Carolina College
Series 1, Subseries 2, Folder 5:
Copies of articles from the Raleigh Christian Advocate, January 11, 1912 - December 7, 1916.
"The material in this binder was obtained from copies of the Raleigh Christian Advocate which were published between the years 1911 and 1917. Most of the articles were written by the Rev. S. E. Mercer. They tell of his struggle as he served in the beginning, not only as president, but as financial agent, public relations director, and general promoter.
We are indebted to Esther Evans of the Duke University Library for the time consuming research required in getting these articles.
Because of the quality of paper on which the Advocates were published at that time, they were so brittle they could not be zeroxed. This necessitated making typewritten copies. These will be placed in the Manuscript Department of the Duke University Library after zerox copies are made for the archives of the Universities of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Greenville.
I have done the copies in this binder from Esther's copies and have placed them in the protector sheets for our collection at Methodist College so that we can thumb through them and enjoy them at our will.
Miss Evans' address was Tyner, North Carolina when she was a student from 1917 to 1920 in the preparatory department of Carolina College. Later, Tyner became Edenton, Route I, and she still spends part of each year with members of her family in the house in which she was born.
From Carolina, Miss Evans entered Duke University where she was graduated with an A.B. degree. After a short teaching career she returned to Duke where she is still employed as a member of the library staff.
She had this to say about the history of Carolina College: "As much as possible of the Carolina history should be saved. Anyone who has ever worked in a research library (and that is what Duke Library is) knows that these materials you are collecting can be extremely valuable.
The manuscript department is one of Duke's largest and most valuable departments; and its collections of papers, both personal and public, are what make it so. The collection you are forming can be most useful to anyone interested in the education of women, Robeson County or town history, and family histories, just to name a few things."
Rhoda Holden McMillan
Parkton, N.C. June 15, 1973"
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, January 11, 1912
Personal and Otherwise
In speaking of the transfer of Rev. S. E. Mercer to Maxton to take charge of both the church and the college work there, a special to the Morning Star says "Mr. Mercer is well-known here, and will receive a warm welcome from the members of his congregation and from his friends among other denominations. He is also the President of Carolina College and high hopes are entertained that he will carry the erection of this institution to a successful consummation."
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, April 18, 1912
Personal and Otherwise
Rev. S. E. Mercer returned yesterday morning from a trip in the Northeastern part of the State in the interest of Carolina College. He brought back several hundred dollars and presented the college in such a way as to locate prospective benefactors.
The work on the college is progressing. --Scottish Chief
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, May 23, 1912
Carolina Methodist College
What have we at Carolina College?
To begin with, we have an unusually fine location. The campus contains twenty acres of land. A part of this is covered by an elegant grove of native oak.
What kind of building have we?
The size of the building is two hundred feet by one hundred and sixty-four feet.
The material is a fine quality of red press brick and North Carolina gray stone. The only college building in the State that will compare with it is the new administration building at Trinity College, Durham, N.C. And it is the best female college building in Southern Methodism.
What is the capacity of the building?
In the basement, gymnasium with shower bath room connection and kitchen and dining-room, refrigerator or cold storage room, and room for laundry plant, etc.
On the ground floor are nine large lecture rooms, president's office, ladies' parlor, book rooms, etc. On the second floor we have dormitory capacity for one hundred and fifty girls.
Hot and cold water will circulate throughout the entire building. Every section of the building will be supplied with bath and toilet rooms.
We have an auditorium that has a seating capacity for one thousand people. All danger from fire has been absolutely precluded by supplying every section of the building with fire hose, etc. The building will be worth one hundred thousand dollars.
When will Carolina College be ready to open for students?
The heating plant, the plumbing, the plastering, etc., are all contracted out; and unless someone falls down on a contract we will open in September.
What will it cost to complete the building?
To install the heating plant will cost seven thousand and eight hundred dollars. The plumbing will cost three thousand dollars. The plastering will cost two thousand and two hundred dollars. The electrical work will cost eight hundred dollars. The inside flooring and trim work will cost three thousand dollars. And then the building is to be furnished from start to finish.
How about the money? Have we money enough to do all this work? Well, now really, that is a startling question. No, we lack just a little of having enough. But we are receiving checks nearly every day. Twelve thousand dollars more will open the doors of Carolina College to our young women in September.
Now, let me ask you a question. How much of this twelve thousand dollars will you give? I myself will be one of the twelve, or one of any number above twelve, to do it.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, May 30, 1912
Carolina College
Methodism in North Carolina has been a very important force. We have had our share of triumphs, and we have had some defeats. Our great church has usually been wise to see important situations, and has shown wisdom in dealing with them. Sometimes we have not been heroic and self-sacrificing enough to grasp opportunities and use them for the glory of God. In my opinion, the most serious and far-reaching mistake that we have made has been our failure to provide adequate educational facilities for our own Methodist girls. Many of our people have followed the policy of sending their girls to the schools of other denominations until they have but little conscience at this point and church loyalty left. I have gone to some trouble in making a more or less careful inquiry in order to ascertain how serious the situation is.
It is startling to know just how large a per cent of our girls get the most important part of their education from other churches than their own. I think it would be conservative to state that we have about the same number in other church colleges that we have in our own. Now the direct result of this process is, that many of our choice young women are lost to the Methodist Church. Some of them actually change their membership while attending college. I met a young lady just a few days ago who was educated in a school of another church, and she told me she had already united with that church.
In many cases the indirect results are almost as serious. Girls are in college at the most formative period of life. It is during this period that they get their standards and ideals of life; and form their strongest and most lasting friendships. These friendships exert a very potent influence throughout life. We cannot estimate the effect this has upon our girls. For four years they are separated from all the associations of their own church and placed solely under the influence of another denomination, where everything is taught from the viewpoint of that church. All the comparisons and contrasts, with other churches, are made in favor with their own. Where no direct effort is made to upset early faith and belief, contact, association, and interpretation will silently work out these results.
Our Methodist laymen are largely responsible for the existing educational conditions. We have neglected the needs of our own girls. We have to answer to the charge of discriminating against the female colleges in favor of the male colleges. Many of our people do not respond liberally and gladly to the calls for help that come from our girls' schools. Many of our people who are patronizing other schools, tell me they prefer sending to Methodist colleges, and say they will just as soon as room is provided for them. The imperative need of the present is a strong, enthusiastic, aggressive campaign in the interest of our female colleges. Acquaint the people with their needs and lay on their hearts the responsibility of meeting these needs.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, June 6, 1912
What Has Maxton Done for Carolina College?
This question has been asked time and again, and I think it a very pertinent question, and one that should be answered, not only for the good of the institution, but also that the public may be informed as to the attitude of the people here toward the college. I asked J. W. Carter, Chairman of the Building Committee, for this information, and he says, together with the twenty thousand dollars Maxton is giving now, and the previous fifteen thousand dollars she gave and the amount she contributed toward the location, Maxton has given forty thousand dollars or more. Somehow the feeling had gone forth into certain quarters that the people have not done what they ought to for the college.
It might be well also to acquaint the church at large with the further fact, that while the church here has been helping to build the college, she has been laboring under the disadvantage of a heavy church indebtedness. A costly church was under construction at the time the College was located here. To be accurate, there was an indebtedness of twelve thousand dollars left on the church. This has been reduced to five thousand dollars in the meantime. With this plain statement of facts, I am content for the whole Methodist Church to decide whether the people here have been loyal and liberal.
And I will ask this further question: Where in the annals of Methodism can we find a more heroic and illustrious record; especially when it is remembered that the membership is neither large nor wealthy? Ought not a people who have shown such a spirit of sacrifice have all the encouragement and help the whole Church can give them? Are they not worthy of the confidence and love of the brethren? Are people whose sinews of faith and service, have been burdened by carrying such burdens, likely to shirk or lie down in the traces? Nor is this all; some of the leading men have already said, that if the Methodists of the Conference will give the fifteen thousand dollars to complete this building, which is conceded to be the best female college in Southern Methodism, that Maxton will give thirty thousand dollars more if the Methodists of the Conference will give twenty thousand dollars. And this fifty thousand dollars would complete the plant, giving us two dormitories, each having seventy five rooms.
Shall we educate our own girls, or shall we leave them to other folks to educate?
I am glad we have an editor who has a vision of our needs, and whose voice and editorials ring clear at this vital point.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, June 20, 1912
A Personal Letter from S. E. Mercer
I came here at the earnest and persistent solicitation of the people here and a number of my best friends in the Conference. Many of these by letter and in conversation pledged me their most earnest and loyal support if I would come. I had nothing personally to gain by coming. I had as delightful a pastorate as any man could desire. I suppose no men in the Conference enjoyed the pastorate more than I. But some man had to come here who was willing to make a sacrifice to save Carolina College. There was a judgement on the College, and a total indebtedness of about seventeen thousand dollars. The people were discouraged, and another denomination was just waiting for an opportunity to buy the property. After much earnest prayer I felt that God wanted me here, and I came with the assurance that I would have His help and the loyal support of our Methodist people.
I could not see why and how my taking charge of the College could produce the change that has taken place. The Lord has been good to me, and many of my friends have kept their promises. No one any longer doubts the future of the College. I want to thank everyone everywhere who has contributed anything to help in this great cause. I want to call on every loyal Methodist in our Conference to make a real sacrifice, if need be, to help open the doors of this much needed College. I think one of the most cruel and heartless things that Christian people can do is to put a loyal son of their Church in a hard place where the burdens are heavy and then withhold their quota of strength. I have tried to administer the affairs of the College on the most economic basis so that what money is donated goes directly into the completion of the buildings. By serving the Church in connection with the College work I have been able to eliminate the full salary of one man. In other words, I have done the whole work of the College without employing any help or investing anything in office equipment, and lived on the salary the Church has paid me. Not only that, but I have offered to be one of twelve men to give one thousand dollars each to complete and equip the building.
I have written this plain personal letter so that all our people may know that the money they give to Carolina College goes directly to the completion of the interior of the building.
Many of my brethren of the ministry have been very helpful to me. They have not only opened their homes and churches to me, but out of their own slender resources they have gladly given. Some of the cash checks have come from men on hard fields with meager salary.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, July 4, 1912
Personal & Otherwise
The people of Maxton are to have an Educational Rally Day on Wednesday, July 24th, in the interest of Carolina College. The ladies are making an effort to furnish the dining-room and kitchen.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 1, 1912
Personal & Otherwise
Rev. S. E. Mercer, President of Carolina College, has been informed that Mrs. Elizabeth Sanford, widow of the late Rev. Jonathan Sanford, D.D., has $100 in the bank to be used in furnishing the President's room, in memory of her husband.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 1, 1912
(This article has no title)
The Board of Trustees of Carolina College held a very enthusiastic meeting on July 23. Plans were made for the opening of the College the last week in September.
On the following day an educational rally was held on the grounds in the beautiful grove in the rear of the building, where a large crowd assembled to hear the music and the speaking and to partake of the bountiful dinner, which had been prepared by the good ladies of Maxton.
The exercises were opened by prayer, Rev. J.C. Humble, of Laurinburg, N.C., leading, after which an address of welcome was delivered by one of Maxton's leading citizens, Mr. McLean. Rev. G. T. Adams of Wilmington, who has been a devoted friend of the college from its incipiency, was then introduced and made an address that was full of inspiration and helpful suggestions.
President Mercer then introduced Gen. Julian S. Carr, of Durham, N.C., whose helpful influence has been felt by almost every institution of learning in North Carolina. Any attempt to give an analysis of General Carr's splendid address would be an injustice to the gifted speaker. As he closed his speech, referring to the culmination of all Christian effort, there was a mellowness in his voice as he turned to the president and said, "Brother Mercer, we are almost on shouting ground."
The speaker reached the climax when he said: "I cannot dig, to beg I am ashamed, but I can give, and I want to give Carolina College one thousand dollars." This announcement was received with great applause and it gave an impetus that resulted in a collection of nearly $5000.
Any write up of this occasion that did not mention the splendid work done by the good ladies of the town, would not only be imperfect but unjust as well. Under the wise leadership of Mrs. S. E. Mercer, the ladies, without regard to denomination, had organized themselves into a "Carolina College Club," and Presbyterian, Baptist, and Methodist ladies seemed to vie with each other in their work for the College.
This club has undertaken to raise $2,000 to furnish the kitchen and dining room of the college, and they have made a start which assures success, having now in hand a good part of the money.
It made the blood of one who has been deeply interested in the enterprise from the beginning run a little faster as he looked upon the splendid building now nearing completion. As Gen. Carr remarked, "That is the best building I have seen at any woman's college in the State."
How Brother Mercer has succeeded as he has, under the circumstances, is a marvel, but he has faith in God and confidence in the people.
J. E. Underwood, Goldsboro, N.C., July 26
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE. August 8, 1912
Personal & Otherwise
Mrs. Mary A. Baugham, Washington, N.C., will furnish one of the large lecture rooms in Carolina College in memory of her little daughter.
Major A. J. McKinnon, Maxton, N.C., has the honor of being the first to found a scholarship in Carolina College. The interest derived from this $1000 pays the tuition of some worthy young woman who is not able to pay her own, giving the preference to Robeson County.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 22, 1912
Carolina College
The prospect is bright for a fine opening. Furniture is already beginning to come in. Miss Jennie Tilghman, who will have charge of the Business Course, is here helping to get ready. We are going to have a very attractive business course. Miss Tilghman is a woman of engaging manners and attractive personality, and is a consecrated Christian woman. She has had nine years' experience in national banking. She proposes to give a thorough business course, including book-keeping, typewriting, and stenography, besides a great many side helps which are essential to a good business woman.
Prof. A. M. Norton, from Morrisville, Missouri, who will have charge of the Department of History, is here doing some work in the way of canvassing for students. For the past two years he has filled the Chair of History and Social Science in Morrisville Scarritt College. He comes to us highly recommended.
Prof. J. McCombie Murray, a native of Scotland, but late of Philadelphia and New York, is also here. He is a full graduate of the Royal Academy of Music, London, from which he carries honors. He comes with the very highest recommendations from William Adlington and others. He has studied under the best masters in England, and has successfully coached for the stage for the past twenty years. He demonstrated Voice Production and Pholography of the Voice at Columbia University, New York, and at other famous institutions. He is a man of very pleasant address and bids fair to make a great success of the Voice Department of which he is director. We feel that at the exceedingly low rate at which these most unusual opportunities can be had, that many of our young people should take advantage of them.
We wish we had time to speak of each member of our splendid faculty individually. They are chosen with respect to their proficiency, consecration, and ability to make themselves a blessing to the student body. We offer exceptional advantages in each at the lowest possible rate.
School opens September 25, 1912.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, September 5, 1912
Personal and Otherwise
Let our people not forget that Carolina College will open on the 25th of September. Brother Mercer, the President, is hard at work to have everything in readiness and is assured of success. He has been abundant in labors since taking hold of the work, and the people generally -- especially the people of Maxton -- have responded to his appeal. Many thought that it would be impossible to get the building completed in time for the College to open this fall, but their doubts have proven to be unfounded. Brother Mercer is getting together an able faculty and proposes to launch the College upon a high plane of literary and moral excellence. Our people who have daughters to send off to college this fall will do well to consider the claims of Carolina College. You may rest assured that the interests of your daughter will be looked after.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, September 12, 1912
Linen and Kitchen Shower Given for Carolina College
The most enjoyable social event which has been given in Maxton this season was the linen and kitchen shower given under the auspices of the Carolina College Club Thursday evening, September 5, from 8 to 11 o'clock. The beautiful rooms of the Commercial Club had been tastefully arranged by a committee of ten, of which Mrs. A. J. McKinnon was Chairman. The Carolina College motto, "We can and we will" most exquisitely designed, was suspended above the entrance to the west room. The guests were received in the beautiful south room, where tables had been arranged to receive the gifts for the dining room and kitchen. They were then ushered into the west room, where they enjoyed a few moments of delightful intercourse. The crowd was then called to order by Mayor McKay McKinnon, who outlined the program for the evening.
A chorus, written by Miss Jimmie Croom, the intelligent and highly accomplished daughter of Dr. J. D. Croom, was sung by a bevy of Maxton's sweetest young ladies. It was rather in the form of a toast to Carolina College and President Mercer, adapted to the music of "Ho for Carolina." After this Miss Katie Lee McKinnon, the beautiful and highly gifted daughter of Major A. J. McKinnon, recited in her own inimitable way "The Blue-Back Speller," specially adapted to Maxton. These selections were received with tremendous applause. A regular old-time Spelling-Bee was then participated in for some time, much to the amusement and enjoyment of those present, as well as to the discomfiture of some of the "A. B.'s and A. M.'s and M. D.s" etc. The prizes for the best spellers were awarded to Mr. R. D. Croom and Mrs. Dr. McClelland and the consolation prizes went to Miss Anna Clarkson and Mrs. McKay McKinnon, after which the guests departed, voting this a most profitable and enjoyable occasion.
The gifts to the college were numerous and useful. The linen alone amounted to $70. Some of these came from other towns -- Lumberton, Red Springs, etc.
Carolina College Club, under the wise and efficient leadership of Miss Sallie Lou McKinnon, since its beginning, about three months ago, has grown to be one of the strongest, most active organizations in this part of the State, composed of some of the very best women of Maxton and vicinity. It bids fair to do a great work. Its aim is to promote the interests and welfare of Carolina College. Its purpose, for the present, is to put $2000 worth of equipment in the dining room and kitchen. A large amount of this has already been raised. They believe in getting nothing but the best, and the young ladies who come to us on September 25 may rest assured that they will be nicely fixed.
The people of Maxton and vicinity, regardless of denominational affiliation, are loyal to the college. Our kitchen and dining room equipment, modern and up-to-date in every respect, is already here and ready to be placed. The interior of the college is complete and everything is being put in readiness for the opening day, September 25.
Mrs. S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, September 19, 1912
Personal & Otherwise
A special to the News and Observer states that work at Carolina College is moving on apace and that contractor Waddell expects to turn it over to President S. E. Mercer in plenty of time for the opening on September 25.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, October 3, 1912
Personal & Otherwise
The following jubilant note on a postal card has been received from S. E. Mercer: "Carolina College had a fine opening. About forty boarding students already here, besides good local patronage. Rev. J. C. Wooten preached opening sermon to large and appreciative audience. His sermons, both morning and night, were powerful."
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, October 10, 1912
MAXTON
In the afternoon they took me in a splendid car over to Maxton. I could but think of how Nathan Wilson used to drive that long sand road from Caledonia to Maxton every Sunday in the year-cold or hot -- with a slow horse -- a two hours' trip the year round -- and we made it last Sunday in about thirty minutes upon cushioned seats and rubber tires. The first thing we did in Maxton was to call on President Mercer and the College. We found President Mercer busy and happy -- and it was hard to tell whether he was busier than happy or happier than busy. He is the brave strong man that likes the heavy task -- and he has it. He has the radiant face that believes in the triumph of the right and of Carolina College in particular -- and he sees that splendid institution as the handmaiden of the Lord doing her full task for the Master for a thousand years to come. She has made a worthy beginning. General Carr was right when he said that the main building is the best of its kind in the State. I have not seen its equal outside of Trinity College excepting, of course, the Page Building here at the Orphanage. How I wished for money just to put into President Mercer's hands. Surely our great Church will get under that great burden with him. I have never seen a more wisely designed building. The College has one thing greatly in its favor -- it is located at Maxton -- and those brave Macks have vowed that under God it shall be and that it will succeed. Go and talk to Colonel Sandy McKinnon and Colonel Jack Carter, or with any other citizen of Maxton. They have a college club of over a hundred of the finest women in the land -- and their motto is: "We can and we will." And you never saw happier girls than those Carolina College girls. I was so impressed with the value of this work to our church and to the State, and I was so pleased at the outlook, that I told President Mercer that I was going home and begin praying for him again. He said that he would like to have my prayers and my money. In Maxton I was guest at Colonel McKinnon's. How fortunate is the wayfarer that can turn in there!
These Carolina girls get more automobile rides than any other set of college girls in the State. The pet of the town and the pride of the town is the college -- and they are doing all sorts of kindnesses to the faculty and student body.
But President Mercer is bearing down on the books -- those girls have got to do thorough work or quit. When I took my collection at Maxton Sunday night I told them that I felt more like carrying money to Maxton than taking it away. Of course, they've got big money in Maxton -- but the college needs all of their pile they can spare, and then a great deal more from the rest of us.
Rev. J. N. Cole, Superintendent Methodist Orphanage
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, December 19, 1912
Carolina College Notes
The five cement porches at the College have just been finished. They add greatly to the outside appearance of the College. President and Mrs. Mercer gave a delightful social hour to the faculty and students in the art room Friday afternoon from 3:30 to 4:30 o'clock. Cream and cake were served and all seemed to enjoy the hour.
School closes for the holidays Friday, December 20, and begins work January 2, 1913.
A number of new students are expected after Christmas.
Improvements are going on all the time now, all of which add to the comfort of the students and the inside appearance of the building.
The term which is drawing to a close now is considered a very successful one, in view of every thing. About forty boarding students, representing three states, have been matriculated beside the local patronage.
President Mercer has been exceedingly fortunate in securing the services of Miss Parker of Sullin's College -- Conservatory -- Bristol, Va., as Lady Principal for the spring term. She has had nine years' experience as Lady Principal in some of the leading colleges of the South. She has also been head of the Department of Latin in Sullins College. She comes highly recommended as disciplinarian and highly cultured Christian lady with great executive ability. She will doubtless be a great addition to the faculty.
The girls who have been students at Carolina College seem very enthusiastic and seem determined to bring all the girls they can influence back after Christmas.
The citizens of Maxton have been exceedingly loyal to the college. They have made it very pleasant for the girls during the fall term. There will be a reception to the faculty and students Friday evening, January 3, 1913.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, January 16, 1913
Carolina College Notes
Carolina College resumed work Thursday, January 2. Everybody has settled down to good hard work now, and things are running smoothly. With four exceptions, all the girls are back. Several new students have entered since the holidays. It is expected that others will come in until the spring term begins, January 22. Two new members have been added to the faculty -- Miss Lizzie D. Parker, of Sullins College, Bristol, Tennessee, Lady Principal, and Mrs. H. B. Ashley, Assistant Music Teacher.
A Normal Course is being started for the benefit of those who wish to teach in the public schools of the State.
Prof. J. McCombie Murray, Director of the Voice Department, will deliver an address in the College chapel next Monday night. Subject: "Your Voice and What It Means to You." Professor Murray is a pleasing speaker. He understands his subject well and his address will be very instructive.
The Business Department, under the management of Miss Tilghman, is becoming more and more popular. Five new students have entered that department this week.
Improvements are going on all the time, and everything that is done now adds to the appearance of the building. Visitors frequently remark that we have the best equipped dining-room and kitchen they have ever been in.
We received a check from the W. H. M. Society of Rowland for $50 to be used in furnishing a room to be known as the "Rowland Room."
The spring term begins January 22.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, March 20, 1913
Personal & Otherwise
Rev. S. E. Mercer has just returned from a trip in Eastern North Carolina in the interest of Carolina College. He talked with a number of prospective students for next fall and secured the furnishing of several rooms in the institution.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, March 20, 1913
Carolina College Notes
Tuesday, March 4th, Carolina College Club held a most enthusiastic meeting in the College dining-room. The attendance was large and much enthusiasm was manifested.
The meeting was presided over by Miss Sallie Lou McKinnon, the efficient president. One purpose of this meeting was to devise ways and means and to raise the small amount needed to finish the work of furnishing the kitchen and dining-room. Everyone seemed to enter heartily into the plans, and this week they are running a cafe down town, which is a great success. This club is composed of ladies from every denomination in Maxton, and so harmonious and earnest is their work that one cannot tell one from the other.
We received this week a very valuable box of plants and shrubs from the Botanic Gardens, the gift of Hon. H. L. Godwin, Congressman from this district. We appreciate this very much. Our men are at work on the grounds, and we hope at no very distant day to have our campus looking very attractive.
Things are progressing nicely at the College now; all of the girls are hard at work and there is no sickness whatever among them.
The new memorial tablets are very neat and pretty. They are being placed over the doors of the rooms that have been furnished by friends of the College.
Mrs. Eliza Sanford, wife of the late Dr. Jonathan Sanford, continues to beautify the room which she has already fitted up so nicely. A few weeks ago she sent a very handsome piece of handwork, beautifully designed and faultlessly executed -- a large center-piece, with colorings blended so as to harmonize beautifully with the furnishings of the room.
Dr. T. N. Norment, of Lumberton, is going to donate a complete set of Irving's works to our library and other works later.
We greatly appreciate the brotherly courtesy that has been shown us wherever we have gone this year in the interest of the College. Not only have the brethren treated us well, but their people have responded, and in many cases liberally.
Applications for rooms for the fall term are coming in already. The indications are now that we will have a splendid opening.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, April 10, 1913
Personal & otherwise
Carolina College , Maxton, is fortunate in its selection of speakers for the approaching commencement. Rev. T. N. Ivey, D.D., formerly editor of the Raleigh Christian Advocate and now of the Christian Advocate, Nashville, Tenn., will preach the sermon; and Hon. T. J. Jarvis will deliver the address. The date is May 26 - 29.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, May 27, 1913
Carolina College
Sunday , May 25 will be a notable day for Methodism in this section. This will be the beginning of the first commencement held at Carolina College. The handsome college auditorium is receiving the finishing touches and everything will be in readiness for this occasion.
All the congregations of Maxton have been invited to worship with us at the morning hour, and a special choir has been selected from the various churches.
Dr. T. N. Ivey, of Nashville, Tenn., one of our most beloved ministers, will preach the sermon. There will be a recital on Monday evening at 8:30. On Tuesday morning at 9 A.M., in the president's office the Board of Trustees will hold its annual meeting.
At 11 o'clock Hon. T. J. Jarvis, of Greenville, N.C., will deliver the literary address. Beginning at 4 o'clock P.M. will be a reception and the art exhibit.
At 8:30 Tuesday evening the students' recital will be given. This will close the exercises.
All things considered, this has been a most successful year. We feel sure that the remarkable success that has attended our efforts here has been due more to the prayers of Christian men and women than anything else. We have prayed every step of the way, and in every hour we have had the consciousness that God was leading in this great undertaking. Many a time when we have come to the place where it seemed that the way was hedged in, and everything was so dark that we couldn't see a step ahead, light has broken about our way, and we have come along day after day until now Carolina College is ready to take her place among the leading institutions of the State.
We were fortunate in the class of girls we had to begin with. There are no finer girls to be found, and for the most part, they have done splendid work. We have girls from five different colleges. Some of these are advanced. For instance, we have a class which is just finishing up analytics, having finished trigonometry last fall.
Our business class has done well and we have already had calls for three of our students in this department to take business positions. With all the uncertainty that prevailed as to whether or not we could open last fall, and with no time to solicit students, personally, and but little time even to announce that we would open, the fact that we have matriculated sixty-five students is prophetic of the future that awaits the college. The entire summer will be spent in preparing for a great opening September 10, 1913.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, June 19,1913
Our Newest College for Women
On the 28th day of May, Carolina College, Maxton, N.C., the newest college for women in North Carolina, ended its first highly successful session. Notwithstanding the fact that the college did not open its doors until the 25th of September, at which time the building was not complete, and notwithstanding it had almost no time to solicit patronage, yet the number of students entered in the various departments was highly gratifying, and forecasts a brilliant future for the institution.
Carolina College is admirably located and equipped to give the best of training to our young women. The stately college, located in the be beautiful campus of twenty acres, is one of the finest buildings in the South. It is striking in appearance and thoroughly modern and up-to-date in appointment. Besides nine large lecture rooms and an auditorium seating eight hundred people, ladies' parlor and president's office, it contains ample room for gymnasium, kitchen, dining-room, cold storage, laundry and dormitory room for about one hundred girls. Hot and cold water throughout the entire structure. Private bathrooms and lavatories are amply provided. The building is heated throughout by steam and lighted by electricity. Fire protection and sanitary drinking fountains are also furnished.
In choosing Carolina College as a boarding school for their daughters, parents will be selecting, first, a safe school, for its location is notably healthful and its environment strongly religious and of high moral character; secondly, a high-grade college, for its courses are comprehensive, and its standards high, while its faculty of college-trained men and women are each specialists in their respective departments and of ripe experience. The courses of instruction include Literature, Languages, Arts, Sciences, leading to the degree of A.B., Training in Piano and Voice, Commercial Course, Art, Expression, Teachers' Course. There is also offered a splendid course in Domestic Science under an instructor who has had several years of special training for this work. This department will be made very attractive, as the education of no young woman is complete without some knowledge of cooking and sewing. Parents can obtain the 1913-1914 catalogue and announcements from Rev. S. E. Mercer, A. B., President, Maxton, N.C.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, June 26, 1913
This is an advertisement.
Carolina College
Maxton, North Carolina
Its Aim, Its Material Equipment, and Its Works
In buildings, equipment, curriculum and teaching force, Carolina College is fitted to provide every facility for broad and deep culture and careful and exact training under strong Christian influences. To send out real women; women beautifully and symmetrically developed in body, mind and heart.
Governed by the above purpose, its first step was to select a location which, in every respect, would be advantageous. It wanted a moral and spiritual environment, for Colleges, like individuals, are affected by surroundings. It also wanted a healthful and inspiring location. So, it chose Maxton, N. C., as its home, a quiet country town of about two thousand people, located in Robeson County, near the Scotland County line. This county enjoys the distinction of being the oldest prohibition county in the State, and her people have long been noted for their intelligence and high order of moral and spiritual excellence. Maxton is situated in the famous health-resort section of the State, being between the Lumber River and Shoe Heel Creek. It has a fine natural drainage and fever is almost wholly unknown.
The administration building of Carolina College is one of the largest, most convenient and beautiful female college buildings in the South. It is three stories high, made of red pressed brick and gray stone throughout. Under one roof it affords space for a gymnasium, shower baths, kitchen, dining-room, cold storage and laundry; nine large lecture rooms, ladies' parlor and president's office; dormitory rooms for about one hundred girls, provided with steam heat, hot and cold baths, and lighted by electricity, and an auditorium seating about eight hundred persons.
The course of instruction has been arranged to include every feature of a liberal education and has been placed upon a high standard. The degree of Bachelor of Arts is offered for the completion of its four-year course in Literature, Arts and the Sciences. Diplomas are given in Piano and Voice, Art, Expression, etc. Thorough course in Domestic Science in which splendid opportunities are offered. Special sub-collegiate, teachers' and commercial courses. Thirteen expert, specially trained instructors, giving their personal attention to the individual needs of the students. Beautiful campus of twenty acres, containing basketball grounds, tennis courts, natural park, swings, etc.
Terms reasonable. 1913 Session opens September 10. For free catalogue address Rev. S. E. Mercer, A. B., President, Maxton, North Carolina
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, July 24, 1913
Carolina College: Some Ways Friends May Help
Recently Bro. C. E. Weatherby, our wide-awake lay leader, authorized me to draw on him for $50.00 to pay tuition for one bright, worthy young woman. This is one of the many ways that Brother Weatherby is doing work for the church. ... On a very pleasant visit to Youngsville, N.C., I had the honor of preaching for my good friend, J. W. Martin, and meeting while there the Cheatham Brothers, who have been very successful in the tobacco business in that town. Besides other donations to Carolina College they have decided to establish a thousand dollar scholarship to be known as the Cheatham Brothers' Scholarship. I appreciated this all the more because they did this without being solicited to do so. ... One of the beautiful things about this kind of service is the joy that comes to the hearts of those who give, besides the good that it does. We need about fifty of these scholarships today. We have letters from a number of highly deserving girls asking help of this kind that we are unable to give. Major A. J. McKinnon, a man who has helped a great many pupils in his lifetime in that way, established the first scholarship here last year. After this had been awarded an application so deserving came in that we decided to help her also. There was no better record made in the institution than that made by this young woman the past term. ...
Notwithstanding the heat of summer and the financial depression, friends of the college are continuing to help us. We are in very urgent need of two or three thousand dollars just at present to get in a laundry and to meet some very pressing financial obligations. The laundry is one thing that we cannot get on without. ... Any donation for this most worthy cause will be greatly appreciated.
Friends continue to ask the privilege of furnishing a room. Everything now indicates a fine opening September 10. We desire to state that the second edition of the catalogue is out. It contains views of the exterior and interior of the building. We shall be glad to furnish one to those who desire it.
Sincerely,
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 21, 1913
Carolina College
Dear Brother Massey: Inasmuch as Carolina College is our newest college for women, there are a few things I should like to speak of through the Advocate.
I find that it takes time for people to get acquainted with a new college. ... There are quite a few of our people who do not get our church paper at all, and some who do, read it only in a fragmentary way. We find that some of the brethren are inclined to leave their papers in the office or store or shop, and often the paper never reaches the family. ...
It happens also that those who are in the church and who read the paper are often not interested in that part which pertains to education.
We have made an earnest effort to arrange the courses at Carolina College so as to be of the greatest possible value to the young women of our church. We have three years in Academy work. The instruction and advantages in this department are the same in every way as those in the college department. In the college department we require fourteen units for admission. We had a class the past year who completed our course in mathematics. They did the same work that we did the last year of the required work at Trinity. Of course, they did not finish in the other branches, as we had no graduates the first year. One of the young ladies will complete the regular course the coming year. She came to us from Converse College, and is a very bright young woman. This class did excellent work.
We have a very thorough business course also. Our students, a number of them, have secured positions, and, so far as we know, are doing well. We are especially pleased to be able to offer thorough courses in domestic art and domestic science. We feel that these are very necessary to a young lady's education. ...
Of course we have the regular courses in vocal and instrumental music, art. expression, physical culture. etc., also a good normal course for those who desire to prepare themselves to teach in the public schools of the state.
The lady who will have charge of the French and German departments has been in America only a few years, having been born and reared in Austria. She speaks both the German and French language with equal fluency.
We have spared no pains to secure teachers of broad culture who are capable of giving the best service. We will have with us the coming year a most attractive young lady who will have charge of the Y.W.C.A. work, and any religious work of the school. ... We are looking forward to a great year's work.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, SEPTEMBER 18, 1913
Carolina College
The many friends of Carolina College will be glad to know that we have had a good opening. A large per cent of the old girls are back and there are already more than forty new boarding students with quite a few yet to arrive. Seventy have entered already, and it is expected that the enrollment will reach about one hundred all-told. About twenty extra bed-rooms have been arranged for in the administration building, and still we are in need of room. Another building will be an imperative necessity. All the members of the faculty were present at the opening except one who was detained a few days on account of sickness.
Our girls seem pleased with the college home and everything gives promise of a great year's work. We are pleased to have with us Miss Clarkson, a highly cultured, consecrated Christian young woman who will have charge of the organized religious work of the school.
Mrs. Smith, a registered nurse of large experience, is here to look after the health of our girls.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, November 20,1913
Personal & Otherwise
Carolina College gave a vesper service at the Methodist Church in Maxton Sunday evening, Nov. 9th. The Scottish Chief says: "The concert was under the direction of Miss Julia Culbreth, and the large congregation present was edified and delighted with the program which was fully carried out without hitch or discord."
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, December 25, 1913
Carolina College Notes
Carolina College suspended class work for the holidays Thursday afternoon, December 18. Work will be resumed January 3. Thursday morning at the close of the chapel services, Prof. A. M. Norton, on behalf of the student body, made a happy little speech, and presented to President and Mrs. Mercer two beautiful paintings, handsomely framed, as a token of their appreciation and esteem.
On Wednesday night the Choral Class rendered a splendid program in the college auditorium. The stage effect was a beautiful snow scene. The occasion was greatly enjoyed by the large audience.
The entertainments given in the auditorium during the fall term have been of a high order and greatly enjoyed. Besides a number of recitals given by the departments of Expression, Vocal and Instrumental Music, the Alkahest Lyceum System has given some very instructive and interesting programs.
The Y.W.C.A. has a strong organization among the students and some good work has been done under the leadership of Miss Clarkson, who is at the head of this department.
Many improvements have been made during the fall term. The campus has been graded and beautified and much new equipment has been installed. This consists of gymnasium apparatus, laboratory equipment, new pianos, new typewriters, equipment for Departments of Domestic Science and Domestic Art, besides furniture for the bed-rooms.
President Mercer has moved his family into his new residence immediately in front of the college. The second floor will be used for dormitory for the present. These are large, light, comfortable rooms which will accommodate sixteen young ladies. Rooms for six have already been applied for, leaving room for ten more.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, April 30, 1914
Commencement of Carolina College
Sunday, May 17th -- Annual sermon will be preached by Dr. T. A. Smoot, Norfolk, Va.
Monday, 4 p.m. -- Japanese Operetta, by students.
Tuesday, May 18th, 10 a.m., Meeting of the Board of Trustees. At 11;00 a.m. speeches will be made by various members of the Board, and Round Table talks, led by Rev. G. T. Adams, of Wilmington.
Tuesday, 8 p.m. Annual Concert.
Wednesday, May 20th -- Beginning at 10:30 a.m., Commencement Day Exercises. The address will be delivered by Dr. Franklin N. Parker of Trinity College.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, April 30, 1914
Carolina College Notes
Carolina College is closing a very successful year. We have enrolled during the year, in the various departments, over a hundred students from thirty-one counties and three states. We will have three graduates, one in the literary course, one in the Department of Domestic Science and one in Art. These all came to us from other colleges. There will be seven certificates awarded also.
We hope to make Tuesday, May 19 the greatest day in the history of Carolina College. All the trustees are expected to be present and speeches will be made by various members, and the interests of the college will be discussed. Plans are being made to build a good dormitory, which is greatly needed. On yesterday we received a letter from Mr. J. W. Carter of Maxton, N.C., stating that he would be responsible for one-tenth of the ten thousand dollars needed to build the dormitory. Brother Carter has been a very liberal supporter of the college since the beginning. He has given ten thousand dollars since we have been here, besides what he had given before.
The College has a great many friends who have been loyal to its interests, and are rejoicing in the success of the institution. The friends of the College are cordially invited to the commencement exercises and see for themselves the progress that has been made. A loyal laymen visited the school the other day and remarked, after looking over the building, that all the College needed was for the people of the State to find out what we have here. we cannot carry the College around for the people to see, but we are always glad to have them come to see us and the College.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, July 9, 1914
Carolina College
Carolina College closed its second year May 20. The many friends of the school will be gratified to know that in attendance, in the quality of the work done and in the personnel of the student body, the school has had a most successful year.
In spite of financial stringency and the handicaps of poverty, many material improvements have been made. We nearly doubled our bed-room, kitchen and dining room equipment, besides adding new pianos, books for the library, etc. Our splendid gymnasium hall, which was planned at the beginning, so as to get the very best results out of this kind of work, has been furnished with ample equipment for the present, and we have put in good equipment in the chemical and physical laboratory.
The departments of Domestic Art and Science were put in the past year with the necessary equipment, and, although this was our first year in this work, eighteen students were enrolled in these departments.
Our Art class was unusually large for a school the size of ours, numbering nineteen. There was some very fine talent in this class and the exhibit in this department at commencement would have done credit to a much larger and older school than ours.
Some of the young ladies who took the business course are holding responsible positions now.
We have mentioned these departments especially, but fine work was done in all the special departments as well as in the Literary Course.
Our teachers rendered faithful, efficient service and we will have practically the same faculty again the coming year. We kept a registered nurse of many years' experience in the building all the time.
We had a young lady of the finest Christian Character with us who had charge of the Y.W.C.A. and looked after the spiritual welfare of the students. In one year she brought our Association to where it is one of the best in the State.
During the year a home for the superintendent of the grounds has been built together with other smaller buildings. Through the kindness of Brother J. W. Carter we have been enabled to provide room for forty more in the boarding department. We expect to be taxed again this year, even with our increased capacity.
One of the sad things connected with this work is that there are so many bright, worthy young women who are eager for an education, are appealing to us for help which we are unable to render. We are going to assist all we possibly can, but even then, we shall have to turn away many whom we desire to see educated.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 13, 1914
Carolina College
Why has Carolina College come to a place of prominence in the field of Education in North Carolina?
Probably some of our people do not know that it has. It takes time to become acquainted with any new institution. Many of our people do not take the time to inform themselves, and with the vast amount of expenditure we have had to make within the past two years, we certainly have not been rich enough to spend much money in advertising.
For the benefit of those who have not had the opportunity of visiting the college and seeing for themselves, we are giving the opinions of a few of the leading men in North Carolina Who are known and loved and who have visited the school and who know something of its aims and purposes.
"It was my privilege to visit Carolina College during its recent commencement exercises, and I was delighted with the school in every particular. President Mercer and his Board of Trustees have wrought a great work, and larger things are in store for the institution under the present wise leadership. The Administration building is one of the best in the State, well adapted to educational purposes, while the campus, with the fine background of forest, is capable of being made into 'a thing of beauty and a joy forever'. I was most favorably impressed with the personnel of the faculty and the student body."
The above is the opinion of the Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Smoot, a North Carolinian, who is now serving as pastor of Epworth Methodist Church, Norfolk, Va.
General Julian S. Carr, one of the best known and best loved men in the South. who has helped more different institutions than probably any man in North Carolina, had the following to say of our school, which we greatly appreciate: "I am very proud of the share I have been allowed to take in promoting the work of this great institution, and I am looking forward to large dividends in the way of great benefits to our young womanhood, the future hope of North Carolina. I know of no institution (and I am familiar with most of them) more worthy, and no field of opportunity likely to yield larger returns."
It will be remembered that Gov. T. J. Jarvis, always interested in the cause of education, made the motion on the Conference floor to give the first appropriation to Carolina College. He has always been a friend of the College and expresses his faith in the College in the following words: "To those inquiring for a good school for their daughters. I beg to cordially recommend Carolina College. I have had opportunity to know something of the origin and purposes of this institution. Its course of study is comprehensive and its faculty efficient and worth of the confidence and esteem of its patrons. The teaching and training given the young ladies are thorough and effective. An atmosphere of study, religion and high ideals pervades the whole institution. It is a good place for young ladies to go to be trained for the duties of life."
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 13, 1914 (Continued -- Page 2)
Quoting from a personal letter received sometime since from our own beloved Dr. T. N. Ivey, editor of the Nashville Advocate: "I am rather late in congratulating you on the very successful session of Carolina College, but my congratulations are no less sincere. I have followed its growth with deepest interest. I have no hesitation in saying that the institution as it now is, and in its grand possibilities is a choice heritage, not only of North Carolina Methodism, but of the whole State. It is necessary only for the public to know the character of the work that is done, the ideals kept constantly in view, and the fine product turned out in the shape of educated womanhood in order that the institution may continue to grow and occupy the very largest place in our educational life.
The administration of the institution has been successful from the very first. With a large vision of educational advantage, you have succeeded in gathering around you men and women who know how and what to teach," etc. We have not time nor space to give the words of other leading men in the State as well as ministers and prominent educators, but certainly this is sufficient to give our people a proper conception of the educational standing of Carolina College.
It has been our fixed purpose from the very largest place in our [a part of the sentence was either omitted or transposed here] to give our students the best of everything.
Our faculty includes men and women who have been trained in the best schools of this country and Europe. For the most part, our teachers have held positions in the best schools. We do not believe in employing pupil-teachers. Our French and German teacher, Miss Waagner, was born and reared in Austria-Hungary, Europe, and received her training under the very best masters. She speaks, naturally, a number of languages and besides, has a splendid knowledge of English, which renders her teaching doubly effective. Miss Crane, Director of Piano, has held a position as teacher in Ohio Wesleyan College, Ohio, for twelve consecutive years. All our departments are in the hands of specialists in their lines. Notwithstanding the fact that we offer unsurpassed advantages in the literary course, as well as in the departments of Piano, Voice, Expression, Physical Culture, Art, Domestic Art, and the business course, we have made our prices just as reasonable as possible.
If anyone hesitates to patronize Carolina College on account of its youth, they will do well to inquire into the quality of the work we are doing. ... Our rapidly growing patronage is evidence that our patrons are getting what they desire.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 27, 1914
When Is a College Well Established?
Some months ago, a good friend of mine, who had been a life-long Methodist, died. This brother was not only a good Methodist, but had been a leading spirit in the church for many years. ... He left his family a good home and ample money with which to educate his children. He often told me before his death that he wished his daughter, a bright, promising young lady, a member of the Methodist Church, also, to enter our school and remain until she graduated.
Soon after the death of this good man, the daughter, to my great surprise, in view of the wishes of her father, was entered in the school of another denomination. Upon inquiry, the explanation given me was that the school referred to was older and better established than Carolina College.
This occurrence suggested to my mind a very practical question, namely, When is a college established? Is its usefulness and efficiency to be determined by its age alone? Then age would be the only consideration in selecting a college. We have at Carolina College, by actual investigation, better building, better equipment, as good teaching force, as high curriculum, and as good advantages in the special courses as the school referred. We are doing good work in all the departments and are taking the very best care of our girls. Then wherein is the difference? Some of our people seem to have a great fondness for sending to schools of other denominations anyway. Some of them leave the selecting of their schools to other people, as we believe was true in the case referred to.
To my mind, a school with modern building and equipment, a strong faculty, trained in some of the best schools of this country and Europe, owned and controlled by our own Conference and approved by the leading men of our church and state would be well established and worthy of the confidence of all our people. We are exceedingly grateful for the many kind words from parents whose daughters have been under our care, and we are expecting the greatest year by all odds that we have had. Our dining room matron has been selected with the very greatest care, so that we hope to give the very best in everything.
By reason of the fact that we have made room for forty more in the boarding department, we have room for just a few more right now. I make this statement on account of the fact that I have been told quite frequently during the past two weeks and could not accommodate any that the understanding that had gotten abroad was that we were full up more in the boarding department. [I have typed this sentence exactly as it appears, but it does not make sense to me.]
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, October 1, 1914
CAROLINA COLLEGE
Carolina College has had a very good opening. We have just a few more boarding students than last year. Unfortunately we have had to pay heavy tribute to the war.
Carolina College is located right in the heart of the great cotton belt and has suffered on account of the demoralized financial conditions. Until just a little while before school opened, it looked like we were in the midst of a year of great prosperity. The cotton crop was good and the prices good. We had worked hard all the summer for students and had them lined up from Dan to Beer-Sheba, and then the war came on almost suddenly and in a few days farmers couldn't realize any money from their cotton crops and they began to write us that it was impossible for them to send their girls to college. We have lost about 40 per cent of the girls we would have had under normal conditions.
There were but very few changes in the faculty. The new ones, as well as the old ones, have entered upon their work earnestly and enthusiastically. The student body constitutes a fine working force.
There are not as many students doing special work this year as last year. The Literary Department is much stronger. The freshman and sophomore classes are both large and well organized.
S.E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, December 17, 1914
Carolina College
Will close December 18 for the Christmas recess, and will resume work January 4. The students have done faithful work and are ready to enjoy the happy days that await them at home.
We have had an exceptionally fine student body, there has not been a really unpleasant experience recorded so far, during the school year. The health record has been fine, we have Had no serious sickness at all.
The societies have done good literary work. The Y.W.C.A. is doing a most excellent work in the College. Prof. Norton has the Bible Department. I know of no better Bible teacher, and girls who take a course under him should be well prepared to do any kind of church work when they leave College.
The series of Social Concerts, given by the Choral Class, under the leadership of Miss Culbreth, has been of a high order and has been wonderfully uplifting. They always bring a crowded house regardless of weather conditions. The larger colleges usually select a few of the best voices, for the Glee Club, and select some of the brightest girls for dramatic work, but we try to develop every student we have. We make no charge for choral instruction, and for that reason, no girl is excused from the work. Nor have we ever made any charge for training the Physical Culture course.
We are in the midst of the cotton zone and we have fully realized what it means for cotton to be dethroned. No people outside can have any adequate conception of the awful financial strain. And yet, our boarding department is larger than last year. The first year the College enrolled 65 students, and the second year, 102, and we continue to grow. Leading educators have been kind enough to concede us a place among the leading educational institutions of our country, and we have tried to merit this. We do not claim to be an A-grade college, because we do not have the endowment and the Library and the Laboratory equipment to give us this ranking, but if anyone has any doubt as to the quality of work we are doing in the Literary Department, or in any special department, we would be glad to put our students along side of those of any other of our colleges. ...
We have a number of girls here that we are trying to help through this year. If some brother or sister wants to do a generous thing, we would appreciate some help for these girls. Why don't our people begin a movement to build a good library here? Why don't a thousand people give us a dollar a piece to buy books with?
Now we want six or eight more good, bright, healthy students after the holidays.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, December 24, 1914
Carolina College
The days just preceding the close for Christmas have been very pleasant.
President Mercer at chapel services, spoke on the hopeful reform movements taking place in college communities, among student bodies at the present time. The students were reminded that brick walls and equipment do not make a college. ... The college is judged by its students. "By their fruits, ye shall know them" is preeminently true of colleges.
Mr. Mercer reminded the girls that a few years ago, when Greensboro College was burned, how one little woman, an alumna of the college, went up and down the State and set the hearts of the people on fire with enthusiasm for the re-building of this worthy institution. The college would not have been rebuilt, had it not been for Miss Smith and other alumnae of the college. The present Greensboro College is a monument to the loyalty and devotion of the old students. ... Other instances were recited showing what girls can do to help make a college.
When President Mercer closed his remarks, Prof. Norton arose and at the conclusion of an enthusiastic address, called attention to the need of a better library. The students were given the opportunity of co-operating in the building of a good library. Instantly, the hand of nearly every girl went up. The girls are going to give a dollar each, and also call on some of their friends for a dollar. Their reports will be interesting when they come back.
The Choral Christmas service was given Wednesday evening by the members of the Choral Class under the leadership of Miss Culbreth, and was greatly enjoyed by the large audience present. The magnificent auditorium was beautifully decorated and everything was in harmony with the happy occasion.
It has become a custom here not only to celebrate the birth of Christ in prayer, recitals and sacred song, but also to have a real Christmas supper together before Faculty and students separate. Rev. A. L. Ormand and children were invited guests. ... There were college songs and toasts were proposed to the new preacher and "Uncle Sollie".
A very happy surprise awaited the college president. Miss Boone, a talented member of the senior class, arose and walked directly to the table where "Uncle Sollie" was seated, holding in her outstretched hand a handsome present, which she presented in behalf of faculty and student body. Today these girls are all gone. ... May heaven watch over every one of them through the holidays and bring everyone back.
(Unsigned)
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, January 28, 1915
Personal & Otherwise
The editor and his wife have joined the number of the pounded, and it came all the way from Carolina College. Maxton. Uncle Sam was the bearer, and did it promptly and in good taste. It was a cake baked by Miss Rosa Wyche and Miss C1adie Maxwell in the Domestic Science Hall of Carolina College and presented by the Senior class to the editor and his wife. We have no personal experience with the fruits of the other departments of the College; but, if they all come up to the standard of the Domestic Science Department, we pass the institution right up to the front. Thanks.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, February 25, 1915
Carolina College Notes
The library movement is growing these days. A splendid encyclopedia has recently been added, which is very useful.
Brother C. C. Covington of Wilmington, has sent the College another barrel of splendid molasses. Brother Covington has not only furnished the College with all the molasses we have had since we began school, but has always "paid the freight." He has the thanks of the girls.
The departments of voice and piano gave their annual midwinter recital last Monday night. The program was well rendered and highly enjoyed.
Rev. H. M. Bure, pastor of our church at Red Springs, came by with us on his way from the preachers' meeting at Hamlet, and conducted the chapel services Wednesday morning.
We have a comfortable room that we have reserved for Methodist preachers so that brethren passing through will be welcome any time and are invited to make themselves at home.
Several new students have entered since the holidays so that we have enrolled ninety-six students the present school year. This is about six less than last year, notwithstanding the financial depression, and we have had more in the boarding department than last year. The students are working well and are receiving excellent training.
Our girls are preparing a box of hand-made articles for the suffering Belgians and are taking great interest in the work.
The writer has been in attendance upon the great Laymen's Convention at Charlotte, the greatest gathering of laymen ever held in the South, and the greatest in the United States, except one, it is said. What an inspiration to listen to such men as John R. Mott, Robert E. Speer, George Innes and a great many other laymen among whom are some of the leading statesman, captains of industry and leaders in every kind of progress that have time to lay down their work and spend awhile looking after the Master's interest in a business-like way!
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, October 14, 1915
Personal Mention
Mrs. S. E. Mercer, wife of Rev. S. E. Mercer, President of Carolina College, has been for some time in Cumberland General Hospital at Fayetteville for treatment. Her many friends will be glad to learn that she is finding relief from her great suffering with rheumatism. We trust that she will soon be restored to health.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, November 4, 1915
Carolina College Notes
Recently, Rev. D. H. Tuttle, pastor of our church at Burlington, has donated some valuable books to the College Library.
On last Sunday and Monday, we had the pleasure of having Rev. L. S. Massey, Editor of the Raleigh Christian Advocate dine with us. This was Dr. Massey's first visit to the College, and the faculty and students were much pleased with his visit. He preached two very able sermons Sunday morning and evening in the Methodist Church.
The recent revival service held in the College chapel by Rev. A. L. Ormand and Rev. R. M. Courtney, pastor of West End Church, Winston-Salem, resulted in much spiritual good to the College Community. The religious organizations are doing excellent work in the College. Our people are coming more and more to realize the importance of religious education.
Of late, we have had quite a number of visitors at the College, several of the former students have dropped in. Miss Cheatham, who was formerly teacher of Art, is visiting the College this week.
We continue to register new students. At this time. we have just about all that the present capacity of the College will accommodate.
The students in the College have launched a movement to raise a thousand dollars among themselves for the College Library fund.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, January 27, 1916
Carolina College
I believe that every Methodist in North Carolina Conference should be in possession of first hand knowledge in regard to the educational institutions of the Church. For this reason I am placing before the readers of the Advocate a financial statement of Carolina College, showing the assets and liabilities of the College on the first day of January, 1916. There is much in this report for the encouragement of those who have contributed to the making of this college. Each friend of the college who has contributed to the success of the college should be inspired to do more, and those who have hitherto assisted in this important work should be stimulated to enter enthusiastically into helping to make this one of the great institutions of the Church.
Many of our people have been slow to recognize the tremendous importance of Christian education. When we reflect that about 95 percent of our preachers receive their training in religious colleges and that almost all of our missionaries in the home and foreign fields, as well as a very large percent of our other leaders in Church work, receive their equipment from the colleges owned and operated by the Church, we can get some conception of what the educational work means to the advancement of the Kingdom of Christ in the world.
Carolina College is in eminent need of a new and modern dormitory and must have it by the beginning of another school year. The trustees of the college considered the advisability of selling college bonds to a regular bonding company for this purpose, and on the thirtieth of December, 1915, the trustees met and considered a proposition submitted by Moss and Moss, of Norfolk, Va., proposing to buy $50,000 worth of the college bonds; but after discussing this matter and going over the whole situation carefully, they decided it would be more practical and economic for the trustees to take a part of the bonds themselves and sell them to Methodists throughout the bounds of the Conference. The bonds are non-taxable and bear six percent interest. They will mature in 1930. The trustees consider this a good, safe investment, in fact it is a much better investment than a life insurance policy, because at the end of fifteen years the whole of a thousand dollars worth of bonds will have realized $900.00 in interest and have $1000 for the bonds.
I am writing this with the hope that it may be helpful to some of our Methodist people who have money that they wish to invest in a good safe place. It will not only be helpful to them but while they are realizing the full benefit of a safe investment they will be at the same time contributing in this way to the building of one of the great institutions of our Church.
We want to use $5,000 or $6000 of the money realized from the sale of bonds in setting aside a part of the old indebtedness that some of the banks have been carrying for five years and use the balance in building a dormitory which we want to begin early in the spring so that we may be sure to have it completed and furnished by the first of September.
So far as I have been able to learn, Carolina College was the first female college in our State to inaugurate the co-operative club plan so that girls with limited means may have the opportunity of securing a college education at a minimum cost. This is a movement of far reaching importance, and I am glad that some of the other colleges are now considering this same feature. It is the purpose of Carolina College to do her full share in helping to remove the hindrances in the way of providing ample educational facilities for all Methodist girls and young women. We are now helping quite a number of bright young women who are going out to become teachers.
There is another feature of our work which we are putting in operation that we expect to bear rich fruitage. We are taking a class of girls who can remain in college for only one or two years and are giving them a thorough running review in the high school work, so that they may be thoroughly prepared to do efficient work in the public schools of the State. We are doing this in addition to our regular two years normal course for those who wish to prepare to teach in the high schools. This work does not interfere with our college work in any way. Our teachers are enough interested in this class of girls and in the education of the children of the state to be willing to take this work on themselves. I should be very much gratified to see this work become general in our female colleges. The importance of this kind of educational work can be very readily seen when we call to mind that in most of the counties about 90 percent of the public school teachers are women and most of them are immature girls who have had very little educational training. This is a strategic point in our educational system, and the colleges can do much toward solving this problem just in the way that I have mentioned.
Our friends continue to send books to the library, but not enough of them are doing this. Brother Graham Woodard of Wilson, is sending us some valuable books from his father's library. His father, Hon. P. A. Woodard, was an honored member of the board of trustees from the beginning of the college until his death. Surely there are a few hundred people in our Conference who can either send books or a check with which to buy books.
We resumed work on Wednesday morning, the fifth of January. Almost all the girls are back. For one reason and another there are a few delayed in entering, and usually three or four that do not get back at all. I have just learned that one of our girls, away down in Georgia, married during the holidays, but we are getting a few new girls and will have more when the new semester starts, which is the eighteenth of the month.
The mid-year examinations will begin next Monday.
Itemized statements which I am enclosing to the brethren show the following:
Total resources of Carolina College ........................ $147,282.54
Total liabilities ................................................ 22,177.78
Resources over liabilities or net worth of college plant .........125,104.76
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, March 2, 1916
Carolina College Notes
The event that is uppermost in the minds of the girls just at present is the "tournament" which is to take place on the campus March the sixth in the afternoon. Never were students walking more faithfully, never was the gymnasium such a popular place.
Under the direction of the athletic committee and more especially under the supervision of Miss Sprague, director, things are going forward at a lively gait.
The program is to consist of drills, tennis and basketball games, walking for speed, etc., also running. Three prizes have been offered and the occasion promises to be a very interesting one.
In the evening at eight o'clock a reception will be given in the college in honor of former students in the college. This is to be a regular home-coming for all old girls. The student body for the past two and a half years has represented six states and over forty counties in our own State, and it is expected that quite a large number will be present.
At this time the organization of a Greater Carolina College Club will be perfected. This work was begun last summer. This organization is expected to become a permanent factor in the development of the college.
Monday evening, February 7th, the two literary societies gave a reception to the young people of the town.
February 14 the students were at home to the Baracas and Philatheas of St. Paul's Methodist Church.
February 21 the annual reception in honor of Washington's birthday was held in the college parlors. All of these occasions were enjoyed and quite a number of guests from a distance attended the last.
The students enjoyed a very interesting talk at chapel recently by Mrs. Weech, national lecturer for the W.C.T.U.
Several speakers of wide reputation have been with us recently and they have all brought messages of help and interest.
Dr. S. A. Steele, of Columbia, will speak to the students Tuesday evening at eight o'clock.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, April 27, 1916
Carolina College Notes
The faculty and students of Carolina College are delighted with the results of the campaign being made in the interest of the library. We have already received a large number of valuable books and about four hundred dollars ($400) in cash. There are books donated that have not yet come in, and also some money pledged that is not yet collected, but we feel sure before the campaign closes we will be in position to meet all the requirements in library equipment. We wish to express our sincere appreciation of the valuable help that has been rendered in this important work.
We are also meeting with success in the sale of college bonds. There are some people who look on this as an indirect way of making a donation to the college. They have an idea that sooner or later they will be asked to give the amount invested in bonds to the college; but, while any one who desires to will always have the gracious privilege of doing this, the bonds are not being sold with this in view. It is a good, sensible, safe business proposition, and while it is a good investment, indirectly it does help the college. The young ladies who will graduate in the Music Department have been giving their graduating recitals for the last few weeks. These recitals have been well attended and have been highly enjoyed. Miss Lucy Fussell gave her recital last night, Friday night, which is the last for the present year.
A musical concert was given by the Voice Department, under the direction of Miss Barrett, last Monday evening and was very much enjoyed by the large audience that attended.
The student body enjoyed the excellent sermon preached by Dr. Bumpas, of Laurinburg, last Sunday. Dr. Bumpas was preaching a special sermon to the Missionary Societies of the Methodist Church in Maxton.
Dr. Thornton Whaling, President of Columbia Theological Seminary, will lecture in the college auditorium Tuesday night, May 24th.
The commencement exercises will be held from the 14th to the 16th of May. Dr. Charles W. Byrd, of Greensboro, will preach the commencement sermon, May 14th, at 11:00 a.m., and Dr. R. H. Bennett, of Emory University, Atlanta, will deliver the address on May 16th. The annual meeting of the board of trustees will be held Monday evening, May 15th, at 8:00 p.m. A complete program of the exercises will be printed later.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, May 11, 1916
Carolina College Commencement
The commencement exercises will begin on Sunday, May 14th, when Dr. C. W. Byrd, of Greensboro, will preach the Baccalaureate sermon at 11:00 a.m.
Sunday, May 14th, at 8:00 p.m., sermon before Y.W.C.A and other religious organizations, by Rev. C. W. Byrd, D.D.
Monday, May 15th, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Art exhibit (Art and Domestic Art).
Monday, May 15th, at 8:30 p.m., the annual meeting of the Board of Trustees will be held in the president's office. Monday, May 15th, at 8:30 p.m., Operetta in College auditorium.
Tuesday, May 16th, at 11:00 a.m., Literary address, by Rev. R. H. Bennett, D.O., of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia. The graduating exercises will take place at the close of the Literary Address.
Tuesday May 16th, at 8:30 p.m., Recital by the Departments of Piano and Voice.
In many respects this has been the most successful year in the history of the college. Fine work has been done in all the departments.
There will be held in the afternoon on Monday, May 15th, a meeting of the Greater Carolina College Club. This club has been brought into being and is operated for the purpose of promoting the welfare of the College in a social way, and quite a number of former students have already signified their intention of being present at this meeting.
Every year brings a larger number of interested visitors from various sections of the state.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, June 8, 1916
Advertisement:
Carolina College
Maxton, N.C.
Offers the very best in building, equipment, curriculum and teaching force. Most satisfactory system of steam heat in every part of the buildings. Electric lights, hot and cold water baths, sanitary drinking fountains, fire lines and fire hose on every floor.
Ample gymnasium and laboratory equipment recently installed.
Furniture new, modern and the very best.
Campus of twenty acres, containing park of native oak and other forest trees. Tennis courts and basketball.
Four years' course in Literary Department leading to A.B. degree.
Three years' course in Sub-Collegiate Department. Two years' Normal Course exactly in line with course required by State Board for State High School Certificate.
Splendid courses in Piano, Voice, Expression, Physical Culture, Art, Domestic Science, Domestic Art and Business Department.
Table board for one year, $100. Room rent, including heat, light, hot and cold baths, for the year, $20 to $25.
Our rapidly growing patronage is a guarantee that parents are finding what they desire.
For catalogue, address
S. E. Mercer, President
Note - The following paragraph was inadvertently left out of the above article:
Tuition in literary Department, including Latin, French, German, and Free Hand Drawing, for the year, $50.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 10, 1916
Excerpt from:
Rockingham District Conference
Rev. S. E. Mercer spoke in interest of Carolina College and asked that the district raise $12,500 to be supplemented by a like amount to be raised by the trustees to build at Carolina College a Rockingham District dormitory. A committee consisting of Mr. Frank Page, Mr. J. P. Gibbons, and Mr. A. Cameron were appointed to devise some method by which this money might be raised.
By a vote of the Conference the above committee was made a permanent committee to co-operate with the administration of Carolina College and when the time is ripe, and when they find a suitable man, to put him in the field to raise the $12,500.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 17, 1916
Carolina College
It has been the purpose of the College, from the beginning, to put the opportunities of a college education within reach of all worthy young women.
Besides our regular boarding department, in which we furnish very attractive rooms and board at a cost of only one hundred and twenty-five dollars a year, we are putting into operation what we call a Co-operative Club system.
Even when we have made our prices in the regular boarding department as reasonable as possible, there are some of the brightest and most deserving young women, who, for financial reasons, cannot conform to this plan. It has been our deep and abiding desire to provide for this class of young women. We have a good new building equipped with water and electric lights, under the supervision of a capable woman, where young women do their own house-keeping at a minimum cost.
There are a great many students who haven't much money who can bring practically all their provisions from home. If they do not want to do this, the matron will board them for eight dollars per month, the girls taking turns in doing the housework. The work will be comparatively easy with the conveniences provided in the house. This will not interfere in the least with their studies. This plan makes it possible for almost every ambitious young woman to secure good college training. We feel that this experience will be a valuable asset after college days are over. We still have some room in our regular boarding department, also room for a limited number in the Club building.
There are many people who can assist young women in getting a start in college. We have in mind now a leading laymen and his wife (we are not at liberty to mention their names) who are providing money to send two young women to Carolina College this coming year. This is an investment that yields dividends far more valuable than any material dividends could possibly be. In this way, we develop many of our best teachers and church workers. The wife of a prominent laymen who assisted a very fine young woman last year and who is going to do the same thing this coming year stated recently that she has gotten more pleasure out of this act of benevolence than anything she has ever done.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 17, 1916 (Continued -- Page 2)
Our students receive very fine religious training in the regular Bible course and also Mission Study work and Sunday-School teacher training. It would be worth a great deal to the girls if, when they were at home during vacation, they were given classes to teach in the Sunday-Schools. The regular teachers need a rest during the summer and it would furnish the school girls a fine opportunity to put into actual practice what they have learned in college.
Sometimes the churches complain that students are not willing to take hold and assist in church work. But I know that many of our girls are willing and glad of an opportunity. I was in one of the eastern counties this summer and the pastor of our church at that place told me of a case that illustrates this. One of the regular teachers, on account of illness, dropped out temporarily, and turned her class over to one of our girls who had been here two years. This young lady re-organized the class and entered into the work enthusiastically. She was doing fine work and the class was delighted and growing. She expressed a desire that she might be permitted to retain the class during vacation, but in a few Sundays the regular teacher returned to her class. Now wouldn't it have been a splendid thing for this bright student to have had the privilege of keeping the class throughout vacation?
I could give other concrete examples showing that, while the girls will not push themselves forward, they are glad of an opportunity.
I am just in receipt of a letter that gives me much pleasure. It is written by the widow of one of our young Methodist preachers. She took the Business Course at Carolina College the past year and returned to another state. She states that she took charge of a business class immediately after commencement, her class is steadily growing and she has everything she can do and is happy in her work. She had many nice things to say arid felt that her time and money spent here were fine investments.
S. E. Mercer
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 24, 1916
New President of Carolina College
Though there has been but little publication of it in the press, it had become rather widely known that Rev. S. E. Mercer, who for the past five years had been president of Carolina College, tendered his resignation to the Board of Trustees at the recent commencement of the institution, and that the same had been regretfully accepted. It was not to take effect, however, until the session of our Annual Conference which convenes in Durham, November 29. Brother Mercer has continued in the field during the summer, pressing the interests of the institution with his usual vigor. On the 8th of August the Board of Trustees had a special meeting for the selection of his successor, and the result was the unanimous election of Rev. R. B. John, pastor of our church at Smithfield. He at once took the matter under consideration, and on August 15th, wrote Rev. J. E. Underwood, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, as follows:
I hereby accept the Presidency of Carolina College to which position I was elected by the Trustees of said institution, and notified in person by the Trustees in session August 8th, 1916.
Sincerely yours, R. B. John
Brother John is well known to our readers, having been for many years a prominent member of the North Carolina Conference. Much of the time he has served as Presiding Elder and has traveled extensively in his official capacity over a large part of the Conference. He belongs to a sturdy substantial family, and was reared near the line between this state and South Carolina, in what is now Scotland County. Largely due, we suppose, to the fact that he was in close touch with South Carolina, his college education was begun in Wofford College, Spartanburg, S.C., but he later went to the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill, from which institution he graduated, and there had his first pastorate.
Brother John has continued to be all his life a man of studious habits. He is a strong thinker and a man of scholarly attainments. He likewise has fine business judgement and marked executive ability. Probably no man among us could carry to the public stronger confidence in the wise management of the internal affairs of the institution than Brother John, and he will prove worthy of this confidence. In Mrs. John also the institution will secure the services of a woman of rare ability. A graduate of Guilford College and having taken a special course in English at Bryn Mawr, she has had unusual advantages. She has had wide experience as a teacher, and for some years before her marriage she was principal of the Wilmington High School. She is recognized as one of the best teachers in the State; and under the new administration which will take charge following the session of the annual Conference the public and the Church may confidently expect the institution to go forward and make for itself a continually larger place in the education of our young women.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, August 24, 1916 (Continued)
We take pleasure in paying tribute to the great work that Brother Mercer has accomplished. When he took charge, the building was incomplete and work on it had been for some time discontinued. It was his task to breathe into it new life, and in the face of adverse financial circumstances. He brought to the task all the enthusiasm of a heroic soul. He felt the necessity for the institution, and had no small share in starting the enterprise from the first; and it was only such a conviction of the righteousness of his cause, linked with an indomitable spirit and a high order of ability that could have accomplished What he has, He completed the building. He gathered together and organized a strong faculty. He has made the institution more than pay its own way during the four scholastic years through which he has carried it, and he now lays it down because he feels that his life work is in the pastorate. By his great work at Carolina College he has put the Church largely in his debt.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, September 7, 1916
Carolina College Notes
These are busy days on the campus. Everything is being put in readiness for the opening day, September 12. We have a force of men at work painting, murescoing, etc., and putting the park in order. We venture that no students will find a more attractive home awaiting them. None will receive a more cordial welcome. Former students will be on hand to welcome the new ones and make them "feel at home".
Our normal course will be under the special direction of Miss Covington, of South Carolina, who has about twenty years' experience in this kind of work. She has long been recognized among educators of her State as a leading factor in public school education. It is our purpose to make this course intensely practical and helpful. The Teacher Training course will conform to that outlined by the State Board.
Students who do creditable work in this department here are exempt from examination in order to get certificates to teach in the public schools. Our purpose is to place in the public schools of the State the very best teachers that it is possible for them to have. Besides surrounding our girls with the very best Christian influence, we are striving to give them just as good training as they will get in any State school.
We expect the Co-operative Club to meet a long felt need in educational work. We will have some very fine girls in this department. Those who are in the Club will have as good a home to live in as any girls in any school in the State. We have room for a few more in this department.
Miss Lucille Litaker, who has had charge of the departments of Science and Mathematics since the first year and who has been absent for the past year doing work leading to the A.M. degree in Columbia University, New York, will be with us again this year. Miss Litaker was very popular and this will be good news to her many friends.
Miss Crane, head of the Department of Piano, who spends her summers in Boston doing observation work, will be in Maxton September 7. Miss Crane always makes it a point to come on time to welcome all early comers whether of faculty or student body and gets her work in line in good time. She will have several piano teachers in her department this coming year.
We are especially gratified at the large number of our girls who are making good as teachers. We believe there is no school in the South that is furnishing a larger number of teachers to the State, in proportion to the number of students enrolled.
The opening sermon to the students will be preached in the College Auditorium the third Sunday in September.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, October 12, 1916
Dancing at Methodist Female Colleges
By Evangelist J. V. Williams
I realize, that to speak, on this subject will not make me friends, but on the contrary will surely cause condemnation by many church people. Yes, Church folk who have been swept into the whirlpool of worldliness and sin. What is to matter with this dancing question, anyway? When I was a boy long years ago, they said it was a sin, and everywhere the Methodist Church stood against it. The Methodist preacher cried out against it, and when the thing was persisted in, it meant expulsion from the Church.
Today you don't hear Methodist preachers, as a rule, speaking out in the pulpit against this evil. Why? Our Church has not changed any of its deliverances on the subject, but somehow, we have become broad in our Church life. So broad that I fear a large percent of our members are in the "broad way to death". I am told at that all our Methodist Colleges dancing is allowed.
No, they don't give balls, and invite the young men to come to a hugging match, but they play the piano, and give lessons among themselves, and the president of the college winks at the detestable business.
The pure girls who go from Methodist homes where dancing is not allowed are soon taught to show off in the round dance, or "the German," and not American or Christian. How many of our good young girls have come back from college twisting and skipping like other sinners after taking dancing lessons in college, God only knows! What a shame! Why don't somebody speak out in meeting? What is a preacher for anyway?
One of the first and best Methodist laymen in North Carolina told me sometime ago that he was surprised when his daughter came home from our Church college, and deliberately began attending dancing. Said "all the girls dance at college."
The father took her alone, and said, "I have lived and toiled for thee, I will not use force, but this thing breaks my heart. I do wish that if you love me you'll quit it".
She said, "Dear Dad, I thought you would not care. I'm done", and the angels rejoiced that day. Some day when that young Methodist girl gets home to heaven she will again kiss dad and thank God for such a sensible father, who delivered her from the hellish ballroom.
God help us preachers to stand for Him and His cause against the world, the flesh and the devil.
Mattituck, N.Y. October 1, 1916
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, October 26, 1916
Dancing at Methodist Female Colleges
Referring again to the above subject. we are pleased to append below the statements of the Presidents of two of our institutions of this character. We were not in personal doubt as to what these replies would be, but we are glad to have these authoritative statements to lay before our readers; and that they may have the same prominence as the editorial that called them out, we are giving them space on the editorial page. The others have not been heard from as we go to press this week.
Greensboro. N.C., Oct. 23rd, 1916
Dear Brother Massey: Replying to your courteous editorial in last week's issue of Advocate anent the article in Advocate of October 12th on "dancing at Methodist Female Colleges", I will state that dancing is not "allowed" in "Greensboro College for Women", and that the President does not "wink at the detestable business".
Yours truly,
S. B. Turrentine
Maxton. N.C., Oct. 23rd, 1916
Dear Brother Massey: Referring to the recent article in the Advocate by Rev. J. V. Williams on "Dancing at Methodist Female Colleges", and in which he says. "I am told that at all our Methodist colleges dancing is allowed", I wish to make the following comment: In order that I might be sure that I was making a true and accurate statement as to Carolina College, I called the student body together and explained the article to them and asked them pointedly as to whether or not dancing is carried on at Carolina College. So far as I have been able to find out, we have never had anything of the kind; but I wished to be absolutely sure. and I knew our girls well enough to know that they would tell me the truth about it. Their testimony is that we do NOT have any dancing at Carolina.
Our school is largely the result of prayer and faith; and so far as my relationship with it is concerned, I have had no purpose whatsoever but to glorify God in producing the very finest type of Christian young womanhood. At all times, day by day, I have tried to keep before the students both by precept and example the very finest and highest ideals.
The attitude of the administration has been against worldliness in every form. Dancing is by no means the only point to be guarded. I have tried to impress upon the students continually that the one great purpose in the process of education is to get all their talent in available form so that they can use it in unselfish service for the good of the world and the glory of God. While I have never tried to call the girls to any special places of service, I have tried hard to get them to realize that the best place in all the world for them is the place where God wants them.
If after the toil and sacrifice of these years, our school should degenerate into a mere worldly institution, I should regard it tragic indeed. At the meeting which closed a few days since, our girls took an active part and did some splendid work. We have only one young lady who is not a member of some church and she is very exemplary in her conduct. I do not believe it is possible to find a set of girls where a larger percent are consecrated.
I am sure that the College community was very greatly benefited by the recent series of services held in the college in conjunction with the services in the Church. Brother E. M. Hoyle did the preaching, and I have never seen services conducted in a more practical, helpful way. I have never seen a man manifest a finer spirit of consecration in conducting a meeting. It was a great blessing to us all.
S. E. Mercer
These brethren sent courteous notes of appreciation of our purpose to keep these institutions of our church in proper light before the public. We are glad that they have properly understood our motive; for the genuine interest of the Advocate in the educational work of the Church and in all of these institutions under our fostering care is well known to all of its readers. We wish for them the largest measure of prosperity.
RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ADVOCATE, December 7, 1916
Carolina College
As I am closing up my work at Carolina College, I feel that I have much for which to be grateful.
One of the things that is exceedingly gratifying to me is that there has been such wonderful development of sentiment among our people favorable to this institution.
At the time we took up this work, there were some of our best people who questioned the wisdom of undertaking to build another college. Time has vindicated the wisdom of this movement, and, so far as I know, almost all of our people are convinced that there is a wide field of usefulness for Carolina College.
Within the past quadrennium we have matriculated students from sixty counties and six states.
Another thing for which I am exceedingly thankful is, that we have been able to put the College, in this short while, along with the best female colleges in the quality of work that we do, in the literary department and also in the special departments.
Our General Board of Education recognizes the work of the school as equivalent to that of other leading institutions.
We have been very careful in selecting the very best teachers that could be secured and I can say without the least degree of egotism, that we certainly have a fine teaching force. It means much for the College to have, in this short while, attained the position that it occupies in the educational world.
Another thing for which I am grateful on this national Thanksgiving Day is that the Lord has enabled us to extricate the College from so many financial difficulties.
No one will ever know just how fearfully heavy these burdens have been. There have been times when I felt that they were more and heavier than I could bear. But, in these darkest hours I have gone to the great Head of the Church in faith and He has always put it into the hearts of men and women to respond to the pressing needs. I can truthfully say with the Psalmist that "If it had not been for the Lord that was on our side, then they would have swallowed us up quick." The "they" in the quotation refers to a legion of men who held judgements, notes, mortgages, etc., against the college.
The first thing that had to be done was to payoff a judgement against the building for the plans and specifications of the building. Ever since, I have been paying off notes and mortgages. But I rejoice to say that these are straightened out and that the College is safe financially.
Another thing that I am thankful for is that we have been permitted to put into operation the Co-operative Club plan whereby our bright, worthy young women of small means may secure an education at little cost. I have had this very much on my heart and I was very anxious to try out the plan before I left the College.
We have at this time, a good, new building, equipped with all modern conveniences, and have nearly enough furniture for the entire house. This building cost six thousand dollars and will provide for about forty girls. The girls in this building do their own housekeeping just as they would at home and are enabled to get board, room rent, tuition in the literary department, heat, light, etc., for one hundred dollars per year, or about half what it costs in the regular boarding department.
I lack about two thousand dollars now to finish paying for this building. I still hope to leave it free of all indebtedness. If I could only have three or four more days like today, I would be through with it.
In this morning's mail Bro. W. W. Ormand's check for six hundred dollars came in, which makes a total of twenty one hundred and fifty dollars he has contributed to this worthy cause within a year. I appreciate this generous gift all the more because Brother Ormand took the initiative in this and, not only seemed willing, but glad indeed to do this. The College is greatly indebted to this splendid laymen of our Church.
Other checks from the good brethren amounted to fifty dollars, making a total of six hundred and fifty dollars for the day.
We have plenty of loyal laymen interested in this work who will doubtless be glad to send in checks, big and little, to make up the amount needed to payoff the indebtedness on this commodious building. While I have not done all I had planned in this short time, if I can finish this work I shall be entirely satisfied.
Much has been accomplished under adverse circumstances. In this section we have not had a single normal year since I have been here. While the first of the war a good crop was made, it will be remembered that cotton had almost no value at all. Although in many sections there are fine crops, there is only something like forty percent of a crop made in this section, owing to the continued rains in the summer.
While we still carry some indebtedness, of course, it is very small beside that which many colleges are carrying, and it is in good shape. In closing I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation for the loyal support that I have received in this most difficult work. I wish, too, to say that I heartily appreciate the many messages and letters that I have received recently from men and women from allover the State and out of the State, and the many kind words that have been said. I wish to ask for Brother John the same sympathetic and loyal support that has been accorded me. I return to the pastorate because I love it and because I feel that a change of work is necessary.
S. E. Mercer
Equipment used to digitize images was purchased with LSTA funds made possible through a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the State Library of North Carolina, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources through the North Carolina ECHO, 'Exploring Cultural Heritage Online' Digitization Grant Program.