McKendree University - McKendrean Yearbook (Lebanon, IL)

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Tennis Team Pole Vaulter Track Squad

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Illinois Governor Adlai Stevenson visited McKendree to deliver the 1952 Commencement address in outdoor graduation exercises at HjiJes Field. An honorary degree of Doctor of Laws of McKendree College was conferred upon Gov. Stevenson at that time. Governor Adlai Stevenson Among other statesmen who have played prominent parts in the history of McKendree are Governor Charles S. Deneen, an alumnus of the college; Lawrence Y. Sherman, fonner United States Senator from Illinois; and Augus- tus French, Illinois Governor who became a member of the McKen- dree College faculty.

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A CoUe 9 I BtandUuf. . . .A COLLEGE IS STANDING And the name McKendree? When Bishop McKendree visited Lebanon in 1830, he became so enthused about the progress of the school that he donated a quarter section of land near Shiloh. Thus, the school was named in that great clergyman ' s honor. . . .A COLLEGE IS STANDING From the halls of McKendree where the white-bearded leaders of the past gaze unperturbed out of their lofty i rames, have gone great numbers of Christian men who have, in their own ways, contributed much to the build- ing of a Christian society and a better world. In its 125 years, McKendree College has aided the Methodist Church in many ways. The entire church has been enriched by the minis- ters trained at McKendree. Almost every hour during the school week, the sonorous tones of the chapel bell ring forth to summon students and teachers alike to class. For over 30 years, McKendree has possessed this — the oldest chapel bell in the United States. Its past is as myster- ious as the tones it creates. Centuries before Columbus discovered America, the chime of this same bell was heard. Historians claim that it was cast in Spain during the 8th century ! Brought to America during the early days of our country, it found its way to Florida, then to St. Louis, where it was recast, and finally to the Illinois State Fair in Centralia. It was here that Mr. Cobleigh, who was then president of McKendree, saw the bell and purchased it. Resting now in the dark clock tower at McKendiee, the bell is little seen by the outside world. Few people realize the romance of its long history. . . .A COLLEGE IS STANDING Another first is the building known as Old Main — the oldest assem- bly hall west of the Alleghenies. Of a plain, sturdy design. Old Main, to- day as in the past, houses the ad- ministrative staff, six class rooms, and Philo and Plato halls. The interior was recently redecorated and now is sparkling in fresh paint and new wood. The exterior remains much the same as when it was erected in 1850. . . .A COLLEGE IS STANDING The original building, a frame con- struction, was burned in 1856. It had been used for religious services and assemblies. This destructive fire led to the building of the Chapel, the land- mark of McKendree. When one thinks of the college, the chapel automatically comes to nind. Located near Cen- tennial Walk, this historic building was completed in 1858. Enduring and strong she stands there, stands up on our College Hill, Though others may outnumber, she holds the first place still, For beauty and truth and knowledge, and for sei-vice without bound, Then let us raise our voices, until the plains resound. This page sponsored by CLARENCE BOHM, DANCE STUDIO, EDWARDSVILLE -17—