Plymouth State University - Conning Tower Yearbook (Plymouth, NH)

Text from Pages 1 - 164 of the 1931 volume:

S ISSI ] raw “The Conning Tower” Prom which the Life of P. N. S. is observed 1931 Plymouth Normal School ill otto “lliucit qui patitur” conquers iuljo cnburcs” |Jerseherattce in effort «£ lloualtu to ibeals «s •s n 3 learning for service ■£ VS % vs iHemortcs that bless aitb hunt ¥ (Opportunity for self-expression i llnitu faith Inunauitu £ £ (trust in Q5ob 5 Honor to country attb self £ • ( o n n 7 Table of Contents Foreword. Dr. Silver’s Message. Dedication. Faculty. Seniors. Class Write-ups. Training Schools. )r ?aui .a lions. Student (iovernnieiit. Dormitories. Literary Department. Jokes. Advertisements. Foreword A Class Hook is comparable to a mirror—reflecting rays of sunshine. Its covers part to briny: back memories and acquaintances; it pages turn to reveal the spirit of cooperation and sportsmanship, ever prevailin'? in every nook and crevice of our Alma Mater. As shadows fall across the rays of sunshine. so, too. have there been shadows in our years here only to be dominated hv beams of happiness. I’nderclassmen, consider this, our Class Hook, a School Hook, incorporating your activities and your accomplishments; cherish it as somethin ? vital and alive, and wo shall consider our efforts in editin'? Tin Couniny Toinr duly repaid. The Foitok. |10| “Like a sentinel strewing our path with light. 7 h e C o n n i n g 7 o w e r of 19 3 1 Ernest Leroy Silver “With all your understanding:, got wisdom.” An open mind can receive wisdom. Careful thinking: can winnow grains of truth from chaff of sophistry. A liberal attitude is a patriotic attitude, because democracy demands mobility of social status. Reverence for all good, and faithful stewardship of the ten talents or the five talents we have, will make understanding, wisdom. Ernest L. Silver. 1121 T h r C (inning To u nr of I 9 3 In appreciation of I In untiring: interest ami loyalty you have shown toward our school, your ever-ready aid in solving stuih nt government problems, and your kindly humor which so often helped to lighten our hearts, we, the Senior ('lasses of 1931, dedicate to you, this, our Class Book. 1131 T h e ('. o n n i n g 7 o w c r of 19 3 1 Editor-iH'Chicf Florence Mr I.ran Assistant Editor Bertha Davis S'1 . „ ) , Oi it Business Manaacr ClaSS IjOOE St (lH Anne Glen non Assistant Business Manager Marion Stearns Art Editor Joke Editor Eva Smith Florence Beecher . I ssiston t A rt Editor Eleanor Sweet Advertisiuff Monager Mary Golding Assoeiate Editors Grace Wilson Rosemary llamill Bertha Franklin Xelliemac Connor Mary Coleman Faculty Adviser Eva Eakki. Fikia no [HI The Conning Tower of 1931 Ernest Leroy Silver President Dartmouth College. B. I... Ph.D., Harvard Summer Sehool. Guv Edwin Spearc Superintendent of Schools and Direc tor of Training. Dartmouth College, A. B.; Harvard University, Ed. M. Eva Earll Furlong English Cornell University, Ph.B., A. M. Herbert Huntington Damson Natural Sciences Dartmouth Medical College. M. D. Beatrice Ella Hodgdon Physical Education Plymouth Normal School; Posse Normal Sehool; Harvard University, Summer Term; Columbia University, P� . S.; Plymouth Summer Sehool. Geneva May Smith Mathematics Farmington State Normal School, Maine; Boston University, B. S. in Ed.; University of Maine, Summer School. [l(i| Laura Bell McLean Drawing Massachusetts Normal Art School; Harvard University Summer School. Harry Preble Swett History and Social Science Amherst College, B. A.; Harvard University, A. M.; Harvard University. Summer School; Columbia University, Summer School. William Frcemont Skelton Education Plymouth Normal School; Boston University, B. S. in Ed.; A. M. T h r C o n n i n g T o w r r of 193 1 Ethel Sion no Bickford English :iinl Psychology RadclifTc, A. B.; Boston University, M. Ed. Cecelia Theresa Moran Commerce Salem Normal School, B. S. in Ed.; Boston University, Summer Sessions. Doris Isabelle Newton Music Lowell Normal School, Teachers’ Course; Lowell Normal School, Music Supervisors’ Course; Lowell Normal School, B. S. in Ed., Music Major. Robert John Ernst Commerce Iowa State Teachers’ College, B. A.; State University of Iowa. M. A. Evelyn Marguerite Waugh History—Economics F a r m i n g t o n Normal S c h o o I; University of Maine, B. I’ll.. B. A.; graduate work, University of Washington; University of California, M. A. Clarissa Allen Hewey Health and Nursing New England Hospital, R. N.; graduate of Gordon College. John Raymond Fitzgerald Educational Sociology, Manual Arts Hyannis Normal School; Boston University. B. S. in Ed.; Summer Session, Hyannis; Summer Session, Harvard University; Boston University. Summer School. Bertha Elizabeth Farrell French—Latin Middleluiry College, A.B.; graduate student. Middle bury College; S u m m e r School, Middlcbtiry College. Frances L. Litchman Librarian Boston University, College of Liberal Arts, A. B.; University extension courses for librarians. [171 Th :• Conning Towvr of 193 I Sarah Augusta Richardson Domestic Arts Fitchburg Normal School. Fitchburg, Massachusetts; student, Simmons College, Boston. Massachusetts; B. S., Simmons College. Gladys Pearl Twitchell Critic and Headmaster, Orford High School F a r mi n g t o n Normal School; Colby College. B. A.; Summer Sessions, Columbia University; M. A., Columbia University. Albert E. Gauthier Assistant Headmaster, Hampstead High School Keene Normal School; Middlcbury College, Summer. Vina Elizabeth Spence Geography Mount Holyoke College. H. A.; Clark University, M. A.; Hyaniiis Normal School, Summer Session. Mary Adelia Taylor Critic and Headmaster. Dalton High School Boston University, A. B.; Middlcbury College, A. M. Marion Katherine Seavey Principal of Training School Plymouth Normal School; student Rhode Island College of Education, Summer; Plymouth Normal School, Summer; University of New Hampshire. Charles Mack Abbot M a t lienia t ies—Science University of New Hump shire, B, S.; Teachers’ College, Columbia University, M. A.; Summer Session, 11 a rva rd U n ivorsity. Augusta Matilda Nichols Critic Headmaster. Hampstead High School Plymouth Normal School; Bates College, S ii m m e r School; University of Vermont. Summer School; B. S. in Ed„ Boston University. Anna Bean Brown Critic Simmons College; University of Maine. B. S.; Summer School, University of New Hampshire; Summer School, Plymouth Normal School. [18] 7 hr Conning I awc r of 19 3 1 Evelyn Werme Critic State Normal School, Worcester, B. S. in Ed. Jane Ellen Kitten bur 5; Critic Chicago Evangelistic Institute; Eau Claire State Teachers’ College. Wisconsin; Livermore Falls School. Esther Bozarth Critic Illinois State Normal University; University of Chicago, Ph. B. Helen Frances KoUcher Critic Il.vannis Normal School; Boston University, B. S., in Ed. Gertrude Heckler Mattnon Critic Plymouth Normal School; 11. S.. University of New Hampshire. Dorothy Maeh Davis Assistant Critic Plymouth Normal School, B. of Ed., 11)30. Hazel Corson Critic Plymouth Normal School; student at University of New Hampshire; Summer School, University of New Hampshire. Marion Edith Giles Critic Plymouth Normal School, B. of Ed.; Summer School, Boston University. Gertrude Ida Shaw Registrar and Secretary to President 11!)] I h e ('. o n n i n g T o w ? r of 19 3 1 Mrs. Mabel Haigh Matron, Mary Lyon Hall Mrs. George Leatherbury Matron, Samuel Head Hall Dormitory Mrs. Edith A. Beal Dietitian Roses Delicate rose, Elusive fragrance breathing mystery, Exquisite petals. So tenderly caressing the Sun God. Lovely rose. I wonder And fear, for thy future. Here thou art. smiling happily heavenwards. Proud and secure Softly cloaked in the warmth of A midsummer’s moon. Exotie thing! My heart cries at the thought Of thee on the morrow. Glorious flower. Joyous and ever so gay, Without power to fear The terror of the night. Dance on gracefully amongst the winds. I see a coldly radiant moon Gaze down with compassion Upon the ravages of thy beauty. The Storm of Life Hath robbed the glory of thee. There thou art— Broken—withered. And, I. too, Have longed to crush thee to me In a moment of ecstasy, Destroying thee Even as the fury of the winds. —Doris Chirurg. [201 Robert .John Ernst. The Conning Tower of 19 3 1 To the Graduates of the Four Year Commerce Course The past few years have emphasized the need of a better understanding of business by our great body of citizens, called tin Public. Since the high school student body of today will make up the Public of tomorrow, you will soon have the privilege and duty of helping to build a stronger nation through your contact with the students in your classes. The task of the high school commercial teacher should In more than that of merely training the students in mechanical proficiency in one of several commercial pursuits. The business world, as evidenced by numerous statements from leading business men, wants not only workers trained in some one skill, but those who can sense business situations as they develop. This means that, in addition to the narrow, specialized training which the high school has provided in the past, our future citizens must be given training that will enable them to comprehend the business situation as a whole. All of this is merely another way of saying that the various commercial subjects should be taught, not as a goal in themselves, but as a means to an end—that of enabling the students to understand the ways of the business world of which he is soon to become a part. I wish you success and happiness in carrying on the work of this great phase of American education. R. .1. Khnst. l� :i The Conning Towr r of 19 3 1 Seniors-Commerce ZILLA DAVIS CHASE Deerfield. X. II. “Zill” (ilee Club (2); Pnn-Atheiurum (2) (3) (4); See.-Treasurer of Pan-Athemeuin (3); Councilor of Hus-sell House (3) (4); See.-Treasurer of Senior Class I); A, A. (1) (2) (3) (4). ‘ ‘ The very pattern yirl of girls. To those who are not well acquainted with her, “Zill” may seem very quiet and demure; but those of us who know her well, know that she is capable of doing her share in disturbing the peace and quiet. Her laughter and chatter are cheerful, her steadiness and understanding a pleasure, and her friendship and loyalty a joy to all those who know her. ANTOINETTE A. GEXDROX Manchester. X. II. 1 ‘ Buddie” June Pageant (1); French Club Secretary-Treasurer O); Class Secretary-Treasurer (2); Class President (3); Class Vice-President (4); Basketball Varsity (3) (4); Basketball Class Team (1) (2) (3); Volley Ball Class Team (2) (3); Speedball Class Team (3); Bowling Tournament (2) (3); Pool Tournament (1) (2) (3); Tennis Tournament (1) (2) (3); Pool lender (3); Representative (2) (3); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3) (4); Pan-Athena-um (2) (3) (4); Social Club Council (4). “ Valuable things often route in .'email packages. “Buddie” may not be so large, but she is a great friend to all those who know her. Her friendship is valued by all. Can “Buddie” laugh and see the funny side of life? We’ll say she can, and life is one good time after another with her around—ask any of the U. B. U. ’s. ANNE MILLICENT Cl.EXXON Manchester, N, II. “Andy” Baseball (1) (2); Speedball (1) (2); Volleyball (1) (2); Class basketball (1) (2); Representative (1) (2) (3); Councilor (1) (2); June Pageant (1); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3) (4); Pan Athentemn (2) (3) (4); Class See.-Treasurer (1) (2); Treas. A. A. (3); Social Club Council (3); (Ilee Club (2); Associate Judge (3); Bowling Tourn. (I) (2): Pool Tournament (1) (2): Tennis (1) (2); Forensic (1); Business Manager Class Book (4); Class Pin Committee (3); Baseball Leader (3); Class President (4); Prom Committee (4). “Here’s to the girl with the laugh anil smile. The girl with never a frown. She's happy ami carefree, ami jolly, well-liked .■I ml a girl life never will down. ’' Laughter without Anne; Anne without laughter—impossible. A dependable leader, a good s|H� rt, and a true friend—such a combination certainly accounts for Anne’s being one of the most active and popular members of our social circle. [24] T he Conning Tower of I 93 1 MARION FRANCES STEARNS Nashua, N. II. Representative (1); Glee Club (1); Pageant (1); Pan Athenaeum (2) (3); Class Pres. (2); Chief Justice (2); Speaker of the House (2); Christmas Paegant (2) ; Governor (3); Russell House Councilor (3); Ass’t. Bus. Mgr. (� f Class Book (4); A. A. (1) (2) (3) (4). “She'. in for fun anti in for larks, Hut still to duty's call she harks. Words fail to describe Marion. Look at her list of activities ami her story is told as to what she means to her classmates and to P. N. S. As a leader, as a friend, as a merry maker, Marion is always at hand. A LI EN E NANCY TAYLOR Westminster, Vt. “Bobbie ; “ Al. Class Vice-President (4); Class Secretary Treasurer (3); Social Club (4); Student Gov. Council (3); Associate Justice (4); Pan-Athenauun (3) (4); Representative (3); Glee Club (2); Photograph Committee (4); Athletic Association (I) (2) (3) (4). “ True worth is briny, not seeming. Aliene came from the Green Mountain State to join our class at P. N. S. Her ability to question will carry her far along the road to success. Add to this trait a charming personality, a keen sense of humor, together with much efficiency, and we have a most enviable combination. We prophesy that you will be successful in all that you do. Aliene. [25] Harry Preble Swett. The Conning Tower of 1931 To the Graduates of the Four Year History Course I will talk with you about your profession. Let ns begin rather abruptly without preliminaries by applying the law of excluded middle. Your labor of making better the lives of others either has a meaning that transcends human existence, or it does not have. The difference between the two is vastly greater than that between white and black or light and darkness— these are only faint metaphors. In much educational writing and thinking the attempt is made to ignore this distinction. Let us not try to avoid the unavoidable. If tin fundamental nature of reality is essentially mental, then the process of education—the process of making better the life of another—has deathless significance. This is the philosophy of education in a sentence. If you accept this philosophy, you will find it an unfailing source of inspiration. Salaries, comforts, numbers, locations are of minor interest compared with the motive of moulding an immortal spirit. This philosophy will help you to resist—possibly with impatience—tin spell of speciously expressed theories and programs of conduct frequently found in current literature. When pupils come to you with superficial beliefs or lowly desires, you can more unerringly suggest a better thought or way. because your standard is high and comprehensive. Your philosophy will lighten the burden of drudgery, for you will know that details are necessary in a world where there are particular facts. It will help you to distinguish between big and little things, because your own thoughts are large. It will aid you in being patient when others might be impatient. It will keep you cheerful, because you will always have something to look forward to. All this will react upon your own characters, but you will not need to dwell much upon this. If you will purposely reflect not infrequently upon your broadest principles as, to repeat in another phrase, “that the last word in metaphysics is mind”, you will test the truth of your principles, you will find in them increasing meaning, and you will be able better to apply them. Spinoza said Homo coijital. Some think more than others. 11. P. Swett. 127| 7 he Conning Tower of 1931 RUTH EVELYN BLOOD Nashua, N. II. 4 Professor” Latin (Muli (1) (2): G.vm Exhibition (1); Forensic (2): Representative (3); French Club (2); Pan Atheiueuin (2) (3); English (Mub (1); A. A. (1) (2) (3) (4). The reward of a thing will done is to have done it. Tin (Mass of 1931 is proud to count Ruth as one of its members. Although she is rather reserved in brilliant social circles we all envy her, her keen mind, and shall remember her as being especially capable in all her classes as well as a lover Of Winter sports. NORA EMILY BURNHAM Nashua, N. H. Volleyball (1) (2); Spocdball (1) (3) (4); Pan-Athe-mvum (2) (3) (4); Forensic (1) (3); A. A. (1) (2) (3) (4). • • To tail: and talk sensibly is a thing not often achieved. ’ ’ Nora's ability to solve the weighty problems of Economics is envied by all in her class. Also as a history student who can rival her? Although Math proved to be a — to Nora, we all feel sure that her teaching career will be a success. BERTHA MATTIE DAVIS .Merrimack, X. H. High Sheriff (1): Representative (2) (3); Glee Club (2); Pan-Athenteuin (2) (3) (4); Social Club Council (3); Class Vice-President (3); Student Govt. Council (3); Forensic (3); Assoc. Justice (3); A. A. (1) (2) (3): (Miief Councilor of Russell House (4); Assistant Kditor-in-Chiof of Class Book (4). “Within was one who calm amt true, Life's highest pur post understood.’’ Although the youngest member of the class, she has excelled as a student. Lively words do not describe Bertha, but she is sincere, calm, and earnest in all her endeavors, and we feel that this will lead her to success. [28] The Conning Tower of 1931 NELLIEMAE CONNOR Nashua, N. II. Class President (2); Glee Club (1) (2); Forensic (1); Latin Club (1); (iirl Scouts (3); Social Club I rcs. (3); Athletic Assoc. (1) (2) (3) (I); Pres, of Athletic Assoc. (3); Baseball (1) (2) (3); Volleyball (1) (2); Speedbnll (1) (2.) (3); Class Basket-hall (1) (2) (3); Varsity (1) (2) (3) (4); Captain of Varsity (3); Ninas Pageant (1); June Pageant (1); Pan Athemeum t2) (3) (4); Bowling Tournament (2); Tennis Tournament (2); Tennis Leader (2); Representative (1) (2); Sergeant-at-Arms (2); Associate Editor, Class Book (4); Chairman. Prom Committee (4). • ‘ A thirties, my frit-mis, is the elixir of life.” Nelliemae is the miss that makes basketball a treat to see. Oh! don’t blush! It is true. She is an athlete and a good sport, but more too. To know her is to experience happiness, for she has the ability of being a friend. And oh! we mustn’t forget to mention, she is a U. B. IT. FELICIA CRAY Portsmouth, N. II. “Floe Baseball (1) (2); Speed bn II (2); Bowling Tournament (1) (2); Class Basketball (2) (3); Varsity Basketball (3) (4); A. A. (1) (2) (3) (4); Scouts (3) (4); Pnii-Athciufiim (2) (3) (4); Sergeant at-Arms (3); Representative (1) (2); Chief Councilor of Bussell House (4); Clerk of House (4). ” Sin x full of fun, ami she’s full of life; Slit is so small -but, oh my! That's ‘Flee.’ ” The multiplication of “liens” plus Jewish percentage has a deep significance for those of us who trained with her at Hampstead. As for her P. N. S. gains, 1 am unable to enumerate them. A peppy little side-center, an enjoyable dancer, a math shark, a good friend, and a member of the famous C. B. U.—what have you?—no one but “Flee.” ROSEMARY HAM ILL Stoneham, Mass. “ I La mill” June Pageant (1 ; Glee Club (2): Pan Athemeum (2) (3) (4); A. A. (1) (2) (3) (4); Sec.-Treasurer of Class (3); Vice-President of Class (3); French Club (1); (iirl Scouts (3) (4): Bowling Leader (2); Tennis Leader (3); Tennis Tournament (2); Bowling Tournament (2); Volleyball (1) (2) (3); Speed-ball (1) (2) (3); Class Basketball (1) (2) (3): Varsity (2) (3) I): Representative (2); Councilor (3) ; Associate Editor of Class Book (4); Baseball (I) (2) (3). “ ran if I will.” Without you. Rosemary, the athletics of P. N. S. would have been lacking. Even though you arc small, we were always sure of you in the basketball games. I’m sure your gift of arguing is envied by many, especially in Economies. Best of luck in whatever you attempt after graduation, Rosemary, and here’s hoping you won’t forgot the many friends vou have made at P. N. S. [29] The Conninp Tower of 1931 OSMAN P. HATCH St. .Johnsbury, Vt. Orchestra (3). “The L indt st man. The best-conditioned and unwearied spirit In doing courtesies.'’ —SlIAKKKPKARR. What will I , N. S. lw? without Mr. Hatch? He is never idle a minute, yet always has time to think of others. Serious and thorough in the preparation of his work, yet he is ever a jovial and happy companion. FLORENCE KATICRVX Mcl.EAX Portsmouth, N. H. Hop dune Pageant (I); Pan-Atheiueum (2) (3) (4): Latin Club Consul (1): French Club (2); Howling Tournament (I) (2); Tennis Tournament (2); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3) (4); Clerk of Court (2); Clerk of House (3); Class President (3); Class See.-Treasurer (2): Social Club Council (3); Vice-President of Pan Athemeum (3); (iirl Scouts (3) (4); Class Pin Committee (3); Prom Committee (4); Editor-in-Chicf of Class Book (4); Representative (1) (2). A corking’ girl, a splendid sport, ‘Hop’, our classmate, is just that sort.” The gods gave Flop enviable capacity in many fields- dramatic , scouts, scholarship, but the greatest of all personality, which makes all the world a friend on trust. These gifts have made Flop exceeding ly popular at P. X. S. WILLIAM KITTEN HP R(i Campion, X. II. Here mould I leave some subtle part of me.” This has seemed to be your purpose, and well have von succeeded. Your contributions to our classes in government and philosophy have been greatly appreciated, and we only wish you hail been with us more than a year. A member of the men’s volleyball team! [30] T h n C o u n i n g T o w e r of 19 .'i 1 IVY ISABELLE SPOTTISWOODE Chester, X. II. ‘SunnyM Glee CIuli (1); Representative (1); Pan-Athenanun (2) (3) i � ); Latin Club (1); Speed ball (1) (2) (3) (4); Speed ball Captain (2) (3); Volleyball (I) (2) (3) (4); Baseball (1) (2) (3); Bowlin Tournament (2) (3) (4): Class Basketball (1) (2) (3); Varsity (2): Councilor (2); Sergeant-at-Arms (3); Clerk of Mouse (4): Class President (4); A. A. (1) (2) (3); June Pageant (1); Girl Scouts (3); Spcedball Leader (3) (4). ' There teas a little tjirl and she had a little eurl.” We shall always remember Ivy as our dignified head waitress and “Sunny” as our lively cheerful classmate. Ivy has distinguished herself also as an athlete. Brown eyes, sparkling with vivacity and personality, characterize Ivy as one of the most popular members of our class. ETHEL MAKJ OK IE WOODBURY Woodsville, X. II. Pau-Athcmcum (2) (3) (4); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3) (4); Pool Tournament (2) (3). “ Lati h and the world Uuujhs with you.” In Ethel we have one of our most happy and carefree girls. Her merry laugh bears out this fact many times a day. We have often wondered what is so attractive about Woodsville, Ethel, to warrant so many week-end absences from P. X. S. Can you tell us? [31] Geneva May Smith T h c C o n n i n g T o w e r of 19 31 To the Graduates of the Junior-Senior Course With tin graduation of your class Plymouth Normal School completes sixty years of its history. The services which have been priveil and the successes which have been achieved during its existence of more than a half century have been inspired and made possible by tlie ability, devotion, and high ideals of the people who have preceded you. All this past which they have created is yours: its traditions are a part of your school life. But your three years at Plymouth Normal School have been built upon more than traditions. You have done active work for yourselves in acquiring types of knowledge which qualify you for the teaching profession. You have learned how to use your own minds to greater advantage and how to make the thoughts of others of greater value to you. You have learned methods of transmitting your knowledge to others. These things are all a part of your professional training. But expert scholarship and training alone are not sufficient for the ideal teacher. The essential requirement is an idealistic one. The difference is a difference of interests, of values, of visions. It defies measurement. It depends upon the recognition of teaching as fundamentally a kind of artistry rather than a glorified trade. It is of this higher meaning of teaching that William Lyon Phelps writes: ‘‘I had rather earn my living bv teaching than in any other way. In my mind, teaching is not merely a life work, a profession, an occupation, a struggle; it is a passion. 1 love to teach. I love to teach as a painter loves to paint, as a musician loves to play, as a singer loves to sing, as a strong man loves to run a race. Teaching is an art —an art so great and so difficult to master that a man or woman can spend a long life at it. without realizing much more than his limitations and his mistakes, and his distance from the ideal. But the main aim of my happy days has been to become a good teacher, just as every good architect wishes to be a good architect, and every professional poet strives toward perfection.” You may say that only a superman can lx an ideal teacher, that it is a goal which can never literally be realized. Nevertheless, as an ideal it may be of great value in that its approximation may help us to go beyond mere mechanical efficiency to a more professional and more artistic kind of teaching. Your residence requirements as members of Plymouth Normal School have been completed. We believe that the highest standards of our school and profession are safe in your hands. Your “loyalty in the midst of ordinary tasks and duties” will furnish the real test. May our farewell to your class carry with it our confidence for your success and our sincere desire for your happiness. [33] Geneva M. Smith. T h r C o n n i n g T o tr r r of 1931 MAIM OX CLARA BERWICK Franconia, X. II. ‘ ‘ Mi ini' Representative (3); Ban-Athenjeum (2) (3); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3); ■ irl Scouts (2) (3). “ II hot was put in this world for if not to tall: Who's the girl with all the books? No one but Marion Berwick. We arc led to believe, however, that her chief interest is not in books. For further information just ask her where “Moses was when the lights went out—no, not in the dark! He was—she’ll tell you, perhaps! Here’s Jo your success and good fortune! MARY ELIZABETH COLEMAN Manchester, X. II. ‘ Coco ’ ’ Representative (2); Ban-Athenaeum (2) (3); June I'ageant (1); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3); Treasurer (3); Class Book Staff; Girl Scouts (2); Bool Tournament (1) (2); Bowling Tournament (1) (2). She itrals no ruloflij -she speaks for herself. Mary is one of the snappiest members of the class. Being a good sport, a good dancer, and a good teacher are the abilities she has shown at B. X. S. We feel sure that “Coco will go forth to her task, well equipped with all the essentials for success. Volley Ball (1) (2) tain of Speedball sentutivc (1) (2); Treasurer (3) ; Atlienscum (2) Xice to chat with Good to know; Glad to have her Where we go; Cap- Repre- Class Ban- Siveet and wholesome, Always true; That’s G. Gardner Yes, that’s you! GLADYS GARDNER Xorthwood, X. II. “Glad (3); Speedball (2) (3); (3); Baseball (1) (2); Secretary of State (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); (3). BERTHA FRANCES EMERY Lincoln. X. II. “Bert Forensic (1) (2) (3); Varsity Debating Team (I) (2) (3); Ban Athenaeum (2) (3); French Club (1); Representative (2); Bowling Tournament (1) (2); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3). “It would talk; Lord how it would talk! As an authority on salesmanship, love, war, advertizing. and Chelsea. Bertha reigns supreme. But don’t think she excels only along these lines, for. upperclassmen, will you ever forget her dramatic and debating abilities? If you are ever lonesome or in need, just call on “Bert . She’s a good friend! [34] The Co n n i n g Towe r of 19 3 1 MARY VERONICA GOLDING Manchester, X. II. Goldie” Cl ns Basket ball (1) (2) (3); Pool Tournament ( ) (2); Bowling Toiirnameut (1) (2) (3); Speed hall (2); Cheer Leader (2) (3); June Pageant (1); Representative (1): Solicitor (2): Councilor of Russell House (3); Class Secretary (2) (3); Glee Club (1); Secretary of Athletic Association (3); Treasurer of Athletic Association (3); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3); Social Club Council (3); Advertising Manager of Class Book (3); Girl Scouts (2). “First in work, first in play. First in the hearts of lo r classmates. ” In “Goldie” we find a good, all-around sport, who finds a place in any circle. With such a combination of seriousness and fun- what can we expect but success? CLARK MIRIAM HORACE Manchester. N. II. Glee Club (1) (2); Representative (2) (3): Class Secretary (2): Class Vice-President (3); Girl Scouts (2); Russell House Councilor (3); Pan Athemeum (2); Photograph Committee (3); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3). “You’ll hare known her for the merriment that sparkles in her eye. ’ ’ Without this member of our class perhaps we would have spent many dull hours, but due to her undying thirst for knowledge, conversation has never lagged. Her pleasing personality and friendliness will ever be helpful to her achievements. BEULAH MARJORIE JKSSKMAN Franconia, X. II. Athletic Association (1) (2) (3); Bowling Tournament (2); Representative (1); Associate Judge (2); Solicitor (2); Girl Scouts (2). “The way to have a friend is to he one. The shrill notes of a bird call—the blare of a trumpet the bark of a dog the siren-notes of a tire whistle! Don’t be alarmed: it’s only Beulah! Always in a hurry, never in a worry. She doesn’t care a Whit comb what may! ELINOR GRACE JONES Dover, X. II. “Jonsie”: “Tony” Councilor (1); Representative (1) (2) (3); Bowling Tournament (1) (2): Specdball (1) (2): Baseball (2); Treasurer (1); Glee Club (1) (2); Sheriff (2). • ‘ .11 is volat propriis. ” Would you ever believe that a Latin shark would get as much enjoyment out of dissecting poor innocent little creatures? But then each must, have her hobby—or is it hobbies? “Jonsie” was a great classmate, and always there when it came to knowing her lessons. May she keep up her good work! [35] T It e C o n n i n g Tower of 19 3 1 ANNA RITA O’CONNOR Manchester, N. H. “Penny Annie” Pan-Athemeum (2) (3); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3). 44Anna is quiet; Anna is shy But when you know her, oh, my! Four pennies and one penny make a nickel. Which part are you? Anna is an ideal friend, and when you tell her something you know she can keep it to herself. Mcthinks her memories of Dalton will long endure. CHARLES ARTHUR SARGENT Ashland, N. II. “Charlie”; “Surge” “Modest, learned, capable, all things that sit well upon a man. Charlie is agreeable and smiles upon all. He debates for the sake of the argument, likes his sciences, and is well known as a staunch democrat. He played a prominent part on the successful men’s volley ball team this year. GLORIK VERONICA ST. JOHN Suncook, N. II. “GIo” Speed ball (1); Baseball (1); Class Basketball (1); Pool Tournament (1); Forensic; Pan-Athenaeum (2) (3); French Club (1); Vice-President of Social Club (1); Councilor (1); Class President (1); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3). 44 An ounce of cheerfulness is worth a pound of sadness. ’ ’ “Glo” is one of our number who delights in making merry. However, sufficient zest and vitality remain for her work and extra-curricular activities. Shall we miss “Glo” in our French and Pan-Athenaeum plays? Many a student has envied her poise and gracefulness on the stage. Best of luck, “Glo”! [36] T It c C o n n i n tr Tower of 1931 MARY MARGARET SULLIVAN Manchester, N. II. “ Mollie Speedball (1); Representative (1) (2); Bowling Tournament (1) (2) (3); Pool Tournament (1) (2) (3); Treasurer (2); Councilor of Russell House (3); (•iris Scouts (2). “Once a friend; always a friend.’’ “Mollie’’ is the baby of our class—that is. the youngest. Green? Not much! Who could ever guss she's Irish: but that isn’t all she is. She’s very thoughtful ami kind and always willing to help anyone at any time. ESTHER ELIZABETH TEFFT Sugar Hill. N. II. “Es Class Basketball (1); Volley Ball (1); Bowling Tourn ament (1); Cheer Leader (2) (3); Athletic Association (I) (2) (3); Christmas Pageant (I); Representative (1) (2) (3); Councilor of Russell House (3); Class Vice President (1); Class President (3); Orchestra (1) (2) (3); Glee Club (1) (2); Secretary Olee Club (2); Pan-Athemeum (2) (3); Class Pin Com mittec (2); Prom Committee (3). •4 Let me go where Vr I will I hear a sky born music stilt.’ ’ We shall miss you, Esther. Your witty sayings and radiant personality have done much to make your stay here one that will be remembered. We all join in wishing you a successful career. VERNA MARIE TCCKER Hanover, X. II. “Tuck Vice-President of Class (2); Forensic (1) (2) (3); Secretary of Forensic (3); Girl Scouts (2) (3); Pnn-Athenamm (2) (3); June Pageant (1); Speaker of the House (2); Associate Justice (1); President of the Athletic Association (3); Vice-President of Athletic Association (1); Head Cheer Leader (1) (2) (3); Speedball (2) (3); Volley Ball (1) (2); Baseball (1) (2) (3); Sport Leader (2) (3); Class Basketball (3); Pool Tournament (1) (2) (3); Bowling Tournament (1) (2) (3); Tennis Tournament (3) ; Pin Committee (2). “ When I hare anything to do, I do it.” Yes, even skating before breakfast—six below zero! Who, but 4‘Tuck can lead cheers in the gym which make voices hoarse. Your executive ability, energetic spirit, and cheerfulness will surely be missed at P. X. S. l� 71 TIte Conni n g Tower of 1931 JENNIE PIII.LEMEXA VERl'AUTBREN Manchester, X. H. Representative (1); Glee Club (1) (2) (3); I'an-A the mciim (2): Athletic Association (1) (2) (3). “Her very tone is music’s own, Like those of morning hints. And something more than melody Dwells ever in her words. To whom, but Jennie, have the Gods granted those two magic gifts—music and art? We certainly have enjoyed your return to I . X. S. and feel certain that the future holds some worthy outlet for your specified talents. MURIEL ELOISB WIIITELV Suncook, X. II. “Mew” Vice-President of Class (3); Glee Club (1) (2) (3); Special Glee Club (2); Forensic (2); Pnn-Athemeum (2) (3); Christmas Pageant (1); June Pageant (1); Representative (1); Nergeant-at Arms (2): Athletic Association (1) (2) (3); Speedball (1) (2); Volley Ball (2); Basketball (2); Baseball (2); Varsity Basketball (2) (3). M is for Merry—a gay, little miss; U is for Useful—We know she is this. R is for Real—her friendship so true; I is for Innocent—those eyes of blue. E is for Earnest—her studies show this; L is for Lively—a gay, little miss. “Mew” has lived up to her name in these respects as both her friends at Plymouth and 0. H. S. can testify. MARY MABKLYX WILLI KENS Manchester. X. H. “Willie” Pan-Atheiueum (2) (3); Class Basketball (3); Volleyball (2) (3); Representative (2); Bowling Tournament (2) (3); Pool Tournament (1) (2); Athletic Association (1) (2) (3). “Divinely tall and most divinely fair. A laugh, a shout, and along comes Mary. Her friendly smile is always welcome wherever she goes. “Willie’s” mementos of P. X. S. include a doctor’s bill for that black eye. a sprained ankle, and a reputation for being the champion bulb-breaker and noise maker. [38] “Like—but oh, how different! Silt nee more musical than any sound. f 11 krbkrt Huntington Lamsox To the Graduates of the Sophomore-Senior Course You have been with us for two years; you came lieiv ; prepare vour-selvi-s to l� e teachers of children. You probably realize more I'iiIIn now what tliat means; your attitude has been changed, ami your purposes clarified. You know that the children you teach are to In , twenty years lienee, the men and women who will help to make this world a jrood place to live in. or tin opposite. Their happiness and usefulness will depend on a great many factors. hut one of those factors will he tin teachers they have had. The faculty, to the best of their ability, have presented to you the ideas that are to serve as your guides in your work of teaching. They have •riven you instruction, counsel, advice, and encouragement. They have sown the seed and await with liveliest interest the harvest. Do your job. You alone can do it. There is no greater satisfaction in this world than the consciousness of a job well done, whether others acclaim it so or not. In modern pedagogy the use of the word, “don’t , has trone out of fashion. but permit me to use just one “don't . Don’t worry; do your job as well as you can; do it better next time. You are hound to make mistakes, being: human. Try no] to make the same mistake more than once. then. Let the dead past bury its dead. Your instruction and reading: have brought to your attention an uncountable number of “do’s and don’ts . If you are contused, remember that there is a form of wisdom that still exi ts. thong’ll olten obscured, which is within the reach of all. and that is COMMON SKXSK; if all the prescriptions of the educational doctors fail, try that. Keep your souls and minds well ventilated, open their windows that the winds id' the spirit may bring- you health and inspiration. Our best wishes go with you. If you ever conn this way. call. II. II. Damson. (HI The Conning Tower of 1931 MARY CHARLOTTE IIAKBR Colebrook, X. II. “Charlie” Forensic (1) (2): Debating (1) (2): Varsity Debating (2); Pan-Atliemcum (2): CSirl Scouts (1) (2); Representative (I); Councilor (2): Solicitor (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Class Basketball (1) (2); Varsity (2); Speed ball Team (1) (2); Captain (1): Class Volley Ball (1) (2); Class Baseball (1); Bowling (1) (2): Tennis (2); Pool (1.) (2). 4 She ish 't vi ry laryc, Slu- isn ‘t very tall. Hut what she lacks in sire. Herself makes up fur all. Charlotte is one of our good all-around sports. Although she lives in Hall Dorm, we feel that she is one of our Perkins House “Gang”. she is equally active in debating and in basketball. Wherever “Charlie” is. tin ball is kept a-rolling. KI.S1K ELIZABETH BECKMAN Kensington. N. II. “Beck” Representative (2); Athletic Association (1) (2): Bowling Tournament (2); Pool Tournament (2). Elsie certainly has proved her worth to Plymouth Normal School by her never tiring effort to succeed and to help others. She surely deserves the success which we know will be hers. We will remember her as another of the Perkins House Gang. Nuff sed! FLORENCE ROSE BEECHER Errol, X. II. “Polly Circus” Class Secretary (2): (lice Club (1): Forensic (1): Paii-Athemeum (2); June Pageant (1): Represent:! live (1) (2); Sergeant at Arms (2): Civic Commit tee (1): Athletic Association (1) (2); Cheer Leader (2); Basket Ball (I): Class Basketball (2): Class Speed ball (1) (2): Captain (2); Class Volleyball (2); Class Baseball (1); Bowling (2): Pool (2); Class Book Staff (Joke Editor) (2). 4 Ready for work ami ready for play Always happy, f ooil natured, and pay. Florence or Polly, as she is known to her classmates, is one of the best nntured, and straightforward girls in our class. She is enthusiastic about sports and is interested in all class activities. [42] The Conning T o tv e r of 1 9 j Kl'TII SAKAI! BELANGER Laconia, X. 11. “Pep Vice-1‘reside lit of Athletic Association (1); Vice I’resident of Social Club (l) ; Social Club Council (1): Rep resentativo (1) (2): June Pageant (1); Christmas Pageant (1); Volley Ball (1); Speed ball (D; Baseball (1); Basketball (1) (2): Girl Scouts (1) (2); Patrol Leader (2); Howling (1) (2); Pool (1) (2); High Cop of Carroll House (2); Forensic (2); Pan-Athenn-nni (2); Athletic Association (1) (2). ‘ A girl one can never forget Is a girl with a smile called Pep . Problem: What does Pep equal 1 Given: 1— Beauty 2— Vivacity 3— Sportsmanship 4— Gaiety 5— Ambition Solution (easy). 14-2 + 3+4+r = Pep. BARBARA DORIS BRXSON Derry. X. H. “Barbie” Athletic Association (1). • • Barbie ’' is a girl so gag Sever a black eat crosses her wag,'' “Barbie”, will you ever forget the morning your radiator started to leak? We're sure you and Peggie thought you were going to be real “Shipmates”. GRACE EVELYN BOODY Exeter, X. 11. Pun-Athcnanim (2); Athletic Association (1). “To be willing is to be able They say Grace is quiet, but when she was on Freshman Alley sin was far from it. Grace, if you grow up and learn to cook as well as your mother, you may send us all boxes. BARBARA ANN BOYCE Lisbon, X. II. “Barbie” Vice President of Class (2); Pan Athenseum ( j). Forensic (2); Representative (1) (2); Solicitor (• )• Basket bull (j (o); Glee Club (1); Pool (2). “Then is something captivating in her manner.” “Barbie” can play a good game of basketball be sides being n fine teacher. She helped to keep the Parsonage going, and made people realize she was around. Best of luck. “Barbie”. [43] The Gonning Tow e r of 1931 ANN CHRISTINE BURKE Manchester, N. II. Athletic Association (1) (2). Ann lias always been a willing helper, and “a friend in need is a friend indeed.” Here's for the best ever, Ann. MARGARET JENNIE COLBY Littleton, N. II. “Peg” Forensic (2); Debating (2): Pan Athemenni (2); Representative (1) (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Class Speedball . (2); Class Volley Ball (1) (2); Class Basketball (1) (2); Varsity (1) (2): Bowling (1) (2); Pool (1) (2); Captain Basketball Varsity. “She In is done meritorious service in athletics. ’ ’ “Beg” goes about things in a manner which insures success. Besides being a member of the basketball squad. Peg showed us she could debate. It E B ECCA C11A M B EH LAI N Concord, N. II. “Becky” Pan-Athenamm (2); June Pageant (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Bowling (1). “IIV listened for her words in min.” Although “Becky” was sparing in talk, she was always ready to follow what was suggested, and proved herself a fine sport. LILLIAN BEATRICE CONNOLLY Tilton, N. H. “Connie” Forensic (1); Pan-Athemeum (2); Representative (1): Athletic Association (1) (2); Bowling (1); Pool (1). “What is life hut to live?” Connie is witty, Connie is wise, Connie is full of fun. A place without Connie Is no place at all. I«l The Conning Tower of 19 31 IIILDRBD FRANCES COVELL West Stewartstown, N. II. C loo (Mull (2); Forensic (2): Athletic Association (2). Hi Id red is a girl worth knowing. Although she has been with us only a year, her quiet manner and line work have won her many friends. RUTH COVILL Pittsburg. X. II. “Teddy ; “Ruthie Pan-Athenaeum (2): Representative (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Pool (2); Bowling (2). “Rutliie is one of our quiet classmates, and we are proud of her presence at Plymouth. We know your secret. Ruth. Dancing is your hobby. ALICE BEATRICE CROTEAU Milan, X. II. “Al Pan-Athena'uin (2): Girl Scouts (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Bowling (1). “Her smile mis not more sunny than her heart.” It is impossible to think of “Al without remembering the cordial, friendly smile which was the index to her naturally sunny, helpful, and friendly nature. Your smile alone will do much to make you a success as a teacher, Al. FLORENCE MAY DALEY Manchester. X. II. Pan Athenamm (2); Glee Club (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Bowling (2). “A quiet exterior conceals much.” Florence probably will never forget her first days at Plymouth. The second day she was here. Dr. Lamson shouted at her, “Simple, simple, simple ! Florence was surprised, of course. We like to talk and laugh with Florence. («] TIte Conning Toner of 193 1 MARY LOUISE DIOX Lisbon, N. H. Athletic Association (1) (2). “Sin 's little, but oh, my. ’ When Mary had charge of the class, we all settled down to hear a good story, well told. We all should like to he children again if Mary would tell storio3 to us all the time. DOROTHY MAY DOUGLAS Manchester, X. II. “Dot” Glee Club (1); Pan-Athcmeum (2); Forensic (1) (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Civic Committee (1): Speed ball (1); Volley Hall (1); Howling (1); Pool (1). “For every why she Inul a wherefore. We all expect “Dot” will establish a Y. W. C. A. in the town where she teaches. I’m sure she will succeed. “Dot” has a way of putting things across. Will anyone ever forget the debates carried on in every classf MARION ALICE DOWNING Wentworth. X. II. “Bill” June Pageant (1); Orchestra (1) (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Howling (1). “Always full of fun and pep. Just a girl you can't forget.” “Hill” Downing is a shy, demure little miss. One would hardly think that she could make such a loud noise with her saxophone. Here's hoping that her life will always be as successful as her music. GLADYS MILLICEXT DUBOIS Goffstown. N. II. “Glad” Vice-President (2); June Pageant (1); Pan-Athemeum (2); Secretary of State (2): Representative (.1) (2); Associate Justice (2); Bowling (1) (2); Athletic Association (1) (2). “She came, she smiled, she conquered. When Gladys smiles—well you can’t help smiling hack. Smiling isn’t the only thing she’s capable of doing; you should have seen her in training. 146] The Conning Totvr r of 193 I DOROTHY MARY EGAN Manchester, X. H. “Dot Bowling (1); Volley Ball (1); Representative (2). “Here's to the girl with a laugh and a smile, The girl with never a frown. She’s happy and carefree and jolly well liked, And a girl life never will down. ’ ’ Dot and her smile are inseparable. Although Dot’s ideals are high, we learned from her chapel speech that she does not wish to gain fame by Hying. MARION ELIZABETH EMERY Auburn, N. II. Pan-Athenanim (2): Secretary-Treasurer (2); Girl Scouts (1); June Pageant (1): Governor (2): Representative (1) (2); Associate Justice (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Class Team Speedball (1); ('lass Team Volley Ball (1) (2); Class Team Basketball (1) (2); Bowling (2); Pool (2). “She’s in for fun and in for larks Hut still to duty’s call she harks.” Instead of Mary and her little lamb, we have Marion and her little smile. Marion was very much interested in athletics and as our Governor, she showed her executive ability. MAXINE WHIPPLE FERGUSON Manchester, X. 11. “Mac Glee Club (1); June Pageant (1); Representative (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Cheer Leader (1); Bowling (1); Pool (1) (2). “A fountain of youth bubbling over with laughter.” Maxine, what would P. X. S. do without your inevitable laugh? Perkins House would have been lost without you, Mac. And furthermore, what would you have done without Shirley? SHIRLEY ELIZABETH FKRREX Erroll, X. H. “Shirt June Pageant (1); Representative (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Bowling (1); Pool (1) (2). ” Never trouble trouble till trouble troubles you.” We shall always remember Shirley for her desire for travel. Neither shall we forget her knowledge of the arts and sciences. Good luck to you “Shirt . May your future be full of happiness. [47] The Conning Tower of 1931 VERONICA B. FITZGERALD Manchester, N. II. “Fitzic Representative (1) (2); Baseball (1); Bowling (1). “Good, better, best; Never let it rest Till your pood is better, And your better best.” This has been “ Fitzic's motto, and we know it always will be. She is a willing worker, a good sport, and a true friend. ARLETA MAY FOSTER Littleton, N. II. “Lee” Girl Scouts (1); Representative (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Basketball (1). She is i capable girl.” We all have no doubt but that “Lee will someday become a Physiology teacher. We all think probably “Lee agrees with the scientist who said. “The hip bone is the longest and the skull the thickest. Here's the best of luck, Lee. May your food always go down vour oesophagus and not your trachea. BERTHA IRENE FRANKLIN Tilton. X. II. “ Bennie President Class (1); (Bee Club (1) (2); Forensic (1); Social Club Council (2): Pan-Athemenm (2); June Pageant (1); Vice-President of Pan -Athenaeum (2); Class Representative (1); Civic Committee (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Class Basketball (I); Photograph Committee (2); Class Book Staff (2). “ To make a world of friends. Here’s to a girl with a pleasing sense of humor which we shall never forget. She has always been a prominent member of our class. Can we ever forget her chapel speeches and her interpretation of “Launcclot Gobl� o f May the best of luck be yours, always, Bertha! MIRIAM RUTH FULFORD Littleton. N. II. Bowling (1); Athletic Association (1). “Don't talk too much—listen. Generosity, sincerity, and friendliness are the traits by which we know Miriam. Success to you in the future, Miriam. [48] Thc Conning Tower of 19 31 BEATRICE PULLER Lancaster, N. H. ‘‘ Bee ' Glee Club (1) (2); Special Glee Club (2); Orchestra (1) Girl Scouts (1); Speed Ball (1); Volley Ball (1); Bnsketball (1) (2); Bowling (1) (2); Pool (1) (2). “A firm and dauntless mind. Besides keeping up with her school duties. Bee has also been able to show her ability in playing basketball. We all think Bee would make a splendid music teacher. Here’s to you, Bee. ALTHEA MARION PULTON Manchester, X. 11. “Al” Glee Club (1) (2); Forensic (2): Pnii-Athemeum (2); June Pageant (1); Representative (1) (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Class Team Speed Ball (2); Bowling (1) (2); Pool (1) (2). “In action faithful and honor char. We often wondered why ‘‘Al” didn’t go out for debating. Perhaps she got enough of it in Psychology class her first year. However, Althea, we are wishing you lots of luck. LUCILLE HILDA FULTON Lukcport, N. H. Orchestra (1); Pan-Athenaeum (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); June Pageant (1); Bowling (1). Good sense and good nature arc never separated. It—is for lucky. U—for her unique ideas. C—stands for cleverness. I—for intelligence, you may be sure. L—means loyalty toward all whom she knew. L—once again, for her likeable self. E—for efficiency in her chosen profession. Now you've had a glimpse of Lucille. DORIS KATHLEEN GIBSON Groton. Vt. ‘‘Dodie” Forensic (1); Pan Athemeum (2); Athletic Association; Bowling (1). “liy the work one knows the workman. As a member of third tloor, Hall Dormitory, Dodie is noted for her quiet manner. We wonder how many times in the future Dodie will wake up at five-thirty and say, ‘‘Oh, I must get my lesson plan done!” [49] The Cnnning Tower of 19 3 1 MARGARET REGINA GRIFFIN Manchester, N. H. “Peg” Forensic (1) (2); Pan-Atheimmm (2); Social Clul) Council (1); Girl Scouts (1) (2); Representative (1); Athletic Association (1) (2). A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance.” “Peg has always been a ray of sunshine in our classes and in our dormitories. When Peg gets to teaching we are sure she’ll come “smilin’ thru’’. VIOLA ABIGAIL HALEY East Andover, N. H. Pan-Athenicum (2); Representative of A County (2); Athletic Association (1) (2). A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance. As one of the Kloek House Gang, Viola made things lively and pleasant for her companions. Here’s for the best of luck, Viola. MARY ELLEN HAMMOND Taimvorth. N. II. Athletic Association (1) (2); Baseball (1); Class Team (1); Bowling (1). ‘ Mary had a lot of knowledge, We knew it very well; Hut Mary wished to gain tome more, So she come here to college.” We certainly have enjoyed Mary’s two years here, with her rpiick wit and merry laugh. She has won many friends at P. N. S. PHYLLIS TUTTLE HAYWARD Hancock, N. II. “Phil’’ Class Treasurer (2): Glee Club (1) (2); Special Glee Club (1) (2); Pan Athemeum (2); June Pageant (1) ; Representative (1) (2); Speaker of House (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Speed Ball (1) (2); Volley Ball (1) (2); Basket Ball Class Team (1) (2) ; Captain Class Team (1); Varsity (2): Bowling (1) (2); Pool (1) (2); Prom Committee (2); Class Marshall (1). “ The glass of fashion, the mould of form.” We wonder why Phil wasn't called “Dimples’’ more often! They were always in evidence, and may they always be, especially in the trials and tribulations of a rural school teacher. [50] The Conning Tower o 19 31 EDNA DORIS IIAZEN Canaan, N. II. Glee Club (1) (2); Spocinl Glee Club (2); I'an Athenwum (2); Athletic Association (1) (2). Smile and tin world smiles with you. Edna is a girl who can give a little piece of her smile to everyone and still have some left for herself. MARION EDNA IIERSEY Center Tuftonboro, N. II. Pnn-Athemeum (2); Girl Scouts (2): Representative of A County (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Speed Ball (2); Volley Ball (2). “ The best work is tionc on the quiet. ’' Marion, we hope you never will forget our first day together. It was you who sat very quietly while the rest of us probably disturbed you. BARBARA BROWN HOLMES Gorham, X. II. “Barb” Vice-President (1); President (2); President of Pan-A then am in (2); Treasurer of Social Club (2); Social Club Council (2); June Pageant (1); Representative (1) (2); Athletic Association (1) (2): Speed Ball (1) (2); Bowling (1) (2); Pool (2); Prom Committee (2). “Everything she does, she does well. When a Portia for our play, last year, we did seek, someone who had talent and who, we knew, could speak, Wc all quickly decided on this fair lass, and she surely proved to be a credit to her class. She has talent, she has brains, and a personality too, ami no task is too hard for Barb to do. So when she leaves dear P. N. S. and goes to her own school, if she takes along that smile it will surely pull her through. FRANCES ELIZABETH I LESLEY Auburn, N. II. “ Fran ” Pan-Athenieum (2); Girl Scouts (1): Representative (1) ; Athletic Association: Specdball (2); Volley Ball (2) ; Basket Ball (1) (2); Baseball (1); Bowling (1) (2); Pool (2). “Love is like the measles. Everyone must yn throuyh it. If anyone watched for the mail man more than “Fran” did. we did not know it. “Fran”, you were always alert and ready in your classes, so we know you will make a success of teaching. Here's to you. [51] The Conning Tower of 1931 ALICE MARION JEFFREY Hardwick. Vt. 4 Freddie ' Glee Club (1); Pan-Athenaeum (2): June Pageant (1); Civic Committee (1); Athletic Association (1) (2). Let the world glide, let the world go by. A fig for care, and a fig for woe. Could we find better lines to describe “Freddy”? H ELEN .1EANN ETTB .1 ESSEX! AN Sugar Hill. N. H. • have heard of the lady, and good words went with her name. Helen, we'll always remember you as a member of Freshman Alley. We hope you will never sleep over in the morning. RUTH HARRIET JOHNSON Monroe. N. II. “ Ruthie” Piin-Athemvum (2); Girl Scouts (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Basketball (2). “Silence, though golden, is impressive. As well as being mistress of her studies, Ruthie takes a great interest in all school activities. We shall remember you always. Ruthie. MURIEL REACH Pittsburg. N. II. •'She knows when to speak; knows, too, when to hr silent. Muriel came to us late in our Senior year and was a surprise. Are not surprises always the pleasantest things! We've enjoyed working with Muriel, and we know she will be a willing teacher. [52] The Conni n g Tower of 1931 PAULINE IIOPK KEEZER Plaistow, N. II. “Polly” “True wit is to advantage dressed. Polly is truly one of our quiet girls. We have often heard that. “The best work is done on the quiet.” You should do some splendid work, Polly. MARION DRAPER 1 EX ISON Warren, N. H. To be willing, it to be able. Marion is a splendid girl. We all admire her courage and determination to succeed. Wo wish her the best that life can bring. DOROTHY KUEHN Manchester, N. H. “Dot” Pan-Athenieum (2); Representative (2) ; .June Pageant; Class Ode (2). “flood things come in small packages. Coming to us in February, Dot made us aware of her presence by her laughter and happy smile. Dot was always a good sport and ready for a heigho time. Rest of luck, Dot. RUTH MESSER LADD Raymond, N. II. Pan Athenieum (2); Girl Scouts; Bowling Tournament (1). ttFor she is just a quiet kind, Whose natures never vary. Ruth has won many friends during her stay at P. N. S. She is industrious, loyal and sympathetic. Here's wishing you luck in your teaching career, Ruth. [33] The C o nn i n g To tv e r of 19 3 1 BELLE LOUISE LAWRENCE Laconia, N. II. Glee Club (1); Pan-Athenaeum (2); Athletic Association (I) (2); Cool (1) (2); Bowling (1) ( -); Speed-ball (1). “.I smile is always worth while.” We arc sure lionise believed this for she always greeted us happily and was ever ready to help us out of our difficulties. ANNA SPEAR LEECH Meredith, N. II. Ann ” Athletic Association (1) (2). “Always a smile and a helping ha ml, AI ways a friend who will understand.” We have always found Ann ready to attempt anything from dancing to recitations. Her friendliness and general ability have made Ann popular at P. N. S. ANNA MARGUERITE LEIN Manchester, N. II. Pan-Atheuieum (2); Pageant (1); Howling (1); Volley Ball (1). “Short and sweet! Cute and neat! Cheery and happy! Il’itty and snappy!” These are the only words that can describe you, Anna, and after all, aren’t they quite sufficient? LAHLIA LOVERING Freedom, N. II. “Ukie”; “Uke” Glee Club (1); Pan-Athemeum (2); June Pageant (1); Athletic Association (1) (2): Volley Ball (1); Howling (1); Pool (1). • For if she will, she will, you may depend on it. ’ ’ L—Lively A—Ambitious H—Helpful L—Loyal I—Inspiring A—Active [34] The Conning Tower of 1931 GERTRUDE ELIZABETH MALONEV Ashland, N. II. “Gert’' Pan-Athemrum (2); Glee Club (1); Sextet (1); Brisket ball (1). Industry and wit pavr the %cay to glory. Everv group was glad to see Gert coming, and although she did not live with us this year, we were always pleased to have her with us during the day. We know she never will be late to school for she’s in the habit of getting up early to catch the train. Here’s to you, Gert. MARJORIE EVELYN MAHXTOX Loudon, N. II. Pau-Athemeum (2); Bowling (1); Athletic Association (1) (2). “She is gentle, $he. is slip. Hut there's mischief in her rye. Marjorie is a girl who appears to be very quiet, but when we get to know her. we find a great sport and a sincere friend. Best of luck in your chosen profession, Marjorie. MAE BELLE OLXEY Lisbon, X. II. “Mabel” “0, this learning, what a thing it is. We wonder how many times Mabel said this when she was trying to do her “Math”. She always found nufli cient help on Freshman Alley. Best of luck, Mabel. BONNIBEL ORR Rochester, X. II. “ Bonny” Pan-Athena’um (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Bowling (1); Pool (2). Messed with that charm, the certainty to please. “Bonny” in nature and name are only two of the things which have made Bonnibol a pleasant and a sincere classmate. [55] The Conning Tower of 1931 MARGARET ELIZABETH PAGE Dover, N. H. “Peg” iU « Club (1) (2); June Pageant (1); Athletic Association (1). “ There is something captivating in her manner.” As first grade’s Miss Page, her pleasing manner and helpful ways have endeared her to all. Here's to you. Peg. NORMA GENEVIEVE PAGE St. Johnsbury, Yt. “ Nonnie ’ ’ Secretary of Class (2); Glee Club (1) (2); Pres. Glee Club (2); Special Glee Club (2); June Pageant (1); Social Club Council (1): Orchestra (1) (2); Girl Scouts (1); Representative (2); Speaker of the House (2); Snowshoe Sport Leader (2); Speed ball Class Team (1) (2); Volley Hall Class Team (1) (2); Baseball Class Team (1) (2); Basketball Class Team (1) (2); Varsity Basketball (1) (2); Bowling Tournament; Pool Tournament; Tennis Tournament. “Music doth all our joys refine.” Although Nonnie was busy with her music she also found time to be a good basketball player ami hold her own in classes. EDITH ELIZABETH PEARSON Madison, N. H. “Pete” Forensic (2); PanAthemeum (2); Girl Scouts (1); Representative (1) (2); Clerk of Court (2); Councilor (1); Athletic Association (1); Basketball Class Team (2); Bowling Tournament (1) (2); Pool Tournament (2). We’ll always remember her stories and readings. Her primary people will just love her, because sunshine and happiness follow in her footsteps. Don’t think she spends all her time reading, for she is also a prominent figure in our gymnasium. RHTH RAMSDELL Manchester, N. II. Pan Athemeum (2); Athletic Association (1); Bowling Tournament (1). ,tA smile anti laugh for everybody.” Ruth’s dimensions are filled with laughter, wit, and sunshine. We know that as a teacher she will always be prepared to be a success. [56] The Conning Tower of 19.?1 HAZEL ABBIE SANBORN Orford. N. IL Pan-Athenteum (2); Girl Scouts (1); Representative (2); Athletic Association (1). ‘ With such a comrade, such a friend, I fain would wall- to journey’s end.” Hazel was always among us. and what a fine high cop she made. Best of luck. Hazel! GERALDINE MARGARET REIDY Manchester, N. 11. “Jerry Glee Club (1); Forensic (1); Pan Athcn� um (2); Representative (1); Deputy Sec. of State (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Volley Ball (2); (’lass Basketball (1) (2); Varsity Basketball (2); Bowling Tournament (2). A cheerful grin trill let you in where the kicker is never known.” Jerry is one of our all around good sports. Her ready smile has brightened many dark moments. Best of everything to you. Jerry. NORA JOSEPHINE ROCHE Manchester. X. 11. “Skip Glee Club (1); June Pageant (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Volley Ball (1) (2); Baseball (1); Pool Tournament (1). “Her proverbial smile a stone would beguile.” Those who have seen Nora after supper may think she is a dancer; she is. but they have missed an important thing. She is also an excellent Math teacher. MARY RYAN Manchester, X. H. Tenuis Sport Leader (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Volley Ball (1) (2); Baseball (1); Captain Baseball (1); Captain Volley Ball (1); Bowling Tournament (1) (2); Pool Tournament (1) (2); Tennis Tournament (1) (2); Winner of Tennis Tournament (2). “ The honor of the game.” Where there was a tennis game, there you could find Mary. She showed a very keen interest in sports and also managed to keep up her school work. We shall be looking for more about Mary In the future. [57] The Conning Tower of 19 31 CATHERINE FRANCES SHEA Manchester, N. II. ‘ ‘ Kay ’ ’ Forensic (1) (2); Pan-Athen um (2); Social Club Council (2); June Pageant (1); Secretary of State (2); Civic Committee (1); Athletic Association (I); Volley Bull (2). “ have a heart with room for every joy. Kay is one of our jolliest classmates. Aside from her happy disposition, she is especially gifted in dramatics. We shall never forget her as Shyloek in “The Merchant of Venice.1 r JOSEPHINE JULIA SCIIOFF Pittsburg, N. II. “Jo” Pan-Athomcnm (2); Athletic Association (1) (2). “Thm is a gift beyond art and that is being eloquent’ ly silent. ’' Jo is eertaiuly a wonderful friend. She is also noted for her witty sayings. MAY PANSY SISCO Whitcfield, N. II. Athletic Association (1). I’ll be merry, I’ll be free, I’ll be sad for nobody. Whenever we saw May she was always laughing and always happy! Nothing ever worried her. Best of lnek to you. May! DORIS IRENE SMITH Littleton. N. 11. “Dot” Pan-Athenseum (2); June Pageant (1); Representative (1) (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Speed Ball (2); Volley Ball (2); Basket Ball (1) (2); Baseball (1); Captain of Class Basketball Team (2); Bowling (2); Pool (2). “.I girl that’s hard to forget. We all know Dot for her dry humor and happy ways. She is loyal to her work and to her friends. As for chapel speeches—you should just hear her. We’ll never forget you. Dot. [58] The Conning Tower of 193 I ETHEL SMITH Groveton. N. II. “Smitty” Glee Club (2); Forensic (2); Athletic Association (2). At first we knew you as the special student who had taught school previously and who had been to school in Virginia. Now we know you as one of us, A Plymouth Normal School girl. Best of luck. Smitty! MARJORIE BLANCHE STEARNS South Danbury, X. H. Athletic Association (1) (2). “Practice makes perfect. ' Marjorie knows her lessons well, That most anyone can tell. Next year she’ll make her pupils work. For she surely hates a shirk. Here’s to you. Marjorie, may you have the success you truly deserve. KVA MAE SMITH Lancaster, N. H. “Bitty” Pan-Athenaeum (2); Art Editor of Year Book (2); High Sheriff (2). Life is short, art long. ’ ’ Eva is to he thanked for the many clever sketches we have in our year hook. May you always have success. Eva! VIOLET LAURA SMITH East Wolfeboro, X. II. “Vi” Glee Club (1); Pan Athemvum (2); Girl Scouts (2); Athletic Association (1) (2); Speedball (1); Baseball (1); Bowling Tournament (1) (2); Pool Tournament (1) (2): Tennis (2). “Her ready speech flowed fair and free. “Vi” certainly will gain a great deal from the many liooks she has read and will read. Since she has read a great deal why shouldn’t she he able to argue f [59] T It e C o n n i n g T o we r of 19 3 1 MARION ST. LAWRENCE Littleton, N. II. Marion, I know one Prof, who says that little girls sometimes make the Rest teachers. Shall we know them? We shall! Best of luck to you always, is the wish of P. N. S. ELEANOR BEATRICE SWEET Penaeook, N. II. “Sweetie” (Jlee Club (1) (2); Orchestra (1) (2); Special Glee Club (2); Pan Athemcum (2); Secretary of Social Club (1) Athletic Association (1) (2); June Pageant (1); High Sheriff (2); Representative (2); Baseball (1); Class Book stuff (2); Class Marshall (1). E— Energetic L—Loyal E—Eager A—Ambitious X—Natural — Obliging R-—Ready • A merry inn , A pleasant grin, With them yowl traits, Many friends you’ll triM.” ALDYTHE MARY TAYLOR Putney, Vt. “Betty” Pan-Athomeum (2); (Jlee Club (1); Representative (2); Athletic Association (1) (2). “A point disposition is more valuable than gold. Ahlythe Taylor, who is nicknamed by her classmates, Betty, has been with us two glorious years. Her good nature has won her a large circle of friends. ESTHER AGATHA THORNTON Manchester, N. II. “Es” Glee Club (1); Special Glee Club (1); June Pageant (1) ; Solicitor (1); Athletic Association (1) (2) Speed Ball (1); Volley Ball (1) (2); Basketball (1) (2) ; Varsity Basketball (1) (2). “ True wit is nature to advantage dressed.” Esther’s ready wit and keen sense of humor have made many a dark moment seem brighter. If you have a touch of the blues—go to see Es. “She’s the medicine man for the blues.” [60] The Conning Tower of 1931 MARGARET JULIA TWOMBLY St. Johnsbury, Vt. “Peg Pan-Athenaeum (2); (� irl Scout (1); June Pageant (1); Associate Justice (1): Cheer Leader (1) (2); Bowling (1) (2); Tennis Tournament (1) (2); Pool (1) (2). “Peg may be short; She may be small; But when it comes to wit. She beats them all. RUTII WALLACE Rycgate, Vt. “Ruthle” “There is one girl in this creation Whose only aim is an education. So where M she go! Well can’t you guess? No other place but P. N. S.” Ruth will be a good teacher. We are very fond of her, and wish her the best of luck. DOROTHEA ROBINSON WARD Choeorua, N. II. “ Wardie’’ Vice-President (1); Pan-Athemeum (2); Representative (1); Volley Ball (1); Athletic Association (1) (2); Bowling (1). “.Ilinii friendly and happy.’’ We were fortunate to have Wardie in our class and will always remember her with happiest thoughts. HELEN EDA WELLS Gorham, N. II. Pan Athcmvum (2); Athletic Association (1) (2). “.I girl reliable and true. And furthermore a worker, too. Some say she’s quiet; some say she’s not; but we all say she’s a good sport, a good friend, and a good worker. [lil] The Conning Tower of J 9 3 I ALMEE LOIS WHITE East Rochester, N. II. “Nothing no reveals our character as the way in which we do our work. Almee is another member of Perkins House g: ng. Is it necessary to say more? Good luck, Almee! DOHOTHV ELIZABETH WHITING Dover, N. H. June Pageant (1); Representative (1); A. A. “Tln'g ran conquer; who believe they can. Dot surely was an ambitious member of our class. We certainly hope that she will keep up her good work in future years of teaching. GRACE WILSON Sanbornton, N. H. Class Treasurer (1); Forensic (1); Pan-Atlienseum (2); June Pageant (1); Representative (1); High Sheriff (I); Civic Committee (1); Athletic Associa-(1) (2); Bowling (1) (2); Pool (2); Associate Editor of Class Book (2); Photograph Committee (2). '' Gracious to all; ready and willing; Reasonably quiet, yet not boring; .Ambitious always; able and knowing; Courteous continually; forever smiling; Encouraging all. whether Freshmen or Senior.” These few lines do not half tell us about Grace, but we all remember her work in the June Pageant, and this year, her supreme effort to help us get our pictures taken on time. We owe a great deal of the success of our Year Book to her efficient work. ESTHER VIRGIL WOODWARD Andover. N. II. “ Wood ie' ’ Pan-Athemeum (2); Athletic Association; Basketball (1) (2); Baseball (1); Bowling (1). On with the dance. Whenever there was an opportunity to dance, Esther was right there. Esther was one of our classmates to train at Livermore. We feel sure success will be with you. [02] T h r ('. o n ni n g T o w r r of 19 3 1 Four Years Pour years! Four years may seem a long time, or it may seem a short time. For some of us it has been long, for others not half long enough. But certainly, many things may happen in that length of time. Imagine the change! Four years ago we entered P. X. S. as quiet and meek little Freshmen. We regarded the upper classmen as persons to be held in honor, and high esteem, and we also felt it our gravest duty to be down at the library every night at seven o’clock sharp. We learned why the bells rang so early every morning, why we shouldn’t ring tin fire alarm, run in the corridors, visit in other’s rooms after ten minutes of ten at night, or go walking on Sunday without wearing hats. We learned that some things were “Simple, Simple, Simple”, and we were frequently told to “Think, girls, think”. We formed many acquaintances among our classmates our first year at P. X'. S., and these were renewed and strengthened when we returned for our second year. We were now upper classmen and felt rather proud of that fact. We still carried on very diligently, and although we weren’t always to be seen at the library every night, we spent many hours preparing for tests from Mr. Swett. We all learned to express ourselves better, and some of us learned that Mr. Ernst is a fine accounting teacher. It was with great sighs of relief that the last member of our class gave her last chapel speech. What joy to be able to look forward to two more years without the dread thought of chapel speeches! Our third year, our class gained in importance. We were Juniors, you know, and Juniors are always important. This year, we learned to solve the mysteries of Cost Accounting; and some of us joined the ranks of the intelligent ia! We learned that some things should never be done for they were unprofessional, while other things most certainly should be done, for they were professional. This year we have been very versatile. Members of our class played important roles in student government, social activities, dramatics, musical programs, and athletics. This year we lost, by graduation, some of the girls with whom we had been in classes for three years. We seemed lost without them; our ranks had grown thinner by their absence. We attended teas, served as helpers to the Seniors at their dance, and acted as ushers at their graduation, the better to know what to do ourselves the next year. We began our final year the first Tuesday in September, and our ranks were again divided, for some of us were out training in the different training high schools, while others were attending classes. Those of us who were out training learned what it is like actually to teach, while others learned more things to teach. When we changed places at the end of the first semester, [83] The Conning Tower of 1931 some returned to Plymouth for seventeen more weeks of classes, while others left behind the classes at P. X. S. forever. We were all together again that memorable week in June, when we again attended teas, plays, and that wonderful pageant. Commencement Day arrived. We were happy, cheerful, and gay, but behind it all, when we thought that school-days were done, and work had begun, there was quite a different feeling. We realized then that: “Life is a battle where each one Must seek and hold his own. She who would rise above the crowd Must scale the heights alone.” Rosemary IIamill. Freshmen—’28—Grown Up “When we were Freshmen, we looked up to the upper classmen, but this new crowd—!” The girl who made the remark turned down Christian Alley, and I heard no more. I say, “heard no more”. I mean, as far as she was concerned, I heard no more. But all that day, those words of hers jumped out at me from every nook and cranny. “This crowd” referred to the Freshman Class of ’28. Were we as bad as thatf Girl. I know not where you are. but stop and rest a moment from your daily task. Rest, and read this history of that “crowd”. Today, the activities of Commencement Week come to an end. Exams, books, papers,—all are laid away, and today is set aside for dreams and schemes. .13’s, how many times have you been rudely awaked from day dreams in the past three years? Not so to-day. You may dream with perfect contentment. To-day is your day. You are the graduates. A year ago, these J3’s were J2’s; a short year before that. Freshmen, looking up to the upper classmen as models of perfection and virtue. As Freshmen, they entertained with teas and parties, helped with socials, and last, but not least, produced the immortal Shakespeare s “ Midsummer Night’s Dream”. Shall we ever forget Goldie’s saying, “Relent, sweet Ilermia”. or Tucker as the unhappy lover of Thisbe? Athletics never want for loyal Middlers. At least three pairs of J3 lungs have suffered from the art of cheer leading. Who won the volleyball tournament ? Who helped our Varsity to win ? The members of our class, of course, through their support. Have we some good debaters in our midst ? Ask Mr. Skelton why Soei. is always lively? lie can tell you the answer to that question. We have some good debaters. [84] Thc Conning Tower of 19 3 1 Who won the Music Memory Contest.' Was it not announced in the dining-room—a fact of which we are proud? The J3 s have served in almost every capacity at 1 . X. S. They have proved their worth, they have endeavored to live up to the ideals of Plymouth Normal School faithfully, and they have profited from their efforts. Tomorrow, when they step forth to “face the battle alone”, they will be well equipped to work for their Bachelor's Degree in the higher school of Life. Mary E. Com:man. Sophomore-Seniors It was a rainy September day. The afternoon train was on time as usual, and on-lookers again saw the arrival of the class of P. X. S. freshmen. It was not an unusual sight, for classes had come and gone as regularly as the little train. The dampening weather had no efi’ect on the laughter and enthusiastic conversation. The little train went on its way. but it left behind a class of girls which was determined to make its class history at P. X. S. an outstanding one. It did not take us long to become acquainted with the place, and to fall into the regular routine of the school. The year passed quickly, and soon we were coming back for our second year. Several of the girls came back early to welcome the freshmen to our dear old P. X. S., and to give them a glimpse of our social and outdoor life, of which we had become so fond. After the election of our student government officers, one of our own classmates, assisted by several other members of our class, guided the state peacefully and harmoniously throughout her term. Perhaps the thing which will bring back the most vivid memories of our last year is tin Sophomore-Senior and Middler basketball game. The Middler team walked confidently onto the floor, and started practice for the easy victory which was to decide class championship. The Senior team was greeted by cheers, and everyone was enthusiastically waiting for the game to begin. The whistle blew and the game was on. At the end of the first quarter the Seniors were ahead. Some Middlers looked puzzled, but still were unshaken from their hope of victory. The second quarter—the third—and last quarter —the Seniors are ahead. The game is won. For the first time for several years the Sophomore-Senior class won the basketball championship. These are only a few things in which the Sophomore-Senior class has won distinction, and we shall expect its members to be prominent in both school and community life next year. Grace Wilson, Bkrtiia Franklin. 165] see birrin' bend to left and right Aero the line of straightcr darker trees. The Conning Tower of 1931 Middlers Eight Bells and All’s Well! It has been explained previously that tin name “Middlers” applies to all three and four year girls, but particularly, now, to those Sophomores and Juniors who are neither Freshmen nor Seniors. Wo are Middlers. half way between the start and finish, the second and third ships in mid-ocean. Our voyage has started, passing the reefs of the Beginning and entering the realm of the unknown with tin goal of the Knd and of Achievement ahead. Our ships’ logs are varied and eventful. We are ahead of that good ship Freshman which started last, so our sails have a bit more swell; our masts are a bit straight or in the supreme knowledge that we have passed those first tiresome knots and have weathered the winds of Disappointment. Homesickness, and Failure. Our ships outlasted, also, the storms. Volleyball and Speedball, riding triumphantly over the wave of Opponents. In the month of January, however, in latitude (ivm and longitude Xasium. our ships began to leak, and although the sailors pumped loyally, they were overpowered by the wave. Group Games. All at once all hands redoubled their efforts, hoping to repair the damage before encountering the typhoon. Class Conflicts. Perhaps our sails had been rather too full, our masts too stiff. At any rate, these leaks showed other ships the stuff of which our sailors were made. We proved ourselves worthy of our timber, in knowing how t � take drawbacks as well as triumphs. We learned to set our compass steadily toward that shining goal. New Land, and to work with all our crew for the love and advancement of our dear Motherland, Plymouth Normal School. Makoarkt Hkdkmj. [60 J “ Where men as yet hail made no trail■ nor lawn: From where the Indial beauty seemed withdrawn Scarcely as yet, and Indial solitude Seemed on the ylittcriny waters.’' T It e C o nn i n g Tower of 19 3 1 Freshman History On Thursday, September 4. 1930, when once again Plymouth Normal School swung wide its portals to greet the newcomers, a freshman class of one hundred and twenty-five members entered Plymouth Normal State. During the first four days, not only were the Freshmen introduced to their respective subjects, classes, and teachers, but they were also welcomed into the playgrounds of Plymouth Normal School, through expeditions to Lang-don Park, and the school cam]), a favorite resort on Loon Lake. Although terrified by the suggested horrors of initiation, the ceremony was quite successful. For it furnished pleasantly, the anticipated horrors causing much mirth and jollity for all. The Hallowe’en banquet was the outstanding event, providing interesting speeches, entertainment and an elaborate feast. Now the Freshmen were confronted by the serious proposition of electing their class officers and school representatives. Ann Collin received the majority of votes for the presidency, and Alice Powers, Kathryn Tibbetts, and Meredith Sisco were elected vice-president, treasurer, and secretary, respectively. The following representatives were elected by the class: Until Blodgett, Helen Choris, Margaret Chick, Barbara Colbv, Anna Collin. Eleanor Cronin, Alice Desprez. A. Fitzpatrick. Inez Fox. Lucy Frye. Frances Legacy. Dorothy Lynch, Until Mansur. Meredith Sisco. Kathryn Tibbetts, Helen Tibbetts, and Lucy Travers. Marion O’Connor was elected Sargeant-at-Arms; Louise Page. High Sheriff: Dorothy Veysey. Councillor; Dorothy Lynch and Helen Charis. members of tin Social Club; and Billie Pennock. Solicitor. The first election for the Freshmen closed with the Governor's Ball, held in honor of the new Governor, Marion Emery. The Freshmen had not been backward in the line of sports, for they were well represented in the teams in speedball. volleyball, and basketball. These various teams participated in the class contests, but. although displaying great pluck and courage, the Freshmen teams were downed by tin superior upper class members. However, the spirit was there, and they hope for better luck in the coming spring sports. After the Thanksgiving vacation, the Christmas activities began. First came the house party at Mary Lyon, and then the Christmas banquet, the glorious event of the season and time of festivity and merriment. The artistically decorated tables displayed originality and individual genius, while tin banquet itself satisfied the appetites of all. The Christmas spirit manifested itself through carols, candles, a glimmering Christmas tree, and a real Santa Claus. Following the distribution of the gifts, Christmas dance numbers were participated in by all. When the Christmas vacation came to a close, the Freshmen returned with determination to make the last few weeks of this semester count and to make the second semester the best of all. Anna 11 erka m , Catherine Kearns 173] The Conning Tower of 1931 Plymouth Training Schools Dalton High School To appreciate the glory and splendor of northern Xew Hampshire one should have the good fortune to spend eighteen weeks in Dalton as we cadet teachers have had. In scenery the desires are fulfilled. From our school we can get a view that is not easily forgotten. During any pleasant autumn day the blue sky is broken by an uneven line of fir trees on the opposite hillside. while the Connecticut reflects beautiful pictures of the country bordering itsS banks. Late in the afternoon this same blue horizon takes on vivid hues of green, red, and gold, and finally the day eblis into soft darkness when the trees make silhouettes along the skyline. It is in this town of Dalton that Plymouth Normal School established a training school of which it may well be proud. Miss Mary Taylor, who has received an M. A. degree from Middlebury College, is principal. Cadet teachers are sent to train under her supervision. During the first semester Anna O’Connor, Bertha Emery, and Esther TefTt were sent from Plymouth, and Edna Fitch and Marguerite Fifield, from Keene. The two principal organizations of Dalton High School are the Social Club and the Athletic Club. Bertha Emery was chosen as faculty adviser of the Social Club, and Edna Fitch as faculty adviser of the Athletic Club. Both organizations have been very active and have proved worthy of commendation. One afternoon during the fall term Mr. Charles A. Rich, a well-known Xew York architect and traveler, gave a very enlightening talk on the American Indians and on his trip around the world. Ills pictures, which he had sketched during his travel, made his story most vivid and interesting. In correlation with the usual schedule of required work many interesting projects were achieved. Mr. I). M. TefTt of Sugar Hill gave an illustrated talk on “Septic Tanks” to the eighth grade science class. Hallowe’en, the Social Club presented an entertainment followed by a box party. It was just another good time, which is characteristic of Dalton High School functions. Just before the Christmas holidays Dr. Silver rushed in to school, announcing that we were to have a surprise. Soon we heard strains of the carols coming from the hall; then a world traveler made her appearance, and to our astonishment she had brought a member of each country she had visited. They entertained us with characteristic songs and folk lore. Of course these travelers were none others than a group of the Normal School Orchestra in costume. The Christmas party was a real joy to all. Many gathered in the Grange Hall, Thursday Evening, Dec. 18. to enjoy the play, “The Christmas Gimme” 1741 The Conning Tower of 1 931 which had been ably directed by Bertha Emery. Carols under the supervision of Esther Tefft were sung. Santa Claus didn’t forget to make his yearly visit. During the year, time is spent profitably in athletics. The students have not only received the benefit of the exercise but have developed the highest type of sportsmanship and co-operation. The fall months witnessed relay races, volleyball, and baseball. During the winter months there was much enthusiasm displayed over basketball. The girls’ team was under the direction of Anna O’Connor, and the boys’ team was coached by Esther Tefft. There were many exciting contests between the Dalton All Stars and the school. The spirit with which the town team entered into the games was greatly appreciated. Hikes were enjoyed during the fall months. Those who are interested in education should take the opportunity to visit D. II. S. and observe its fine qualities. E. Tefft, ’31. Orford High School Ding! Dong! Ding! Dong! “What in Heaven’s name is that old bell ringing for? Why doesn’t that man take his old cows and run along?” This came from a tousled head in the middle bed in the room containing three of the “To-Be-Experienced” faculty members of Orford High School. After sitting up in bed and discussing the matter, we decided the bell was rung by Mrs. Twitchell, endeavoring to arouse the faculty. Thus began our first day at Orford High School. We learned at breakfast that we were expected to arrive at school at 8:30 in order that we might attend to certain preliminary duties. At 8:00. 1 heard a boyish voice call out “Whoa!” under our window. 1 looked out, and to my dismay, saw two great big boys unhitching a horse. I immediately called the other girls, and we decided they must be members of Orford High School. How large they seemed to me—what was I going to do with such big boys? We left promptly at 8:05 to go to school. Imagine our embarrassment as we climbed the hill, because, on both sides of the path, our future pupils had lined up to inspect the new faculty. We have often wondered what their decisions were. At 9:00, the school bell rang, and each of us tried to give the others a look of encouragement to start in our first classes. After helping pass out books to their proper owners, each one went gravely to the duty assigned to her. To my relief, my first class contained only two people. I went bravely through it, as did the other teachers with theirs. At last, our first day was over. We were worn to a frazzle. As for me— my voice was very low, as 1 had tried my best to say “frft space jujy space” above the click-click of typewriters. [75] The C o n n i n g Tower o j 19 3 1 After we all had become acquainted, we discovered many interesting, amusing things. We enjoyed playing speed ball with the pupils; perhaps Rosemary could tell you about a few kicks she received. We used to have quite a cheering section for the baseball and football games, headed by Rosemary, didn’t we, Orford High School? Did Miss Twitchell and I find ourselves way out on the baseball diamond at Bradford one Friday night? You can imagine how excited we were, and the foolish expression on our faces when we came back to our grandstand seats. We have all wondered whether or not the sportsmanship of our high school students could have been shown any better than at the football game at Thetford. We were proud of them as they volunteered to take an injured Thetford player to the hospital. The hike to Mt. Cube is really indescribable. Were we hungry after the climb? I’ll say! Can you imagine the wonders God set before us that day as we viewed seven rows of lulls in their purple splendor and seven sparkling lakes nestling comfortably in the green foliage of evergreen trees? It was well worth the hard climb, I heartily assure you! If you don’t believe it, try it and see. Can we ever forget those socials at which we played “Five and Seven”, “Tucker”, and “Winkum”? We were fortunate also in having two girls in our faculty from our sister school. What would 0. II. 8. have been without them? It certainly tended to strengthen our relationship between Keene and Plymouth. We all acquired new nicknames with special significance—“Lily”, “Bunny”, Princess”, “Juliet”, and “Tiny”. Can you identify them? What would we have done in the Senior Play if it had not been for Muriel who acted as our soloist ? There's one important fact I’ve failed to mention before—since Mary’s lived in the country, she’s learned how many cows there are in a head of cattle. Ask her some day! The sports in winter are eagerly looked forward to by the whole school. There is no end of hikes to take on snowshoes, of hills upon which to slide, and certainly skates have to be sharpened every year. Oh! These days when we see bright-eyed boys eagerly awaiting the time to go and play hockey! Cold weather means absolutely nothing to them but a good time. Shall we ever forget the co-operation of the townspeople of Fairlee and Orford! Long live all of them! And you. 0. II. 8. grow on; be the steadfast stepping stone to the greater steps of Life. May every one do his utmost to make this stepping stone one which will come nearer and nearer to the Goal. Zili.a Chase. (7b | The Conning Tower of 19 3 1 Hampstead High School True to tin scene in any typical New England story, Hampstead High School stands back from the village street, surrounded bv beautiful trees. Although she boasts no modern building, Hampstead High School is alive with enthusiasm and school spirit. Cadets from Plymouth and Keene arrived at Hampstead early in September, eager for their first day of teaching. September 8th stands out as the cadets’ first day at the head of a class room, and like Caesar’s gladiators, we could almost exclaim, “Moruturi salutamus. Xo doubt the pupils felt the same way. Gradually this lost feeling left us as Miss Nichols led and encouraged us in our new work. The cadets of Hampstead High School have found the pupils, parents, and towns-people very co-operative and eager to help in every way possible, making the training at Hampstead more enjoyable and surely more profitable. The co-operation between Hampstead High School and tin community has been manifested in the procuring of a new gymnasium for the introducing and developing of athletics, and for holding school functions of all kinds. This gymnasium was a result of the encouragement, services, and contributions of both the high school and the community. Like other high schools, Hampstead has its extra-curricular functions as well as its class work. The social functions are carried on by the different classes, and backed by the student body. Parties were held celebrating Hallowe’en, Thanksgiving. Christmas, and other special occasions. Minstrel shows, plays, and games put on by students and faculty will never be forgotten by those who have seen, or taken part in. these good times. Much credit must be given to Hampstead’s student body. Miss Nichols, and Mrs. Thompson, musical director, for the successful presentation of its annual operetta, “Betty Lou”, given before a large and appreciative audience on November 8. The proceeds of this musical entertainment went towards equipment for the new gym. The “Trumpet”, the school paper, edited by the pupils would be a credit to a much larger school. This fall the school entered a contest, sponsored by Miss Nichols, for a school seal. Great interest was shown and judges, chosen from the community, chose a seal showing a lighthouse throwing its beacon across the water, an open book, and the word “service”, all of which signifies the ideals of Hampstead High School. Much credit goes to the pupil, Clarence Clark, ’33, who submitted this seal, which symbolizes the goal of the entire school. What can ever be greater than this resolution, or goal, of Hampstead High School than to see to it that our lighthouse shall always be a beacon sending out helpful beams of service to home, community, state, and nation. A slogan which has been a challenge to Hampstead High School pupils and which can very well apply to every cadet of either Plymouth or Keene, is derived from “American ends in I CAN”. Cadets, there is a challenge for you. “YOU CAN!” Felicia Gray, ’31. 177] The Conni n g Tower of 193 I Plymouth Model School The Primary Grades Into the primary grades come children who are scarcely more than babies. Nothing yet lias influenced their lives except their parents and their home environment, and if this influence has been a good one, the teacher’s task is comparatively easy. If, on the other hand, the child has had experiences which have not been of the best sort, then tlie teacher’s real job begins. The bad habits and ideas must he destroyed, and a desire must he created in the child to want better ones. Here we are laying the foundation upon which the pupil will build his house of learning the rest of his school days. The habits, attitudes, and skills which he acquires in these grades will carry through with him for the rest of his life, and it falls to the teacher to see that they are of the right sort. When the child first enters school, he is shy and does not know how to work and play in a group of children. Here he is taught to overcome his shyness and to mingle with other children. In later life In will find that there are many laws to obey and rights of others to respect so he is taught to do this. lie finds that lie can no longer talk out whenever he wishes because it is infringing on the rights of his classmates. lie discovers that the teacher is there to help him. This is one of the hardest habits to he acquired, because often children come from homes where the discipline is not very strict, and the children cannot see why it should be in school. It is a pleasure to work with the children in the primary grades because they are so interested in their work, and they try so hard to do right. A primary teacher must have initiative, originality, and patience and must be a living example of what she wishes her pupils to be. Margaret Colby. The Intermediate Grades Here, our babies have grown up into youngsters who are beginning to feel that they are now little men and women. They no longer need to have play periods and toys. Instead of the rooms being decorated with readymade objects, we find the pupils’ own work, in which they take great pride and which has been arranged with their suggestions. Their own little bulletin-board. offering much competition, is their chief interest and joy. At this stage the children have lost a great deal of their self-consciousness. They are eager to recite and act as leaders; it is now unnecessary to urge them to talk. It is surprising how well these children on just leaving the primary department can carry on by themselves a lesson showing good logical thinking. They are becoming more independent and find great delight in doing [78] h e C o n n i n g T o w c r o f 19 3 1 something original. How happy tlie child is when his teacher holds his work up before the class as being original and neat. During the intermediate grades the youngsters become quite professional in the line of amusing themselves and their neighbors. Can they draw? Yes, they certainly can. What alluring pictures! They are very skillful in inventing new subjects for entertainment. Unless the teacher is equally skillful and wide awake, they will surely succeed in carrying out their well-planned amusement. The teacher’s task in these grades is clear. It is to train the child with such encouragements, rewards, advantages, and attractions that, in spite of natural competitions, he will choose the larger good which all his studies represent. Almee White. Junior High School The Plymouth Junior High School consists of the seventh and eighth grades. The purpose of these grades is to bridge the gap which is so natural between the elementary school and senior high school. The Junior High School includes sixty-three pupils, and many of them are in their early adolescent stage. The classes arc carried on departmentally as in the Senior High School, and each period runs for forty or forty-five minutes. The cadets in Junior High School find some of the pupils quite sophisticated in some respects, others are mischievous, still others quiet and shy, enveloped in a shell of reserve which is sometimes hard for the cadet to penetrate. Every Thursday afternoon between 2:45 and 3:30 o’clock the Junior High School pupils have a meeting of the Junior Citizens’ Club. This is an interesting activity carried on by all the members of the class. At the head of the club is a president, who is assisted by a vice-president, a secretary, and a treasurer. Each week the business of the meeting is carried on for the first fifteen minutes. This consists in assigning duties to various members of the class such as stair duty, playground duty, or room charge. After the business of the meeting has been completed, a group of pupils selected the previous week presents an interesting program. These meetings are characterized by good sportsmanship, responsibility, and co-operation. The Junior High School curriculum contains a variety of well-chosen subjects suitable to the needs of the boy and girl in this stage of development. A course in Manual Arts is provided for the boys, and one in Domestic Arts for the girls. Under the careful guidance and supervision of Mrs. Drown and Miss Giles, the cadets who train in Junior High School have nine weeks of profitable training which they may look back upon as one of the high spots of their teacher preparation at Plymouth Normal School. Xouv Kociif |7!� ] The Conning To w e r of 193J Salem Depot School The Lower Grades at Satew Depot We, (Elsie Beckman and Edith Pearson), climbed on the train and waved a cheerful good-by to our roommates as it pulled out. October 13, at four-o'clock in tlie morning. We sighed as we sank into our seats, but 1 would hesitate to say that it was a sigh of relief, for there was no relief when we looked ahead to the end of our journey. What was to meet us there? We knew not. As we sat there, our minds drifted back to the Friday three days before when Mr. Speare asked us out of a clear sky if we would like to go to Salem to finish our training. It was an entirely new idea to us. and Salem was an unknown name. We hesitated and then asked questions. In this way we discovered that Salem was Dr. Silver's home town. The school rooms in the Salem Depot school were over-crowded and some assistants were needed, one in the upper and one in the lower grades. That was all the information that we could gain. We wanted time to think it over, but we were told that we must decide immediately. After we had decided to go. Mr. Speare told us to pack as soon as we could. We were in readiness to leave, but as yet no move was made to start. By morning we had become quite accustomed to hearing the surprised question, “Why, haven’t you gone yet?” Well, to make a long story short, there we were on that early train bound for Salem Depot. It was with some uncertainty that we entered Salem Depot -School that morning. Miss McGarv, once a sixth grade critic in Plymouth Training School, greeted us kindly and gave us our instructions for the day. I was taken immediately down stairs to meet the first grade teacher. As I looked into the room I belield forty-two children,—why, they seemed almost like babies; they were so small. It hardly seemed possible that they were first and second grade children. I was pleased to find that I was to have a little room where I took ten of the youngsters at a time to help them with their various lessons. With the help of the other teachers I changed this bare little room into an attractive home-like one. It was only a short time before the children were eager to come up to the room for their lessons. If ever a child gave any trouble it was sufficient punishment to send him back to the big room down stairs. I only hope that all my weeks of teaching may be as happy as those spent at the Salem Depot School. [80] Edith E. Pearson. The Conning Tower of 193 1 The I typer Grades at Salem Depot The first morning I entered the school-room, it looked enormous and some of tl� e children resembled giants. As I sat at the back of the room and looked around, I felt inward qualms of terror. One reassuring thing from the very first was the friendly spirit of the children. As I was the first cadet to teach there. 1 was regarded with due curiosity, but they were courteous, cooperative, and altogether likable children. When realities forced themselves upon me, I found there were forty-five pupils in the room. About two-thirds of them were in the sixth grade, the rest in the fifth. Miss McGary, critic and principal, was teacher in this room. While she was observing Miss Pearson, I had entire charge of the room. The results of hard work repaid me not only in measurable ways, but in values which never can be measured. Sara Teasdale has said in a poem what I constantly found in my weeks at Salem: has loveliness to sell. All beautiful and splendid things, Blue waves whitened on a id iff, Soaring tire that sways and swings, And children’s faces looking up Holding wonder like a cup.” Surely these immeasurable values repay for “many a year of strife, well lost” The people of the town were as friendly as the children and did all they could to make our stay a pleasant one. We returned to Plymouth with the feeling of having shared a “glorious adventure”. Elsie Beckman. Livermore Falls School Livermore Falls School is three miles north of the Normal School. This distance affords healthy exercise so often desired by the girls. It is not necessary to walk the three miles, as a “Toonerville Trolley” goes within a mile of the school, and the ticket is furnished by the Normal School. The school is situated on a well shaded highway, typical of New England roads, especially in New Hampshire and Vermont, thus making the mile walk very easy and pleasant. The school building like most rural schools consists of one room. This room has recently been remodeled according to required state standards. It is equipped with good drinking water and washing facilities. Another great asset is a small, but well ehosen library, which a teacher can use in many ways to make her work more practical and interesting for the pupils. The play ground is large and well back from the highway. A small portion of the ground at one side and rear of the building is wooded. One is fortunate in every way to train at Livermore. Doris Gibson, Dorothy Egan. (81] The Conning Tower 1931 —: r i . .—1 It 1 ±i—i «f -HA J r -j. J p r_ ,)■■ y r y| r r ?|_ rfy||= p p Dear Alma Mater, star of youth, we sing thy praise divine, Thou hast taught us love and truth within thy noble shrine. Or. wondrous beacon, bright and fair, show thy most radiant light, Guide us by thy radiance rare, and teach us wrong from right. To cross life’s restless surging sea, pray give us strength and power; Lovingly we worship thee; we need thee every hour, To seek success in honest strife, to In a friend in need. K’er shall be our aim through life, philosophy, and creed. Dorothy Kuehn [82] The Conning Tower of 19 31 Inaugural Addresses Dr. Silver, Dr. Lamson, Friends, and Fellow-Citizens: We, of Plymouth Normal School State, have met here on this occasion to identify ourselves with the most important phase of school life, our student government. For the sake of the individual student and for the student body as a whole, we are most interested in how we may better live up to the obligations of our government and also guard and increase the privileges extended by the State. The most noticeable recent changes in our school life are due to the present attitude of all modem education regarding character training. It is the tendency to gain greater individual and group privileges and to assume greater responsibilities. Its practical working out is shown in the greater privileges given to the individuals of the entire student body and to the group in our Senior House. There is only one way to hand down and to increase these privileges— that is through their right use and a constantly enlarging intelligence in our citizens. They can he rightly used only by each individual citizen’s accepting the obligation of being an intelligent citizen, realizing that all education is self education, the result of the entire day’s experience. One of the most important demands of self government is for us to learn that our freedom consists not in unrestricted liberty but in liberty under the [84] T h e ('.on n i n g T o w e r of 19 31 restraints of law. 1’sually these restraints are imposed because they make other forms of liberty possible. Only through self government gained through an ever enlarging intelligence can we become socially minded individuals. capable of identifying ourselves with the group and working for the common good. It is by this individual assistance and by realizing that the rights and opinions of the minority as well as those of the majority deserve a careful consideration that we can reach our highest ideals. Confucius said, “Do not unto others what ye would not have them do unto you. But the Great Teacher of all ages said : “As ye would that others should do unto you, do ye even so to them.’’ Fellow Citizens: I will do all within my power to uphold the constitu- tion of Plymouth Normal School State, depending upon the loyal support of every citizen to guard and increase her privileges, and to enforce her laws. Marion Emery. Dr. Silver, Dr. Damson, Friends and Fellow Citizens: You have bestowed an honor upon me in electing me to the office of governor. For the honor and for the trust that it implies, I thank you; and 1 assure you. as 1 have already in taking the oath of office, that 1 will do my best to protect and further the interests of Plymouth Normal School State. Last year tin need of certain changes and reforms in Student Government was felt. This was a natural development as it is in state and national politics. Our constitution is patterned after that of the State of New Hampshire; the need of changes had been foreseen and suitable provision for adopting these changes had been made. Certain government officials with the aid of special committees, consisting of representatives of each class, began the revision of the Constitution. The work was difficult for many reasons; chief among which are: the possible disadvantages of the suggested changes, and the great amount of time necessary to separate the worthwhile from the useless parts of the proposals, then to write the law or privilege so that it provides for the many phases of school life that come under its jurisdiction. That work was not completed last year. It may not, probably will not, be finished while any of us remain in Plymouth Normal School. There is, however. sufficient evidence that it was not time wasted. The great need of the Student Government as seen by these groups was not radical change in the Constitution—but fuller realization of what it now does for us. and consciousness of the potential power vested in the citizens of Plymouth Normal School State. The Constitution, as it now is, shows that its authors gave careful and intelligent consideration to practically all phases of student government. The decisions they made were just and anticipated future government prob- [85] T h c C o n n i up Tower of I 9 .3 I lems as well as providing for those of the present. Thus we find the Constitution a firm rock for Plymouth Normal School State to lean upon. We would, however, bring the Constitution up-to-date so that it may better serve us. and so that it will prove as useful to those who follow, as it has been to us. As one of the first progressive steps it was determined that Freshmen entering in the fall of nineteen-hundred-thirty (1030) should become more familiar with the Constitution and more appreciative of the privileges of a citizen of Plymouth Normal School State. The revised form of the Constitution has yet to be composed, but its need grows more apparent. There are, at present, certain statutes which have been annulled. The Constitution should not contain dead laws if it is to function efficiently. They increase the danger of misunderstandings and laxness of law enforcement. The revision of the Constitution is only one of the problems of student government. It needs especial attention at this time. For that reason I explain the work briefly so that each citizen of the State may share the interests of the present administration, and I appeal to all to co-operatc fully, that we may contribute as wisely to Plymouth Normal School State as did our predecessors. A few weeks ago a class from this school visited the state capitol at Concord, and experienced the pleasure that this trip gives to many New Hampshire school children. The most impressive moment of the day arrived as we entered the spacious Council Chamber and the Governor came from his office and spoke with us. 11 is first words were light and we laughed with him. Then his face became serious and he spoke of the fathers of New Hampshire and how they drew up the state constitution, of the checks and balances which they skillfully inserted therein, and how dissension among the Legislature, Council, and the Governor could well-nigh stop any progress, and that it was absolutely essential that all should work together, in spite of differences of opinion. He added that he had been fortunate for he had found his government colleagues willing to concur with him. Our aim is to be intelligent, responsible citizens of Plymouth Normal School State, and to become good citizens of the State of New Hampshire. Each citizen of our state is in such close contact with the central government that the government cannot function most effectively without her loyal support. Each of us has this in her power to give,—may she do it,—and may the result be a Plymouth Normal School State of which we are proud as Plymouth students have been for many years. Harriet Harmon. [86] Pan-Athenaeum The Conning Tower of 19 3 1 Officers President—15. Holmes Vice-President—B. Franklin Secretary-Treasurer—M. Emery “My, didn’t they smell sweet?” whispered an excited voice nearby. “What?” came back the answer. “Why. the flowers, of course. There are oodles of them and all kinds of potted plants and ferns, and they are wonderful. I just stole in and got a peek at the stage and it is superb. A little latticed work window, with roses twining around and around”—the voice went on eagerly. “Say, what are you talking about anyway?” “The Pan-Athenaeum Dramatic Club is going to give a play tonight over at Livermore Hall. It’s the first play of the year, and they have been practising for weeks. I wouldn’t miss it for anything. Hurry up, or we won’t get a seat.” This was the conversation 1 overheard as I walked down the quiet street in front of Livermore Hall. Having been thus motivated, my curiosity got the better of me, and I too went in to get a peek at the “oodles of flowers”. The hall was filled to capacity. Hows upon rows of eager, upturned faces greeted my searching eyes. Just as I sat down, the curtains parted, and a girl slipped from between the folds to announce: 188] The Conning Tower of 1931 “The Pan-Athenaeum takes great pleasure this evening, in presenting as its first play of the year, ‘The Florist Shop', by Winifred Hawkridge.” The cast of characters is as follows: Maude, the florist’s bookkeeper......................... Dorothy Whiteley Henry, an ordinary office boy of about sixteen...........Florence Beecher Slovsky, the middle-aged Jewish proprietor of the shop--Bertha Franklin Miss Wells, a timid, talkative spinster..................Estelle Winkley Mr. Jackson, Miss Well’s fiance .............................. Ruth Jones The stage curtains were drawn back, and a faint fragrance filled the air, as the roses, violets, and daffodils came into view. There on the stage, was the replica of a real florist shop, and on the show window, at the rear, was printed the name of the proprietor. “Slovsky’’. And then the play went on, revealing the humor and pathos of life as reflected in the daily occurrences of Slovsky s Flower Shop. We felt and lived with the characters to such an extent that we almost forgot we were only watching a play in Livermore Hall. We can still see Dorothy Whiteley as the wistful, sympathetic little bookkeeper, and who can forget Slovsky himself, who made us ache with laughter at his unconscious humor? But we must not linger too long on the memory of this play for there have been others equally as noteworthy. “Thursday Evening”, a play by Christopher Morley, was next presented. In it we saw Charlotte Floyd, as Gordon Johns, a young business man; Phyllis Hayward, as Mrs. Gordon Johns; Barbara Holmes, as Mrs. Sheffield, Laura’s mother; and Louise O’Brian, as Mrs. Johns. Gordon's mother. The play was a comedy in one act, revealing the trials and tribulations of Laura and Gordon in their little suburban home. After quite a severe quarrel between the newly-weds, the two mother-in-laws, by skillful maneuvering, succeed in bringing the young couple to their senses and in making them realize their mistake—all ends peacefully. There have been other plays presented, among them. “The Kelley Kid”. Pan-Athenaeum represents in Plymouth Normal School, the Dramatic Club, made up of enthusiastic upper classmen who are eager to maintain an organization in which they can express themselves in dramatics and furnish entertainment for the school. This year, however, more so than in any other year, we have been confronted with problems which have prevented us from giving as many plays as we would have liked. Limited space, due to the assembly hall’s being made into a library, and lack of other facilities have been the main ones which had to be solved. However, we have believed that “Where there is a will, there is a way”, and with this thought ever in mind we have tried to keep Pan-Athenaeum an active, progressive society, and to hand down its reputation for hard work and willing co-operation. m Barbara Holmes. The Conning Tower of 1931 June Pageant “Who comes so fast in silence of the nights” It must be the actors for it is time for the pageant to begin. Ah, the music starts! Let’s look at our programs again before tin actors appear. Dramatis Personae. Antonio, a merchant of Venice ....................................... Lalilia 1 covering Bnssanio . ..................................... Grace Wilson Satanio ( friends to Antonio Maxine Ferguson Salnrio I ........................................... Marion Emery Grntiano Margaret Bedell Lorenzo, in love with Jessica Doris Smith Shylock, a rich Jew ............................................... Catherine Shea Launcelot Gobbo. a clown ............................................. Bertha Franklin Portia, a rich heiress .............................................. Barbara Holmes Norissa, waiting maid to Portia ..................................... Dorothy Whiting Jessica, daughter to Shy lock ........................... Margaret Twombley Clown Dancers: Gladys Dubois, Shirley Ferren. Bertha Franklin. Dorothy Kuehu, Anna Lein, Nora Itoche. Moonbeam Dancers: Florenee Beecher. Ruth Belanger, Rebecca Chamberlain, Marion Downing. Althea Fulton. Lucille Fulton, Mildred Harvey, Phyllis Hayward, Leita Nelson, Margaret Page. Eleanor Sweet. Esther Thornton. Scenes—Venice Garden of Portia's Home Arranged by Mrs. Eva Furlong and Miss Beatrice Hodgdon Violin, Helen Foss Saxophone, Marion Downing and Eleanor Sweet Clarinet, Dorothy Whitely Piano, Norma Page Orchestra under the direction of Miss Doris Newton The music stops and we are at once taken in fancy to Venice. Antonio comes on the stage with a group of friends. lie is troubled and sad, but does not hesitate to help bis friend Bassanio, who needs money. Who comes in sight now? It’s Launcelot Gobbo, who reflectively decides to leave the Jew. bis master. His joy. at the decision, is expressed in the dance with his friends. We breathlessly hear the bargain made by Antonio with the shrewd Jew, shv lock. The elopement of Jessica, the daughter of Shy lock, with Lorenzo, and tlu winning of Portia by Bassanio bold our attention until we learn that Antonio’s ships are lost. We are spellbound as the young lawyer pleads and wins the case. The scene changes and we are in Portia’s Venetian garden. The love scene and the moonbeam dance soothe our troubled spirits. Portia comes back from Venice, followed in a few minutes by her husband. After a happy ending for everyone concerned, the pageant comes to a close, and as we stroll back to our dormitories, listening to the final strains of the orchestra, we declare that the Shakespeare Commencement Play of 1930 has been a great success. [91] Bassanio and Portia. The C o n n i n g Toner of 19.? 1 Officers President—It. Gould Vice-President—D. Stevens Secretary—B. Pennock Treasurer—B. Holmes “Words, like people, are born, grow old. and die”—and there are some words dear to the heart of everyone at P. X. S.. which shall live on in our memories until we too. grow old and die. What pleasant reminiscences the following suggest to us here at school who are united bv so many inexpressible ties. September 4! Freshman Registration Day! Several of the Social Club members joined forces with other upperclassmen in welcoming to Plymouth Normal School, the “new girls”. Not too much can be said of the friendly atmosphere created through this new experiment of ours. The Freshmen thoroughly appreciated the cordial welcome extended to them. Freshman Reception! Shall we ever forget our happiness on this occasion in attempting to make this first formal gathering a genuinely happy one for all the Freshmen? Initiation! .Inst the sound of the word was enough to perk up the ears of any little freshie—why. for weeks this scheming, mysterious event served as a topic of conversation in secluded rooms and nooks—away from the eavesdropping upperclassmen. This was the night we decided that P. X. S. pos- [!I41 T h e C o n n i n g 7 o we r of 19.1 I sesscd a group of real sports, jolly individuals who had come through— smiling! Hallowe’en brought with it ghosts and goblins—a huge banquet and dance! This event followed on the heels of Initiation, probably to let the Freshmen know that at heart we were not all cruel. The gym presented a bevy of gay, lively girls and throughout the evening vibrated with music and mirth. The Christmas Party! The spirit of the Christmas time was certainly “in the air” at P. X. S. The Freshmen presented most successfully a musical entertainment. “The Radio School of the Air”, under the supervision of Miss Bickford, which we all said was the “best yet”. After the entertainment Santa Claus made everyone of our large school-family happy with an appropriate gift. How about it. Mr. Fitzgerald, were you “all broken up” over that gift from your ardent admirer—and Matrons, did any night prowling visitors give you just cause to fire off your guns? Santa certainly knew just what we needed. Valentine Day! This date meant celebrating one of the jolliest masquerade parties ever. On all sides one beheld costumes, new and original, gay and individual. This was just another event when the Social Club members tried especially hard to make the occasion a happy one for all. C. F. Shea. The Social Calendar Sept. Campfire held at Langdon Park. We shall always remember the toasted marshmallows, hot-dogs. etc. Hike to Camp. When the Freshmen first enjoy our fun at camp, and eat supper on the lawn while watching the sunset over Mt. Stinson. Freshman Reception. Welcome to the Freshmen from the upper classmen. Oct. Speedball. A fast snappy game for all to enjoy on our new athletic field. Initiation. A great treat in store for the Freshmen. Beware of the Black List! Hallowe’en Banquet. When all make merry with Jack-o-Lanterns and cider! Nov. Entertainment Course. When begins our course of school entertainments furnished by outside talent. Inauguration. A reception to our new student government officials. Dee. Basketball. Practice is started now for our later games. Christmas Party. When everyone has reason to believe in Santa Claus. Jan. Volleyball. Bowling, Pool-Tournaments cause keen competition in these sports. Pan-Athenaeum Society—presents several plays before the school. [95] T h r C o n n i n p T o iv cr of 193 1 Feb. Valentine Party. Prizes are awarded for the best costume. What’s yours t Inauguration. Our new governor and council take the oath of office. Mar. Basketball games with Keene Normal School and Nasson Institute. Apr. Group Parties in respective “dorms.” Camp. Now is the time to get your list ready to choose for camp week-ends. Lucky are the ones who get our camp! Forensic. The varsity debating squad is chosen and debates are held with Keene, University of Vermont, and other colleges. May May Party. When we feast on strawberries and cream at a May breakfast in our flower decorated dining-room. Parents’ Day. When everyone from home is welcome to be “at home” in our school. Glee Club Concert. When we may widely appreciate the work of our glee club. Baseball. Class games are played during May and June. They are the cause for much excitement. Scholarship Day. When our school is given up to teams from competing high schools. Field Day. When “our grandchildren” from Orford. Dalton, and Hampstead high schools visit us here. June Commencement. Baccalaureate. The first event in Commencement Week. The seniors and faculty in caps and gowns, and underclassmen in white march from the campus to the Methodist Church where the services are held. Campfire. Our last campfire at Langdon. Nobody ever forgets the good times had there. Last Chapel. Is in charge of the Seniors. The students are awarded letters for athletics, glee club, orchestra, etc. June Pageant. A Shakespearian drama presented by the Freshmen on the West Lawn of Mary Lyon Hall. Commencement Reception and Dance. When men guests of the graduates come from far and near. Class Day. When the graduates and their guests are entertained on the West lawn by Pan-Athenaeum and Orchestra, followed by planting of the ivy. Graduation. When we leave our dear Plymouth Normal School, and go out into the world to guide others in their search for the bigger and more worthwhile things in life. ffi6] {It ' iw« ' The Conninp Towe r of 19 3 1 Varsity Basketball Following our usual custom, basketball groups were formed for practice soon after the speed ball season was over. Every girl who had any interest in basketball was invited to join these preliminary groups. Each group practiced and played other groups, then changes were made by grouping according to classes. About one hundred and twenty-five girls had a chance to participate in these early games, (’lass teams were then formed and the usual tournament played. The Sophomore-Seniors exhibited good playing ability and won first place. When Varsity was posted the following eighteen girls were on the list: Thornton, Collin. Floyd, Hayward. Ephlin, Bedell, Colby, Keezer, Kearns, Baker, Pennock, Page, Cate, Reidv, Horace, Powers, Forbes. Baldwin. Our squad also included the following Middler Seniors when they came in from training: Connor, Gray. Hamill. Whiteley, and Gendron. After one week’s practice, we defeated Xasson on our floor by a good margin, and on our return game there, piled up a score of 60 to 01. Keene won from Plymouth here, but we felt no disgrace in losing to a team of such caliber. It was a hard-fought game on our part, even in face of defeat. That evening also our newly formed Freshman team, organized on short notice, played Laconia High and were defeated. We are proud of them, however, for although some of the members are on Varsity, others had not prae- [98] The Conni n p Tower o j 19 3 1 ticed for some time. They put up brave resistance and did themselves credit. The Freshman team included I). Stevens. Barrett. Fyshe, Houston, and Cornwall. besides those Freshmen previously mentioned who were on the regular squad. The loss of a game to Keene, the second in seven years, did not at all dim our enthusiasm. In fact, Plymouth came back with greater force than ever and won a fast-plaved game on Keene’s floor by a score of 28 to 24. However, in victory or defeat, the good sportsmanship, the physical development. and the social contact afforded by basketball are beyond measure. Even the faculty will second that! And, far from least, the influence of an inspiring.coach can do much toward the character building of a group of girls. Makgaket Bedell. Volley Ball It was not long after school opened that murmurs were heard of volley ball. They circulated rapidly among interested students until I was faced with questions such as: “When is volley ball going to start?” “Who is going to have first practice?” and “Are we going to practice all at one time?” These were finally answered when the weather permitted us to have our first practice. Speed ball first attracted the students, but on rainy nights, volley ball caused many to turn to the gymnasium for practice. The first volley hall practice was not volley ball at all. but instead, shrieks of laughter and cries “Get off my feet”, “I was going to hit that hall if you hadn’t got in my way”, “Why don’t you move over and give me a chance?” could be heard from every direction. The gym was over-crowded, and something had to be done in order that real, earnest volley ball practice could begin. Finally a plan was discovered whereby Freshmen and Sophomore-Seniors could have practice together, and the Middlers could play among themselves. Practice occurred almost every afternoon for three weeks. It was hard work, yet everyone enjoyed it. Finally the teams were chosen, and what a suspense it was. waiting to see who were the lucky ones. The first game was played between the Sophomore-Seniors and Middlers. The Middlers, having won. faced the Freshmen with a determination to uphold the previous record. The game ended, and the Middlers were again victorious. With a desire of prolonging the volley ball season the (, 31 L3 T3 team challenged any team or mixed group to a game. Only through hard work did the team win over the ambitious group of Freshmen girls. One night the men of P. X. S.. with Mr. Skelton as manager, challenged any team to a game. Immediately the C3II3J3 team saw another chance of enjoying a volley ball game and accepted the challenge. The night of the 199] The Conninp Tower of 193 I in? a turn to push those obstinate balls about with that long-handled stick. Oh, but it’s fun! Pool is just another way for us to show our sportsmanship. How many of us can look cheerful and good-natured when we only owe five balls? If we can, then the game is worth our while, most certainly. Alta Fitzpatrick. Cheer Leading About the best thing which we may say about our cheering section this year is that the songs were very well done. There were two things of importance which they had—“quality and quantity”. Our cheer-leaders worked well, but it is to be hoped that some new cheers will be added to our list next year. The ones we have used are fine as far as they go, but when we have a double-header night, such as that of the games with Keene and Laconia, we see our need for a greater variety. This year our cheer-leaders were chosen from a group nominated bv the student-body. Those representing the Sophomore-Senior class were Florence Beecher, Maxine Ferguson, and Margaret Twombly; those representing the Freshmen. Doris Chirug and Esther Eaton; those, the Middler, Mary Golding, Esther TefTt. and Verna Tucker. The song-leaders were Mary Clark and Maxine Ferguson; head cheerleader. Verna Tucker. Verna Tucker, ’31. Freshmen [102] T h e ('. o n n i n g Tower of 19 3 1 Sport Leaders Hiking Be it a Monday morning at nine o’clock or a Saturday afternoon at nearly four, let it not surprise you to see a happy group of twenty girls striding briskly along in the vicinity of Plymouth. It will he only those who have one of two things in view; either an all day struggle up mountain paths or an evening of jollity by the fireside at the school camp. Not that those are the only walks the “Normals” enjoy. Oh! far from that, but they are the two most common. A P. X. S. girl has not enjoyed half the school offers if she has never had the thrill of looking down the sheer drop “on the other side of Prospect”, where some of the party are even said to have once descended. There is a real cave there, too. although the chaperons never would let us find out how big it really is! The writer herself regrets nothing more than that the top of Prospect on snowshoes is not one of her accomplishments yet. The stories of those who have seen the mountain under a blanket of snow and the pictures they have taken—well, it would make anyone’s heart throb. The freshmen start the hiking season with their first five mile jaunt to Loon Lake during “freshman days”. The camp that overlooks the lake is one of the school’s dearest possessions, and it never fails to arouse interest in a newcomer, homesick though she may he. In fact. I’ll wager that many a qualm of homesickness was dispelled that first day of realization of P. X. S. camp life. |104] T ft c C o n n i n g 7 o w e r of I 0 3 1 She swam, she rowed around the lake, she ate sandwiches and cake, she played games, she got acquainted with more girls, and most of all, she learned t.hat comradeship can best be found in the mutual enjoyment of nature’s gifts. Lastly I’ll vouch she remembered that day a long time, even though she did forget a bathing suit, which a faculty member and three upperclassmen turned back to retrieve. Would you be floored if any one asked you the best way to have four hours full of genuine fun? The answer really is simple—a Saturday night at Loon Lake. Toasted sandwiches never tasted as good as on those nights, or chocolate fudge made from—well, most anything! Home in the calm of a brightly shining moon or a battle of flurrying snow: it matters not to our joyful hearts! “Tired?” “Yes, but we had one glorious time.” I must not fail to mention that one of our hikes up Prospect in the early fall furnished one of our number with an inspiration for a verbal picture that she in turn presented to a gathering of educators, proving without doubt, that our walks have more benefits than the mere physical exercise. If you want to know about some real hikes, ask those who have looked oft from the peak of Stinson or the many peaks of Chimney. If one of them says “never again”, it’s not because she really means it. 1 feel that the number of miles to P. X. S. hiking credit is somewhat small this year and for various reasons. However, we are looking forward to many opportunities before the close of school. We may even yet have our “sugaring off”. Don’t you hope so? Norm a Page, ’31, Elizaretii Davis, ’32. Officers of A. A. President—V. Tucker Vice-President—A. Collin Sec ret a rv-T reasu rer—M. G ol din g (105] mmy “SilL-nt nst! Tic all thy cure up.” ‘ Rivers arc mails that carry us when tee wish to ya.' T It 1? ('. o n n i n g Tower of 1931 Glee Club Officers President—X. Page Vice-President—M. Clark Secret a rv—11. Cate Librarians—II. Blodgett I). Whiteley Now show all vour teeth!—Make it bite!- -Hold it! Hold it! II-o-o-lee-e-e-e. Smile! S-s-s-! T-t-t-t! Put more stress on love (no. not lur—lawv!) and more on pain. Get the feeling of it! Haven’t you guessed what it’s all about? Why, those are excerpts from a Plymouth Normal School Glee Club rehearsal! And they are not nearly as savage as they sound. Let me explain. “Show all your teeth” means that we are to smile so that we can sing “E” correctly and with the proper tone quality. “Make it bite!” tells us that we must come out with strong tones on a dissonant interval (musical discord). “Hold it!” means that Miss Newton is trying to keep us from fading away on a sixteen-beat hold. “ H-o-o-o le-e-e-e” is a representation in letters of our attempts to sing “Holy” with smooth, full tones. Nor must we forget to make the “II” very aspirate. When we each take our own time for ending a word such as “light” it sounds like this—t-t-t-t-! or a word such as “stars”, like this—s-s-s-s! 11081 The Conning Tower of 19 31 Then to think that we demure 1 X. S. girls should be told to put more stress on love and to get the feeling of it! Shocking? Oh. no. for. you see, that means only that we must sing “love” clearly so that the audience can understand what we are singing, and to do that we have to get into the spirit of the song. There is nothing dull and uninteresting about the Glee Club, you may be sure, for these are only a few choice bits from the many “tricks” of choral work we learn that help us to attain greater accuracy and effectiveness. Pleasure, recreation, and hard work are combined in the Glee Club, one of the most active of Plymouth Normal School organizations. It furnishes short programs at the inaugural ceremonies, Pan-Athenaeum plays, and other social functions. At our last chapel before the Christmas recess, we gather around the entrance to the balcony and sing carols. First the children's voices are heard singing a carol downstairs, then the Glee Club responding with another carol. Many listeners have spoken appreciatively of this impressive custom. The annual Spring Concert is the Glee Club’s “big time”. We work toward it from late in the fall until early in May, when we present to the students and townspeople the fruit of our hard work. Concert numbers for 1931 include: Seraphic Song The Lotus Flower The Rocket The Minstrel A Song of the Sea Italian Salad Anton Rubenstein Schumann Claassen Victor Harris Eugen Ilildraek G. Waring Stebbins Richard Genee Maky St evens. [109] The C onn in,g Tower of 19 31 The Orchestra “There’s music in the air!” It i September and once again school has started with its extra-curricular activities—music playing an important part in these. The first occasion to call for active rehearsals was our performance at Crawford House in early October, which with other activities is elsewhere described. This year we have been able to add to our musical library several sets of new music. Among these are a collection of old folk dances by the great masters, a book of selected overtures, and a group of Sousa’s marches. Although we do not appear in Chapel daily as the custom was formerly, regular rehearsals are held and new compositions prepared. Several members of our Orchestra constitute a dance orchestra, which furnishes dance music for the school parties as well as occasionally on week nights in the gymnasium. The members of the orchestra are as follows:— Violin: Helen Foss. Ruth Blodgett, Alva Lakoiuan. Clarinet: Dorothy Whiteley. Saxophone: Eleanor Sweet. Marion Downing. Tromlmne: Mr. Charles Ahhott. Trumpet: Beryl Adams. Double Bass: A lire Rand. Drums: Esther Tefft. Piano: Norma Page, Ruth Jones. Although the orchestra is comparatively small and its instrumentation rather limited, we feel that our programs have been successful. This success is due to our director, Miss Newton, who has worked faithfully and tirelessly with us. on this phase of extra-curricular activities. [110] Helen S. Foss. ’ It p C o n n i n g 7 o w c r of 19 3 I Special Glee Club The Special Glee Club is composed of several upperclassmen, who were selected last June to take part in the October Conference of Educators at Crawford House, Crawford Notch. During the summer, our director, Miss Newton, sent each member copies of the selections to be used, in order that rehearsals might be started at the opening of school in September. Daily rehearsals were held throughout the month of September, and on a crisp October afternoon, we left for Crawford House, accompanied by our school orchestra. We visited the Flume and arrived at Crawford in time to view the notch by sunset. Later we were served a delightful banquet, after which we adjourned to the Social Hall, where the conference was to be held. After a few introductory remarks by our President, Dr. Silver, tlie address of welcome was given to the conference members by Frances Epldin. The speakers from our group on historic points in New Hampshire, were Kit a Stimson, Beatrice Fuller, and Ruth Jones. The Glee Club and Orchestra then rendered their program, closing with our school song. We were given the rare opportunity of listening to the well-known educators who were scheduled to speak that night. After an enjoyable and profitable evening, we left for Plymouth, arriving home early in the morning. We received many pleasing comments on our program, and much credit is due our director. Miss Newton, for her unfailing interest and work. Since this program, we have sung at several other functions, namely:— Pan-Athenaeum plays. The Governor’s Inaugural Exercises, The Rotary Club banquet at the Peiuigewasset Hotel, and special Chapel programs. Helen S. Foss. [Ill) T h e C o n n i n g 7 o w e r of 193 I The Plymouth Troubadours Who arc we? We’re the travelling musicians as our name implies. You know it all came about from that simple custom at Plymouth Normal School, —the custom of giving Chapel Speeches. This time the members of the Orchestra were not to be forgotten. We, too, must present something original for Chapel. With the permission of the Chapel Speech Committee, we finally arranged to present a musical world-tour. “Xonnie” Page was the American Traveller touring the world, and the rest of its represented different countries which she visited: Eleanor Sweet in her Chinese Silk robes; Marion Downing, in her gay little French costume; Dot Whiteley in her plaid Scottish dress; and Helen Foss as a Spanish Senorita. We completed our little program and were awarded the applause of both faculty and students. I)r. Silver conceived the idea of our visiting Plymouth’s training high schools and repeating our Chapel presentation. Dalton was given place of honor, to be visited first, that we might precede their winter snowfall. What fun we had visiting the cadet teachers, after our program was finished. We observed classes and became acquainted with the Dalton pupils ami their work. Immediately after a delicious dinner here, we left for Orford, with the snow falling thick and fast. At Orford we experienced the vsame good time, talking with our former classmates and discussing Plymouth’s great [112] T It e (. o n n i n p T o w v r of 19 3 1 events. We left Orford soon after the close of school and arrived in Plymouth late that night. IIow surprised we were the next morning, when on our way to classes, we were informed that Hampstead was to be our destination that day—and only thirty minutes in which to get ready! Hustling around, hunting for lost articles, music, etc., we finally were ready to start. We were not far. however, when we learned Hampstead was not the only school for us that day. We must play elsewhere on the route. We presented our program at Penacook High School, Pembroke Academy, at Suncook, and lastly Hampstead High. We were treated to a delightful steak dinner in Manchester, and then put on our last performance that day at Hampstead. We were given a most cordial welcome by both faculty and students. With all sorts of messages for Plymouth students, we finally set oft for home. Knowing that we could never make Plymouth for supper that night. Dr. Silver decided to treat us to an oyster-stew supper at his home. After spending much time in securing the desired product, we proceeded once more homeward. We were very pleased with our supper and decided after all that our President wasn’t such a bad cook! Ronnie and Van, celebrated radio stars, were our next audience. For them as his week-end guests, Dr. Silver gave an informal Sunday afternoon party, at which we played. What envious glances we received when it was known we were invited once again to hear the popular singers. Will Marion ever forget that Sunday when she hears Ronnie mentioned? I doubt it. We all had a pleasant afternoon, and time passed all too quickly. We had been back scarcely a week from Christmas vacation, when we once again starting touring. Bristol and Concord were our destination this time. We repeated our program, with a little revision and were received most pleasantly. “Nonnie” ought never to forget how to tell big stories; she has had so much practice. How about it, “Xonnie”? After Bristol we arrived at Concord and were introduced to the members of the State Board of Education. We had the pleasure of having Miss Griffin as our dinner guest at “The Cinderella”. After our performance at Contooeook High School that afternoon, we were left free to show our State Capital Buildings to our Vermont troupe member, which we did with pleasure. We have all enjoyed our travels and most sincerely hope that we have aroused in our high school friends a little more interest in Plymouth Normal School. Helen S. Foss. [113) T It c C o ft n i n g 7 o tv e r of 1 9.3 I Officers President—R. Jones Vice-President—L. Nelson Recording Secretary—V. Tucker Corresponding Secretary—V. Brown Forensic Team rail! Team rail! Rail, rah, Team!! “What can be the meaning of all this noise, and why is the student body of P. X. S. gathered in front of Mary Lyon Hall?’' “Oh, don’t you know? Why. the debating teams are going to Burlington to argue out the question of disarmament.’’ It certainly was an eventful trip on May 20. 1030, for Bernice Oarleton, Charlotte Floyd, Mildred Kelley, and Leita Nelson. These girls, upholding the affirmative side of the question went in the school Chevrolet with Mr. Swett. while the negative team went with Dr. Silver to listen to the debate. To begin with—the “Chev’v” stalled in front of Russell House, and serious doubts were entertained for some time as to whether the debate would be held that evening or not. Eight o’clock—and the hour of debate had inevitably arrived. Winning against those boys (oh, yes, an entire team of boys!) seemed an impossibility. Leita. being alternate, had more time for observation, and that she used this [116] The Conning Towrr of 193 I time to great advantage, we are sure, for she was able to satisfy much of our curiosity concerning Burlington debaters. If numbers in an audience give confidence, then 1 . X. S. girls did not win on that account—nevertheless, win they did! The welcome news was received enthusiastically by the hearty rooters back at school. Time for sight-seeing was taken before the trip back the next morning. After dinner at Barre. Vermont, the happy, victorious quartet arrived at Plymouth in the late afternoon. Two days later the negative team, composed of Bertha Emery. Eunice Fiske, Ruth Jones, and Dorothy Ephlin, prepared to leave for Keene in Mr. Swett’s car immediately after dinner, to debate the question:—Resolved, that all nations of the world should adopt a plan of complete disarmament except such forces as are needed for police purposes. They were affectionately bid farewell with many wishes of good luck. With no unusual occurrences the team reached Keene about five o’clock and were shown to their rooms. They were then conducted on a tour of the gymnasium, dormitories, and the campus. Before the debate began there came a telegram from the affirmative team at Plymouth wishing success and giving encouragement. It was a happy evening for our team for the decision was awarded to Plymouth. The triumphant news came skimming over the wires to Plymouth:—“We can’t send you a club but beat them just the same—The Agony Quartet.” They then waited anxiously for news of the affirmative team which finally came as news of defeat. After a trip down street for ice-cream the girls went to bed—even though it was not to sleep. The next morning found all the members of the team visiting classes of the Keene Normal School until time to start home. A stop was made at Concord for dinner, and Plymouth was reached about four-thirty. The affirmative team, composed of Bernice Carleton, Charlotte Floyd, Mildred Kelley, and Leita Nelson debating at Plymouth, acquitted themselves with honor even though they did not win the judges’ decision. The acquaintance of the Keene girls was soon made, and the enjoyment of their visit was undoubtedly mutual. Much praise is due to all of the debaters who in turn are greatly indebted to the untiring efforts and hearty encouragement of Mr. Swett. Interest in Forensic was greatly stimulated last fall when the secretary of the club received a letter from Laconia High School requesting a debate with a team of Plymouth Normal School. The teams to debate the question,— Resolved, that the chain store system is more detrimental than beneficial to the best interests of the American people,—were finally chosen as follows:— Affirmative: Margaret Griffin, Charlotte Baker, Dorothy Whiteley. Negative: Margaret Colby, Margaret Bedell, Dorothy Ephlin. [117] 7 hr Conning To w e r of 193 I The no-decision debate was held January 9, 1931. The team at home began with certain internal shakings—but soon enjoyment of tin debate overcame all fears. After the debate the Laconia boys’ team and Plymouth girls’ team adjourned to Mary Lyon Hall where chairs had been placed cosily around the blazing fire-place. Refreshments were served while the teams discussed the debate and made suggestions by which each might profit. The girls were reminded of their superiority—in age, at least—to these boys when tin latter chose, as a form of amusement, to roll the balls from the bowling-alley down the stairs, one by one. We marvel that the slumbers of the Freshmen were not greatly disturbed! The Plymouth negative team went to Laconia on the afternoon train. They were warmly welcomed, and their visit was made interesting and entertaining. Their opponents waxed eloquent, but the arguments of the Plymouth girls stood firm. Delicious refreshments were served after the debate, and an informal discussion held. They returned on the midnight train—and sh—ah! Don’t tell! Two of the girls on the home team were waiting up for the late arrivals! A quick exchange of experiences was made with them from a window of Hall Dormitory, and a further discourse took place inside, until the striking of tin clock brought a reminder of classes soon to be attended. The creditable work of both teams was due to the infinite patience and help of Mr. Swett; much praise and endless thanks are also due to Mrs. Swett who helped to make the evenings spent in preparation hours of pleasure. DorotIIy Wiiitelky. 1118] The Conning Tower of 19 31 Commencement 1930 Commencement Week Small white flowers peeping from tl o midst of a new array of fresh green leaves; birds flittering from branch to branch; groups of girls here and there, some strolling along, others excited and talking all at once. Just what is it all about? “It's spring. It's spring”, chirps Robin Redbreast. So it is. and another commencement week is near. 1931! Certainly, “Ternpus fugit”. But stop. Turn back for a moment to the spring of 1930. Yes. there was such a time. Those graduates were just as excited as we. if such a thing could be possible. Event followed event in that last crowded week. In spite of the rain, everyone was present at that last campfire. Xo one can miss such an affair. As though Mother Nature herself wished to favor us. the day cleared up, and the last rays of the sun were visible as they faded away in the distant hills. How proud the Freshmen were of their June pageant! And well they might he. as we thought Shakespeare’s “Merchant of Venice” could never have been so well portrayed as it was on that night of June 12. The next day was a never-to-be-forgotten one for many reasons. In the afternoon of that warm, sunny day the seniors and their guests were entertained on the west lawn of Mary Lyon Hall by two short one-act plays, “Bargains in Cathay”, by Rachel Field, and “Cncle Jimmy”, by Zona Gale. Who can easily forget Ruth Haire as Cncle Jimmy? After this followed the customary and dignified ceremony of planting the ivy. A picture it was for any camera as the stately seniors in their long black gowns proceeded to Russell House. To crown the success of this day, the seniors laid aside their caps and gowns and donned evening dresses of various hues. Where could they be going? We all know the answer. For eight years Plymouth Normal School had not had a commencement dance. It took the class of 1930 to introduce the custom again. What a lovely scene it was! One wouldn’t believe our gym could look so attractive. On Saturday. June 14. came the last of the commencement exercises, graduation, a very sad affair to most of the seniors. Dr. Butterfield was present at his last graduation of P. X. S. as Commissioner of Education in New Hampshire. Dr. Silver spoke a few words to the graduates, leaving most of the time for the very appropriate address of Dr. Charles McKenny, President of Teachers’ College, Ypsilanti, Michigan. Every senior filed out of that church determined to pilot her own ship as well as she might, always keeping in mind tin motto of her dear Alma Mater, “Ft Prosim” -“That I May Be of Service”. [119] Xkllikmak Connor, ’31. The Conning lower of 193 I The Senior Prom Commencement Week of 1930 holds as one of the cherished memories of its graduates, tin Senior Prom. It was the first commencement dance at Plymouth for several years. Plans were made with great expectations. They were so carefully carried out that we, at this time, can truthfully say the affair was an unexcelled success. Future classes may well profit by this fine example of class cooperation. In years to come we shall like to look back upon all the happy events of our life at Plymouth. We shall pick up our yearbooks and read them from cover to cover. If the details of the “Man Dance of 1930“ are written here, perhaps it will help to make our future recollections more vivid. Head on then and just try to picture it all. The guests were received in the lobby of Mary Lyon Hall by the patrons and patronesses, who included: Dr. Silver and Mrs. Spurr. Dr. and Mrs. Larason, Mr. and Mrs. Swett, Mr. and Mrs. S pea re, Mr. and Mrs. Ernst, Mrs. Furlong. Mrs. Leatherbury. Mrs. JIaigh. Miss McLean, Mr. and Mrs. Maynard, and Mr. and Mrs. Adams. Girls from the Junior class, dressed in old-fashioned hoop-skirt costumes of pastel shades, ushered. Soft music was played by the school orchestra. Young men in black and our girls dressed in many hues made a charming scene against the softly lighted rose background of the room. Then came dancing in the gymnasium which was most cleverly disguised and decorated in the school colors. The ceiling was canopied in green and white, around the walls were garlands of ground pine and baskets of wild flowers and ferns, while Japanese lanterns suspended from the ceiling, diffused a soft light. The music was furnished by the Red Rambler Orchestra of X. II. I'. The promenade was led by Lucy Marsters and Mr. Wheeler. Mildred Kelley was chosen “Prom Girl“ by the faculty and was presented a bouquet of roses. Special features included the favor dance, led by Mildred Kelley and Mr. Perkins, and the balloon dance. The favors were green leather billfolds with a gold P. X. S. monogram in the lower left corner. Punch was served from a rustic well by two Junior girls also in old-fashioned costumes. Refreshments were served buffet style in the dining-room where green and white decorations prevailed—even to green and white ice cream, Can't you just picture the loveliness of it all? The Prom committee was composed of Lucy Marsters, Mildred Kelley, Marie Xixon, Ruth Ilaire, and Edna Thereau, and they were assisted by the entire class. It is little wonder that the affair was so great a success for. “Where there is a will, there is a way.“ May we hope that future commencement dances will he as successful as that of 1930. [120] Rita Stimsox, ’32. The Conning Tower of 1931 Thumbs Down The feeble rays of a flaring taper penetrated only a small section of the musty catacomb. From one corner of the dimly lighted compartment came the subdued sound of voices. Seated on the floor was a small band of Christian fugitives, eating their scanty and frugal meal. The flickering, fitful flare of the little taper brought into prominence for only a brief second, first one and then another of the drawn, haggard faces. One of the younger men suddenly spoke, addressing an old man who sat huddled in one corner upon an improvised bed of straw and tattered blankets. “Father. I’m—1 must go back today. The supplies are all but gone. You will wait here for me?” “Oh, no, no, Mark,” his father interrupted in trembling haste, “don’t go. I can’t let you go.” “But. Father, I must go. There is no one else to go. Can’t you realize that? Any of the rest of you would be recognized immediately, should you go, and would certainly be captured. You realize what that would mean, do you not ?” “Yes, I know; but, Mark. I’ve lost Arnold. I couldn’t bear to lose you. Let me go. I’m old, but I can trick them,” he insisted in pathetic eagerness. The young man was silent and the others in respect to him remained silent also. What could he do? Since the day when Arnold had left on a similar errand never to return, any mention of a proposed trip to the outskirts of the city on any errand had met with instant frantic opposition by his father. Determination hardened his voice making his answer sound harsh and almost cruel when he finally made his response. “Father, you must not worry about these trips. You know as well as 1 do that the rest have been out so often that they will be recognized if they risk themselves again. Surely, you can’t think of risking their lives just to allow me to be here safe with you. The guards do not know me. I shall be safe.” “But-----” “Xo. don’t try to hold me back. We are Christians now. and must have faith in God. But before that we were Spartans. Would you have me lower that standard of bravery that our people gave their lives to uphold?” Abruptly he arose, and wrapping his long tattered garments about his gaunt form more closely, passed out of the opening. Another of the younger group followed him out to offer his services, but Mark waved him resolutely aside with the words, “I shall be back late this afternoon. See that Father stays here.” Back in the inner cave, his father crouched into the corner, his careworn face covered with thin, bony hands. A cry of despair came through his [122] The Conning Tower of 1931 trembling lips. “Sparta! Sparta! I shall never see Sparta again. If God would only help me to return to Sparta. I would spend mv life doing his will.” “Hush, you must not mention that; I am sure we shall see Sparta soon. If our next few trips to the city are successful, we shall have our plans for escape completed. It will be wonderful to return to our home, bringing with us this new inspiration. We will make our city more famous than ever it was before.” “No,” his comrade answered, “Sparta will never again be as wonderful as it was. but maybe we can get back. Even that will be full compensation for what we have suffered. But it will be hard for us even then, because those whom we knew are yet worshippers of the idol gods. Perhaps we may even be driven away.” During the conversation the old man had risen and gone toward the exit. The others glanced anxiously toward him. fearful of more trouble, but his only response to their words was a fretful demand to be let alone as he walked falteringly olT to the other cavern. “The poor fellow’s mind is befogged,” said one of them in a low voice as he passed out. “and no wonder. He has seen his entire family, except Mark, and all his friends die in the service of Sparta and Christianity. Small wonder he falters in his belief in the goodness and greatness of God.” His comrade spoke. “It seems that nothing but suffering has come to us because of this new doctrine of faith,” his voice holding a tinge of bitterness, “I can scarcely blame the poor man for losing faith. If this new God does not send us his aid soon. I. too, shall be looking back to the gods we worshipped in the days of Sparta’s prosperity.” “Laertes,” exclaimed one of the older men in horror. “Hold your peace. A true Christian would not say such things. We have not suffered what many of the Christians have suffered. Be content, for we shall see home again. Even to-day, Mark is going to attempt to make the final arrangements. Have you not heard?” “No. no. tell me quickly. When can we get away?” “You must be careful not to let this be known. Mark does not want his father to know the danger. It is this wav-----------”, His voice became lower, sank almost to a whisper. In the outer cavern Mark’s father crouched up against the wall, endeavoring to picture the scenes in which he had passed his boyhood. Out of the darkness his memory visualized the past, until the blue blue of the Greek skies, the refinement and culture, the strength and courageousness of the city, of his youth and young manhood, to which he had owed his allegiance, became real and vital to him. He stifled a sob as he thought of his wife and children who had been killed when the home was sacked. Even now. he grew faint, hardy Spartan that he was. when he thought of that night when seeing that his family was beyond his aid. he had crept away in the night taking with him his two remaining sons, Arnold and Mark. Alas for all his hopes [123] T h r ('. o n n i n g Tower of 1931 of escape. The Roman soldiers had overtaken them, and since then his life had been one continual straggle with only Arnold and Mark to live for. Xow they were grown up. He had lost Arnold; he could not bear to think of losing Mark. Even his mingling with the Christians and his consequent conversion along with his sons, had not caused him to hate the Romans less. They had taken all he loved except Ills only remaining son. Should he forgive them for that? He had often pondered that question. His new religion taught him to love his enemies, but his hate was firmly fixed, and his only thought now was to escape and return home. Ilis thoughts were rudely interrupted by a loud half-whisper. Cneon-sciously he raised himself from the reverie into which he had fallen and listened, “Mark does not want his father to know the danger. It is this way -----------”. The old man raised his head and listened. The voice sank so low that it was impossible to distinguish the words. He crept nearer the opening, going softly with bated breath. “--------great danger—may never come back-----Arnold was on the same errand and he failed--------failed and probably killed, poor fellow.” Then with excitement the voice became louder. “If Mark can get through with the plans, escape is certain. Publius, the priest, has plans to show a passage from this catacomb out beyond the city to a place where we can get away. We are afraid the Romans have suspicion that such plans will be coming through and will attack Mark to get them.” The old man turned as the words passed into silence, his thin hands trembling, his old face pallid. Just in that second he had changed from a Spartan to a father whose only thoughts were for the safety of his son. His eyes shone, and with unusual agility, he crept from his chamber, softly past the door where the men were gathered, and down the black corridor. At that very moment, Mark had slipped from the secret passage leading out of the catacomb. The opening consisted of a rock pushed from before an opening in the side of a cliff. The rock could be moved in only one direction and that sideways. If pushed sideways, it slid noiselessly out of place, but any other movement would cause it to go crashing down into the ravine. One quick glance around showed the youth that the place was apparently deserted, and he breathed a sigh of relief. In only a few seconds he had made his way through the outskirts of the city and entered the quarters where most of the Greek slaves were kept. He did not fear recognition. Should anyone see him they would not give it a thought. It was a common sight to see the Greek slaves in their tattered garments passing from street to street. As he passed into one of the cheaper buildings, the two or three slaves there did not seem surprised to see him. and soon he found himself alone in a small room, with a man who was known to the Romans as only another slave but was known to the slaves as Father Publius. Publius rose hurriedly and in evident excitement, “Lad, you must not remain here a moment. Take the plans and hide them in a safe place. I fear |1241 Thc Conn i n g Towe r of 19 31 some of the Roman soldiers are watching and should they find these plans on your person, neither you nor your people would have a chance to escape.” “What has caused this sudden alarm? Everything seemed to be quiet and promising when last I saw you.” “Too many Christians arc escaping. The emperor is becoming impatient. Even the gladiatorial amusements are becoming less and less numerous, and the people wish to be amused.” Mark smiled cynically, “Yes, we may serve as pleasure for them yet. But not if we can prevent it. Let me have the plans and 1 will go.” Without delay the charts were passed over, and Mark, bidding the Father “good-bye”, passed out of the side door and went toward the entrance to the catacomb. He slowed his steps in order to avert suspicion. Roman soldiers guarding the end of one of the streets gazed at him sharply, but seeing that he appeared so extremely harmless allowed him to pass. As he approached the cliff through which he meant to enter the cave, a strange thing occurred. Slowly the stone forming the portal began to move, not into its accustomed slot, but directly out, to go crashing down over the front of the cliff. Mark sprang forward, but not before he saw that the noise of the rock as it thundered resoundingly to the bottom of the valley, had caused the soldiers to come running toward the scene of the accident. Framed in the opening of the portal, most perfectly set off by the darkness of the tunnel, was the white head of Mark’s father. All the Spartan-like courage of which he had been so proud had vanished. Anxiety for his son lighted up his eyes. “Mark, Mark, hurry before they reach you. Hurry, oh hurry!” Mark scrambled forward, thinking only to get his father back in before the soldiers arrived. In his position he could keep the soldiers down for only a short time. Then his companions would be discovered and without doubt used to provide the Romans with amusement. Thinking of the plans concealed within his robe he took them out and thrust them into his father’s hand. “Father, take these plans back to the men and help them to get away. I will keep the men down until they are safely out on their way.” “No, Mark, I shall stay here and help you to drive them back.” “Father, you must go back. In the instant that you forgot you were once a Spartan you betrayed us to the Romans. Prove now that you are worthy of the name of a Spartan and a Christian by taking back these plans. Go!” With not a backward look the old man started. Mark turned to face the Romans advancing up over the path. On the platform they met. Resolutely Mark forced them back. Sustained by the thought that only with his aid might his comrades escape, he fought gallantly. If he could hold them back for only a few moments, the delay would mean freedom for his father and for those who had grown to be like brothers to him. At last in desperation he was forced to yield, falling back against the opening. A blow from a [125] The Conning Tower of 19 3 1 Roman javelin stunned him and he fell partly unconscious and wholly at the mercy of the soldiers. Info and with it a feeling of his helplessness came back to Mark as he lay in one of the bare little prison cells which had held so many faithful Christians before him. Xo light entered the dank, foul-smelling room except through a few cracks in the corners. Dully, he wondered if his father bad succeeded in escaping with the plans. As his mind wandered from one thing to another Mark thought of what Father Publius had told him, “People are getting impatient for some more amusement, and woe betide the Christians who are captured now.” lie did not feel greatly disturbed that he might become one of the participants in such an occurrence. Nothing seemed to matter greatly now that it was impossible to return home. What mattered how he did die? Shortly before night, when the darkness in the room had become intense, a guard entered. He smiled in cruel pleasure at the prostrate form of the young man, saying with evident enjoyment. “Tomorrow in the afternoon you will fight with another of your friends in the colosseum. Be prepared!” He set the food in front of Mark and went out, leaving the prisoner to grope around in the darkness for his supper. From outside the voice of the guard, strong and brutal, intruded into his thoughts, “Well, Claudius will have his wish tomorrow. We have someone with whom to pair the fellow who was taken captive some time since. There will be a grand celebration, for this will mean the beginning of the Emperor’s sport, for which he and his followers have been waiting. Poor devils! I’m not sorry that the rest escaped.” The voice passed out of hearing. Mark smiled to himself sadly. It did not seem to trouble him, that he was to be the victim of a gladiatorial combat, but he was glad his people had escaped. It almost seemed good to think that after tomorrow there would be no more futile endeavors to escape, only to be caught and taken back. The morrow dawned fair and bright. From without came the sounds of gayety. A sense of festivity entered the room only to creep softly out as though it did not belong. As Mark entered the arena of the colosseum. clad in his borrowed armor, the fairness of the day reminded him strangely of the home he had left behind in Sparta. The rows of gaily clad ladies and men of prominence seemed horribly out of place at a scene of death. Their laughing eyes were-shining in joyful anticipation of the drama to be enacted before them. A sense of loathing tilled Mark’s soul. How could any people be so brutal and lustful? But there was no more time for meditation for the other gladiator was approaching. Mark was startled to see something almost familiar in the fellow’s stride as he advanced, but his face was hidden and there could be no certainty. [126] The Conning Tower of 193 I At a signal the battle was on. Almost of an equal height and weight, there seemed no advantage on either side. The dust whirled up about them, partially concealing their struggling figures from the sight of the audience. Mark, despite his powerful physical strength, was panting for very weariness, lie thrust his sword savagely at the man’s headpiece. The helmet shattered by the fierceness and energy of the thrust, fell to the ground. The blow had told, and Mark’s opponent, wounded mortally sank to the ground. Filled with compassion and forgetful of the great audience observing his actions, Mark knelt, attempting to wipe the dust and blood from the fallen one’s forehead. A cry arose from the depths of his soul, “Arnold, Arnold! My brother!” lie dropped his head on his hand, as a smile of loving recognition lighted the eyes of the dying gladiator. From above came the angry roar of the Homan populace as with one accord they turned their thumbs down! Elizabeth Chase. 1127] The Conning Tower of 193 I Reminiscence A summer’s evening, Water blown breezes Dancing through raven tresses Caressing one’s being, A clinging memory. A bit of hard earth Jutting out into our Hudson, The water of which plays so rhythmically, So fondly with the earth. Shadows— Glorious trees—as the gentle wind Blows through your branches How like silver laughter to the Accompaniment of the Water’s music Oh! Symphony of Night. The majestic Palisades. Lording the river beautiful So regal— Little cottages nestled so protected, Jn the folds of the hills. Lights— Or were they fireflies That so intriguinglv blinked here and there, Mystifying the shadows. Dreamily drinking in the Beauty of the Night. Sheltered in the arms of Nature, A maid and a lad Sigh ecstatically. Oh! Enchantment! —Doris Ciiiruro. [128] The COnning Tower of 9 3 I A Knight of Old The dawn, a knight, a fiery steed, A shield, a lance, a past misdeed, Off to a shrine on journey far, This knight of old. Off in the dewy morning light, Ilis banner aloft, so high, so bright. The sun glistening on his coat of mail. Ilis face a mask of strength, but pale, This knight of old. To travel, to pray, a wrong to right, That he may by his own strong might, Become a knight so clean and brave That none can doubt the honor they gave This knight of old. Phyllis Hayward. Reveries I love a garden small, Pansy beds, Nodding heads. I love a maple tall. Branches bent. Skyward sent. I love a garden gate. Hinges worn, Pledges sworn. I love a placid lake. Sleepy waves, Balmy days. I love a garden path, Cobblestone, Sodded loam. I love the aftermath, Of a storm. Just at dawn. I love a garden in the moonlight. Dancing leaves. And reveries. Eva M. Smith, ’31. T li e C onn i ng Tower of I 9 3 1 Langdon Park New Hampshire is noted for her natural beauties; her lakes, rivers, forests, and mountains. People oftentimes think that these beauties are always far away, inaccessible, but students of Plymouth Normal School do not agree with this. We are exceedingly fortunate in possessing much beauty that is typical of New Hampshire. Whatever the season of the year, Langdon Park is prepared for company. May I take you there on a trip with me? As we leave the street and turn down the path to the park, we suddenly stoj and look ahead. On either side of the path, dignified pines, oaks, and birches form a stately receiving line. A feeling of peace and quiet comes over us, as upon entering a great cathedral. We proceed with calmness, prepared for further beauties. Along the way violets. May flowers, and budding trees show us that spring is here. The woods become deeper, we see the sun shining afar ofT, but where we stand, it is nearly dark. We leave this place, cross a sandy beach, and stop a third time on the shore of Baker River. The view from this spot, although unlike our first, is none the less impressive. The mountains rise majestic in the distance; the river comes winding slowly down from the east, past rocky hills and green fields, in and out of little crevices. On its peaceful way through Langdon Park it adds its charm to the beauty already there. We see another picture: it is sunset in May. Behind us, trees tower in their splendor; in the east, the moon is slowly rising; before us, the river is sparkling and bubbling with life; and from the west comes the most glorious sight of all,—the sky, a blaze of colors, reflects her rainbow hues on river, sand, and trees. Pines bent with the weight of snow, tiny footprints in every direction, snow shoulder-deep in drifts, afternoon sun shining down over all; that is a winter picture of Langdon Park. For peace, solitude, and comfort, one need go no further than the woods of Langdon Park. Many a student, blue and discouraged, has left her burden there and returned to work with renewed hope for the future. “Little woods of healing And the stillness round me To your shade I come, Frees me with a touch All my heart revealing, Though my lips are dumb. From the grief that bound me, Hurting overmuch. Here no care is pressing. Here all sorrows cease— Little woods of blessing. 1 have found your peace. ” Mary E. Coleman. [130] The Conning Tower of 1931 Chapel Speeches Mrs. Herbert Hoover has said, “It takes more courage to wash dishes than it does to go out and shoot a bear.” I am going to tell you how dishwashing can be turned into an event tinged with romance and colored with gold. The most important thing is to have the right mind set. To create this mind set. change the term “dishwashing” to “china swabbing”. So when Mrs. Brown calls up in the morning and asks what you are doing, reply, “China swabbing”. She will think that you are original and have an artistic temperament. Next, pour one or two gallons of pure, sparkling water into an emerald green pan. As you pour the water, notice the millions of diamonds cascading into the green pool. Add violet or amber-colored soap to carry out the right color scheme, and whip the soapy water into a million iridescent bubbles. Oh, the airy grace and charm of bubbles dancing their gay short lives. Into this sea of loveliness gently dip the crystal goblets and glasses. Recall the banquet feasts and gay toasts where this glassware played a part. The silver comes next, and what a world of romance is connected with its past. As you gently swab it in the emerald pool, fight on high seas with old Captain Kid. Think of the treasures he hid! While you are burying treasures, you can get the silver washed and dried. Then comes the china. Breathe to yourself. “Dresden—Dresden”, and you are off in reverie—“Moonlight- -choppy waves—Spain—Siam—Calcutta Burma—Fujiyama.” The less you know about geography, the more vivid, and the more places you will visit on your trip to Dresden, Germany. With caressing hands, take up the blue willow plates. The tears chase one another down your cheeks as you think of the Chinese lovers and the tragic ending of their romance so long ago. Xo wonder the willows sway and sigh and the plates are blue. However, don’t let this bit of sadness spoil the pleasure of china swabbing. Next, wash the little flying ships, commonly known as butter chips. What a golden treasure they carry over the snow white sea of tablecloth! And so on, romancing with your old friends until they are all washed and dried and arranged on shelves like little tin soldiers. Doing dishes this way is pure romance, and after you have the right mind set the first thing you know you will be jumping out of bed in the glowing dawn saying, “Oh, what joy—another day in which to swab china!” Eva Smith. T h r C o n n i n g T outer of 19 3 I From a psychological standpoint, the power of suggestion caused you to look up while sitting down, and thus my subject is introduced. Life is like a roller coaster. One moment we reach the summit of a high peak, the next we sink rapidly to the level from which we started. We all have our ups and downs. What is the meaning of these words? “Up” and “down” are used frequently, but almost always indefinitely. For instance, if you said “up” to an elevator boy, he would probably look at you expectantly waiting for the number of the floor to which you wished to go. for to him “up” means almost anywhere from the ground to the roof, which in some so-called skyscrapers is limited only by the clouds. And again, if you said “up” to the girl in the theater ticket office, it would merely mean to her the difference of one flight of stairs to climb, if she stopped to think of it at all. Everything moves upward. ( no, that’s not true, even though there are many things that put one up in the world, such as platforms, hills, airplanes, and high heels; hut surely you can’t say that rain moves only upward, nor the stock market, and even people will fall down. 1 often wonder how some people can stretch their imagination enough to say that they fall up stairs, when in reality they fall down while going up. I’ve also heard some people say they put their car up for winter. Will some one tell me how they get it down, and where they get it down from? They don’t put it in a tree or on the roof, do they? At least I’ve never seen any there. I’d like to tell you about a peculiar incident. It is very common, yet strange. A few days ago when I was out walking. I saw a sign which read, “Bridge Up”. I decided to investigate the case for the sign indicated that traffic should go the other way. As I neared the place where 1 expected to see men at work constructing a new bridge. I received a great surprise. Instead of building a new bridge, they were taking down the old one. 1 stood still for some moments, puzzled, and then I retraced my steps and again studied the sign. Yes. it surely read. “Bridge Up”. There was no mistake about that as my companion assured me. I gave up and gravely returned to the dormitory. It is impossible to go down before being up. and on the other hand, how can you go up without being down in the first place? I will settle the question, for, since 1 came up to give my chapel speech, and have given it. I’ll go back down again. Piiyllis Ham. Last Sunday while 1 was vainly searching for a theme for my chapel speech, one of the girls came into my room with a book on public speaking. I thought this would certainly help me. so I immediately began reading it. The first few pages, however, made me more discouraged than ever, for it [132] T It r C o n n i n g T o W r r of 193 1 read: “Never speak to an audience unless you have something important to tell them and unless you are very much enthused about your subject.”— (And I didn’t even have a subject). It continued: “Speaking is an art which must be developed and needs knowledge and training. It may be compared with Music or Drawing! One would never think of trying to paint a picture or entertain an audience without first spending a great deal of time in preparation.” According to this 1 was entirely unfit to give a speech and yet—I must —for: Between the classes and dinner When our spirits are beginning to lower, Comes a pause in the day’s occupation Which we call the chapel hour. We hear in the balcony above us The shuttling of many feet; The sound of the door as it’s opened And voices, soft and sweet ? (Maybe, sometimes). A whisper—and then a silence, Yet we know by that silent pause The faculty is coming to join us, And now we all must rise. The solemn chord from the piano And we all start singing the song. And we who are waiting to speak I lope that it won’t last long. At last the songs are over, And the speakers must now come on. Ah, so soon the first one is over, My turn to take the floor, I look longingly out of the door. Though I d like to escape, they surround me, Faces seem to be everywhere. They almost o’erwhelm me with glances; Their looks at me are so kind But why should I stand here before you When I wish so much to sit down? Do you think now, friends and classmates, Because I answered the call, That I shall stand here forever? No— For the last chapter in the book on public speaking said: “One of the most important factors of a speech is brevity. Be sure to stop when you are through. ” May Sisco. [133] Thr Conning Tower of 1931 A Radio Project Morning Shopping Broadcast by Miss Dorothy Horne Announcer, Ima Brook. Good morning, everybody. Now, isn’t tliis a beautiful morning? Let’s go right out and do some shopping. Let’s first take a look at O’Brien’s, Plymouth’s leading department store. Now, stripes are all the style, bright, broad, colored ones encircling the stout figure, and narrow, longitudinal ones for the slim lady. You must be either very fat or very thin if you are to be in Dame Fashion’s parade, this season. We will now play a Victor phonograph record. Have you seen the basket-weave coats in Samaha’s window? Green, they must be green, with soft fur collar or lamb’s wool, if you prefer. We will now play a Columbia phonograph record. If you have long, slender feet, the Plymouth Economy Store has just what you need. High heel pumps with box toes. They’ll make your feet look so petite and at the same time transform the appearance of your legs from mere ornaments to supporting props. Please stand by, and I will play for you the latest song hit—The Stein Song. This music, which you have just been listening to, came from Spaulding's Music Rooms. Step in and enjoy these new Vita phone records. It won’t cost you a cent. Bargains! Bargains! The S. and F. Shop is selling lace handkerchiefs for $.98. They were a dollar last week. We will now play a Victor phonograph record. You may purchase fashionably designed cotton goods at the Golden Variety Store or at a Remnant Shop. We will now play a Victor phonograph record. Have you been in York’s Drug Store yet? It’s the sweetest little place, with booths and everything and the best things to eat—chewing gum and everything. We will now play a Victor phonograph record. The A. and I’, stores are competing with the First National stores. Now’s your chance—four chocolate bars for a dime. We now conclude our shopping broadcast for this morning. I will be with you again at this same hour tomorrow morning. Stock Market Quotations. Thelma Bond. This is Public Speaking Class and Company, broadcasting direct from our office at 82 Court Street, Plymouth, New Hampshire, the latest stock market quotations, through Station PNS. Normal Canning and Refinery—99 down 2. Not a Cough in a Class—105 up 5. [134] The Conning Tower of 1931 O’Brien’s Special—98 clown 1. Old Colds—105 up 2. Plymouth Melting—98 up 1. Plymouth Normal, Inc.—104 down 2. Rochester Del and Del—99 up 1. Seniors’ Chapel Speeches—104 up 4. York’s Drug, Inc.—100 up 60. News Broadcast. Charlotte Powers. This is I Knowall of the Plymouth Record, bringing you the latest news, broadcast through Station PNS. Good afternoon, everybody. A few days ago in Civics the class was discussing town meetings. A warrant was proposed to establish an incinerator as a means of getting rid of public nuisances. Ruth Ramsdell thought it was a jail and said she thought we most certainly ought to have one to get rid of these men who annoy the Normal girls. The formal opening of York’s Drug store took place on Saturday noon. The place was so crowded that several of the faculty members were obliged to stand up and eat, among them being Miss Bickford. Miss Litchman, and Miss Farrell. Several of the Normal School students walked in and out several times, finally returning with quite a bouquet of carnations which were being given away. The Misses Mary Clark, Annette Provost, Rebecca Chamberlin, Pearl Houston, Doris Chirurg, Barbara Benson, Phyllis Hayward, Constance Osgood and Charlotte Powers arrived in Plymouth on the 8:09 train, Monday night, after being the guests of their parents over the week end. The first plane of the season caused many stiff necks. The students used the Hewev neck cure. Lois Hazelton, who had planned on a whole-hearted lunch at the Hall Dorm tea, Sunday afternoon, was sadly disappointed, when she awoke to find that all the girls had been gone two hours and there were no refreshments left. Miss MacLean was much pleased to note that all the girls were adorned in green on March 17th. On Sunday, the girls enjoyed a unique dinner of fricassee chicken, mashed potatoes, squash, ice-cream, and coffee. The Normal girls are anticipating with keen regret the spring vacation which begins on March 27th. Good afternoon, everybody. [135] The Conning Tower of 19 31 The Volley-Ball Game T’wixt The Middlers and Men It was six-forty-five, and what do you think. The Middlers or men were ready to sink. In the year, 1930, on December sixteen A Volley-ball game was about to begin. T’wixt the Middlers and Men there rose such a clatter That Miss Hodgdon came down to see what was the matter. I’ll be the referee; you keep the time, And please will someone just watch each line. The game now has started; the men are ahead. “I’ve got it,” cried “Fitzy”; he lost it instead. At the end of ten minutes the girls’ score was six. But as for the men, theirs was twelve, ten, and six. Such shrieks of laughter, such cries of delight. Ne’er came from a cheering squad as did that night. “Change sides,” cries Miss Ilodgdon, “don’t be so slow; Is the men’s captain ready? The girls’? Let’s go.” The next game has started, now, girls, please take heed. Three cheers for our Middlers; they are taking the lead. At the end the score is fifteen to eleven, In favor of the girls; Thank heaven. Thank heaven! A third game we need to decide who is best, Since the second proved no material test. Twenty-six to ten, came the third game you know. In favor of the men, yo! yo ho! Another shriek of laughter, another cry of delight, Our volley-ball game’s ended—Now Middlers—good-night. [136] 'Elegant as simplicity. and warm as ecstacy. COW PER. The Conning Tower of 19 31 Russell House The snow was failin'; fast and the wind was whistling through the leafless trees, as 1 sat beside a cheerful fireplace one evening in the year 1980. 1 was dreaming of other days when books were my constant companions at Plymouth Normal School. Suddenly with a shriek of the wind there came down the chimney a little old man who tumbled out on the hearth before me. I was immediately startled from my reverie, but while I was trying to think of something to say to the little fellow, he quickly took the form of a stately red brick house, trimmed with white, with stone steps leading to it from the terraced lawn. As 1 continued to gaze at the vision in front of me, it became alive with merry voices and familiar sounds. I was a senior again living in Russell House back in the days of 1931. How familiar and natural it all seemed! From out of room 208 came merry laughter and the sound of a victrola; then—Oh. the tempting odors that filled the air! Of course, it was only another “spread” in Rita’s room. Listen! More excited voices! Was it a debate? Of course, the four year seniors were heatedly discussing their favorite topics. What were they, girls? A shrill squeal, a rush on the stairs, a shout of laughter! Other familiar Russell House sounds greeted my ears as two dignified seniors cast aside their cares of the week on Saturday night, the time for gaiety. Then the scene changed to a calmer period of the day. It was 10:00 [139] The Canning Tower of 19 3 1 P.M. Two seniors were discussing philosophy and some of the juniors had become interested in the great problem, trying to solve the truth about all-that-there-is. Did any of them know what it was all about ? Laughter, music, debate, and discussion all found a place in the course of my dreaming, but as suddenly as it had appeared, the stately brick house diminished to the size of the funny little elf, who, with a whirl and a bow, fluttered up the chimney, leaving me alone to realize that it is 1980, not 1931 in the Russell House days at Plymouth Normal School, “Oh, memories that bless and burn, That linger on and never die.” Bertha Davis, '31. Marion Stearns, ’31. Samuel Read Halt “LALII M 0 I KDOHTY.” Rearrange these letters to form two words which represent something well known to all Plymouth girls. In order not to tax your brains too much, we shall make the puzzle easier to comprehend by enumerating a few facts pertaining to it. It is a three story brick building with granite trimmings, situated on the campus of Plymouth Normal School. It is here, that fifty-four cheerful girls and their kind and ever-helpful matron constitute one large family. The daily routine of this family is continually interrupted by its recreations. During this year we have noticed that we have some exceptionally fine singers, and that there are even prospects of a good orchestra. However, one great difficulty arises from the fact that the musicians never seem to agree on the same selection of music. You might be interested to know of whom this chorus and orchestra are composed. Bertha Franklin is our first soprano, easily heard from any place, at any time. The second soprano’s voice arises from the first floor, it is Mary Clark’s. The second floor has the honor of possessing the more prominent altos, Velana Babb and Alta Fitzpatrick. The strains of “Old Black Joe” from the first floor as they meet the opposition of do, re, mi, fa. sol. la, ti, do from the second floor, are sufficient proof of our prospective orchestra. Marion Hutchinson and Annette Provost are guilty of holding these positions. A few other members of our family are: that constant giggler, “Millie” Harvey; that menagerie keeper, “Connie” Connelly; that undecided individual, “Barby” Ilolmes; and that champion horse manager, Doris Martin. These are only a few of our distinguished members, but it would be impossible to enumerate the specialties of each. Perhaps you haven’t heard of our organization known as the “Nine Fifty-Seven Gang”. This is constituted mainly of the inhabitants of the first floor, whose sole policy is to congregate in the bathroom and corridor [HO] The Conning Tower of 1931 ;it 9:57, in spite of tlx violent protests of the cops. Alta Fitzpatrick is said to be tlie only cop who can break up this meeting. Then, too, the first floor is noted for the nightly visits of the masked man. Although the second floor has no such society, they also join in the fun. This fun might be in trying to give the cop the impression that they are rearranging their room after ten o’clock, although they are only regulating the means of ventilation. Of course third floor has its share in the mischief too. although far from the influence of the 9:57 gang. One evening at 9:50, Mrs. Leatherbury wondered if there was a football rush taking place above her. Really, girls, we were only engaged in leap frog, skin the snake, and other such quiet stunts taught us by Miss Ilodgdon. Mixed with the pleasures of the third floor frequently comes the annoyance of a sudden disappearance of the electricity. The chief difficulty lies in the fact that a fuse has been blown, but, of course, no one is responsible for this. However, this does not keep such industrious girls from their work, for it is a very simple matter to continue working with the aid of a flashlight. We might add that this sad plight has just befallen us, and we are continuing this masterpiece by means of the remedy mentioned. We have not only enjoyed ourselves in separate groups, but have all joined together twice this semester, both of which times will always remain in our memories of P. X. S. The first event was our picnic at Langdon Park where we enjoyed roasted weenies, toasted marsh mallows, and other good things. We were highly entertained bv the readings and stories of Mr. Skelton and Barbara Holmes. The other event was our Christmas house party, during which short sketches were presented, refreshments served, and Christmas carols sung. After this brief description of the daily life of this large family, you have probably guessed the correct arrangement of the letters. What is it.' Simple! Simple! Simple! What else could it be but Hall Dormitory? Hazel A. Saxborx, Estelle E. Wixkley. [141] The Connin g Tower of 1931 Perkins House The years have passed, long years full of trials, failure, and success. I sit here in my reverie and see a small white house which seems so familiar. Perhaps it is not beautiful to the passerby, but to me and to “our gang” it is beautiful. It is our Perkins House that 1 see, and girls are running up to the front door laden with bundles and suitcases. There at the door stands “Our Mother”. Always she was wise, sympathetic, and ready to welcome us back to P. N. S. as if it were our own home. The scene before me changes, and I see our cozy little reception room filled with tables, piled high with good things to eat. The girls are laughing and are happy. All of them join in a song and one could tell that they are happy. Now they are all going out with dishes, ready to lend a helping hand. Once again the scene changes and now the wee, white house is lighted from top to bottom, in every window. A bell has just rung, and every girl is studying. It is as still as a mouse, but now someone is laughing. A voice from the adjoining room tells her to keep still so that other people can study whether she wants to or not. Now the scene fades entirely from my vision and is lost. Tt has made me wonder. Were not those some of the happiest days of our lives? [142] Phyllis Hayward. Tho Conni n g Tower of 1931 Klock House Klock House has been the home of six lofty-minded Sophomore-Seniors and for half the year, of a Freshman boy. Miss ilewev, our matron, has made our life pleasant and homelike. This house has been the scene of many happy gatherings. Popcorn and fudge-making parties were our specialties. As the infirmary occupies the lower half of our house, we have tried to share our good times with the convalescents. One great social event of the year was the Christinas party. We are looking forward to many other parties before the close of the year. We sincerely hope that future occupants of this house will enjoy it as we have. Grace Boody. [143] 7 he Conning Towe r of 1931 Smythe House The room grows dark. Everything is blackening. What terrible thing is about to happen? Wait!—There now. things seem better. Everything is still in darkness, but there appears a single light. Ah. ’tis the silver screen! And if there isn’t a photo of Smythe House “in sound and color”. Now the scene changes to the reception room. It is attractively decorated in orange and black. In the center is a large table fairly groaning with goodies. The group is a most miscellaneous one. There is a clown, a sailor, a gypsy, a baby in rompers, Pierette, a fierce looking pirate, and many others. Into the midst of this bedlam, there rushes a mystic, horrible witch, mounted on a broom. What an uproar, when it is discovered that Miss Waugh is the “specter”. The next thing we see is another scene in the reception room. They are actually singing Christmas carols. Ah yes, this is their Christmas party, and there is a gorgeous tree laden with gifts from mysterious sources. The words, “A Month Later”, appear on the screen, and now we see and hear the girls again in the reception room. From the conversation, we gather that the girls are as happy as “clams in high water” because all the windows have been curtained, a bright carpet has been placed on the floor, and many other noticeable attractive furnishings have been added. My, how the months hurry by! I guess the photographer could not keep up with the time, because now it is June. The occupants of Smythe are leaving that friendly “house by the side of the road” and its gracious matron, Miss Waugh. [144] Ruth Ramsdell. T h r C o n n i n g T o tv e r of 1931 The Parsonage The walls of the Parsonage sighed, “Shall I ever live through it?” Shouts of laughter and murmurs of voices were heard. “Hi. there, have a good vacation?” “Oh, wonderful!” “What did you do?” “When did you get back? What a darling dress!” Thus, as you may have guessed, the children of the Parsonage had arrived. The first few evenings were spent in exchanging memories of the summer—such glorious vacations—then, we settled down to work. On December first, we were awakened by shouts, “Plymouth is on fire!” We all scrambled out of bed to find out what really was the matter. I heard it whispered that Claire Creteau and Barbara Boyce even packed their suitcases. Then came our Christmas house party which took place in the laundry. The rooms fairly shouted, “Merry Christmas”, and best of all. was the Christmas tree. After a few interruptions, refreshments were served. Then we played games and danced. Then, too, we all have our own parties over the week-ends and such fun. If you ever need anything, just come to the Parsonage, for we have: Claire Creteau, an expert in regard to the best grade of toothpicks. Connie Osgood, well trained in the care of turtles, snakes, and plants. Mae Sisco, Barb. Benson, Pep Belanger, and Barb. Boyce, teachers of the duo dance and clogging. Hours—7-9:30. Special Rates—Saturday Nights. Miss Bickford’s radio. It keeps us happy from morning until night. What would we do without it? One electric grill, owned by Harriet Harmon and Mary Stevens. Meals at all hours. No tramps admitted! Peggy Page, a fine cook, excelling in cutting sandwich bread. One talented musician, the best there is, Nonnie Page. Marion Diemond, an excellent window washer. Materials used? I’ve heard they were newspapers. Last, but by no means least, Myrtle Nolan, always ready and willing to help anyone. Now, who said there wasn’t talent concealed in the Parsonage? How anyone could ever fail to be happy here is a mystery to us. We are all anxiously looking forward to next semester and the many good times in store for us. We feel sad at the thoughts of leaving the place which has been our home for a year and which has grown so dear to us. We only hope that the girls who live here next year will love our home as much as we do. 11451 Barbara Boyce. Tlie Conning Tower of 19 31 Strafford House Scene I. Setting: A room in Hall Dorm. Time: June 1930 after lists for drawing rooms have been posted. Tucker has just come ill from chapel. She is whistling “Faith of Our Fathers'’. Begins to pace floor looking for soap, to wash her hands before dinner. Comes a loud knocking at the door. “Wait without, sinners.” Immediately Eleanor Bunnell and Evelyn Brown push forward battling valiantly for air, their arms wildly waving, and their genera! demeanor that of an excited mob. Betty Davis enters in a slightly, oh, very slightly, more stately manner and shouts, “Tucker, don't stand there looking at them. You’re next on the list and there’s only one more room left in Strafford.” Ensues a mad scramble “and away they all flew like the down of a thistle”. Scene II. Setting: Bernie Carleton’s room. Time: Time that the write-up for Strafford was in, for the 1931 Class Book. Marion: “But there’s so much to put in that we can’t get it down to just a few things.” Mehitable: “I know it. To begin with Tommy Jones’ trunk’s not coming for long, then—.” Bunnic: “They cut our plum tree down, and— Ruth: “We had a Christmas tree and a party. Hilda and I decorated.” Betty: “Yes, and of all the trials we’ve had over economics and his- tory conflabs.” Bernie: Don’t mention those! Here now; ‘Addlepate’ and Betty came upstairs when Glo and Tommy moved—” Hilda: “And I moved up and down.” Bunnie: “Our catty night, the Valentine Masquerade. Our prize hearts—” Tucker: “Eats, those are important. Our community cupboard is—” General Chorus: “Yes, Miss Seavey’s good nature and mag— how do you say it? ‘magnanimity!’ Don’t forget to put that in!” Marion: “You can tell about that time Ruth locked you down cellar after she took the funny papers from you. There are loads of—” Isabel: “And the time she chased you until you hid in the attic.” Mehitable: “Remember your trial under the umbrella.” Tucker: “Xow, that isn’t half. We haven’t said anything about the doings when Beulah, Tommy, and Glo were here.” Bernie: “Lay that to the Law of Frequency. Everybody knows that.” Betty: “So another chapter is added to the causes of the ‘Revolution’.” Tucker retiring in despair to think: “Thereby hangeth a tale.” Verna M. Tucker, ’31. [147] T h e C o n n i n p T o tv e r of 1931 Mary Lyon Hall September 6, 1930 found more than a hundred forlorn girls assembled at Mary Lyon Hall. Homesickness prevailed for a week, but with the aid of the kindly Seniors, we soon felt we too belonged here. Our first event was the corn roast at Langdon Park. At this outing we made many new friends who made us forget our longing for home. The next day there was still another treat in store for us. The Freshmen were to visit the school camp where later in the day we witnessed the magnificent sunset on Loon Lake. The Freshmen had been looking forward to their reception when they would become acquainted with the members of the faculty and upper class-men. Each freshman was ready at the dock of eight, waiting for the upper classman who was to call for her and escort her through the receiving line. Refreshments were served in the dining-room, after which we went to the gym where we heard the school orchestra for the first time and danced for the remainder of the evening. The great feature of our first year was initiation! Such rumors! Also that dreadful black-list which terrified every freshman! Finally the day arrived and we found posted, the rules we were to abide by. We were all kept busy from 4:30 until the supper bell rang making the sign, “Green but Growing”, which was to label us as candidates for initiation. After supper we donned our gym suits and looking like pickaninnies with [148] The Conninp Tower of 193 I our many braids, were put through a series of stunts much to the amusement of the spectators. The evening passed quickly, however, and we were at last pronounced full-fledged members of P. X. S. Every Wednesday night we gather in the Music Room from 9:30 to 9:50 where we enjoy a short program presented by a group of nine girls. As the Christmas holiday season drew near our interests were centered around our house Christmas party. The program consisted of a play and other numbers. When the program was ended, we gathered around the beautifully decorated tree while Mrs. Santa Claus and her little girl distributed the gifts. Later we gathered around the fireplace and enjoyed refreshments of ice cream and cookies. We have reviewed our Freshmen days in Mary Lyon Hall. Now let us peep into the dorm for a minute and see what is taking place at the time of this writing. Will those who were of the audience in room 20 ever forget how Goldie Yeysey and A1 Keezer portrayed their parts of Rio Rita? We are yet to know the outcome of the pillow fights held on Freshman Alley. Who’s ahead? Ask Dot Chandler! We wonder if the heads have ever been counted which may be seen at every door on Christian Alley between the bells of ten minutes of ten and three minutes of ten? Now where is all that loud noise coming from ? Tuft Alley of course—it must be some heated argument over Rudy Vallee. This coming June we shall have to say adieu to Mary Lyon Hall, but we shall take from it many happy memories. Dorothy Stevens, Billie Pennock. [149] The Con n i ng Tower of 19 31 Max: “Can you use analyze and anatomy in a sentence?” Shirley: “Sure— My analyze over the ocean. My analyze over the sea, My analyze over the ocean. Oh, bring back my anatomy.” (In music): “How many times must I tell you that BACH is not pronounced bark? I suppose some of you will be calling it bow-wow.’ ’ (Ikey and Mikey had been floating around for some time following the wreck): Mikey: “Ah, I see a sail.” “Never mind”, said Ikey, “we haven’t got our samples.” Miss Kelleher was walking along the street one day when she met Edward. Looking down at the ground by his feet, she spied a cigarette butt. “Edward, is that your cigarette?” “No”, said Edward, “you saw it first; you can have it.” Ronnie: “How long can a man live with out brains?” Van: “How old are you?” Husband: “Where is the Woman’s Exchange?” Proprietor of Store: “Reno.” Ronnie: “If the ocean washed a woman out to sea, what would you do?” Van: “Why—er—I’d give her a cake of soap.” Ronnie: “A cake of soap.” Van: “Sure, to wash her back.” We Found Out That Miss Waugh can run as well as reverse. That Mrs. Leathcrburv believes in preparedness—judging from the night of the fire. That Mrs. Furlong and her girls are getting to be expert detectives. That Felix has solved the mystery, “The man didn’t want his ‘idintitv known.’ also that when he did get him, the man said it wasn’t him.” How can the faculty expect us to know when they say: “Why can’t you blow the ball and toss up the whistle at the same time?” Or, this high brow, intelligentia peda-goosewavy talk; Or, “Resolved that chain stores arc more detrimental than harmful.” “Will Miss Beckman please return Washington’s Birthday?” Fuancks Emu man. “If I have finished my reference work at noon or on the train, why at night I can—I can do research work.” Miss Biixjdkau. Little Bobby, seven, was a great admirer of Colonel Lindberg. When his mother questioned him, he said, “Why shouldn’t I be? I’ll bet you were just as crazy over Columbus when he discovered America.” Bertha: “My father and I have the same nose. ’ ’ Rita: “What does he do when you have it?” Anne: Nelliemae, who wrote Tom Sawyer? Nelliemae: Why, silly, lluck Finn, of course. Muriel, (in history class): I like to re-member dates because when 1 have one, I hang everything else on it. Revised Classic: “Hush little ash dump, don’t you cry—you’ll be a golf course by-and-by. ” A young lady entered the drug store and asked for a pound of floor wax. “I’m sorry. Miss,” replied Mr. McCril-lis, “We sell only sealing wax.” “Oh—but why should anyone want to wax a ceiling?” It is better to keep your mouth shut and be thought a fool than to open it and remove all doubt. Miss Connor: “Give me a word or group of words that do not express action.” Rowe: “I’m thinking.” [150] The Conning Tower of 19 31 Miss Waugh: (One day in history when Muriel was absent): Does anyone know which man Miss Whitelv is going to take? Coleman: Do you mean to the Dartmouth Carnival? Student: “Is it correct to say that you ‘water a horse when he is thirsty?” Teacher: “Yes, why.” Student: “Well then, I’m going to milk the cat.” Senior: “Say, Freshman, what’s this about your not passing in English?” Freshman: “Yes, it’s true. The teacher asked us to write a paragraph on ‘The Result of Laziness’ and I passed in a blank sheet of paper.” Miss ------: “Say, young lady, are you running this class?” Freshman: “No madam, I’m not.” Miss ------: “Well, don’t act like an idiot then.” OVERHF.ARD IN RUSSELL HOUSE Visitor: I hear you are a girl scout, Rosolyn. “Curly”: No. she isn’t really. She’s a boy scout. (Discussion among a group of basketball enthusiasts): “Flop”: “We really must attend the game at Keene. All the plans are made.” “Flee”: “Do you think the team will need a water boy?” Anne: “I’ve one better than that. I’m going, and 1 will carry the lemons”—(between the quarters of course.) “Coco”: “I had a fall last night which rendered me unconscious for eight hours.” “Curly”: “Oh, really! Where did you fall?” “Coco”: “I fell asleep.” (Mary in room where every one is busy reading): Rosclyn: “Well, why don’t you read something ? Mary: “What do you want me to read, the print on my dress?” ‘Goldie: “I’m looking for jokes.” Anna: “Why look further? Here’s a mirror. ” Rosemary: (In Pa Swett’s class just after the game between Faculty and C41I4 classes): “There are many ways to cheat in politics.” Pa Swett: “Yes, almost ns many as there are in basketball! Did You Know That—according to Spaulding’s official basketball rules, the score announced at the end of the game is final. The final score announced last night was 22-22. In consulting the score book again, the faculty has discovered that the freshmen are entitled to 2 more points. Being honest, we cannot make figures lie, but the fact remains that the score is a tie in favor of the freshmen. Official manager of the faculty, Miss Hodgdon. Can You Imagine Helena Sullivan, without her over-ready answer of—“It depends upon the individual.” Lois Cate without “Sammy.” Ruth Day, without her “boots”. Doris Chirug, not writing poetry. Helen Tibbetts without her noise. Pearl Houston, not on the gym floor. Helen Charas, praising and singing the Navy Blues. Dorothy Chandler, on time. Belle Knowles, playing the violin. Iris I’ohl, not in a hurry. Andy Collin, singing grand opera. Goldie Veysey, playing checkers. Alice Baldwin, feeling blue. Mr. Spearc saying, “What’s your reaction? A happy one, punctuated with giggles?” Dr. Lammie saving: “Shake your head until it clicks.” “Will you come?” “I’d like a specimen of your handwriting with ideas behind it.” Dr. Silver saying: “You ain’t heard nothin’ yet.” A Grammatical Kiss A kiss is always a pronoun, because she stands for it. It is masculine and feminine gender mixed, therefore common. It is a conjunction, because it connects. It is an interjection, at least it sounds like one. It is plural, because one calls for another. It is singular because there is nothing else like it. It is usually in apposition with a caress, at any rate it’s sure to follow. A kiss can be conjugated, but never declined. It is a preposition because it governs an objective “case”. However, it is not an adverb, because it cannot be compared, but it is a phrase that expresses feeling. Bates Student. [151] Photography in this book by J. E. PURDY COMPANY College and School Year Book Work Solicited 160 Tremont St. Boston, Mass. “The Store Kith the Green Front” GAMMONS CO., Inc. Furniture and Hardware Undertakers % PLYMOUTH, NEW HAMPSHIRE Dan Volpe Fruit and Provisions, Cigars, Tobacco, Confectionery and Ice Cream % Plymouth, N. H. The Pemigewasset National Bank Plymouth, N. H. George H. Bowles, Pres. Roy N. Spaulding, Cashier Capital $75,000 Surplus and Undivided Profits $165,000 With resources and equipment ample to serve our customers with promptness and efficiency, we cordially invite your patronage. Plymouth Guaranty Savings Bank Geo. H. Bowles, Pres. Dean S. Currier, Treas. Deposits $2,000,000 Start a Savings Account. It will earn you 4% interest night and day, rain or shine, and you can always get your money when you want it. Telephone Plymouth 78 Compliments of Moses A. Batchelder LADIES’ HOLEPROOF HOSIERY and WALK-OVER SHOES % Plymouth, X. 11. Elmer E. Huckins Plumbing and Heating Stove Repairs and General Jobbing of All Kinds 8? Tel. 169-3 Plymouth, X. II. Ayer Insurance Agency (Inc.) SOUND INSURANCE backed by LIBERAL SETTLEMENTS Kidder Building Plymouth, N. H. AMOSKEAG SAYINGS BANK At 79 In the Prime of Life Largest North of Boston None Stronger Anywhere MANCHESTER, N. II. Compliments of New Plymouth Theatre PLYMOUTH, N. II. Make The Rexall Store Your Headquarters for School Stationery, Banners and all School Supplies Try our Soda Fountain, the best of everything served McCrillis Drug Co. S. F. Woman’s Shop Dresses— Hats— Hose Underwear 10% Discount on Party Dresses for June Commencement to Normal School Students. Mrs. K. G. Severance, Prop. Plymouth, N. II. Always a Welcome Guest at our shop whether you make a purchase or not. IVe specialize in DRESSES. MILLINERY (Always something new) College Girl Foundation Garments, Brassieres, Girdles and Silk Undies, Finery coral band full-fashioned hosiery, Novelties and Gifts, Stamped goods to embroider. NORMAL SPECIALTY SHOP PLYMOUTH, X. II. Printing Complete Equipment for handling Book, Catalog and all kinds of Commercial Printing. We specialize in School Work. This Year Book was printed in our plant. LEW A. CUMMINGS CO. Manchester New Hampshire O’BRIEN’S Plymouth’s Department Store Since 1888 ('ompt intents of PEASLEE The Druggist Plymouth, N. II. Does Everything hut your thinking, and clears the track for that. Try a Parker Pen for your school work. 3397 students out of 4256 expressed their preference for Parker because: Pen guaranteed for life; Point miraculously smooth: Writes without pressure: As easy as drawing your breath. Let us Demonstrate I hr V. I UK EH PES To You! YORK’S CORNER DRUG STORE PLYMOUTH, X. II. J. W. HARROWER CO. CLOTHING FURNISHINGS HATS CAPS TRUNKS and BAGS SPORTS WEAR THE MEN’S STORE If you have them from us, they’re right JACQUES MARKET Meats, Groceries and Provisions RIVAL Canned Goods are the Best Tel. 110 Plymouth, X. II. Compliments of D M Sporting Goods THE DRAPER-MAYNARD COMPANY PLYMOUTH, NEW HAMPSHIRE Compliments of State Theatre Palace Theatre Crown Theatre ERNEST M. NICHOLS Florist Greeting Cards for all occasions Gift Shop Fancy Pottery J. G. FLETCHER Manufacturer au l Dealer in GLOVES and MITTENS Rollins Block 85 Main St. PLYMOUTH, N. H. Wholesale and Retail PLYMOUTH BAKERY E. OLSEN, Proprietor A. N. SAMAHA Complete Line of Ladies’ Wear PLYMOUTH, N. H. WHITE MOUNTAIN LETTER CO. PLYMOUTH, N. H. Manufacturers of Pelt Pennants, Banners, Monograms, Letters, Emblems and Seals Specializing in School and College Work Compliments of A. M. RAND HARDWARE STORE Everything in Hardware Compliments of LEO BARBER SHOP Fox Block Compliments of C. VOLPE SONS Compliments of JOHN’S SHOE STORE Shoes for College Graduates 362 Chestnut St. MANCHESTER, N. II. THE ROGERS COMPANY “You can do better at Rogers’' MANCHESTER, N. II. FRATERNITY, COLLEGE and CLASS JEWELRY Commencement Announcements and Invitations Jeweler and Stationer to the Senior Class of Plymouth Normal School L. G. Balfour Co. Manufacturing Jewelers Stationers Attleboro, Mass. THE PLYMOUTH INN A. L. CARPENTER, Prop. FINE FOOD GOOD SERVICE Telephone 52 Compliments of New Hampshire Photo-Engraving Co., Inc. Manchester, N. H. MUSIC HALL M. BUCKLEY, Manager The Home of the Best Photoplays ALL THE LATEST PICTURES 5 Acts of B. F. Keith’s Vaudeville every Tuesday E. E. FRACHER Barber Shop A nnouncement I am now equipped with the latest apparatus for imparting THE PERMANENT WAVE By the Frederic Method MRS. E. E. FRACHER Fracher’s Hair Dressing Parlor Plymouth, N. H. Phone 263-2 Bobbing a Specialty THE ACHBER STUDIO “The Photographer Who Catches Your Expression” We Specialize in Graduation Portraits at All Prices and in Styles Specially Designed in the Newest Fashion JUST AS YOU LIKE T IEM 539 Main Street Laconia, N. H. Telephone 415