J^State Normal School Vol. 1 OFFICIAL ®he TITLE Hereafter to be Known as the Edinboro State Normal School —Change to Go Into Effect at Once—Catalogue and all Adver­ tising Natter to Bear the Name At the April meeting of the Board of Trustees a resolution was passed de­ claring that tho official title of the normal school at Edinboro should here­ after be The Edinboro State Normal School. The change fills a long felt and almost unanimous desire upon the part of the friends of the Edinboro in^-st>tu»-ion. The decision was reached in time to take effect in the new catalogue which has just gone to press at the local printing office. The fitness of the order is at once apparent. The name Edinboro is that by which the school is known most widely, the attempt ,to change it to the Northwestern State Normal has met with nothing but disparagement from the very beginning. The Birch Rod re­ joices in the change. The Spring Term. The following is a list of the new students who had enrolled before Mon­ day, April 8. There is a change of number from day to day, so that no ex­ act figure is given out, what would be correct one day would be an error on the next The list is: Acker, Lewis F., Meadville. Anderson, Jennie. Conneautville. Babcock, Gerald, Russell. Bierworth, Adria, Cambridge Springs. Blakeslee, Bernice, Union City. OF MONDAY, APRIL 8, 1912 THE Mundt, Zoe, Grand Valley. Neland, Virginia, McKean. Nichols, Adelaide, Cranesville. Northrop, Thelma A., Girard. Norris, Celia, Conneautville. Nye, Clair, Edinboro. Pettit. Ellen A., Conneautville. Raymond, Dorris, North East. Reed. Berdena, McKean. Rhodes, Iva M., Franklin. Roberts. Roscoe, Hadley. Roberts, Ruby, Harborcreek. Rodgers, Clark J., Conneaut Lake. Ross, Nelson, Conneautville. Scott, Cary, Girard. Sheakley, Robert L.. Alantic. Slaven, John, Kennard. Smith, Belva, Cambridge Springs Smith, Clarence H., Spartansburg. Smith, Grace M., Waterford. Smith, Frances, Saegerstown. Smith. Augusta, Guys Mills. Soderholm, Mabel, Aiken. Spence, Ruth, Oil City. Stewart, Jennie, Centerville. Staley, Edgar M., Mill Village. Steadman. Glenn. Conneaut Lake. Settles, Ruth, Cranesville. Taylor, Ethel, Spartansburg. Thayer, Fern, Youngsville. Trax, Dorothy, Fanklin. Ungfir, Pearl, Atlantic. Vincent, Ruth, Grand Valley. Vincent. Winifred, Grand Valley. Waite, Olite, Atlantic. Walbourn, Edith, Franklin. Wells. Laura, Springboro. West, Edith 0., E&pyville Station. Welton, Buena V., Polk. White, Florence, Russell. Wal;,..Ut-iuar—: Boyer. Donald, Meadville. Calvin, Feme L.. Atlantic. Chandler, Ethel, Bear Lake. Clapper, Lillian L., McKean. Crandall, Evelyn, McLane. Crawford, Catherine, President. DeArment, Roy, Conneaut Lake. Dickey. Adlia, Hartstown. Dickey, Ethel, Hartstown. Donaldson, Archie, Emlenton, Donnell, C., Venango, Doing, Ethyl, Edinboro. Drake, Archie L., Cambridge Springs. Flick, Cora, Spartansburg. Foster, Johnson, Waterford. Gidner, Ruth, Cranesville. Graham, Carl, Saegerstown. Griffey, Netta, Albion. Gross, Inez, Waterford. Hamilton, Leona, Meadville. Hague, Sara, Springboro. Hartley. Harry. North East. Harbaugh, John, Victoria. Hitt, Jessie, McLane. Hollabaugh, Savilla, Cochranton. ^ Humes, Ethyl Eugena, Cambridge Springs. Jones, Cecil E., Meadville. Jones, Mildred, Meadville. Kingsley, Anita, Cambridge Springs. Lamb, Lucy A., Conneautville. Lawrence, Leonia, Edinboro. Long, J. S. Earle, Waynesburg. McCartney, Agnes, Randolph. McCray, Ethel L., Spartansburg. McCray, Sadie, Spartansburg. McDaniel, Ruble, Cochranton. McElhatten, Beulah. Cranberry. McFeeters, Ruth, Springboro. McGuire. David J., Meadville. McGill, Lula, Cambridge Springs. McKinley, Frances, Jamestown. Maffitt Marion, Meadville. Martin, Mildred I., Spaitansburg. Mead, Henry, Spartansburg. Miller, Harold S. Meadville. Miller, Nellie, Conneaut Lake. Mills, Ethel, Edinboro. Mitchell, Florence, Mill Village. Mitchell, John L., Oil City. Mitchell, Sylvia B., Oil City. Mundt, Hazel, Grand Valley. Edinboro Pa, ^\ ____ Whitney, Nina, Harborcreek. Woods, Grace E., Cambridge Springs. Wimier, Ann. Cambridge Springs. Wood, Iris, Franklin. A CORRECTION. B. R. Kline Sets The Birch Rod Right On Several Natters Re­ lating to School Journalism. New Kensington. Pa., March 23, 1912. Dear Editors of The Birch Rod: The Birch Rod for March 14 has just been laid on my desk. On turning to the editorial page I notice “History of School Journalism.’’ The article seems to leave the impression that The Sphinx originated in the spring of 1899. I have no doubt that it was published at that time, and while I know that editors do not like being corrected, on reading the article I have pulled down an old scrap book from the top shelf of my book case and find on file the follow­ ing: THE SPHINX Vol. I. Edinboro, Erie County, Pa., May 15. 1885 Published semi-occasionally by G. A. Langley and Mary Lee. Editors: E. M. Reed, T. J. George. Printed at the office of the Edinboro Independent. This edition is devoted almost entire­ ly to the class day exercises which took place April 6, 1885. The program and class exercises are given in full, start­ ing as follows: Met in chapel Hall. 3:30 p.m. The Seniors, about sixty in number, with Professor Cooper, occupied the rostrum. The class officers President, H. J. H. Grimes: Secretary, Miss Emma Whiting, in their places. The meeting was called to order by the president, and devotional exercises by Professor Cooper, Song, ‘ ‘The Grand Old Oak, ’ ’ of which the verses are published. Two addresses were delivered by Miss NORMAL Hettie Moore and G. |d. Bradshaw, the text of both being published. Then followed the class poem by C. W. Trow, which list is'published in full. The tree was then planted and christened Comf)ton. The tree died, but was replaced the next year by Mr. Grimes and some of his classmates, and although I looked for it last June [ could not find it, ai.d I think it was removed when the new library building was erected, for it stood between that building ana old North Hall. The re­ mainder of the paper is filled with old chapel lessons, wit, humor, jokes and a few news items. I ask you to make mention of this in the “Birch Rod,” as it is asking no no more than justice for the teachers and the class gone before. Yours truly, B. R. KLINE, New Kensington, Pa. Edinboro Alumni Defeated by Varsity. What proved to be the bes^nd most interesting game of the seaso. was the game played Saturday evening, March 30, between the Normal alumni and the 1912 team, in which the varsity team won by the score 32 td 30. The alumni team that clashed with the students Saturday night was practically the same which opposed the varsity team last year. The Nor­ mal team never shot or displayed such team work and baksettall science during the whole season as they did in ir is last game. Hardljsi^had the game ■ oiaitTOHhreiintrtjuctt *wcavcu'liie inji lOi the home team. Caulkins followed “Skin” with two more field baskets. At this point Thompson scored for the alumni, and then Rose gave the graduates courage with a field basket. About this time Elmer Obert got the only basket he got during the game. Hood and White each added two points to the score and Thompson and Rose then located the net for two field baskets apiece. Caulkins shot a foul goal, and the first round was ended, the alumni being at the heavy end of an 18-17 score. The second half was a repetition of the preceding half, and when the final whistle blew the scorer announced the game to be a tie, the score being 30 to 30. The ball was then put in play, each team fighting hard for the winning basket. The game had progressed but a short time when White caged the ball, thus winning the game for the varsity. Every man played his best. Quick, of the home team, played a fine game, breaking up play after play. With this game the season of 1911 and 1912 ended. Next year’s team will lose two of its players. Quick and Caulkins, being seniors, but, with the material that is here now, the team next year should be one of the best in the history of the school. Line up: Normal Alumni Hood........... . . . .L. F___ C. Obert. . . . White......... Quick......... Caulkins . .. Field goals: Caulkins 7, Thompson 5, Rose 4, C. Obert 4, White 2, Glover 2, Hutchison 2, Hood 1, Quick 1, E. Obert 1. Foal goals: Caulkins 2, E. Obert 2. ’Tis not in seeking, ’Tis not in endless stirring Thy quest is found. Be still and listen; Be still and drink the quiet Of all arouud. —Edward Rowland Sill (Peace.) No. 11 SCHOOL DECIDED UPON ff THE QUESTION Were the whole world as good as you— Not an atom better— Were it ju^t as pure and true, JuSt as pure and true as you. Ju^ as ^rong in faith and works, Ju^ as free from crafty quirks--All extortion and deceit; Schemes its neighbors to defeat, Schemes its neighbors to defraud; Schemes some culprit to applaud— Would this world be better? If this old world followed you— Followed to the letter— Would it be a nobler world. All deceit and falsehood hurled From it altogether; Malice, selfishness, and lu^t Banished from beneath the cruft Covering human hearts from view— Tell me, if I followed you; Would the world be better^ Selected. — Baseball Outlook. As the grounds are yet too wet for baseball practice. Coach Foster has not called for candidates, although some of the more enthusiastic fans are taking advantage of the sidewalks and can be seen daily throwing the ball. The team this year should be one of the best in the history of the school, as many of the players of last year’s team are now attending school. In addition to these, many new students are here, and, accord­ ing to reports, they are fast in handling the ball. A few games have already been scheduled, and as soon as the weather permits the players will get down to hard work; as every man is anxious to win a position on the varsity team. ^'hat-Snpinsirt;On Wednesday evening, April 3, the festive air was again prevalent when the students residing in Reeder and Haven Halls were given a formal dinner at six o'clock. The boys were received by the girls in the upper corridors. All were in the best, the happiest mood, which could not but make just such a delightful occasion as they had. After the pleasant and gay preliminaries there was feast in another form. Donald Richey acted as toastmaster and spoke on “A penny for Your Thoughts.” “Great fleas have little fleas upon their backs to bite ’em. And little fleas have lesser fleas and so on ad infinitum. And the greater fleas themselves in turn have greater fleas to go on. While these again have greater still. And greater still, and so on.” Was the caption used by Victor Snapp, senior class president, who gave a toast to the senior, middle and junior classes. “Eased the putting off. These troublesome disguises which we wear. ” Carrie Walters told of the St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Haven Hall—of splendid spirit of classes—how, when occasion requires, that each class can throw off its class distinction for one evening, yet, maintain the dignity of it. This is as it should be. Arthur Johnson, president of middler class, told of the virtues and weak­ nesses of the junior class in a most apappreciatve, sympathic and discreet way in response to: “Be to her virtues very kind. Be to her faults a little blind. ” All concluded that Arline Smith does not agree with Robert Browning when he said: “Grow old along with me. The best is yet to be. ’' Arline loathes the thought of growing J old. This she told by the comparison she made of the faculty and students in answer to “From ignorance our comfort flows. The only wretched are the wise.” Fay Daly gave a toast to the April Fool parade which did not take place: They never taste who always drink. They always talk who never think.”' ‘ ‘It is an irrepressible conflict between opposing and enduring forces.” Ora Kopf told of the impertinent and forward ways of Josephine and the re­ tiring, quite ways of lovable James and Hattie and yet the never ceasing conflict for prominence between these two characters. Wm. McKelvey artfully told of the skillful workmanship of Ned Dearborn, '''hen he severed a part of his finger by sawiiig—m"answer to ^ “They say a carpenter is known by his chips. ” “This grief shall tread upon the heels of pleasure, “declared Bertha Wal­ lace in reviewing the senior-middler basketball game—the middler cele­ bration of the victory in form of bon­ fire—their consideration in clearing the campus of the debris left by the sleet storms. However, Bertha has faith in the development of the middle class. In a dignified way she expressed he*" good will by saying she was sure that by next year the middlers would have learned to take victories calmly; and by wishing that the middlers may en­ joy their senior year as much as the seniors now are enjoying theirs. “We bear it calmly, though a ponder­ ous woe. And still adore the hand that gives the blow. ” To this Hubert Bentley responded by speaking in a definite way of the merits of the different members of the basket­ ball team and especially of the splendid plays made during the Alumni-Edinboro game. The spirit shown on both sides; the tie; then the final goal made by Charles White, which gave the victory to our team. Marion Judd reviewed the whole affair of the evening. Beginning with the plannings and anticipations and fiustrations of the girls, even twenty four hours before the time when all the boys should come in the front door. She gave natural little sketches of the high pitch of excitement about 5:30 that evening. She was called on to respond to “Still to be neat, still to be drest As you were going to a feast. ” “Hail fellows, well met!” was answered in a chummy way by Marley Leach. He told of life as it really is in Reeder Hall; of the advantages and disadvantages of having qi transom, a (Concluded on Page Four.) Page Two THE BIRCH ROD A fortnightly newspaper edited by the students of The Edinboro State Normal School, amf. pub­ lished at the printing shop of the Edinboro Inde­ pendent. TERMS The newspaper will be supplied for the schoo' year, (fifteen numbers for 1911-1912) for the sum ol fifty cents, or five cents the copy. This paper is entered as second class mail mat­ ter at the postoffice at Edinboro, Pa. EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief Associate Editor Literary Editor Athletic Editor Exchange Editor Alumni Editor Class Editor Manager Assistant.Manager - NICHOLAS WARD LEE H. ABBEY LILLIAN CRISTENSON CHAS. CAULKINS MARIAN R. JUDD MARY A. AGNEW CHAS. SCOTT J, BLAINE WILLIAMS SILVAN HILLIARD Inspiring Verse. At the special request of President Baker of the board of trustees The Birch Rod reprints the following inspiring verse. Its application to school life is too evident for comment. Columbus. By Joaquin Miller. Behind him lay the gray Azores, Behind the gates of Hercules; Before him not the ghost of shores. Before him only shoreless seas. The good mate said, '‘Now we must pray. For lo, the very stars are gone. Brave Admiral speak, what shall I say?” “Why, say, ‘Sail on, sail on, sail on.’ ” My men grew mutinous by day. My men grew ghastly wan and weak. The stout mate thought of home- A spray Of salt wave washed his swarthy cheek, “What shall I say, brave Admiral, say. If we sight naught but seas at dawn?” “Why you shall say at break of day, ‘Sail on, sail on, sail on, and on. ” They sailed and sailed, as winds might blow. Until at last the blanched mate said, “Why, now, not even God would know Should I and all my men fall deadThese very winds forget their way. For God from these dread seas is gone. Now speak, brave Admiral, speak and say—” He said, “Sail on! Sail! on! and on!” They sailed. They sailed. Then spake the mate, “This mad sea shows its teeth tonight. He curls his lip, he lies in wait With lifted teeth as if to bite! Brave Bdmiral, say but one good word. What shall we do when hope is gone?” The word leapt as a flaming sword; “Sail on! Sail on! Sail on! and on! Thenrpale and worn, HeTtept his deck. And peered [through darkness. Ah that night Of all dark nights! And then a speck— Alight! Alight! Alight! Alight! It grew, a starlit flag unfurled! It grew to be Time’s burst of dawn. He gained a world; he gave that world Its grandest lesson: “On! Sail on!” Clionian Literary Society. At the last meeting of the winter term the following executive officers were elected; President—David Beightol. Vice President—Susie Baker. Secretary—Edna Bortz. Treasurer—Gladys Brown. The program for April 13 is as fol­ lows: German Program, Devotional exercises—Cora Mischler. Roll call answered by quotations from German writers. German Recitation—Emeline Reed. Biographical Sketch of Schiller— Blanche Howard. Vocal Solo—Florence Russell. Original German Conversation— Alice Townsend and Edith Cook. Select Reading—Jennie Hazen. German Contest—Naida Callahan, Cora Durfee. Impromptu—Gladys Brown. Potter Society. The following program will be given in Potter Hall Saturday evening, April 6; Quotations from Freshmen. Society Scteam—Ada Abbey. Reading—Chas. Caulkins. Piano Solo—Leah Crandall. Essay—Lillian Wiard. Dialogue—Arthur Johnson, Marley Leach. Question Box—Charles Rough. Vocal Solo—Etha Burdick. Select Reading—Gretchen Greminger. Philo Everett Society. At the last meeting of the society in the winter term, a special program was prepared in the form of a mock faculty meeting. Many of the faculty accepted the invtation to ‘ ‘come and see them­ selves as students see ’em,” and an enjoyable evening was spent. After the program election of offi­ cers for the spring term was held. The following officers were elected: Pres­ ident, Mont Hanna ; vice president. Al­ lien Babcock: secretary. Hattie Morri­ son; treasurer. Donald Ritchey: critic, Charles Marsh; tellers, Morris McQuiston, Vincent Hayes. The programs for the term have been very interesting and well rendered. Many new members have been added to the society roll. At present each and every meoiber is enjoying the new songs rnder the direction of Mr. Gleason. The following was the program for April 6, )912: Roll call answered by quotatioi.s from Milton. Piano solo—Arzie Gillaspie. Reading—Elfrieda Campbell. Newspaper—Minnie Pierson. Debate—Resolved that labor unions are detrimental to the best interests of the working man. Affirmative, Cyrus Quick: negative William Greenlee. Vocal Solo—Blaine Williams. Impromptu—George Morrison, Wini­ fred Nickle. Alumni Letters. Edinboro, Pa., Feb. 23, 1921 F. P. Stafford, Briarcliff Manor, N. Y. In reply to your letter of recent date I will say that I graduated from Edin­ boro Normal in 1895, later completing the new course in 1903. From 1895 to 1902 I was secretary and bookkeeper in the office of Edinboro Normal, since which time I have been librarian for the same institution. From Sepember, 1908, to February, 1909, was on leave of absence from my work and spent the time in attending a library school in Western Reserve University. Cleveland, Ohio. Very truly, ANNIE L. WILSON. I am a member of thd “Birch Rod” family; I nearly forgot to state. Pittsburgh. Pa., Feb. 22, ’12. Mr. l*red P. Stafford ; Dear Friend—Your letter received and glad to ' hear from you, being an alumnus of Edinboro Normal. I guess I am one of the missing 1 inks. I graduated in 1889 and came to this city the same year and have been teach­ ing in the same school ever since. “The Washington Public School,” 40th street, Pittsburg. Pa. Haven Hell Notes. I was back at Edinboro one summer The population of Haven Hall has about five years ago. I saw Professor increased since last term. Every room Cooper who remembered me very well,. has been engaged. He walked over the grounds with me Lillian Christenson returned to school and showed me around He looked Wednesday. just the same and just as young and The girls of Haven Hall are taking active as ever and interested in every­ advantage of leap year; Wednesday thing. ^ ' they escorted the boys to dinner. Alison Moorhead, a member of my Ruth Proudfit has been home for a class, is a very successful attorney in few days. She came hack Thursday this city and I believe married. afternoon. Ella Paul, class of 1888, married to Two of last year’s students. Mabelle Charles Fehr and lives at No. 8 WoodSoderholm and Florence White, are lawn Avenue, Bellevoue, Pa. They numbered with the Haven Hall girls. have two nice little girls. Ora Kopf I as been ill for a few days. Hattie Henderson of class of 1891, is She went home Friday morning to rest like myself, still whole hearted and for a short time. fancy free and is teaching Fourth Ward, North Side, Pittsburg, Pa Her address Minstrel Show Notice. The following persons are those who at her school. Mr. Wm. Colr^i^d Alice Crawford, wi 1_L be responsible for the evening of Tmarrled.' I thin1r''Mf. Cole was of Tny April 22: class and Miss Crawford did not Ned Dearborn. graduate. They live in this city but Forest Knapp. 1 do not know their address. Arthur Johnson. I do not take the “Birch Rod.” I Dan Barney. knew nothing of it. Harold Hood. I have very fond memories of the Blaine Williams. dear old school and, bless his dear Cyrus Quick. heart. Prof. Cooper. I often think it Marion Negus. all over and wonder where all our friends John Scott. and schoolmates are and I really feel Mauric^. Port. sad. Paul Harvey. Thanking you for your letter I Leo Armagost. am Sincerely your friend Byron Hoover. ANNA C. SINNING. Charles White. Carl White. Waterford, Pa., Feb. 23, ’12. Wm. McKelvey. Fred P. Stafford, Briarcliff Manor, N. Y. Elmer Frontz Friend and Fellow Alumnus—It is Neff Cass. with pleasure I comply with your re­ Stuart Graham. quest. I graduated in 1900 in a class Carl Graham. of eighty-seven in number, a great Grover Congdon. many of whom I have never seen since. Carl Joslin I taught for six years in the country Marley Leach. schools of Erie county. On account of Carl Obert. poor health I spent the next three years Hubert Bentley. at home. In the spring of 1900 was Fred S. Gleason. elected to fill a vacancy as teacher of Young Women’s Christian As­ the seventh and eighth grades in the sociation Notes. village of Waterford, and was reelected The election of officers for the new for four consecutive years. year was held on Tuesday evening, Feeling it my duty to care for my April 2. The following officers were parents in their feeble condition, I re­ elected: signed the last year (1904) and have President—Ruth Brown. been at home since. Vice President—Lillian Christenson. Yours sincerely, Secretary—Nina Swift. LIZZIE B. BITTLES. Treasurer—Ruth Proudfit. Sharon, Pa,, Feb. 22, 1912. Corresponding Secretary—Esther AvMr. Fred P. Stafford: erill. Dear Sir—After severing my con­ Assistant Treasurer—Margery Fisher nection as teacher in the Edinboro Nor­ and Elmo Houtz. On Thursday evening. April 4. the mal, T remained briefiy in Sharon and consecration service was held, at which then went to St. Paul, Nebraska. There I ilia A. “the new crew for the old ship” was I taught in the high school installed. All are looking forward to Rooney (my chum and classmate) was a successful year for the Young Women’s teaching in St. Paul. I went to Dillion, Montana, where C. Si Birchard and Christian Association. There On Monday afternoon, April 1. the Mary E. Hawkes were teaching members of the Association gave a re­ I had the novel experience of a summer ception to the new girls in Potter and term on Horse Prairie. There were ten pupils enrolled.( All came to Philo Halls from two until four o’clock. A dainty lunch followed the program, school on horseback or by cart, except after which the guests took their leave. two, who had a mile to walk. The The Northwestern State Normal School The Home of Scholarshi p Strai ghtforwardness Honesty Simplicity It offers a combination of effective school work and the most wholesome social atmosphere. Catalogue upon application. FRANK E. BAKER EDINBORO, - - - - PENNSYLVANIA The Business College to Attend is that college of which the following can be said: THE GRISWOLD MANUFACTURING CO. Erie, Pa., January 26, 1912. Erie Business College, 12 West Ninth St., Erie, Pa Gentlemen:—We are pleased to give a word of commendation as to your method in training students for positions of responsibility in the business world, and of your college tn general. It has been our good fortune to add to our office from your groduate stu­ dent body, and each addition of this kind has tended to very materially strengthen our office force. Our business is a growing one, and we presume we may have occasion from time to time to advise with you toward.the possi­ bility of.making still further additions We believe your work to be of a very far reaching character, and are glad to make expression in this matter of the service you are rendering. Very truly yours, THE GRISWOLD M’FG CO. (Signed) B. M. 0, Now, doesn’t it seem to you that the school which can offer such evidence as to its results in qualifying students for responsible positions is the school to attend for your training as a bookkeeper or stenographer. Write for our Journal just off the press. ‘TTHe Sclnool of F^rogress” 18 W.9WST. ERIE.PA. Twelve West Ninth Street others caitie a distance of from three to five miles. I did considerable sightseeing all the way from Sharon to Montana in general. 1 was called back to Sharon by family sickness. I attended school foi two years in Philadelphia. I re­ turned to Sharon and have been variously housekeeper, nurse and busines head of the family. We have had much sickness. Literally I am the head of all family business. If you address Ella Skiff, lock box 753, Connellsville. Pa., she can give you the address of every member of our class, except Josie Wright. We have never been able to locate her. My class has been organized for a few years, and Miss Skiff is the secre­ tary. She possesses considerable in­ formation about our class. Sincerely, but hurriedly, MARY LEE. 134 West Nineteenth Street, Erie, Pa. The following Normal graduates are with TheSpirella Company, Meadville, Pa.: Class 1906, Miss Zoe Ryerson, 996 Bessemer street, Meadville, Pa. Stenographer. Glass 1901, Mrs. Elizabeth Bossard, nee Hart, 1040 South Market street, Meadville, Pa. Clerk. Class 1902, Miss Ruth Fox, Saegertown. Pa Correspondent. Class 1898, Miss Elizabeth McFate, Meadville. Pa., accounting department. Class 1895, Miss Birdena Hickok, 996 South Main street, Meadville, Pa., credit department stenographer Ex-students with the Spirella Com- ERIE, PA. Gotrell & Leonard Albnny, N. Y. Makers aud Renters of CAPS GOWNS and HOODS To the students of Amer­ ica. Class contracts a specialty. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute SOHOOL of ENGINEERING C'lYil, Mechanical, Electrical end for a Catalogue. TROY, N.Y. pany. Meadville, Pa. Class 1901-02, Mi s Ada Karlskind, 843 Water Street, Meadville, Pa., stenographer. Miss Laura Francis, 1000 Liberty street, Meadville, Pa., clerk. Class 1906, Miss Myra Whipple. Saegertown, Pa,, R. F.D.. correspondent. Class 1908, Mr. Willis Whipple, Saegertown, R. F. D.. bookkeeper. Puzzle Picture What is it? James D. Roberts, ’73. Graduated at the Edinboro State Nor­ mal School in 1873. After his graduation he taught school for a few years then entered the law office of Hon. John J. Henderson at Meadville, Pa., as a law student, and was admitted to the bar of Crawford County, Pa., in 1876. He opened an office in Meadville where he has pursued the practice of his pro­ fession since. In 1887 he was elected district attorney of Crawford County on the Republican ticket, and served three Charles F. Armour, ’06. Charles F. Armour graduated from Edinboro in June, 1906. He was a mem­ ber of the famous basketball team that was never defeated. He entered the freshman class at Dickinson College, Carlisle. Pa., in September, 1896, was a member of the_ football team at that college. In September. 1897, having completed nearly all the work necessary to be a member of the junior class, he became a member of the junior class at Bucknell University, with only a few conditions. In June, 1898, he had com­ pleted all of the work required for enter­ ing the senior class. As he was work­ ing his own way through college it was necessary to earn more funds before completing his senior year. In June, 1898, Mr. Armour was unanimously elected principal of the Spartansburg schools. In the fall of 1899 he took up his work at Bucknell University and graduated in the Latin and Philosophical course in June, 1900, in the magna cum laude division. At Bucknell he was a member of the football and basketball teams The same year he was again elected principal of the Spartansburg schools, but resigned this position early in the term to accept a better position as head of the science department in the East Liverpool High School. This position he filled for two years and was reelected for the third year with an increase in salary, but he did not accept the position for the third, year as he was chosen principal of the Girard public schools. He served in the Girard schools from September, 1902, till June, 1906, at the end of which time he decided to give up the teach­ ing profession. In August, 1906, he purchased the Girard Cosmopolite plant, and for three years and a half he published this weekly paper, and did a thriving job printing business. In December, 1909, he sold the Cosmopolite plant to S. B. Bayle & Son. and moved to Pittsburg, where he had become associated with the Ellwood Coal, Oil and Gas Company, of which Chas. J. Boak, a former Edinboro mathematics teacher, was the manager. In February, 1910, Mr. Boak died, and the newly organized company had a hard struggle, but it is still in existence with prospcets of eventually being very successful. Mr. Armour sold some of his stock in the above named company and again purchased of Bayle & Son The Girard Cosmopolite in December, 1910. years. He is now serving his second term as County Solicitor of Crawford County. In 1880 he was married to Miss Flora Forbes, of Linesville, Pa. To this union one child was born, a daughter, who was educated in the pub­ lic schools of Meadville and graduated from Allegheny College in 1904 after which she was married to Robert R. Philp and resides in Oil City. Pa. Mr. Roberts continues his interest in thp Normal and served as a trustee from 1908 to 1911. It was at this time that this paper and the Girard Herajd were combined as one paper and at present the paper is printed under the name of The Cosmopolite Herald, Armour & Sherman, owners and proprietors. The job department is one of the leading features of the plant. The circulation of the Cosmopolite Herald is about 2,000. Mr. Armour owns his own home in Girard and de­ votes some time to fruit growing, which enterprise can be carried on successfully in the section where he lives. N. R. Sheldon ’9S. M. R. Sheldon, ’95, is at present serving the Arlington Street Baptist Church-of Akron, Ohio. He is a graduate of Bucknell University, class of 1903, and of the Rochester Theological Semi­ nary, class of 1906. He also has a master’s degree from Bucknell. He served as missionary for the Baptist Home Missionary Society in Rapid City in South Dakota from June, 1906, to June, 1909. After this post he went to Akron. He was married to Miss Ethel Cook Dickenson, of Cleveland. Ohio, on June 28. 1911. He is also on the mail­ ing list of The Birch Rod. Alumni Letters. is also the owner of the Conneaut General Hospital, to which she devotes a part of her time. After leaving Ed­ inboro. she finished at the Cleveland Hospital of Medicine and Surgery, graduating in 1898.' Leslie Peck, who was in my class in Normal School and also law school, is practicing at 702 State Street, Erie, Pennsylvania, in associated offices with John Firntian. also Edinboro and Uni­ versity of Michigan graduate of two or three years later than Peck. Peck is at the present time in Phoenix, Arizona, wh^re he is spending the winter for his health, and I understand is thinking some of Clanging permanently to the south-!and on account of the unpleasant­ ness connected with the northern winters. Peck’s wife, who was Miss Edita Boles, of the class of 1895, is with him. I think Dr. Eades, of Conneaut, could probably give you as large a report as anyone of the class, and could probably locate any absent, members for you; as he has taken a great deal of interest in this work in times past, and atone time had a complete list of just what they had all done. I do not take “The Birch Rod, ’’ but I am ordering it today. I have not re­ ceived sample copies of it, but shall be pleased to receive it. Yours truly. MOTT G. SPAULDING. Springfield, Mass., February 19, 1912. FredP. Stafford, Briar Cliff Manor. N. Y. My Dear Mr. Stafford-—1 know noth­ ing of “The Birch Rod” to which you refer, but I am very glad to help “sup­ ply news” for it in accordance with your request. My address in this city is 238 Union street, and I am at present assistant superintendent of schools, having special charge of the first four grades, the kindergarten, and the^ elementary evening schools. Immediately after leaving normal school I taught for some years in Tidioute, Pa., leaving there in 1821—to take £hflr%_of thp normal practice school connected with the New Britain, Connecticut, State Normal School. This practice school is situated eight miles from New Britain in the town of South Manchester, Connecticut. In 1902 I left South Manchester, and came to Springfield to take up the duties of the position that I am now occupying. In the hope that this brief history of my professional career may meet you wishes, I am, Sincerely yours, BERTHA M McCONKEY. Germantown, Pniladelphia. Fred P. Stafford. Briarcliff Manor, N. Y. My Dear Sir:—In response to your request I take pleasure in giving you the information desired. After leav­ ing Edinboro I taught school one year. Entered Westminister College, New Wilmington, fall of ’92. Did the four years’ work there in three. Won the intercollegiate oratorical contest in Meadville,. 1895. Was graduated from Westminister June, 1895. Entered Western Seminary fall of 1895 (Presby­ terian church); was graduated 1898; May 5 ordained and installed over First Presbyterian church of Sheridanville, Pittsburg, Pa.. May 6, 1898. Six years there. Installed over Hazelwood church, Pittsburg. April. 1904-1906. tvyo years pastorate. Came to Phila­ delphia April 8. 1906. Installed over Market Square Presbyterian church. Germantown. Called last night to be pastor of the Presbyterian church of Grove City, Pa. Home address 5515 Market Square, Germantown, Philatelphia. Pa. Am not a subscriber to “The Birch Rod.” Did not know there was such a paper. Very truly. HERBERT HEZLOP Feb. 20. 1912. The following letters to Mr. Stafford will prove of interest to many alumni of the Normal. Ashtabula, Ohio, February 17, 1912. Fred P. Stafford, Briarcliff Manor, N. Y. Dear Mr. Stafford—In replying to yours to old alumni of recent date, beg to report as follows: After graduating from Edinboro in the class of 1895 I went to Ann Arbor, finishing there in law and reeiving a degree of LL. B. in 1901. Since that time have been practicing at Conneaut, Ohio, seven years, and the last two years in Ashtabula, both cities being in the same county, but Ashtabula being near the county seat. My practice has been largely criminal and personal injury practice, although I spend a great deal of time in the formation of corporations in this part of Ohio and in Cleveland. Delta, Colo., February, 20, 1912. Have held the offices of mayor and of Fred P. Stafford. Briarcliff Manor, N. Y. city solicitor of Conneaut. Dear Sir and Former Fellow Student: Dr. Mabelle Spaulding of the class of —I am in receipt of your favor of the 1894, now Mabelle Spaulding Watson, 8th instant, and hasten to reply. I M. D., a sister of mine, is practicing agree with you heartily when you say medicine at Ashtabula. Is probably it should be that the old students enjoying one of the largest specialist of Edinboro State Normal should hear practices in Northeastern Ohio. She from each other oftener. I graduated in 1894, and know the present address of very few of my classmates. In re­ gard to “The Birch Rod. ” I had not even heard there was a “Birch Rod,” but feel I would like to have one taken to me. Uncle Sam will bring one and I will apply it and report upon its effects. Since my graduation in 1894 I taught in Pennsylvania several years nearly all of which 1 was principal of graded or high schools, and will say with flattering success. Afte*- the death of my father in 1899 I left off teaching for five years and engaged in farming. I then served as principal of the high school at Deckard s Run and also at North Shenango Central High School in Craw­ ford county. In 1910 my wife and I came to sunny Colorado, where we have taken up ranch life. I am now engaged in ranching and preaching. My wife, who was also a member of the class of 1294. taught with me during the time we were engaged in school work. I wish I might hear from you often, through “The Birch Rod’’ or otherwise, for as you may remember. I was also a member of the class of 1893. during the fall of 1892, after which I quit the Normal to teach. Yours for success, F. L. SMITH. Pulaski, Pa., February 22. 1912. Mr. Fred Stafford; Dear Friend—I received your letter and was glad to hear from an Edinboro alumnus. I graduated in 1888, and soon lost track of nearly all of my class­ mates. There were sixty-two of us. I was at the semi-centennial, and found just eleven of our class. I got track of a few others. The rest—where are they? One, Jennie Foster, is dead. I would certainly be glad to see or hear from the rest. Nearrly twenty-four years have gone since I left the educational halls of Edinboro. My history since then can BFWfTTteh in a short space. ~I taught four years, but could not stand the con­ finement. For seventeen years I have been a farmer. Our farm is on the Sharpsville railroad four miles from New Wilmington, the seat of West­ minister College, nine miles from Sharon, in Mercer county. Pa. If you. or any of my class, or any other Edinboro alumnus, stray down here, I would be glad to meet them. Our latch string is always out to our friends, and all Edinboro graduates I am sure are my friends. I do not take “The Birch Rod.” In fact, I did not know of it. I received a sample copy of “The Edinboro Independent” a few days ago. I did not find a single thing in it that I knew anything about. Edinboro is practically a blank to me except the fact that Prof. J. A. Cooper lives there. You addressed me as Miss but I am a man. Sincerely yours, E. E. ARTMAN. J. B. Laughrey. Jamestown, Pa., March 12. 1912. FredP. Stafford. Briar Cliff Manor, N. Y. Dear Friend and Alumnus of the Ed­ inboro Normal —Your letter of February 8, 12, is at hand. 1 have not received a sample copy, nor have I heard of the “Birch Rod” published by the students of the Normal. I will be glad to sup­ ply what I can in the way of news, for I am intensely interested in the alumni association and alumni day, I Was a member of the century class, graduating June 28. 1900. Taught school two years; township high schools in Mercer County one year; in Wash­ ington County one year. I had a night school in Washington County which paid me more than the regular day school. My advice to young teachers who need the money, organize a night school, I went into the employ of the Pittsburg Coal Company in 1903-4, and worked in various departments and held various clerical positions, both at the mines and in the offices. I kept books for Gillespie Cutll Company wholesale grocers. Pittsburg, but the desire for a medical education becam.e so pro­ nounced that I spent two*years in Balti­ more and two years in' Philadelphia, graduating at Jefferson Medical College in 190S^J.. did hosp-ital woik a year, and have practiced medicine since my gaduation, locating atSistersville, Pa., and relocating at Jamestown, the town of my birth. Yours sincerely, J. B. LAUGHREY. M.D. There are several girls in the office where I am that have been Edinboro students, and they know of several others, so I hope soon to send their names, together with my subscription, to the editor of the Birch Rod. Have had samples of the paper but did not find it very interesting, so never signed. But if every one tries to collect news I think the paper will be a grand suc­ cess. Since leaving Edinboro I have taught several years in Crawford county. Pa.; also one year in western Vermont. Three years ago last October entered the employ of The Spirella Company, Mead­ ville, Pa., as stenographer, in whose employ I am at the present time. Trusting that the future of the Birch Rod is already an assured success, and appreciating the fact that we. the alumni can make it'so, and with kind est wishes, I am Most sincerely yours, MISS BIRDENA HICKOK Meadville. Pa., February 21, 1912. Dear Friend and Alumnus:—Your letter of February 8 received and should have answered sooner, but have been collecting news for “The Birch Rod.” Winds of Memory BY MARGARET MARSH FOULSTON: AND J..R CHURCH A memorial of the Edinboro State Normal School. A song that renews the best memories ofbpgone school dags. Fifteen cents the copg. H. KIRKUS DUGDALE CO., - - - Washington, D. C. Page rour That Supper (Concluded from Page One.) window, a fire escape (connected with one’s room), pillows when one wants to spend a quiet Sunday morning, or when one wants to sleep. He told of the many and congenial acquaintances and friendships formed, how this mingling, this good brotherly fello*vship, is after all the great­ est thing in life. “A song for our banner The watchword recall, Which gives the public her station. United we stand, divided we fall. It made and preserves us a nation.” Charles Marsh responded by remind­ ing all of the greatness of our nation; that this greatness is due to a great extent to such insitutions as our Edinboro Normal Institutions which educate the middle classes of this nation’s population. He spoke of our sense of duty, our reverence, our patriotism, in regards to our nation and institutions. “Here’s to E. S. N. S,. Here 8 to the red and white. Our hearts, our hopes, are all with thee. Our hearts, our hopes, our prayers, our tears. Our faith triumphant o’er our fears. Are all with thee, are all with thee. At the conclusion the party sang “Hail Edinboro. ” This was followed by “The Star Spangled Banner.” Then with that spirit of enthusiasm all marched from the dining room into the large reception hall above. S. H. Edinboro Students in Reunion. Members of the Alumni of the Edin­ boro State Normal School of Pittsburg and vicinity held a reunion and banquet at the Fort Pitt Hotel Friday evening, March 8. Eighty-eight members re­ sponded to the invitations s^-ntout, and a most enjoyable time was spent. Prof. A. A. Chatley, of the Pittsburg High School, was toastmaster for the ■occStfon and with Miss Mary Lee, of Sharon, represented the faculty. Toasts were given by Attorneys A. J. Eckles and B. R. Kline, Drs. Pettit, Moyer and Sweeney, Prof. T. J. George and Miss Mary Lee. All of these expressed ap­ preciation for what the time spent at Edinboro had done for them and many reminiscences were recalled. Old time chapel lessons were repeated and words of love and gratitude were spoken of the faithful work of Prof. J A. Cooper by those who had graduated while he was principal of the school, and with the more recent graduates expressed hope in the greater prosperity for the school in the future The occasion was en­ livened by the presence of Fred P. Stafford. ’94. president of the Alumni Association, who made a short talk and expressed his firm belief and faith in a greater and better Normal School at Edinboro. It was decided to make this event an annual occunence. Names of those who attended the banquet are as follows: Miss Ella Skiff, Connellsville. Miss Mary Deloe, Crafton Miss Mary Hardie, Pittsburg. Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Golden, Pitts­ burg, N. S. N, McBride, Pittsburd. Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Patterson, Butler. Miss Maude McClymonds, Pittsburg. James R. McClymonds. Pittsburg. Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Squibbs, McKees­ port. Dr. Wm. M. Beach, Pittsburg. Hattie Henderson, Pittsburg. Mrs. Crete Berlin, Pittsburg. Mrs. Carrie Thounhurst, Wilkinsburg. Minnie L. Swift, Wilkinsburg. Annie Swift. Wilkinsburg. Irene Phillips. Canonsburg. Jeanette Huston, Canonsburg. Mr. and Mrs. Lawton, Pittsburg. Prof. A. Chatley, Pittsburg. Mrs. Bertha Dubbs, Pittsburg. Wilbur Goodrich. Pittsburg. Mr. and Mrs. Wm. DeVinney, Pitts­ burg. Mr. Fred Stafford, Briar Cliff Manor, N. Y, — " Dn -and-Mrs. Sweeny, Pitt^bttrg.-^ — Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Ferson, Ingram. Miss Dena Snyder, Swissvale. Miss Mary Lee, Sharon. Miss Nannie Lee, Sharon. Mr. and Mrs. Ed Daugherty, Pitts­ burg. Mr. and Mrs. T. J. George, Carnegie. Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Kribbs, Knox. Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Nelson, New Castle. F. S. Patterson. New Castle, Dr. Charles Davis. New Castle. Nellie Patterson"'*Weidler, Oil City. Caroline Malick, Pittsburg. Miss F. Snyder, Swissvale. Miss Anna Rhodes, Erie. Grace Widemire, Pittsburg. Miss Matilda Rhoney, Braddock. Mrs. Ella Paul Fehr, Bellevue. Ralph Zindle, Wilkinsburg. Mr.and Mrs. Chas. Redmond, Ingram. Mr. J. H. Holmes, Turtle Creek. Mrs. M. B. PrOudfit, Turtle Creek. Mrs. Kate Orr, McKeesport. Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Chatham, Pitts­ burg. Mr. and Mrs. R. R. Kline, New Kensington. J, B. Frazier, Butler. Miss Jennie Frazier, Butler. Dr. and Mrs. Albert Petitt, Pittsburg. Miss Bess Houlden. Pittsburg. Mrs. W. E. Snyder, Pittsburg. Mrs. W. R. Hadley, Wilkinsburg. Mr. and Mrs. J, L. Richey, Pitts­ burg. Mr. Clinton Mathewson, Oakmont. Dr. Harry Zimmerman, Youngstown, 0. Miss Anna Sinning, Pittsburg. Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Eckles, Pittsburg. Mr. and Mrs. Serena, McKeesport The Clark Club. One of the most interesting, most important, and best of the many societies, clubs and organizations in the school is the Clark Club. It con­ sists of twelve robust and healthy boys who are always on time for breakfast, dinner and supper unless some unforseen duty keeps them until late, even then they are sure'" to get something to eat, although they have stayed in front of the Dorm or on Normal Street a few minutes past the hour of dining. It also represents the three classes of the school, and as a ‘result many im­ portant discussions take place. These are always settled in a peaceable way. It also takes a great interest in athletics, as all of its members take part in some way, in football, basketball, gym team, or all of them. They also have the promise of several good baseball players. As a whole, the members agree that they are a good crowd in every way, which is more than can be boasted by many organizations. W. A. Of Local Interest. The Birch Rod detects the hand of a member of the Edinboro faculty in the following sketch from the Editor’s Drawer of Harper’s Monthly Magazine for April. Persevering. Aunt Julia, Mrs. B------ ’s colored washerwoman is a thrifty, resi:k and self respecting represents^ her race, but is unfortunate, ho^SverT in having an utterly worthless scape­ grace son, who lately served a richly deserved sentence in the penitentiary at Pittsburg. Nowithstanding his dis­ grace. Aunt Julia is exceedingly proud of him and misses no occasion in chant­ ing his praises. The other day, on her weekly mission at the B------ ’s, [she observed: “Ah s’pose yo’ all didn’t know ah’m gwine to hab my boy home for Christ­ mas. ” , ‘ ‘Indeed ? ’ ’ Yes ma’am, he done wrote yesterday he cornin’ home Tuesday.” “You must be very glad. Aunt Julia. How Jong has he been away?” Eighteen montns. Ah tell you, honey, he just stuck right to it!” If God bears with the very worst of us we may surely endure each other.— Walter Scott in his Journal. ^ FOR ONE NIOHT ONLY Prof. Gleason’s World Renowned . MINSTRELS Will Present the Best the Burnt Cork Season Affords. Imported Costumes--Two Brass Bands--! hree Bloodhounds-Free The Best Seller of the Year Street Parade--!wenty-five in the THE BOOK ROOM Company. All accounts will be scrupulously collected. Violence used only when it cannot be avoided. H. H. FOSTER, The Vita - - - - Manager For Men, Women and Children ONLY For that Languid Spring Feeling ENROLL In a Seven O’Clock Class Unexpurgated Edition for sale in June , It develops ability to restrain a pawn under the most trying circumstances. More conducive to culture than to comfort. There­ fore quite in vogue. " At Normal Hall Monday Evening, April 22 An Unrivalled Opportunity for a Safe and Sane Investment A *ew shares in the ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION oi the STATE NORIVIAL SCHOOL are still for sale. The opportunity is limited. . . , . A. small irii'V’es'tmen.'t ’to-da’y "will mean, complete satisfaction in tne o.a'ys tnat are to conte. ^ THe stodcHolders are assured of man-y special privileges. Recommended b-y Principal Baker, Ooacli. Foster^ and Howard Green. ^ THe fact tHat Hr. Ned Dearborn is tHe president of tHe concern makes tHe investors sure tHat tHeir interests 'will be 'well guarded. *^^allaceiJ. Snyder is tHecHief promoter. Give tHe ■wortHy institution your Hearty support.