y{ / § r R y of the AT SAN LU/S OB! SPO, CALIFORNIA ^-:'-:^^:rZ:^:^M ^y Myron MngelE^ f\ Class T-Ul Book. .G ? .?. ^ ^ GopightN°_ COPYRIGHT DEPOSrr. HISTORY OF THE CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL AT SA^[ LUIS OBISPO CAI.IFORNIA COMPILKD BY M\ ROISr ANGEL M Writer of Langley's Gazetteer of Pacific Coast, 1871-1876; History' of State of Nevada 1881; Placer County, Cal. 1882; San Luis Obispo County, Cal., 1883; Tulare County, Cal., 1892; Editor, &c., &c. Hon. Cor. Member Oneida Hist. Society of New York. TRIBUNE PRINT SAN LUIS OBISrO, CAL 1908 ^t-^^^ LIBRARY of CONGKESS^ 1 wo Copies tteceiyjtj APR .24 1908 ijoui/rittti envy 3US^4' XXc. If 'copy b. f^6~j COPYRIGHT, 1907 BY MYRON ANGEIy as n pnltltr gititit, -^MYRON ANGEL. < < rn O Q pq THE CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL HISTORICAL SKETCH OF ITS FOUNDING. BY MYRON ANGKI/. In the following pages I have endeavored to relate and compile briefly the efiforts, reasons and events in establishing the California Polytechnic School at San Luis Obispo. Having fervent ideals of high character for the public good, and believing in the necessity of such a school and that it will fulfill the high ideals, a benefit to all people, an ornament to the city, a center of re- finement to the county, an honor to the state, and an educator of labor and art, 1 regard it a duty, before the matter is lost forever or passed into indifference, to record in permanent form the earli- est footsteps in the creation of an institution that is destined to become prominent in the world. CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. have also, in a measure, sketched the attract- iveness, advantages and resources of this section of Cah'fornia as justifying the location of the school and its desirability for a large population of varied occupations and interests, and the future crrandeur of the state at large. Having, through a lono- residence and writer for manv substantial publications on the history, condition and re- sources of all the states and territories of the Pacific Coast, and travels through North America and Europe with careful observation and inquiry, I have written in confidence and fairness of this section in the articles in advocacy of the location of the school, herein republished, and believe that an intelligent and patriotic people will justify the selection and foundation. In 1893, upon visiting Oneonta, N. Y., my native town, after many years of absence, I was impressed by the great progress made in enlight- enment, refinement and population, chiefly attrib- uted to the establishment there of a State Normal School. From an unsidewalked, disorderly vil- lage it had grown in wealth and population to be the most prosperous, orderly and refined in the lovely valley of the Susquehanna. The Normal [loj CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. School, a brick building- of noble architecture, situated on a conspicuous elevation, was, of itself a monitor and a civilizer, and with its highly edu- cated faculty and the changing attendance of five or six hundred students, attracted the attention of the traveller and exerted an influence of the greatest good upon the people of the village and the surrounding country. I resolved that on my return I would endeavor to have such aq institu- tion established in San Luis Obispo. This city was then one of the most neglected places in Cal- ifornia, and was struggling for recognition and progress. I found that .Mr. J. W. Smith, now druggist, had been secretary of a Normal Manual Training School in Pennsylvania, and having pamphlets of several schools w^e planned for a similar establishment. Soliciting and talk continued with indifferent results in the fall of 1894. There was no great wealth or influence here, the Southern Pacific Railroad had not reached the city and there was no prospect of an endowment by any one of great wealth, so we must ask the State. Soon after the opening of the Legislature in January, 1895, I wrote to Hon. S. C. Smith, of Bakersfield, then Senator from the District of San Luis Obispo and [II] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Kern counties, proposing the establishinor of a Normal School to be located in the city of San Luis Obispo. Senator Smith, young and ambitious, entered heartily into the project, but it had been proposed so late in the session that nothing more could be done than to consider it introduced. l^he first footstep had been taken, the first effort made. Thus ended the labor before the Legislature of 1895. THE EFFORT RENEWED. Subsequent to the election of November, 1896, for the Legislature of 1897, I published in the San Luis Obispo Breeze a letter calling attention to the subject, and as people were waiting hope- fully and hopelessly for some person of wealth and enterprise to come to their aid with a gift of foundation, I signed the article ''New Blood" as follows: December 25th, 1896. Editor Breeze: Permit me to call your atten- tion, and also the attention of the people of San Luis Obispo, to the matter of a State Normal School in this city. There was a demand made in the Legislature two years ago for an additional [12] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Normal School, on the ground that the present ones were crowded and that another was, or soon would be, a pressing- necessity. Then the West Coast Land Co., with a very commendable public spirit, made the offer of a tract of fifteen acres of land for a site for the buildings, very eligible for the purpose. There was some correspondence with our Senator and Assemblyman in the Leg- islature upon the subject, and it was learned that the locati(m of the school at San Luis Obispo was thought favorably of, but that the question was brought up so late in the session that nothing could be accomplished that year. Senator Smith suggested that the people of San Luis Obispo take the matter in hand in time to have a bill properly prepared and he would present it at the coming session and do all he could for its passage. The time of the meeting of the Legislature is very near, and I have seen no movement made toward this most important matter. There are political central committees who will rustle with the energy of a ''forlorn hope" in battle when nominations are to be made or a rallying meeting to be held, but are all their duties ended at elec- tion, or are there no other civic duties demanding the energetic rustling of such organizations or of [i3l CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. individual citizens ? I should say that here is a case in point worthy of the highest effort. Let the chairmen of the different political committees bury the hatchet of strife and come together and organize for the noblest effort ever made for the welfare and advancement of San Luis Obispo. There are at present three political parties, the Governor, Budd, is a Democrat, our Senator, S. C. Smith, is a Republican, and our Assemblyman, J. K. Burnett, is a Populist. No one need assume precedence nor incite jealousy. This is a question where party does not avail. All are interested. In this case it is well we are so divided in political representation. The schools belong to no political party, religion or class. They are public, republican and demo- cratic in the true meaning of those terms. All can meet and unite in the work on this question, and it is the noblest end of politics. A Normal School, if it can be established here, will be the most important institution that we can hope for as an aid to our fame and prosperity. First, the elegant buildings will be an ornament to our city, and when in successful operation, it furnishes us a convenient school of a high class and gathers to our midst professors and families [■4] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. of rank and education with hundreds of pupils of worthy ambition and lofty aims. These will give culture and refinement to our city, making it a nucleus of attraction to many families, tourists and business establishments, and adding millions of wealth to our city and county. There will be no doubt of the popularity of such a school established here. The site which will be given it is incomparable in its conspicu- ousness, its loveliness of views ; the picturesque grandeur of scenery, healthiness and equability of climate, its accessibiHty by sea and by land, by fine ocean steamer or by railroad train, as shortly the great transcontinental trains will pass through the city ; the mighty ocean is always open to cheap and to cheapen transportation, and roads from the great interior valleys are questions of brief time. The records of the Weather Bureau prove indisputably to the world that the climate of this locality is the equal in all that is desired for comfort, health and enjoyment of any known to civilization, and in regularity, geniality, exemp- tion from severe winds, extremes of heat or cold in any degree, and with sufficient but not excess of rain, is the most favored of all California with- out a single exception. The records place San [i5l CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Luis Obispo at the head of all localities. This is EMPHASIZED TO A CHALLENGE FOR COMPARISON OR DISPUTE. The year around the least complaints can be made. All these are grounds for attract- ing pupils and families to a school located here. The locality is midway between the present schools at San Jose and Los Angeles, two hun- dred miles from each. In this vast stretch, with the contiguous great valleys to the east, is the richest region of California, but partly developed. Nature has decreed, and soon, that development will come that wtU fill this region with millions of people with prosperity, wealth and refinement. Let the living and interested people take hold of this matter, enjoy their fame and success and wait no longer for NEW BLOOD. THE PEOPLE AROUSED. Following the last publication many people ex- pressed an interest in the proposed school, and the Tribune joining in the advocacy the favor became general. January 8, 1897. ^^^- J- W- Smith and Prof. N. Messer, County Superintend- ent of Schools, called on me with the request that [.6] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. I call a public meeting to formulate a course of procedure. The following day I spent in visit- ing the principal business men urging their at- tendance, and preparing a petition to be submit- ted for consideration. The proposition thus taking form was report- ed in the Evening Breeze of January, 1897, ^^ follows : PUBLIC MEETING HELD. The Breeze reported in its issue of Saturday that at the hour of its going to press a meeting of men interested in the Normal School project was about to take place. The meeting v\'as held, and unless all signs fail, it was the first systematic and business like movement yet made toward the securing of the location at this place of the new State Normal School should one be established. There w^ere some twenty gentlemen present, all of whom are of acknowledged influence and importance in the business circles of the city. Judge W. L. Beebee was called to preside in the chair, and County Clerk Whicher was chosen to act as secretary. Mr. Myron Angel, who has acted in conjunc- [17I CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. tion with the Breeze as a movinor spirit to awake the people of San Luis to the importance of securinor the location of a Normal School at this place, had partially prepared a petition to be laid before the Legislature prayino- for the establish- ment of the school, and that it be located in San Luis Obispo. Li this petition Mr. Anorel sets forth the needs which the State has of another Normal School, statincr fiorures and facts bearino- direct evidence that the present facilities for Normal training- in this State are inadequate. He showed plainly that San Luis Obispo, ac- cording to its geographical situation, is the natural location for the new school should it be established, and further more set forth at lencrth the unusual advantages of the city as a home for such an institution. The petition was complete, and Mr. Angel was anxious that others should add their suggestions and thoughts to it before it should be adopted and forwcU'ded It was moved that a committee be appointed to complete the compilation of the important document so well begun by Mr. Angel, and the following were appointed: Myron Angel, Mayor VV. A. Henderson, J. K. Tuley. The com- [.8| CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. mittee decided to meet Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the City Hall to receive suggestions and advice, and to complete its labors. The meeting- adjourned until Tuesday, at 4 p. m. to hear the committee's report. THE REPORT. THE TRIBUNE, JAN. I3, 1897. There was another meeting- of persons inter- ested in the Normal School project Tuesday afternoon at the City Hall. While it was not largely attended, those who were present showed very plainly their interest in the movement and their determination to carry out the crood work which has been begun. Judge Beebee was detained from the meeting, and in his absence A. S. Whitsel was called to preside. The first business of importance was the sub- mission of the petition which is to be sent to the Leg-islature. Mr. Myron Angel, Chairman of the Committee, read the petition which was quite voluminous. At the conclusion of the reading the report of the committee was discussed, accepted and the petition adopted. ['9j CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. A coliection was taken to defray the expenses of havincj the report type written. Secretary Whicher moved that Ernest Graves be requested and commissioned to use his good offices with Governor Budd for the furtherance of the movement. The motion carried, and Mr. Whicher was appointed to convey the request to Mr. Graves. Upon motion the following were named as a committee to ascertain what building sites could be offered to secure the location of the school: J. D. Fowler, W. A. Henderson and Benj. Brooks. These gentlemen will report at a meet- ing to be held next Thursddy afternoon at 4 o'clock. Various matters bearing upon the subject in hand were then discussed, after which adjourn- ment was taken until the above named time. The petition which was yesterday adopted re- cited enough facts and data concerning San Luis Obispo County to certainly entitle it to consider- able weight and- consideration at the Legislature. The city of San Luis Obispo, with its healthful climate, beautiful scenery, its geographical situa- [20J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. tion, its accessibility, its present and its future, was especially dealt with. The picture was painted in ''natural colors" and none of its desir- able features were overdrawn. It was shown that within San Luis lives a people who are endeavoring to progress, and who best give evidence of that fact by the patronage they ex- tend to institutions of learning and progress abroad, and by the excellence of their schools at home. In the petition is included a report from Ob- server Williams of the Weather Bureau whereby it is shown that San Luis Obispo for the past six years (the time which the report covers) has had more comfortable and healthful average tempera- ture in summer and in winter and more briorht days than any town in the State. The freight and transportation facilities are set forth as they are, and it is shown that through this city, almost the entire travel from the nor- thern to the southern part of the State will soon come. Under this head the excellence of our harbor is also treated: It is also shown that this city will undoubtedly soon be connected by rail with the great San Joaquin valley via Bakersfield. The fact that there are hundreds who wish to CALIFORNIA POLVTKCHXIC SCHOOL. tcike advantage of the opportunities oftered by a State Normal Schtn)!, who now are unable to do so, and who could enjoy such adwuitaoes were a n(!W Normal School located here, is particularly emphasized as indeed are many patent condi- tions. All in all the petition is prestMUed in a clear and comprehensive statement which should bear great weight with our Legislature and Cu)vernor Hudd. A FA\\)RAHLH IXCinhlXr. Ria.ArKl) HV MYRON AMiia.. In compliance with the efforts made, Hon. S. C. Smith, then Senator re[)resenting San Luis Obispo countv in the Legislature of 1897, intro- duced the bill for the Normal School. Soon thereafter a bill was introduced to estab- lish a Normal School at San Diego which endan- gered the SiUi Luis C)bispo bill, and a committee of the Legislature wms sent to examine both places. After visiting San Diego the committee came to San Luis Obispo February 20, 1807. A reception and banquet was given at the Ra- mona Hotel, for which the City Council had [22J CAIJFORXIA POLYTECHXrC SCHOOL. appropriated $ioo.oo. Many citizens attended. As I had orioinated the proposition, I was called upon to explain. Besides saying- much which is elsewhere stated in these notes, I related that, '^I arrived in San F'rancisco in the rainy month of December, 1849, crossing the plains on foot from Fort Leavenworth to San Diego, direct from school on the Atlantic coast. Passage on a brig from San Diego had taken my last cent and 1 walked in the muddy streets of San Francisco, penniless, ragged and hungry. A busy man hailed me with: *'Say, boy, do you want a jobT' I eagerly say, '*Yes." **Qet up on that building and nail on those shingles; it looks like rain, and that roof must go on in a hurry. Fll give you $8 a day." I was appalled at my incompetence for the task, and blurted out, ''Mister, I never drove a nail in my life." ''To hell with you," he said as he rushed for another boy who looked as if trained for work, and he got the job. I could have told the man a great deal I had learned in the books, but nothing about building a house. 1 met other young fellows who could do black- smithing, house painting and other arti/an work, and were paid high wages; but there was no such opening for me. Now, gentleman of the CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Legislature, I will say I have planned for a school here which will teach the hand as well as the head so that no young man or young woman will be set off in the world to earn their living as poorly equipped for the task as was I when I landed in San Francisco in 1849." Upon my conclusion. Hon. SIg. Bet'man, Assemblyman from San Francisco, arose and enthusiastically remarked : '' I have been opposed to any more Normal Schools, and came here de- termined to oppose this, but upon the explanation of the plan of Mr, Angel I will return and vote for this polytechnic school and will do all in my power to carry it through." This was heartily approved by all present and appeared the turning point in our proposition. Bettman was subse- quently elected Senator from San Francisco and was alwavs for the school, thereafter called the Polytechnic. Senator Smith, who had introduced the bill, spoke eloquently in its favor, followed by all members of the delegation and by Judge E. P. Unangst, R. E. Jack, Prof. Leroy E. Brown, School Superintendent N. Messer, County Clerk John Whicher and others. The Legislative del- egation was : Senators S. C. Smith, J. J. Luck- singer, P. L. Henderson, L. J. Dwyer, R. Lind- [24] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. er, and W. A. Shippee ; Assemblymen : J. O. Vosberg-, E. D. Damon, Sig. Bettman, E. F. Lacy, and Lawrence Harris. The report was favorable and the bill as intro- duced by Senator Smith passed both houses of the Legislature but was disapproved by Governor Budd. The proposition of a state school at San Luis Obispo was not abandoned although objected to by the Governor on the plea of economy. The step for a polytechnic school, including agricul- ture, supported by the state, was in advance of the times, and many pleaded it was not a necessi- ty, while it would add heavily to taxation. It was contended that the State University had been es- tablished with a professorship of agriculture, and that the agricultural attendance was almost nil, showing that the proposed school was not de- manded. The call of San Luis Obispo at this date was in advance of the times, but it was the beginning,and the means of arousing the Univer- sity of California and the state to a greater inter- est in the matter of agricultural and polytechnic education. [25] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. CAMPAIGN OF 1898. Althouorh defeated in our aspirations by the ob- jections of Gov. Budd, the campaign of 1898 gave an opportunity for a retrial of the effort. A gov- ernor was to be elected and it was hoped to pledge the candidates to favor the establishment of the Polytechnic School at San Luis Obispo. Mr. Henry T. Gage was the Republican nomi- nee, and James Maguire the Democratic. A new party had entered the field, the Silver Re- publican, which held a convention at Los Angeles, intending to indorse the Democratic nominations. To obtain the favor of the Democratic nominee and political mention, I attended the convention with the result as reported in the San Luis Obis- po Breeze in the following : GOOD FOR ANGEL! SAN LUIS OBISPO POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. THE STATE SII.VER REPUBUCAN CONVEN- TION INDORSES THE MEASURE. SO DOES MAGUIRE. The Breeze, after the recent County Republi- can Convention, called attention to the omission [26J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. on the part of the platform builder of that Con- vention to make any allusion whatever to the San Luis Obispo harbor improvements or the proposed Polytechnic School for this county. The orreat mind of that olatform maker was so intoxi- cated with the glory of the war, victories, and the achievements of the battleship: Orecron, that it hadn't the little bit of a gush left for affairs of local concern, however important. The delegates from this county to the the State Silver Republican Convention at Los Angeles last Saturday, didn't forget their own county's in- terests, as the following dispatch will show : Alcatraz Landing, CaL, Aug. 2g, i8g8. Breeze, San Luis Obispo : Our Polytechnic School adopted in platform and approved by Ma- guire. ANGEL and KIMBALL. Plank from the platform of the Silver Republi- cans, adopted at the city of Los Angeles, Cal., August 27th, 1898. OUR POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. We favor the extension of our school system in all practical branches, and favor the establish- [27] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. ment of a Polytechnic School at San Luis Obis- po, and the continuation of the present system of the state school text books. RENEWED EFFORT. Another election has been held and now let us renew the effort for the Polytechnic School. Two years ago we lost it by a scratch — or rather the lack of a scratch of the Governor's pen. It was conceded by all that if our efforts had been put forth earlier in the session our school bill would not have been lost in the Governor's pocket. There are many preliminaries necessary to a proper presentation of our demands for the establishment of a Polytechnic School at San Luis Obispo. Senator Smith writes to Myron Angel that the first bill which he will introduce in the Senate will be the Polytechnic School Act which BuJd pocketed two years ago, and that he will do his best to secure its passage. Of course, the Sen- ator expects the cooperation and hearty support of the citizens of this city. Assemblyman Burnett can be counted on to do [28J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. all in his power to assist Senator Smith in his efforts to secure favorable action by the Legisla- ture. The labor and expense incident to the cam- paign for the school will fall upon the business men of this city. They should at once organize, appoint com- mittees, and be prepared as soon as the legisla- ture assembles to commence active operations. A number of suitable locations should be bonded so that a definite offer can be made should another legislative committee visit the town. ^ Senator Smith stated that the visit of the committee two years ago created a very favor- able impression upon the legislature and did much to assist the passage of the bill. Senator Smith thinks that there will be an- other committee here during the session of the coming Legislature, and our people should be better prepared to receive and entertain them than they were two years ago. Then there was short notice and the reception was an impromptu affair. This year there is time to have the house in order and everything in readiness for the entertainment of the visitors. I29] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. It is time to be moving in this important mat- ter. Business men of San Luis Obispo, get a move on yourselves. ENTHUSIASTIC MEETING. THE TRIBUNE, DEC. 7, 1 898. It v^as dem.onstrated last evening that San Luis Obispo is very desirous of securing the establishment of a Polytechnic School in this city. The meeting at the city hall was well at- tended, and displayed considerable enthusiasm. Myron Angel called the meeting to order, and nominated Mayor Shipsey for chairman, and he was chosen. The mayor spoke eloquently of the needs of such a school, and solicited the earnest efforts of every citizen to aid in procuring it. The members of the local press were made secretaries of the meeting. Myron Angel spoke at great length on the proposed school, and was followed by C. H. Johnson in much the same vein. They hoped that the citizens would get to work and help to [30] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. add to the future possibilities of our city. The Polytechnic School should be aided by all. Mr. Angel read a letter from Senator Smith to the effect that the first bill which he would introduce in the senate would be for the estab- lishment of a Polytechnic School. The following committee was selected to bond lands and secure options on property from which a site for the school may be selected: C, H. Johnson, D. Lowe, Thomas Barrett, J. P. An- drews, A. McAlister, Myron Angel and A. ¥. Fitzorerald. A subscription committee was appointed, con- sisting of Wm. Sandercock, John Barneberg and J. K. Tuley. A committee on legislation was appointed. It consists of Mayor Shipsey, chairman ; R. E. Jack, G. B. Staniford, A. S. Whitsel, Benj. Brooks, C. A. Palmer and Myron Angel. All other committees were directed to report to this committee. The general public committee organization will continue subject to the call of Mayor Shipsey. It is time to get to work at once, as we must have the school. (31] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. THE POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. THE DEMOCRATIC PAPER OF BAKERSFIELD DOES SOME TALKING. (TRIBUNE, Dec. 13, 1898.; It is given out that one of the first bills that will be introduced by the Senator from Kern and San Luis Obispo counties will be to provide for a State Polytechnic School to be located in San Luis Obispo. The establishment of such an institution is in line wath a progressive educa- tional policy, but the wisdom of locating such a school at a point so remote from all centers of population as is San Luis may be questioned. If the state is to maintain another state school, which will be the only one of its kind, it should certainly be situated at a point most convenient and accessible to the people. There seems to be no good reason why San Luis should be selected, unless indeed as has been suggested the scheme originated with a clique of capitalists who have, in the suburbs of San Luis, an elephant on hand in the way of a deserted boom hotel which if the plan carries, is to be sold to the state as a home for the new institution. A legitimate bill to establish and maintain a Polytechnic School will [32] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. perhaps meet with h'ttle opposition, but if it shall develop that the scheme is one whereby an at- tempt is to be made to unload on the state a worthless piece of property, then the bill should meet with the fate it will deserve. — Bakersfield Californian. The Californian predicted that Hon. S. C. Smith would not be re-elected. It is probably right (?) again. San Luis Obispo is the place for the school, and it will get it. SUBMIT YOUR PROPOSITIONS. FOR SITES FOR THE STATE POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. BRKKZE:, Dec. II, 1898, The committee appointed at the mass meeting for obtaining sites suitable for a Polytechnic School is C. H. Johnson, D. Lowe, Thos. Bar- rett, A. McAlister, J. P. Andrews, Myron Angel and A. F. Fitzgerald, any of whom will receive and file propositions of sale of such sites, number of acres and rates per acre from one to one hun- dred acres. rXRIBUNK, Dec. 12, 1898.) The Bakersfield Echo says that the chances [33\ CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. for this city securing the Polytechnic School are good. The local committee is going to do some hard work from now on. THE CLAIMS OF SAxN LUIS OBISPO. FOR THE POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL TO BE ES- TABLISHED BY THE STATE. THE IDEAL LOCATION FOR THE INSTITUTION. RAII.ROAD AND STEAMSHIP CONNECTIOll FOR AI.L PARTS OF THE STATE — CLIMATE INCOMPARABLE — A FUTURE LADEN WITH PROMISES. By MYRON ANGEL. The Bakersfield Californian, in an unfounded objection to the prcjposition to locate a Poly- technic School in San Luis Obispo, unconsciously impels a good stream of water on our wheel. The chief objection is that ''it is a scheme of some capitalists to unload a white elephant, in the shape of a dead boom hotel, on the State." In the removal of that objection it only need be said that the site of the school will be selected by such commissioners or trustees as will be [34J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. appointed by the Legislature or Governor under such bill as may be passed providing for such an institution in or near this city. There are here a score or more of sites suit- able for the purpose and available and which will be offered for selection to the commissioners or trustees when such officers are appointed. These officers will probably not be San Luis Obispo people, but entirely disinterested and unpreju- diced, to whom all sites may be offered and be- fore whom all owners and proposers of sites may appear and present their reasons and advocacy of their offers. If under these circumstances, a Board of the ablest and best men of the State — as in great educational matters ability and honor still prevail — should select the alleged dead hotel, the Californian nor any other paper could find fault. Another objection of the Californian is that San Luis Obispo is an out-of-the-way place. All know that such a condition will attach to it but a short time in the future; and is not very serious at present. As previously said, the great trans- continental railroad will soon be completed through it. This is the Southern Pacific, with a [35] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. gap of less than sixty miles to be filled on which work is now energetically carried on, and over which, before the buildings of the Polytechnic School can possibly be erected, the great trans- continental and main coast trains of passengers and freight will be passing. San Luis Obispo will not be such an out-of-the-way place then. Then, too, very naturally, with the great school located here, the delightful summer resort afforded by our coast to the heated and fevered residents of Kern, the available market the im- proved harbor will afford the products of the great fertile, irrigated valley, connection by rail- road will be effected, making Bakersfield and San Luis Obispo sister cities of Mid California with interests in common and communication most intimate. As not so ''out-of-the-way," San Luis Obispo already has railroad connection with San Fran- cisco by the Southern Pacific; has the Pacific Coast Railway into Santa Barbara County for seventy miles and to Port Harford connecting every other day with the fine passenger and freight steamers of the Pacific Coast Steamship Co., to all southern and northern ports, making this city a point of competitive rates. Such are [36J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. advantages that place it in the front rank of available points. In addition, its climate is emphatically prom- inent in its favor. San Luis Obispo challenges the whole known world on its general record. In healthfulness, equability, genialty, rainfall, exemption from storms, severe winds and all ex- tremes San Luis Obispo is without a rival, the most favored known anywhere. ''A legitimate bill to establish and maintain a Polytechnic School will perhaps meet with little opposition," says the Californian. The Califor- nian may be assured that the proposition is a very legitimate one. Lideed it is a very grand and comprehensive one, of which the State and Pacific Coast will be satisfied and proud in future years. What Freiberg and Heidelberg are to Germany or Cornell to New York, the Polytech- nic School of San Luis Obispo is designed to be to the Pacific Coast. Here are special advan- tages and opportunities for carrying out the design. These advantages are so many that it is impracticable to call attention to all at this time. The subject is for the discussion and work of all the people until accomplished. \37] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. SAN LUIS OBISPO AND THE POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF THE OBJECTS OF THE PROPOSED INSTITUTION. A GREAT FUTURE AND A GREAT FIELD. THIS COUNTY A LOGICAL AND FIT PLACE FOR THE BESTOWAL OF THE GIFT IT ASKS— GEOLOGICAL AND MINER ALOGICAL ATTRACTIVENESS. By MYRON ANGEL. (Breeze, December i6, 1898,) Through the genius and energy of our friend, Senator Smith, San Luis Obispo has been placed in the front rank as the locality for a State Poly- technic School. Let us inquire what the title implies and why San Luis Obispo is most speci- ally fitted for the seat of such an institution. The definition given by Webster is: 'Tolytech- nic, meaning many arts, applied particularly to schools in which many branches of art and science are taught with especial reference to their practical application." There are already a number of schools in Cal- [38] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. jforpia bearino the title, and the great universi- ties are schools of many arts and sciences, but none fill the requirement of such a school as the §tate, the Pacific Coast and the progress of the age demands. The present great schools are scientific and classic; educating for the high pro- fessions and the pleasures of literature. Even those established in the large cities by the bounty of men and women of great wealth, having for their ^im instruction in art, are limited in their scope silthough grand and useful to a degree, but cannot fill the demand like a school in the country. The course of a student from a prim- ary school through the university takes one into the years of manhood, with all the acquired learning fitting him only for the three or four professions of lawyer, doctor, minister or teacher, already overcrowded. To nine tenths of the graduates these years of vigorous, impressive youth are precious years wasted. In these years they should, while receiving a high education, have also learned the art of making a living; have educated the hands as well as the head. All ambitious youth and all the sons of wealthy parents desire to graduate at the univer- sity, and thus we see these great institutions |39] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. crowded with thousands of students and endowed by the superabundant rich with milHons of dol- hirs besides the taxes paid by the people through- out the state. Without a thought of disloyalty to the great universities may it not be asked if it were not better to divide the pa ronage, divert some of the endowments and taxes and extend the course of studies in a place in the country ad- apted to a great school for the '' practical applica- tion " of the arts and sciences. Making what is needed at the present time, a truly polytechnic school. There is, at the present time, really no such complete school in America. We may not have a complete one in San Luis Obispo, but we will try for one to fill a void, one that can grow to become complete. The Pratt Institute of Brooklyn, N. Y. and the plans of the Cogswell, Lick and Wilmerding in San F'rancisco are eftorts in our line, but we should take a higher mark, like Freiburg in Germany, and Cornell, in New York. They were established in a com- paratively small way, and so may be ours. But how eminent have they become and how useful their work. Labor is the source of all wealth. Historians tell us that in the height of the Roman Empire [40] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. '' merchants were more powerful tliaii princes, and to do something for the public good was a greater honor than to be born of noble blood." The future of our country depends upon its labor, therefore labor should be educated, popu- larized and enobled. It is labor that does some- thing for the public good. The architect and builder, the road maker and the engineer, the miner, the worker of metals, the assayer and analyst, the cultivator of the soil, the handler and manufacturer of all products, and thus through the whole alphabet of art and sciences, are all the workers of the future, the developers of America, the ones to be enobled by higher edu- cation. The future of America is of wealth and brilliancy beyond imagination of statesmen and scholars of the past. Educated workers will be the rule and factors in the brilliancy, and educa- tion will not be limited to the professions nor to the rich. Strangers may ask why has San Luis Obispo been placed in the front rank as the site for the State Polytechnic School. First it was observed that San Luis Obispo had been neglected in all State appropriations for schools or institutions of any class; that it stood two hundred miles or llflj] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. more from any such institution; that it was in a section of great resources and loveliness of cli- mate and beinor recently made more accessible by railroad it was time it should share in some of the benefices of the State. A Normal School was proposed, but it was seen that the State was fully supplied with schools for teachers, and the idea of the Polytechnic School was dev^eloped. The time had come for the idea, as in all history the time comes for every great idea, invention, dibcovery and advance. But the reason of the benefice is surpassed by the reason of necessity and appropriateness. The future, as I have said, is a future of labor, or skilled development of resources. Much of this wmH be in mining, road miking, architecture, sculpture, analyses, agriculture, electricity, the working of metals and minerals in their infinite forms, and the like. For all these San Luis Obispo county offers advantages not surpassed, if equaled, in the same area in the world. In the examination of the state by the corps of assistant state mineralogists it has been found that this county contains a greater variety of minerals than any other. While not classed as a mining county a great variety of minerals exist [42J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. in every form known to the mineralogist. This has been confirnieJ b/ the rece nt investi^rations by Professor H. W. Fairbanks, who most em- phatically declared San Luis Obispo county the most interestinor and diversified in eeoloeical and mineralogical formation of any similar area known on the Pacific Coast. Prof. Fairbanks was an enthusiast in the study and admiration of the geology and mineralogy of this region. It is a region of unique formation, of precipitous peaks, mountain ranges, rolling hills and fertile valleys. Porphyry, trachyte, granite, jasper, ser- pentine, limestone, bituminous shale, slate, trap and sandstones are among its massive rocks; vast beds of fossil shells, bituminized sand rock, as- phaltum, gilsonite, brea, oil, clay, ochre, salt, onyx, gypsum, alabaster, and other useful miner- als are found; and of metals, gold, copper, anti- mony, quicksilver, manganese, iron, baryte, chro- mium and others in considerable abundance, all giving opportunities for study and the '* practical application " of studies in all the connecting arts that go to make up the industrial world. In ad- dition the county is distinguished for its medici- nal hot springs and its medicinal plants which constitute an important feature in its attractive- [43] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. ness for a polytechnic school. While this detail of advantages is incomplete it is sufficient to pre- siMit San Luis Obispo as the most fit site for the great school. SITES FOR POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Proposals for sites for the Polytechnic School will be received by Th)mis B irrett, secretary of the committee on sites, at his office on Higuera street, San Luis Obispo. Prop )sals are invited of tracts of lo to loo acres anywhere within two miles of the court house, and should state the number of acres, price per acre, locality and im- provements, terms to be held as confidential by the committee. It must be understood that the committee has no power of selection or purchase, but will hold the offers to^^resent to such trustees as may be named in the act authorizing such Polytechnic School or appointed by the governor to make such selection. MvRON" Angel, Chairman. [44J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. OUR POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. ITS NECESSITY AND SCOPE— LET IT BE THE CORNELL OF THE PACIFIC. 'where any person can find instruction in any STUDY. ' ' By MYRON ANGEC (S. h. O, Breeze, Jan. 7, 1899.) There appears in this community a lack of conception of the scope and importance of the Polytechnic School proposed to be established in San Luis Obispo. The idea of littleness, or of individual speculation or peculation should be dispelled. Our proposition is for a great State institution, of special necessity at the present day, for the higher education and development of artizans and the ennoblement of labor. There will be no other such institution in Cal- ifornia, and the " Polytechnic School " when established will be at San Luis Obispo and not elsewhere. This is destiny as certain as any advancement can be assured. If, through any perverse action of individuals, condition of State I45] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. finances or other causes, the proposition is not consummated at this session of the Legislature it must be carried to the next, and till the great fact is accomplished. There must be no abate- ment of energy, effort or advocacy. It is true the State has a great University at Berkeley, richly endowed by taxation, bequests and donations, but it does not nor can it fill all the requirements or satisfy the demands of the people of so vast an area of grand and diversified resources as California. The progress of America, particularly of the Pacific Coast, indicates a future of wealth and splendor of which the history of the world affords but faint comparisons. The monuments of the mystic age of Egypt, the gigantic works of ancient China, the splendor of the palaces of India and the grandeur of medieval Europe may be surpassed in our own country, and through just and enlightened legis- lation the wealth will redound to the good of the artizan and laborer and not all to the glory of princes and lords. It our Government is main- tained by the people for the people then the people must care that all handicraft is educated and elevated to enjoy the wealth they create. In former articles I have pointed out the lines [46] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. of development, the resources of the country and why San Luis Obispo is specially best fitted for the location of the school. Amonof others I have mentioned Cornell University. We may look forward to the growth of a similar one here. In 1865 Ezra Cornell expressed the desire *'to found an institution where any person can find instruc- tion in any study." 1 For this purpose he gave $500,000 and two hundred acres of land upon which the great university is built now, with additional lands, occupied by more than one hundred buildings, campus, and fields. The site is in the suburbs of Ithaca, N. Y., on a bluff of 400 feet elevation overlooking the city and Cayuga Lake. It has grown into one of the great institutions of the world, and from its Register for 1897-98 of pro- fessors and classes appear truly to furnish in- struction for any person in any study. The Register gives a catalogue of 1,790 students and 220 teachers besides trustees, preachers and other officers and employees. I have mentioned Cornell for the reason that it was established at a small town, the county seat of an interior county of New York, in a State where there are other great universities [47] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. and colleges and with many great universities? in surrounding States. This appears a fair criterion for S m Luis Obispo, as we are further removed from any State institution of learning than the people of any State of the East. The time has come for every extended institution, of which agriculture, architecture, stone work, mining, are prominent, and for these San Luis Obispo offers accumulated advantages. In this connection I append an extract from an article in an Eastern paper on Cornell. *Tt is only thirty years since Cornell Univer- sity was established; and yet, so conspicuous is its place among the great institutions of learning, that the average man is apt to forget that it is in years but a stripling among American universities, and colleges. "It is announced that a fourth term, to be known as the Summer Session has been planned, where high school teachers are to have special attention, w^ith the best instruction to be obtained any where in all the subjects taught in the schools, including languages, mathematics sciences, manual training, drawing and nature study, to be given by the pick of the Cornell faculty. CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. **It is stated as a fact that there is at Cornell University, in central New York, the greatest school of naval architecture in America. The department is presided over by Professor Durand, graduate of the U. S. Naval Academy, who has had eleven years' work in the construction of ships for the navy, and Assistant Professor Mc- Dermott, twelve years designer and in charge of scientific work in the great Thompson shipyards at Clydebank, Scotland. ''The Cornell school has been running seven years, and men trained in it are employed in all great shipyards of the country, and have helped to design and construct nearly all the great battle ships built by the government, besides hundreds of merchant ships. Fifty Cornell stu- dents are this year specializing in naval architec- ture and marine engineering; and these will be right *in it' when the anticipated boom in Ameri- can shipbuilding comes along. *'The University College of Agriculture con- tinues to demonstrate that learnin' " may not be .wholly wasted on those who successfully till the soil. It exposes a brand new leaf in the history of potato culture, for example. This year it has raised an average of 298 bushels to the acre on 1.49] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. indifferent to poor land, which has been under cultivation for five years without fertilizer. Di- rector Roberts says sugar beets can't possibly be made to pay as well as potatoes that are properly cared for. The average yield of potatoes in New York State is only one-third that obtained by the Cornell experiments." THE LEGISLATURE OF 1899. ENDORSED BY N. S. G. W. Los Osos Parlor, N. S. G. W. has adopted the following resolutions: Whereas, It would be a great benefit to the educational and material development of the various counties of Southern California, and of the County of San Luis Obispo in particular, that a State Polytechnic School be established in the County of San Luis Obispo; and, Whereas, Bills have been introduced in the several Houses of the Legislature of the State of California for the accomplishment of said object; and, Whereas, The fundamental principles of the Order of the Native Sons of the Golden West [50] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. are centered in the advancement of the entire great State, and the promotion of its institutions, therefore be it Resolved, By Los Osos Parlor, No. 6i, Native Sons of the Golden West, that we heartily en- dorse the project for the establishment of a State Polytechnic School in San Luis Obispo County, and commend to the lawmakers of this State for their favorable consideration. Resolved, that copies of these Resolutions be transmitted to State Senator Smith and Assem- blyman Burnett at Sacramento. Dated, San Luis Obispo, Cal, January 23, 1899. E. Green, A. Robinson, H. E. McKennon, J, F. Fiedler, Committee. (51] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. SYLVESTER CLA.RK SMITH Republican, of Bakersfield, was born on a farm near Mount Pleasant, Iowa, August 26, 1858; was educated at the district school and at Howe's Academy, Mount Pleasant; moved to California in the fall of 1879; farmed and taught school in Colusa county, and in 1883 went to Kern county to teach; while teaching he was studying law, and in 1885 was admitted to practice and located at Bakersfield, Cal., where he still resides. In 1886 a number of farmers bought a newspaper plant [52] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. wilh which to establish a pamper to represent their views on a question of Water right, which was then engrossing their attention, and Mr. Smith was employed to edit the paper — the Kern County Echo; three years later he bought the paper and continued to edit it till 1897, when he returned to his law practice; is still the principal owher of the paper, now a morning daily, and does occasional editorial writing for it. He was elected to the State senate in 1894 and again in 1898, serving eight years; was defeated for the Congressional nomination in 1902 by Capt. M. J. Daniels on the forty-ninth ballot; was nomi- nated by acclamation for the Fifty-ninth Con- gress in 1904 and elected, and reelected to. the Sixtieth Congress, receiving 22,548 votes, to 13,992 for C. A. Barlow, Democrat,' and 4,003 for N.A.Richardson, Socialist. — Directory of Congress Congressman Smith, while in the .State Senate, introduced in that body the bill establishing the Polytechnic School at San Luis Obispo. IN THE LEGISLATURE OF 1899. The bill providing for the school was duly pre- sented in the Senate early in the session of the [53] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. legislature of 1899 by Hon. S. C. Smith, where it received careful consideration and was ap- proved by that body. Meeting opposition in the Assembly, it was thought necessary to send a delegation to Sacra- mento to urge the passage of the bill by that body, and Messrs. A. S. Whitsel and Lawrence Harris were sent on that mission. A bitter con- troversy existed in the Assembly regarding the payment of bounty for coyote scalps in which our Assemblyman had taken an active interest in opposition for which his enemies declared punish- ment by voting against the Polytechnic School bill. March 8 Assemblvman Burnett tele- graphed his friends that the vote on the bill was 23 for and 30 against, thereby defeating the measure for this session. Sorrow and indigna- tion were expressed by all parties in San Luis Obispo. While many were discouraged, declar- ing no hope of success, others determined to continue the effort for another campaign. CAMPAIGN OF 1900. At the election in November a member of the Assembly representing San Luis Obispo was to [54J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. be chosen, for which Warren M. John was nomi- nated by the Republicans. The most important question of local affairs was the renewal of the strug^gle for the Polytechnic School. All parties professed friendship for the measure. During^ the several years it had been before the people with partial successes, and disappointments seem- ingly so unjustified, the reasons for it being, the propriety of this locality for the school and the needs and scope of such an institution in general had been so fully set forth that there was no open opposition to it locally. It had, however, enemies who hid themselves behind economic principles and prejudices against all innovations of progress; others jealous of localities and indi- viduals and "statesmen" desirous of party record of low rates of taxation. These opponents were to be overcome by the representatives of San Luis Obispo in the ensuing legislature. Hon. S. C. Smith, of Bakersfield, the original introducer and persistent advocate of the bill continued as Senator for the district and Hon. Warren M. John was elected to the Assembly. In January, 1901, the Legislature convened at Sacramento and among the first bills presented was that by Senator Smith for the Polytechnic [55] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. School at San Luis Obispo. Even at this date there was strenuous opposition to the measure, still in advance of the times, but it successfully passed both houses and became the law as follows: POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL BILL. March, 1901, an Act to establish the California Polytechnic School in the County of San Luis Obispo, and making- an appropriation therefor. The people of the State of California repre- sented in Senate and Assembly, do enact as fol- lows: There is hereby established in the County of San Luis Obispo, at or near the city of San Luis Obispo, a school to be known as the California Polytechnic School. The purpose of this school is to furnish to young people of both sexes men- tal and manual training in the arts and sciences, including agriculture, mechanics, engineering, business methods, domestic economy, and such other branches as will fit the students for the non-professional walks of life. This act shall be liberally construed, to the end that the school established hereby may at all times contribute to the industrial welfare of the State of California^ [56J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Sec. 2. Within thirty days after this act goes into effect the governor shall appoint five per- sons, who, with the governor and superintendent of public instruction, shall constitute the board of trustees of said school. Sec. 3. The said trustees, as provided for in section two of this act, are hereby appointed and created trustees of said California Polytechinic School, with full power and authority to select a site for the permanent location of said school. Said trustees shall within ninety days after the passage of this act, examine the different sites offered by the people of San Luis Obispo county for the location of said school; and the site select- ed by them shall be and remain the permanent site for said school. But no money shall be ex- pended for or on said site, until a deed in fee simple has been made for land so selected to the State of California. Sec. 4. The term of office of the trustees shall be four years, except that in appointing the first board of trustees, the governor shall appoint two members for one year, one for two years, one for three years and one for four years. They shall be governed and regulated by the laws gov- erning and regulating the normal schools of this [57] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. State, in so far as the same are applicable to an institution of this kind. Sec. 5. The sum of fifty thousand dollars is hereby appropriated out of the moneys belonging to the State not otherwise appropriated, for the purchase of a site, the construction and furnish- ing of the necessary buildings, and the mainten- ance of said school. Sec. 6. The controller of the state is hereby authorized to draw warrants from time to time, as the work shall progress, in favor of said board of trustees, upon their requisition for the same, and the state treasurer is directed to pay the same. Sec. 7. The moneys hereby appropriated shall be expended under the direction of the said board of trustees. Sec. 8. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after January first, nineteen hun- dred and two. GOOD WORD FOR SAN LUIS OBISPO. The Salinas Index, January 6, (1899) says: •'Senator S. C. Smith has introduced a bill to establish a Polytechnic School at San Luis [58J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Obispo and providing for an appropriation of $iOD,ooo therefor. Within thirty days after the passage of the act the Governor shall appoint five persons to act in conjunction with the Governor and Superintendent of Public Instruction as a board of trustees, who shall have full power to select a site for said school. All right, Saint Louis the Bishop, you are our neighbor and the Index is in favor of that school." PREPARE FOR THE GREAT SCHOOL (dec. 17, 1901.) The time is near when the act for the estab- lishing of the Polytechnic School will go into effect, which will be on the first day of January, 1902. While the law does not make it absolutely necessary for our citizens to do anything in the matter, we all know that certain things are re- quired ot us if we would make sure at the begin- ning to prepare for the future in a way that will leave no regrets tor injurious or fatal neglect. Nature and fate are on our side so conspicuously that we should rejoice with an exceeding great joy and work forward with a will seconding with [59] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. energy and liberality all that has been done for us. Once more may I be permitted to refer to some of our peculiar advantages. The city of San Luis Obispo is so located, with mountains, hills, valleys and peaks surrounding, as to give it a climate the most genial, and free from anything objectional, damaging or disagreeable, of any of the most favored localities of Southern Califor- nia, and not surpassed anywhere in the known world. This is known by experience and is proven by official statistics. But this most specially favored area is that within view of the Court House of San Luis Obispo. Farther west- ward the sea breeze of summer is often chilly, raw and tog-laden, and eastward of the mountain the heat of summer days is excessive and the frosts of night destructive. But this is not dis- paraging the coast climate which is generally superior to that of any other section of the Union. Our other next great advantage is in facility and convenience of transportation by sea and by land. The great Southern Pacific Railroad now runs a multitude of trains through the city, hav- ing here a division station the most important between San Francisco and Los Angeles, a dis- tance of above five hundred miles established for [6oJ CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. all time, thus fixing San Luis Obispo as the city of the Coast Division and of the county. We have the rivalry of El Moro and Grover and Paso Robles and Arroyo Grande and others as- piring, but with the Court House, the Division Station and the Polytechnic School here all pre- tentions of rivalry have faded away and vanished forever. With this we must feel that the possi- bilities of San Luis Obispo are greater and its future brighter than any other locality between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Now let us care that there is no lapse of op- portunity nor mistake made in the securing and planting the Polytechnic School which the Legis- lature of California has so graciously ordered at this place. In is true that the wording of the Act is a little ambiguous and the appropriation small, but the intent is plain and there can be no honest dispute on technicalities. The beginning is important and the future will be according to the wisdom displayed in its establishing and man- agement. We must prepare and look forward to the day when the ^'California Polytechnic School" will become one of the great institutions of the State, and, therefore, of the Pacific Coast. Per- haps it will be a part of the State University. [6.] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. That it will be great in usefulness, if properly es- tablished, is assured as all thoughtful and practi- cal persons appreciate its necessity. The classi- cal education afforded by the ordinary university is not necessary nor desirable to the great ni-ass of the people, and still the government is asked to guarantee an education to all. The old sys-^ tern has been to go up from the alphabet through the Latin and Greek languages. And everybody wants his share of what the government provides so all exert themselves to go thro ugh the univer- sity. This system has been carried too far; edu- cation of the head only. Now the world is en- tering upon a new system — education of the hand as well as the head. As we have the kin- dergarten for infancy we will have the manual training for youth. To establish such a school in the country is the desire of the people of the State. On this subject the Pacific Rural Press says, **The beginning of a rural Polytechnic School in California is an item of wide interest and will command the approval of all who are aware of the needs of such opportunities for the instruction and of the great progress which is be- ing made in other parts of the world in their de- velopment. There will soon be established at [62] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. San Luis Obispo an institution to be known as the ^California Polytechnic School.' The pur- pose of this school is to furnish to young- people of. both sexes mental and manual training in the arts and sciences, including agriculture, mechanics, engineering, business methods, domestic econ- omy and such branches as will fit the students for the non-professional walks of life/' It is plainly to be seen that this is to be one of the most important and popular institutions of the State, To San Luis Obispo it will be of the greatest importance in its* refining and elevating influences, attracting a high class of population, and from its graduates establishing industries and developing resources now unthought of on this benighted coast. The object of this article is to call attention to the importance of this matter and arouse our citizens to the proper exertions to advance the purpose of the Act. First, it is required to select a site for the school. This should be within the circle of hills that embrace the city of San Luis Obispo. Such was the intention of the application for the school and of the efforts for the passage of the Act. This intention cannot now be thwarted but by treachery to the interests of the school and of [63] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. this city. It has been intimated that the clause in the bill reading ''at or near the city of San Luis Obispo" means anywhere in the county, and that people in distant parts may offer sites for the school. This may be. There are proper and grand sites within view of this city. If we would have the school such as it was intended, some of these must be selected ready for the acceptance of the trustees to be appointed by the governor^ With the many available sites in view of and convenient to the city, it would be a mockery of the plan and future of the school to select a site elsewhere. Citizens should take this matter in hand at once. Myron Angel. TRUSTEES OF THE POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL NAMED. (Press Dispatch to Tribune,) San Luis Obispo, Feb. 3, 1902. — Governor Gage has appointed the trustees for the CahT- ornia state polytechnic school, which is to be located at this place and for which the last legis- lature made an appropriation of $50,000. War- [64] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. ren M. John, the assemblyman from this county, received a telegram this afternoon from W. H. Davis, the crovernor's private secretary, which stated that Mr. John and William Graves of this city, State Senator S. C. Smith of Bakersfield, F. A. Hihn of Santa Cruz, and E. J. Wickson of San Francisco had been appointed trustees of the polytechnic school. The governor and superin- tendent of public instruction are ex-officio mem- bers of the board. The bill passed the state senate at three dif- ferent sessions — those of 1897, 1899 and 1901. It received favorable consideration in the assembly in 1897, but was finally vetoed by Gov- ernor Budd. In 1899 the bill was again consid- ered in both houses but failed to pass the assembly. At the session of 1901, however, it passed both houses and received the signature of the governor. The scope of the school has not yet been fully determined, but it will be placed on the broadest lines possible and its purpose is to provide a technical education for the youth of the state. [65] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. ESTABLISHING THE SCHOOL. THE PROPOSED PLAN OF ESTABLISHING AN AGRICUL- TURAL EXPERIMENT STATION AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL OR AS A FOUNDATION FOR IT. [Tribune Mar. nth, 1902.] Tomorrow the Trustees of the San Luis Obispo Polytechnic School will meet in this place to select a site for the school and to decide upon the scope and character of the work to be taken up. No definite action was taken by the Trustees at the meeting held in San Francisco on Saturday last, owing to the absence of Sena- tor Smith, but the scope and purpose of the work were discussed at length; and according to the San Francisco Chronicle, *'it was practically de- cided to confine the work of the school to agri- cultural matters. These will include dairying, poultry raising, stock breeding and scientific con- sideration of horticultural problems, forestry and kindred matters/* It has been the general un- derstanding of the people of San Luis Obispo [66] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. that the act passed by the State Legislature pro- vides for the establishment of a Polytechnic School, and not an Agricultural Experiment Station, — as it will be if the above outline of the work to be taken up is correct. The decision of the Trustees in this respect, as reported in the San Francisco papers and quoted in the Tribune as correct, therefore caused con- siderable disappointment and chagrin to those who have been agitating the subject of a Poly- technic School for the past few years, and who when the bill was passed, congratulated them- selves that their efforts had at last been success- ful. A Polytechnic School is understood to be an educational establishment in which instruction is given in many arts and sciences, more especially with reference to their practical application; and the mechanical and industrial arts and sciences are especially emphasized. The special act establishing the California Polytechnic School near the city of San Luis Obispo states that '*The purpose of this school is to furnish to young people of both sexes mental and manual training in the arts and sciences, including agri- culture, mechanics, engineering, business methods, [67] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. domestic economy, and such other branches as will tit the students for the non-protessional walks of life. This act shall be liberally construed, to the end that the school established hereby may at all times contribute to the industrial welfare of the State of California." If the Board of Trus- tees now limit the scope and purpose of the work to Agricultural matters, as has been announced, they defeat the object for which the bill was formed, and substitute a dairy, poultry and stock breeding ranch, which would be of comparatively little interest or benefit to the city and county of San Luis Obispo. Warren M. John, the temporary chairman of the Board of Trustees, stated in an interview that, while no definite action had been taken at the meeting held in San Francisco, it was the general opinion of the Trustees present that the present scope of the work should comprise simply Agricultural matters, including dairying, poultry raising, etc. **We decided," said Mr. John, '' that lOO acres of good farming land should be purchased for experimental purposes, and that the work should be limited to agricultural and kindred interests for the first few years. In the four or five years, when other appropriations [68J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. shall have been made, the scope of the work can be broadened and the mechanical and domestic arts and sciences can be taken up. At first it will be more like an experimenta 1 station, but that will be only for a few years. " Certainly a Polytechnic School, with all its various branches cannot be completed in a day. It must have a beginnincr, and from that begin- ning the complete and thoroughly equipped in- stitution must develop. But that beginning must be such that development is absolutely necessary, and itself should be the foundation for that de- velopment. In this light, the wisdom of estab- lishing an agricultural experiment station as the foundation for a complete Polytechnic School, is questionable; and if this is the policy of the Board of Trustees the future success and import- ance of the institution is extremely doubtful. There are at the present time several such sta- tions established in various parts of the State of California, conducted as sub-stations, adjunctive to the general station at Berkeley; and whenever the California Polytechnic School reduces itself to an agricultural experiment station, even for a few years, it loses that individuality which it should have as an independent educational insii- 1 69] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. tution, and sinks into a subordinate position from which it will require greater efforts to raise it than it did to call it into existence. The fifty thousand dollars oriorinally appro- priated for the establishment of the school will, in all probability, be sufficient to establish and equip a sub-experiment station, and if that station is at once established and equipped it will be ex- tremely difficult to secure further appropriations for introducing other branches, —for the experi- ment station will be complete in itself. There are other branches included within the scope of a Polytechnic School, however, which could easily be established as a beginning and which would naturally and necessarily lead to the further development and ultimate completion of the plan; and the people of San Luis Obispo county hope that the Trustees will not force the institution to begin its existence divested of all individuality and subordinated to an inferior posi- tion from which it will have difficulty in rising. PUBLIC EXPRESSION. The meeting mentioned in the Tribune was held at the Court House, Hon. S. C. Smith, [70] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Chairman of the Board presided, and trustees F. A. Hihn, William Graves, Hon. Warren M. John, Prof. E. J. Wickson and Superintendent of Public Instruction Thos. J. Kirk, ex-officio, were present. Many citizens were in attendance. March 12th, 1902, was a momentous day in the history of the Polytechnic School. The discus- sion was to decide the scope and intention of the school. Its destiny hung in the balance. The Act of establishment was broad and liberal, com- prehending a useful and brilliant course. The plan appeared in advance of the times. The pre- vailing systems of the farm, even at that late day, were archaic and almost degrading, and, while many saw nothing better, there were others who thought they could be improved by education. Some influential people deemed the including of the mechanical arts, engineering, domestic science and academic studies in the curriculum as impracticable and visionary. Moreover, there were some enemies who appeared to desire the crippling of the enterprise. A condensed report of the proceedings was published in the Tribune and further abreviated here. Judge McD. R. Venable opened the discussion, speaking at length upon the desir- I71] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. ability of an agricultural school making a specialty of dairying for which this region was well adapt- ed. Messrs. Brooks, Ballou, McA lister and others favored the plan of Judge Venable. The tide was turned by the vigorous advocacy of a broad Polytechnic school by County Clerk John Whicher. Mr. Whicher conceded the great importance of the dairying interest in this county, but was forced to take issue with the gentlemen who had preceeded him in regard to the beginning of this school. He called the attention of the Trustees to the fact that the population of this State in- cludes a large number of female children, and that, as the law and public sentiment would not allow them to be killed off^ some provision should be made for their education as well as the boys. "I am in favor of starting this school as a Poly- technic school, where household economy, black- smithing, carpentering, masonery, engineering and other trades are taught as well as agriculture and the work of the garden, orchard and the farm. What the State needs more, especially now, is a school where the industrial trades are taught in every branch by which people earn a [72] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. living, to prepare the boys and girls to rely upon their own resources." Mr. A. M. Hardie of Cayucos strongly con- tended for a Polytechnic school, saying, ''If this is made a dairy school it will be a disappoint- ment to every family throughout the county. " Mr. Benj. Brooks spoke again, agreeing with Mr. Hardie that the school should meet the de- mands of the people. Trustee Kirk said, '' The ultimate scope of the school was not under discussion, but what is best to commence with, and it seems to me that the agricultural and dairying features were the best to btart with." Mr. Dawson Lowe spoke for a polytechnic school, and numerous others for and against. Mr. Whicher, in behalf of the City Council, invited the Trustees to a banquet in the evening at the Hotel Ramona, and the discussion was adjourned for one hour. During the intermission Mr. D. Lowe, who has a site to offer just a mile north of the Court House, had placed on the table around which the Trustees assembled an exhibit of the products from the land he offers, consisting of navel oranges, lemons, four varieties of corn, barley, [73\ CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. English walnuts and garvanzas, all very fine and making a splendid showing of the possibilities of the land. H- AFTERNOON SESSION. Thos. Barrett was first called upon to give his views. He thought a dairy did not answer the purpose of a Polytechnic School. He urged it to be started on the polytechnic plan. Myron Angel made a splendid talk and was heartily cheered. He said other schools had been established on old lines, but that the evolu- tion of society required a new plan. The Poly- technic School should be such as to meet the changing demands of the social evolution which Senator Smith and himself and others had dis- cussed in times past. ^'England/' he said, **has become a world-wide nation because of her methods and diversified re- sources. But across the broad breast of America lie a hundred Englands, each with fertile soil, rich in all the useful and precious minerals known, lakes and rivers for navigation and power, a genial climate and a government foster- ing all. America, to develop these infinite re- [74J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. sources, needs scientific and practical research in all lines. '*Our own California is pre-eminent in all that makes hum^inity comfortable, happy, rich and powerful. On her eastern border rises one of the orrandest mountain chains of the globe, bear- inor its white crest half a thousand miles to the north, and rearing its peaks near three miles into the sky. In this lofty Sierra Nevada are a hun- dred never failing streams of the purest water for the uses of man, and so long as the atmosphere lifts the dews of the ocean and deposits them as snow on the mountains so long will the water flow giving the pure element to cities, irrigation to the soil and electricity for light, heat, manufac- tures, transportation and all power when the min- eral fuel is exhausted from the earth, and to teach men and women to engineer these works and mould this wealth will be the function of this school." Mr. Angel spoke of several great colleges he had visited where domestic science and all the mechanic trades, arts and engineering are taught as a worthy citizens education. We are coming to a higher plane where these advantages will be more generally distributed. He hoped the [75] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. school would be located where it would have room to expand in its buildings, shops and land- work, and upon principles that would enable it to cover all lines and become an institution to which all America can come for instruction. Nature has fixed the location of a great school here mid- way of the genial and equible climatic belt which extends from San Diego to San Francisco. Prof Wickson, of the State University and a Trustee, was called upon and gave what he con- sidered the proper scope of the school from the point of the law and the needs of the State. He believed the school should be rural in character rather than to attempt to cover the more purely technical branches of most of the older estab- lished colleges. It should be fundamental and practical, and still a place that no schools at present are prepared to fill. He said the Presi- dent of the University urged them to make a school that would teach a lady pupil to make a good pumpkin pie. At four o'clock the Trustees went into execu- tive session to examine the proposals submitted for sites for the school, of which there were six- teen. [76J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. THE BANQUET. In the eveninor an elaborate banquet was given the trustees, attended by many citizens. Num- erous enthusiastic speeches were made. Mr. Benj. Brooks, Editor of The .Tribune, spoke of a banquet that had been given in that same room and at that same spot some five years since, when a committee, chiefly members of the State Legislature, came here to examine into the ques- tion of the proposed Polytechnic School and to vie^ the sites. He stated that it had been a long, hard fight from that time to the present, and he would call upon Hon. S. C. Smith, who had been continually in the fight, to speak on the subject of the California Polytechnic School* ADDRESS OF HON. S. C. SMITH. *'It was during my first session in the Senate, in 1895, that I received a letter from Myron Angel on the subject of a State School for this place. The school originally suggested by Mr, Angel was a Normal School. I prepared a bill 1 77] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. for the school, but later suggested to Mr. Angel that the plan be changed to that of a Polytechnic School. There were three Normal Schools in the State already, and San Diego had a bid in for a fourth, so I considered the chances for a Normal School in this place very poor. In fact, I am not in favor of Normal Schools at all. As they are conducted at the present time they are humbugs, holding out to young men and young women false ideas of education. So I was in favor of an Industrial School rather than a Nor- mal School, and I finally substituted a bill for a Polytechnic School, which was passed, but Gov- ernor Budd, who had an economical mania, put it to sleep. *ln the next session the bill was again taken up, and a committee was then sent to this place to look over the proposed site and to decide upon the desirableness of establishing the school here. The reception of that committee made a good and lasting impression, and every member has been favorable to the bill since that time. On that committee was Sig. Bettman. the hum- orist of the lower house, and he was so favorably impressed by the reception given the committee that he exerted a good influence in both houses [78] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. in behalf of the bill, and assisted greatly in bring- ing it to a successful issue. The bill was voted on on Washington's birthday, 1899. I remember when I introduced it I stated that was an auspic- ious day, and augured well for the* measure; but the bill was defeated. *'I went to the session of 1901 with a greater purpose and a stronger desire to show the people of the county that I was sincere, and I redoubled my energies and efforts and succeeded in getting the bill through. **But the people of this county do not know how much they owe to Assemblyman John for the successful passage of this bill. I handled it in the Senate, but it was a far different proposi- tion to pass the bill before the Assembly. John was young and inexperienced, but the successful manner in which he handled the subject speaks well for his earnestness and ability, and places this county under a deep and lasting debt to him. I remember the day the bill passed before the lower house. I was sitting in the Senate cham- ber, and was just about to go over to the Assembly hall and help John along, for I knew he would have a hard fight. But just as I was about to go to his assistance, I saw him enter the 1 79] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Senate chamber and come toward me. The smile on his face was at least a mile wide, and I then knew he was coming to tell me that the bill had passed. And so it had passed, but there was still another battle to be fought -it must be signed by the Governor. '*A few days later I pocketed the bill, and went down to take the Governor's temperature. *No new institutions this year,' said the Gov- ernor, for he was troubled with the economical mania about that time. If any of you gentlemen ever serve the State in the Legislature^ may the Lord deliver you from a parsimonious Governor, who imagines he is doing the best thing for the State when he is not spending its money. I ex- plained to the Governor the importance of the bill, and told him that the establishment of that school would be a landmark in his administration, and that it would win him greater favor than anything else he could possibly do for the people. I left the bill with him, and told him to study it over, and soon after that I heard that it was being more favorably looked upon. The plan of the bill was the thing that took Governor Gage. The idea that the graduates of the college should go back to their homes better prepared to serve [80] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. their State and their fellow creatures by being more proficient in the mechanical and industrial crafts and arts, favorably impressed him and led him to see that the bill should not be passed by or turned down. **And so the bill was signed, and the joy that was experienced by the people of this county was shared by those who had labored for the interests of the Polytechnic School in the State's capitol.'* The persistent and able efforts of Hon. S. Q Smith in the Senate and of Hon. Warren M, John in the Assembly at last had triumphed. Both are ambitious young men in the early years of public life, and however high their aspir- ations or political favor may carry either or both of them, or in whatever condition of civil life, their faithful and successful labors in establishing" SO grand and useful an institution as the Calif- ornia Polytechnic School will stand as a monu- ment to their pride while living and of honor for- ever. The appreciation of the people is shown in the election of Mr. Smith to Congress and the re-election of Mr, John to the Assembly- Both were made Trustees of the school [81] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. WARREN M. JOHN, the present representative of San Luis Obispo county in the Assembly, was born in Allen coun- ty, Kansas, November 27, 1874. His early boy- hood days were spent on a farm near Logans- [82J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. port, Indiana. He attended the Logansport schools, until comincr to San Luis Obispo, Cali- fornia, in November, 1887. After completing his studies in the Oak Park district school, he at- tended the San Luis Obispo Union High School, entering that school the day it was first opened, it being the first high school in the county. Later he attended the Arroyo Grande Union High School. In 1896 Mr, John's name was presented to ihe Republican County Convention for the nomina- tion for the Assembly, but before a ballot was taken he withdrew his name from the considera- tion of the convention. In 1898 he was nomina- ted for the Assembly by acclamation, but was de- feated at the polls by Hon. J. K. Burnett by the narrow margin of 31 votes. In the Republican County Conventions of 1900, 1902, 1904, and 1906, he was nominated in each instance by ac- clamation for the Assembly and elected, receiving in 1906 the largest majority ever given him. In the Legislature of 1901 he assisted in pass- ing the bill establishing the Polytechnic School in San Luis Obispo, and has ever since been a member of the Board of Trustees of the institu- tion and a constant worker for the school's wel- [83] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. tare. Since 1894 Mr. John has been connected with the San Luis Obispo Tribune. LEROY ANDERSON is a native of Seneca county, New York. He was born Dec. 4, 1866, of Scotch parentage, and raised on a farm in the famous fruit belt of the ^y /■''.'!■' ^■in' m IM ■a 1^11 ■ '-S'''' ■» Empire state, and received his early education in the country schools and in the high schools of Waterloo and Seneca Falls. He taught a coun- try school for a year after finishing the high [84J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL, school, and then entered Cornell University, tor which he had received a free scholarship upon a competitive examination in Seneca county. At the time of graduation in 1896, he was granted a Fellowship in Agriculture at Cornell for the fol- lowing year, and at the close of the year received the degree of Master of Science in Agriculture. From 1897 ^o 1900 he was assistant in Dairy Husbandry at Cornell. In the latter year he ac- cepted a call from the University of California to organize a dairy department, and became instruct- or in Animal and Dairy Husbandry. In June. 1902, he returned td Cornell to receive the degree of Ph. D., upon a thesis concerning investigations of various dairy problems. During the same year he resigned his instructorship in the University of California to accept the position of Director of the California Polytechnic School. PROFESSOR ANDERSON CHOSEN. [From San Francisco Examiner May 27th, 1902.] The last Legislature appropriated $50,000 for the establishment of the California Polytechnic School at San Luis Obispo. The commission charged with locating and starting the school 1.85] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. consists of Governor Gage, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirk, Professor E. J. Wick- son of the University of California, F. A. Hihn of Santa Cruz, Assemblyman Warren M. John, and William Graves of San Luis Obispo, and Senator S. C. Smith, of the Thirty-fourth Sena- torial District. Some time ago this commission selected a site of 280 acres about a mile from the court house in the town of San Luis Obispo, and yesterday another meeting was held at the Palace Hotel for the purpose of taking over the deeds and select- ing the head of the school. Professor Leroy An- derson of the State University, was unanimously chosen Director, at a salary of $200 a month. For the past two years Professor Anderson has had charge of the Dairy Department of the University at Berkeley. Before that he had been for four years an instructor in the Agricultural Department of Cornell University. At first none but the agricultural branches, such as dairying, horticulture and entomology, will be taught at San Luis Obispo, but later it is expected to broaden the scope of instruction and embrace various trades. The school cannot be opened untill after the first of next year, but [86] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. meantime Professor Anderson is to visit, at his own expense, similar schools in the Eastern States, and then superintend the establishment of the San Luis Obispo institution. LET IT BE UNANIMOUS. Ed. Tribune : After the meeting of the Board of Trustees of the California Polytechnic School was held in the city of San Luis Obispo on March 8th, I asked for a word, through the columns of the Tribune, with the people of the county, rela- tive to the policy to be pursued by the Board of Trustees in defining the scope of instruction in the school. The assurance was given the people then that the intent of the law would be fully and completely carried into effect, to-wit: the building up of a Polytechnic School. That pledge the people of the county may rest assured will be kept by every member of the board to whose cus- tody the institution has been entrusted. I desire again to say a word through the col- umns of the Tribune relative to another matter, and a most important one. It will not seem out of place that these letters are written. The only desire is to take the people into a full confidence, 1.87] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. and at every point in the deliberations leading up to the establishment of the school, seek their counsel and advice. Individuals are bound to differ upon questions of public policy ; they are bound to differ upon the methods to be pursued in carrying into effect a certain policy. Within the honest difference of opinion of the citizenship of this county rests its safety and stability. Upon the great principle of patriotism and the ultimate success of an institu* tution, the people are a unit> It is needless to rehash the old threadbare statement that in unity there is strength, for that has been exemplified in every crisis which has confronted our nation. So far, so good. Now, let us discuss the future of the California Polytechnic School; let us enter the arena of public thought and there thresh over our individ- ual views, if they differ and conflict, and then emerge from this self-same arena a united people, loyal to the California Polytechnic School and dedicating our best efforts to the success of the institution. The site for the school has been selected. Men differed upon this question widely. Fourteen sites were offered and only one could be selected. [88] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. As an an individual member of the board, I de- sire to thank the people who so kindly offered their advice and counsel upon this very important matter. All were honest and sincere in their opinions. The, advice of all could not be heeded. If it were the institution would be strewn in sec- tions all over the territory contiguous to the city of San Luis Obispo. It was but natural that the people should differ upon the selection of a site, but with all fair mind- ed people, the only consideration of the future is the success of the school. The work is only commencing; the element of strength lies in the enthusiasm of the people. This enthusiasm will not be lacking. Wherev- er it is withheld by any person or persons, it will be promptly reported to the people of the county as prompted by ulterior motives. But nothing of that sort is anticipated. The strength of a com- munity is built upon a unanimity of sentiment among the people. Brighter days are dawning upon our county. We have something to work for. Near this city has been located an institu- tion v^hich in ten years will be the most popular in the state. It is a state institution. Yet the great state of California entrusts its success in a [89] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. great measure to the active work and loyalty of the people of San Luis Obispo county. The state will not be disappointed in this regard. Respectfully, Warren M. John. THE VACANT TRUSTEESHIP. By George Breck Staniford, Editor of the Breeze, Sept. 12, 1902. The death of William Graves creates a va- cancy in the Board of Trustees of the Polytech- nic School. The vacancy of right should be filled by a resident of San Luis Obispo, and the man to whom the appointment should go is Myron Angel. Myron Angel is the father of the Polytechnic School. He wrote the first article in the Breeze which inaugurated the movement that led to the final passage of the act founding the school and locating it near this city. But for Mr. Angel's persistent efforts there would have been no Poly- technic School. No man in this community is better equipped for the trusteeship than Mr. Angel. By per- sonal observation, deep study and careful investi- [90J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL, gation he has familiarized himself with the sub- ject and is familiar with the methods and work- ings of the most successful schools of this char- acter in the United States and Europe. He is a thoroughly progressive man, and would in every way be a valuable acquisition to the Board of Trustees of the Polytechnic School. The citizens of this town as a fitting recogni- tion of Mr. Angel's efforts in behalf of the Poly- technic School ought to unite in a petition to Governor Gage to appoint him Trustee. GOVERNOR NAMES SHACKELFORD, A notification to Hon. Warren M. John, dated Sicramento, Sept. 13, 1902, states that R. M Shackelford, of Paso Robles, was appointed by Governor Gage yesterday as a trustee of the California Polytechnic School to fill the vacancy caused by the death of William Graves. The appointment of Mr. Shackelford as Trus- tee of the Polytechnic School was eminently suit- able. During many years he had been actively in business in the county as General Manager of the Salinas Valley Lumber Co. and Southern Pacific Milling and Warehouse Co., with head- [91] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. quarters at Paso Robles. In educational matters he has always taken a leading interest, serving several terms as Trustee o the Public School of Paso Robles, proving his devotion by bringing the school to a first class standard. DOORS OF SCHOOL OPEN. PRACTICAL WORK OF POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL IS ON IN EARNEST. A SHORT TALK BY DIRECTOR ANDERSON" CHIEF EVENT ATTENDANCE IS FAIR — FORMAL DEDICATION LATER. Tribune, Oct. i, 1903. Today, although there will be no ceremony nor ostentation, marks the actual beginning of the usefulness of a great institution of learning, — the California Polytechnic school. At nine o'clock this forenoon Director Ander- son will gather the handful of students who have arrived, in the dormitory parlor and give them a talk in regard to the new institution and its work. After that the teachers will take charge of such [92J > m W O CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. students as beloncr in their departments and the actual work of the school will begin. Fourteen students and the three instructors had arrived last eveninor and one more student is expected to arrive this morning. The teachers and departments are as follows: S. S. Twombley, of the Fullerton high school, a graduate of the University of Maine, will in- struct in mathematics and the sciences. Miss Gwendolyn Stewart, Santa Cruz, a graduate of Stanford will have charge of do- mestic science and English. Miss Stewart's family now reside at Seattle. O. L. Heald, Pasadena, a graduate of Throop Institute will teach carpentry, and sloyd (wood work for girls), also drawing. The school is supplied with a stenographer and bookkeeper, Miss Naomi Lake, Los Angeles, a graduate of Los Angeles Business College. The students as at present enrolled are as follows: Misses Laura and Irene Righetti and Miss Lila Wever, San Luis Obispo; Kent S. Knowlton, Port Harford; Allen V. and Charles J. Emmert, Arroyo Grande; Miss Mary Bello, Morro; Gustavus and Henry Wade, Francis D. Buck and Owen Hollister, Goleta, Santa Bar- [93] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. bara county; Paul L. Williams, Ventura; Wil- liam H. Boswell, Soledad; Herbert H. Cox, Morgan Hill; Frank A. Flinn, Decanso, San Diego county. Director Anderson and wife moved to the dormitory yesterday and that building is practi- cally finished and in full possession of the school management. Trustee Shackelford is down from Paso Robles. It is not expected that any one except those directly connected with the school will Le in attendance this morning or at any time until the school is opened with formal dedication ex- ercises about the middle of November. The administration building is just now in the hands of the painters and not n:o*e than two or three rooms can be made use of for some days. A telephone, suburban 21, has been put in at the office in the dormitory. The beginning of all great institutions is made under difficulties, very similar perhaps to those encountered in launching the California Polytech- nic School. Growth is the watchword for both the school and for the brave and earnest young people who honor its beginning with their pres- ence. [94] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. OPENIiNG OF THE SCHOOL. Tribune, Oct, 2, 1903. The long looked for opening of the California Polytechnic School will be noted with satisfaction by many of our residents to whose good effprts the splendid culmination was largely due, who ex- pended time, thought, money and influence to that end when it was only a dream, and the plan was scoffed at and derided, but whose work is now forgotten and unrecognized. They . have their reward in the consciousness of honest and unselfish labor well performed, and in their pleasure at the triumph at last resulting. San Luis Obispo has been fortunate in the past in possessing among its citizens so many who had its interests at heart and who were willing to de- vote themselves to projects for the public good, although it might be a certainty that not in their time could there come any fruition, in no manner could they hope to benefit by their work. The history of the last twenty years in the life of our town is starred with the names of such sturdy ad- vocates of the public interests, most of whom unhappily have gone from us and from the world. 1 95] CALIFORNIA' POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. The struggle for the Polytechnic, however, is yet so recent that there are still with us many who shared in the pioneer efforts in its behalf and as we have said they will feel immense satis- faction in the happy outcome, and will watch with deep interest its successful progress. That its success will be great and rapid can hardly be doubted. It has a wide field and meets a demand that has long been felt. It makes for the uplifting of the laborer, the dignifying and glorifying of his hand- work. It makes a learned profession of every branch of industry. It has always been, despite the claim of democracy to level all distinctions, that brain would have its way, that the superiority of the man of learning and trained intelligence was necessarily recognized. It tends to the crea- tion of a superior class that the advantages of thorough education should be confined to those callings, fortunately every day growing more nu- merous, requiring brainwork chiefly or exclusive- ly. It is the proposition of the technical and trade schools that brain culture is quite as essen- tial in most of the trades and handicrafts, and that the superior man may as readily make his way to the front in them as in what used to be [96] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. distinguished as the three learned professions. The Polytechnic School is the college for a re- public. THE POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. JOHN S DEMAND THAT ITS COURSE IN MECHANICAL INSTRUCTION BE BROADENED IS ENDORSED. Tribune, March i, 1904. An important meeting of the board of trustees of the California Polytechnic School was held in San Francisco Saturday. The future policy of the school was thoroughly discussed by the trus- tees, all of whom were present except Governor Pardee. Steps were taken in a decisive way to make the institution a thorough polytechnic school in which the main features shall be courses of study in electrical construction, general iron work, blacksmithing, plumbing, with full courses in dairying, practical farming, domestic science, carpentry, forestry, horticulture and irrigation. Instruction in all these branches will be fully opened in September of this year, with the ex- ception of that of electrical construction, which [97J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. will be inaugurated early in 1905 when the legis- lature shall make an appropriation for the pur- pose. The matter came up to a vote in the board upon the following resolution introduced by Trustee Warren M. John of this city who in- sisted upon its adoption as meeting the wishes of the people of the state: ''Resolved, that it is the intention of this board so far as its present membership is concerned, to use every effort to make the California Polytech- nic School a useful institution for the young people of California, to the end that it shall ulti- mately afford them instruction along mechanical lines and become, in every sense of the word, a thorough polytechnic school. It is the intention of this board to so conduct the school that it may produce educated farmers, stock raisers, dairymen and orchardists, cultured matrons and home- makers, as well as skilled mechanics, all of whom may be an honor to California and the nation. As the school grows in years we feel confident that its usefulness and popularity will become clearly apparent to the whole state and the Pa- cific slope. As the legislature meets the demand for financial aid, it is the intention of the board to install a complete plant for instruction in black- [98J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. smithing, general iron work, plumbing and elec- trical construction. The resolution was adopted after a discussion. It was decided to admit pupils from the seventh grade of the public schools for special one year course. Director Leroy Anderson made many valuable suggestions for the good of the school and the board gave its hearty endorsement. Prof. An- derson will soon commence the sending out of a weekly letter on matters connected with the school for publication in the leading newspapers of California. It was decided to hold a monster basket picnic at the school early in May when noted educators and prominent citizens will address the people, A free barbecue is suggested as a feature. The next school year is to be divided into three terms of twelve weeks each, the first term commencing September 15 and ending Decem- ber 15; second, January i to March i; third, April I to the middle of June. This was done at the suggestion of Director Anderson. His re- quest to lower the laboratory fee to $5 per term was approved. LOFCi [99] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. It was voted to give the pupils one week's rest about Easter time. The construction of workshops, barns^ etc,, was left to a committee composed of Trustees Hihn, Shackelford and John. On motion of Trustee Wickson, Walter Brad- ford of this city, was employed as engineer at $75 per month, to serve until April 11. Two more teachers were added to the faculty, James Edwyn Roadhouse of Berkeley, instructor in irrigation, forestry and horticulture, and Edwin Walter Yount of Oakland, in carpentery. VISIT OF THE SENATORS. COMMITTEE SEES CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL AND GOES AWAY GREATLY PLEASED — EN- TERTAINED AT SCHOOL. Tribune February i, 1905. The Senate Committee came and departed as announced. There is no doubt that the gentle- men, as well as their lady friends, were wel] pleased with California's new industrial school, the Polytechnic. [looj CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. At lo o'clock Cook's tally-ho and three other ricTs departed with the party from the Hotel Ra- mona where a goo \ iiii>-ht's rest had been secur- ed. The party visited the Board of Trade rooms where the superb display pleased them very much. They saw the new Presbyterian church and the new Carnegie library, both of which are in course of construction, the former from Bishop's Peak granite and the latter from Los Berros yellow stone and pressed brick. They saw the old Mission, our well paved streets and the beautiful surround- ing scenery. The air was balmy and comfortable riding without wraps. The drive was then made to the school trrounds and buildings, which were at once inspected and admired. The fifty. two students were busily engaged in practicing the various industrial arts now being taught. After the inspection a committee meeting was held, and Director Anderson and his instructors were closely questioned about every phase of the work now being accomplished and their hopes and recommendations for the future conduct of the school. Trustees Hihn and Shackelford were present, and spoke for the school All of the business of the visit having been hoi] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. attended to, the whole party sat down to luii* cheon, which was served by the students. The senators composing the committee are C» \V. Pendleton, P. J. Haskins, E. Woodward, J. B, Sanford, A. E. Muenter, F. A. Markey, J. Welch, Clifford Coggins, J. McKee, John H. Nelson, J. B. Irish. All were present but two. The ladies present were Mrs. Woodward, Mrs. Sanford, Mrs. Coggins, Mrs. McKee, Mrs. Nel- son. and Miss Martin. The citizens who went from town were Dr. McCurry, Myron Angela A. F. Fitzgerald, and Attorney W. H. Spencer. The party came back through town, and went to the station at 3 o'clock^ whence they departed northward. POLYTECHNIC SCHOOLS. Tribune, Dec. 31, 1904. The securing for San Luis Obispo of the State Polytechnic School was not accomplished any too soon. The demand has now grown for an addition to our State University of a great agri- cultural college with large farm attached; and in several cities manual labor training has been [102] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. added to the public school system. All this is on the principle of our Polytechnic School. In fact such schools, or colleges, of agriculture and manual training, are becoming the vogue throughout the United Spates. Exceedingly for- tunate was San Luis Obispo in getting such a school established in advance of the rush or never, and now we must endeavor to keep it in the advance and maintain it for all that it is worth. An inspection of our Polytechnic School under the courteous guidance of its able director shows that its worth is much greater than the ordinary mind imagines, and its work already advanced to importance. It is indeed astonishing that so much progress has been made at this early day under the meager appropriations granted for so great an undertaking. A fine farm with excels lent products ot cultivation and stock, carpentry, drawing, engineering, blacksmithing, chemistry, mineralogy, assaying, domestic dressmaking, dairy products, the usual lessons of the school room, the sports of baseball and football, and other mat- ters are features of the school, and it is as yet but in its infancy. Every possible effort should be 1.103] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. made to build it up and make it the great institu- tion of Midland California. The growing popularity of such institutions is shown in a strong article in last Sunday's Chronicle, saying : /' But few persons outside of those immediately connected with the manual training department in the San Francisco schools are aware how marked and vigorous are the growth and development of this practical feature of school work. Two years ago about 1700 boys in the seventh and eighth grammar grades were enrolled for instruction in this branch. Today upwarci of 1900 are receiving its benefits, an.d from appearances, before another year shall have gone by the membership will have passed the 2000 mark. **It is noteworthy that the interest aroused and stimulus given in school work through this utili- tarian addition to the curriculum has been of good effect for a certain proportion of restive boys who usually fall out of school during the in- terval between the low seventh and the hioh eiorhth orrades because of the loss of interest in the usual studies, now remain owing to the absorbing interest awakened by the manual train- ing department. If the department had done no [104 J o o o !^ O O f > XfX CO CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. more than this it would have earned the thanks of the community/' The Chronicle contains a long article descrip- tive of the schools quite applicable to our own, showing the intense interest taken in it by the pupils and the steps in the development of mech- anical genius. But wood is the principal material used, saying ^'undoubtedly the largest collection of woods on the coast may be seen in this school room. There are of Japanese woods alone more than 150 varieties. There are also exhibits from the Pacific Islands, South Sea Islands, North Pacific, Eastern States, some from Europe, sixty- eight kinds of wood from Honduras and more than fifty of our California woods/' California is rich in woods. Such an exhibit is worthy of notice and should be in every school, and such a collection to which is added specimens of earth, building stones, ores, clays and minerals of all kinds is in course of growth at the San Luis Obispo Polytechnic School. Only in such an institution thus gathered, saved, manipulated, analyzed and exhibited can the worth of our natural resources be ascertained and made known. The youth taught in such a school will become students of Nature, with the most inter- [105] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. esting of books before them all their lives. The youth so inspired will investigate and develop the resources of the state, adding to their man- hood, health and honor as they add to the public wealth, ten thousand times more than all the cost. How essential then it is that we should struggle to maintain and advance the school so opportunely established in our midst. Myron Angel. RECOMMENDED FAVORABLY. ALL POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL BILLS ARE SUPPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS. Special to Tribnne. Sacramento, Jan. 31, 1905. — Assemblyman John addressed the Committee on Public Build- ings and Grounds today, and the committee at once voted unanimously to recommend favorably and support all of the appropriations for the Cal- ifornia Polytechnic School. [106J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. POLYTECHNIC. INSTITUTE AND PICNIC TO BE GIVEN FRIDAY. SOMETHING ABOUT THE SPEAKERS WHO WILL AD- DRESS THE PEOPLE ON THAT OCCASION. Tribune, May 9, 1906. It is rare for the people of San Luis Obispo to have the opportunity of hearing so many speak- ers of note in one and the same day as will ap- pear at the Polytechnic on Friday. Every one should thus make a great effort to attend the third annual institute. Miss Howell has been instructor in domestic art at the Polytechnic for the past two years, and has filled the position with marked success. She graduated from the Normal course at Pratt In- stitute, Brooklyn, and had a wide experience in teaching before coming to San Luis Obispo. Her work covers three years in Mechanics Insti- tute, Rochester, New York; five years in the Kansas State College, and two years at the Throop Institute. Miss Secrest is a graduate of the Kansas State [107J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. College, where she also taught as an assistant in domestic science. Later she was graduated from the Teachers' College, New York, course in domestic science; after which she organized the course of study in this subject at the Stephen's Point Normal School, Wisconsin. Her next field of labor was in the Ohio State University as Associate Professor of Domestic Art, from which position she came to our Poly- technic one year ago, and has won a warm place in the hearts of all her associates. Miss Ednah Rich will speak on *' Training Young Women for the House." She is a young woman, and yet one of the pioneers in teaching manual training on the Pacific Coast. Miss Rich was a teacher in the public schools of Santa Bar- bara when Anna M. Blake, a wealthy lady of that city, decided to found a manual training school. She sent Miss Rich to Boston and to Sweden and Germany to study sloyd and prepare herself for teaching. That Miss Blake was a good reader of human nature is illustrated by the won- derful success which accompanied the work of Miss Rich. Professor Jaffa will speak upon his pet theme of the food question, and upon which no one is [1 08 J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. better qualified. He is a g^raduate of the Uni- versity of California, and has been an instructor and experimenter in the College of Agriculture since his graduation. His major work has always been agricultural chemistry, and about eight years ago he began the especial study of foods, both for man and beast. For some years he has been employed by the United States De- partment of Agriculture to make detailed investi- gations of the food of some of the foreign col- onies in San Francisco. During the year 1902- 1903 he spent in study with Dr, Atwater at Wes- leyan University and in Germany. Mrs. Smith is a graduate from Cornell Univer- sity in 188 1, and has spent the remaining years chiefly in teaching —two of her most important appointments having been at Wellesly College and Stanford University. At the latter institu- tion she made an especial study of sociological questions, and is recognized authority upon matters relating to them. At present she is head of the South Park Settlement in San Francisco whose buildings were lost in the fire. She is also a Research Assistant of the Carnegie Insti- tute employed to prepare a treatise upon Chinese I109] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Immigration. She is a daughter of Professor Roberts. Professor Roberts needs no introduction to a San Luis Obispo audience. He has been present at each of the former institutes, and the many friends there made will be glad he is coming again. He is not only to be here on Friday, but will remain at the Polytechnic until commence- ment, and will give a course of lectures on rural economy. ON SEVENTY-NINTH BIRTHDAY. December 5, 1906. Hon, Myron Angel, San Luis ObispOy Calif- ornia: My Dear Mr, Angel — The Polytechnic School sends you heartiest greetings upon hav- ing passed another mile stone in your long and eventful life. I fear we who have come into the heritage of the Polytechnic School within the last few years, as all of us have who are closely con- nected with it, do not appreciate the work that was done by pioneers in its origin and establish- ment. If we do not appreciate this work, it is simply because we do not fully understand re- garding It. [no] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. I took much pleasure this morning- in tellinor our students somethinor of your life and your work for the school. We want you to feel we are thinking- of you. and that we are glad to be enjoying the privileges which you were instru- mental in establishing. Very sincerely yours, (Signed) Leroy Anderson. EDUCATIONAL. SCHOOLS OF SAN LUIS OBISPO— GOOD PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM. POLYTECHNIC CROWNS ALL. Tribune, June 12, 1906. By MYRON ANGEL. '* 'Tis education forms the common mind; '' Just as the twig is bent, the tree s inclined^ The facilities for education are the honor and attraction of every country and community. The opportunities which every state of the union affords and the conditions existing are held up before the world as evidences of their rank in [III] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. enlightenment, comforts, law abiding and desir- ableness of dwelling, and it is the proud boast of California that she stands conspicuously in the lead. The fact is shown in the unprecedented endowments of the two great universities, the University of California at Berkeley supported by the State, with near three thousand students, and the Stanford University at Palo Alto founded by Leland Stanford and wife, with an endowment exceeding thirty millions of dollars. These great institutions, unsurpassed in the world, are evidences of the spirit of the people in matters of education. In addition are sectarian and private colleges, normal, polytechnic, high and grammar schools of the highest class every- where. Statistics of the United States show that the percentage of education in California is higher than in any state of the Union, and that the sal- aries of teachers average much larger. All that can be claimed for the state can be claimed in a high degree for San Luis Obispo city and county. San Luis Obispo county, having an area of 3285 square miles and a population of about 16,000, has 98 school districts, in each of which are one or more public schools, to which must be [112] w o o > > O > . O CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. added the parochial schools, the Convent School in the city of San Luis Obispo, the high schools of Arroyo Grande, Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo, ranking- with the old time Academies of the East, and the State Polytechnic School crowning all. No more convincing proof could be adduced of the aspiring enlightenment of a community than this array of educational facili- ties. Liberal in government, fraternal in feeling, joyous in association, a continuous prayer for the best of humanity and civilization. Where there are such schools, there is obedience to law, pros- perity and respectability. Such schools are the basis of our democratic republic, and from them grow its supporters, statesmen and defenders. A county so endowed invites a population the best of the earth for comfort, happiness and ambition. The census of school children of Mission Dis- trict, comprising the city of San Luis Obispo, taken in May, 1906, gives a total of 955 between the ages of 5 and 17 years, and 359 under 5 years of age, a grand total of 1314. Of these 664 are white girls and 635 white boys; 7 Chinese girls and 6 Chinese boys. The Polytechnic School at the city of San Luis Obispo established and supported by the [113] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. State of California, as its name implies, and as its law of foundation requires, is for the broad and practical education of the hands as well as the mind in every branch of life and work. Its teachings are in the advance in the most bene- ficial and ennobling theories of education. Here the housekeeper, the mechanic, the scientist, the agriculturist, and others can be fitted in the best and most economical method of the various occupations that make success in the busy world. A boundless field of beneficence and greatness lies before it as to become the monumental school of its class in America. A high degree of intellectuality is concentrated in its precincts and diffused roundabout, an influence glowing over, permeating and elevating all so- ciety. Such is the proud distinctive feature of San Luis Obispo. Such is the most useful and popular university of the future. The Polytechnic faculty comprises eleven pro- fessors and teachers and an enrollment of one hun- dred students. Academic, dormitory, agricultural and mechanic buildings are in convenient local- ities, the grounds comprising near three hundred acres on a sightly slope, by the side of the South- CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. ern Pacific Railroad on the northern border of the city. Agricultural colleges have been established in many states, innovations upon the old order of farm knowledge; established against the preju- dices of centuries of the ''man with the hoe," but they are proving their worth and becoming pop- ular in an awakening degree. Theorists of farm- ing writing in agricultural papers were subjects of ridicule, but at last schools were established teaching men to carry out the theories, thus greatly elevating the farmer and increasing the interest in his vocation. The Polytechnic School of San Luis Obispo teaches agriculture, in all its branches as well as the mechanic arts and trades, and the domestic science of the household. STATISTICS OF POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. By I^eroy Anderson, Director. March 8, 1907. Number of faculty, 10. Average monthly salaries, $1600.00. Number of students: male, 70; female, 31. CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Courses of Study — Agriculture, Mechanics, Domestic Science. Buildings: Administration for offices, libraries, assembly and class rooms; dormitory for faculty and boys; carpenter shop for carpentry; forge shop for iron work; dairy barn for dairy stock; poultry houses; power house for heat and light. Number of acres, 281. Counties represented: San Luis Obispo, 49; Santa Barbara, 9; Los Angeles, 6; Riverside, i; San Diego, i: Kern, 2; Monterey, 2; Tulare, 4; El Dorado, i; San F'rancisco, 2; Santa Clara, 3; Orange, 5; Alameda, 3; Sacramento, 2; San Joaquin, 2; Santa Rosa, 2; Santa Cruz, r; San Mateo, i; Ventura, i; San Bernardino, i; Solano I ; Japan, 2. CALIFORNLA. POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL The California Polytechnic School is a secon- dary school, established by an Act of the State legislature passed in 1901. The school is now completing its third year of instruction and has an enrollment of one hundred and one students. It offers courses of study in agriculture, me- chanics and the household arts. [116J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. The school is open to any boy or girl of good character, who is at least fifteen years of age and has completed the eighth grade of the grammar schools. Applicants who hold a Diploma of Graduation from such schools are admitted with- out examination. Those who do not hold a diploma are admitted upon passing a satisfactory examination in English, arithmetic, history and geography. THE AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT consists of a farm of 20 acres stocked with Perch- eron horses, Ayrshire, Jersey and shorthorn cattle, and Poland, China and Berkshire swine. In addition to the usual supply of farm tools it has a corn harvester and binder and an ensilage cutter and elevator. A modern poultry plant is in operation, stocked with White Wyandotte, Buff Orpington and White and Brown Leghorn fowls. Sanitary dairying is observed daily, and taught in a new dairy barn 40 x 80 feet. Instruction in butter and cheese making and milk testing is given in a well equipped laboratory. THE MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT con- sists of a forge shop 40 x 56 feet, furnished with I.I 17] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. down draft forges, blower and gasoline engine; a carpenter shop 40 x 100 feet, furnished with 24 benches, each with a full set of tools, and a cir- cular saw; and a power house fitted with large oil burning boiler, engine, dynamos, motors and other electrical apparatus. THE WORK IN HOUSEHOLD ARTS will this year be housed in a new building 43 x 102 feet and two stories in height, besides a high basement. It will be fully equipped with sewing rooms, kitchen, pantries, dining room, labor- atories, gymnasium and baths. It will be the home of the school's work for girls. The courses of study are each for three years, and are approximately as follows: AGRICULTURE. FIRST YEAR. Agriculture, class and field work; English, Arithmetic and Algebra, Drawing, Soils and Fer- tilizers, Botany, Carpentry, Gardening, Stock judging and poultry. SECOND YEAR. Horticulture, English, Breeds of Live Stock, [118] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Chemistry, Butter and Cheese making, Forging, Geometry, Bookkeeping, Drawing. THIRD YEAR. Irrigation and Surveying, History, Feeding and Care of Animals, Physics, Agricultural Chemistry, Physiology, Plans and Specifications for Buildings, Trigonometry. MECHANICS. FIRST YEAR. Arithmetic and Algebra, English, Carpentry, Drawing, Science, Bookkeeping. SECOND YEAR. Geometry, English, Science, Electricity, Draw- ing, Forging, Chemistry, Carpentry and Elec- trical Working. THIRD YEAR. Trigonometry, History, Electrical Working, Physics, Engines and Boilers, Surveying, Draw- ing and Designing. ^ DOMESTIC SCIENCE. FIRST YEAR. Arithmetic and Algebra, English, Elementary I "9] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Chemistry, Drawing, Sewing, Dressmaking, Mil- linery, Physiology. SECOND YEAR. Cooking, English, Bookkeeping, Chemistry, Dairying, Domestic Science, Gardening. THIRD YEAR. Cooking, History, Emergency and Home Nursing, Sloyd, Home Economics, Botany, Home Sanitation, Laundry. SPECIAL COURSE LN AGRICUL. TURE. Those who do not feel that they can take the full course in agriculture, but who desire a training in the more practical subjects of the course, may select such subjects as they are qual- ified for. They must be at least eighteen years of age and possess the same educational qualifi- cations as those who enter for the full course. A list of studies is given below, from which they may choose subject to the approval of the faculty. One or two full years' work may be very profitably selected from this list: Soils and Fertilizers, Stock Judging, Feeding [120] O n > CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. and Care of Animals, Horticulture, Gardening, English, Poultry Culture, Breeds of Livestock, Botany, Irrigation, Dairying, Drawing, Forging, and Carpentry. Circulars giving full information about the School will be freely sent upon application. BOARD OF TRUSTEES. EX OFFICIO. His Excellency, James N. Gillett, Sacramento, Governor of California. Hon. Edward Hyatt, Sacramento, Superinten- dent of Public Instruction. APPOINTED TRUSTEES. Hon. Warren M. John, San Luis Obispo. Term expires, 1908. F. A. Hihn, Esq., Santa Cruz. Term expires, 1909. Prof. F. J. Wickson, A. M., Berkeley. Term expires, 19 10. R. M. Shackelford, Esq., Paso Robles. Term expires, 191 1. [121] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. George S. Edwards, A. B., Santa Barbara. Term expires, 1907. OFFICERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES. R. M. Shackelford, President. Warren M. John, Vice-President. Leroy Anderson, Secretary. FACULTY. Leroy Anderson, B. S., M. S. A., Ph. D., Director. Sydney S. Twombly, B. S., D. V. S., Agricul- ture, Chemistry, and Veterinary Science. James Edwyn Roadhouse, B. S., Plant Indus- try and Irrigation. Harriet Howell, Domestic Art. Edwin Walter Yount, Carpentry and Architec- tural Drawing. May Secrest, B. S., Domestic Science. Leroy Burns Smith, A. B., English, History and Economics. Herman Bierce Waters, M. E., Physics and Electricity. Chester Wirt Rubel, B. S. A., Animal and Dairy Husbandry. William Ferdinand Ewing, A. B., Mathematics. [122J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Leo Earl Pearson, Freehand Drawing, Sloyd^ and Forginor. Crosby Mitchell Gassavvay, Mechanical Draw- ing. Naomi Mabel Lake, Clerk and Librarian. Edith Richardson, Director's Secretary and Manager of Dormitory. Samuel C. Griffith, Farm Foreman. Albert D. Sinclair, Gardener. Alfred G. Lunn, Poultryman. James M. Duffy, Jr., Dairyman. Such is the California Polytechnic School at Charter Day, March 8, 1907. SUPPLEMENTARY A period of nine months having elapsed be- tween the closing of this history on charter day and its publication. Dr. Anderson has added the following supplement. The Polytechnic graduated its second class on June 14, 1907 consisting of sixteen students. In Agriculture: Francis Buck, Santa Barbara; Allen Emmert, Arroyo Grande; Henry Pezzoni, Guadalupe; Hunter Stringfield, Arroyo Grande; and Myron Thomas, Riverside. In mechanics: [123] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. Alfred Miossi, San Luis Obispo; Eugene Stein- beck, San Luis Obispo; George Wilson, Bakers- field; and Guy Worden, Shandon. In House- hold Arts: Ester Biaggini, Cayucos; Clara Dodge, Santa Maria; Florence Muscio, Cayucos; Annie Schneider, Morro; Ella Tanner, Morro; and Jeanne Tout, Sultana. Some changes in the governing board and in the Faculty are noted during the summer of 1907. Trustee George S. Edwards resigned and Governor Gillett appointed attorney Paul M. Gregg of San Luis Obispo in his stead. Upon the Faculty, Frank E. Edwards, M. E. of the Oregon Agricultural College, succeeded Sydney S. Twombly as instructer in chemistry. Frank L. Tavenner, E. E. of Cornell Univer- sity, succeeded Crosby M. Gassaway as instruc- tor in mechanical drawing and machine work. Ira Judson Condit B. S. succeeded James Edwyn Roadhouse as instructor in plant industry. Harriet Howell, instructor in domestic art, was given a leave of absence from September i, 1907 to June 30, 1908 on account of illness and Grace For Iv^ce of the Throop Polytechnic Institute was app )iiited to fill the vacancy. Osca^ Leslie Heil 1 returned from a year's work at Stanford [124J CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. University to succeed Edwin Walter Yount as instructor in carpentry and architectural drawing. Ethel Bancroft Richardson, B. L. of the Univer- sity of California, was added to the Faculty as instructor in Eno-lish. Jane Vaughn Gillett succeeded Naomi M. Lake as clerk and also be- came manager of the dormitory. The Polytechnic school and the citizens of San Luis Obispo were called upon to mourn the death of Mr. Roadhouse, which occurred No- vember 28, 1907. He suffered from an acute attack of tuberculosis beginning with hemor- rhages on November 7th and resulting in his death in only three weeks. He was a man much beloved by his students and fellow teachers and was a most valued member of the faculty for three years, leaving in 1907 to accept an impor- tant position with the U. S. Department of Agriculture in irrigation investigations in the Sacramento Valley. In October he accepted the position of Dean of the Hawaiian College of Agriculture which was to be organized under his leadership and which work he planned to un- dertake in January, IQ08. L M- )y A.nderson resigned as Director Novem- ber I ; 1907 to accept the position of professor I125] CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL. of Agricultural Practice and Director of Farm Schools at the University of California. The Board of Trustees elected LeRoy Burns Smith, A. B. to succeed him on January i, 1908, Mr. Smith was graduated from Cornell University in 1901. During the following two years he was General Secretary of the Young Men's Christian Association at the University of Wis- consin. In August, 1903 he entered the Uni- versity of California as a graduate student in Educational work at the San Francisco Young Men's Christian Association. This position he filled with much credit and resigned in June 1905 to become a member of the faculty of the Polytechnic School. The enrollment of students for the year 1907-8 up to December, 1907, is 134, representing eighteen counties of the state, two other states, and Japan and India. The growth of the school has been gradual and substantial, and in every way encouraging to its friends. [126] i APR 84 1908 /