hsi^^ vaO Volume 11 January 1917 Number 1 HOWARD UNIVERSITY RECORD The Semi-Centennial of Howard University Announcement and Programs HOWARD UNIVERSITY WASHINGTON, D. C. HOWARD UNIVERSITY RECORD: Published by Howard University in January, March, April, May, June, November and December. Subscription price, one year, twenty-five cents. Entered at the Post Office at Washington, D. C., a$ second d ass m ail matter. BOARD OF TRUSTEES Ex-Chief Justice STANTON J. PEELLE, LL. D., President of Board of Trustees STEPHEN M. NEWMAN, D. D., President of the University GEORGE Wm. COOK, LL. M., Secretary andBusiness Manager EDWARD L. PARKS, D. D., Treasurer and Registrar Term, expires 1917 Mr. JOHN T. EMLEN, Philadelphia, Pa. THOMAS JESSE JONES, Ph. D., Washington, D. C. Rev. JESSE E. MOORLAND, D. D., Washington, D. C. Hon. JAMES C. NAPIER, LL. D., Nashville, Tenn. CHARLES B. PURVIS, M. D., Boston, Mass. JAMES H. N. WARING, M. D., Washington, D. C. MARCUS F. WHEATLAND, M. D., Newport, R. I. Term expires 1918 Justice GEORGE W. ATKINSON, LL. D., Washington, D. C. Rev. H. PAUL DOUGLASS, D. D., New York City. ANDREW F. HILYER, L.L.M., Washington, D. C. Rev. STEPHENM. NE WMA N, D. D., Washington, D. C. Ex-Chief Justice STANTON J. PEELLE, LL. D., Washington, D. C. Rev. ULYSSES G. B. PIERCE, D. D., Washington, D. C. Rev. CHARLES H. RICHARDS, D.D,, New YorkCity, Term expires 1919 Justice JOB BARNARD, LL. D., Washington; D. C.- WILLIAM V. COX, A. M., Washington, D. C. Rev. FRANCIS J. GRIMKE, D. D., Washington. D.C. Hon. CUNO H. RUDOLPH, Washington, D. C. WILLIAM A. SINCLAIR, M. D., Philadelphia, Pa. Bishop ALEXANDER WALTERS, D. D,, New York City HONORARY MEMBERS Hon. JOSEPH H. CHOATE, LL. D.. New York City. Mr. JOHN A. COLE, Chicago, 111. Bishop BENJAMIN F. LEE, D. D., Wilberforce, Ohio. Hon. JOSEPH D. SAYERS, Austin, Texas. Hon. WILLIAM H. TAFT, LL. D., New Haven, Conn. Bishop BENJAMIN TUCKER TANNER, LL.D., Philadelphia, Pa. Bishop WILBUR P. THIRKIELD, LL.D., New Orleans, La. Hon. GEORGE H. WHITE, Philadelphia, Pa. PATRON EX-OFFICIO Hon. FRANKLIN K.LANE, Secretary of the Interioi OUR SEMI-CENTENNIAL 1867-1917 NO one can reproduce the life of Howard University dur- ing the fifty years of its existence with all its toils, strug- gles, endurances, courage and faith. No account can do justice to the hard work put into the founding and development of it. The record of the fifty years is nearly closed. Most of the founders, early teachers and graduates and many later graduates have died. Several thousand living graduates are scattered at the north, south, east and west, bearing their part in the work of life. We know the past but we greet the future. Howard Uni- versity is young. It has not yet reached the prime of its life. Untold possibilities lie enclosed in its being. The recital of its birth and youth will help the institution to realize its promise. In accordance with this idea a general committee appointed by the Trustees has planned a series of meetings covering the pe- riod of our Charter Day, March 2, 1917. Some additional ex- ercises will take place at Commencement, the first week in June. All who come should be here by Thursday, March 1, at 9 a. m. at the opening of the Sociological Conference. REGISTRATION Every graduate who comes to Washington for our Semi- centennial is urged to come to the University immediately upon arrival and register at a desk in the north room of the second floor of the Carnegie Library of the institution. Tickets and programs for the various functions will be provided at that time. Those who plan to come are expected to notify Prof. N. P. G. Adams, Howard University, Washington, D. C. before Feb- ruary 15, 1917 of their intention to be present. Otherwise no reservation of tickets for the various functions can be made. SOCIOLOGICAL CONFERENCE It has been thought wise to hold a Sociological Conference in connection with our Semi-Centennial in which papers and discussions shall be had upon aspects of life which are vitally connected with education. It is intended that there shall be a comprehensive presentation of the progress made by the colored people cf the United States in the fifty years during which Howard University has been in existence. Some distinguished students of these problems have been invited to prepare ad- dresses for these meetings, which promise to be interesting and profitable. The aim of Howard University in holding a Sociological Conference in connection with its Semi-Centennial differs some- what from the aim in holding the usual meetings of such a kind. Most sociological conferences come together to attack and solve some of the numerous problems found in our social life. In many such cases the historical perspective is not thought of, and the element of historical progress not understood. Much dis- cussion which takes place under certain conditions is valueless. The present is closely knit up with the past as the branches of a tree are knit into its trunk. The biology of social progress, or the treatment of it as a vital growth, takes account of the past as necessary for an understanding of the present and for a fore- cast for the future. The aim of Howard University in holding its Sociological Conference is to provide, under the inspiration of its own his- tory, important surveys of the past fifty years which will be of value to all students of social conditions who are attempting the task of assisting social improvement. The work is a great one and can only be done dispassionately. The past is gone. The record of it is made. Men who have helped to make that record have agreed to come here and present statements of these years which are in many senses years of beginnings. The papers will be preserved and will constitute a vuluable asset for the future students. The Alumni cf Howard University will be able to enter into this eflort of the University appreciatively and helpfully. Their high range of intelligence, their clear-headed entrance into the work of their professions, their observations of social condi- tions and reflections upon them enable them to understand very quickly such papers as will be presented and to confirm or mod- ify the information given in them. A work can be done in this way which will be invaluable. It is expected that a future of great good will open before the effort of Howard University in holding the first Sociological Conference at its Semi-Centennial. The sessions of the conference will occupy the forenoon of Thursday March 1, and the forenoon and afternoon of Friday, March 2. The conference will be held in Library Hall at the University. The subjects are as follows: viz. FIFTY YEARS OF PROGRESS BY THE AMERICAN NEGRO Thursday, March 1 9.00 a. m. OPENING ADDRESS by President Newman 9.30 a. m. SUBJECT: Ownership of Rural and Urban Homes. Chairman, Dr. J. H. N. Waring. Paper- Discussion— President N. B. Young, Florida. Mr. R. R. Wright, Jr. 11.00 a. m. SUBJECT: Business Enterprises. Chairman — Dean Kelly Miller. PAPER — Mr. M. N. Work, Tuskegee Institute. DISCUSSION— Mr. W. A. Aery, Hampton Institute. Mr. F. R. Moore, New York City. Friday, March 2 9.30 a. m. SUBJECT: Education. Chairman — Dean L.B.Moore. PAPER — President F. A. McKenzie, Fisk University DISCUSSION— Prof. B. G. Brawley, Morehouse College. Mr. Roscoe Conkling Bruce, Asst. Supt. of Schools, Washington, D. C. 11.00 a.m. SUBJECT: Health and Sanitation. Chairman — Asst. Prof. Martha McLear. PAPER — Dr. C. V. Roman, Nashville, Tenn. DISCUSSION — Miss Mary W. Ovington, New York City. Mr. E. K. Jones, National Urban League, New York City. 2:30 p. m. ROUND TABLE — Race Co-operation after Fifty Tears. Leader — MUSICALE Thursday, March 1, the Howard University Choral Society will present in the auditorium of the new Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School Building of Washington, D. C. a recital of some of the finest selections from great musical compositions which are calculated to show the ability of the organization to render varied and impressive types of music. The Choral Society can give the notable oratorios and can- tatas of the world with great excellence. The members of the Society which compose the choir give several song services dur- ing each year which are attended by large numbers of people, and they always give at the Vesper preaching services selections drawn from such high compositions as those named above. GENERAL MASS MEETING Convention Hall, Thursday. 7:30 p. m. The sub-committee upon the meetings have worked out a plan of great merit, covering different aspects of the life of How- ard University. I A procession of trustees, teachers, alumni and students will march from the University campus to Convention Hall if the weather permits. II Thirty minutes at the opening of the meeting will be set aside for general jollification by college songs, yells etc. by- Students and alumni as departments and as a general body. III Music will be furnished by an orchestra of University students led by Prof. Roy W. Tibbs. IV The following subject will be presented in four different aspects by eminent speakers: — "The Significance of the Fifty Years of History of Howard University and of the Advance of the Colored Race with which it is connected. (1.) From the point of view of the Nation. Hon. Frank- in K. Lane, the Secretary of the Interior. (2.) From the educational and sociological point of view, (3.) From the point of view of the Negro- Pres. H. T, Kealing, Kansas City, Kansas. (4,) From the point of view of the Kingdom of God." 6 HISTORICAL MASS MEETING First Congregational Church, Corner Tenth and G Streets N. W. Washington, D. C, Friday, March 2, 8 p. m. In order to celebrate fittingly the exact birthday of the Uni- versity, March 2, 1867, it was decided to hold the special me- morial meeting in the auditorium in which very many of the sep- arate professional departments held their graduating exercises up to the time when they were all combined in one University Com- mencement on the campus. Most of the doctors and lawyers of former days received their diplomas in this church. Some of the inaugural ceremonies were likewise held here. A special interest attaches to the building therefore. In this meeting the oldest living graduates will be given places of honor, and some of them will make brief addresses. Letters and messages from others will be read. The President of the University will make the main historical address to be fol- lowed by addresses by two distinguished alumni. Good music will be furnished by the University Conservatory and the meet- ing will give a notable expression of the life and work of Howard. The history of an institution like Howard University bears an important relation to the history of the country. If the early reminiscences are not gathered up by the time it is fifty years old, many of them will be finally lost beyond recovery. If any of the older graduates have papers, programs, and pamphlets giving account of what took place upon any occasion whatsoever the University would be very glad to have the gift of them that they might be placed in a collection for future reference. The sim- plest program of any special exercise or of any Commencement of the early time will sometime be of great value. Let every grad- uate look at his papers and see if there be not something he can give the University. The history of a University also depends upon the history of its graduates. All kinds of material relating to them should be gathered for preservation. Some important historical questions are often settled by such collections. In order that this may be properly cared for every graduate should consider it a privilege to be a committee of one to help build up such matter. Each one should take special pains to keep his address on file at the University for reference in all cases. If each graduate will do this simple thing annually it would make it possible for the Uni- versity to carry out its wishes in reaching them. It is disap- pointing to see the mail which comes back to us marked "re- moved, no address left" or some similiar statement. Send word of all removals at once. Return all postals of inquiry at once and by so doing you will help both sides. ALUMNI DAY To all alumni of Howard University. The celebration of the Fiftieth Anniversary of the granting of the Charter to Howard University i-s one of the most momen- tous occasions in its history, fraught with opportunities of untold and inestimable value in the light of its history and in view of its future work. In and out of this celebration I hope may grow a closer union between each alumnus and his fellow and between these and the University. The possibilities of fifty years of ser- vice have in like manner imposed correlated responsibilities and duties, and to have enjoyed the one precludes the possibility of denying the other. The preparation for the celebration from the alumni point of view has included every thought, comfort and provision for this large body of men and women represented by the alumni who are the best evidences of the success of its labors. Our repre- sentation on the General Committee, the public program for "Historical Night" and for the full day to celebrate as we may think best puts the matter clearly beyond the field of conjecture and demands a reciprocal showing on our part. It is urged as a part of the scheme that associations which have been in existence but inactive, may at once get together, and where none exist may organize and make arrangements for cele- brating with us by holding on March 2, public celebrations con- current with the one to be held at Washington by the Univer- sity. Send through the General Alumni Association greetings by telegram during the Washington Celebration. Have you considered that in fifty years we have no tangible evidence of our interest and love of Alma Mater? Here and now is an opportunity and responsibility, — may we not measure up to it? In 1908 our first attempt at accomplishment, the Alumni Gymnasium, after two thousand dollars had been raised, more than six thousand dollars had been pledged, failed of fruition why or how, let us not ask. We stand pledged to ten thousand dollars on this account, can we not rise as one man and say "I will"? . The Alumni plan in the Celebration contemplates a contri- bution by every alumnus on or before March 2 of one dollar each for each year he or she has been out of the University up to ten years, after that one dollar for each five years or multiple thereof, the whole to be presented to the trustees on the night of our big meeting here March 1, 1917. This plan has met with general acceptation in that it places a contribution in the reach of all those who have already pledged themselves and have paid may further help by accepting this scheme; those who have pledged and have not as yet paid may do so now as their pledges are counted on. Here is a great work to be done, let us do it now. Sacrifice is the measure of love. Make a little sacrifice and show a permanent monument to Alma Mater. It has been suggested that the Alumni Day in the Celebra- tion, March 3 will be arranged for Department Reunion in the forenoon, luncheon as guests of the University at noon and Alumni Rally in the afternoon. Preparations are under way and every Alumnus is invited to communicate with the president of the General Alumni Associa- tion. Each alumnus has a part in this celebration. Your part — resurrect or organize your Association. Come if you can, if not celebrate in your home town where located. Let the people know HOWARD is on the map. Send at once your "Gym" contribution, either the one dollar plan or pledged amount thereof. Shelby J. Davidson, President General Alumni Association. The above letter from the President of the General Alumni Association sets forth clearly what is being planned by the Asso- ciation for Alumni Day. The General Committee upon the Semi-Centennial set aside Saturday, March 3, for the uses of the Alumni in such ways as they might wish to arrange. Reunions will be held both forenoon and afternoon and arrangements made for further reunions at Commencement. It is hoped that there will be a more complete representation of alumni at the two peri- ods than has ever occurred at Howard. It is also hoped that there may be many local celebrations in different parts of the country upon the evening of Friday, March 2, at which groups of the alumni gather together in love for their Alma Mater. VESPER SERVICE The meetings of our Semi-Centennial which cluster around Charter Day, March 2, 1917, will close with a Vesper Service in the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel upon Sunday, March 4 at 4 p. m. This chapel is too small for such a service, as it is too small for our Baccalaureate Service each Commencement. But there are so many thoughts and feelings connected with the room through the assembly in it of students for daily "chapel," through the words of eminent speakers who have addressed us there, and through the many aspirations for the University which have been expressed there in words, prayer and song, that no other room can take its place for our final service, at which we hope to have a message spoken by a man eminently calculated to help and inspire us. LUNCHES AND RECEPTION Ample provision is being made for visiting alumni and guests who wish to stay at the University through the noon hour to be served with refreshments each day. On Saturday evening at 8 o'clock will be held the Trustees' Reception with refresh- ments. Admission to the lunches and reception will be by tickets which will be distributed to all who are entitled to them upon the days when the lunches occur. The Bureau of Information and Registration where the tickets will be distributed will be in the north room on the second floor of the Carnegie Library of the University. EXHIBIT The first great part of the Exhibit which the University will make to the public in connection with the Semi-Centennial will be the campus, buildings, and class-rooms. Guides will be fur- nished at the Bureau of Information for such as wish them. Another part will consist of charts and other preparations show- ing the growth and work of the University from the meeting of the first preparatory class in a rented room on what is now Georgia Avenue to the present large number of buildings and students. The scientific and medical laboratories will be open for inspection. Early graduates will be intensely interested in all these things. We hope the public generally will give atten- tion to them. 10 First Revised Program Thursday, March First Sociological Conference 9:00 a. m. GREETINGS by the President of the Univeisity. 9:30 PAPER: Fifty Tears Progress of the American Negro in Ownership of Urban and Rural Homes 11:00 PAPER- Fifty Tears Progress of the American Negro in Busmess Enterprises. 12:30 p.m. Luncheon. 3:30 MUSTCALE by University Choral Society: Dunbar High School. 8:00 MASS MEETING in Convention Hall. Friday, March Second Sociological Conference 9:30 a. m. PAPER: Fifty Tears Progress of the American Negro in Education. 1 1 :00 PAPER: Fifty Tears Progress of the American Negro in Health and Sanitation. 12:30 p. m. LUNCHEON. 2:30 ROUND TABLE: Race Co-operation after Fifty Years. 8:00 Historical Mass Meeting at the First Congregational Church. Saturday, March Third 9:30 a. m. FIRST MEETING OF THE ALUMNI: Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel. 12:30 p. m. Luncheon. 2:00 Second Meeting of Alumni. 8:00 Trustees' Reception and Buffet LUNCHEON: Rankin Memorial Chapel. Sunday, March Fourth 11:00 a. m. assignments of visitors to various Pulpits of the City. 4:00 p. m. UNIVERSITY VESPER SERVICE. 11 3 0112 105769647 The Great Question How can trustees, officers, teachers, students and friends unite to make the celebration of the Semi-Centennial of Howard University so worthy that it shall be not only a delightful climax to the work of the past half century but a prophecy of the half century to come with all its possibilities of increased usefulness? May we get courage for the toil and struggle of the future, and a vision of the large part which Howard is to take in the develop- ment of our country! May the wisdom and devotion of all be greatly quickened by the celebration of our Semi-Centennial! It should be remembered that the celebration of our Semi- Centennial will be continued into the period of the annual com- mencement the first week in June 1917. This will give an un- usual character to the regular exercises at that time. Notice will be taken of the history of the University in the different programs. It is hoped that w T e may have an historical pageant in which shall be set forth some of the striking events in the life of Howard. There is a chance to represent some very striking contrasts in the progress made from 1867 to 1917. Commencement Day will be Wednesday, June 6 and it may be that many alumni who cannot be here at the celebration in March, can come for the week of Commencement. We hope that such may be the case. The General Alumni Association is sure to ha^e some plans for that time which may be calculated to carry to a greater height the interest aroused by the exercises of Alumni Day in March. 12