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LIBRARY
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA.
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STUDENT LIFE
AT
AMHERST COLLEGE
ITS ORGANIZATIONS,
THEIR MEMBERSHIP AND HISTORY.
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AMHEKST: HA.TCKC <Sc
1871.
PRESS OP CASE, LOCKWOOD ANI> BRAINABD, HARTFORD, CONN.
COE^TE^TS.
INTRODUCTORY NOTE,
PREFATORY LETTER FROM PROFESSOR W. S. TYLER,
CHAPTER I.
HISTORY OF SOCIETIES, 13
ALEXANDRIAN — ATHENIAN — UNITED FRATERNITY — Libraries — Places of Meeting — Anonymous Department — Athenaeums — Secrecy — Electioneering — Allotment — Prominent Members — Im- peachment— Influence — Dissolution. SOCIAL UNION — Founders — Lyceum — Prominent Members — Esprit de Corps — Dissolution. ACADEMIA — ECLECTIC — Decline of Interest — Change of Name. MODERN SOCIAL UNION — Badges — Exhibitions — Statement of Facts — Presidents — ALEXANDRIA — ATHENE — Revival of Inter- est— New Halls — Exercises — Present Condition — CHI DELTA TIIETA — Pin BETA KAPPA — SOPHOMORE SECRET SOCIETY — FRESHMAN SECRET SOCIETIES — TEMPERANCE SOCIETY — SO- CIETIES OF NATURAL HISTORY — RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES — OTH- ER SOCIETIES.
CHAPTER II.
REVIEW OF PERIODICAL LITERATURE, 66
Magazines — Newspapers — Olios — Miscellaneous Sheets.
CHAPTER III.
COLLEGE HONORS, 79
Valedictorians — Salutatorians — Tabular View of Commence- ment— Appointments — Class Day — Class Day Officers.
CHAPTER IV.
COLLEGE CLUBS, CUSTOMS, AMUSEMENTS, ETC *91
Musical Societies — Courts — Branch Societies — Mission Work — Govham Rebellion — Fourth of July Celebrations — Political De- monstrations— Illuminations — Flag Raisings — Geological Excur-
100086
CONTENTS.
sions — Class Excursions — Gymnastic Society — Athletic Sports — Base Ball — Boating — Chess — Floricultural Society — Presenta- tions— Biennial Suppers — Receptions — Quaint Societies — Fresh- man Visitation — Rushes — Book Burnings — "Squirt Gun Riot"— Minor Organizations — Various Customs.
CHAPTER V.
GRADUATE MEMBERSHIP OF LITERARY SOCIETIES, . . .134 Alexandrian — Athenian — Social Union — Eclectic — Academia — Alexandria — Athenae.
CHAPTER VI.
COMPLETE MEMBERSHIP OF ALPHA DELTA PHI — Psi UPSILON — DELTA KAPPA EPSILON — CHI Psi— DELTA UPSILON, . .159
CHAPTER VII.
STATISTICAL HISTORY OF AMHERST COLLEGE, . . . .198 Various Statistics.
INTRODUCTORY NOTE.
USTTEODUOTORT NOTE.
" The happiest of life's days are College days."
The author of this work claims for it neither originality nor literary merit. The History of the Literary Societies was not originally designed for publication, but simply as a paper to be read before the Athenian Society. At the suggestion and urgent requests of both the Faculty of the College and a large number of the Graduates, it is offered to the Students and Alumni of Amherst College in permanent form, in the hope that, with all its inaccuracies and incompleteness, it may evoke some pleasant memories of College Days.
It is believed that the sketch of the College Periodical Literature is quite complete, and it is here published that all who are interested in this department of College activity, may gain a comprehensive view of the labors of those who have striven to promote the reputation of the College in this field of enterprise.
The names of those who have gained the highest College Honors at Commencement, and a sketch of the rise of "Class Day," with the Class Day Officers, are given, not only as matters of reference, but that fur- ther reminiscences of these occasions may be suggested in the minds of those to whom the mention of a name calls forth numberless recollec- tions.
" College Clubs, Customs, Amusements," etc., will doubtless recall some scenes of college life, pleasant in themselves, doubly so in their memories.
In presenting a list of the Graduate members of the Societies rep- resented in Chapter V., and the complete membership of those in chap- ter VI., we are confident that we are offering the most complete his- tory of these societies that could possibly be written.
A " Statistical History of the College " is subjoined, as a partial table of reference, until a complete " History of Amherst College," — now in preparation by Professor W. S. TYLER, — shall appear.
8 ARCHIVES.
The accuracy of Chap. V. is almost wholly due to JOHN A. BEN- NETT, '73, Librarian of Alexandria.
The author is especially indebted to ROBERT C. ROCKWELL, '71, for valuable aid in preparation of the work.
To one and all the Alumni who have assisted us, we would extend our heartfelt thanks, and venture to express the hope that this meagre contribution to the history of Student life in Amherst College may afford some little pleasure to those who have spent four years of Col- lege life at Amherst.
GEORGE R. CUTTING.
Amherst College, July 1st, 1871.
ARCHIVES OF THE SOCIETIES.
The archives of most of the Societies are imperfectly preserved. No records of the Alexandrian Society previous to June 25, 1838, or of the Athenian Society previous to Oct. 12, 1825, are to be found.
The archives of " Social Union," so long missing, are at length safely deposited in the College Library.
We find a few allusions to sketches of these societies which have been written at different times in their history, but not a single trace of one is to be found among the scattered archives. The carelessness of those whose duty it has been to preserve these is without excuse.
On May 17th, 1871, both Alexandria and Athenae passed this re- solve : " Hereafter, all records and papers of interest, relative to this Society, shall be immediately deposited in a box of archives to be kept in the College Library."
A.S a result of this action we confidently hope that he who writes the history of our Literary Societies at the Centennial Anniversary of Amherst College, may have more complete data for his work.
PREFATORY LETTER
FROM
PROFESSOR W. S. TYLER.
Dear Sir : — You ask my opinion of the value of the Lite- rary Societies to college students, and, in particular, to the students of Amherst College. I have no hesitation in an- swering that among all the collateral and auxiliary means of culture, which have existed in our American colleges, the Literary Societies, in my judgment, hold the highest place, the Libraries alone, perhaps, excepted. I have known a great many students, who have misused and abused both the Lite- rary Societies and the Libraries, by making them not auxil- iary but principal studies, and spending the greater part of their time in these fascinating diversions. Such students never lay broad and deep foundations, and seldom build much higher in future life, than they did in college. But I have known a far greater number of students, who have erred in the opposite direction, and neglected entirely one or both of these helps to a wide and useful culture.
The Literary Societies afford an excellent opportunity for practice in writing and speaking ; and it is " practice " that "makes perfect" in every art, especially in that art of ex- pression, which should be cultivated simultaneously with the acquisition of knowledge, and without which knowledge is not power, to influence or inspire others. Nor are the friendly criticism, the generous emulation, the social culture,
10 PREFATORY LETTER.
the power of personal influence, the knowledge of parlia- mentary usages, and the management of common and public affairs, to which these Societies give scope and exercise, to be undervalued and despised. It may be a sign that I am grow- ing old, though I believe I am not usually regarded as much of an old fogy ; but I can not help sighing for " the good old times," when Alexandrian, Athenian, and Social Union were sacred names, when every student joined one or another of these societies, and attended the weekly meetings as regular- ly as he did the daily recitations, and would no more " flunk" an appointment in the Society, than an appearance in his turn on the stage, — when the wealthier members vied with each other in their donations to the Libraries, as all the members did in maintaining and defending the honor and good name of their favorite society, with much the same chivalrous devotion with which the Knight fought for his lady love in the Middle Ages. And then such orations as we used to have every Commencement from such statesmen and orators as Everett and McDowell, and Seward and Sum- ner! How they stirred our youthful minds and hearts, to emulate their wisdom and eloquence, as Thucydides was stirred by the rehearsals of Herodotus, as Demosthenes was inspired by the eloquence of Callistratus, as Themistocles was moved by the laurels of Miltiades !
But pardon these recollections. I fear they will seem ego- tistic to you, to me they are sacred. You know I am living these days under the shadows of the half century that is drawing so near to its close.
I am glad you have written the history of these societies. It will be read with interest by all your brothers of the Alumni, and by none with more interest than those of the earlier decades.
PREFATORY LETTER. 11
Your chapters on College Periodioal Literature, Col- lege Honors and Class-Day Officers, College Customs and Amusements, and your Statistical History of the College, will also revive pleasant memories, and cannot fail to meet a cordial welcome from those who assemble to celebrate our semi-centennial jubilee. Your little book will have the great merit of being timely ; and the facts which you have collect- ed with so much diligence and enthusiasm, touching Alma Mater and her family, will, I am sure, be an acceptable offer- ing to the sons of Amherst, at this interesting anniversary.
Yours very truly,
W. S. TYLER. MR. GEO. R. CUTTING, Amherst College.
I.
LITERARY SOCIETIES.
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
THE history of Amherst College properly begins with the inauguration of Dr. Z. S. Moore as its first President, Sept. 18th, 1821. The college was then known as the " Amherst Collegiate Institution," — no charter being given to " Amherst College," until Feb. 25th, 1825. The history of its literary societies is coeval with that of the college itself.
President Moore, coming, as he did, from Williams College, where he had been president two years, brought with him well nigh half of the students of that institution.
The new college also attracted a few students from other colleges. Thus it happened that most among the upper classes were already acquainted with the inner life of col- lege, and were prepared to set on foot everything pertaining to college life at Amherst. They at once anticipated the need of such culture and discipline, as literary societies alone could give. The college numbered only fifty-three students. To establish more than two societies was imprac- ticable, yet the necessity for these was apparent, that a health- ful rivalry might stimulate the exertions of each. Hence arose the ALEXANDRIAN and ATHENIAN Societies. These were organized in the early part of October, 1821. Prof. E. S. Snell, and Rev. Pindar Field, — then members of the Senior Class — were prominent in their formation. By their joint labors, constitutions were drawn up, and other preliminaries arranged for permanent organizations. They arranged the names of the students in the order of the classes, alphabeti- cally in each class. The Athenian Society, by lot, obtained the first name on the list, and by an alternate assignment,
14 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
one-half of the students became members of each society. It was determined that the societies should have the same general character as the two literary societies at Williams. The classic names which these rival societies then assumed, evinced much taste in the selection. In recognition of their efforts and enthusiasm, and in deference to their position as " Senior Sophisters,'' Ebenezer S. Snell was chosen the first President of the Alexandrian Society, and Pindar Field, of the Athenian. At first the societies held their meetings in the small rooms of South College, the only building then erected. Both places of meeting were in the north entry, — the Alexandrians occupying No. 3 ; the Athenians, No. 6. At these] weekly sessions, the literary exercises consisted chiefly of " compositions, declamations, and debate," varied, now and then, with such performances as were calculated to inspire general interest. A burlesque impeachment of Presi- dent Snell, for an infringement on the prescribed order of exercises, — when Rev. Elijah Paine, then Vice-President, ap- peared in his defence, — is still fresh in the recollection of the Alumni of that time.
Soon occasions arose when it became necessary for the societies to act in concert. Accordingly a third organization — known as the "United Fraternity *' — was formed, which was made up of the Athenian and Alexandrian, as branch societies. Each was bound by a common compact. Both were^open societies to the fullest degree, and there was such perfect harmony for the first five years of their existence, that the history of one is substantially that of both. But a prominent feature of these early societies, was their libraries. The college library was then quite small, and ill-adapted to the growing wants of the students ; indeed, it was all con- tained in a single case, six feet wide, placed in the north entry of South College. The object of these societies — gen- eral improvement in literature and oratory, — could not be attained without access to a different class of books. But most of the students were themselves beneficiaries, and could ill-afford to spend large sums in their purchase. How was
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 15
this exigency to be met ? At the close of the first term, a resolve was passed in each society, that each member should solicit donations of books from personal friends in the winter vacation of 1821-22.
This, a small beginning, evinced a spirit of enthusiasm, which is worthy of record. The effort was a success. In a similar way, some funds were obtained, which, together with quite liberal contributions from the students themselves, were expended in the purchase of their first lot of new books.
Pindar Field, '22, was delegated by the joint assembly to make the purchase in Hartford, as, at the very first, the socie- ties held their libraries in common. " We felt proud of our library," writes Rev. Mr. Field, " when its books were duly arranged for the first time in the new shelves ; and it had cost less than a hundred dollars."
Soon, however, the libraries became distinct, and each strove to excel the other, in both the number and the excel- lence of the volumes, though each drew books from the other's library. The books of the Athenian society were then removed to the north-west upper corner room of South College, and placed under the care of a newly elected libra- rian, Rev. Theophilus Packard, '23, to whose enthusiastic labors is largely due the early prosperity of the Athenian Society.
In the second collegiate year, the joint exhibitions — for which the societies had made provision in the constitution of the " United Fraternity," — began to be held. These were kept up annually, until the dissolution of the Fraternity, and were held in the chapel-room of North College. One exhibi- tion occurred early in the Fall term. At this, one Sopho- more, two Juniors, and three Seniors, were chosen by each society, " to make a display before the newly entered Fresh- men." Debates now and then occurred, between representa- tive members of the branch societies ; at one of these, President Humphrey presided. The societies had already begun to earnestly vie with each other in the enlargement of their libraries. Both of them, also, early adopted the plan of
16 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
electing honorary members. Here was a second field for rivalry. Many distinguished officials, members of the Facul- ty, eminent clergymen, and prominent citizens, received and accepted such elections. A number of these subsequently addressed their respective societies.
The Athenians deemed it quite an occasion, when Noah Webster, LL.D., one of their own honorary members, at- tended a regular meeting of their society, and, at its close, delivered an address to the members.
Rev. Mr. Packard says of this time, " The rivalry between the Alexandrian and Athenian Societies, in the first two years of their history, was earnest, active, shrewd, but friendly and pleasant. Though their advantages were comparatively meagre, yet they were eminently serviceable to the students. I regard these societies to have been more beneficial to their members in writing, declamation, and debate, than all the college exercises in these departments."
In 1822, a second building was erected, (present North College.) In this there were two public rooms, which the Faculty permitted the students to use for their society meet- ings. One, the " chapel," was in the upper story, south entry ; the other, No. 3 of the same building, was known as the Sophomore recitation room. In the latter, with its seats arranged in an inclined plane, and in the former, which would now be considered rather close quarters for a college chapel, the Alexandrian and Athenian societies began (1823) to hold their weekly sessions. In these rooms, at the sum- mons of the college bell (which then hung in that isolated pyramidal bell-tower, so long the object of the students' ridi- cule), gathered well nigh every one of the students, on each returning Wednesday evening.
The attendance was invariably large, as these were about the only meetings over which the students then had full control.
As the chapel was the more commodious and desirable room, the societies alternated in its use, — each occupying it for a term.
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 17
At the commencement of the summer term in 1825 (?), there arose a misunderstanding, as to which society the chapel then belonged. Negotiation failed to settle the ques- tion. It was to be settled in a different, and, as it proved, a less commendable manner. Anticipating the summons of the bell, the members of each society u rushed " for the chapel, amid no small excitement. Both Presidents took their posi- tions, side by side, on the platform. Both Secretaries read their records at the same time. Each presiding officer called upon a member to declaim. Both appointees began their orations together. So matters progressed, each as persistent as the other, in its claims upon the hall. When the excite- ment was highest, an Alexandrian arose, moved that the Alexandrian Society hereby dissolve all connection with the " United Fraternity," which motion was easily carried amid the confusion, which resulted from the antagonism, growing bitter each moment. Thus perished the early organization known as the " United Fraternity."
This was quite an era in the history of both societies. As a result of this action, the allotment system, which had pre- viously been evaded to some extent, was now wholly given up, together with the custom of using each other's libraries, of holding exhibitions in common, etc., and each entered the lists of competition, determined to gain a supremacy in num- bers and influence. Rivalry, which before was mild, now became intense. Each vied as it had never done before, in securing of new members, in the enlargement of its library, and in the endeavor to make its own exhibition superior. To secure these results, individuals sacrificed, and the socie- ties taxed themselves entirely beyond their means. The Alexandrians were ahead in the number of members and the volumes in their library, as they had a larger surplus of funds when the rupture occurred, and could offer superior advantages to Freshmen, in respect to library. However, a prominent Alumnus (Athenian), says of this time, "that though they had fewer men, these were acknowledged to be of more substantial character" Though the internal working 3
18 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
of the societies, was in the main similar to that of the pres- ent, yet there were a few requirements, which, while they are to be commended, are somewhat peculiar. The critic's depart- ment in those early days, had a significance which meant something. In the Athenian Society he had to criticise all compositions before they could be read before the society.
It was his duty to read " all miscellaneous pieces," — which feature in a few years became the " Anonymous Department," so vividly recalled by the Alumni. All original declamations had to be submitted to a board of five critics, who decided on their merits. If judged "carelessly prepared" and "un- worthy of the individual," they were " summarily rejected," while "honorable mention" was made of any worthy produc- tion. One whose " piece was rejected might never be ap- pointed again for the same exercise." The debate was always conducted by four members who had volunteered to discuss the question, the week previous. The number of times a person could volunteer was limited. The " proverb writers" in Alexandria made much sport for the members ; also a his- torian who wrote the society history, modeling his narrative after the style of the Old Testament History. But soon (1827) rumors were afloat in college that all was not har- monious within the Alexandrian Society. The long-needed chapel building, with its commodious rooms, was completed in February, 1827. The societies had now, by their extra ex- ertions, by liberal contributions of money and books, collected very respectable libraries. At the completion of this build- ing, the college library, which had recently been kept at No. 32 of the present North College, was removed thither. A proposition was now made and urged by the Faculty that, in- asmuch as the college library was quite small, both society libraries should also be placed in the room which was to con- tain the College library, though society men could take from the room only their own books and those of the college.
To this proposition, the Athenian Society, with few excep- tions, assented. A majority of the Alexandrians, too, favored the measure, while a large minority were as thoroughly op-
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 19
posed to it. The excitement, especially among the Alexan- drians, was intense, and the feeling quite bitter ; so much so, that it became evident that it would not be expedient for the Faculty to insist upon the removal. The only amicable solu- tion of the difficulty was the organization of a new society, permission for which was given by the Faculty. Hot discus- sions on the new movement characterized every meeting of the Alexandrians. The result was, that about two-fifths of the Alexandrian Society, and a few from the Athenian, seced- ed and formed a secret society. They were allowed to take with them any books from either library which they had do- nated as individuals, and the remainder was divided in pro- portion to the number of seceding members ; Prof. Jacob Abbott acted as umpire in the division. Hence arose the " Social Union" Society, a sketch of which is given on p. 31.
The Society last mentioned was the first secret society in college. Here was a second epoch in the history of the Alex- andrians and Athenians ; however, the latter were but little disturbed by the agitations in the sister society. The new or- der of things inspired an intense interest in all three organ- izations, yet the bringing of the two original societies' libraries into one room, and making them accessible in a measure to each, rendered the Alexandrian and Athenian Societies more friendly. The Social Union members, being men of more ample means and of extended influence, at once gave their new society a high position ; besides, their fundamental doc- trine was " inviolable secrecy." This, too, gave them pres- tige. The feeling between the new society and its parent Alexandrian was of course bitter, while friendlier relations existed between Social Union and the Athenian Society.
This secession occurred in March, 1827. From this time, the Alexandrians worked with redoubled vigor to regain their loss. At the opening of the following collegiate year, (1827 —28) the contest for members was lively, yet gentlemanly and generous ; but soon the strife became so great and so much electioneering was done, even before the students reached Amherst, that the Faculty had to interfere and enforce a strict allotment among all three societies.
20 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
" The whole college," — to copy from the Faculty's records — "became an arena of exasperated strife. For several months there was a general encroachment upon the study hours, and not unfrequently, unamiable, ungentlemanly, and unchristian deportment in the intercourse of those whose mutual interests demanded the exercise of mutual friendship and respect."
The action on the part of the Faculty gave rise to much violent discussion and bitter feeling, especially in Social Un- ion, whose members were eager to " pick their men." The other societies, recognizing the prestige and preeminence which Social Union at once assumed and maintained, — deeming that it was due in a great measure to her secrecy — themselves adopted the same principle, and the Alexandrian and Athen- ian now (1827-28) became strictly secret societies. Thus the measure of secrecy was one of self-defence on the part of these latter.
Mottoes and badges were adopted by each. The restora- tion of the allotment system worked out its legitimate, logi- cal result. Rivalry was in a measure abated, or rather turned into a different channel. The libraries again became objects of emulation, and members subscribed most liberally for their enlargement.
It seems almost incredible that the students of those days should have been so earnest and liberal. Papers are now de- posited among the archives of the societies, which show the subscriptions of fifty, twenty, ten, and five dollars, which were then paid in for their benefit. A prominent Alexandrian of this time says, " that the rivalry in the matter of libraries was too great. Alexandrians were tempted to expend beyond their means to outdo the Athenians. Students of small means were led to contribute more than they ought, or else were made uncomfortable that they could do no more." However, the society taxes were about the only ones which the students then levied on themselves. Here was certainly a test of loyalty to their societies and indirectly to their Alma Mater — a legacy worthy of regard from their successors.
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 21
July 9th, 1828, the Athenians had 1,172 volumes, and Oct. 10th, 1832, they paid Prof. Hovey four hundred and fifty dol- lars for books which he purchased for them in Paris. The Professor also made large purchases for the other societies and the college.
After Feb. 20th, 1828, the societies held their weekly meet- ings in the " Rhetorical,"* " Philosophical,"! and " Theolog- ical ":f recitation rooms, one society occupying each room for one term in the year. The rooms in which had been kept the Alexandrian and Athenian libraries and whatever papers, magazines, etc., were taken by them, had been termed the " Athenaeums" of the respective societies. These — previous to 1827 — were located in rooms occupied by students. At the removal of the College library to the new chapel building, a room§ was fitted up by the College of sufficient size to fur- nish the societies an " Athenaeum " ; soon, however, Social Union fitted up one of their own, in South College. Quite early in their history, the societies instituted the custom of having a public oration (and sometimes a poem) pronounced before them on the day preceding Commencement. They alternated in the choice of these orators and poets. The so- ciety making the choice would invite the others to " walk with them in the procession " which was formed to escort the orator to the church.
Lewis Sabin, D. D., '31, in reviewing the history of the so- cieties from 1827 to 1831, says : " each student at that time became earnestly enlisted as champion for the preeminence of his own society. The literary societies were the chief cen- ters of interest outside of the regular exercises of the college. Each had its own esprit de corps very distinct and well un- derstood. We eagerly anticipated the weekly meetings of the old Athenian Society, and prepared ourselves for its exercises with diligence. Nearly all the members attended regularly,
* South half of "small chapel."
t Professor Snell's old room.
t North half of " small chapel," (then divided into two rooms.)
§ Located directly over what is now known as " small chapel," and of the same
size.
22 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
filling up a Recitation room of the Chapel. Debates, Ora- tions, Poems, and the ' Anonymous department ' constituted our principal exercises — which were always performed with life and vigor. Dignity and decorum characterized its meet- ings. This Society was always loyal to the college."
This " anonymous box," so-called, furnished much mirth, presenting such an opportunity as it did for the display of wit. From this were drawn forth anonymous papers, which the critics or " Secretary of the Anonym!" would read as the closing exercise of a meeting. Jokes, gibes, criticisms, sallies of wit, and caricatures, aimed frequently at members of the Faculty, were not excluded. A prominent characteristic of the exercises at this time was the large number of " disserta- tions" which were read — sometimes there were so many of these that the debate had to be deferred ; moreover, they were often critical essays of high character. One peculiar feature of the societies in their early history was " special meetings," held generally every term, and most frequently in the chapel.
Sometimes these 'were private, at other times, members of the Faculty and the other societies were invited. In the Athenian Society, the merit of the performances of each mem- ber was kept and summed up at the end of the term. A committee, who marked all appointees during the term, nom- inated the performers for the special meetings. At this ex- hibition were given Orations (" in the learned languages and in English,") Poems, Satires (" limited to eight minutes,") Forensic Disputations, Colloquies, Conferences, Eulogies, etc. To add that these exhibitions were anticipated with pleasure and entered into with a zeal characteristic of the time, would be a needless criticism. We might incidentally add that the fine for "flunking" an appointment at a " special meeting" was two dollars, and for leaving the room while it was in pro- gress, fifty cents. Alumni tell us, too, that the fines of those days were collected.
The higher offices of the Society were objects of ambition, and by some were appreciated as highly as the chief honors of college rank. That member who was chosen President
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 23
was congratulated by his fellow students as having attained u a preeminent distinction." Every one elected to the Presi- dency of either of the societies was expected to deliver two addresses, one at the meeting succeeding his election and a second at the meeting succeeding his retirement from office. Those were generally orations of a literary character, and great care and preparation were evinced in both their com- position and delivery. The custom of electing a member to deliver an oration at the beginning of each term was intro- duced in the Athenian Society, in 1831. Nathan Belcher, since a member of Congress, was first elected to the position. This was a custom long kept up by the societies. So inter- esting were the meetings that, in this year, the societies re- peatedly petitioned the Faculty to dispense with the Thursday morning recitation, that the members might devote more of their time to the societies. Nothing, save the most urgent necessities, could induce the students to give up a regular meeting. In the spring of '81, however, a few meetings were dispensed with, because of " the religious interest," and once (Dec. 13th, 1831) we find this upon the Athenian records: " The small pox having frightened most of the students from town, no meeting was held."
Prominent among the many special features of interest which were ever and anon introduced to break the monotony of the regular exercises, were the comedies which were com- posed and acted by the members. These were always eagerly anticipated, and elicited hearty applause. They were of more frequent occurrence in the Athenian Society. David Fiske wrote several in 1832, which the members of that time char- acterized " as the ne plus ultra of the ludicrous."
Since 1828, the Alexandrian and Athenian societies had been nominally secret in everything except the matter of "Athenaeums" and measures relative to the annual literary exercises of Commencement week. In July, 1832, Mr. H. W. Beecher moved that the article of the constitution of the Athenian Society, enjoining an oath of secrecy, be changed so as to enjoin only an oath of obedience. It was then lost by
24 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
a vote of 29 to 23. This, however, was the beginning of an agitation which, after warm and protracted discussions, led to the abolishment of secrecy in the Athenian Society, Nov. 12th, 1834, by a vote of 56 to 15. The Alexandrian had thrown open its doors during the previous year. However, special votes of secrecy , relating to some special measures which arose, from time to time, in their rivalry with one another, were subsequently passed.
In the winter of 1833, considerable difficulty arose in the allotment system which had been for a long time (since 1828) under the control of the Faculty. Though electioneering was nominally precluded in all societies, every possible means would be adopted by certain individuals to elude the rules, and become initiated into the society which seemed to present the most attractions for them. This, of course, gave rise to a certain jealousy in the society thus deprived of such mem- bers, and so great was the feeling, that the Faculty had to in- terfere, (Dec. 5th, 1833,) and re-affirm their law " that no student could connect himself in any way with any society to which he has not been allotted by them." Thus enforced, the allotment system sprinkled the material and qualifications impartially.
In the year 1833-34, the college library began to increase and to demand more room. Hence, the " Society Athen- aeums" were again placed in a room,- granted them by the trustees, in another college building. Moreover, the plan of uniting with the Faculty in the support of an "Athen- aeum" had long met with disfavor. Accordingly, the Alex- andrians and Athenians fitted up an Athenaeum in the fourth story of Middle (now North) College. The Social Union room, in which were kept their library and periodicals, was, all the while, in the fourth story, north entry, of South Col- lege, and for the most part was open only to its own members. These two rooms were centers of resort for the students; in- deed, they were almost the only opportunities then afforded for acquiring information on the topics of the day. Indeed, the thorough examination of the subjects under discussion in
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 25
the societies demanded a constant increase of library, and led them to sacrifice much in the support of a commodious " Athenaeum."
The literary talent in college in the decade beginning with 1830, was great, so that at this time every society interest was most fully sustained, and a hearty enthusiasm was the characteristic feature in the welfare and management of each of these societies. Hence they were at the very top of their strength and glory, — each proud of its own history, — all helping to elevate the standard of scholarship and character. True literary merit was sure of its reward. There existed a keen spirit of emulation. There were not a few who gave to the exercises of their societies all those powers which sub- sequently have made them prominent in the events of their time.
Such men as Professors W. S. Tyler and H. B. Hackett of '30, Revs. Henry Neill and R. P. Stebbins of '34, Hons. A. H. Bullock and Loyal C. Kellogg of '36, Hon. Whiting Gris- wold, '38, Hon. E. B. Gillett and Rev. F. D. Huntington of '39, and Hon. Charles Delano of '40 — were most zealous in the Alexandrian Society at this time ; while Hons. Edward Kirkland and Nathan Belcher of '31, Hon. Henry Morris, '32, Hon. H. G. Billings, Revs. H. W. Beecher and Eli Thurston of '34, Revs. J. H. Bocock and W. B. Homer, and Prof. Joseph Haven of '35, Hons. Edmund Dowse and A. B. Ely, and Prof. Stewart Robinson of '36, Hon. Henry W. Williams of '37, and Hon. Horace Maynard of '38, were earnest and active in the Athenian Society. Social Union, too, can justly claim at least an equal share of the distinguished Alumni of this decade.
Supported by these men, and others of equal note (whose names appear elsewhere,) these societies necessarily assumed this high position. The society meetings of Wednesday even- ing were to them the most pleasant and profitable hours of the week. They were largely attended, uniformly interesting, and often enthusiastic. One, glancing over the records of these early meetings, can but notice the prominence which such 4
26 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
men as Mr. Beecher held in their societies, during their whole connection with the college, serving them in well nigh every official capacity, and ever ready in debate. The " anonymous department," before alluded to, in the hands of the witty and humorous members, had become such a medium of caricature of the Faculty and others, that the Faculty prohibited it in all the societies in the second term of 1833-34. The tendency to burlesque and fun was not easily checked, and, though this "department" was nominally abolished, the overflow of wit. and humor soon found vent in various forms, and finally re- sumed even its former name.
One prominent feature of society history was the custom of inviting members of the Faculty and clergymen of the vicinity to deliver addresses before the different societies, at different times during the year. Though each evinced a spirit of rivalry in securing these, — special invitations were always extended to the rival societies.
Altogether the most interesting event of this time, connect- ed with the Literary Societies, was the attempted impeachment of the president of the Alexandrian Society, who afterwards became Judge of the Supreme Court of Vermont. A dis- tinguished ex-governor of Massachusetts was Chief Justice of the Court, which was duly organized under the constitu tion of the society. In this trial was enlisted the best debat- ing talent of the College. The trial was held in the old " Rhetorical Room," during afternoons and evenings, contin- uing for several weeks. It was open to the whole college, which became deeply interested in the case, and many out- siders attended. The room was crowded at every session.
The trial grew out of differences and prejudices which ex- isted between, what might be termed, the Aristocracy and De- mocracy of the society, — using these terms in no political sense.
Articles of impeachment, fourteen in number, were drawn up. The counsel, three or four in number on each side, were the ablest members of the upper classes, and the trial was conducted according to the statute law of Massachusetts.
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 27
The defendant was even then a good lawyer, with a deep, keen, discriminating mind, — a capital presiding officer, — well versed in parliamentary tactics. He seemed to have on his side most of the intellectual strength of the college.
Of course the burlesque element of the trial was prominent. The most amusing circumstance connected with the trial oc- curred just after the defendant had put in his written answer to the articles of the impeachment. The prosecution were about to adduce evidence. The defendant (special pleading being allowed,) called for a "replication" to his answer. Not understanding this technicality of the law, the prosecu- tion were somewhat disconcerted. The court sustained the point. At this adverse decision, the counsel for the prosecu- tion— the wit of the college — arose, and, for fifteen minutes, convulsed the house with a stream of wit, drollery, gibe, and ridicule, which carried everything before it, and closed by say- ing, "this is our ' replication? ' ': The tables were turned, the "replication" subsided, the trial proceeded. Of course, the worthy President came successfully out of the struggle. The Chief Justice's decision in writing, acquitting the de- fendant, was as good a piece of English as any of his guberna- torial messages which have won for him, and deservedly too, so much credit at home and abroad. A prominent Alumnus remarks of this incident: "while the trial lasted, little else was thought of among the students, and great was the fun. Not many passages so brilliant occur in Academic life."
Many of the Athenians were of the Opinion that their so- ciety had compromised its dignity somewhat, in becoming an open society, while the Social Union, its rival, still retained its secrecy. Hence discussions upon the " secrecy question " were again quite spirited, as early as March 1st, 1837. Though the bill was defeated by a vote of 42 to 16, the agita- tion did not cease, and, in the next collegiate year, the affirm- ation of secrecy was taken by the newly initiated members, as in the former days. This vote was not repealed until the summer of 1840.
In Nov. 22d, 1837, the Athenian Society, desirous of a
28 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
more commodious room, took measures toward the support of an " Athenaeum" of their own, yielding the room, which they had held in common, to the Alexandrians. After a time, this was consummated. Their new Athenaeum was located in the fourth story, north entry, of Middle (now North) College.
Every species of novelty was devised which would excite new interest. In 1838, instead of the " dissertations" of the past, we find such appointments as " Vacation Diary," "Para- dox," "Soliloquy," "Ode," " Panegyric," "Hyperbole," "Al- legory," "Historical Sketch," etc., and committees were ap- pointed, in the Athenian Society, to furnish weekly the select anecdotes and pithy sayings of literary characters. This be- came a regular exercise, known as the " Galaxy" and " Ad- disonian Letters."
The famous " Anonymous department," with its scraps of fun, was revived in the Alexandrian in 1839, and always served to sustain the interest till the close of a meeting, and, at the same time, to agreeably close an evening of literary effort.
In 1838, the Athenian Society came into possession of eleven " antique books" of rare value. These were originally a por- tion of the library belonging to the Carmelite Monastery at Bamberge, and bear the date of the 16th century. When that Monastery was broken up by Napoleon, this library was sold at auction by his order, and purchased by Mr. Marks, then American Consul at that place, who sent them to Bos- ton, where Hon. Horace Maynard, then President of the Athenian Society, secured these volumes for its library.
The interest manifested in the Alexandrian and Athenian Societies, which had heretofore been so intense, though it did not materially subside until 1845, began to wane as early as 1840. In 1841, we hear of the devices of certain students to evade the allotment as made by the Faculty. Freshmen were assigned to the respective societies in the order in which they signed the " college laws ; " hence, upper classmen would endeavor to arrange new comers, so as to bring them into their own society.
Quite often such schemes went agley, amid no little merri-
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 29
ment for the society which, after all the scheming of rivals, gained its man. The Alexandrians changed their place of meeting, March 23d, 1842, from the Rhetorical room to their Athenaeum*, while the Athenians did not hold their meetings in their Athenaeum, until January 31st, 1844.
The exercises in the societies at this time (1841 — 1845,) were carefully given out at the beginning of his administra- tion by the newly elected President, and so arranged that all members had some written exercise once in a term, and two opportunities for debate.
Whenever the prominent men of the time were to deliver orations in either of these societies, or the wits of the day were to read the u Oddities and Quiddities" from the " anony- mous box" in the Alexandrian, members from the other so- cieties would flock in to hear. The " wit combats" of those days will not soon be forgotten. Sometimes the debates lasted late into the night. " Society duties," says an active Alexandrian of '45, " were among the very first to demand attention, and no one stood first among college students, who neglected practice in these society halls."
In 1844-45, these societies began to suffer. Their honors became party spoils for the secret fraternities, which now for the first time became multiplied in the College. Both the Alexandrian and Athenian records show intimations of de- cline. Adjournments because of fewness of numbers, — events before unknown, — now and then occur.
As early as August, 1838, the societies began to be embar- rassed financially, so that the members could with difficulty meet the current expenses and pay existing debts. Moneys received from initiation fees, which heretofore had been an- nually appropriated for libraries, were used to liquidate stand- ing debts. Extensive repairs, etc., upon their Athenaeums increased their liabilities. Moreover, the college itself was at this time (1845) at its lowest ebb, there being scarcely more than half the old aggregate of students.
* Fourth story, South entry, Middle College.
30 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
In March, 1843, the societies had themselves discussed the practicability of having two leading societies in College, in- stead of three. The plan met with favor from some, though, at first, with decided disfavor from the majority of students. The financial condition of the societies — which was not im- proving as the terms passed by — and the small number of students in all the classes, forced the consideration of the matter upon them, each returning term. Moreover, the Fac- ulty concurred in the proposed change.
April 9th, 1846, committees were appointed from the Social Union, Athenian, and Alexandrian Societies, to consider the expediency of the change, and to propose the most fair 'and equitable method of consummating the proposed plan.
The result of this joint investigation was substantially as follows : 1st. The interest in the societies was on the de- cline. 2d. The libraries were decreasing. 3d. Without a burdensome and unwarranted increase of taxes, the societies cannot meet the necessities of immediate outlay upon the Athenaeums and libraries. 4th. In their belief, the number of students of Amherst College could not soon be so great, as to warrant the hope of successfully sustaining three literary societies. 5th. The Faculty, and whatever honorary mem- bers of the societies they had consulted, " were convinced that two societies only should exist in Amherst College."
Believing that these statements of their committees were warranted by the facts of the case, the societies immediately took steps toward some thorough change, in the hope of im- proving the present state of affairs. A committee of five, of which Professor Snell was chairman, was appointed to ap- prize the whole property of e'ach society. It was then de- cided that each society should pay its own debts from a sale of books and furniture, and that each should contribute to a common stock, an amount of property equal to that of the poorest society.
All this was done, with the agreement that this common stock should afterwards be divided into two equal portions by a committee, and that the members of College should be di-
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. ' 31
yided immediately after the dissolution into two equal bodies, and that the rooms and an equal share of the property should be assigned to these by lot. It was found that
The total value of property in the Alexandrian Society was, - $1,408.64
Social Union " " 1,551.18
" Athenian " " 1,608.55
Hence each society contributed $1,408.64 to this common stock, which was held in trust for the time, and on July 1st, 1846, the Athenian and Alexandrian Societies of Amherst College DISSOLVED sine die.
SOCIAL UNION.
On Tuesday, March 27th, 1827, a number of persons, most of whom had been members of the Alexandrian Society, con- vened in the so-called "Rhetorical Room" in the chapel building, with the intent of organizing a new literary society in Amherst College. The organization was completed on the following day, when the society assumed the name of Social Union. Some reasons for this step have been alluded to be- fore. An u unpleasantness" had long existed in the Alexan- drian Society, resulting in the formation of two pretty well- defined parties. There had been an alleged illegality in the election of a certain President, — an illegality which had been sustained by Professor Abbott, to whom the matter had been referred for arbitrament. Moreover, a respectable minority, of the Alexandrian Society were vehemently opposed to the removal of that society's library into the college library room, which had recently been fitted up. •
So persistent was their opposition, that they were allowed to secede and take with them a proportionate share of the library. Probably a more prominent reason was the grow- ing disaffection among some of the students towards the " al- lotment" system ; moreover, a third society, which should be exclusive in its character, had long been desired. At this
32 - ALKXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
trouble in the Alexandrian Society, the permission of the Faculty for the foundation of this third society — so long with- held— was given. The occasion was eagerly seized. Prom- inent among the original founders of Social Union were Joseph Howard, M. D., W. M. Johnston, M. D., S. D. Part- ridge, Esq., and H. F. Stockbridge, of '27; A. M. Brown, Thomas D. Gregg, R. B. Hubbard, Prof. E. P. Humphrey, William Richards, and Rev. Preserved Smith, of '28 ; Rev. Henry Lyman and Asa Putney, of '29.
Its founders being men of means and influence, the society at once assumed a high position in the college, and an elec- tion to membership was a coveted honor. They at once made secrecy a vital principle of the society, — a principle which the society clung to during its whole existence. In those early days, this was insisted upon with the greatest strictness in reference to everything pertaining to the society; however, in the last part of its history, this consisted chiefly in hold- ing its weekly sessions with closed doors. Through its whole history, Social Union was strictly a literary society, and it was acknowledged, even by its rivals, to surpass all others in its esprit de corps.
Its members also seem to have cultivated, all the while, the true spirit of & literary fraternity. The other societies at the first had an advantage in the matter of library. That of the Social Union then numbered only 621 volumes, but by great liberality and personal effort the number of its books was in- creased, so that it soon furnished no inferior advantages to its members.
Its literary exercises were entered into with a zest charac- teristic of those early days. Soon after the formation of the society, they were granted the use of the room in the north- west upper corner of South College, which they tastily fitted up as a library and reading-room. This was always termed their " Lyceum," thus distinguishing it from the similar rooms of the other societies, which were called " Athenaeums." This was subsequently enlarged to meet the growing wants of the society. Here were arranged its library cases, here were
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 83
its reviews and periodicals, and many and profitable were the hours spent here by its members. Here hung that portrait of Dr. Humphrey, so highly prized by every member, which was presented to the society, April 6th , 1831, by Mr. Kidder, then in Andover Theo. Sem. This now (1871) adorns the hall of " Alexandria." At least for a long time, this room was open only to the members of Social Union. Repeated attempts, on the part of both Faculty and other rival societies, to have the " Lyceum" and " Athenaeums" united, were al- ways summarily rejected. The meetings of the society were held in the Recitation Rooms, alternating with the Al- exandrian and Athenian Societies in the use of those most de- sirable for such a purpose. The electioneering system, with which the society started in 1827, resulted in so much excite- ment, and its out-workings were so obnoxious to the Faculty, that they soon interfered and instituted a strict allotment, — taking the control of this allotment into their own hands. This plan continued until the dissolution of the society. So- cial Union, however, always chafed under the allotment, and not a few managed to evade this rule, and become initiated into that society. Of course, t\ie Faculty would interfere, re- monstrance would follow remonstrance — and, once at least, the Trustees of the college were appealed to, when the society was " aggrieved by the decision of the Faculty."
Every third year, it became the duty of Social Union to select the orator for Commencement week. Then there was always much ambition to secure the ablest orators in the nation.
Public exhibitions were given from time to time by the so- ciety, which were always most attractive ; indeed, the literary enthusiasm, which prevailed in all of the societies until after 1840, was always especially prominent in Social Union. This enthusiasm ensured full meetings and literary exercises of a high tone. Its founders had placed the society upon a high plane, and such men as Hon. James Humphrey, '31, Prof. Samuel M. Hopkins, Hons. Lyman Gibbons, Otis P. Lord, Jonathan C. Perkins, and Horace P. Wakefield of '32, Hon. 5
34 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
William Z. Stuart, '33, Professors C. B. Adams and Thomas P. Field, and George F. Homer, Esq., of '34, Charles H. Doolittle, Esq., Prof. Roswell D. Hitchcock, and Hon. E. H. Kellogg of '36, Hon. Samuel T. Spaulding and Rev. Richard S. Storrs of '39, and Hon. Galusha A. Grow, '44, lent their heartiest efforts to promote its welfare, and sustain the honor of its name. It thrived, not by reason of any external nur- ture, but by the love and interest which it inspired in its members.
The oft repeated petition of Social Union, that the Faculty might dispense with the Thursday morning recitation, that more time might be given to preparation for the Society meetings, evinced the interest which was wide-spread. The famous " Anonymous Department," which has been alluded to in connection with the other societies, was sustained with much spirit, until February 2d, 1834, when the Faculty, deem- ing thatlcaricature of college officers was out of character, interfered, and declared " that who ever made the motion for reading the ' Anonymous Department,' put the question, or acted as critics, should be held answerable to them for known and direct resistance, to the college authorities." However, it was afterwards revived, though its criticisms, etc., were of a milder tone. April 9th, 1834, the society received from the Rev. Henry Lyman, then a missionary in Sumatra, " a box of curiosities," collected by him during his travels in foreign lands. Mr. Lyman, it will be remembered, was one of the founders of Social Union, and, after leaving college, he ever retained a lively interest in the organization.
The intelligence of the murder of their esteemed friend, when announced at one of the society meetings, made an impression upon the members, not soon to be forgotten. In the Spring of 1835, President Humphrey delivered an ad- dress before the society, upon the life and character of the martyr-missionary.
At the time when the other societies threw open their doors, and gave up secrecy, the matter underwent considerable dis-
ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES. 35
cussion in Social Union, though the plan was always rejected by a decided majority.
The " Gorham Rebellion," alluded to elsewhere, occurred in 1884. The instigator of this, Win. 0. Gorham, was a mem- ber of Social Union, as well as many who were prominently con- nected in the affair. Hence the pros and cons of the case were discussed in this society especially, with lively interest. A resolution was passed " expressive of sympathy for those men of talent and integrity, banished for deeds of .righteousness." The applause which awaited Mr. Gorham on his return to college, as he entered the room while Social Union was hold- ing a meeting, was loud and long continued.
On the Fourth of July, 1836, the Social Union society held a public celebration. After prayer by President Humphrey, and the reading of the Declaration of Independence by R. D. Hitchcock, '36, E. H. Kellogg, of the Senior class, delivered an oration of marked power. This, a new feature in the celebration of " Independence Day," called forth a large and appreciative audience.
The Society celebrated the tenth anniversary of its form- ation, March 27th, 1837, by an address, given by Professor Thomas P. Field, whose subject was " The Origin and Advan- tages of Literary Associations." Addresses on literary themes, from prominent men, were not infrequent all through the society's history. Among those who often favored the socie- ty with addresses, were Professors Roswell D. Hitchcock and W. S. Tyler. Such addresses, profitable in themselves, served also to incite the membership to renewed literary endeavors. As early as August, 1831, Social Union began to consider the expediency of erecting a hall, — a project which was never fully given up, until the society dissolved. However, they constantly improved their rooms in South College. Extensive repairs were made in 1840, at an ex- pense of six hundred dollars, — three hundred and thirty-five dollars being raised for the purpose, by subscription. After this, they held their regular meetings in the room newly fitted up, entering it for the first time, July 8th, 1840. In
36 ALEXANDRIAN AND ATHENIAN SOCIETIES.
the decline of interest in the leading public societies in 1843- 46, Social Union suffered with the rest. The interest in her meetings began to flag — a sure evidence of a society's decline. True, there were the few, ever prompt and active in the meetings. But the interest did not seem wide-spread. Early in the spring of 1846, in common with the Alexandri- an and Athenian, Social Union began to discuss the proposed plan of having but two public literary societies in College. To give up Social Union, met with disfavor from well-nigh every member, and it was not until June 10th, 1846, that the vote was passed to adopt the plan as proposed by the other societies.
It seemed at last a matter of necessity, for the feeling in favor of having only two societies had become so prevalent, that, had Social Union failed to accede to the proposed plan, the Alexandrians and Athenians would have united, and, forming one society, would, in the language of the Committee from Social Union, " have been able to crush Social Union, or at least compel her to lay aside her secrecy;" as, from the allotment, those societies would receive any new members who were opposed to " secrecy," while Social Union could receive none in return. Moreover, the Society was itself in debt, the number of students small, and the number of active society members, very few. Nor did they expect a rapid increase of membership, or interest in the society meet- ings, as they then existed. Hence, Social Union yielded, provided there should be a DISSOLUTION of all three Societies, preparatory to the organization of two other entirely new ones. This dissolution was formally effected July 1st, 1846. The last exercise being an appropriate closing address, by Levi A. Field, '46.
The property, as apprized by the Committee, was : Library, $1,227.05
Other Property, 324.13
Total, - $1,551.18
ACADEMIA AND ECLECTIC SOCIETIES. 37
All debts were cancelled, and $1,408.64 was contributed towards the general stock, which was to become the property of the new Societies.
Social Union, among its last acts, presented a Bible to the College, to be kept in the Rhetorical Room. Its " curiosi- ties," the gift of Rev. Henry Lyman, were presented to the College, for its cabinets. Its records were deposited in the College Library, and Social Union ceased to exist.
Judge 0. P. Lord of Salem, remarks : " Social Union will be remembered as long as a member of it shall survive, and possibly tradition may give it even a little longer lease of life."
ACADEMIA AND ECLECTIC.
These two Societies, which were organized immediately after the dissolution of the Alexandrian, Athenian, and Social Union Societies, are, in fact, though not in name, the " Alex- andria " and " Athenae " of to-day.
The great change in societies, as before remarked, was a necessity brought about in the dark days of the college his- tory, when the number of the students was the smallest, and when the college itself seemed bordering on bankruptcy.
On the day following their dissolution, the committee upon allotments announced that they had made an impartial division of all the students, for the proposed societies.
The students, thus allotted, soon convened, to effect tempo- rary organizations. One-half, which, for several meetings, was designated by the name of " Alpha," held their first meeting, July 2d, 1846, in the room formerly occupied by " Social Union," in the fourth story, north entry, of South College. The other half of the students assembled for the
38 ACADEMIA AND ECLECTIC SOCIETIES.
first time, in the old "Alexandrian" room, fourth story, south entry, of Middle (now North) College, July 6th, 1846, and assumed the name of " No. 1," until a more permanent organization could be effected, and a name decided on. At the outset, both Societies determined to be strictly open in every proceeding, and to abide strictly by an allotment, which should be determined by the order in which new stu- dents signed the College laws. Moreover, in order to shun the rocks upon which the previous societies had been wrecked, they each placed upon their records, this resolve : " The best interests of our society demand that pecuniary liabilities shall always be met as soon as incurred."
At the suggestion of President Hitchcock, the Societies "Alpha" and "No. 1," after considerable discussion, on July 9th, 1846, adopted respectively the names of " Aca- demia " and " Eclectic." Timothy Stowe, '47, was elected the first President of Academia ; George Soule, '47, was the first chosen to fill that office in Eclectic. Their rooms, designated above, were hereafter known as the " Athenaeums " of Academia and Eclectic. In these were placed their libra- ries, as previously divided ; also, each kept in the same room, the papers and magazines of the day, each Athenaeum being accessible to all the students.
The first initiation of new members, to the new societies, occurred on the evening of September 16th, 1846.
Hon. Charles Sunnier delivered the first annual oration before the new societies, and W. W. Lord was poet on the occasion.
The new organizations, for a time, gave evidence of in- creased life and vigor. More promptness actuated the mem- bers in the performance of the duties assigned them, and a new energy seemed to be infused through all the meetings. The novelty of the new regime wearing away, new means were sought to induce a fuller attendance. This want gave rise in 1847, to the holding of " moot courts," etc.
One reason which may account for the want of universal interest in the societies, at the time, was the great number of
ACADKMIA AND ECLECTIC SOCIETIES. 39
societies, secret and open, which now arose in the college, and in the various classes ; many of which were of ephemeral growth. True, members were allotted, and joined the socie tfes, initiation fees (of $5.00) were paid, weekly meetings were held, questions of the day were discussed, exhibitions were given, and addresses by honorary members were deliv- ered during the term. But no great pretext was sought to adjourn the meetings, and quorums were rarities. The records of one meeting in Academia, are significant. The society decided that " women now receive their due political rights," by a vote of six to one.
The advantages of the libraries were not overlooked. Few there were who did not avail themselves of their treas- ures.
In the winter of 1849, efforts were successively made to abolish the allotment system, as a means of reviving interest, but the societies did not seem to be ready for the innovation. At any rate, the state of things seemed to demand some im- mediate action, if Amherst College would maintain the pre- vious reputation of her literary societies. Each society seemed to be plodding along independent of the other. Rivalry was dead. Let it not be overlooked, however, that there were the faithful few in both Academia and Eclectic, from every class, who were ever prompt, and ever ready with literary efforts carefully prepared. But an universal esprit de corps was wanting. In the fall of 1850, united meetings, literary in their character, were held with the design of arousing interest.
As early as April 17th, 1850, a dissatisfaction with the existing names began to be manifested, and discussions upon a change of names were frequent ; many contending that the existing ones were meaningless. To awaken a wide-spread interest ; to accomplish the proposed change of names ; moreover, to bind the societies more closely together, and, at the same time, to implant a spirit of rivalry, and properly regulate competition, a second complete re-organization of the societies was proposed.
40 MODERN SOCIAL UNION.
The efficient plan of this re-organization was suggested by R. L. Parsons, M. D., '53, then a member of the Eclectic Society.
It was proposed to form a third society, which should em- brace both Academia and Eclectic. However, neither society was to lose its identity. This third society was to hold pub- lic meetings, exhibitions, and debates, during the year, which should be participated in by an equal number of each branch society.
The oration of Commencement week, a custom so long es- tablished, was to be given before this new society.
With this change, the allotment system was to be wholly done away with, and, under certain regulations and limita- tions, free choice was to be given to the incoming members of the Freshman class. The plan immediately met with fa- vor, and the preliminary steps were taken to perfect such a re-organization. This was effected March 2d, 1853. It was, furthermore, a prevalent opinion that the societies, thus re- organized and placed on a new basis with revised constitu- tions, would best thrive under the old names, "Alexandri- an" and "Athenian," — names so suggestive in themselves, and so widely known as the names of the two original rival so- cieties of the College. In deference to the other flourishing society of long ago, the name " Social Union" was given to the new organization embracing the Alexandrian and Atheni- an, as branch societies.
MODERN SOCIAL UNION.
The constitution of this society was adopted March 2, 1853, and copies placed in the hands of every member of the branch societies. The society exists at the present time in the same form as when first organized, and with its prominent features
MODERN SOCIAL UNION. 41
but slightly changed. Originally, four public meetings were held each year, styled the " Winter and Fall " Exhibitions, the " Public Debate " and an " Electioneering Meeting." At all of these, also at Commencement, the members were re- quired to wear the badges of their respective societies.
The Alexandrian badge was a blue ribbon, on which were portrayed the rolls of parchment as they would be seen on the library shelves of ancient Alexandria, with other classic representations, over which was AAEZAN4PEIA. Intertwined in its border were the significant words BIBAIOQHKH, n>iA020<i>iA, FPAUMATA, MOT2EION. This badge was de- signed by Professor Tyler. The Athenian badge was a white ribbon on which were portrayed various representations, sym- bolic of the taste and culture of ancient Athens.
The appointees for the " Winter Exhibition " were from the Junior and Sophomore classes in each society ; the exhi- bition consisted of " Orations, Dissertations, Essays, and Orig_ inal Dialogues." This was given up May, 1858.
The "Fall Exhibition " and " Public Debate " are annually given at the present time. For the Exhibition, four orators are now chosen in each society from the Senior class, instead of three as formerly, and the colloquians of each society unite in the composition of an original "colloquy :" whereas, for- merly, each society furnished a dialogue. Since 1868, the representation of a selected farce has superceded the collo- quy. The appointees for the Public Debate, eight in num- ber, are chosen from the Senior and Junior classes respectively, from each society.
Since 1860, two prizes have been awarded to those who are adjudged, by the committee of award, the best debaters of the evening. The best instrumental music which can be procured is now furnished at; each of these exhibitions, and " College Hall " is always filled on the evenings of their occur- rence. The annual " Electioneering Meeting," or, as it was afterwards called, by a wide latitude of expression, " Statement of Facts," was held on the first Wednesday evening of the Col- 6
42 MODERN SOCIAL UNION.
legiate year. Social Union made it a law, that no members of the Freshman class could be pledged to either of the so- cieties, previous to this meeting, and that neither society could claim more than two-thirds of the members of any class. At this annual meeting, six orators — three from each society- presented the claims of the Alexandrian and Athenian Soci- eties. On this evening, the Chapel was brilliantly lighted. Freshmen, escorted by over-solicitous upper classmen, entered and took seats, reserved for them, amid loud and prolonged cheering. A Senior orator rises, cordially welcomes the new comers to Amherst, with its beauties of scenery and peculiar educational advantages. Foremost among the latter are the privileges of her literary societies, and foremost among these stands the society whose claims he has the honor to advocate. Its merits are then partially presented, and he takes his seat. His opponent rises, and with equal confidence utters a plea for the rival society.
Thus, statements and counter statements follow each other, the slanders of each are refuted, and the number of M. C.s, Judges, Presidents of Colleges, Professors, Valedictorians, Salutatorians, Prize Men, Clergy, etc., etc., which each soci- ety has furnished among its alumni and honorary members, is given in carefully prepared statistics, until, at a late hour, the President of each of the- societies closes an eloquent pan- egyric upon the name, history, and prosperity of his own soci- ety by the appeal : " Gentlemen, in view of such facts, can you hesitate in your decision ?"
The opportunities here presented for the display of elo- quence, for sarcasm and irony, for tact in the arrangement and utterance of the " facts " were great, and it is no sur- prise that, from the first, much interest was taken in this an- nual exhibition.
The orators were generally the ablest men J of their socie- ties, and each considered it a point of honor to make most diligent preparation.
After the appeals were closed, the pledging of Freshmen, all of whom were supposed to have been hitherto unprejudiced,
MODERN SOCIAL UNION. 43
begins. Soon after, a reception or sort of banquet was given to the newly pledged members ; following this, came their initiation, and the society stood ready to begin a year of literary work. True, after a few years the " Statement of Facts" became so much of a stereotyped performance ; indeed, it so much degenerated into a " Statement of not Facts," that it was finally abandoned ; yet many Alumni cherish no more pleasant or vivid recollections of College days, than of this first Wednesday evening of the Collegiate year.
This custom was dispensed with in 1860, when electioneer- ing through committees began, and May 23, 1860, Social Union established the rule that this electioneering must, in all cases, take place within the limits of the town of Amherst. Thus the system of electioneering continued until May 22, 1867, when it was deemed advisable to again introduce the allotment system, which is in existence at the present time. The Presidents of the branch societies, at the beginning of the Collegiate year, equally divide the new class, and whatever additions are made to the upper classes ; one society taking the " odd " and the other the "even" men, as the names stand on the prayer bill, the choice being determined by lot. However, persons so allotted can change from one to another, if their reasons, presented in writing, shall be satisfactory to both Presidents.
By a law of Social Union, passed at its formation, its act- ing members were entitled to equal privileges in the use of the libraries of the branch societies.
Oct. 23d, 1867, in accordance with a petition of the Social Union, the Faculty and Trustees of the College permitted the libraries of the Alexandrian and Athenian Societies to be merged into the college library, so that rules for their regula- tion now have to be approved by the library committee of the Faculty, and they can never be withdrawn from their con- trol, without the permission of said committee.
To compensate for this, all initiation fees were abolished in the branch societies, and a tax of $4.50 per year is collected upon the term bills of every member of Social Union, by the
44
ALEXANDRIA AND ATHENE.
College Treasurer, for the support of the branch societies. The compact requires that one-third of this sum shall an- nually be appropriated for the use of said libraries. It was stipulated in this compact, that the libraries should not be re- moved from the society halls, until a new college library build- ing should be erected.
The whole number of volumes in the Alexandrian library, July, 1871, is 3,754 ; in the Athenian, 4,373.
In September, 1870, Social Union assumed the control of the " Students' Reading Room," which, enlarged and elegantly fitted up in North College, reflects no small credit upon the enthusiasm and taste of its members. Seldom has the society been more evenly divided or more eagerly interested in a vital question of the day, than when, on May 18th, 1871, a propo- sition to open this Reading-room on Sundays, was defeated, by a vote of 88 to 85. The larger part of- the morning recita- tion hour was consumed in taking the vote.
The Presidents of the society from its foundation have been as follows:
AL* Matthew W. Haskell,
Ath.f John W. Underbill,
Al. Ezra T. Sprague,
Ath. James M. Ellis,
Al. William Crawford,
Ath. James B. Beaumont,
Al. George L. Smead,
Ath. Melville M. Tracy,
Al. George W. Phillip.;,
Ath. M. Fayette Dickinson,
Al. Joseph A. Titus,
Ath. Edgar L. Foster,
Al. Joseph H. Sawyer,
Ath. George Harris,
Al. Elihu Root,
Ath. A. Thomas Buchanan,
Al. Herbert J. Cooke,
Ath. John G. Stanton,
Al. Samuel W. Tindell,
Ath. Constant C. Hodgman.
ALEXANDRIA AND ATHENE.
Academia and Eclectic, becoming branch societies of Social Union, March 2d, 1853, and assuming the names " Alexan- drian" and <fc Athenian, "J entered upon a new era of their
* Alexandrian, f Athenian. J Soon after called Alexandria and Athenae.
ALEXANDRIA AND ATHENE. 45
history. Interest was revived. The activity, which was necessarily called forth in the electioneering, gave rise to a more absorbing interest in the literary exercises of the weekly meetings. A generous rivalry was manifested in the election of honorary members, in gaining the best members from the new classes, and, all the while, the libraries were increasing, so that, in 1855, the library cases entirely surrounded the so- ciety halls, save the places occupied by the officers' desks. A prominent alumnus of that time says : " My heartiest inter- est in college centered in Alexandria. What elaborate essays, keen critiques, what humorous ' vacation diaries ' we used to have!"
However, the chief society spirit of the time was expended in a strife which arose (1854) between the secret fraternities and the anti-secret society of the college ; in which conflict the Faculty became involved to some extent. The latter drew forth from the Faculty some resolutions " which were regarded as expressions of approval of their principles." The former, in a remonstrance, drew forth a second commu- nication (Apr. 5, 1854,) which endeavored to emphasize their position of " entire neutrality."
These,*, with other communications, were printed by the anti-secret organization, with extended comments, and circu- lated through college. But we are led to believe that the bitter feelings to which this strife gave rise were the chief results of the struggle. We are happy to chronicle the existence of those friendly relations between all societies at the present time (1871,) which promise that the days of such unhappy strife are over. However, the public societies, during this time, were supported by a majority of the students. Here all could meet on a common footing, here free scope was given to the literary activity of all.
A committee of Alexandria, who were appointed June 13th, 1855, to repair the room in Middle (now North) College, pre- sented resolutions against any further expense upon their an- tiquated quarters, and in favor of taking preliminary steps, in connection with Athenae, toward the erection of a new hall.
46 . ALEXANDRIA AND ATHENE.
Some canvassing was done in college, and committees were appointed to correspond with prominent Alumni on the sub- ject. The matter was further agitated in the Alumni meeting in 1855. The project met the approval of all, and the chair- man of the committee reported, Aug. 6th, 1855, that $1,700 had already been subscribed by alumni and students. An architect was employed to submit a plan for such a building. Various plans were discussed ; new schemes, for raising funds, were proposed ; all the while, the societies seemed bent upon action, yet difficulties constantly impeded their earnest efforts. At length the exigency was met, and in a way little antici- pated. North College was burned Jan. 19, 1857. Hon. Sam- uel Williston, to whom Amherst College is indebted for so many helps in times of need, at once offered to erect a build- ing on the site of " Old North," which should contain a chemical laboratory, a hall for the use of the Alumni at their animal gathering, and the desired halls for Alexandria and Athenae. As a result of this munificent donation, the socie- ties soon had at their disposal two spacious halls, with ample accommodations for their libraries, instead of the old incom- modious, ill-ventilated rooms in the dormitories.
" Williston Hall" was dedicated May 19th, 1858. The ad- dress on the occasion was delivered by the Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, upon the subject, " New England, her Secrets of Power."
On the evening of the 18th, the members of Alexandria and Athense formed a torchlight procession, marched to the residence of Prof. W. S. Clark, where a speech was made by James B. Beaumont, then President of Social Union, express- ing the thanks of both societies to Mr. Williston for his do- nation, through which they had gained their new halls. Mr. Williston responded. The procession then moved to the resi- dence of the President, where speeches were made by Presi- dent Stearns and Rev. Dr. Blagden of Boston, and others. The festivities and rejoicings of that evening will long be re- membered. These halls were fitted up by the cheerful and
ALEXANDRIA AND ATHENE. 47
united efforts of both active members and Alumni. Individ- uals and classes gave liberally for their respective societies.
The Athenians entered their new hall, for the first time, June 1st, 1859. One week later, the Alexandrians held their first meeting in their new quarters. Hence, the societies were enabled to hold their annual re-union for social and fraternal enjoyment at the Commencement of 1859, under most favor- able auspices and with bright hopes for their future. Soon after the reorganization of the societies in 1853, the project of establishing prizes as an incentive to literary effort was discussed. Since June 13th, 1855, each society has offered three prizes to their members of the Freshman class for the best written and delivered orations. The exhibition, when eight competitors for these prizes deliver their orations, is re- garded as one of the most interesting exhibitions of the year. These were formerly given in college chapel, but since 1870 they have occurred in " College Hall," and, with the excellent instrumental music now provided by the society, have annually called forth large audiences.
In 1866, Hon. A. B. Ely of Newton offered two prizes of $15 each, to both Alexandria and Athenae, to be awarded to the best writer and speaker in each society during the Colle- giate year 1866-67. They were withdrawn by the donor after the first award.
Since Nov. 15th, 1865, it has been a custom in Athenae to elect by ballot, at the close of every weekly meeting, the one who has fulfilled his appointment most creditably. Such members constitute the appointees for a prize debate at the close of the term, at which, the prize is awarded by the so- ciety. Since 1870, two prizes have been awarded every term in Alexandria, in the same manner.
March 5, 1862, Athenae received a letter from the Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, who said that " in spite of the old prov- erb of ' carrying owls to Athens,' he had long wished to pre- sent the society a specimen of this classic symbol of old Ath- ens." Hence " Beecher's White Owl" now adorns the hall of the society.
48 ALEXANDRIA AND ATHENE.
Iii the latter years of the societies' history, various have been the devices to break the monotony of the literary exer- cises. To attain this end, " Democratic Conventions," " Sen- ates," " Impeachment Trials," a " Congress of Nations," " Joint Exercises in Parliamentary Practice," etc., have ever and anon been resorted to with different degrees of success. The " Moot Courts" of Athense have been the source of no little amusement and profit. The parties in these always ap- per " in costume," and the whole proceedings in cases of " Breach of Promise," "Assault and Battery," etc., are fol- lowed with a live interest by those who always fill the hall on such occasions.
For several years previous to 1870, the Alexandrians con- ducted a society paper called the Koh-i-noor. Since February 1, 1868, weekly reports of both societies have appeared as a regular department in the Amherst Student.
Of late, the evenings of " Initiation," when a banquet is spread in " College" and "Alumni" halls, and the new class is greeted by an Oration of Welcome and a Poem ; and of the " Inauguration of the newly elected officers in the Summer term," when the Senior Class retire from active membership, and a Valedictory is delivered by one of their number, — are made occasions of especial interest. Such meetings and special occasions bring out the whole membership ; yet it must be confessed that the average attendance at these societies at the present time (1871) is small, when we compare the mem- bers who are weekly found in the meetings, with their whole active membership. As in the past, so in the present, those who do attend with regularity, those whose interest does cen- ter in these societies, derive the good, gain the reward. We can give no better representation of the weekly exercises as performed from term to term, than to subjoin the following Programme of Literary Exercises :
ALEXANDRIA.
I. Select Declamation. II. Select Reading.
IV. Oration. V. Extempore Speaking.
III. Debate (by eight disputants, and VI. Critique, the house.)
CHI DELTA THETA. 49
ATHENE.
I. Essay. IV. Oration.
II. Extra (Literary Review.) V. Critique.
III. Debate (by eight appointees, and VI. Criticisms by the Society.
the house.) j
The outward circumstances of Alexandria and Athenae were never more favorable. They have finely carpeted, neatly furnished, and tastily adorned halls. They have ample libraries, and yearly incomes of over five hundred dol- lars. They have the heartiest approval of the Faculty of the College, the co-operation of its Trustees, the regard and re- spect of interested Alumni. If they fail of their mission, if they are false to their history in the past, it cannot be from any want of external nurture, but must arise from a dearth of literary enthusiasm, which, let us earnestly hope, may never be found wanting in the students of Amherst College.
CHI DELTA THETA.
The Chi Delta Theta Society of Amherst College was formed July 29, 1830, by eight members of the Junior Class. Its charter was received from the original Chapter, at Yale Col- lege, which was then in a most flourishing condition. It was a society purely literary in its character, and strictly secret. The original members of the "Amherst Branch" of the soci- ety were Rev. Jonathan Brace, D. D., Rev. Elbridge Bradbury, Rev. Ebenezer Burgess, Rev. Joshua Emery, Chester Lord, Rev. Calvin E. Park. Rev. Lewis Sabin, D. D., and Prof. Daniel S. Talcott, of the class of '31.
The Presidents and Vice-Presidents of the society were'
always chosen from members of the Faculty, and generally
the Professors of Rhetoric and Oratory or of Languages filled
these positions. Professors Samuel M. Worcester and Solo-
7
50 CHI DKLTA THKTA.
moh Peck, were the first officers of the society in Amherst College.
Subsequent presidents from the Faculty, were Dr. He man Humphrey, Professors Nathan W. Fiske, E. A. Park, J. B. Condit, W. C. Fowler, and W. S. Tyler.
The hasis of membership was " classical merit," and the members were selected only from the Senior and Junior classes. Nominations for membership were chiefly made by the President of the society, and no more than a third of any one class could become members. The badge of the so- ciety was a gold Delta (A).
Its meetings were held fortnightly in the " President's Lec- ture Room," and the exercises then given consisted mainly of translations, in prose or verse, from classic authors, original poetry, dissertations on literary subjects, criticisms of ancient or modern works, and of discussions, upon topics of literature and criticism, between two or more of the members. At the close of the discussion, the Professor in the chair offered criti- cisms upon the exercises, and expressed his own opinions upon the subject of discussion, with his reasons therefor.
Though the parent society at Yale had an extensive library, the " Amherst Branch " never felt the need of one, as the want was met by the privileges offered by other societies to which all its members belonged.
Several successive meetings in the spring of 1838 were held at the house of Professor Tyler, where the evenings were spent in readings of, and criticisms upon, Shakspeare.
The existence of such a society, where membership was de- termined in a measure by the Faculty, and whose members wore badges, was an innovation in the college life : hence, at the first, great opposition to its formation was manifested by the students, especially from the class of '31 ; yet this soon subsided, and to wear the " Delta" became an intensely cov- 'eted honor in college.
The last initiation of members occurred April 11, 1845 ; its last meeting was held July 16, of the same year.
The society had a vigorous life, and held an honorable place
PHI BETA KAPPA. 51
in the estimation of the students. Its influence upon the literary taste of the students was highly salutary, especially in the early years of its history.
During its existence, thirteen members of the Faculty were honorary members of the society, and the names of one hun- dred and fifty-nine undergraduates are enrolled upon its rec- ords.
A prominent cause of its decline, was the introduction, in 1840-45, of so many other societies which gradually absorbed the interest of the students.
It numbered among its members some of the most noted of Amherst's Alumni, who will never cease to acknowledge its beneficial influences, and the inspiration which it furnished to a higher literary culture.
PHI BETA KAPPA.
<$>i\ocro(j)ia B/ou KvfiepvijTrjQ.
Phi Beta Kappa was introduced into this country from France, in 1776, and, as is said, by Thomas Jefferson. The original chapter in America, was founded at William and Mary College. The Beta chapter of Massachusetts was es- tablished at Amherst College, August 9, 1853.
The Society has a two-fold object ; 1st, the elevation of the standard of scholarship at home, and 2d, a closer fraternity with scholars abroad. It was originally a secret society, but became open in 1836. It is composed of the prominent members of the Faculty, graduates, honorary members, and undergraduates who are called "Immediate Members." Candidates for membership in this society are nominated by the Faculty of the College.
The members to whom was granted the charter, were Abial R. Abbott, Esq., William H. Andrews, Esq., Rev. Edward P. Baker, R. M. Benjamin, Esq., Rev. Henry L. Boltwood, Bow- man B. Breed, M. D., Prof. Edward P. Crowell, Rev. John M. Greene, Prof. T. Lyman Griswold, Rev. John A. Hamilton, Rev. Charles F. Morse, Edwin Nelson, R. L. Parsons, M. D.,
52 PHI BETA KAPPA.
William M. Pierce, Rev. Julius Spencer, and Prof. Richard S. Storrs, of the class of '53.
From the establishment of the chapter, until August 7, 1855, nominations were made of all those who, at the end of Junior year, had attained an average standing of 85 (100 being the maximum). A second nomination from the same class was made in Senior year, of those who, at that time, had reached the average standing of 80.
Since 1855, the Faculty have nominated, in the first choice, the fifth of the Junior class whose standing is highest, and, in the Senior year, have added to their nominations a sufficient number to make the whole membership embrace a third of the class.
Owing to the existence of so many societies in College, regular literary meetings of this society are not held. How- ever, members are annually elected and initiated, and, recently, they have had an " annual supper " on the occasion of each in- itiation. An address is delivered before the society, on the Tuesday of each Commencement week.
The society, since July 8, 1862, has annually offered a prize of $40 to one of its number, for excellence in the philosophical studies of the Senior year. The badge of the society is a gold key. A rosette of red and green ribbon is worn by the " immediate members " of the Beta Chapter, upon the pub- lic occasions of Commencement week.
The honorary members of the Beta Chapter number 77; the number who received and accepted elections as regular members, in classes previous to 1853, nineteen.
The following table shows the number of members which the past twenty classes have furnished :
|
No. of |
No. of |
No. of |
No. of |
||||
|
Class of |
Members. |
Class of |
Members. |
Class of |
Members. |
Class of |
Members. |
|
'53, . |
. . 15 |
'58, . |
. . 15 |
'63, . |
. . 11 |
'68, . |
. . 12 |
|
'54, . |
. . 16 |
'59, . |
. . 12 |
'64, . |
. . 8 |
'69, . |
. . 18 |
|
'55, . |
. . 31 |
'60, . |
. . 14 |
'65, . |
. . 17 |
'70, . |
. . 15 |
|
'56, . |
. . 22 |
'61, . |
. . 12 |
'66, . |
. . 15 |
'71, . |
. . 19 |
|
'57, . |
. . 11 |
'62, . |
. . 11 |
'67, . |
. . 18 |
SOPHOMORE AND FRESHMAN LITERARY SOCIETIES. 53
The number of immediate members from the Senior class, ('72,) 3. Whole number of regular members, 314. Total membership. 391.
SOPHOMORE SECRET LITERARY SOCIETY.
ALPHA SIGMA PHI.
Original Chapter founded at Yale College, 1846. Chapter in Amherst College established 1856. Charter withdrawn, 1860. Number of active members:
Class of 1858. 1859. 1860. 1861. 1862. Total.
No. of Members, 26 28 17 16 11 98
FRESHMAN SECRET LITERARY SOCIETIES.
DELTA KAPPA.
Original Chapter (Yale), established 1845.
Gamma Chapter, established at Amherst, Nov. 21, 1851.
Charter withdrawn, July, 1870.
Number of active members :
No. of No. of No. of No. of
Class of Members. Class of Members. Class of Members. Class of Members.
'55, ... 16 '60, ... 21 '65, ... 37 '70, ... 45
'56, ... 18 '61, ... 37 '66, ... 30 '71, ... 48
'57, ... 30 '62, ... 29 '67, ... 27 '72, ... 49
'58, ... 26 '63, ... 26 '68, ... 8 '73, ... 22
'59, ... 27 '64, ... 27 '69, ... 31 '74, ... 1 Total, 555.
54 TEMPERANCE SOCIETY.
KAPPA SIGMA EPSILON.
Original Chapter (Yale), established July, 1840. Alpha Chapter in Amherst College, established 1851. Charter withdrawn, 1854. Number of active members :
Class of 1854. 1855. 1856. 1857. Total.
No. of Members, 1 20 11 3 35
SIGMA DELTA.
Original Chapter (Yale), established 1849. Alpha Chapter, established at Amherst, May 25, 1855.
Became extinct, September, 1867 Number of active members :
No. of No. of No. of
Class of Members. Class of Members. Class of Members.
'58, ... 12 '63, ... 27 '68, ... 32
'59, ... 21 '64, ... 19 '69, ... 22
'60, ... 27 '65, ... 33 '70, ... 22
'61, ... 20 '66, ... 24 '71, ... 22
'62, ... 18 '67, ... 25 Total, 324.
TEMPERANCE SOCIETY.
ANTI-VENENEAN SOCIETY.
' AplGTOV fJif-V V^WjO.
Organized August, 1830.
Early in the first term of every collegiate year, the claims of Temperance are presented to the members of the Fresh- man class. They are invited to sign either of the following
TEMPERANCE SOCIETY. 55
pledges, which constitute them members of the Anti-vene- nean Society of Amherst College :
I. " WHEREAS, The undersigned, officers and students in Amherst College, are convinced that it is best for us to dis- pense with Ardent Spirit, Wine, Opium, and Tobacco as arti- cles of luxury or diet : — Therefore, Resolved, That, relying on Divine Aid, we hereby pledge to one another our mutual promise, that while connected with this Institution we will abstain entirely from these articles, except as medicines and the use of wine at the Lord's Supper."
II. " We the undersigned, officers and students of Amherst College, relying on Divine Aid, pledge to one another our mutual promise that, while connected with the Institution, we will not use Intoxicating Drinks as a beverage."
This latter one was not adopted until November 15th, 1849. The introduction of this new and less stringent pledge was then deemed expedient, inasmuch as many students were willing to pledge themselves against the use of liquors, but not against tobacco, etc. Since that time, students can sign either pledge. Quite elegant diplomas, — designed by H. Bill- ings, Boston, — are furnished to each new member. The rise of the Society was largely due to that earnest advocate of Temperance, the late John Tappan, Esq., of Boston. In 1830 he offered to present $500 to any association which might be formed in Amherst College, the members of which should be pledged against the use of liquors, tobacco, and opium. Prof. Edward Hitchcock had prepared the way for such an association, in the spring of 1830, by delivering a series of lectures, bearing on the subject. The society was formed immediately after Mr. Tappan's offer, yet the students refused the money, that they might not be open to the charge of being bribed. Mr. Tappan donated the money to the col- lege library, but never forgot the society ; indeed, he has constantly presented the members with books, etc., as expres- sions of his approval of their principles. At the formation of the society, there were two hundred and eight students in col- lege. One hundred and eighteen of these signed the pledge, and the names of about three-fourths of every class are found upon its " roll." No regular meetings of the society are
56 SOCIETIES OF NATURAL HISTORY.
held, yet addresses have occasionally been delivered under its auspices, by John B. Gough, Esq. Drs. Heman Humphrey and Edward Hitchcock have been the past presidents of the society. At present, its officers are as follows :
President, W. A. STEARNS, D.D., LL.D. Secretary, EDWARD HITCHCOCK, Jr., M.D. Treasurer, WILLIAM L. MONTAGUE, A.M.
The sum total of its membership is 1,827.
SOCIETIES OF NATURAL HISTORY.
LINN^AN SOCIETY.
This Society was the first organization of the kind in the college. It was formed by a number of students in 1822, to facilitate their studies in Natural Science. Special attention was paid to the departments of Botany, Geology, and Miner- alogy. Papers, bearing upon these topics, were regularly presented by the members, and much time during its meet- ings was given to analyses, and descriptions of new speci- mens, which the members were continually finding in the Connecticut Valley. Prominent among the founders of this Society, were Professor George Shepard (its first President), Professor Charles U. Shepard, and Abel Packard, of '24 ; George White, M.D., '25 ; and Andrew H. Reed, and Rev. Frederic A. Willard, of '26. During the Collegiate year, 1822-3, a prize, of scientific books, was offered by the Society, to that member who should collect the finest herbarium. The prize was awarded to Professor C. U. Shepard, '24, who subsequently presented the prize collection to the college. The Faculty granted the use of a room in South College (No. 20) to the Society, and here were arranged the cases of
N. L. D. SOCIETY. 57
the Society, which contained its specimens and herbarium. When the founders of the Society graduated from college, in- terest in the Society began to die out, arid, in a few years, it ceased to exist. While it lived, the Linnaean Society was eminently useful to its members. -It exerted a salutary in- fluence in awakening attention to the Natural Sciences in those early days, and, among those who were then most in- terested in its welfare, are found the names of many, who have since become eminent in Science.
N. L. D.
This Society— called, at first, the " Society of Natural His- tory," or, more generally, the " N. L. D." Society — was organ- ized August 26th, 1831, in No. 8, Middle (now North) Col- lege. Its founders were Hon. Nathan Belcher, Benjamin Haskell, M.D., John F. Houston, Esq., and Simeon Shurtleff, M.D., of '32 ; Rev. Stephen T. Allen, John A. Burnham, Esq., and Chauncey A. Hall, M.D., of '33.
The object of the Society was the investigation of Natural History, though no branch of science was excluded from its consideration.
The proceedings of the Society were secret during its whole history. Meetings were held monthly, at first ; after- wards, fortnightly. At these meetings, the exercises consisted of Reviews, Dissertations, * Analyses, and general information upon Natural History. Each member was required every term to prepare at least one article upon some scientific topic of interest.
Students, to the number of eight from each class, were elected from! each of the three classes, the qualifications being " a good moral character, respectable standing in one's class, and a distinguished] reputation as a naturalist." Soon after, it became a law, that a sixth of every class might be admitted.
The badge of the Society consisted of a gold plate in the 8
58 N. L. D. SOCIETY.
form of a pentagon — on one side of which was the name of the owner; on the other, the initials, N. L. D. Feb. 22d. 1836, the Society adopted a new badge, which was a gold key 6f hexahedral form, with " N. L. D. 1831," on one side ; on the other, a small scroll, on which was engraved " Nature " and the owner's name.
Immediately upon the formation of the Society, measures were taken towards a library and cabinet. It was a custom for every member to present at least one book to the Society.
Their Society room, containing their library and collection, constituted a sort of reading-room, where the scientific periodi- cals of the day might be found. This was the^north-west corner room of the second story of North College, which has since been burned. The Society numbered among its mem- bers many who have since become eminent in the depart- ment of science. The Presidents of this Society were Hon. Nathan Belcher, and John F. Houston, '32 ; Prof. H. D. Humphrey, Wm. 0. Collins, Esq.,*' John Buckley, of '33 ; Prof. C. B. Adams, Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, of '34 ; Rev. Wm. B. Bond, Rev. Mortimer Blake, Rev. George P. Smith, and Rev. Clinton Clark, of '35; D. C. Rowell, L. L. Bruuer, and Hon. A. B. Ely, of '36 ; Rev. Alexander Montgomery, Rev. Henry J.^Van Lennep, and Prof. Nahum Gale, of '37 ; Rev. John A. McKinstry, Loring Johnson, .Hon. Horace Maynard, of '38 ; Rev. F. D. Huntington, Rev. Alden B. Robbins, and Rawson Yaile, of '39 ; Rev. Joel S. Everett. Rev. William Barrows, '40 ; Thomas S. Russell, Ephraim W. Bond, of '41 ; Rev. L. Armsby, Rev. Rufus P. Wells, and Roswell L. Cha- pin, of '42 ; Hon. Galusha A. Grow, and William Torrance, of '44; Marshall Henshaw, L.L.D., Prof. John S. Lee, and Rev. Charles L. Woodworth, of '45 ; Hon. William Howland, S. M. Fletcher, M.D., of '46 : Rev. Timothy Stowe and Lewis I. Fleming, Esq., of '47.
The Society elected a number of the scientific men of the day, as its honorary members, with whom the Society kept up a lively correspondence. Missionaries used to send boxes of curiosities for its cabinet, and we. read, in its records, of
N. L. D. SOCIETY. 59
the Society exchanging " gods for minerals " with the Society of Inquiry.
The members were also in communication with similar societies at Harvard and Yale.
The Society was especially patronized by Edward Hitch- cock, then Professor of Natural Science in the College. The donations of scientific men to its cabinet were frequent, so that, by the additional personal effort of the members, fine collections of specimens in Natural History adorned the Society's room ; together with some carefully prepared skele- tons, and quite an extensive herbarium. When Mr. Beecher was connected with the Society, its discussions upon phrenolo- gy were frequent and spirited.
When elected President, Mr. Beecher delivered " an able address upon the subject, expressing the futility of the ob- jections offered against the science, and exhibiting and defending its fundamental principles."
Professors Edward Hitchcock and C. B. Adams frequently addressed the Society, upon topics immediately connected with its interests.
Extensive repairs were made upon the Society's room, in the autumn of 1840, and, not long after, the Society was known under the name of *. B. 0., which letters were placed over its door.
As early as Nov. 12th, 1847, owing to a lack of interest in its meetings, and the increased facilities which the College began to offer for study in the various departments of science, its cabinets, &c., the Society began to discuss the matter of dissolution. It dissolved sine die, Oct. 4th, 1848, when its cabinet, library, etc., were presented to the College, by the committe, to whom was intrusted the closing up of the Socie- ty's affairs : Edward Hitchcock, Jr., George R. Ferguson, and Charles Hartwell, class of '49. Its whole number of ac- tive members was 151. Existing, as it did, when the advan- tages afforded by the College for the study of Natural History were very meagre, N. L. D. (or tf>. B. 0.) has every reason to be proud of its members, its influence, and its history.
60 SOCIKTY OF INQUIRY.
RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES,
SOCIETY OP INQUIRY.
The germ of this society is found at the very beginning of the history of the college.
It will be remembered, that the original object in the foun- dation of Amherst College was the education of "indigent pious youth" for the Christian ministry and the missionary service. Hence the attention of the students was continually called to these fields of labor. Accordingly, as a means of exciting interest and bringing out facts relative to the subject, a number of Christian students banded together, and formed, in the first weeks of the Fall Term of 1821, an association which, among their number, was known as the " Theological Society." They met informally on Sabbath evenings, in a quiet way, consulted with each other, compared data which they had acquired, communicated intelligence, and spent a few moments in prayer. Soon after, they perfected an organ- ization which became known through college as the " Society of Inquiry." Still, meetings were held in student's rooms. Their numbers were few, and the influence exerted by the so- ciety was chiefly felt upon its own members. One prominent feature in its early history was the plan of having addresses before the society, at least once a term. Moreover, mission- aries, learning of the Society and its objects, would corres- pond with its members, and forward curiosities, which laid the foundation of a Museum. But, as the college grew in prominence and the number of its students increased, the Society of Inquiry increased in numbers and influence, and, at length, became extremely useful to the religious students of the college. Its influence on the college at large has never been very great, but it has numbered among its officers and members many who have been powerful preachers of God's Word, and not a few who have since perished in heathen lands as messengers of Truth. Its object has ever been to form a
SOCIETY OF INQUIRY. 61
bond of union and sympathy between Christian men in col- lege, and it has not existed in vain. The society's correspond- ence with similar societies in other colleges, and with mission- aries in the field, has been extended and interesting. In 1857, its museum of curiosities had grown to be quite extensive, and idols, implements of various kinds, costumes ; in short, a multiplicity of things, illustrating the religious belief, the arts and customs of foreign lands, adorned its room. This room, situated in the Southwest corner, second story of (old) North College, was a frequent place of resort for visitors to the col- lege. In the winter of 1857, the building containing the cabi- net was burned to the ground, and well nigh all the society's records, and much of its cabinet and library, perished in the flames.
Formerly, its meetings were held fortnightly and in the reci- tation rooms, but, since May 27th, 1859, they have occupied the room formerly held by Social Union and Academia (Athenae), in the fourth story of South College, where are now kept the few hundred curiosities which survived the fire, and their library of 250 volumes. A painting of Dr. Hitch- cock adorns the room. Its tables are covered with a liberal supply of the religious papers of the day. An oration has for a long time been annually delivered before this society on some evening of Commencement week, by some eminent di- vine ; recently, this has occurred on the Sabbath evening pre- ceding Commencement.
Feb. llth, 1870, the Society of Inquiry assumed the name of the " Hitchcock Society of Inquiry," which name the so- ciety now bears. Since this change, its meetings are held every Friday evening of the term, and a new interest has been infused into them. They have only to be attended to be appreciated, for a wide range of religious topics are here discussed from week to week. The present order of exercises in the society is, —
I. Religious Intelligence. II. Extra. III. Discussion. IV. Extempore Speaking. V. Critique.
62 HITCHCOCK SOCIETY.
HITCHCOCK SOCIETY.
"AS YE GO, PREACH."
This society was organized by nine members from the class of '65, viz : Rev. Thomas E. Babb, Rev. James H. Babbitt, Alvin C. Campbell, V. M. Hardy, Rev. Rufus K. Harlow, Rev. Chas. E. Harwood, Chas. E. Lane, Rev. George R. Merrill, and Rev. William F. Ober. The organization took the name of President Edward Hitchcock, whose interest was ever great in those who were preparing themselves for the Gospel ministry. The objects of the establishment of this society were, (1) an intimate fellowship between those who intended to become ministers ; (2) to secure a more complete prepa- ration for this work; (3) to familiarize 'its members with subjects having special reference to their contemplated call- ing ; (4) to increase their interest in, and increase the num- ber of, those preparing to become ministers. The society held regular meetings on the Friday evening of each alternate week. Its exercises were of a religious character, consisting mainly of debates upon the vital religious questions of the day. Members of the Faculty used frequently to attend the meetings, by invitation, and, at their close, offer practical sug- gestions upon the topic of discussion. Its objects and inter- ests were so closely allied with those of the " Society of In- quiry," that, Feb. llth, 1870, the u Hitchcock Society" be- came merged into the former, which then assumed the name of " Hitchcock Society of Inquiry."
Sum total of .membership :
No. of No. of No. of
Class of Members. Class of Members. Class of Members.
'65, ... 9 '68, ... 2 '71, ... 13
'66, ... 11 '69, ... 11 '72, ... 16
'67, ... 10 '70, ... 20 '73, ... 8 Total, 100.
MISSIONARY BAND. 63
MISSIONARY BAND.
"GO YE INTO ALL THE WORLD, AND PREACH THE GOSPEL TO EVERY CREATCRE."
This association was formed in the summer term of the collegiate year 1845-6, by Rev. Charles Hartwell, now mis- sionary at Foo Chow, China ; Rev. Henry Lobdell, M. D., who died while acting as a missionary at Mosul, in 1855 ; Rev. Charles D. Lothrop; Joseph D. Poland, who died soon after completing his Theological studies ; Professor Julius H. Seelye of Amherst College — of '49 ; and Rev. Jacob M. Manning, '50. The association was the result of a visit of Rev. Dr. Scudder to the college, — then a missionary at Madras.
Originally, the " Band" was simply an association of those interested in missionary work, who used to meet weekly in the southwest upper corner room of South College, every Sabbath P. M., for a half-hour before evening prayers. Prayer, conference, and the communication of intelligence from mis- sionary fields, were the chief features of those early meet- ings. The "Band" was more formally organized into a Society, April 10th, 1859. The object of the Band is to cul- tivate the true missionary spirit, and to ascertain the wants and condition of the heathen world. For a time (1862), the regular meetings were held at 24 North College, every Sab- bath morning at 10 A. M. Since then, the society has met in the different rooms of its members. Its constitution says : — " By constant watchfulness and Christian self-denial, we will hold ourselves in readiness to obey the command of Christ, (their motto) ; and if Providence direct, go as missionaries to the heathen." Its membership has ever been small, yet devoted to the noble cause nearest their hearts ; the influence which its members have exerted upon the world cannot easily be measured. Many, whose names are enrolled on its books, have died in the missionary work ; many more are now labor- ing with success on heathen shores.
Membership, since re-organization of Band, in 1859:
64 BIBLE SOCIETY. — OTHERTsOCIETIES.
No. of No. of No. of No. of
Class of Members. Class of Members. Class of Members. Class of Members.
'59, ... 4 '63, ... 2 '67, ... 6 '71, ... 6
'60, ... 3 '64, ... 6 '68, ... 4 '72, ... 6
•'61, ... 9 '65, ... 1 '69, ! . . 5 '73, ... 2
'62, ... 3 '66, ... 1 '70, ... 11 '74, ... 2 Total, 71.
BIBLE SOCIETY.
An auxiliary branch of the American Bible Society was, for a long time, "[established in Amherst College. Its depository was at the bookstore of J. S. & C. Adams, for quite a while ; afterwards (1860), it was removed to 21 South College. The object of the society seems to have been to furnish English, French, and German Bibles and Testaments of all sizes, to the students, at low prices. It has no existence now.
OTHER SOCIETIES.
To enumerate all the minor societies of ephemeral existence which have lived during the past twenty-five years of College History, — would be a fruitless undertaking. Some classes have formed organizations in the different years of their course, which with such classes have ceased to live, and their names are only traditions. The I- n. K. society existed for a little over a year, and was then merged into -4. 4. 0. Its badge was a gold plate, star-shaped, with six points, nearly plain ; on one side " /• n. K., 1835 ; " on the other, the name of the owner.
The 0. P. Q. society existed in 1835. Its badge was a hexagonal gold medal, extensively displayed as a watch key, on which were the letters " 0. P. Q."
Unsuccessful attempts have been made to permanently es- tablish a n. K., *. A'. 4., and z. V. A " Book and Key" So- ciety was established by the class of 1848 in their Sophomore
OTHER SOCIETIES. 65
year ; however, it was short-lived, not passing beyond that class.
One society — which assumed the name Ti Kpi — was started in 1834, by Rev. Uriah Balkam, D. D., S. W. Clark, Rev. S. W. Hanks, and Rev. H. J. Van Lennep and others, of '37. It was social, literary, and religious in its character, and it is remembered, by one of its founders, as among the most profitable societies of that day. It was secret in all its pro- ceedings. One peculiar feature of the society was, that some one of the members must be absent from each meeting. The members present were then required to state " every fault of the absent member, — literary, social, and moral." These criti- cisms were, soon after, presented in writing to the absent member, who must at the next meeting make his defense — if any he had — to the charges, and then he might join in the benevolent effort to criticise his now absent successor.
A Sophomore society — Sigma Theta — was extant in 1852. It published a sheet called the "Amherst Scorpion"
A "chosen few" of '71, '72, and '73, will not soon forget the "extempore debates" of "P. J." ; much less, its "con- vivial banquets." This organization was secret, and flourished in 1868-9. " P. J." were the initials of its secret name, PAN JANDRUM.
66 PERIODICAL LITERATURE.
II.
PERIODICAL LITERATURE.
The first periodical of any kind, issued by students of Am- herst College, was the Sprite, a magazine of 32 pages, which appeared in 1831. This was originated by certain members of the class of 1832, then Juniors. Thomas J. Farnham and Charles Clapp were active in its formation, and, for a while at least, served as editors. Amos W. Stock well, Amos Bui- lard, Franklin- Forbes, Samuel S. Tappan, and John A. Burn- ham, all of the class of 1833, were also connected with the editorial management. There may have been others, but these are all we can name with certainty. The conductors of this magazine assumed the fanciful name of the " Elves of Ginnistian," and sent forth from the green fields of fairy land their representative, the Sprite, to gratify the taste and minister to the pleasure of mortals.
Of the contributors to this early publication, we know but little. Those we have been able to discover, are Rev. Jona- than Brace and Rev. Lewis Sabin, class of 1831 ; Hon. Lyman Gibbons, class of 1832 ; Caleb C. Field, James M. Goodhue, and Francis F. Marbury, class of 1833.
The first number of the Sprite was issued in May, 1831. Its life was short,— only six numbers being published, — the last in March, 1832. The causes of its early death are uncertain, though, probably, the want of financial success was as strong as any. It was started as a private enterprise, and seems never to have gained that general support so necessary to
PERIODICAL LITERATURE. 67
prosperity. There appears also to have been a lack of har- mony among the " Elves" themselves. However this may be, its fate was sealed.
The contents of the Sprite present but little variety. Tales, generally of a fanciful and romantic nature, essays and poems, of varying degrees of merit, with now and then a humorous sketch, make up its pages.
In November, 1831, was issued the first number of a new periodical, — the Shrine. This was intended as a rival to the Sprite, which, at that time, was dragging out a feeble life. But this publication seems to have been premature, for we find no other numbers issued till May, 1832, when Vol. I. No. 1, of the Shrine appeared. This was established and conducted, as a private venture, by Isaac C. Pray, of the class of 1833, — assisted in the editorial management by George F. Homer, class of 1834.
The Shrine was a magazine of 32 pages, published every academical month. Two volumes, of six numbers each, were issued, and it was discontinued only at Mr. Fray's graduation. It was well sustained, as it numbered among its contributors thirty of the best writers the college afforded. We cannot give a complete list of these, but among them were Hon. Nathan Belcher, Hon. James Bell, Rev. Samuel Hunt, and Hon. J. C. Perkins, of the class of 1832 ; C. B. H. Fessenden, Prof. H. D. Humphrey, and Hon. W. Z. Stuart, class of 1833 ; Prof. C. B. Adams, and Rev. H. W. Beecher, class of 1834 ; Rev. J. H. Bocock, and Chauncey Howard, class of 1835.
Under the direction of Messrs. Pray and Homer, the Shrine early assumed a high literary character. Its articles were, in the main, carefully written, and it had no small effect in de- veloping the latent ability of the college. Its corps of con- tributors was unusually talented, and the personal enthusiasm of the editors made it a success.
But, as seemed inevitable, a strong opposition was excited against it. This resulted, in March, 1833, in the establish- ment of the G-uest, — a sheet of eight pages, edited by a " Lit- erary Club." The members of this " Club" have preserved
68 PERIODICAL LITERATURE.
their secret so well that we are able to mention only one of them — Rev. John H. Bocock, of the class of 1835. Promin- ent among the writers, however, were William 0. Collins, and Hon. W. Z. Stuart, class of 1833; and Rev. H. W. Beecher, class of 1834. Only a few numbers of this periodi- cal were issued. Its contents are of the same general char- acter as those of the publications preceding it.
These early periodicals have been well characterized as " college ephemera." They never gained a permanent foot- ing, and, as soon as the personal interest of their conductors ceased, they disappeared. For several years after this, noth- ing of the kind was published. The failure of these attempts seems to have discouraged any further trial. This depart- ment of student work was wholly neglected till the establish- ment of the Horw Collegiance, in October, 1837. Taking warning by the short-lived glory of its predecessors, this magazine was placed upon a different, and, as was hoped, a more permanent basis. It was published by the Senior class, and was under the immediate control of a board of editors chosen by the class. The editors of the first volume, from the class of 1838, were Hon. Horace Maynard, J. S. Thayer, Rev. J. A. McKinstry, Dr. C. E. Washburn, and W. 0. Gor- ham. J. B. Marshall also assisted to some extent in the edi- torial duties ; acting on one occasion, when three of the board were absent from college. The Horce was a periodical of 32 pages, published each collegiate month.
The editors of the second volume, from the class of 1839, were Rev. N. A. Hewit, James H. Bancroft, Rev. F. D. Hunt- ington, Rev. William Wakefield, and Hon. S. T. Spaulding. The editors of the third volume, from the class of 1840, were Hon. H. M. Spofford, D. R. Arnell, G. K. Crockett, Dr. Wil- liam Barrows, Hon. Charles Delano, and Dr. Franklin Tut- hill.
In this periodical, as in nearly all the others, we find the editors furnishing a large share of the contents ; yet there were always some to share in the glory — and the toil. We are unable to give anything like a complete list of contrib-
PERIODICAL LITERATURE. 69
utors, but among them may be mentioned Rev. Richard S. Storrs, Jr., Rev. J. W. Ray, James 0. Smith, and Albert R. Palmer.
The distinguishing feature of the Horce was the brilliant Symposiaca, concocted, as tradition hath it, in that myster- ious room, which the uninitiated approached with awe and trembling, known as " Ultima Thule." Of late years it has somewhat lost its sanctity, and is now plain No. 30, South College.
Taken all in all, the Horce Collegiance may be considered one of the best representatives of magazine literature the col- lege has ever had. And no wonder, for among its editors and contributors were some of the keenest minds and sharpest intellects of which Amherst can boast. It was assuredly a mistake that the old Horce was ever given up. But given up it was : the next class (1841) voted to discontinue its publi- cation. Doubtless, this resolve was mainly due to the low state of the college at this time. It was seeing its darkest days, the classes were growing smaller and smaller, and the support of a magazine among the students was deemed a luxury which must be dispensed with.
Here we find another dreary blank, extending from 1840 to 1848. In June of the latter year, appeared the first num- ber of the Indicator. To the class of 1849 belongs the honor of reviving the college magazine. The Indicator contained 32 pages, and was published monthly. The following were entrusted with the editorial management of the first volume : Prof. William G. Hammond, John M. Emerson, Prof. Julius H. Seelye, Joseph D. Poland, and Overton Young. The edi- tors of the second volume, from the class of 1850, were Rev. George H. Gould, Rev. Jacob M. Manning, John H. Thomp- son, Henry Shipley, and Rev. Daniel W. Faunce. Of the third volume, from the class of 1851, Rev. William S. Karr, James A. Richards, Hon. John E. Sanford, Walter H. Lyon, and Ethan E. Boies. The editorial room was, as in the days of the Horce, old " Ultima Thule."
Among the regular or occasional contributors to the Indi-
70 PERIODICAL LITERATURE.
cator* were W. M. Briggs, Rev. Henry Lobdell, Prof. Edward Hitchcock, Rev. Sylvanus C. Kendall, and Rev. Calvin S. Locke, class of 1849 ; W. A. Dickinson, and L. R. Williston, class of 1850 ; Charles C. Fowler, and Robert Stewart, class of 1851 ; Prof. G. N. Webber, and Rev. F. P. Chapin, class of 1852.
The Indicator lived -for three years, and then it too went down to join the publications that had preceded it. Perhaps one cause of its untimely death, was the profundity of the articles it contained. They were hardly of a nature to suit the student, reading mainly for recreation ; and the number of those who would study the productions of their fellows was limited. The popular student periodical had hardly yet appeared.
In May, 1850, was issued the first number of the Experi- ment, a little paper of four pages. Although not strictly, perhaps, a college periodical, yet, as it was established and carried on by a student, we give it place. The history of this paper is quite curious and interesting. L. B. Fifield, a member of the class of 1853, in his Freshman year, com- menced its publication as a means of financial assistance. He was a practical printer, and did all the work on the Ex- periment,— acting as editor, proof-reader, compositor, paste- boy, and carrier. He obtained a good list of subscribers in Amherst, and was extending it into other colleges. His health failing, he was obliged to leave in November, 1851, and the Experiment was given up. This paper contained literary articles, items of college news, sketches of different colleges, and the novel feature of selections to be used as declamations. The Experiment was published on the 1st and 15th of each month. Only five numbers were issued.
The next periodical that comes to our notice, is the Am- herst Collegiate Magazine, — of which the first number was issued in October, 1853, under the special auspices of the Senior class. It was published monthly, during the college terms, each number containing not less than 32 pages. The principal feature of this periodical, was the department
PERIODICAL LITERATURE. 71
of Vollegiana, which comprised reports of the Society meet- ings, and such other events of college life as deserved to be permanently recorded. This department is, by far, the most interesting, and, we are inclined to think, gave the magazine its long lease of life. The editors of the first volume, from the class of 1854, were Edward A. Crane, Rev. Henry V. Ernmons, William W. Fowler, Rev. John C. Kimball, and George Partridge. Of the second volume, from the class of 1855, Rev. John D. Bell, Hon. John C. Caldwell, Rev. Mar- tin 8. Howard, Prof. Henry S. Kelsey, and Rev. James C. Parsons. Of the third volume, from the class of 1856, Rev. Edward P. Goodwin, Thomas P. Herrick, Rev. E. G. Cobb, Rev. William H. Ward, and George W. Wheeler. In February, 1856, E. G. Cobb resigned, and Rev. F. P. Nor- ton was chosen in his place. The editors of the fourth vol- ume, from the class of 1857, were Rev. B. H. Abbott, Rev. J. W. Dodge, Rev. T. G. Grassie, Rev. W. D. Herrick, and Rev. Denis Wortman.
In October, 1857, with the commencement of the fifth vol- ume, the name was changed to the Ichnolite, — the general plan, however, remaining the same. The new name was in- troduced with a characteristic letter from President Hitch- cock. Henceforth, the Ichnolite bore proudly upon its cover a well-executed engraving of an ichnological slab. At the same time, the magazine was enlarged twelve pages, and greatly improved in outward appearance. The editors of this volume, from the class of 1858, were Rev. J. B. Clark, James Collins, Rev. Rufus Emerson, Rev. E. P. Gardner, and Charles C. Gates.
The editors of the sixth volume, from the class of 1859, were J. L. H. Ward, Rev. H. F. Hyde, J. 0. Tiffany, Rev. T. M. Boss, and Rev. M, McG. Dana.
Of the;|seventh volume, class of 1860, Rev. Nathaniel Mighill, W. De Forest Prentiss, Rev. J. W. Ward, Richard D. Douglass, and Rev. Horace Parker.
This volume of the Ichnolite is enriched by some very cu- rious specimens of Latin-English, contributed by Z. C. Mon-
72 PERIODICAL LITERATURE.
tague of the class of 1832. These consist of English sen- tences, made up entirely of classical Latin words, and have been pronounced by an eminent author and critic, as worthy of a high place among the Curiosities of Literature.
The editors of the eighth volume, from the class of 1861, were John Dole, M. D., W. M. Pomeroy, Rev. Elijah Harmon, Rev. James Lewis, and Rev. G. P. Merriam. Only four numbers, of 52 pages each, were comprised in this volume.
These later periodicals — the Collegiate Magazine and the Ichnolite — are made up of rather different materials from any of those preceding. The romantic tales and sonnets of the Horce, had given place to a different style of writing. Essays became more popular, on subjects of more general interest; the poetry was more that of description than imagination, — objective, rather than subjective ; more space was, from year to year, given to the department of college news, while the Nodes Coenceque Deorum and the Editor's Table, though hardly as sparkling as the Symposiaca of the Horce, were full of bright thoughts and brilliant sayings. It would be impossible to attempt a complete list of contribu- tors. Prominent among them, however, were men who have since reached eminence in their chosen professions. The number who wrote for these publications was large, and all were interested in the success of their college magazine.
We come now to the last, though by no means the least, of these publications. This was the Amherst College Maga- zine, a continuation of the Ichnolite, — the only change being in name. The editors of this, the ninth volume, from the class of 1862, were Charles H. Sweetser, Truman Tom- son, Rev. George G. Phipps, William J. Biimey, and Isaac H. Maynard. The " den " was No. 5, North College. The class of 1862 was exceptionally brilliant, and the best talent of its members was enlisted in the support of its periodical. The magazine of this year is characterized by an indepen- dence of thought and expression, seldom found in a student publication. Indeed, so far was this carried, that one of the editors was obliged to retire for a time, on account of a severe
PERIODICAL LITERATURE. 73
criticism upon an orator of Commencement week, published in the" first number. Short, sharp, spicy articles, upon in- teresting subjects of the day, render this the most readable periodical of the series. In this volume are to be found the famous " Blue Laws of South Hadley," compiled by C. H. Sweetser ; and the grand " Battle Hymn of the Republic," by Albert Bryant. The latter has justly been called the finest Class Ode ever written at Amherst College.
This magazine, issued under various names, though in all essential points the same, had now completed its ninth year. Its progress had ever been onward. Yet its years of life, and the high standard it had reached, could not save it from the fate which had overtaken its predecessors. It died; but it died gloriously. The terrible struggle, through which the nation was then passing, engrossed the minds of the students, and but little inclination was felt for aught else. Editors were, indeed, chosen by the next class, but they never entered upon their duties. The last magazine had been issued.
The Item, Trumpet, Bugle, Harvest Sheaf, and several other sheets, appeared during the years from 1859 to 1863. These were publications, issued on special occasions, and only deserve mention here because they were edited by members of college. Charles H. Sweetser, of the class of 1862, was prominently connected with these papers. Indeed, the news- paper-instinct was so strong in him, that, even in his collegi- ate life, he could not refrain from giving it expression. The brilliant career of the Round Table and the Mail, shows his success after leaving college, and, had his early death not prevented, we might reasonably have expected from him, far higher achievements in the department of letters.
A little before this, had appeared the Undergraduate — a literary, historical, and educational magazine, published at Yale College, and conducted by an "Association of Collegi- ate and Professional students in the United States and Europe." Although not strictly within our province, yet, as Amherst was represented in this Association, we have 10
74 PERIODICAL LITERATURE.
deemed it proper to mention this periodical. It was pub- lished quarterly, each number containing from 150 to 200 pages, and was made up of Literary Essays and News Arti- cles, from the different colleges belonging to the Association. It also contained articles by Professors and Professional stu- dents, both in America and Europe. With the issue of the second number, the title was changed to the University Quar- terly, by which name it was henceforth known.
The editors chosen to represent Amherst were, for the year 1860, from the class of '60, Gen. Francis A. Walker, Rev. J. W. Ward, Jr., and Rev. Nathaniel Mighill. For the follow- ing year, from the class of 1861, Rev. B. M. Fullerton, George W. Waite, and Rev. G. F. Merriam. Junior editor, class of 1862, Isaac H. Maynard. For the third year, from class of 1862, W. I. Allen, I. H. Maynard, M. F. Dickinson, Jr. Junior editor, class of 1863, C. D. Adams. The University Quarterly lived for about two years, and then " being loved of the gods, died young."
For several 'years after the suspension of the Amkerst Col- lege Magazine, no periodical was issued. To be sure, enthu- siastic students had cherished hopes of its revival, but no one seemed willing to undertake the work. Nothing was done, till in February, 1868, appeared the first number of the Amherst Student. This was established as a college newspa- per, by several individuals of the Junior class ('69). The original projectors were Albert F. Tenney, Daniel G. Thomp- son, Joseph K. Chickering, Richard Goodman, Jr., John K. Richardson, Robert M. Woods, William C. Stokes, Henry T. Morse, and Marcus W. Montgomery. The three last men- tioned did nOt, however, take any active part in the manage- ment of the paper.
The Student began as a sheet of 8 pages, the last two pages being devoted to advertisements : each volume containing twenty numbers, and published fortnightly during the collegi- ate sessions. It contained full reports of the Literary Society meetings, items of college news, correspondence from other colleges, poems, essays, and the like. A portion of the space
PERIODICAL LITERATURE. 75
was devoted to what might properly be called " magazine " articles. From the very first, great attention was paid to the record of Alumni and their doings, and, we may safely say, the " Personals " became invaluable to every graduate. This department is one no other college paper has had in the per- fection of the Student.
Eighteen numbers were published by the editors from 1869, when the increasing duties of Senior year obliged them to yield the management to other hands. They chose as their successors from the class of 1870, the following gentlemen : Washington Choate, Brant Y. B. Dixon, A. Judson Tits- worth, George H. White, and William K. Wickes. Mr. Dixon soon withdrew from college, and Samuel L. Graves was chosen in his place.
With number sixteen of the second volume, the connec- tion of the editors from 1870 ceased. They elected as editors from the class of 1871, William C. Brownell, W. Trowbridge Forbes, Dwight D. Porter, Robert C. Rockwell, Theodore L. Stiles, and John W. Simpson. With the beginning of the third volume, the outward appearance of the paper was greatly improved. It was hereafter printed on tinted paper, and entirely new type was provided. Early in this volume, another important change was made. Heretofore, the busi- ness management had rested entirely with the publishers, the editors having no financial responsibility. Some trouble having arisen in regard to the space to be devoted to adver- tisements, it was determined on the part of the editors, to take the whole charge, both of editing and publishing, into their own hands. A satisfactory arrangement was made with the publishers, and the change took place. This, of course, threw great personal responsibility and risk upon the mana- gers ; but, being nobly sustained by the whole body of students, they were enabled to carry out their plans success- fully.
With the sixteenth number of the third volume, the newly chosen editors, from the class of 1872, entered upon their duties. The following comprised the board: Herbert B.
76 PERIODICAL LITERATURE.
Adams, James Ding well, David L. Holbrook, John W. McElhinney, W. Irving Putnam, and Harry S. Stevens. These gentlemen have carried forward the Student very suc- cessfully, increasing the subscription list, and making the paper of more permanent interest and value to both students and Alumni. The paper has quite recently been enlarged by the addition of four pages, making the Student now a twelve- page periodical. From a very humble beginning, it has be- come a fixed institution of the College, and is a powerful influencer of opinion. We cannot better express the estima- tion in which it is held, than by the following words from Prof. R. D. Hitchcock : " The present Amherst Student, I honestly think, is the manliest and most sensible paper we have ever had."
A sketch of Periodical Literature would be incomplete without some account of those publications by the students which might, perhaps, be called "complementary'' Cata- logues. The Catalogue proper, gives the main facts respect- ing the college, but something else is needed to record the real student life. Such a want was early felt, but we find no publication of this nature till January, 1847, when the first number of the College Dial was issued. This is in the form of a newspaper of four pages, and contains lists of the Faculty, students, members of the various societies, musical associations, eating clubs, &c., &c. The second number ap- peared in October, 1847, in the same style, and with contents of the same general character. The editors of both these are unknown to us.
Nothing further seems to have been attempted in this direc- tion, till 1855. In October, of that year, was published the College Olio, also in newspaper form. This, in addition to the usual contents, contains two poems — " Cimices," and " A Knowde onto the appleton Kabbynet." We are unable to give the editors. In November, 1856, appeared the Am- herst Aurora, published by the Junior class ('58.) The editors were Rev. George S. Bishop, E. A. P. Brewster, E. S. Hewitt, and H. M. Sprague. This was also in newspaper form.
PERIODICAL LITERATURE. 77
Iii November, 1857, was issued the Olio, under the aus- pices of the class of 1859. The editors were Henry L. Clapp, J. Osmond Tiffany, Joshua Gr. Hawkes, and John L. H. Ward. This was also a newspaper of four pages, embellished with an engraving of the College buildings.
The Olio of the next year, appeared in October, 1858, under the editorial charge of the following members of the class of 1860 : Charles B. Ruggles, Elliot Sanford, William DeForest Prentiss, and Edward R. Wheeler. This was in the same form as those which had preceded it, but presented a better typographical appearance. It was headed with a view of the College buildings, similar to that of the year before, but more clearly and correctly engraved.
The publication of the next class was in pamphlet form, containing thirty-two pages. The name was changed to the Amherst College Olio. The editors, from the class of 1861, were Asa S. Hardy, M. Porter Snell, and Rev. George W. Phillips.
The Olio of the following year, was in the same style, and size. The editors, from the class of 1862, were W. Ir- ving Allen, Rev. Rowland H. Allen, and Francis W. Adams.
The editors for the succeeding year, from the class of 1863, were Walter M. Howland, R. D. Pratt, and Robert I. Jones. This also was a pamphlet of thirty-two pages.
The editors of the next issue, were, from the class of 1864, F. G. McDonald, Nathan Harrington, and Rev. Calvin R. Fitts. This contained twenty-eight pages.
With the succeeding class, (1865) there was some difficulty, and the only way to settle the matter seems to have been the publication of two Olios. This was accordingly done : one, by the editors elected by the class, who were Martin K. Pasco, Henry P. Moulton, and Charles E. Harwood ; the other, by the " Juniors of the Secret Societies," represented by John S. Runnells, Edward P. Smith, and James L. Bishop. These were both of the same size, differing slightly in con- tents, and appeared, — the one September 11 ; the other, Sep- tember 12, 1863.
78 PERIODICAL LITERATURE.
The Olio of the next year, contained forty pages, with the following editors, from the class of 1866 : Rev. George Bray- ton, William P. Fisher, and Herbert M. Small.
From the class of 1867, were chosen as editors : Cassius M. Terry, John P. Fernald, Frederick W. March, William E. Horton, and B. F. W. Ballard. This Olio was enlarged ten pages, and contains a carefully prepared " Roll of Honor."
The editors from the class of 1868, were Waterman T. Hewett, Isaac W. Wood, Stephen S. Lancaster, James L. Terry, and George A. Coburn. This was a pamphlet of forty- four pages.
The Olio of the class of 1869, contained fifty-two pages. The editors were Charles H. Allen, Richard Goodman, Jr., Edward A. Benner, Joseph B. Seabury, and Frank H. Stod- dard.
The class of 1870 was represented by Brant V. B. Dixon, George H. White, Merritt H. Walker, Frank F. Coburn, and Charles H. Daniels. This number contains a brilliant page of " Shaksperianisms," aptly characterizing, by a short quo- tation, various men in college/
The editors, for 1871, were William C. Brownell, Henry H. Sawyer, Henry W. Eldredge, Frank A. Goss, and William B. Homer. In this number, is introduced the new feature of the Status Classium, which consists of a description of each class and its condition, furnished by some one of its members. In this also appears, for the first time, the "Amherst Navy," with four crews, — Junior, Sophomore, Freshman, and " Thetis."
In 1870, was published the largest and most complete Olio of the series. It contained eighty pages, and, in outward appearance, is the best ever published. The editors, from the class of 1872, were David L. Holbrook, Harry S. Stevens, W. Irving Putnam, Constant C, Hodgman, George Fowler, and Herman A. Bailey. The Status Classium is continued in this, and the Boating Associations occupy a prominent place.
The Olio has become as great a necessity as the College Catalogue, and will, undoubtedly, be published as long as student institutions and customs exist to be chronicled.
III. COLLEGE HONORS.
The subjoined list gives the names of those who have gained the highest college honors, which have been given in each class by the Faculty, as rewards for scholarship :
Valedictory. Salutatory.
Class of
1822. No Valedictorian. Prof. EBENEZER STRONG SNELL,
1823. Rev. ELIJAH PAINE, Rev. THEOPHILDS PACKARD,
1824. Prof. GEORGE SHEPARD, Rev. AUSTIN RICHARDS,
1825. Rev. JONATHAN LEAVITT, ROBERT ALLEN COFFIN,
1826. FRANCIS FELLOWES, Rev. HARVEY FITTS,
1827. Rev. JOSEPH SYLVESTER CLARK, Rev. TIMOTHY DWIGHT,
1828. WILLIAM RICHARDS, THOMAS DOUGLAS GREGG,
1829. STILLMAN MOODY, Rev. THOMAS BOUTELLE,
1830. Prof. HORATIO BALCH HACKETT, Prof. WILLIAM SEYMOUR TYLER,
1831. Rev. LEWIS SABIN, Rev. EBENEZER BURGESS,
1832. CHARLES CLAPP, Hon. JONATHAN COGSWELL PERKINS,
1833. Rev. AMOS BULLARD, Hon. WM. ZEPHANIAH STUART,*
1834. Prof. CHARLES BAKER ADAMS, Rev. SAMUEL HOPKINS EMERY,
1835. Rev. CLINTON CLARK, Rev. TIMOTHY ALDEN TAYLOR,
1836. Rev. WILLIAM BRADFORD HOMER, Hon. ALEX. HAMILTON BULLOCK,
1837. Rev. HENRY JOHN VAN LENNEP, Rev. ROBERT STEVENS HITCHCOCK,
1838. Hon. HORACE MAYNARD, CHARLES E. WASHBURN,M. D.,
1839. Bp. FREDERIC D. HUNTINGTON, THOMAS SPENCER MILLER,
1840. Prof. GEORGE BAKER JEWETT, Hon. HENRY MARTYN SPOFFORD,
1841. EPHRAIM WARD BOND, LL. B- EDWARD GRISWOLD' TYLER,
1842. Rev. LAUREN ARMSBY, Rev. JAMES GRANGER BRIDGMAN,
1843. Rev. DAVID TORREY, Rev. DANIEL HERBERT TEMPLE,
1844. Rev. LEWIS GREEN, Rev. EDMUND KIMBALL ALDEN, 1815. Prof. FRANCIS ANDREW MARCH, Prof. MARSHALL HENSHAW,
1846. LEONARD HUMPHREY, Hon. WILLIAM ROWLAND,
1847. Rev. TIMOTHY STOWE, Rev. HENRY LUTHER EDWARDS,
* Substitute for John A. Burnham.
80
COLLEGE HONORS.
Valedictory. Class of
1848. Rev. WILLIAM C. DICKINSON,
1849. JOHN MILTON EMERSON,
1850. AUGUSTINE MILTON GAY,
1851. Hon. JOHN ELLIOT SANFORD,
Salutatory.
Rev. SAMUEL FISK.
Prof. WM. GARDINER HAMMOND.
GEORGE HOWLAND. Rev. MILAN CYRUS STEBBINS.
1852. THEODORE HIRAM BENJAMIN, HENRY DWIGHT ROOT.
1853. Prof. RICHARD SALTER STORRS, Prof. EDWARD PAYSON CROWELL.
1854. WM. WORTHINGTON FOWLER, Rev. EDWIN DIMOCK.
1855. HASKET DERBY, M. D., Prof. WILLIAM LEWIS MONTAGUE.
1856. WM. FROTHINGHAM BRADBURY,
1857. Prof. RICHARD HENRY MATHER, Rev,
1858. Prof. LYMAN SIBLEY ROWLAND,
1859. JAMES PAUL FRENCH,
1860. Rev. FRANCIS EMORY TOWER, WM. AUSTIN RICHARDS, (by lot,) JOHN AVERY,
ISAAC HORTON MAYNARD, (by lot,) MARQUIS FAYETTE DICKINSON, JAMES HENRY NASH, CHARLES DICKINSON ADAMS, FARQUHARSON GRIFFITH MCDONALD, BENJ. KENDALL EMERSON, (by lot,) JOSEPH HENRY SAWYER, EDWARD PAYSON SMITH, Prof HENRY MATHER TYLER, C MAURICE. BENAIA BLAKE, (by lot,) j SAMUEL JOHNSON DIKE, 1 NEHEMIAH HUTCHINSON GAGE, { CHARLES HENRY PARKHURST, / ELIHU ROOT, (by lot,) 1867 5 WILLIAM HENRY COBB,
( Rev. CHARLES WARE PARK,
1868. WILLIAM WELLS EATON,
1869. JOHN KENDALL RICHARDSON,
1870. HARVEY PORTER,
1871. EDWIN MUNSELL BLISS,
1861
1862
1863. 1864.
1865 <i
EDWARD EMERSON BRADBURY. WILLIAM CRAWFORD. GEORGE SUMNER GROSVENOR. JOHN LORD HAYES WARD. HORACE BINNEY. CHARLES G. GODDARD PAINE.
GEORGE MILTON REED.
EMMONS HUGHITT. WILLIAM WELLINGTON TYLER. JAMES LORD BISHOP, LL. B.
CHARLES H. CHANDLER, (by lot.] JAMES EDWIN SPEAR.
EDWIN AUGUSTUS GROSVENOR.
ELIPHALET WILLIAMS TYLER.
HENRY BULLARD RICHARDSON. JAMES OLNEY AVERILL, JOSEPH NATHANIEL BLAN CHARD.
|
TABULAR VIEW OF COMMENCEMENT APPOINTMENTS * |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
.2 |
> |
j |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
*OJ |
a |
o |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
<£ |
i |
CO |
oo |
« |
.2 |
• |
^ |
oi |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
CLASS |
Jr: |
r who r< ts. |
I |
1 |
• |
Oration |
1 |
0 £ |
.1 0 |
| |
'3 |
uoissnos |
0 1 |
1 |
j |
•tation. |
1 5 |
sertatior |
3 |
||||||||
|
OF '"* |
O> r- |
^ |
X |
O |
r/j |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
=f •-. & <u^ "1 |
ole numb ppointme |
'? 5 |
2 o 1 |
_o g |
losophica |
:- 0 CJ -.c |
O g 5 |
\ |
1 |
1 |
putations |
sertations |
5 £ |
i |
iterance. |
i 1 |
0 |
1 |
! o |
K o 1. |
0 1 |
o ~ - |
1 ~£ |
a |
0 .a J |
CO |
|
|
*** <^ |
-C cs |
^' |
3 |
5 |
^ |
1 |
£ |
1 |
1 |
E, |
Q |
LJ |
0 |
5 |
| |
3 |
s |
s |
TL |
g |
2 |
£ x |
Ei |
1 |
|||
|
1822 |
3 |
2 |
i |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
|
1823 |
5 |
4 |
i |
i |
1 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
1824 |
20 |
17 |
i |
i |
2 |
3 |
2 |
i |
1 |
2 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
1825 |
25 |
18 |
i |
i |
1 |
2 |
8 |
i |
2 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||
|
1826 |
30 |
21 |
i |
i |
1 |
, 2 |
2 |
1 |
6 |
2 |
1 |
||||||||||||||||
|
1827 |
23 |
23 |
i |
i |
1 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
8 |
2 |
1 |
||||||||||||||||
|
1828 |
40 |
25 |
i |
i |
3 |
8 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
||||||||||||||||
|
1829 |
39 |
27 |
i |
i |
2 |
4 |
3 |
5 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|||||||||||||||
|
1830 |
32 |
26 |
i |
i |
1 |
3 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
4 |
1 |
1 |
||||||||||||||
|
1831 |
60 |
28 |
i |
i |
2 |
6 |
2 |
7 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
l |
|||||||||||||||
|
1832 |
38 |
21 |
i |
i |
2 |
2 |
4 |
1 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
||||||||||||||||
|
1833 |
38 |
22 |
i |
i |
1 |
4 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
5 |
5 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|||||||||||||
|
1834 |
39 |
25 |
i |
i |
2 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
1 |
5 |
3 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||
|
1835 |
39 |
25 |
i |
2 |
5 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
6 |
1 |
||||||||||||||||
|
1836 |
38 |
25 |
1 |
7 |
S |
3 |
4 |
3 |
4 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
1837 |
53 |
18 |
2 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
8 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||
|
1838 |
42 |
26 |
1 |
4 |
2 |
5 |
4 |
6 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
||||||||||||||||
|
1839 |
57 |
29 |
2 |
9 |
6 |
r, |
1 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
1840 |
44 |
24 |
i |
1 |
9 |
2 |
r. |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
1841 |
32 |
22 |
i |
2 |
7 |
4 |
:; |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
1842 |
28 |
23 |
i |
1 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
1843 |
21 |
21 |
l |
1 |
8 |
3 |
3 |
4 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
1844 |
29 |
29 |
i |
2 |
8 |
8 |
3 |
2 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
1845 |
30 |
30 |
1 |
10 |
8 |
4 |
5 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
1846 |
26 |
25 |
1 |
9 |
6 |
3 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
1847 |
18 |
17 |
1 |
8 |
5 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
1848 |
30 |
29 |
2 |
9 |
8 |
6 |
4 |
2 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
1849 |
32 |
29 |
2 |
9 |
10 |
5 |
1 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
1850 |
25 |
23 |
2 |
r |
8 |
2 |
2 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
1851 |
41 |
25 |
1 |
9 |
18 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
1852 |
42 |
42 |
1 |
to |
17 |
13 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
1853 |
42 |
18 |
i |
2 |
14 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
1854 |
37 |
21 |
2 |
2 |
16 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
1855 |
53 |
30 |
1 |
2 |
24 |
2 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
1856 |
46 |
27 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
22 |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
1857 |
44 |
24 |
1 |
1 |
21 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
1858 |
51 |
22 |
1 |
1 |
19 |
, |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
1859 |
46 |
23 |
2 |
1 |
17 |
1 |
1 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
1860 |
47 |
25 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
19 |
1 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
1861 |
49 |
30 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
24 |
1 |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
1862 |
55 |
30 |
3 |
i |
1 |
2 |
21 |
2 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
1863 |
42 |
24 |
i |
i |
1 |
1 |
5 |
10 |
7 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
1864 |
33 |
17 |
1 |
i |
1 |
2 |
6 |
2 |
5 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
1865 |
62 |
33 |
4 |
j |
2 |
1 |
to |
10 |
9 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
1866 |
51 |
29 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
i |
10 |
3 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
1867 |
48 |
26 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
g |
10 |
5 |
|||||||||||||||||||
|
1868 |
39 |
26 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
z |
7 |
8 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
1869 |
56 |
36 |
4 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
18 |
5 |
5 |
1 |
|||||||||||||||||
|
1870 |
48 |
35 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
(i |
18 |
9 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
1871 |
59 |
38 |
3 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
10 |
6 |
16 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
Total, |
1927 |
1235 |
6( i |
ii |
44 |
61 ; |
2( |
71 |
7:; |
66 |
372 |
89 |
13<5 |
i;:> |
4:; |
25 |
4 |
6 |
r.4 |
28 |
9 |
4 |
1 |
l |
8 |
4 |
23 |
|
Average number of Graduates, (Fifty Classes,) 38.54. Average number of Appointments, (Fifty Classes,) 24.70. |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
*Appointments are given in the order of the grades of scholarship : the English Oration being "Valedictorian rank;" the Latin (or Classical), " Salutatorian," etc. Those to the right of |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
the double line are assigned, not so much according to grades of scholarship, as to some peculiar fitness ; hence, in some classes, persons appear twice, — as in 1825. |
11
82 CLASS DAY.
CLASS DAY, AND CLASS DAY OFFICERS.
We purpose in this brief sketch to mention some of the customs connected with Class Day, and to give a list of the various officers as far as we have been able to obtain them.
Class Day began with the class of 1852, though one or two classes preceding had set apart a day near the close of their course, to be devoted to intellectual and social enjoyment. But the exercises, heretofore, had been purely private : this class, for the first time, made them public, and properly originated the famous " Class Day."
We shall give a particular account of the exercises of this — the first occasion of the kind. At 7-J o'clock in the evening, the class gathered in front of the chapel, and, under escort of a band of music, marched to the rooms of each tutor, where these officers were serenaded and called out to respond. The under classes volunteered to escort the Sen- iors to Phoenix Hall, where the public exercises were held.
The first performance of the evening was the delivery of a Poem, followed by an Oration. After this, an Ode was sung by the class. As the audience retired, highly pleased with their evening's entertainment, they gave three hearty cheers for the " Class of 1852." These were well received and earnestly reciprocated. The class, headed by the band, then marched to the residences of the President and the various Professors, where each was addressed by some mem- ber of the class. A pleasant feature of these exercises was the presentation of bouquets to each one of the Seniors. When these serenades had been finished, the class marched to the Hygeian Hotel, where a supper was in readiness. At just 12 o'clock, they seated themselve§ at the table, and the feasting and merriment were kept up till an early hour of the morning.
The " Class Supper " has ever since been considered one of the pleasant occasions of the college course. At this time are divulged the tender secrets of the heart, till then
CLASS DAY. 83
unknown ; and here, also, past estrangements are forgotten, and the members of the class pledge each to each eternal friendship.
The class of 1853 introduced some new customs. The class assembled early in the forenoon, to conduct what became known as " Mock Recitations." These consisted of a visit to each of the different recitation rooms, where some one of the class, usually chosen for his ability to imitate the peculiari- ties of the Professor, seated himself at the desk, and pro- ceeded to open the recitation, by calling upon some members to recite. The latter were commonly selected from those whose devotion to that particular department had not been especially marked. These recitations were, as might have been expected, oftentimes exceedingly amusing. On leaving the room, three hearty cheers were given. The public exer- cises were held in the afternoon at 'the chapel. These exer- cises were interspersed with singing by the Class Quartette Club. Adjournment was then made to the College Grove, where an hour was pleasantly spent in the enjoyment of pipes and lemonade.
The programme of Class Day after this remained essen- tially the same, though various changes were introduced by succeeding classes. The class of 1854, for example, caused a salute to be fired in the evening for each member of the class. The class of 1855 introduced their Class Day by a business meeting, held in the Senior recitation room, at which a general exchange of lithographs took place. After this, a Class Prayer Meeting was held. The public exercises of the afternoon closed with the singing of " Auld Lang Syne," by the class. A song, composed for the occasion, was also sung. This was probably the origin of the " Class Ode," though the Odist does not appear, as a distinct Class Day officer, till later.
Two years after, with the class of 1857, the germ of the present " Grove Oration " arose. Just as the class was going into the Supper, the undergraduates received a few parting words — of a humorous, rather than of a pathetic nature —
84 CLASS DAY OFFICERS.
from one of its members. With the class of 1860, the pub- lic exercises were, for the first time, held in the village church, — that structure then familiarly known as the " Old Red Ark," but since dignified by the authorities with the name of " College Hall." The address to the lower classes was, in this year, delivered in the grove. The " Prophecy " was introduced by the class of 1861. In that year, it was a public exercise, but ever afterwards was delivered at the Class Supper, and became purely private. Owing to some dissensions in the class, there was no Class Day in 1866. In 1868, the class of 1870, then Sophomore, introduced the plan, since kept up, of a parting song to the Seniors. The class of 1870 elected two new officers — the " Ivy Orator," and " Ivy Poet." This innovation was not well received, and the following class did not choose these officers. The Class Day of 1870, also, had the novel feature of a " Japan- ese Oration," delivered by a native of Japan, who was a member of that class.
Class Day has always excited great interest among the undergraduates, and its honors have been as eagerly coveted as any in the college course. Below we give the list of ap- pointments made by the different classes :
Class of 1852.
Date, - - Monday, June 28.
Orator, EDWARD S. LARNED.
Poet, - HENRY SABIN.
Class Supper, Hygeian Hotel, Araherst.
Class of 1858.
Date, Tuesday, June 28.
Orator, - - JOSHUA N. MARSHALL.
Poet, GEORGE W. CLARK.
Toast Master, DANIEL C. LITCHFIELD.
Farewell Address to Faculty, - SANBORN TENNEY.
" " THOMAS D. ADAMS.
" " AMOS H. COOLIDGE.
REUBEN M. BENJAMIN.
" " DANIEL C. LITCHFIELD.
" " EDWARD H. PRATT.
" ELIJAH B. SMITH.
CLASS DAY OFFICERS. 85
Marshal, - HARVEY S. CARPENTER.
Class Supper, Howe's Hall, Amherst.
Class of 1854.
Date, Tuesday, June 27.
Orator, - HENRY V. EMMONS.
Poet, JOHN C. KIMBALL.
Toast Master, • CHARLES A. WILSON.
Farewell Address to Faculty, - WILLARD MERRILL.
NORMAN A. PRENTISS.
" EDWIN DIMOCK.
JOHN W. UNDERBILL. CHARLES P. RUGG. HORACE P. SMITH. ELIHU M. MORSE. JAMES F. CLARKE.
Marshal, - GEORGE PARTRIDGE.
Class Supper, Howe's Hall, Amherst.
Class of 1855.
Date, Wednesday, June 27.
Orator, MATTHEW Me CLUNG
Poet, - CHESTER D. JEFFERDS.
Toast Master, DIXI C. HOYT.
Farewell Address to Faculty, HENRY S. KELSEY.
JOHN C. CALDWELL.
GEORGE DENISON.
CHESTER D. JEFFERDS.
JOHN L. GRAVES.
MARTIN S. HOWARD.
GEORGE WASHBURN.
JAMES C. PARSONS.
ELIJAH P. HARRIS.
Marshal, - RUFUS CHOATE, JR.
Class Supper, American House, Amherst.
Class of 1856.
Date, Wednesday, July 2.
Orator, - JOSEPH ANDREWS.
Poet, HIRAM C. HAYD'N.
Toast Master, THOMAS P. HERRICK.
Marshal, - . - GEORGE W. WHEELER.
Class Supper, Pocumtuck House, Deerfield.
86 CLASS DAY OFFICERS.
Class of 1857.
Date, - - Wednesday, July 1.
Orator, - JOHN H. BOALT.
Poet, - - ALVAH L. FRISBIE.
Address to Lower Classes, - - HENRY W. JONES.
Marshal, - JAMES C. CLAPP. Class Supper, American House, Amherst.
Class of 1858.
Date, Wednesday, June 30.
Orator, - JAMES D. WILSON.
Poet, - - KUFUS EMERSON. Address to Lower Classes, - • - GARDNER P. STICKNEY.
Toast Master, ETHAN A. P. BREWSTER.
Farewell Address to Faculty, - JOSEPH B. CLARK.
" " GEORGE S. BISHOP.
" " SAMUEL B. SHERRILL.
" " ALFRED A. ELLSWORTH.
" " GEORGE C. CLARKE
" " ETHAN A. P. BREWSTER.
" " LYMAN S. ROWLAND.
" " SAMUEL P. TUCK.
Marshal, HENRY G. THOMAS. Class Supper, American House, Amherst.
Class of 1859.
" Post Prcelia Premia."
Date, - Wednesday, June 29.
Orator, GEORGE L. SMEAD.
Poet, JAMES F. CLAFLIN.
Grove Orator, - HENRY C. SKINNER.
Odist, - GANSEVOORT D. CONSAUL.
Marshal, - SIDNEY W. HOWE. Class Supper, Pocumtuck House, Deerfield.
Class of 1860.
"'H AXrjSeia."
Date, - Wednesday, June 27.
Orator, - NATHANIEL MIGHILL
Poet, - JAMES W. WARD, JR
Grove Orator, - NATHAN B. KNAPP
Toast Master, - HENRY M. HOLMES
Marshal, - SAMUEL J. STORRS Class Supper, Pocumtuck House, Deerfield.
CLASS DAY OFFICERS. 87
Class of 1861,
" Nan Nobis Solum."
Date, • Wednesday, June 12.
Orator, - JOHN DOLE.
Poet, - E. PORTER DYER, JR.
Grove Orator, - CHARLES G. KING.
Odist, • GEORGE W. WAITE.
Prophet, JOSEPH A. LEACH.
Marshal, THOMAS BLAGDEN. Class Supper, Antique House, Palmer.
Class of 1862.
"Cogita Fare Fac."
Date, Wednesday, June 11.
Orator, - CALVIN STEBBINS.
Poet, - CHARLES H. SWEETSER.
Grove Orator, GEORGE MACOMBER.
Odist, ALBERT BRYANT.
Prophet, CHARLES T. HAYNES. Class Supper, Mansion House, Northampton.
Class of 1863.
" Ou' ^ofceiv d\V etvcu."
Date, Wednesday, June 10.
Orator, CHARLES D- ADAMS.
Poet, - GEORGE F. STANTON.
Grove Orator, GEORGE H. WELLS.
Odist, FRED. B. ALLEN.
Prophet, - SIMEON NASH, JR.
Toast Master, - - FRED. B. ALLEN. Class Supper, Mansion House, Northampton.
Class of 1864.
" Occupet Extremum Scabies."
Date, • Wednesday, June 15.
Orator, - CHARLES M. LAMSON.
Poet, - HENRY M. TENNEY
Grove Orator, - - GEORGE H. HOLT
Odist, WILLIAM H. WHITING.
Prophet, EDWARD S. TOWNE.
Class Supper, Antique House, Palmer.
88
CLASS DAY OFFICERS.
Date, Orator, Poet,
Grove Orator, Odist, - Prophet, Marshal, Toast Master,
Class of 1865.
' ' Finis Coronat Opus."
Wednesday, June 14.
ALBERT G. BALE.
. - ' . GEORGE D. GRAY.
- FRANK H. SAYLOR.
EDWIN P. FROST.
JOSEPH H. SAWYER.
- - - ASA G. ABBOTT.
WILLIAM S. KNOX.
Class Supper, Mansion House, Greenfield.
Class of 1866.
No CLASS DAY.
Class of 1867,
KCl\ii)V."
Date, Orator, Poet,
Grove Orator, Odist, Prophet, Marshal,
Wednesday, June 12.
- JOHN W. BURGESS.
EDWIN A. GROSVENOR.
WILLIAM E. HORTON.
CHARLES W. PARK.
MICHAEL BUUNHAM.
WILLIAM C. PECKHAM.
Class Supper, Haynes' Hotel, Springfield.
Class of 1868.
" N7/ca 6'c Trowel."
Date, - Orator, Poet,
Grove Orator, Odist, Prophet, Marshal, -
Parting Song from '70,
Wednesday, June 10.
FRANK W. ROCKWELL,
HILAND H. WHEELER, JR.
ALBERT B. MATHER.
ALBERT H. LIVERMORE.
JOHN H. WILLIAMS.
- ABNER T. BUCHANAN.
WILLIAM D. PERRY.
Class Supper, Haynes' Hotel, Springfield.
CLASS DAY OFFICERS.
89*
Class of 1869,
" Light."
Date, Orator, Poet,
Grove Orator, Odist, - Prophet,
Toast Master, - Marshal,
Parting Song from '71,
- Wednesday, June 9.
- ROBERT M. WOODS.
- SIDNEY T. SKIDMORE.
WILLIAM A. REESE.
JOSEPH K. CHICKERING.
EDWARD A. BENNER.
- JOSEPH K. CHICKERING.
ALVAH B. KITTREDGE.
SAMUEL P. BUTLER.
Class Supper, Haynes' Hotel, Springfield.
Class of 1870,
Date, Orator, Poet,
Grove Orator, Prophet, - Odist, -
Japanese Orator, Ivy Orator, - Ivy Poet, Toast Master, Marshal,
- Tuesday, July 12.
A. JUDSON TITSWORTH.
- WILLIAM K. WICKES.
WILLIAM H. SWIFT.
- CHARLES H. DANIELS.
WILLIAM D. PERRY.
JOSEPH NEE SIMA.
WILLIAM N. NOBLE.
FRANK F. COBURN.
GEORGE H. WHITE.
CHARLES H. HARRINGTON.
Parting Song from '72, - - FREDERIC W. PACKARD.
Class Supper, Parker House, Boston.
Class of 1871.
" Unus Amore, more, ore, re"
Date, - Orator, - Poet,
Grove Orator, Prophet, Odist, - Toast Master, Marshal,
- Tuesday, July 11.
JOHN W. SIMPSON.
- SAMUEL P. BUTLER. MAURICE D. CLARKE.
- S. MERRILL CLARKE. CHARLES W. MALLORY.
JOSIAH R. SMITH. DAVID HILL.
Parting Song from '7.3, - JAMES HAYWARD.
Class Supper, Haynes' Hotel, Springfield.
11*
90*
CLASS DAY OFFICERS.
Class of 1872,
" Oser: le progres est d ce prix.'
Orator,
Poet,
Grove Orator,
Prophet,
Odist,
Toast Master,
Marshal,
DAVID L. HOLBROOK.
HARRY S. STEVENS.
FREDERIC W. PACKARD.
- ALBERT H. THOMPSON.
JOHN W. McELiiiNNEY.
HERBERT B. ADAMS.
CONSTANT C. HODGMAN.
IV.
COLLEGE CLUBS, CUSTOMS, AMUSE- MENTS, ETC.
Student life is the same everywhere and at every time. The same eager craving for amusement, the like seeking for novelty, is as prominently shown in the student of to-day, as ever in the past. The only difference is in manifestation. And even this is not as varied as one would imagine. The boyish feel- ings of the oldest Alumnus are reproduced, with but trifling change, in the youngest Freshman. So we find many institu- tions and customs, which came in with the earlier classes, existing in the later. But many others have wholly perished, and only faint traditions remain of the power they once ex- erted. To gather up these memorials of former days, and to weave them, however superficially, into some semblance of reality, is our endeavor.
Under the broad heading we have chosen, we shall give some account, imperfect as it must necessarily be, of those organizations — serious or comic in their character — which have, from time to time, been prominent ; and, also, of those customs — amusing or otherwise — which have served to vary the monotony, and relieve the dry ness, of college duties. There have been many such, for it is impossible for students to be gathered together without devising all manner of outside associations for instruction or amusement, and adding to the regular course of study by incorporating with it somewhat of their own character and feelings. Of course, it would be a vain task to attempt any complete account of the various Clubs, Customs, and Amusements, which have had their
92* MUSICAL SOCIETIES.
day at Amherst. Every class, from that of '22 {cujus magna pars fuit Prof. Snell), to '74, just now assuming Sopho moric responsibilities, — has had its organizations, other than literary; its customs, peculiar to itself; and its amuse- ments,— some original ; others, which have ever been more or less common to all college classes. We can only hope to give a few, which have incidentally come to our notice. Suggestiveness must be the chief merit of these chronicles ; and the events here recorded may serve to bring up others, which have excited an equal amount of interest and afforded a like fund of enjoyment.
We have here striven to embody everything of interest we have been able to find. To the graduate of many years stand- ing, as well as to the youthful aspirant for collegiate honors, these records may perhaps be of value ; to the one, they may recall bright moments, now long since forgotten ; to the other, they may give some trace of the student life of his pre decessors. And this account of the past — by showing the very slight difference which there is between college genera- tions— may tend to bring into closer harmony the student of early days and of the present.
Prominent among the various organizations which have ever been popular, and useful too, are the
MUSICAL SOCIETIES.
The students of the college in its early days, were little familiar with the expensive instrumental music, furnished at the Commencements and public exhibitions of later times. Such music as is furnished by the " Germanias" and the " Men- dellsohns," of to-day was then unknown. Indeed, the only music, other than the " Sacred Music," which was furnished on the first two commencements of the college, was the duets of certain amateur flute players, who volunteered their ser- vices upon these occasions, — regaling the audiences between the " parts" with such airs as " On the Road to Boston," " Washington's March," "Fresh and Fair," and similar primi- tive compositions which were then in vogue.
PJSAN BAND. 89
BAND.
The first movement towards the organization of a band, which should furnish instrumental music of a higher charac- ter, was made by John Kelly, Esq., '25, who associated with him other students of musical abilities. The band was formed March 17th, 1824, and assumed the somewhat classi- cal name, " Paean Band." It was a regularly organized society, with constitution, by-laws, etc., and its members met for practice once a week, during the collegiate year; indeed, oftener during the summer term. Others, prominent in the organization of the band, were Eev. E. G. Babcock, and Ephraim Eveleth, of '25 ; Rev. Lucian Farnam, Rev. Win. P. Paine, and Hiram F. Stockbridge, of '27. The instruments for the use of the band, were furnished by the liberal contributions of both students and Faculty ; in return for which, the band agreed to furnish music gratuitously, at all exhibitions and celebrations where music was required. Week after week the members met in " Boltwood's Hall,"* and many and pleasant are the recollections of those meet- ings for practice. The Paean Band first appeared before the public, at an exhibition given by the Junior class, May llth, 1824, when " their performance excited the admiration of a crowded audience." At the Commencement of 1824, the band furnished music, after which the graduating class pro- vided them " a sumptuous repast " — a custom which suc- ceeding classes kept up, in recognition of their gratuitous services : at exhibitions in the college chapel (tell it not in Gath !), the appointees always used to provide " a jug of Port, et cet." — which was kept in the adjoining "Rhetorical" or "Theological" room, — that the players might refresh them- selves at intervals during the performance.
The band now and then made excursions, as when, Aug. 5, 1824, they rowed up the Connecticut River : and, occasion- ally, they serenaded the town's people ; e. g\, the records say
* In " Boltwood's Hotel." 12
90 COLLEGE BAND. LUTHERAN SOCIETY.
that " on Aug. 12th, 1824, the Paean Band serenaded the first families of East street." Thus the band flourished, and gained quite a local reputation for the excellence of their music. Its leaders were John Kelly, Esq., and Ephraim Eveleth, of '25; Rev. N. W. Fisher, '26; Rev. Lucian Far- nam, and H. F. Stockbridge, of '27 ; and Calvin B. Pratt? M.D., of '28. In the summer of 1828, desiring to make some changes in its organization, the Paean Band dissolved sine die, August 19th, 1828. Its entire membership was 29.
COLLEGE BAND.
The organization of this band occurred August 24th, 1828. In every particular, save its name and a few details in its constitution, it was the Paean Band, which had recently dis- solved. Under the leadership of such men as Rev. Abner Goodell, '29; N. A. Fisher, M.D., '31; Zebina C. Montague, '32; G. M. Kimball; Erastus C. Marcy, M.D., of '34; and Rev. Mortimer Blake, '35, — the College Band did good service ; arid, with new and improved instruments, gener- ously furnished by the college, soon became a fair rival of those field-bands of the day, which existed outside the cities. It flourished for several years, and gave no little reputation to the college. As late as March 15th, 1836, the band were again provided with new instruments and music by the Faculty. Several months afterward, the organization broke up, and its instruments and other property became scattered. In its list of members we find such names as Elias Riggs, D.D., and Hon. Anastasius Karavelles, of '31 ; Hon. Nathan Belcher, '32; and Rev. H. W. Beecher, '34. In August, 1834, the band adopted as its uniform, white suits and black caps. As far as recorded, the whole number of its members was 63. Whether on college tower, or at the serenade ; whether in the procession, or at the hall ; its music was ever welcomed.
LUTHERAN SOCIETY.
Ever since the foundation of the college, some society has been in existence, which has had for its aim the advance-
BEETHOVEN SOCIETY. GLEE CLUBS. 91
ment and cultivation of vocal music among the students. The Lutheran Society was the earliest organization of this nature. During the years of its existence, it had charge of the choir singing for morning and evening prayers, and for the church service on the Sabbath. Its special duty was to provide whatever " sacred music " was required for Com- mencement Day, and like occasions.
BEETHOVEN SOCIETY.
Some years afterward (about 1830), the musical society of the college became known as the Beethoven Society. By this name, the organization was known until 1869. During its history, numerous teachers of vocal music have been employed, and, by its various instrumentalities, the musical talent of the students has been greatly developed. More or less active in the different years of its existence, its influ- ence, on the whole, has been salutary.
AMHERST COLLEGE MUSICAL ASSOCIATION.
In the fall term of the collegiate year 1870-71, a musical association was formed under the above name. Its aim, objects, and influence, have thus far been similar to its pre- decessors. By the employment of a competent instructor, and by more frequent rehearsals, new life has been infused into both chapel and church services. During the whole existence of these three musical societies, they have been materially aided by the Faculty of the college.
GLEE CLUBS.
The best musical talent of the various classes, especially in later years, has centered in their Glee Clubs. There have been " College Glee Clutfs," " Class Glee Clubs," Quartette and Quintette Clubs, with the different names ; — " Donizetti," " Mendelssohn," " Euterpean," " Calliopean," etc. — all of considerable excellence, — and many, which have won for themselves and the college no little renown. The numerous concerts which have been given in neighboring cities and
92 ORCHESTRAS. COLLEGE SONGS.
towns, the many summer evenings spent in serenading, the many pleasant excursions of these Glee Clubs — each, all, bring up most pleasant memories of the sunny side of Col- lege life.
COLLEGE ORCHESTRAS.
The earliest college orchestra of note, was that established in 1861, whose leader was Edwin R. Lewis of '61. The number of students in college at that time, of superior musi- cal ability, was large ; hence, under his leadership, the " Or- chestra "soon became quite famous, and the instrumental music which they furnished was of such superior excellence, that they were employed to play at nearly all the public ex- hibitions of the college. On the evening of March 29th, 1861, the " Orchestra " gave a successful Promenade Con- cert in Howe's Hall, and a concert, complimentary to their leader, was given Oct. llth, 1861. The orchestra was re-or- ganized in 1862, under the leadership of Samuel C. Vance ; and various " Instrumental Clubs " of less notoriety, have existed in college ever since.
" SONGS OP AMHERST."
To the enterprising class of '62, the college is indebted for the first publication of the " Songs of Amherst College." This book met a long-felt want of the students, who showed their appreciation of the enterprise by so large purchases, that the edition was soon exhausted. The musical interest excited in college, by the classes of '61 and '62, was so great, that a second edition was soon after published, by Wm. M. Pomeroy, '61, and C. H. Sweetser, '62. To the singers and song-writers of that time (1860-63), are even the students of the present day indebted for many ot their most popular college melodies.
CLASS SONGS.
It has, for a number of years, been customary to provide original songs, to be sung in the grove after the exercises of
COURTS. 93
Class Day, and at the Class Supper ; yet what are now known as "class songs" originated with the class of 1870. These are designed to celebrate the great step from childhood to manhood ; in other words, from Freshman to Sophomore year.
CODBTS.
In the summer term of 1828, a legislative body was formed in college, known as the " House of Students." Its object was to enact such laws, in addition to the statutes of the col- lege, as the good of a college community would seem to re- quire. Closely associated with this " imperium in imperio" was a " Court of Justice " which the students of that time instituted, and which used to meet after the rhetorical exer- cises of Wednesday afternoon. Duly organized, with judge, and other officers, it tried petty cases in college, and its de- cisions were much respected by both Faculty and students ; indeed, we are told that Professor Jacob Abbott had some- what to do with the establishment of these courts. Before the " Court of Justice," were brought alleged injuries to college buildings, cases of discourtesy, indecorum, outrage, encroach- ments on the rights of students, etc., etc., and, sometimes, petty cases of college discipline were yielded to this court by the Faculty. Fines were sometimes imposed upon those found guilty. The judicial branch was far more successful than the legislative, and continued in operation for a much longer period. The proceedings in both of these were con- ducted according to the prescribed forms of law, with judge, associate judges, jury, counsel, witnesses, etc. Especially prominent in the management of these courts, were Prof. E. P. Humphrey, D. D., '28, Rev. John Alden and Hon. Eliab Ward of '31, and Hons. 0. P. Lord and J. C. Perkins of '32. The earnest pleadings for clients, the shrewd cross-question- ings of witnesses, the charges of the judges, and the decisions of the juries, will not soon be forgotten by the participants in these trials. Their influence was salutary, and a deal of
94 BRANCH SOCIETIES. MISSION WORK.
amusement was afforded to the spectators of their proceed- ings.
BRANCH SOCIETIES.
Among the various organizations which have existed among the students of the college, are a few which have been merely branches of some parent society, existing in either Boston or New York. Most of these have been short-lived, and their influence upon the students has never been wide-spread.
I. The "Historical Society of Amherst College," which was organized in the collegiate year, 1829-30. A few public ad- dresses were given under its auspices in the college chapel.
II. The " Colonization Society of Amherst College." This was an organization, auxiliary to the many societies which existed in 1828, whose object was the establishment and sup- port of a colony of negroes in Liberia.
III. The " Amherst College Anti-Slavery Society," which existed in 1832-35. It was disbanded by the authority of the Faculty.
IY. The " Amherst College Peace Society." This organiza tion existed in 1838. On July 4th of that year, Rev. Rufus P. Stebbins delivered an address before its members.
PSYCHOLOGICAL SOCIETY.
An association was formed in July, 1870, by several mem- bers of the graduating class, with the design of making it a permanent society for the investigation of psychological and (so-called) supernatural phenomena. Appleton P. Lyon was elected President, and Joseph T. Ward, Secretary.
MISSION WORK.
Almost from the beginning, the self-forgetful, Christian students of the College have taken a great and absorbing in- terest in all forms of missionary labor. Churches have been
GORHAM REBELLION. 95
organized, and Sabbath schools established, through their ef- forts, in places where, otherwise, these means of good had been wanting. Pelham, Shutesbury and Belchertown were early visited, and the results of such Christian labors are seen to-day, in these places. The establishment of " Zion Church," in Amherst, was largely due to such efforts. Mis- sion schools, too, have been established in many a locality, otherwise neglected, and services have been conducted in several pastorless churches. We mention these facts in no spirit of boasting, but simply to show the strong feeling of devotion and love that has ever animated the members of College.
The little village of Packardville has long been a favorite field for missionary work. Twelve years ago, the members of the different denominations there represented, — Baptist, Methodist, and Congregational — united, and formed a " Union Church." For services, they were mainly dependent upon candidates for the ministry, who were studying at the College. Amoi>g those who gave much time and labor to this work, was Rev. Horace Parker, of the class of '60.
In the autumn of 1867, Mr. Edward S. Fitz, '71, then a stu- dent in college, became deeply interested in this field. He found the membership small and disunited, the prayer meet- ings illy attended, and the general tone of the church low. By his zealous efforts, the members were brought into har- mony, a strong religious interest sprang up, and a neat and commodious church edifice, recently erected, affords ample facilities for worship. Its organ and bell were furnished by the generous contributions of the alumni and students of the College. As a crowning result of all these missionary labors, the "Union Church " has now (1871) a settled pastor.
GORHAM REBELLION;
The " rebellions " in College have been few in number. The summer term of 1837, however, was made memorable in the college annals by the famous " Gorham Rebellion."
96 DEMONSTRATIONS.
The facts of the case were, substantially, as follows : Some dissatisfaction arose in the Junior class, respecting the ap- pointments made by the Faculty for their " Junior Exhibi- tion." One of the class ('38), William 0. Gorham, a man zealous, energetic, and somewhat popular and influential among his associates, absolutely refused to perform his al- lotted part. " Conscientious scruples," were alleged as a reason for the action. This was not apparent to the " powers that were," and, deeming the action an open violation of Col- lege authority, he was removed from college. His class and others, openly sustaining him in his course, were considered equally culpable, and a like punishment was visited upon some and threatened to all. After the most violent discussion and intense excitement, all through the college, the class retracted, and, at length, Mr. Gorham and the rest, having made similar acknowledgments, were restored to college. For a few weeks, this matter, and other troubles in which the college became involved, promised to seriously reduce the number of students. The merits of the case have ever been a theme of warm discussion.
DEMONSTRATIONS.
The public demonstrations, political and otherwise, which have been made at different times by the students, seem to merit a passing notice. These have occurred principally on the national holidays, and during the war excitements of the rebellion. Occasionally, on the Fourth of July, or " Wash- ington's birthday," the students of the college have been wont to assemble in the chapel, where, after singing and the reading of the Declaration of Independence or Washington's Farewell Address, orations upon political themes were deliv- ered by the Professors and eminent men of the day. How- ever, on all occasions, the celebrations were not of a purely intellectual character. Especially was this the case in 1831,
FOURTH OF JULY, 1831. 97
when the students celebrated the " Fourth " in a way never to be forgotten, at least by the actors in the scene.
.FOURTH OF JULY, 1831.
On the evening preceding the return of the National Holi- day, a company of students were delegated to procure the famous gun of Gen. Mattoon, of East St., Amherst, which he had brought home with him after the battle of Saratoga, in 1777. This venerable field piece had long been the sine qua non of all celebrations in Amherst. After no small labor in search for the gun, it was dragged in triumph from its hiding place and planted on College Hill, ready for the first salute, as the clock in the College tower should strike the hour of twelve. At this hour, peal after peal broke the stillness of the night, and a bon-fire, such as students alone can make, lighted the whole region round about. The slumbers of those less patriotic were disturbed. A College officer appeared on the spot, remonstrated with the " gunners," and, at last, threw himself astride the gun, endeavoring to enforce the command that " such demonstrations must cease." By some signal on the part of the students, the drag-ropes were in- stantly seized, and both gun and dignified Professor were drawn, and rapidly too, down the steep declivity. "A flying leap and a heavy bounce" at the bottom, unhorsed the rider, who declined further interference in the festivities. Soon, however, a town constable appeared, read the riot act by the light of the bonfire, and ordered the students to disperse. However, no active measures were used to enforce the com- mand, and, perhaps through spite, the celebration was kept up until daybreak. We may add as a sequel to this affair, that the effigy of the constable, with " spectacles on nose, and book in hand," was borne through the streets of the village on the following night, while the " Pagan Band" (who of 13
98 PRES. HITCHCOCK'S RETURN. — DEATH OF WEBSTER.
the time does not remember it ?) furnished music for the pro- cession. A few of the leaders in the demonstration were rusticated, but the old gun and the Fourth of July celebration will never be forgotten. After a second hilarious affair, somewhat similar, two members of '32 buried the gun, in the dead of midnight, and the place of its sepulture has baf- fled all the efforts of subsequent seekers for this far-famed relic.
PRESIDENT HITCHCOCK'S RETURN FROM EUROPE.
President Hitchcock arrived at Amherst from his European tour, Nov. 15th, 1850. It being known when he would reach Northampton, preparations were made for his reception, and a carriage was sent over by the students to meet him there. Meanwhile, measures were set on foot for a general illumina- tion of the college buildings. A procession of the various classes was in waiting at Amity St. for the arrival, which, at his coming, escorted the President to his residence on College Hill. A speech of welcome was here made by John E. San- ford, '51, which was fittingly responded to by President Hitch- cock. The dormitories were brilliantly illuminated, and gen- eral congratulations at the Doctor's return were expressed throughout the college.
DEATH OF DANIEL WEBSTER.
When the intelligence of the death of Daniel Webster reach- ed Amherst, in 1852, the students united in those expressions of national sorrow so universally manifested throughout the land. They met in assembly, passed appropriate resolutions,
CLAY AND POLK" CAMPAIGN. INDIGNATION MEETING. 99
and, at the time of his funeral, amid the tolling of bells, fired a salute of seventy-one guns in memory of the nation's orator and statesman. .
"CLAY AND POLK" CAMPAIGN.
Probably every one in college at the time of this memorable political campaign, has in vivid remembrance the mass meet- ing of the students, Oct. 6th, 1852. This meeting occurred just after " Rhetoricals." Each of the three parties had pre- viously appointed one of their number to represent them in the meeting and present the claims of the respective parties. Hon. J. N. Marshall represented the " Whigs;" T. D. Adams, Esq., the "Free Soilers," and Wm. J. Leib, Esq., the "Demo- crats." At the close of the discussion, a vote was taken, when the Whig candidate for the Presidency received 101 of the 173 votes cast. Considerable excitement existed, though gen- eral good feeling prevailed.
PRESIDENT STEARNS' INAUGURATION.
On the evening following the inauguration of Rev. Wm. A. Stearns, D. D., as President of the college— Nov. 21st, 1354— the second illumination of the college buildings occurred. Every window, with its light in every pane, contributed to the splendor of the demonstration, and thus with songs, speeches, and joyous celebration, the administration of our worthy Pres- ident was ushered in with a hearty good will.
INDIGNATION MEETING.
When the news of the assault upon Senator Sumner reached the students, they held an indignation meeting in front of the
100 PROF. SNELL'S RETURN. — " WIDE AWAKE" DEMONSTRATION.
chapel. This occurred May 23d, 1856. Preston S. Brooks was hung in effigy, and speeches were made by Professors, Tutors, and Students.
PROF. SNELL'S RETURN FROM EUROPE.
This demonstration occurred Oct. 25th, 1858. A procession was formed, which, under the command of the Marshal of the day, Sidney W. Howe, '59, marched to the depot, and escorted Professor Snell to his home. An address of welcome was de- livered by Thomas M. Boss, '59, and the exercises were enliv- ened by the singing of songs, written for the occasion.
"WIDE AWAKE" DEMONSTRATION.
All through the Presidential campaign, which resulted in the election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860, the college was alive with enthusiasm. A "Republican," or "Wide Awake," Club was formed, with a membership of over two hundred. On the evening of Oct. llth, 1860, quite an extensive celebra- tion was given under the auspices of this club, the main fea- ture of which was a torchlight procession. Starting from the college at half-past six o'clock under their Marshal, Captain Brigham, they marched to the depot, preceded by the Hat- field Band. Here they met the "Palmer Wide Awakes," who had been invited to join in the demonstration. Returning to the Common, Professor Vose, Erastus Hopkins, Esq., and others, made stirring speeches, and a " Lincoln Flag " was thrown to the breeze. Barrels of tar were sacrificed, and the illumination was general throughout the village. One feature to be remembered was the admirable execution of the " Vir- ginia Fence Movement "• by the procession in their march to College Hill. At the raising of the flag an original song, " Liiicolnia," was sung by the students.
FLAG-RAISINGS. — PRESENTATION. 101
FLAG-RAISINGS.
These celebrations, so common through the North at the commencement of the Rebellion, were of frequent occurrence in Amherst. Prominent among these was that of April 17th, 1861, when a flag was raised on the college-tower. The stu- dents to a man, assembled in the chapel, and, after prayer, offered by President Stearns, and the reading of the Declara- tion of Independence by Prof. W. S. Clark, they proceeded to the Green, outside, where a platform had been erected. Other exercises here took place. After the singing of an original song, " Stars and Stripes," the flag was thrown to the breeze amid the prolonged cheers of the enthusiastic crowd. A simi- lar demonstration occurred a few days afterwards, April 29th, when a flag was raised at " Pel ham Springs," at the laying of the corner stone of the Orient House. The classes marched thither in uniform, the Glee Club sung national airs, and a sa- lute of thirty-four guns was fired. The students also assisted in similar celebrations at No. Amherst, Leverett, and other places.
PRESENTATION TO THE COLLEGE.
The year 1862 is memorable in the history of Amherst for the many outbursts of patriotism among the students ; dis- played in the celebrations of the national holidays, in various demonstrations as intelligence came from the seat of war, and the departure of many from all classes for active service at the South. One remarkable occasion was the presentation of a brass cannon to Amherst College, by the 21st regiment, M. V. M. This cannon was made in Springfield in 1842, and was the guri first surrendered by the Confederate forces in the memorable battle of Newbern, March 14th, 1862. The gun was presented to the regiment by General Burnside, and, by it, given to the college, as a memorial of the bravery of
102 OVATION. FOURTH OF JULY, 1862.
the " Amherst College Boys " who fell in that siege. The presentation occurred April 14th, 1862. A stage was erected in front of the chapel, on which were the speakers, faculty, and the ladies, — also the cannon. Capt. J. D. Frazier, being deputed by the regiment for the purpose, made the presenta- tion. Hon. Edward Dickinson, Rev. Chas. L. Woodworth, Rev. Dr. Vaill, Profs. W. S. Tyler and J. H. Seelye, and others, addressed the assembly, which was quite large, as many were present from adjoining towns.
OVATION TO PARSON BROWNLOW.
On June 7th of the same year, 1862, an ovation was given to Parson Brownlow, on the occasion of his visit to Amherst. He came at the urgent invitation of the students, who met him at the depot, and, with bands of music, escorted him to the " Vil- lage Church," where he addressed them upon the topics of the day.
FOURTH OF JULY, 1862.
We have received, from " one of the mourners " on the occasion, the following vivid account of a Fourth of July celebration in war time, which we take great pleasure in pub- lishing.
" On the Fourth of July, 1862, several of the students iiad an early morning procession, purporting to be ' The Funeral of Jeff Davis.' An old, worn-out hearse was obtained from East street, and a white horse, on which the crows had a mortgage, was found to draw the remains. An effigy of ' J. D.' was staffed, and deposited in a box. The hearse was driven by a student, now a lawyer of the Connec- ticut Valley, while a short, fat collegian sat on the rear of the hearse, and led 'Jeff Davis' favorite charger.' A pres- ent pastor of Connecticut, appropriately dressed in female
FOURTH OF JULY, 1862. 103
apparel, appeared as the ' weeping widow ' — Mrs. Jefferson Davis — with an infant in her arms ; while the stylish and antiquated 4 family vehicle ' was driven by a present North- ampton physician, who then personated the negro servant. A large ox-cart was obtained for the band, — the leader of which is at present a Massachusetts minister, while his assist- ants now represent vocations as different as were the instru- ments of music upon which they played the various dirges and funeral marches on the route. The procession, constantly augmented by large accessions, wound through the quiet streets of Amherst, and finally paused at the grove south of College Hill. Here a funeral oration was pronounced, and the friends took a last view of the remains. A doleful dirge, written for the occasion, was then sung, and a military salute was fired over the grave.
The melancholy train was led by the present jovial leader of a Montreal parish. As the occasion was in honor of an 4 old ' hero, the dress of the participants corresponded' ; and, indeed, they closely resembled the followers of Falstaff, — so ragged, that ' you would think them so many tattered prodigals, lately come from swine keeping,' — ' with but a shirt and a half in all the company ! ' A most affecting in- cident of the occasion, was the distress shown by ' Mrs. J. D.,' at the sad accident which befell the infant she had borne in her arms. The child, by some unaccountable mischance, fell from the • carriage,' and the heavy wheel passed over its tender head. The agony of the mother was, for a time, fearful ; but the child was taken up apparently uninjured, and able to cry as loudly as ever."
The poster, by which this affair was announced, is a curi- osity in its way. At this time, specie was scarce, and postage stamps abounded, which will explain the reason given for burying Jeff. Davis with his eyes open : — " Owing to the scarcity of coin, J. D's eyes remain unclosed."
104 POLITICAL DEMONSTRATION. INAUGURATION. SUPPER.
POLITICAL DEMONSTRATION OF 1864.
Three days before the second election of Abraham Lincoln as President, Nov. 1, 1864, the students 'united with the citi- zens of Ambers t, in a public expression of their political sympathies. Prof. W. S. Clark marshaled the procession of the various classes, which marched through the village, bear- ing some ingeniously devised transparencies. The speeches of the evening were made by Prof. Yose, Rev. C. L. Wood- worth, and Rev. S. T. Seelye of Easthampton.
SECOND INAUGURATION OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
At noon of March 4th, 1865, the students assembled in the chapel, where exercises, appropriate to the event, were conducted by President Stearns, Profs. J. H. Seelye and W. S. Tyler, and Dr. Parker of Grace Church, Amherst. The chapel rang, as never before, with the national airs.
POLITICAL SUPPER.
On Wednesday, Oct. 14, 1868, a vote of the college was taken, to test the political preferences of the students. It was found, that 188, out of 216, were Republicans. On the following evening, the Republican members of the Senior class ('69), inspired by the recent triumphs of their party in various States, and by the overwhelming expression of Re- publican sentiment in college, had a supper at the "Amherst House." Richard Goodman, Jr., was toast-master of the occa- sion. After patriotic speeches, the company broke up with hearty cheers for " Grant and Colfax," " Liberty and Vic- tory."
ILLUMINATION. COLLEGE REGIMENT. 105
ILLUMINATION OF 1868.
On Wednesday, Nov. 4th, 1868, a general illumination of all the college buildings took place, in honor of the election of General Grant to the Presidency. The procession, led by the military company of the Agricultural College, and com- posed of the various classes of Amherst College, under their respective captains, — marched to the residences of President Stearns, the different Professors, President Clark of the Agri- cultural College, Rev. Mr. Jenkins, L. P. Hickok, D.D., and Prof. Miller of the Agricultural College. Short, patriotic speeches were made at these places, and general rejoicing characterized every feature of the evening's demonstration.
ACQUITTAL OF PRESIDENT JOHNSON.
At the news of the acquittal of President Johnson, in the famous impeachment trial of 1868, a body of students attempted a demonstration by ringing the chapel bell, etc. President Stearns, believing that most of the students would prefer to hear it toll, interrupted the proceedings. The long-to-be-remembered " Shimei " sermon, called forth by the acquittal, was pronounced on the following day, May 23d, — a sermon which gave its author considerable notoriety among the students.
COLLEGE REGIMENT.
This was organized some time in 1861, and consisted, at the time of its establishment, of three companies. Col. Luke Lyman, of Northampton, instructed the students of the " Regiment " in company evolutions, and the manual of arms. For a long time, the regiment might be seen in its daily drill on the " Campus." The classes of '62, '63, and '64, supplied themselves with uniforms, and the Faculty pro- 14
106 "CONTINENTALS." — COLLEGE BOOK STORE.
vided muskets for their use in the regular drill. Many of those most prominent in the organization of this " Regi- ment," soon after marched to the front, and quite a number nobly fell, while bravely fighting for the country.
AMHERST COLLEGE "CONTINENTALS."
This military organization was confined to the class of 1862. Its captain was Samuel C. Vance, who was presented with a sword by his class, as he left for the war.
RELICS OF THE CIVIL WAR.
A society was organized in the college, Feb. 10th, 1865, for collecting and preserving interesting relics of the Rebel- lion of 1861-65. It existed for a short time only. Its first President was John A. Emery, of '65.
COLLEGE BOOK STORE.
One enterprise in college, which has become a fixed insti- tution, is deserving of mention: — the "College Bookstore." Started in South College in 1861, by a student desiring to help himself financially, it has met with different degrees of suc- cess, as more or less enterprise and business tact have been displayed by its successive proprietors. In the hands of its present owners it has far outstripped its former prominence.
READING ROOM. GEOLOGICAL EXCURSIONS. 107
READING ROOM.
After the public societies entered their new halls (1859), they gave up the plan, formerly pursued, of supporting reading-rooms in their " Athenaeums." Hence, a reading-room was started (1858) in North College, as a private enterprise. Sometime afterward (1862), it became a college institution, all students being assessed a small sum each term, for its support. Here were found the New York and Boston dailies, and representa- tive papers from almost every other section of the country. On Sept. 9, 1870, the " Social Union " Society assumed its control ; and now, enlarged and refitted, with an increased supply of papers, it has become a college institution, of inestimable service to the students.
GEOLOGICAL EXCURSIONS.
The first mountain excursion, which afterwards, — so long as President Hitchcock was connected with the college, — were quite common, took place on the 4th of July, 1845. The prime object of this, was the constructing of a path to the top of Mount Holyoke. This work was successfully accomplished by the Senior and Junior classes. The ladies of the Seminary • " over the mountain," had provided a repast for the indefatiga- ble toilers. Wheu this had been disposed of, the whole party ascended to the summit, where addresses were made by several gentlemen.
On the 4th of July, 1846, Mount Norwottuck, the highest peak of the Holyoke range, and about a mile east of the " Notch," was christened with appropriate ceremonies by the class of 1846. Addresses were given by Mr. Leonard Hum- phrey, of the Senior class, president of the day, and by Presi- dent Hitchcock.
The next attempt of the kind was the naming of a mountain
108 GEOLOGICAL EXCURSIONS.
in Sunderland. This had been known asMt. Toby; the class of 1849 proposed to substitute the more euphonious name of " Mettawompe," which was accordingly done in June, 1849. The chairman of the Class committee, Edward Hitchcock, Jr., gave the christening address. This change of name did not, however, prove acceptable to the people of Sunderland, and, in the next town meeting warrant, an article was inserted to this effect :
" To see if the town will vote to comply with the change made by the Senior class of Amherst College, in calling the mountain, heretofore called Toby, by the name of Mettawompe."
Resolutions, condemnatory of the action of the Class, were adopted by a strong majority, and voted to be sent to the "Amherst Express" for publication. The week following the appearance of these resolutions, the "Express" contained an amusing account of a " Mesmeric meeting of the class of 1849," at which all were present in spirit, called by the Gen- ius of the class, and held on the college tower. This " meet- ing " was the only notice taken of the formal condemnation of the class by the citizens of Sunderland. .
The " Ghor," a deep ravine near Shelburne Falls, was named by the Class of 1850, on October 15, 1849. The next peak visited and christened, by the Class of 1854, was aRock Rimmon," in Belchertown. William W. Fowler delivered the Address on the latter occasion.
" Mount Pocumtuck," lying in the east part of Heath, about midway between Amherst and Williams Colleges, was named by the Class of 1856. By invitation, the Senior Class of Wil- liams was present. Thomas P. Herrick gave the Christening Address, and Charles H. Hitchcock, a Geological Oration.
" Kilburn Peak," near Bellows Falls, was named by the Class of 1857, John H. Boalt being the orator. " Nonotuck " was the name given to the northern part of the Mount Tom range, by the Class of 1858. A large number of persons were present to participate in the exercises. James E. Tower was the " Christening Orator," and E. A. P. Brewster delivered a poem.
GEOLOGICAL EXCURSIONS. 109
In October, 1859, " Mount Nutonk," in Greenfield, was named by the class of 1860. The usual oration was delivered by Nathaniel Mighill; the poem, by George L. Goodale. A geological address was also given by C. E. Dickinson. The literary exercises are said to have been unusually apt and in- teresting.
In the autumn of the following year, " Mount Eolus," in East Dorset, Vermont, was visited by the class of 1861, and that name applied. Dr. Hitchcock says of this occasion: "It proved to be, perhaps, the most successful effort of this kind ever attempted by the classes of Amherst." »
" Mount Taurus," the southern portion of Mettawompe, was named by the class of 1862. This peak had originally been called " Bull Hill " ; so the appellation now given was not new, but only more classical and poetic. The "Northerner," " Rock Oreb," and " Rock Etam" — large bowlders near Am- herst— were also christened by the same class.
After this year, nothing of the kind occurred, till, in the fall of 1869, when Prof. Edward Hitchcock, Jr., revived these pleas- ant "geological excursions," with the class of 1870. Six of these took place : the first, to Mount Holyoke ; the second , Mount Warner ; the third, Mettawompe ; the fourth, Hoosac Tunnel ; the fifth, Monson Quarries; the sixth, Turner's Falls.
The following class ('71) also visited Hoosac Tunnel, ac- companied by Mr. B. K. Emerson, their geological instructor. In June, 1870, this class made a " miiieralogical " trip to Gosheii, under the guidance of Prof. Shepard.
In connection with these events, it is proper to make mention of what is known as the " Class of '57 Bowlder." The weight of this is about ten tons, and it is very interesting, as presenting, on four sides, striae caused by the drift agency. It was found near the depot, and was placed in its present position — south of the Wood's cabinet — on June 2, 1856. Mr. L. D. Cowles of Amherst, who has ever been a warm friend of the stu- dents, kindly took charge of its transportation, and several farm- ers of the region gave the use of their |eams. When the mass
110 CLASS EXCURSIONS.
had safely reached its final destination, Dr. Hitchcock