Two Sites for School Meet Favor

Marietta Daily Times, April 16, 1923

That the survey commission from the extension department of Ohio State University will recommend at least two possible sites for location of Marietta's proposed new high school building is learned from good authority, and it is expected that a formal report will be made to Superintendent Skinner and the Board of Education during the present week. One of the locations is on Seventh Street near the end of Tupper Street extension, and the other is on what is commonly known as Cisler's hill, on the east side of Seventh Street opposite the Marietta chair company plant.

The commission is said to have given first choice to the site at the head of Tupper Street and this would include the J. S. Goebel place with portions of both the Bartlett Estate and the Thomas Cisler homestead. The commission is very favorable impressed with this site, describing it as one of the best for high school purposes to be found in the state of Ohio.

Goebel Place Too Small

The Goebel property in itself would not be quite large enough for a High site and the additional ground would embrace a narrow strip off of the Southeast side of Beverly Place - the Bartlett estate - and a good plat of ground from the Cisler place to the north of the Cisler brick plant.

The second available site advised by the commission, on Cisler's hill, is described as ideal for the needs of the occasion, except that the approaches to it would have to be more elaborate and their construction would mean an expenditure of more money than would be required for similar work on the other site. It likely would mean the building of a viaduct either from Putnam Street hill or from Butler Street, either of which would lead directly to the proposed school grounds.

Cisler Hill Advocated

There has been a feeling for some time that the Cisler hill site is the logical one for the proposed high school, and its advocates have had a double purpose in mind. The opening of this territory by construction of a viaduct or other similar approach would make available a fine lot of building territory almost in the heart of the city and would give prospective home builders a chance for an outlet that long has been needed.

Walnut Hills and the territory adjoining it on both sides would afford building space for hundreds of homes, as the ridge winds around a half-circle and drops down to the rear of Norwood a distance of considerably more than a mile.

Approach is Great Need

All that is needed to open up this territory and make it highly desirable is a suitable approach from the main part of the city, and the high school project worked out to this end would result in a broad-gauge civic improvement of far-reaching effect upon the whole city, it is felt by friends of the plan.

Various surveys that have been made by postal employes, the census bureau and other agencies in the past have show the center of population of Marietta community to be in the vicinity of Putnam and Sixth streets, so that the findings of the University Commission in its work a week ago but affirms the fact, and the selection of one of the sites to be recommended would appear to be logical.

  

Education in Marietta

 Marietta Gazette, February 28, 1835

Marietta, at this time, affords advantages for educating the young and rising generation, equal to any town of its size in the great west. We have a regularly incorporated College, on the manual labor system, with able and experienced professors, and well attended by scholars. A Female Seminary, the teachers in which it would be supererogation in us to praise. A school under the management of the Rev. J. T. Wheat, the worthy pastor of the Episcopal Church; and several common schools, all of which are in successful operation.

The town is healthy, boarding cheap, and the society equally moral and intelligent with that of any town. Parents and guardians would no doubt find it greatly to their interest to examine the seminaries of learning in Marietta before sending their children and wards to any other place. The Ohio river, and two or three different lines of stages, give all the requisite means of conveyance for those who wish to come from distant parts of the country.

Marietta Female Seminary

 The Marietta Intelligencer, August 6, 1846

Mr. Editor: Permit me through your paper to express the great pleasure felt at the examination of the above mentioned institution during two days of last week.

At an early hour on Monday the exercises commenced in presence of the whole school, numbering nearly 100, and of a larger number of citizens and strangers than usual on similar occasions, and all seemed deeply interested and much pleased. For one, I can truly say that I have never witnessed any examination in any other Female Seminary more thorough and satisfactory, and more complimentary both to pupils and teachers, as this was from the beginning to the end.

After attending for four years in succession, the Annual Examination in this Seminary, we feel assured that "it is the settled policy of the teachers to do the work of education well" for all who shall become their pupils; and the determination of the pupils to do themselves justice, and their instructors honor. And we cannot but regard the Superintendent and Principal and teachers as having already redeemed their pledge implied in the following "Miscellaneous Remarks" in their last Annual Catalogue: "This Seminary, in its plan, comprises an entire, thorough and liberal course of School Education, beginning with the first elements, and embracing not only the Languages and appropriate Sciences, but the ornamental branches."

In addition to the very gratifying intellectual improvement of the pupils, as evinced in their examination in their class books, compositions and scrap books, we had the most pleasing evidence that their daily Biblical exercise, together with their study of Natural Theology, Moral Philosophy, Evidence of Christianity, Butler's Analogy, Philosophy of the Plan of Salvation, and Edward's History of Redemption, were tending greatly to sanctify their literary attainments and consecrate them to the Lord. During the year just now closed the pupils of this Seminary have devoted $30 to the cause of educating a heathen youth for the ministry. Calisthenics also, for securing a better physical education, have been introduced in this Institution during the same time, and under the superintendence of Miss Rice this exercise has succeeded well.

The work which this Seminary is performing for this city, and for the community at large, also entitles it to the high regard and decided patronage of the public. The many goods teachers that have gone out from it already are blessings indeed wherever they labor, and are at once an honor to the school that trained them, and a praise to Marietta that first established it, and thus far has aided so much in sustaining it.

Our earnest prayer is that the fostering hand of this growing literary and pious community will mete out to this very valuable institution its ample patronage, and that God himself will make it a lasting blessing to us and to the whole world.

Will Become Custodians of School Lands

The Marietta Daily Times, May 18, 1917

Township trustees, clerks and treasurers are to become custodians after June 29 of school and ministerial lands held in trust by the State of Ohio for the support of schools and advancement of religion within the townships.

On that date an act of the general assembly, passed last March goes into effect. This act provides for the better administration of the school and ministerial land held in trust by the state to codify the laws relating thereto, to safeguard both the trust and the rights of the citizens of Ohio holding leasehold or fee simple titles to those lands, and make more certain the rights and obligations of the state and the lessees.

Charles W. Withum, Muskingum township clerk, is in receipt of a letter from Auditor of State A. V. Donahey calling attention to the act, which is designed to bring up-to-date records of this department, neglected for a generation.

In the first act of Congress, passed in 1785, providing for the survey and sale of lands in the Northwest Territory, it was especially provided that Section No. 16 in every township should be set aside for the support of schools within the township.

When the Ohio Company obtained its grant of lands these sections were excluded from the grant.

When the Ohio convention met pursuant to the act of congress providing for the organization of the state of Ohio, it specially asked Congress in relation to these lands, that every township receive its section and that in the special districts, land equal to one-thirty-sixth part of the district be set aside for the support of the schools, and that all these lands be vested in the state as trustee. By acts of congress of 1802 and 1803, this was done. Hence today the state holds these lands as trustees.

Until 1826 those lands could not be sold. Prior to that year leases were granted for terms of years varying from one year to perpetual terms. These old leasing acts in respect to perpetual leases all provided for annual rents of six per cent upon the valuation of the lands. Revaluations were required to be made, usually every 33 or 35 years.

Administration of these lands was originally placed in the hands of officers of the original surveyed townships. Because the lines of the original surveyed townships have been largely broken p in the formation of our present civil townships, and because of local indifference or lack of knowledge of the conditions of the trust, boards of trustees and treasurers have been but infrequently elected. So there has been practically no administration of these lands in most of the townships.

Rents have accumulated, in some instances for fifty years, ands have been impoverished, timber has been cut, oil and coal  have been taken without remuneration to the trust. Lands have been sold and only partly paid for, and outstanding interest has been defaulted.

Schools of nearly every county in the state have suffered, some of them to the extent that they are now financially embarrassed when they should have a surplus in their treasuries.

The new code is designed to give a better administration to the generous gift of the nation to the schools of Ohio, to secure the rights of citizens now occupying these lands, and to bring to the schools the revenues to which they are entitled.

The lands in Washington county are bringing a revenue of from $1800 to $1700 annually.

The Contest Off

The Marietta Times, February 14, 1894

The Colored Girl the Bone of Contention

The oratorical contest between the pupils of the Marietta and Parkersburg High Schools is off.

When it was announced last week that a colored girl had been selected as the essayist to represent Marietta there was a kick among the Parkersburg contestants. Feeling was so high that Prof. Ames wrote to Prof. Smith of Marietta, explained the situation and requested that either the colored girl's name be dropped from the program or else drop the essay altogether. We are informed that Mr. Smith has replied and refuses to drop either the colored girl or the essay.

That settles the contest as far as Parkersburg is concerned as the pupils absolutely refuse to take part on account of the colored girl being on the program. The most vigorous kick comes from some of the pupils who have Republican parents. - Parkersburg Sentinel.

The above tells the story. Parkersburg wanted a contest with Marietta. The arrangements were all made and the contestants all selected. But Parkersburg discovers "a fly in the ointment," and the contest all at once becomes offensive to those of our sister city.

And why their disquietude? Because, forsooth, a colored girl, one who through her life, and because of no fault of her own, must be marked with a dark skin, which is harder to be borne than would be the brand of Cain, has been announced as one of the Marietta selections.

Because this girl, by the use and improvement of the talent and advantages that God has given her, and in the exercise of the rights guaranteed to her by the fundamental law of the land, has, after competition with those who have fairer skins, been fairly awarded the place of honor, then does our sister city heap insult and indignity upon her by refusing to engage in the contest because she is to be in it.

We have heard of the chivalry of the South. We have read of it in prose and in rhyme. We have gloried in it, and if we could have successfully invoked the aid of the Muse, would before this have sung of it in words that would have been immortal; but those of whom we have heard and read and would have sung, would not decline a combat for the reasons given in this case. They, in their greatness, would say, "let the best one win," and would be satisfied with the result of whatever color might be the one who gained the day.

It is strange that Prof. Ames, a Belpre boy, should be the medium through which this decision is made known, for if our memory does not play us false as to the traditions of the past, there were several stations of the Underground Railroad close to the spot where Frank was born and raised.

As our contest for the selection of the Marietta scholars to compete with those from Parkersburg was public, it may be the latter place had some of its emissaries in attendance, and that the displays of oratory, eloquence and ability were so great that they were dismayed and reported to those who sent them that literary giants dwelt in the land and that it would not be safe for them to attempt to possess it.

Fear of failure, fear that this daughter of Ham might be the victor and not race prejudice may be the underlying reason for their withdrawal.

If this be the case we admire their discretion but deplore their lack of chivalrous behavior.

African American Schools

Notice

The Marietta Intelligencer, August 2, 1849

The Board of Education for the town of Marietta, deeming it inexpedient to admit colored children into the regular common schools established in said town, have, as required by law, created a school district for colored persons in said town, embracing all the territory within the corporate limits thereof. And the adult male colored tax payers residing in said district are hereby notified to meet at the School House near T. P. Harshbergers Shop on Front Street on Saturday, the 11th day of August next at 2 o'clock P.M. and choose their School directors in accordance with the provisions of the act of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio entitled "an act to authorize the establishment of separate schools for the education of colored children and for other purposes, passed February 10th, 1840.

By order of the Board of Education for the Town of Marietta.

E. H. Allen, Sec'y, pro tem

*     *     *     *     *

School Room for Colored Youth

The Marietta Register, December 9, 1875

At a recent meeting of the Board of Education of Marietta, a committee previously appointed for the purpose, made the following report concerning a school building for the colored youth of the city:

To the Board of Education:

Communication of A. Jackson proposing to sell a building and lot for the Colored School, together with the order that said communication and the question of providing adequate accommodation for the colored youth, be referred to the committee on repairs - received our immediate attention.

The first school day after this reference, we visited the Colored School and were more than gratified to find it in so prosperous condition. The number of scholars almost double that of any former period, and the progress and prospects of the school are very promising. The building we found in the same condition it was after the repairs of last year, but the increased number of scholars, demanding more seats, and some for larger scholars. Without the loss of a school day, those seats were provided, and for the last three weeks the teacher and scholars have been enjoying the change.

The members of the Board have several times looked at the present building and examined other property with the impression that the present building was not in all respects suitable. Your committee have no additional reasons to give, other than those which have heretofore been brought to the attention of the Board for building or purchasing, unless it be the increased number of scholars.

In our examinations, we have learned that 27 of the present attendants of the school live above Putnam Street, and eight below Putnam Street, and the latter quite far away from the present building. Others, but a very few, live near the corporation line north of Washington Street. Accompanying this report will be found the names and places of residence of all enrolled, also a plat explaining the relative place of abode of each scholar.

G. M. Woodbridge

Jacob Miller

Committee

Albany, Athens Co., School for Colored People

The Marietta Register, July 8, 1864

 Amesville, O., June 20, 1864.

Having been requested by some friends and patrons of the Albany Enterprise Academy, a school for the colored people, to visit that institution, I would hereby state that I have endeavored faithfully to perform the duty assigned to me, and that I find the effort to build up a permanent school of the kind designated, in successful progress.

The walls of the edifice, 30 by 48 feet, and two stories high, are completed, well and thoroughly built and ready for the roofing and floors. The materials for enclosing the building are nearly all on the spot and mechanics are engaged on the work. The building is well located for its purposes and when completed will be an honor to its donors, and a proud incentive, as well a great facility for the intellectual and moral elevation of the Colored People of the region. Thus far the undertaking is nearly free from debt and I doubt not has been as well and economically conducted as any similar enterprise.

There is also a school of colored persons ready to occupy the building when completed, of 49 enrolled scholars and a regular attendance of from 30 to 40 pupils. The school embraces the various ages from small children to full grown men and women, and the various hues from the most sable to those of the fairest complexions.

From a personal and particular examination on the spot, I have no doubt that the effort thus far conducted by the colored people to found an institution for their own benefit, and which shall not be liable to be wrested from them, has been as successful as the most sanguine friends of the enterprise could expect, and that is is entirely worthy of the confidence and generous cooperation of the friends of education and of the colored race. The enterprise has the confidence and cordial sympathy of the enlightened and virtuous community where it is situated, with the exception of a few individuals who object to the institution because it is under the control of people of color, and who though impotent for evil at home, may possibly injure the cause abroad.

It is earnestly to be hoped that all the means necessary to complete this very important enterprise will be generously given until the long oppressed race shall have a fair opportunity of asserting their claim to a standing among the enlightened, intelligent and cultivated mankind.

Charles Merwin

Pastor, Presbyterian Church

German School

The Marietta Register, January 9, 1863

At a meeting of the Board of Education of Marietta, 2d inst., the following was adopted:

Resolved, That in response to the petition of numerous citizens of Marietta for a school in which instruction in German may be given, or German and English together, the Board of Education appropriate a sum not exceeding $140 for the purpose of defraying the expenses of such school for the term of 12 weeks; and that William Styer, Chris Bahrenberg, and Mr. Baker be appointed a committee to select a Teacher, to be approved by the Board and to make all the necessary arrangements for commencing the school, to visit and supervise the same, and report their action to this Board.

It is understood that the school be conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations of this Board of Education, as far as practicable; that no pupils be received under 8 or over 13 years, and that instruction be given in such branches only as are taught in the Primary Schools. 

Old Marietta Papers - Number 26

 The Marietta Register, March 25, 1864

"Old Marietta Papers" was a series of columns compiled and published in 1863 and 1864 by Rodney M. Stimson, editor of "The Marietta Register."

The Institute of Education at Marietta was advertised at length in the "Friend" of September 11, 1830, by Rev. L. G. Bingham. It comprised four departments - Infant School, Primary School, High School, and Young Ladies' School.

March 24, 1831, Spring Term of the "Institute of Education" began. High School, Dr. N. P. Brown, a graduate of Williams College. Young Ladies' School, Miss Spalding from Ipswich Female Seminary, Massachusetts. Primary School, Miss Battelle and Miss Winchell. Infant School, Miss Howe. Writing School, Mr. A. Bingham.

April 1831, Rev. Mr. Bingham sold one-half of the "Institute of Education" to Mansfield French, who had been a teacher in the Preparatory Department of Kenyon College; after which Mr. French gave his attention to the management of the Institute.

Luther Bingham

July 1831, the young men of the High School in the Institute formed a "Manual Labor Association" - a kind of association just then beginning to come into notoriety in connection with educational institutions. By these associations, "Manual Labor," for a certain number of hours in a day, was compulsory upon the students - for health, the benefit of the pocket, etc. Shops were provided to work in and ground to labor upon. For some years these Manual Labor Associations had quite a "run," but for nearly a quarter of a century they have been among the "things that were." However good in theory, they failed in practice.

August 30 1831, David Putnam, Ephraim Cutler, Caleb Emerson, William R. Putnam, Dudley Woodbridge, John Cotton, Arius Nye, Luke DeWitt, and Levi Whipple, published a communication in the "Friend," that they had attended the examinations of the "Institute" and were "highly gratified with the management of the teachers and the progress of the scholars," etc.

March 15, 1832, in the evening a meeting of the friends of the "Institute" and of the advancement of education in Marietta was held - S. P. Hildreth, chairman, Douglas Putnam, secretary.

The Institute, it appears, had prospered so largely that it had outgrown its facilities for the accommodation of students. Mr. French, one of the proprietors (Rev. Mr. Bingham being the other), read a paper setting forth the wants of the Institute. Caleb Emerson, Arius Nye, and Dr. Cotton addressed the meeting. A committee of seven was appointed to consult upon the interests of the Institute and report an an adjourned meeting, Friday evening, March 23d, to-wit: C. Emerson, A. Nye, J. Cotton, D. Protsman, W. Thomas, R. Crawford, J. Whitney.

An able report in the premises was published in the "Friend" of April 7, 1832. The great advantage of Marietta for an institution of learning - health, beauty of location, etc., were duly set forth, as well as the profit to the town from such an institution. The result was a plan set on foot to erect a new building, donations for it to be received; also a Board of Trust was appointed, Caleb Emerson, James Whitney, S. P. Hildreth, John Cotton, Arius Nye, Weston Thomas, and Douglas Putnam.

April 7, 1832, the "Friend" announced: "The new building (for the Institute) is already commenced. It is to be very spacious and located on a high and healthful situation - far above the reach of our highest floods, and will have a very commanding prospect. The dimensions of the building are 75 by 40 feet. It is to be three stories in height, besides the basement story, with a dome above. The building, it is hoped, will be ready for the reception of scholars in the Fall."

Institute Building
(First Marietta College Building)

At this date the name "Institute of Education" appears to have been dropped for the "Marietta Collegiate Institute.."

About September 1, 1832, the Annual Catalogue was published. The number of pupils during the year was 230, of whom 117 were from abroad. Eight states were represented, among them: Massachusetts, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky. In the High School, 33 had been in the languages. It was announced in the "Friend" as the intention of all concerned to make the Marietta Collegiate Institute an entirely public institution, so as to perpetuate its advantages on a permanent basis."

September 25, 1832, the Fall Term of the Marietta Collegiate Institute commenced. Miss Deborah Wells (subsequently Mrs. D. P. Bosworth) now became associated with Miss Spalding in the Ladies' Seminary; and "Mr. Smith," with Mr. French, in the High School. "Mr. Smith," then so humbly announced, was a graduate of Middlebury College, Vermont, and remained here nearly twenty-two years - became widely known as "Rev. Henry Smith, D.D., President of Marietta College," and since has been a Professor in Lane Theological Seminary, then Pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church in Cincinnati, and now is Pastor of a Presbyterian church at Buffalo, New York.

Henry Smith

January 26, 1833, public notice was given that the Institute which had before that time been under the "exclusive control of Messrs. Bingham and French," had been recently incorporated by the name of "Marietta Collegiate Institute and Western Teachers' Seminary" and placed under the direction of a Board of Trustees appointed by the legislature, "with the view of making it a public institution, and thus enlarging the sphere of its operations, and extending its usefulness." In pursuance of this design, the Trustees called a public meeting to be held at Library Hall, Wednesday evening, February 6, 1833. The call was signed by John Cotton, L. G. Bingham, Jonas Moore, and Douglas Putnam, committee of the trustees.

February 6, 1833, Wednesday evening, public meeting for the Collegiate Institute, held at Library Hall, according to notice previously given. Rev. John Spalding from the East (a Home Missionary Agent, we believe) made an eloquent address; also Rev. Mr. McAboy, on the practicability and importance of elevating the standard of education in the West, as connected with the great and interesting objects proposed by the Board of Trustees at this meeting. Rev. Mr. Smith, then a teacher in the High School, spoke particularly upon the Manual Labor system in connection with education, enlarging upon its merits. Rev. Mr. Vail, of Lane Seminary, spoke of the striking advantages of this system and presented a plan for the Institute, as adopted by the Board, requiring $20,000 to carry it into effect. It was resolved unanimously to attempt to raise the $20,000 in the East and the West, within twelve months, and to make an effort to raise $8,000 or $10,000 in town and vicinity, within three months. The books were opened on the spot, and within a few minutes, between $6,000 and $7,000 was subscribed by individuals present.

The plan then proposed was for an English Department to enable young men to obtain a thorough English education, training them for teachers; a Classical or Collegiate Department; an Academic Department, to prepare for the two higher Departments; and a Female Department.

February 25, 1833, Monday evening, was held at Library Hall, the first public Exhibition by the young men of the Institute, of which we have any account - by part of the members of the "Philodemic Society." The parts consisted of eight original orations:

Signs of the Times: Sidney Brooks, Buckland, Massachusetts.

Importance of Fixed Moral Principles: John M. Slocomb, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts.

Physical Education: Luther Temple, Heath, Massachusetts.

Novel Reading, Israel Archbold: Harrison County, Virginia.

Public Opinion: John W. Bosworth, Marietta.

Virtuous and Intelligent Youth, the Hope of our Country: John W. Latta, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Literature and Civil Government as influenced by a general devotion to Party Politics: David Dunn, Mount Vernon, Ohio.

Christian Missions: S. P. Dunham, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Our notice of the infancy of Marietta College must conclude with the remark that the present Charter of "Marietta College," by the legislature, bears date January - , 1835. In that year, Rev. Joel Linsley, D.D., from Park Street Church, Boston, became the first President of the College. The first class graduated in the summer of 1838.

Joel Harvey Linsley

Female Education

American Friend, December 7, 1821.

The Trustees of the Muskingum Academy in Marietta have the satisfaction to announce to the Publick that arrangements have been made for opening a school in one of the apartments of the Academy, in connection with the school of Mr. Slocomb, for the instruction of young Ladies and Misses in the solid and ornamental branches of female education; and that Miss Goldthwait, recently from New England, where she has been engaged a number of years in the education of young ladies, will take charge of the same.

The school was opened on Monday, the 3d inst. The quarterly tuition will be, for reading, writing, English grammer, arithmetick, geography, rhetorick and composition - $3.00.

For drawing, painting, embroidery, &c. (in addition), $5.00.

Arrangements have also been made for the accommodation of 8 or 10 young ladies with boarding near the Academy at $1.50 per week.

It is believed that the qualifications and experience of Miss Goldthwait are such as to ensure satisfaction to those parents who shall intrust their daughters to her care; and that the most scrupulous attention will be given to the manners and morals of her pupils.

Marietta, Dec. 1, 1821.

N.B. Scholars must be furnished with Cummings Geography and Atlas, Walker's Dictionary & Murray's Grammar. Those likewise who have Watts on the mind, Mason on self-knowledge, Young's night thoughts, Thompson's seasons, or Cowper's poems are requested to bring them.

The Printers in Zanesville are requested to give the above an insertion in their respective papers.

 

Communistic Talk Causes Bitter Feeling at College

The Marietta Daily Times, November 9, 1934

Bitter feeling in the student body and among friends of Marietta College was engendered through posters that were nailed on campus trees and utterances that were made during chapel exercises at the institution on Friday morning. Those that offended on this occasion are said to have been members of the group that sought to stir up feeling at a public demonstration in the city park on Memorial Day last spring, plans that were thwarted upon orders of Mayor J. Morton Harper.

Robert Creegan, youthful student at the college, who has boasted on different occasions in the past year that he is a junior communist, and who attained some degree of publicity last May when he boasted that he was to be sent to Russia to study communism during the summer, was one of the speakers at today's meeting. His declarations were not well received, to say the least, and continued during the day to provoke angry feelings in college circles.

Creegan Talks

Authorities at Marietta College said today that it had not been planned for Creegan and his small group of associates to appear on the program at Friday morning's chapel services, and they indicated that he attained his end by "crashing the gate."

Creegan held the platform long enough to declare that "red communism is the only way out for the world" and to renew his declaration of faith in principles that are most unpopular with the average American.

The objectionable posters that were nailed to trees on the campus are published over the signatures of "Student League for Industrial Democracy and the National Student League," and are headed "A Call to Student Action!"

Two members of the college faculty, Professor Clark and Professor Phillips, had been asked to talk. The latter spoke at some length regarding the "student league." Robert Creegan and William Ludwig, unannounced speakers, then were heard and they consumed so much time that Professor Clark could be given but little part in the program.

Statement Issued

Criticism of what took place was offered Friday by Dr. Edward S. Parsons, college president, in the following statement:

"The Times has asked me to say a word about the assembly at the college on Friday morning, November 9. The weekly assembly on Friday is in charge of the students and a singer of note had been engaged for this morning, but she was taken ill, and it was decided to omit the assembly this week. Last evening I was called up by one of the student vice presidents in charge of the Friday assembly and asked if I would permit an assembly in which Professor Clark and Professor Phillips would speak. I saw no objection to this so granted the permission. I knew nothing of the plan to have other speakers than the two named nor of the posters which were put up on the college campus before the meeting."

Freedom of Speech

"The college stands, as every college does, for freedom of opinion but with some of the utterances from the platform and a larger part of the writing on the poster, it is in definite disagreement. I am sure that I speak for the great majority of the college groups when I say that while we absolutely abhor war and think that as an instrument of attempting the settlement of any kind of dispute it should be absolutely outlawed. We know that occasions may arise when the protection of vital national interests is likely to demand war. I know that under such circumstances Marietta College would manifest the same loyalty that has always characterized it in the past."

Bones Uncovered in Harmar Excavation

The Marietta Daily Times, July 22, 1952

Bones of Man and Deer Unearthed in Excavation for Harmar School

Human bones which may be those of an Indian or an old settler were unearthed this morning during the excavation for the new Harmar school building. The bones, which were discovered by a construction worker, were found approximately four and a half feet below the earth's surface.

Portions of a skull were found, although the pieces were not large enough to form the shape of the head. The complete skeleton has not yet been unearthed. Teeth found with the skeleton are in good condition and revealed that the person was apparently a young adult at the time of death.

Ralph Whipple, professor of natural science at Marietta College, viewed the bones, but said he could not determine whether they are those of an Indian or old settler. However, he felt the bones did not have any particular scientific value.

At this time, no arrangements have been made to preserve the bones. With the bones exposed to the air, decomposition will begin immediately.

Workers have also unearthed bones of animals. Teeth found are thought to be those of a deer.

Whether the bones were those of an old settler will probably be never known. If they are, the bones probably date back to the 1700s, as Harmar was built in 1786 to establish protection for settlers and to prevent squatters from settling on land.

 

Sunday Schools

American Friend, May 22, 1818 

The committee appointed for the purpose, give notice that they have made arrangements for the commencement of two schools in Marietta, for the ensuing season: One at the Muskingum Academy, and one at the school-house on Point Harmar - to be opened on Sunday the 24th May at 8 o'clock in the morning. 

Those who are disposed to avail themselves of the advantages of these benevolent institutions are invited to attend. Adults and children will be admitted, without distinction of age or color. 

Experience has taught that punctual attendance, at the hour appointed, is not only important, but absolutely necessary.

Schools to be open from 8 to 10 A.M. and from 4 to 6 P.M.

Belpre Library takes the Palm for Age

 The Marietta Times, April 29, 1880

During the Centennial year, a work on the public libraries of America was issued by Gen. John Eaton, United States Commissioner of Education. In this work was an article from the pen of Professor Venable of Cincinnati, in which he stated that the Queen City Library was the oldest in the Northwest. This was immediately disputed by the Athens County Pioneer Association, and later by citizens of Belpre, Washington County. As a consequence General Eaton appointed a commission to investigate the claims of the several localities. The report of this commission has just been forwarded to Washington. It is as follows:

Columbus, Ohio, March 15, 1880

Hon. Mr. Eaton, National Commissioner of Education

Washington, D.C.

Dear Sir:

The undersigned, who were secured by you as a committee before whom could be brought claims and proofs of priority in the establishment of social (or public, as distinguished from private) libraries in the Northwestern Territory, beg leave to report that they have had before them the claims of three localities, viz: 1. Cincinnati; 2. Ames Township, Athens County, and 3. Belpre, Washington County, and that they are unanimously of the opinion that the claim of the last named place has been made good.

The evidence upon which they rely consists of the two following documents furnished in a letter of President I. W. Andrews of Marietta, dated March 1879, to the Marietta Register, and republished in the Cincinnati Gazette, the genuineness of the documents being certified to by that gentleman.

First - A receipt in the following terms:

Marietta, October 2d, 1796

Received of Jonathan Stone, by the hand of Benjamin Miles, ten dollars for his share in the Putnam Family Library.

W. P. Putnam, Clerk.

Second - A record in the Probate office of Washington County, among the items in the inventory of the estate of Jonathan Stone, dated September 2, 1801, reads thus:

"One share in the Putnam Library, $10."

It seems clear to your committee from these documents that the "Putnam Family Library," here referred to, was a social library with stockholders and officers, and that it was in existence in October, 1796. This antedates by a number of years the other claims. The library seems after a time to have been merged into the "Belpre Library," or "Belpre Farmers' Library."

Your committee does not find sufficient facts upon which to decide between the Cincinnati and the Ames libraries as to priority of inception. There seems no doubt that the Ames' Library Association was definitely organized in 1802, and quite probably in 1801. The first funds raised for the purchase of books were derived from the sale of raccoon and bear skins, which were sent on to Boston early in the summer of 1803, the first books being purchased in August, 1803, and reaching their destination in December, 1803.

The Committee consider it proved that the Cincinnati Library was organized in March 1802, and they count it entirely probably that this library was supplied with books at this time.

As to sustained vigor and efficient service in this community, the "Western Library Association," the "Coonskin," of Ames, seems clearly to have surpassed all its competitors.

Respectfully submitted,

Edward Orton

Isaiah Pillars

J. J. Burns

It may be added as a matter of interest that the Athens Pioneer Association, through Mr. A. B. Walker, Secretary, have expressed their pleasure at the favorable mention of the Ames' library, although regretting that the facts did not enable the Committee to award them the credit for the greatest age. The work of the Commission was largely performed by State School Commissioner Burns.

Ohio Statesman

Letter From Wesley Township

The Marietta Register, November 13, 1873

Plymouth, Ohio, November 10, 1873

Editors Register:

We have waited long and patiently to see something in your columns from our section of the county, and have at last concluded that Wesley must be heard from, even if our own natural modesty be sacrificed in the attempt.

It may not be generally known to "all whom it may concern" in Washington County, that Plymouth, the grand center of trade and commercial metropolis of Wesley Township, is a village of no mean pretensions. Located among the hills in the western part of the township, it presents an inviting appearance and becomes more inviting as one becomes better acquainted with its inhabitants. In population it numbers perhaps 250 souls. It boasts of three dry-goods and grocery stores, one hardware, and one drug store, two shoe shops, one harness, one wagon and one blacksmith shop.

We have three physicians, two resident ministers, and no lawyers. We never quarrel in Plymouth. Besides all these, we can claim the best hotel (so voted, I believe, by all travelers) in this section, kept by Doctor Smith, a man who has no conscientious scruples about giving a traveler a warm reception and a good dinner at living prices. Then we have a tobacco house which gives employment to several hands, owned and carried on by our enterprising young merchant, S. B. Kirby. Last, but not least, we are better situated in regard to schools than any other village of the same size in Southeastern Ohio.

First, we have the common village school, free to all, and I understand, carried on very successfully by the present teacher, Mr. Frank Cheadle. Next in order comes a tuition school, managed and taught by Miss Marietta Heald under the supervision of the Society of Friends and, if a school is to be judged from the opinions of its scholars, we must certainly pronounce this one a success.

Lastly, in a very pleasant part of the town, Bartlett Academy is located, and near the academy a large two-story boarding house is situated for the purpose of furnishing rooms for students. This school is now under the supervision of W. J. Cook and from the general good feeling which seems to exist between him and his students, we think all must be well. The fall term of this school closes soon, and indications at present are very favorable for a large and successful winter term, commencing November 24th.

An assistant teacher has been obtained from Lebanon, Ohio, and Plymouth has strong hopes that an institution of learning will be established within her limits that will give her a high position in the educational world.

The moral state of our village is far above the average. We have not a liquor shop in the place, and an intoxicated man upon our streets would be a novelty. Very little swearing or immorality of any kind is ever heard, and we have as few specimens of the "genus loafer" as can be found in any place of the same size and business.

Our farmers are complaining bitterly about the price at which they are compelled to part with their tobacco this fall, but Mr. Kirby tells them it is as well as they can do and that ends the matter.

We are very sorry to hear that our young friend, Dr. Hobson, is about to leave us. He goes to Flushing in this state, I believe. May good luck go with him and her who so recently promised to love and obey him as long as life lasts. We congratulate the people of Flushing. "What is our loss is their gain."

I have already troubled you longer than I intended, and now that your readers know our status as a city, I shall content myself hereafter by giving you a "plain, unvarnished tale" of our doings, misdoings, &c., ad infinitum.

Wesley

 

Greene Street School

The Marietta Register, September 2, 1875

The schools all began Monday, but Greene Street Grammar School didn't. Reason - no teacher. It will soon become a matter of public policy and public concern, and if the Board are forever to stand a set-off, the reasons should be given, fully and explicitly to the public when we venture one party or the other will feel disposed to change the base.

It is not our purpose to give any advice in these remarks, but possibly to reflect the status at present writing. Everybody knows the Board stand three for Mr. Phillips or nobody, and other three for anybody of good qualifications but Mr. Phillips. The first argue that he has been tried and found superior, why not keep him? See resolutions and they are supported by a large petition of good citizens. The others state that he has been guilt of grave misdemeanors, which they charge and stand ready to prove, and they cannot and will not consent that he again go into the public schools.

We know what these charges are and know they are serious, but we do not know whether they are true or false. These members are also supported by a petition of good citizens. Three stand for Mr. Phillips, and three not for any particular applicant, but offer to put in any one of several.

The feeling is intense and bitter with many. There are citizens who say to both parties to stand firm, although it would seem to be unnecessary advice.

There are other citizens who have no particular choice in teachers, and they argue that school should go on. They have nothing against Mr. Phillips, have not investigated the charges, and don't propose to But admitting he is able as his friends claim, it does not argue that nobody else can fill his place.

If this dead-lock continues, there will not likely be any school before January.

There are others again who suggest that the entire Board resign, while again it is said this is a child's play, and it is their duty to agree on someone and start the school. They are supreme in the matter, and whether it be devotion to principle or personal spite, the public are the sufferers.

John Dean Phillips, 1832-1888

[Ed. note] J. D. Phillips was born on a farm near Marietta in 1832, son of Joseph and Margaret Phillips, and graduated from Marietta College with the Class of 1854. He immediately engaged in teaching, taking posts at the Greene Street Grammar School and Harmar Grammar School, among others. He taught for 34 years, and over 3,000 pupils received instruction from him. In 1879, Phillips accepted the superintendency of the Harmar Public Schools and also continued teaching. After becoming ill during the summer of 1888, he resigned from his position and died August 15 of that year.

Girl Fights Instructor

Marietta Daily Times, February 1, 1912

Trouble Reported at Lynch School House

A battle between a girl pupil and a woman teacher, with a resultant strike that brought the attendance at the Lynch school down to a single little boy, is giving the board of education of Fearing Township something to cudgel its brains over, according to reports that have reached this city. The story is given below as it comes from the neighborhood where the school is located.

A difficulty between the teacher, Miss Crawford of Coal Run, and a girl pupil named Jordan, whose home is at or near Caywood, occurred when the head of the school took the girl to task for something she had done. The young woman was unruly, however, and proceeded to mix things up with the instructor in real rough-house style. Miss Crawford was seized by the hair and pulled and jerked about for a time. It was a tough battle, but the teacher finally regained control of the school.

But the other boys and girls took side with the pupil against the teacher, led to do this by desire for a holiday as much as anything else, perhaps, and consequently they declared a strike and said that they would not come back to school as long as Miss Crawford is the teacher.

Wednesday there was only one pupil at school, it is reported. He was a little boy who did not want to attend, but his mother made him attend as usual.

The matter is receiving the attention of the township board of education. 

 

Ritter to Leave Marietta Tiger Band

The Marietta Daily Times, June 8, 1948

Director Goes to Parkersburg as Assistant.

G. Gordon Ritter, band and orchestra director at Marietta High School for the past six years, will leave Marietta to accept a position as assistant band director of the Parkersburg Big Red Band, effective July 1. Announcement of appointment, made Monday night by the Parkersburg Board of Education, was confirmed Tuesday morning by Ritter. It came as a surprise to the majority of Marietta school officials, including Supt. H. L. Sullivan, although rumors have been circulating for some time that the 31-year-old band director has had a number of bids to go to other schools.

Board Not Notified

Although the Marietta Board of Education held its regular meeting last night and a number of resignations were accepted, the pending resignation of Ritter was not reported. "The move was unknown to me," Supt. Sullivan said this morning. "We will be mighty sorry to lose him because he's done some fine work here."

Ritter said that he expects to assist or to serve as an understudy to George Dietz, director of the Parkersburg Big Red Band, for a year, taking it over at the end of that period of time while Dietz coordinates band and instruments in Parkersburg. "I'm leaving Marietta with many fond memories," he said, "and I truly appreciate the cooperation given me during the six years I've been here. I'm certainly hoping for the continued success of the Tiger Band."

Professional Advancement

The reason given by Ritter for leaving here to go to Parkersburg was for "professional advancement."  A graduate of Ohio University, Athens, with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1939, and from the same university in 1943 with his Master's degree, Ritter last summer attended the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where he took post-graduate work in band conducting and band arranging.

Prior to his university training he studied five years at the Cincinnati conservatory of Music under Frank Simon and Ervin Bellestedt. He has also had two seasons with the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra, and from 1942 through 1946 served as choirmaster of the First Congregational Church in Marietta.

Prior to coming to Marietta in 1942 to replace Donald Whetstone, Ritter taught three years at Mingo Junction. During his nine years in Ohio he has served as secretary of the East District of the OMEA for three years, and is a member of the State Board of the Ohio Music Education Association, serving as chairman of festivals and clinics in the state.

Band Made Good Record

Under Ritter's direction, the Tiger Band has grown from about 65 players to its present strength of 128 members, and has been one of a few having a harpist for a school of the size of MHS. Three summers ago 118 new band uniforms were purchased and according to a remark made today by Ritter, the band during the past six years "has secured near-perfect instrumentation through the cooperation of the Marietta Band Boosters."

The father of two children, Barbara Lee, 8, and G. Gordon Ritter, 5, the MHS band director is a member of Phi Mu Alpha, honorary music organization; Kappa Kappa Psi, honorary band organization; Kappa Delta Phi, educational organization and Sigma Phi, social fraternity.

Marietta High School Tiger Band, along with mascot "Tabby," 1947.

Employment for Boys

Marietta Intelligencer, March 30, 1848

The occurrences of the last week in this town must excite in the minds of all who love morality and good order a desire that something may be done to rescue our youth from the paths of vice in which so many of them are now walking.

On Saturday, John Cable, a boy not yet fourteen years of age, was sentenced to twelve years imprisonment in the Penitentiary for the crime of Arson; and Charles Kerr, aged seventeen years, to three years imprisonment for Horse Stealing. Young Kerr lived in Newport in this County and was convicted of stealing, some weeks since, the Horses of J. Dowling of Fearing.

Young Cable was convicted of burning the barn of J. C. McCoy of Harmar. Two other indictments were found against Cable - one for attempting to burn the house of Mr. McCoy, and one for attempting to poison Mrs. McCoy. Another, we hear, might have been found against him for Perjury, in swearing the crime for which he was convicted upon an innocent boy in an examination before a Justice, soon after the burning.

He has since his imprisonment twice attempted to burn the Jail. When upon his trial, it was found that he had a stone in his pocket, which he declared he would throw at Mrs. McCoy and which was wrested from him with great difficulty. When the Jury rendered their verdict he caught up a Law Book and threw at the Jurors, hitting one of them in the face. He was tried upon only one indictment. So desperate and malicious a criminal as this boy has probably never been seen in our Court House. 

Kerr, on the other hand, manifested a penitent spirit. He has no doubt been led into the commission of crime thro' the influence of his uncle, against whom an indictment was found, but who has not yet been arrested.  

At the very time when these boys were receiving their sentence, two other boys, one fifteen and the other sixteen years of age, were under examination before the Mayor on a charge of having committed nine burglaries during the previous night. They confessed the crime and are now in Jail waiting their trial. If the complaints against them are all pressed, the shortest term for which they can be sent to the Penitentiary is twenty seven years each. The following is a brief history of their transactions on Friday night.

They broke open Roberts and Beach's Tailor Shop and took a roll of cloth, two pairs of pants and two vests, one of which was on the younger boy when he was arrested. They then went to J. M. Booth's Cabinet Shop, opened a tool chest and took a bit &c., with which they opened A. Regnier's Grocery, from which they took some change, herring, crackers, candy, &c. &c. They went into Soule's Hat Shop, but took nothing by a single piece of silver coin. From T. P. Harsberger's Tailor Shop, they took two coats, a trunk, and sundry articles of small value. From the Library Hall Building they took two silver watches and two gold coins. From Theis' Shoe Shop they took a pair of boots. The Masonic Hall was also broken open, but we do not learn what they took. From the Sons of Temperance Hall they took some of the emblems from the officers' regalia and the marbles used in balloting.

These boys, with four or five others of about the same age or younger, have for several weeks past been engaged in stealing eggs, chickens and provisions in every part of the town, and the night before their arrest one of their associates stole a skiff and went to Parkersburg with eighty dozen eggs - a part of the plunder which the gang had been gathering for the two or three weeks previous. The two lads arrested do not, however, implicate any others in the burglaries, but declare that they had no associates in that business. They told where the stolen property was concealed, and it was found - as was also a great deal that had never been missed. Among other things, they had about 30 keys of all sizes and descriptions.

This is a sad tale of juvenile iniquity and one which we should be slow to give publicity to, if any good could result from withholding a disclosure of it. But we feel that the increase of crime by our youth is a proper though mournful subject of comment, and we are not altogether without hope that by directing attention to the facts, our citizens may be led to seek a remedy. We had better look the frightful evidences of the increasing evil sternly in the face, than quietly to fold our hands in peace and conclude that "Marietta is a very moral town," and "our children," as each many says for himself, "are in no danger," or "there are only a dozen such boys in town and the sooner they are on the gallows the better!"

It is very true that this is a town more free from open vice than almost any other in the State. But it will not long be so unless parents and guardians find more regular, constant and useful employment for their children and wards than scores - we might almost say hundreds - of them now have. If idleness is much longer tolerated in so many of our lads, no man's children will be safe, and instead of a half dozen boys imprisoned for high offences, as there now are, our Jail will soon be incapable of holding a tithe of them.

Our citizens, we are sure, do not know how many boys in this town are unemployed - out of school - absolutely doing nothing but preparing for a life of shame and a death of misery. And the number, we believe, is rapidly increasing. They are now so numerous that those who have employment, or who are sent to school, can hardly pass a square without meeting them. No man can tell how many, or who, will yield to the importunities of these vicious idlers and, beginning perhaps with marbles, will go on to cards, and end with burglary. 

Let any man stand for one day about our Court House and see the boys who collect there to play marbles. Most of them are neatly dressed - many have books under their arms and stop for only a few moments as they are passing to or from school, "just to have a little fun." But there is hardly an hour in the day when only such boys are there. The John Cables are there, too, and doing a work of mischief which the teachers and parents of the school-going boys know not of. They are hearing profanity and witnessing trickery; seeing others cheat and learning to cheat themselves.

There are in this town probably a hundred boys between eight and eighteen years of age who are out of employment. The most of them have occasionally some work to do, or are sent now and then to school. But many of them go only when they please. There ought to be authority somewhere to make them go every day when a school is taught, and to keep them at some useful employment when there is no school. If their own parents are indifferent to their welfare, those who do regard the moral training of children as of some moment, should interest themselves in behalf of these candidates for destruction. They should, at least, exercise a more watchful vigilance over their own children, and not rely upon the instructions of the family to protect them from the corrupt influence of vicious associates.

Marietta Intelligencer, April 13, 1848:

Mr. Gates:

Mr. Shoop, the father of one of the boys who recently committed so many burglaries in town, for which two of them are now in jail, having reported to many persons that I sold said boys liquor on the night of their last depredations, I beg to state to the public that the report is utterly false. I never sold them any liquor. I do not keep it on my wharf boat and do not intend to. Since the boats came into my possession, I have neither sold or given liquor to those boys, to any other boys, or to any man, men, women or children. I have not even had it on the boat. I hope this emphatic denial of the prejudicial reports now circulated on the authority of a boy guilty of so many and so heinous crimes as this young Shoop, will put them to rest.

V. Payne.

The undersigned are in the employ of Mr. Payne on the Wharf Boat and know that no spirituous liquor is sold, given away, or kept on his boat.

William H. Douglass.

John Q. A. Cunningham.

Thomas Taylor.