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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: January 25, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie January 25" 1864. My dear Mrs Hale I am in receipt of your Kind & valued note p" President Jewett of the 19" Current and have read over and given your suggestions the most profound consideration. At the incipient stage of the contem- plated scheme (Vassar F. College) before lisping the idea to any mortal, I first conferred with my friend Prof. Jewett whom had been extensively engaged at the South in the Education of Ladies, and from whom I notnly received a...
Show morePoughkeepsie January 25" 1864. My dear Mrs Hale I am in receipt of your Kind & valued note p" President Jewett of the 19" Current and have read over and given your suggestions the most profound consideration. At the incipient stage of the contem- plated scheme (Vassar F. College) before lisping the idea to any mortal, I first conferred with my friend Prof. Jewett whom had been extensively engaged at the South in the Education of Ladies, and from whom I notnly received a full indorsement of my views, but he largely contributed to aid me in its further develope- ment & thus resulted in my poor endeavours to do what I intimated at my brief opening address at the February meeting 61. I only add that our Executive Committee has au- thorized the publication of the article in the January Number of your Ladys Book that is, our secular paper has solicited the permission thus signifying the interest they take in theview of the article, by republishing it at their own Cost. The subject of Women Professors & Teachers is now fairly before our Trustees, who at their Meeting 23d proximo will report their views, and decide if it can be safely adopted in our College at the opening. The only question that can possibly arise, is whether we can obtain prominent destinguished Ladies instructors to fill the several chairs. Miss Maria Mitchell of Nantucket had been named by a gentleman of our Board of Trustees as Professor of Astronomy, but the planing & erection of the Ob- servatory having been under the Superintendance of Professor Farrar late of Elmira Female College N. Y., it is thought that the chair may be offered to him. Yours very truly & respectfully M. Vassar
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Creator: Raymond, Mary C.
Date: January 25, 1864
Text: Lake Erie Seminary, Painesville Lake Co. Ohio, Jan 25, 1864 Matthew Vassar, Sir, desk. Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Dear Sir, Your kindness in answering my letter of inquiry relative to the Vassar Female College, addressed to you from Bowling Green, Wood Co, O. encourages me to write again. I would beg not to be thought presumptive if I venture to make a few brief personal statements. I am now twenty years old, and when the Vassar University shall be opened, I will be in my twenty-second year, but...
Show moreLake Erie Seminary, Painesville Lake Co. Ohio, Jan 25, 1864 Matthew Vassar, Sir, desk. Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Dear Sir, Your kindness in answering my letter of inquiry relative to the Vassar Female College, addressed to you from Bowling Green, Wood Co, O. encourages me to write again. I would beg not to be thought presumptive if I venture to make a few brief personal statements. I am now twenty years old, and when the Vassar University shall be opened, I will be in my twenty-second year, but apprehend that I may not be able to enter the school at that time, on account of limited means.It would be accomplishing, or rather, realizing The “Dream of my life,” to become a successful student in this great school, since from childhood it has been my constant desire to acquire a thorough, and liberal education, and, until recently every avenue to the partial & final attainment of this desire, has been closed. My father thinks it is one of the greatest evidences of both moral and intellectual progress, that such a University has been founded for the education of young ladies, and often has he remarked that he would send me there, if he could only obtain the adequate means. It is this want of means, which will probably defect my hopes of obtaining and education. Pardon me,for pursuing details so closely. I have a brother who would gladly assist me, but will not be able to do so, at the opening of the University. Under existing circumstances I can think of no greater or better resource, than to appeal to your manganimity, so striking by demonstrated by that unequaled gift, bestowed by you upon the young women of your land, and here it may be proper to add, that I am only one of the multitude whose hearts overflow with gratitude to the Founder of the Vassar Female College. If my father should be able to return an advance, (with interest,) made by you to him, in two years from the time of the advance so made, would you favor him? I have heard myfather suggest such a proposition. I have entered the Lake Erie Female Seminary, for one year, so that I may be better prepared for an entrance into the University at Poughkeepsie, if I should ultimately go there, the board and tuition is $90 dollars per year. This school is conducted in the Mount Holyoke system. Asking pardon for trespassing upon your time, also for the freedom with which I have given so many particulars, I am, Very respectfully Yours, Mary C. Raymond.
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Creator: Davis, Ellen M.
Date: January 23, 1864
Text: Kingham, Ms. Jan. 23, 1864 Dear Sir: Will you permit me, though we have never met, to address you? I know you to be the earnest, warm-hearted friend of all young women who have chosen Wisdom’s Way for their Life Path: and, as such an one I would come to you. You have done, for my sex, that which calls forth our deepest, sincerest gratitude, and which shall perpetuate in our heads- and not only ours, but is those of generations to come your revered memory. What a source of unalloyed pleasure...
Show moreKingham, Ms. Jan. 23, 1864 Dear Sir: Will you permit me, though we have never met, to address you? I know you to be the earnest, warm-hearted friend of all young women who have chosen Wisdom’s Way for their Life Path: and, as such an one I would come to you. You have done, for my sex, that which calls forth our deepest, sincerest gratitude, and which shall perpetuate in our heads- and not only ours, but is those of generations to come your revered memory. What a source of unalloyed pleasure it must be to you, to feel that, from this time onward there shall be many, many heartsthrobbing with the vitality which your munificence has given them the power to awaken and sustain. How many women of these United States, shall, in the days to come, take your name upon their lips- tearfully- and thankfully. And who shall estimate the eternal difference which your generosity shall make, not only to these, but to those who, in God’s Providence shall be entrusted to their keeping. Oh, Sir, you have done a noble work! May your life long be spared that you may see somewhat of its glorious results. It is because I know that I shall have your welcome sympathy that I presume to write you. I know that you will not think lightly nor unappreciatingly of what I, in all earnestness of soul, wish to ask you, nor write me a neg-active reply without the best of reasons. And so, Sir, if you will overlook the fact that we are, in reality, entire strangers, and consider me, on behalf of my sex, a grateful friend, as I regard you a kind benefactor, I shall feel that I am permitted to tell you what shall follow, and, as briefly as I can, that I may not presume on your time, not weary you. I am twenty-three years of age. Ten years ago my Father died, and left my Mother and myself without any income. My Mother kept me at school two years, for two years I performed manual labor, and for the last six I have taught in the public schools of this place, without intermission- forty-four weeks each year. In these years I havedesired, more than I can tell you to be acquiring the education of which my early misfortunes deprived me. I have studied by myself to some extent, but find it unsatisfactory in many respects, and excessively wearing to my nervous system, after the labors of the day. I have tried to lay aside enough to pursue my studies in some school- but I have been able to lay aside but fifty-five dollars. For I have never had a larger salary than two-hundred and fifty dollars, and, for more than a year after the war commenced, but two-hundred and twelve: and this to cover every expense. I presume that you will not wonder that I have not accumulated more. Indeed, I have needed what I have laid aside, many times.And now, Sir, I have come to the conclusion that it is useless, longer to expect, myself, to be able, ever to be so circumstanced that I can leave my daily labor and obtain that for which my soul incessantly longs. But I cannot relinquish these strong desires, because they seem to have become a part of my very life. I wrote something of my heart, a few days since (Jan. 4th) to a gentleman in New York City a celebrated inventor, but whom I had never seen, and since then, at his appointment have had an interview with him in Boston, and he promised me that he would pay half the expense of a Normal Course, if some other person would defray the other half.I have no friend who has the ability, that I can ask, therefore I pray you do not deem it rude that I have turned to you. The other gentleman, whose name I will give you if you wish, seemed to regard it in no other way than as handball, and not unreasonable. I have given the Normal Course the preference to others for several reasons. The expenses are lighter there than at most schools, tuition being free, and somewhat of aid being appropriated by the state for necessitous pupils. Then, too, the course extends through but a year and a half, and as I am older than the majority of female students, that is a consideration. Of course I should not think, at my age, of fitting for and entering college, although at an earlier period, I should have beenmuch gratified, could I have done so So I have decided that if it is possible, I will enter the Westfield Normal School at the commencement of the next term, in March. I am impatient to begin, for my days are “going on.” I am somewhat indisposed, the result of continuous application, and am hoping to take a few weeks rest, during next month, by putting a substitute in my place at school. I expect to spend a few days with friends at New York, and if you would rather see me before you decide (what I believe I have after all, only intimated, but which you will understand) I will meet you, at your appointment. I have written at much greater length than I had intended. I trust you will excuse1864 Ellen M. Davis 26 January Answered 28 me. Dear Sir, may I expect an early reply? I cannot tell you how grateful I will be. I await with solicitude. May God guide and bless you, Sir, Yours Truly Ellen M. Davis
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: January 19, 1864
Text: Poughkeepsie January 19tJl 1864, Prof: M.B. Anderson LLD My dear friend It is told of one just from Emerald Is^, that some dock sharper sold him an Owl for a parrot, in passing to his Boarding house a gentleman inquired of Pat what he had there, a parrot your honor, Well, can he talk much, not yet your honor but he will shortly be after it, for he keeps up a good deal of thinking. Now I am much in the same predicament as the Irishmans Parrot with large glossy eyes waiting for twilight to set...
Show morePoughkeepsie January 19tJl 1864, Prof: M.B. Anderson LLD My dear friend It is told of one just from Emerald Is^, that some dock sharper sold him an Owl for a parrot, in passing to his Boarding house a gentleman inquired of Pat what he had there, a parrot your honor, Well, can he talk much, not yet your honor but he will shortly be after it, for he keeps up a good deal of thinking. Now I am much in the same predicament as the Irishmans Parrot with large glossy eyes waiting for twilight to set in so that I can see for I have been so long Surrounded with the brillancy of professional acuraen, that I have almost lost all my common Sense, Now that our College Edifice is drawing near to completion, and Outbuildings & ornamental grounds finished up or at least will be by the ensuing fall; The subject of fur- nishing & opening the College begins to engross our attention. We and physical possibly could by strong pressure of our mental muscles get prepared to fix the day on the Is*' September next, but this must be accomplished by stirring & active efforts and at the sacrifice of 30 to 40 per Cent advance for war prices on all its interior equipments, beds & bedding, furnitures, Kitchen & Culinary appendages; the question therefore to determine is shall we go on regardless of difference in values between peace & war times or wait quietly a year or two for the suppression of the rebellion & return of Specie Currency. True our assets (some of them) are inflated by this paper currency & will go down on the return of peace but not equal to the amount of other kind of values. Our Col- lege assets will now average an interest of 7 pc. Pr annum, would it last be wise therefore to take the eggs out of their nest & put them into Brickf Stone & Mortar. Prof Jewett is rather a "Young America", he is for going ahead, our Executive Committee with myself are for going slow, sure & Strong, looking forward not for one day only but for generations after us, that is lay our foundation so deep that it will endure for ages, not Kill the Goose for the sake of her golden egg. I suppose you have been informed by Prof. Jewett of our contemplated meeting next month, with its business objects, the chief of which will be the adoption of his plan of Organization, and perhaps there may be some attempts at Official appointments. Well, are you prepared to meet these questions. I shall oppose all appointment that involves Out=goes too early, and I am not so sure but some other system can be adopted whereby fixed emoluments to Professors & others may be substituted for a working sliding scale, it is much more easy to follow in the wake of old Customs, than to strike out new ones. The present age has unfolded if not new things a new way of doing old ones. Once the old Stage Coach had its rule of fares regulated according to the distance travelled, now the modern nOmnibussesn regards not space but fix the fares long or short at one price. The modern hotels charges for what you order not for what you eat, and the house is furnished by the owner with all its equipments to the Landlord, and he sails the ship, how would some such plan work for our College, the Trustees furnish & rent the buildings & appurtenances to one, two or more Pro- fessors or Educators at a certain percentage on each pupil over a minimum number. I have not fixed the Rule but it should necessarily be on a Sliding scale; on this principal also the Educational department may be based, similar to the present ''University" plan, impart to the pupils what learning they are able to pay for & give them Diplomas for what they have learnt. The truth is this age are rapidly throwing aside old forms & Customs and adopting systems more in harmony with the genius of the american people; but I have wrote enough to tire you I fear, allow me just to say that I have read your articles in the Examiner on the con- dition of english Society &c with much interest, and shall preserve them to read over again at another day. Hoping to see you at or before the February meeting I remain Truly yours M. Vassar PS. I have thrown out the above hints on the College Organization, Professors &c at random, because I know you to be well posted on these subjects, and may have learnt something during your late tour in Europe M.V.turn over When you come to the february meeting, please to make my domicil your quarters for the time being. If you take the Hudson River Cars on Monday I will meet you at the depot at any hour you name to arrive r ■ * I expect or at least shall invite D.. Magoon to be our guest on that occasion. Yours &c M V
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Creator: Livingston, Martha E.
Date: December 13, 1863
Text: 1863 Martha E. Livingston Monroe City Michigan Solicits to be admittedMonroe Mich Dec 13th, 1863 Dear Sir While reading the New York Advocate and family Guardian I observed your liberality in the donation of the Young Ladies Seminary. My Sister and myself desirous of finishing our education. Our parents not being able without embarrassing themselves we would like to become inmates of your institute if you would be kind enough to lit us enough to let us know what the conditions would be?...
Show more1863 Martha E. Livingston Monroe City Michigan Solicits to be admittedMonroe Mich Dec 13th, 1863 Dear Sir While reading the New York Advocate and family Guardian I observed your liberality in the donation of the Young Ladies Seminary. My Sister and myself desirous of finishing our education. Our parents not being able without embarrassing themselves we would like to become inmates of your institute if you would be kind enough to lit us enough to let us know what the conditions would be? Monroe City is our Native place youcan have any satisfaction concerning our character if requisite. herewith I enclose a postage stamp Yours truly Martha Livingston Direct to Martha E. Livingston Monroe City Michigan Answered 17 January like Goodrich’s
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: October 24, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie Saturday P M. Oct? 24th 1863 ProfFM. P. Jewett My very dear friend Your kind and candid note of six pages was received this morning and I have given it as careful perusal and consideration as my health and \\fe^X office dutys to-day would admit,--- And in reply, I am first constrained to say, your want of experience in those matters which it chiefly embrac**- seemed to carry the idea that it is only to will and it is done, to command and there it stands fast- you forget thatds...
Show morePoughkeepsie Saturday P M. Oct? 24th 1863 ProfFM. P. Jewett My very dear friend Your kind and candid note of six pages was received this morning and I have given it as careful perusal and consideration as my health and \\fe^X office dutys to-day would admit,--- And in reply, I am first constrained to say, your want of experience in those matters which it chiefly embrac**- seemed to carry the idea that it is only to will and it is done, to command and there it stands fast- you forget thatds much time taken up unavoidably in preliminaries, before the work can commence, He is a wise man who first sit down to count the cost before he begins to build his house and well considers his plans &c. As an illustration think of the amount of debates, opinions &c &c growing out of the apparent simple location of the Gate Lodges, which by-the-by, your consel with the Executive Committee reccommendations took up several con- secutive weeks, waiting the plans of Daniels & Renwick, and then con- sider the time consumed in settling upon the Buildings to be erected for Heating & Lighting the College &c — You know or at least ought to know, that I have always streniously urged and advocated the policy (for the past year) of expending the College funds in all neccessary & indispensable departments as fast as possible as they then was commanding advanced values, — - besides I was extremely anxious to press forwards not only to get our funds into Bricks Mortar &c, but to finish all the material structures to save other expenses and turn the current the other way, vizi, earning an income in its educational departments.- With due difference to your superior judgement in these latter matters, am I willing to yield, but in those of general buisness character, you nor any other man shall-3»# dictate to me my duty. Your life and exper- ience has been one ofan educational type- mine of buisness in general, you are practicaly in your calling- I in mine, and I allow no man to coerce or dictate to me in my course of policy. Your desires and ambition appears to be baised entirely on the relations which the College will sustain to the present - mine to the present and future. You are for doing things up in (comparatively) in a day, I am for com- pleting firmly, and leave the gloryfication of it to future generations----- present You seem to predicate your idea upon the fact of its moral influences, but I would respectfully ask wether there will not be "precious souls to be saved after you and I are gone to our final resting places. You urge the opening of the College in fall !64, that the founder may see the fruits of his labours to nhis honor & happiness11, surely if any human eyes would desire to see this consumation mine much more so, Generaly my fellow creatures give their wealth to charitable objects after their discease, but I have been permitted thru God to cast my Bread upon the Waters while I live, and you are now Lecturing me why I don't give it faster —If for the good of the enterprise, I to forego am willing the pleasure of seeing the College in opperation - shurely you ought not to complain. -*- Your simile as applied to me in a California Gold Mill is nonesense. You take it for granted I have built the mill to grind your Grist only- I pray its benefits will extend far and wide, Another argument you propound for my con- sideration nThe happiness I will have to walk out, over the broad grounds and inspect and suggest improvements &c &c. You seem not to consider that I am an old man nearly 72 years of age, and subject to much more than the ordinary infirmities of age, but suffering with bodly as well as mental weakness- especialy when over-taxed- It was only Thursday I came home took my bed at 7 P.M. could neither sleep nor rest, partly on account of a physical ailment, which troubls me much when I taxed too much.-- But to return again to some of your Questions,- You seem to forget, that I am not the owner of theCollege funds. I have no more right how and when to use them than any other man on the Ex Com-—True out of respect to the Founder they have often yielded this own judgement but I was not therefore willing to abuse it. I am unwilling to exact a tame submission to my authority. I have no more official power than any other of my associates, and thus why should I place myself in an attitude to offend them thus You say the College has lost money by delays an every thing is now clearer. Ah my dear Sir you have discovered the fact after,and not before it happened. Why did you not tell the Committee that every article of building was going to grow clear and clearer after [] was declared. Did you do so? the fact, shows the contrary. Did not all stocks and all security decline? Did we the Committee not sell our first year funds to meet College payments, below par, have we not made up the losses and much more beside by not going faster? You forget the financial interest of the College we have more than made up our loss by keeping along moderately. but you say too slow. Now as you have alluded to a financial authority [P.G.V.} you say there will be a greater inflation of prices next summer, now I think so too, and stocks at least some of them will perhaps be doubled in value and if this should be so why spend our funds so rapidly and especially when you have to pay 30 to 40 percent more for what you buy? My dear Mr Jewett I cannot pursue my thoughts any further my eyes grow dim and brain hot— You seem to argue with me if I could do miracles, but I cannot do more than I have- Do come and help, I am willing to surrender all up to the Executive & your- self. In the name of Heaven do come and give a hand to the work, talk to com. as you have wrote me, and if I have wrote any thing in this hurried moment forgive me if it is offensive I remain my D^ear Sir Yrs. truly M Vassar
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: October 6, 1863
Text: ^ Poughkeepsie Octr 6" 1863. My dear Miss Towne. Yours of the 3r Current is just received and in reply would first commend you for the frankness expressed regard- ing yourself and the anxious fervor you have to become a pupil in the V\,F, College. I shall do all I can to meet your wishes, shall place your letter on file to be referred to again a few months before the Col- lege opens. Your Suggestions on organization had been anticipated and distribution made far and wide of our Plans ...
Show more^ Poughkeepsie Octr 6" 1863. My dear Miss Towne. Yours of the 3r Current is just received and in reply would first commend you for the frankness expressed regard- ing yourself and the anxious fervor you have to become a pupil in the V\,F, College. I shall do all I can to meet your wishes, shall place your letter on file to be referred to again a few months before the Col- lege opens. Your Suggestions on organization had been anticipated and distribution made far and wide of our Plans & purposes, we have no fears of want of patronage, already we have more applicants than the College can accomodate,, We are now busy with the 'Observatory"Gate Lodges &x &c the College proper is nearly completed- there is some more Outer building to be erected Gass & Steam buildings for warming & lighting the College. The School in one sense is not in my hands, still my wishes are generally met in regard to every thing connected with the enterprise, I shall do all I can to second your views & purposes when the time arrives to act, which will be perhaps six months before Commence- ment. respectfully. P.S„ Since penning the above memory is refreshed that I had a note from you in 1861 which I believed I answered at the time. I send by today's mail President Jewetts visit to Europe--- cMatthew Vassar . 173 h .30*
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Creator: Towne, Mary
Date: October 5, 1863
Text: Vernon Oct 5th 1863 Mr Vassar dear Sir, I want to write you a very familiar letter but how can I- it seems like the rich man and (…) I am afraid to look up- please be patient with me a moment- I will soon come to the worst- I received a paper last winter from Poughkeepsie- I discovered with indignation that some persons prophecy your College a failure. I pray that Mr Vassar will not for an instant be grieved or discouraged- Let me give you a specimen of my diplomacy- when this cruel war is...
Show moreVernon Oct 5th 1863 Mr Vassar dear Sir, I want to write you a very familiar letter but how can I- it seems like the rich man and (…) I am afraid to look up- please be patient with me a moment- I will soon come to the worst- I received a paper last winter from Poughkeepsie- I discovered with indignation that some persons prophecy your College a failure. I pray that Mr Vassar will not for an instant be grieved or discouraged- Let me give you a specimen of my diplomacy- when this cruel war is over which soon will be send your Report on Organization which I have just received to the Governor of every State from the Atlantic slope to the Pacific border and from Greenland to the Cape Horn and don’t forget the West Indies. If it can only commence with the patronage of the great and powerful the college will immediately stand alone- yes it will run- then if heaven be willing you will soon hear as the Soldiers say we are a coming Father Abraham six hundred thousand men- which may God grant now I will explain to you as the Edicts says the Situation I exceedingly want to graduate your College in Mathematics French and Latin that would take all the time I could afford to spare, for only think Mr Vassar I have already arrived at the advanced age of twenty-four school has been my ideal these long years, I wish it had come into existence a few years sooner I should have been happy to have graduated in every department, but now it is not passable. I know the school is not in your hands, but I have written to you because I had faith in you, I cannot enter the school unless I go in under your patronage ifMr Vassar will give me admission as the first applicant (and you know the first applicant should not go in as a bigger) I think I could graduate in these studies in one year, then give me the privilege of teaching in your institution as an assistant till I have paid the uttermost farthing- I can bring all the testimonials you require, if I am asking to much of you, will you please ask Mr Jewett to answer this and oblige Mary T Towne Oneida Castle1863 Mary S. Towne Oneida Castle Oct 5th Answered 7 Oct
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868, Murphy, O.
Date: September 16, 1863
Text: Sept. 16" 1863 This may certify that I Matthew Vassar Founder of the Vassar Female College in consideration of the privileges and benefits designed to inure to a certain class of pupils as beneficiary? in said College to the extent of the funds set apart for that object, It is my wish and I do hereby commend to the Trustees of said College, my young friend Elocy Kate Murphy daughter of Olivia & John Murphy to receive on her arriving at proper age a thorough education at said College...
Show moreSept. 16" 1863 This may certify that I Matthew Vassar Founder of the Vassar Female College in consideration of the privileges and benefits designed to inure to a certain class of pupils as beneficiary? in said College to the extent of the funds set apart for that object, It is my wish and I do hereby commend to the Trustees of said College, my young friend Elocy Kate Murphy daughter of Olivia & John Murphy to receive on her arriving at proper age a thorough education at said College free of charge. The said E. Kate Murphy being at this date about 3 years of age Matthew Vassar 173 a
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: August 27, 1863
Text: rAug. 27, 1863 j Miss Caroline E. Williams Leavenworth Kansas Dear Madam. Absence from the city for a few weeks last past has prevented an earlier reply to your note of the 19 inst. The College is in rapid progress of construction, but by the terms of the Builders contract will not be completed ready for opening before Sep 1864, before which time circulars will be issued setting for terms & conditions &c I send you two Phamplets just issued - one containing the system of organisation,...
Show morerAug. 27, 1863 j Miss Caroline E. Williams Leavenworth Kansas Dear Madam. Absence from the city for a few weeks last past has prevented an earlier reply to your note of the 19 inst. The College is in rapid progress of construction, but by the terms of the Builders contract will not be completed ready for opening before Sep 1864, before which time circulars will be issued setting for terms & conditions &c I send you two Phamplets just issued - one containing the system of organisation, the other the PresJ Professional tour io Europe Yrs &e [Matthew Vassar 3 110 a
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: August 13, 1863
Text: Hamilton Aug. 13. 1863. Matthew Vassar Esqr. Dear Sir I have to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from you some time with enclosure. My acceptance of the enclosure can only be temporary, & from force of circumstances, which now promise to be but of that [duration[. Mr Jewett and succeeded in insulting me quite grossly before your letter arrived, so I was not surprised at its tone. Upon Mr Jewett formal pledge to alter nothing materially in the plan of organization, which upon his...
Show moreHamilton Aug. 13. 1863. Matthew Vassar Esqr. Dear Sir I have to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from you some time with enclosure. My acceptance of the enclosure can only be temporary, & from force of circumstances, which now promise to be but of that [duration[. Mr Jewett and succeeded in insulting me quite grossly before your letter arrived, so I was not surprised at its tone. Upon Mr Jewett formal pledge to alter nothing materially in the plan of organization, which upon his importunity I made out for him. I wrote you a private letter, concerning the authorship of the plan. But I find the plan as now …, … mangled, and defaced, and smooch added which is crude and impeachable, & wholly ridiculous; that in justice to myself, I must gather the misshapen abortion upon Mr Jewett. How much he knew of the principles and detail of the system which he now proferses to understand as well, [due to damage unrecognizable] obtained his knowledge as revealed in the “plan,” you and I both know. But as he has reported and reproduced these principles and details, his “plan” is full of blunder; and as a working schedule wholly impracticable. In a word “what is good is not new, and what is new is not good,” and it is first such a … affair, as from his correspondence with me I was led to expect, and from which I tried in vain to save him. now the thing is out, and challenges criticism it shall have mine as freely as it … it. had as soon as I get time, I shall … through the public …, and over my own signature, one or more letter to your Trustees, upon the history, and defect of the plan of organization as submitted to them. My respect to My Amanda. The will fund in one of my articles to Harper, for next month (Sept) under the head of Religious Life of the new slave, something to amuse her Very Respectfully Char. A. Raymond.Ch. A. Raymond Hamilton Aug, 13th 1863 Anewed 9 Sept Lee Copy Books
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: July 10, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie July 10,1863 Miss Christine M Benedict DF Christine. Your truly interesting and discriptive note of your own history is before me, and I loose no time to reply, and first I deeply sympathise with you. The reminisinces of your past life are truly touching to my heart. I shall take the matter into early con- sideration and give you a position in our College as one of our benifi- claries as soon as opened which will not be before the fall 1863. The Building is finely progressing but...
Show morePoughkeepsie July 10,1863 Miss Christine M Benedict DF Christine. Your truly interesting and discriptive note of your own history is before me, and I loose no time to reply, and first I deeply sympathise with you. The reminisinces of your past life are truly touching to my heart. I shall take the matter into early con- sideration and give you a position in our College as one of our benifi- claries as soon as opened which will not be before the fall 1863. The Building is finely progressing but its magnitude & terms of Builders contract will not put it into the Trustees hands before that time- Your references of character &c will be needed, which you can forward me at any time and I will place them and your name on file- I remain r D Madam Yours &c MV jMatthew Vassar 3 269 fe . 29«
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Creator: Benedict, Christine M.
Date: July 4, 1863
Text: 1863 Miss Christine Benedict Charlottsville Schohane Co July 8 Answered July 9 see within Charlottesville July 8th 1863 Mr. Matthew Vassar, Dear Sir, Pardon the liberty a stranger takes in writing to you. I feel that I am about to do a strange action that perhaps you will not approve, nevertheless I crave your time and attention, for a perusal of this letter also for a consideration of the contents. I have long thought of writing to you, have at different times commenced letters but as often...
Show more1863 Miss Christine Benedict Charlottsville Schohane Co July 8 Answered July 9 see within Charlottesville July 8th 1863 Mr. Matthew Vassar, Dear Sir, Pardon the liberty a stranger takes in writing to you. I feel that I am about to do a strange action that perhaps you will not approve, nevertheless I crave your time and attention, for a perusal of this letter also for a consideration of the contents. I have long thought of writing to you, have at different times commenced letters but as often as I have done so has my heart failed, and I have given up in despair. Now with God’s help I shall write also send this letter and anxiously and prayerfully wait for an answer to the same. It may perhaps be well before stating my thoughts. I give you a chart sketch of my life, this I feel more willing to do as I have to day read yours. The first three years of my life were spent in an adjoining (…)this state they were filled with a (…) that perhaps it would not be well to place in a matter of fact letter, there are I will pass them over. At the age of three I was taken what I considered a great distance for my parent (or those that I considered as uncle, and the only ones I ever knew immigrated to the prairie lands of Iowa. For two years we lived there happily, then Consumption breathed upon one gentle mother, and she died, brothers and sisters followed, until of a large family only four remained, two of them were married and I only was left at home. Father was a very poor illiterate man, he was soon (…) into a marriage with an unprincipled widow, then commenced my troubles, for several years I face everything but death from her and her children. At the age of nine, one cold new years morning I left home forever. My sister found and (…) me to return to her home. I arrived in time to receive her farewell wishes. Brother then took me home with him. I had nearly imbibed a desire for knowledge. Brotherwas illiterate he cared for money, but not for learning and as I was not his own sister he did not sympathize with me. he had had (…). At the age of eleven, with a small bundle all my earthly possessions. I started for my birth place. None of my friends recognized me, some were to proud, and some too poor. At length one one of the later out of pity took me in. I went to school for two months the first time in my life but I was the best reader in school. I learned that myself with Mothers early help. I would also write. I learned that by taking a spelling book and making the letters on a flat stone. I then went among strangers and commenced trying to get an education, with Gods help I have partially succeeded. Days I have worked for food and nights for knowledge. Sometimes I have overtaxed myself and on recovering from a bout of sickness to find myself involved in debt, have felt like doing as did God (…) advise him, “Curse God and die.” For the past four years, I have been teaching and attending school. For the last two I have been to the N. Y. Conference Learning. Atpresent I am teaching one mile and a half from the (…) I take two studies and go down twice every day to recite. I have given you this brief (…) to show you that I was no drone. In education I must and will have I am not content to take up with the superficial knowledge obtained at the Seminaries, and a partial knowledge would not do for me, for I must get my living by my education. I have long been writing for an opening where I could get an education and also a name. Several time since, a friend sent me the history of a female college in Poughkeepsie saying it was just the place for me, so it is, but I do not (…) the very open for me to go there I am in debt here, and by the time school opens I will not, if I do my best be more than prepared to go with no wrong or but little ahead. I worked to make some arrangements for going, and knowing you was the founder thought you would be the one to apply to. My preparation is thiswill you make arrangements at the College for me to enter at the commencement, and either work my way through or take a course of study and pay afterward, or will you advance me the money and let me pay you after I have completed my education. You will think this a strange request coming as it does from a stranger, but it is the only thing I can do. I tis my last hope. Mr Vassar if you will do this God will bless you for it, for he answers prayers and I shall pray for you. If you will do this, you will never have cause to repent for I will make myself a name that (…) be known for and never. I can do it, for, “Perseveratia Omnia Vincit.” I speak this early because it is very necessary that my arrangements should be completed by fall, I do not ask you to do this merely on my story, but if you will answer this letter I will then satisfy you as to myself, by placing you in correspondence with other or by bringing certificates for those whoseyou would not doubt. Please answer this at your earliest possible convenience,f or if I can come I wish to prepare. Perhaps we could make arrangements that would be satisfactory both to you and to myself. I shall wait very anxiously for an answer. Direct to Charlottesville (…) Co. Hoping you will pardon this liberty and write soon. I am, Respectfully Christine M Benedict Matthew Vassar Esq
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: July 6, 1863
Text: VASSAR FEMALE COLLEGE Poughkeepsie, N.Y. July 6, 1863 Rev, S. S. Cutting My dear Sir Your kind note enclosed to me by Mr. Phinney came to hand this morning, and the subject to which it refers will be laid before our Board at their next meeting and a consideration given to it which its importance demands I regret exceedingly that my poor health will not admit my making thiscommunication verbaly to you at the Rochester commencement Exercises tomrrow. I am dear Sir Yours truly, etc., M. Vassar

Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: 30-Jun-63
Text: No 1 Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen Through a gracious Providence we are now permitted to meet once more for consultation in reference to the important enterprise which has been confided to your care. I desire to be deeply thankful to the Giver & Preserver of life that in the enjoyment of tolerable bodily health & strength and in the possession of my mental powers not materially impaired, I am allowed to extend to you a cordial welcome to the honors and responsibilities of this occasion,...
Show moreNo 1 Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen Through a gracious Providence we are now permitted to meet once more for consultation in reference to the important enterprise which has been confided to your care. I desire to be deeply thankful to the Giver & Preserver of life that in the enjoyment of tolerable bodily health & strength and in the possession of my mental powers not materially impaired, I am allowed to extend to you a cordial welcome to the honors and responsibilities of this occasion, and to the hospitalities which we may be able to offer. During the past year, our enterprise has gone steadily forward. The Report of the Treasurer will show our funds to be in good condition. Some of our Securities haveNo 2 advanced above par, and the proceeds of others has been sold by our Treasurer on good and advantageous terms and invested in long loans on B & Mortgage. Since our last meeting, the College edifice has been enclosed and the Builder has occupied the Winter and Spring in laying the floors, furring & Cathing, and putting in the Gass-pipes [sic]. The plastering is now proceeding, in the hands of a responsible and energetic contractor. During the year, two of the Workmen employed in the building met with a sudden & violent death by accidential [sic] falls, but no blame could be attached to any person for the fatal casualties. No.No. 3 The Founder appropriated a liberal gratuity to the families of the deceased. The President returned from Europe in December last and will lay before you the results of his observations. Some highly favorable oppertunities [sic] having occurred for the purchase of Books for the Library, the books were obtained under the authority granted at the meeting of the Board in February 1862. Under the advice of the President when in Rome, last September, the Executive Committee contracted for copies of four pictures from the old masters, to be made by W Emma, @ Church, an American artist from New York City. Two of these4 are now on thier [sic] way to this Country, and a third is probably completed. The high rate of exchange which now prevails has much increased the expense of these pictures, but it is a great sattisfaction [sic] to know that the first contributions to our Art Gallery will reflect the very soul of Raphael & others of the worlds acknowleged [sic] mastery. For several months past, the subjects of an Astronomical observatory has engaged my attention. It was ascertained that Henry Fitz, the celebrated telescope maker of New York, had on hand an object Glass, 12 3/8 inches in diamter [sic] which could be bought, cash down for $2000, less than the customary price. Through a No5 third party, the College not being known in the transaction the bargain was closed, the Treasurer secured the prise [sic] and the Glass is now in the safe of the Founder. When mounted this Glass will give us a Telescope 12 3/8 inches aperture and 17 feet in lenght [sic], exceeded in sise [sic] only by the great Equatorical of Cambridge Observatory The most important subjects to be acted on at this meeting will be presented for your consideration in the Report on the organisation [sic] of the College. The two years past, the President has given his earnest attention to the matter, and for the past six months his whole time and thoughts have been employed in elaborating + maturing the details. No.6 6 The plan which will be submitted to you has received the sanction of several of the most distinghused [sic] educaters [sic] of our Country. The President has conferred freely with the Founder on every feature of the System; and while I cannot claim any knowledge, and decline all responsibility, in the relation to matters purely literary and professional; yet so few as I am capable of judging, the the [sic] great principls [sic] contain in the Report meet my cordial approval but shall leave the final decission [sic] of these questions to your superior wisdom. The correspondence both of the Founder and the Presidents, this last year, has been verry [sic] heavy and proves a profound and7 universal interest in our enterprise. From the number of applications already received and from the numerous inquiries addressed to us from all the Free States it is reasonable to conclude that our Halls will be thronged with Students at the first opening of the College. With regard to the work done on the College this Spring and Summer it has not been as extensive as we expected, the Scarcity of hands and high price of materials has greatly retarded its prosecution altho’ I would not say this to be the only and exclusive reason, which if continued, may prolong the completion of the building beyond the period stipulated in the contract with Mr Harloe. For these reasons we do not believe it policy to enter into engagement for furniture or any expenditure whatever, until such time as we can see a prospect of opening the College within a given period. My wishes have been to finish the Edifice, enclose and lay out your walks and Drives, plant your Shrubbery & Trees but to incur no further outlay of Capital than we need to expend in prospect of the opening of the College.8 And now, Gentlemen Trustees, as you are my chosen Associates in carrying forward this great work, I beg you to be frank, and free to speak, and express your unbiased judgment upon all matters connected with the enterprise as it is only by a candid and open expression of our several views that we can hope to perfect and demonstrate to the public mind this new feature or Epoch of Female education, therefore I beg leave to repeat the expressions of my confidence in your interest, your wisdom & your energy by Gods blessing, to bring it to a happy consummation, I also renew to you the promise of my constant & earnest9 Co-operation, as far as my feeble health will permit; and I pledge myself to do all in my power to secure the success of the institution while I live, and to perpetuate its blessings to my Country and to the world for long generations after I have slept with my fathers.Address of M. Vassar Read in Board of Trustees in Annual Meeting June 30, 1863 and ordered on file, C. Swan Sec.
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: May 24, 1863
Text: Let no one but my Amanda see there paper. Hamilton May 24. 1863 … My dear friend, I send the copy of a letter upon the subject of your college matters, because I want you to understand fully the points which belong to that side of you question; and in addition I want you to understand definitely some others matters which concern the founder of the college, and his future reputation. There have been, all along, certain things calculated as I think to deprive you of that which is rightly yours...
Show moreLet no one but my Amanda see there paper. Hamilton May 24. 1863 … My dear friend, I send the copy of a letter upon the subject of your college matters, because I want you to understand fully the points which belong to that side of you question; and in addition I want you to understand definitely some others matters which concern the founder of the college, and his future reputation. There have been, all along, certain things calculated as I think to deprive you of that which is rightly yours due, and which I have tried to remedy, but had not the ability or power, within myself. and you must at last be the guardian of your own future reputation, and secure your right by your own … and revolution. You may be a little worried by the matte,r but the results will more than compensate you. You must decided and act now, or it will soon be too late. This coming June meeting will place the thing beyond your reach. These are the points. Do you wish to have your name go down to posterity as the intelligent founder of a college, endowed … by you, for no special purpose at all, excepting, that Mr Jewett prevailed on you to do it. Or do youwith to appear, as having acted with a purpose which was not only intelligent, but wise, sagacious, & benevolent? Of course you will say “You wish the truth to appear, and as you were no main tool, so you will be no mans’ steeping stone, to a reputation which is purely your own. now who is the author of the system which Mr Jewett … so highly, and … he hopes to gain credit for introducing into V[assar].F[emale].C[ollege]? I do not mean who made the system, but who first suggested it for your institution, and accepted it as the thing best adapted to its want! IF you did not do it, while Mr J[ewett] was in Europe and before he knew anything about the details of the matter, then you and I are too very mistaken individuals. as to the work of convincing Mr. J[ewett] of the excellency of the system; of making out its details, and adapting them to his purpose, I did all that, not for his reputation, but for yours, and because I knew what would meet your views and wishes. You had certain ideas, often expressed in your conversation to me, which you wished carried out in the college you had founded. You needed help, for the habits of your life had been such that you were not familiar with the practical details of such work of organizing a college for young ladies. Mr Jewett never could have done what you wished, and therefore I did it for you through him. To whom now belongs the honor, certainly to you, and to me if to anyone. But I do not wish to be known in the matter. What I have done, I have done cheerfully for you. I give it to you, it is yours, for you deserve it. So that really, by the gift of my share, and the right to your own, the whole is yours. now what I want is this. I want you to assume the credit of the whole general system as yours. I want the college with its system of instruction, handed down to the future generations, as the in its entire & complete whole, the offspring of the sagacity, and benevolence of Mr Vassar and of no one else. I am indignant than any one should wish to claim the …, more than body.that any one should suppose that you have given … for …, and knew nothing of the purpose for which you have it. When I know that your ideas upon the subject of a great reform in Fem[ale] Education, were original, sagacious, wise, & true, and you lacked only some one to shape them into system. This I have done for you, made Mr Jewett a convert to your views, so that they could not be controverted, and have done it all for your own gratification alone, and no one but yourself, shall have the credit of the work. You will see form my letter to Mr J[ewett] accompanying how you are to do this. He won’t like my letter, but he can’t keep himself. He has got himself into the position he occupies, and must come to you to get him out. Of course you will do this, and about tw weeks before your meeting I will, come down and spend if you wish a week with you, and keep you on your … to the Trustees, and see that your affairs are all in order, to secure your rights in the matters. You will find that you have had no timer friend, nor … in this matter of your college - not even among those who are supported by your liberality and who hope for increased support - than myself and that your own reputation, is a little safer with me, than with some who Hand nearer to your …. you may depend upon me, for any thing you may wish in this matter. Your Truly Char. A. Raymond
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: May 20, 1863
Text: Hamilton May 20. 1863. Matthew Vassar Esqr My dear friend I should have written you some time ago, had I not heard that you health was such, that you were not able to [sustain] any correspondence requiring much thought: but having heard from Prof. Reebee that you seemed to be in usual health, and appeared quite young and vigorous, I have decided to make certain suggestions to you which seem to me of great importance to the purpose welfare of your enterprise. I am reluctant to do this for the...
Show moreHamilton May 20. 1863. Matthew Vassar Esqr My dear friend I should have written you some time ago, had I not heard that you health was such, that you were not able to [sustain] any correspondence requiring much thought: but having heard from Prof. Reebee that you seemed to be in usual health, and appeared quite young and vigorous, I have decided to make certain suggestions to you which seem to me of great importance to the purpose welfare of your enterprise. I am reluctant to do this for the reason, that I seem always placed in the position of the man at the most head whose … it is to any “breaker ahead.” and I didn’t like to be always on such …. But someone must give warning, no matter how unpleasant; and if the breaker are there better to know it, than to have the ship sink. I do not like the [scheming], and … rolling propensities of some among your board of trustees, from Doct. B. …, and upwards. From what I infer from some of Mr Jewetts’ letters, these are great efforts being put forth to secure the election of certain …, among those who are trustees, or can influence Trustees, in the election of teachers. If teachers are propounded and elected under such influence, you will have associateda body of men, bound together by no mutual object, and working each man for his own emolument only. Under the new system of instruction which is to be inaugurated, there will be dissatisfaction, which will lead to compliant to the Trustees, and eventually to a wholesale distraction. I have always urged upon Mr Jewett, the … of counteracting all this, by means of your authority. and I am afraid that he does not see the subject as I do, and has therefore said but little on the subject to you. my opinion in that the Trustees have nothing to do in the matter of organization but to carry out your wishes. They are not like Trustees of a general fund, contributed by the public, who are to act for the public. and as long as you live, and have your own views to perfect they ought not to be permitted to interfere with your wishes. This is the high ground which I would assume as the …, and as you have a purpose in what you have done in establishing do great an enterprise, that purpose should be respected. If you are clear in your convictions, and … in the expression of your wishes, they cannot in decency fail to do as you wish. and how much contention & trouble, both present and future will be saved, by starting from so simple, and first a stand point, in completing your organization, as your wishes. I am prepared to submit to you a plan, with its details; by which alone in my opinion, you can start right, and keep right; and avoid all the anxieties and difficulties of selecting & electing your professors. and also secure the college against all contemptible scheming, & log-rolling, both now and hereafter. If it is not done before the time meeting, and by your own personal authority, co operating with Mr Jewett, it can never be done at all. and your college will be like other colleges, full of schemers, & jealous minded professors who will wear out your …, your self, & your whole enterprise, by their self produced frictions. To carry out my plan, you must start anew in the matter of teacher: ignore all pledges, and promises (made by Mr Jewett, and the Trustee) on the ground of … which have arisen and which were not foreseen until your organization of studies brought them to light and select an entirely new set of young men; who will work together, & be wholly under your [president], and be unknown but by reputation & references to the Trustee and presented by you as your choiceand for reasons which you will be prepared to give This is what I suggested in one of the first letter I wrote you last summer on the new system, of which Mr Jewett, has now adopted. It is a … past of that system, if it is to work successfully. You and he may both depend upon me for all the details, if you are prepared to adopt them; and for reasons why the plan should be adopted. I haven’t time now to write any thing more definite, but it is time to make such suggestion. I knew the time would come, and have been expecting it from the first. If you are not yet ready to receive the suggestion, it is because you are not near enough to your June meeting, to see what may appear when too late to remedy it I mean the plotting, and wire pulling, log-rolling, for places, for the friend of the Board of Trustees. The whole matter must be taken entirely out of their hands or everything is gone. Jewett will have to resign in three years, as … way land did at Brown. There is but one way, to carry out your wishes, establish … your ground purposes & defeat all selfish plotters. There must be inaugurated by the will of the Founder, a system of choosing, & managing teachers, which will make you … independent and …. Shall I say more upon the subject Your Truly Char. A. Raymond
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Creator: [Geiger], Elizabeth
Date: May 7, 1863
Text: Marion, May 7th/63 Mr Vassar, Sir: About two years ago I saw in the papers, a paragraph stating that Mr. Matthew Vassar, had given 200,000 dollars for the praiseworthy purpose of founding a College for the Education of Women, in Poughkeepsie N. York. Having never seen any farther notice given to the subject, int he journals of the day, and not having any other means of obtaining information, I have taken the liberty of addressing to you, this note, for the purpose of learning, whether the...
Show moreMarion, May 7th/63 Mr Vassar, Sir: About two years ago I saw in the papers, a paragraph stating that Mr. Matthew Vassar, had given 200,000 dollars for the praiseworthy purpose of founding a College for the Education of Women, in Poughkeepsie N. York. Having never seen any farther notice given to the subject, int he journals of the day, and not having any other means of obtaining information, I have taken the liberty of addressing to you, this note, for the purpose of learning, whether the building has been erected, or is being built- when school will be opened: if soon will you please send a catalogue. Perhaps you are notthe person to whom I should have written, but I have lost the paper, in which were the names of the Committee, and your’s is the only one which I could recollect. By replying to this as soon as possible, you will oblige. Yours, Respectfully, Elizabeth L. Geiger. Direct to Miss E. L. Geiger Marion, Marion Co. Ohio1863 Miss Elizabeth L. Geiger Marion, Marion Co Ohio May 7th Answered as usual
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Creator: Andrews, Sidney
Date: May 7, 1863
Text: M Vassar this letter was sent to me HG Eastman Washington, D.C. May 7, 1863 Sir, With a view to deciding where to place my Sister, next Fall, I wish to leave more than I know of the Vassar Female College. Can you send me a Circular? Very respectfully, Sidney Andrews President Vassar Female College Poughkeepsie, N.Y.1863 Sidney Andrews Washington DC. May 7th Received 24 May Answered 25 May

Creator: Hawley, Jesse
Date: May 4, 1863
Text: Reading Pa. May 4th, 1863 Mr. Matthew Vasser [sic] Dear Sir, You will oblige me by sending me two Circulars of the College bearing your name. I desire to send them to two young ladies who intend going to school, and from the knowledge I have, of the mode of instruction, which you propose adopting in Vasser College, would like them to have an opportunity of examining your Circular in detail. Respectfully, Jesse G. Hawley1863 Jesse G. Hawley Reading Pa May 4th Answered 6th wishes 2 young ladies...
Show moreReading Pa. May 4th, 1863 Mr. Matthew Vasser [sic] Dear Sir, You will oblige me by sending me two Circulars of the College bearing your name. I desire to send them to two young ladies who intend going to school, and from the knowledge I have, of the mode of instruction, which you propose adopting in Vasser College, would like them to have an opportunity of examining your Circular in detail. Respectfully, Jesse G. Hawley1863 Jesse G. Hawley Reading Pa May 4th Answered 6th wishes 2 young ladies in the College
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: June 2, 1863
Text: June 2nd, 1863 Dear Friends, Referring to my last I have sent to your address a Box of our dear late wife’s Clothing [Mark].. Mr. Samuel Butler Byron Fondula Co. Wisconsin per Steam Boat Eagle which leaves here tomorrow Morning 8’O’ck and will be forwarded to you from Albany, by Canal Line Boats first opportunity Yours truly, M. Vassar

Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: April 7, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie April 7th. 1863 Miss R. Eo Barker Dear Madam st Yours of the 31 Ultmo came duly to hand, and in reply would inform you that the V.F. Colledge Edifice is in rapid course of construction but from its great magnitude and the terms of the Builders Contract will not be completed ready for opening before the Fall of 1864. We have not as yet published an official Circular, our President Profr Jewett having been absent the past year on a Professional tour in Europe, at a proper time a...
Show morePoughkeepsie April 7th. 1863 Miss R. Eo Barker Dear Madam st Yours of the 31 Ultmo came duly to hand, and in reply would inform you that the V.F. Colledge Edifice is in rapid course of construction but from its great magnitude and the terms of the Builders Contract will not be completed ready for opening before the Fall of 1864. We have not as yet published an official Circular, our President Profr Jewett having been absent the past year on a Professional tour in Europe, at a proper time a detailed Statement will be made public of terms & conditions with all the necessary information of various courses of Studies It is the purpose to admit beneficiaries, but to what extent must depend upon the condition of the College funds which like all other species of property has been effected by the War. I send you all that has been published in regard to the College. A Pamplet containing the proceedings of the Bord of Trustees at their first Meeting in 1861, and a pamplet containing some critisims and remarks Gentleman by a Glorgyman of this City, a stranger to me and-gonoraly to oui* my asso- ciates in the enterprise- Yours Respectfully &c rMatthew Vassar } 1S6 a
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Creator: Card, Fannie L.
Date: April 6, 1863
Text: Millerton N. Y. April 6th/68 Mr. Vassar, Hearing that your College is to open the coming Fall, and having a desire to attend, the School if so. I would like you to give me some reliable information concerning the School, upon what terms young Ladies are admitted to and I know of no better way to obtain the information I wished than in this addressing you. Will you be as kind as to inform me as soon as convenient and oblige Fannie L. Card1863 Fannie L. Card Millerton April 6th Answered 10...
Show moreMillerton N. Y. April 6th/68 Mr. Vassar, Hearing that your College is to open the coming Fall, and having a desire to attend, the School if so. I would like you to give me some reliable information concerning the School, upon what terms young Ladies are admitted to and I know of no better way to obtain the information I wished than in this addressing you. Will you be as kind as to inform me as soon as convenient and oblige Fannie L. Card1863 Fannie L. Card Millerton April 6th Answered 10 April in usual wayP.S. Please direct to Fannie L. Card Millerton Dutchess Co. N.Y.
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Creator: Van Keuren, C.
Date: February 4, 1863
Text: (…) NY Feb 4, 1863 M. Vassar Esq My dear Sir Your favor was delayed so long & having (…) also (…) I had ordered from D. Aubigny of Fordham NY and thank you for your (…) reply. I am gratified to learn that your college enterprise is progressing so finely, and I have a little daughter Annette that I shall endeavor to have educated there. As soon as the system of other expenses outside of education is complete I shall be much intended to hear from you. I refer to board & (…) which seems...
Show more(…) NY Feb 4, 1863 M. Vassar Esq My dear Sir Your favor was delayed so long & having (…) also (…) I had ordered from D. Aubigny of Fordham NY and thank you for your (…) reply. I am gratified to learn that your college enterprise is progressing so finely, and I have a little daughter Annette that I shall endeavor to have educated there. As soon as the system of other expenses outside of education is complete I shall be much intended to hear from you. I refer to board & (…) which seems to be as largly [sic] in the way of a poor man or one of moderate means, as the tuition- I am confident that all that can be accomplished has been already taken into consideration, and the favor &c will aid the institution beyond what has yet been provided in the United States. Yours Truly (…)1863 (…) (…) February 4 1863 request admission for a daughter
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Creator: Barken, Ruthie E.
Date: March 31, 1863
Text: Elgin, March 31st, 1863 M. Vassar, Esq. Dear Sir, Seeking information in relation to the Female Institute founded by yourself in Poughkeepsie, I burden you with a letter of inquiries and statements. I do not know as you are the proper individual to address in order to obtain the information. Your name is the only one I have seen in the prints, when reference has been made to the school. From the statements made by the papers, I should hope to receive pecuniary advantages, if I could attend...
Show moreElgin, March 31st, 1863 M. Vassar, Esq. Dear Sir, Seeking information in relation to the Female Institute founded by yourself in Poughkeepsie, I burden you with a letter of inquiries and statements. I do not know as you are the proper individual to address in order to obtain the information. Your name is the only one I have seen in the prints, when reference has been made to the school. From the statements made by the papers, I should hope to receive pecuniary advantages, if I could attend your school.I have not reliable information in relation to it- I am not aware whether the school is in operation or not. I would like to obtain some knowledge of it, as I am desirous of entering school somewhere next fall. My parents were missionaries to India, they spent ten years there. Ill health caused their return, but the necessary rest had been to long delayed- my Father died on the passage home and was buried in the deep, deep sea. My Mother with five little children, soon after landing, settled in Elgin, with her parents, her she still resides. Shilohs bloody field has drank my brothers life blood- he is the only one called above from our home circle since. My Mother kindly receivedassistance from the Missionary Union for some time, now with a little hoarded store she is trying to live independently of help. It is my great desire to fit myself for a teacher and so be able to assist my Mother. My means to obtain an education are quite limited. I have fondly dreamed, that somewhere, I might be able to teach, and by paying some after the course, be only dependent on my Mother, for my expenses outside of school bills. I understood by the papers, that deductions were made in some cases, if mine, is one of that class, I should be glad to avail myself of your benevolence. I have been teaching a small district school this Winter and expect to in the Summer.If you would like references, as to the correctness of my statements, you can enquire of Rev. Elandler who is in Poughkeepsie, or of Rev S. M. Osgood and Rev. Smith of Chicago. Please write me as soon as convenient and oblige Yours Ruthie E. Barker P.O. Address Ruthie E. Barker Elgin, Kane Co. (…)
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: March 13, 1863
Text: Hamilton march 13 1863 Matthew Vassar Esq Dear Friend I have to thank you for the picture of the college, which has come at last. I am very grateful for the gift. The picture … quite as impressive as a whole, as the … paper engraving. Some of the little … which may be created at some future impression I will mention to my amanda. Jewett and I have been butting our heads together in the dark for some time. he not getting hold of my ideas very clearly, and I wholly ignorant of his. Finally I...
Show moreHamilton march 13 1863 Matthew Vassar Esq Dear Friend I have to thank you for the picture of the college, which has come at last. I am very grateful for the gift. The picture … quite as impressive as a whole, as the … paper engraving. Some of the little … which may be created at some future impression I will mention to my amanda. Jewett and I have been butting our heads together in the dark for some time. he not getting hold of my ideas very clearly, and I wholly ignorant of his. Finally I got tired of so much voluntary work, under such great disadvantages; especially as I not knowing his intentions didn't know whether I was doing anything to the purpose, nor whether my heavy … … in the right intention. So to bring out the facts in the case, I proposed to him to make some arrangement by which we could be together … the work of organization. Thinking that if my … was needed, the college … afford to pay my expenses while doing their work, and if I was not needed, i was spending as much time very unprofitably to other, & to myself. The result of my proposal to Jewett has been the development of his purposed method of completing the college organization and which is so different from what I imagined it would be; and so different are our views of what is demanded by the occasion. That it makes all my anxieties, and … in the college behalf appear simply ridiculous; because not … or not …. However it is very clear that the time had arrivedfor such a … on my part; and that I did well, in seeking to force it by my proposal. now to show you how two …, can not exactly disagree, but form different diagnosis and to let you amuse yourself by comparisons. I will give you the … of the two plans. When for consider that I have been for two months firing away big guns, at what was at last to have been [reckon] over by the …-gun of some professor. You will think that I ought to either hope firing, or know what I am shooting at. If course I know your wishes concerning the general character of the college and I was trying my best to work them into a grand embodiment, especially as I knew they … with my own views. I wanted to do a “big thing” in the way of education, and make form organization the occasion, of giving it to the world. My impression was that everything was to be prepared from coming June meeting, that every department was to be organized upon paper. a full report to be made by the press to the …., explaining the principles upon which the … of restriction was arranged and demonstrating … of the system …. Pointing on the deficiencies of other system & the need of reform. Then showing wherein the design of the Founder had been … in seeking to promote such reform by so magnificent an endowment. Then recommending for adoption by the … a general course of study, & directions for the professors in carrying out that course (embodying your view of making education practical, do as to give authority to thesuggestion & issue conformity to your [workers]. Upon doing such things & recommends the appointment of professors; the whole plan & detail of organization would be published to the world as college form “circular” and be scattered abroad for a year or so, before you opened, as an advocate & [expositor] of your system. It would be worth 200 pupils, to get the thing … well and have a years …. and all this which involves heavy work, I supposed must be done by June, for your meeting. hence my feeling of haste, pressure, & the need of vigorous work. That great reforms are needed Fem[ale] education you & i both know. That your ideas of meeting them are the true ones, I also know. That your college should have no definite purpose beyond the hundred & one other mammoth establishments such as [abbolt], it seems to me a pity. and when a good thing can be done to the would - and a glorious work be linked with the memory of the “Founder” as a practical reformer of superficialities, & a clear sighted appreciator of what was needed in the education of the … why I can’t bear to think of theses being nothing done, in the important matter of organization, but the getting up of a big school in the … typed plan of all other such schools in the world. It strikes me as a [tame] thing; for so great an attempt, having thus peculiar views, & feelings I thought that Jewett also had them, & something creditable would be attempted. But Jewett’s ideas are very different from mine. In facts notions and mine are opposites. His idea, as I understand it amount practically. In the having first such a school as the others have it …. abbott & only bigger. This general idea is this, to elect the teachers, and let each in his department arrange his subjects, and matter of instruction. This is of course … i.c. it is what any man who had no special object to accomplish would do. It is what has been done for forty years, & to a great extent by lady teachers! and the result is a piece of … no leading purpose to accomplish; no leading mind …. all the … of … to that purpose, & guiding and … it … the whole. In fact no object, no system at all, only a certain quantity of education furnished by each of 7 men; Of course when compared with others, it is only more of the same stuff, that is now so plentiful in … & other places: the patchwork is in bigger pieces, because worked upon the larger framework of a greater establishment. Here you see how great a difference there is in our ideas of what is needed. and how to carry out the [organization], so as to accomplish the need. I would have for my purpose, a [radicle] reform in the whole system of Fem[ale] studies (and I have shown Jewett how this can be done; when I speak of the need of it, … of it; I have fact to refer to) introduced to the … in connection with the … of V[assar]. F[emale]. C[ollege]. and giving the founder the honor of … his …, to accomplish such a definite purpose (its not what it is for?) I would haveall my working plans & course of studies - Each subject to be taught specified, and how to be taught - - prepared, & …, in every development before electing teachers: ( and not want for them to teach ,me what should be taught, & how taught) and I would have the teachers elected to carry out the founders wishes, in a fixed specified way or not at all. Jewett elects the teachers first, they mark out their own work. Of course as they are elected to do nothing, in any special manner, they are not accountable to any one for their manner of teaching, and may do as they choose Do they do nothing flagrant. I would, having carefully, day by day, … with the founder such points as I know he wished to reach. Do reach them by incorporating them into my system as laws. So that the professors when chosen, shall be chosen under them, … to our … of not conforming to them. Who shall say that your teacher of anatomy shall not teach “Homeopathy”, your teachers of moral philosophy “…” & your teacher of history “Infidelity” What shall done it from being a great rest of “Radicalism” instead of an exponent of truth. Let me [found] … voices here, and loud ones too. For must have some … of a safe ground before your teachers are here or you are not …, … the …. … of your gifts. Jewett don’t believe in brining future generations. I tell you you can’t be too safe, and you only prevent … to now this I wanted to see well done; and to arrange it all, I knew time & labor, & daily con==ference were …. Hence my proposal to Jewett. I come to carry out his plan, … other labor is needed than to [elect] teachers and give them pencil & paper, and in a day you have all the organization that you want. Of course my interference in such a work is ridiculous. It is an impertinent offer of help when none is wanted. I thought I was working for something alive, but the birth is turning out an abortion, let those who beget it, father it, with all my heart. So you see sector disagree, & I give it up, hoping for the best. But what V[assar]. F[emale]. C[ollege]. is to … for the memory of its founder & the good of the world; beyond being a liberal …, to build the biggest building for … purposes, in the country I can’t perceive. To organize, & appoint your teacher without having everything elaborated, and …; and then paper into law, but the Trustee at your request is to have anarchy, & confusion, & nothing … Trust upon it that your college shall have a purpose, shall be something, and be felt in the … and see to while in vigorous health, that the work is done well. Let you should misunderstand me, and be let to look upon my proposition to Mr J. as of a character with such Bs. I wish to … that I purposed to compensation for my labors, excepting the refunding of … expenses … by myself, and that I also … stated that I did not want any election, or appointment to any [office] whatever in the matter, all such things were to the future. In fact I intended to make a deep … proposition, though from Mr J letter I think it wasn’t so … …. we will let no one but my Amanda, read this letter or know its content, besides yourself. “Watch & Pray,” This is an important time in your college history, and I am not by any means certain that Mr J. is up to the demands of the …. If you have any special work to accomplish for your college at your organization, in the time to announce & perfect it- With which warning, I close my voluntary labor in V. F> C. writing it well, and many years of as bright happenings to its … founder, as … man can properly receive. From My Chal. A. RaymondRev!! Leh A. Raymond March 13 1863 Important on new … ….
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 24, 1863
Text: 1863 Chs a Raymond ... Hamilton July 24 1863 Matthew Vassar My new friend … my very huge … with my … concerning the organization of the twenty department of V[assar]. F[emale]. C[ollege]. I have suggested to him among other things plans for the formation of a picture gallery and … of natural …, which I wish to present to you more in detail, that if they meet your approve, you may insert upon their being accomplished. and to begin with the picture or art gallery. In connection with your...
Show more1863 Chs a Raymond ... Hamilton July 24 1863 Matthew Vassar My new friend … my very huge … with my … concerning the organization of the twenty department of V[assar]. F[emale]. C[ollege]. I have suggested to him among other things plans for the formation of a picture gallery and … of natural …, which I wish to present to you more in detail, that if they meet your approve, you may insert upon their being accomplished. and to begin with the picture or art gallery. In connection with your college and its workings, you have a sure opportunity of becoming at the same time a munificent patron of art; and … of forming a gallery of paintings which in time, may become not … celebrated, than the college itself. The idea is very simple. You will of course have a professor, or at least a principal teaches of painting. A mere teacher of painting if a good one, would cost from live to eight hundred dollar a year if a lady if a gentleman ten or twelve hundred. Now such a teacher would be no more useful as an instructor than a young lady who would cost you three or four hundred. You would pay the additional form or … hundred you simple ability to …, or style. But a person of real … … would ... reluctantly to the terrible drudgery of teaching girls, The principal … of which teaching … to in painting the … for them. The labors of such a principal teacher of painting therefore would … … …. … and though useful to a degree, yet you would have nothing to … you it. … of this, I propose the following. You have a gallery for exhibiting pictures … as a part of your institution. To … it you … purchase perhaps a few good pictures, but not many, but you will form it in this way. You appoint a professor of painting, as the same salary as your other professor, who may teach by … upon art as a part of his …, but his from upon … to from you gallery by painting original pictures, & copying … celebrated works as you wish for art studies. This profs must he a first …. not a teacher of painting and the special contract made with him would be that he is to paint for your gallery, at a … salary, and you hire all his …. Such a position would be a paradise to most artist, and you would have no trouble in focusing any6 one almost. Historical … painters alone … … the position, and they are not after … of their bread. The advantage to the … studying painting would be that they would see this artist paint …, and this is the only way to learn how to paint, … by seeing some one … paint. I have mentioned … of W Haven to Mr Jewett, as perhaps a suitable person and I … know but … who painted the pilgrim fathers for … and who … new here would also be suitable. The position would be very much like that of their at … point, truly the would work for the college. Think what a collection of … … manage went you might thus have in ten, twenty forty years! and at really no increased expense. This is what you want, to live in the future generations, and have an eye to posterity. The same principles are applicable to your museum of nat[ural] …. You need not spend large sums of money for collection of …. This may do for a mere show collection, but you want something which will in time be an amusement to the age, now how will you do this! Why I instead of buying any ones collection which may fall to pieces in five years, (for … are good for nothing … well, preserved) and paying a large sum, you simply by the …, a man who are … it is to collect … specimens. The … at home, goes to market and get all the …, to N. Y. market and get … … has Barton market next … makes exertions, to … part of the neighborhood Skins & stuffs everything! Exchanges with other curators, & you have in five years, a collectionworth as many thousand dollars, and all the time it has cost you no more than to employ a man, to take care of those for had purchased. Think again in twenty, fifty years what you would have, Keeping a man … constantly employed. In fact you need not spend over one thousand dollars to make a suitable stand in such things. … you wish to do everything at a …, "… … twelve the first time" The time wisdom for founder of such … is to lay broad … foundations, for future measure. These are the things which you should provide for by your own personal …. I have written much to you lately concerning the great and good things which may be hoped for from your magnificent enterprise. But I have been doing a very great amount of work for it and Mr Jewett has the results so far. I thought your own cases would be enough for you to think of . Still I am very anxious that certain things should be done soon, which no one but yourself can do. My regards to my Amanda and let me know whether you are making much … in your college affairs. Make an effort and write a letter. You haven't written one such as you … to … in a long time. It will do you good to … up the … a little, and let us have some great and … purposes …, which are perhaps lying dormant within you- Truly yours Charles R Raymond
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 23, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie February 23rd 1863 Miss Florence H. Condit, Bronton Morris Co New York Dear Miss Your simple hearted letter of the 20th current of eight pages came duly to hand, the indominal (…) you evince on the subject of obtaining an education, is proof that you have ability to obtain it if at one opportunity is offered you. Well, it is part of the design of our Institution to meet just such cases as yours, but to what extent beneficiaries will be admitted, it is impossible to inform you at...
Show morePoughkeepsie February 23rd 1863 Miss Florence H. Condit, Bronton Morris Co New York Dear Miss Your simple hearted letter of the 20th current of eight pages came duly to hand, the indominal (…) you evince on the subject of obtaining an education, is proof that you have ability to obtain it if at one opportunity is offered you. Well, it is part of the design of our Institution to meet just such cases as yours, but to what extent beneficiaries will be admitted, it is impossible to inform you at present. The College Buildings are in rapid process of Construction but from the magnitude & terms of the building contract will not be ready to open before the fall 1864- Our President Prof M P Jewett has just returned from an 8 month professional tour in Europe, andis now engaged in the organization of the Board of Instructors &c. At as early a day as possible after the college buildings are completed, the Board of Trustees will meet and the appointments of officials made. In the mean while your letter will be placed on file with many others of similar kind to be referred to again at the proper time Your earnestness to get an education is the best evidence that we ought to give your application a fair consideration. I am dr Miss (…) Yours Respectfully
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Creator: Stowe, Carrie F.
Date: February 22, 1863
Text: Newpost Feb 22nd 1863 My very dear friend Mr. Vassar Your kind favor of the … is now before me. And with much pleasure, have I read and reread, I was fearful that you would forget me, but truly thankful that you did not, that I still share a .. in … memory. & I received your letter, and … your …, moments of deep feeling passed, … I could open and read. A letter it has to magician like power, Beneath its real lies an invisible spirit ready to … forth, with art to awaken any or … emotions,...
Show moreNewpost Feb 22nd 1863 My very dear friend Mr. Vassar Your kind favor of the … is now before me. And with much pleasure, have I read and reread, I was fearful that you would forget me, but truly thankful that you did not, that I still share a .. in … memory. & I received your letter, and … your …, moments of deep feeling passed, … I could open and read. A letter it has to magician like power, Beneath its real lies an invisible spirit ready to … forth, with art to awaken any or … emotions, of which the … capable. I am happy to learn that the college edifier is progressing so rapidlyAlthough it … … long time to wait till the Fall of 1864 I trust when all is completed that it will be satisfactory and more than meet yours anticipations. To me … seems & long time, … … shall meet my dear friend personally. I will wait, and trust, that the time will earn when I shall meet him fail to fuel — may your life and health be prolonged. My dear Friend I sympathize … with you, now … your … — In the death of your loved wife you have met with a greatness, but what as your loss, is her gain, she has only gone before you and awaits … coming in a home not made with …, but … in the heavens. Although these is a vacant chair in the …, the welcome step, and even cheering … of a fond wife, are no longer hard, as … were … to be, and a shadow of… … now rests on the household groups et I trust … … … …, with that swelling … of joy, which welcomes the loved one to the … … of the “Beautiful beyond” My efforts to cheer you, in your … will be rain. … is but one that can render you comfort and consolations, earthly friends may bestowed before you their true sympathy, yet it … not satisfy … I possessed with the power of making you happy — how quickly would I do it. The good I would do I do not — The … … by … …, I found very pleasing and intrusting, please except my thanks for it I should be happy to hear from you more often, … it be convenient for you. But if not pardon me, for making the suggestion … heaven’s … blessings be there Yours affectionally, Cassie F. Stowe
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 17, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie February 17, 1863 Miss Cornelia E. Jewett Dr Madam Yours of the 13th (…) came duly to hand and would inform you that our College Edifice is in rapid course of construction but from its great magnitude and terms of the Builders Contract will not be finished ready to open before the fall of 1864. Our Pres. Prof M. P. Jewett LLD has just returned from an 8th month professional tour in Europe and is now busily engaged in matters of the organization of the College Your name will be...
Show morePoughkeepsie February 17, 1863 Miss Cornelia E. Jewett Dr Madam Yours of the 13th (…) came duly to hand and would inform you that our College Edifice is in rapid course of construction but from its great magnitude and terms of the Builders Contract will not be finished ready to open before the fall of 1864. Our Pres. Prof M. P. Jewett LLD has just returned from an 8th month professional tour in Europe and is now busily engaged in matters of the organization of the College Your name will be placed on file and at the earliest day possible will be referred to again and with your particularity, I am Miss Jewett Yours Respectfully &c MV
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 17, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie February 17, 1863 Mrs. C. M. Fitch Dr Madam Yours of the 14th (…) is rec’d and in reply would remark that our College Edifice is in rapid course of construction but from its grand magnitude and terms of the builders contract will not be completed ready to open before the fall, 64 Our President Prof M P Jewett has just returned from a professional tour in Europe and is now busily engaged in the College organization, and as soon as Completed Circulars will be upon giving the public...
Show morePoughkeepsie February 17, 1863 Mrs. C. M. Fitch Dr Madam Yours of the 14th (…) is rec’d and in reply would remark that our College Edifice is in rapid course of construction but from its grand magnitude and terms of the builders contract will not be completed ready to open before the fall, 64 Our President Prof M P Jewett has just returned from a professional tour in Europe and is now busily engaged in the College organization, and as soon as Completed Circulars will be upon giving the public every information &c I send you a copy of the Proceedings of the first Board of Trustees and an article on the College by the Revd. M Tyler now of Boston Yours Respectfully
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Creator: Fitch, C. M.
Date: February 14, 1863
Text: 1863 Mrs. (…) 87 East Broadway NY wishes a daughter to enterN.Y. 14 Febry/63 M. Vassar Esq Sir I have a daughter, for whom I am very desirous of obtaining a scholarship in the Vassar Female College. One of my daughters has been teaching for the past four years. As I do not know how to proceed, to obtain the desired object I take the liberty of applying to you. Will you please send me the desired information and confer a favor on Respectfully Yours &c Mrs. C. M. Fitch 87 East Broadway

Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 13, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie February 13, 1863 Miss Grace D. Dickinson Dear Madam In reply to your note of the 9th current I would inform you that our College Edifice will not be completed and ready for opening before Sept 1864 instead of 63 as your letter states. I enclose you by this mail all that has been published regarding the Institution excepting numerous artifacts from the pens of unknown authors The pamphlet containing the proceedings of the first Board of Trustees, and an article by the Revd. M....
Show morePoughkeepsie February 13, 1863 Miss Grace D. Dickinson Dear Madam In reply to your note of the 9th current I would inform you that our College Edifice will not be completed and ready for opening before Sept 1864 instead of 63 as your letter states. I enclose you by this mail all that has been published regarding the Institution excepting numerous artifacts from the pens of unknown authors The pamphlet containing the proceedings of the first Board of Trustees, and an article by the Revd. M. Tyler, now of Barton but whom was a Resident of (…) City (…) Hall. Our Pres. Prof. M P Jewett has just returned from a professional tour of 8 months in Europe and is now busily engaged int he organization of the Institution. I am Madame &c 1215 Mt Vernon Street, Phil.
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Creator: Jewett, Cornelia E.
Date: February 13, 1863
Text: 1863 Cornelia E Jewett Owego (…) County 13th February wishes to become pupil Owego, 13th Feb. 1868 Matthew Vassar, Esq. Honored Sir: I beg your pardon for intruding upon your valuable time, but I wish some particulars relative to the Vassar College, and I do not know to whom to apply but to you. I wish my name entered on the register of expected students, and to learn the time of opening, course of study, terms, etc. And I wish humble to petition that besides the regular course of study there...
Show more1863 Cornelia E Jewett Owego (…) County 13th February wishes to become pupil Owego, 13th Feb. 1868 Matthew Vassar, Esq. Honored Sir: I beg your pardon for intruding upon your valuable time, but I wish some particulars relative to the Vassar College, and I do not know to whom to apply but to you. I wish my name entered on the register of expected students, and to learn the time of opening, course of study, terms, etc. And I wish humble to petition that besides the regular course of study there be an Elective or a Classical and Belles Lettres course. I do this knowing it is the wish of many young ladies with whom I am acquainted and beg that I may not be thought impertinent in speaking of it. If you will answer my inquiries, or tell me towhom I shall apply I shall be greatly obliged. Very respectfully Cornelia E. Jewett
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Creator: Knight, R. E.
Date: February 13, 1863
Text: 1863 Mrs. (…) Newcastle Main February 13th Answered 20 FebruaryMr. Vassar Dear Sir: I understand the institution of which you are the founder for the education of young ladies was to commence the ensuing spring if so will you please inform me if scholars are admitted from other states, also (…) &c. I have a daughter fifteen years of age who I am desirous of obtaining an education by which she will be enabled to procure herown livelihood as a teacher. Very respectfully Mrs. R. E. Knight...
Show more1863 Mrs. (…) Newcastle Main February 13th Answered 20 FebruaryMr. Vassar Dear Sir: I understand the institution of which you are the founder for the education of young ladies was to commence the ensuing spring if so will you please inform me if scholars are admitted from other states, also (…) &c. I have a daughter fifteen years of age who I am desirous of obtaining an education by which she will be enabled to procure herown livelihood as a teacher. Very respectfully Mrs. R. E. Knight NewCastle, Maine, Feb 13th, 1863 Answered in the usual manner with addition that Scholars will be accepted from other states.
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Creator: Stowe, Carrie F.
Date: February 12, 1863
Text: Newpost N. H. Feb 12th 1862 My dear friend Mr Vassar Again my heart prompts me to write, For I would know of your health and happiness Although several months have … since I last addressed, not a day has passed, that I’ve not enjoyed spiritual … with you, and a silent prayer been given to “our Father” for thy health and life. I … you in the daily walks of life, I never … meet a gentleman of your years but that my mind is instantly carried to you — with happiness and delight — why it is, I...
Show moreNewpost N. H. Feb 12th 1862 My dear friend Mr Vassar Again my heart prompts me to write, For I would know of your health and happiness Although several months have … since I last addressed, not a day has passed, that I’ve not enjoyed spiritual … with you, and a silent prayer been given to “our Father” for thy health and life. I … you in the daily walks of life, I never … meet a gentleman of your years but that my mind is instantly carried to you — with happiness and delight — why it is, I cannot tell, unless it is that your … …., has assured me of so much in the future.. of July 19th “you say that my note of the 12th was clothed in language that deeply affected you I would have them impart true pleasure — not a moment of sadness — yes I would … gifted with the power of making you happy, through the remainder of your life. I would be happy to hear form you, and also of the college of its progression & please write me of agreeable — And my prayer shall still be that blessings, … … and temporal shall be thine. I will remember with love & affection Carrie F. Stowe P.S. my address will be at Newport Sullivan Co. N. H. Where I can now stoping with an invalid sister
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Creator: Dickerson, Grace D.
Date: February 9, 1863
Text: 1863 Grace D. Dickerson February 9th 1863 Answered 13thPhiladelphia Feb. 9th/63 Mr. Vassar, Dear Sir I learn by an editorial in “Godey’s Lady’s Book,” that it is designed to open the Vassar Female College in September 1863. Pleased with the plan of instruction adopted I am very anxious to become a pupil of that institution. Being unable to obtain information on the subject elsewhere, as a last resort, I apply to you, hoping you will furnish me with all the instructions necessary to enable me...
Show more1863 Grace D. Dickerson February 9th 1863 Answered 13thPhiladelphia Feb. 9th/63 Mr. Vassar, Dear Sir I learn by an editorial in “Godey’s Lady’s Book,” that it is designed to open the Vassar Female College in September 1863. Pleased with the plan of instruction adopted I am very anxious to become a pupil of that institution. Being unable to obtain information on the subject elsewhere, as a last resort, I apply to you, hoping you will furnish me with all the instructions necessary to enable me to attain my object. Waiting for a speedy answer, I Remain, Respectfully, Grace D. Dickerson 1215 Mount Vernon St. Phil.
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 6, 1863
Text: Hamilton Feb 6, 1863 Matthew Vassar Esqr Dear Friend Though I haven’t written for some weeks, yet I have had your affairs more or [less] in mind. Especially the subject of paying your professors. I have very carefully thought over all the pros & cons of the whole matter; with special reference to your suggestions; and I give you the …. There were three plans to the …. 1. That of our endowment of professorships. This you do not approve. and we let it aside 2. The teachers partnership ...
Show moreHamilton Feb 6, 1863 Matthew Vassar Esqr Dear Friend Though I haven’t written for some weeks, yet I have had your affairs more or [less] in mind. Especially the subject of paying your professors. I have very carefully thought over all the pros & cons of the whole matter; with special reference to your suggestions; and I give you the …. There were three plans to the …. 1. That of our endowment of professorships. This you do not approve. and we let it aside 2. The teachers partnership [system], by which the profits are divided among the teacher. This you have under consideration, but don’t altogether like. It is however better than the endowment plan, for your purposes, and you have a complete schedule if you wish to adopt it. (It won’t however suit you … a …. plan as well as this 3. Which makes the college a sharer in the [profits], and the principal sharer, but for the benefit after all, of the teacher I think it expresses your … exactly. 1. You pay the professor a fixed salary 2. You do not make the college … liable for this, but on the contrary - you fix it so that it cannot be made liable. but you pay out of the net profits of the concern. i.e. you make … liable … for teachers salaries. 3. You hold the … profit succeed, to be … as a fund, for guaranteeing teachers salaries i.e. … deficiencies - in the future. and after the fund shall have reached a certain amount … 15000. the future … to be divided, … … among the teachers, in addition to stated guaranteed salaries 4. For the first five years, you (i.e. the Founder) make a special provision against deficiencies, so that the teachers salaries may be …. This gives all the certainty of an endowment, involves the … … in no … … objections - and … your [call]. Upon an elevated financial platform. It also makes it right that you should give somewhat … to your teachers, to whom the guarantee server in place of a "margin" for larger income. I think you will like this as a working arrage==ment. Your quick insight into practical … will enable you to grasp … advantages at once, and is meet by … originality, you … …. It provides for present …, is economical & safe, in … application; and has advantages over the plan which makes teachers partner in all profits. If it takes away the "margin" from the teacher income; it gives him … a guarantee. So the college is given the "margin", but the profits are made after all to … a guarantee which is to be perpetual to the teachers, after it begins …. It benefits the teachers … the … although they are made to guarantee …. while the college has the benefit. The important point upon which all this hangs is that the founder makes provision to place his own plan beyond the reach of failure, by securing to the twenties-aside from their [call]. Property, & also from the annual endowment of building & … a sum either, as special appropriation, or in …, to provide for possible deficiences of income (in this case hardly possible). … days to the twenties "gentlemen I prefer this plan to an endowment, I have considered it well, and am … that it is quit what we need; but as it is a new … in the … of colleges, and as I suggest it, I am willing to be responsible for it. I will provide for the making up of any deficiency which may be …-say for five years-or … the plan is thrown to be a …. While this presupposes the endowment of building … the former plan, & which is also of the very highest importance-It also requires that you exempt the property from liability for the fixed salary-while make special provision. The other feature of … a share of profit before a fund from … has been reached, can go … this plan if you so choose. Let me know what you think of this … for the former plan, and I should like to hear you suggestions as to its workings. I like it as a working plan, much letter than that which makes the teachers …! Still … a guarantee of fixed salary, you will have no choice but to let the teachers share the profits. They must be paid for taking the …. we are now going through some of our [intermediate] examinations, some of which when finished I will send you a ... of the system. With regards to my Amanda & …. Yours Truly Char. A. Raymond
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: February 4, 1863
Text: to attend some other school, if I cannot gain admittance to your college. If convenient you will confer a great favor by sending the desired information as soon as possible to Anna E. Murphy 410 Richmond St. Phila. Miss Anna E. Murphy 410 Richmond St. Phila. Po’keepise February 4, 1863 D. Madam. Yours of the 29th came duly to hand and in reply would inform you that, our College Edifice is in rapid course of constructing, but from its magnitude and terms of builders contract will not be...
Show moreto attend some other school, if I cannot gain admittance to your college. If convenient you will confer a great favor by sending the desired information as soon as possible to Anna E. Murphy 410 Richmond St. Phila. Miss Anna E. Murphy 410 Richmond St. Phila. Po’keepise February 4, 1863 D. Madam. Yours of the 29th came duly to hand and in reply would inform you that, our College Edifice is in rapid course of constructing, but from its magnitude and terms of builders contract will not be completed ready for opening before the fall of 1864. In consequence of the absence of the Prest. Prof. Milo P. Jewett LLD on a professional tour in Europe, no organization of the Institution has yet been made. I send you a pamphlet containing the proceedings of the first Board of Trustees, also an article on the College by the Revd. Moses Tyler Yours Resp.y MVAnna. E. Murphy January 29, 1863
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Date: January 29, 1863
Text: Phila. Jan. 29th 1863 Mr. Matthew Vassar Sir, Desiring to receive more information in reference to your college, than than can be found in any book or paper I have examined, I thought the best way would be to write to you. I should like to know what the charges or expenses will be to attend, and the necessary qualifications for admittance, such as studies, age &c, and whether you allow residents of other States to attend. My health failing some five years ago, I was obliged to leave...
Show morePhila. Jan. 29th 1863 Mr. Matthew Vassar Sir, Desiring to receive more information in reference to your college, than than can be found in any book or paper I have examined, I thought the best way would be to write to you. I should like to know what the charges or expenses will be to attend, and the necessary qualifications for admittance, such as studies, age &c, and whether you allow residents of other States to attend. My health failing some five years ago, I was obliged to leave school, but would like to try again. I have a sister twelve years of age, very well advanced in her studies; do you think she could be admitted? The reason of my writing so long beforehand is because I wish to make arrangementsto attend some other school, if I cannot gain admittance to your college. If convenient you will confer a great favor by sending the desired information as soon as possible to Anna E. Murphy 410 Richmond St. Phila. Miss Anna E. Murphy 410 Richmond St. Phila. Po’keepise February 4, 1863 D. Madam. Yours of the 29th came duly to hand and in reply would inform you that, our College Edifice is in rapid course of constructing, but from its magnitude and terms of builders contract will not be completed ready for opening before the fall of 1864. In consequence of the absence of the Prest. Prof. Milo P. Jewett LLD on a professional tour in Europe, no organization of the Institution has yet been made. I send you a pamphlet containing the proceedings of the first Board of Trustees, also an article on the College by the Revd. Moses Tyler Yours Resp.y MV
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: Januay 26, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie January 26, 1863 T. W. Braidwood (…) Dear Sir I thank you kindly for your Report of the Phila. School of Design for Women. Any employment tending to elevate her physical condition in this world receives my hearty approbations &c With my best wishes for your success I am dr Sir Yours &c MV P.S. College Paper

Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: January 16, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie Dec. Sec. Jany 16. 1863 Gen. D. Goodrich Esq Dear Sir, In reply to yours of the 14th current, I would inform you that our College edifice is in the course of construction but from its magnitude and the terms of the Builders Contract will not be finished ready for opening before the Fall of 1864. Our President Prof. M. P. Jewett has just returned from a professional tour of eight months in Europe and is now busily engaged with his (…) in its individual organization of Professors ...
Show morePoughkeepsie Dec. Sec. Jany 16. 1863 Gen. D. Goodrich Esq Dear Sir, In reply to yours of the 14th current, I would inform you that our College edifice is in the course of construction but from its magnitude and the terms of the Builders Contract will not be finished ready for opening before the Fall of 1864. Our President Prof. M. P. Jewett has just returned from a professional tour of eight months in Europe and is now busily engaged with his (…) in its individual organization of Professors &c At an early day as possible will send you a “circular” int he mean time please to accept of the accompany pamphlets for this days mail, one containing Proceedings of the first Board of Trustees the other an article on the College enterprise by the Revd Moses Tyler Yours very Respectfully
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Creator: Goodrich, George D.
Date: January 14, 1863
Text: 1863 Gen G. Goodrich Princeton January 15th request a daughter Recd 18 January AnsweredPrinceton Jan 14th/63 Mr Vassar Dear Sir, Will you please furnish me with prospects or circulars of the College, recently endowed & established by yourself at Poughkeepsie which will inform me when the academic year commences, terms of admission, expenses, course of study, &c. Pardon the liberty I have taken in addressing you. The name of the gentleman appointed as President I have forgotten. Yours...
Show more1863 Gen G. Goodrich Princeton January 15th request a daughter Recd 18 January AnsweredPrinceton Jan 14th/63 Mr Vassar Dear Sir, Will you please furnish me with prospects or circulars of the College, recently endowed & established by yourself at Poughkeepsie which will inform me when the academic year commences, terms of admission, expenses, course of study, &c. Pardon the liberty I have taken in addressing you. The name of the gentleman appointed as President I have forgotten. Yours very respectfully Gen. D. Goodrich
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: January 9, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie January 9 1863 Mrs. Fairchild Judd Bethel Co Dear Madame Yours of yesterday is at handed would inform you that in the absence of the President Prof M. P. Jewett LLD on a professional tour for the last 8 months in Europe, nothing is important has been done regarding the internal organization of our College nor will any thing be done until probably next summer when circulars will be issued giving all the necessary information. I send you a pamphlet of the early proceedings of the...
Show morePoughkeepsie January 9 1863 Mrs. Fairchild Judd Bethel Co Dear Madame Yours of yesterday is at handed would inform you that in the absence of the President Prof M. P. Jewett LLD on a professional tour for the last 8 months in Europe, nothing is important has been done regarding the internal organization of our College nor will any thing be done until probably next summer when circulars will be issued giving all the necessary information. I send you a pamphlet of the early proceedings of the Trustees and also an article on the college enterprise by the Revd M Tyler Yours truly M Vassar
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Creator: Judd, Fairchild
Date: January 8, 1863
Text: 1863 Mrs. Fairchild Judd Bethel Co 8 January Answered 8 JanuaryMr. Vassar, Having recently visited Po’keepsie and the building which is being erected by you for the purpose of providing female education I can but feel deeply interested in the noble cause and as I have a friend that may perhaps be persuaded to enter (if spared until its completion) I should be gratified to receive a circular and would thank you kindly for one hoping to learn what qualifications will be requisite to become a...
Show more1863 Mrs. Fairchild Judd Bethel Co 8 January Answered 8 JanuaryMr. Vassar, Having recently visited Po’keepsie and the building which is being erected by you for the purpose of providing female education I can but feel deeply interested in the noble cause and as I have a friend that may perhaps be persuaded to enter (if spared until its completion) I should be gratified to receive a circular and would thank you kindly for one hoping to learn what qualifications will be requisite to become a student at the opening of the school. May God speed the glorious cause of educationPlease address, Mrs. Fairchild Judd, Bethel Ct. Bethel Jan 8th 63
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: January 7, 1863
Text: Poughkeepsie January 7, 1863 Dear Miss Thomas, Your (…) of the 1st current is at hand, and in reply would remark, that our College buildings are in course of construction but from their great magnitude and terms of the Builders Contract will not be completed ready for opening before the Fall of 1864. Your letter will be placed on file to be referred to again when the College is ready for opening. It is contemplated that the funds set apart for general purpous [sic] will enable the institution...
Show morePoughkeepsie January 7, 1863 Dear Miss Thomas, Your (…) of the 1st current is at hand, and in reply would remark, that our College buildings are in course of construction but from their great magnitude and terms of the Builders Contract will not be completed ready for opening before the Fall of 1864. Your letter will be placed on file to be referred to again when the College is ready for opening. It is contemplated that the funds set apart for general purpous [sic] will enable the institution to provide to some extent for beneficiaries in such an event your case would admits of participation in its benefits. You “Dream” doubtless in prognostic of good “ascending the hill of science” may you eve cheered in your endeavors. I am yours very Respectfully MV Send Tyler & Proceedings
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: January 1, 1863
Text: Mr. Schou will make a Copy as before Poughkeepsie January lst(?) 1863 Rev£ Chs A Raymond My dear Sir. Yours of the 24 Ultmo was rec last evening and my reply thereto this morning marks a memorial period - yesterday ended, to-day begins the new Year. It is a fit occasion to erect our "Ebenezers" God us we are for thus far has ^^ helped^wfe^ and spared to see the bright rising sun another A of this New Year Mornmg. Well, your letter has been thrice read. First to Amanda, Secondly to...
Show moreMr. Schou will make a Copy as before Poughkeepsie January lst(?) 1863 Rev£ Chs A Raymond My dear Sir. Yours of the 24 Ultmo was rec last evening and my reply thereto this morning marks a memorial period - yesterday ended, to-day begins the new Year. It is a fit occasion to erect our "Ebenezers" God us we are for thus far has ^^ helped^wfe^ and spared to see the bright rising sun another A of this New Year Mornmg. Well, your letter has been thrice read. First to Amanda, Secondly to Matthew, and thirdly to Mr. Swan, and will bear reading to every one inter- the cause of ested inJEducation. I prize the valuable thoughts and suggestions which it contains, and would that I had time and health to circumstances this Morn- d reply ing would admit of i^[ hoartfull more enlarg commendation - but my poor wife is quitofast approaching her last moments. We thot this morning she was dying, but she rallied again and may survive many hours perhaps some of a Female Friend days - add to which we had a particular call^upoH^from Millwalkee, this raorning, not knowingMrs. Vassar was sick- I have requested Mr. Schou to make another "Copy of the program of the payments of our Profession1' and will enclose you by early mail. Miss Germond unites in her best regards with the joint complements of the season to you & yours Very Respectfully 1 am dear friend truly yours &c (unsigned) cMatthew Vassar 3
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Creator: Thomas, Lizzie
Date: January 1, 1863
Text: 1863 Miss Lizzie Thomas Ellicottsville Canandagua Co NY 27 years old wishes to become pupil rather late Miss LizzieJan. 1st 1863 Mr. Vassar Respected Sir A few days ago while reading the Advocate and Guardian my eyes rested upon the words “A New Female College.” I was very much interested while reading of Mr. Vassar’s benevolent purposes in making such a disposition of his princely fortune.” It struck me very forcibly that, perhaps there, is the place where I may acquire the education I have...
Show more1863 Miss Lizzie Thomas Ellicottsville Canandagua Co NY 27 years old wishes to become pupil rather late Miss LizzieJan. 1st 1863 Mr. Vassar Respected Sir A few days ago while reading the Advocate and Guardian my eyes rested upon the words “A New Female College.” I was very much interested while reading of Mr. Vassar’s benevolent purposes in making such a disposition of his princely fortune.” It struck me very forcibly that, perhaps there, is the place where I may acquire the education I have too long neglected. I have thought a great deal about it of late, and whether or not it would be of any use for me- a poor girl- to try to get these. Last night I dreamedthat I was standing at the foot of a hill, that I should have to climb very often. I twas very difficult to ascend so I thought, I will make it easier than taking an old ax, I began chipping small notches or stepping places, so when I awoke I said, I will take my pen and this New Year’s day, will write a line to this benevolent gentleman- whom they say is a friend to the poor. Which, perhaps, will be taking the first step towards ascending the hill of Science. Now my heart almost fails me, but then it will be no hurt to send this and if you think it not worth noticing throw it aside. My age- well- I hate to tell it, twenty seven. You see, I am sorry that I have lived this long and got no better education, but have made up my mind that it is not too late yet. So I will exert myself a little before it is too late.Since so many of the noble educated young men of our country have been slain in this dreadful war (and we fear the fate of thousands more) I have felt surely a greater responsibility rests upon woman, for the young and rising generation must be supplied with efficient teachers. I have had considerable experience in teaching district schools and perhaps might always work in the same sphere, but I am not satisfied with this. Now the thing that I worst hate to tell is that my father is a poor man, and not able to help me. I have a little that I have laid up, but not enough to pay my board a year, to say nothing about tuition and looks. But I have my hands and head, and if there is any way that I could use them to help pay my board for a year in the Poughkeepsie Female College, I should be oh so glad. If you think this worth answering, please answer and direct to Miss Lizzie Thomas Ellicottville, Cattarangas Co. N. Y.
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: December 31, 1862
Text: Poughkeepsie December 31, 1862 Miss Helen M. Tidd Morrisville Madison Co N York Your favor of the 26th (…) is received and in reply would remark that one V. F. College buildings are in the course of construction but from the magnitude and terms of the contracts will not be completed ready for occupancy before the fall of 1864. Our President Prof. M. P. Jewett has just returned from a professional tour Europe and is now engaged organizing the several official departments of the College. Your...
Show morePoughkeepsie December 31, 1862 Miss Helen M. Tidd Morrisville Madison Co N York Your favor of the 26th (…) is received and in reply would remark that one V. F. College buildings are in the course of construction but from the magnitude and terms of the contracts will not be completed ready for occupancy before the fall of 1864. Our President Prof. M. P. Jewett has just returned from a professional tour Europe and is now engaged organizing the several official departments of the College. Your note will be placed on file to be referred to again at the proper time. We contemplate a fund for the beneficiary departments but cannot say to what extents. I am Madame Yours very Respectfully MV P.S. I send you a copy of the Proceedings of the Board Trustees 1861, and an article on the College by the Revd Moses Tyler.
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Creator: Vassar, Matthew, 1792-1868
Date: December 29, 1862
Text: man through the … of the northern mind for novelty, especially in preaching. By invitation I preached in the chapel of the university a few sundays … The next week some of the older students were at my house, and attempted to [flather] me by saying; 'it was considered the finest specimen of pulpit oratory ever given in their chapel'. I cannot tell for how peculiarly let down, I was by the nature of the … I was anxious that my effort should approve itself to the student and Profs[sor...
Show moreman through the … of the northern mind for novelty, especially in preaching. By invitation I preached in the chapel of the university a few sundays … The next week some of the older students were at my house, and attempted to [flather] me by saying; 'it was considered the finest specimen of pulpit oratory ever given in their chapel'. I cannot tell for how peculiarly let down, I was by the nature of the … I was anxious that my effort should approve itself to the student and Profs[sor] for a special reason, but not in the way [reported]. What I did attempt was this; I had often insisted in my criticism upon preaching here, that these was very little of the preaching of the gospel in the northern pulpit: - that I had heard a great deal of preaching about god, human right, and moral duty; but very little of the preaching of the [crop] of … on the hope of man. So I selected as my subject The … of Xth suffering happening & death. as illustrating my idea of preaching the gospel — after [typing] hand to preach church; to be complemented upon my elocution, & oratory, … … a very questionable complement. But all this is in keeping with what seems to me the degeneracy of the northern pulpit. The fact is the [Beecher, & Parking, & …] have had a most [debasing] effect upon the ministry. The essay [slective] styles of preaching, have … the manner; while aboli==tionism, spiritualism, transcendentalism have poisoned the matter of the preaching to such an extent, that the wonder is that infidelity is not more outspoken and rampant, rather than as it is, the pervading essence of such preaching. The fact is the new sentiment[sic] is but little more than a convenience to [purge] a text upon, while [Packer], and …, & [Beecher] are the great models; and popularity the great end to be achieved. Perhaps I don’t see right but I hardly ever go to church, that my spirit is not … within me, at the ... like idolatry of the worshippers. There must come a reaction, or we are a lost people. No wonder the … of … people, is an deplorable as it is. It is a comment on the practical infidelity of the age. … has been that out from the pulpit; and the people have been taught higher law, & specious… for the gospel. Religion has found new exponents, and is called in to reach human sight, & not human salvation; and the land is bathed in blood! Thus god leaves men to their own … way when they turn from him. I am [conscious] that all this is very much like … [evoking]; but it is what I can't help feel and see. and perhaps I see is the more plainly, because I have not been made the influence of the graduating … by which … … have been … [reached]. Fifteen years absence, and development, in a society the spirit of which is eminently [conservative]; make the contrast between what was, and what is, in the northern pulpit, the more …. I don’t wish to … and find fault, but it is true, that the amount of infidelity, which has overspread the land is awful. Infidelity not only in religion; but in science - social, moral, and political. Education faces but little better especially female education- the … are full of [puff], but superficial, one sided, and unnatural. As is women, at least most women, … even need to spend their whole strength upon mathematics, logic, and the principles of debate. But they are taught, & drilled in these better & … carefully, that in anything … hence the public feeling, & strong minded sisterhood. The idea of a … … being … to debate with him. Beautiful prospect for young bachelors-my paper is gone-love to my amanda … Char. A. Raymond
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