Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades - Mechanic Yearbook (Media, PA)

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r Mr. Tllitlilliamsun - Zin Zlppreriatiun HE final test of a man is his contribution to the larger life of mankind. judged by this standard, the name of Isaiah Vansant VVi1liamson will for- ever remain inscribed on the scroll of the world's greatest philanthropists. In common with many men who have risen by the sheer force of their own efforts, Mr. Williamson was born and raised in adverse circumstances. Because of this fact he was able to sympathize with those in like condition. His interest in his fellow man never Hagged during his long, beautiful life of service. To him may justly be applied the title of a lover of humanity. Throughout his entire life, Mr. NVilliamson was a keen observer and a deep thinker. XfVith his remarkable business sagacity, he saw that the prevailing apprentice system of his day was being operated more for the advantage of the employer than for the instruction of the learner. It was his determination to remedy this evil and as a result of many years of planning he founded in 1888 the Wfilliamson Free School of Mechanical Trades. Before this time vocational training had been considered an important element in the curriculum of many schools, but the idea of specific trade training was a new one. Many men of ability declared that trades could not be taught in schools, but the original board of trustees as named in the deed of endowment, comprising some of the most capable men of the day, were in sympathy with Mr. 'Williamson's idea. The records of many graduates have proven con- clusively the accuracy of their reasoning. Thus Mr. WVilliamson may be regarded as the pioneer in a movement which has for its purpose a higher standard of efficiency in the training of skilled mechanics, F ar more inspiring howeventhan any material object is the memorial of an unblemished character. In this respect our noble benefactor has left with us a treasure of inestimable value, a model for the youth of all times. VVhile enjoying the beneiits of his liberality here at lfVilliamson, the example of his life has been a constant incentive to higher motives and it will continue to be a guiding power long after the school which bears his name has passed out of our actual lives and entered the fitfully lighted chambers of memory. To Isaiah V. VVilliamson we owe an enormous debt of gratitude and how can we ever hope to repay that debt except by living upright, honorable lives, and so perpetuate the principles for which he stood! HARROLD Gini.. ' MR. WILLIAMSON'S BIRTHPLACE 7 X

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Baath uf Trustees JOHN NVANAMAKER JOHN' STORY JENKS IOI-IN M, SQHRIGLEY CHAIRMAN TREASURER