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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: June 27, 1864
Text: Tuesday Noon Dear Sir Since we parted last evening I have rec’d[recalled[ from the Hon. Ms Miller a Copy of the Act changing the name of the College, and send the same p’s mail this noon to Miss Hale Phil’a[Philadelphia[ enclosing a Letter congratulating her in the accomplishments of her long cherished wishes in dropping a term to distastefull[distasteful[ and improper in the name of our College. Her moments after you left me last evening I found the little [memoir] of “Dog Tip”, and would...
Show moreTuesday Noon Dear Sir Since we parted last evening I have rec’d[recalled[ from the Hon. Ms Miller a Copy of the Act changing the name of the College, and send the same p’s mail this noon to Miss Hale Phil’a[Philadelphia[ enclosing a Letter congratulating her in the accomplishments of her long cherished wishes in dropping a term to distastefull[distasteful[ and improper in the name of our College. Her moments after you left me last evening I found the little [memoir] of “Dog Tip”, and would send it you with the picture of my Birth-place, the old house near “Worrells” and my personal residence but I am alone and cannot take them down. Yours etc etc M. Vassar
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: June 21, 1864
Text: VASSAR FEMALE COLLEGE Poughkeepsie, N.Y., June 21st l86k Mrs. Sarah J. Hale Dear Madam I am in receipt of your valued letter of yesterdays date with Enclosure of the Proof Sheet for July next, and I beg you to receive my best thanks for this additional proof of your interest for the enterprize. The address of Nathan Bishop is No.30 Bible House New York, there L.L.D.is no Professor title attached to his name. Yours respectfully M. Vassar

Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: June 17, 1864
Text: June 17th, 1864. My dear Mr Raymond, I can hardly express to you my satisfaction at the receipt of yours of the 10 instant, which removes the last doubt & anxiety from my mind as to the assured success of our College. I am gratified that our recent interview has resulted in removing every doubt & ob- stacle from your path. You are most welcome to the position which is to reflect honor upon us both. So far as in me lies, it will be myhighest satisfaction to sustain you & the...
Show moreJune 17th, 1864. My dear Mr Raymond, I can hardly express to you my satisfaction at the receipt of yours of the 10 instant, which removes the last doubt & anxiety from my mind as to the assured success of our College. I am gratified that our recent interview has resulted in removing every doubt & ob- stacle from your path. You are most welcome to the position which is to reflect honor upon us both. So far as in me lies, it will be myhighest satisfaction to sustain you & the enterprize which you are to guide. It is as you justly remark the favorite child of my age and to see it in the full career of success & usefulness will be the crowning pleasure of my life. It will be quite important that before the meeting of the Trustees we have some consultation as to the business to be transacted & that you see the members of the Ex. Committee that all views may be understood & harmonised. Awaiting such a meeting I am Most truly yours, M. Vassar.
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: June 8, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie, June 8th, 1864. Mrs. Sarah J. Hale My dear Madame: Your letter of June 6n is under my notice. In regard to Mrs. Cuddehy I can do no more than call the attention of the President & Faculty Committee to her name & credentials in such a manner as will doubtless ensure her the most careful consideration at their hands. I place great reliance upon what you say in her behalf & I need not assure you she will not be overlooked. In regard to Dr. Jewett, whatever statements...
Show morePoughkeepsie, June 8th, 1864. Mrs. Sarah J. Hale My dear Madame: Your letter of June 6n is under my notice. In regard to Mrs. Cuddehy I can do no more than call the attention of the President & Faculty Committee to her name & credentials in such a manner as will doubtless ensure her the most careful consideration at their hands. I place great reliance upon what you say in her behalf & I need not assure you she will not be overlooked. In regard to Dr. Jewett, whatever statements may have appeared have not originated with me. Your estimate of him is not far from the fact but it would be a very long tedious & unwelcome task for me to go over the ground anew. It has been a most unhappyaffair and I shall be glad to forget it for I wish him no harm. A recital of facts could only be to his disadvantage as well as a renewal of my own pain. He certainly was not the personal friend to me that his conduct in my presence had led me to believe. He had labored deligently to undermine my influence & that of my confidential committee in the opinion of the Trustees. The effort proved disastrous only to himself. Dr. Raymond has not yet signified any formal acceptance of the Presidency although I have great hope it will not be long delayed. He has for ten years been at the head of the Polytechnic & Collegiate Institute in Brooklyn, an Institution which he organized & has conducted with the most eminent success. He was our unanimous choice. He is a clergyman and a most enlightened & liberal christian gentleman. He was the com- panion of Henry Ward Beecher in his European travels & is his close friend although they belong todifferent denominations, Mr. Raymond being a Baptist though I am informed not exactly concurring in some of their exclu- sive practices. My own health is not such as to warrant me in much application to writing although the demand upon my time in that respect seem to increase. With great respect Yours respectfully, M. Vassar
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Creator: Shardlow, Samuel
Date: May 26, 1864
Text: Matthew Vassar Esq Dear Sir Please inform me of the person to whom I am to apply for the admission of my daughter into the College by your name. Most Respectfully May 26 18641864 Sammel Shardlow 116 Fulton St. N. Y. N. Y. 26 has a daughter

Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: May 24, 1864
Text: M. Vassar May 1864 B. J. Lossing Esq PresendB. J. Lossing Esq Dear Sir Would it be convent for you to accompany Buckingham, and myself to the College this morning, I’ve want your advise on Cabinet Room & I will call for you at your resident say 10,ock this a.m. Tuesday Morning May 24/64

Creator: Creveling, A. W.
Date: May 23, 1864
Text: … N. Y. Mat 23rd 1864 M. M. Vassar … Sir I understand now are receiving application for admission in the Female College of which you are the founder, if so and the places are not all taken, I would like a place renewed for my daughter. You will oblige by sending me a circular and … whether she can be admitted or not. I am Very … Yours … A. H. Creveling 1864 A. W. Creveling Washington N. Y. May 23 has a daughter

Creator: Miller, Warwick P.
Date: May 23, 1864
Text: Andy Spring … 5th mo 23 1864 M Vassar In Esteemed … My … … stabler has entered his daughter Isabella as a pupil at Vassar College — I am desirous of entering my daugther Annie & if it is possible the girls would prefer rooming together, can’t least having rooms in the same … as I understand the building is arranged so that each three chambers have a sitting room in common. Please advise me an such permit as are … necessary at they commence. My daughter is wishes sixteenth year & is at...
Show moreAndy Spring … 5th mo 23 1864 M Vassar In Esteemed … My … … stabler has entered his daughter Isabella as a pupil at Vassar College — I am desirous of entering my daugther Annie & if it is possible the girls would prefer rooming together, can’t least having rooms in the same … as I understand the building is arranged so that each three chambers have a sitting room in common. Please advise me an such permit as are … necessary at they commence. My daughter is wishes sixteenth year & is at Friend … … Pa — she is very well advanced in her studies. Very … Thy Friend Hamick Philidelia My … is so rough I will try it ever again Harwick P Milla
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Creator: Lehman, Minnie
Date: May 23, 1864
Text: Philadelphia May 23/64 … … Vassar Dear sir Yours kind favor in reply to mine … H. L. was … received by me, far which I thank you for yours …. Then the place of again … is decided upon I dare say; that I can hope, to be … a can … for … in your institution which insurance can be … strength your kind … when you are prepared to receive pupils be kind enough, & send notice to me by addressing Yours Humble Servant … Lihman No 458 march … … Philadelphia N B in care of A. Lehman SignH. … May 23 1864

Creator: Gould, Julia A. M.
Date: May 21, 1864
Text: To Matthew Vassar Esq … May 21rd 1864 Sir Mr Hallenbeck spoke Vassar to Mr Vassar sometime since respecting my … the getting a situation in Vassar College to … … … open. He thought I wished her to obtain a position is teacher, but was mistaken. I am anxious … he should have the advantages of the institution as a … for one year. The had a … good … in the common. English Brothers and … given some attention to …, has been assisting her mother in teaching 2 years, in a … Mr Vassar is aware that...
Show moreTo Matthew Vassar Esq … May 21rd 1864 Sir Mr Hallenbeck spoke Vassar to Mr Vassar sometime since respecting my … the getting a situation in Vassar College to … … … open. He thought I wished her to obtain a position is teacher, but was mistaken. I am anxious … he should have the advantages of the institution as a … for one year. The had a … good … in the common. English Brothers and … given some attention to …, has been assisting her mother in teaching 2 years, in a … Mr Vassar is aware that the … lost all he was worth in “578 “58 and that we have struggled to give our daughters the … of supporting therefore since that time. We were … by Mr Vassar’s … announcement sometime … to make this appeal if it is … with his plan and all the … not filled he would be conferring a … on her … for which the will be … grateful. Yours … … A. M. …Mr Julia Gold May 21/64
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Creator: Arthur, Chas S.
Date: May 20, 1864
Text: New York May 20th 1864 Dear Sir I have taken the liberty of writing to you to ask a favor, by that you will use your influence to assist a friend of mine in getting his daughter in the “Vassar Institute” at Poughkeepsie. Mr Bodet (the party … to) is a gentleman that once occuplied a high position, but owing to reverses has become much reduced … … anxious, as a parent naturally is, to give his children the benefit of a good education that will fit them for some elevated sphere in life, he...
Show moreNew York May 20th 1864 Dear Sir I have taken the liberty of writing to you to ask a favor, by that you will use your influence to assist a friend of mine in getting his daughter in the “Vassar Institute” at Poughkeepsie. Mr Bodet (the party … to) is a gentleman that once occuplied a high position, but owing to reverses has become much reduced … … anxious, as a parent naturally is, to give his children the benefit of a good education that will fit them for some elevated sphere in life, he desires if possible to get his daughter in the Institute at P. W M you be … enough to upon me what steps it willbe necessary to take & how soon it must be attended to? Hoping this will meet with your favorable consideration at your earliest convenience I remain very truly yours, M. Vassar Char S. Aurthur … 73 … Ave NY p.s As you may not recollect me I … say that I am the grandson of W-… of … known the friendship … between you & … to make this appreciate to you
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Creator: Washburn, Henry S.
Date: May 19, 1864
Text: 1864 … S. Washburn … 19 May 1864 Enter his daughter Nelly …73 Blackston 8 Boston … 19 May 1864 To the President of Vassar College … I wish to enter … name of my daughter, … … as pupil of the Vassar College. I …… the hopes, as also … a note remind … Mr Jewett, … before his resignation, that it was expected the college would be … in … next. Can … be selected preview to that …? Have you a … giving, … of studies, … & or any …… that will give me information upon there … … … Henry S. …

Creator: Todd, A. H.
Date: May 17, 1864
Text: Rochester May 17th 1864 Mr Matthew Vassar Dear Sir I am desirous of leaving some of the particulars in relation to the Vassar Female College. That you may know what I wish to learn about the college, I will frankly state the circumstances which are the occasion of this letter. I am connected with the Rochester University preparing to enter the ministry. My thoughts have been turned for sometime to the missionary work; and Providence permitting I expect to enter some foreign field. Since...
Show moreRochester May 17th 1864 Mr Matthew Vassar Dear Sir I am desirous of leaving some of the particulars in relation to the Vassar Female College. That you may know what I wish to learn about the college, I will frankly state the circumstances which are the occasion of this letter. I am connected with the Rochester University preparing to enter the ministry. My thoughts have been turned for sometime to the missionary work; and Providence permitting I expect to enter some foreign field. Since entering upon my studies, I have met a young lady who I hope with god’s blessing will be my companion in my life’s work. She is desirous of pursuing a systematic course of study for several years, that she may be prepared for the work before her. Feeling great confidence in the pro-miss of the college founded by your liberality, I am very desirous if practicable that she she may enjoy its benefits. I shall be glad to know something in relation to the course of studies to be pursued and the expenses for tuition board &c. Our circumstances are limited, and I would be glad to learn if there is any provision made for those who may not e able to incur the entire expenses of the course. I would be glad also to know at what time the college will open. By complying with the above request you will confer a favor upon yours very respectfully A. H. Jodd Box 2874 Rochester1864 A H Todd … 1874 Rochester has a sweetheart that he wishes educated before the implied …
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Creator: De Vere, C. A.
Date: May 16, 1864
Text: Brooklyn A. Y. … 16th 1864 Mr Vassar Wishing to find a good school in which to place my daughters where they would enjoy the acknowledges of a home, and having heard that you … to open a lady’s college, the following September, I thought I would inquire your … I would like you to … me the …, and send me a catalogue when they are published. Please … so soon as environment Mr. C. A. De Vere Brooklyn

Creator: Anderson, Kate M.
Date: May 14, 1864
Text: … … May 14th 1864 For Matthew Vassar Dear Sir Seeing something of your College, … … opened in September, in … lady’s book I have determined so adress you asking information concerning the seems & …. I have a … sister who is exceedingly anxious for an education. But we are not near a good school, and we are not very able, so can not send her to an … schoo. If the terms of your school are liberal we would like exceedingly to send her there we think hoping to hear more concerning it soon. I...
Show more… … May 14th 1864 For Matthew Vassar Dear Sir Seeing something of your College, … … opened in September, in … lady’s book I have determined so adress you asking information concerning the seems & …. I have a … sister who is exceedingly anxious for an education. But we are not near a good school, and we are not very able, so can not send her to an … schoo. If the terms of your school are liberal we would like exceedingly to send her there we think hoping to hear more concerning it soon. I am yours with … From Matthew Vassar. K H Anderson Please address Miss Kale M Anderson … anne Somerset … Maryland1864 Miss Kate M. … … SOmerset … Maryland May 17 …
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: May 13, 1864
Text: Vassar Female College Poughkeepsie, N.Y., May 13 1864 M^f M. E, J: Gage Dear Madame.1 Your note of 10 . Current was duly received and in answer would briefly remark that the College Edifice is approaching its completion and is expected, if nothing happen to pre- vent, to be finished & furnished by the coming Fall either October or November.The Board of Trustees hold their annual meeting in June proximo when it will be definitely decided at what time the College will open for reception of...
Show moreVassar Female College Poughkeepsie, N.Y., May 13 1864 M^f M. E, J: Gage Dear Madame.1 Your note of 10 . Current was duly received and in answer would briefly remark that the College Edifice is approaching its completion and is expected, if nothing happen to pre- vent, to be finished & furnished by the coming Fall either October or November.The Board of Trustees hold their annual meeting in June proximo when it will be definitely decided at what time the College will open for reception of pupils and Circulars will be issued giving all the requisite informations in detail Your letter together with a previous one received from you in June 1862 has been put on file and I will not omit to send you a Circular as soon as issued but for the present it is impossible to determine whether the College will open this fall or early in Spring 65. Respectfully yours &c M.. Vassar
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Date: May 10, 1864
Text: Whilst accidently reaching a … … sketch of the advantages yours noble institution, I was overwhelmed with gladness & gratitude. because it responded to my brightest hopes of finding a place like that whose I would have the shame to …. My proudest ambition brightest dreams of the … so avail myself by writing this. … a hope that it may … … … … …. I will give you a brief an thine of my history & you can judge. What kind of an education I am in pursuit of & decide … it would be...
Show moreWhilst accidently reaching a … … sketch of the advantages yours noble institution, I was overwhelmed with gladness & gratitude. because it responded to my brightest hopes of finding a place like that whose I would have the shame to …. My proudest ambition brightest dreams of the … so avail myself by writing this. … a hope that it may … … … … …. I will give you a brief an thine of my history & you can judge. What kind of an education I am in pursuit of & decide … it would be possible for me to attain at your College. In the first place, I am a young female of 19 years old & from the time of my first see collective I was … …a task for literature. My presents were inclined to the contrary & therefore deprived me of many advantages which were always my first wishes. However at the age of 10 … … old enough perhaps to discriminate & know the necessity of it. I … sought means to obtain as much knowledge as I possibly could by reading anything that I could get to enlighten me an worthy subjects. The more I read the more passion & … I had for a theoretical education. But all were in vain. So I had to console myself … a superficial education gotten by myself. My residence from childhood was in the … until … to the … of this …. … surround to … while … circumstances became so reduced that I felt compelled to seek my even loving having a great ambition for public … I impraved myself in reaching where I thought I might be … by reeding in public to make my … c if I …. I would perhaps … fame c fortune its … … follow, with these … thoughts. I started art & gave readings in the west, but ofter … marry others, I concluded, that my knowledge of education & vocal powers were to deficient to reap much. But having no others … far a living I continued with a small traveling company, with the anticipation through … to save a … to go to some place to study & get a complete education for that professors. I had recently … in saving an amount that wold far a years … … the expenses of the noble Vassar College. But not my way else that it might be proceeded circumstances gives me a stranger ambition than naturally far my clear parents use getting old & will soon be helpless & what happiness does the daughters affordme. If I found a good opportunity & wish determination last application patience & perseverance I might accomplish to became profescient for that … & acquire an … far my … presents in this often days & myself be … with valuable knowledge I hope sincerely that your institution I will meet with such means as I want to … my design. I shall require a good dramatic … … & … … & please answer … let me … … it were possible for me to find … at the Vassar College, what my … would be & I will furnish you with any testimonial of worthy … … of my … & I will promise you my eternal gratitude not knowing that there will be reviewed in proper hands. I will … my … until I receive an answer which I hope I will be favored …
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Creator: Gage, M.E.J.
Date: May 10, 1864
Text: 1864 M. W. E. J. Sage Fayetteville N Y may … … 13 May… … N.Y. May 10/64 President Vassar College, Dear Sir, writing to enter my eldest daughter as a student in the above college at its opening, I write you for a … more information then I yet have. I have not seen, … thought the … … the public prep as …, the precise date of its opening. I wish to ascertain that, as also what steps, if any, will be necessary to take in order to secureher admittance. I have three daughters to educate and have...
Show more1864 M. W. E. J. Sage Fayetteville N Y may … … 13 May… … N.Y. May 10/64 President Vassar College, Dear Sir, writing to enter my eldest daughter as a student in the above college at its opening, I write you for a … more information then I yet have. I have not seen, … thought the … … the public prep as …, the precise date of its opening. I wish to ascertain that, as also what steps, if any, will be necessary to take in order to secureher admittance. I have three daughters to educate and have every … forward to … and been thankful they would there find advantages … to older women, Truly the world does move and no where is this more clearly seen than in looking at it from the women stand point, Please by letter or otherwise give me the information I desire. Yours A C Mr M. E. J Gage
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Creator: Stables [Stabler], Henry
Date: May 9, 1864
Text: Sandy Spring, Montgomery County 5th, Month (…) 1864 Esteemed Friend, I wish to procure a place in your excellent institution for Isabella E. Stables. Will you please inform me at what time she can be admitted. Our knowledge of the business, form of entering pupil, or earn the person to whom letter of this kind should be addressed in very imperfect, and if I have made a mistake in writing to the (…) I hope my letter will be handed to the proper person. I should be glad to receive a circular...
Show moreSandy Spring, Montgomery County 5th, Month (…) 1864 Esteemed Friend, I wish to procure a place in your excellent institution for Isabella E. Stables. Will you please inform me at what time she can be admitted. Our knowledge of the business, form of entering pupil, or earn the person to whom letter of this kind should be addressed in very imperfect, and if I have made a mistake in writing to the (…) I hope my letter will be handed to the proper person. I should be glad to receive a circular containing further information than I possess, concerning the institution which must interest thousands as it has Your friend Henry Stables1864 Henry Stables Sandy Spring Montgomery Co Md May 9th Answered May 14th
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Creator: Towne, Mary S.
Date: May 8, 1864
Text: Vernon May 8th/64 My dear friend Mr Vassar The object of my writing at the present time is to inform you of my recent affliction, which has caused me to be bowed to the earth in some sorrow. My darling weary mother now rests in your blue Heaven. She died the 19th of Jan. (it is a could and dreary month to die in) being ill only fourteen days, delirious most of that time. Her mind was so confused and sad, but it was all quiet and serene as soon as she had crossed the Crystal Sea. At that step...
Show moreVernon May 8th/64 My dear friend Mr Vassar The object of my writing at the present time is to inform you of my recent affliction, which has caused me to be bowed to the earth in some sorrow. My darling weary mother now rests in your blue Heaven. She died the 19th of Jan. (it is a could and dreary month to die in) being ill only fourteen days, delirious most of that time. Her mind was so confused and sad, but it was all quiet and serene as soon as she had crossed the Crystal Sea. At that step I feel that her troubles all ceased and she was at rest, and thatas she’s too on the threshold of eternity she thanked God that He had released her so soon. I had a grand and a noble mother; it is not only now I see her value but I always had this same estimation. I will relate to you my loss by saying my mother was my best and truest friend, her friendship I could have trusted through all the vicissitudes of life, adversity as well as prosperity. I am trying to bear this great affliction with a christian-like submission, hoping that I shall be made better by it, all my troubles and trials will bring me nearer to Heaven. Nearer my God to thee, nearer to thee: for this reason we are thusafflicted. Not my will but thine be done. In the depth of my grief I can look forward to the future day when I hope to enter V. F. College that will be the recompense for all my suffering. It was my mother’s prayer and hope that I should enter your College, but the (…) is all passed with her. I often wonder if my mother thinks of me in Heaven if not I ma all alone, all alone! do you wonder that I feel so extremely sad, so soon as you decide in regard to my attendance please inform me of the decision. Yours very respectfully Mary S. Towne1864 Mary S. Towne Oneida (…) 8 May not answered
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: May 2, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie June 2 1864 Professor John H Raymond I.I.D Dear Sir In reply to your propositions in regard to your acceptance of the presidency of Vassar Female College I beg leave to say that we can accept your terms in all particulars save only that condition requiring me individually to guarantee further … provision you the College. I cannot persuade myself that it is necessary or proper for me to … such extraordinary personal obligations, but not beg that you will reconsider the subject ...
Show morePoughkeepsie June 2 1864 Professor John H Raymond I.I.D Dear Sir In reply to your propositions in regard to your acceptance of the presidency of Vassar Female College I beg leave to say that we can accept your terms in all particulars save only that condition requiring me individually to guarantee further … provision you the College. I cannot persuade myself that it is necessary or proper for me to … such extraordinary personal obligations, but not beg that you will reconsider the subject & conclude to give your invaluable services to our enterprise without … upon that condition. You may be assured that my pledges to appropriate nearly all of the residue of my estate to this college at my death will be faithfully carried out & that my efforts & means shall never be lacking during my life time to sustain & promote its best interests in such manner as will be. Satisfactory to the Trustees I … Respectfully yours M. Vassar P.S. I will here further remark that the balance of my estate after deducting all other legacies & bequests will not be less than $200000 … to the college after my decease
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: April 28, 1864
Text: April 28th 1864. Mrs. Sarah J. Hale. Dear Madame! Your letter of the 25th Current with enclosures of your son & family photographs introduces me agreably to your very heart and grati- fies me. I receive them as evidences of your good will to me personally & of your approval of my intentions at least, I shall be glad to Know a gentleman who has already ranked himself among the savants of our land. The Extracts from the Ladys Book for June which you Sendplace myself not less than our...
Show moreApril 28th 1864. Mrs. Sarah J. Hale. Dear Madame! Your letter of the 25th Current with enclosures of your son & family photographs introduces me agreably to your very heart and grati- fies me. I receive them as evidences of your good will to me personally & of your approval of my intentions at least, I shall be glad to Know a gentleman who has already ranked himself among the savants of our land. The Extracts from the Ladys Book for June which you Sendplace myself not less than our College under obligations to you for your earnest efforts in our be- half. I value greatly these evidences of your intelli- gent interest for all that concerns the elevation of woman. In my last I had intended to say to you that if the plates I sent you are worthy of that distinction & you will be at the trouble of causing them to be neatly framed & will send the bills to me I will see that they are met. The Extracts from your Sons letter help sustain me in the views I have already advanced & in the action about to be taken in reference to Dr Jewett. I greatly regret he should have taken any action in reference to your friend Mrs Cuddehy that does not commend itself to yourself or to her. I was not aware what steps if any had been taken by him upon that Subject. Your letter to me have left no doubt on my mind that this lady is quite equal to any position she might be willing to assume. But upon this general subject I have expressed deliberatedly to the College Trustees my personalwishes and the responsibility is thrown 21 y 37- Apr. 28, 1864 - 2 upon them to carry them forward now or at such other time as they may judge best, I am not aware except in a general way to what extent my desires are to be met at the opening of the College. The Committee on that Subject (Faculty) I understand do intend to make a fair division of appointments between the Sexes. I mean of course of the higher grades, as the lesser posi- tions, I take it for granted, will all be for ladies. In re- gard to particular appointments my general health & my other duties prevent my giving them the requisite at- tention to ensure the Success of any applicants upon my own recommendation alone. The most I have hoped to do has been to lay down my own general views & wishes, leaving the question as to whether they are to be immediately carried out and the manner in which they are to be carried out to my coadjutors and to the gentlemen of that Committee. The possible change of Presidency may to some ex- tent affect the question of Professorsbut to what de- gree I of course am quite unable to Know in advance, outside influences will of necessity have more or less effect and among these none are more likely to be lis- tened to than the valuable publications with which you are associated. I hail discussion as sure to accom- plish or aid in accomplishing the best result, be it what it may. Truly yours &c
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Creator: Burr, William J.
Date: April 26, 1864
Text: Head Srg. 42nd Regt. N.Y. Vols. Camp near Stevensburgh Va. April 26/65 Dear Sir To you I am personally a total stranger, but I take the liberty of addressing you, as the founder and liberal patron of the Female College about to be opened at Poughkeepsie N.Y., to make some inquiries in regard to that Institution. I wish to know more of its plan, range of studies &c, than I now do. When will it probably be opened for pupils? What the prerequisite for admission, and the probable expenses for...
Show moreHead Srg. 42nd Regt. N.Y. Vols. Camp near Stevensburgh Va. April 26/65 Dear Sir To you I am personally a total stranger, but I take the liberty of addressing you, as the founder and liberal patron of the Female College about to be opened at Poughkeepsie N.Y., to make some inquiries in regard to that Institution. I wish to know more of its plan, range of studies &c, than I now do. When will it probably be opened for pupils? What the prerequisite for admission, and the probable expenses for board and tuition, including incidentals and extras? Will there be any free, or partially free, scholarships? Such other information as would be interesting in regard to the school is solicited. My resources have been extremelystraightened, yet, while I have been doing what I could aid in subduing this unholy rebellion. I have also been anxious to give to my children such facilities as I was able, to prepare them for efficiency and usefulness. My son is now attending Eastman’s Business College in your city, and I have a daughter , younger, whom I desire to send to some good but economical School, where she may acquire a substantial, rather than an ornamental, education. I would not, indeed, object to any proper adornment of the mind or the manners, so that it be based upon, and accompanied by, a corresponding development of the mental and moral powers. I would have those powers nourished and cultivated as the necessary pre-requisite and only proper foundation to any and every ornament.and as the truest and surest source of beauty as well as solidity of mental and moral character. Such I understand to be the object and aim of the “Vassar Female College.” I do not know, however, whether it will come within my means or the personal capacity of my girl. She is young, in her sixteenth year, and her opportunities, not what they should have been. But I must not farther weary you. If you will be so kind as to give me the information I desire, by letter, circular, or otherwise, you will much oblige Yours Very Truly William J. Burr Surgeon 42nd N.Y. Vols. 1st Brig. 2nd Div. 2nd Corps Washington, D.C. Matthew Vassar Esqr.1864 Wm. J. Burr Surgeon 42nd N.Y. Vols 1st Brigade 2nd Div. 2nd Corps Washington D.C has a daughter as pupil
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: April 20, 1864
Text: M. Vassar Mrs. Sarah J. Hale Care of L. C. Godey Esq Philadelphia Vassar College. Poughkeepsie, N. Y., April 2d[2nd] 1864 My dear Mrs. Hale Yours of the 31st Ultimo[last month] is received and my apology for omitting to remark in my former letters on the subject of the Faculty being all Ladies was for the very reason that I was apprehensive that the Trustees would not all of them yield to the suggestion, nor were I sure that it would be fully sustained if they did, by public opinion, but...
Show moreM. Vassar Mrs. Sarah J. Hale Care of L. C. Godey Esq Philadelphia Vassar College. Poughkeepsie, N. Y., April 2d[2nd] 1864 My dear Mrs. Hale Yours of the 31st Ultimo[last month] is received and my apology for omitting to remark in my former letters on the subject of the Faculty being all Ladies was for the very reason that I was apprehensive that the Trustees would not all of them yield to the suggestion, nor were I sure that it would be fully sustained if they did, by public opinion, but throwing out my ideas inadvance and working up tom it prospective would cause less friction or opposition. So also with regard to the change of [none] or little of the College which I approve, so that, when the time comes for me to donate a further sum to the Institution I shall make this point (with some other matters) a Condition of the Gift, which could exert an influence in the change and thus meet out your views & mine. Whatever remarks therefore you may think proper to make in this matter in your needmember of the Lady’s Book I hope you will do so in accordance with these views but upon your own authority, as I do not wish in this stage of the Enterprize[sic] to be fully committed for policy’s sake. I wrote Mr. Cuddehy & received an answer and at her solicitation of being further informed on the plan of “organization” wrote her again to day. I will send your Son H. Hale Esq my address you spoke of. Yours truly M. Vassar #which would require Legislature authority or permission
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: April 4, 1864
Text: C. A. R. to M. V. ap. 3. 1864 Paymaster General’s Office, Washington, Sunday Evening April 3 1864 M. Vassar Esqr. My dear Sir, Your of the 19th letter reached me this morning. By a slight mistake it was directed Post Maker General Office, and hall I not seen it advertised it would probably have gone to the “tomb of the capulets.” I was very sorry to hear from my amanda of the death of good Mr Booth. … will he sincerely affected by the sad news. She was very fond of fun …, and never spoke of...
Show moreC. A. R. to M. V. ap. 3. 1864 Paymaster General’s Office, Washington, Sunday Evening April 3 1864 M. Vassar Esqr. My dear Sir, Your of the 19th letter reached me this morning. By a slight mistake it was directed Post Maker General Office, and hall I not seen it advertised it would probably have gone to the “tomb of the capulets.” I was very sorry to hear from my amanda of the death of good Mr Booth. … will he sincerely affected by the sad news. She was very fond of fun …, and never spoke of her but with the greatest affection. I think I have already suggested the course of procedure which it seems to me is the only one practicable, concerning the subject matter of your request. I at … quite fully upon the subject to Ms Swan. you may not have seen that letter, I will repeat in substance my notion, though perhaps I … to add that further reflection has … modified my views rather by adding to than talking away anything thenIt does seem possible to me, while I am here in Washington, to prepare with sufficient … such a plan as … with. It is a work requiring great care and must be done in pokeepsie, in communication with yourself, and some of the leading members of the committees can be connected. See it will be work done in the clark and as shall enough of that, … unite while working for Mr Jewett, I certainly do not wish to appear that experience if I can avoid it. Nor is it necessary, nor possible, that that part of the work should be done secretly. It is not to be supposed that you will yourself originate the details, and the systematizing of the organization. You could not be expected to do it. Nor could any of your Trustees. It is wholly the work of a professional expert. and no one else can do it. But the object you wish to have accomplished, and the principles to be kept in view, may be your own. These principles, covering the ground you with occupied, I have already thrown into form, for you special guidance in expressing your wishes to whoever may be found able to work out an organization for you. and I do not see, how under the circumstances anything more is necessary. With regard to the work which you request - I have thought more fully upon my previous suggestion upon that point, and upon the subject generally, and I think candor to you and Trustee to myself, requires from me a plan statement. I have done all that it is possible for me, or any one to do, as a simple friend, and promoter of the enterprise. The work which you now require, is the legitimate work of whoever is to be your president, and so indeed is all, that I have ever done, by special request. But M Jewett is not competent, even if otherwise qualified for his position, to meet your worker. Before anything further is done then in the way of organization, let him be removed; and see if you can find a competent … within a reasonable period. If you cannot, and I can get a three months leave of absence, with a continuance of my salary, and I am formally united by your committee as your request, I will cheerfully devote the time, whom compensation to your service. But I would much prefer for the present, that you wouldtry someone else, so as to see if I am necessary. any man who aspires to the position which Mr Jewett has … much … respectable them it was ought to understand from working over the notes which you can now … up, the objects which you wish accomplished. and from the principles which I have embodied of you, he can tell, whether he can arrange a working organization for your college, to meet your views as founded upon those principles. If he cannot, you don’t want him. If he can, let him be invited to do it, with the understanding that if successful in doing so, he is to carry out his own arrangement. For it ought to be understand candidly and fairly, that as no one could practically carry out my views but myself, so even if I had the time to give all the details of a working plan of organization it would involve the … of putting it in practice myself to make it successful = (David and Saul … must be remembered) and that in a receipt which neither you the Trustees, nor myself, might under present circumstances find it agreeable to yield to. These are upon reflection my ideas and they must go for what they are worth. Very possibles the committee and the Trustees could … in that light, and ver possibly offer my three months work, it would all go for nothing, because they couldn’t select, From the point to which matter have now reached, it will be better for all, that done one, selected by the committee, should be called in to form a plan of organization upon the principles expressed by you, and in accordance with your wishes. If no one can be found, having done the … you can, and failed, you will know then where you can … look for assistance. You certainly need my assurance of that. Wish best regards to miss amanda and mr S. Your very truly Char. A. Raymond
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 31, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie, N.Y., March 31st, 1864. My dear Mrs. Hale: Your valued letter with enclosure proofs of an article on Vassar Female College & its organization for the next N of your Ladys Book is received and I would thankfully return my best acknow- ledgment for them. Nothing special has transpired in our College matters since my last. By the same mail with your letter I received one from your friend Mrs. Cuddehy in answer to mine of a previous date, in which shethanks me for the...
Show morePoughkeepsie, N.Y., March 31st, 1864. My dear Mrs. Hale: Your valued letter with enclosure proofs of an article on Vassar Female College & its organization for the next N of your Ladys Book is received and I would thankfully return my best acknow- ledgment for them. Nothing special has transpired in our College matters since my last. By the same mail with your letter I received one from your friend Mrs. Cuddehy in answer to mine of a previous date, in which shethanks me for the proposition made to her but says "My posi- tion as Principal of the School of Design is so consonant to my taste, and I may say without vanity has been so successful that only a decided increase of Salary would tempt me to leave it &c.ff I shall thus let the subject of her engagement rest till the meet- ing of the Trustees in June. You ask me to allow Dr. Jewett to see the ,!proofsn which I will do the earliest opportunity, but Dr. J. has not shown me the "Copy" of your Sons letter, the fact is he and myself do not entirely harmonize on this subject.1 Having an appointment this morning must be my apology for the brevety of this letter. Yours very truly M. Vassar
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 24, 1864
Text: Copy of a letter to the Hon-Wm Kelly taken from … — March 24 by — Juan = to … … March 1864 Mr W Kelly My dear Sir. The very friendly tone of your letter of the 21st … justifies the entire … I have in your judgement & your interest in myself and all that concerns our College. From you I have nothing whatever to conceal. I am gratified at your approval of my conduct in this emergency with Mr Jewett and have the utmost hope that I shall do nothing that may not meet the approbation of every...
Show moreCopy of a letter to the Hon-Wm Kelly taken from … — March 24 by — Juan = to … … March 1864 Mr W Kelly My dear Sir. The very friendly tone of your letter of the 21st … justifies the entire … I have in your judgement & your interest in myself and all that concerns our College. From you I have nothing whatever to conceal. I am gratified at your approval of my conduct in this emergency with Mr Jewett and have the utmost hope that I shall do nothing that may not meet the approbation of every good man. But your letters embarrasses me s it leads me to believe you are not fairly apprised of the result of the bate interview between myself & Mr Jewett. I of course treated him politely as my own self respect required me to do but nothing occurred to justify any hope in expression on his part that our … were to be hereafter any different than there indicated in my letter to him of the … instant which I read to you. Upon receiving your letter I have written him again to their effect so that he may be [anon] no misapprehension. Indeed I cannot conceive how it was possible for him so far to have misunderstood me for I have not and cannot give him again “the possession of any friendly confidence”. I cannot have desired that … from anything that has passed between as for nothing has in any … justified it. I cannot gain … safe in … him alone of such representations as to follow on interviews. I beg you my dar sir to look at my position. I have given the results of my life to this College — a very toilsome long and innocuous life. I have hoped to do a good thing and indeed a great one. I have given to it every effort & every thought of my later years unweariedly. It excludes every other interest and every other occupation. My … has been most assiduously sought for years … by Mr Jewett and has been obtained to as unlimited degree. I have allowed his importunities at times to forestall my own judgement so entirely have I been willing to yield my personal preference … to advance my undertaking. But one concession has only demanded another & another until my … has been made to waver and I havestruggled with the the doubts raised by his own conduct whether he were equal to the to the position he has sought and obtained at my hands. It is with extreme regret that I am compelled to admit that I have not obtained from him practically that assistance or that counsel which has assured my own mind as to the clearness or his judgement or his power to [organize] & … this immense interest. And these doubts, sir, have been my own. My wishes and my prejudices have all the time been thrown strongly in his favor hoping continually that he might eventually be able to … there and justify my expectation and what the College absolutely requires. Mr Jewett has been always untruly written as to the extent or violence of any prejudice upon the fact of any members or the Ex. … against him so far as I am able to judge. It is impossible that there … have been this hostility to him or to this enterprise which he has fancied without its coming to my knowledge. You may depend upon it they are unreal — at all events up to a very late date and even now they do not take any hope beyond what must be the natural [consequence] of Mr J[ewett] own-conduct and expressions. … these circumstances what can I do that I have not done. I am laboring exhaustively for their College. I cannot and do not propure to compel Mr Jewett to resign his place but I must rid myself of all responsibility and throw it wholly upon the Trustees. I must have the ablest man to be found at the head in order to ensure its success. If the Trustees can find in Mr Jewetts conduct or in anything he has so far done any sufficient guarantee met he is that man I can be silent. So far as he has affronted me in my own [power] I do not … to throw the weight or that upon the College. I can endure anything almost if any College may succeed. If his sincerity, direction,foresight, of his … moral power as a … or other minds and a leader in an … patti, recommend him beyond any other man he must … the president, It would have been an … relief to me to have found him equal to the confidence I have given him personally. It would have been my most exalted personal pleasure to have had a president to whom I could open my whole heart and on when I could privately rely. It is far better that I should fail in all that if that man whoever he may be may be able to win & preserve the confidence of my Trustees and or the guest publics a … well — balanced able and manly man — a man above all intrigue — above selfishness — above jealousy. Reliant upon his open conduct of affairs for his position in office and in the world which must judge him. I have thus fully expand every feeling and desire I harbor. I cannot and do not ask your personal favor or friendship to me. But I do anxiously ask you to give this subject your full attention and that you judge and act as if the presidential chair were vacant and Mr Jewett if you please … the trust men whom you … severe in the … for that place. Who shall … your endorsement — Mr Jewett or another.
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 24, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie March 24th 1864 . Hon. William Kelly My dear Sir The verry friendly tone of your let- ter to me of the 21?. inst (which would have received an earlier notice but for my feeble health) justifies the entire confidence I have in your judgement, and your interest in myself and all that concerns our College. From you I have nothing whatever to conceal. I am gratified at your approval of my conduct in this emergency with Mr Jewett and I have the utmost hope that I shall do nothing that...
Show morePoughkeepsie March 24th 1864 . Hon. William Kelly My dear Sir The verry friendly tone of your let- ter to me of the 21?. inst (which would have received an earlier notice but for my feeble health) justifies the entire confidence I have in your judgement, and your interest in myself and all that concerns our College. From you I have nothing whatever to conceal. I am gratified at your approval of my conduct in this emergency with Mr Jewett and I have the utmost hope that I shall do nothing that may not meet the approbation of every good man. But your letter embareses me since it leads me to believe you are not fairly apprised of the result of the late interview between myself and M. Jewett. I of course treated him politely as my own self respect re- quired me to do, but nothing occurred to justify my hope or expres- sion on his part that our relationswere to be hereafter different than those indicated in my letter to him on the 2^ inst which I read to you. -----upon receiving your letter I have written him again to this effect so that he may be under no misapprehension------Indeed I cannot con- ceive how it was possible for him so far to have misunderstood me for I have not and cannot give him again Mthe possesion of my friendly con- fidence"-----He cannot have derived that idea from any thing that has passed between us for nothing has in any way justified it. I cannot again feel safe in his hands in receiving him alone if such represen- tions are to follow our interviews. I beg you my dear Sir to look at my position. I have given the results of nay life to this College----a verry toilsome long and anxious life. I have hoped to do a good thing and indeed a great one. I have given it every effort and every thought of my later years unwearediedly.— It excludes every other interest and every other occupation.__ My confidence has been most assiduously sought for years past by Prof. Jewett & has been obtained to an unlimited extent. I have allowed his importunities at times to forestall my own judgementsso that I have been willing to yield my personal preferences and ideas to advance my undertaking. But one concession has only demanded another and another untill my confidence has been made to waver and I have struggled with the doubts raised upon his own conduct wether he were equal to the posi- tion he has sought and obtained at my hands. It is with extreme regret that I am compelled to admit that I have not obtained from him practically that assistance or that consal which has assured nay own mind as to the cleariness of his judgements or his power to organise and control this immense interest, and these doubts, Sir, have been my own. My wishes and my prejudices have all the time been thrown strongly in his favor hoping continually that he might eventualy he able to remove them and justify my expectations and what the College absolutely requires. *------Prof* Jewett has been always entirely mistaken as to the extent or violence of any prejudice upon the past or of any members of the Ex. Com. against him so far as I am able to judge. ------It is impossible that there should have been this hostillity to him or to the enterprise which he has fancied without its coming to my knowledge. You may depend upon it they are unreal - at all events up to a verry late period, and evennow they do not take any shape beyond what must be the natural consequences of Prof. J-- own conduct and expressions.-------- Under these circumstances what can I do that I have not done. I am laboring exhaustingly for this College. I cannot and do not propose to compel Prof. Jewett to resign his place but I must rid myself of all responsibilites and throw it wholly upon the Trustees, We must have the ablest man to be found at its head and in order to ensure its success. If the Trustees can find in JVF Jewett conduct or in any thing he has so far done anything, sufficient gurantee that he is the man I can be silent. So far as he has affronted me in my person I do not wish them to weight against the College. I can endure any thing almost if my College may succeed, If his sincerity, discretion, foresight, of his mental and moral power as a controller of other minds and leader in an undeveloped path, reccommend him beyond any other man he must remain the President.-------—It would have been an infinite re- lief to me to have found him equal to the confidence I have given him personally. It would have been my mostexhalted personal pleasure to have had a President to whom I could open my whole heart and on whom I could most positvely rely.— It is far better that I should fail in all that if that man whoever he may be may be able to win & preserve the confidence of my Trustees and of the great public at large----a well ballanced mind, able and manly man- a man above all intrigue - above selfishness - above jealousy. Reliant upon his open conduct of affairs for his position in office and in the world which must judge him. I have thus fully expressed every feeling and desire I harbor - altho1 I fear at the expense of your patience. But I cannot do nor ask your personal favor or friendship to me to control your conduct, but I do anxiously ask you to give this subject your full reflection and that you judge and act as if the Presidential chair were vacant and President Jewett if you please and any other best man who you know were in the canvass for that place, ——who of all the men you know would or should receive your endorsement, Mr Jewett or any other person. Please to excuse this long letter. I several times stop., to make it shorter but could not. Yr.s. most Respectfully &c &c M. Vassar
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 23, 1864
Text: March 23d 1864 Mrs Sarah J. Hale. My dear Mrs Hale. Yours of the 19th Current have just reached me, and as heretofore I do always value every article from your pen, not perhaps because they abound with vig- orous Sentiments or finished Sentences but because of their truthfulness, besides I feel happy to have one by my side whose idea is, that Womans mental powers in this world are unappreciated or, if appreciated, Custom has prevented her from employingthem. It is this idea that has given...
Show moreMarch 23d 1864 Mrs Sarah J. Hale. My dear Mrs Hale. Yours of the 19th Current have just reached me, and as heretofore I do always value every article from your pen, not perhaps because they abound with vig- orous Sentiments or finished Sentences but because of their truthfulness, besides I feel happy to have one by my side whose idea is, that Womans mental powers in this world are unappreciated or, if appreciated, Custom has prevented her from employingthem. It is this idea that has given rise to much discussion between Presi- dent Jewett and myself, he was willing to grant to me all my claim in this particular if I left him a majority of male Professors in the College, while I desired and have since demanded that every chair possible shall be filled by Women, and now I might as well say in this connection that by pressing this idea upon him that " Vassar College " shall be a College for Women, and not men in all its departments with some other mat- ters (which I will not trouble you with) may possibly lead to the Selection of some other person to fill that chair, however as you regard me the true friend of Women and I am desirous to avoid any Convulsion in our Board, further action will be delayd untill the meeting of the 28th June. My desire is now and al- ways has been to make our College, not only a Col- lege to educate Women, but a College of instruction by women. Will you my dear Mrs Hale continue to support mein these views. I have already written Miss Maria Mitchell (thro' a friend) and hope we may agree upon her as Professor of Astronomy. A letter from her this day encourages me to hope Success. I shall take an early opportunity to see Mra. L. A. Cud- delby or write to her and inform her,of your friend- ship and of my desire to avail myself of any Suggestion she may make. Dr Jewett to whom you wrote on the Subject has not mentioned her name to me. With re- gard to the Chaplancy & Chair of moral philosophy &ca Dr J. wanted these filled with Baptist, but while I was a Baptist by birth, my father & mother Bap- tists by profession, have attended Baptist Church for over 60 years, was a Baptist in principle, built a Bap- tist Edifice in 1840 in this city at my own cost of $25000 and gave to the Society and from that time down to this very hour contributed annually 3 to 550$ pr year for the Support of a Baptist ministry &ca, yet I hold all Christians alike and thus wish to carry out the principle that all who trulylove our Lord Jesus Christ and do his Will are brethern, outward forms of Re- ligon are but aids, vitality or eternal life begins & end within the heart and not the head we must be born again. So much for my Sectarianism. I remain dear Mrs Hale Yours &ca
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 22, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie March 22d 1864 Prof M0P. Jewett Dear Sir. Yours of the 17""1 inst is before me and I have delayed a reply thus far hardly conceiving that one was necessary or perhaps expected- Upon reflection I have satisfied you for the right myself that one is due touthorough understanding of our present position and to prevent any possible misconceptions. You speak of being nencouragedn by the Hon Mr Kelly to renew the assur- ances of your regret &c-----I do not of course know...
Show morePoughkeepsie March 22d 1864 Prof M0P. Jewett Dear Sir. Yours of the 17""1 inst is before me and I have delayed a reply thus far hardly conceiving that one was necessary or perhaps expected- Upon reflection I have satisfied you for the right myself that one is due touthorough understanding of our present position and to prevent any possible misconceptions. You speak of being nencouragedn by the Hon Mr Kelly to renew the assur- ances of your regret &c-----I do not of course know to what circum- is stances that encouragement is due and it but fair to you to say that our positions are in no respect altered from what they were when I wrote you on the 2** inst, at least for the better as I have since heard (if true) much to widen our difficulties It is impossible that we shall ever again occupy the same relation to each other hereafter, and a sense of self respect require me in honesty & canodr to leave the expression of them just as I have already written them to you as I cannot nor would not disguise ray feelings. I subscribe myself Respectf^ &c jMatthew Vassar }Copy Letter to Prof. M. P. Jewett 22 March 22, 1864
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 22, 1864
Text: tMar. 22, 1864-j Mrs Caroline E Williams Leavenworth Kansas Dear Madam, Yours of the IS*-11 current is before me, The in the "Independent" not in the Meeting of the Board referedfeto^as^w4£k reference topractical opperation regard to the completion of the Institution, but only in^tLmi CuiluUuiLIuu of the Building which we hope finished & furnished ready for to have^eomplcled and opened for pupils by October next The regular annual of the Board takes place on the 30 June proximo,...
Show moretMar. 22, 1864-j Mrs Caroline E Williams Leavenworth Kansas Dear Madam, Yours of the IS*-11 current is before me, The in the "Independent" not in the Meeting of the Board referedfeto^as^w4£k reference topractical opperation regard to the completion of the Institution, but only in^tLmi CuiluUuiLIuu of the Building which we hope finished & furnished ready for to have^eomplcled and opened for pupils by October next The regular annual of the Board takes place on the 30 June proximo, soon after which Catalogs will be distributed giving the public all the neces- sary information regarding the Tuftion & working process of the College &c I will place your letter on file to be refered to again as soon as we can determine the day of opening & inform you—— Yrs [Matthew Vassar, zos f . 305i
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 22, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie March 22 1864 Julius C. Clarke Esqr Dear Sir. Yours of yesterday3 date is before me and in reply would remark, that the College Edifice he is near its Comple- tion & by the terms of the Builders contract is to be put into the 1st Trustees hands on the ^jHJ'ttrAug next if so, they hope to open it for the reception of pupuls by October following,, All that has been publish** by authority of Trustees I send you - The plan of ^organisation,1 now sent was not adopted by the...
Show morePoughkeepsie March 22 1864 Julius C. Clarke Esqr Dear Sir. Yours of yesterday3 date is before me and in reply would remark, that the College Edifice he is near its Comple- tion & by the terms of the Builders contract is to be put into the 1st Trustees hands on the ^jHJ'ttrAug next if so, they hope to open it for the reception of pupuls by October following,, All that has been publish** by authority of Trustees I send you - The plan of ^organisation,1 now sent was not adopted by the Bord at their meeting in Fby but is now in the hands of a special com. & will be reported and approv^ at their annual Meeting on the 30"1 June when I will send you a Cataloge---- Yours Respectfully ^Matthew Vassar 3 las' A ■ ,88i
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 21, 1864
Text: tMare 21, 18643 Hiram Veltman Esq 145 Duane Street NY Dear Sir, Yours of the 19""1 inst is rec^ and in reply would remark that our College Edifice is drawing near Completion and will he finish"- & furnished by the Sept next, and at which time or soon there- after we hope to open. The Bord of Trustees hold their annual Meeting in June proximo, after which circulars will be issued to the public setting forth terms of &c instruction in the College and in fact all other...
Show moretMare 21, 18643 Hiram Veltman Esq 145 Duane Street NY Dear Sir, Yours of the 19""1 inst is rec^ and in reply would remark that our College Edifice is drawing near Completion and will he finish"- & furnished by the Sept next, and at which time or soon there- after we hope to open. The Bord of Trustees hold their annual Meeting in June proximo, after which circulars will be issued to the public setting forth terms of &c instruction in the College and in fact all other Matters pertaining thereto ft that may be necessary--- If your friend wishes to place her daughter in Institution perhaps an early application will be advisable, as many have already applied & I will place you» her application on file Yours truly &c jMatthew Vassar j lOSc
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Creator: Clarke, Julius S.
Date: March 21, 1864
Text: Commonwealth of Massachusetts Auditor’s Department. Boston, March 21st, 1864 Matthew Vassar, Esq. Dear Sir: A few young ladies with their parents- residents of this state- are desirous of obtaining information in regard to the terms of admission, course of study &c, &c, at the Vassar Female College. I am informed that a pamphlet giving this information has been published, but not knowing to whom application should be made, may I in behalf of these parties as well as myself ask you for...
Show moreCommonwealth of Massachusetts Auditor’s Department. Boston, March 21st, 1864 Matthew Vassar, Esq. Dear Sir: A few young ladies with their parents- residents of this state- are desirous of obtaining information in regard to the terms of admission, course of study &c, &c, at the Vassar Female College. I am informed that a pamphlet giving this information has been published, but not knowing to whom application should be made, may I in behalf of these parties as well as myself ask you for a copy. If you have such an one, please do me the kindness to direct a copy to me at this office, and greatly oblige Yours very respectfully, Julius L. Clarke1864 Julius L Clarke Commonwealth of Mass. Auditor Department Boston March 21st Answered see within
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 19, 1864
Text: Friday Morning March 19 1864 Prof. M P. Jewett Sir The note you handed me yesterday morning and of yesterday date accompanied with explanation and appologies you then made seem to demand from me some reply thro1 the same medium and permit me in the way of a preliminary that after sleep- one day, ing over it one night and reflection upon with-a-sincere prayers to my Heavenly Father to direct me aright, I this morning place some thoughts before for your consideration. Alluding as I did in that...
Show moreFriday Morning March 19 1864 Prof. M P. Jewett Sir The note you handed me yesterday morning and of yesterday date accompanied with explanation and appologies you then made seem to demand from me some reply thro1 the same medium and permit me in the way of a preliminary that after sleep- one day, ing over it one night and reflection upon with-a-sincere prayers to my Heavenly Father to direct me aright, I this morning place some thoughts before for your consideration. Alluding as I did in that conversation to the circumstances that led to our early -ae% intimate and warm attachment continuing thro f,a course of several years, and ending in the noble enterprise of Building a College for the elevation of Woman, and altho frequently interrupted by opposite arguments for the purpose eliciting truths and Strenghthen & not weaken the conception I little thought that you would or coulds a Christian Man calmly set down in your study and deliber- ately pen and forward to a Member of our Board of Trustees, such a cool and unblushing Slander & falsehood as said letter contained, which only fell into my hands by a Providential circumstance. Yet after hearing your explanation of yesterday and seeing your Contrition for the consequences and your seemingly heart felt appolog ZC&tL q.nas q.OM umnax^naS anjcq. b saxxioaaq ~3.t$ ear- ^-eqj. d^ Ahxjajo Ao:mrjp.io aqq. ^aaxxi aAV ua^\ noA o% #»pnaq.xa pxq 'uctiio'fi.tioS -e jo xo^o-ezvrqo ani^. nrroi aqq. vaoxj :j.x*edap j XTT^ XOVi ^ST^ 3-on op I ssaxsq^xaAan q.nq 'qxtrod &JV& no noA o:). Avs oq. xaq^xaj Sniq^on aA-eq J axojaxaqx --saaq.STia:x aqq. Aq paptoxp aq ^.snux axtnf uj Sirpj.aaj^ aqj. xa^ye pn*e no aSax -I°D 9tW J° iSax^ aqq. nx aon-ennr^noo xnoA *g it ^oox^xsao pxnoqs I ^qq. pip i s*e noA oq. A*es oq, Ap-eaj: ST2iW I •tiioq aqq. ^ aui 03. uox^nna^xa ntCopy of a letter to M. Jewett march 19 -not sent-
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Creator: Veltman, Hiram
Date: March 19, 1864
Text: New York, March 19.64 Matthew Vassar Esq. A Widdow [sic] Lady a Friend of few Family, a Daughter of the late (…) Esq. wishes to place her Daughter at your new seminary, the Gray Lady is now at (…) at School her Mother residing in this City would prefer to have her child near to her, will you my dear friend be so kind as to send me a circular, and let me know what prospect their [sic] is in locating her at your (…) seminary, than under stood from some source or other that quite all the places...
Show moreNew York, March 19.64 Matthew Vassar Esq. A Widdow [sic] Lady a Friend of few Family, a Daughter of the late (…) Esq. wishes to place her Daughter at your new seminary, the Gray Lady is now at (…) at School her Mother residing in this City would prefer to have her child near to her, will you my dear friend be so kind as to send me a circular, and let me know what prospect their [sic] is in locating her at your (…) seminary, than under stood from some source or other that quite all the places have been taken, ifso [sic], will you my dear sir be so kind as to see ifit [sic] is a possible thing to get her in the Institution, I shall feel under many obligations, my dear sir if you will give me your influence in the case, please let me hear from you at as Early a moment as you can conveniently (…) me a circular, Truly Your friend Hiram Veltman 143 Duane St NY1864 Hiram Veltman New York March 16 Answered 21 March wishes a daughter of a friend of his to enter
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 17, 1864
Text: Jewett wants to have his own Professors - see List Did I not stand by you in the matter of your salary $2000 at the 1st meeting of the Board 1861, saying, or intamating[intimating] that it was all right, altho[ugh], never considled[considered] by you on the subject Did I not stand by in the matter of Miss Church pictures & assumed the further payment of the others to come to some $3000 Did I not Stand by you in the “Observatory” when the Ex[ecutive] Com[mittee] was opposed to Building it....
Show moreJewett wants to have his own Professors - see List Did I not stand by you in the matter of your salary $2000 at the 1st meeting of the Board 1861, saying, or intamating[intimating] that it was all right, altho[ugh], never considled[considered] by you on the subject Did I not stand by in the matter of Miss Church pictures & assumed the further payment of the others to come to some $3000 Did I not Stand by you in the “Observatory” when the Ex[ecutive] Com[mittee] was opposed to Building it. Did I not defend your mistakes in the Gass pipe fixtures, the Hospital mistakes, Kitchen, mistakes, no Privys or water closets in Servants apartments, Did not I stand by in smoothing over your blunders in Printing the first Pamplets[sic] containing the College Proceedings at first Meeting 1861. Did not the Board, order an entire new issue Have I not sided with you in every matter, rather than with the Com[mittee] so much so, as to create some jeoulosy[jealousy] etc Did I not go to N[ew] York to see “Bishop” and persuaded him to withdraw his letter of Resignation, The same with Dr. Magoon, on account of your imprudence of management on the Com[mittee] of Art etc Did I not defend you in the matter of your [treatise] to Balcook & Raymond Does not your Letter to “Wayne”, about my imbecellity[imbecility] & childness[childishness] etc show your feelings towards me, notwithstanding your protestations as Friendship to the contrary.Did you not under pretence[sic] get all my correspondence while in you were in Europe from me and then when I ask you for them you said you had burnt them. Did you not also try to get your Letters from me in Oct[ober] last and fact have you not fortify yourself against all and any charges I could make to defend my character. Did you not tell “Stirling” and others this story about my being married to Miss H and ostensibly to make my friends believe that my mental faculties where[were] on the “wane”. Did not Mr J. will Amanda same
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Creator: Williams, Caroline E.
Date: March 15, 1864
Text: Leavensworth, Kansas. March 15th 1864 M. Vassar Esq. Dear Sir, Having noticed in the Independent a meeting of the Board of Vassar Female College, and feeling impatient to know the result, I beg you will send a Catalogue to my address; as I am personally interested in your noble enterprise, and wish my only daughter to enter that Institution as soon as practicable. It is my earnest desire that special attention should be paid to physical education, as so many delicate girls suffer mentally for...
Show moreLeavensworth, Kansas. March 15th 1864 M. Vassar Esq. Dear Sir, Having noticed in the Independent a meeting of the Board of Vassar Female College, and feeling impatient to know the result, I beg you will send a Catalogue to my address; as I am personally interested in your noble enterprise, and wish my only daughter to enter that Institution as soon as practicable. It is my earnest desire that special attention should be paid to physical education, as so many delicate girls suffer mentally for the want of it in our (…) seminary. Healthful, rigorous amusement daily- will be a blessed thing to Vassar College. May there be no spinal curvations among its graduates is the prayer of your friend, Caroline E. Williams
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Date: March 3, 1864
Text: Boston, March 3[r]d 1864 Matthew Vassar Esq. My Dear Sir, Yours of March 1st has been received from Mrs. Sarah. The letters to which you refer were left by me on the table in Mr. Swan’s office accidentally. I took them from my pocket in order to find another paper pertaining to [Mr] Matthew and, until Mr. Swan arrived here I supposed that those letters were in my library in company with the first sheet and those papers. The letters were addressed to me by Dr. Jewett no answerLetter from Mr....
Show moreBoston, March 3[r]d 1864 Matthew Vassar Esq. My Dear Sir, Yours of March 1st has been received from Mrs. Sarah. The letters to which you refer were left by me on the table in Mr. Swan’s office accidentally. I took them from my pocket in order to find another paper pertaining to [Mr] Matthew and, until Mr. Swan arrived here I supposed that those letters were in my library in company with the first sheet and those papers. The letters were addressed to me by Dr. Jewett no answerLetter from Mr. Hague Boston and … March 7, 1864to my written request that he would give me his news of the state of affairs relating to the College and the object to he assured at in the deliberations of the February meeting. As I had not seen any of the gentlemen connected with the college for some time, I desired minute information before the day of the meeting. As I … the President forth, in that way, to express himself freely, the letters are to be treated as confidential. It is not within my power, therefore, to put them in … of any other person without his consent, as that would be the betrayal of a trust. Regarding them in thislight, I am hand in hand w/ … that they should be returned w/ me. I have no doubt that you will fly appreciate this sentiment As Divine Providence [overlooks our] omissions and mistakes, … some wise end, I hope that some good and no evil will be the result of my inadvertence in this case. Yours Truly W[illiam] Hague
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 2, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie March 2r. 1864 Prof, M„ P. Jewett L.L.D. Sir, A letter in your handwriting and in your signature lies before me from which I make the following extracts: vizi. "M. V. Junr aim is to put off the opening of the College, first till the fall of *65; then under }^d$)^t some pretext to '66,* and so on, indefinitely. Meanwhile M. Vassar has become more fickle & childish thaix ever. - He wants the College another year for a play thing to amuse himself with, M.V. Jr. tells...
Show morePoughkeepsie March 2r. 1864 Prof, M„ P. Jewett L.L.D. Sir, A letter in your handwriting and in your signature lies before me from which I make the following extracts: vizi. "M. V. Junr aim is to put off the opening of the College, first till the fall of *65; then under }^d$)^t some pretext to '66,* and so on, indefinitely. Meanwhile M. Vassar has become more fickle & childish thaix ever. - He wants the College another year for a play thing to amuse himself with, M.V. Jr. tells him, "when the College is once opened the President- & Faculty will have all the power and all the glory -- you will then be nobody"-— Like a child, M.V. must have new every* excitement to keep alive his interest. If then the College can lie still 12 Months and M* Vassar have nothing to do about it all the autum, Winter, & Spring, he will cease to care for it, will become dis- gusted with the whole thing, will change his will, giving his money to "the Boys" during their lives & applying it inconnection with their fortunes (already so appropriated by their wills) to the erection of a vast Hospital in Po!keepsie, for a family momument." "For some months past M«V* J? has openly declared "the Col- lege shall not be opened next fall" To prevent the opening, he had gained the consent of of his uncle to have no meeting of the Trustees in FebX He dared not submit the question to the Board" "M.V, JF. admits this (opening of the College) can be done11 if we choose to give all our time and attention to it, but we wont11 Precious little time has he given to the subject except to try hard not to do it11 nBut M.V JF. and Swift had secretly agreed to a denier resort. I discovered this two weeks ago. The plot is to bring before the Trustees a Report on the cost of completing buildings, furnishing the rooms & showing so enormous an aggregate that it will be best to wait another year hoping for a fall in prices f,« Why do they desire conceal- ment? why are they afraid to have the Pres. see their figures. Because they wish to make up a false issue- to impose onthe Trustees leaving no chance for detection and experience1' nMy old friend D.. Babcock, whom I sincerly pity, will aid the conspirators with all his force and cunning. He assumes the pastorship of the first Church here (salary $750) for the sole purpose of getting the ear of M Vassar and revenging himself on the President. But D? B. cannot influence more than two votes at most, and when the yeas and nays are called for I suspect he will find himself alone. This is a poor World. What a mean nasty thing is the love of filthy lucre] From its defilement may the good Lord deliver usn PaS. For three years I have lived in the misdt of plotting and counterplotting, mining and counter miningo I am often heart sick and ready to abandon the whole enterprise] but to say nothing of the higher considerations, my "old Adam wont allow me to give this selfish & contempible faction a triumph so signal, a joy so exqui- site,11"How come the Ex. Com. to take the matter of constituting the Faculty out of the hands of the Committe to which the Trustees had confided this important trust? and why did the Ex. Com. secretly send out the slip from the Ladys Book to the President & Principles of Institutions over the Country asking an expression of their views of the practi- bility of finding Ladies prepared for the heads of the Departments in this College — any names you may suggest, gsrc"-- nAs collateral matter subsiduary to their design they will oppose the election of any Professors at this Meeting. They will also hasten to have their Report on the cost of furnishing refered to a Com. to report at the June Meet- ing. A measure fatal to the hopes of the Petitioner11 Again they will dictate to M. Vassar opening address getting him strongly to commit himself & thus compel the Board to follow the founders lead. Finaly when they wish to frighten him out of his wits, they will then threaten to resign]----- The remainder of this remarkable document Sir, is of the same tenor. Ij-t 3 seems to preclude the possibility of explanation,- You will doubtless see at once the impossibility of any further confidence or harmony between us. I forbear to state the circumstances under which I placed you were you are, and these obvious traits of your character as since developed, which renders it past hopes, that you can longer be usefull in your present position. The only alternative for me is to ask your resignation in proper hands without delay. Whatever further communications there may be between us they must be in writing I remain Yrs &c. M, Vassar.Letters of M. Vassar to M. P. Jewett the signature 1864
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 1, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie March 1, 1864 Revd Wm Hague D.B» My dear Sir, My friend Mr Swan, will explain to you the embarrasing duty with which he is charged, I have exonerated him from everry personal responsibillity - with such a position as he has occupied towards me for 20 years past he could not have done otherwise. I am sure you will also pardon me when I ask of you as a personal favor to me and to the College that you will allow these letters, if indeed they are address^ to you to remain in my hands...
Show morePoughkeepsie March 1, 1864 Revd Wm Hague D.B» My dear Sir, My friend Mr Swan, will explain to you the embarrasing duty with which he is charged, I have exonerated him from everry personal responsibillity - with such a position as he has occupied towards me for 20 years past he could not have done otherwise. I am sure you will also pardon me when I ask of you as a personal favor to me and to the College that you will allow these letters, if indeed they are address^ to you to remain in my hands were they are. -- I esteem this event grievous as it is to have been Providential. I enterpose myself moreover between you and every possible cen- sure. I regard you as one of my most efficient co%sellors and friends & pray that both of us may be strong in the emergency to do our whole duty both to the present and the future. I remain D-£ Rev*1 Sir Yrs &c M. VassarCopy of a letter to the Rev. Wm. Hague DD. Boston
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 26, 1864
Text: February 26th 1864 Miss Sarah J. Hale Dear Madame Your favor of the 19th Current came duly to hand, but at a moment when I was intensify engaged in pre- paring for a special adjourned meeting of the Board of Trustees to review the plan of Organization &ca of the College previously submitted to them, one of which I believe I sent you. This meeting was fully attended, much discussion on various topics transpired, and espe- cially as regardsthe System of instruction & the pro- fessional...
Show moreFebruary 26th 1864 Miss Sarah J. Hale Dear Madame Your favor of the 19th Current came duly to hand, but at a moment when I was intensify engaged in pre- paring for a special adjourned meeting of the Board of Trustees to review the plan of Organization &ca of the College previously submitted to them, one of which I believe I sent you. This meeting was fully attended, much discussion on various topics transpired, and espe- cially as regardsthe System of instruction & the pro- fessional appointees of the College—thus far my views in long unison with yours in favor of Ladies teachers has gained ground, and I am encouraged to believe, that if competent females can be obtained, every one of them will be filled by that sex, and if not at the open- ing will soon thereafter. As soon as they can be printed will send you my address to the Board and that of Doctor Magoon, Chairman on the Committee of Art on the influence of fine Arts upon Society. Our Board is composed of men of various talents most happily divided to promote the material & litterary advance- ment of the Institution. Such a combination of talent is rarely to be found in any Board. Your wishes in the matter of change in the College name was fully discussed. B. I. Lossing and several others strenously advocating its adoption, and others opposing—the most efficient of these latter were Dr Bishop of N. Y. Dr Anderson ofRochester & Dr Raymond of Brooklyn. The final question of its adop- tion however was deferred until the regular annual meeting in June. It was resolved that the utmost ex- ertion be made to open the College in Septr next, therefore if you should in the intermediate time hear of any distinguished Ladies highly qualified to fill either of the Chairs, please to inform me. The Success of all true progress is earnestness, ability & perserverance with moderation. Men long wedded to old customs will reluctantly consent to change their opinions, altho' fully convinced of their wrong, I therefore have advised to begin our College with only a portion of the chairs occupied by Ladies teachers, ultimately we can make them for ourselves. I do not think our President heartily in favor of your idea of either altering the name of the College or adopting the policy of Ladies Professorship in general. I believe I informed you of having caused to be printed a num- ber of Copies of your sonsrticle on that subject. The idea is now fully before the public. We hope to de- velope it more largely. With much respect Yours &c
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: Feburary 23, 1864
Text: M. Vassar address to the Trustees of V. F. College at the regular meeting of the Board on the 23rd Febr. 1863 Gentlemen Trustees of Vassar Female College. You will allow me once again to congratulate you that a kind Providence has shared our lives to assembly[sic] to gather at this special adjoined meeting to discuss the place of organization. I am truly happy to welcome you nd[sic] my selected counsellors, and beg your attention to some remarks from the present and future aspects of our...
Show moreM. Vassar address to the Trustees of V. F. College at the regular meeting of the Board on the 23rd Febr. 1863 Gentlemen Trustees of Vassar Female College. You will allow me once again to congratulate you that a kind Providence has shared our lives to assembly[sic] to gather at this special adjoined meeting to discuss the place of organization. I am truly happy to welcome you nd[sic] my selected counsellors, and beg your attention to some remarks from the present and future aspects of our enterprise, and to such suggestions as have occurred to my mind. As this paper which I hold in my hand embraces much thought and reflection, and will be the first I have ever addressed to you expressing fully my views and wishes on the several topics connected with the organization, so also it may be my last, & I therefore with, if sanctioned by your honorable body, to order it placed on file in the Archives of the institution for future reference. With these brief remarks by the way of preamble, I will attempt to read my address, craving your indulgence for 15 or 20 min. Perhaps gentlemen more than to any other, these reflections occur to me because a long and stirring life, has developed habits of activity which physically, age may repress, but which mentally were never more in exercise. As I have now withdrawn from every other occupation, my activities center here to such an extent that scarcely an hour occurs, which does not bring with it reflections reflecting the best mode of accomplishing this one great object, which has become the nearest to my heart. Three years I have devoted to this cause alone - years full of information, discussions, and suggestions.from almost every source and every variety of experienced examined, it is thus my own education upon this special subject in all its phases and relations, developed by such opportunities as I could attain by reading and election, that give me a better confidence in my own convictions, even when matters not previously familiar to my thoughts and yet, it is due to truth that my great interest on the subject of female education was awakened not less than 20 years ago by an intimate female friend & relative now decsceased[sic], in the conductment of a Seminary of long standing & character in this city. That close intimacy and interest, continued many years, until just before the institution passed into the hands of our President. It was this fact more than any other and more than all others that awakened me early to the possibility and necessity of an Institution like the one we now propose. This tendency of my mind is therefore of ancient date, and thus gradually gained confidence and strength from my various associations until it has finally caused me to devote to it my property to a large extent, and now occupies all my thoughts. Its complete expression is yet to be effected by your united aid. Gentlemen, by the wise constant and careful aid of your Executive Committee, the College edifice and some of its appendages have gradually progressed, until we hope if nothing unforeseen occurs, that it may be completed by the time limited in the contract, and without any serious loss or controversy. Your lands have been wisely administered and protected, and my own efforts and your interests in these directions, could not have been more ably, cautiously … seconded, than they have been by these gentlemen. Up to this point there is nothing left from that source, that could have been properly expected or desired. I take peculiar pleasure in thus publiclyexpressing my thanks for the aid I have derived from this source, and my strong desires and relyance[sic] when this continuance, a necessity of the same wise consul and assistance for the future We are far advanced in the exterior structure of your Astronomical Observatory and have contracted mainly for its complete equipment, under the valuable assistance and office of Prof. Farrar. We have contracted for a Gate Lodge which we hope to see finished by the coming mid-summer. We have excavated the roadways to some extent and have adopted plans for completing laying out and planting the grounds. Their final completion most occasions made expense and occupy much time. We have contracted for the cases of your Cabinet of Geology & Minerology. We have discussed and attained much valuable practical information upon the subjects of heating and lightening the College Buildings. We have not altered one early design of introducing both, from a building to be constructed specialy[sic] for that purpose, in the rear of the main edifice, and yet, these subjects, especially that of heating, is undergoing such rapid changes as to require the greatest caution, if we hope to secure the best and simplest, most efficient, and economical plan. We have secured plans and estimates for that purpose, but the work has not thus far been commenced. For further information I would beg to refer you to our Architect Mr. Renwick. The road making, the walks, the planting, the farm buildings and sheds, and a heavy amount of grading, boundary fences, as well as many details in various departments, remain to occupy our time, and draw upon our funds.The Library, the Art Gallery, the Museum, the Gymnasium, are yet unprovided to any considerable extent. We have furnished to Prof. R. A. Fisher who is now in Europe, upon the recommendation of the appropriate committe[sic] $500 for the purchase of such apparatus and chemicals, as could not be found so well in this country. We were led to believe, that notwithstanding the high rate of exchange, an exceptional appropriation of this kind might and should be made. The furnishing and equipping the whole interior o the College building, has more over yet to be effected, and will inevitably cause startling inroads upon our Treasury. A Report will be presented to you upon this very important subject in detail, from facts collected by your Treasurer and Sect[Secretary], and reexamined by the Executive Committe[sic] who have given it an elaborate study. Allusion has been heretofore made in respect to the purchase by Prof Kennel with my assent, while he was in Rome, of certain copies of celebrated pictures, made by Miss Church an American Artist. Two of these pictures have arrived, and cost about $1000, and may be seen at my residence. The other copy, at a cost of some $1200 at Rome, is nearly finished, and will be forwarded next month. For this latter, I have assumed the payment, and when it comes to hand the proper Committe[sic] can examine, and take it to the College or not. The President Jewett will submit a schedule of prices and terms on a sliding scale estimated by him to cover the running expenses of the College. The ifs and provisos upon this subjects are quite inevitable, the whole scheme being contingent upon circumstances against which there is no possibility of providing. Prof Jewett will explain to you the details, upon which I have been unable to form a sattisfactory[sic] opinion. It will be very wise however to leave a large margin, for theses possibility against whichno forecast can provide especialy[sic] in the opening of an enterprise, which braves opposition, and depends upon its securing the public attention and favors, without trial and at once. Having thus detailed briefly the existing facts, I proceed with a more general statement of my ideas and desires. In request to the call of [furnishing] the college throughout, I beleive[sic] the report upon that subject covers it completely in every detail that can be foreseen. It is however a matter of the greatest consideration, wether[sic] these heavy outlays exceeding $100,000 should be made in the inevitable haste, and at the vast extra expence[sic], for the sake of opening the College in the coming fall, not withstanding my intense desire to see it in fall opperation[sic], before my heart is sleeping under the clods[clouds] of the valley. The various arguments on this point have been perhaps all, already urged upon me and are familiar. I am not able however to bring myself to a conclusion, favorable to one opening, within a year from the coming spring, and perhaps even six months longer. I do not see my way at all clear, to a commencement next fall, excluding from the continuation, any but the most meagre Library, Art Gallery, the Cabinet & apparatus. If these are all to compete with the cost of the Geological Department, the outlay at present prices must be generous, to an extent which must most seriously exhaust our means. It must all the while be born in mind, that when the time comes for a change of values, securites[securities] will fall less rapidly than [articles] of merchandize, which being held for sale, and not as capital, to be retained, must go upon the market to maintain credit and meet obligations, at whatever sacrifice. Capital mean while, can and will control itself with more performance of value, and a slower rate of decline. On what day this event will arrive, is of course unknown to any of us[.] Gentlemen upon the subject of opening the College, I must be permitted also to remark, that all I hold dear is involved in our success - in a complete and absolute success. My utmost wish has been to survive so grand a result.I would not have a doubt, which human foresight or care can remove, left to cloud it with a possibility. Every arrangement without and within should first be perfected, and so far as possible, subjected to a full preparatory trial, so that no contingency of safety, health, or ease of working might be left unprovided for. This involves to a very large extent, the element of time. I have never - I do not now look upon the period of opening, as in any sense fixed, or as important at all in comparison with the certainty of opening without accident, or imperfection, and with every accessory in the most exact order. In this particular, success may be demonstrated and proven, whatever else, may abide the ordinary accidents incident to human affairs. Contingency [one ought], must be encountered, be as careful as we may. So far therefore as it is by any means possible, I desire to be entirely assumed in advance. And in regard to the expense, which as by no means to be overlooked, every element of change or chance, seems in favor of wise delay. It is more ever to be borne in mind, that there is certain to remain when the building contract is closed, a great variety of details of construction and conveniance[sic] within the building to be planned and put in place, which will require time and thought and care. Indeed it has just now become apparent, that the relative positions of some important parts of the domestic appartments[sic] must be entirely changed, which will cause them to be remodeled to a great extent. In so large a structure, it is unfeasible to foresee every thing. It is as we leave the larger features, and turn to the details, that defects force themselves upon the attention. I have thus alluded to the subject of opening the College, not left in Justice to myself, to you, to the permanent intent of the College itself, than because of its bearing, when the special subject of organization, which wemeet especialy[sic] to discuss this morning. In doing this I have by no means lost sight of the fact, however perfect & unexeptional[sic] structure, and it aids and equipment may be, there is yet another vital step, when which in the end, the final success will turn - a defective organization or method, or a lack of the best ability, on the part of any of those who may be called to perform its functions, will cause the whole to fail. In this respect gentlemen, I have no partialities for persons, or means, save that they must be the very highest and best. I place the very strongest stress, upon this point. Let nothing of a personal nature, let no prejudice, and no [preprosessions], I intreat you, enter here. This institution as an impersonality, is the object of our care - we launch it for a blessing to all time. We have the world from which to choose our instruments. We each and all of us, as individuals, sink out of sight, in view of the … and greatness of this design. Let us forget men, forget prejudice, forget favor, forget every other consideration, while we plant this seed, whose branching shall be for the healing of the nations, and whose growth shall be perpetual. Scrutinize, sift, weight, guage[gauge] every proposition, every plan, every person, frankly, freely, and honestly. We can never afford to do this so well as now. When we shall have once acted, a correction afterwards, will invite a convulsion. In every instance, give the doubt to the College, and in favor of no method, and of no man, Be sure that the means and instruments, are carefully abreast of the magnitude of the endowments of the idea involved, and of the highest public expection[expectation], and be such that they may all grow and expand together. Among other things respecting the organization, I call your attention to the subject of the age, and requirements requisite to an entrance to the Institution, with the single remark, that both should be fixed at a period so early,as to preclude the necessity, of causing a schollar[sic] to begin her career, by unlearning, what may have been badly learnt elsewhere. Take your pupils from the threshold of study to the summit of knowledge, by your own paths, and you secure a higher result, with no less of either money or time, no half mother, can then claim any share, in the honors your graduates will wear. I regard this as a great oncoming, to pupil and parent alike, and as securing the advantage of an unbroken systematic training, which is the most valuable element in any educated life. In respect to the general system of the organization proposed by your President Mr. J, I heavily approve it - my attention was very much occupied during the summer, if indeed the whole year of 1862, with what is here spoken of as the university system. It was my great advantage to have had near me, and to have corresponded during that period, at very great length, with a gentleman quite familiar, with not only the theory, but to a great extent with the practice of that system, so that when one President returned from Europe, I was already prepared to advocate & urge, its induction here. While therefore, I regard this as a system as by no means a novelity[novelty], even in this country, I am not aware of its application to any such number of young women, as we hope to gather here. However, it is not easy to discover why a system already proven in its applicability to young men, upon a large scale, and to young women only upon a smaller one, is not capable of almost expansion. For myself, I have no fears, as to the success of the main features of this system. In regard to the details, I see about me too many experienced and educated gentlemen, to fear that any minor defects will escape attention or amendment. If there should be any grave doubts, even in reference to these points, I trustthere may be no such haste, as prevent this very deliberate consideration, and calm and intelligent settlement. Let no single point or subject, be passed as “well enough,” or as “one that will do.” When this matter is finaly[sic] dispated[dissipated] of, I shall not be sattisfied[sic], with any thing short, of the intelligent and personal endorsement, of the various members of this Board - every man judging this individual responsibility his conviction, that it is at all points the best than can be devised. Gentlemen while I do not anticipate nor desire any … to any appointments whatever at this meeting, I do with, to lay before you frankly, and as fully as may be, my views where the general subject of appointments, for your future reflection. It is my hope, it was my only hope and desire, indeed it has been the main incentive, to all I have already done, or may here after do, or hope to do, to inaugurate a new era, in the history and life of woman. The attempt you are to aid me in making, fails wholly of its points, if it be … an advance, and a decided advance. I wish to give one sex, all the advantages too long monopolised by the other - ours is, and is to be, an Institution for women - not men. In all its labors, positions, rewards, and hopes, the idea is the development and exposition, and the martialing[sic] to the front and to the preferment, of women, of this power, on every side, demonstrative of this equality with men. If possible, demonstrative of such capacity, as in certain fixed directions surpass, those of men. This I conceive, may be fully accomplished, within the national tenets of true womanliness, and with … the slightest reward, to the natural attractiveness of her character.We are indeed already defeated before we commence, if development be in the least dangerious[sic], to the dearest attributes of the class. We are not the less defeated, if it be hazardus[sic] for her to avail herself, of the highest educated power, when that point is gained. We are defeated, if we start upon the assumption that she has no power, save those she may derive or imitate, from the other sex. We are defeated, if we recognise the idea, that she may not with every propriety contribute to the world, the matured faculty which education evoked. We are specialy[sic] defeated, if we fail to express, on practical beliefs, in her preeminent power, as an instructor of her own sex especialy[sic]. Gentlemen. No superior power, has given, or will give us, an exclusive patent, for originating the utillity[sic] or genius of woman, out of nothing. We must proceed when the conviction, that these are in the world before us. We shall fail to make all coming women, which many already are. We can and still, fill up many valley, elevate many plains, and build higher many natural summits. But we can scarcely hope, that every future height shall wear one family crest alone. Go as fight as we may, or can hope to do, and genious[sic], which will not call on College Mothers, stand all the time abreast of us. It is my wish, to recognize not only the possibility, but the Fact, of that Genious[sic] and those high abilities, at the very outset. Let us prove the certainty, of woman’n higher possible future, by the best example, from the present. Let us recognize and honor, her existing talent ourselves, first, before we demand that recognition from the world. In my judgement, it is clearly due, to the idea whichunderlies our entire structure, that we do not hesitate here. Let us not add another, to the examples of mans want of generosity, or half-hearted recognition, of the power of one half of the world. We should be ashamed to do it at least under the mask of an Institution, which professes to be his peculiar champion, and which is to be dedicated to her benefit alone. We cannot hope to maintain our beliefs before the world, when we valiantly oppose it; to our practice. We are bound to act upon one profession, to illustrate one idea, at the very … and I need not mention that this idea, since the commencement of one enterprise, has unfolded itself immensely since we began. I have therefore no fear of its future, but if failure must ensue, when the development of womans faculties, then will the hand on the dial-plate of universal knowledge be set back, and she must make her way under the twilight of the horizon of her Lord and Master. Only aid me judicious, in the selection of the best instruments to be formed, amongst the highly educated and accomplished women of this country, and let her take the hazard, if there be one. I at least have gone too far already, to allow me shrink one instance, from shining or being intimidated by that risk. Let her at least share the most prominent & responsible position, in your gift, and let them be proffered her, accordingly and as her unquestioned rights. as far as she can fill them equaly[sic] to men. I share your time in omitting here, the great variety of reflections, which has brought me unhesitatingly to this point. They will doubly occur to you.I verryly[verily] believe a generous partition between the sexes of all the [professions] is due no less to the idea underlying this enterprise, than to woman herself, and to the immediate and permanent success of our efforts. [Inaugurate] woman’s elevation & power, genious[sic] and task, at the same moment, that you open the door to her sex for it is vain to elevate woman’s power of thought & then limit their [aspirations]. Give her a present confidence, and not push her back again upon a future hope. I have already staked my means, upon my belief in her present practical powers. Let the foremost women of our land, be among the most advanced and honored pilots, & guardians, of coming women, & of her posterity, and I cheerfully leave my name, to be associated with the research. I hesitate much, to urge this point, from any consideration of an economical nature. We must pay fairly, & even generously, whatsoever instruments we use, and yet the differences will occur to you at once. Nine male professors, or even six at any time, much more of the opening of our doors, will cause a perpetual drain upon our resources, we may wish we had avoided when too late. Now at least, it seems to me the dictate of the only enlightened prudence, to reduce that number by at least one half, and to concentrate their duties of supervision, and lectures, so that all the rest, may be left to the national province of woman, as distinctly hers. I have not the slightest fear, those may be found, fully equal to one half of the positions. Indeed we have the testimony of our President, that he finds the most distinguished student, and copyist, in Rome, to be an american woman and we also have this early recognition of the superior effectiveness of Miss Maria Mitchell. Music, languages, literature, the natural sciences, Hygiene, are her native elements, and she has not failed to reach the highest point, in astronomy & Mathematics. Against the time, when the subject of appointments, shall arrive, and even now, while the distribution of duties in the various departments, will receive your attention. I shall venture to refresh our memories in regard to the care to be taken, in the exclusion of sectarion[sic] influnces[sic], and to that end, that the appointees in every grade, shall fairly represent the principal Christian denominations among us. I would rather be remembered, as one who earnestly sought to fuse, the Christian element of the world into one grand Catholic body - of any rate, as one who has endevoured[sic] to remove all [barriers], rather than recognize or cherish any exclusively. As the legitimate and practicable result of this idea, I would on this point, invite to the College desk, on the days of public worship, alternately, the representatives of every christian church. I am assume that no difficulty need be apprehended, in effecting a permanent arrangement, of this kind, in this city. Let our pupils see and know, that beyond every difference, there is after all but one God, one Christ, one Gospel, and that the spires of whatsoever church, forever point towards one Heaven, and upon this point again, without disparagement to any other religions source, permits me to add, that the strongest incentives to goodniss[sic], and the most valuable religions tendency will be found to foermost[sic] of all, like an emanation, from the presence of gifted, cultivated, Christian, women. With these remarks, gentlemen, we turn to the more minute consideration, of the place of organization, which has brought us together this morning. I ask your deliberate counsel, nothing in haste, nothing premature, nothing in doubt, nothing rejected onlybecause it is old, nothing accepted only because it is new. It is this Institution that you are to launch - your reputation as well as mine is embarked, and I invoke a full expression of every individual opinion. Indeed our reputation are as nothing, in the grand success of this scheme if we equip and direct it as we must, for the most distant future. I am willing to take the fullest responsibility, of the positions I have advanced, but not in any one favor, nor in favor of any other individual, or plan, whatever, are your deliberate convictions to be suppressed. If upon any point, I seem to be in advance of any of you, that time will not be last, which may be necessary to bring us all abreast. Though no one of you can reilise[realize] the extent of my deep solicitude, that I may be shared by my Heavenly Father to see the final and successful achievements of a life, already prolonged. I still invoke deliberation, and not haste. And now Gentlemen Friends, I close these remarks by commending to your the words of our savior in the 26 chapt and 41 verse of my Christian name. It has not escaped my attention, Gentlemen, that after the completion of the College, and furnishing in every department, there will remain certain duties of a financial & business character to be provided as a permanency. At a future time I shall take pleasure in submitting to you my general views upon this head. This does not seem to be the moment to elaborate that subject and I therefore pass it for the present.Address of M Vassar Founder This address of 14 pages was Read at an [adjourned] meeting of the Board of Trustees in the city of Poughkeepsie. Feb. 23rd 1864 and ordered on file. C. Swan Sec
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Creator: Richards, B.
Date: February 23,1864
Text: New Hamburgh Feby 23 1864 Matthew Vassar Jr Esq Sir, Having heard that you offer at your Female College, very liberal terms to poor young Ladies who wish to qualify themselves for Teachers I would respectfully ask what your terms are, and whether you would take my Daughter for a term or two. As I am a poor man at present I am not able to support her at school myself. She has taught school for about two years in all and wishes to continue to teach but she is very anxious to qualify herself a...
Show moreNew Hamburgh Feby 23 1864 Matthew Vassar Jr Esq Sir, Having heard that you offer at your Female College, very liberal terms to poor young Ladies who wish to qualify themselves for Teachers I would respectfully ask what your terms are, and whether you would take my Daughter for a term or two. As I am a poor man at present I am not able to support her at school myself. She has taught school for about two years in all and wishes to continue to teach but she is very anxious to qualify herself a little more for the work I refer you to Walter Millard Esq of this (…) or to Lawyer (…) Anthony Esqr of Poughkeepsie for my Carmen. Very respectfully yours B Richards Answer Feby 24th- Cannot decide at present, must (…) of Board of Trustees, with (…) faculty. Study plan of organization to be out complete (…) fully he (…) my Institution is (…) to Completion, (…) ready in Fall or current season of (…) MVB. Richards New Hamburgh Feb 20 Application for Student
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Creator: Booth, Mary L.
Date: February 22, 1864
Text: (…) Madison Ave. New York, Feb. 22/64 Gentlemen, I have been requested by a friend to procure a prospectives of the Vassar Female College for a gentleman from South America, who is desirous of placing his daughter in that institution when it opens. If you will be kind enough to send me one, with any particulars of interest, you will greatly oblige. Yours respectfully, Mary L. BoothMary L Borth July 22, N. York Application for pupil

Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 3, 1864
Text: 3 February 1864 Dear Miss Davis, Yours of the 1st Current is before me Contents notice"-. You ask for information which I would with pleasure afford you if I could viz torma of Education pr' Year" the probable expense pr Year annual at V.F. College" for a schollar." The terms will be fixed at the Meeting of the Trustees in June next and be put at the lowest minimum, of course the inflation of expenses of living in these war times are great, but I pray that peace may...
Show more3 February 1864 Dear Miss Davis, Yours of the 1st Current is before me Contents notice"-. You ask for information which I would with pleasure afford you if I could viz torma of Education pr' Year" the probable expense pr Year annual at V.F. College" for a schollar." The terms will be fixed at the Meeting of the Trustees in June next and be put at the lowest minimum, of course the inflation of expenses of living in these war times are great, but I pray that peace may return before the College opens. I remain D? Miss D. Yours &c MV jMatthew Vassar j 198 b
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Creator: Davis, Ellen M.
Date: February 1, 1864
Text: Kingham, Feb. 11, 1864 Dear Mr Vassar: I received your kind letter on Thursday last, but have been prevented answering it until the present time, having been in the meantime preparing for, and ultimately conducting the quarterly public examination of my school. I wished very much to write to you at once. Will you please excuse me that I did not. I thank you, Sir, for the Reports. I have read them with much interest. When I wrote you I thought that one could not enter your College without the...
Show moreKingham, Feb. 11, 1864 Dear Mr Vassar: I received your kind letter on Thursday last, but have been prevented answering it until the present time, having been in the meantime preparing for, and ultimately conducting the quarterly public examination of my school. I wished very much to write to you at once. Will you please excuse me that I did not. I thank you, Sir, for the Reports. I have read them with much interest. When I wrote you I thought that one could not enter your College without the customarypreparation termed “fitting,” and also that it was expected of them to remain four years. Since you have told me that such a course is not insisted upon, but that a pupil may take up any branch that she may hitherto have had no opportunity to pursue, and continue in the Institution less time than the four specified years. I have decided that, of all Schools, I would rather attend yours: and if you will remember me, as you suggested, when the glad time of its commencement comes, I shall be proud to enter those Halls as one of the “original” members of Vassar Female College. In my wildest dreams of the future I had never anticipated such high distinction.And now, Sir, if it is not asking too much, will you please write me again, and tell me what will be the probable expense, per year, for me, at your school? I wish so much that I might see and converse with you on this subject, and on others relating to the time where I in common with many other grateful women shall enjoy the fruits of your magnificence. I am extremely sorry, Sir, that your health is not firm as you could wish. May God be with you, Sir, and may He restore to you that priceless soon if it can be His Will. And now, dear Sir, will you please accept my most heartfelt thanks for your kindness. God’s hand, I trust, directedme to you. My acquaintance with you marks an era in my existence. Henceforth my path shall be broader, and light shall illumine the darkness which I have felt in these many years. May God bless you, dear Mr Vassar Is the prayer of Your sincere friend Ellen M. Davis
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 1, 1864
Text: ) Po'keepsie Feb?" 1, 1864 My dear Miss Raymond Yours of the 25th ultimo came duly to hand - you needed no appology in thinking yourself "presumptious in making known to me your Wishes" if it was "a dream of life" for it was substantially for that pur- pose that the College was built and endowed viz to afford the most liberal education to the young women of America and at the lowest minimum coat £ and in special cases Beneficiaries will be received- The terms...
Show more) Po'keepsie Feb?" 1, 1864 My dear Miss Raymond Yours of the 25th ultimo came duly to hand - you needed no appology in thinking yourself "presumptious in making known to me your Wishes" if it was "a dream of life" for it was substantially for that pur- pose that the College was built and endowed viz to afford the most liberal education to the young women of America and at the lowest minimum coat £ and in special cases Beneficiaries will be received- The terms next noirt ensuing of tuition & Board will not be decided upon till jejune annual Meeting ■neiit oticuing. I shall place your frank & sensible letter on file to be r.efered to again at the proper time- I think you have done wisely 4e» ) in -e«fee*' entering Lake E. F. Seminary for a Year, what instruction you gain there will lesson your requirements in V.F.C The-fee-institution will be Xoandcd1 organlsed on the "University" plan, a full course 4 Years, but studies can enter for only if pupils are sufficiently advanced in their Education need a term of one A— year, and receive a diploma accordingly. Yours very Respectfully kc £Matthew Vassar , 197 a
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: January 28, 1864
Text: January 28 1864. Prof: M:B: Anderson L.L.D. My dear friend I am in receipt of your very kind and valued letter of the 25 Inst : and I scarcely know which most to approve, your sensible views upon the propriety of opening the College when the Building is finished or wait until our terrible national rebel- lion is put down. What we would gain on the one hand as you justly observe we might loose on the other, but shall use my endeavours to push forward the structure of the Building &...
Show moreJanuary 28 1864. Prof: M:B: Anderson L.L.D. My dear friend I am in receipt of your very kind and valued letter of the 25 Inst : and I scarcely know which most to approve, your sensible views upon the propriety of opening the College when the Building is finished or wait until our terrible national rebel- lion is put down. What we would gain on the one hand as you justly observe we might loose on the other, but shall use my endeavours to push forward the structure of the Building & appendages as fast as pos- sible avoiding extraordinary outlays. It is one thing to do these things well looking to their future duribality and another thing doing them imperfectly. It is a massive structure of Masonry, all inside parti- tions walls solid brick work, and will take at least one Summer to season thoroughly the whole: Thus far have allowed no fires inside the building, the walls are drying gradually, but still there is a cold damp- ness which it will take all of a Summer to remove. If in case we should open the College before it was thoroughly dry and extraordinary cases of sickness happen to the inmates it would be at once ascribed to the location especially by those who generally wish to look on the wrong side of competitors doings. It is true we could hasten the drying of the interior walls by our Steam heaters apparatus which we have decided upon with the Gass works to be placed in a Seperate building 200 feet from the main and 75 below the foundation of the walls. These buildings will be located on the rear in line with the Astronomical Observatory now under construction. I am glad to.: hear that your judgment indorses the wisdom of any course in the matter of completing the Structure &c at once, when that is done, we shall not be troubled with workmen & others on the premises & thus avoid I think both expense and annoyances. Our Executive Committee are now making out a Schedule of Furnitures that is wanted with other equipments &c, including the Professional houses which by the bye the latter admits consideration whether the College had better furnish those apartments or the Professors; some of them(: if we have men:) may have furnitures & family , and if Widow Ladies Teachers some may be thus Situated, also they may not all be Single Women. This is a question (furniture) of some importance 1st The owner would allways take better care of their own property than other peoples. 2 There might be some objection to the lugging of Furniture to and from into the building in case of removal to say nothing of its fitness, cleanliness &c. 3d It (if furnished by the College) would somewhat reduce the annual pay of the respective chairs. You knew our first plan was to build seperate houses for the Pro- fessors on the College ground, leaving the only Officers President & family in the Building - but I will not enlarge as I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you so very soon and at my own domicil. I only add that in a conversation with Prof. Jewett the other day I believe he is half persua- ded to have all female Professorships & teacher if they are to be had of a high order. Let us all deliberate well upon this point. I regard it as a very important consideration. I send you pr mail a Sheet contain- ing an article from the Ladys Book January number, read it & let me know what you think of it. I remain* Yours very truly M. Vassar P.S. Call on your way on Monday upon Docr Magoon and take a look at his collections of Fine Arts, then you & him take the Cars at 3 P.M. and on your arrival at 6 o'clock take a Hack at Depot and come directly to my house M.V#
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: January 26, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie January 26tjl 1864 My Dear Miss Davis Your frank, and soul stirring letter of the 23 inst is at hand mental and its contents are only another proof of the want of some^medium whereby the craving desires, of so many of your sex can be gratified. to It was this very idea to afford '"Woman" an opportunity to help herself may that she -will do it - and that as well as Men, but being created after Man, desired thus too have he has in all ages. obliged her to become...
Show morePoughkeepsie January 26tjl 1864 My Dear Miss Davis Your frank, and soul stirring letter of the 23 inst is at hand mental and its contents are only another proof of the want of some^medium whereby the craving desires, of so many of your sex can be gratified. to It was this very idea to afford '"Woman" an opportunity to help herself may that she -will do it - and that as well as Men, but being created after Man, desired thus too have he has in all ages. obliged her to become second to him in all departments of life .while the Creator only intended her to be a help mate to him, not he hasAmost countrie hia Servant or Slave, he hasAmost countries made her his Slave. I will place your intelligent note on file and when our College open (Spring '65) will endeavour to find a possition for you in some one of the department of Studies, for I cannot believe that a Lady manifesting such intense thirst for human knowledge would prove a drone in the hive of any Institution.Your case meets the primary object for which V.F.C. was^fes designed, vis to furnish an education M the highest mental instruction to those you were hungering & thirsting for such Knowledge, Our College enter it is founded upon the University plan, any pupil canover the age of 12 years, and may learn such branches of Study as she or her guardians choose. The s whole course ^f Ctudica would occupy ordinaryly 4 Years, but any special given branches which she prefer to attain of Course will be grantod and she can the remain in College only one Year receiving a diplomata for what Studies 194 a Jan. 26, 1864 - 2 she has mastered. My health is such I do not as not to permit'me to go abroad, therefore could not meet your proposed appointment I send you a brief sketch of the proceedings of the first Board of Trustees, and a Copy of Pres. Jewett professional tour to Europe I single would send our plan on "Organisation" but have not a copy left. Now Dear Miss D I avail myself of the permission suggested in your kind let- you ter, "not to denyAthe Means needed" without the best of reasons," and that is suhstantialy this, that I have pledg" myself to God, and Country women, to Build \ eqtlp and endow an Institution for "Woman", and I dare other not allow myself to turn aside from this purpose for any.earthly object. I am dr Madame ^Matthew Vassar 1
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