New Bedford Institute of Technology - Fabricator Yearbook (New Bedford, MA)

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Mis ' tort of the fiew Bedford Zextile Institute UNDER a special act of the Massachusetts Legislature, authorizing any city with 450,000 or more spindles to organize a corporation whose objective would be the establishment of a textile school, the New Bedford Textile School was founded in 1895. With funds appropriated by the City of New Bedford and the Commonwealth, the first building was erected and readied for the fall session of 1899. This enrollment consisted of 11 day and 183 evening students. The first graduation was held in 1900, as the course was then of only one year ' s duration. Within a short period this was extended to three years; this program prevailed up to the present ex- tension to four years. Due to a rapidly increasing enrollment and a constant improvement and expansion into related fields, new additions to the school were built in 1901, 1905, 1911, and 1923. These structures joined the original build- ing on the North, South, and West, and today house the Mechanical, Knitting, Chemistry, and Designing Departments, the Gymnasium, and sections of the Weaving and C. Y. P. Departments. The acquisition of new and diversified equipment down through the years has contributed to its recognition through- out the world as an excellent textile training center. It became a state institution in 1918. In 1940 a special course for girls was added to the curriculum; in addition, during the war, the school offered training in nutrition, food analysis, and machine shopp practice for girls. With the end of hostilities the school encountered record enrollments that have not as yet abated. In preparation for things to come, the name was changed from school to institute in January 1946. In May 1947, the trustees were given authority by the State Legislature to grant degrees in textile, chemical, and mechanical engineering. During the ensuing 18 months active plans were formulated, and in November 1948 the expanded curriculum was approved by the State Board of Collegiate Authority. The long awaited four year degree-granting courses of study became a reality. In the midst of this preparatory period, the institute celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in May 1948. The golden jubilee festivities were well attended by alumni from all parts of the country and the world. At present there are two bills before the State Legislature. These seek to appropriate land adjoining the Institute and funds for the construc- tion of a large new building to further supplement the classroom, machinery, and laboratory needs of this rapidly expanding educational institution.

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Dedication As a manifestation of our gratitude for his intelligent, aggressive, and successful effort that this institution be allowed to grant de- grees; in appreciation of his sincerity as an instructor; with respect for his integrity as an individual; the class of 1949 is proud to dedicate this issue of the Fabricator to Mr. John E. Foster.

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Appreciation For thirty-five years of conscientious and devoted service to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, this tribute is made to Miss Maud L. Clark upon her recent retirement as principal clerk and treasurer of the New Bedford Textile Institute. Although her activities did not involve direct contact with the students, her sincere interest and willing- ness to help when called upon were very much appreciated. May her well-deserved retirement be restful and rewarding.