Staunton spectator, and general advertiser. [volume] (Staunton, Va.) 183?-1849, 1846-10-01
FOR THE SPECTATOR.
WASHINGTON COLLEGE, LEXINGTON, v

WASHINGTON COLLEGE, LEXINGTON, VA
NO. I.
Mr.. Editor IL propose, by your permission and
courtesy, TO make few remarks, and notice few
things, touching Washington College You are
aware that reside at considerable distance from
Lexington; that am not in any way connected
with thi, Institution; and that am removed from
the din and conflict of local and sectional feeling
Under thee circumstances | hope to be able to
''speak forth the words OF truth and soberness -
''to set down naught in malice, and nothing to eX-
tenuate." Moreover, | have been intimately and
dlspassionately conversant with the res gesiGe of
Washington College during the twenty five last
years. l have not been an unconcerned spectator !;
| have observed with deep interest its internal
workings and external influences. shall speak of
their character in the sequel.
Whoever feels an interest in the veal of Vir-
glnia, must feel interest in the prosperity of
Washington College and yet it is not known nor
appreciated to that extent to which its merits justly
entitle it. Would that it had a place as the
heart of every Nirgnian it had in the affections
of the great and the good Washington, who ondow
ed it, am induced to write, because, earnestly
desire to promote, in my measure, the cause Of
sound Literature and Science, which, at present.
sadly languishes in our State, and greatly needs
renewed impulse. | am man, and any thing that
concerns the solid good OF the community concerns
Washington College is a striking instance Of
what may be accomplished by patient and persever-
ing industry. 1t has grown up to its present state
of greatness and grandeur from very low begin
nngs 1t had its origin in log cabin, which stood
in beautiful forest of venerable oaks. about mile
northeast of the present village of Fairfield
This log cabin occupied a commanding elevation,
which afforded delightful view of the surround
ing country, and Of the Blue Ridge, which rises i'm
all lis rugged and awful grandeur away in the dis
lance. All the scenery, in its groupings and COM
blnations, was well adapted TO inspire the lofiest
ideas, to make ii fit habitation for the Muses. and
the hill deserved its name of Mount Pleasant
The site of this rustic structure which was the
cradle of Washington College, may still be seen
1t is distinctly marked, and its outline can be easily
traced. The writer has recently stood upon the
spot and could narrate many interesting reminis-
cences of this ''Log College, which he has taken
pleasure in collecting from aged and venerable men
In the immediate neghbcrhood. 1t is to be regret
ted. that so much of the deeply interesting lepen-
Diary lore. connected with the early settlement of
this beautiful Valley, should be lost IL some well
qualified person were to turn his attention to this
subject and lay the result of his enquiries and re-
searches before the public, he would perform a use
full and acceptable service. Perhaps the writer at
?: cnvenent season, may favor the public with
some OF the "reminiscences referred to above
ANXIOUS.
&C. Lexington Gazette please copy.