The western Democrat. [volume] (Charlotte, N.C.) 1852-1870, 1856-07-08
DAVIDSON COLLEGE.

From friend who was present on the
occasion, we have received the following
account of the commencement OF the above
institution. It would seem that this College
is likely to become, and that soon, one OF
the most important literary institutions OF
the South.
1.-THE annual commencement of this In
stitution came off on Thursday, Goth of
June. A multitude was in attendance, with
the usual amount of youth and beauty. A
fine opportunity was afforded for the dis
play of intellectual culture Oh the part of
students, and of extravagant fashion on the
mart of the audience. After the arduous con-
flicts in literature, it must be refreshing to
aspiring youth to be greeted by the pres
ence of so many who are evidently so high
" pleased with themselves. and who seem
to wish others to share largely in similar
feeling.
Commencement day was preceded by an
examination for four days, said to be search
ing and close. Eighty students were in
attendance. Of these eight graduated
Near fifty rise Sophomore next session.
Q5th of September.) The Salutatory ora
ton was delivered by j. c. Caldwell of
Fairfield, S. C.. Being in Latin it was lis
tened to with profound attention. L. u
Henderson of Davidson College delivered
the Valedictory-A. N. McCallum of Ten
nessee, the Philosophical Grafton.
One on the 'sOld North State" called forth
repeated cheers. North Carolina bids fair
to rival South Carolina in the work of self
graduation. Some of the Orations did great
credit to the young gentlemen. The whole
of the exercises were enlivened by the per-
Torrance of Brass Band from Charlotte.
C. D. Fishburn was inaugurated Profess
sor of the Greek Language and Literature.
On Wednesday, the rival Literary Societies
were represented by their several speakers.
Great disappointment was felt by the alb
sence of NJ. D. Hoge, D. D., of Richmond,
Va, one of the Orators elect, who was de-
tanned by family affliction. The other So
ciety was favored with an address from
Rev. NJ. Mcqueen of Richmond county, n.
c., Six additional orations were delivered
by these Societies on Wednesday evening.
Not being present at any of these displays
of youthful eloquence, l can say nothing of
their merits.
The Trustees were in pretty full atten
dance. They were apparently harmonious
each trying to promote the interest of the
College. They have obtained Decree of
the Court, that 100000 of the Chambers
legacy be paid over Immediately. They
expect that a final decision will soon be
made in the case of this munifcent bequest.
The friends of the College are sanguine in
their expectations, that all will be eventu
ally obtained, and that it will amount to
$3.50, 900, or even $3OO,OOO. The Trustees
have taken incipient steps to use the inter
est as it may come into their hands for the
benefit of the College. The principal they
can never use, according to the will of the
donor.
In connection with the President, Dr. |
Lacy, there are four Professors-twO of
them natives of South Carolina. Another |
will be elected at the next annual Meeting |
of the Board. With seven Professors and
ample funds, and with the blessing of the |
great head of the Church, Davidson College !
may Justly look forward to bright and glo
rious future."- YorkriUc Enquirer.