n'Q DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION STATE OF ALABAMA REPORT OF SPECIAL DRIVE AGAINST ILLITERACY AMONG MEN OF DRAFT AGE 1918 ■ ROWN PRINTINQ CO. MONTQOHEKY. !^ltt.U^mn . Tllity-rn,C DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION STATE OF ALABAMA REPORT OF SPECIAL DRIVE AGAINST ILLITERACY AMONG MEN OF DRAFT AGE 1918 IROWN PRINTINQ CO. MONTGOMtllY. ALABAMA ILLITERACY COMMISSION Ex-Governor Wm, D. Jelks, Chairman Birmingham Hon. J. B. Ellis _ Selma Mrs. Mary Moore McCoy Birmingham Mrs. W. K. Linscott _ Mobile Supt. Spright Dowell _ Montgomery Miss Sarah Luther, Field Agent Montgomery 6161 8 MVW •d JO "o A CAMP SHERIDAN SCHOOL UNIT OF THE DEVELOPMENT BATTALION AND THEIR TEACHERS. THESE ILLITERATE MEN ARE FROM INDIANA, ILLINOIS, KENTUCKY, AND NORTH CAROLINA. IN ADDITION TO THESE 3011 MEN, THERE WKliE FOUR OTHEU SCHOOLS EQUALLY LARCE. FOREWORD The purpose of this pamphlet is to acquaint the general public with a striking piece of work for the removal of illiteracy among men of draft age in Alabama that was undertaken in a special drive in the summer of 1918. The plan was evolved from an undertaking of the Illit- eracy Commission in the spring and was jointly formu- lated by the Illiteracy Commission and the Advisory War Council of the A. E. A. The execution of the plan was made possible by the combined work of the two agencies already mentioned, the State Council of Defense, the Fed- eration of Women's Clubs, and a number of public spirited men and women in all sections of the State. The immediate oversight of the work was entrusted to a special committee, consisting of the following: Hon. Wm. D. Jelks, Dr. C. W. Daugette, Supt. A. F. Harman, Secretary, and the undersigned. It is believed that the plan herein outlined, and the re- sults which came from it, constitute one of the most unique and praiseworthy, as well as successful efforts ever made for the removal of adult illiteracy. Secretary-Treasurer. THE SPECIAL CAMPAIGN AGAINST ILLITERACY AMONG DRAFT REGISTRANTS 1918 T" HE astounding facts brought to light by a study of the registration cards of the 1917 selectmen con- vinced the Alabama Illiteracy Commission that conditions demanded a more intensive campaign than the size of the State and the usual routine activities of the Field Agent made possible. Military records indi- cated that of the 10,000,000 men in the first registration there were approximately 700,000 who were totally illit- erate. In Alabama there were approximately 10,000 in a registration of 172,727. These men found themselves called to perform the highest service that may come to a citizen, — to defend their rights and the rights of the world'; yet they faced this duty seriously handicapped by their illiteracy. Never was the need of educated men so apparent as in this time of rapid mobilization of all resources, of inten- sive study of specialized trades, of hasty teaching of the fundamentals of sanitation and hygiene in camp and community life, of high-speed mastery of unfamiliar methods, movements and habits — the technique of mili- tary life. Yet these thousands of Alabama's young men were going into camp crippled for the race with their fel- lows ; blind to the sign posts set up in military orders, bul- letins, text-books, and other publications. The mere fact that the printed page had no meaning for them placed their lives and the lives of others in jeop- ardy from the moment of their arrival in camp; for the printed instructions, the sanitary regulations, the danger signals of the crowded camp meant little or nothing to the illiterate. Moreover, the ilHterate was usually a danger- ous man in camp because of his low spirits, his poor morale. Cut off from any effective communication with home and friends, understanding little of the great events of the day and less of the purposes of the great nations at war, and with slight chance of promotion in the military profession, he was not likely to be a cheerful soldier. Some men with no education have of course made good records as soldiers, but they did so despite the serious handicap. The lUiteracy Commission, realizing these facts, en- tered upon the work of the year 1918 fully convinced that a serious effort should be made to bring help to these men. THE EMERGENCY WAR CALL During February a special emergency war call was conceived and sent out by State Superintendent Dowell, Secretary of the Illiteracy Commission. In each county of the State a central committee with authority to make the county plan and choose local workers was appointed with the following representative citizens as members: The Judge of Probate, the County Superintendent of Education, the Superintendent of City Schools of the County Site, a member of the Federation of Women's Clubs, the President of the County Medical Association, the President of the County School Improvement Associa- tion, and the County High School Principal. The plan suggested to each county central committee provided for certain sub-committees which were to perform such du- ties as giving publicity to the campaign, obtaining an accurate list of the illiterate registrants, providing teach- ers, etc. The work was to be done during the months of March and April. Some counties caught the spirit of the attempt and did effective work, among them, Jefferson, Madison, Conecuh, Barbour and Covington. (A statement of results in these counties appears later.) It is a fact, however, that very few people realized the need or the opportunity and most of the counties did very little. The Field Agent of the Ilhteracy Commission, Miss Esther Foster, in order to give the plan a complete try-out, concentrated her efforts in Covington County with splendid results. THE SUMMER CAMPAIGN It soon became apparent that if a considerable amount of good was to result, the county leaders must be given a clearer understanding of the campaign, and a greater enthusiasm for the work; that this could not be accom- plished through written communications; and that per- sonal contact must be secured by the employment of ad- ditional field agents. Mr. H. G. Bowling, who had con- ducted a summer campaign for the removal of illiteracy in Shelby County, and who had taught illiterate soldiers while in camp, was employed by the Illiteracy Commis- sion. Under the direction of the Illiteracy Commission and with the co-operation of the Advisory War Council of the Alabama Educational Association, Mr. Bowling made an attempt to discover and to develop public sentiment with reference to the teaching of illiterate selectmen by presenting the matter to various Rotary Clubs, Chambers of Commerce, and other business and social organizations throughout the State. The response of these business men was most gratifying, and without exception they pledged their active support. Since the work of the Illiteracy Commission depends for financial support entirely upon popular subscription, and since the treasury was practically empty, it became necessary to find some way to secure the funds necessary for putting into the field a sufficient number of organizers to get the campaign under way promptly. Realizing that this work was a distinct war measure, a joint committee of the Advisory War Council and of the Alabama Illiter- acy Commission made application to the State Council of Befense for financial aid. Chairman Lloyd M. Hooper of the Council of Befense was found to be in hearty sympa- thy with the anti-illiteracy effort as a war measure ; and an appropriation sufficient to cover the traveling ex- penses of ten regional organizers was guaranteed. A joint committee consisting of Hon. Wm. B. Jelks, Superintendent Spright Bowell, Br. C. W. Baugette, and Superintendent A. F. Harman, representing both the Ala- bama Illiteracy Commission and the State Council of Befense was agreed upon ; and Superintendent A. F. Har- man, who had volunteered his services to the State Coun- cil of Befense for patriotic work for the summer, was appointed executive secretary, directing the campaign from the office of the Council of Befense in Montgomery. The next problem was that of selecting the regional or- ganizers who were to initiate the campaign in various dis- tricts throughout the State. It was evident to the com- mittee that little could be accomplished unless persons could be secured who understood educational matters and who had sufficient standing and ability to command the respect of the county committees, the personnel of which has already been sent out. With this in view, an appeal was made by the Advisory War Council of the Alabama Educational Association to some of the leading school men of the State and the following regional organ- izers were appointed: Dr. T. W. Palmer, Alabama Girls Technical Institute. Dr. H. J. Willingham, Florence Normal School. Dr. C. W. Daugette, Jacksonville Normal School. Dr. E. M. Shackelford, Troy Normal School. Dr. G. W. Brock, Livingston Normal School. Prof. Raleigh Greene, Moundville Normal School. Supt. W. R. Harrison, Montgomery City Schools. Supt. S. 0. White, Opelika City Schools. Supt. S. R. Butler, Huntsville. Mrs. W. K. Linscott, Mobile. On account of pressing duties. Dr. Palmer and Dr. Wil- lingham were unable to take an active part in the work ; and they were represented by Prof. C. R. Calkins, and Prof. J. T. McKee, respectively. A territory comprising from five to nine counties was assigned to each organizer, who in turn was to make numerous trips to the counties in his territory for the purpose of explaining, organizing, encouraging and following up the work. These workers, as well as the executive secretary, Superintendent A. F. Harman, who deserves honorable mention, served without pay. The thanks of the State are due them for services rendered. CONTRIBUTION OF THE WOMEN'S CLUBS In order to defray the salaries and expenses of the field agents, Miss Foster and Mr. Dowling, to employ two addi- tional agents, to pay for the printing anad distribution of a suitable textbook for use in the campaign, and to meet 9 other financial needs, funds had to be provided. The Advisory War Council of the Alabama Educational Asso- ciation through its chairman, Superintendent Dowell, appealed to the State Federation of Women's Clubs. The president, Mrs. James R. Hagan, of Mobile, promptly responded with the assurance that the amount of $3,500 requested would be raised within thirty days. Through the courtesy of Mrs. Hagan, and with the assistance of Mrs. Zebulon Judd, Chairman of the Education Commit- tee of the Federation, the field agents were permitted to present the claims of the work at several district meet- ings. The response was uniformly enthusiastic and the Executive Board very promptly acted favorably upon the recommendation of their president, Mrs. Hagan. The Education Committee — Mrs. Zebulon Judd, Auburn ; Mrs. B, Crawford, Decatur; Mrs. E. L. Huey, Bessemer; Mrs. J. B. McKibbon, Birmingham; Mrs. P. V. Bomar, Marion; Mrs. Harry Chandler, Clanton; Mrs. S. 0. Williams, Do- than ; and Mrs. G. W. L. Smith, Brewton, — were very act- ive and helpful in planning the campaign. The following District Chairmen were selected to carry out the will of the Federation: Mrs. L. A. Neill, Albany. Mrs. Jack Cranford, Jasper. Mrs. N. A. Barrett, Birmingham. Mrs. Carroll Long, Eufaula. Mrs. J. H. Crenshaw, Montgomery. Mrs. M. 0. Carroll, Ozark. Mrs. J. B. Harvey, Mobile. Governor Henderson was formally requested by the Federation officially to designate an Illiteracy Day. Ac- cordingly June 22d was named, and the following procla- mation issued : A PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR To the People of Alahama : Several years ago an Illiteracy Commission was created for the purpose of removing illiteracy from among the adult population of the State. This commission has done 10 splendid work, but there yet remains quite a large num- ber who are unable to read or write. Many of these who are within the draft age have been accepted for service but have not yet been called. Special efforts should be made to give them elementary training before they are called into service. It would relieve them of a great handi- cap. Defects in our civic organization affecting the effi- ciency of the military branch creates a war emergency and for this reason the State Council of Defense has appropriated funds and has agreed in co-operation with the Alabama Ilhteracy Commission to undertake the direction of the intensive training work necessary to re- move the disabilities of those accepted for service. It will require funds, however, additional to those ap- propriated by the State Council of Defense. The Illitera- cy Commission has agreed to supply these and has called to its aid the Federation of Women's Clubs which has kindly consented to undertake a campaign for this pur- pose. The amount needed, I am informed, is only $3,500. With this end in view, the representatives of the Feder- ation of Women's Clubs have requested that some special day be designated on which a general effort will be put forth throughout the State. I, therefore, in response to this request, name June 22d as Illiteracy Day and ask that the response to the solicitors for the above purpose on that day be both general and generous. Think of the increased efficiency of the individual soldier, to say noth- ing of the comforting feeling of being able to read letters from home and the joy of the family over receiving let- ters from their soldier son and brother. It is a very wor- thy cause and I trust will meet with a liberal response. In Witness Whereof, I, Charles Henderson, have here- unto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Alabama to be affixed at the Capitol, in the city of Montgomery, on this tenth day of June, nineteen hundred and eightheen. Charles Henderson, Governor. By the Governor : John Ptjrifoy^ Secretary of ^tate. 11 The public responded freely to the appeal, and already $5,000 has been turned over to the Illiteracy Commission. With this money two editions of a textbook especially suited to the task in hand have been issued and delivered free to the illiterate men, one regular field agent has been kept at work, three special agents have been employed for the drive, and a number of teachers have been sent to aid where most needed. A balance remains in the treasury sufficient to continue the activities of the Commission for some months. In addition to the financial assistance, the Women's Clubs rendered conspicuous service in the county cam- paigns. Thanks should be rendered to the Federation, to the efficient Chairman of the Education Committee, Mrs. Zebulon Judd, and to the President, Mrs. J. R. Hagan, who was untiring in her efforts. CHANGES IN THE PLAN OF CAMPAIGN Immediately after its decision to render financial aid in the campaign, the State Council of Defense brought the weight of its influence to bear in support of the illiteracy work, through publicity in the newspapers and in the De- fense Record, through personal appeals to leaders in the various counties, and through the activities of the county Councils of Defense. In this way access was had to the registration blanks of draftmen in possession of the local boards and in many counties "Schools of Instruction" for draftmen were called for the primary purpose of arrang- ing for the teaching of the illiterates. In this connection it should be said that Adjutant General Hubbard gave most valuable moral support. The plan of the county organization was enlarged by adding to the Central Committee the County Chairman of the Council of Defense, and, through the courtesy of the Department of Agriculture at Auburn, the County Farm and Home Demonstration Agents also served. The chief duty of this committee as before, was the designa- tion of a County Manager and the organization for prac- tical work in such a way as to insure success. The Regional Organizer of each group of counties was left 12 largely in control of the work in his territory, while the Field Agents responded wherever they were called, Miss Foster and Mr. Bowling having been reinforced by the employment of Miss Sarah E. Luther, Principal of the Conecuh County High School, and Miss Hassie Gray, of the Birmingham City Schools. A man seventy-three years old who, after attending an adult school for four weeks and making rapid progress, was heard to say, "I didn't know old folks could be larnt so fast." RESULTS Below are given some statistics showing the results in a majority of the counties of the State. In quite a few counties where the field agents know that work was done, satisfactory reports could not be had. This was due in some cases to a feeling that the facts, if made known, would reflect upon the good name of the county, in others to the unwillingness of those who were taught, to have the facts become known, and in still others to the fact that the County Committee was inactive, and took no 13 interest in collecting the data of such work as was done. Wherever there has been an aversion to making a report no effort has been made to get it. The statistics below do not show the number of illiterate men below twenty-one and above thirty-one who took advantage of the opportu- nities offered and learned to read and write; nor does it take into account the more than two thousand men who could read and write that seized the opportunity to get a little more training. "A little child shall lead them." A ten-year old boy teaching: his gi-andmother. He also taught his father to read. Report on Illiteracy Work Among Draftmen (21-31) March 1, 1918, to October 1, 1918 No. Illiterates No. Reported by Illiterates Percentage COUNTY. County Manager, Taught. Taught. Barbour 104 70 67.3 Bibb 6 14 No. Illiterates Reported by COUNTY. County Manager. Bullock 34 Butler 198 Calhoun 315 Chambers 175 Cherokee 180 Clarke 120 Clay 119 Cleburne 100 Coffee 400 Colbert 150 Conecuh 82 Coosa 47 Covington 384 Crenshaw 172 Cullman 235 Dale - 59 DeKalb 200 Etowah 400 Fayette 170 Franklin 78 Geneva 100 Hale 69 Henry 473 Houston 250 Jackson ..„ 560 Jefferson 225 Lamar 60 Lauderdale _ 200 Lee 235 Limestone 276 Madison 252 Marion 222 Marshall 207 Mobile _ 128 Morgan 260 Pickens „ 130 Pike 105 Randolph _ 66 No. Illiterates Percentage Taught. Taught. 10 29.4 90 45.4 75 23.8 102 58 140 77.7 18 15 106 89 30 30 69 17.4 100 66.6 . 72 87.8 15 31.9 106 27.6 135 78.4 192 81.7 47 79.6 26 13 153 38 12 7. 40 51 25 25 10 431 89 150 60 160 28.5 108 48 30 50 133 66.6 100 42.5 18 6.5 115 45.6 17 8 103 50 89 32 160 61.5 14 11 78 74.2 29 43.9 No. Illiterates Percentage Taught. Taught. 10 26 15 8 101 95 75 36 40 13.3 27 51 4 13 15 No. Illiterates Reported by COUNTY. County Manager. Russell 38 Shelby 187 St. Clair 106 Tuscaloosa 210 Walker 300 Washington 53 Wilcox 31 Total 8,135 3,636 45 SUMMARY Total number illiterates 21 to 31 as reported 8,135 Total number illiterates 21 to 31 reported as taught 3,636 Percentage of those reported taught 45 Number counties reporting teaching done 47 Number counties reporting no white illiterates 5 PLANS USED It is interesting to note that the plans suggested were easily adaptable to local conditions, and that whatever plan was used was successful when prosecuted by the right county manager. To the county managers and to the faithful teachers tribute is due for their patriotic service, which was in reality a labor of love. In Conecuh and Henry counties the individual plan was used with marked success. In Henry and Chambers counties every man who registered as illiterate, was interviewed personally, and detailed information concern- ing him was carefully tabulated and followed up. The work was done on the "one in the hill" plan, and when one instructor failed to get the illiterate man to work an- other was at once put on the trail. A regional organizer wrote, "If you have the blues over the work and want to get an inspiration, just pack your kit for Chambers County and get Barnett and McGehee to show you what they are doing. At one country school nine men were at work two hours every afternoon under the able direction 16 of Miss Annie Sargent. Three weeks ago those men could neither read nor write a word. I wish you could hear them now and see their work. No county in the State can sur- pass Chambers." Jefferson County had night classes with paid teachers, while Madison County had afternoon classes with volun- teer teachers. In Crenshaw County, schools were regu- larly organized in various school districts. It is worthy "^-=5:^251 School taught by Miss Annie Sargent, Chambers County. All of these men were illiterate and all learned to read and write. of note that every man entering school learned to read and write. The report of the work in Covington County is typical. Letters were mailed to school trustees, ministers, and teachers, all of whom responded to the call for a general rally at the county seat, where the plan of campaign was worked out in detail. After the address of each illiterate draftman had been placed on a special card, it was turned over to a specially selected local representative who was B & -u <]) rt ^ 01 rC rC 4J +-> c -U ci; C3 a) T3 ci; 0) ^ rO a; ri o -(J t/j Sun cS >, -ij c« is ^ 0) -i-> ?- (/J 3 bJO <•) f-i & O c8 O 01 fi ^ o O _c s 18 to get in close personal touch with him. Simultaneously, meetings were held throughout the county to acquaint the people with the work and secure their co-operation. A hearty response was found everywhere, teachers were selected and the work begun. Among the agencies that were especially enthusiastic in their co-opsration were the County Board of Education, the Local Draft Board, churches and ministers. Women's Clubs, and many patri- otic individuals. The campaign reached its climax in a An illiterate registrant being taught by his wife. most unique educational gathering at the court house in Andalusia, at which were present more than one hundred fifty of the illiterate registrants. In addition to patriotic music and addresses, several of the men who had been studying showed specimens of their work and in a pa- thetic way expressed their gratitude to those who had made their progress possible. Letters from once unlet- tered men were exhibited and all present were touched. A most interesting incident was the story of Slaughter 19 Helms, a fourteen year old seventh grade school boy, who told of his work in teaching two of the men. He was en- thusiastically applauded. Little Minnie Belle Diamond also told of her happiness in teaching ''Big Brother" who, forced by necessity to forego education for himself, was seeing to it that his sis- ter was kept in school. Many other touching incidents were related during the progress of the meeting. The interest was intense throughout and all present were V'^ Slaughter Helms, a seventh grade school boy who taught two illiterates, and one of his pupils. deeply touched by the spectacle of this group of young men, physically fit but totally unletttered. In the face of such genuine interest it was not surprising that the un- lettered men present gladly agreed to be taught, and that the work went steadily forward with good results. As indicating the spirit of co-operation the following extracts from a letter of Hon. J. M. Robinson, Judge of Probate of Covington County, are given: 20 "Perhaps you felt, as I did at first, that the plan was not practical and that reaching these men was not possi- ble. * * However, I as chairman have endea- vored to do what I could. * * * Up ^q date, the re- sults have far exceeded our expectations and the cam- paign has in many ways been worth while. Something over 100 of our men are studying and we have received quite a number of letters from men who five weeks ago could not write their names. I believe that through this P tta^ A Covington County registered man and his teacher — his sister, Minnie Belle Diamond. She is happy in teaching "Big Brother." undertaking the people of the county are being impressed as never before with the importance of educating the boys and girls. * * * j believe this work is worthy the loyal co-operation and support of every judge of probate in the State. One trustee who was violently opposed to the idea at the beginning went to school a few times to criticise but joined the class and learned to write. He is now very enthusiastic about the work." 21 Other counties deserving honorable mention for very excellent work done are Cherokee, Crenshaw, St. Clair, Pike, Houston and Clay. A county manager in one of these counties writes, "The awakening in our county has been wonderful. A number of old people are going to school and their progress is surprising. Two public meetings have been held for the illiterate draftmen, the most wonderful meetings I ever attended anywhere. We have had twelve schools taught in different parts of the Six registered men in Covington County who had never been to school. All learned to read and w^rite. county and quite a number are being taught at home by members of the family." "It is a sight to stir men's minds and hearts to see a large number of these illiterate men together and to ob- serve their pathetic eagerness to acquire the tools of knowledge," observes a Regional Organizer. From a teacher's letter we read, 'T have been engaged for the past three weeks in the greatest work of my life. 23 and that is the glorious opportunity of teaching illiterate draftmen." CAMP ACTIVITIES A most unique and valuable experiment in wiping out illiteracy has been in progress at Camp Sheridan for several months. The Illiteracy Commission regards this school as the most constructive experiment ever under- taken in the United States in illiteracy work. As a type of co-operation, it is most remarkable. It was under the direct control and supervision of Dr. J. S. Robinson, Camp Educational Director of the Y. M. C. A., W. C. Blasingame, Associate Educational Director, and the Educational Secretaries, and with the aid of the War Community Camp Service which enlisted the volunteer teachers; the Motor Corps of the Women's League for Service, which has furnished transportation for the teachers; the Ala- bama Polytechnic Institute, in donating the services of W. C. Blasingame, Professor of Secondary Education ; the Woman's College of Alabama, in conducting an English School for an entire unit; and the Alabama Illiteracy Commission in supplying expert women teachers, in fur- nishing a war textbook, and in the creation of the at- mosphere making the success of the experiment possible. With the above should be included the teachers from Montgomery and other cities, who gladly gave their time to the work, and the many patriotic ladies and student teachers from nearby colleges, who volunteered their time and talents. The individual who has suspected that illiterate men can not or will not learn to read or write if given a chance will have every doubt removed by a visit to Camp Sheri- dan English School, which is still in progress. At the Information Bureau of the War Camp Community Serv- ice at 6:45 in the rhorning he can join a group of Mont- gomery women — the teachers — ready to be transported by the Women's Motor Corps Division to the various "Y" huts where the teaching is done. It is an inspiring sight — the soldiers of the development battalion with books and tablets in their hands, in regular formation, four 25 abreast and in a column some 150 yards long, and num- bering more than 500 men, as they march with all the eagerness of children into Hut 58. First comes roll call, after which the men separate into convenient groups within and without the building, while the new members of the classes pause for a moment to be graded and classi- fied by the secretary. So systematically is the grading done and so fluid is the plan that any student may be pro- moted from his group at any time he demonstrates his fitness to do the work of the next higher class. Appro- priate textbooks are provided, and only one lesson sepa- rates any class from the one above or below. The course of study is six weeks in length and graduation exercises are held every Friday. Before graduation, however, the soldier must be able to write a full page letter of good content and form, read ordinary print and script with reasonable rapidity, know something of the basic facts in American history, and solve problems involving the four fundamental processes in arithmetic. Below we give fac-simile reproduction of a letter writ- ten by a member of the graduating class : EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS WRITTEN BY THE MEN IN THE CAMP SHERIDAN ENGLISH SCHOOL Who could read them and doubt the practical wisdom of the undertaking and the ivorthwhilenessf "I am very sorry to say that I dident get any further than a praivate but that wasnot my fait. There was many thenses (chances) to advense but I culdnot get aney and the risen (reason) was bourse (because) I culdnot read or write. Everybody should be made lern to read and write." "A person who could not read and write is a dead man for the government, that why the government opened schools to bring all the men who could not read and write to life. A person who could not read and write will al- ways work hard for his living. School is the best thing for everybody." 26 ARMY AND NavV VZAAy^A YouMG MEN'S CHRISTIAN Association Y^CA "^TTH THE COLORS" 2).t>vi>tc< BOUACX &oyyyi^ JJlin,cliayruoJaj* Cornet 'OtrZ.iJt^' 9 jS^lf!ULet^ 28 "I am glad I have been learn to read and write and also appreciate the opputunity of serving Unkle Sam in this great war for the worlds fridom. When I go home my parents will be proud of me." "Soon as I com home I goin' to eveneng school so I dont fegit what I lern here in the army." "Dear brother, when I come back home I will be differ- ent because I now in school Y. M. C. A. I never forget my teachers because they show me all good ways to be a good man, good soldier, good American citizen." Too much can not be said in praise of the Women's Motor Corps Division, the members of which not only transport the teachers to and from the camp, but like- wise gladly take the place of any teachers who may hap- pen to be absent from their classes. It was stated at the outset that this work is unique. Other camps have adopted the Sheridan plan, but for the most part the work of teaching is done by fellow soldiers and in no instance has there been such a splendid spirit of co-operation on the part of so many agencies as is true in the case of the local camp. The teachers are among the best and most cultured women in Alabama. It is the consensus of opinion that these classes with women teachers make far more satis- factory progress than those taught by fellow soldiers. Dr. Robinson gives two reasons for this ; first, there is increased efficiency because the teachers are more regu- lar in attendance, better trained professionally, more in- terested in the work and in the individual man, more sym- pathetic and patient; second, there is better influence on the character of the man. For most of the men in the English classes, contact with these lady teachers is their only opportunity in camp to meet women of the respect- able class without sentimentality or sordidness; women, who make them think of their mothers and sisters at home. Letters written by the men and frequent comment made by officers and men alike give abundant proof of the influence on the character and morale of the 1,600 men in "^-H ^J < 31 the English school. In this way there is brought into camp life the best there is in American institutions, — home, church, and school. The work that is being done for the removal of illiter- acy among the soldiers is paralleled by similar work in teaching English to foreigners. In an official report by Dr. Robinson, the following results are shown: Average number of classes 180 Average daily attendance 1,350 Number granted certificates 350 It would not be fair to overlook in this simple story the fine service that the teachers of Montgomery and one or two nearby towns have played in making the Camp Sher- idan plan the great success that it has proved to be. Not only at Camp Sheridan but also at Camp Wheeler and Camp Pike have Alabama men been taught by Ala- bamians. Miss Esther Foster was sent by the Illiteracy Commission to Camp Wheeler. The extracts below indi- cate what she discovered: "It was gratifying to note the enthusiastic earnestness of the boys in their struggle for a little knowledge and their deep appreciation of what is being done for them. "According to the information given me, about ten per cent of the Alabama men at Camp Wheeler are illiterate. They are enrolled in classes meeting three nights a week, and I can not too highly recommend the sacrifice their vol- unteer teachers are making in giving their leisure hours to this work. That the atttitude of these unlettered men toward education has radically changed since they have been in the army is evidenced by the following statements made voluntarily by them: 'I've seen enough to know that the man in the army without an education don't stand much chance for pro- motion ! 'Ain't it a shame that a man like me, that can't even set sight on his rifle, must stand up and face the educated Germans ?' 'Some one ought to tell the boys back home the value of an education before they come here. I didn't feel the 32 need of an education until I got in the army, but now I feel it every hour.' 'If that compulsory law had been the law when I was a boy, I wouldn't have to be learning to read and write now." "From the teachers' letters I append a few extracts : 'It is wonderful to see how the boys all "buckle" down to it heart and soul. We are more than pleased with the results obtained.' 'A man from the mountains learned to write his name for the first time in his life and one week after this he signed a subscription for a Liberty Bond.' 'You will be surprised to learn what I am doing at night. I am teaching a night school for Alabama boys who are illiterate. The teachers who have been drafted are still rendering service other than military.' " "AS OTHERS SEE US" That the work of the Alabama Illiteracy Commission and the State Council of Defense, has received endorse- ment from high authority, the appended letters from Newton D. Baker, Secretary of War and Secretary of the National Council of Defense; Arthur H. Fleming, Chief of Section N. C. of D. ; E. H. Crowder, Provost Marshal General; and General G. J. Hubbard, bear testimony. Gen. G. J. Hubbard, Adjutant General, State Capitol. Dear Sir : Permit me to recite briefly some facts which relate to the efficiency of the men entering the service and to ask your co-operation in securing such recognition and assistance from the war oflficials as will further pro- mote the work in question. 1st. There are nine thousand and more men of army age in Alabama who cannot read and write. 2d. The Alabama Illiteracy Commission, a legally constituted body in co-operation with the State Council of Defense is undertaking to have these men taught before they are actually called into service. County and district 33 organizations have been formed and in forty-two counties of the State successful class work among these illiterate draftmen is being conducted. In a few counties all illit- erate registrants are being taught. 3rd. The whole State is alive as never before to its duty in giving these unfortunate fellows at least the sim- plest tools of an education. We feel that the only thing which hinders our success is the actual endorsement and assistance of the campaign we are undertaking by the proper war authorities. In behalf, therefore, of the State Council of Defense, and of the Alabama Illiteracy Com- mission, I am venturing to ask your active assistance in securing for this measure such recognition and support as is possible. In conclusion may I suggest that in my opinion the spe- cific type of work we are doing is of equal dignity and importance as that being carreid on by boards of instruc- tion now authorized and sanctioned by the war author- ities. Respectfully, Spright Dowell, Superintendent. STATE OF ALABAMA OFFICE OF THE ADJUTANT GENERAL MONTGOMERY 1st Ind. Office Adjutant General of Alabama, Aug. 9, 1918. To the Provost Marshal General. 1. Forwarded, requesting careful consideration of the foregoing letter written by the State Superintendent of Education. The State Superintendent of Education, The Alabama Illiteracy Commission, the State Council of De- fense, and the entire citizenship of the State generally, are deeply interested in the work that is being done in teaching these illiterate selectmen how to read and write before they are sent to mobilization camps. The move- ment is well organized and has been in operation many months. I have encouraged it, and my name has been freely used in aiding its purposes. Those of us who are 34 interested in the matter are of the opinion that the move- ment would be given more value and greater dignity by having the active co-operation of your office, and to this end I am writing to urge that an official expression be given by you which can be used in this State in assisting us. It is not considered that this particular line of work is covered by the provisions of Form 76 (Boards of In- struction), and it is earnestly desired that some similar recognition be given this illiteracy work. G. J. Hubbard, Rec. Aug. 12, 1918, P. M. G. O. 2nd Ind. War Dept. P. M. G. 0., August 14, 1918,— To the Adju- tant General of Alabama, Montgomery, Alabama. 1. The letter of the State Superintendent of Education has been perused with much interest. One of the most important features of the need which led this office to institute the boards of instruction within each Local Board area was the necessity of speeding the process of military training in camp by making the inducted men ready beforehand to understand the word of command to be received from their officer. Illiteracy, whether due to foreign birth or due to lack of home education is, of course, a fatal obstacle to a soldier's best understanding of his duties and his commands. One of the most direct ways of speeding up the preparation of the military forces of this country and making them ready to cross the seas with full capacity to do their duty is to eliminate illiteracy in the registrants before arriving at camp. The measures already taken in such good season by the State of Alabama through the Illiteracy Commission merit the highest encomium. Apart from the general civic values of such efforts to the community, we must now appreciate more keenly than ever the important mili- tary asset thereby created. I will ask you to convey to the State Council of Defense and to the Illiteracy Commission my expression of appre- ciation of the necessity and utility of these efforts. I 35 trust that all citizens and authorities will give unstinted support to their continuance. . E. H. Crowder^ Provost Marshal General. STATE OP ALABAMA - . OFFICE OF THE ADJUTANT GENERAL MONTGOMERY 3rd Ind. Office Adjutant General of Alabama, August 17, 1918, — To .the Superintendent of Education, Montgomery, Ala. 1. Returned, inviting attention to the second indorse- ment hereon, which bears the personal signature of the Provost Marshal General thereby showing his personal interest in the matter of this communication. 2. I have this day bulletinized this matter for the in- formation and guidance of the Local Boards directing them to give their unstinted support to the work of the Illiteracy Commission. 3. You are authorized to use this correspondence in such way as may be deemed most beneficial. G. J. Hubbard. State Council of Defense, State Capitol, Montgomery, Alabama. Gentlemen : My attention has been called to the work of the Alabama State Council in undertaking to obliterate illiteracy in Alabama. You may be sure that I regard such work, especially among those men who will be se^ lected for service with our armed forces, as exceedingly worth while and important. It is of direct military value and falls within the sphere of work in which State Coun- cils of Defense can render most valuable national service. Very truly yours, (Signed) Newton D. Baker^ Secretary of War and Chairman of the Council of National Defense. 36 COUNCIL OF NATIONAL DEFENSE WASHINGTON STATE COUNCILS SECTION State Council of Defense, State Capitol, Montgomery, Alabama. Gentlemen: Your letter of June 14th with regard to the special drive to be made by the State Council of De- fense to educate illiterate men in Alabama, has been re- ceived. I regard this as a very important piece of work being undertaken by the State Council of Defense and the State Illiteracy Commission. As far as I can judge from your report, the selection of a working and advisory personnel is most fortunate. The State Council will have an oppor- tunity to mobilize back of this genuine war work, the war enthusiasm of the people of Alabama. In taking this ac- tion, I am confident the State Council of Alabama is meet- ing with constructive effort a genuine war problem. Very truly yours, ( Signed ) Arthur H. Fleming, Chief of Section. I LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 1 029 487 188 3