difficult to say. The latter was probably the more potent cause.[1] However that may be, the school meeting of April, 1868, was a very exciting event. The attendance was large and the contest over the choice of director an exceedingly close and sharp one.[2] It is clear that a party was forming in the town which favored the development of the public school as a policy. From this time on we meet with suggestions that indicate strong dissatisfaction with the existing state of things. In the spring term of 1868 "the school was too well attended for the accommodation of so many scholars, or the remuneration of the teachers." "We believe," says the Journal, "that more pupils were put into that school during the last quarter than ever were in attendance there before." The school was taught by Miss Kate Andrew and Miss Leana lies. The attendance during the first week was reported as ranging from one hundred to one hundred and twenty.[3]
Before the election of 1869 the Journal said editorially: "Let all interested in having our schools conducted as they should be come out and elect such men as will carry out the wishes of those who feel an interest in the education of our youth."[4]
The result of the meeting was highly significant. Mr. E. L. Bristow was chosen director. A vote prevailed in favor of levying a five-mill tax "for the purpose of repairing the present building and putting on an addition."[5] This time there was no delay. The directors immediately advertised for bids, and had the
- ↑ Callison's letter. By the census of 1860 Eugene had a population of one thousand one hundred and eighty-three; in 1870 the number was one thousand eight hundred and fifty-two.
- ↑ Journal, April 11, 1868.
- ↑ Journal, May 9, 1868.
- ↑ Journal, March 27, 1869.
- ↑ It is almost certain that both wings were built at this time. Callison says: "Both wings of the house were built as late as 1868." This goes to show that the vote of 1864 had been disregarded. It would be interesting to know why. Henderson tried to revive Columbia College in 1864. Was the expectation that this institution or a similar one would take care of a part of the school children the deterring cause?
