Wheeling register. [volume] (Wheeling, W. Va.) 1878-1935, 1898-06-16
CLOSING EXERCISES
OF the boys OF st. Johns Home, at Elm
Grove

OF the boys of st. Johns Home, at Elm
Grove.
Tuesday morning brought the begin
ming Of vacation of '9S to the boys OF
st. Johns Home. The closing exer-
cises came off at 10:30 a. m. Only a
few friends of the institution were
present, and it is to be regretted the
rooms are not large enough to accom-
modate many who would be delighted
to listen to the recitatiOns and really
good singing which stamps this school
for excellent training in reading and
vocal music. The programme consist
ed of several hymns, patriotic songs
and fine selections on liberty loving
themes, which were well delivered by
the pupils. The effect of these subjects
was heightened by the profusion OF
flags and bunting. Every child, from
the big boy in the first class to the wee
toddling," was decorated with the star
spangled flag. 1t would take more
space than we would presume to ask,
were we to insert the programme or to
single out those who bore off the palm
of victory in the class room. When
we can say that all did well, we will
not particularize.
After the conclusion of the pro-
gramme, premiums were distributed
1t would make change in the old
fashioned style of rewards if the list
of merits that followed the prizes OF the
class room were added. We give a
few samples: Records for attention in
the dining room; care of furniture;
kindness to little boys, gentleness,
nd ict Of homo yir-
tues without which no boy can be
real gentleman. Many received four
and five premiums. 1t was a treat to
be at that distribution. The children
are bright, healthy and happy; they
miss no mothers care or fathers pro-
lection; they have all these blessings
in the good Sisters, who spare no labor
for the welfare of those confided to
their charge.
Rev. Father Paquin presided, and
after distributing the premiums he adj
dressed the youthful patriots in senti-
ments suitable to their minds, instill-
ing into them love of country, telling
them to be true to their flag. HIS re-
marks were as suitable as they were
beautiful.
The piano used on this occasion is
a gift from Mr.. A. G. House. The
Sisters are most grateful for this dona-
ton. 1t is more than they could ex
pect from one patron. 1t is a magni-
ficent gift; it will be an aid in direct
ing the tastes of the inmates, including
that refinement SO much needed in pub
lie institutions of charity for children,
as well as training them in singing.
Mr. HOncp hoe dnpa hov orixy
piano; he has left a means for cult
waiting love for instrumental music
and perhaps elevating the standard of
some among them to attain a high
rank in the knowledge and perfection
OF the beautiful art of music.
The Sisters begin Immediately and
will continue during vacation to teach
singing, making the vacant hours of
vacation pleasant for the boys, exer-
cising their voices, and from time to
time have little sOcials at the Home
for their entertainment and improve
ment.
The surroundings are greatly i'm
proved and the place is charming
from every point of view. Health is a
synonym for st. Johns. Among the
thirty-seven boys there, not one case of
sickness is on record for the past year.
The situation Of the building is most
desirable from sanitary point, and
the drainage is perfect
Forest trees, fine shrubbery and rare
flowers set off the sloping grounds,
making the place a lovely spot. an
ideal home, and what it is, a really
happy home for it's inmates.