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 1910 
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 ptesiient iHhimms JIatkson #imm0ns 
 
 AND 
 
 
 AN APPRECIATION 
 
 By MARY ROSSER 
 
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 PRESIDENT AND MRS. SIMMONS. 
 
 On the eve of the departure of Dr. and Mrs. Simmons from. 
 Shorter College, where they have served so faithfully and with 
 such glorious success for a dozen years, to take up their duties 
 in a new field which offers them a broader scope of usefulness 
 at Brenau College, the compiler of this pamphlet has undertaken 
 in her imperfect wa}^ to set forth herein the world's appreciation 
 ©f the exalted character and noble labors of these devoted 
 educators. The truth of the statement that "we are advertised 
 by our loving friends" is shown by the thousand and more 
 expressions from prominent newspapers and persons of note who 
 have been pleased to bear tribute to the worth of Dr. and Mrs. 
 Simmons, and to the value of their services to the cause of 
 education. A few dozens of quotations — made somewhat at 
 random — from this great mass of tributes to them will fill the 
 space allotted to this pamphlet, and serve to give an outline of 
 their notable careers. 
 
 The work to which they are giving their lives, the educa- 
 tion of young ladies, is truly a great one, involving natural 
 ability, thought, incessant labor, money, and an unswerving de- 
 votion to the high ideals which impelled them to adopt the profes- 
 sion of teaching. All this they have lavished upon the young 
 ladies who have come under their care. To this cause their 
 lives are consecrated, and the zeal with v/hich they labor em- 
 bodies the idea that "life, like every other blessing, derives its 
 value from its use alone." 
 
 They are not troubling themselves concerning theories 
 of woman's rights or making complaints of woman's wrongs, 
 but in spite of hindrances, they are going forward, with a 
 courage born of heaven, in their noble work. 
 
 They are blending patience with perseverance, culture with 
 character, society with soul satisfaction; they are filling golden 
 days with golden deeds and with all that which helps the world 
 to look up, hope and be better. 
 
A writer once said that Chopin selected his parents with 
 great care. This seems to have been the case with both Dr. and 
 Mrs. Simmons; for the following references to the parentage and 
 early environment of each, bear the writer out in the statement 
 that Napoleon was only half correct when he said "the fate of a 
 child is always the work of its ynother."' 
 
 A sketch of Dr. Simmons by Rev. Junius W. Millard, D. 
 D., in "Men of Mark in Georgia" gives briefly the outlines of 
 his life : 
 
 ' ' If heredity amounts to anything in determining char- 
 acter, then Dr. T. J, Simmons was predestined by his 
 ancestry to be a gentleman and a scholar. Students at 
 Wake Forest College, North Carolina, during the seven- 
 ties and eighties, recall with pride the splendid abilities 
 of the professor of physics, Dr. William Gaston Sim- 
 mons, a man whose genuine culture was matched only 
 by his refreshing modesty. The traditions of the col- 
 lege are that at one time or another, owing to the neces- 
 sary shifting of the work in a growing institution, or to 
 the illness of his colleagues. Prof. Simmons taught 
 almost every class in the college, and was equally at 
 home in literature, philosophy and science. Like Lord 
 Bacon he seems to have taken all knowledge for his 
 province. This ripened scholar took to wife Maiy 
 Elizabeth Foote, a gentle daughter of one of the lead- 
 ing families of the Old North State, who still survives 
 her distinguished husband. Of this union were born 
 several daughters and two sons, the elder of whom 
 forms the subject of this sketch. The younger son, 
 James Henry Simmons, has gained much distinction as 
 a teacher, first as Professor of English for a number of 
 years at William Jewell College in Missouri, and since 
 1898 as head of the same department in Shorter College. 
 Of the five daughters, the eldest, Nannie, is the wife of 
 the Hon. W. D. Trantham of South Carolina; the 
 second daughter, MoUie, is the widow of the distin- 
 guished lawyer, Hon. David A, Covington, of Monroe, 
 N. C; the third, Ada, is the wife of Plon. E. W. 
 Timberlake, a judge of the Superior Court of North 
 Carolina ; the youngest, Willie, is the wife of Hon. E, 
 Y. Webb, a member of Congress from the Ninth Con- 
 gressional District of North Carolina. Of this brilliant 
 group, one, Evabelle, never married, but spent her too- 
 
brief life in teaching, a profession for which she, too, 
 like the brothers who survive her, seemed peculiarly- 
 fitted, for her learning was great, and she was recogniz- 
 ed by all as the ripest scholar among the young women 
 of her state. 
 
 "Thomas J. Simmons was born at Wake Forest, N.C., 
 April 18th, 1864, and was prepared for college in a 
 private academy in his hotijie town. Entering the col- 
 lege, he graduated with the degree of A. M., in June, 
 1883. 
 
 "His professional career has been both varied and uni- 
 form; varied in its progress from one success to another, 
 but uniform in that all that he has attempted has been in 
 theone directionof educational work. For a yearhetaught 
 in the public schools of Fayetteville, N.C.,and for six 
 years in the schools of Durham, in the same state. In 
 1890 he came to Georgia to become the principal of the 
 public high school of Athens, and after one year he 
 resigned this position to accept a more important one as 
 superintendent of the public schools of Dawson. In 
 1893 he became president of Union Female College at 
 Eufaula, Alabama, and after five years accepted the 
 Presidency of Shorter College at Rome, Georgia, which 
 position he filled with dignity and marked success from 
 1898 to 1910. During the twelve years of his adminis- 
 tration Shorter rose from the rank of a small college of 
 rather local influence to that of one of the few really 
 great institutions for the higher education of women in 
 the South, and came to be noted not only for its thorough 
 respect for genuine scholarship, but also for its delight- 
 ful social atmosphere and its decidedly strong and 
 healthy moral tone. 
 
 ' 'To the grief of the friends of Shorter College, Dr. 
 Simmons, in January, 1910, bought an interest in 
 Brenau College, Gainesville, Georgia, under the agree- 
 ment that at the end of the scholastic year he would 
 become joint president with the former owner of Brenau, 
 Dr. H. J. Pearce. In making this change. Dr. Sim- 
 mons saw in Brenau, with its large grounds, its well- 
 equipped buildings, and its excellent faculty — after- 
 wards to be still further strengthened by the addition 
 of almost the entire teaching force of Shorter College — 
 a broader opportunity for usefulness than could be 
 found in any other woman's college in the South. 
 
 "So signal has been the success bf Dr. Simmons that 
 
his alma mater honored herself when she conferred 
 upon him at the commencement of 1905 the honorary- 
 degree of Doctor of Laws. 
 
 "But this success has not been achieved without aid, 
 for on November 11, 1891, Dr. Simmons was married to 
 Miss Lessie Muse Southgate of Durham, North Carolina, 
 one of the most brilliant women of her day and a musi- 
 cian of national reputation. 
 
 "To the advantages of a regal heredity, and a well- 
 rounded education, and a most fortunate marriage, Dr. 
 Simmons has added the advantages of extensive foreign 
 travel. A dozen times he has crossed the seas to visit 
 the countries of Europe, as well as Egypt and the Holy- 
 Land, and from each place which he has visited he has 
 brought with him stores of knowledge and a ripened 
 experience. 
 
 "Dr. Simmons's most pronounced characteristic is his 
 modesty, which came to him in a direct line from his 
 distinguished father, j^et to those who know him best he 
 stands most of all for an invincible devotion to truth, 
 the other side of which is seen in his hatred of all 
 shams and every species of dishonesty. Tall, big of 
 body and broad of shoulders, a man of few Vv^ords and 
 those quietly spoken, like all men of gentle speech he 
 has hidden behind his quiet manner the strength of a 
 superb manhood. His is the kind that IS rather than 
 SEEMS, and those who know him well have not been 
 surprised at what he has accomplished in the world. 
 Much has he done in these few years for the education 
 of the youth of Georgia and the South, and, best of all, 
 he has evermore insisted upon an education that makes 
 for Christian character and the real glory of God." 
 
 From another source, the late distinguished Dr. Tho;^. H 
 Pritchard, is taken, in a brief quotation, a characterization 
 ©f his illustrious father : 
 
 "* * '•' These are the bare facts of his life, but they 
 give a very imperfect idea of his great abilit}^ his pro- 
 found learning and the sterling qualities of his char- 
 acter. In my humble opinion he was one of the most 
 remarkable men I have ever known. 
 
 "* :!« >r I iiave been thrown into close relations with 
 three great students in my life time. One of them was 
 Dr. Crawford Toy, perhaps the most erudite m.an I have 
 ever known; another was the world-renowned Dr. John 
 
A. Broadus, and the third was Prof. Simmons. His 
 power of large and ready acquisition, the grasp, vigor 
 and accuracy of his memory, and the ease with which 
 his large attainments arranged themselves in systematic 
 and even scientific order in his mind, were as remark- 
 able as the kindred qualities which have made these 
 two gentlemen so distinguished as scholars. There was 
 scarcely any topic within the wide range of human 
 learning with which he did not seem familiar. * * * 
 
 "He was, too, a profound lawyer. The Hon. S. F. 
 Phillips (afterwards Solicitor-General of the United 
 States), pronounced him the ablest student who ever read 
 law with him, and I doubt not but that under favorable 
 conditions he would have developed into a chief justice 
 whose decisions would have been as famous as those of 
 Henderson, Ruffin, Pearson, or the great man William 
 Gaston, after whom he was named. 
 
 "Mr. T. B, Kingbury, the foremost editor in North 
 Carolina, recently said of him: 'He was a man of 
 very superior intellect. We doubt if he ever had his 
 superior in his departments in North Carolina. He was 
 a rarely gifted and eminent North Carolinian, an orna- 
 ment to the excellent literary institution he had done 
 so much to advance and place upon the permanent 
 foundation upon which it now rests and he was par 
 excellence, the most gifted mind among the Baptists of . 
 North Carolina, whether at home or abroad.' 
 
 "This is high praise from such a source, and yet I be- 
 lieve it is just. His was really a great intellect, and 
 many men with his ability and learning would have 
 made a name famous throughout the world. " 
 
 At the beginning of his career as a college president, there 
 appeared in print as an introduction of Professor Simmons 
 to the people of Alabama, his new home, a few of the letters 
 written about him by prominent persons who had been pleased 
 to speak of his character and attainments. 
 
 "Executive Department, State of Georgia. 
 
 "Atlanta, Ga., Jan. 21, 1893. This letter will introduce 
 Prof. T. J. Simmons, of Dawson, Georgia. Prof. Sim- 
 mons is personally known to me both as a man and as 
 a teacher, I cheerfully recommend him as both. I 
 have visited his school, and inspected his method of 
 teaching. He is thorough, progressive, and efficient. I 
 
regard him as an excellent teaclier, and fully recom- 
 mend him to the fullest confidence and consideration 
 of all. He is a gentleman of high character and ability 
 and deserving of the esteem of his fellow-citizens. 
 Very respectfully, 
 
 W. J. NORTHEN, Governor." 
 
 'Superintendent of Public Instruction, State of North 
 Carolina. 
 
 "Raleigh, N. C, June 11,1889. It affords me pleasure 
 to bear testimony to the high character and excellent 
 scholarship of Mr. T. J. Simmons, and to say that 
 these qualifications, added to his experience and suc- 
 cess as a teacher, commend him to any school officers 
 who may be seeking a live, progressive teacher. I can 
 safely say that he will fill with credit any position which 
 he will accept. S. M. FINGER, 
 
 State Supt. Public Instruction." 
 
 'President's Office, Wake Forest College. 
 
 "Wake Forest,North Carolina, June 15, '89. Mr.T. J. 
 Simmons, of Wake county, N. C, received his Diploma 
 as Master of Arts of Wake Forest College in June, 1883. 
 During the seven years of his student life here, he was 
 assiduous as a worker and blameless as a Christian 
 gentleman. His career as a teacher, since his gradua- 
 tion, has been a marked success. I can very cordially 
 recommend him to any who may wish to secure the 
 services, as a teacher, of an honest, earnest-hearted, 
 scholarly man. CHAS. E. TAYLOR, Pres't." 
 
 "Durham,N. C, April 11, 1889. It has been my good 
 fortune for several years to be intimately acquainted 
 with Prof. Thomas J. Simmons, in regard to whom it 
 gives me pleasure to be able to make the following state- 
 ments: 
 
 "As regards character, I think I may well say that I 
 have known no man whose life better evinces the attri- 
 butes of the true Christian gentleman. 
 
 The intellectual and social advantages which he has 
 
enjoyed during his whole life have been of thevety high- 
 est order, and well to say, he has appreciated them suf- 
 ficiently to merit the reputation of being one of the fore- 
 most educators in the vSouth. 
 
 "He is a son of the late Dr. William Gaston vSimmons, 
 of Wake Forest College, who was one of the ablest men 
 North Carolina has ever produced. The son is follow- 
 in?- the noble example of the father. He has a strong 
 mind, and it is well cultivated. In teaching he is 
 clear, sympathetic, and forcible. His store of inform- 
 ation is wonderful for a man of his age. 
 
 "He will discharge faithfully, creditably, and with 
 dionity the duties of anv position that he would accept. 
 EDWIN W. KENNEDY, 
 Supt, Durham Graded Schools." 
 
 "Wake Forest College, N. C, June 14, 1889. It 
 affords me great pleasure to make the following state- 
 ment in regard to the mental endowments and personal 
 worth of Prof. Thomas J. Simmons. 
 
 "While he came under my instruction only in Greek, 
 yet what he did in it revealed such pov/ers of mind as 
 would generally enable one to master any subject to 
 which he might apply himself. The grade he main- 
 tained in Greek was high, and might easily have reach- 
 ed or approximated the maximum, if he had given 
 special attention to it. His tastes, however, led him 
 rather into other fields. In Physical Sciences he did 
 perhaps his best work. His honored and accomplished 
 father, the late Prof. W. G. Simmons, LL. D., who 
 then filled the chair of Natural Science, was his teacher 
 for the most part in this department. Since his 
 graduation he has been engaged most of the time as 
 feading instructor in the large and efficient Graded 
 Schpoi of Durham, N. C, and from those most com- 
 petent to express a judgment as to his ability and suc- 
 cess, there comes only praise of the highest order. All 
 the accounts place him in the front rank as a teacher, 
 "I regard Prof. Simmons as a young man of singular- 
 ly pure morals, and I feel confident that those who may 
 be brought into intimate official or personal relations 
 with him will find him a Christian gentleman with 
 whom it is a pleasure to be associated. 
 
 W. B. ROY ALL, Prof, of Greek." 
 
'Slate School Commissioner, of Georgia. 
 
 "Atlanta, Ga., Jan. 28,1896. To Whom It may Con- 
 cern : Having known Prof. T. J. Simmons personally 
 and professionally for some time, it gives me great pleas- 
 ure to testify to his ability as a teacher and to his char- 
 acter as a gentleman. lie bears a most excellent reputa- 
 tion where he is known, both for his good character, 
 and his scholarly attainments. 
 
 "it v/as my pleasure upon one occasion to visit his 
 school in Dawsou, Ga,, and I can say that I was more 
 than pleased with the manner in which he conducted it. 
 The discipline was as good as the best, and the organ- 
 ization and instruction v/as such as to recomm.end him 
 to me as a thoroughly competent teacher. 
 
 "Very truly, S. D. BRADWELL, 
 
 State School Commissioner of Georgia." 
 
 "Wake Forest College, April 30, 1S89. Prof. T. J. 
 Simmons took the Degree of A. M., at this institution, 
 
 "During the period of his connection with the college 
 it so happened that my work underwent three changes, so 
 that I caught him at more points than any other professor 
 in the Faculty. And I can truly say that I never found 
 him othervv^isethan well prepared, and accurately inform- 
 ed. In the Moral Philosophy Course, he was noted for 
 a disposition to inquire still more deeply into the reason 
 of things than the text-book really demanded, and not 
 to accept a proposition untill he fully comprehended it 
 in all its bearings. 
 
 "in French, German, and English, he displayed great 
 interest and succeeded admirably. At graduation he 
 was unusually well qualified to give instruction in these 
 branches. To this may be added the fact that having 
 never allowed himself to neglect the acquisitions of the 
 college course, he may safely be counted on as an 
 instructor in any of the branches the study of which 
 he prosecuted so successfully here. Were I at the head 
 of any institution of learning, I should certainly feel 
 no hesitancy in entrusting to him any department to be 
 taught in or conducted by him if he fully consented 
 to undertake the work involved, His success in teach- 
 ing and the reputation he has achieved already are 
 better grounds of commendation than can be found in 
 letters or other testimonials. 
 
"I cheerfully recommend him to any college in need 
 of a teacher in the departments of Higher English, 
 French and German, Moral Philosophy, the Ancient 
 Languages, Physics. 
 
 WM. ROYALL, Prof, of English." 
 
 "Dawson, Ga., May 21, 1893. We, the undersigned, 
 members of the Board of Education of the Dawson 
 Public Schools, take pleasiure in recommending Prof. T. 
 J. Simmons as a man of the best moral character and of 
 high order of ability as a superintendent of a school 
 
 system . 
 
 "As a disciplinarian he has few equals,and the interest 
 
 manifested by his pupils as well as their advancement 
 in their studies show him to be a man fully capable of 
 discharging all the responsible duties of a superin- 
 tendent. ^ . 
 
 "J. M.Griggs, president; J. A. Laing, A. J. Balawm, 
 E. L. Laney, O. B. Stevens, J. R. Mercer, R. F. vSim- 
 mons, R. L. Melton, W. C. Kendrick, S. R. Christie, 
 J. G. Dean. " 
 
 "Atlanta, Ga., Feb. 26, 1893. Prof. T. J. Simmons, 
 Dawson, Ga. Dear Sir:— During a recent visit to Daw- 
 son I had the pleasure of inspecting the institution of 
 learning over v,^hich you preside. 
 
 "I said then what I take pleasure in repeating now— 
 that I have never seen a school of the same grade in 
 which the discipline was more wholesome, and the 
 teaching more skillfvil and satisfactory. 
 
 "I believe you are pre-eminently fitted for a broader 
 field of usefulness than the one which you now occupy, 
 and if you should ever determine to remove from Daw- 
 son, it will give me real pleasure to aid you in procur- 
 ing a place in which you can exercise your ability to the 
 best advantage. Yours truly, 
 
 J. B. HAWTHORNE, [D. D., LL. D., 
 Pastor of First Baptist Church, Atlanta.]" 
 
 'Office of Superintendent Charlotte City Schools. 
 
 "Charlotte, N. C, May 6, 1889. 'To all whom it 
 may concern, ' this testimonial witnesseth : 
 
 "That I have known Mr. Thomas J. Simmons since 
 1883. Mr. Simmons was principal of our High School, 
 
a department of the city schools of Fayetteville, N. C. 
 He was elected at a higher salary principal of the Dur- 
 ham Graded and High School. 
 
 "Mr. Simmons was unanimously requested by our 
 Board of School Commissioners (21 in No.) to remain 
 with us. 
 
 "He was successful as a teacher to an eminent degree, 
 and gave universal satisfaction to superintendent, 
 patrons, trustees avid pupils. He was then quite young. 
 The very high standard of excellence of vrhich he then 
 gave evidence in no uncertain manner, he has retained 
 in Durham. I take great pleasure in endorsing every 
 v/ord of commendation and praise which he has 
 received. 
 
 "in regard to his address and Christian character, I 
 cheerfully state that Mr. Simmons is all that the most 
 exacting could require. The man has fulfilled the 
 promise of youth, and 1 regard the community as fortu- 
 nate which secures permanently the services of Mr. T. 
 J. Simmons. ALEXANDER GRAHAM, 
 
 Supt. Charlotte City Schools." 
 
 "l have known Mr. Thomas J. Simmons from his 
 birth, and regard him as an exemplary Christian gentle- 
 man. 
 
 "He has enjoyed exceptional educational advantages, 
 having stood high in his classes at college, and having 
 taught for several _vears since with distinguished success. 
 
 "His father. Prof. W. G. Simmons, EL. D., was one 
 of the ripest .scholars and most efficient instructors 
 North Carolina has yet produced, and he had the bene- 
 fit of the careful training of such a father. 
 
 "in my judgment, any institution of learning v.'ould 
 be fortunate which should secure Mr. Simmons as 
 professor. 
 
 T. IE PRITCHARD, (D. D., EE. D.,) 
 Pastor First Baptist Church, Wilmington, N. C." 
 
 'University of Georgia, Chancellor's Office. 
 
 ,, Athens, Ga., June 2d, 1891. To whom it may concern: 
 I have personal knowledge of Mr. Simmons's work as 
 Principal of the Washington Street Public School in this 
 cit}^ inasmuch as he has had my sons under his im- 
 
mediate tuition as they, are preparing for the University. 
 "I regard Mr. Simmons as a scholar and good teacher, 
 a man of Christian faith and blameless life. And as 
 such I commend him to any community where his lot 
 may be cast. WM. E. BOGGS, 
 
 Chancellor of the University of Ga." 
 
 Regarding the work of President and Mrs. Simmons in 
 Eufaula, the writer has seen many expressions of highest praise 
 from the most prominent people of the community and others 
 throughout the South, from which it is evident that there can 
 hardly be a better or more artistic school than theirs. 
 
 The few quotations made here (1) from a recent Gov- 
 ernor of Alabama, Hon. W. D. Jelhs; (2) from a well-known 
 divine. Rev. J. B. Culpepper; (3) from a Judge of the Superior 
 Court of Georgia, Hon. W. C. Worrill; (4) from a prominent 
 business man, cotton exporter, A. C. von Gundell; (5) from a 
 distinguished Congressional leader, Hon. J. M. Griggs, are- 
 typical of the whole. 
 
 (1) "I am of the opinion that as a home for a girl 
 there is no other place in any state that offers the refin- 
 ed surroundings, and Avhere she may secure the same 
 gentle, gracious attention and kindness, as within the 
 walls of Union Female College. The faculty is made 
 up of the loveliest people I know. I believe that the 
 mental training to be secured there is of the highest 
 order, and that in every way it is superior to any other 
 school in the South, at least. I freely recommend Pro- 
 fessor Simmons and his school to any man who has a 
 daughter or ward to be educated." 
 
 (2) "'^ * * '•' I know of no institution in the whole 
 country which is more deserving of success, and in 
 whose prosperity I shall more rejoice. I thank God 
 that there is a college in which young ladies may receive 
 an education and then return to their Christian homes 
 and mothers as pure as when they left them, 
 
 "a beltet place for parents to send their daughters 
 cannot be found anywhere south of Mason and Dixon's 
 line — nor north of it, nor east of it, nor west of it ! " 
 
(3) "The several visits I have made to your College 
 through the term have given me opportunity to learn 
 much of your methods and the character of your work, 
 from which I feel justified in saying that I do not 
 believe that there is a female college in the country 
 at large w^here more conscientious, faithful and thor- 
 ough work is being done. 
 
 "I certainly think that you have the most elegant and 
 refined corps of teachers I have seen collected together, 
 and it would be impossible for a girl of any degree of 
 intelligence to come in contact with them and with your- 
 self and JNIrs. Simmons and not go out gieath^ benefited. 
 
 "l notice that all of youi girls get plenty of exercise 
 and the necessary recreation. They look healthy and 
 contented, while their neatness of dress and the ease and 
 elegance of their manners prove that all those graces 
 that would be inculcated in the home training of their 
 daughters by parents are scrupulously guarded. In 
 short I regard Union Female College under your man- 
 agement as one of the most desirable institutions a 
 father can select for the education of his daughter. 
 Certainly I know of no other to which I could send my 
 daughter with the feeling of more assurance that her 
 proper training would not be neglected." (Note: Judge 
 Worrill's daughter mentioned above afterwards be- 
 came famous as an opera singer in Germany.) 
 
 (4) "it has ever been a source of great delight to 
 my wife and myself that we succeeded in finding for 
 our daughter a college, so near at home, which in my 
 estimation ranks as high as any in the South. I find 
 that the advantages your college offers in all branches 
 of study can hardly be excelled. As regards music I 
 do not hesitate to say that no college in the United 
 States has advantages surpassing those of Union Female 
 College under the directorship of Mrs. Simmons. 
 
 "Last, but not least, I am happy to say that the disci- 
 pline of 3^our school is perfect, and that all the sur- 
 roundings are of great refinement. The fact that the 
 girls love their teachers, and love the college as a 
 second home, proves that they meet with loving and 
 congenial spirits." 
 
 (5) "l am glad of an opportunity to give an esti- 
 mate of your school. Knowing Mrs. Simmons and your- 
 
self as I do, I do not hesitate to declare my firm belief 
 that no better school exists anywhere in the South. 
 
 Mrs. Simmons's genius and culture in music, your 
 own extraordinary capabilities as an educator, and the 
 great executive ability and Christian character of both 
 of you, render you specially fitted to preside over a 
 school for the traininc; of girls and young ladies. I 
 look upon your school as an ideal one, and cannot but 
 wish it were in my own state." 
 
 In addition to the great mc;ss of ccmmendatory expressions 
 similar to the above, the u'riter desires to direct attention to the 
 following publication issued by the Board of Trustees in 1893. 
 
 "office of Board of Trustees, Union Female College. 
 
 "Eufaula, Ala., June 29, 1896. In 1893, Prof, and 
 Mrs. T. J. Simmons took charge of Union Female Col- 
 lege, and during the past three j'cars they have by their 
 untiring energy and efScient management placed it 
 among the foremost female colleges of the land. 
 
 ' 'After the past three years' acquaintance wnth the work 
 of Prof. Simmons and his faculty, and after a careful con- 
 sideration of all matters pertaining to the College, we, 
 the Board of Trustees, wish to endorse in the strongest 
 terms the work of the College during said years. Prof. 
 Simmons lias more than fulfilled the promises made to 
 the Board of Trustees when he assumed control ; and 
 if merit ever insures success, Union Female College 
 under its present management has a most brilliant 
 career before it. 
 
 "We have noted carefully the eminent qualifications 
 of the large corps of instructors engaged for the coming 
 session, all of whom have had very successful experi- 
 ence in teaching in first-class colleges. We feel confident 
 that such changes as have recently been made are, in 
 every instance, improvements ; and we desire to claim 
 that what has been said during the past three years of 
 the College's superiority over other similar institutions, 
 will be all the more true as to its future work. 
 
 "it affords us pleasure to bear testimony to the high 
 character and excellent scholarship of Prof. vSimmons, 
 and to say that these qualifications, added to his experi- 
 ence and success as a teacher, commend him and his 
 school in the highest degree to all persons who have 
 daughters to educate. 
 
"Mrs. Simmons, the gifted wife of the President, at the 
 head of the Department of Music and Voice Culture, 
 enjoys a well-earned reputation. She has few equals in 
 America or Europe. As a teacher of instrumental music 
 and vocalization, she is almost without a peer. 
 
 "in the Literary Department, the College affords 
 facilities for higher culture which fully meet the most 
 exacting demand. In the ornamental branches, e.spe- 
 cially the music under Mrs. Simmons and her superb 
 corps of assistants, young ladies enjoy the best instruc- 
 tion given in an}' college in this country. Union Female 
 College is moreover a Christian home for our daughters, 
 and stands for all that is purest and best in the develop- 
 ment of true culture and Christian womanhood. 
 
 "in view of the healthfulness of Eufaula, its access- 
 ibility, the home-like care of the pupils, the thorough- 
 ness of the instruction imparted, and the reasonableness 
 of the terms of the school, no parents in this or any 
 neighboring state should fail to educate their daughters 
 in Union Female College. 
 
 "Not only have Prof, and Mrs. Simmons given to Eu- 
 faula a college of such high character, but they have 
 been lavish in the expenditure of their own money in 
 adding to the beauties of the home. No person who is 
 in any way interested in Eufaula or her welfare can 
 afford to overlook these facts or be indifferent to the 
 College's financial prosperity; for it cannot be denied 
 that the interest of the College is the interest of the city. 
 Prof, and Mrs. Simmons certainly deserve the earnest 
 support and patronage of all our people ; and w^e, the 
 Board of Trustees, heartil}' bespeak for them the aid 
 and encouragement they so richly deserve. 
 
 "James Milton, President; E. B. Young, G. L. 
 Comer, L. Y. Dean, J. R. Barr, J. L. Pitts, Z. A. 
 Barnes, J. B. Stewart, C, L. Boyd, G. T. Marsh, Wm. 
 Petry, Sec'}^ Trustees." 
 
 After a labor of five 5^ears in Eufaula, Prof. Simmons 
 accepted the presidency of Shorter College in Rome, Georgia, 
 moving to Rome at the end of the session 1897-'0S. Alabama's 
 appreciation of the value of his work and that of his estimable 
 wife is attested by the remarkable tribute accorded them by the 
 Cit}^ Council of Eufaula, in spreading upon its minutes, and 
 
in giviti.^to the Press in February, 1898, the lollowing resolutions: 
 "Whereas Prof, T. J. Simmons, who has been at the 
 
 head of the Union I^emale College in this city for the 
 
 past five years, which institution is under the control 
 
 of the City Council of Eufaula, has decided to remove 
 
 from our midst and has tendered his resignation to 
 
 take effect next June, 
 
 "Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of 
 Eufaula: 
 
 ■'1st. That we take pleasure in commending Prof. T. 
 J. Simmons as a gentleman, as a scholar, as a dis- 
 ciplinarian, as a teacher, as a citizen. He possesses 
 every requisite to make him a model teacher. Five 
 years of close observation of his conduct of Union 
 P'^emale College convinces us that that institution, in its 
 forty-four years of existence, has never been under 
 more competent management, 
 
 '■2nd. That in our opinions Mrs. T. J. Simmons is 
 without a peer in the South as a musician and teacher 
 of music — vocal and instrumental. Her success has been 
 a marvel. Such results as she has attained were never 
 considered possible before. She is a woman having in 
 the highest degree those attributes essential to the effi- 
 cient management of a young ladies' school. 
 "3rd, That these people have given us one of the best 
 educational institutions to be found anywhere, and we 
 sincerely regret their decision to remove from amongst 
 us. We cordially commend them to the public every- 
 where as worthy of every confidence, and competent to 
 fill any position to which they may aspire. They need 
 no eulogies from us. Any community into which they 
 may go will realize an immediate elevation of its moral, 
 social and intellectual standard. 
 
 ' 'The good wishes ofja grateful people here will abide 
 with them wherever they may go. 
 
 "Approved, February 1st, 1898. 
 
 (Signed) P. B. McKENZlE, Mayor. 
 
 (Seal) City of Eufaula, Ala." 
 Rome's welcome to President and Mrs. Simmons is suffi- 
 ciently described in the following special to the Atlanta Joumal 
 concerning the largest and most brilliant reception ever given in 
 the history of this city. 
 
 "Rome, Ga., August 23. — (Special.) — Last night 
 decidedly the most brilliant and the largest social 
 function ever given in Rome took place at Shorter Col- 
 
lege. It was a reception given by the trustees of the 
 college in order to introduce Professor T. J. Simmons, 
 the new president, and his wife to the public. The fol- 
 lowing invitation was issued: 
 
 "On Tuesday, August 23, at from 8 to 11 p. m., a 
 reception to the new president and faculty of Shorter 
 College will be given at the college b3'- the trustees. 
 They cordially invite all past and present patrons, 
 pupils, those who contemplate becoming patrons or 
 pupils, young ladies visiting the city aiid all gentlemen 
 accompanying ladies. No Avritten invitations.' 
 
 ' 'Fully 500 guests were present. The beautiful grounds 
 Avere dotted here and there with Japanese lanterns and 
 underneath the foliage of the wide-spreading trees, or 
 in some sequestered nook of the long clambering rose 
 vine might be found inviting seats. It was a lovely 
 midsummer night scene — the gay throng, the elegant 
 toilets, the flashing lights and the music to be found 
 within the spa.cious hall where all the city's best had 
 united to make the hour and the occasion enjoyable. 
 President and Mrs. Simmons, assisted by the members 
 of the faculty and the wives of the trustees, stood in the 
 long parlor. This room, by the v/ay, a perfect dream 
 in color and harmony, has just been newly decorated in 
 artistic tints of green, white and gold. The carpet is 
 of moss green, showing a dresden pattern and the bor- 
 der a dresden pattern of moss rosebuds. The soft v/hite 
 curtains at the long French windows repeated this design 
 in garlands of pink roses fashioned in the dresden pat- 
 tern and tied with bows of white ribbon. At either end 
 of this elegant salon was banked a huge mass of 
 palms and ferns. Mrs. Simmons was regal in a yellow 
 brocaded satin, slightlv decollete, Marie Antoinette col- 
 lar. The bodice was trimmed in shirred chiffon with 
 bands of passementerie. The front of the skirt was 
 shirred in the same material, bordered on each side with 
 a cascade of pleated chiffon. Her ornaments were 
 diamonds. She was in every respect handsome and 
 queenh^ and her cordial graciousuess won her friends 
 by the score. Professor Simmons, in an elegant dress 
 suit, reflected the gracious and hospitable manner of 
 his wife, and during the entire evening these two were 
 the center of an admiring group. Professor Henry 
 Simmons, Professor J. L. Kesler and Miss Pell, who are 
 members of the new faculty, were also present and add- 
 
ed much to the attractiveness of the occasion, 
 
 "The long hall, which is 110 feet, was decorated in 
 pink, and green potted plants and roses only enhanced 
 the delicate shade of the rose color of its walls. 
 
 "These same colors introduced themselves into the 
 private parlor of the president's wife, into the library, 
 where 6,000 volumes look down from the walls, and 
 into the girls' parlor. Roses, roses, and palms, palms, 
 were on every side, as sweet and as graceful as the 
 myriad light-robed forms flitting about them. 
 
 "The refreshments were ordered from a noted caterer 
 from a distance, and kept up charmingly the color 
 schem.e of the midsummer tints of pink and green. The 
 ices came in the shapes of all kinds of flowers and 
 fruits. 
 
 "Many guests from a distance came to attend the recep- 
 tion, and were the guests of the college. 
 
 "'Shorter College has given a bright page for the mem- 
 ory book of her friends. She is now on a firmer basis 
 than ever, and the future beckons to halls charmingly 
 filled with golden hopes and promises as rosy as the 
 summer garlands woven for the delight of those as- 
 sembled within her gales on the night of August 23, 
 1898." 
 
 In the development of Shorter College since 1898, so im- 
 portant a part has been taken by Mrs. Simmons that a biography 
 of her would form a most appropriate chapter in an^'- history of 
 the institution. 
 
 Few women of this or any other age have exercised a 
 broader or more beneficent influence than Mrs. Simmons. 
 
 There are hundreds of musicians and teachers who owe 
 their inspiration and success to the admirable training given by 
 this inspired and inspiring teacher. There are daughters all 
 over the land who "rise up and call her blessed." 
 
 We are not siirprised to learn that this brilliant woman had 
 for her great grandfather on the maternal side, a man who was 
 noted for his wonderful brilliancy and ability as an orator, Lord 
 Robert Wvnne of Wales, who was a member of the House of 
 
Lords. Mrs. Simmons had for her great grandfather on the pater- 
 nal side, a son of Richard Southgate, the bishop of London. His 
 son assisted John Wesley in his rescue work around Oxford, 
 where they were students together. 
 
 No more enviable reputation could be earned by anybody 
 than that which has attached itself to Mrs. Sinnnons as a musi- 
 cian, artist, lecturer and teacher. Wherever she has gone she 
 has been admired and loved for her wisdom and her womanly 
 ways. The beauty and strength of her character and the power 
 of her personality are such that no young woman can be brought 
 in touch with her without being mentally and spirituall)^ bene- 
 fited by it; and many a fond mother has selected Shorter College 
 for her daughter for the sole purpose of placing her under the 
 influence of this great and noble woman. 
 
 To learn something of the life history of the truly great is 
 always an inspiration, and the writer desires here to give a brief 
 sketch of this illustrious Southern woman as an aid and encour- 
 agement to aspiring girls. 
 
 Mrs, Simmons was Celestia Muse Southgate, daughter of 
 James Southgate of a distinguished Virginia family, and Delia 
 Wynne Southgate, one of the most intellectual women of North 
 Carolina. Celestia, whose name was shortened to Lessie, was 
 born in Louisburg, North Carolina, where her^parents were then 
 engaged in educational work at the head of the Louisburg 
 Female College. From her earliest childhood she showed unusu- 
 al powers of mind and in her favorite w^ork, music, she was 
 considered by all a remarkable prodigy. She was educated in 
 Virginia and pursued her musical education further in New 
 York and Europe. No money was spared in her education, and 
 she had the benefit and inspiration of the greatest music masters 
 in both hemispheres. Her education did not stop when she her- 
 self became a teacher, for since then she has enjoyed several 
 periods of study in Europe, both in voice and piano. The late 
 E. DelleSedie, the greatest teacher of modern times, regarded 
 Mrs. Simmons as one of the ablest pupils he had ever taught ; 
 also one whose own work as a teacher could not be surpassed. 
 
And yet, unlike many other famous musicians, Mrs. Sim- 
 mons's talent was not confined merely to one thing; on the other 
 hand, she is a person who can do well anything which she under- 
 takes. Before becoming a teacher she specialized not only in 
 music, but in oratory, gymnastics and medicine. In oratory 
 she displayed such ability that before she was twenty years old 
 she was urged to go on the stage in Shakespearean tragedy. At 
 that time she was already doing much concert playing in piano, 
 which was her favorite work, though she had given much study 
 to the voice. Two years later she was urged to become a Wag- 
 nerian opera singer, as such roles as Brunhilde and Isolde seem- 
 ed suited to her talents and dramatic soprano voice. Coming, 
 however, from a religious family, she felt seme prejudice against 
 a stage life. For several years she did much concert work, do- 
 ing the triple roles of pianist, vocalist and elocutionist, and she 
 met with great success. 
 
 Even as a very young girl she felt "called" to teach, and 
 was never so happy as when helping some other person grasp 
 the principles of music. She believed in inspiration, felt that 
 her life work must be that of a teacher, and so deliberately chose 
 this occuption. Probably no other woman at any time has been 
 so successful in the work of teaching, successful from the stand- 
 point of results accomplished in the cause of music. Her work, 
 too, was not without reasonable remuneration, for her teaching 
 the first year brought her a salary of $1500. Later her private 
 music school in Durham brought her an annual income of $3000 to 
 $4000. according to the limit of pupils. Some years she would 
 do more teaching ; others less, in order to have more time for 
 her studies. She spent her vacations always in study with the 
 greatest masters, and about every third year would cease from 
 teaching to devote her entire time to study. In 1890 she was 
 offered $6000 a year to become connected with a New York 
 conservator^^ the duties to include also some recital work. 
 Subsequently she was offered $4000 to conduct a woman's mus- 
 ical organization for six months in the year. This was a period 
 of many opportunities, as concert offers made her would have 
 netted her many thousands a year, but this was also a time for 
 
her to make a serious decision — a decision which has added 
 to the beauty and happiness of her life. After her marriage on 
 November 11, 1S91, she went with her husband to Dawson, 
 Ga., and two years later to Eufaula, Ala., and after five years 
 moved to Rome, Ga., where she has done a wonderful work aSjDi- 
 rector of the Conservatory and Plead Professor of Voice. No 
 person has lived in the South who has been a more potent 
 factor in the development of music. 
 
 Though in her girlhood her special fondness was for the 
 piano, and her first teaching was largely in that branch of mu- 
 sic, her subsequent studies in Europe under the greatest vocal 
 teachers of the age, combined with the fact that her fame as a 
 teacher created such overwhelming demand for her instruction, 
 made it necessary for her to confine her work during recent years 
 entirely to the teaching of voice, and her success in this is ' such 
 as has not been surpassed by any other teacher in the land. To 
 an American interested in vocal methods and discussing them 
 recently with one of the greatest teachers in Europe, the latter 
 said: "I have never met Mrs. Simmons, but I feel as if 1 had 
 known her always because of her work; for instance, my friend 
 D. [mentioning an American pupil of Mrs. Simmons who is 
 now celebrated as a singer in Europe] whenever I mention what 
 I consider one of the best points in vocalization, always replies 
 'That is exactly the way Mrs. Simmons says it'; and from the 
 knowledge I have acquired of her work with her pupils, I am 
 sure that there is not anywhere in Europe a better teacher than 
 you have in America in Mrs. Simmons." 
 
 To the few who know intimately the home-life of Dr. and 
 Mrs. Simmons, there can be nothing more beautiful than the 
 true affection quietly shown in the home, "in honor prefer- 
 ring one another, " the husband giving credit for their success 
 to the wife, she to her husband. The writer without permis- 
 sion takes the liberty of quoting from a letter by Mrs. Simmons 
 only a year ago, after eighteen years of married life: 
 
 "My husband is my ideal of true, noble manhood. He 
 has meant more to me than all else in life. His ideals are the 
 loftiest, his honesty and integrity of the purest type, and his kind- 
 
ly spirit, gentleness and patience have been a daily lesson to me 
 and have inspired me to struggle to reach his heights. His 
 modesty, purity, and beauty of character are quite different from 
 the glamour of the footlights, and I have no cause for thankful- 
 ness equal to this — that I ignored worldly applause and came in 
 touch with that life that has inspired me for more enduring 
 things, and no honor could equal the privilege of being his help- 
 meet in whatever humble way in his life of usefulness, for I 
 know that where he is, there, purity, honesty and Godliness 
 dwell. I am so thankful that we have been permitted to live to- 
 gether in so useful a work during these eighteen years. I have 
 seen success come from our efforts, and I know that what suc- 
 cess we have had is due largely to him; I know that the ideals 
 were his, and that the plans were all worked out through his 
 brain." 
 
 Mrs. Simmons was an important figure in the musical 
 world almost before she was past her teens, as illustrated in her 
 early career by the following editorial notice in The Keynote of 
 New York : 
 
 "Among the builders of musical culture of the high- 
 est order in the South, Miss L. M. Southgate, of Dur- 
 ham, N. C, appears with the foremost. Her musical 
 education was begun under the guidance of her mother, 
 who was one of the most highly cultivated, accomplish- 
 ed and versatile women of this country. Later on, 
 she studied under Prof. Ide, of Staunton, Va., where 
 she graduated, with first honors of her class, in instru- 
 mental music. Her success at school induced her to 
 attend the best conservatories of the North. Her work 
 was pursued under the following renowned instructors : 
 Organ : George Wm. Morgan and Samuel P. Warren; 
 Piano : Otto Hackh and S. B. Mills; Voice : Signor 
 Greco, Madame Murio-Celli, H. W. Green and Paolo 
 Giorza. 
 
 The breadth of her superior musical training, com- 
 bined with rare native endowments, has enabled her to 
 accomplish perhaps as much as any musician ofher age, 
 in imparting to others that which she herself has 
 attained. 
 
 The Durham School of Music, of which she is the 
 Director (organized in 1886), already has a reputation 
 second to none in the South. 
 
"Many contemporaries have given expression to their 
 admiration of this estimable ard persevering young 
 worker in notices and criticisms on her splendid con- 
 certs. Her programmes exhibit her great knowledge of 
 the importance of repertoire. The names of Liszt, 
 Schubert, Heller, Chopin, Kullak, Mills, Gurlitt, Mos- 
 zkowski, Bargiel, Joseffy, Mendelssohn, Godard, 
 Mozart, etc., are proof that the lady is one of the noble 
 musical missionaries. Miss Southgate has been prevail- 
 ed upon to accept the post of vice-president of the 
 Music Teachers' National Association." 
 
 Even in the earliest part of her professional career such ap- 
 preciative notices as the following were common: 
 
 "Steinway Hall, New York, June 13, 1889. My Dear 
 Miss Southgate: — Please accept my sincere congratula- 
 tion on the excellent work you have done, and are 
 doing with your school. 
 
 "You were such an earnest and painstaking student 
 when you took lessons of me, and also so successful , 
 that I feel sure all your pupils cannot fail to be inspired 
 by your good example. 
 
 "l wish you to greet blaster Vernon Darnall in my 
 name, and also extend to him my best congratulations 
 for having won my medal ; for I am certain that from 
 what he has played under your direction, he must be a 
 student of remarkable talent, 
 
 "Wishing you every success, I am your friend and fel- 
 low-worker. S. B. MILLS." 
 
 "Durham, N. C, July 25, '90. Mr.Josephus Daniels, 
 Dear Sir: — Under the spell of the enravishing feast of 
 delicious music and hne dramatic recitals — prepared 
 especially as a delectable compliment to the Press As- 
 sociation of this state — you honored me by asking for a 
 written expression of my judgment of the concert. I 
 thank you for so doing, because you thus give me an 
 opportunity to gratify my inclination without risking 
 any imputation of ostentation. * '"^ * ''' * After this 
 preamble, I need only say that the entertainment gave 
 me serene enjoyment and intense gratification, much 
 more replete and complete than very many of the single 
 forenoon, afternoon and night programs that I very 
 recentlv enjoyed in New York City, Saratoga and De- 
 troit ; and regarding the master spirit of the music last 
 
nig^lit — and of all the fine music of Durham — Miss L. 
 M. Scuthofate, I will at this time only say, briefly as I 
 can, that I have known from my first meetin.cr with her, 
 in the musical festival at Goldsboro, in 1884, that she is 
 a g-enuine artist, instrumental, vocal and dramatic, by 
 both nature and culture. What I saw and heard last 
 night not only confirmed my previous high estimate of 
 her; but very greatly enhanced in the height, breadth 
 depth, not only in her unaffectedly, graceful, artistic 
 work but in her invaluable tutorial v/ork as amply 
 manifested through the charming, alert, and easy capa- 
 bility of all v/ho participated in the judicious and taste- 
 ful program. ''' '" ''" 
 
 Yours very truly and resDectfully, 
 Rahigh Daily ChrorAcle. ' W. H. NEAVE " 
 
 "The entertainment was conducted by Miss Lessie M. 
 Southgate, which of itself guaranteed its success. 
 This most highly gifted woman, on this occasion, fairly 
 eclipsed herself. As an elocutionist, vocalist and 
 pianist, she stands facile princeps among the ladies of 
 North Carolina, and it is no wonder that the refined 
 and cultured citizens of Durham are so proud of her. — 
 Cliatbain Reccrcl.''' 
 
 "Miss Lessie Southgate gave the associatioti a delight- 
 ful entertainment of music and recitations. I'.Iiss 
 Southgate is a most accomplished musician, and is very 
 highly appreciated at home, as is proved by the fact 
 that she has lately declined the offer of a most flattering 
 salary from New York. — Stafes%nlle Lcjidmark:' 
 
 "The singing of Miss Southgate was a splendid treat, 
 vifhiie her recitations were greatly enjoyed, and shov/ed 
 her to be an elocutionist of remarkable powers. She 
 possesses a rich and highly cultivated voice, and has 
 an exceedingly graceful and attractive stage presence of 
 which the audience showed their appreciation by gen- 
 erous applause, and would not be satisfied until she 
 responded a second time at each appearance. — H.vider- 
 son G: hi Leaf:' 
 
 "Having been educated to a superlative degree of 
 excellence, in the best schools in the country, she is a 
 woman of rare attainments. Her abundant means 
 have enabled her to cultivate to the fullest extent, her 
 
 23 
 
unusual gifts as a pianist, vocalist and elocutionist. 
 She has been Vice-President of the North Carolina 
 Musical Association, was organist and chorister of the 
 leading church in Durham, and director of the St, 
 Cecilia Society. Her tireless self-sacrifice in the inter- 
 est of her pupils has won for her the confidence and 
 patronage of a large clientde among the Southern 
 people. 
 
 "The young ladies who come under her care are espe- 
 cially fortunate, not only because of her musical influ- 
 ence, but because of the high moral tone of this remark- 
 able woman. — Catalogue of the Metropolitan Conservatory 
 of Music New York, ' ' 
 
 "The piano solos by children only twelve and thir- 
 teen years of age were rendered with a skill and tech- 
 nique that kept the audience in a delightful state of 
 interest and wonder. More excellent execution and 
 expression could not have been expected from profess- 
 ional pianists. 
 
 All these young ladies are the pupils of, and have had 
 their entire musical instruction and training under Miss 
 Southgate, who is recognized as one of the most ac- 
 complished lady musicians in the country. Great 
 inducements have been offered her to move to New 
 York City. Not more than a month ago she declined 
 an offer of four thousand dollars per annum, in addi- 
 tion to which she was offered fifteen hundred dollars a 
 year to become the organist of a church there — an 
 aggregate salary of five thousand five hundred dollars 
 per annum. There are few ladies in this country who 
 can command greater salaries than United States Sena- 
 tors, and Miss Southgate is one of them. — Raleigh News 
 and Observer.''^ 
 
 "The instrumentation of Miss Southgate was simply 
 superb . — A sheville Citizen. ' ' 
 
 "Her touch is full of pathos with the proper degrees 
 of light and shade, and at times her playing is charac- 
 terized by great brilliancy and power. — Brooklyn Eagle, 
 N Y." 
 
 "Miss Southgate performs with the skill of a master, 
 and she has the happy faculty of imparting knowledge 
 to her pupils. — Durham Recorder."" 
 
I 
 
 "The piano recital given Friday evening by Miss 
 Lessie M. Southgate was exceedingly fine. We doubt 
 whether Miss Southgate has an equal in the South. — 
 Durham Plant.'' 
 
 "Both Miss Southgate's singing and reading were 
 delightful and beyond criticism. Her reading was 
 "The Famine" from Hiawatha, and was given with 
 such impulses as must have inspired the soul of the 
 poet, Longfellow, when he v>rrote his beautiful, pathetic 
 and famous Indian story. The wail of lamentation, 
 the calls of Minnehaha to Hiawatha, and their rolling, 
 lingering echoes were given by Miss Southgate with 
 wondrous effect. — State Chronicle.'' 
 
 "Mr. Greene was assisted by Miss L. M. Southgate, 
 of North Carolina, who combines a rare degree of excel- 
 lence as elocutionist, pianist and vocalist, with a charm- 
 ing personality that has won for her the proud dis- 
 tinction of being the most accomplished woman in the 
 South. — Elmira Gazette, Elmira, N. Y." 
 
 "Miss L. M. Southgate, of North Carolina, appeared 
 in an entertainment at Elmira, N. Y., August 21st, and 
 was well received. She is an eloquent vocalist, elocu- 
 tionist and pianist.— lF^r«^r'.f Voice Magazine, N. Y." 
 
 "Miss Lessie M. Southgate, of Durham, was the star 
 of the evening, both because of her magnificent ap- 
 parel, her superb physique and womanhood, and her 
 perfect mastery of the art, science and mystery of 
 m.usic . — Warrenton Gazette. ' 
 
 "Miss Southgate was the recipient of hearty encores 
 and gave three responses to the persistent appeals of 
 the admiring audience. — Neiv Berne Journal. ( Cor. from 
 the State Teachers' Association at Morehead.)" 
 
 "Miss Southgate was a favorite, and thrilled and 
 charmed the audience with both her enchanting sing- 
 ing and her charming elocution. — Raleigh News ayid 
 Observer." 
 
 "It is needless to speak of the exquisite performance 
 of Miss Southgate, Ller power to enthrall her hearers 
 by her music is well known. Her recitals last night 
 
were especially well received, and three tinies she re- 
 sponded to encores, — Durham Globe.'''' 
 
 "Miss Lessie vSouthgate as Pauline (Lady of Lyons) 
 interpreted the pathos and beauty of that wayward 
 heroine with faultless personation, and in the more im- 
 passioned scenes she rose to that intense sublimity of 
 emotion which passed the bounds of mere acting", and 
 seemed absolutely real — the perfection of elocution, 
 whose sliprhtest whisper swept through the audience 
 with a thrill of sympathetic response. It was irresistible. 
 — Goliad Guard, Texas.'"' 
 
 "Miss Lessie Southgate who alv/ays attains to excel- 
 lence, both in music and elocution, gave one of the 
 finest recitations that it has been our pleasure to hear. 
 It was truly grand and added another gem to this lady's 
 brilliant reputation. The applause that followed was 
 earnest and enthusiastic, and she responded with a 
 humorous selection which was also rendered in admir- 
 able style and gave evidence of great versatility. — Dur- 
 ham Tobacco Plant.'''' 
 
 "Miss Southgate is the happy possessor of a fine voice 
 of great power, thorough culture and perfect self-poise 
 — that minute and exhaustive detail which is alone the 
 result of superior training, — Gcliad Guard, Texas." 
 
 "(Account of the third day's proceedings of the Mu- 
 sical Festival and State Musical Association). 
 
 A medal was av^^arded to Miss Lessie M. Southgate, 
 as the best solo pianist. — Goldsboro Messenger.'''' 
 
 ' 'The treat of the evening was a solo by Mrs. Sim- 
 mons, of Dawson, — a selection from, the 'Barber of 
 Seville.' Mrs. Simmons possesses a magnificent voice 
 and her rendition of the song was truly artistic. Dr. 
 Palmer announced that no encores would be allowed, 
 but he received a request from the vast audience that 
 Mrs. Simmons would favor them with another selection. 
 He announced that she would give her encore next 
 Monday evening. 
 
 The Request — "One thousand entranced hearers 
 do earnestly request that Mrs, Simmons be allowed to 
 give an encore. Do not refuse us. Committee." — 
 Alhaj-.y Herald. 
 
For several years Mrs. Simmons was the musical director of 
 the Georgia Chautauqua at xMbany. The writer finds some press 
 notices concerning her work during' the first year, 1895, when 
 she succeeded as musical director the man who was perhaps the 
 most noted choral leader of New York: 
 
 "The Georgia Chautauqua. Entertaining Exercises 
 at the Tent Tabernacle. A Grand Chorus. Mrs. Sim- 
 mons' s Work Complimented by Everybody Who Has 
 Seen It. 
 
 "The largest audience that has assembled in the tent 
 tabernacle yet was there last evening to listen to the 
 delightful program which had been arranged by Mrs. 
 T. J. Simmons. 
 
 "About 8:30 the applause from the rear of the tent an- 
 nounced the approach of the choir. They came in 
 single file and, marching up, took their seats upon the 
 chorus stand, which had been beautifully decorated for 
 the occasion. All were in evening dress and a more 
 beautiful sight cannot be imagined. Mrs. Simmons is 
 truly a wonderful woman. The chorus this year shows 
 the training of a master, and surpasses anything v.-e 
 have ever had. — Moco^i Telegraph.'"' 
 
 "The Georgia Chautauqua. — The best part of the 
 Chautauqua program Vv'ill be music. That will be under 
 the care and direction of I\Irs. Simmons of the Union 
 Female College, She is one of the most gifted pianists 
 and vocalists in America. vShe is besides a great teach- 
 er, bringing to the work a magnetism inspiring, an 
 energy that never falters, and a devotion such as only 
 the best and purest can feel for an art almost divine. 
 The greatest privilege any music-loving soul can know 
 is to sit at her feet and learn of the heavenly voiced 
 harmonies. The Albany people got the best musical 
 director to be had anywhere. There could not be a better. 
 The chorus Mrs. Simmons trains will be v»^orth hearing. 
 — Eufaula Times.'' 
 
 "The seventh annual assembly of the Georgia Chau- 
 tauqua began today under the most flattering auspices. 
 There are hundreds of visitors already in the city, and 
 the indications are that the Chautauqua will be better 
 patronized than ever before. The opening sermon, by 
 
Rev. G. T. Dowling, a distinguished divine of Boston, 
 Mass., was listened to by 3,000 people. The chorus of 
 150 voices, under Mrs. T. J. Simmons, is the j&nest in 
 the history of the Chautauqua. — Atlanta Constitution."' 
 
 "One of the hits of the evening was the toast to Mrs. 
 Simmons by Dr. Duncan, in which he said that she 
 was 'first in music, first in peace and first in the hearts 
 of her countrymen.' And Mrs. Simmons, assisted by 
 the chorus, most gracefully responded in a musical 
 toast to Dr. Duncan, which captured the audience as 
 well as the subject of the toast. — Albanv Herald.'' 
 
 "The Tent Tabernacle is now up; the rehearsals of 
 the big Chautauqua chorus, under the direction of 
 Mrs. T. J. Simmons, have commenced. 
 
 The chorus at this assembly promises to be the largest 
 and best we have ever had. The department of music 
 seems to have flourished under the administration of 
 Mrs. Simmons, and some grand musical concerts may 
 be expected. These concerts are among the most 
 delightful features of Chautauqua and never fail to 
 draw large audiences. 
 
 Mrs. Simmons, the Chautauqua Musical Director, is 
 drilling a large chorus, which meets every night, and 
 the mornings and afternoons are devoted to classes 
 taking special courses in music. The music teachers 
 and others well advanced in music derive great benefit 
 from these special courses under Mrs. Simmons, who 
 stands at the head of her profession in the South, and 
 is never happier than when helping others on the line 
 of "what to teach and how to teach. ' ' — Albany Herald. " 
 
 "The 'jewel Song' from Faust, was magnificently 
 rendered by Mrs. T. J. Simmons, and her lovely voice 
 was never heard to better advantage. The audience 
 never tires of the sweet tones of her voice, and she was 
 compelled to respond to a thunderous encore. 
 
 ' 'Everything passed off delightfully, and Mrs. Simmons 
 has added another wreath to the crown of laurels which 
 the Albanians have so gladly placed upon her queenly 
 brow. 
 
 "Mrs. Simmons was kinder to her audience than she 
 usually is, and after the rendition of the 'Cavatina' 
 from Semiramide, she graciously responded to two en- 
 cores, much to the pleasure of all. Mrs. Simmons and 
 
the chorus are to be congratulated on the selections of 
 this program and the successful rendition of this part. — 
 Albany Herald.'^ 
 
 "The music during the entire season gave universal 
 pleasure, Mrs. Simmons and the Chautauqua Chorus 
 winning enthusiastic applause. So well was the grand 
 concert received that at its close the audience by a ris- 
 ing vote asked that another night be given during the 
 session — a wish which was granted. — The Chautauquaii 
 (N. Y. Magazine.)" 
 
 "The Choral Society in this city is an organization of 
 v/hich Eufaula may justly feel proud. Under the direc- 
 tion of Mrs. T. J. Simmons, whose tastes and talents in 
 the gifted art are of a high and unusual order and 
 whose reputation as a teacher is second to none in the 
 South, the society could hardly fail to entertain the most 
 cultured and refined tastes. The program last night 
 was both interesting and varied, and embraced features 
 of song and instrumental music and readings which 
 were executed in a most highly creditable manner, and 
 held the large and intelligent audience perfectly en- 
 chanted and delighted. — Daily Ti/nes.'" 
 
 ' 'The Choral Society is composed of the very finest 
 honie talent, and is under the direct management of 
 Mrs. T. J. Simmons, whose reputation as a vocalist 
 stands in critical challenge v/itii the vory best singers of 
 modern times. — Times." 
 
 "As a musician, Mrs. Simmons has no superiors and 
 few peers in the South. She is queen in the realm of 
 song, her delivery being easy, natural and impressive, 
 awaking the enthusiasm of all lovers of music. Hav- 
 ing enjoyed the best advantages that America and 
 Europe afforded, her native talent shows the highest 
 culture and wherever she appears her audiences are 
 captivated by her grace of manner and charm of voice 
 — Cuth bert L ib era I- En terprise. ' ' 
 
The work of Dr. and Mrs. Simmons in Rome, since 1898, 
 lias been so universally admired, and has called forth such a 
 wealth of commendatory expressions that it is difficult to refrain 
 from attempting to make more extensive quotations than the 
 space allows. From local papers are clipped editorials of June 
 2nd, and November 12th, 1903. 
 
 "No institution in the state has written more remark- 
 able history of its own growth and development in a peri- 
 od of live years than that which all Romans love to 
 name and are proud to claim. Shorter College. Just 
 five years ago President and Mrs. T. J. Simmons as- 
 sumed the management of the college. Their reputa- 
 tion preceded them, and their coming was heralded 
 with resolutions in the Alabama papers, regretting to 
 give up so valuable educators and commending Presi- 
 dent and Mrs. Simmons for a brilliancy of administra- 
 tive and educational ability that could not be surpassed. 
 
 "in the five years of President and Mrs. Simmons the 
 evolution of the college into a Southern educational 
 center has been something marvelous. The dormitory 
 and college building have been remodeled and enlarged 
 and the purchase of three additional buildings became 
 a necessary enlargement, for the increased numerical 
 strength of the boarding department which is now 
 twenty-five per cent, more than in any previous admin- 
 istration. Departments have been enlarged and improv- 
 ed, the curriculum raised to the highest standard, and 
 whereas the college formerly found its patronage and 
 reputation among the people mostly of this section, the 
 student body is now composed of girls from every South- 
 ern and many of the Northern and Western states. 
 
 "in January the large city papers made the announce- 
 ment that because of the crowded condition of the col- 
 lege the registration list was closed, and then pupils 
 began registering for the Fall, and the September regis- 
 trations were made in January. 
 
 "Nothing in the history of the college has attracted 
 more attention than the beautiful and artistic fitting up 
 of the Conservatory of Music > and through President 
 and Mrs. Simmons Rome in this splendid annex to the 
 college has been given the privilege of musical treats that 
 much larger cities could not procure. 
 
"The faculty and assistants number thirty and no 
 institution of learning- has ever been crowned with 
 gi-eater literary polish or lustre of art. The social life 
 is ideal. A beautiful hospitality has characterized the 
 Simmons administration and the functions at which 
 President and Mrs. Simmons, the Faculty and Senior 
 class are at home to Romans have made of the college 
 a social center from which is drawn attractive lessons 
 of grace and art and beauty." — Cherokee Messenger. 
 
 Shorter College has completed another year of use- 
 fulness and, within the next few days, will close its 
 doors for the summer months. 
 
 "The scholastic year just ended has been the most 
 successful in the history of the college. Attendance 
 has been as large as conditions would permit and the 
 standard of excellence in all departments has been rais- 
 ed above even the high standards maintained in the 
 past. 
 
 "President Simmons and his brilliant and accomplish- 
 ed wife have every reason to feel proud of the results of 
 their management of the college. Assisted by an able 
 and hard working faculty they have brought Shorter 
 up to a grade second to none in the land. Under their 
 guiding hands the best ideas along modern educational 
 lines have been put in practice here and the result is 
 that the young lady who wins her diploma at Shorter 
 now, goes forth better equipped than ever graduate 
 went forth before. The Simmons administration has 
 been given a fair trial, and, believing that we voice the 
 gi-eat majority in Rome, the Tribune feels that there 
 is nothing to be said but words of praise and commend- 
 ation. We believe that Shorter College is today in the 
 most satisfactory and healthy condition of its history. 
 
 "To the graduating class The Tribune extends its 
 hearty greeting and best wishes for the future. To 
 Professor and Mrs. Simmons, and their splendid faculty, 
 we tender our sincere congratulations and we trust that 
 their vacatii^n may be pleasant and profitable." — 
 Rome Tribime. 
 
 ' 'The Tribune is gratified to know that Shorter College, 
 that grand and splendid institution, has made such a 
 satisfactory beginning to what promises to be the most 
 thoroughly successful year of its glorious history. 
 
"Shorter College is one of the grandest institutions of 
 learning in the South and Romans are proud of it and 
 never weary of singing its praises. 
 
 "As magnificent as the past is, however, it must be 
 conceded that the college was never before in such em- 
 inently satisfactory condition as it is today. From 40 
 boarding pupils in 1898 the rolls have increased to 120 
 today, and it would be even larger were it not for the 
 fact that the management has been forced to decline 
 more for lack of accommodation. The day pupils' roll 
 is also filled to the limit. 
 
 "As for the faculty, all Romans realize that the facul- 
 ty of Shorter College was never so strong as it is now. 
 Every chair is filled acceptably and competently and 
 the scope of the work in all the departments has been 
 greatly magnified and broadened during the past few 
 years. The moral atmosphere, the culture atid the re- 
 finement that permeates everything in connection with 
 the work of the college was never so studiously and 
 emphatically maintained as it is at this time; and all 
 of these things are not said in criticism or disparage- 
 ment of any past history, but they are mentioned as 
 facts indicating the inevitable results following a tireless 
 and persistent struggle to reach a cherished ideal, be 
 that ideal as lofty as it may if still within range of pos- 
 sibility. We say, unhesitatingly, that the present 
 management of Shorter College has conceived a very 
 high ideal, and if not yet satisfied with the elevation 
 reached, a continuance of the tireless energy of the 
 past few years must bring to the faculty an early and 
 complete realization of their most cherished dreams. 
 
 "Rome is proud of Shorter College and every loyal 
 Roman stands ready to lend its facult}'^ a helping hand 
 when needed, and, while the argument is not one often 
 invoked or considered, the fact that the institution turns 
 $25,000 into the channels of trade in Rome every year 
 is something beyond the lines of sentimental and educa- 
 tional thought which may well be considered in render- 
 ing a verdict in favor of Shorter as one of Rome's most 
 valuable assets." — Rome TTihune, Nov. 1 2th. 
 
 The following is from the Daily Times of Chattanooga : 
 
 "while the institution has had an honorable history 
 from its inception, yet new life was put into the college 
 
and a more progressive policy inaugurated when (in 
 1898) President T. J. Simmons, a man in the vigor of 
 youth, though with great experience in educational 
 problems, was called to the administration of its 
 affairs. During no time within the life of the College 
 have greater improvements been made than since the 
 date of his inauguration; and the higher rating of the 
 institution in the educational world is due to his work 
 and that of the eminent educators whom he has brought 
 into the faculty. It is gratifying also to the friends of 
 the institution that the number of students who regis- 
 tered on the first day of the session following his inau- 
 guration was the largest known in many years, and that 
 the number enrolled, particularly from states formerly 
 unrepresented, has constantly increased, until now the 
 dormitory building is entirely filled. 
 
 "President Simmons's theory is that good work done 
 inside a college will soon have its effect outside, and he 
 sticks close to his duties on the hill instead of going- 
 out to talk to people about the excellence of his institu- 
 tion. He is a man of unusual reticence with reporters, 
 and it was with some difficulty that we secured the 
 material for this sketch of the college, though justice to 
 this splendid institution would compel -us to write a 
 great deal more, had we the space to print it. 
 
 "We cannot close without reference to the College of 
 Music, with its large and able faculty, mentioning 
 especially the cultured musician who is the head profes- 
 sor of two departments, Mrs. T.J.Simmons, pianist 
 and vocalist, who, under her present name, or as Miss 
 Lessie M. Southgale, is well known in all musical cir- 
 cles, both north and south. She has liad the best train- 
 ing in Europe and America, and no teacher anywhere 
 has succeeded better in imparting her knov/ledge of 
 music to her students." 
 
 33 
 
Apart from the excellence of the instruction given by the 
 faculty, the numerous concerts given by Mrs. Simmons and her 
 students have served to bring the college prominently into notice 
 and to establish its reputation throughout the South as a school 
 affording the highest type of culture. To give an adequate idea 
 of these entertainments would be impossible in the limited space 
 devoted to this pamphlet, but a few extracts are given from the 
 Atlaiita J'jur'iial, Atlanta Const'ttutmi, etc. 
 
 "All musical Atlanta, from the recognized critic down 
 to the casual attendant at a concert, has been comment- 
 ing enthusiastically on the entercainm.ent given Thurs- 
 day evening by the students of Shorter College. 
 
 It was a really remarkable conceri;, and impressed 
 the listener, not as an amateur effort, but as a finished 
 performance, 
 
 ' 'The ensemble piano playing showed fine training 
 — every arm, hand, finger of these girls moving in uni- 
 son, the heads directing in unison, the whole a complete 
 interpretation of the great composers, complete in both 
 technique and temperament. 
 
 "There were two of those ensemble piano numbers, 
 both classic compositions — Chopin's Revolutionary 
 Etude and Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsodic. And a differ- 
 ent set of pianists performed in each selection, making 
 a fine showing as to the number of classic musicians in 
 Shorter College — 16 girls who can render music of that 
 character being unusual in any one school. 
 
 "The utility of such training in accurate work is not 
 less obvious than its beauty. The discipline of eye and 
 hand and head and heart necessary for the attainment 
 of that result is of incalculable benefit to the student. 
 It brings that discipline without which life's music can- 
 not be wholly harmonious. 
 
 "Mrs. Simmons, who already has a host of admirers in 
 Atlanta, added numbers to the list during her recent 
 visit here. She is a very charming and gifted woman, 
 with that magnetism that comes from the genuinely 
 sympathetic nature. Her pupils are devoted to her, 
 and no one wonders at it. 
 
 "Mrs Simmons is a woman of wide travel and an 
 equally wide acquaintance with the best art and artists 
 of the world. She goes abroad every summer and keeps 
 in touch with the progressive spirit both abroad and at 
 
home. When a person has this inner enrichment, out- 
 flowing- in a wealth of comment and talk, it is a liberal 
 education to those associated with him or her. 
 
 "Shorter College and Georgia girlhood there repre- 
 sented are thus fortunate." — Atlmita Journal. 
 
 "The Grand was filled with a brilliant audience last 
 night for the concert by students of Shorter College, 
 Rome, and enthusiasm colored the performance and the 
 reception from start to finish. 
 
 "The opening selection was Weber's Jubel Over- 
 ture, which was presented by eight young ladies, the 
 brilliance of whose achievement was due to individual 
 as well as collective excellence of execution, and the 
 several solo numbers for piano displayed exceptional 
 attainment. 
 
 "in their singing the young ladies as a whole, and 
 as soloists, gave evidence of delightful voice quality, 
 in which the southern softness and sweetness was em- 
 phasized, and of most creditable training. 
 
 "The audience seemed unwilling that some of the 
 soloists should cease, so pleasing was their work, and 
 Mrs. Simmons, dean of the college, who is responsible 
 for the concert, was accorded the congratulations she 
 deserves. ' ' — A tlanta Constitution. 
 
 ' 'A brilliant and fashionable audience was present at 
 the Grand last evening to hear the Shorter College girls 
 in their annual concert. It is not too much to say that 
 it was one of the best concerts heard here. There 
 was not a pause from start to close. 
 
 "Mrs. T. J. Simmons, musical director, has long 
 been recognized as one of the finest teachers in the 
 South, both for voice and piano. Her pupils show a 
 finish and ease rarely seen off the professional stage. _ 
 
 "The two overtures at the beginning and close of the 
 program were beautifully executed. Eight girls at four 
 pianos, playing with finish, correctness, naturalness of 
 close study, made the audience realize and appreciate 
 the excellent training they had received. 
 
 "The entire program was beautiful. It was not only 
 an artistic success, but another musical triumph for the 
 musical department of Shorter College." — Atlanta News. 
 
"a magnificent audience greeted Mrs. T. J. Simmons 
 and her attractive pupils of Shorter College last even- 
 ing at the Grand. The stage, with its four grand 
 pianos, palms and a deep row of sweet peas across the 
 footlights, made a lovely setting for the young musi- 
 (.jans. * * * * '■' * '-^ * 
 
 "The program was exceedingly well rendered and 
 the great audience applauded most enthusiastically. 
 The two four-piano numbers were excellent, the eight 
 participants playing with unusual finish and abandon. 
 The chorus work was fine, the voices blending beauti- 
 fully. The St. Cecilians were heartily applauded, and 
 their little song, 'Cupid Made Love to the Moon,' from 
 the old Welsh, received an enthusiastic burst of ap- 
 plause, their encore being equally appreciated. * * "^ 
 
 "One of the soloists most heartily applauded was 
 Miss Rena Barbee, whose unusuall}^ sweet voice won 
 all. Her solo 'Tonight and Tomorrow' (Leoncavallo) 
 was an exquisite thing, and her encore was also highly 
 appreciated. Her second encore, 'Mighty Lak a Rose, ' 
 received such a deafening applause that she had to re- 
 peat it. * " '■' - - '-^ * * 
 
 ' 'Atlantians evidently realized that a treat was in store 
 for them, for the Grand was filled. ''^ ''^ * 
 
 "The evening was a distinct triumph for Mrs. Sim- 
 mons and the Shorter girls. They gave their hearers 
 some genuinely delightful music and they were re- 
 ceived with the greatest enthusiasm. From every point 
 of view the evening was a great success." — Atla?ita 
 Jourrial. 
 
 'The second day of the Shorter College commence- 
 ment was distinctive for its two brilliant musical con- 
 certs. The music throughout has demonstrated that 
 this institution's musical department will take rank 
 with any in the country, North or South. To the fine 
 artistic temperament of Mrs. T. J. Simmons is due the 
 meed of praise for lifting Shorter into the sphere of the 
 really great musical institutions and spreading the 
 name and fame ef the college throughout the length 
 and breadth of the United States." — Rome Tribune. 
 
Regarding the recent work of President Simmons and his 
 Faculty in Shorter College, it is superfluous to undertake to speak 
 here at all, for not only is the splendid work of this regime well- 
 known to everybody throughout Georgia and all contiguous 
 states; but a recent issue of the College Bulletin, much larger 
 than the present pamphlet, was filled with words of highest 
 praise from patrons and friends of the College not only in Rome 
 but throughout America. 
 
 In January 1910, the plans made some time before by Dr. 
 and I\Irs. Simmons for their removal with the leading members 
 of their faculty to Brenau College, Gainesville, Georgia, at the 
 close of the scholastic year, were at last made public. The 
 news of their intended departure cast a gloom upon the city of 
 Rome such as no other event in its history had ever done, and 
 the universal expressions of regret throughout the community 
 constitute the most eloquent tribute that they could possibly re- 
 ceive — a tribute even greater than the recently published letters 
 of praise from the friends of the College. No doubt a still much 
 greater work will be theirs under more favorable conditions in 
 the new home to which they are about to go and to which they 
 carry the best wishes of thousands of appreciative friends. 
 
 Regarding the announcement of Dr. Simmons's future con- 
 aection with Brenau College, the editorial columns of the Atlafita 
 Constitution of January 23, 1910, have this to say: 
 
 "well-known educators come together. 
 
 "As the result of the purchase by Dr. T. J. Simmons, 
 for twelve years president of Shorter College, Rome, 
 from Dr. H. J. Pearce, for seventeen years president of 
 Brenau College-Conservator}^, Gainesville, two of the 
 best known and ablest educators in the state have con- 
 solidated interests with the purpose of building a greater 
 Brenau. 
 
 ' 'Few men in Georgia have become so prominent in the 
 educational field, or have so well equipped themselves 
 for the work of educating and training young women. 
 
 "in 1893 Brenau had thirty boarding pupils; now it 
 has more than 300; and Dr. Simmons, who will be as- 
 sociated with Dr. Pearce in its presidency, goes to it 
 
with the purpose and determination of still further build- 
 in|^ it, both in efficiency and extent of work. 
 
 "This consolidation, which becomes effective in June, 
 in time for the opening of the 1910-11 term, will give 
 Brenau as strong and able a force as can be found in 
 any institution in the south, if not the entire country. 
 
 "Presidents Simmons and Pearce are to be congratu- 
 lated upon their conjunction of forces and efforts, which 
 will give the south an institution whose influence and 
 standing must be productive of greater and still more 
 far-reaching achievement." 
 
 The news columns of the Atlanta Journal in an illustrated 
 article, introduced with voluminous headlines, have this to say 
 regarding the consolidation: 
 
 "The announcement comes from Gainesville, Ga., that 
 Ur. T. J. Simmons, President of Shorter College, Rome, 
 Ga., has bought from Dr. PI. J. Pearce an interest in 
 Brenau College. Dr. Simmons will leave Shorter Col- 
 College next June and will be associated with Dr. Pearce 
 in the Presidency of Brenau College-Conservatory. 
 
 "The larger part of the beautiful equipment of Shorter 
 College, consisting of twenty -two pianos, all of the mag- 
 nificent furnishings of the Oriental and Italian parlors, 
 some of the scientific apparatus and much of the furni- 
 ture, which is the personal property of Dr. Simmons, 
 will be transferred to Brenau and used in the equipment 
 of the splendid new building- which is to be erected 
 within the next few months. This new building will 
 be ready for occupancy by the opening of the next 
 session, September 15th. This addition to the Conserv- 
 atory equipment gives Brenau a total of more than eighty 
 pianos. Perhaps no other college in America has so 
 large an equipment of interesting pictures as will be 
 brought to Brenau by Dr. Simmons, who has gathered 
 them from all parts of the world. 
 
 ' 'The leading members of the faculty of Shorter Col- 
 lege, both literary and musical, will be transferred to 
 Brenau and added to the already large faculty of Brenau, 
 which will thus be increased to some forty-five members. 
 
 "This consolidation is the result of several months ne- 
 gotiation between President Pearce and President Sim- 
 mons, and means much for the future development of 
 Brenau, which is already one of the leading colleges for 
 
women in tlie South, having at present the largest board- 
 ing patronage of any college in Georgia. The present 
 student-body includes representatives from twenty-five 
 states of the Union. 
 
 "Dr. Pearce has been president of Brenau for seven- 
 teen years, being, in time of service, the oldest college 
 president in Georgia, with perhaps one or two excep- 
 tions, although he is still comparatively a young man 
 in years. Last year he acquired the complete owner- 
 ship of the college, and the present consolidation is part 
 of a comprehensive scheme of development and enlarge- 
 ment. 
 
 "Dr. Simmons has been president of Shorter College 
 for twelve years. During his administration this institu- 
 tion has greatly increased in numbers, and has become 
 one of the best knoAvn colleges in the South. The pres- 
 tige acquired during these dozen years by Shorter Col- 
 lege through the good work of its faculty will increase 
 in like measure the prestige of Brenau College when the 
 two faculties have been consolidated. 
 
 "Immediately associated with Dr. Simmons in the de- 
 velopment of Shorter has been Mrs. Simmons, widely 
 known both in this country and in Europe as one of the 
 most brilliant American musicians. As Dean of the 
 College of Music she has given a tone and reputation to 
 this department of the institution, which is second to 
 none. She will greatly add to the already brilliant 
 reputation of Brenau Conservatory, and will be Head 
 Professor of A^oice. 
 
 "The complete personnel of the new faculty has not 
 yet been announced, but it is stated that there will be 
 no material change in the present faculty of Brenau ex- 
 cept the enlargement which will result from the addi- 
 tion of the leading members of the Shorter faculty. 
 Brenau is at present crowded and the time of every 
 teacher is filled, so that the additional growth which is 
 expected on account of the coming of Dr. and Mrs. 
 Simmons and the erection of the new dormitory will 
 make a large increase in the teaching force also neces- 
 sary. This increase will be made by the additions 
 from the Shorter faculty. 
 
 ' 'The development of Brenau during the past seventeen 
 years has been little short of marvelous. In 1893 there 
 were thirty boarding students; during the present year 
 they will exceed three hundred. When it is considered 
 
that Breuau is a private institution, without support of 
 Church or State, this growth is the more remarkable, 
 It is an illustration of what may be accomplished in a 
 community when its leading citizens give loyal and 
 united effort to its educational interests. Many of the 
 city's best citizens, some of whom are gone, have given 
 largely of their time and money in the interest of the 
 school. 
 
 "Dr. T. J. Simmons, who is now to become identified 
 with the management of Brenau, is by inheritance and 
 training an educator. His father was for many years 
 a well known professor in Wake h'orest College, North 
 Carolina, and in this institution Dr. Simmons received 
 his education. He came as a young man to Georgia 
 and became principal of the high school in Athens, and 
 then superintendent of schools in Dawson, Georgia; 
 then president of Union Female College, Eufaula, Ala., 
 and finally president of Shorter College, Rome, Ga. 
 In addition to his master's degree, his alma mater has 
 conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Laws in 
 recognition of his distinguished service to the cause of 
 education. 
 
 "inasmuch as Brenau is strictly non-denominational, 
 it is perhaps a fortunate circumstance that Dr. Simmons 
 is a Baptist while Dr. Pearce is a well-known Methodist. 
 Dr. Pearce is a graduate of Emory College of the class 
 of 1891. Later he took the master's degree at the Uni- 
 versity of Chicago, and the degree of Doctor of Philoso- 
 phy in Wuerzberg, Germany. He was fi^rst profes- 
 sor of Latin in the Columbus Female Seminary, and 
 later president of that institution. 
 
 "Presidents Pearce and Simmons are making large 
 plans for the future development of the institution. 
 They will at once prepare to take care of five hundred 
 boarding students. The new dormitory and its equip- 
 ment will cost approximately $35,000, and in addition 
 sevaral club houses for the different sororities will be 
 erected. Work upon one of these buildings will begin 
 next week." 
 
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