Mount Morris College - Life Yearbook (Mount Morris, IL)

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14 ' st was 'fe as Amphictyon Literary Society Motto: Pm' ,4sfic1'a Aa' .l5f1'a. Colors: Blue and white. Officers: l'resident, XYalter Mahan: vice-president, Ray XYolf: secretary, Mabel lfager: treasurer, ll. lf. Summers: critic, Helen XYylie: assistant critic, Nettie Rl. Rieken: censor, J. Emmert Stover: assistant censor. Henry Styers: librarian, 'lohn Barwick. The Amphictyon League was organized in Greece, 1000 li. C. The name of this organization was transferred to the first literary society organized in Mount Morris College. The organization was effected in 18-I2 by about a half dozen people, whose purpose is clearly set forth in the preamble to the constitu- tion: Believing united effort essential in securing permanent literary, social, and moral improvement. we, students of Mount 'Morris College organize our- selves into a society. flfroni this small organization, founded more than three score yearsago, has grown a society which has become a potent factor in literary and social activity. The one constant aim in a literary way has been to discipline intellect. develop clear thought. and clothe it with propriety and elegance. The social side has taken off the raw edges and given polish to many a youth who had the talent but dared not. The products tell. Should the reader step into the Senate of the L'nited States he would find an old man who has served his country longer than any other living man as a lawmaker. lie began his public career as an Amphictyon. The pioneer missionary of the Brethren Church was at one time an enthusiastic society worker. The pulpit and platform claim a large number of former members. Profess- orships and presidential chairs have been filled in many of the leading colleges and universities by men who answered the roll call regularly while attending this institution. These and many others have done their work faithfully and honored the name of Amphictyia. Hesides the regular programs there is held aimually an essay and declama- tion contest. This is for those who through past literary effort are considered competent to contest for the prize which consists of a standard book presented by the society. An oratorical contest is also held annually. The winner of the first prize receives ten dollars, donated by Elmer Shank, a former member. now a successful lawyer in XVashington. The second prize of five dollars is given by Chalmer Klontz, also a former member, who now is engaged in active ministry of the gospel in the Methodist Church. f'Hurrah for the l'icnic ! This was the cry of all as on a bright morning last autumn we climbed 'fgracefullyu into hayracks and started for our destination. The picnic was held on the shady banks of Rock River near Canyamede Springs which are at the foot of a large hill. On the crest of the hill stands the famous Black Hawk monument, overlooking a portion of the surrounding country and the town of Oregon, one mile away. llere, nature in all her display had spent every effort in glorifying her Creator. After a highly relished dinner and hearty games, all returned home feeling tired but happy. The literary work of the past year shows marked development. The productions of the more experienced members have been the best. The special musical programs held once during each term of office are for the promotion of better music and each successive year shows a disparagcnient for cheaper class music and a greater preference for the better grade of classical music. To the success of the society has been attributed the fact that all of its members work for its good and for the promotion of better literary attainment. There is one sentiment voiced by all .-Xmphictyons which has kept the past of the society sacred. lt is this: The memory of Old .Xmphictyia shall never die. N MOUNT MORRIS COLLEGE RCE Ag i :zo

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