Daily Kennebec journal. [microfilm reel] (Augusta, Me.) 1870-1975, 1907-03-07

State Of Maine is because we haven't
a proper system TO put this line in
operation. We have no criticism to
| make against the University # Main,
only it seems to US that it does not
pay enough attention to the funda-
mental things that are vital 10 the
interests OF the State. Thirty stud
entS against 700 are pursuing studies
in this line; five or six professors
against 60 are inStructing along this
line. What would it indicate if Te
should be able through the University
Of Maine to produce n hay crop equal
to the crop OF all the New England
States put together? II would mean
s2,240,000 more than it does now. . he
University Of Maine stands in Il posi-
ton to help US along these lines. We
believe if that p. A. degree should be
abolished that costs $500 year 10 ed
ucate any student, and The money
placed in other directions in the line of
agriculture where it would be useful
to Maine in practical way, that the
State would be greatly benefited by
it. The passage of the majority ie-
port of this committee would mean
constructive legislation; il :ha a. 3.
degree was abolished the University
would then turn its attention 20 more
practical things as its original charter
intended that it should. II would pay
attention TO agriculture first That is
the first consideration ana its last
considers ton is what it may do. IT,
possibilities are magnificent. The Unit
ed States government is working along
It,1A
expends for the propagation of i'm
proved qualities OF wheat and corn
and oats in the western country. Why
cannot we apply it to the State Of
Maine? The University Of Maine is the
guardian of our agricultural interests.
1t has an opportunity to earn millions
OF dollars for this State. l believe this
natter ought TO be discussed at great
er length and the question of agricul-
ture and the question of the exact sta
tuS of this magnificent institution and
the possibilities that it opens for us
ought to be discussed and understood.
And l heartily indorse the majority
report of this committee. OApplause.)
Mr.. LONEJOY of Milo: Mr.. Speaker:
In justice to my constituency and my
self and to the State of Maine, I can
not sit here without saying a word in
behalf of the University of Maine I |
think it would be 2 great injustice to
the institution and also to the State
TO cut out the a. Z. degree. l do not
see why tire degree is detrimental to |
the agricultural course. AS has been
clearly shown there are more students
taking this course now than ever be-
lore.
l believe, too, in giving our boys a |
nance to finish their full course right |
Where they started in and not be |
obliged to go somewhere else to finish |
at. probably, q great increase in ex-
tense. |
1t has often been stated that the Uni |
versity Of Maine is a poor mans insti- |
ltion where the poorer boys of our ru- |
al districts can go and get as good i |
training as the rich mans son. I be- |
'ieve it would be taking the very life |
blood out of the institution to abolish |
his degree.
The influence Of the university is felt |
beyond the borders of Maine, and be-
rond the borders of this country Cap
ital is seeking after graduates from this |
institution and it is impossible to sup
ply thc CcIildiu. WY, MT. speaker, III
we should cut out the B. A. degree, the |
services of University of Maine grad
uate would be cheaper than Aroostook |
potatoes were 10 years ago. 1t seems
to ME, Mr.. Speaker, that any man not |
blinded by prejudice or selfishness that |
see this matter in its true light. Now.
gentlemen. last Thursday we listened |
to some very uncomplimentary remarks |
about one of Names greatest educa-
tors. He was called lobbyist wearing
patent leather boots, etc. Oh. it made
my cheeks burn with shame and indig-
nation to listen 20 such things: wholly
uicalled FOR and also untrue. 1t is true
that he comes here and asks the State
for what-to help him? No-but to point
out = way that she may better help
herself. Now, gentlemen, I say it IS a
shame and a disgrace to the State for
DR.. Fellows to be obliged to come here
wear after year and beg the great