. Church on next Sunday morning. For some weeks the bishop of the area has been considering the transfer of Dr. Bennett to Great Falls, Mont., in exchange with the Rev. Edgar L. White, who has been in charge there for the past seven years. At Great Falls a great edifice is planned to be built soon, and as Doctor Bennett has had considerable experience in this line, there was a request made for him in that im])ortant pastorate. Though he has been in Twin Falls only one year, there is now a building activity of no mean proportion going on in the Methodist church, including a fine new $11,000 Austin pipe organ, and an interior dome to auditorium with beautiful decorations and general enrichment and remodeling. Also a commodious parsonage has been purchased facing the city park on Second Street East. Doctor Bennett has had a creditable year here, and popular regret is expressed over his departure, yet with general good wishes for his success in his new field. The pastor and family will leave Twin Falls on the 16th, in the meantime the pastor attending annual conference at Canyon City, Oregon, to make his report.' "'

C'luircli. was ill York on ilomlay, and presided at the session of the Fourth Quarterly Conference of the York church. At this meeting, Judge Spurlock of this place was endorsed as one of the nine delegates from the Nebraska conference to the General Conference, which meets at Des Moines, in May, 1920. These delegates are elected at the session of the Annual Conference, which meets this year at University Place, September 9th. Judge S])urlock has represented the Nebraska conference at the last three sessions of the General Conference, which meets every four years, and is the supreme governing body of this church. At this session of the local (piarterly conference the pastor of the York church, Dr. F. M. Sissou, announced his intention to retire from the active ministry at the end of this conference year, in September. Doctor Sisson has Ijecn in York two years, coming here from Fremont, where he was pastor for nine years. He has been an active minister in the Methodist Church for forty-five j'ears, serving important charges in Illinois, and for many years in Nebraska. While he has not announced wbere he exjiects to live after his retirement, it is probable he will go to Fremont, where it is understood he owns a comfortable residence."'

"Congregations which completely filled the church attended both morning and evening. It was a money-raising day and in the morning a call was made for $7,000, which was fully subscribed. At night in ten minutes $420 more was subscribed to buy a new piano for the building and some more needed things in connection with the plant.

"Leading in the financial appeal was a veteran gentleman whose dignified presence and eloquence had telling effect, Eev. Dr. Thomas C. Uiff, of Denver, known far and wide in American Methodism. Thirty local laymen went to work with a will among their friends, and in a very few minutes the victory was won, and the people sang for joy. The total cost of the new three-story Sunday school building and the heating, frescoing and improving the main building and grounds w^as $15,000, of which $8,000 was sub.scribed before beginning work. Preacher Bennett and his people have been hustling now for about eight months, and feel gratified at the successful outcome. G. W. Shreck, chairman of the building committee, and A. M. White, chairman of the trustees, have put forth their best efforts to furnish the equipment for religious work on the large scale planned by the pastor. Before the Sunday closed there were five persons who gave themselves to the Christian life and membership of the church. The sermons of Eev. Dr. Uiff and Eev. Dr. Billingslcy were u])liftirig and profound. The afternoon meeting was addressed by the visiting ministers, and by Messrs. Shreck, Spurlock, Bissell and Wightmau, Eev. Dr. 1!. W. Marsh presiding. At 9 ;;?0 in the morning Doctor Marsh, the York district superintendent, conducted the Lord's Supper in the new building. The dedication service was held at the close of the night service, in charge of Doctor Uiff.

"Tonight Doctor Uiff delivers his famous lecture on the 'Sunny Side of Soldier Life,' with Major Pembleton making martial music. All old soldiers are to be special guests of the church.

"Tomorrow night at 6:30 a men's banquet will be held in the new dining room. Dr. J. N. Plumb presiding. Eev. Dr. Marsh is to be the chief speaker. Tlii;rsilay is given to the Ladies' Aid Society foi' tlieii- annual bazaar. Friday night

"Next Sunday another great occasion is planned. Preacher Bennett declares he has engaged another great speaker for both morning and evening in the Rev. Dr. W. A. Brown of Chicago, missionary superintendent of the International Sunday School Association. All the pastors and Sunday school workers of the city and county are iuNated to meet at 3 o'clock, when Doctor Brown, Miss Brown and others will deliver addresses.

"This new, modern arrangement for Sunday school and social work is a model in convenience and completeness. York may well be proud of this enterprise, so successfully brought to conclusion. It is one of a very small number of churches in the west that has such a building. Preacher Bennett says, 'York Methodists have done tlieir duty nobly, and it cci-tainly makes a ])reacher happy.'"

Presbyterian Church

The major portion of the following historical account of this institution is taken from anniversary papers prepared by Elders A. C. Montgomery and Dr. Eobert McConaughy. Mr. Montgomery's paper was prepared for the twentieth anniversary and Doctor McConaughy 's for the thirtieth.

Twenty years ago there were only four l)uildings in what is now known as the City of York. Two of these were frame buildings and two were made of sod. Scattered throughout the adjacent country were several other buildings of different kinds, making some twenty houses in all. The occupants of these frontier homes were for the most part religious people. The great majority of ns had been born and educated amid the religious influences of the East. Consequently we were never entirely without the ordinary means of grace, for we brought our father's God and our father's Bible and hymn book with us. Armed with these, we frequently assembled in some one of our private dwellings and read and prayed and sang, as men and women only can read, pray and sing under similar circumstances. Moved as it were, by a common impulse, a number of us anxiou^s for our families and the public good, came together July 22, 1871, and organized ourselves into a Presbyterian church. There being no building in which we could meet, we assembled under the wide-spreading branches of some stately elms which stood on the south bank of the Beaver, just where the center of the mill dam now is. Eev. George E. Carroll, afterwards of Wyoming, Iowa, was at that time district missionary for the Presbytery of Missouri Eiver, which embraced western Iowa and all of Nebraska. He was present and presided over the deliberations. He also preached an appropriate sermon and led us in prayer to the throne of God. It was on God we waited and, as we believe, it was according to His will, that we then and there entered into the following covenant : Whereas, we believe that the worship of Almighty God is a solemn duty as well as a high and holy privilege, and is calculated to secure the highest good of our race both in time and eternit}', and whereas, the church of Christ in its organic capacity is the great instrument through which God is pleased to work in elevating, blessing and saving the world, we so earnestly request the organization of a J're^ljyterian church of whicli we may become members, and to which we pledge our cordial support. Only eight persons signed their names to the foregoing instrument and became charter members, viz : A. ('. Montgomery, Mrs. A. M. Montgomery, Kobcrt Charlton, F.O.Bell, Mrs. Dixon, K. B. Crawford. Mrs. B. A. Crawford, -.md Mrs. Hattie E. French. A. C. Montgomery was elected elder, in w-hich capacity be liad previously served the United Presbyterian Church at New Vernon, Pa. Being thus duly organized, the church entered at once on its life-long work of saving souls. Its membership, as we have seen, was small and so was its material wealth. It had no building and no money wherewith to secure one, hence it continued during the s.ummer to worship as best it could in the grove where it was organized. Here was alscj liehl in connection with the church a union Sabbath school which proved a great blessing to us all.

In 1872, by the assistance of the Board of Church Erection, we were able to build our first house of worship. It was a very unpretentious structure, being only 24.\40 feet. It still stands on the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Eighth Street and was the first church edifice erected in the city. It cost about a thousand dollars, which at tliat time seemed a large amount of money to be invested in a church in a city where fine corner lots like those of Mr. F. O. Bell and Mr. Cheney could be purchased for five dollars. Mr. Robert Charlton was chairman of the building committee and on the 17th of November, 1872, the very day the church was dedicateil be (lied. Rev. H. P. Peck, pastor of the First Presbyterian Cbui'ch of Lincoln, preached the dedicatory sermon.

In 1880 our congregation had grown beyond the capacity of the first huibling, so we were under the necessity of enlarging it. This was done at a cost of $4,000, and gave us quite a large audience room in which we worshipped till 1887, wdien the building once more became too narrow- for us and, under the leadership of Rev. T. N. Riale, we l)egan to take subscriptions for the beautifnl brick edifice in which we are this day assembled. During the twenty years of its existence the church has been served by eleven elders, si.x of wdiom are still on duty (1!)0:?) :

Elder Montgomery has served the church during its entire existence. Elder French was drowned in Lincoln Creek August 23, 1888. Elder \\'illiani Bell "fell asleep" .\|n-il 19. ISOO. In 1889 the church ado]ited the rotary system of eldershiji.

The chuich (hiiing the first eight months of its existence had no regular preaching. Rev. ilr. Smith of Seward occupied the pulpit in March, 1872. Rev. D. B. Fleming preached during the latter part of the same year in Y'ork and also in Fairniiint. in 1S7.'! I'ev. T. K. Hedges took chai'ge of the church. He was followed i)y Rev. A. S. Powell, who remained two years. In 1S77 Rev. W. T. Gibson was the minister in charge. Rev. B. F. Sharp entered u[)on his labors with the clini-ch .\|iril I, 1S78, and continued seven years. Rev. A. T. Ashley followed and remained only six months. In 1886 Rev. F. N. Riale commenced his ministry with the church. He was so successful that the sickly child soon became too large for its wardrobe, and it was evident that a larger and better one must be provided. Dr. Riale immediately set to work to see what could be done in the way of raising the necessary funds. He met with a generous response and the corner-stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies in the year 1887. Mr. Riale remained fifteen months and left us in the midst of our building difficulties. He was succeeded by the Rev. S. M. Crissman, who remained one year, during which time the new church was dedicated and the sickly youth of fifteen years had grown into a healthy boy of seventeen.

This church building was dedicated September 2, 1888, with an elaborate program covering both the morning and evening services. There were five ministers present. Rev. S. M. Crissman preached the morning sermon, and Rev. Duke Slavens of the M. E. Church the evening sermon. Doctor Riale unfortunately had most of the subscription list in his head rather than on paper, and being several hundred miles away and having his head with him, the list was not available, so that on the morning of the dedication it was found necessary to provide for the entire indebtedness, amounting to $13,000. About $8,000 was raised and a loan of $.5,000 made for future generations to pay.

Once more the church began looking for a new Moses to take the helm and lead her people out of the wilderness, for there seemed yet to be much land to jjossess and some debt to take care of. A star in the East was seen, and as everything great comes out of the East, it was natural to follow up this luminary and see whether it was of the proper nuignitude to guide the destiny of this chosen people in their new and enlarged spliere. A nearer approach and injtimacy satisfied us that all was well, and tiie Rev. John D. Countermine, D. D., came all the way from the State of New York to accept tlie pastorate of the First Presbyterian Church of York. He was the first pastor the church had ever had. Although eighteen years old and having had nine ministers, not one of them had ever been installed as pastor. Docter Countermine was able, aggressive, and zealous in the good work, the church once more began to move onward and upward in members and influence, the remaining church debt, which by this time had increased to $8,000, was paid off and the mortgage publicly cremated.