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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: June 18, 1866
Text: Springside Monday June 18th, 1866 My Dear Stilson The printer (Mr. Osborn) of your beautiful little gem compositions “Hill of Jekyl” was delivered me (200) copies on Saturday evening, but too late to send them to you. I forward the same this morning by the “College post Boy” I think you will be pleased with the typographical & mechanical executions. I only regret their tedious delay, I trust you will meet with ready patronage in this first effort for literary fame. I remain dear Miss G....
Show moreSpringside Monday June 18th, 1866 My Dear Stilson The printer (Mr. Osborn) of your beautiful little gem compositions “Hill of Jekyl” was delivered me (200) copies on Saturday evening, but too late to send them to you. I forward the same this morning by the “College post Boy” I think you will be pleased with the typographical & mechanical executions. I only regret their tedious delay, I trust you will meet with ready patronage in this first effort for literary fame. I remain dear Miss G. Your friend &c Matthew Vassar P.S. I have retained 25 copies for distribution among my friends
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Creator: Stilson, Sarah L.
Date: October 12, 1867
Text: Martinsburgh Oct. 12, 1867 Mr. M. Vassar: Honored Friend, The beautiful book “Vassar College and the Founder” has safely arrived at last and I am delighted with it. I have shown it to a number and the work is universally admired. The particulars you give of the opening of the College year are very interesting. It seems to me like news from home to hear from Vassar. And sometimes when I fall to thinking of it I almost long for wingsthat I might be there. But we live in a practical world, a ...
Show moreMartinsburgh Oct. 12, 1867 Mr. M. Vassar: Honored Friend, The beautiful book “Vassar College and the Founder” has safely arrived at last and I am delighted with it. I have shown it to a number and the work is universally admired. The particulars you give of the opening of the College year are very interesting. It seems to me like news from home to hear from Vassar. And sometimes when I fall to thinking of it I almost long for wingsthat I might be there. But we live in a practical world, a “working-day would” and wings are not given us till we change this practical for the etherial. And oh! how much there is to be done in the world! What a mighty mission for every one! It seems sensitive, if one spends a life from without harming any one or doing one wrong act, still if he be simply negative and silently idle when life has such a million calls, then great is his crime, in the eyes of angels and God. May you live long to enjoy the fulfillments of your life-hopes. With the best wishes I am Your young Friend Sarah L. Stilson
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: October 18, 1867
Text: Oct. 18.1867 My dear Miss Stilson Right glad I were to receive a note from you under date of the 12th current, acknowledging the safe re- ceipt of " V. C. & its Founder". I began to have fears that like several others sent by the " American Express Company " had failed to reach its destination, I am also happy to hear you were pleased with the work. If the particulars I gave you of the late opening of the College were " interesting " to you I am happy &...
Show moreOct. 18.1867 My dear Miss Stilson Right glad I were to receive a note from you under date of the 12th current, acknowledging the safe re- ceipt of " V. C. & its Founder". I began to have fears that like several others sent by the " American Express Company " had failed to reach its destination, I am also happy to hear you were pleased with the work. If the particulars I gave you of the late opening of the College were " interesting " to you I am happy & amply paid for writing it, as nothing gives me more pleasure than to please my College Children, and like yourself when I fall to thinking about our absent ones I wish them all back again, but as you remark " this is a "Working world" and have all of us " wings & must expect some will " fly away ", like the Dove in olden times with the emblem of invitation to return with safety to its green pastures &c. I rode out to the College yesterday— a lovely day, Saw many of your old Schoolmates, they were glad to hear from you through me, some were walking, Riding, Rowing, and some rolling 10 Pins in the New Ball Alley opened yesterday in the Gymnasium Build- ing—on the south side in Basement—one Alley on either side 100 feet long. Room Lighted nights with Gass, heated with Steam, many practice evenings & 150 pupils have enrolled their names. It is much liked as a physical exercise, and that you know is my great object " Physical Exercise ". I hope my dear Miss S. you will find it to your Convenience to return to the College soon. I remain truly Yours M. Vassar.Miss Sarah L. Stilson Martinsburgh New York
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: September 5, 1867
Text: VASSAR COLLEGE Poughkeepsie, N. Y. September 5th 1867 My dear Miss Stilson. I am just in receipt of your kind note of the 31st ultimo, redeeming your long looked for promise to write me, which of course I had been axiously waiting, but the long delay inferentialy left the impression, that you were sick, or time and other occupations had obliterated me from your memory—however your in- teresting Letter lying before me has relieved all these forbodings, and I am happy to hear that you are well...
Show moreVASSAR COLLEGE Poughkeepsie, N. Y. September 5th 1867 My dear Miss Stilson. I am just in receipt of your kind note of the 31st ultimo, redeeming your long looked for promise to write me, which of course I had been axiously waiting, but the long delay inferentialy left the impression, that you were sick, or time and other occupations had obliterated me from your memory—however your in- teresting Letter lying before me has relieved all these forbodings, and I am happy to hear that you are well and succeeding so prosperously with your School at Martinsburgh. I pray that our Heavenly Father may Continue to bless your enterprise and that you will re- turn to " Vassar " again next Spring. Extensive improvements have been made in the in- terior of the College, in the Lodging departments, for the accomodation of 50 more pupils. Also in the intriduction of more light and Air in the first Story Rooms in rear of the Corridors. The finishing off 25 Rooms for Instruction on Piano8, and using the old rooms in the College Building for Lodging apartments —We can now accommodate 400 pupils with good comfortable sleeping apartments—The number of Pupils already registered for Sept. term is some 360, and in another week or two we shall have the full com- plement. Some few changes has taken place in the officers of our Institution, or rather in the Professorships— among those are Professor Knapp and Profr Weibe, the former & Lady has gone to Europe, the latter to Holy Yoke Seminary. We have their places ably supplied. We have expended some $15,000 in alter- ations & other improvements in the College buildings for the convenience & comfort of its Pupils, &c. I send you by " Am" Express Co." a work en- titled " Vassar College & its Founder " by Benson J. Lossing which is the first Copy I have given away to any Pupil of " Vassar", also the last Catalouge " please to accept the same from your sincere friend, also Miss Lymans New Term address to the Parants & Pupils—My Coachman is waiting on the door and I must close this note, with my best wishes for your health & happiness &c Yours truly M. VassarMiss Sarah L. Stilton, Martinsburgh New York
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Creator: Stilson, Sarah L.
Date: September 21, 1867
Text: Martinsburgh, N.Y. Sept. 23, 1867. Mr. M. Vassar: My honored Friend, Your kind letter was very gladly received and read with pleasure. The reason that I have not answered before is that I have been waiting for your present to reach me. Accept my very heartied thanks for the book “Vassar College and its Founder.” But I regret to say that I fear something has happened to it on the way for nearly two weeks have elapsed since the reception of your kind letter and I have been to the Express Office...
Show moreMartinsburgh, N.Y. Sept. 23, 1867. Mr. M. Vassar: My honored Friend, Your kind letter was very gladly received and read with pleasure. The reason that I have not answered before is that I have been waiting for your present to reach me. Accept my very heartied thanks for the book “Vassar College and its Founder.” But I regret to say that I fear something has happened to it on the way for nearly two weeks have elapsed since the reception of your kind letter and I have been to the Express Office almost every day and yet it has not arrived. Now the Express companies andresponsible for the safe delivery of all goods and they will have to pay your damages if this be lost. But I am very anxious to receive the book and I hope it will arrive some time soon. But I think some inquiries will have to be made at the Express Office in Po’keepsie. The companions having offices here not he U.S. Express and the Merchants’ Union Exp. But articles sent by any other co. ought to preach here safely. I think it would be the cheapest way and as safe to send by mail. I am very sorry to cause you any trouble regarding this but still if it is sent I am anxious to receive it as a keepsake from you. I was very much interested in your account of the changes at Vassar. Our “Alma Mater” has thrown open her arms to gather her children home again(…) much I thought of it last Wednesday the opening day, and it fumed as this I must be there. But the time will speed very swiftly till next spring. Meanwhile duties throng heavily. School is prospering far beyond my expectations. The citizens are so much interested, they are negotiating to organize it into a regular Academy soon. In that can this little wait from Vassar will soon have heavier responsibilities and stand at the head of a Summary of more than a hundred students and a number of teachers, and all built up from a beginning of eight pupils a year ago. Pardon this confidence. Mr. Vassar I have a very great regret to make of you. I would very much like a (…) saying “This may certify that Miss S..&c. has been pupil of Vassar College &c.” or something to that effect, that I might keep it as a memorial all my life. I sincerely hope you are still well. Your
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: September 26, 1867
Text: Springside, Po September 26th, 1867 My dear Miss Stilson, I was put duly in receipt of your kind letter of the 23d current, and was supprised to learn at first thought that you had not received " V College & its Founder " but on the second thought, there was a very good and satisfactory reason, viz, I had omitted to mail it &c, dispactd it yesterday which will be at hand ere this note. I herewith send you on other side as per request the Certificate sought, and hope it will...
Show moreSpringside, Po September 26th, 1867 My dear Miss Stilson, I was put duly in receipt of your kind letter of the 23d current, and was supprised to learn at first thought that you had not received " V College & its Founder " but on the second thought, there was a very good and satisfactory reason, viz, I had omitted to mail it &c, dispactd it yesterday which will be at hand ere this note. I herewith send you on other side as per request the Certificate sought, and hope it will prove satis- factory arid accomplish your purpose. Our College is filling up fast—we have now entered on the Books some 370, pupils, all goes on well, I am happy to hear that your School prospects are so flattering. We have this summer added more gymnastics & other physical Exercises, the latter large Riding School Building, two 9 Pin-Alleys,—Not feeling very bright this Morn- ing I must make this note brief. Yours very Respectfully &c Matthew VassarCity of Poughkeepsie N.Y. September 26th 1864 To whom it may concern &c, The bearer of this note Miss Sarah, L. Stilson has been been a pupil of “Vassar College” for the last two years past, and as far as I understand from the principals of the educational departments has acquitted herself with credible testimonies and good character. Matthew Vassar Founder of Vassar CollegeMiss Sarah L. Stilson Martensburgh New York
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Creator: Stilson, Sarah L.
Date: December 6, 1867
Text: Martinsburgh, Dec. 6. 1867. Mr. M. Vassar: My Honored Friend, Your kind letter received over month ago was very welcome and was perused with much pleasure. It has rested this long with no response because the heavy demands upon my time carried by the many duties of my school. Very glad am I of an opportunity afforded by a mark’s vacation to rest and enjoy the buying of (…) to reply to my friends’ letters. I am delighted to hear of the prosperity of Vassar College. May it continue to increase,...
Show moreMartinsburgh, Dec. 6. 1867. Mr. M. Vassar: My Honored Friend, Your kind letter received over month ago was very welcome and was perused with much pleasure. It has rested this long with no response because the heavy demands upon my time carried by the many duties of my school. Very glad am I of an opportunity afforded by a mark’s vacation to rest and enjoy the buying of (…) to reply to my friends’ letters. I am delighted to hear of the prosperity of Vassar College. May it continue to increase, and may itsFounder live many years to enjoy its brightening fame. There is such a pleasant atmosphere for the heart to breathe, in those walls, which often and often when far away I have longed and thirsted for its sweet influences again. In addition to my duties here I intend to say to keep up with my class at Vassar. So I have been studying this vacation on my Latin. What a pleasant time that was last summer, that day at Springtide! The scenery, the sunlight, the merry group, the very airs seemed laden with great delight. Many such days may you live to enjoy! This short vacation of mine will soon be over, then for earnest work again! I will send youthe advantagement of our school. In just thirteen weeks, or on the 10th of March, I will be at Vassar again! Ready there for a student’s duties instead of a teacher’s, ready for wash and Founder’s Day (!) I sincerely hope you are well and happy. In every grief may our dear Heavenly Father comfort you. This is the wish and prayers of Your sincere young friend Sarah L. Stilson Martinsburgh N. Y.
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: May 4, 1867
Text: VASSAR FEMALE COLLEGE Poughkeepsie, N. Y., May 4th 1867 My dear Miss Stilson I feel disappointed & grived to think I have not seen you within speakable distance so long a time but circumstances of a personal nature has prevented, Of course I saw you, saw your sweet lips move, heard the sound of your melodous voice on the Anniversary Eve- ning, but that8 all, did not hear one word distinctedly, I think I saw you once in the Corrodors or refreshment room, however be that as it may, I have...
Show moreVASSAR FEMALE COLLEGE Poughkeepsie, N. Y., May 4th 1867 My dear Miss Stilson I feel disappointed & grived to think I have not seen you within speakable distance so long a time but circumstances of a personal nature has prevented, Of course I saw you, saw your sweet lips move, heard the sound of your melodous voice on the Anniversary Eve- ning, but that8 all, did not hear one word distinctedly, I think I saw you once in the Corrodors or refreshment room, however be that as it may, I have just finished reading your " Colloquy " so kindly sent me yesterday on the "_Triumph of Progress"—a Composition worthy of the claims of more matured and older inter- acts, but where are they in " Vassar College " &c to be found. Excuse briefity—the doorBell Rings, &c. Yrs truly* M. VassarMiss G. L. Stilson Vassar College
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Creator: Stilson, Sarah L.
Date: August 21, 1867
Text: Martinsburgh N.Y. Aug 25, 1867. Mr. M. Vassar: My Honored Friend, You perceive that I have not forgotten my promise to write to you made over the morning of leaving College. I suppose you have been spending these lovely summer days in the pleasant retreats of Springside; and the many happy ones who were so lately assembled in the same halls are scattered all over our Country now on this last evening of the summer of ’67. But September will bring them home again, home to pleasant (…) and to ...
Show moreMartinsburgh N.Y. Aug 25, 1867. Mr. M. Vassar: My Honored Friend, You perceive that I have not forgotten my promise to write to you made over the morning of leaving College. I suppose you have been spending these lovely summer days in the pleasant retreats of Springside; and the many happy ones who were so lately assembled in the same halls are scattered all over our Country now on this last evening of the summer of ’67. But September will bring them home again, home to pleasant (…) and to “Vassar”. And yet some will not return again. Some perhaps are content to return to its arms no more; while some may thirst for its pleasant influence as the wandererfor cool waters and yet can never taste them again. To you there must be a quiet joy in the white rest of years, how that the burning fever of active life has (…) leaving to er heart a calm satisfaction of work completed, a deed achieved. Ah! welcome is age to such a (…)! But drearily- oh! how dreamily must sound the footsteps of approaching age to a wasted life! I have not heard about your health since June. Are you still troubled with that strange numbness in your head? I hope you will be restored to perfect health again and live long to enjoy returning Founder’s Days, occasions hailed with joy by hundreds of hearts. I look forward with joyful anticipation to my return home At Vassar the first of March. It seems a long time but it will be so freighted with duties that its days will (…) pass. Besides there is a deeppure pleasure in earning one’s own privileges and paying one’s own way. I am teaching here and I am having better success than I had even hoped for, so early. A year ago now was the saddest part of my life. I had bade farewell to Vassar as I feared forever. I saw no way of returning. The whole world seemed dark, of my aims were high and I saw no means of accomplishing them. I was almost tempted to give up the struggle in despair. But I resolved so must all obstacles and overcome. I said “I will!” And I felt that I Heaven would watch over the brave. I opened a school of my own here. The member of pupils in classes to light times the number with which I commenced. Every thing I touched prospered, I worked very hard, and my Heavenly Father favored me. So I closed my school, as soon as my time was up, must back to Vassar last spring feeling so rich that I could pay my own tuition. But the citizens of Marten burgh drew up a paper to have me return as soon as possible, so I have done so, have procured a very cordial welcome and a larger patronageand shall be financially able to return to Vassar towards spring. Of course it will be very hard earnest work but it will be worth it its own reward. The reason that I have afflicted you with this long story is to let you know that some of your daughters prize the privileges of their “Alma Mater” and am writing to pay for these. Still I would rather not let the students know all this. They would not appreciate the circumstances. Mr. Vassar it would be very cheering indeed to me to receive a letter from you if only a short one. Wishing you perfect health and unmarred peace. I am, respectfully Your Young Friend Sarah S. Stilson Martensburgh N.Y. Address at present
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: June 13, 1867
Text: Thursday Evening My dear Miss Stilson I received your8 of the IIth inst, appologising for your and other pupils at " Vassar " in not seeming civil at the parting on Saturday Eves PicNic at " Springside ". I assure you my dear Miss S. that was no fault of yours or your companions, I noticed your intentions while passing the door of my Cottage, but your good Lady Principal Miss L. fancied / was tired and beconied your advance while / would have been glad to have taken each...
Show moreThursday Evening My dear Miss Stilson I received your8 of the IIth inst, appologising for your and other pupils at " Vassar " in not seeming civil at the parting on Saturday Eves PicNic at " Springside ". I assure you my dear Miss S. that was no fault of yours or your companions, I noticed your intentions while passing the door of my Cottage, but your good Lady Principal Miss L. fancied / was tired and beconied your advance while / would have been glad to have taken each of you by the hand, had an oppertunity offered. I am pleased to think you all enjoyed the repast &c, Truly a Kind Providence greatly favord us in the weather, the day was charming, so were all the sor- roundings &c. I feel sad to think how we shall sep- erate, perhaps some us forever. Good bye my dear friend for to-day, I hope to meet you on Commence- ment Week. Yours very truly &c &c Matthew VassarJune 13, 1867 (date penciled on envelope).
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: December 10, 1867
Text: Poughkeepsie December 10th 1867 My dear Miss Stilson. Your8, of the 6th current with " Hill Top " Institute enclosed is received, and were happy to hear from you once again, and have perused over your letter with much pleasure, altho' you mentiond it was written under pressure of many heavy demands on your time, yet I did not discover it by its autography or Composition but contrawise, both had improved. Your reminiscences of the pleasure8 you enjoyed at the little festival...
Show morePoughkeepsie December 10th 1867 My dear Miss Stilson. Your8, of the 6th current with " Hill Top " Institute enclosed is received, and were happy to hear from you once again, and have perused over your letter with much pleasure, altho' you mentiond it was written under pressure of many heavy demands on your time, yet I did not discover it by its autography or Composition but contrawise, both had improved. Your reminiscences of the pleasure8 you enjoyed at the little festival entertainment afforded at Springside last summer were fully ballanced & reciprocated by me on that occasion, by meeting so many of the Young Ladies of the College—I have again and again, of late participated & enjoyed those pleasent season8— First on the last Thanksgiving day, I dined at the Col- lege, & in the Evening had a social gathering in the Parlors—on the 3d. Dec the Annual Festival of the Philalethian Society came off, then on the 6th (Friday Evening) we held a sociable Entertainment at my Domicil (city Residence) of the Faculty, Professors, & Lady Teachers, of " Vassar ", with several of the Trustees & Executive Committee, numbering over a hundred Guests, with a choice N. Y. City Band of Music. At 11. Ock. we all partook of a fine supper got up by the Celebrated Caterers " Smith Brothers " of this City. This was the first Invitation ever extended to the College Faculty & Lady Teachers, since its or- ganization & I think was highly appreciated and will be long remembered—Miss Lyman was absent having recently lost her Sister, in Philadelphia— We have lately had several distinguish Lecturers at our College among them Revd. Newman Hall of England, Wendell Phillips, Vincent & others. The weather is now very cold and we have fine skat- ing at College Lake, a little snow but no sleighing. I remain Dear Miss Stilson truly Yours &c M.. Vassar.Miss Sarah L. Stilson Martinsburgh New York
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: May 8, 1866
Text: Poughkeepsie Tuesday May 81]} 1866 My dear Miss. Stilson I was favor fA with a Copy of your pretty little poem diliverfC* on the occasion of the "Founder5 day" or Festival in commemoration of his Birth-day April SGtt1 1866, and have perused it over and over, and cannot express ray feelings at the present moment for this little gem of your poetic genious Please to accept my best thanks till oppertunity xkk offers to do better, I am Dear Miss S. Yours truly &c M. VassarMiss Sarah...
Show morePoughkeepsie Tuesday May 81]} 1866 My dear Miss. Stilson I was favor fA with a Copy of your pretty little poem diliverfC* on the occasion of the "Founder5 day" or Festival in commemoration of his Birth-day April SGtt1 1866, and have perused it over and over, and cannot express ray feelings at the present moment for this little gem of your poetic genious Please to accept my best thanks till oppertunity xkk offers to do better, I am Dear Miss S. Yours truly &c M. VassarMiss Sarah L. Stilson Vassar College
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: June 18, 1866
Text: " Springside " June 18th 1866. My dear Miss Stillson The printer (M. Osborn) of your beautiful little gem composition " Hilltop Idyl" was dilivered me (200) copies on Saturday evening, but too late to send them to you—I forward the same this morning by the " College post Boy " I think you will be pleased with the typographical & mechanical executions. I only regret their tedious delay, I trust you will meet with ready patronage in this first effort for...
Show more" Springside " June 18th 1866. My dear Miss Stillson The printer (M. Osborn) of your beautiful little gem composition " Hilltop Idyl" was dilivered me (200) copies on Saturday evening, but too late to send them to you—I forward the same this morning by the " College post Boy " I think you will be pleased with the typographical & mechanical executions. I only regret their tedious delay, I trust you will meet with ready patronage in this first effort for literaly fame. I remain dear Miss S— Your friend &c Matthew Vassar P. S. I have retained 25 copies for distribution among my friendsMiss Sarah L. Stilson Vassar College
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Creator: Stilson, Sarah L.
Transcriber(s): Hacket, Susan
Descriptor(s): Ditkoff, Andrea
Date: 1865-1869
Text: ...[mo]untain air, and ... ...I gained, ... ...last. Abbie,... ...left for home ...We did ... Grateful acknow[ledgement] '69 [ac]counts, these [com]plemented by references...[mo]untain air, and... ...I gained, ... ...last. Abbie, ... ...left for home ... ... We did ......I found... ...for Sunday,... ...and [image] [drin]king it will ...I hope... ...of your..Bien [p]assementore 25 cents Thos. C.Platt vs.Mae Wood (Over)Vassar Records Vassar College From 1865 S.S.Stilson '69 For...
Show more...[mo]untain air, and ... ...I gained, ... ...last. Abbie,... ...left for home ...We did ... Grateful acknow[ledgement] '69 [ac]counts, these [com]plemented by references...[mo]untain air, and... ...I gained, ... ...last. Abbie, ... ...left for home ... ... We did ......I found... ...for Sunday,... ...and [image] [drin]king it will ...I hope... ...of your..Bien [p]assementore 25 cents Thos. C.Platt vs.Mae Wood (Over)Vassar Records Vassar College From 1865 S.S.Stilson '69 For complete accounts, these jottings may be supplimented by references to Journal.Vassar Records. (A few jottings, extracts from journal q.v.) 1865 Vassar College opening day was Wednes. Sept. 20, 1865. Noon of that day first students' dinner in dining hall. Menu: Roast beef, corn beef, potatoes, beets, tomatoes, bread and butter. For dessert watermelons. About 300 hoop-skirted maidens sat down. Dr. Raymond asked the blessing and Mr. Vassar sat at head of table his face beaming with happiness for the climax hour of his life. Evening first service in chapel, Dr. Raymond reading a psalm and offering prayer. The first hymn sung in the chapel was "My faith looks up to Thee." First Sabbath service at Vassar was Sept. 24, 1865. Hymn, "Safely thru another week" Reading of scripture Prov. IV. Prayer. Singing "Rise my soul and stretch thy wings." Sermon on Prov. IX. 10, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Theme: The importance of beginnings-with the timid, the courageous,...Advice to Vassar students in this beginning...promise of the future. (For full report see my journal) Hymn "Guide me O thou great Jehovah." During the following week examinations of candidates by Prof. Buckham in English, Prof. Farrar, Miss Sal[e]s, Miss Braislin in arithmetic, Prof. Knapp, Miss Fessenden, et al. in language......See first catalogue for names of faculty and teachers.....Mr. Swan in evidence as superintendent Oct. 31 Hallowe'en ... some fun on the sly. Nov. 4 Journal says Cynthis Smith, Clara White, and I go to1865 Po'keepsie in stage in charge of Miss Scott. ... room is 66a. Nov. 10 evening party in room 59. The Curt[] girls Cynthia Smith, Clara White, and I think Bonb[]ghs and Emily Dennis and others. Nuts, candy, and merriment. Tues., Nov. 28 Dr. Raymond in chapel gave a scathing philippic on girls flirting with young men at the lake. This had taken place the day before, I think. Tuesday, Dec. 5. Formal adoption of Constitution and bylaws of Philalethean Society and Election of officers. Previous to this many meetings held. December 7 Thanksgiving Day. Sermon by Dr. Raymond. Evening tableaux in chapel... "The Bashaw and Slaves;" "Sultan and dancing girls;" "The ... of ...family"- our (...Raymond) the other a sack of flour; "Marco Bozz[]'s widow receiving the traveler Strauss," and others. At Christmas holidays []rly all separated. 1866 Saturday March 3 President Raymond in morning chapel made speech in favor of outdoor exercise and specially beneficial in case of rain... An impromptu illustration of his speech was planned by Hattie Griggs and Nellie Baker and carried out by the "water-proof brigade" about 200 strong marching single file in front of President's window out to the lodge and back, solemn black hooded figures like a train of monks filing towards the catacombs. Miss Lyman was enraged at the girls' impertinence, but Dr. Raymond saw the wisdom of accepting it all as a joke and waved his handkerchief at1866 the procession from his window. That evening the name Philalethia was decided on for the literary society. Friday, March 9. Great excitement in college as to whether the Philalethean badge should be [] or []. Evening joint meeting of the three chapters of Philalethia in an entertainment where Dr. Raymond read from "Mid-Summer Night's Dream". Tuesday ... 10 My journal says "Clara White, Belle Strong, and I []ed together. Friday April 27 Whole college rehearsed the march of escort for Mr. Vassar for Founder's Day. This was after tea. Monday April 30, 1866 First Founder's Day Celebration (This was celebrated on the 30th; for tho his birthday is the 29th, this came on Sunday this year. For days and weeks preparations had been going on, money contributed, committees elected, and committees planning, competitions for parts in the program, and excitement increasing as the time approached and the decorations began to go up and rehearsals enacted.) The hour arrived, afternoon of Apr. 30, 1866. Long procession of girls extending from college to lodge standing awaiting the coming of the hero of the day. His carriage appeared at the gate! An outburst of the song of greeting "Welcome father welcome! Joyously we sing!".....Girls walked befoe strewing flowers in his1866 way, and all turned and walked beside the carriage where beside Dr. Raymond sat Matthew Vassar, the Founder, so surprised and overjoyed that his eyes overflowed with tears. The carriage stopped before the front steps at the top of which stood Prof. Wiebe and the choir leading the chorus of welcome to its close. The chapel all decorated was an inspiring scene. Miss Abbie F. Goodsell was President of the day. Prayer by Dr. Raymond Music Prayer from "Der Freischuetz" Lillie Murick Salutation Julia Eli[] Bush Essay "The World's Advance Harriet A. Warner Music "I'm a merry Zingara" (song) Mollie Holz Recitations representing women of different ages Jewish, Song of Deborah A. S[]llas Grecian, Xanteppe Lizzie Williams Roman Emilia and Perpetua (The Sacrifice) M[] Ely and Talbot Medieval Joan of Arc Virginia Butler Modern "The Princess" D. Graves Music Polka de Concert [] Gould & S[]tzes Poem Hill-Top Idyl S. L. Stilson Floral Tribute Flora Fannie Maquire Attendants Mary Babcock Emma S[]tzer, M. Barker, Nell Stuart Lilla Burs Representative Student Annie Day (presenting crown of flowers to Founder) Original Song "Our Father and our Friend," by Choir Doxology Collation Promenades, social converse, gayety. Happy day. 1866 Saturday, May 26 Evening a sort of dress costume masquerade in 66,67, one an Indian girl, one a flower girl I think, one a fairy (?). Present Lillie Murick, ...Bonbright, Lizzie ..., I think M[] Constant, de []lyss, and Clara White. (?) I remember playing the old apple woman. Monday May 21 Had the honor of a call from Mr. Vassar in Room 66! He has been very polite to me since the poem "Hill-Top Idyl" of Founder's Day ....He told of his visits to Europe, his puzzling over what work to engage in to benefit the world, then his anxiety for the higher education of women, when his eyes filled with tears. He spoke of his discouragements in building. .....his hopes for the future of American womanhood. June 5 1866. Mr. Vassar called for me in Mrs. Campbell's room to tell me he was going to publish Hill-Top Idyl (a copy having been given him at his request []ly after Founder's Day I think) and hopes I had not objections. He has been very cordial to me. June 18 Mr. Vassar called and brought a package of the printed copies of Hill-Top Idyl which he presented to me! [These were sold in office - all gone in six hours!] June 26 No graduating class hence no commencement. Pulbic exercises, the program being an original colloquy acted 1866 by Philalethen Society composed by S.L. Stilson. 1867 The first half of college year owing to absence from college at Martinsburgh earning money for tuition there are no records here. Sunday April 21 A cordial welcome back from Mr. Vassar after church. April 29. The second Founder's Day celebration Program of recitations, music, et al. closing with colloquy by S.L. Stilson. May 6. Sent for in the office by Mr. Vassar! He was very cordial, fatherly, kind. June 1867 Vassar's first graduation, class of four. --1869 Class Records-- Friday, May 10, 1867 First starting of '69 to organize. Committee app[ointed] on resolutions and constitution, c[om] of three, the writer of these records being chairman of ... (My journal records breaking the rules repeatedly by studying after 10 in the bathroom! Friday May 24 1867 Meeting of class in K (?), adoption of resolutions as a constitution. Election of officers: Annie Gliddin President, Sarah Schuyler Vice President, M[] Bonbright Secretary, S.L. Stilson class poet, Lizzie Williams, class wit, [] Austin historian. And '69 was thus organized and fairly launched as the Sophomore class of Vassar College. Matters discussed, not decided.1867 June 8, 1867 Invitation of Mr. Vassar, Founder, to "Springside," Mr. vassar's country home. Lovely day, beautiful spot, a pleasant occasion as the founder's guests. 1868. Absence again at Martinsburgh teaching, earning money to return to college is reason why there are no notes of the first semester. April 18, 1868 (Class of '69 now juniors had begun to have little meetings and socials of our own.) Evening of this day we juniors had a little play a take off on physiology gotten up by Lizzie Williams. Fun. May 29, 1868 Juniors ('69) gave farewell party to '68. For many days we had been rehearsing songs and speeches. This was pronounced a great success. Saturday June 20, 1868 Juniors ('69) held funeral obsequies on Draper's Physiology. Sexton Annie Glidden; Parson, Emma Hubbard; chief mourner, Pauline Waddington; lawyer and executor Lizzie Williams; comb-band choruster, Lyra Stilson. Solemn march to grave the pall bearers and band robed in deep mourning moving to slow music of comb band to strains of Dead March in Saul. Funeral matins at grave, solemn and eloquent by Emma Hubbard. Burial to slow music. Reading of will by Lizzie Williams. Burial near bridge at foot of Sunset Hill. 1868 Tuesday June 23, 1868 Class day of '68, Mr. Vassar died. At the annual meeting fo the Board of Trustees he had nearly finished his formal address, had just reached the place where we are offering mutual congratulations and thanks to Heaven that no death has occurred within these walls ..... He paused, looked up, and was gone! Consternation followed. The class day public was given up, but the class of '68 quickly gave the exercises later in the chapel, and the next day the commencement was held amid a thrillingly solemn atmosphere. 1869 Thursday April 1, 1869. '69 now seniors. Delta's April Fool joke on Alpha was about the completest joke ever perpetrated in the Vassar halls. Lizzie Williams was at the bottom of it. A letter received purporting to come from Achsah Ely former Pres. of Alpha promised a set of rich costumes for use in our coming play. A committee went clear to Po'keepsie for them and brought the box to the college with great gusto, Delta secretly watching. When the box was opened and found to contain rags and paper and pebbles, the rage of Alpha at the hoax and the overflowing delight of the Deltans can be imagined. Friday, April 2. Public exercises of Chapter Alpha closing with original colloquy or drama "The Moorish Captives" by S.L.S. 1869 Thursday, April 22. Very spirited meeting of Students'Association on the question whether or not to accept offer of trustees to pay for collation on Founder's Day. Spirited speeches by Pauline Waddington, Lizzie Williams, Nellie Babcock, Lily Adams, Lily Burs, and others. See my journal. Tuesday May 18 Exciting meeting of Seniors ('69) on planning for Class day. See journal. Wednesday, June 16 Hattie Raymond's wedding, the famous "daisy wedding" of Vassar. Beautiful scene, beautiful ceremony. Sunday, June 20. Baccalaureate Sunday for 1869. Dr. Raymond's text "And afterwards I will build my house." Monday June 21, concert. Tuesday, June 22, Class day. See program. Wednesday, June 23 Commencement. See program. Thirty-four received diplomas and we were at last graduates of Vassar! Henceforth our records would be no longer as a unit, as a class but as individuals.For records of '69's members see class histories and archives. Record of '69's reunions. '69's first reunion after graduation was a reunion breakfast in the gymnasium Tuesday, June 20, 1871, two years after graduation. Present: Misses Babcock, Beers, Bonbright, Burnham, Carter, Colby, Daniels, Davis, deClerq, deGolyer-Baldwin, Gay, Goodsell, Hubbard, Liggett, Morrison, Sayre, Sill, Stilson, Strong, Talcott, Waddington, White, - 22 present. Program (After reunion breakfast) Music by M. Bonbright Poem by S.L. Stilson Music by L. Beers Singing by class Song by B.A. Strong Then general jollification. II. The second reunion of '69 was held on the forenoon of June 27, 1876 in room on 4th corridor north. Belle Strong-Miller presided. Present Babcock, Beers, Burnham, Constant, deClerq, DeGolyer, Daniels, Gay, Goodsell, Hubbard, Ladd, Morrison, Stilson, Strong, Talcott, - 15. Program: History by Kate Sill read bt Lillie Beers; poem by Lyra Stilson; prophecy by Lizzie Williams Champney, read by Nellie Babcock Brown. Voted to meet in five years. III. The third reunion of '69 was held in the forenoon of June 21 1881 in 1st corridor north. Present Daniels, Gay, Goodsell, Liggett, Stilson, Waddington, White, - 7. A quiet meeting. Roll was called. Letters read from absentees, a long interesting one from Lizzie Williams-Champney descriptive of life in Spain. IV. The fourth real reunion was not nominally so, but impromptu, (on account of being the 25th anniversary of the college) hence not formal. It was held in the parlor of the Lady Principal, Ablin Goodsell, June 10, 1890. Present Nellie Babcock-Brown, Laura Gay, deClerq-Moore, Colby-Smith, Goodsell, Gilbert-Hinsdale, Hubbard, Stilson. Next day appeared Ladd-Franklin and Davis-Martin, - in all ten. 10 present. It was not formally called to order; but letters were read from absentees while members were tying ribbons on diplomas of graduates. V. The fifth reunion of '69 was held June 12, 1894 our own "silver anniversary," in "W" part of old art gallery. Present Babcock-Brown, Beers-Berthelot, Gay, Gilbert-Hinsdale, Hubbard, Lacey, Stilson, Strong-Miller, Talcott, White, Williams-Champney, - 11. Proram: Election of President Mary Gilbert-HinsdaleReading of resolutions of memory and regret for the dead, Misses Collins, Sill, Wright, Glidden, Goodsell by Emma Hubbard. Reading of class history by S.L. Stilson. Voted to meet in five years, 1899. Class supper. VI. The sixth reunion, June 13, 1899, was held in Raymond Hall Room 111 6 p.m. It was the 30th anniversary. Present, Babcock-Brown, Colby-Smith, Daniels, Gilbert-Hinsdale, Leggett, Stilson, Williams-Champney, - 7. Meeting called to order about 6 Mary Gilbert Hinsdale presiding. Miss Daniels read the minutes of last meeting. Mrs. Babcock-Brown read the treasurer's report. Voted that the contributions for Vassar (amount now received being $23.00) be increased to $500 if possible and it be presented next commencement to Prof. Ely's department (mathematics) thru Vassar alumnae association. Voted to hold next reunion in 1904. Next in order was the necrology, resolutions in memory of Laura Gay deceased July 29 1894 read by Emma Colby Smith and voted on by class. Next followed class history of five years read by S.L. Stilson. Class supper, social reunion, and delightful occasion.VII. The seventh reunion of '69 was held in the Vassar Observatory Tuesday, June 7 1904, the President Mary Gilbert-Hinsdale in chair. Present, Daniels, Hubbard, Gilbert Hinsdale, Stilson, Waddington-Hol[] and next day Babcock Brown (detained by family illness) - in all six. 6. Minutes of last meeting read and approved. The necrology of five years was read by Pauline Waddington Holmes who offered resolutions (which were passed by the class and ordered sent to relatives of the deceased) to the memory of Mrs. Cornelia ("Lily) Lacy deceased Jan. 10 1901 Mrs. Mary Ross Stanton [deceased] Sept. 6 1902 Mrs. Caroline Davis-Martin [deceased] May 6 1903 The class voted to present our contribution of $125 to Prof. Ely. The class history of five years (with brief resume of the preceding) was read by S.L.Stilson The history of the historian was then read by Emma Hubbard - a joke on the historian. Next followed class supper at which all were the guests of the President Mary Gilbert-Hinsdale. Seated "around the festive board" members gave free rein; such a free and easy informality, all so bubbling over with funny reminiscences or news of absent ones from whom letters were read then and there that in spite of small numbers it was one of the most heartily enjoyable reunions of '69. Class adjourned in a body to Pres. Taylor's reception where all put in a plea for Mary Ross-Stanton's daughter Laura a senior. Another of our colleages daughters is Anne Holme a junior. Next day at trustees' dinner '69 was represented by Nellie Babcock Brown. VIII. The eighth reunion of '69 was held on nearly the 40th anniversary, June 8, 1909, in the evening in Room 110 of Strong Hall, Vassar College. Present Lily Adams-Atwood, Nellie Babcock-Brown (who however was called away by her brother's death), Sophie Burnham, Emma Colby Smith, Mary Constant Wilson, Mary Gilbert-Hinsdale, Emma Hubbard, Lyra Stilson, Belle Strong Miller, Clara White, - ten out of 25 living. At a pleasant class supper all were guests of the President, Mary Gilbert Hinsdale, who presided at the proceedings later. Program: Reading of class history by S.L. Stilson. Roll call, each name responded to in a personal report by those present and by the reading of a letter from those absent. It was voted to present the class contribution which amounts to ($751) seven hundred and fifty-one dollars to the endowment fund. It was voted to hold the next reunion in six years, that is in 1915 because that will be the fiftieth anniversary of Vassar, a red letter day. S. Lyra Stilson was elected secretary, historian, and curator of the archives. A vote of thanks was passed to the President for his delightful entertainment. A vote of thanks was passed to the Secretary for the pains-taking history and records. Formalities being concluded, there followed impromptu comments over nuts and candy, - reminiscences, jokes, details of old times fond and funny, items of absentees ancient and modern, - wit and wisdom, a "feast of reason and flow of soul." In short all separating for the President's reception voted it to have been a "splendid time" one that renewed our youth and set back at least a decade the clock of time. At trustees' lunch on Wednesday '69 was represented by Emma Hubbard. It was a privilege to greet Pauline's daughter Hilda in class of 1910. Anne the other daughter graduated in 1905. Mary Constant Wilson's daughter a graduate we also met. Another sister alumna of out daughters is the lamented Marie Champney. '69 has had 4. Balance of pages in this item are blank.
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