Watkins Glen High School - Senecan Oracle Yearbook (Watkins Glen, NY)

Text from Pages 1 - 62 of the 1914 volume:

IOOHOS H9IH SKIM1YAV The Oracle PUBLISHED BY THE £ rnutr Class of 1914 The ORACLE 3 THIS ISSUE OF THE ORACLE 18 DEDICATED TO JOHN TAYLOR BEERS BORN MAY 14, 1914 “ God hath His small interpreter The child mnst teach the man. — Whittier. 4 THE ORACLE 1914 ORACLE STAFF Editor-in-Chief. HENRIETTA B. COLEMAN Assistant Editors, ELEANOR BROWN ELIZABETH CROFUT GEORGE SPADER Business Manager, LEGRAND MILLS BOARD OF EDUCATION-1914 INSTRUCTORS P osident, ... FRANK L. MORAN HIGH SCHOOL Jerk. GEO. H- NORMAN John A. Beers, ... Principal easurer. - - - MOTT B- HUGHEY Clarence a. Conway, Vice-Principal ( 'Hector. --- - THOMAS ELLIS Katharine B Roberts, Eng German ' odical Inspector. - - GEO H. KING Frances MacDowell, History French I. brarian, - JOHN A. BEERS Marguerite Scobey, English Latin MEMBERS OF BOARD Anna Beach, ... Mathematics Grace Ford, - - Training Class , F ank L. Moran, Term exp’s Dec- 31. ’15 A ifonzo C-Ladow, “ “ Dec-31,’16 GRA DES .; hn B. Macieery, “ “ Dec-31,’16 Anna Graham, - 8th Grade H C. Stouffer “ “ Dec. 31.’16 Mary Lytle, ... 7th Warren W. Clute, “ “ Dec. 31.’15 Katharine Whippy, - - 6th alter W- Vanderhoof, “ Dec. 31, ’15 Hazel Barkley, - 5th M. M- Cass, Life Member- Josie Curry, ... 4th Jennie Mosher, - - 5th and 4th STANDING COMMITTEES Mae McDonnell, - - 3rd J’inance—Clute and Vanderhoof. Helen Abbey. ... 2nd .'eachers—Stouffer and Macreery. Elizabeth Maloney, - - 1st insurance. Repairs and Supplies— Ma- GLEN AVENUE SCHOOL c eery and (’lute. Visitation and Medical Inspection— Anna M. Cullen Frankie Seybolt a iderhoof and Ladow. . ruancy and Indigent Pupils—Ladow WATKINS PUBLIC LIBRARY-—TRUSTEES a .1 Stouffer. .ext Books and Curriculum—Vander- Geo. H. King, Pres. Term Ex. Dec.31. 14 i. of and Cass. Frank L. Moran, Treas., “ Dec. 31,’16 school Library and Apparatus—Cass John B. Macreery, “ Dec. 31. ’15 an 1 Ladow. Librarian—Harriet Noble. THE ORACLE 5 Editorial Fourteen years have passed since the students of Watkins High School published their first “Oracle. Each class has made a great effort to have its “Oracle the best, and now the class of '14 in its turn endeavors to make this publication excel the preceding ones. As our readers peruse these pages they must remember that whatever success attends this publication, to the Senior Class alone must not be awarded the whole credit, as we have been aided in every way by our underclassmen, and to Mrs. Roberts our thanKS are due for her valuable aid in supervising its preparation. The purpose of this ‘ Oracle” is to show our feelings as we leave our School and friends, and in after years lest we forget, to serve as a fond remembrance of our pleasures and what we then thought trials, but now are naught but dearest memories. No one more clearly than we can imagine the greatness of our task. When the time comes for a Senior to leave his Alma Mater we have behind us a feeling of genuine sorrow at leaving that guide that has led us with a firm but sincere hand through the four years of our High School career. If you are a Senior you will surely realize this, if you are yet to be one, you will some day. And we will feel that our mission has been accomplished if our readers judge this “Oracle a success. H. B. C. 6 THE ORACLE Our Faculty “ In a lovely valley nearing Seneca’s deep tide. Stands our school with tower uprearing Stately in its pride.” And a lovely school we have, too, With faculty the best; Before the world we’ll gladly place them. For we know they’ll stand the test. Mr. Beers comes first, of course, Sir, He’s our principal you know, And a better one we’ve never had sir. Cause a better one don’t grow. Mr. Beers is just and thoughtful. The friend of everyone , Go to him when you are troubled And soon your troubles will be gone. Mr. Conway teaches science. And he’s usually bright and gay : With a cheery smile he’ll greet you. When he meets you on the way. But he has his sober side, though, As is often seen in class, When in anger, he doth fire Some innocent lad or lass. Mrs. Roberts, our Patron Saint, Won our hearts long years ago, And since then she has managed To keep our hearts just so. 0, would that here on earth there stood Some more of such a frame. That life might all be poetry And weariness, a name. Our French teacher wants suffrage, She’s Scotch by birth and name, She loves us all, she helps us all And helps us every day to win Life’s greatest game. THE ORACLE 7 Frances MacDowell, a noble name, And a nobler friend you’ll never find If you want advice just go to her And you’ll get the wished-for kind. Miss Scobey’s work is Latin, With English on the side, She works, and plods, and studies, For good pupils are her pride. Her efforts are successful, And with her work, she’s won The gratitude and friendship And love of everyone. In Geometry and Algebra We have no time to dream, For here, as almost everywhere, A beauty reigns supreme. Miss Beach, she is so little, Eight lines are hard to get, But please remember this, I say, Miss Beach we won’t forget. Last, but not least, Miss Ford we greet. Who in Training Class holds sway. She makes them work and study hard, And taboos the life so gay. Eleanor Brown She’s not as beautiful to outward view As many maidens be ; Her loveliness I never knew Until she smiled on me. She’s a jolly good friend and companion Steady and true to the core And when with one joke she’s finished She’s always ready with more. Our Eleanor has been with us For four years—all too short. You seldom meet a girl like her A girl of just her sort. 8 THE ORACLE Helen Burnett Since writing the limericks for the rest of the class For myself I’ve nothing to tell But I wish to say, “ For the good of our book It----is---------well.” Henrietta Coleman She has the voice of a cooing dove ; And a smile like a summer breeze Which floats around and smiles on all Like the sun after rain on the trees. She is ready and willing to give her love Especially to those who’ve a dearth And always sure of her sympathy Are the suffering ones on earth. She’ll help you out of any old hole, No matter how hard the shove. In general her whole disposition is one, Which comes from a heart full of love. Leaman Conrad Among our class there is a lad Of world wide student’s fame His parents dubbed him Leaman For want of a better name He played the part of the “Bishop” And came for a spinster fair ; But Louise’s charms proved too much for him And he broke Alvina’s snare. He’s next to the smartest in our class, But to Spader he had to yield And as salutatorian he must be content. Till he finds a larger field. Elizabeth Crofut “Linked sweetness long drawn out.” A kind friend if you please Tho she’s not inclined to labor For herself or for her neighbor; And she dearly loves her ease. She’s a dear when she is with you very jolly, it is true; But do not start her laughing For she never will get thru. The ORACLE Roxanna Dunham They say, All good things come in packages small,” But this isn’t so I know For Roxie is one grand, good girl ’Mongst us mortals down here below. She hails from the backbone of old Hector, From the hills east of Burdett; She causes much of the fun for our class And we haven’t seen her equal yet. If you ever hear that Roxie’s “lost” Don’t worry yourself in a fright Just wait awhile and you will see That she’ll be found all right. Hazelle Fordham She walks in beauty like the night Of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that’s best of dark and bright Meets in her aspect and her eyes. So soft, so calm, yet eloquent Her smiles just win with tender glow And tell of days in goodness spent; A mind at peace with all below A heart whose love is innocent. So here’s to our senior member, Who is always pleasant not mopy. Our vengeance on those who say That Hazelle will sometime get “Dopey” Gladys Foster There came to us from the quiet Burdett, A minister’s daughter free from care, With twinkling eyes of a merry brown And wavy nut-brown hair. She came heart whole and fancy free But is gradually getting “roped in” For there is one from Burdett With whom she oft goes for a spin. Harold Hausner The Senior Class was surely blessed In the fall of the year ’13, When in chapel that first morn to THE ORACLE A gawky guy was seen. He claims Odessa as his home And proud of him should they be For his life is unsullied and true And a very good fellow is he. His mind upon serious thoughts is bent As one can judge from his looks; But he will catch “flies” and swing a “billy”’ When not immersed in his books. Grace Hopkins Grace Hopkins has many friends and chums Who claim that she’s “all right;” And her eyes that dance with rougish glee Can sparkle like the stars at night. Her merry laugh and winning way, The very songs she sings, The lovelight in her eyes all day Makes the boys dream of wedding-rings. So let us wish her all success In whatever is her fate; And warn her that she’d better choose Before it is too late. George Hughey What shall I write for the fellow Who played the part of Jones? It must be something warm and jolly And not breathe of the frigid zones. He has a habit of laughing Whether things go right or wrong; And I’m sure by doing so He helps the world along. Hughey’s an honest fellow, You can tell when you look at his face He’ll pay his debts to the last penny If you’ll give him three days of “Grace ’ Ah,true friend and classmate, What wouldn’t I give For a kindly good nature like thine? You’re our living example of the adage which says, “It is better to whistle than whine” THE ORACLE 11 Edwina Mack Of her bright face one glance will trace A picture on the brain And of her voice in echoing hearts A sound must long remain. So here’s to our blue-eyed Edwina Who surely is a dream “She gives the milk of human kindness. And does not skim off the cream.” Frances Mathews Do you hear that girl laughing? You know by the tone That our auburn-haired classmate, Frances Mathews, has come. She believes in the adage, “Laugh and grow fat” And her habit of scatter-brains Is sometimes laughed at. If she has a few faults, (We all have them, you know) We’ll kindly o’er-look them In hopes she’ll them outgrow And besides it won’t do For us all to be good Because we’d be bragging And knocking on wood. In the town of old Hector, She first ope’d her lids. She will soon be a schoolm’am, We pity the kids; But wish her success in her life’s chosen work And are sure that this member Her duty’ll ne’er shirk. Legrand Mills This is a fellow from the high Western hills Who, on account of his industrious ways Was appropriately named Mills. He is the manager of girls’ and boys’ athletic teams. And, also, of one other girl, it seems, 12 T.'li E ORACLE He has all our wishes for a complete success And the realization of his dreams. Some of our manufactured articles Are not worth a filbert. But if you wish something especially nice. Go to the Mills of Gilbert. Louise Moran The charm and nameless grace Which waves in every raven tress Are very dear we must confess. Her cheeks are red as fire brands are, Her eye as bright as the blazing star ; And all the friends who know her well The sweetness of her heart can tell. She is kind and true to all her mates. Especially so to the “ Bishop dear.” Louise better hold on to her heart-strings, Or something may happen, we fear. Don Palmer And who was the fellow who played the keeper Of the sanatoriam next door ? Ah, who would it take but Palmer To draw “ Smithy” across the floor ? He is the third in our class So has choice of prophecy or history, And which he would do the best Is certainly a mystery. He can do anything if he does but choose, In a bright student’s line— There’s nothing a brain like his couldn’t do— I’m tempted to wish it were mine. Lawrence Smith We count among our numbers A crazy kid named Smith, Who, when down the aisle he lumbers Makes you think of a Roman myth, In which the men were large and strong And all did help the world along. He will play tricks and cut pranks THE ORACLE 13 With even his studies at stake, And when it comes to turning somersaults He certainly takes the cake. He ought to join a traveling show— It seems to be his calling— Hut I warn him to do his tricks on the ground Where there is no danger of falling. And now I will leave him to his success, For I’m sure success it will be ; And his jolly laugh of our High School days Will be a pleasant remembrance to me. George Spader Spader is a baseball and basketball Captain And Valedictorian too. We have no fear for him in exams ; He is always sure to get thru. We are sometimes worried about him. tho’, For he often has a Payne, And we wish to advise him to watch his health For he may have pneumonia again. We hope it doesn’t get serious For it might cost him quite a fee ; Rut if he does of this we’re sure That him you never will see, With a hiyh silk hat on top of his head Where anyone’s brains ought to be. The puny school boy, and his early lay. Men pardon, if his follies pass away ; But who forgives the senior’s careless verse Whose hairs grow hoary as his rhymes grow worse?” t 14 THE ORACLE History of Class of 1914 About four years ago the present Senior Class entered Watkins High School and have since dominated the other classes in life and spirit. We organized early in 1911 and proceeded to make ourselves heard and felt, both in fun and business. This year was crowned with a picnic at Roricks Glen. It was during this year also that the overbearing and self conscious Sophs were humbled and the prominence of our class colors was apparent. Our second year was even more conspicious than our first. The pristine “Freshies” were bestowed with new vigor by the incoming of new classmates and by the loss of those who consider study a great waste of time. During this year the “Sophs” were always prominent on the “'First. Ten,” although Roberts did take a Knapp once in a while. This year terminated with a picnic given by both “Freshies” and “Sophs” at Roricks, the Freshmen were unable to succeed without the aid of “Sophs.” Sure thing ! Upon entering our Junior year of High School life we assumed a greater stock of dignity and applied ourselves to our study much to the plfasure and pride of our teachers. Mrs. Roberts who had started us on our career having returned to see us safely through ur trials. Upon returning to the much lovtd chapel of dear old W. H. S. for our final year we were strengthened by the addition of three Burdettites and one Odessa hay-tosser. Our class now composed of seventeen members, has successfully presented a Senior play and traversed the streets of our Capitol, besides having shaken the hand of our Nation’s Chief Executive, President Wilson. Thus while putting out this mighty book we are studiously preparing for exams or the Mexican War. Whatever success is in store for us in June let us pray that each and everyone may meet success in life. G. A. S. H. A. F. THE ORACLE 15 Sept. 25— Miss Jones : “Oh, my !” Mr. Mills : Heavens !” It seems to take the Freshmen a long time to leirn the diff r-ent exits and entrances. ♦♦♦♦ Dec. 10 — Holmes : What is the difference betveen a fort an i a for- tess ?” ♦♦♦♦ Dec. 15— Someone asks Lottie about Taylor’s administration. She replies : “Taylor’s administration began on July 24, 1913. The principal events were (1) the conquest of Lot(tie) ; (2) the treaty of peace and Then she became confused and stopped. We wonder why ? ♦♦♦« Feb. 12— Lincoln quotation by John W. Gurnett : “ Remember the lilies of the field.” 16 THE ORACLE Feb. 17— You should worry that the Senior supper came off on a Monday evening. “ Oh, let us be joyful,”—but school came off on Tuesday morning. ♦♦♦♦ Feb. 17— “ Morning after night before.” Senior supper last night. Miss MacDowell late at school this morning. Mrs. Roberts, in charge of chapel, gives her a permit to enter class. ♦♦♦♦ Feb. 18— Mr. Conway captures a can of soup which was rolling rather mysteriously on the chapel floor, and puts it in his pocket. We hope he will enjoy it. Feb. 26— Mr. Beers sends Henrietta Coleman and Bernard Haughey down town to buy “ Das Kalte Herz.” After being gone about forty minutes Henrietta returns with a box of Park and Tilfora’s under her arm and Bernard informs Mr. Beers that it was “ The Coldest Heart” they could find in town. ♦♦♦♦ Feb. 27— During noon hour : ‘Hey, Lawrence, Ruth’s out in the hall and wants to see you.” F. O’Dea : “ Tell Ruth Lawrence is in here.” ♦♦♦♦ March 3— Bernice Owens : “ Where does your lap go when you stand up?” Ignorance is bliss when ’tis folly to be wise.” ♦♦♦♦ March 6— Overheard at Madeline Smith’s party. Hughey to Crofut : “Kiss me, Betty, I am as sweet as sugar.” ♦♦♦♦ March 10— Miss MacDowell fires six boys from class because they haven’t the voices or manners of pigs. ♦♦♦♦ We are forced to believe that Mr. Lyon’s sight has improved as his monocle is no longer in sight as at first not even in Latin class. THE ORACLE 17 March 13— Heard before the lights were turned on the night of the Hobart-Watkins game : Oh, George, don’t !” George and Helen went down to turn on the lights. Where was Helen? ♦♦♦♦ Anna is the most interesting study in which Phil ever flunked All the world loves a lover,” So the old saying goes, But the proverb is often wrong, say I, And I am one who knows. For I’m in love with Betty And she’s “ all the world” to me ; So if all the world loves a lover. Then why doesn’t Betty love me? ♦♦♦♦ April 2— E. Brown to M. Considine, sitting I’m seeing double.” Mary : “ Oh, no—it’s only me.” —Haughey. in seat ahead : Dear me. ♦♦♦♦ FATE OF CANNIBAL KING Mr. Cass was wreck d on an African coast. Where a Cannibal King held sway ; And they served up that Freshman, on slices of toast, On the eve of the very same day. But the vengeance of Heaven followed swift on that act, For ’ere the next noon was seen By cholera morbus the tribe was attacked, For the Freshman was terribly green. ♦♦♦♦ April 6— Peg Bohmwitch to H. Sullivan : “ I wish you would not loiter on my feet, Helen.” Helen : Corn is delicious on the ear but unmentionable on the feet.” ♦♦♦♦ Previous to “ What Happened to Jones”— “ Say, Mr. Conway, are you going to be my husband ?” Mr. Conway : “ I—I don’t know, Helen, this is so sudden.” 3 18 THE ORACLE “ Say, the other day Fred Tinker fell down the steps.” He did ! Did Prof, perceive the dam—age ?” “ No, but he heard it.” A Sidelight Herein is much that has been spoken, Anent hearts healed; Anent hearts broken: But here’s to the tale that beats them all, The Tale of the Military Banquet Ball. Dan Cupid shot his choicest arrows, Oh! Fourteen notes and fourteen sorrows! The fifteenth bullseye, made a hopeful match, And picked the best of the entire batch. A sweet bouquet and a pair of pumps, A red necktie and fifteen plunks! ’Twas No.15 that “Smithy” took. On that drizzly evening up to Cook. —Billy Shortfellow. Senior Boast At the close of this school year, we the class of 1914, unite to thank our teachers and our fellow students for the pleasures and benefits derived during our four years of high school work. We admit that we may have carelessly overlooked many of the benefits so kindly offered us, but ask you, our friends, if we have not profited by the many opportunities we have grasped during our high school course ? Have we not succeeded in leaving a pleasant memory with both the faculty and under-classmen, have we not faithfully fulfilled our duties as high school students; and have we not added our few to the lists of honor accorded to Watkins High School ? As a Senior Class we have striven to do our duty and each member has to the best of his ability, endeavored to carry out the various tasks set before him. That each officer of our class has faithfully performed his duties is our earnest hope and that each member has accomplished the work given to him as a member of the Senior class has been our desire. A comparison of the roll of honor and list of Senior students alone shows proof of the industry and thrift of the class; a word with THE ORACLE 19 the faculty proves our worth as beneficial members of the high school; and an inquiry- to the under-classmen shows our value as classmates and true and helping friends. You will find that we do not boast without cause and only hope that you may discover that we have left that ever pleasant memory behind us that we have tried so many years to attain. We, the Senior Class of 1914, may truthfully say that each year of our course has further endeared the school in our memory and it is with regret that we say good-bye to those pleasantest of times, our school days. E. G. C., 1914. Assembly Room Events An outsider is often times led to think that our Assembly Room is something of a bugbear used only for study and monotonous lectures, but, Reader, be convinced that it is a most enjoyable gathering place. On the Friday of the week before Christmas, 1913, the chapel was most beautifully decorated with Christmas greens, and we, and a few visitors were delightfully entertained by the following program: Only a Dream — Song, ----- Margretta Moran Almost Takes Two, ------ Pauline Hurd Christmas of Long Ago, ----- Berenice Owens Spring—Song, ------- Madeline Smith Orphant Annie, ------ Helen Sullivan Christmas on the Plantation, ----- Rhea Hubbell Little Rocket’s Christmas, - - - - Hazelle Fordham Duet, - . . . John Bohmwetch and Edwina Mack And then on the twelfth of February, Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, each pupil giving a quotation from Lincoln. Mr. Hurd, a Civil War veteran, told us of the Battle of Gettysburg from which we learned of the many thrilling experiences and struggles of war. In March a Professor of Forestry of Syracuse University, a brilliant and enthusiastic speaker talked to us on forestry. Last but no means least, comes the exercises held in the chapel on Arbor Day, a beautiful warm spring day just suited to the exercises so charmingly carried out in tne Assembly Room by the little girls and boys.of the grades. The chapel was filled with people and we feel sure that, as they left the building to watch the Senior class plant their tree, they felt greatly pleased with our school and its pupils. 20 THE ORACLE The next event and greatest of all is the Commencement exercises of the Class of 1914 to be held the week following the regents. H. A. F. The ancient and admirable custom of decorating the chapel in honor of St. Patrick was carried out in the usual manner. On the arrival of the students on the morning of the seventeenth of March, much to their amazement the chapel had undergone a wonderful transformation due to the fact that the decorating was under the supervision of one who is a true representative of the Emerald Isle. It will not be necessary to strain your imagination to guess who was the capable leader. Needless to say it looked prettier this year than ever before and much credit is due to him, who supervised the work. The decorations truly represented a number of the inmates, judging from the number of foolish questions asked; such as, “Oh ! why is the chapel decorated ?” etc. J. W. G. Trailing Class Boast We, the members of the training class of 1914, desire to make to the world our boast, for, in the words of Lincoln, “It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.” It has long been the custom of the High School classes to write a boast, setting forth their particular merits, and since this year's training class pupils will be next year’s teachers, they feel a little wiser, more studious, more enterprising and certainly more dignified than the High School pupils. Therefore they desire to have their achievements set forth in a boast. What have we to boast of? Our room, our work, our members and our teacher. Can you deny that the training class room is the prettiest room in the building? Surely we are proud of it and grateful to Miss Ford for making it so attractive. What other room has window decorations like ours or what other training class has a banner like ours, or what other room is kept so clean and orderly? Surely not the High School chapel. In the number of our members we are also ahead of the classes of recent years. During the first week of school we were obliged to move from the room which had been used for two previous years, to the room which we now occupy. But if we believe in quantity we also believe in quality, for our standings in the January regents ranked among the highest at Albany and we earnestly hope to make our class head the list in June. But we have not confined ourselves to books, however, in acquiring knowledge. We have gained a broader knowledge and a better outlook upon life. We have learned to profit by our own mistakes and to look ahead not behind. THE ORACLE 21 It would take too long to set forth the accomplishments of each member of our illustrious class, but of our officers we are justly proud. Our president is Helen Burnett, one of the brightest and most popular girls of the class. She is finishing her high school course this year together with the training class work. As Mrs. Goodleigh, in the Senior play, ‘Helen did the training class proud. As vice president we chose Merl Holmes, who had already made himself famous in the High School by his fondness for study and debate. George Yaple, noted debator of last year’s team, is our treasurer. He dearly loves to argue and if you do not believe me just start something when George is around and see who comes out ahead. Last but not least of our officers is Mildred Pelham, the secretary. The reputation which she gained for study during her high school course has not been lost this year and we feel sure that if Mildred's pupils study as well as she does her success as a teacher is assured. But although we boast much of our members and their achievements, we all feel that the credit is due to our beloved teacher, Miss Ford. She has worked long and patiently with us during the entire year, ever proving to us a source of inspiration to do better. Next year and in the years to come we shall surely look back to her as the one to whom we owe our success. She has been ever wise, patient, kind and good and of her we can truly say, “none knew her but to love her.” So we end our boast and as we go out into the world next year as teachers, we will ever look back upon our year spent in the training class as one of the most helpful and interesting years of our life. Junior Poem There is a class in Watkins High, That can pass all others by; The Juniors of the year fourteen The merriest bunch that e’er was seen. Our colors are of red and white, Combined they are pretty and bright, We’ve had them since our Freshman year. So to us they’ve become very dear. Our president, Phil Williams by name, In athletics has won much fame. He’s ever done the best he could As he’s said himself he’s always good. 22 THE ORACLE Our vice-president is a wee lass She’s the sweetest girl of all the class, Pretty, blue-eyed, jolly Helen And her pranks ! But we won’t tell them. Georgia Hanmer is secretary, A bright eyed girl and awfully merry. And as treasurer we have found Ruth Coon keeps our money safe and sound. There’s Pauline Hurd, a true actress. Much real talent does she possess. On the girls’ team of basket ball, Cecil Severne is first of all. And all of us are quick to learn. But what we get, we really earn. ScoUie Gilbert and Viva Payne The best of marks always attain. And there’s our banquet coming soon. Sometime near the middle of June. We look ahead to lots of fun, For we’ll do the jolliest things e’er done. So give three cheers for the Junior Class And wish them well, each lad and lass. Drink long and deep for the success Of the J-u-n-i-o-r-s. M. C. Sophmore Boast It is hardly necessary to boast of the Sophmore class of 1914, but who would if we did not? When we began our career as ‘ Freshies” the other classes sat up and took notice, evidently surprised at the number of Freshmen on the lists of the ten highest boys and girls. Although we did little or nothing as a class, outside of school, yet we have attained our efforts at least so far as this point—We are Sophmores. The Girls’ Basket Ball team is a source of much pride to the class, as they are all Sophmores with the exception of two. Although they have never met many teams of other schools, they have been very successful in those games which they have played. As to our president, John Bohmwetch, we are proud to have such THE ORACLE 23 a worthy member of this illustrious class of 1916. It is hardly necessary to mention his ability in school since this is already so well known to all, as he won the medal last year by his .honorary standings Our vice president, Helen Locks, won the cup because she was the most studious (?) girl in the High School. Hence, realizing her ability, we elected her vice president. Alma Egbert, our secretary, also achieved honors last year. We Knew that nobody could keep track of everything that occurred as well as she, so we unanimously elected her secretary. Our treasurer. George -Gurnett, is one of the most popular boys M7OUn8,Ch001, bUt he Seld0m glances at the east side of the room, e all knew of his ability at finances so he was elected treasurer. Would that there were space to relate the virtues of every member of the Class of 1916, but space does not permit. A. B. E. J. J. B. ’16 Freshman Poem F is for Freshman—unheard of as yet R’s for the roasting we generally get. E is for Eager for knowledge we’re keen S for success—which from study we’ll gleam H is for High School wherein we are resident M is for Margaret our popular president A is for Algebra Not specially exciting. C’s for Charles Williams, who does all our writing. L oyally we for the High School will fight A nd for our colors—violet and white S is for Sophs—our class is the baby Some day we’ll all be Seniors—maybe. M. F. D. L. The Washington Pleasures One of the most enjoyable occasions during this year for the class of 1914 was the trip to Washington, D. C. It has been said hat the pleasures which cost the most effort are always the ones 24 THE ORACLE which are most enjoyed. This is indeed true as was proved by the trip to our Nation’s Capitol. The class of 1914 is very proud of the fact that they were able to earn by means of their Senior play and many other smaller affairs almost enough money to defray the entire expenses of the trip. It was a very beautiful morning, the tenth of April, when the class of 1914 and a number of friends gathered at the Northern Central station in Watkins. To be exact, thirteen members of the class with Mr. Conway and Miss Elizabeth Maloney as chaperons and about twenty-three friends started for Washington on the 9.24 morning train. It was a source of great regret that George Spader was unable to goto Washington with the class but perhaps it might be well to give a little advise at this point. “Washington is an ideal place in which to spend a honeymoon. Besides, it is guaranteed to cure all pain. (Payne.) One member of the class, LeGrande Mills by name, believes that he will find the trip with the class of 1915 more pleasant and so refused to accompany this party. A special car had been provided for the comfort of the class and this was only right because it would have been extremely disagreeable for this notable class to mingle with the ordinary passengers. The entire day was spent on the train but no one could say that the time dragged. None of the class and only oae or two of the other passengers had ever taken the trip before and so the beautiful scenery was enjoyed by all. Some think that Mr. Conway enjoyed the various lunches and tete-a-tetes which he had with the feminine members of the party more than the scenery. It was seldom that one saw Mr. Conway sitting because he was usually running hither and thither trying to entertain the girls. About eight o’clock in the evening the Seniors arrived in Washington and were conveyed to Loch Raven Inn. Oh Louise, do you remember when You first saw Loch Raven Inn, Didn't you have a creepy feeling When you saw that building dim ? Do you remember the mistress As she met you in the hall And the little, dark-haired man Who took you up the stairs so tall. It had been planned to go to the Congressional Library the evening that the class arrived but this was postponed and each one was THE ORACLE 25 given the privilege of choosing his own amusement for the evening. Helen Burnett decided to have a little entertainment after all the rest had retired by pulling over a wardrobe upon herself. The next morning the class visited the Capitol. Unless you have seen the Capitol building it will be impossible to imagine the thrill of pride and patriotism which one experiences when he gazes for the first time upon that immense building. The entire morning was spent in the capitol visiting the Senate chamber, the House of Representatives, the President’s room, the Supreme Court room and Statuary Hall and various other parts of the building. Lach state of the union is allowed the privilege of sending a statue of some notea man or woman to be put in Statuary Hall. New York has sent Robert Livingston and there is only one woman’s statue in the room, this being Frances Willard of Illinois. Besides these pleasures there was the trip to the top of the dome from which place the beautiful paintings, which from the floor of the rotunda look like reliefs are discovered to be flat paintings. From the outside of the dome a delightful view of the city is obtained. After having lunched at the Capitoi restaurant, the class went to the Washington monument. This monument is five hundred fifty-five feet high and fifty-five feet square at the base, tapering toward the lop to thirty-four feet. One may reach the top by taking an elevator or if one is very energetic or wishes to lose flesh, he might walk. The view from the height is delightful. The Potomac river, the Capitol, the White House and, in fact, the country for miles can be seen from the top of the monument. After spending a short time in the National Museum, the party enjoyed a sight seeing trip of the city. On this ride many places of interest were noted. Among the various historical places was the house where Lincoln died, the Opera House where he was assassinated and many of the Embassies. In the evening the Seniors went to the Congressional Library. This building is built of white granite with a lantern-shaped dome made of black copper covered with a thick layer of gold leaf. It is said that this building is the most beautiful in the world. On the first floor is a gorgeous readir g room as well as a periodical reading room in which even the Elmira Advertiser and Star Gazette can be found On Sunday the different members of the class were given the privilege of attending any church service that they wished. A like privilege of choosing a hotel for dinner was allowed. In the afternoon the class went to the National Zoological Gardens. Thes- gardens are 4 26 THE ORACLE located in the north western part of the city about a thirty-minute’s ride from the “Hotel.” There is almost every species of animal exhibited in these gardens, particularly our earliest ancestors, of which there is a great variety. The first building of importance which the Seniors visited on Monday was the Bureau of Printing and Engraving. The employees had just recently been transferred from the old building to. a new one where building was still in process. The class was guided to a gallery from which place men and women were seen manufacturing stamps and paper money. Directly below where the class stood, five dollar notes were being stamped. A man put i: k on a large plate and then a girl laid the paper on this dye. By a little rubbing the impression was made and after examining the various sheets they were sorted, ready to be stamped on the other side. After remaining a short time in this building the party hastened to Smithsonian Institute. The new National Museum which is under the direction of the Institute, is more interesting than the Smithsonian building. The National Museum, which is a very immense white building, contains many historical relics of ancient peoples, such as the Indian totem poles, Egyptian caskets and copies of very ancient in-scriptior s. • 'There is also a beautiful plaster cast of the Statue of Liberty by Tnomas Crawford. The bronze statue on the dome of the Capitol was modeled after this cast, both being of the same size. There was one room which seemed to have a great attraction tor the femir-ine members of the party as well as many of the young men. I his room contained several models on which were dresses worn by sui h noted women as Dolly Madison, Martha Washington, Mrs. Me Kinley and Mrs. Taft. Although these dresses were very beautiful, peg tops and slit skirts didn’t seem to be the vogue. After having lunch at Harvey’s Cafe the Seniors went to the White House. As this day was Egg Rolling Monday, the grounds were crowded with people. Nearly all the children carried little baskets of eggs and everybody seemed to be having one grand holiday. Easter Monday is the only day during the year when the President’s grounds are open to the public. The White House, although a very spacious and beautiful building, is verv simple. The north front consists of a portico supported by Ionic columns which form a porte-cochere, while the southern entrance is surrounded by a large balcony. The visitors were admitted from the east and were led through a long hall and up a short flight of marble stairs to the East Room. The East Room, which is sometimes called the Gold R om because it is finished in gold leaf, is eighty- THE ORACLE 27 two feet in length and forty feet wide. The most striking features of the room were the three cut glass chandeliers which are suspended from the ceiling, and the four immense fireplaces. It was in this room that President Wilson met that enterprising class from W. H. S. The Marine Band gavfe a concert on the President’s grounds that afternoon and several of the party took advantage of this opportunity. Tuesday morning the class again set out for the White House Although they had started very early, when they reached the White House there was a large crowd before them. This morning they were shown the State dining room besides the Red, Blue and Green rooms. From here the party went to the Corcoran Art Gallery. Those who enjoyed works of art and who have never had the opportunity of seeing the original statues will find the Corcoran Art Gallery both interesting and educational. Here we see white copies of a great many well known works of art, such as the Dying Gaul, the Laocooce Group, Venus de Milo, Mercury, and the Greek Slave. On the second fioor is a very interesting collection of paintings After having lunched at Child’s restaurant the class spent the remainder of the afternoon enjoying a trip to Annapolis. As the Annapolis trip will be told in detail in another part of this Oracle, I will not endeavor to tell anything about it. Those who had not already changed their rooming place found it advisable to spend a part of Tuesday evening in moving their household goods to St. James hotel. The change was quite a shock to some members of the party, such as Roxana Dunham, who is naturally of a rather nervous and bashful temperament, particularly at the table. She invariably received something that she didn’t order. One day, to her horror, the waitress brought her some gravy for her potatoes and she is still trying to solve the problem why they brought her the gravy when she didn’t order it. The Seniors were very much disappointed when they awoke Wednesday morning and noticed that it was raining, because- this was the day on which the trip to Mt. Vernon was to be made. This delightful trip will be told in another essay. Suffice it to say that George Washington’s home is as beautiful a mansion as any mansion in the city of Washington. At 6.30 Thursday morning the class of 1914 prepared to -leave Washington. Everybody felt as if he were leaving some dear friend, Perhaps he would never see his nation’s capital again. Perhaps he would never again see those beautiful streets and buildings, but there was no time for speculation because the train was nearly ready to start. At 10.30 the party arrived in Philadelphia, and what a change. 28 THE ORACLE The streets of Washington had been so broad and the traffic had been so orrerly that the noise and bustle of Philadelphia seemed to grate on the ears. The first place that was visited in Philadelphia was the United States Mint. To see nickels, quarters, dollars and pennies coined was an extremely interesting sight. The party visited the Old State House or Independence Hall where is exhibited the old bell which many vears ago proclaimed that America was a free nation. The class was in the room where the Declaration of Independence was signed and saw much of the furniture used at that time. The party also werit to Christ Church and saw the pew in which Washington used to sit. There was a small building which interested the party a great deal. It was the home of Betsy Ross. In fact the building is so small that it seems almost like a child’s play house, but in spite of this it seems a fitting place for the birth of Old Ghjry. The class had lunch at the Automat and then the remainder of the day was spent at Wanamaker’ store. A guide showed the party through th- entire store. All correspondence between the New York and Philadelphia stores is conduced by means of the wireles- telegiaph. For those who had never before seen a wireless instrument in operation it was a very interesting sight. One object of particular interest was a school for thp boys and girls who work in the store. There are several class rooms in which the girls are taught domestic science and the boys different trades. In fact a child may study almost as many things there as in a public school. The class rooms are on the tenth floor of the building. Those boys anl girls who work in the store under sixteen years of age are compelled to go to school one morning in each we-k. The class was very fortunate in being at Wanamaker.s on a day that an organ concert was given. The Wanamaker organ is said to be the largest pipe organ in the world. At about six o’clock the class went to Child’s for lunch. At 8-30 the train left for home. When the Seniors arrived in Watkins the next morning at 6.10 they were not nearly so jolly and fresh as they were when they left a week before. It is my personal opinion that every member of the class was ben-efitted by this trip, arid in years far distant I believe that we, the members of the class of 1914, will look b-ick upon the journey to Washington and think of it as the brightest mark in the High School life. E. J. M. ’14 THE ORACLE 29 Overheard on Trip lo Washington Policeman on the Avenue at 10.30 p. m. “Of course strangers are not expected to know, but this street you see”—-Conway disappointed in search of delinquents, “Hazelle—er-shan’t we go back to the hotel now? ’ Christ Church. Philadelphia, stranger observing register, “Mr. and Mrs. George Hughey, Watkins, N. Y.” “Why, I’ve never heard of them before.” Loch Raven Inn—-girls on 6th floor, “Henrietta you should learn to swim.” Wanted to know of Grace Hopkins—Wno is Harry? Lost Helen Burnett. Where ? In a wardrobe. Wanted to know—“The tide is coming in it isn’t going out.” “Hoo--Hoo you know.” The Song Shop—“John Willy come along.” “What excursion did you girls come on ?” Mr. Conway in Wanamaker’s, Phila.—“l’m lost but I don’t care.” St. James’ Hotel—Where was Hazelle and Louise the last evening? Wanted to know why these are favorite songs ? “Near My God to Thee”— H. Fordham. “Abide With Me”—Conway. I Love the Ladies”—Hughey. Cast Thy Burden Upon the Lord”—Seniors. Face to Face”—Seniors and Faculty. “Adele”—B. Haughey. Hush a bye, Baby”—Prof. Beers. “Oft in the Stilly Night”—J. W. Gurnett. A few questions the Oracle was asked to answer. “Why is the ocean so near the shore ?” “Does the dew fall ?” Could I talk if I did not have a chin ?” Why do boys wear lappels on their coats?” Cent a Word Column Wanted—A good road horse, guaranteed to travel in all weather, must learn to be driven from Burdett to Watkins without guiding, and must not balk A Senior. Wanted—A chaperon. H. Fordham. Wanted—A marriage license. Hughey and Hopkins. Wanted—A sugar spoon. Crofut. 30 THE ORACLE Wanted—Gladys Forbes’ beautiful blue eyes. An envious one. Wanted—A W (we) in (e) stein. H. Coleman. Wanted—A Garnet (t) F. Dale. Wanted—Eight ponies. We are not expecting to be in Barnum and Bailey’s parade but are looking for a little piece of mind. Virgil students. Wanted to Know why she can’t smile without showing her dimples? Marie Clark. Wanted—To be ‘‘Happy.” L. Van Devender. Wanted—A girl. R. Morris. Wanted—Hair dye. “Casey” Jones. Wanted — Fat reducer. McCall. Wanted—A book on how to learn to sing without being heard. M. Smith. Class Song Book How we are seen in the year T4. ” Crofut—Sugar Moon. Spader—Rah! Rah! four our team. Conrad—I’ve a Longing in My Heart For You, Louise. Hughey—Your mother is 1 oking for you. Hopkins—When we are m-a-r-r-i-e-d. Foster—School Days. Brown—Just because you’re you. Fordham—A girlie was just made to love. Dunham—Have you lost your dog. Mills—You’re my great big blue eyed baby. Palmer—The cursS of an aching heart. Hausner—Last night was the end of the world. Moran—Sweethearts. Mack—Everybody loves a chicken. Burnett—’Scuse me teacher. Smith—That’s how I need you. Matthews—Don’t be bashful dear. Coieman—Absence makes the heart grow fonder. The Tunnels Ferries are plying their way back and forth between New York and Long Island cities. Passengers leaning over the rail notice bubbles coming up through the water, in places only a few appear and again, great “boils” fifty feet across can be seen. Various and THE ORACLE 31 wierd are the conjectures a to the cause of these unusual disturbances. Is there a school of fish passing underneath or perhaps an army of divers working in one vicinity ? Perhaps a submarine is taking a noonday nap ? But come with me for a few hours and we will look into this mystery. The ferry lands at Long Island City and we, after walking about a block enter a building marked engineer’s office. vVe ask and receive permission to descend into th“ tunnels, next the doctor is consulted and he, after a rigid examination passes us on and we, after changing our clothes and also getting a supply of candles, are ready for the trip. We first ascend about a hundred steps and reach a platform on which is a long iron cylinder about eight feet in diameter, in the ends of which are iron doors fitting tightly in their casings. After waiting a few minutes one of these doors opens and a car of muck (dirt and rock) and perhaps some men come out. We step through the door which is closed, shutting out the daylight, a valve is turned and if a timid member of the party tries to open the door to get out he cannot for the air” is on and the d or is locked more effectually than by any lock. Our ears b -gin to feel funny and watching our guide we hold our nose and blow” to relieve the pressure. We are now in the air lock and must stay here until enough compressed air can come through the valve from inside to equalize the pressure, when another door, similar to the one we just passed through, but opening to the inside, opens, and we step through to the shaft. A car c ones up and we step in, someone pulls a bell rope and d wn we go perhaps two hundred feet to the tunnel bottom. We step out of this car and are in the tunnel proper. We are glad and someone tries to smg, but no, the voice will only reach one note instead of perhaps two octaves in the open, we try to whistle and again cannot. The candles have been lighted and someone tries to blow one out and is surprised again, for as soon as the breath stops the flame flares up a jain. The spark must be snuffed out as soon as the flame is b'o n mt. Walking ahead down the tunnel a heavy weight seems to hang upon us and we break into perspiration. All this on account of the compr ssed air. At last we reach the heading and after examining the concrete, iron lining, etc., the shield i3 shoved and a ring of iron erected in the place it just vacated. Mm are w rking ahead r f the shield, drillers on the rock drills mucker cleaning out the dirt, electric wire men, engineers, and many others. Suddenly the air gets foggy and we hear someone cry “a blow” 32 The ORACLE and we know that upon the surface there is another of those violent disturbances of the water. In the tunnel every effort is put forth to stop the escape of air. Bailed hay, concrete, dirt, all are used to fill the hole and at last the efforts are successful. Again we reach the surface, drink a cup of coffee, change our clothes and the experience is over. But did I say over? No. in about two or three hours one of the party begins to feel pains in his elbow or shoulder which perhaps spread to his knees or other joints and he has what is called The Bends or caisson disease, the dread of tunnel men. He is rushed to the office and placed in the hospital lock where he stays for an hour or so, in the meantime being rubbed by an attendant, and comes out very gradually. Sometimes the bends last an hour, sometimes a day and sometimes a lifetime. Most of us had the bends at one time or another but I luckily escaped. This is the tunnel in which I worked for over a year. The life is dangerous, but exciting. Wonderful results are accomplished and records made. Think of running a line under the ground for half a mile and missing the desired point by less than half an inch. Good for the surface, you say, but we did it in the tunnels, the result of painstaking and careful checking. The tunnels are finished and passengers now ride back and forth little thinking of the millions of dollars spent and hundreds of lives lost that they might save half an hour each day. Seth Webb, Cleveland, O . Mr. Webb was editor-in-chief of the Oracle in 1902. Some Boys’ Idea of Heaven Hughey—to be his own boss. Gurnett and Haughey—comparing notes. C. Powers—Algebra. Smith—to be popular. Frost—to grow up. Hausner—to be a base ball star. George Gurnett—long trousers. Dan Fordham—talking to Jane. Phil Williams—teasing. Palmer—being contrary. Culver—to be an artist. Spader—to be with Helen. , Morris—to be a masher. THE ORACLE 33 Jones—to be beautiful. Conrad—to discourse sweet harmony, Burrell —to always spoon. Glen Palmer—Caesar. William McCall—to be fat. Sproule—to own a pony. Bohmwitch—fussing. Hill—to be a sport. Isley—posing. Hendrickson—ancient history, Hoare—seclusion. Society Notes Haste thee, nymph, and bring with thee Jests and youthful jollity Imps and pranks and wanton wiles Nods and becks and wreathed smiles. In response to this summon mirth, with -her crew assembled in the tower hall of our high school on Monday evening, October 13. This reception and dance, under the supervision of the Senior Class, was to welcome the new members of our school and to initiate them into the gay festivities of our high school life. The hall was prettily decorated by Seniors, Juniors, Sophmores and Freshmen. Each class was represented by its booth where it received and welcomed its classmates and guests. The booths at the north and south entrances of the hall were decorated in autumn colors by the Fresh’s and Sophs, while the east entrance was artistically decorated in red and white by the Juniors. Tne Seniors, who received with the faculty, chose the main entrance which they decorated as only Seniors can. The decorations were very appropriate for the occasion and it was quite evident that much care had been taken by each member of the school to make the hall as attractive as possible. After a reception, dancing was enjoyed by those present, all of whom reported the most delightful evening’s entertainment ever spent at an opening reception at the High School. The next social gathering was the Senior Supper which was held February 16 at the Methodist church parlors. The object of the supper was to raise funds to help defray the expense of the Washington trip. To our many friends who in any way contributed to the supper and its great success, the class of 1914 extends its heartiest thanks. A few weeks later the Training Class students gave a very pleas- 5 34 THE ORACLE ing entertainment called School Days. Abigail O’Daniels starred as the teacher of a rural school, and it is almost needless to say that the part was very appropriate. Each and every member who took part did excellent and deserves much credit. On March 17th the Class of 1914 presented What Happened to Jones, a farce in three acts written by George H. Broadhurst. The great success of our play was due to the kind efforts of Mrs. Roberts who devoted her time and patience to the work of the production, and through whose arduous efforts our long hoped desire of success was attained. After the play an informal dance was enjoyed. Having made our play a success in Watkins, we decided to present it at Odessa. Therefore on Friday evening, April 3, “What Happened to Jones” was presented in the Odessa Opera House to a very enthusiastic audience. After the play dancing was enjoyed for a few hours by all present. The class was accompanied to Odessa by Mrs. Roberts, Miss Maloney and many friends of the class. The trip to and from Odessa was a pleasure to the entire party all of whom expressed a desire to make another trip with the cast. From this we concluded that no one had “cold fate.” Their wish may yet be fulfilled as preparations are now being made to present the play in Townsend in the near future. Friday afternoon, May 8th, the Senior Class planted their class tree. Before the planting of the tree a few very appropriate words were spoken by our valedictorian and vice-president, George A. Spader. Arbor Day exercises were also held in the afternoon in the chapel. Many pleasing dialogues and recitations were rendered by the students of the grades. In the evening a dance under the auspices of the Athletic Association, was given in the Opera House. The hall was prettily decorated in school banners and colors. About a May pole which stood in the center of the hall, a dance was given during the evening by twelve High School girls. Much credit is due Miss Beach for her kindness in aiding in the preparations for the dance. The music was rendered by the Red Men’s orchestra. All expectations of a good time were fulfilled and everyone joined in pronouncing the dance a grand affair. The Association and Mr. Conway are to be congratulated. Hence vain,deluding joys,— The brood of folly without the father bred. Until the muoh anticipated Freshmen-Sophmore picnic, which we are all looking forward to with much anxiety. A few more social gatherings are being considered, such as the Junior Prom, the Alumni Reception and, last but not least, the Senior Ball, a crowning victory ■ THE ORACLE 35 of a glorious time of the social life in Watkins High School during the year 1913-14. L. J. M. ’14. May 14, 1914— I hear there’s come to port The cutest little craft, And we folks in the School With joy are nearly daft. And so to you we send— You’ll not disdain, maybe— Congratulations, Prof., And health to the first school Baby. H. B. C. The Senior Play —March 14 The Seniors for several years have presented a class play which has always met with success. This year’s play, “ What Happened to Jones,” by Broadhurst, surpassed all former High School productions, and for those who saw the play, it might be of interest to know about its birth and its development into maturity under the careful supervision of Mrs. Roberts. The first period was the choosing of the play, a period of brow-sweating and controversy. When at last the manuscript was received, then began the second period—one of high elation and vivid imagination—of dreams of the flare of the foot-lights, the applause of the audience, and the thrill of success. When the rehearsals began there loomed up the third period. At first it seemed like a small task, but trouble soon arose over the fact that, “no one’s here on time,” “so and so’s too stiff ” “ put yourself into the part,” “ face the audience, enunciate clearly,” etc., etc. Soon the spirits of the players had all sunken into despair but, by the time of the final giving of the play, they arose to the occasion with incredible rapidity with the first applause offered by the audience. And here began the fourth period. The audience was the best on record. • George Hughey as Jones,” conclusively proved that he is as versatile as clever. Anyone who can play two such extremes as a traveling drummer and a bishop, can play any part, mid-wray. Henrietta Coleman as “ Cissy,” the knowing ward of the “Goodly’s,” acted her role with unusual ability and grace, winning the praise of the entire audience. Leaman Conrad, as the Bishop,” and Legrand Mills, as “ Richard,” may be well mentioned 36 THEORAGLE in the same breath. “Richard” was good looking, of course. Lea-man was excellent. He was dignified ; he was pathetic ; and long will be remembered his constant plea, “I want to- see my brother.’ Lawrence Smith, as the lunatic Indian, brought down the house with hi� blood-stirring whoops. The part of “ Ebenezer Goodly,” on account of the sudden illness of George Spader, was kindly taken at a few hours’ notice by Clarence James, a member of the Athenaeum Dramatic Club, who took his part equal to that of a Broadway actor. Edwina Mack, as “ Elvina Starlight,” a spinster of fifty-six summers or so, and yet a true sport, made much of her part and had the house with her from the moment she appeared behind the foot-lights- “ Helma’s” part, that of a Swedish, was taken by Bernice Owens, who took the roll splendidly and managed to eollect about fifty dollars in tips in two hours. Helen Burnett, as “Mrs. Goodly,” effectively carried her worry about ‘ poor Ebenezer” across the stage. Louise Moran, as “ Minerva,” and Hazelle Fordham, as “ Marjorie,” the two daughters of the Goodly’s, made much of their parts and gave them in a very pleasing manner. Harold Hausher, as a policeman, and Don Palmer, as superintendent of the insane asylum, both deserve commendable praise. In concluding this review, too much credit cannot be given to Mrs. Roberts, the kind “ angel” and guiding spirit of the play, and to John Bohmwitch we offer the accustomed word of thanks for so kindly and untiringly furnishing the music. “Two Seniors.” The Senior Class Play, from the Junior Point of View After much hurry and flurry, the worn-out Seniors finally presented their play, “ What Happened to Jones,” at the Opera House, March 17. It was a great relief to all of us that it at last came off, for since February 1 we heard nothing but the “ Senior Class Play.” The cast was especially suited to their parts, so it wasn’t difficult to discover who’s who, for who else but “ Hughey” possesses such a versatile tongue. You ?ee, he practises every day, and it’s the every-day work that counts. We recognized Smith as the Ingun— couldn’t help it. The war-whoops showed that he is adapted to that kind of business. Henrietta played the part of the scapegoat ward to perfection. Can it be possible that she has had previous practice ? Louise and Conrad may be spoken of in one breath. Although Conrad was so very sanctimonious and Louise so very sedate and intelli- THE ORACLE 37 gent, it was all put on, for even they will “skip school” once in a while. However, we heard Louise say “never again” the next day. As for Hausner—“Murder will out.” We thought there was some attraction in Odessa. We know now, because didn’t he say he had a wife and children at home ? Palmer deserves much credit. For once he laid aside that “ bully” disposition and acted like his real self. Maybe it was because there were no girls in the (his) case. We didn’t have the opportunity of seeing Spader in his part ; he was taken sick at such an unfavorable time. We hear that he would rather go to Washington next year instead of with his own class. How about it, Helen ? It was extremely interesting to note that Helen Burnett found no trouble in changing her ways to agree with James instead of Spader. Must be she is accustomed to changing. We must not leave Mills out. He was in his glory with so many girls around ; but he certainly didn’t show that “ all those weeks of practice” had benefitted him in ttie kissing line. We felt sorry for Hazelle. It. must have been trying, especially when she was working (?) so hard to make things smooth. Bernice, the star of the Junior Class, as the maid, did her part splendidly ; but then, she could do any part well. It certainly shows that the “ illustrious” Seniors can’t get along without the “ capable” Juniors. Last but not least, is Edwina. From the time she fluttered in until she fluttered out she kept the audience roaring. But what was the matter with Jones’ coat after that little tete-a-tete on the sofa? He looked as though he had been dropped into a flour barrel. No doubt you have read it was a great success. Well, as the old saying goes, “ Self praise is no praise at all” (except for Bernice.) It is our sincere wish that next year we won’t make so “Much Ado About Nothing.” We thank you for your kind “Attention.” and Patience.” The Juniors. Curtain. Echoes from the Class Room May 11. Chemistry Class— Betty Crofut : “ Will you please tell me the formula for sugar ?” Sugar ? Oh, yes ; it depends. There are many formulas for sugar, but it all depends.” We wonder. 38 THE ORACLE English— “ Miss Owens, what must you have in mind to write a description ?” Miss Owens : “An inspiration, I guess.” English History Class— Pauline, talking about Queen Elizabeth : Hadn’t they (the En- glish) looked forward to having a Lady Queen ?” German II.— Professor Beers, talking about prepositions : “ It’s the same in English as it is in German. Never use a preposition to end a sentence WITH. “Lesen Sie, Miss Beecher.” After much hesitation Beecher reads : “ Du weiss nicht, wie lieb ich dich habe.” May 11. Geometry Class— “ Sis” Hopkins : “ Draw the diameter through the center.” One more guess, “ Sis.” English History— “Now this isn’t a circus, although it has been made to appear like one,—eating peanuts.” April 2nd. French III. “ Mr. Hughey, your whistling is of no great benefit to this class.” Hughey : “ Haven’t you heard that music hath charms to soothe the savage BEAST?” In Chemistry Class— Elizabeth Crofut explains to Mr. Conway how matches are made, but leaves it to Hazelle to demonstrate. Geometry— “Mr. Mills, prove that a cat has nine lives.” Mr. Mills (a little in doubt) : “Well, given no cat has eight lives.” “ State your reason.” Mr. Mills : “ By construction—if no cat has eight lives, one cat has one more life than no cat : one cat has nine lives.” English History. April 27th “ Name some inventors of this period, Mr. Williams. Phil : “ John Watts and------------------ “ Yes ; what did he invent ?” Phil, continuing : “Sir Isaac Newton.” THE ORACLE 39 Chemistry- Prof. Conway : Miss Bannon, what class of elements are good conductors of electricity?” Bannon : “ Oh, dear !” Prof. : “ Don't speak to me in such terms.” Physical Geography— “What is a shrimp, Miss Crofut?’ Miss Crofut : “ Why—why-------a shrimp is a lobster.” Ancient History. May 4— Now you may tell us of the intermingling of the East and West.” Henrietta : “ Alexander wanted the East and West to intermarry. That’s all I know about it.” Mr. Hughey (brightening it). ' Who was that East anyway ?” Ancient History. May 8— Miss Fordham, when asked to tell something of the Greek culture during the Periclean Age, answered, “ It was for men only.” Chapel— “ Mr. Charles you are here to study.” Mr. Charles : “ Oh, that is all right. I admit that I am not here as an ornament to the school-room.” (Quality, not quantity, you know.) Harold Hausner in English History, talking about general appearance and character of Charles I., said, ' He didn’t have much in his head, and it was his father’s fault because he brought him up.” American History. May 11- Miss WiHover : “I will teach my pupils that the Mersey Rivet rose in the central part of England and flowed northeast.” “ When did the Mersey River stop flowing?” Miss Willover : “ When it reached the Irish Sea, of course.” February 16. Chemistry Class— Mack : “ You ought to buy a ticket to the Senior Supper for that cute little teacher down in the fifth grade.” Conway (grinning from ear to ear) : “Take your papers, we’ll have a test.” May 13. English History— “ Phil Williams, are you going to be good ?” Phil : “ I’m always good.” “ My, but you are an awful one, and a minister’s son at that.” 40 THE ORACLE March 12. Chemistry Class— The tremblings and shakings heard by residents of Montour Falls was not an earthquake as many there supposed, but simply a slight jar in Chemistry “ Lab,” caused by John Gurnett accidentally falling out of his chair. November 21— Miss Ford preaches a fifteen minute sermon which was greatly enjoyed, as her text was “ Notes.” English History— “ What was the first name given to the English Cabinet ?” Ruth Budd : “The Whig Jumbo.” “ Unfortunately, King William did think he had an elephant on his hands.” German II— Pupil translating “young undeveloped girl.” Mr. Beers offers a suggestion : “ Say,— a chicken, probably.” March 13— Miss Ford : “ I like to remember dates.” The Recipients of Prizes The results of the awarding of prizes for proficiency in scholarship and debating for the school year 1912-1913 were received too late for publication in the June issue of last year’s Oracle. Since this is the first and o lly issue of the Oracle which the class of 1914 will publish, it becomes necessary to give the results here. The silver loving cup, donated by Mr. A. J. Peck to the girl attaining the highest standings in scholarship, was awarded to Helen Locks ; the Dr. Weller gold medal to the boy attaining the highest scholarship, to John Bohmwetch. Mr. Frank L. Moran, President of the Board of Education, donated a silver loving cup to the best debater in Watkins High School. After a series of preliminaries lasting from the first of January to the middle of May, there came the final debate about the twentieth of May, upon the question, Resolved, That municipalities in the United States should own and operate their Street Railway systems.” Mr. Ernest Love was the lucky recipient. The scholarships given by the State of New York and of which we have five in this district, which gives the winners a hundred dollars a THE ORACLE 41 year for four years to apply on their college expenses, were won by Mr. Janies Rowe of Valois, a student of W. H. S., and Miss MildreH Bentley, a training class student of W. H. S.f the former going to Colgate and the latter to Albany State Normal. And now last but not least, comes the names of those members of the class of 1914 who for honest, faithful work through four years of their High School life have been rewarded by prominent places upon the graduating platform. The race was very close, Mr. George Spader beating Mr. Leaman Conrad, salutatorian, by a very small margin. Don Palmer, - Class Prophet. Edwina Mack, - - Class Historian. Helen Burnett, - - Presentation Speaker. Eleanor Brown, - - - Class Poet. Lawrence Smith, - - Class Orator. Frances Mathews, ... Class Will. Athletics Professor C. Conway, - - President Harold Hausner, - - Secretary Leaman Conrad, - - - Treasurer ADVISORY BOARD—BASKETBALL LeGrand Mills, Manager George Spader, Captain Karl King Wm. Isley John Fordham Philip Williams BASEBALL LeGrand Mills, Manager George Spader, Captain Leonard Irish Philip Williams Harold Hauener Glenn Palmer Don Palmer Hubert Burrell Earl Drake Francis Tunney Charles Williams In attempting to treat a subject of so great a magnitude as Athletics, one must confine one’s self to local fields as much as possible. Historical data must not be indulged in to any great extent nor can one even approach the numerous heroic deeds of each individual fighting hard to win fame for W. H. S. Within the past three years the only forms of athletics indulged in were basketball and baseball. Football seems to be a thing of the past and only now and then a single individual trying to make a 7 foot 3 inches with a 12 foot pole marks the rapidly decreasing interest of 42 THE ORACLE track. Early in the Fall the basketball team was organized with LeGrand Mills, manager. Soon after practice began the team elected George Spader, captain. Twenty-one games were played during the season, W. H. S. winning 12 with an average of points for W. H. S. 697, opponents 551. The line up : Karl King, 1. f. William Isley, r. f. Le Grand Mills, Philip Williams, center. George Spader, 1. g. John Fordham, r. g. W. H. S. 56 ; Intermediates Y. M. C. A., 18. 44 ; Dundee, 9. 17 ; Watkins A. A., 20. 59 : Haverling High, 32. 32 ; Corning Free Academy, 10. 25 ; Corning N. H. S., 32. 43; Intermediates Y. M. C. A., 19. 26 ; Corning Free Academy, 28. 24 ; Ithaca High, 82. 22 ; Montour Town Team, 32. 52 ; Addison, 22. 36 : Waverly High, 18. 44 ; Cook Academy, 26. 43 ; Elmira Triangles, 14. 28 ; Starkey Seminary, 34. 25 ; Hobart Freshmen, 30. 31 ; Watkins A. A., 24. 34 ; Geneva High, 29. 18 ; Cook Academy, 20. “ 12 ; Watkins A. A., 31. 26 ; Watkins A. A., 38. The baseball team of Watkins High School was organized about March 1st with LeGrand Mills, manager, and George Spader, captain. The first game was played April 20 with Starkey Seminary as opponents. The High School won this game by a score of 13 to 11. The next game was played with Cook Academy May 5. Again the High School was victorious. Still they continued their winning streak by defeating their opponents by the score of 3 to 1. This game was stopped by rain in the fifth inning. The next game was with Montour Falls town team and was won by them, this being the first defeat that High School received. The last game played to date was with Cook on their field; and again the W. THE ORACLE 43 H. S. team was defeated. At the present tirr.e, with the season about half over, it appears as though the team would have a very successful year. Through its success the Athletic Association has been able to make a clear record financially as well as socially, and may it still continue to 1 0 a success. L. G. M. ’14. Girls’ Athletics On November 15th, 1913, a Girls’ Basketball Team was organized. Marjorie Dunham was elected captain and LeGrand Mills, manag. r, by a large majority. After practicing for some weeks a try-out was called and the first team was chosen as follows : R. G.—Green. L G.—Marshall. C.—Severne. R. F.—Dunham L. F.—Stevens. Subs—Burnett and Button. The first game was played in Watkins Opera House. February 3, 1914, with Corning Northside High School. The score was 11 to 5 in favor of the Corning girls. This game was played by “ boys’ ” rules. The next game was with the Cook Academy Girls’ Basketball Team in Watkins Opera House, February 9, 1914, and ended in a score of 11 to 8 in favor of the W. H. S. girls. This game was played with girls ” rules and proved a greater success. The next game was with Corning Free Academv girls, on February 27, at W’atkins Opera House. This ended with a score of 12 to 9 in Coming’s favor. A return game was played with the Cook girls at Cook on March 21, and resulted in a score of 10 to 4 in W. H. S. girls’ favor. Games were scheduled with Horseheads and Waverly but were cancelled. The girls showed much spirit and interest in athletics and were well repaid for their earnest efforts. Athletics for girls on a weaker scale than athletics for boys is very beneficial. Basketball is excellent exercise and induces alertness, quick action and balance in the player. M. D. STATISTICS NAME Cio'U NICKNAME Betty Nh EDS MOST Sugar... . s Dad � r % Spud Pain Tonic (’on rad ('onny Louise H lurhev Broth r A rest J IT onk i ns To study . George C.. Fnfltf'r Foster Vortl h n ill Hazv A date book Physics.... Urnwn Charley Tin n li n in Hosanna A private de- Mills Millsy tective Ambition.. PqIiyiai Don Amabilitv. Good looks Hausner Suds M nra ii Louisy To be good Stilts M onk Skinny Burnett Mrs. Goodly A Taylor.. Smith Smithy Nerve tonic Mathew s Matty Height Abe Coleman Cissy NOTED FOR A permanent front seat... Honors.... Studying Bluffing ... Loving----- Sweetness Popularity Cheerfulness .. Losing Things. Spooning.. Contrariness... Soap....... School nuisance........ Talking .. cleverness. — Talking at night....... Goodness.. Disposition PASTIME HATES MOST Writing notes. Chemistry Athletics.. Notoriety. Tennis A rival Procrastination Studying.. . Making a date 9 Studying.. Waiting 2nd period. To be teased Singing Beaux Searching . Peach ice cream Sleeping... To make love in a play Bowling... Girls Playing pool.. Drinking Teasing Conway T .... To study Flirting ... To be bossed .... Acting Solitude Girls Himself Geometry . Nonsense Dancing... Indians FUTURE OCC’PAT’N Society Bell... Professor...... Civil engineer... Marriage....... Marriage....... Teacher........ Professor’s wife. Suffragette.... Ballet dancer ... Farmer......... Mail .Carrier-- Policeman...... Operator’s wife.. Music Teacher.. Teacher........ Bartender...... Teacher........ Elocutionist... Z m o ZJ o r m THE ORACLE 45 We tried to find the things you do To show the funny side to you. These are the jokes, just one or two, But if you found yourself in here, Don’t be cast down or think you’re queer, W. H. S. had a joke book too, last year. Here’s a good hearty rousing cheer For nineteen fourteen’s class. We struggled for four long years together And are now to leave our Alma Mater at last. Hold hard to the truths she has taught us. And always keep honest and true. Farewell, clastmates, don’t fail to remember Her reputation rests with you. H. Burnett. 46 THE ORACLE 3u iflrmurij of FLORENCE STEWART