EDUATION: Millersville State Normal School History of the Class of 1888, Millersville, Lancaster County, PA Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Annabelle Matherly xanderequine@yahoo.com Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/lancaster/ _______________________________________________ The following is transcribed from the papers of Eugene R. Floto of Myersdale, Pa.; member of the Class of 1888 of the Millersville State Normal School, Millersville, Pa., and the class historian. There appear to be three versions of the history of this class; the first from 1898, the second1908 and the last from 1916. The originals remain in the possession of his grandaughter, Sandra Repass, of Franklinton, N.C. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1908 Introductory "Good evening, or good morning for I know not Which of the two it is." Are we coming or going? We are nearing the meridian, at least, the boys of '88 are, the girls of '88 are still on the sunny side. They have not yet arrived at the "fat and forty" period. Ten years ago I introduced to you the class of '88 as the "ten year olds", to-day "we're twenty, we're twenty, who says we are more" and, like the youth of twenty the red wine of life still runs in our veins- and we are ready to do "Ye nexte thyne." We are not yet ready to be oslerized. The fruit which matures to early hastens to an early decay. It is merely an outline which we present here, for the full text of the lives of these, out classmates, read between the lines and let your imagination draw upon your knowledge of the world, gained by your experience in it. The joy and happiness, the sorrow and heartache, the elation over a victory won, and the depression following a defeat have been theirs; as they have been yours. They have reached for the flower and grasped thorns. And again what seamed like a defeat proved a stepping stone to greater achievement. The class of '88 has the distinction of being the first class to graduate under the splendid administration of our worthy Dr. Lytle. There were twenty seven members, all of whom are living but one. Gentle Edith Knight died a few years after graduation- a few years after her marriage to Prof. John L. Shrey. Her death robbed us of a friend- a sweet sympathetic friend- one whose warm smile of congratulation was the first to greet us in our triumphs in Normal days; and whose sympathy expressed in tender words robbed our petty defeats of half their sting. Hers was a mother's heart, bearing the pain and sorrows of others, imparting sunshine and gladness to all. God is good. Her memory still abides with us and the influence of her noble character leads us to aspire to holier things. I will now let them speak for themselves. John C. Swartley Attorney-at-law Doyelstown, Pa Since graduating from the First Normal School at Millersville, Pa., in 1888, my career has been rather ordinary and uneventful. With our commencement over and my diploma in my trunk, I began to look for a job where I could experiment on the young of the land with that which I had been taught at the "Old Normal", and incidentally have the pleasure of spending money which would be paid to me for services rendered. I soon discovered that the opportunity to earn money by working in a school room was about as difficult as it was to "get money from home". about this time I was of the opinion that I was capable of filling any position in the profession of teaching. This delusion, I may say, was soon dispelled. Unfortunately for me, and prehaps for those I subsequently taught, ZI had had no experience in teaching. Whenever I appeared before that august body of American citizens, known as, "The School Board" the first question asked me was "How long have you taught?" My answer, "I have never taught", immediately eliminated my application. A few experiences of this nature led me to the conclusion that inasmuch as a practical knowledge of teaching was an apparent prerequisite to the obtaining of a position, a little practical knowledge of how to obtain a position might be equally advantageous. This discovery gave me the first insite into practical politics. Result: I was elected principal of the public schools of North Wales, Montgomery Co., Pa.. The next year, i was re-elected to the same position with a slight increase in salary. The salary was about the same as was then being paid teachers in similar positions, but so insignificant in comparison with other vocations in life so that the life of a teacher, however noble the profession, had no further charms for me. During the summer of 1890 after passing preliminary examinations before the Board of Law Examiners in the counties of Philadelphia and Bucks, I registered as a student at Law in Bucks County with Henry Lear, Esq. the then leader of the Bucks County Bar. In Philadelphia County I registered as a student at Law with the eminent lawyer, author, and financier, Hon. C. Stuart Patterson. In the fall of 1890 I entered the law department of the University of Pennsylvania and having completed the three years course in that department, I was in 1893 given the degree of L.L.E. On June 17, 1893, I was admitted to the Bar in the County of Philadelphia, and on August 13, 1893, to the Bar of the County of Bucks. In 1900 to the Bar of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, and later to the Bar of the Federal Courts. A thorough knowledge of the law is highly important to its successful practice; but in order to have a varied and profitable practice, it is also necessary to have an acquaintance with men of affairs and people generally. As a means to acquire a more extended acquaintance among people, I persuaded the influential members of the Republican party of my County to have me elected Chairman of the Republican County Committee in the spring of 1894. I had this office for three years, In the fall of 1897 I was elected District Attorney of the County of Bucks. As the official prosecutor of the County, I came in contact with its entire Bar and many non-resident attorneys, and it gave me the first real opportunity to practice law. Through it I was enabled to build up a practice, the enoluments of which while not large have been enough to buy bread and pay office rent. On January 1st, 1903, thanks to the kind suggestions of influential friends, I took the oath of office ans third assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. In the course of a few years I was advanced to th position of 1st Assistant, which official position I hold at this time. My private practice of law in Philadelphia and Bucks Counties is conducted in the names of Swartley and Bunting, a partnership which was formed in 1903 when I entered the Federal legal department. For a period of about twelve years, after leaving this dear old school, through ignorance, fear, or delusion, I lived the miserable life of what is commonly known as, "single blessedness". I had a room in one part of our town where I could lay my head, and at another place I paid a landlord a certain stipend per week for the permission of putting my feet under his table three times in one day. In this state of existence indegestion wrecked me from within and unmended clothes from without. No doubt, I could and would have endured all this, but fortunately for me, I met what I then believed and now know to be my affinity. I immediately inaugurated and conducted such a vigorous campaigh that by October 24, 1900, in the presence of relatives and friends, I had the high privilege of saying my part in the dialogue of the Friends ceremony which changed the name of Miss Agnes Darlington to that of Mrs. John C. Swartley. I have a happy home in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, and a healthy growing family of three. John K. Hench Bureau of Pensions Washington, D.C. John K. Hench taught several years after graduation in the schools of Lancaster County and served as Agent for several book concerns when not engaged in teaching. In August 1890 he passed an examination, under the Civil Service Commission held at Harrisburg, and soon after entered the University of Lebanaon, Ohio, for the purpose, as he says, "of placing a few braces in a mental structure that was never built on a Websterian Foundation." Soon after entering the University at Lebanaon, he recieved an appointment in the Bureau of Pensions which he continues to hold. From his leter of recient date, I quote, "Like nearly all government positions, it has much of the routine about it, but by travel, during some of my vacations, and by the study of a course in law and a post-graduate course in Columbian, now George Washington University, I have endeavored to keep out of the ruts. I have crossed the continant twice in my travels, first in 1899 and again in 1905. In our party in the tour of 1899 was Miss Minnie Katherine Oberly of Easton, Pa. who became Mrs John K. Hench Nov, 1906. We are now the proud possessors of the finest three months old boy in the Capital city - Ross Oberly Hench. My home travel has taken me into thirty-five states and territories. I have had the pleasure and profit of two tours in Europe, 1901 and 1903, during which I visited most of the countries of that continent from Iverness, Scotland on the north to Gibraltar and as far east as Athens, Greece. My work here in the law and post graduate schools covered the regular evening sessions for five years and entitled me to the degree of L.L.E. 1901, L.L.W.1902, and D.C.L.1903. The student work in addition to he regular office work made five laborious years but non the less enjoyable. I havein several campaigns done some stumping for the Republican State Committee, but the Civil Service Commission has ruled against that line of work and I have kept reasonably quiet for several years. A.C. Yingst Department of the Interior Washington, D. C. My sketch is as brief and it is unimportant. To my classmates: My history is soon told. As most of the humber class do, I engaged in the profession for which I had prepared and of which profession I am proud to-day altho I am not in active service. It stands second to no other, the ministry not excepted. If I should leave my present work, I would return to my former calling. Since graduation, I taught seventeen terms. My work during this period was in the ordinary grade schools, in the country school, in the grammer aqnd high school. My last charge was that of the high school, the position I was aiming at all the time. I held this position for three years serving part of the time as supervisory principal. These schools had been entirely neglected and were a good field for a new man to show his pluck. Fortunately, I succeeded well. I spared no effort and in a short time had the schools up to a good standard. During the last year, prejudice and politics became so prevalent that I thought it the wiser to get away. I entered a Government examination, passed, and a few weeks after the schools had closed, recieved and accepted an appointment in Washington where at the present time you may find me in the Department of the Interior. It was with regret that I left the service but force of circumstances causes many changes for which we do not look. One year after graduation, I found a girl, a very good girl, who consented to become my wife. The family consists of two daughters, Elizabeth adn Emma, the wife and myself, all living. Most of us enjoy Washington but we are missing, sadly missing the good schools of the Keystone State." In his letter of recent date Mr. Yingsh informs us that he was recently promoted to a better paying position in the Department of the Interior, which was probably the inspiration for the following effusion:- "Thus in a few words I've briefly told, Enough, no more for me t'nfold; Wish that I could meet you as of yore Trav'ling all round to find some lore. But, providence has not so planned- Hearty greetings to all I send, Wish you long life and journeys bright, Hoping to meet you where's no night. No clouds of gloom, no griefs to bear, Defeat unknown, all vict'ry there Singin no class song under trees, But singing for the lamb of peace," A.C. Yingst Washington, D. C. May 25, 1908 S.D. Replogle Real Estate Roslyn, L.I. From Mr Replogle's letter of ten years ago, "My history since I left the Normal school ten years ago is indeed brief. The first two years after graduating I taught in Lancaster County. Then I was a successful applicant for the Principal-ship of the schools of Roslyn, L.I. I began at an annual salary of $1,000, I an now recieving a salary of $1,500 per annum. I am worth $3,000 per year and some day I am going to get it. I have been reelected to the Principal-ship of the Roslyn schools which term will make nine years in one position. (The people of Roslyn appreciate and keep a good thing when they can find it.) When I began my work in Roslyn eight years ago I took a course in the New York School of Pedagogy and I think I am getting my profession to, at least some degree of perfection. The Roslyn Schools have a creditable reputation, and I am sure some of the credit is due to me. It may be a surprise to those who know me that I suceeded, six years ago, in finding a very excellent lady who concented to be my wife. We enjoy ourselves very much. Our devotion to music is a great comfort to us. She manipulates the piano and at the same time I embellish it with my violin. I took up the study of that instrument seven years ago and now regret that I spent so much of my life without the comfort and consolation of that master instrument. I am a menber of our orchestra and that, too, is much pleasure for me. It affords me great pleasure to state to my classmates that six years ago I connected myself with the Presbyterian Church and since that time I have been an active worker along these lines. Mrs Replogle is a devoted Christian and her influence led me in this direction. How happy I am that such has been my fate and by the help of God I am going to do all I can, not only for myself, but for the precious children who are given my charge. The profession of teaching is a noble one, and presents many opporutnities to the earnest Christian teacher for doing good. No man should be permitted to enter the profession unless he is a devoted Christian. I, also, quote a letter of a few days ago from our friend Replogle. "I held the possition of principal of the Roslyn schools for thirteen years and could have it to-day if I wished. I brought the school up to a high standard. The Roslyn High School is one of the best in the state. After resigning the principal-ship of our schools, I engaged in the real-estate business in order to make a little money. I own our home and fifteen othe pretty good houses in our beautiful village. Mr. Replogle is also Post Master of Roslyn. We heartily congratulate him on his success. C.E. Berger Attorney-at-Law Pottsville, Pa. Mr. Berger was born in Schuylkill County in 1868. When eighteen years old, he entered the Normal, graduating with the Class of '88'. He taught in the public schoools in 1888, 89 & 90. He then secured a position in the Custom House at Philadelphia where he remained until 1893. it was in 1893, he registered as a Student-in Law in Pottersville and was admitted ot the Schuylkill County Bar in 1894 - where he has practiced his profession ever since. Soon after his admission to the Bar Mr. Berger was appointed County Solicitor. This office he held for a very short time, being removed to make place for a canidate with a longer "pull". It was here he had his first lesson in practical politics. In 1900 Mr. Berger was appointed Referee in Bankruptcy which position he held in a very creditable manner until 1902 when he was elected District Attorney. His administration of this office which extended to 1905 was one of the most business-like the county of Schuylkill has ever had. It resulted in a saving to the County of over $40,000.- exceedingly good and highly commendable housekeeping. Not only was his administration a business one, but it was a protest against graft and corruption in the public office. Many public men were convicted of grave crimes against the people. We are pleased to note that Mr. Berger carefully discriminated between prosecution and persecution and at all times endeavored to temper justice with mercy. In Feburary of this year Mr. Berger was a canidate for the nomination for Common Pleas Judge but was defeated by a small majority. From the Public Press I gather that Mr. Berger is held in high esteem in his native County. He is a member of the State Supreme and Superior Courts, and also of the United States District Court, the United States Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Unighted States Supreme Court. He has frequently appeared before each of these tribunale in important cases. He is an active and energetic practitionar, enjoying a lucrative practice and in love with his profession, the ethic and honor of which, he holds, above every consideration. He is recognized as one of the brightest legal minds at the bar and is admired for his uprightness and integrity. Mr. Berger was married in 1904 and is the proud father of two lovely daughters. Dr. John Dale Philadelphia, Pa Your letter of the 5th inst. coming like a voice from the dead brought me up with a start. I dusted my optics and began a retrospect for mile posts. From what lapse of time and lapse of memory, I found it hard to retrace my way to Millersville in 1888. It seems like a cross country tramp in the dark. With present light, I see how ai could have gone farther, where AI could have avoided bogs and thickets, Where hard climbs could have been made easier. With all essential data collected my contribution is so paltyr that history must seem a misnomer. It appears that after graduation, I taught two years in the public schools of the state. During this time I began the study of medicine. The lack of means, the struggles to make ends meet, the self denials, etc. were the experiences of some of my classmates and are to unpleasant to here relate. On August 14th, 1890, i passed a Cicil Service Examination in Pittsburg. The next year I was a farmer, a clerk in a general store, and six months a b okkeeper for a R.R. contractor in Eastern Tennessee. On August 22, 1891, I was appointed a clerk in the Sixth Auditor's Office in the U. S. Treasury Department. On December 1st, 1891, I was promoted and transferred to the United States Coast & Geodetis Survey Office from which I resigned on September 16, 1895, to begin the practice of medicine. In the early sprinf of 1892 I matriculated in the Medical Departmant of the Columbian University in Washington. From this Medical College I graduated on May 2nd 1895. June 18, 21, 1895 I passed th ePenn. State Medical Council Examination in Philadelphia and received my state license a couple months later. I am regisstered in Pensylvania and in the District of Columbia. I began the practice of medicine in Falls Creek, Pa. Nov, 1, 1895. In june 1897 I moved from Falls Creek to Morrisdale Mines, Pa., where I practiced two years. Not liking this place as a permanent residence, I returned to Falls Creek, purchased a lot, built a home, and on January 30, 1900, I was married to Miss Minnie Belle Harmon of Philipsburg, Pa. On New Years Eve., 1901 our home was destroyed by fire of exterior origin. The following summer we rebuilt our home. In February, 1904 we sold our property and moved to Philipsburg, Pa., where I formed a partnership with my brother-in-law,, Dr. L.C. Harmon. During this summer 1904, we built our present home. We have two children, a boy born Dec. 14, 1900 and a girl born Oct. 26, 1903. I am a member of my County Medical Society, of "The West Branch" the Pennsylvania state and the American Medical Associations. I have generally had good health. I like my profession and have always been pleased with the patronage and respect accorded me by those who know me." William S. Snyder Attorney-at-Law Harrisburg, Pa. Taught in the public schools of Millerstown, Perry County, the two years of 188-1889. In September 1890 entered Dickenson College, from which institution I graduated in 1894. During the four years covering the period from September 1894 to June 1898, I was Principal of the public schools of Duncannon, Pennsylvania. In September, 1898, I entered the office of Hon. James A. Stranahan, Harrisburg, Pa., as a law student, and was admitted to the Dauphin county Bar July 8,1901. Since 1901 have practiced law in the Courts of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, and since 1904 have been connected with the firm of Olmstead & Stamm. Was married June 14, 1906. Remember me to all the members of the class and accept by best wishes for a happy time. Elizabeth S. Weeks Teacher Yardley, Pa. From her history of ten years ago and her recent letter, "My first year after leaving the Normal was spent in Providence Township, Lancast County. It was for me a forsaken spot but I emjoyed my work. The following spring I returned to my Alma Mater and continued my studies. Though I enjoyed coming back I missed the class of "88". In the fall of '89, I was elected to a school in West Hempfield Township where I continued teaching untill '96. Just after my return home that summer, Death visited our home and we suffered an irreparable loss in the death of my only sister. I was needed inthe home, and though loath to leave Lancaster County I felt it was my duty and so accepted a position in one of the schools of Yardley. Here I have taught since, devoting my spare moments in assisting my mother with the care of three motherless little ones. In a recent letter Miss Weeks says " I have taught since '96 in our town schools, Yardley, Bucks County. There are five teachers, three of us from M.S.N.S." Mrs Charles K. Boyer Hatboro, Pa. Louisa M Koppauf now Mrs. Charles Boyer of Hatboro, Pa. after leaving Millersville in '88 remained at home in Terwood until September30, 1891 when she was married to Mr. Boyer and she has since lived on a farm adjoining her former home. In a letter to me in '98 she wrote. "I have one son five years old who I hope will some day be a Millersville graduate." Mrs R. Theo. Farver Lancaster, Pa. Virginia L. Rhodes, now Mrs. R. Theo Farver, Lancaster, Pa. in her letter to me in '98 said, "No wonder I hesitate to send my history, It makes me feel old to think that ten years have passed since my last school days." And what does she think now since another decade had passed. Mrs. Farver taught for two years after graduating, one year at the Adamstown and one year at Manhein. On Oct. 11, 1890 she married r. Theo. Farver, a bookkeeper, a graduate of Bloomsburg Normal. I quote from her letter, "My children now number five, the oldest being a daughter 16 years who is attending the Stevens High School. She is now farther on in Caesar than her mother ever was and will I hope in the near future become a student at the Good Old Normal." M. Elizabeth Piper Teacher Andalusia, Pa. Miss Piper in a very brief and condensed report of her work says, "With the exception of two years, I have been engaged in my profession ever since graduation. The longer I teach the better I like the work. I am still teaching in Bucks County. You will remember I was in this county in 1898. I have been stationed for some time at Andalusia as the Grammer teacher. Last year the Directors made the work much heavier by adding two years of the High School course to my room. A central High School was asked fro and on account of the shape of t he Township it was a difficult matter t select a satisfactory site so the directors, without a thought of our added cares, selected three teachers to so additional work and there by save them the trouble and expense of erecting and maintaining a High School. Consequently I have been doing some very hard work this term, and am beginning to feel very weary and in need of a rest." From her letter of '98 we learn that Miss Piper taught in the school of Washington Boro, Lancaster County, also for five years in the Schools of Ashborne where she says she met with the greatest trials of her life. I quote from her letter. "I often thought of Socrates who said he married his wife Xantippe for discipline. I thought the same thing when I took my old room for a fifth year, but I soon found out that siscipline was crushing all the individuality out of me and converting me into a Machine to be run by the whims and caprices of another." Happily Miss Piper went to Eden after this year of discipline where she remained for a number of years, enjoying her wouk thoroughly for she says, "It is with intense delight I observe the growing mind of the youth." Jennie R. Brennecke Principal, Model School, Altoona, Pa. South Western State Normal School, California, Pa. Miss Brennecke very briefly states her history. "I have been engaged in teaching, ever since leaving Millersville with the exception of one year. My record is this --- eighteen years of teaching of various kinds in Altoona, one year in attendance at the Teachers College, New York, and this year principal of the Model School here." In a former history Miss Brennecke informed us that she was engaged in primary work for nine years and was principal of the Training Class in the Altoona Schools. E.E. McCurdy Attorney-at-law Lebanon, Pa. "After I graduated in Millersville in '88, I became Principal of the Schools at Everett, Bedford County, Pa., which possition I filled for five years. In the fall of 1893, I moved to Lebanon, which is my home county, and began reading law with A.W. Ehrgood, now our Judge and a member of the class of '76. I was admitted to the Bar in Lebanon County in March, 1895 and have been practicing law ever since. The first two years, I practiced alone, and since March 1897, I have been associated with General J.P. S. Gobin, Ex-Lieutenant Govenor, practicing under the firm name of Gobin and McCurdy. I served has District Attorney for this county, from 1899 to 1902. Our family consists of Mrs. McCurdy, myself, and our daughter, Edith, who you will remember was a baby, while we were at Millersville. She is a graduate of the Lebanon Hign School and is now a student at Wellesly, Massachusetts, where she is about completeing her Junior year." Miss Grace Brewster Teacher Huntingdon, Pa. "The years have been kind to me and I should ungrateful to our Heavenly Father if I should say otherwise. Of course, I have had sorrows and disappointments. Who had not? But I have much to be thankful for. When one leads a busy life, it does seem as if there should be plenty of material to write a history of the same, and yet, when it comes to summing up what is important enough for a record, the material dwindles to a very little. At least, this is my case. I might easily give you a history of a week, to a month, or even a year, and find no trouble filling a few pages, but when I have ten ot twenty years, so much must be eliminated and so little seems to stand out proninent enough to record. Events that are important and absorbing at the time fade as much in the distance that they are often entirely blotted our. I am still teaching my little kindergarden. I am sometimes tempted to give it up, but I loathe to give up the children. It is good to keep in touch with them. In addition to my school, I have charge of my home. Mearly two years ago my mother was called to a better home. She had been an invalid for several years. these cares with my teaching, give me a busy life. I believe, however, that it is the best life to live. A few years ago I had a sever attack of typhoid fever, which left me so prostrated that I was not able to do anything for almost a year. since then I appreciate, as never before, what a blessing it si to have health and strength, to be able to work. a few years I enjoyed seeing some of our beautiful country, visiting Yellowstone National Park, the Pacific Coast, from Seattle to Los Angelas, Salt Lake City, and the beautiful mountains and scenery of Colorado. Two girl friends and myself formed a trio, and went independent of chaperones or constructed tours. We found no trouble getting to see what we wished, and were delighted with the hospitality of our great west. I would advise my classmates to take the trip if they have not already done so. I am sorry I have no brilliand deeds to record and hope some of my classmates can do better. William M. Faust Attorney Pottsville, Pa. After graduation, William M. Faust taught school at Yatesville, in East Mahancy Township, Schuylkill County, during the school year of 1888-1889. In the latter year, He was e;edted teacher of one of the schools at Pottsville, located on West Norwegian Street, where he taught for five years. In 1894 he began the study of law in the office of Hon. R.H. Koch, at Pottsville and was admitted to the Schuylkill County Bar on July 1, 1895. Since then he has been engaged in the practice of law. Edwin Brown Strasburg, Pa. I have been too busy to make history. After leaving Millersville I taught for 12 years and then went into the contracting business with my brother-in-law and am still connected with him. This spring I bought the plant and the business of the Phila. Bait Co. and am operating this plant as a side issue. As you all know, I was married the year after I left school. We have two boys- one under Prof. Helm's care at F. & M. Academy and the other attending the home high school- and one little girl who came into our home last summer. I am glad to say I have enjoyed good health and a full measure of prosperity since leaving school. wishing you a very pleasant reunion, I remain Yours truely, Edw. Brown M. Grace Wylis Teacher Lancaster, Pa. "I have been teaching during the ten years since last I wrote you. There was one notable break, five years ago, when I had an attack of bronchitis and nervous prostration which compelled me to give up my work for one year. The year was spent in the pine forests of North Carolina where I am happy to say my health was completely restored. Teaching has been a very pleasant occupation. At present I am doing Fourth Year Work in the Schools of Lancaster City." A.K. Dierwechter Farmer and Banker Kleinfeltersville, Pa. Our friend Dierwechter says "I taught school seven years after graduation. I then entered Pierce's Business College in Philadelphia. I was called hoe just before completing the course by the sickness of my father. His death, occuring soon after, caused me to drop my course at school. Since that time, I have been rusticating on my farm and doing some banking business in connection with my farm management. It may be of intrest to my classmates to know that I was married on May 27, 1905 to Miss Emma Roger. Our little boy is almost two years old, and when he is fitted by age and qualifications is expected to take a course at the "dear old Normal." Mrs. Edith Shrey Deceased She whom we knoew best as Edith Knight taught three years after leaving the Normal. One year at Eden, Bucks County, one year at La Mott, and one year at Ogontz in Montgomery County. In the summer of '91 she was married to John L. Shrey of the class of '87 and went to housekeeping in Doylestown, the county seat of Bucks County. The kindly sympathetic heart that we knew so well, soon won her scores of friends. Her chief delight was in visiting the homes of the sick and distressed, carrying to them, not only the luxuties which they would otherwise not have received, but best of all, the good cheer and love of her happy disposition. She was at times a great sufferer from rheumatism but so carefully did she conceal all outward show of her pain that few, even of her most intimate friends, ever suspected the suffering she felt. In January '95 Mr. Shrey became Supervisory Principal of the Cheltham District and it became necessary to move to Ashborne. They moved in April and at first the change seemed to improve her health. On the 18th of April she attended a Christian Endeavor Convention ot Doylestown, as many of her friends crowded around her they remarked that they had never seen her look better; but on the 9th of May she was taken quite ill. Her illness soon changed to brain fever and in one short week, she heard and answered the Master's Call, "Come Home." Her life was one of devotion and self sacrifice, She still lives in the hearts she has left behind and we can say of her as did Christ in the olden time, "She hath done what she could." Fred S. Deitz Harrisburg, Pa . From his history of '98, after leaving the Normal, he was elected principal of the Franklin School in E. Donegal Twnshp., Lancaster County. After a successful term he was reelected and taught two months when he resigned to accept a position as rail way postal clerk on the route between Carlisle and Gettysburg. His efficeint service has brought him several promotions in treh line of service, the last of which is a clerkship in charge on the lines between New York City and Pittsburg, at a salary of $1,300 per annum. On July, 1891 Mr. Deitz and Miss Mary Brose of Shocks Mills, Pa. were married and since then have been living very cosily at 615 Muench St. Harrisburg. In a recent letter to the historian, Mr. Dietz says "Nothing of great importance had occured to me except that I am the proud father of a boy, Herbert Brose Deitz," Another canidate for Normal honors years hence. We regret that Mr. Deitz has not favored us with his achievements for the past ten years. He and Miss Burley are the only two from whom we have not heard recently. H.N. Herr Civil Engineer Lancaster, Pa. Yours of the 6th to hand was much interested to hear from you and to leard of your little family of half dozen little ones. As to my individual history, iti is to barron of acheivements to be of common intrest; but, if the truth expressed in the old aphorism, "Hqppy is the notion without a history" holds with individuals, I, for one, should be truely happy; and since Dec. 2, 1905, I can say I am doubly so, for on that date I took unto myself not a wife but the wife, the most important event in the whole course of my existence. If it were not for an excess of modesty there might be wwritten words of praise that would be truly worth the while and of vitalevery day interest to us all. Life is made up of the hours and the days we have lived them, rich or poor in truth, as they may be. Happiness is a condition of the mind and is very largely a matter of temperment. To my was of thinking, the business of life should constitute the least part of it. But notwithstanding, we must consider it an important fact. We use the world "least" relatively. We class these little bits of history as confidential recitals for each others benefit and information. In way of detail, aftr leaving the Normal, I taught school for several years. Took a course of study at the Lehigh University with the Profession of Civil Engineering in view which I practice to-day. I am very busy in my profession and the presence of hard times with the contraction of credits has not yet found us here in Lancaster (County) however much other parts if the country may have bee affected. When conditions like that are passed around we, her in this place, get generally only a little side toss from the tail just as the monster is quitting the stage. It is a happy condition and we have much to be thankful for in finding joy in our chosen life work, for it constitutes a large part of life from the stand point of time and it would be rather unfortunate if our field of usefulness to mankind in generalshould be a source of dissatisfaction or unhappiness and unrest to ourselves. As a practical matter, the material side of life of the money side to put it homely is to most of us important. There is one lesson in a business way in every day living which it seems to me young people should have thoroughly ingrained into their make-up. It is the matter of judicious economy, by which, I simply mean the cast of living should be a little less that the financial income, for the reverse policy invariably leads to dispair, disgrace and ruin. It is easily stated and may seem as easy to achieve but for many it is not so. If one earns $1 per week save part of it, if $5, $10, $50 or $100 save part of it. Get the science of living on a business basis, for the material things beyond our control in life or in the control of others most surely affords enough uncertainties in a material was to give us an interesting proposition without we ourselves by injudicious habits ministering adversely to our fates. I trust we shall have the opportunity and pleasure of seeing you at Millersville and all the rest of the members of the class since we went out from the Normal in a body which beyond the peradventure of a doubt, though small in numbers, was the greatest class in our own minds (retrospect) ever turned out of the Normal upon a waiting world. (retrospect). Cora Williams Teacher Potsdam, N.Y. I have somewhat the same feelings when asked to write my history that I had as a child when required to write a composition on "Virtue" or "Nature's Secretes". The subject in both cases was not my own choosing. My history can be contained in a very few words. After graduation, I taught one year in Adamstown, Lancaster County, in a Primary School; then followed with two years work int he Marietta High School. In the mean time our family moved from Millersville to Altoona where the other members of the family weeere employed. Desiring to be at home, I secured a position in the Altoona City Schools where I labored without intermission, during the greatest part of the time in the capacity of Assistant to the Principal of a ward School, until Sept. 1907, when I entered the Crance Normal Institute of Music connected with the Normal School of Potsdam, N.Y. Can you believe that, after being a school marm for nineteen years I could become a school-girl enough to be worthy of the nick-name of "Billy"? This is what I have been dubbed by the other girls of the Institute who are many years younger than I. I have found the course of training teachers for Musical Supervision as provided int institute a very thorough and practical one. M Julia , The Director, is a qoman of broad experience, so that the graduates hold excellent positions in all parts of the country. i hope to be prepared to fall in line next February. I regret that I shall not be able to meet the Class June 23rd, but our school closes at the same time. My best wishes to each member of the Class! Thaddeus G. Helm Principal, F. & H . Academy Lancaster, Pa. "Happy the people whose annals are brief." Is the same true of an autobiography? Let the gods be the judges, the contest is on. Three years in the public schools after the eventful year "88" saw an ambition conceived with my last year at the Normal, realized when I was enrolled as a freshman at Franklin & Marshall College in September 1891. The Green Freshman, the wise sophomore, the jolly junior and the staid and sober Senior days all passed too quickly. I graduated in June 1895, one of the upper ten in my class appointed to deliver an oration, Commencement Day. Planning to enter the ministry, I enrolled in the Theological Seminary in the fall of 1895. I studied theology, Hebrew, High Criticism and all that for two years; when, unexpectedly, my course was interrupted and my plans for the future changed by my election as one of the principals of Franklin & Marshall Academy. I would add here, that I received the A.M. degree from my college in 1897 and completed my seminary course with one year's non-resident work, in 1901. I am not, however, an ordained minister. A sentence about Franklin & Marshall Academy during the past eleven years is necessary to give my own history, for its life and mine have been identical. During these years, by dint of hard work and increasing effort the enrollment of our academy has been more than trebled. Our school comparatively unknown and unrecognized before, now enrolls many students outside our own state; our standard has been raised and our boys are now enter the leading colleges and universities of the East. We outgrew our accomidations in the Old Academy, so that two years ago plans were drawn for a new building. Into the planning of this buioding there have gone the results of nine years experience as well as the knowledge from a study of many preparatory school buildings. Our building is just being completed, and will be dedicated in June, will be occupied in September and will cost over $100,000. Convenient in arrangement, complete in every detail, it is, we believe, as well adapted to its purpose as any school in the state. To accomplish such results has been my work for the past eleven years. Ten years ago I was married to Mary Grace Hoffmeir. We have two children, Mary grace, age 8, and an infant daughter. Thus has passed twenty years in the World, but it is still commencement with me.I look into the future with even more hope and confidence than I did twenty years ago, and I feel with Browning in a line from a passage my little Mary Grace has learned to repeaat, "God's in his heaven, all's right with the world." A.E. Leaman Physician West Willow, Pa. In concluding his letter to your historian Dr. Leaman says, "This is about the total of my doings for the past twenty years. Arrange it Mr. Historian to suityourself, There is s little too much personsl pronoun in it to sound well," For the sake of euphony, therfore, we will let Dr. Leaman tell his story in the third person. And now for the results of the last twenty years. Nothing startling he assures you. He taught for two years, after which he entered the Medical Department of the University of Pennsylvania Sept. 1890. Graduated a full fledged M.D. in June '93. In August '93 he located at West Willow where ha has practiced his profession ever since. Dr. Leaman says, "I have done nothing startling in the field of medicine, I have built up a decent living practice, few doctors get rich, have the confidence of my clients, and in my humble way have done my duty as I saw it." In June 1899 Dr. Leaman was married to Winona K. Shauh of Millersville and two children have blessed their home. John, a boy about eight year old and Catherine almost six. He presided at the Normal Anniversary in Jan 1895 which fact he cherishes with a pardonable degree of pride. For the past eight years Dr. Leaman has served his (School) district in the capacityof school Director. In this capacity he has had his greatest difficulties, the other members of the Board being farmers do not accept with alacrity his views of progressive education. Dr. Leaman presided at the Annual Convention of School Directors held at the Normal last January. It was the largest convention ever held in thr county and the address made by our worthy classmate was very highly complememted. In concluding Dr. Leaman says "I take a little interest in politics, because I believe it is the duty of every one to do so." K.O. Fink Business Harrisburg, Pa. From a very ful and very entertaining letter from Mr. Fink we gather the following. During my last term at the Normal all my energies were devoted to the completion of the course. I gave no thought to securing a position for the following winter, whereby I might replenish my finances as they were entirely exhausted. My first position was at Elizabeth town, Lancaster Co., where we taught eight month term. I also taught summer schoolenrolling about sixty pupiles for several weeks. My winter's salary and my summer work put me wquare with the world." The following year he taught at Middletown, Dauphin County, laboring under great difficulties on account of insuffecient room. Seventy two pupils enrolled with a seating capacity for only fifty, coal buckets, and boxes formed improvised seats when the school was crowded. No classifications to mental qualifications. Mr. Fink was promised an increease of salary provided he made good under these conditions, and that he proved successful in his work was shown by his selection for the next year with an increase of salary and continued in the some position the following year. The fourth year he was elected Principal of the First Ward schools with a handsome increase in his salary. His work was very satisfactory to the patrons of the school and to the directors, but, our public schools, even, are not free from Nepotism and politics. A more worthy relation got the position and our friend Fink had to alter some of his plans. He had bought a lot on which to build a house and he had also planned to marry a wife. The house and the bride had to wait. It ment a prolonged courtship, which judging from his letter had its compensations. Moonlight rides and secluded spots in the parks. You old fellows! let your memory wander back an age. Not so bad, Eh! He next taught in the Educational home in Philadelphia school for Indian boys. The next year found Mr. Fink in Ottsville, Bucks County, where he had secured a position through the kindness of Mr. Slotter, then Superintendent. His reason for leavingthe home in Philadelphia was that they employed only single men. He was now free to marry and on Aug.15, 1894 was married to Miss Alice Updegraff of Lewisburg, York County. The next year found Mr. Fink at Newportsville where they went to housekeeping. He taught three years at Newportsville, in 1898 he moved to Harrisburg where he still resides. The greater part of the past ten years he has been engaged int grocery business in which he has been very successful. In conclusion Mr. Fink says, "I still have a hankering for teaching. My ambition runs a little higher than the grocery business, and I would not be surprised if I found myself in some school again next year." The Finks have a little six year old boy whom they call Lyall Jacob. He is the pride and joy of their home, - an only child. Ella Burley - The only lady of the class who has not responded to a request for her history was teaching in Altoona the last we heard of her. We presume she is still doing good work in her home city. E.R.Floto Banker Connellsville, Pa. Your historian shortly before graduating in '88 was offered a position in the Citizens Bank of Myersdale, where he had been employed for a year and a half before entering the Normal. On June 1st, '89 he was made Assistant Cashier in which capacity he served until Nov. 1, 1900 when he resigned to take charge of the Accounting Department of the Shipley Hardware Co. with a view of obtaining an intrest in this business. The Shipley Hardware Co. conducted a wholesale andretail business and enjoyed a very fine trade. The Citizens Bank was a private institution, whose proprietor, Mr.S.B. Philson, shortly after your historian left the bank, concluded to incorporate his business under the National Banking laws. Our clase-mate was invites to become a stockholder and a Director in the new institution and on the organization of the Board of Directors was elected its Vice Presedent. The honor of the presidency was given to Mr. Samuel Philson who established the business in 1869. He was one of the prominent men in the county nearly ninety years old, and had been active in business for a period of seventy years. On account of his age, and his residence being in Berlin, ten miles distant, the duties of his office devolved largely upon the Vice President. It was not the intention of your historian to leave the hardware business to take an active part in the management of the bank, but shortly before the new institution was ready to begin business, he was importuned by those in control to return to the bank and assist in its management, so he quit the hardware business to re-enter banking. In a few years the elder Mr. Philson dies and his son was elected to the presidency and the subject of this sketch was made Cashier and continued in that capacity until Apr. 1906. During this period of five years the deposits of the bank had more than trebled in volume, - a handsome new banking building was erected and the institution enjoyed the confidence of the community to a very marked degree. it stands second among the banks of the County in point of volume of business. In March 1906 he received an invitation to meet the Directors of the Yough National Bank of Connellsville. This meeting resulted in his election as Cashier of the Yough ans he took charge of tht institution on Apr. 2, 1906. He entered his new field of labor a stranger to all, having had no previous acquaintance with the people whom he was to serve or the people of the comminity. Connellsville and its suburbs has a population of about 18,000. Within a radius of ten miles, it has a trading population of 80,000. It has several banks, all of which compete keenly for business. Nearly every nationality on the globe is represented among its business and industrial classes, Jews and Centiles, Sloves, and Hungarians, Italians, Polanders, Greeks, and Russians - and even the heathenChinese are seen daily on its streets. Our friend Herr, in speaking of the business depression through which we are passing, said "We in Lancaster County feel only a side toss of the tail as the monster passed along." The Pittsburg District to which Connellsville is tributary felt the full force of the impact of the Monster as he rushed through the country. Industry was paralyzed, the ovens were banked. There is no district in the world which produces so large a tonnage. This fell over 50 percent. Train load after train load of foreign element left the district for their home in Europe taking with them their savings. It was a time for the banker to sit up and take notice. The bankers of Connellsville met this condition in a manner very much to their credit. While the banks in the larger cities refused payments in currency the banks in Connellsville met the demands upon them in the ordinary run of business. The Yough is the oldest bank in the city and the second oldest in Fayette County. It was established in 1871 under a state charter but converted to a National Bank in 1893. During Novenber when the Clearing House check performed the function of currence of the realm in making up pay rolls for the larger manufacturing concerns, which pay out a million dollars daily in the Pittsburg district and currancy was at a premium of 3% and 4%. The Yough bank paid over its counters to the employees of the B. & O. R. R. co. alone, over 130,000. It again performed this service in December and in January. It was a service of which it justly felt proud and which relieved conditions to a marked degeree. It enjoys the confidence of its patrons to such an extent that during this depression its depositors have maintained their general average. And now your historian takes up a phase of his life which columes might be written. On Sept. 14, 1893 he was married to Edith L. Shipley. It was a Worlds Fair Year, and a wedding trip to the Great White City displayed nothing finer than the "fair one" who accompanied him. Fifteen years of happy wedding life three boys and three girls the fruits of this happy union. The oldest, fourteen years enters in the fall on his second year in High School. The youngest baby, Ruth, 18 months, the most persistent little wretch to have her own way you ever saw. We have a warm admiration for President Roosevelt and believe firmly in the principles and doctrines which he enunciates so forcibly. Welive very comfortably at 515 Race street, where as our good Dr. Lytle was wont to say "the latch string hangs on the outside." From their letters I gather the following facts, - The Class of '88 numbered 27 members, 1 scientific, 26 elementary. One of our number has been called to her rest. Two of the girls and all teh boys except Faussett are married, (Faussett may be, he makes no report). In "98 there were nine children, no there are thirty-one boys and girls, the fruits of these happy unions. Seven of the Ladies are teaching. Two are engaged in home making. Five of the gentlemen are practicing law; two, medicine; one , civil engineering; two in government positions; two in business, one in real estate; and one in banking, one in farming; and one in college work. Thus have passed the tirst twenty years ---- What of the next? More cares, more responsibilities, more honors, but with added care and responsibilities will come greater strength, greater joys and greater happiness.