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CHAPTER VIII.

EDUCATIONAL-- INTRODUCTION PUBLIC SCHOOLS--GERMAN SCHOOLS -NIGHT SCHOOLS--COLORED SCHOOLS-- INSTRUCTION IN MUSIC--HIGH SCHOOLS - SCHOOL LAW --SUPERINTENDENT OF INSTRUCTION-- INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL - NORMAL SCHOOL-- BOARD OF EXAMINERS-- PUBLIC LIBRARY-- FREE NIGHT INDUSTRIAL SCHOOLS --STATEMENT OF SUPERINTENDENT OF PENMANSHIP-COOPER ACADEMY - CATHOLIC SCHOOLS--SAINT EMANUEL'S, SAINT JOSEPH'S, SAINT MARY'S, HOLY TRINITY, SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME, SAINT MARY'S INSTITUTE COMMERCIAL COLLEGE.

HISTORY OF THE SCHOOLS OF DAYTON.

BY ROBERT W. STEELE. *

IT is creditable to the first settlers of Dayton that as early as 1799 a school was taught in a block-house located at the head of Main street, which had been built as a protection against Indians. It was no ordinary interest in the education of their children which led them to establish a school amid the privations of frontier life and danger from hostile Indians. Benjamin Van Cleve, so prominent in the early history of Dayton, was the teacher, and the school was continued for a few mouths in 1799 and 1800. In the fall of' 1804, Cornelius Westfall, a Kentuckian. opened a school in a cabin on Main street, south of First, and taught a year. He was succeeded in 1805 by Swansey Whiting, of Pennsylvania. It is probable that Dayton was at no time without a school, but we find no mention of the names of other teachers at this early period. Fortunately the records of the old Dayton Academy were carefully preserved by the late John W. Van Cleve, and from this source Ave can trace the history of that institution.

In 1807, an act incorporating the Dayton Academy was obtained from the Legislature. The incorporators were James Welsh. Daniel C. Cooper, William McClure, David Reid. Benjamin Van Cleve, George F. Tennery, John Folkerth and James Hanna. In 1808, the trustees erected by subscription a substantial two-story brick schoolhouse, on the lot adjoining the ground now occupied by the Park Presbyterian Church. Mr. D. C. Cooper. the proprietor of the town, a man of large views, donated in addition to his subscription, two lots and a bell.

William M. Smith, afterward for many years a prominent citizen of Dayton, was the first teacher employed. In his contract with the Trustees he proposed to teach reading, writing, arithmetic, the classics and the sciences." Training in elocution was made prominent. one of the rules of the school requiring that " for the improvement of the boys in public speaking a certain number, previously appointed by the teacher, shall at every public examination pronounce orations and dialogues, in prose and verse, to be selected or approved by the teacher, and familiar pieces shall be recited in the presence of the teacher by all the boys, in rotation. who can read with facility, every Saturday morning."

In 1820. the Lancasterian or " mutual instruction " system of education was exciting great interest throughout the United States, and the Trustees of the Dayton Academy determined to introduce it in that institution. The Trustees were Joseph H. Crane. Aaron Baker, William M. Smith, George S. Houston and David Lindsley. It was necessary to erect a building specially adapted to the purpose. The house was built on the lot adjoining the academy, and consisted of a single room, sixty-two feet long and thirty-two feet wide. The floor was brick, and the room was heated by " convolving flues" underneath the floor. The walls were

* Chapter VIII, excepting Saint Mary's Institute and Commercial College, contributed by Robert W. Steele.

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hung with printed lesson-cards, before which the classes were placed to recite under the charge of monitors selected from their own number. A long, narrow desk, thickly covered with silver sand, was provided, upon which, with sticks. the youngest scholars copied and learned the letters of the alphabet.

Gideon McMillan, an expert. was appointed teacher, and in the fall of 1820 the school was opened. It was continued until, like so many other theories of education, the system was superseded, leaving no doubt a residuum of good which has been incorporated with our present advanced methods of instruction.

A few of the rules adopted for the government of the school may illustrate some of the peculiarities of the system :

"The moral and literary instruction of the pupils entered at the Dayton Laneasterian Academy will be studiously. diligently and temperately attended to.

"They will be taught to spell and read deliberately and distinctly. agreeably to the rules laid down in Walker's Dictionary ; and in order to do that correctly they will be made conversant with the first rules of grammar. The senior class will be required to give a complete grammatical analysis of the words as they proceed.

"They will be required to write with freedom all the different hands now in use, on the latest and most approved plan of proportion and distance.

"There will be no public examinations at particular seasons : in a Lancasterian school every day being an examination day, at which all who have leisure are invited to attend.

In 1821, the Trustees adopted the following resolution. which would hardly accord with present ideas of the jurisdiction of' boards of education or the authority of teachers :

"Resolved, That any scholar attending the Lancasterian School who may he found playing ball on the Sabbath. or resorting to the woods or commons on that day for sport, shall forfeit any badge of merit he may have obtained, and twenty-five tickets ; and if the offense appears aggravated, shall be further degraded. as the tutor shall think proper and necessary : and that this resolution be read in school every Friday previous to the dismission of the scholars.

The high hopes excited by the Lancasterian system of education, its general adoption in the towns and cities of' the United States. and its entire abandonment. is an interesting episode in school history. and may serve to moderate our enthusiasm for new methods of instruction until thoroughly tested by experience.

In 1833, the academy property was sold. and a new building erected on lots purchased on the southwest corner of' Fourth and Wilkinson streets. At this time the Trustees, were Aaron Baker. Job Haines, Obadiah B. Conover. James Steele and John W Van Cleve. Mr. E. E. Barney. a graduate of Union College. New York. was elected Principal in 1834. By the introduction of the analytical methods of instruction, Mr. Barney exerted an important influence on our public schools. Teachers educated by him carried these methods into the schools in advance of most places in the West. and gave them in their early history a high reputation.

In 1857, the academy property was donated by the stockholders to the Board of Education, and the Central High School building stands on the site formerly occupied by the academy. Our high school may thus trace its history back to 1807. Among early Dayton teachers, Francis Glass, the author of a Life of Washington," in Latin, is worthy of special notice. Mr. I. P. Reynolds, a pupil of his in this county in 1823, and who was instrumental in procuring the publication, by Harper Brothers, of his "Life of Washington," in the introduction to that work, gives this account of him. He was educated in Philadelphia, taught for a time in the interior of Pennsylvania, but removed in 1817 or 1818 to the Miami country. where he was employed as a teacher in various places. Mr. Reynolds wishing to pursue classical studies. heard of Glass as a competent teacher. and determined to visit him. He says : I found him in a remote part of the county. in a good

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neighborhood of thrifty farmers, who had employed him to instruct their children, who, in general, were then acquiring the simplest rudiments of an English education. The schoolhouse now rises fresh on my memory. It stood on the banks of a small stream, in a thick grove of native oaks, resembling more a den for Druidical rites, than a temple of learning. The building was a low log cabin, with a clapboard roof, but indifferently tight ; all the light of heaven found in this cabin came through apertures made on each side in the logs, and these were covered with oiled paper to keep out the cold air, while they admitted the dim rays. The seats or benches were of hewed timbers, resting on upright posts, placed in the ground to keep them from being overturned by the mischievous urchins, who sat on them. In the center was a large stove, between which and the back part of the building, stood a small desk without lock or key, made of rough plank over which a plane had never passed ; and behind this desk sat Prof. Glass when I entered his school. The moment he heard that my intention was to pursue the study of the languages with him; his whole soul appeared to beam from his countenance.

He had already commenced his " Life of Washington " in Latin, but had been much hindered by his poverty. Mr. Reynolds furnished him the means to remove to Dayton, where the work was completed. He taught in Dayton for some time, and the quaint advertisements of his school frequently appear in the Watchman of that period. The following characteristic one is found in the Watchman of 1824: "The subscriber having completed the biography of Washington, which had engaged the greater portion of his attention and solicitude for the last two years. and being constrained to remain in Dayton for some months for the purpose of correcting the proof-sheets of said work, respectfully announces that his school is now open for students of either sex who may wish to prosecute classical, mathematical or English studies. As respects his literary attainments, or standing as a scholar, he refers to the faculty of arts of' any university or college in the United States." It is sad to think that the poor author did not enjoy the satisfaction of "correcting the proof-sheets " of the work which had been the absorbing ambition of his life. His friend, Mr. Reynolds, took the manuscript, but tried in vain to find a publisher. Leaving the country for a voyage round the world, on his return, he found that Francis Glass had died. The work was not published until 183. It is certainly a very remarkable production for a country school teacher, remote from libraries. Its Latinity has been pronounced good by scholars, and it was adopted as a text-book in many schools. A copy of the work may be found in the Dayton Public Library.

Milo G. Williams was another teacher of mark, at an early day. In 1833, he was invited by Mr. David Pruden to come to Dayton to take charge of a manual labor school to be established in the large brick building owned by him, which, until recently, stood at the junction of Jefferson and Warren streets. Mr. Williams was to conduct the academic, and Mr. Pruden the labor and boarding departments. The large building was used for the school and boarding purposes, and shops were erected for instruction in various mechanical trades. A large number of boys from Cincinnati and other places were attracted to the school by Mr. Williams' reputation as a teacher, and the school enjoyed great popularity. Not proving a pecuniary success, it was closed after a few years' trial, and Mr. Williams returned to Cincinnati to continue his work as a teacher there. Both Mr. Williams and Mr. Pruden were actuated by philanthropic motives in the establishment of the school, and deserve credit for the attempt to combine intellectual culture with preparation for the practical duties of life. How this may be done is still perplexing the minds of educators, and it is no discredit to them that they did not find the solution.

In 1844. by invitation of the Trustees, Mr. Williams returned to Dayton to take charge of the Dayton Academy, where he taught for several years with great acceptance. Solicited by leading members of the religious denominations to which

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he belonged, he resigned to take a position in a college of his church at Urbana, at which place he died in 1880, having reached a ripe old age. He was a gentleman of fine presence, admirable social qualities, and ever ready to unite with others in efforts for the public welfare. He was one of the founders and the first President of the Dayton Library Association, and, in many ways, left his impress on the community.

But perhaps the teacher who made the deepest impression on our system of education was Mr. E. E. Barney. Coming to Dayton in 1834, he brought with him from New York the most advanced methods of teaching, and introduced them here. He inspired his scholars with his own enthusiasm, and transformed study from a drudgery to a pleasure. He procured the best apparatus for the illustration of natural science, and by frequent excursions to the country sought to make his pupils familiar with the botany and geology of this region. Composition and declamation were required studies in the school, and a literary society and library were established under his auspices. He encouraged the planting of trees, and the cultivation of flowers, and, by every means at his command, sought to develop a symmetrical character. He was quick to notice the aptitude of his pupils for particular professions in life, and his advice often exerted an important influence on their after career. The discipline of the school was mild. but firm, and largely left to the honor of the pupils. Corporal punishment was rarely resorted to. Each morning the school was opened with the reading of the Scriptures and prayer.

In 1838, when a public meeting was called to determine upon the building of the first public schoolhouses, Mr. Barney heartily advocated the measure. Although the patronage of his private school might be decreased, he permitted no selfish motives to interfere with what he believed would promote the public interests. His experience and advice were freely given in planning and seating the new schoolhouses, and his school furnished a corps of educated teachers who carried at once the newest methods of instruction into the public schools. A large part of the older citizens of Dayton were his scholars at the Dayton Academy or Cooper Seminary. and recall his instructions with gratitude. A suitable biography of Mr. Barney will appear in another part of the history of Montgomery County.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS.

In Ohio, until 1825, no uniform system of taxation for school purposes was adopted, and until 1838, no adequate tax levied. The lack of means rather than the lack of interest on the part of the people prevented the general establishment of public schools at an early day.

Probably before 1831, schools had been partly supported by taxation, but it was not until that year that the school district of Dayton was formally organized. A meeting was held at the court house, Saturday, May 14, 1831, and Dr. John Steele, F. F. Carrell and Warren Munger were appointed Directors; Edmund Harrison, Clerk, and William Bomberger. Treasurer. Soon after, a board was regularly elected and the schools organized as will appear by the following notice :

"First District School will be opened Monday, December 5, 1831, by Sylvanus Hall, approved teacher, in the school room on Jefferson street between Water and First streets. Public money appropriated to support it.'' Luther Bruen, Nathaniel Wilson and Henry Van Tuyl, Directors.

Three additional rooms were soon after opened in different parts of the city for the convenience of scholars.

From this time until 1838, schools supported by taxation were taught for a few months each year in rented rooms. No public school buildings had been erected, and the majority of the citizens sent their children to private schools. During this period, the following persons served at different times as Directors : Thomas Brown. William Hart. James Slaght. I. H. Mitchell. David Osborn. Ralph P. Lowe, Simon Snyder and William H. Brown. Among the teachers of this

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period were Mr. and Mrs. Leavenworth Hurd, who taught in the old academy building on St. Clair street. The public funds not being sufficient to sustain this school, $1 per quarter was charged for each scholar.

We have now reached the period when the public schools assumed the importance in the public estimation which they have ever since maintained.

In 1837, Samuel Lewis was elected by the Legislature State Superintendent of Schools. Mr. Lewis entered upon his work with great enthusiasm, visiting every part of the State, and addressing the people at all important points. It was one of these addresses that led to the public meeting in 1838, which resulted in the building of two schoolhouses. Prior to that time, not more than $300 in any one year could be raised by taxation in a school district for the purpose of building schoolhouses. By the law of 1838, it was provided that ' a special meeting might be called after twenty days' notice, stating an intention to propose a schoolhouse tax, at which a majority of the voters present, being householders, were authorized to determine by vote upon the erection of a schoolhouse, and how much money should be raised for such purpose." Legal notice was given, and a public meeting assembled in the church which formerly stood on Main street, between First and Water streets. Strenuous opposition was made to the levy of the tax by a few wealthy citizens, but after a heated discussion, the measure was carried by a large majority. The amount to be raised was fixed at $6,000, and it was resolved to build two houses, one in the eastern and one in the western part of the city.

The opposition did not end with the meeting, and an injunction was applied for to prevent the levy of the tax. It was believed that it could not be proved that the law had been complied with in giving notice of the meeting. This had been anticipated by Mr. E. E. Barney, who had taken the precaution to post the notices in person. and. accompanied by a friend, had visited them from time to time to see that they were not removed. The injunction was not granted, and the houses were built on the sites now occupied by the Second and Fourth District Schoolhouses. The plans were taken from the Common, School Journal, and embodied the most advanced ideas of the time on the subject of school architecture.

Unfortunately no records of this important period of our school history have been preserved, and relying on tradition for our scanty facts, justice cannot be done to the public spirited citizens who were the early and zealous friends of our public schools.

Ralph P. Lowe, Simon Snyder and W. H. Brown were the directors of the schools in 1838-39. The latter two have since died. Mr. Lowe removed many years ago to Iowa. where he has held the distinguished positions of Judge of the Supreme Court and Governor of the State. In March, 1839, the schools were opened and continued for three quarters of twelve weeks each. Mr. Collins Wight was Principal of the Western District, and Mr. Elder, of' the Eastern. The salary of the Principals was $500 per annum. In addition to the Principals, one male assistant and three female teachers were employed in each house.

In 1839-40. Simon Snyder, R. P. Brown and Thomas Brown, served as Directors, and in 1840-41, G. W. Bomberger, Jefferson Patterson and Solomon Price.

In 1841. a city charter was granted to Dayton, by which the control of the common schools was given to the City Council. In the interim between the enactment of the city charter and the appointment of a Board of Managers of common schools as provided for, a Committee of the City Council was appointed to take charge of the schools. This committee consisted of Henry Strickler, David Davis and David Winters. On the records of the City Council is found the first report of the condition of the schools, made June 14, 1841. The committee say: "It was necessary to suspend the schools from April, 1841, until January, 1842, to enable the Directors of 1841 to discharge the indebtedness incurred in 1839 by the Directors of that year requiring the schools to be kept open the whole year, thus anticipating $800 of the school fund of 1840. The schools were kept open

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in 1840 six months ; then suspended until January. 1841, with a view of closing without indebtedness. But the great change in money affairs defeated the object, as the poll-tax of 50 cents a scholar could not be collected. The schoolhouses are now in use by the Principals of the schools, in which they are teaching private schools. They hold them on condition that in each house twenty charity scholars shall be taught each quarter."

The city charter fixed the levy for school purposes in Dayton at two mills on the dollar, and directed that the " school tax so levied, and all other funds that may be collected or accrue for the support of common schools, shall be exclusively appropriated to defray the expenses of instructors and fuel, and for no other purpose whatever." No provision was made for contingent expenses, which rendered it necessary to require a tuition fee of 50 cents per quarter from each scholar. Parents who were unable were not expected to pay. This tax was continued for several years, until suitable provision was made by law for contingent expenses. In addition to the levy of two mills for tuition purposes, ample power was given to the City Council to issue bonds, by vote of' the people. for the erection of school-houses.

The city charter directed " the City Council shall in the month of January, each year, select from each ward in the city one judicious and competent person as a manager of common schools ; the persons so selected shall constitute and be denominated the Board of Managers of Common Schools in the City of Dayton, and shall hold their offices for one year, and until their successors shall be chosen and qualified."

The general management of the school was committed to this board. but in the most important particulars it was merely the agent of the Council. The power to levy taxes, and issue bonds was vested in the Council. and the board could only recommend the amount that in its judgment was needed. Practically, however. the board exercised complete jurisdiction. as in no case was its recommendations disregarded. The fact that the two bodies co-operated for so many years without serious difference of opinion or conflict, conclusively shows the unanimity of public sentiment in favor of liberal provision for the schools.

The first Board of Managers was appointed by the City Council in January, 1842, and was composed of the following members : First Ward. Ebenezer Fowler ; Second Ward, Robert W. Steele ; Third Ward, Simon Snyder ; Fourth Ward, Edward W. Davies ; Fifth Ward, William J. McKinney.

From a report made to the City Council December 12, 1842, it appears that the total amount of school fund in the treasury, January, 1842, was $2,482.85. From this had to be deducted a loss on uncurrent money of $317.35, and an indebtedness from the last year of $552.55. leaving only $1,582.95 with which to con-duct the schools.

Four schools were opened--two in the public schoolhouses, and two in rented rooms. Six male and ten female teachers were employed. The Principals were W. W. Chipman, W. J. Thurber. E. H. Hood and William Worrel. The salary of Principals was $110 per quarter ; of male assistants, $80 ; and of female teachers, $50. The board was determined to close the year without debt, and the schools were continued only one quarter one month and one week, exhausting every dollar of the fund. The houses, however, were not closed, the teachers continuing private schools in them throughout the year.

The text-books used were Pickett's spelling-book, McGuffey's readers, Colburn's and Emerson's arithmetics, Mitchell's geography, Smith's grammar, and Parley's book of history. A resolution was offered in the board to make the Bible a text-book, which was passed with the amendment that the teachers he requested to read a portion of it each morning at the opening of the schools. This exercise has been continued in the schools until the present time. In the revised rules adopted by the board in 1874, the following section was passed without opposition : "The schools shall be opened in the morning with reading the sacred Scriptures, without comment, and repeating the Lord's Prayer, if desired."

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The amount received from the 50-cent tuition charge in 1842 was only $162.48. It was a time of great pecuniary embarrassment, of broken banks and unpaid taxes, and most inauspicious to inaugurate the public-school system. No taxes, however, were so cheerfully paid as those for the maintenance of schools, and the board was cheered in this day of small things by the cordial support of the people.

In 1843, the schools were open for six months, and the year closed without debt. The time was lengthened as the funds would justify, until in 1849, the full school-year was reached.

GERMAN SCHOOLS.

In 1841, the Legislature passed a special act, directing that a German school should be opened in Dayton, to be supported by the school tax paid by German citizens. This law, false in principle, and calling for a division of the school fund, like much of the special legislation before the adoption of the constitution of 1851, was evidently enacted without due consideration. It was found to be impracticable, and no action was taken until 1844, when the board was authorized by law to introduce German on the same basis as other studies. In that year a German school was opened, and William Gemein appointed teacher. Since that time this department has been a constituent part of our school system, and has increased proportionally with the English, as the wants of the German population required. In the German schools, one-half the time is given to instruction in English.

NIGHT SCHOOLS.

In 1845, in response to a petition from apprentices and others unable to attend the day schools, a night school was opened. Since that time, a sufficient number of such schools have been provided during the winter months to meet the demand. and have reached a large class of pupils who would have been deprived of the benefits of our public schools.

COLORED SCHOOLS.

Until 1849, no provision was made by law for the education of colored youth. By the school law of 1849, school authorities were authorized to established separate school districts for colored persons, to be managed by directors to be chosen by adult male colored tax-payers. The property of colored tax-payers was alone chargeable for the support of these schools. Under this law a school was opened in 1849, and continued until the law of 1853 placed schools for colored youth on the same basis as those for white. By that law, boards of education were directed whenever the colored youth in any school district numbered more than thirty, to establish a separate school or schools for them, to be sustained out of the general fund. Since that time the colored schools have been conducted under the management of the Board of Education, and colored youth have the same facilities of education extended to them as to white. Pupils prepared in these schools are admitted to the intermediate and high schools.

INSTRUCTION IN MUSIC.

After much discussion it was determined, in 1849, to introduce music as a branch of study in the public schools.

Only a few hours of each week were devoted to music, and instruction was given in the upper grades only. This arrangement was continued until 1870, when the board employed a superintendent of music, and an assistant, both of whom were to devote their whole time to the schools, and give instruction in all the grades. In 1872, William H. Clarke was elected Superintendent of Music, and introduced the plan now adopted in the schools of using the teachers as assistants. This in some measure meets the objection that no one man can do the work necessary to be done in this department. The teacher in each room is now responsible for the proficiency of the scholars in this as in the other branches of study. The

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aim is not simply to teach the scholars to sing by rote, but to give them a thorough knowledge of the rudiments of music.

After the resignation of Mr. Clarke, James Turpin was elected Superintendent, but died before his term of office expired. Mr. Turpin was the first music-teacher elected by the board, in 1848, and at different periods rendered many years of faithful and efficient service in this department. F. C. Mayer is the present incumbent.

HIGH SCHOOL.

As the public schools grew in popularity, and the large majority of the children of all classes in the city attended them, the need of instruction in the higher branches was more and more felt by the public. In 1847, the Board of Education procured from the Legislature the extension to Dayton of the provision of the Akron school law, granting to that town authority to establish a high school. In 1848, the Principals of the schools petitioned the board for the privilege of teaching some of the higher branches to meet a want expressed by many of their more advanced pupils. In their petition they state that many of their best scholars are drawn from the public to private schools from the lack of this instruction. and say that " we at present desire to introduce the elements of algebra and geometry, and perhaps physiology and natural philosophy." A committee of the board reported on this petition that it would not be wise to introduce such instruction in the district schools, but recommended the establishment of a high school. It was not, however, until 1850 that decisive action was taken. On April 4, 1850, Mr. Henry L. Brown offered the following resolution, which was unanimously adopted

Resolved, That this board do now establish the Central High School of Dayton, in which shall be taught the higher branches of an English education, and the German and French languages, besides thoroughly reviewing the studies pursued in the district schools.

On April 15, 1850, the school was opened in the Northeastern District Schoolhouse. James Campbell was Principal ; Miss Mary Dickson. Assistant, and James Turpin, Teacher of Music. In the fall of 1850, the school was removed to the academy building, the free use of which was granted by the Trustees to the Board of Education. In June, 1857, an enabling act having been obtained from the Legislature, the Trustees executed a deed for the property to the Board of Education, and, the same year, the old building was removed and the present high school building erected. While the house was building the school was taught in rented rooms in the Dickey Block, on Fifth street.

The curriculum of the school has been enlarged from time to time until now it embraces all the branches of study usually pursued in the best city high schools. Latin, or its equivalent--German or French--is required to be studied by all the pupils. Greek is taught, but comparatively so few desire to study it that it has been questioned whether it is right to expend the public money in such instruction. A large number of pupils have been prepared for college in our high school, and many of them have taken high rank in their classes ; and yet this may have been accomplished at too great cost to the public. It is so difficult to adjust the course of study in a high school to the wants of the mass of pupils, and the requirements for admission the college class, that it is to be hoped that these requirements may be so modified by our best colleges that this difficulty may be removed, and more of the graduates of our high schools induced to avail themselves of the broader culture these colleges offer.

In 1857, the total enrollment of pupils in the high school was 101 ; in 1867. 154 ; in 1875, 238 ; in 1880, 328. The number of teachers in 1857 (including Mr. Campbell, who gave half his time), was four ; in 1367, five ; in 1875, seven ; in 1880, eight. In 1857, the salary of the Principal was $1,200 ; in 1867, $1,500 ; in 1875, $2,000. The following persons have filled the office of Principal : James

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Campbell. from 1850 to 1858 ; John W. Hall, from 1858 to 1866 ; William Smith, from 1866 to 1872 ; Charles B. Stivers, from 1872 to the present time.

The first class was graduated in 1854, and consisted of two members ; the class of 1880, twenty-seven members ; the total number of graduates is 477. It is interesting to note that the graduates of the first class are now teachers in our public schools, and have always ranked among the best. No one familiar with our city can glance over the list of graduates, and trace their history as teachers in our schools. or as filling prominent positions in business circles and society, without being impressed with the noble work accomplished by this school.

SCHOOL LAW OF 1853.

The Constitution of Ohio adopted in 1851 directed "that the Legislature shall make such provisions by taxation or otherwise as. with the income arising from the school trust fund, will secure a thorough and efficient system of common schools throughout the State." The first Legislature elected under the new constitution enacted the excellent school law of 1853. Up to this time, our schools had been conducted under the city charter and parts of several acts of the Legislature that were construed to apply to them. To simplify and make certain the law applicable to our schools, and to relieve the board in its action from the supervision of the City Council, it was determined, in accordance with a provision of' the law of 1853, to submit to a popular vote the question of conducting the schools of the city under that law. The vote was taken at the city election in April. 1855, and decided without opposition, in the affirmative. The City Council passed an ordinance May 25, 1855. defining the number, the mode of election, and the term of office of the Board of Education. Heretofore the board had consisted of one member from each ward, appointed by the City Council to serve one year. Under the ordinance, the board was to be composed of two members from each ward, one to be elected each year by the people, with a term of service of two years. The first board it provided should be appointed by the Council. From 1855 until the present time, the schools have been conducted under this ordinance and the general school laws of the State. The first board appointed--one-half to serve until the next city election--was composed of the following members : First Ward, D. A. Wareham, Harvey Blanchard ; Second Ward, Robert W. Steele, J. G. Stutsman ; Third Ward. Henry L. Brown, James McDaniel ; Fourth Ward, E. J. Forsyth. W. S. Phelps ; Fifth Ward, John Lawrence, J. Snyder ; Sixth Ward, William Bomberger, W. N. Love.

SUPERINTENDENT OF INSTRUCTION.

The need of a general superintendent to give unity to our school system had long been felt by members of the Board of Education, but the opposition of some of the teachers who had influence with a majority of the board, and the plea of economy. prevented for years the establishment of the office. Duties of supervision were imposed on members of the board, which at the best were very imperfectly discharged. It was not until August, 1855, that the office was created, and James Campbell, Principal of the high school, elected Superintendent, with the understanding that he should retain his principalship and devote one-half of his time to the high school. In July, 1858, he was released from his duties in the high school, and instructed to devote his whole time to the supervision of the schools. Mr. Campbell prepared a report of the condition of the schools for 1856-57, which was the first extended report of our schools published. In May, 1859, he resigned, to engage in private business.

Although the office was not abolished, repeated efforts were made in vain to elect a Superintendent until 1866. In that year, impressed with the urgent need of supervision for the schools, Mr. Caleb Parker. a member of the board, who had retired from business, and who possessed the requisite experience and leisure to discharge the duties of the office, agreed to accept the position, with the distinct

694 - HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY.

proviso on his part that his services should be without compensation. He was elected in July, 1866, and served until April, 1868, when he tendered his resignation.

The second published report of the board for 1866--67 was prepared by him. On retiring from the office, Mr. Parker received a unanimous vote of thanks from the board for his disinterested and very useful services.

Again it was impossible to find a man who could command the vote of the majority of the board for Superintendent. Various expedients were resorted to by members of the board friendly to the office to secure an election. To remove the objection of unnecessary cost in conducting the schools, a plan which had been adopted with marked success in Cleveland was proposed. A committee of the board was appointed to consider it, and reported June 22, 1871, that " the efficiency of the school system would be increased without expense by the election of a Superintendent, a supervising male Principal, and female Principals for the district schools." This report was adopted by the board, and Warren Higley elected Superintendent, and F. W. Parker Supervising Principal. This plan was continued for two years with excellent results ; but the majority of the board of 1873 decided to return to the old system.

In 1873, Samuel C. Wilson was elected Superintendent and served one year.

In 1874, John Hancock, whose reputation for ability and large experience as a teacher and superintendent commended him to the board, was elected. and has been continued in the office until the present time.

The necessity of the office of Superintendent as a part of a system of city schools is now conceded by all, and it is believed that in Dayton in the future the office will never be vacant.

INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL.

It was found that owing to the removal of scholars from school before reaching the eight-year grade, the classes of that grade were very small in some of the districts. The Principals who were receiving the highest salaries were giving the most of their time and strength to these classes, and the cost of teaching them was excessive. To remedy this, the intermediate school was established in 1874, and all the pupils of the eighth-year grade in the city were assigned to that school. As at present organized, the course of study has not been enlarged, and the school is simply a union of the classes of the eighth year for convenience and economy. After one year in this school, pupils, upon examination, pass to the high school. The school is located in the Fourth District schoolhouse, and is taught by a male, Principal and two female assistants. W. P. Gardner was the first Principal, who, after serving one year, declined a re-election. Samuel C. Wilson was elected Principal in 1875, and is the present incumbent.

NORMAL SCHOOL.

It was impossible to procure experienced teachers to fill the vacancies constantly occurring in the schools. Young girls, without knowledge of methods of government or teaching, were placed over rooms full of children just at the most irrepressible period of their lives. These positions were confessedly the most difficult to fill of any at the disposal of the board ; but there was no alternative. Ambitious and experienced teachers naturally sought the rooms where the higher branches were taught, leaving the lower grades for the novices. It is true that many of the best and most valued teachers now in the schools began without experience ; but the first year of their teaching was a heavy labor to themselves and an injustice to their pupils. A partial remedy was found by making the position of an experienced and successful primary teacher as honorable, and the pay as large, as that of any teacher in the district schools below the grade of principal. But this did not fully meet the case, and the board determined to educate its teachers. A committee of the hoard, August 18, 1869, presented a detailed plan for a normal school and teachers' institute, which was unanimously adopted.

CITY OF DAYTON. - 695

The first week of each school year is devoted to the Teachers' Institute. All the teachers of the public schools in the city are required to attend, and to render such assistance in instruction as may be requested by the Superintendent of Schools. The best methods of teaching and government are discussed and taught, and lectures on these subjects given by experienced teachers at home and from abroad.

As the great majority of the teachers in the schools are women, instruction in the Normal School is confined to them. Graduates of the high school are admitted without examination, and comprise a large part of the school. Others desiring admission are required to pass a thorough examination in the ordinary branches of an English education. Applicants must be not less than seventeen years of age. and must pledge themselves to teach in the schools of Dayton two years after their graduation. should their services be desired by the board. The board on its part guarantees to the graduates situations as teachers in the public schools whenever vacancies occur.

In the Normal School, the studies to be taught in the district schools are reviewed, new methods of teaching are explained and illustrated, and thorough instruction is given in the theory and practice of teaching. Rooms in the school building where the school is located are placed in charge of pupils of the school, who, under the constant supervision of an experienced critic-teacher, thus learn the practical work of the school room.

In the fall of 1869, the school was opened in the Sixth District house, and up to this time has graduated 122 teachers. A large majority of these are now employed in our schools, and are doing excellent work. It would be unreasonable to expect that all the graduates of the Normal School would prove equally good teachers : but that the instruction received has been invaluable to them and a great gain to the schools no one acquainted with the facts can doubt. In the primary departments, the beneficial effects of this school are particularly noticeable.

Col. F. W. Parker was the first Principal of the school, assisted by Miss Emma A. H. Brown. a graduate of a normal school. Upon the election of Col. Parker as Supervising Principal of the schools, Miss Brown became Principal, and continued at the head of the school until her resignation in 1873. In 1873, Mr. W. W. Watkins. Principal of the Sixth District School. was made Principal of the Normal School also, and held the position one year. In 1874, Miss Jane W. Blackwood, a successful teacher in the Cincinnati Normal School, was elected Principal, and re-elected until the present time.

BOARD OF CITY EXAMINERS.

The school law of 1873-74 directs the Board of Education of each city district of the first class to appoint a board of examiners. "who shall have power to examine the schools established in such district, and shall examine all persons who desire to hold teachers' certificates, valid in such district." The Dayton Board of Education had long felt the need of a board of city examiners, and was influential in securing the insertion of this and other clauses in the excellent school law of 1873-74, sending its President, E. Morgan Wood, to Columbus, to confer with the House Committee on Common Schools. Under this law, George P. Clarke, J. A. Robert and William Smith were appointed city examiners. Mr. Clarke and Mr. Smith removed from the city, and their places were filled by William Isenberg and Robert W. Steele. Mr. Robert and Mr. Isenberg, after years of faithful service, resigned. and A. D. Wilt and John Hancock were appointed. The present board consists of Robert W. Steele, A. D. Wilt and John Hancock.

PUBLIC LIBRARY.

Dayton may claim the honor of having obtained from the Legislature the first act of incorporation for a public library granted by the State of Ohio. The incorporators were Rev. William Robertson, Dr. John Elliott, William Miller, Benjamin Van Cleve and John Folkerth. This act was passed by the Legislature

696 - HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY.

February 1, 1805. and the library formed under it contained a good selection of books and existed for many years.

The Library Association was organized January 12. 1847, by the election of the following officers : President. M, G. Williams Vice President, Dr. John Steele ; Treasurer, V. Winters ; Secretary, R, W. Steele ; Directors, C. G, Swain, E. Thresher, James McDaniel, John G. Lowe and D. Beckel. A large sum of money was raised by subscription, a choice collection of books was purchased, and rooms in the Phillips Building, on the corner of Main and Second streets, were expressly prepared and elegantly fitted up for the reception of the library. This library, in connection with a reading-room, and with its winter course of lectures, was sustained for many years, and was one of the marked features of our city. A free public library having been established, it was manifest that there was no need for the library association in a city of the population of Dayton, and that the public interests would be best served by a union of the two. In 1860, the stockholders of the library association by vote transferred their valuable library and furniture, without cost, to the Board of Education. At the time of the transfer, the officers of the library association were : D, A. Haynes. President : Wilbur Conover. Vice President ; I. H. Kiersted, Secretary : B, G. Young, Treasurer ; Directors. J D. Phillips. L. B. Gunckel, L, B. Bruen, Dr. John Davis and Daniel Waymire.

By the school law of' 1853, a tax of one-tenth of a mill on the dollar was levied for library purposes ; but it was not until 1855 that this tax was available. At that time, the city of Dayton was entitled to $1,400 of the fund, Mr, H. H, Barney, the State School Commissioner, had made large purchases of' books for distribution, but had necessarily adapted his list of books mainly to the wants of country districts. It was found that Dayton would have to accept a large number of' duplicates and triplicates if supplied with hooks out of the purchases made for the State, It was very desirable that a committee of the board should be permitted to select the books for the Payton Library; and application was made to Mr. Barney for this privilege. which he promptly and cheerfully granted, The first purchase consisted of 1,250 volumes, comprising books in every department of literature, Great care was taken in the selection of the books to meet the popular wants, and the library, small as it was, at once became a favorite with the people. and was extensively used. The library was opened in the fall of 1855. in a rented room on the northeast corner of' Main and Fourth streets. W, H. Butterfield was the first librarian. At this time the library was accessible only on Saturdays. from 10 to 12 A. M. and from 2 to 5 P, M. As the numbers drawing books increased. the time was lengthened, until now the library is open each secular day of the week from 9 A. M. to 9 P. M.

In 1856, the Legislature suspended the tax of one-tenth of' a mill on the dollar. and from that time until 1866 the library was sustained and increased by appropriations made by the board from the contingent fund. By concerted action on the part of Boards of Education of cities of the first and second class. the Legislature was induced to pass the law of' 1866, conferring power on such cities to levy a tax of one-tenth of a mill for library purposes. This tax, so insignificant to the individual tax-payer. amounting to only 10 cents on $1,000 valuation, in 1880. in Dayton yielded about $2,000. As this sum is exclusively appropriated to the purchase of books, all other expenses of' the library being paid out of the contingent fund, the increase of books each year is considerable and valuable.

The public library is an essential part of the public school system. The one is the complement of' the other. Without access to books of' reference by teachers and pupils, many branches of study cannot be satisfactorily and thoroughly taught. The daily use of the library by the scholars, particularly of' the high and normal schools. for consultation on subjects connected with their studies, is very noticeable and gratifying,

During the month of January. 1880, 6,790 volumes were drawn from the library, and during the year, 60,391. In addition, 5,212 volumes were consulted in the rooms. The average daily circulation was 195 volumes.

CITY OF DAYTON. - 697

FREE NIGHT INDUSTRIAL SCHOOLS.

Impressed with the importance in a manufacturing city of affording artisans and others the opportunity of instruction in drawing, the Board of Education established, in 1877, Free Night Industrial Schools. A school of free-hand drawing was opened in the Gebhart building, on Third street, December 17, 1877, with James Jessup and Valentine Schwartz as teachers. On March 6, 1879. a school of mechanical and architectural drawing was added, and opened in the First District Schoolhouse, with Thomas A. Bisbee as instructor.

To call attention to this important branch of instruction, a public exhibition of the work of the pupils was given in the City Hall. Committees of competent citizens were appointed to examine and report on the work, and such results were shown as to firmly establish the schools in popular favor. On November 11, 1880, the free-hand drawing school was removed to the large hall of the Eaker building, with Isaac Broome and Charles B. Nettleton, as instructors, and the mechanical and architectural drawing school continued in the First District Schoolhouse under the charge of Mr. Bisbee. The city is largely indebted for the introduction of this important branch of study to Mr. A. D. Wilt, a member of the Board of Education, who deserves great credit for the persistency with which he advocated the measure until he secured its adoption, Experience has shown the great value of these schools. The Committee on the Schools for 1880 say : The attendance for the past year has been greater than ever, and the quality of the work, as attested by experts appointed to examine it, has been of a highly satisfactory character, About three hundred youth and adults from every walk of life have been instructed, many of whom are constantly using their knowledge in their daily avocations. much to their own advantage, as well as to that of their employers."

COMPARATIVE STATEMENT.

A comparison of the schools at different periods of their history will forcibly illustrate the progress which has been made, Before the appointment of a Superintendent of Instruction. full and reliable statistics are not found on the records of the Board, The years 1857 and 1807 are chosen because reports were published in those years by Messrs. Campbell and Parker and the facts thus made accessible. Under the present system. the completest statistics in every department are recorded and published. As the records of the Board of Education begin in 1842, that year is taken as the starting point.

1842, 1857, 1867, 1875, 1880

Total enrollment 827 3440 4213 5238 6144

Average daily attendance 544 1600 2809 3711 4527

Number of teachers 16 45 70 98 125

Amount of school fund $2483 $40000 $60000 $139066 $189261

Amount paid teachers 1583 24180 31055 75826 89906

Value of school property 6000 75000 143000 210000 321706

The increasing proportion from period to period of the average daily attendance to the total enrollment is marked, and indicates the growing efficiency of the schools. In 1857, it was forty-eight per cent ; in 1867, sixty-six per cent ; in 1875, seventy-one per cent ; in 1880, seventy-four per cent.

It is not so easy to represent to the eye the growth in other and more important particulars. A complete system of gradation has been established, consisting of a seven-years' course in the district schools, one in the intermediate, four in the high, and one in the Normal School, supplemented by a large and free public library. New methods of instruction have been introduced, and, as far as they stood the test of trial in the schoolroom, are now in use ; and such salaries are paid teachers as to secure the services of the best and most experienced.

It would be vain to attempt to point out the distinct steps by which our

698 - HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY.

present system of gradation has been reached. It has been a growth rather than a creation. The principle was recognized, and, as far as circumstances would permit, practiced at the very beginning of our schools in 1842. At different times, teachers of marked ability and large experience have been employed, who have left their impress on the schools by bringing to them advanced methods of instruction, the result of their own experience or learned in other cities. Our system now comprises nearly all the departments which experience has shown to be desirable.

Equal progress has been made in school architecture. As new buildings have been erected, no pains have been spared to introduce whatever improvements in lighting, seating, heating and ventilating experience in our own and other cities has suggested. There are in the city fifteen school buildings containing 122 rooms, with a seating capacity for 6,479 children, The value of school property, belonging to the city, as estimated by the Superintendent of Buildings, amounts to $321,706.

No doubt, similar progress has characterized the schools of the other cities of the State. It is matter for congratulation that boards of education everywhere are encouraged by popular support to make such liberal provision for schools. The progress made in the past should only incite to greater efforts in the future. The aim should be that perfection which is ever to be pursued, but never fully attained.

As no mention could be made in the appropriate places of many of the members of the Board of Education and teachers, who have been influential in molding and giving character to our schools, in justice to them, the names of the Presidents of the board from 1842 to 1880, of those members who have served four or more years, and of the Principals of the schools from the beginning, are given. Many of the assistant teachers are more worthy of mention than some of the Principals ; but to give a few names would be invidious. and to print them all impossible.

MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION FROM 1842 TO 1880 WHO HAVE
SERVED FOUR OR MORE YEARS.

W. J. McKinney, R. W. Steele. H. L. Brown, J. G. Stutsman, L, Huesman William Bomberger, D. A. Wareham, Wilbur Conover. W. S. Phelps, James McDaniel, A. Pruden. S. Boltin, H. Elliott, Jonathan Kenney, John Howard. John H, Stoppleman, E. S. Young, H. Miller, W, L. Winchell. Caleb Parker, George S. Ball, Joseph Herhold. D. Dwyer, H. Anderson, N. L. Aull. Joseph Fischer, James Carrberry, E. Morgan Wood, George Vonderheide, W. H. Johnson, B. F. Kuhns, R. M. Allen. E. M. Thresher, Charles Wuichet, D, G. Breidenbach, Thomas Kincaid, George L. Phillips; Samuel W. Davies. W. S. Kemp, W. M. Murray, Jacob Stephans, Louis N. Poock, C. L, Baumann.

PRESIDENTS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION.

1842, E. W. Davies ; 1843. W. J. McKinney ; 1844. E. W. Davies ; 1845, Thomas Brown ; 1846, Henry Stoddard. Sr.: 1847, R. W. Steele ; 1848-49, H. L. Brown ; 1850-61, R. W. Steele ; 1861-63, H. L. Brown ; 1863-64. Thomas F. Thresher ; 1864-69, H. L, Brown ; 1869-73, E. Morgan Wood ; 1873-75, Charles Wuichet ; 1875-78. E. M, Thresher ; 1878-79, C. L. Baumann ; 1879-80, I. K. Webster ; 1880-81, E. M. Thresher.

SUPERINTENDENTS OF INSTRUCTION.

James Campbell, Caleb Parker, Warren Higley, Samuel C. Wilson, John Hancock.

PRINCIPALS OF THE NORMAL SCHOOL,

F. W. Parker, Emma A. H. Brown. W. W. Watkins. Jane W. Blackwood,

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PAGE 700 - PICTURE OF WM. J. SHUEY

CITY OF DAYTON. - 701

PRINCIPALS OF THE HIGH SCHOOL.

James Campbell, John W. Hall, William Smith, Charles B, Stivers,

PRINCIPALS OF THE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL.

William P. Gardner, Samuel C. Wilson.

SUPERINTENDENTS OF MUSIC.

James Turpin, Charles Soehner, W. B. Hall, W. H. Clarke, F. C. Mayer.

SUPERINTENDENT OF PENMANSHIP AND DRAWING.

C, B. Nettleton.

PRINCIPALS OF THE DISTRICT SCHOOLS FROM 1839 TO 1880.

Collins Wight. W. W. Watson. D. L. Elder, Thomas E. Torrence, Charles Barnes, Edwin H. Hood. R, W. Hall, W. W. Chipman, W. I. Thurber, William Worrel, J. D, French, Charles Gaylor, Watson Atkinson. A. Stowell, John A. Smith, W. Knight. W, I. Parker, Joseph McPherson, M. N. Wheaton. R. L. McKinney, James Campbell. W. F. Doggett, Charles Rogers, William Pinkerton, W. H. Butterfield. Rufus Dutton, E. W. Humphries, A. C, Fenner, P. D. Pelton. H. Anderson, A, B. Leaman, William Denton, A, C. Tyler, W. F. Forbes, J. B. Irvin, E. C. Ellis, William Isenberg, A, P. Morgan, Samuel C. Wilson, H. H. Vail, W. H. Campbell, O, S, Cook. S. V. Ruby. S. C, Crumbaugh. H. B. Furness, A. L. Hanson, J. C. Ridge, James C, Gilbert. J. C. Morris, Tillie B. Wilson, Belle M. Westfall, Ella J. Blain, Lucy G. Brown, Esther A. Whiner. A. Humphreys, C. H. Evans, W. W. Watkins. W. P. Gardner, A. J, Willoughby. Charles L, Loos, Alice Jennings, Samuel Peters, Solomon Day. F. Lochninger. A. B. Shauck, W. N. Johnson, I. E. Johnson, I. G. Brown, Carrie Miller.

Besides the schools supported by taxation. numerous other schools have existed in Dayton. It would be impossible to notice the many private schools which have done so much for the intellectual culture of the community. Attention must be confined to those which from their size, or the prominence of their school buildings. have especially attracted public attention,

COOPER ACADEMY.

In 1844, before the establishment of the Central High School, the Cooper Academy was incorporated. The first Board of' Trustees were : Samuel Forrer, I. D. Phillips. Edward W. Davies, Robert C. Schenck, Robert W. Steele and Richard Green. The principal object of the founders was to provide a school for the thorough education of their daughters at home. The Trustees of the Cooper estate donated to the Academy a large and valuable lot on First street, extending from Wilkinson to Perry streets. and a liberal subscription was made by citizens for the erection of a suitable building for boarding and day scholars. In October, 1845, the school was opened. Mr. E. E. Barney was elected Principal, and entered upon the work with the ability and energy which characterized whatever he undertook. The school attained a great reputation, and attracted a large number of pupils from abroad.

The following persons have served as Principals of the institution in the order in which they are named : E, E. Barney, Miss Margaret Coxe, Dr. J. C. Fisher, Rev. Victor Conrad. Rev, John S. Galloway, Mrs. B. G. Galloway, and J. A. Robert, the present Principal.

The institution has sent out a large number of graduates to all parts of the country, and is now in successful operation, the instruction never having been more thorough and broad than under the present management.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS.

Emanuel Catholic Church was founded in 1833, and from that time a school z

702 - HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY.

has been taught in connection with it. The present fine school building was erected in 1867. It contains six rooms. three for boys and three for girls. Four hundred and fifty pupils are enrolled, and the ordinary branches of study are taught in German and English, with the addition of needlework for the girls, The boys are taught by the brothers of St. Mary's, and the girls by the sisters of Notre Dame.

ST. JOSEPH'S SCHOOLS.

St. Joseph's Church was founded in 1847 and a school opened at the same time. In 1857, the Sisters of Charity purchased a building near St. Joseph's Church, which had been erected for a Presbyterian Church. and opened a day academy, boarding and free school. In 1863, the house adjoining he school was purchased and used by the sisters for a residence. In 1868, the boarding school ceased but the academy continued for several years when the school was made free to all, and now constitutes the girl's school of St. Joseph's Church. In 1879, the old residence was torn down and a new building erected, which is joined to the school by large corridors and alcoves. Three hundred girls are enrolled in this school,

In 1873, St. Joseph's Public School for Boys was erected at a cost for building and furniture of 825,000. Two hundred and fifty boys are enrolled. Ten teachers are employed in the two schools, one of whom devotes her time to instruction in music. The Sisters of Charity have charge of both schools, In these schools, in addition to the ordinary the higher branches are taught.

ST. MARY'S SCHOOL.

St. Mary's Church was founded in 1859. The first school building not meeting the demands of the congregation, the present one was erected in 1878, at a cost of $5,300. There are three rooms for boys and three for girls: and 250 scholars are enrolled. The ordinary branches are taught in English and German. The boys are taught by the Brothers of St. Mary's and the girls by the Sisters of Notre Dame,

HOLY TRINITY SCHOOLS.

Holy Trinity Church was built in 1860. This Church has two school buildings, one for boys and one for girls. Each building has three departments, and six teachers are employed. Two hundred boys and two hundred and twenty-five girls are enrolled. The boys are taught by the Brothers of St, Mary's and the girls by the Sisters of Notre Dame,

SCHOOL OF THE SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME

The Sisters of Notre Dame established a school in Dayton in 1849, on the corner of Ludlow and Franklin streets, Their object was the care and education of orphans, but not receiving a sufficient number they opened boarding and day schools, and also took charge of the parochial schools of Emanuel Parish, After some years circumstances having changed, the schools in the house were given up and the Sisters took charge of the schools of Holy Trinity Parish in 1860, and of St, Mary's in 1870. The number of pupils trained in the city by the Sisters is about six hundred. The house at the corner of Ludlow and Franklin streets is used by them as a residence,

The description of the Catholic schools is not as complete as could be desired. There are no published reports from which to draw and full information could not be obtained. The enrollment of scholars may not be perfectly accurate, as in some cases it was reported as about the number given.

Having thus passed in review the educational history of Dayton, it may be well to summarize the whole to ascertain how far the youth of the city avail themselves of the excellent facilities afforded for instruction.

By the school census of September. 1879. the number of youth in the city between the ages of six and twenty-one years was 11,660 ; the number between

CITY OF DAYTON. - 703

six and sixteen years, 8,693, On this basis, Mr. Hancock, the Superintendent of Public Schools, estimates the school attendance of the city as follows : " The enumerators reported at the time of' taking the school census 5,439 pupils in the public schools, 214 in private schools, and 1.333 in church schools. If we add ten per cent for subsequent additions to the last two classes of schools, we shall have for the total enrollment of the day schools of the city

In the public schools 5,902

In private schools 235

In church schools 1,466

Total 7,603

Of the pupils in the public schools four per cent were sixteen years of age and above, Applying this standard to all the schools; we should have as a total enrollment 304 pupils of that age, leaving 7,299 as the number enrolled between six and sixteen, This would be eighty-four per cent of all the youth enumerated between those ages, leaving sixteen per cent of the youth of what is especially considered the school age, who were not in school for a single day."

It relieves this dark picture somewhat to reflect that a considerable number of pupils leave school before reaching the age of sixteen, to engage in work, and that many who are embraced in the sixteen per cent of non-attendance may have derived substantial benefits from the instruction afforded in our free schools. The deplorable fact, however. remains that notwithstanding the abundant provision male for the education of the youth of the city, large numbers are unreached, School reports from all our cities reveal an equal or greater percentage of non-attendance, How to reach and reform the evil is an unsolved problem. Compulsory laws have proved inefficient. and the only remedy appears to be an enlightened public sentiment. which shall brand as a disgrace and a crime the neglect of a parent to provide for the education of' his children,

ST. MARY'S INSTITUTE.

This institution had its origin in the year 1849, when Rev. L, Meyer, a priest, member of the Society of Mary whose mother house is located in Paris, France, came to Dayton to assist Rev, H, D, Juncker, who was afterward Bishop of Alton, Ill.. hut then pastor of Emanual Church in this city. Father Meyer had some brother teachers sent from France to teach in this country ; two were engaged in teaching in Cincinnati, and three were not employed. It was to give these teachers employment, and Dayton a better school than she had, that the reverend gentleman conceived the idea of establishing St. Mary's Institute, 'The ground (100 acres) upon which the school is located. was purchased of John Stuart, a Scotchman, and was formerly owned by Hon. Charles Anderson, On the 8th of March. 1850. two of the Brothers arrived here from Cincinnati, one of whom, Rev. M. Zehler. is still connected with the institution, and the third one on the 10th of the same mouth to take charge of the farm. On the 19th of March, of the same year, the deed was made. and as Rev. L. Meyer had no money to pay on his purchase he handed Mr. Stuart a small medal of St. Joseph, saying, "St. Joseph will pay." ' Mr, Stuart, soon after selling the property, left for Europe, and the Brothers took entire possession of' the premises. In June, 1850, a school was opened for day scholars, the number being about thirty-seven. September, of the same year, hoarders were admitted. and the boarding-school, that was begun with one pupil. Joseph Greulich, numbered in the years from 1870 to 1875, over two hundred. Rev. L, Meyer. in 1853, purchased 12 acres more of land, which was in the corporation and adjoining the original purchase. In 1854, he built an addition to the former house, and all was prosperous and doing well, when, in December, 1855. a fire broke out, which destroyed the old as well as the new building, so the Brothers. with their Superior, were without a home, and a debt of $12,000 hanging over their heads. as they had paid nothing on the principal, and had no

704 - HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY.

insurance on the buildings. The community lodged first in a house in town, that was newly-built and without doors or windows. August, 1856, they began to rebuild the old house, and this was accomplished as time and means would permit. In 1857, the school was reopened and well patronized. In November, 1862, Rev. L. Meyer was recalled to France, where he opened an orphan asylum at Kembs, Alsace. Before leaving he paid off all the original debt to Mr. Stuart, and left the property unincumbered. The number of pupils increasing, the directors saw that they were obliged to build again, The buildings then existing (1864) were a chapel, 32 by 60 feet ; the main building, 40 by 80 feet, and another wing south, 30 by 60 feet ; and to this latter was added a building extending east 40 by 80 feet, with a basement, and two stories for schools and sleeping-rooms. In 1866, another separate building, 40 by 60 feet, was erected for a dwelling-house for the community and the candidates. In 1868, the church was built, 50 by 123 feet, and 40 feet from floor to ceiling ; and it was pronounced by the Most Reverend Archbishop Purcell, on divers occasions, as being one of the nicest churches in the diocese. There was erected, in 1870, actual Institute building, 70 by 164 feet, four stories high. with a Mansard-root, It is built in a very substantial manner, and cost $62,000. The lower floor is occupied by two large study-halls, two parlors, refectory. kitchen and store-room. There is a corridor on each floor, ten feet wide, with stairs of easy ascent, with iron plates covering the steps at each end of the building that lead to the different stories of the building. The ground-floor is taken up by eight class-rooms and eight private rooms. On the third floor there are two sleeping rooms and three rooms for infirmary use ; also, wardrobe, washing room, music and singing rooms. The fourth story is one vast hall. extending over the whole building. used as a sleeping room. There is a large iron tank, of about one hundred barrels capacity, to supply the washing-rooms on the third-floor: and in ease of fire, by means of hose the floors can be flooded. The amusement hall consists of four different divisions--first. a floor, 60 by 110 feet, on solid ground ; then 60 by 58 feet on a floor for quiet amusements. The bath-house consists of twelve small rooms, provided with a window, bath-tubs, and faucets for cold and warm water. The upper story is frame, and is the exhibition hall, where the pupils give entertainments from time to time during the year. The expenses for construction were $10.500. and the buildings are all complete and paid for. In 1862, Rev. L. Meyer was succeeded by Rev. John Courtes, who remained in charge until 1864, then succeeded by Rev. J. N, Reinbolt, the present Superior Provincial of the Institution. The first Superintendent was the Rev. M. Zehler, familiarly known as Brother Zehler, who served in that capacity until 1876. when he asked of' his Superiors to he relieved of his office of responsibility. He was succeeded by Rev. Francis Feith, and in 1879. he by Rev, George Meyer, who is yet in office. The school is now under the direction of the following named ; Rev. Father J. N. Reinbolt, Superior Provincial; Rev. Father George Meyer. Director of Institute : Rev, Father John Issler, Master of Novices, and Rev. Fathers N. Nickels and E. Beyrer, supported by an able corps of teachers. There are two departments, namely, Normal and Collegiate, the former exclusively for the training of teachers for the Brotherhood or Society of Brothers. The system of instruction is thorough and embraces a complete commercial and classical education. Music, drawing and the higher arts are also taught. In the Normal department are now en-rolled about one hundred and forty scholars, and in the Collegiate department, one hundred and thirty-three, forty of whom are day scholars. The institution is self-supporting.

THE MIAMI COMMERCIAL COLLEGE.

This college has for many years been one of the leading educational institutions of the city, having not only a large local patronage, but a constant attendance from the surrounding States. It was established in 1860, by Mr. E. D. Bab-

CITY OF DAYTON, - 705

bitt, the accomplished author of the Babbittonian system of penmanship. In 1862 Mr. Babbitt associated with him Mr. A. D. Wilt, who, in 1865, succeeded to the sole control and ownership of the college, which he yet retains. The most approved methods of instruction have always been pursued, and thoroughly practical and competent instructors engaged, and as a result, the graduates of the college are found engaged as highly successful business men and accountants in all the leading cities of the country. The college now occupies an entire floor of the elegant Firemans' Insurance Building, on the corner of Main and Second streets, and is complete in all of its appointments. The faculty consists of Mr. A. D. Wilt, Principal ; Mr. W. H. Sunderland, Assistant Principal ; Mr. A. C. Tyler, Superintendent of Practice Department, and Mr. W. E. Donson, Assistant in the Theory Department.