The republic. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1849-1853, 1850-09-07
Local Matters.

The FRANKLIN LYcEUM.-We take great plea
sure in commencing this institution to the favora-
bic regards Of the youth of city So far as its
operations can be felt they will prove salutary;
but it will not supply all that needed for the pre-
servation of our youth. This Lyceum ia for the
we'll meaning and the thoughtful These can take
good of themselves, and will go right-the
more certainly, however, for the mutual aid they
give to each other. But we have plead in be-
half of those who have not yet fortified themselves
by good resolves and found the means of executing
these resolves. This class is at once the most nu-
merous, and the most exposed to evil influences
The writer Of the subjoined communication pre-
sents advice that will doubtless be well received by
our readers and advocates the of institu-
ton that forms of class that will prove valu
able auxiliary to the reading and lecture room pro-
ject VIC have 50 often urged upon the public atten-
ton:
Mr.. liens: A few days ago a letter appeared in
your column of the Republic, signed Zone of the
Boys,' in answer to some Of your own remarks in
reference to Debating Societies, Reading Rooms,
&c. The writer of that letter did not make good
an apology for his mis-spent evenings as he might
have done and will show where he was wrong.
He charges the i'll of his lettering about
the engine houses taverne, and corners-to the to-
tai want of the institutions Of which you spoke.
Now, his opportunities for receiving information
must be very limited, indeed, he has never learned
that there several such literary institutions in
existence in the city. One of these will mention
particularly.
| The Franklin Lyceum, composed of some forty
five fifty young men, meets with full attendance
every Tuesday evening in Of the Division
rooms of Temperance Hall. This society has been
in operation number of years, and so far its pros
poets, for future success, daily Frightening.
The members, from fourteen to twenty five years
of age, taking deep interest IN the affairs Of the
society, determined to spare efforts to make
it rank equal to the best in the land. The founda
ton of library has been recently laid; it has now
many volumes, and is increasing with great rapid
ity The main object Of the society is the culture
of the mental powers of the members. The means
of carrying out hese objects only obedience TO
the rules and determination not 10 fail. In their
discussions comparatively far more wisdom is dis
played; far greater interest shown by the act
ing members; and far better order prevails, than
has at any time been witnessed in national
halls of legislation The audiences are generally
large, respectable, and orderly, and always show
that their feelings and sympathies are enlisted in
favor of the ambitious efforts of the young orators.
A remark made in my hearing, few even
ings since, which may be prevailing idea among
many persona situated as the author of the letter
above alluded TO. 1t was this: "Nobody can't join
them societies if he has got to work" OF the rules
of others Of our societies know nothing; but Of the
facts connected with the Franklin Lyceum ! am
well enough Informed to know that in that express
sion the speaker was decidedly wrong. Three
fourths of the members of the yceum are practical
mechanics. Between these, and those who do not
perform physical labor for subsistence, the best
feelings exist, and never have seen any thing
which would transgress the most arbitrary rues OF
etiquette Of the "upper ten" No difficulty is ever
encountered in asking and gaining admission, cx-
ccpt in case Of a VIGOROUSLY bad character No
matter what may be young mans circumstances,
or how deficient he may be in literary acquire
ments, if he can bring good character and TWEEN
ty five cents, he will be admitted.
OF the benefits Of such societies ] would like 70
say something but it would make too long letter,
and then might not do justice to the subject.
Very respectfully, yours, &c,
A MEMBER OF THE LYcEUM.