Staunton spectator. [volume] (Staunton, Va.) 1849-1896, 1884-02-05
Stauntoil Spectator.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 1884
How to Celebrate Washington's Birthday.


We propose to give some OF the reasons
why the 22nd Of February-the annlversa-
~ of Washington's birth-should be cele
brated by the people of all parts OF the
country by sending their offerings, or con-
tributions to the endowment fund OF the
University which he largely aided in found |
ing, and which now so worthily bears his
illustrious name. when he was President
of the United States he gave $5O,OOO.)
The University was chartered in the
midst of the war of American Independence,
and has history of more than century
and a quarter.
The fact that Washington never received
any pecuniary compensation for his services
in the army leaves debt to be paid to his
memory by the American people.
He had well-defned plan in regard to
the establishment of University in CEN
trail part of the United States for the bene
fit of the youth Of all parts of the country,
and made a valuable bequest to carry out
his plan. His scheme was not acted upon
by Congress and his bequest reverted to his
estate.
Washington and Lee University is the
only seat of learning in existence which re-
ceived Washington's aid and encourage
ment; and it is being developed so as to
realize to the country all the practical ben
efits of Washington's plan.
This University, properly endowed, would
be the most fitting monument to Washing
ton, and in the line of his own example-as
indicated by his writings and gifts.
The idea of making this University a
monument to Washington is earnestly COM
meuded by such representative Americans
as compose the Centennial Organization 70,
its better endowment, and by many distin
guished citizens and journals.
This Organization has already resulted il
considerably more than 100000 to th'
University.
It has been hoped to provide an endow
,nent of at least 1000, 600 for the Univer
sity OF this sum it now has nearl.
$400, 900.
1t is earnestly desired to secure $500, 00
as soon as possible for equipping and en-
downing thorough School of Mines in tn
University. Such School of Mines is mucl
needed; and the University is located nea
the centre Of tho great coal fields of tn
country, and surrounded by iron ore mine
and furnaces, manganese and other mines
As Washington so largely aided in found
ing the University, it is thought to be pc
culiarly fitting, that the people everywher
celebrate the anniversary of his birth, b.
sending their contributions for the endow
rnent Of such School of Mines
The Centennial Organization is broa
and national in its character and in its pun
poses, and has for it's object the good Of al
the people.
One-haif of the present endowment of tn
University, has been given by citizens q
the North.
Within the last few years the endowmen
has been about doubled, and the number O
students has increased forty per cent.
The hope of the country depends upo
the education and elevation of the people.
a general interest manifested in Wash
ington and Lee University, is having a haE
py effect in promoting fraternal feelings be
tween the sections.
A contributor has the right to direct q
he So desire) the special application of hi
subscription.
S,,hc rs.,I. ,l,,fs4 D.,
sent TO General R. D. Lilley, Finarcis
Agent of the Organization, 102 Broadway
New York.