Vol.43 No. 1 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Miass. May 1939
Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass.. as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of Ju'y 6, 1874
The Annual Spring Concert
An enthusiastic audience of more
than 500 heard the annual spring concert
given by our Band on April 28, Mr. Frank
L. Warren, conducting. This concert was
given in Faneuil Hall. It was the third
successive year that the boys have given a
spring concert in this historic hall. The
band this year is composed of 55 members,
the largest band we have ever had.
Several prominent musicians attended
the concert, and two were introduced to
the audience. Mr. George Lawrence
Stone, nationally known percussionist and
Mr. Archie Smith, one of New England's
finer trombonists heard our band for the
first time and both were visibly impressed
with the musicianship shown by our fifty-
five piece band.
The concert opened by Bagley's
famous "National Emblem" March which
was followed by the Weidt Overture,
"Glorianna". These were played with
sparkle and zest, and were particularly en-
joyed. They are feature numbers on our
spring program, and we were happy that
Mr. Walter Jacobs, head of the publishing
house which publishes these pieces, was a
member of the audience.
Our former bandmaster, Howard B.
Ellis, '97, was given a fine reception as he
led the band in a rendition of Bigelow's
"Our Director" March. Mr. Ellis had
many fine bands at F. T. S., and his inter-
est in the boys never wanes, although
business interests have demanded that he
relinquish much of his music work.
A splendid tribute was given the band
by Mr. George Lawrence Stone, as he
spoke of the manliness and musical ability
of our band, and the drum players in
particular. Mr. Stone, generally conceded
by musicians everwhere to be America's
premier drum instructor, has weekly in-
structed our drum class of eight pupils
during the winter months. Mr. Stone has
done this voluntarily, because he enjoys
teaching our boys. His very kind remarks
in the interest of the drum class and the
band are indeed very much appreciated.
The drum section is of tremendous im-
portance to any band, and the success of
our band at this concert is due in a large
measure to the excellence of the in-
struction given by Mr. Stone. An exhi-
bition of drumming, such as few in the
audience have ever heard, was given by
Mr. Stone and he received tremendous
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
applause for his artistry.
Four boys rendered solos, and were
warmly applauded, Robert J. English
played the cornet solo"Wanderer", and
William N. Dodge also played a cornet
solo, the "Flocktonian" polka. Myron A.
Pratt played a trombone solo "Naukeag"
and Francis S. Sheldon played a fantasia
for clarinet entitled "Delecta."
Four enserfible groups presented a
series of short compositions. These groups
included a clarinet trio, trombone quartet,
brass quartet and junior brass quartet made
up of four of the younger players.
The song so popular here four decades
ago called "The School of Jolly Roys,"
was given with a zest. The singing and
playing of the boys during this piece
brought home to all the great pleasure
which every member of the band gets
from his participation with the group.
The program was nicely balanced
with feature overtures, selections, novelty
numbers, military marches, and popular
melodies of the day. The audience was
generous with applause and every effort
of the boys was warmly greeted.
Following the concert the conductor,
Mr. Warren, was surrounded by members
of the audience who wished to congratu-
late him and the Band. We are deeply
indebted to all who so kindly thus per
sonally paid their compliments. We are
proud of our boys, and proud that the
concert was such a grand success.
Dancing Lessons
During the past few months the high
school classes and eighth graders have
been fortunate in having dancing lessons,
given by Miss Helen Gresty, who is a
Social Secretary of the First Church of
Maiden. There are two classes, each
class session being held for three quarters
of an hour. Miss Gresty brings several
girls from her young peoples' groups in
her Church, who assist her in teaching.
As most of the boys had done little or
no dancing Miss Gresty commenced with
fundamental instruction. Now we can do
the fox-trot, waltz, two step, one step,
Lambeth Walk, Corrigan Hop, and the
Virginia Reel.
After the classes there is a social
period and each of the boys has his turn
at being an escort to one of the girls.
We all look forward to Tuesday
evenings, and the dancing lesson.
Muidock C. Moore
The International Friendship League
During this school year we have joined
the International Friendship League. Mrs.
Ronka, one of our teachers, realizing the
benefits to be obtained from our asso-
ciation with the League arranged for the
boys of the upper four classes to become
members. Those who joined the League
each were given the privilege of writing
to six girls and boys of high school age
who live in foreign lands. It is a very good
way to learn about the customs of foreign
countries. The "pen pals" are very
prompt with their correspondence, and
every major country in the world is rep-
resented in the League. Seme young
people in European countries write in
their native language and we or one of
the teachers translate the letters into
English. However, they have the same
difficulty, as we write all our letters in
English.
Those who belong to the League are
greatly enthused over it, and it will con-
tinue year after year with even increased
interest.
William J. Eevans, Jr.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Baseball
I like to play baseball, because to
play the game well demands much practice
before very much skill is acquired. Practice
is fun, and a player can readily see that
he is improving. I am on Charles Pecce's
team, and 1 play centerfield. Thev^eather
has been so bad that we have not played
any games yet, but hope to very soon. I
play baseball during my spare time, as do
most of the boys in my class. After a few
years I hope to be able to play a very
good game. As soon as the schedule is
begun our teams will be playing evenings
and on Saturday afternoons.
Walter W, Smith
Opening Our Cottage
Last Saturday I purchased a share in
the Crescent Cottage for $.25. Five other
boys own in the cottage. We gave the
cottage a good spring cleaning by scrubbing
and cleaning it, inside and out, and by
raking the area around it.
There is repairing which must be
done, and we are going to do this just as
soon as we can. We are going to have a
flower garden in front of the cottage. We
hope to have one of the best cottages on
Cottage Row.
James J. Macdonald
Jitterbug
Frances Sheldon and I have recently
made a model airplane called the
'"Jitterbug." It will take off the ground
under its own power. It flies better than
one would think it could. This model is
mine, but Sheldon has begun putting one
together for himself. We have experi-
mented with this model, and it is the best
we have had. The propeller breaks once
in a while, but we can repair it. I like
airplanes, and I hope to pilot one when
I become old enough.
David A. Wilson
Glass Election
The members of the eighth grade held
an election the other day and officers were
elected. After many speeches ballots were
passed out, and we voted for our class
leaders. Ralph Pratt was chosen president,
William Klaila was elected vice-president,
Frank Anderson Secretary, and Kenneth
Walley, Treasurer. The new officers as-
sumed their duties that day.
William C. Bassett
Re-Dedication
During this year we have had
programs in which we have re-dedicated
ourselves to the principles of Americaniza-
tion. This is a national movement,
sponsored by the many large national
organizations. The "American's Creed''
which follows, states vividly many of the
benefits which we all enjoy, and our duty
relative to the support of these benefits.
It was written by Mr. William Tyler Page
when he was Chief Clerk of the House of
Representatives.
"I believe in the United States o
America as a government of the people,
by the people, for the people; whose just
powers are derived from the consent of
the governed; a democracy in a republic;
a sovereign nation of many sovereign
states; a perfect union, one and insepar-
able; established upon those principles of
freedom, equality, justice and humanity,
for which American patriots sacrificed
their lives and fortunes.
"I therefore believe it is my duty to
my country to love it, to support its consti-
tution; to obey its laws, to respect its flag,
and to defend it against all enemies."
When the Flag goes by those in uni-
form salute; if not in uniform hold hat in
right hand over heart and stand at at-
tention.
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
Cbompson's Island Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS.
Robert J. English
MuRDocK C. Moore
- - • Editor
' Assoc. Editor
Vol.43 No. 1
May 1939
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. D.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gorham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Char>e<! E. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins. 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonhsire Street, Boston
Mr. George L. DeBlois
Manager Since 1906
Mr. George L. DeBlois died Thurs-
day morning, May 4, at the Phillips
House, Massachusetts General Hospital.
He was 72 years old. He lived at 62
Chestnut Street, Boston and in Ipswich.
Mr. DeBlois was born at Newton on
August 17, 1867, son of George L. and
Amanda Fuller DeBlois. He graduated
from Harvard College in 1885.
He soon became active in the manage-
ment of real estate and a member of many
boards of directors.
Mr. DeBlois was best known to us as
an able and kindly member of our Board
of Managers. He served in this capacity
over thirty-three years. His keenest in-
terest seemed to be in the selection of boys
for admission. He was active in the
duties of this work for many years. If he
appeared stern this was only in appearance
because there was always a warmth of
kindness and frequent expression of
human sympathy. He was always inter-
ested in the boys of the School and their
welfare and pleasures.
Mr. DeBlois' father, George L.
DeBlois was secretary of the Board of
Managers from 1851 to 1890. His uncle,
Stephen G. DeBlois was a member of the
Board from 1850 to 1889.
On November 25, 1889, Mr.DeBlois
was married to Mary Bartlett Brooks of
Boston, who survives him, with one
daughter, Doctor Elizabeth DeBlois.
Topics in Brief
An especially fine program was given
on Easter Sunday. A play "The Burden
Bearers" by Dorothy Clark Wilson was the
feature of the program. Several of the boys
gave recitations and others gave musical
selections. The Choir was excellent.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
A valuable activity which has been
inaugurated during the school year has
been the membership in the International
Friendship League of many of our boys.
This membership, sponsored by Mrs.
George R. Ronka, enables our boys to
write to young people in foreign countries.
The purpose of this personal correspond-
ence is to promote better understanding
among the youth of the world. On April
29 our boys, who were members of the
League, attended a showing of "Denmark
in Color", the prize winning motion
picture made by John V. Hansen. Mr.
Hansen lectured as the picture was pro-
jected.
On Tuesday evenings sixty of our boys
are organized in classes and are given
dancing instruction by Miss Helen Gresty.
Miss Gresty brings several girls from her
church in Maiden who aid in the in-
struction. The boys have found the classes
most enjoyable, and it is a pleasure to note
how quickly the various dance steps are
learned.
Our Church Services have been con-
ducted all winter on a high plane of excel-
lence. Mr. Lloyd Perrigo, a member of
the graduating class at Gordon College,
provides us with inspirational messages
and members of the faculty assist with
special musical selections. Very often
student soloists aid, and groups comprised
of band members perform special religious
music.
The weather has been cold and wet,
retarding much of our work. It has been
impossible to use any of the playgrounds,
and the boys have had to cofine most of
their recreation to games in the gymnasi-
um. This is the first year that we can
recall when our baseball season has not
been underway in April. Teams have
been chosen and the sport will begin as
soon as the baseball field is ready for use.
On April 28 our Band gave its annual
concert in Faneuil Hall. The event was
most successful in every way. Among the
guests present were George Lawrence
Stone, outstanding drummer, and our
former band director, Howard B. Ellis.
The boys have had several showings
of moving pictures during the month.
These films have dealt with a variety of
subjects, most of which have proven most
worth-while.
The Class of 1939 conducted an Arbor
Day observance on April 29. A sugar
maple tree was planted as two class
members read appropriate selections in-
cluding Governor Saltonstall's Procla-
mation and Joyce Kilmer's "Trees".
On April 24 the seventh grade gave a
program at our Assembly meeting. The
boys illustrated the fundamentals of
arithmetic. There was music by a band
of seventh grade pupils.
On April 19 a Court of Honor was
held for our Scout troop. A number of
the boys were awarded Merit Badge cert-
ificates.
On April 20 Mr, Allan Gunning of
the U.S. Navy visited us with a program
of sound motion pictures. This is the
first time we have had sound pictures at
the school. The program was interesting
and worth-while. Each of the boys
received a book listing the important his-
torical events in American history and a
leaflet giving the history and forms of
respect to be shown our Flag.
Nine of our boys were privileged to see
the motion picture "Huck Finn" at a
Boston Theatre on April 15. Many of
the boys have attended other events in
town during the month.
THOMPSON'S
ISLAND BEACON
April Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 69° on the
twenty-second.
Minimum Temperature 26" on tlie
thirteenth.
Mean Temperature for the month 44°.
Two clear days, seven partly cloudy,
and twenty-one cloudy.
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, April 30, 1939
RESOURCES
Savings Bank $1216.67
Cash 69.20
$1285.87
LIABILITIES
Boys' Deposits $521.70
Trading Co. Deposits .... 631.10
Cottage Row Deposits ... 1.49
Photo Company Deposits . . 34.45
Surplus 97.13
$1285.87
Calendar 90 Years Ago, April, 1849
As Kept by the Superintendent
7. Barnum Field. Esq., accompanied
by J. I. Bowditch, Esq., visited the insti-
tution and addressed the school.
12. Being the day appointed for
Annual Fast, a short religious exercise
was read, after which the boys were per-
mitted to go round the beach and play.
24. Moses Grant, G. H. Kuhn, B.A.
Gould and Jesse Bird, Esqs., with the
friends of the boys visited the school in
the steamer Mayflower being the first
visit of the season. The boys were ad-
dressed by Rev. Mr. Copely, an Indian.
30. Abner A. Ackerman went to live
with Hiram Nash, Esq., in Williamsburg,
a farmer.
The First Aid class gave a program
on April 17. Various first aid practices
were shown. A motion picture also aided
in teaching the correct first aid principles.
Each member of the class was pre-
sented with a certificate for completing
the prescribed course of study of the
American Red Cross.
Alumni Jottings
Leander E. Dorey, '23, has written
a fine letter from St. Thomas, Virgin
Islands where he is stationed with the Base
Air Detachment. In writing he spoke of
the forthcoming concert by the band, and
requested that invitations be sent to certain
of his friends who live in suburban Boston.
Mr. Dorey spoke of the many compli-
ments which he has heard regarding the
band in its Faneuil Hall concerts. He
hopes to be home at Wellfleet, Mass.,
next spring, so that he may attend the
1940 concert.
There were in tlie audience at Faneuil
Hall on April 28 a large number of gradu-
ates, and the interest they showed as our
Band was giving its annual spring concert
was most gratifying. We hope that more
and more of our former pupils will find
it poi^sible to attend this and other Band
activiti'es which take place during the
year. It is surely a great pleasure to have
young and old F. T. S. boys in attendance.
Raymond M. Bean, '38, has com-
menced work at the Fore River Shipyard.
His home address is 34 Lisle Street, East
Braintree. Our sincere best wishes go to
this graduate, who will, during June,
marry Miss Mabel F. Pratt of Braintree.
Miss Pratt is a sister of Myron, William
and Ralph Pratt, all members of our
present student body.
New telephone wires are being laid
underground from the south end to the
Main Building.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Band Notes
The Band has taken part in many
functions during the school year. It as-
sisted at the pageant of the Community
Federation Agencies, at a Boy Scout
Music Festival, at a meeting of the
Women's Republican Club, and at the
Massachusetts and New England School
Music Festivals. A brass quartet from the
Band has entertained at various other func-
tions.
Roster of the Band, May, 1939
Frank L, Warren, Director
Clifton E. Albee, Assistant
Cornets
Robert J. English
William N. Dodge
Charles A. Pecce
Warren M. Linnell
Robert G. Ryerson
Russell L. Letson
Percie R. Berry-
Ernest Burns
Wesley C Gustafson
George W. Hardy
Arthur L. Thibodeau
Malcolm G. Huston
William F. Etheridge
Donald L. Davis
Clarinets
Francis S. Sheldon
Eugene Proctor
Raymond L. Perry
Linwood L. Meacham
Raymond B. Harrington
Donald L. Rice
Calvin L. Wilder
David A. Wilson
Albert E. Wilder
Allan K. MacLean
David G. Haeger
William H. Britton
Baritones
George F. Connors
Douglas M. Bashaw
Trombones
Myron A. Pratt
Kenneth M.Walley
Arthur W. Chase
John Dunn
Weston O. Page
James J. Macdonald
James E. McCarthy
Axel R. Hallberg
Basses
Winthrop Davidson
William B. Pratt
William L. Schlegel
Karl G. Hulten
Charles H. Grant
Altos
Richard A. Martin
Dennis C. Reardon
Howard M. Colpitts
Stanley C. Morton
Richard J. Nelson
John H. Bonsey
Ralph E. Pratt
Drums
William J. Bevans,
Murdock C. Moore
Eugene S. Emerson
Leonard I. Scott
George J. Zevitas
Roger E. Hardy
Warren A. Danner
Jr.
The Jester's Comments
—The Senior Dorm boys are an in-
dustrious lot, and throughout the year they
have kept their dormitory very neat and
orderly. Credit be to them. Yet, neat-
ness which would gladden the heart of a
New England housekeeper was not
enough when it was whispered about that a
group of Maiden mesdemoiselles were to
to visit the School. How the boys scrubbed
and shined, stra ightened this and that.
Never did Senior glisten so. No doubt
the girls expressed their admiration for
such sterling work, but if so, remarks were
unheard by adult ears. Ah, in Spring,
'tis strange that young men's attention
turns to houscleaning. 'Tis so.
— Our little man, Roland "Pee-Wee"
Hallberg is the envy of all because of his
prowess as a drummer. Someday we
expect he'll be marching the band all over
the Island with his stickbeats.
— Our snappy drum major, resplendent
in his colorful uniform, was the center of
attraction at a recent band festival. He
approached a tintype operator and the
girls for miles around hastened to get their
picture taken with him. Ralph, (he of
the Pratt brothers), was not disconcerted,
but posed with one girl after another. His
only fee was a free picture. He had quite
a. collection before he could break away.
— William Joseph Bevans, Jr., the 3rd,
(Bill Bevans to you), 1939's contribution
to the spirit of youth, has his troubles. His
garden isn't finished, he is behind in his
school work, he doesn't have time to
practice his music, graduation and class
activites have to be passed by. Why,
WJB Jr. has hardly time to listen to his
favorite radio swing bands. But youth
will find a way.
— "Alas, alas, "cried the fair young maid
who lives on the second floor, third
house up on P Street, as she raced to the
landing to get Eugene's autograph. The
boat had left a trifle early.
— Greetings, Freshmen. May you find
your names often in this column. The
Sophs.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Cbc JHumni dissociation of Cbe farm and trades School
Howard B. Ellis, "98 PreBident Frank L. Washburn
Dorchester, Mass. Roxbury,
Harold W. Eowakds, 10, Treasurer
Arlington, M.iss.
'83, Vice-President
Mass.
Merton p. Ellis. '97. Secretary
77 Summer Street. Boston
G. George Larsson, '17. Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
Edward E. Davis, '81, died at his
home 63 Upland road, Cambridge, on
March 31, in his 72d year. He was a twin,
and with his brother James entered the
school in 1877. For most of his life he
worked at his trade of machinist and brass
founder. For 30 years he was with the
Crosby Steam Gage Valve Company, and
for a few years afterward he was with the
Wells Memorial and People's Institute in
Boston. On Nov. 14, 1886, he was married
to Gertrude L. Gould, a twinsister of John
E. Gould '81. In 1936 the couple observed
their golden wedding anniversary. Seven
children were born to them, and all of
them are now married. Mr. and Mrs. Davis
were members of the Church of the Good
Shepherd (Episcopal,) of Boston, and at
the time of his death he was the oldest
member. He was married in that church,
as were all seven children, and they and
their children, of whom there are seven,
and four great grand children were bap-
tized there. His wife and all the children
An interesting letter has been received
from Frederic R. and Charles W.
Hafley, both members of the class of
1888, which said in part:
"Your interesting letter relative to the
activities of the band was received. Please
accept our thanks.. We will be unable to
attend the concert at Faneuil Hall, but
wish to contribute a small amount for the
Band Fund.
"The prosperity and well-being of the
school will always be close to our hearts.
"We read with delight the many fine
things the boys are engaged in, and with
what enthusiasm they write about them. It
must be a great satisfaction to know that
so many boys are being made happy and
successful.
"We read with dismay of the fire on
March 1st, and were glad to learn that it
was handled so efficiently.
"We are proud to sign as the old
boys."
Frederic R. Hafley
Charley W. Hafley
One of our oldest graduates has
written the following account which will
be of interest to our readers. James D.
Smith, now 90 years young, makes his
permanent home in Florida, although he
has nieces and nephews living in New
England. His father was a member of the
crew of "Old Ironsides" when she fought
the English ship "Guerriere." His letter
is as follows:
"Your very pleasant letter was re-
ceived several days ago, but we old folks
grow lazier, and the younger generations
increase so fast that it becomes quite a task
to keep up with the correspondence, I
have several letters which I must answer,
and some business letters which must be
answered prompdy. I have started my
90th year, and likely good for a few more.
1 enclose my check to help the Band, and
for the Beacon. I would like to keep up
with the progress of the School."
James D. Smith
Route 2, Box 223C
Plant City. Florida.
We note in the Boston papers that
Eliot Bernard, '38 is a member of the
Natick High School baseball team, and
pitched his first game on April 28. His
team won.
Vol.43 No. 2 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. June 1939
Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of Ju'.y 6, 1874
Memorial Sunday Services
As is our custom every year, we held
our Memorial Service on Sunday, May 28,
at our little cemetery at the southern tip of
our island. The program was in charge
of Eugene Proctor, Mayor of Cottage Row
Government.
The boys and instructors left the main
building in the morning, shortly before
ten o'clock. A quiet walk of about ten
minutes brought all to the cemetery and the
services were opened by the singing of
"America the Beautiful."
Mayor Proctor spoke briefly of those
who are buried in the cemetery. Each
grave was decorated with an American
Flag and a bouquet of flowers.
The complete program was as follows:
PROGRAM
Hymn School
"America the Beautiful"
Salute to the Flag
School
Invocation
Rev, Lloyd M. Perrigo
Selection Brass Quartet
Robert J. English William N. Dodge
John Dunn George F. Connors
Recitation "Raising the Flag"
Arthur Brosseau
Recitation "The Blue and the Gray"
Milton W. McNamara
Hymn School
"Nearer My God To Thee"
Recitation "Our Own Country"
William Britton
Recitation "The Soldier's Dream"
Ralph E. Pratt
Selection Brass Quartet
Recitation "The American Flag"
David Wilson
Mayor's Address
Eugene Proctor
Decorating of Graves
Rolling of Drums and Taps
Hymn School
"God of Our Fathers"
The Memorial Service was simple and
impressive. The weather was beautiful,
and the singing of the old hymns in the
sunshine of a Sunday in May gave added
dignity. The selection of the recitations
given was fine, and the boys presented
them ably. The sober rolling of the drum
and the call of Taps left a lasting impression
upon everyone. It was a fitting program
to be held on Memorial Sunday.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The Music Festivals
On May 13 our band went to Belmont
to be a part of the Massachusetts School
Music Festival. There were in attendance
nearly a hundred musical organizations of
the private and public schools of the state.
Each orchestra, band and choral group
was placed in a class depending upon
certain factors. Our school, having a
student enrollment of less than 250 (we
have 97 pupils), was automatically placed
in Class CC. The larger city high school
bands are in Class A.
There is no competition at these festi-
vals, the purpose being to bring together
hundreds of children of high school age
to receive the inspiration and joy of play-
ing together. The music is carefully chosen,
and competent musicians listen to each
group giving instruction and advice so that
each group may make their best better.
A feature of the Belmont festival was
the massed choral program. Patriotic songs
were presented by glee clubs and choruses
accompanied by band music.
Our band was given the honor, along
with the Gloucester R. O. T. C. band, of
performing for the spectators while the
parade was being concluded, and during
those periods when no event was definitely
scheduled. This kept our boys, and the
Gloucester boys, before the public continu-
ally.
The weather wascool, almost too cool,
but every event was executed according to
schedule.
A week later, May 20, the boys went
to Worcester where they took part in the
New England school festival. Here were
assembled bands from all over New Eng-
land, as well as choral groups, orchestras,
glee clubs and other school music per-
formers. It was a gala festival.
Our band played in the Mechanics
Building auditorium and the music per-
formed included Weidt's "Glorianna"
overture, and Taylor's "Prince and Jester"
overture.
The boys had opportunity to listen
to other bands, and it was interesting to
note the whispered comments by represen-
tatives of various bands as the units per-
formed. Young people are frank and
honest, and their criticism reflected the
value of the music appreciation courses be-
ing given in the schools.
The street parade in the afternoon
was very orderly, as all music festival
events are, although the streets were jam-
med with admiring throngs. The parade
was a riot of color as bands from all the
New England states passed.
At the conclusion of the parade at the
athletic field, several units gave exhibitions
of marching excellence. These drills,
which lasted from eight to ten minutes for
each band, were excellent, and showed
results of hours of attentive practice.
Dr. Ernest Williams conducted three
compositions and it was inspiring to hear
the multitude of young high school mu-
sicans playing the works of Bagley, Gold-
man and Sousa.
The festival was concluded by a
marching exhibition by our fifty-five
piece band. The drill was well executed
and climaxed a Festival which certainly
was a grand exhibition by the young
people of New England.
Our boys received many favorable
comments from the judges. It would seem
like boastng to list the superior ratings of
our group, but most of our readers are
aware of the excellence of our group. Our
only fault, and that one we cannot correct
at this time, is the lack of instrumentation.
We are lacking flutes, oboes, saxophones,
and other woodwind instruments. The
THOMPSON'S FSLAND BEACON
ideal is constantly being sought after, and
we may sometime achieve it.
We have but one regret, and that is
that ail of those who made it possible for
our boys to attend these festivals were not
present to watch the boys perform. The
band did splendidly, and indicated again
why it is held in such high repute.
Thank You
On behalf of the Junior Class I wish
to thank the Board of Managers and Mr.
and Mrs.Meacham for making it possible
for us to take this last year at F.T.S. We
have greatly profited and enjoyed this
final year.
To Mr. and Mrs. Meacham we have
only deep appreciation and gratitude for
helping us in our everyday life and solv-
ing our personal problems. Never will
we be able to express our full appreciation.
To our teachers, Mr. and Mrs. Ronka,
we owe a great indebtedness. Day after day
they have worked patiently guiding us.
Our courses have been made doubly inter-
esting because of their personal interest.
We have both enjoyed and profited from
our academic work. May there be many
classes to follow who will enjoy the work
as we have.
To all the faculty we express our
sincere thanks. Everyone has worked
unceasingly to make our final year most
worthwhile.
Post Graduates
By Calvin L. Wilder
Basketball Awards
On May 15 awards which were earned
for proficiency in basketball were made.
The school certificate was awarded to
nine players. They were:
Myron A. Pratt, Captain
Weston O. Page
Charles A. Pecce
Richard A. Martin
Eugene Proctor
Howard M. Colpitts
Charles H. Grant
John Dunn
Harold K. Malmgren
Manager Philip Sears annually gives
to the outstanding player in each po-
sition in the intra-mural league a trophy.
Those who received this distinction this
year were:
Robert J. English
Wesley C. Gustafson
Henry S, Dixon
Percie R. Berry
George W. Jefiferson
Francis S. Sheldon
The Tigers, captained by Francis S.
Sheldon, won the Sears League champi-
onship, and the silver shield was inscribed
with the names of the team members, as
follows:
James J. Macdonald
Wesley C. Gustafson
Raymond L. Perry
Raymond B. Harrington
Francis S. Sheldon, Capt.
Richard J. Nelson
A. Robert Hallberg
Charles A. Pecce was given an indi-
vidual prize, for excellence in foul
shooting, it being in the form of a gold cup.
This fine award was given by Mr. Walter
Bramin, of the Boy's Division, Y. M. C. A.,
Boston, Mass. Mr. Bramin has been inter-
ested in our school for years, and we ap-
preciate his thoughtfulness.
— During the latter part of the month,
workmen have been making minor repairs
on the roofs of the buildings. Howard
B. Ellis '98, supervised the work.
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
Cbompsoti's Tsland Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS.
Robert J. English
MuRDOCK C. Moore
- - Editor
Assoc. Editor
Vol.43 No. 2
June 1939
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. D.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gorham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charles E. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonhsire Street, Boston
Anoiher milestone in the history of
this school is approached as we complete
this year a century and a quarter of service
to youth.
Recently a Boston newspaper had an
editorial urging boys to prepare themselves
to do something before seeking a job. At
our school this preparation is being made
by every boy and here each boy learns by
practical experience how to do things well.
Employers are demanding exper-
ienced young men. There is definitely a
great shortage of able, responsible exper-
ienced young men in most lines of activity.
There is a vast army of unemployed men,
mostly young men, with the potential
energy to raise this great Country to pros-
perity and general happiness.
We live in a land of plenty. There
is an abundance of food supply and other
materials sufficient for the needs of all.
There is hardly a necessary commodity or
service of which there is a shortage in
this Country — except possibly experienced
and responsible, unselfish manpower.
We blame the President, the govern-
ment, the politicians, the men of wealth, the
schools, and even our own associates but
each of us is really the one to blame for
most of the faults that exist.
By use of government funds (which
you and I furnish) CCC camps foryoung
men have been developed. According to
the 1939 World Almanac, the fifth year
showed an employment of 2,260,000
persons and cash allowances to their
dependents of $446,000,000. This report
does not give the total expenditures of
this branch of government service.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
This vast number of young men, and
other miHions not enrolled in CCC camps
should be provided opportunity to gain
experience in useful work by which they
may earn their living. In general, the
youth of today have lost that privilege of
doing farm chores and learning to do
many other things such as our fathers were
privileged to do. We must through home
or school or CCC or by some other means
restore to youth the opportunity to learn
by experience how to do things.
Topics in Brief
Nearly all the boys have completed
early work on the flower gardens and all
are expectantly watching for results. A
great variety of flowers will be in evidence
this summer, judging from the seeds used.
Flower gardening is a very popular hobby
with the boys, and each pupil strives for
individuality in his garden. Prizes are a-
warded at the close of the season to those
who have shown excellence in this most
worth-while hobby.
Cold weather has retarded our farm
crews in their spring work, but at this time
everything points to a very favorable
season. The gardens and field crops have
all been showing the result of careful work,
and we anticipate another successful year
with our farm harvest.
The series of dancing lessons closed
on May 16. Miss Helen Gresty, the in-
structor, planned a semi-formal dance for
the last evening, which resulted in a very
pleasant evening. The boys have learned
the fundamental dancing steps, as well as
several novelty dances.
The boys who have not enjoyed trips
with the band visited in town with their
parents on May 6. The early Friends'
Days at the school have been held more
or less infrequently during the past few
years because of the inability to secure
suitable transportation to the school. The
Nantasket boats, which formerly operated
from April 19 through a long season do
not commence their schedule now until
nearly the first of June. All the boys en-
joyed a visit with their friends on either
May 26 or May 27. Approximately half
the boys went in town on each day.
The summer season of Cottage Row
was formally opened on May 6. The boys
have been very busy getting their cottages
in shape for the summer months. Cottage
Row is always a fascinating place for visi-
tors to roam about, and the many
ingenious methods used by the boys are
always of interest. All of the boys are
citizens of the government, and nearly all
own property at one time or another.
A shipment of coal was delivered to
the school on May 24. The annual supply
was unloaded in less than three days, with
the use of three large trucks. We formerly
used our equipment in unloading the
barge and two weeks would ordinarily be
required.
Dorchester Bay, usually well tenanted
with pleasure craft at this time of year, is
almost deserted. This is the result of the
tremendous hurricane damage of last fall,
and the very tardy appearance of spring
weather.
The Class of 1939 held its banquet on
May 4. This is an annual event given by
the graduating class, and a party which is
always thoroughly enjoyed.
The Assembly programs this month
have been very novel, and as usual, well
prepared and presented. On May 1 the
sixth graders used for their subject "The
THOMPSON'S
ISLAND BEACON
Turner, all free. Joseph L. Fuller left to
live with Martin Peterson, a shoemaker
in Duxbury.
May Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 90° on the
twenty-eighth.
Minimum Temperature 39° on the
sixteenth.
Mean Temperature for the month 54°.
Ten clear days, ten partly cloudy-
and eleven cloudy.
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, May 31 1939
RESOURCES
Savings Bank ...... $1216.67
Cash 125.38
$1342.05
LlABILrriES
Roys' Deposits $547.40
Trading Co. Deposits .... 644.51
Cottage Row Deposits . . . 2.99
Photo Company Deposits . . 50.02
Surplus 97.13
$1342.05
New Telephone Lines
New telephone wires are being laid
underground from the south end to the
Main Building. The new underground
lines consist of two pairs of wires buried
about eight inches. They join the sub-
marine cable at the south end of the Island
in the telephone booth south of the ceme-
tery. The line then goes westward between
the two rows of oaks to the road, crosses
the road and then goes north in the pas-
ture, along the west side of the road, by
the front of the root cellar where a test
post is located. The line continues along
the west side of the road, then along the
west side of the path to the front avenue,
near the center of the avenue to the main
building, entering the building at the south-
west corner of the west wing.
Dominion of Canada" and the important
features of our neighbor to the north
were given. The Junior class gave a radio
adaptation of Shakespeare's "Taming of
the Shrew" which was very entertaining.
The class presented the play in a highly
commendable manner. The eighth
graders exhibited and then read many of
the letters they have received from young
people in foreign lands. The sophomores,
as their last program of the year, gave a
summary of their achievements individu-
ally and as a class.
The Band has attended both the
Massachusetts School Music Festival at
Belmont and the New England School
Music Festival at Worcester during the
month. Both events were highly suc-
cessful, and the boys enjoyed themselves
thoroughly. The inspiration received
meeting and participating with thousands
of other school children in these great
music festivals is tremendous. A detailed
account of the festivals will be found on
another page.
Calendar 90 Years Ago, May, 1849
As Kept by the Superintendent
2. Geo. T. Penney left to live with S.
Kellog, a farmer in Chicopee( Springfield).
A new cooking Range was set in the
kitchen to-day. Barnum Field, Esq.,
visited the School.
7. Francis John Adolphus and Geo.
T. White were received into the School,
brought by Messrs. Rhoades of Boston.
24. The Mayflower made another
visit to the island with the boys friends
and with Messrs. Grant, Kuhn, Gould
and Brackelt of the Board of Managers.
The boys received to-day were Charles
Wm. McLellan, Gilbert W. Homan,
William H. H. Homan, and Joseph H.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
This eliminates the pole line which
has been in use for forty years and brings
the line directly to the main building with-
out going through other buildings as
previously routed. This is a definite
improvement.
The under ground electric line in-
stalled in 1929 follows the same general
route but is at the other side of the road.
The terminal ends are not at the same
points.
Memorial Day Track Meet
Each year, on Memorial Day, the
boys have a track meet. Four groups,
each under the direction of a faculty
member, compete for the Joyce Easter
Meacham trophies. The events begin
shortly after nine o'clock, when the cross
country race takes place.
The four groups who participate are
the Varsity, Seniors, Juniors and Cubs.
The boys are placed in one of these groups
according to age and ability. The cross
country course, as well as all the other
events, is modified for the younger boys.
The varsity meet, underthe direction
of Mr. Thomas, was won by Myron A.
Pratt, and Weston O. Page was second.
Pratt won the cross country race, also the
pole vault, shot put, mile run, and placed
well in the dashes.
The Senior meet, under the direction
of Mr. Albee, was won by Richard A.
Martin. Leonard I. Scott was second.
Martin finished either first or second in
five events and placed in two others.
In the Junior meet, which was super-
vised by Mr. Pickard, James H. Rolston
finished in first place barely ahead of
William H. Britton and Donald F.
Griswold who were tied for second. A
slim two points separated the three leaders.
Donald Davis finished right behind these
leaders. The keenest competition was
evident in this meet.
The Cub meet, under the direction of
Mr. Ronka, was won easily by Donald
Lowery, although James McCarthy was
not far behind in second place. Lowery
was the only winner not to place first in
at least one event. He finished second
in five events and placed in all.
Fifty three of the boys won a place in
at least one event. This large number
shows somewhat conclusively how popular
track and field events are with our boys.
The Joyce Easter Meacham medals
are awarded the winner and runner-up in
each group. Candy prizes are given to
all who place.
The track meet ended late in the after-
noon and was followed by a picnic on
the beach. The holiday was concluded
with a baseball game, the faculty team
winning over the boys' nine.
The program was carefully planned
and the events were of considerable in-
terest to spectators and participants alike.
Ideal weather contributed to the happiness
of the day.
Notes
On Monday evening, May 22, it
was our great privilege to have Carl W.
Buchheister, Secretary-Treasurer of the
Massachusetts Audubon Society visit us
and present an illustrated lecture. We
were treated to a showing of exceptional
pictures of familar New England birds.
Many of the boys have been very "bird
conscious" since the lecture, and the hobby
of bird study has taken a definite root
with many of our students.
The 1939 marble tournaments have
provided real enjoyment and pleasure.
Eugene S. Emerson won the Junior match
and Wesley C. Gustafson the Senior
tournament.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Cbe J^lumni Association of the farm and trades School
Howard B. Ellis, "98 President Frank L. Washburn
Dorchester. Mass. Roxbury,
Harold W. Edwards, '10, Treasurer
Arlington, Muss.
'83, Vice-President
Mass.
Merton p. Ellis. '97. Secretary
77 Summer Street. Boston
G. George Larsson, '17. Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
The Annual Spring Meeting
The annual spring meeting of the As-
sociation was held at 40 Court Street, on
Wednesday evening, May 10. Howard B.
Ellis, '98, the association President, called
the meeting to order at 7:30. The reading
of the Secretary's minutes was next in
order and Merton P. Ellis, '97 gave an
interesting account of the fall meeting and
the annual dinner.
The recent fire at the school was an
interesting topic and Secretary Ellis told
of his visit to the school on the day follow-
ing the fire, the fire damage and other
interesting facts concerning the blaze.
Great credit was given the school staff for
holding the damage to an almost unbe-
lievable minimum. Graduates visiting the
school will be pleased to note the fine work
which has been accomplished in rebuilding
the damaged wing.
There was some talk also, in a general
way, of the hurricane of last fall. The
damage done our groves and orchards was
commented upon. Some of the members
present told of their experiences during the
hurricane, and certainly Thompson's
Island fared better than many other lo-
calities.
The Association expressed regret at
the death of Manager George L. DeBlois
on May 4. He had been a member of
the Board for 33 years.
The entertainment committee was un-
able to present concrete plans for the annu-
al field day at the school because of the
lack of transportation facilities. Although
every possible source had been checked it
was found that no boat in the harbor suita-
ble for the purpose could be secured for
the day. The association was in favor of
holding the day during June al a time
found most convenient for all concerned.
The wish of the members present was that
the commitee do its utmost to solve the
vexing problem of transportation and to
complete plans for the day. Definite in-
formation should be received by members
within a few days.
The financial condition of the treasury
of the association has not been in too
healthy a condition during these years of
depression. There are no dues of any
kind and each member is urged to con-
tribute annually to the support of the
association. It was decided to continue
the present policy after discussion of
various fund raising plans.
The recent concert given by the Band
in Faneuil Hall was commented upon,
and the splendid showing by the boys was
gratifying to the graduates, many of whom
were in attendance.
The meeting was interesting and
helpful to all present. It is hoped that
more and more graduates, particularly the
younger ones, will avail themselves of the
invitation to attend. There are two
annual meetings, in November and May,
an annual dinner in mid-winter and a field
day in June. At all of these events there
is always room for more, and the associ-
ation does desire the presence, as well as
the interest, of all its members.
It was voted to reserve publicity on
another very important matter until the
Field Day in June, when announcement
will be made.
The meeting lasted about two hours,
during which time minor happenings
received comment.
Vol.43 No. 3 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. July 1939
Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of Ju'.y 6, 1874
Graduation
On June 7, at two o'clock, the gradu-
ation exercises of the Class of 1939 took
place. The weather, as it is on almost all
of these occasions, was ideal. During the
morning there was much excitement as
last minute details were taken care of.
The outdoor stage was prettily decorated
with the school colors and everything was
put in readiness.
Those who were taking part in the
program, and several members of the
Board of Managers, came on the Pilgrim
III. The Charlesbank transported the
parents and friends of the boys. Soon
the processional began and another class
was to be graduated. The Invocation was
by Rev. Cecil Plumb.
For a century and a quarter the ideals
of our school have been upheld by our
boys as they complete their studies here
and go into the world. The honor and
glory of F.T.S. is represented in our
school banner. This year Howard M.
Colpitts, '39 delivered the banner to
Charles A. Pecce, '40. This inspiring,
traditional part of our program is an
annual feature of the ceremonies.
Rev. Phillips E. Osgood, D. D.. Pastor
of Emmanuel Church, gave the address.
He urged the graduates to reserve lime and
place for communion with God, and his
hope that each would develop his "inner
self" so that he might, with the help of
God, solve the vexing problems which
will surely arise from time to time. Rev.
Dr. Osgood was introduced by Robert H.
Gardiner. Mr. Gardiner is a memberof
the Board of Managers and he and Rev.
Dr. Osgood were classmates at Harvard.
President Arthur Adams presented
diplomas to the sixteen members of the
graduating class. Eight boys who com-
pleted the post graduate year were given
certificates. Ten received sloyd diplomas,
six forging, and three were given agri-
culture diplomas.
Headmaster William M. Meacham
awarded commencement prizes. These
included the Guy Lowell Cups, the Charles
P. Curtis Mathematics Prizes and the
Francis Shaw Conduct Prizes among
others.
The speeches and other parts played
by the members of the class were of high
excellence. Wesley C. Gustafson, the
Salutatorian, gave a fine address entitled,
"I Am Glad that I Am an American".
The Valedictory, by Murdock C. Moore
was followed by his essay entitled, "The
Power of Written and Spoken English".
George F. Connors delivered the prophecy
and William J. Bevans, Jr., the class will.
Music was furnished by the school
band. A trombone solo, the "Wanderer"
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
by Myron A. Pratt was the feature.
The complete program was as follows:
PROGRAM
Class Processional Clifton E. Albee
Axel R. Hallberg, '40, Class Marshall
Overture-Glorianna Weidt
Invocation
Rev. Cecil Plumb
Salutatory
I Am Glad that I Am an American
Wesley C. Gustafson
Class Prophecy
George F. Connors
Trombone Solo-Wanderer Harlow
Myron A. Pratt
Class Will
William J. Bevans, Jr.
Presentation of School Banner
Howard M. Colpitts, Class '39
Charles A. Pecce, Class '40
Valedictory
The Power of Written and Spoken English
Murdock C. Moore
Introduction of Speaker
Manager Robert H. Gardiner
Address
Rev. PhiUips E. Osgood, D.D.
Presentation of Diplomas
President Arthur Adams
Presentation of Prizes
Headmaster William M. Meacham
March-National Emblem E.E. Bagley
GRADUATING CLASS
William Joseph Bevans, Jr.
Maxwell Merton Clark
Howard Merrill Colpitts
George Francis Connors
George Robert Davis
John Dunn
Eugene Simmons Emerson
Wesley Carlton Gustafson
James Russell Langion
Harold Kenneth Malmgren
Richard Allen Martin
Murdock Clayton Moore
William Bradford Pratt
Donald Lester Rice
Leonard Irving Scott
, Albert Edward Wilder
Sloyd diplomas were awarded to the
following:
SLOYD
Howard Merrill Colpitts
John Dunn
Wesley Carlton Gustafson
Harold Kenneth Malmgren
Richard Allen Martin
Murdock Clayton Moore
William Bradford Pratt
Leonard Irving Scott
Percie Rutherford Berry
William Nutter Dodge
The six pupils who completed the
Forging Course were:
FORGING
George Francis Connors
Richard Allen Martin
Murdock Clayton Moore
William Bradford Pratt
Leonard Irving Scott
Albert Edward Wilder
Three students completed the four
year course in Agriculture. They were:
AGRICULTURE
Maxwell Merton Clark
Howard Merrill Colpitts
James Russell Langton
Howard M. Colpitts was class pres-
ident; John Dunn vice-president; William
J. Bevans, Jr., secretary and Wesley C.
Gustafson treasurer. Murdock C. Moore
headed the entertainment committee of
seven members.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The Farewell Dance
A traditional part of the Graduation
Week is the farewell dance. This year
the Class of 1940 held this dance in honor
of the Class of 1939, on the evening of
June 6. The Assembly Hall was prettily
decorated and the entertainment com-
mittee arranged a party that was enjoyed
by all.
The music was furnished by an orches-
tra led by Myron A. Pratt. There were
many special dances, such as the 400, Fox-
trot, Waltz, Lambeth Walk, Corrigan
Hop, and the Virginia Reel. The Grand
March was led by Mr. and Mrs. Meacham.
Richard John Nelson
Calendar 90 Years Ago, June, 1849
As Kept by the Superintendent
4. Moses Grant, Esq., Rev. Mr,
Bronson, a missionary in India, and two
of Mr. Bronson's pupils from his school
in Assam spent a few hours with us and
made some good remarks about the school.
12. Mr. Charles Sears, a farmer at
Yarmouth, came to the Island for a boy
and took James Holland to live with him.
14. This and the three previous days
of the week have been mostly spent in
sending away our surplus hay, about 33
tons, sold to Messrs. Belser, Pope and
Walker.
16. Charles H.Tigh was sent home
to his mother in Boston.
21. The steamboat made her third
visit to the island for this season, with the
boys' friends. Present Moses Grant, Geo.
H. Kuhn, and Francis Bacon, Esqrs. of
the Board of Managers. Admitted Henry
H. Howe, Chas. Flynn, Wm. Flynn and
John W. Duncan.
The New^ Building
Just as this issue of the BEACON is
being printed workmen are busy digging
the foundation for a new building. The
succeeding issues will keep our readers
informed of the progress being made in
this great and important work. There is
a great and indescribable thrill being re-
alized by everyone at the School over
this great accomplishment, and we know
that the graduates and friends of F. T. S.
will share our joy.
The primary purpose of this Colonial
type, two story brick building, will be to
provide comfortable, adequate dining
room and kitchen facilities, and the first
floor of the 60x80 structure will be so used .
The second floor will provide dormitory
accommodations for 26 pupils. The base-
ment will house the refrigeration plant
and provide rooms for storage.
June Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 88° on the
twenty-first.
Minimum Temperature 52" on the
eighteenth.
Mean Temperature for the month 67°.
Six clear days, fourteen partly cloudy,
and ten cloudy.
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, June 30. 1939^
RESOURCES
Savings Bank $1216.67
Cash 77.93
$1,294.60
$492.20
646.52
2.99
55.76
97.13
$1294.60
LIABILITIES
Boys' Deposits . . . .
Trading Co. Deposits . .
Cottage Row Deposits
Photo Company Deposits
Surplus
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
Cbompson's Island Beacon
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
MURDOCK C. Moore Editor
Richard J. Nelson .... Assoc. Editor
Vol.43 No. 3
July 1939
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
The writer recently heard a business
Published Monthly by "1^" who is successful In 8 big Way vividly
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL ^"^ forcefully explain his achievement.
It seems all so simple. There are only
three rules to follow.
The speaker said that every individual
or organization to be really successful must
have:
(1) Excellent goods
(2) Superior service
(3) "It" or heart or love of the work
He said that thisthird element, which
he chose to call "The Third Commodity",
was practically always the decisive factor
between success and failure.
It is always helpful to pause and con-
sider the reasons for success, to think of in-
dividuals who are successful and to find
why they are forging ahead. We can
point to a long string of successes and in
each case of real success the individual
loves the work he is doing and devotes
himself whole-heartedly to it.
The writer has always "hammered
away" at the slogan "Give Service and you
will get jobs, get promotions, get increased
salary, get recognition, get happiness."
To youth, as well as older folks, I
would say. "Use every available source to
find things you love to do and devote
yourself to developing those interests.
There will be small failures and many dis-
appointments but there can be no real
failure in the good things we love to
do.
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Au^stus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. D.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gorham Brooks
N. Penrose Haliowell
Charlc« E. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Scars
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonhsire Street, Boston
Topics in Brief
Graduation Exercises for the class of
1939 took place on June 7, at two P.M.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
A large number of parents and friends of
the boys were here. The program in de-
tail is printed on another page. The
exercises were excellent in every way, and
we were especially fortunate in having
Rev. Phillips E. Osgood, D.D. as gradu-
ation speaker.
The Graduating Class had its Bacca-
laureate Service at Philips Congregational
Church on June 4. Rev. R. Ernest Bayes
preached on the essential qualities of
manhood, and his message was of great
interest and value. Special music was
furnished by our brass quartet.
President Arthur Adams invited the
Graduating Class on an excursion on June
5. The boys started for Benson's Animal
Farm at Nashua, but finding Canobie Lake
so attractive the group remained th'erefor
the duration of the trip. It was the in-
tention of the group to lunch at this favor-
ite New Hampshire resort, but the many
attractions caused their visit to become
prolonged. A very happy time was had
by everyone. President Adams has for
years provided this annual toar for the
graduating classes, and it is an event which
the boys look forward to with keen antici-
pation.
The game of Softball has taken a
strong hold on the boys' interest. This
game, remarkable because of the retention
of the skill and strategy of baseball, is
played with no equipment excepting bat
and ball. It is an excellent game to de-
velop baseball skill, especially for the
younger boys. The rules are practically
the same as regulation baseball. There
have been three or four games played
each day on our two diamonds.
On June 6 the regular monthly
meeting of the Board of Managers was
held at the School. The group left the
South Boston Yacht Club on our boat,
the Pilgrim III, at two P.M. An in-
spection of the various departments was
followed by a business meeting. Those
present included:
Arthur Adams, President
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Ass. Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Ass. Treasurer
Henry Jackson, M.D.
Gorham Brooks
Philip S. Sears
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
The annual dance and reception to
the graduating class was given on June 6.
This year the Class of 1940 was host. A
happy evening was passed, including vari-
ous forms of entertainment
Following the close of the academic
year on June 7 the summer vacations for
the boys began. The boys are home for
a period of one week to a month, depend-
ing entirely upon each boys' effort, con-
duct and achievment.
Alfred C. Malm, '00, a member of
the Board of Managers, was a visitor at
the School on Sunday, June 25.
Our boat "Ilybius" has been pur-
chased by William F. Anderson, '25. It
will be fitted out at Goodhue's Boat Yard,
Braintree. This yard is owned and oper-
ated by John Goodhue, '21.
Our gardens are supplying us with
plenty of greens, radishes, peas and
strawberries. Haying is proceeding stead-
ily. We harvest about 100 tons of this
product annually.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The Band Trip to Wolfeboro
For the third successive year our Band
enjoyed an excursion t o Wolfeboro,
N. H. to assist the American Legion Post
of that town sta^e the celebration of our
national birthday. Twenty-one boys made
the trip this year. This included seventeen
boys who are pupils at the school and four
boys who completed their school work
here last month. Rehearsals for the group
were held on July 1 and on the morning
of July 2. On Sunday afternoon July 2,
the boys left for Wolfeboro in a bus of the
Rawding Line.
The ride to Wolfeboro, which is about
110 miles from Boston, was very pleasant,
the day being especially fine for a tour to
the lake and mountain area of New
Hampshire. The boys went by way of
Portsmouth, Dover and Rochester. Upon
arriving at Wolfeboro it took but a few
minutes to prepare for the first concert, at
5:30. This was a brief concert, about a
half hour in length, and opened the three
day celebration.
Later in the evening the Wolfeboro
band save a program and our boys were
part of the audience. Some members of
our band sat in with the Wolfeboro group
and played part of the concert.
On the following day the boys were
the guests of Captain Leander Lavallee of
the Steamer Mt. Washington, and en-
joyed the regular tour of Lake Winnipe-
saukee. The "Mt. Washington" is the
fastest side wheel steamer in the country
today, averpging about 16 land miles per
hour. The seventy mile cruise was greatly
enjoyed, and the high spots of this trip
were pointed out to the boys. Lake
Winnipesaukee is the largest inland lake
lying within any one state. Situated in the
mountain region, it i^ossesses unlimited
beauty and charm. Thousands of visi-
tors from all over the world journey to
New Hampshire for the wonderful scenery
provided in this Winnipesaukee area.
Upon returning from the lake cruise
late in the afternoon the boys gave an-
other concert. This was attended by a
large audience and the boys played some
of their special pieces, much to the pleas-
ure of the audience. In addition to the long-
er selections, several shorter popular
numbers were given, including such
favorites of the day as "Little Sir Echo",
"God Bless America", and the "Beer
Barrel Polka". This program lasted an
hour and a half.
Following this concert the boys were
the guests of Ansel Sanborn, who in ad-
dition to operating several theatres in this
area, is also Speaker of the House in the
New Hampshire Legislature. He had a
fine program of motion pictures for the
holiday which the boys enjoyed.
On the next day, which was the holi-
day, the Band led the parade. This par-
ade was notable because of its excellence.
Four musical organizations provided
martial airs. Wolfeboro is one town
which starts a parade at the announced
time and this was done, even though a
few tardy entries had to hurry to get into
place. The parade took one hour, and
our boys were generously applauded all
along the route.
Another band which came from out-
of-town was the McClure Student Band
from Groton. This very excellent organ-
ization had just completed a two weeks
trip to the Worlds' Fair. Our boys were
interested to hear the concert this band
gave and were pleased to hear the
Vermont group perform "The Farm and
Trades School Band March" as the
opening number.
The final appearance of our group
was from seven until eight o'clock during
the evening. Brewster Academy, which
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
is located in Wolfeboro, has had several
F.T.S. boys as former pupils, and as tri-
bute to Brewster our band played some
of the popular songs of that New Hamp-
shire school. Many Brewster students
were in the audience, particularly the
members of the girls' glee club, and they
sang while the boys played.
Following this last concert the Band
gave a ten minute marching exhibition.
The audience could not be estimated,
but the town square was jammed with
spectators who were most generous with
applause. The boys went through their
drill in expert fashion, and their blue and
gold uniforms made a pretty picture as
they snappily executed the maneuvers
called for by the drum major, Ralph E.
Pratt.
After this drill the boys packed their
equipment so as to get an early start for
Boston and Thompson's Island on the
following morning. Then they visited
the bandstand again to hear the McClure
Band in some excellent performances of
marches and concert pieces.
When darkness fell the Brewster
Academy campus was crowded with holi-
day sightseers who had come to town for
the fireworks display. The fireworks
were very good, and several very spec-
tacular pieces were surely of superlative
quality.
Following breakfast the boys had a
few minutes in which to bid adieu to their
many Wolfeboro friends. The excursion
was about the finest that our boys had en-
joyed, and it was with deep regret that
the return trip had to come. The four
days certainly were outstanding and long
to be remembered.
The Wolfeboro townsfolk were especi-
ally kind and gracious to our boys, and the
American Legion Post, which sponsored
the trip, made certain that our boys were
well taken care of. We take this oppor-
tunity of expressing our sincere appreci-
ation.
This account would not be complete
without noting the fact that our bus broke
down near Salem, N. H. and it was
nearly ten hours before another bus ar-
rived so that we could continue our
homeward way. However, the grand trip
the boys had overshadowed this un-
pleasant circumstance.
Honor Roll— Spring Term
Junior Class: Weston O. Page, 91.8;
Eugene Proctor, 89.
Sophomore Class: Wesley Gustafson,
91.8; Murdock C. Moore, 91.8; Eugene
Emerson, 86.
Freshman Class: Arthur W. Chase,
91.7; William J. Lawson, 91.7; Winthrop
Davidson, 90; Charles A. Pecce, 90.
Eighth Grade: William J. Klaila, 93 4-
Ralph E. Pratt, 92.8.
Seventh Grade:Authur L. Thibodeau
90.2; Walter H. Johansson, 87.3.
Sixth Grade: Milton W. McNamara,
90.8; Malcolm C. Huston, 84.7.
The following boys have received a
mark of 90 or over in scholastic effort for
the past term.
Junior Class: Warren M. Linnell,
Weston O. Page, Myron A. Pratt, Eugene
Proctor.
Sophomore Class: William J. Bevans,
Howard M. Colpitts, Eugene S. Emerson,'
Wesley C. Gustafson, Murdock C. Moore!
PVeshman Class: Winthrop Davidson,
William N. Dodge, Charles A. Pecce!
Eighth Grade: Charles Gilbert, Jr.,'
Roland Hallberg, William J. Klaila!
Donald W. Lowery, Ralph E. Pratt!
William L, Schlegel, David A. Wilson.
Seventh Grade: Ernest Burns, David
Haeger, Walter Johansson.
Sixth Grade: Milton McNamara.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Che /tiuK;ni J^ssocUtion of Cbe Tarm ana trades School
Frank L. Washburn
Roxbury,
Howard B. Ellis, '98 President
Dorchester, MoSS.
Harold W. Eowakus. 10. Treasurer
Arlington, M^ss.
Alumni Field Day
Alumni Day was observed on June 3,
when a large gathering of graduates and
their friends "took over" the Island for
the day. Nearly 200 were present. The
"Charlesbank" made several trips from
City Point, the first being at ten A.M.
President Howard B. Ellis, '98, of the
Alumni Association, gave the address of
welcome. The School Band had escorted
the guests from the wharf and President
Ellis invited the boys to entertain with a
few of their feature selections, which they
did underthe direction of our Bandmaster,
Frank L. Warren.
Headmaster William M. Meacham
spoke regarding plans for the future, par-
ticularly the building program which is
being studied. Several drawings were
shown of buildings which may possibly be
erected in the not too distant future. This
suggested plan for the improvement of
F.T.S. naturally was of utmost importance
to the alumni. Mr. Meacham spoke on
other current topics regarding everyday
life at the school, and bis short address
was of much interest to everyone.
An announcement was made by Pres.
Ellis that Mr. B. Y. Kihlstrom, for 20
years instructor of Sloyd, Forging and
Mechanical Drawing, had been voted an
honorary membership in the Alumni
Association. Mr. Kihlstrom was given
hearty and prolonged applause upon his
introduction to the audience.
Other officers of the Association and
guests were presented to the gathering and
some spoke briefly. Everyone then pro-
ceeded to the playground for a marching
exhibition by the Band. Many were the
'83, Vice-President
Mass.
Mfrton p. Ellis. '97, Secretary
77 Summer Street. Boston
G. George Larsson, '17. Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
words of commendation as the boys execut-
ed their well drilled maneuvers. Neat and
trim, in their new uniforms of gold and
blue, the band made a pretty picture as it
performed its drill in snappy fashion.
Time for lunch had approached and
the picnic packages were brought forth.
Our North Lawn was dotted with groups, '
large and small, enjoying lunch and
talking over old times. This luncheon
hour was perhaps the happiest for those
who like reminiscences of boyhood days.
In the afternoon there was the usual
program of sports and games. The base-
ball game held its usual quota of devotees.
It appears that the single men always win
this time-honored contest, and such was
the case this year, although the married
men gave a good account of themselves.
Meanwhile the undergraduates were
staging a field and track meet of the time
honored picnic games. There were the
sack race, three-legged race, crab race,
foot races of various distances and other
events. Cash prizes were awarded the
winners.
The grand contest was the pie-eating
race. Twenty boys knelt before twenty
lucious, juicy blueberry pies. Without the
use of hands the boys ate the pies. Prizes
were given to the first boy finished, the
boy with the dirtiest face, and the boy
with the cleanest face. Roars of applause
greeted the efforts of the contestants as the
race progressed.
Ideal weather held forth during the
day, the program was excellently prepared
and an extremely happy reunion and field
day resulted. The entertainment com-
mittee certainly did a fine job in planning
the event.
Vol.43 No. 4 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. August 1939
Entered November 3. 1903 at Boiion. Mai*., at Second Clati matter, under Act of Congreaa. of July 6. 1874
Group Present at Turning of First Sod
Our New Building
Sod was turned Thursday, July 13,
1939 at 2:30 P. M. for the second building
in the group being planned. Thefirst unit,
the Adams House, was completed in 1937.
Other construction is planned whenever
fundsaremade available, and our century-
and-a-quarter old boys' school will be
completely modernized. The photograph
reproduced above includes those present
when President Arthur Adams, of the
Board of Managers, turned the first sod.
They are, left to right, Merton P. Ellis,
Headmaster William M. Meacham,
President Arthur Adams, George S.
Mumford, Jr., Mrs. John L. Batchelder,
Alfred C. Malm, John L. Batchelder,
Philip S. Sears, Vice-President Edward
Wigglesworth, William Alcott, William
Bailey and Waller H. Kilham. All are
members of the Board of Managers ex-
cepting Mrs. Batchelder, Mr. Bailey, the
Please turn to Page 5
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
An F. T. S. Adaption of the Athenian
Oath
We will never bring disgrace to this
school by being dishonest or cowardly,
nor will we abuse our comrades who are
in trouble.
We will fight for the ideals of the
school singly and together. We will respect
and obey the school laws and do our best
to arouse a like respect in those about us
who have let this respect die.
We will strive constanUy to awaken
the public sense of civic duty among the
personnel of the school. In this way we
will transmit to our followers a finer and
greater school than that transmitted to us.
George F. Connors
Social Problems
If every pupil lived up to the Athenian
oath, the discipline problems of the
school life would disappear. Each pupil
would try to uphold the ideals and sacred
trusts of the school and keep them always
before him as a goal. The laws of the
school would be obeyed, and those who
did not obey them would be taught to
hold a respect for them. All classrooms,
corridors, grounds and shops would be
kept clean through a sense of civic duty.
Every individual would attempt to leave
the school in a better state than when he
found it. Thus when all are citizens of our
great country the following things would be
indelibly imprinted on their minds: pride,
cleanliness, loyalty, respect, obedience,
honesty and cooperation,
Murdock C. Moore
Social Pr oblems
Sports
At the school here most all of the boys
are very athletic. At this time we are
having baseball games. There are three
club teams; every week two of these teams
play. I am on a team which is called the
Indians.
We may have a Horseshoe tourna-
ment this year; however, a few accidents
have delayed this occurrence.
Last week there was a bulletin on the
board to organize the boys for a tennis
tournament. I signed up and I am in the
Junior tournament. There are two tourna-
ments, the Senior tournament for the
older boys and the Junior tournament
for the younger boys.
Swimming is a very popular sport
here, and we go nearly every day. We
are now having Life Saving.
Donald W. Lowery
School Days
When vacation was over, we started
back to school. I was very glad to go
back to school.
The subjects that were oflfered to the
the freshman class this year were as
follows: French, Latin, English, sloyd,
agriculture, algebra and ancient history.
The subjects I chose were French,
English, sloyd, algebra and ancient
history. I like algebra very much because
it shows different and easier methods of
solving difficult problems.
This year we had an election for class
officers. I was fortunate to be elected class
treasurer. Kenneth M. Walley
Softball
I am on a softball team where! play
third base. It is fun to play because I like
action. There are two groups on each
team, the first group consists of the larger
boys who play with a hard ball. The
second group consists of the other boys
who play Softball. The hard ball groups
play every Saturday afternoon, while the
Softball teams play every Monday and
Wednesday after supper.
William C. Bassett
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Vacation Days
Vacation days are pleasant to the boys
at the School. I myself was very happy
on my vacation. I had a chance to think
about something else besides school.
On my vacation I was invited to the
Worlds Fair. I think that every boy should
visit the Fair. It has a lot of interesting
things about it. In my opinion the General
Motors Exhibit was the best. There I saw
the model cities of 1960.
To me, the Ford Exhibit was the next
best place. There I was given a free ride
in a Ford car. Also I saw the making of
Ford parts.
There were many other wonderful
things which v^ere of great interest.
I also went to Radio City Music Hall.
There I saw a movie which was very good.
Raymond L. Perry
Scout Notes
After graduation many hoys belonging
to the Scout Troop left. Therefore Mr.
Albee, our scoutmaster reorganized the
troop. He did this by bringing in some
new boys, and making a new group of
five patrols which have approximately six
boys in each.
All the scouts are looking forward to
camping which will begin soon.
Stanley C. Morton
A Giant Visitor to the School
While carrying materials down to the
old barn I noticed a large lighter coming
towards our wharf. Correctly I surmised
that it was transporting materials for our
new building. I watched intently its every
move. It came slowly to the wharf with
the help of a tug. To my amazement the
derrick on our wharf which I had always
thought so large looked like a dwarf
alongside the derrick on the lighter. A
few moments later the fast workers on it
had a truck swinging in midair about to be
laid upon our wharf. Within four hours
the lighter was emptied and half the
materials had been trucked to the site of
the new building. In my opinion the
laborers worked quite fast to get this done
in such a short time. William J. Klaila
About Vacation
Vacation Days come once a year and
everybody looks forward to them. Some
boys were even fortunate enough to go to
the World's Fair. The boys have
received cards sent by other boys at the
Fair. Each card received was better than
its predecessor.
The boys who went to the Fair were
not the only ones to have a good time.
The boys who didn't go went to other
places such as camps, beaches, and so
forth, always making new friends.
William L. Schlegel
Band Interests
The Band has a very good start to-
wards the coming year, even though many
of the better players have graduated.
Losing these fine players does not worry
us so much, for there are younger boys
happy to join the Band. After a few re-
hearsals the Band will be playing very ac-
ceptably. Just now we have thirty-five
members.
Alan K. MacLean
Using the Ring Buoy
There are twenty-five boys taking life
saving lessons. One lesson was the proper
use of the ringbuoy. Our instructor let me
be the victim for the lesson. The members
took turns throwirg the rirg buoy lo n:e.
The water was about seven feet deep and
very cold. After we finished the lesson we
took a hot shower. The entire course for
Red Cross certificates takes about an hour a
day for four weeks. Charles Gilbert, Jr.
THOMPSON-S ISLAND BEACON
Cbompson's Island Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
MuRDocK C. Moore Editor
Richard J. Nelson .... Assoc. Editor
Vol.43 No. 4
August 1939
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wi^glesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Aufiustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. U.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gorham Brookk
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charlco H. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Lcverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonshire Street, Boston
One hundred twenty-five years de-
voted to the service of youth deserves
recognition. We have a little notice in
the Boston Transcript each week with
that statement. Our large circle of friends
know the work that is being accomplished
here day after day and year after year.
These thousands of people know that our
boys are being developed to the age of
manhood in such a way as to continue to
be definite assets to their communities.
There is little of the meaningless "fluff"
that is so apt to "creep in" wherever there
is praiseworthy effort. There is none of
the expansive publicity which popularizes
many well meaning institutions. True,
the Boston papers are kindly toward our
school— and rightly so-but there is none of
the spectacular for publicity's sake.
Now we are starting the construction
of a new building. This building plan has
been carefully thought out step by step.
We have worked over the plans several
years. We are now confident that the
two story, approximately 60 by 80-foot
brick building is the type of building which
most nearly accomplishes our purpose.
This will provide a dining room and
kitchen for our entire present enrollment
and staff, and a dormitory for twenty-six
boys. The rooms vacated in the main
Bulfinch building will be utilized for the
further necessary comforts of the boys.
We still need some financial help on
this project. What better use could
possibly be made of funds than to put the
money to work where for a century and a
quarter the youth of each generation have
continued to be developed? There is no
more positive, constructive, immortal
work possible. Such work stands as a
memorial to every individual who has
given it a lihing hand.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Artist's Drawing of Present and Proposed New Buildings
Continued from Page 1
contractor, and Mr. Kilham, the architect.
The newest building is of colonial
design in harmony with the architecture of
the other buildings. It is to be a two story
and basement brick, fireproof construction
building approximately 60x80 feet in area.
Its primary use will be to provide modern,
comfortable dining room and kitchen
facilities on the first floor. The second
floor will be used for dormitory accommo-
dations for 26 boys. This will remove
the boys from the fourth floor dormitory
of the main building and a few of the boys
from the third floor. The basement will
house the refrigeration plant and provide
room for storage. The new building will
be in line with Gardiner Hall and eighty
feet from that building, just beyond the
boys' flower gardens.
Building plans call for the making
over of the present dining room into a
recreational room. The present kitchen,
bakery and storage rooms are to be utilized
for shower and locker rooms. Re-
modelling of these rooms, all located in
the main building, will be undertaken as
soon as the new building is ready for use.
The architect is Kilham, Hopkins and
Greeley of Boston, and the contractor is
William M. Bailey Co., also of Boston.
The photograph used on page 1 was
taken by Clifton E. Albee; the one above
by Leslie R. Jones. The Boston Evening
Transcript used both pictures on July 14,
and kindly loaned us the "cuts".
Topics in Brief
Our academic year commenced on
July 11 and nearly all the boys were pro-
moted. The teaching stafT remains as it
was. Principal and Mrs. George R. Ronka
teaching the high school classes and Miss
Kathleen Graham the upper grades. Mr.
R. Carroll Jones continues as teacher of
Agriculture.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The Crosby baseball series is well
under way. Three teams are playing a
championship series, and much interest is
shown at the outcome of each game. The
schedule ends on September 5, and the
winning team will be awarded the Crosby
silver shield as its championship emblem.
The outstanding player in each position
will be given a trophy.
The younger boys are playing a soft-
ball tournament. This popular sport is
especially good for the younger players and
the boys take much pleasure from the
game . Three teams are playing a twelve
game schedule.
Another very popular summer sport
is tennis, and this game is played by
nearly all the boys. Two tournaments,
one for the older and one forthe younger
boys, are held each summer. The winner
in each tournament has his name inscribed
upon the Guy Lowell tennis cups.
The Band is being organized for the
new school year. Our Bandmaster Mr.
Frank L. Warren, has conducted weekly
rehearsals since July 14. We lost some
fine players at Graduation, but have the
nucleus of a very good band. The Band
now is composed of35 members, and in
September a beginners class will be organ-
ized so that the new boys may be given
musical instruction and become prepared
for a place in tlie band. The awards for
the 1938-1939 band were won by Myron
A. Pratt, ouist-inding musician, for which
he won the Guy Lowell band cup; Myron
A. Pratt for being the most successful
teacher of a beginner, for which he won
the Frank L. Warren prize and James J.
Macdonald who won the Frank L. Warren
prize as the outstanding pupil on a band
instrument.
The Band has played for several events
since the summer term begun on July 11.
Part of the hedge which borders the
north and east boundaries of the flower
gardens has been removed to make way
for the construction of the new building.
The boys' gardens, however, have been
disturbed but very little, and they are al-
ways of much interest to visitors at the
school. Each pupil plans his garden as
his interests dictates and the individual
plots reflect the ability of the boys in this
hobby. The Grew Garden prizes are
awarded annually to those who achieve
the best results.
Some of the boys have done fine
work on Cottage Row Government, and
the cottages show the result of the work.
Some have been shingled, others have
had repairs of a minor nature, but all the
work has been done by the individual
owners in each cottage. Many have been
repainted. Cottage Row is decidedly the
business of the boys, and faculty members
do little but supervise. The individual
results attained by the pupils most always
are fine.
Graduation created several vacancies
in our Scout Troop and eleven younger
boys were selected to complete the roster.
As a constructive, helpful hobby, Scouting
has much to ofTer, and it is very popular
with our boys. Bowditch Grove is uti-
lized as a camping site and much time
every summer is spent there. The troop
numbers 32 members.
July Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 92" on the
thirty-first.
Minimum Temperature 54" on the
fourth.
Mean Temperature forthe month 72°.
Ten clear days, thirteen partly cloudy,
and sevt n cloudy.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Calendar 90 Years Ago, July, 1849
As Kept by the Superintendent
4. This being the national anniversa-
ry the boys were allowed a holiday and
furnished with a good dinner and with
oranges, figs, plumcake and lemonade.
19. Went to the city with the boys,
eighty-three in number, in the Mayflower,
visited the City Hall where they were ad-
dressed by his Honor the Mayor, J. L.
Bigelow; thence to the Reading Room in
Merchants Exchange, from there to
Alderman Grant's, thence to the Common
where they partook of some refreshment
under a pavilion near the fountain. Here
they were joined by their friends and re-
mained some time, after which they sung,
and one of the boys delivered an address
"To the Fountain", a poem, written for
the occasion by the Matron of the insti-
tution. We returned in the same steamer
to Spectacle from which place we reached
home in boats, the boys gratified and the
Superintendent (who was unwell in the
morning) exhausted.
20. The Superintendent was taken
sick with typhoid fever which confined
him to the house for about five weeks. Dr.
Townsend visited Stephen L. Douglas,
hired man, who was conveyed to the
Hospital, having the same disease. Mary
Ann McLaughlin left. Francis Wm.
Potridge returned to his parents in Boston.
Michael Saunders returned to his father
in New York.
26. The mowers Morris & Newcomb
left.
31. Mrs. Fader came as nurse for
the Superintendent.
The Sunday Morning Quartet
Three other boys and myself after
taking our refreshing bath Saturday night.
go to the band hall to practise for the
awakening hymn which takes the place of
reveille on Sunday morning.
We usually arrive at the band hall
without our music. So one of us has to
find Mr. Albee who is in charge of the
music and get it from him.
When we finally get settled to the
point of choosing a hymn everyone has
his own opinion as to what should be
played. After attempting to play each
hymn, we make our decision and take the
one that sounds best.
We awake at 6:45 the next morning
and again go down and practise. No, the
hymn we played last night doesn't sound
right this morning. Many different
selections come up for choice but only to
end up with the one we started with.
Sometimes we are on time and start
at the 7:00 gong of the clock, but many
times we are a few minutes late.
James J. Macdonald
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, July 31, 1939
RESOURCES
Savings Bank $1216.67
Cash 24.15
$1,240.82
$497.24
610.36
2.99
33.10
97.13
$1240.82
LIABILITIES
Boys' Deposits . . . .
Trading Co. Deposits . .
Cottage Row Deposits
Photo Company Deposits
Surplus
As this issue goes to the press much has
been accomplished on our new building.
The foundation has been dug, trenches for
the various drains dug, and work is well
along on the cement forms. The building
will be ready for occupancy by Christmas.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Che JHumni }1$$octatton of the farm and trades School
Howard B. Ellis, "98 Preiident
Dorchester, Masi.
Harold W. EnwAKDS, '10, Traaturer
ArlioCton, Mum.
We are printing in full the following
interesting letter from FRANCIS D.
McAuliffe' '36.
Marine Band
Marine Barracks
Pearl Harbor, T. H.
Dear Mr. Meacham:
Just a few lines to let you know I am
enjoying my life in the Marine Corps.
After finishing recruit training I
entered band school and was stationed
with the Post Band at Parris Is., S.C. I
sailed from Norfolk, Virginia, last Feb. by
order of transfer for duty here in Hawaii.
The trip was most interesting; Cuba,
Panama and several ports in Cal., includ-
ing San Francisco, where I visited the
World's Fair.
Hawaii is truly a very interesting
place. The population is made up of
Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Hawaiian and
Phillipino, such a variety gives anybody
interested a real opportunity to learn some-
thing of these people.
Needless to say the scenery has an at-
mosphere all of its own. But just between
you and I: give me New England.
We have a fine band here, and I have
to work real hard to keep up the standard.
The experience 1 got at the school was the
deciding thing. And only now can I ap-
preciate the time that was spent on me.
The band broadcasts over station KGU
every month, and greets the ships coming
into Honolulu and of course guardmounts
and parades all go to keeping us busy.
On the rifle range I made sharp-
shooter with the 45 calibre auto-pistol and
expert with the 30 calibre rifle. My
Frank L. Washburn '83, Vice-Pretident
Rozbury, Matt.
Merton p. Ellis. '97. Secretary
77 Summer Street. Boston
G. George Larsson, '17. Hittorian
Hyde Park, Ma**.
reward for my work was a raise in pay of
$5.00, which I am very proud of.
I have no definite plans for the future;
but if they should be out of the service,
my experience in the Marine Corps will
certainly follow me through life.
Sincerely yours,
Francis McAuliffe '36
Pearl Harbor, T. H.
Will Frank Davis '79 has recently
sent the School Library a copy of Davis*
Blue Book of Brookline, Wellesley, and
Weston. This is Mr. Davis' latest of many
publications. The volume is well done
and attractive. It is a valuable record and
reference book. The School and Alumni
can justly feel a sense of pride in the a-
chievements of our fellow alumnus, WiLL
Frank Davis.
Our readers will be happy to know
that Walter B. Foster, '78, is enjoying
comparatively good health at his home in
Hingham. Mr. Foster graduated from
F.T.S. sixty-one years ago and during these
years has been deeply concerned with
everything at the School. In 1914 he was
elected to the Board of Managers, which
post he continues to hold.
He has been interested in the Masonic
Lodge for years and last January 10 he was
presented the Veteran's Medal of the Old
Colony Lodge, A. F. & A. M. Several
graduates were present at the ceremony.
Norman F. Morse, '85, gave a program
of F.T.S. pictures and Alfred Jacobs, '10.
the Senior Deacon of the Lodge, assisted
in the ceremony.
Vol. 43 No. 5 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. Sept. 1939
Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass.. as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of Ju'y 6. 1874
Artist's Drawing of New Building
This picture is a copy of the artist's
drawing of our new dining room and
kitchen building, and is reproduced from
a photograph taken by Leslie Jones, '06.
A similar illustration appeared in many
of the Boston papers on July 12. The
first sod was turned on July 13. About
five months will be needed for our con-
struction purposes.
We have been some time studying
our building problem and have reached
the conclusion that this particular building
is our most urgent need. The modern-
ization of our 125 year old school calls for
three additional dormitory buildings,
which we earnestly hope may be erected
in the near future.
This dining room-kitchen building is
77 feet and 6 inches by 65 feet and 8 inches,
exact dimensions. Thoroughly modern
in every respect, it will provide dining
room and kitchen facilities on the entire
first floor, and this is the principal purpose
of this building. The basement will be
utilized for food storage, refrigeration
plant and other kitchen storage needs.
The second floor has dormitory accommo-
dations for 26 boys.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The use of this colonial type structure
will give us much needed room in the
Bulfinch building. This building has
been so crowded that the fourth floor loft
has been used as a dormitory and in the
future this particular dormitory will be
used as a storeroom. The present dining
room will be remodelled into a living
room, and it is not diflficult to realize the
pleasant quarters this large room will pro-
vide for the boys' recreational interests.
The rooms now used by the kitchen
departments will be utilized for locker
space, shower facilities and other needs
of the boys.
These changes will take time, and
will necessitate the expenditure of a large
sum. We may not be able immediately
to accomplish all that we hope, but we
shall progress as much as possible con-
sistent with the funds which become
available. With 125 years of a glorious
past, our school looks forward to an even
greater future.
Removing Hurricane Debris
During the past few days James E.
McCarthy and I have been at work re-
moving tree stumps left by the hurricane.
These are located on the west side of the
playground. Before we began work seven
stumps had already been taken out. The
hurricane badly damaged the row of trees,
although some are left standing and we
hope they will be all right.
Stumps which must be removed are
dug out bv picking, digging, chopping
roots and then jacking the stump so that
the tractor can hitch a chain and remove
the stump.
All stumps are being put on the dump-
ing grounds at South End.
Williain J. Klaila
Dairy Work
My work is taking care of four cows.
They are milked three times every day,
at 5:00 A.M., 11:30 A.M., and 7:30 P.M.
Two of the cows I milk. Blossom and
Blanche, are on Advanced Register Tests
and the other two, Dianna and Beth are
first class heifers. Blossom is the only
cow I milk who has produced more than
two calves. Animals on Advanced
Register Tests are supervised by the
American Guernsey Cattle Club, and
must achieve certain minimum re-
quirements as to milk and butter fat pro-
duction.
Blossom is the largest cow in the
herd. She is a very light, fawn colored
cow and is friendly with all. As a result
she is sometimes fed "between meals"
by the boys, but not to an extent which
causes trouble. She is just six years old.
Dora is going to have a calf very
soon. She is one of the oldest cows in the
barn, born in 1930 and has a very fine
record.
The herd has been on pasture since
May 30. The grass isn't very plentiful at
present because of the drought. It will
not be long before the herd is put in the
barn permanently for the winter.
Now the cows are being fed silage,
which is to them what ice cream is to
most people. This is a fine milk-pro-
ducing food. Grains and beet pulp make
up the greater part of the cow's rations.
The cows I milk are fed three times daily,
before each milking period.
The milk production from my four
cows averages about 60 quarts each day.
I have been milking for one year now,
the first six months animals that are
milked twice a day and the last six months
those that are milked three times daily.
Charles A. Pecce
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Printing Office Notes
Amonii the many activities ot the
printing office is the printing of various
small jobs for the School. When work
is needed the school office sends an order
envelope to the printing office stating the
printing job needed, quantity, paper and
other details. If the job is a re-order a
copy of the original order is sent. From
this "copy" the job is set in type. Then
it is proofed, imposed on the stone, and
locked in a chase for the press.
When the job is placed in the press it
is made ready. This makes every type
character print firmly and evenly. A final
proof is scrutinized and the work of
printing follows.
It takes about an hour to print a
thousand copies of an average job. We
have some printing orders for a few copies,
and some for large quantities. 10,000
copies is as many as we have had lately.
The jobs now being done include the
current issue of the Beacon, wrappers for
the Beacon, daily assignment charts for
schoolroom use, and the preliminary work
on the 1940 Bulletin. Murdock C. Moore
A Lathe Project
One of the most interesting models
that is made as a part of our Sloyd course
is the mallet. It is a project which re-
quires the use of the lathe. The head is
made of maple and the handle of hickory.
The first tool used on this, as on most lathe
projects, is the roughing gouge. This tool
is used, as its name implies, to takeofTthe
rough corners and round the work. The
next tool used is the skew chisel. It is
shaped like a chip-carving tool, but it is
larger in size. This implement smooths
off the roughness left by the roughing
gouge. Beads, and all sorts of knobs, are
made on the lathe by skew chisels.
Another tool used in wood turning is the
cutting ofTtool. This is used to divide the
work into sections. After these tools have
been used properly the mallet takes shape.
While on the lathe the last operation is
done. This is the sandpapering of the
work, thus making it ready for the finish.
Shellac and then varnish is applied, both
to give the model a good appearance and
to protect the wood. The model is lastly
rubbed with pumice, to give the mallet
the final smooth finish. Axel R. Hallberg
Poultry
On our poultry farm we have about
1300 hens. Some are left over from
last year's flock, but many were hatched
last spring. The old birds are not laying
many eggs just now, and the pullets are
just beginning to lay. We use the best
quality grain. This summer the poultry
house has supplied to date 425 broilers for
use on our table, and there are more to
be dressed off. The birds' average weight
is four pounds. Carleton D. Reardon
The following boys came to the
school on September 5.
Lewis F. Bearse, Belmont
Francis H. Daniel, Saugus
Robert P. Donnelly, Barre
Clifton M. Dunn, Dorchester
Robert W. Duquet, South Braintree
Roland E. Fischer, Boston
Gerard W. Harrington, Dorchester
Joseph F. Harrington, Dorchester
Earl W. Hooper, Medway
William J. Mara, Jr., Melrose
Alfred A. McFarland, Allston
Curtis J. Nelson, Beachmont
James Patterson, Medford
Robert L. Pecce, W. Roxbury
Henry J. Porter, Hingham
Mark C. Risser, Marlboro
William J. Robelen, Framingham
Alan P. Stewart, Quincy
Robert H. Stone, Watertown
Charles E. Thompson, Hyde Park
James S. Tremblay, Jamaica Plain
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
Cbompson's Island Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
^EANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
MURDOCK C. Moore
Richard J. Nelson
- - Editor
Assoc. Editor
Vol.43 No. 5
September 1939
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm. Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. D.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gorham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charlci E. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonshire Street, Boston
The new building is the big item of
news and thought at the School. This is
the second biggest unit constructed by this
School in its one hundred twenty-five years
of operaiion. The only bigger unit was
the construction of the main building in
1832-33.
It is planned that this new building
will provide rooms for 26 boys and two
instructors, and dining room and kitchen
accommodations for the school. The
first sod was turned by President Arthur
Adams July 13, 1939. The corner stone
will be laid September 14th. The building
should be ready for occupancy in
December.
As a matter of record for future refer-
ence it might be noted that some City of
Boston items of interest are: the high tax
rate, the good work ot the youthful Mayor
Maurice J. Tobin, the sixty thousand
Veterans of Foreign Wars convening in
Boston, and the struggle of the Red Sox
lo win the pennant. The State items of
wide interest are the political and financial
situations with our Governor Leverett
Saltonstall, the first Republican Governor
since 1931, leading the first biennial session
of legislature in Massachusetts to a rather
satisfactory close. In National politics we
are beginning to think about the 1940
election. Possible Presidential candidates
include Governor Saltonstall, U. S. Sena-
tor Lodge, several New England Gover-
nors, and New Yorks City's Dewey who
comes from New England heritage. The
World's Fair in New York attracts much
attention and to a lesser extent in this
section, the San Francisco World's Fair.
In World affairs Adolph Hitler, the
Dictator of Germany, is causing a tense
situation by his demands on Danzig and
Poland. We are receiving radio com-
munications almost every hour direct
from London, Paris, Berlin, Warsaw,
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Rome and other European centers de-
scribing the situation and progress of
negotiations for peace. It is the most
world-wide war menace since the World
War of 1914-18.
Topics in Brief
The work on our new building has
progressed rapidly. The brickwork has
been started and the first floor is almost
laid. The contractor states that the
building will be ready in December. We
observe the day to day building operations
with keen interest.
The baseball season ended on Sep-
tember 2nd. The Eagles, captained by
Robert MacWha, won the silver shield
awarded each year by Manager S. V. R.
Crosby to the championship nine. The
series provided much interest during the
nine weeks of its continuance. Baseball
has been played all summer by nearly all
of the boys, and many have developed
into fine players.
Whereas the older boys have been
busy with baseball, the younger lads have
had a twelve game schedule of softball
matches. Jarties McCarthy's team won
the championship in this sport. This is
the first season we have played a schedule
in this game. Softball is similar to baseball,
and has grown in popularity by leaps and
bounds, particularly in summer camp
programs.
The tennis tournaments proved to be
more popular than ever this season. The
Guy Lowell cup for the juniors was won
by Roger E. Hardy while Charles A.
Pecce won the Senior cup. Our tennis
court is in constant use, such is the popu-
larity of this sport. Many faculty members
enjoy the game.
Swimming and other water sports,
recreational and instructional, have been
given their share of attention. The compre-
hensive course by the American Red Cross
in Life Saving and Water Safety was
studied, and twenty boys successfully passed
the rather strict examinations. These
twenty boys are privileged to wear the
regulation Life Saving emblem and their
excellent training greatly assists in our
efforts to provide complete safety to our
boys while they are enjoying water sports.
Our boat has been very busy during
the month transporting materials to be
used in the construction of our new
building. Most of the building supplies
arebeingcarried by our boat, two or three
trips being made each day to Commercial
Point, Dorchester, where the material is
loaded. 180,000 bricks will be used in the
building, all of which are being transported
by the Pilgrim IIL
Our Scout Troop had an impressive
investiture ceremony on August 17, at
which time nine new boys joined the
troop as of Tenderfoot Rank. Two others
were transferred from their home troop.
The troop is now composed of thirty
members. Summer activities include
many nights of "camping out", an experi-
ence greatly enjoyed by the scouts. The
boy leaders of the troop are George
F. Connors, Albert E. Wilder, Wesley
C. Gustafson, William B. Pratt, Richard
J. Nelson, Axel R. Hallberg and Ernest
Burns.
In addition to the boys' flower gardens
several other beds about the buildings are
especially attractive. Marigolds, balsams,
zinnias, hollyhocks, Chinese pinks,
petunias and many other flowers make up
several garden plots. Flower gardening
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
is popular with the boys and instructors
alike, and the beauty of the gardens is
always noted by summer visitors.
A new ensilage cutter has been pur-
chased and is now installed and in use on
our farm.
Calendar 90 Years Ago, August, 1849
As Kept by the Superintendent
5. Dr. Durkee came down with Dr.
Townsend. The teacher officiated to-day.
15. Dr. Townsend made his last visit,
having been to the island nearly every
day since the 27th ultimo. Chas. H.
Mann sent to the Hospital, having an
abscess on his side.
26. Rev. Chas. Cleaveland officiated.
Received a visit from J. C. M. Long, a
former pupil.
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, August 31, 1939
RESOURCES
Savings Bank $1216.67
Cash 32.92
$1,249.59
$499.09
610.36
3.24
39.77
97.13
$1249.59
August Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 90° on the
thirteenth.
Minimum Temperature 58" on the
sixth.
Mean Temperature for the month 71°.
Seven clear days, fifteen partly cloudy,
and nine cloudy.
LIABILITIES
Boys' Deposits . . . .
Trading Co. Deposits . .
Cottage Row Deposits
Photo Company Deposits
Surplus
Teaching a Calf to Drink
Great patience is needed if one wishes
to teach a calf to drink. First approach
the calf quietly, and put its head between
your legs. Then, from a pail of milk,
cup your hands and give the calf some.
Possibly the calf may have to be fed two
or three times this way. Then the calf
will begin to put its head in the bucket,
and will begin getting the milk all over its
face. However, in a few days the average
calf will need no help, because three or
four days are all that are required to teach
a calf to drink. Ralph E. Pratt
About This Year's Crop
The farm delivered 100 bushels of
peas and 137 bushels of beans to the
kitchen. Some of the beans were canned
for winter use. What was not canned
was used on our table. The sweet corn
crop was not as large as we would have
liked, only 20 bushels arriving at the
kitchen. The dry weather slowed up the
crops very much. Otherwise we had no
great trouble.
The dry weather made good haying,
and about 90 tons was stored in our barn.
This will be just about enough to last the
winter. The silage corn and potato crops
are not expected to yield as well as in
the past few seasons, because the long dry
summer will have some effect.
The tomato crop is excellent, and
we are using as many as possible on the
table and canning a plentiful supply for
winter. John J. McGraw
The summer term ended on Sep-
tember 1. A week of vacation followed
during which a number of boys went home
for vacation. Football drills took place,
and the school team, which has a full
schedule this year, was organized.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Boiler Tubes
There are two kinds of boiler tubes
named Water and Fire tubes. They do
most of the work in producing the steam
used in the many industries of today.
Fire tubes are used in the boiler in
our school plant so it is of this kind that
I am writing.
These fire tubes are hollow pipes which
run through a body of water which ex-
tends the length of the boiler. Inside
these tubes go the heat and smoke from
the fire. Thus the water in the boiler is
heated and steam results.
In the process of use a layer of soot
forms on the inside of these tubes which is
necessary to remove every few days.
This is done with the help of steam blown
through the tubes, and a good brush. If
the tubes were not kept clean it would be
necessary to use more and more fuel to
keep up the steam pressure.
William J. Lawson
My Bug
On Graduation day, I was presented
with an airplane model of a Taylor Cub.
When I was building it I found it was in-
complete. I managed to build it with what
I had and a little that was given me. I
now call it the "Bug" because it is so
small and flies and lands so well.
David A. Wilson
Sunday Song Services
During the summer term Mr.
Meacham conducts a Sunday evening song
service each week. We usually begin
about 7:30, and the service ends around
8:15. We are first asked for favorite hymns
and from around thirty requests Mr.
Meacham chooses several hymns which
we sing. After singing some of the hymns
we are read a passage from the Bible and
we have a prayer. Then the service is
closed by two or three more hymns.
Walter W. Smith
The Jester's Comments
— Undergraduates never change, and
children remain children, according to
a noied professor in a recently published
article. The professor would be in-
terested to observe our boys making the
nicest tunnels, houses, forts, et cetera,
from the sand piled up for use on our new
building. Inasmuch as this novel practice
is so much enjoyed, particularly by the
high school boys, perchance the shop
crews might build a few sand boxes for our
ball field. Davie Wilson, Ralph "Bud"
Pratt, Wes Gustafson, Gerry Connor and
others too numerous to mention enjoy
this pleasant pastime.
— It has been observed that the members
of the Junior Class are not receiving the
mail they believe they should. Every
mail finds hopeful Juniors become greatly
saddened. Cheer up. Juniors, absence
makes the heart grow fonder for some-
body else.
— The radio engineers, Al Wilder and
Mai Huston have not given up trying to
get WNAC for Dave Moseley. Dave's
set is a little erratic.
— Bill Bevans and Johnny Dunn visited
last Saturday and had choice news for all.
Bill has decided on another school, after
rejecting the dozen or so he talked about
last year. Johnny is master-minding the
local laundry in Hingham.
— Dave Haeger is the Chinese Checker
champ. He plays Miami style.
— Seen about the school: "Jocko" Burns'
diving: Bob MacWha's anxiety over his
school marks; Axel Hallberg's chest
comments; Dick Martin trying to argue
with George Connors; Bob Ryerson's
black eye, (the door is all right); Lin
Meacham's swan boat; Thibodeau, the
G-Man; Murdock Moore's appetite and
Dick Martin's tales of the Sadie Kelly
estate.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Che /ilumni Association of Che farm and trades School
Howard B. Ellis, '98 President Frank L. Wa«hburn
Dorchesicr, Mass. Roxbury,
Hakold W. Ei)WAHL>s, 10, Ireasurer
Arlington, M .ss.
"83, Vice-President
Mass.
Merton p. Ellis, '97, Secretary
77 Summer Street. Boston
G. George Larsson, '17. Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
Silas Snow, '94, of Williamsburg, not
only prominent in the life of that town,
but of all Hampshire County, is serving
another term asselectman. Upon gradu-
ating from this school Mr. Snow went to
workfor Dwight Clary. Later he worked
in New York as a private secretary. When
Miss Francis Ward Clary graduated from
Smith College she became Mrs. Silas Snow
and the couple have made the Clary farm
their permament home since 1908. Mrs.
Snow was recently chosen by a magazine
to demonstrate the art of Ne w England
cookery with two hundred food experts
as connoisseurs.
Cyrus W. Durgin, '21 is fast be-
coming recognized as a leader in the field
of music criticism. He has a column
nearly every day in the Boston Globe, in
which he reviews performances of out-
standing orchestras and concerts given by
individual artists. He gives very many
lectures on music appreciation, and is
also associated with the Massachusetts
University Extension in this work.
Norman Ernest Keith and Charles
Oilman Keith arrived Saturday evening
August 19, at the Huggins Hospital,
Wolfeboro, N. H. Their mother and
dad, Mr. and Mrs. Howard E. Keith are
receiving numerous congratulations. The
twins have a brother and two sisters.
Mr. Keith, who graduated from
F.T.S. in 1924 has been for some time in
charge of the buildings and grounds of
Brewster Academy in Wolfeboro. Both
he and Mrs. Keith are Brewster graduates.
Charles F. Averill, '37 and Eugene
Proctor, '38 have been employed this
summer on the staff of Sandy Island, Lake
Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire. This
camp is operated by the Y. M. C. A.
Averill, through his knowledge of boats
acquired here was able to secure a pilot's
license for New Hampshire waters and
did the camp's boating upon occasion.
Proctor made himself generally useful in
a variety of ways. The line work of these
two young graduates has prompted many
excellent reports, all of which please us
very much,
Edwin E. Andrew, '35 is employed
at the Champion Lamp Company of
Lynn. On a recent visit to the school he
spoke of the interesting processes through
which an electric light bulb passes in its
manufacture. Mr. Andrew lives in
Cliftondale.
Chester?. LiNDGREN, '28, we are
happy to report has fully recovered from
an appendix operation. His address is 87
Richmond Street, Dorchester Lower
Mills, Mass.
John Dunn, '39 hasbeen employed
this summer at a laundry in Hingham. He
helped in our laundry, and the change to
a commercial establishment was not diffi-
cult, as he was acquainted with the care
and operation of various machines used in
the modern steam laundry.
Leander E. Dorey, '23, is now at
VMB-1, Quantico, Virginia, having been
transferred from Bourne Field, V. I.
Vol. 43 No. 6 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. Oct. 1939
Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of Ju'.y 6, 1874
Moses Williams, Jr., at left, and Merton P. Ellis, at right assisting our
President, Arthur Adams, at corner stone ceremony.
Laying the Corner Stone
President Arthur Adams, assisted by
two other members of the Board of Man-
agers, Moses WilHams, Jr. and Merton P.
Ellis, laid the corner stone for our new
dormitory on September 21.
It is fitting that this building is being
erected during ttiis year, for 1939 marks
the 125th anniversary of our School. The
corner stone ceremony was impressive
without being strictly formal, and was at-
tended by Board members. Alumni, other
guests, faculty, and student body.
The exerci<5es were conducted by
Headmaster William M. Meacham, as-
sisted by his daughter, Joyce Easter. The
latter was custodian of a copper box into
which was placed signatures, personal
messages, school papers, articles which it
is hoped will be of interest a century or
so hence, and newspapers.
When the box had been filled it was
given to President Adams, who placed it
in the opening and placed mortar about
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
it. Then Mr. Williams and Mr. Ellis,
both building committee members, as-
sisted Mr. Adams and placed the corner
stone in position. It was then cemented
into position where it is expected it will
remain until 2039 or thereabouts. Other
members of the Board, who observed the
the ceremonies with great interest included
Alfred C. Malm, S. V. R. Crosby, John L.
Batchelder, Phillip S. Sears, and William
Alcott.
Several members of the Alumni
Association proudly observed the corner
stone laying. They were headed by their
president, Howard B. Ellis.
The School Band greeted the visitors
at the wharf and escorted the group to the
building site. The boys played several
compositions as a part of the program.
One of the extremely interested
visitors was Mrs. Richard M. Saltonstall,
mother of our Manager, Gov, Leverett
Saltonstall. Executive duties kept Mr.
Saltonstall from attending. Following
the corner stone program Mrs. Saltonstall
inspected the school, being escorted about
the buildings by President Arthur Adams.
She greatly enjoyed her visit.
A Day's Work on the Boat
The boat crews have been busy with
work connected with our new building.
Every morning, Saturdays and Sundays
excepted, the boat goes to the Public
Landing to get the workmen. Usually
there are from 35 to 40 men, and they
arrive at our school at about 7:30. Our
barge is then towed to Commercial Point
in Dorchester. Five of the men employed
on the building project load the barge.
About fifteen tons can be towed on a calm
day. The trip to Commercial Point takes
about a half hour and the return trip some-
what longer. The workmen require an
hour and a half to load the barge. We
usually make two trips each day to
Commercial Point. The final daily trip is
nearly always made at 4:45 P. M., when
the workmen return to City Point.
Robert W. MacWha
A Sioyd Model
One of the last models in our Sloyd
course, which consists of 22 projects, we
make is a pair of book ends. Usually gum-
wood is used for the book ends. This is
not a difficult model if care is taken in the
work.
It formerly was necessary to make but
a single book end for the purpose of the
course, but the boys often made two, and
now a pair is required. The base is made
of ^2 inch stock while the upright piece
is made of ''4 inch wood. The two pieces
are joined with a half blind dove-tail joint.
This is done because it is not desirable to
have the joints show on the front of the
book ends. The upright usually has a de-
sign consisting of one or more initials or
a picture of some sort carved into it.
The design is first traced onto the
wood. The veining tool is then used to
take out the background of the design to
a depth of one-sixteenth of an inch. After
the background has been leveled with a
tool known as the flat gouge it is stamped
with a carver's punch to make contrast
with the design which is smooth.
At this point the model is thoroughly
sandpapered and given an application of
linseed oil. This oil darkens the wood
somewhat, and brings out the beauty of
the grain. Finally it is shellacked and
rubbed with pumice to make it smooth
and give it a good finish.
Axel R. Hallberg
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The Headmaster's List
Nineteen students from hi^h school
classes have been chosen as members of
the Headmaster's List. These boys have
earned this honor by excellent conduct and
effort over a period of many months. By
being selected eachof the boys realizes that
his school life must be of a high caliber,
and that the other pupils will expect an
excellent example to be set by each of
those on the Headmaster's List.
There is no time limit as to member-
ship on the Headmaster's List. One or
two will fall by the wayside, and the
opportunity will be lost. The great
majority, however, will remain on the list
as long as they are students here.
The boys on the Headmaster's List
are put on their own, so to speak, and
they accept more and more responsib-
ilities. They have little of the day by day
detail.
For the most part they govern their
own school life, doing pretty nearly as they
please, and their training is such that they
should, and do, please to do that which
is right.
Those who have been selected for the
Headmaster's List for this time are: .
Juniors
George F. Connors
Wesley C. Gustafson
Harold K. Malmgren
Richard A. Martin
Murdock C. Moore
William B. Pratt
Albert E. Wilder
Sophomores
Douglas M. Bashaw
Donald G. Brown
John F. Close
William N. Dodge
Axel R. Hallberg
William J. Lawson
Charles A. Pecce
Robert G. Ryerson
Freshmen
Roland Hallberg
William J. Klaila
Ralph E. Pratt
David A. Wilson
Printing Office Work
About a month ago I was assigned
regular work in the Printing Office. This
is very interesting, and I like it very
much. We print the Beacon every
month, and all the type is set by hand.
The Beacon, and the other jobs which we
do, gives the five printing office boys
plenty of experience in setting type.
Besides setting type I have done some
work on the presses. Today I finished a
job of 10.000 memorandum slips for the
office. The last jobs we have done were
postcards about the football game, stickers
for packages, envelope corners and notices
for the Vermont Association of Boston.
We are ready to begin the presswork
on the 1940 School Bulletin.
Roland Hallberg
Notes
Rev. Lloyd Perrigo, a graduate
student at Gordon College, has returned
to take charge of the religious work at the
school. Mr. Perrigo speaks interestingly
of his Maine pastorate this past summer,
and of his hopes for a happy winter with
us. His sincerity of purpose, splendid
Christian training and ability as a Christian
leader assures us of an inspiring, profitable
leadership for our religious work this
winter. Welcome back, Mr. Perrigo.
The football team plays two more
home games. On October 21 the boys play
Hanover, while on November 4 F. T. S.
meets the Weymouth 2nds.
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
Cbompson's Tsland Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
MURDOCK C. Moore
Richard J. Nelson
- - Editor
Assoc. Editor
Vol. 43 No. 6
October 1939
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. U.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gnrham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charle* H. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonshire Street, Boston
Someone said, "You are getting old
if you are satisfied." That person proba-
bly meant that if people had been satis-
fied with tallow candles or the kerosene
lamp we would not have electric lights.
If we had been satisfied with the horse
and buggy we would not have railroads
nor automobiles.
Obviously this does not mean that
we should become so dissatisfied as to
throw away nor abandon the best we
have, whether it be a tallow candle, a
kerosene lamp or a two wheel cart. The
saying apparently does mean we should
constantly try to improve upon present
facilities and present methods.
Whatever unsatisfactory conditions
prevail should be improved by careful
thought and constructive action. Europe
is passing through a period of extreme dis-
satisfaction. It is terribly unfortunate that
this dissatisfaction and unrest is taking such
a destructive turn. There is no good in
war. It is too bad that men of ability,
judgement and Christ-like principles
cannot always be leaders of peoples.
The greatest stimulus to life seems to
be in having work to do, objectives in life,
unfinished business to do, an unattained
goal, an achievement to make.
Our school is celebrating its fifth
quarter century of service to youth this
year and yet it is not an aged school. It
has had a long and honorable history but
its work has hardly begun. We are confi-
dent that this, our school, has a long
beneficial life ahead to render for the
community and its youth.
We have just laid the cornerstone for
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
a new building, a dormitory-dininfi room-
kitchen. Tiiis marks the beginning, we
hope and expect, of an era of service to
youth even greater than that of the first
century and a quarter years of this great
service.
Topics in Brief
Our new dormitory is fast nearing
completion. Thirty to forty men are em-
ployed on the project each day, and rapid
gains have been made in the construction
work. Our readers are probably aware
that this new dormitory is the largest
building on the Island to be constructed
since the Bulfinch building was erected in
1833. We have all been greatly interested
to note the day by day work on the new
building, and many of the boys spend con-
siderable time at the site. As we go to
press the walls have been completed, the
roof nearly finished, the first floor laid
and most of the second. The next two
months will be devoted almost entirely to
inside work, so that inclement weather
will not retard the progress to any great
extent.
The fall season and the game of foot-
ball go hand in hand with boys, and this
month saw the beginning of our football
season. The school team has a six game
schedule, three of the contests being
played at the School. The Crosby series
got under way on September 23. The
School team squad numbers 22 and three
other teams play for the Crosby champi-
onship. The other boys, who are the
youngest, have a modified six-man game
and three teams are in this league. Our
enrollment is 95 students, and more than
80 are active members on a football team.
Labor day was observed by the boys
in many various ways. Some chose to
play baseball or football. Many played
tennis, and the tournament matches were
concluded on this day. The boys in the
band used part of the day for practise.
Our sloyd room was busy from morn until
evening, and a number of the boys were
busily engaged in numerous Sloyd projects.
Most of these articles will be used as
Christmas gifts from the boys to their
parents and friends.
There have been three Assembly
programs held this month. At one of
these programs the Juniors demonstrated
some of the experiments which they
undertake in the physics labratory. The
science of the material world was shown
in several experiments, all of which
were ably performed. The Sophomore
class gave a question and answer period
in English History. These weekly gather-
ings are presided over by the Headmaster,
and announcements for the coming week
are made. There is singing, instrumental
music by the band, and a demonstration
by one of the six classes at each Assembly.
We have had a quantity of farm
products on our table during the summer.
Our melon crop was quite good, and we
had a plentiful supply. Nearly 2,000
pounds of chicken was served in our dining
room. We have every reason to be
satisfied with our farm crops this year,
even though the weather was not ideal for
plant growth.
The junior horseshoe tournament has
been won by James F. St. Coeur. Thirty of
the younger boys took part in this grand
sport. The older boys have not completed
their matches as yet. Horseshoe pitching
is one of our most pleasant summer di-
versions.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Calendar 90 Years Ago, September, 1849
As Kept by the Superintendent
2. The pleasure boat "Taglionia" of
Charlestown was capsized and towed to
this island, all hands, ten in number,
saved.
4. Messrs. Grant, Kuhn, Bowditch
and Bird with the friends of the boys
visited the school in the steamboat.
20. Stephen P. Douglas having re-
covered his health returned to work and
John Crowley who had been employed
in his absence left.
21. The Superintendent and his
children left on a visit to New Hampshire.
22. Moses Grant, Esq., and son
visited the school and the former addressed
the boys.
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, September 30, 1939
RESOURCES
Savings Bank
. $1216.67
Cash
73.31
$1289.98
LIABILITIES
Boys' Deposits
. $S61.22
Trading Co. Deposits . . .
. 611.69
Cottage Row Deposits . .
3.24
Photo Company Deposits
. 37.70
Surplus
., 76.13
$1289.98
September Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 96" on the
sixteenth.
Minimum Temperature 45'' on the
twenty-seventh.
Mean Temperature for the month 65°.
Ten clear days, eight partly cloudy,
and twelve cloudy.
Aw^arding Grew Garden Prizes
The Grew Garden prizes were
awarded on Friends' Day, Sept. 28. This
is the 51st year the prizes have been given.
They were first given by Manager
Henry S. Grew and following his death
they have been continued by his daughter,
Mrs. S. V. R. Crosby.
Those who won the prizes, and the
order in which they were won, the first
name being that of the pupil who received
first prize were:
James J. Macdonald
Harold K. Malmgren
William N. Dodge
George W. Harris
George J. Zevitas
William J. Klaila
James E. McCarthy
Wellman E. Bonsey
Douglas M. Bashaw
David G. Haeger
Honorable Mention
David A. Wilson
Donald G. Brown
John H. Bonsey
William L. Schlegel
Arthur B. Stilphen
School Chapel Service
On Wednesday of each week the
classes hold an assembly in Chapel. Our
Principal, Mr. Ronka, is in charge of the
program. He speaks on some subject
that usually has to do with the problems
of youth. Then follows a reading from
the Bible. A prayer follows this, in which
everyone joins. Announcements as to
schoolroom work are made and discussed
as necessary.
The program, which takes a quarter
of an hour, is concluded with the pledge
of allegiance to the Flag.
As the school year progresses many
of the boys will take part in this Chapel
service. This will give the boys good
practice in speaking before a group.
Murdock C. Moore
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Honor Roll — Summer Term
Junior Class: Wesley C. Gustafson,
91.2; Murdock C. Moore. 87.2.
Sophomore Class: Winthrop David-
son, 93.4; Arthur W. Chase, 92.8.
Freshman Class: William J, Klaila,
92.8; Donald W. Lowery, 88.2.
Eighth Grade: James F. St. Coeur,
92.5; G. Wallace Hardy. 91.8.
Seventh Grade: Malcolm C. Huston,
85.7; Walter W. Smith, 84.5.
The following boys have received a
mark of 90 or over in scholastic effort for
the past term.
Junior Class: Wesley C. Gustafson.
Sophomore Class: Warren Danner,
William N. Dodge.
Freshman Class: Charles Gilbert, Jr.,
William J. Klaila, Donald Lowery, James
McCarthy, William Schlegel.
Eighth Grade: Wallace O. Folkins,
G. Wallace Hardy, Walter H. Johansson,
James F. St. Coeur, Arthur L. Thibodeau.
Seventh Grade: Walter W. Smith.
Camping Out
During the summer months the boys
in the scout troop spent many nights
camping. We use Bowditch Grove as our
camping site and each patrol of six scouts
has its own area. The hurricane blew
down many trees, so that there was an
abundance of wood for campfires.
Most of the scouts went to the wharf
to fish sometime during the day and we had
plenty of mackerel to cook at the camp.
The fish tasted very good.
Usually we went swimming, as there
is a good beach by the camp. Sometimes
the patrols would have "sings" and all
the favorite songs would be sung. Each
patrol arranged a program of different
songs.
Revielle sounded at 6:15, and we were
at the Main Building in time for breakfast
at 7:00. Richard J. Nelson
The Jester's Comments
— One of the Managers who attended
the recent corner stone laying ceremony
at the School very carefully composed a
letter to put into the copper box to be
opened perhaps a hundred years hence.
This Manager also had in his pocket when
he arrived at Thompson's Island, his
wife's tax bill in an envelope similar in
size to his letter. When the copper box
was passed our Manager completed his
duty in this event by placing his epistle
in the box-he thought. Upon arrival
home he dutifully handed the Mrs. her
tax bill, so he thought, but to his utter
astonishment discovered that the letter he
had brought home was his own message
to posterity. Anyway our successor in
some future generation upon opening the
box will have a glimpse of American tax
problems of 1939. In the meantime our
kindly and jovial Board member is the
cause of many chuckles by his friends.
— Our younger boys, led by Generals
Darwin Baird and Clifton Dunn, have
been waging a war for the past month.
Since the arrival of the new boys on Sep-
tember 5 there has been a succession of
battles held on any area which boasted a
mound or a cave. It cannot be proven
that the carpenters at work on the new
building deliberately use their machine
saws for manufacturing machine guns;
nevertheless a dozen or moreof the smaller
boys have acquired personal models. Al-
though a bit startling at first, we have be-
come accustomed to having our walks
interrupted by the sound of rapid machine
gun fire. There is a trick to making this
sound. First the tongue must he twisted
out of shape and a coughing, gutteral noise
emitted with lips nearly closed. At any
rate, we have all been mortally wounded
a dozen or so times every day, but still
the battle wages. Aggressor nations beware.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Cbe fliumni Jlssociation of tbe Tarm and trades School
Howard B. Ellis. '98 President
Dorchester, Mass.
Harold W. Ehwahds, '10, Treasurer
Arlington, Muss.
Frank L. Washburn
Roxbury,
'83, Vice- Preside
Mass.
Merton p. Ellis. '97. Secretary
77 Summer Street. Boston
G. George Larsson, *17. Historian
Hyde Parle, Mass.
Clarence Colburn, '21, is man-
aging a farm at Alton, N. H. He took
his present position in 1925, following his
training at the University of New
Hampshire. He is married and has sever-
al children. On the band trips to
Wolfeboro Mr. Colburn visits with the
band and inquires about his friends here.
Claire R. Emery, '16. our gradu-
ate of radio fame, is a leading announcer
and master of ceremonies with the Mutual
Broadcasting System. He is heard often
over the master station of that network,
WOR, at Newark, N. J., and most of his
programs are broadcast over a coast to
coast network. Mr. Emery was an early
pioneer in radio, having commenced his
work with the old Medford Hillside station
WGI, then with WEEI. From here he
advanced to the Yankee Network and
finally to his coast to coast work.
He still retains that personality which led
him to fame under his first and very popu-
lar program, the "Big Brother Club."
Ramsey C. Allen, '30. is doing
private studying reviewing in preparation
for taking college work very shortly. He
plans to earn his collegiate honors by niilht
work, which is entirely possible. We
learned of this ambitious and very credit-
able effort through connection with his
tutor, Mr. James P. Farnsworth of the
Mechanics Arts High School faculty.
Arthur H. Pickard '34. has
entered the freshman class at Tufts College.
He graduated from Montpelier Seminary
in 1936 and has since that time assisted at
the school as a supervisor and printing
instructor. We know he will lead an
active and very profitable college life. j \
William S. Wilson, '34, has been i |
employed by a Boston Wool Co. for ' ^
some time, where he is making good
progress. He is making a thorough study
of the business, and eventually will merit
a fine position. He lives in Wellesley.
Elvin C. Bean, '36, has been em-
ployed for the past three years at a Melrose
bakery. He is one of our most faithful
followers of the football team, and seldom
misses a game.
William M. Meacham, Jr., '37,
has returned to Montpelier Seminary for
an additional year of work before entering
Middlebury College next year. He gradu-
ated from Montpelier Seminary last June,
and spent much of his summer vacation
at F. T. S.
Eugene Proctor, '38, has com-
menced his studies at Thayer Academy,
at Braintree. He is living at the home of
John A. Bailey, '36. At a recent visit
Proctor was very enthused over the possi-
bilities his new school has opened, and
undoubtedly he will make the most of his
advantages.
Myron A. Pratt, '38, who com- ]
pleted the post-graduate Junior high school
work here last June, has begun his Senior
work at Braintree High School. He leads
a very busy life, and besides taking the
prescribed course for college entrance, he
is taking advantage of the music course at
Braintree to study Harmony and other
m.usic subjects.
Vol. 43 No. 7 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, M ass. Nov. 1939
Entered November 3. 1903 at Boston. Mass.. as Second Class matter, under Act of Congres§. of Ju'.y 6, 1874
Hallowe'en
Hallowe'en is one of our major party
occasions, and this year it seemed as
though the entire program was more
successful than ever before. Hallowe'en
is a time for fun, frolic, and costumes, and
everyone quickly caught the party spirit.
The party began at six o'clock with a
Hallowe'en supper in the Gymnasium.
The menu consisted of several kinds of
sandwiches, cider, apples, pie, doughnuts,
pickles and cheese. After supper the hall
became a scene of gaiety as the Hallowe'en
games and stunts began. Everyone had
a strip of tickets entitling him to an ad-
mission to each feature. The time-
honored "Ducking for Apples" was, as
usual, one of the most popular stunts.
Then there were other events, all designed
to provide fun for all. The "Professor I.
Q." labratory was the place of continual
surprises. This booth, presided over by
three faculty members, had many odd,
unusual and decidedly surprising Hallo-
we'en stunts. The "Games and Stunts"
program in the Gym had to be stopped
after an hour an a half duration, because
the big part of the evening was yet to
come.
An intermission followed so that fifty-
four boys could be given time to change
into costume for the gala parade and enter-
tainment that was to follow. This began
at 8:30, in the Assembly Hall. Page
after page could be written in describing
the various costumes and sketches which
were given during this program. It was a
costume parade, and each boy in costume,
or group in costume, did a novelty stunt
on the stage. We cannot describe all the
costumes in detail, as that would take
columns of type. The opening number
was Joyce Meacham in a ballet, and she
certainly made a pretty picture doing her
dance. The final number was by William
Mara, Jr., who gave a rube monologue,
in a very creditable manner. Between
these opening and closing numbers were a
host of clever and splendidly presented
costumed features. Who will ever forget
"Professor Magic and his Wonderful
Box?" Or the "Wizard of Oz," or "Little
Boy Blue?" "The Tragedy of the Apple
Orchard" was another novel presentation,
as was "Hallowe'en Joys."
The party was surely a great success.
The evening will long be remembered by
every one for its grand Hallowe'en enter-
tainment.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Shaw Scholarship Awarded
Miss Miriam Shaw established in 1936
a scholarship which would supply suf-
ficient funds for the expense of one boy
at the school for a year. The scholarship
is in memory of her father, Mr. Francis
Shaw, who was a member of the Board
of Managers from 1889 until 1923.
Our school always was of deep inter-
est to Mr. Shaw, and it is fitting that this
scholarship has been awarded in his
memory. He graduated from Harvard
in 1875 and studied agricultural subjects
extensively. He gave the Shaw Conduct
Prizes, and provided for the permanence
of these awards, so that they are to be
given perhaps forever.
William C. Parsons received the
scholarship in 1936, William D. DeLorie
in 1937, and Eugene Proctor in 1938.
Murdock C. Moore has been given the
award for this year. The annual award
is given to a member of the Junior Class
and the selection of the student is based
upon the pupil's school record over a term
of years and the judgment of the Faculty
and Junior Class.
Murdock C. Moore, who receives
the scholarship this year is the youngest
student to merit the honor. He is com-
pleting his fourth year at the school.
Some of his achievements include: high
ranking Boy Scout, member of the Band,
student editor of the Beacon, varsity
football player, and completing the pre-
scribed courses of the American Red Cross
in Life Saving and First Aid.
Needless to say, those who earn this
scholarship have a high academic standing.
Murdock Moore has had a high rank
since he came to F. T. S. He was the
Valedictorian of his class. He has received
other class honors. At present he is Judge
of Municipal Court, Cottage Row Gov-
ernment.
Armistice Day Morning
On the morning of the holiday the
younger boys chose two of their members
to be captains of football teams. Winthrop
Davidson and I were chosen. I won first
pick of the players and then we chose al-
ternately until full squads were selected.
At half past nine the Navy, which was
Davidson's team and the Shamrocks, my
team, awaited the opening whistle of the
game.
The referee called the two captains
together and a coin was tossed to decide
choice of goal, or to kick or receive. Then
the game began.
During the first half George Zevitas
broke through guard for a 30 yard run and
a touchdown, making the score 6-0. In
the second half the Shamrocks had the
much better of the argument and scored
three touchdowns. This made the final
score 24-0.
The game was hard-fought, and both
teams tried hard to win. But the Sham-
rocks had the better backfield and could
gain ground more easily than the oppo-
sition.
Richard J. Nelson
Guy Lowell Memorial Gup Winners
Mrs. Guy Lowell very kindly pro-
vided sixsilver cups for Agriculture, Band,
Printing, Sloyd, Senior Tennis Tourna-
ment and Junior Tennis Tournament.
Each year the name of the most able boy ,
in these departments is engraved upon
these perpetual cups.
These so honored this year were:
Agriculture: Howard M. Colpitis
Band: Myron A. Pratt
Printing: Murdock C. Moore
Sloyd: Myron A. Pratt
Senior Tennis: Weston O. Page
Junior Tennis: Charles A. Pecce
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Hobbies
Most of the boys are kept busy during
spare momentsby working on a hobby of
one kind or another.
Some hobbies are very different than
others. For instance, some of the smaller
boys who help in the dining room in the
afternoon spend their play time kicking
and passing a football, attempting to a-
chieve greater distances day by day. Other
boys, in this same group, take piano lessons
and use the time for practice.
Studying a band instument is a very
popular hobby, and the band hall is al-
ways a busy place. Besides practicing indi-
vidually the boys have quartets, trios and
other groups which practice together.
Woodworking is a hobby in which
most of the boys take an active interest.
At this time of year thirty or more boys
may be found in the woodworking shops
making articles for use as Christmas gifts.
Reading is another popular hobby
which many of the boys enjoy. There
are all kinds of books, and new volumes
are being added from time to time.
On Saturday there are some boys who
would rather work on the farm than do
most anything else. In addition to doing
something they like, the boys receive a
small sum for their efforts.
The new building being constructed
is of special interest to some of the boys.
Some watch the carpenters, others the tile
layers, or the plumbers or electricians.
Radio is my favorite hobby. I like to
work with other boys and build short
wave receivers, then we see how many
amateur and police calls can be tuned in.
We have already tuned in nearly ninety
amateur and many police calls. One of
the smaller boys is just beginning on this
hobby. Troubles do not discourage him
and he will build a receiver which works
before very much time has passed.
A full list of hobbies would be very
long. Stamp collecting, drawing, sports,
gardening and scouting are other very
popular spare time activities. An inter-
esting thing about hobbies is the fact that
nearly every hobby proves successful.
Albert E. Wilder
Dark Room Work
During the past few months Axel
Hallberg and I have been doing photo-
graphic work. The dark room is on the
top floor of the Main Building.
Thus far we have learned how to de-
velop films and make prints. We also do
enlarging. We have learned how to use
a camera. Many of the boys own cam-
eras and we develop all the films, ex-
cepting the small 35mm size.
This work is very interesting and
worthwhile. The small charge we make
for our work pays the expenses of the
dark room. Murdock C. Moore
My Interest in the Piano
When I first came to the school I
wanted to learn to play a musical instru-
ment. I thought of trumpet, but decided
that the piano would be the instrument
for me. So far in my lessons I have
learned quite a little. Now 1 am practic-
ing lesson 14. James Patterson
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, October 31, 1939
RESOURCES
Cash
50 95
$1267.62
LIABILITIES
Boys' Deposits
$533.06
Trading Co. Deposits . . .
612.52
Cottage Row Deposits . .
3.24
Photo Company Deposits
. 42.67
Surplus
76.13
$1267.62
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
Cbompson's Island Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
MURDOCK C. Moore
Richard J. Nelson
- - - Editor
• Assoc. Editor
Vol.43 No. 7
November 1939
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wiggles worth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. D.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gorham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charle<i H. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batcheldcr
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacbam
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
George P. Denny, M, D,
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonshire Street, Boston
The world has plenty of natural re-
sources, plenty of man power, plenty of
brain power, plenty of developed e-
quipment and yet nations war, factions
argue, individuals disagree, equipment
and men are idle and thousands of human
beings have not the ordinary comforts of
life.
Individually we seem to be much like
the two calves tied together with a short
rope between two pails ot milk, each
pulling to get at its pail of milk and the
rope too short to permit both calves to
reach the two pails of milk at the same
time, so neither could get its dinner. Final-
ly after much struggling and pulling the
calves came together and decided to per-
mit one to approach its pail and get its fill
of milk and then they would both go to-
gether to the other pail and permit the
second calf to get its fill of milk.
The followers of various "isms"
would say, "Yes, that is just what we want
but the other fellow won't give." The
other fellow knows from sad experience
the frailities of human nature and is con-
vinced that if given a chance the "isms"
will, figuratively speaking, take both pails
of milk. Thus the struggle for "rights"
goes on.
What will the answer be? We can
believe that a thoroughly Christian world
or at least a definite following of the spirit
of God would forever solve this intricate
problem. Our real hope lies in the prac-
tice of such principles by adults and the
teaching of these tenets to youth. Adults
agree generally that youth should be
taught in this direction but too many adults
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
refuse to follow in that line. We are
constantly demanding our "rights" in spite
of all else.
School boy talk, indefinite, impracti-
cal, lacks vigor? Well maybe, but the
idea is no less workable than present cha-
otic plans. Plenty of hard work and appli-
cation of the Golden Rule could produce
wonders beyond all conception.
Topics in Brief
The School team has played three
games this month. On October 7 the
boys were defeated by Marshfield High
School 130 and on October 21 the
Hanover High team won 7-6. Both games
were played on our gridiron. Our team
was not outclassed in either game, and
might easily have won. On October 14
Scituate High had no trouble winning over
our team, the final score being 32-2. In
these games good sportsmanship has been
evident at all times, and the boys have
enjoyed playing the games.
Columbus Day was observed as a holi-
day. The usual fall sports were enjoyed,
including two Crosby league football
games. The last beach picnic of the
season was held. Suppers on the beach are
very popular with the boys, and are held
quite often during the summer months.
There were four Assemblies held this
month on Monday evenings. On October
2 the freshman presented a humorous play
having to do with the conduct of class
meetings. On the ninth the eighth grade
gave a play in observance of Columbus
Day. On October 16 the seventh grade
gave a program which included de-
scriptions of the outstanding national parks
of the United States. The sixth grade
followed on October 23 with readings
and music.
"Hallowe'en is the one time, for
simply fun time." We had a gala party
which lasted for nearly four hours. More
than half of the boys were in costumes of
almost every conceivable type. Favorite
Hallowe'en games and stunts were en-
joyed. It certainly was a happy, pleasant
evening of Hallowe'en diversion.
The Crosby football league has pro-
vided a great deal of interest for the boys.
The Redskins have a lead just now, which
is being challenged by the Crusaders. In
the modified six man league, organized
for the younger players, the Redskins ap-
pear to have the better team, but either of
the other teams may easily win the champi-
onship.
As we go to press the work on our
new building has reached the stage where
we can see exactly how the building and
its furnishings will look when the structure
is completed. The plastering has practi-
cally been completed and the kitchen e-
quipment is being installed. The work
remaining is nearly all that of finishing
the project. There is much painting,
glazing and other operations which are
the last to be done with any new building.
In all probability the work will be com-
pleted in about another month.
The farm crew has been hard at work
this month hauling topsoil for our new
athletic field. Our five ton truck is being
used for this hauling job. There have
been many tons hauled from south end
for the project. The job will continue while
we have good weather. Substantial pro-
gress has been made on our new ball field,
and we hope to have it ready for use in
another year, or two at the most.
An interesting item appeared in the
"Observant Citizen" column of the Boston
6
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Post on Nov. 7, congratulatini^ the printing
ofifice crew on the work done in printing
our new Bulletin. We appreciate the
kindness of the "Observant Citizen", very
much.
Several new volumes have just been
added to our library. They are biogra-
phies and autobiographies selected for
us by a consultant of the Boston Public
Library. This set of books is an excellent
addition to our library.
The freshman class sponsored a
motion picture program on November 2.
A travel picture, cartoon and comedies
made up the program.
Calendar 90 Years Ago, October, 1849
As Kept by the Superintendent
1. A heavy gale of wind from the
northeast.
7. A severe N. E. storm which
commenced last night continued through
the day. The schooners Donnegal of
Halifax and Pharos of Sedgwick were
driven ashore on the island.
8. The steamer Mayflower brought
supplies to the institution.
10. Mrs. Morrison today went to
Manchester.
12. The schooners Donegal and
Pharos were floated and left the Island.
16. The steamer Mayflower made
her last trip with the boys' friends for the
season and Capt. Beal gave the boys a
gratuitous excursion in the harbor. M.
Grant, Esq., of the Board of Managers
being present.
24. Finished digging carrots having
harvested from about an acre of ground,
790 bushels.
28. Mr. J. Hawkins, temperance
lecturer, addressed the boys.
31. Harvested a fine lot of squashes.
Awarding Baseball Trophies
Manager S. V. R. Crosby annually
gives to the outstanding player in each po-
sition a trophy. Those who received this
distinction for the 1939 baseball season
were:
Warren A. Danner, Catcher
Robert W. MacWha, Pitcher
Richard A. Martin, First Base
Winthrop Davidson, Second Base
A. Robert Hallberg, Third Base
Douglas M. Bashaw, Shortstop
Harold C. Malmgren, Left Field
Charles H. Grant, Center Field
Murdock C. Moore, Right Field
The Eagles, captained by Robert W.
MacWha, won the Crosby League champi-
onship, and thesilver shield was inscribed
with the names of the team members, as
follows:
Warren A. Danner, Catcher
Robert W. MacWha, Capt., Pitcher
James F. St. Coeur, First Base
Arthur W. Chase, Second Base
George F. Connors, Third Base
Arthur L. Thibodeau, Shortstop
John F. Close, Left Field
Murdock C. Moore, Center Field
Wesley C. Gustafson, Right Field
Substitutes
William L. Schlegel
Donald L. Davis
October Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 87" on the
tenth
Minimum Temperature 31" on the
twenty-fourth.
Mean Temperature for the month 53°.
Nine clear days, eight partly cloudy,
and fourteen cloudy.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Building a Crystal Set
It is not too hard to build a crystal set.
First get a form for a coil about one half
inch thick and wind ninety turns of size 28
wire on it. One end of the wire leads
from the coil into the crystal cup. The
antenna lead begins at the crystal cup also.
The "cat's whisker" is a short wire which
goes from one of the earphone jacks to the
crystal, and there is moved about until a
sensitive spot is located. The other ear-
phone jack goes to thescratcher, which is
slid up and down the coil. A .00025 fixed
condenser is placed between the earphone
jacks. The ground is attached to the
scratcher. If the set is put together right
nearby stations will be heard clearly.
Malcolm C. Huston
Dining Room Work
I wait on table for dinner and supper,
and help clear the tables after meals.
There are five other boys who work with
me in the dining room. I can remember
that when I first began working I had to
be told everything that I should do, but
now 1 go right ahead and do things without
being told.
Robert p. Donnelly
A Beach Walk
Usually on Sundays we go for a hike
around the beach. Last Sunday I thought
I would be too late for it, but I was Justin
time. We went around south end. We
did not go all the way around the beach,
but came back on the road from south end.
We went by the farmhouse. One of my
friends, Mr. Norman Morse, was born in
the farmhouse. When we arrived at the
house some wanted to goto north end, so
we hiked there. We always have a good
time on beachwalks, and there is always
something interesting to see.
Henry J. Porter, Jr.
Poultry House Work
Every afternoon I work in the Poultry
House. My first job is to trapnest. There
are three pens, each having a row of trap-
nests. Each hen has a band on her leg
upon which is stamped a number. 1 look
through the nests and if a hen has laid an
egg 1 write down the hen's number. In
this way we can tell which hens are good
layers. In the middle of the afternoon I
feed and water the hens. At four o'clock
I lower the drop boards and roost and
put up the screens.
Wellman E. Bonsey
Our Six Man Game
I play for the Navy six man team, and
our team is leading the league. On last
Saturday we played the Crusaders. They
are in last place. We kept pushing the
Crusaders back until Robelen made a 50
yard run. Porter, the Crusader's star
player, did not do Navy any harm.
For the Navy, Wilson and Huston made
good runs. I caught a pass. The score
ended 0-0, as neither team could score.
We would have won excepting for Billy
Robelen's fifty yard run.
Robert W. Duquet
New Playground Work
The boys on the farm have been
helping get loam for the new playground.
" Old Betsy, " the big dump truck, is
loaded at south end. Then the truck
is driven to the new field at the northern
part of the island. While the truck makes
the trip the boys play football or some
other game. We are going to haul loam
and spread it evenly. Then it will be
planted with seed so that a good firm sod
will result.
Walter W. Smith, Jr.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Cbe mmni Association of Che farm and trades School
Howard B. Ellis, "98 President
Dorchester, Mass.
Harold W. Eowards, '10, Treasurer
Arlington, Muss.
Frank L. Washburn
Roxbury
'83, Vice-President
, Mass.
An 1852 Newspaper Article
Our readers will be interested in the
following account, printed in the Boston
Traveler, and reprinted in a Maine paper
on September 30, 1852.
We have read, in the Superintendent's
diary, of the annual visits to Boston by
the boys in the early years of our school.
This account gives some interesting side-
lights on these excursions.
We are indebted to our minister. Rev.
Lloyd Perrigo for the article. The clipping
was found and given him by a fellow
theologian.
It is noted that many graduates joined
in the festivities on Boston Common. No
doubt they were members of the "Farm
School Club", an alumni association of
that time.
The article follows:
The Farm School
On Thompson 's Island, in Boston Harbor.
The boys of the Farm School, ninety-
eight in number, made their annual visit
to the city yesterday. The weather was
perfect for the occasion. They formed in
files of two, with their banners; that at the
head with the motto, "Farm School Boys,"
with implements of husbandry, and
"Speed the Plough." The second banner
had a Bible beautifully painted on it, with
the words, "Thy Word is a lamp to my
feet." The third banner had, "Washington
a name dear to all." The last banner,
carried by the youngest boy, had on it,
"Just as the twig is bent the tree will
incline." They had on white pants and
Merton p. Ellis. '97. Secretary
77 Summer Street. Boston
G. George Larsson, '17. Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
dark jackets, and looked well; and, under
their own marshals, marched orderly
through the city. They called on the Hon.
Charles Jackson, the projector and patron
of the institution; also on Amos Lawrence,
Esq., the friend of all good works. They
were introduced to the Mayor, at the City
Hall, who gave them excellent counsel;
which was followed by remarks from J. B.
Curtis, Esq. At the Merchant's Exchange,
in the presence of many interested spec-
tators, they sung, and two boys gave speci-
mens of elocution, which caused much
applause.
They visited the Charles street jail to
receive a lesson of admonition, and to
impress the truth of the Bible, "That the
way of transgressor is hard." At 2 o'clock
they partook of a collation at the "Eye
and Ear Infimary," Charles street, and
thenspenttwo hoursin company with rela-
tives and friends on the Common, and
were joined by a number of young men,
past graduates of the F. S. A more inter-
esting scene is not often witnessed. At half
past 5 they left in the Mayflower for their
own healthy, happy home, where they
are secure from city temptations; and we
may add, happy would it be for themselves
and the city if many more, morally ex-
posed boys were as well off. They were
accompanied by their beloved Superin-
tendent, R. Morrison, Esq., and Mr.
Lampee, a faithful Instructor of the
School, — (Boston Traveler.
Vol. 43 No. 8 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. Dec. 1939
Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of Ju!y 6, 1874
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Our old brick oven. James McCarthy, right, baker, with Henry Porter assisting.
f
Another Chapter is Written
Nearly all of the boys, at some time
or other, become bakers while at F. T. S.
Some help for just a fevv days, but many
spend a much longer period and acquire
much baking skill. There surely is a
certain joy in taking from our brick oven
some sixty to one hundred loaves of
golden-brown bread, which has been
mixed, kneaded and baked by the boys
themselves.
Bread is the principal food for which
this oven is used, but cookies, pies, and
other pastries are baked from time to time.
Chicken, turkey and all kinds of meat
may be so roasted as to please the most
exacting chef.
For years the heat for the oven was
supplied by logs and wood found on the
beach. Recently the heating unit was
modernized by the installation of a fuel
oil burner.
Keeping in step with modern times
is necessary and essential at F, T. S. Our
new building is not equipped with a brick
oven. Instead, there is a tier baker, in
every way superior to the old oven. Yet,
as in many other appurtenances of years
gone by, this brick oven will remain a
pleasant memory to countless F.T, S.boys.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving Day is anticipated
pleasantly by the boys for a long period of
time. This year the celebration took
place on November 30. The day dawned
clear and bright, and we were happy that
we were to have such fine weather for our
holiday activities.
After breakfast we went to our various
departments to do what cleaning there was
to be done, and certain other tasks. This
took about an hour.
At 9:30 a six-man football game was
held. Following this contest the champi-
onship Crosby league game between the
Redskins and Navy took place. The
Redskins won and became the champs of
1939.
As the time for dinner drew near the
boys began assembling near the dining
room. All about were eager eyes viewing
the clock, the hands of which very slowly
moved towards the magic dinner hour,
twelve o'clock.
After everyone gathered in the dining
room Mayor Charles A. Pecce read his
Thanksgiving Day proclamation. In his
message the mayor made special mention
of the hardships which our forefathers en-
countered, and even in spite of them, the
deep gratitude the settlers felt in the early
colonial days. After the Mayor had given
his proclamation we recited our school
Grace in unison.
The Thanksgiving feast was centered
about a plump, well dressed turkey. With
the turkey was served celery, onions,
potatoes, lettuce, gibltt gravy, cranberry
sauce, squash, nuts, candy and cider.
There were two kinds of pie and plum
pudding for desert. Everyone thought
the Thanksgiving feast was the best ever.
Mr. Meacham made our holiday
perfect by the grand announcement that
a friend of the school had provided funds
to furnish our new building; to build our
new athletic field; and to erect and equip
a new milk room for the dairy.
In the afternoon there was another
six-man football game between the smaller
boys. This was followed by the annual
Harvard-Yale game, the teams having been
chosen a few days before. The Marvard-
Yale game was quite a battle, Harvard
winning 14-0, even though most of us
expected Yale to win.
In the evening several of the Instructors
furnished a moving picture show which
was certainly very much enjoyed by all.
All in all Thanksgiving Day, 1939,
will be remembered for a long time by all
as a most happy holiday.
Murdoclc C. Moore
Thanksgiving Day Game
On the morning of November 30, the
football game which decided the champi-
onship team and winner of the Crosby
Shield was played. Douglas Bashaw,
captain of the Redskins led his team figainst
the Navy eleven, captained by Wesley
Gustafson.
The Redskins fought hard in the first
quarter and it seemed that they would
score. The Navy defense held and there
was no score. In the second quarter, just
after the opening whistle, Bashaw went
through tackle for 30 yards and the first
score of the game.
There was no more scoring until the
last quarter. Both teanis were plaj ing the
best football possible and a strong defense
was given when either team got in the
scoring zone. In the fourth quarter John
Borsey made the game safe for the
Redskins by scoring a touchdown on a
line buck.
The Navy team gave a good exhi-
bition of forward passing, but not once in
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
the game could the team score. The final
whistle gave the Redskins a grand chance
to cheer, for they had won 12-0, and the
win earned for the team the 1939 Crosby
Shield.
Roland Hallberg
A Moving Picture Show
The program for Thanksgiving Day
was finished by a moving picture show in
the Assembly Hall. The pictures were
provided by four of the Instructors who
had birthdays during November.
The films were concerned with Navy
life. The first two were from the publici-
ty bureau of the U. S, Navy. They por-
trayed Navy life. Many types of Navy
boats were shown.
The third picture was a feature named
"We're in the Navy Now". This was a
comedy and Wallace Beery was the leading
actor. This film was very funny and every
one enjoyed it very much.
We wish to thank the Instructors who
made it possible for us to have this fine
movie show.
Stanley C. Morton
Barn Work
I take care of four calves and do other
chores every morning and night. First I
feed them their grain ration. Then, while
I am wailing for milk, I clean the pens.
As soon as the milk is ready I give some
to the calves. Sometimes I help get hay
from the haybarn.
Earl W. Hooper
The Clarinet
We have a clarinet class of six pupils,
and have a lesson every week. The clarinet
is one of the most important instruments in
the band, and very high and very low
tones may be played, Our lesson book is
the Klose Clarinet Method.
There are seven main parts to the
clarinet. The bell is on the lower end.
Then there are the lower and upper joints,
barrel, mouthpiece, reed, and ligature.
Glendon L. Campbell
Prizes Awarded
Twenty- one of the boys were listed
as award winners for the past six months.
The names of those so honored are
listed below. The Shaw prizes are
substantial cash awards, given for the
102nd time. The expense of the awards
is borne by a legacy left by Mr. Francis
Shaw, a former member of the Board of
Managers. The Temple Consolation prizes
are books given by Manager N. Penrose
Hallowell, in memory of Thomas F.
Temple, who gave them for many years.
Mr. Temple was for many years a member
of our Board of Managers.
Shaw Prizes
1 David G. Haeger
2 Walter H. Johansson
3 William P. Dufault
4 Malcom C. Huston
5 William C. Bassett
6 Ernest Burns
7 Stanley C. Morton
8 Arthur W. Chase
9 A. Martin Duquet
10 Wallace A. Folkins
Temple Consolation Prizes
11 Walter W. Smith
12 James J. Macdonald
13 D. Carleton Reardon
14 Wallace Chouinard
15 Richard J. Nelson
Honorable Mention
16 Raymond L. Perry
17 William D. Bernard
18 Roland E. Fischer
19 Charles E. Thompson
20 Robert W. MacWha
21 John V. Johansson
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
Cboitip$on'$ Tsland Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
-1EANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
MuRD(JCK C. Moore
Richard J. Nelson
- - Editor
Assoc. Editor
Vol. 43 No. 8
December 1939
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. U.
S. V. R. Crosby
G<irham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charles E. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
George P. Denny, M. D.
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonshire Street, Boston
A bit of humor and yet a very real
example of the persistence of our gradu-
ates came to light the other day.
The President of one of Boston's
biggest and best known sporting goods
stores was talking with our Headmaster
and said, "One of your boys is working
at our store. His name is Norman some-
thing-or-other. He has been pestering
us for quite a while and the other day he
came in again wbith his perpetual smile
and consistent determination to work for
us and said, 'Sir, may I start work now?'
"Well, we were extraordinarily busy
with Christmas business and loads of stock
arriving daily and we did need more
help, someone to pitch in and help move
those goods and furthermore I figured the
only way to get rid of this six-footer was
to put him to work. So I said, 'Well,
young man, if you are so anxious to work
you just slip your coat right off and go to
work.' He immediately took off his coat
and went to work and he is still with us.
What kind of a boy is he?"
Well, after listening to that thrilling
and true story of how to get a job and hold
it, our Headmastersmiled andsaid, "Typi-
cal of our boys— they don't hang around ^
waiting for jobs to come to them. They i
find the place where work needs to be
done and are instantly ready to do the
job.
"Your new, almost self appointed
helper is Norman Chausse. You can
depend upon it he will work and he will
smile. He is dependable, intelligent, co-
operative and in spite of any obstacles he
will not quit."
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Topics in Brief
By the time this issue reaches our
readers we expect to be in the midst of a
"moving piocess". Our dining room-
dormitory-and kitchen building will have
been finished. This fine, modern structure
is a continued source of inspiration and
pride to everyone at the School, and we
can anticipate the tremendous satisfaction
which all our friends are to receive when
they view and inspect the building for the
first time. The date for the dedication of
the structure has not been definitely set,
but will be very shortly.
The main holiday of the month was
Thanksgiving, at which time we enjoyed
our usual bountiful roast turkey feast. On
the Sunday preceding the holiday our min-
ister. Rev. Lloyd Perrigo, gave a fine
Thanksgivingsermon, and the true mean-
ing of the day was instilled into the minds
of all. As the holiday approached plans
were made for two football games and a
motion picture program. These events
were carried through to a happy con-
clusion, Charles A. Pecce, Mayor of
our Cottage Row Government, read his
proclamation of Thanksgiving to begin
our holiday feast, and the real spirit of
Ihanksgiving was not lost sight of, even
in the midst of great revelry and sport.
The Crosby Football competition
drew to a very satisfactory conclusion on
Thanksgiving Day. The Redskins, with
Douglas M, Bashaw as captain, won the
Crosby Shield, by defeating the Navy,
captained by Wesley C. Gustafson. The
interest in this final contest was very great
and both teams strived for the victory.
The Redskins scored both in the 2nd and
4th periods, meanwhile holding their
opponents from crossing the goal line.
The final score was 12-0, the win
earning championship honors for the
Redskins for this season. The 1939 season
was most successful in every way, and
very much worth-while in every respect.
The Pilgrim III was disabled for a few
days early in the month because of diffi-
culty with the engine's cooling system.
It was repaired and it is now in first class
condition.
Armistice Day, November 11, was
celebrated by a full holiday. Many of the
boys used the time for individual hobbies,
while others played football or some other
sport.
The farm crew has worked for several
days repairing the roads about the Island,
Tons of dirt and cinders were used to fill
ruts and otherwise put the various roads
into serviceable condition for the winter
months.
On Monday evenings during the
month three of the classes have given pro-
grams at our weekly assemblies. The
Junior Class presented a play based on
the esseniial requirements necessary to gain
citizenship to our country; the Sophomore
Class entertained with a varied program
of songs and skits, and the Freshman Class
devoted its period to a study of ancient
Greece.
All the boys enjoyed a day in town
on either December 1 or 2 in order that
Christmas purchases could be made.
Cottage Row Government held its
regular fall election on Nov. 17. Charles
A. Pecce heads the new staff of officers.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Many of our graduates have been
following our football team, and thus we
have had more than our usual quota of
alumni visitors. We are always pleased
to have our graduates visit us and ap-
preciate the continued loyalty and deep
interest shown by the alumni.
Calendar 90 Years Ago, November 1849
As Kept by the Superintendent
27. Went to city for poultry. Hugh
Mack who lives with Dea. Whitman of
E. Bridgewater made us a visit.
28. Cornelius Sweeney, James W.
Cooper & Domingos Rodrigues, former
pupils of the School came to spend
Thanksgiving with us.
29. Being the annual Thanksgiving,
a good dinner was provided for the boys,
suited to the occasion. James L. Raskel
came and spent a short time. Mr. Warner
with his father came to see his brother.
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, December 1, 1939
RESOURCES
Savings Bank $1216.67
Gash
43.57
LIABILITIES
Boys' Deposits . . . .
Trading Co. Deposits . .
Cottage Row Deposits
Photo Company Deposits
Surplus
$1260.24
$5>15.36
616.56
3.24
48.95
76.13
$1260.24
November Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 68" on the
eighteenth.
Minimum Temperature 28"^ on the
twenty-fourth.
Mean Temperature for the month 47°.
Eleven clear days, ten partly cloudy,
and nine cloudy.
The Beacon wishes all its readers a
Happy New Year!
Our Sloyd Course
When a pupil commences our Sloyd
Course he works with simple tools. As he
studies the course the work gets more and
more difficult. It is expected that the in-
volved processes will be accomplished
with excellent results, and this is always
the case. Naturally the more adept students
cover the work more quickly than the
slower boys.
Boys with Sloyd Models
In beginning the course the average
pupil is untrained for such work and he
must learn the fundamentals by working
and practicing on small models as are re-
quired in the course. Although some be-
ginners consider these small models as
almost a waste of time, they are essential,
and must be worked out with great care if
the more advanced work is to be pursued
with any degree of success.
The first model is the pencil sharpener.
This gives the student essential practice in
using a knife. Then follows oiher models,
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
each a little more advanced, and each de-
signed to give instruction in new wood-
working principles.
As the pupil advances though the vari-
ous stages of the course lie begins to realize
that with every new model there are
problems to be solved. The work is graded,
however, so that no new work is too
difficult for the average pupil, but it certain-
ly cannot be said that progress can be made
without real attention to the smallest de-
tails.
With each model in the course comes
instruction in the use of a tool which has
not before been used. The average
number of tools which the pupil should
be able to master at one time is two to
three. The use of new tools regularly,
adds interest and gives incentive to better
work. If the pupil did the same work,
and used the same tools over and over,
his interest soon would lax.
Our course of 22 models ranges from
simple knife work to the tool chest.
Included in the work done is the making
of many handicraft projects, all of which
have a permanent value, both as to educa-
tional and practical use.
Axel R. Hallberg
Note: Our Sloyd Course was begun
in 1891, and its foundation was supervised
by Giistaf Larsson, the "Father of Sloyd".
1^ Mr. Larsson was born near Skara,
Sweden, in 1861. His sloyd training was
completed by study with the famed Sloyd
Instructor, Otto Solomon.
Mr. Larsson came to America in 1888,
and was soon engaged in introducing the
Swedish Sloyd system to America. His
early, fruitful years were spent in Boston.
After instructing sufficient teachers in the
art, and noting that they became firmly
launched on teaching careers, Mr. Larsson
travelled throughout our country lecturing.
teaching and establishing Sloyd classes
everywhere.
In 1907 he was engaged by the British
Government to introduce Sloyd into
India, and he established ten schools in
that country.
He died on July 23, 1919.
The Jester's Comments
— "Bobby" Duquet, be it known, scor-
ed the first touchdown of his gridiron
career on Nov. 30. Bobby is the smallest,
and one of the youngest boys in school,
so he merits recognition of his athletic
feat.
— Bill Lawson noticed the Pilgrim III
being towed and inquired from an
instructor if the idea was to tow the boat
to get the disabled engine started. Billts
a sure enough landlubber.
— The dumb waiter in the new building
has aroused much speculation among the
boys. Curtis James Nelson has the dis-
tinction of being the first human passenger.
His trip did not end with unrestrained
joy, but he escaped unscathed after being
stalled between floors. Such practice will
be frowned upon decidedly as future of-
fenders (if such there be) will regretfully
discover.
— Bobby Ryerson and Billy Klailawere
observed the other day sailing a small
home-made vessel by theswimmingbeach.
A spider was shanghaied and sent to sea.
The little vessel, scarcely more than eight
inches long, was watched for some time.
Billy and Bobby waved it a fond adieu, as
it sailed away on the ocean blue. What
will the boys do next!
— Last Hallowe'en Henry Porter's
unique personification of Little Boy Blue
was so unusual that it is being planned to
present him with a new horn very soon.
Perhaps he will get one in his stocking at
Christmas. Anyway, he has earned the
name of "Little Boy Blue".
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Cbe n\mn\ Jlssociation of Cbe farm and trades School
Howard B. Ellis. "98 President
Dorchester, Mass.
Harold W. Eowauds. 10, Treasurer
Arlington, M^ss.
Frank L. Washburn
Roxbury,
83, Vice-Presiden
Mass.
Merton p. Ellis. '97. Secretary
77 Summer Street. Boston
G. George Larsson, '17. Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
The Fall Meeting
The regular fall meeting of the associ-
ation was held on Wednesday, No-
vember 8, at 40 Court St. President
Howard B. Ellis, '98, presided. The at-
tendance was good, and there were repre-
sentations from both old and young classes.
More than haif a century separated the
graduating year of one of the older
members in attendance with the Class of
1939.
The finances of the Association have
not been in a very healthy condition
during the past few years, due to the gener-
al business depression. It was decided to
begin at once to strengthen the bank ac-
count of the Association, and a notice to
this efifect will be received soon by each
Alumnus.
The selection of a member of the
Association, who will be recommended
to a position on the Board of Managers
for the ensuing year, was discussed. It was
voted to pursue the course of last year,
giving each graduate the privilege of voting
by sealed ballot,
The report of the Secretary, Merlon
P.Ellis, '97, was of unusual interest. His
comments on the building project, now in
progress at the School, were appreciated.
As a member of the Building Committee
of the Board of Managers he was able to
give a complete account of the new dining-
room, kitLhen, and dormitory building
now nearly completed.
G. George Larsson, '17, Historian
of the Association, gave a splendid summa-
ry of the year's events as they concerned
the School and its graduates. Mr. Larsson,
whose father introduced Sloyd into this
country, gathers considerable information
from various sources, edits and compiles
it, making a valuable contribution to the
Alumni records.
All graduates are urged to attend the
meetings of the Association. The gather-
ings are full of interest, and very much
worth-while. We want a larger attendance
at every meeting, and above all, desire
more and more graduates to participate
actively in the affairs of the Association.
The following officers were elected
for the 1939-1940 term:
Frank L. Washburn, '83, President
Clifton E. Albee, '21, Vice-President
Merton P. Ellis, '97, Secretary
Harold W. Edwards, '10, Treasurer
G. George Larsson, '17, Historian
John A. Bailey, '36, has been em-
ployed during the past year as an elec-
trician's helper. He lives at 77 Evans
Street, North Weymouth.
Eugene Proctor, '38, is a student
at Thayer Academy, Braintree. He is
taking the final year of high school work.
Proctor, it will be recalled, was ttie Shaw
Scholarship pupil last year.
He is taking an active part in the musi-
cal life of his school, being a member of
the orchescra, band, and glee club.
Vol.43 No. 9 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. Jan. 1940
Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass.. as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874
Special Notice
Our friends should see the School's
window display in the window of the S. S.
Pierce store at Copley Square. This is our
exhibit for the 1940 Community Fund.
New Building Completed
Our readers will be gratified to know
that our new building has been completed.
The contractors, William M. Bailey &
Co., after approximately five months of
work, have left the Island, leaving us a
building which is ideal in every way for
our use. Kilham, Hopkins and Greeley
were the architects.
We know that many of our friends
will want to inspect the building, and in
anticipating the viewpoints which may be
expressed, one finds difficulty in noting
just which part of the building will arouse
the greatest interest, or give the greatest
satisfaction. The large, comfortable dining
room, with its beautiful maple furniture,
colorful draperies and other furnishings,
will thoroughly please everyone. Those
who are interested in the preparation of
food will find the kitchen of much interest.
Standard equipment is used, some of
which is taken from our old kitchen. Most
of the equipment, however, is new and
has been installed by the contractor. The
range and tier ovens have been purchased
with special regards for our needs, and
admirably suit our requirements. Pyrofax
gas is used for fuel, and this fuel is re-
garded as equal to or better than any other.
Between the kitchen and dining
rooms there is a smaller room for storing
dishes, serving food, washing dishes and
other kindred uses. Some of the equip-
ment in the room includes a plate warmer,
water cooler and a dishwasher of the latest
design. Labor saving devices, not only
in this room, but throughout the building,
will make the work required much more
pleasant to accomplish than it would be
under ordinary circumstances.
The main entrance leads to a hall
where the faculty will gather. A private
dining room, for the use of guests at
special times, is located on the right of this
reception hall. The main dining room is
on the left.
The basement, which is very well
lighted, ventilated and comfortable in
every way, has six rooms, corridor, boys'
waiting room, lavatory, and an unfinished
area. There is a room for the use of the
dairy; another for vegetable preparation;
a third room contains the heating, water,
and lighting inlets and the hot water tank;
another room is used for egg storage, and
a fifth room is a storeroom for general
food products. A large room in the
center of the basement contains the neces-
sary motors and equipment needed for
the two refrigerators, one of which is
located in the basement and the other in
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
the kitchen. A dumb waiier will make it
unnecessary to carry any heavy objects
on the stairways. At the rear entrance
there is a comfortable room for the boy?
to congregate at mealtimes, and it will be
unnecessary for anyone to wait outside in
inclement weather.
The second floor of the building is
given over to dormitory rooms for 26
boys and two instructors. Attractive fur-
nishings give a homelike touch to the
dormitory. Shower rooms and lavoratories
are located on this floor. Visitors will find
this part of the building of great interest,
and the homelike atmosphere will be
readily apparent. The maple furniture is
new, and was purchased from funds
supplied by an anonymous friend.
A synchronized electric clock system,
of Telechron design, is centrally controlled
and dials are placed at convenient places
in the building. A fire alarm system has
boxes located at strategic points.
There is much that could be written
about this 60 x 80 foot, Colonial type
brick fire proof constructed, building. This
description will, it is hoped, arouse inter-
est in the building to the extent that our
friends will want to see it. We are confi-
dent that visitors will rejoice with us in
our good fortune in having such a grand
structure, and that the inspiration and joy
which we have received from the building
project will become immediately apparent.
The Scouts Christmas Party
On December 22 Troop One held its
annual Christmas party. The troop as-
sembled in the gymnasium at 7:30. Ten
of the youngest boys in school, who are
Claus(Richard A. Martin) had arrived at
the scout room, and the boys ended the
snake dance near the scout room entrance.
The troop committee members and the
scoutmaster entered, being jovially wel-
comed by Santa. The scouts followed, each
one getting personal greetings from Santa.
After all were seated members of the troop
spent a short time guessing Santa's identity.
Each member of the troop had previ-
ously drawn a fellow scout's name, to
whom he was to give a present. There
were gifts for all. As each scout received
his gift he opened it so that everyone could
see it.
There were plenty of refreshments
consisting of sandwiches, pop corn balls,
fruit punch, apples and candy.
When the party ended everyone felt
that the troop had had a fine time.
Murdock C. Moore
Winter Sports
With the help of plenty of good cold
weather, and snow, winter life at F. T. S.
is to many the happiest period of the year.
The most popular sport is skating, and
several areas are flooded, so that cold
weather usually means skating. The snow
sports, such as skiing, toboganning, and
coasting, are always greatly enjoyed.
This liitle picture shows three of ihe
not members of the troop, were guests, ^oys tobogganing. With the coming of
The first activity was a snake dance around the first snow a slide is built on the front
the main building. By this time Santa lawn.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The Christmas Concert
Every year we have a Christmas
Concert, which takes place the Sunday
preceding Christmas. This year the concert
was given on December 17. "'
The main part of the program was a
play by Aileen Humphrey Yinger, en-
titled, "There is Room in the Inn." The
play was rehearsed under the direction of
our principal, Mr. Ronka. New costumes
were made by Mrs. Ronka, and were fine.
The stage setting was that of an inn
in Bethlehem. The innkeeper did not treat
his wife too kindly, and he was cruel to
his servant boy. He refused hospitality to
those who appeared to be poor. He en-
tertained wealthy people lavishly. Among
those who had been turned away from the
Inn were Mary and Joseph. The three
wise men, who stopped at the Inn, told
the innkeeper of his selfishness. This
made a complete change in the inkeeper's
mode of living, and he became devoted
to his wife and he treated people less
fortunate than himself, with kindness.
Those who took part in the play
included: Warren A. Danner, Charles
Gilbert, Jr., William J. Mara, Jr., William
P. Dufault, James E. McCarthy, James
J. Macdonald, Robert G. Ryerson,
Arthur L. Thibodeau, Murdock C.
Moore.
Tne Choir was especially good and
sang a group of Christmas hymns. Two of
the smaller boys sang a duet. The brass
quartet played and there was a cornet solo.
Miss Graham, one of the teachers, re-
hearsed several of the boys who gave
recitations.
The Chapel was nicely decorated,
the stage setting and beautiful costumes
helping to create the proper Christmas
spirit.
The complete program of the concert
was as follows:
PROGRAM
Selection "The Beautiful Star"
Choir
Recitation "Call to Worship"
Curtis J. Nelson
Hymn "O Come All Ye Faithful"
Congregation
Recitation Glendon L. Campbell
"Let Us Go Even Unto Bethlehem"
Cornet Solo "Cantique de Noel"
William N. Dodge
Scripture Reading
Linwood L. Meacham
Selection "Merry Christmas"
Choir
Recitation "The Blast of Nature"
Clifton M. Dunn
Duet "Away in a Manger"
Robert P. Donnelly, Alan P. Stewart
Brass Quartet "Christmas Hymn"
William N. Dodge Ernest Burns
Axel R. Hallberg George F. Connors
Prayer
Robert H. Stone
Christmas Play
"There is Room in the Inn"
Hymn "Silent Night"
Congregation
Benediction Rev. Lloyd E. Perrigo
The members of the choir were:
Donald W. Lowery, Robert H. Stone,
Joseph F. Harrington, Gerard W. Har-
rington, William J. Robelen, James F. St.
Coeur, George F. Connors, Wesley C.
Gustafson, Walter H.Johansson, Charles
H. Grant, Edwin W. Colby, Jr., William
B. Pratt.
The concert was line in every way,
and those who took part deserve much
credit for their outstanding work.
Richard J. Nelson
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
Cbompson's Island Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS.
MuRDocK C. Moore
Richard J. Nelson
- - Editor
Assoc. Editor
Vol.43 No. 9
January 1940
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. D.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gnrham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charles E. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adaros
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis
Frederic Winthrop
George P. Denny, M. D.
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonshire Street, Boston
A Member of the Community
Federation
For over a century this Boys' Town
in Boston Harbor has been providing a
home and education for selected boys.
These boys are selected for character and
worthiness. They are like the boys who
are selected at collcj^es and universities
for free scholarships — boys who have
earned the privilege but who, because of
adverse family circumstances, would other-
wise be deprived. They are the type of
boys who are picked by churches. Rotary,
Kiwanis, Lions, Moose and other organ-
izations for equalizing opportunity.
We like to admit each new young citi-
zen at the age of ten or eleven and then
provide him with the opportunities of life
for five or six years so that he may, in spite
of family adversity, have a rich, full life
and be prepared toencounter the problems
of adult life.
Penn, The Florist, a kindly gentle-
man and a lovable man, gives us the
following poem in his Penn-Trail Maga-
zine. It expresses our idea of the real
desire of most every human being and our
school now more than ever before pro-
vides this home for every boy.
My Desire
By Thomas Cotton
I do not care for mansions grand,
Or castles by the sea.
Give me a little plot of land,
And a home built just for me.
A place that I can call my own,
Where wild flowers bloom in spring,
Where everything is nature grown,
And where the wild birds sing.
I do not care for wealth or fame.
Or crowns upon my head,
I only want an honest name.
To follow me, when I am dead.
THOMPSON'S fSLAND BEACON
Topics in Brief
"There Is Room in the Inn," a
Christmas play by Aileen Yinger was given
by a group of the boys on Sunday evening
December 17. The Christmas spirit of
unselfishness was portrayed, and the theme
of the play will be long remembered.
This was the feature of our Christmas
Concert. Readings, vocal and instru-
mental selections and singing by the choir
completed the program. More than thirty
boys took part, and the Concert was very
much enjoyed.
The month of December was given
over to the jobs of the Christmas season.
The boys take keen delight in making gifts
for their friends, and the Sloyd room is
indeed a busy place during the holiday
season. The boys make those things they
wish to, and the older pupils surprise their
friends with such articles as sewing cabi-
nets, chests, trays, piece bowls and other
similar woodworking projects. The smaller
boys produce simple things such as bread-
boards, pen trays, coat hangers, paper
knives and other small Sloyd articles.
Those who receive these as presents are
greatly pleased, for they have something
made by the giver, and such is the training
received that all these gifts show superior
workmanship.
The happy, traditional custom of carol
singing on Christmas Eve was continued
this year. A group of boys and instructors
went about the school singing the familiar
carols. After caroling the group was in-
vited by Headmaster and Mrs. Meacham
to have refreshments and all had a pleasant
visit at the Adams House.
On Christmas morning Santa Claus
(Frederick S. Very, '33) arrived at nine
o'clock and shortly after was very busy
distributing gifts. There were presents for
all. It took more than an hour for Santa
and his corps of assistants to deliver the
large number of gifts.
President Arthur Adams provided a
program for the School on Christmas
afternoon. Miss Pearl Young entertained
with musical selections on the Theremin,
an instrument which produces a lovely
musical tone, the pitch of which is gov-
erned by the player's hands acting upon
a metal rod which is connected to a set
similar to a radio receiver. Miss Young
invited many of the boys to try to play
the instrument and several gave good
accounts of themselves. Selections on the
electric guitar and piano completed her
part of the program. Magic and jokes
were provided by Mr. Jesse Kelly. Mr.
Kelly had several odd stories to relate and
he performed some tricks which still mysti-
fy the younger boys. We appreciate deeply
the kindness of Mr. Adams in generously
providing this entertainment for us. It
was thoroughly enjoyed.
By the time this reaches our readers
we expect to be completely moved into
our new building. A friend, who wishes
to remain anonymous, for the present at
least, has made it possible for us to have
new furniture throughout the building.
Most of the furniture has been installed in
the building, but there has been some de-
lay in the matter of tables for the dining
room. The dedication of the building
will take place very soon, and we are
certain that our friends will rejoice at our
good fortune in having such a fine
building in furthering our work with boys.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Everyone at the School takes this
opportunity to thank the Alumni Associ-
ation for the pound box of chocolates he
received on Christmas Day. This is pro-
vided for by the Richard Bell Candy Fund,
and is an annual holiday treat.
On New Years Day we were privi-
leged to hear an illustrated talk by Mr.
Gordon K. Hurd, who took us on a trip
from Medford to Yellowstone National
Park and return.
Basketball season began following the
Christmas holidays. The younger boys
are organized in a five team league. An-
other group of older boys make up a four
team league. The best players comprise
the varsity squad. Another team, the junior
varsity, is recruited from the younger lads.
Each of these eleven teams plays at least
one league game each week.
Calendar 90 Years Ago, December 1849
As Kept by the Superintendent
25. This being a holiday the boys
were supplied with a good dinner, with
pies, cakes, etc., and a handsome Christmas
tree was loaded with presents for each
person on the Island.
The produce of the past year has been
estimated at 65 tons Hay, 9 bu. Barley, 4
bu. Beans, 175 bu. Turnips, 175 bu. Beets,
790 bu. Carrots, 1,000 bu. Potatoes, besides
squashes, pumpkins, melons, green peas,
beans and corn, cabbsges, tomatoes, as-
paragus, etc.
The present number of boys is 89; of
whom 28 have both parents living; 12
have a father; 33 have a mother; and 16
are orphans.
Honor Roll— Winter Term
Junior Class: Murdock C. Moore,
84.2; Wesley C. Gustafson 83.8.
Sophomore Class: Charles A. Pecce,
90.5; Winthrop Davidson 89.0.
Freshman Class: William P. Dufault,
89.3; William J. Klaila 89; Ralph E. Pratt,
89.
Eighth grade: Francis H. Daniel, 89;
William J. Mara, 88.6.
Seventh grade: Robert P. Donnelly,
90.5; Malcolm C. Huston, 89.3.
Sixth grade: Clifton M. Dunn, 87.3;
William J. Robelen, 86.3.
The following boys have received a
mark of 90 or over in scholastic effort for
the past term.
Junior Class: Wesley C. Gustafson,
Harold K. Malmgren.
Sophomore Class: Warren Danner,
Charles A. Pecce.
Freshman Class: William J. Klaila,
Donald W. Lowery, William L. Schlegel.
Eighth Grade: William J. Mara,
Arthur L. Thibodeau.
Seventh Grade: Robert P. Donnelly,
Earl W. Hooper, Walter W. Smith,
Arthur B. Stilphen.
Sixth Grade: William J. Robelen.
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, December 31, 1939
RESOURCES
Savings Bank $1277.47
Cash
127.34
$1404.81
LIABIUTIES
Boys' Deposits $626.47
Trading Co. Deposits .... 617.31
Cottage Row Deposits . . . 3.24
Photo Company Deposits . . 43.43
Surplus 114.36
$1404.81
December Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 57'' on the
first.
Minimum Temperature 6" on the
twenty-seventh.
Mean Temperature for the month 34°.
Seven clear days, six partly cloudy,
and eighteen cloudy.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
An Accomplishment in Sloyd
There are few accomplishments which
give the satisfaction that a pupil receives
when he completes the Sloyd course at
F. T. S. It takes two years of daily class
and shop work to satisfactorily do the pre-
scribed course. Every year, at Graduation,
special diplomas are awarded those who
have finished the Sloyd course.
The final model made in this course
is the tool chest. This is the largest Sloyd
project, measuring 30x14^/2 inches, the
standard size for a tool chest. It is a
handsome and very useful chest, which
the maker prizes.
At work in a Sloyd class
The tool chest is worthy of a de-
tailed description. It is made from cypress,
a soft yet durable wood. Oak trimmings
add to the attractiveness of the model.
The sides and ends are dove-tail jointed.
The cover is made of five separate pieces,
four of which are used for the outside edge.
The panel in the cover is raised, adding
to the attractiveness of the finished model.
An optional part of the chest is a till.
Half blind dove-tail joints are used in
making this part of the chest. Most of
the boys like the till, as it can be utilized
for the convenient keeping of small
objects.
After the tool chest has been com-
pleted many pupils like to have their
names painted on the center of the cover
panel. There are always boys or faculty
members at F. T. S. who have considerable
talent, so that this lettering is done with
almost a professional touch.
The tool chest is a prized model, and
is so well made that it lasts a lifetime.
Axel R. Hallber^
The Jester's Comments
— Late every evening Harold Malmgren
needs to have his bed warmed. Thus it
is that several have noticed Dick Martin
proceeding through the hall with a hot
water botde. "Marty" may imagine he is
practicing as a male nurse and that he is
getting hot svater to ease strain from hard
labor; yet the general opinion is that
Malmgren's bed is cold, hence the hot
water bottle. Ugly rumors!
After the above was written it was
learned that "Marty" decided to use the
hot water bottle himself. Malmgren was
out of luck! Yet, as it was proved, not so
unlucky, for on that night, which was
bitterly cold, the bottle broke, and the
water froze. Unpleasant truth!
— Visitors who wonder at the size of
Wesley Gustafson may rest assured that
he is no fugitive from a circus side show.
"Gussie" stands about 62 inches, and ap-
pears almost as broad. Yet, after re-
moving numerous sweaters and jackets, he
assumes quite a normal shape. "Gussie"
makes most of the trips on the boat and
believes in good anchorage.
— Donald Lowery has the distinction of
being 1940's gift to 'boner" basketball.
Donald scored a field goal after the game
had been underway foronly a few seconds.
But, alas, he shot the ball into the wrong
basket, thus scoring for the opponents.
— Did you ever realize that yawns were
contagious? The Juniors do. Murdock
Moore, the "yawniest" boy ever, has his
whole class yawning five minutes after
school opens. Not even the teacher is
exempted.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Cbe Jllunini Jlssociation of Che farm and trades School
Frank L. Washburn, '83, President
Roxbury, Mass.
Harold W. Edwards, '10, Treasurer
Arlington, Mass.
Clifton E. Albee, '21, Vice-President
Thompson's Island
Merton p. Ellis, '97, Secretary
77 Summer Street, Boston
G. George Larsson, '17, Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
Gommitees For 1940
Membership
Frank L. Washburn, '83. Ch.
William Alcott, '84
Francis A. Curtin, '35
C. Archie Graves, '07
Arthur H. Pickard, '34
Entertainment
Robert E. Dudley, '16. Ch.
Chester W. Buchan, '23
Waldo L. Waters. '30
Auditing
Clarence W. Loud. '96, Ch.
Augustus N. Doe, '75
Charles E. Nichols. '06
Alumni Fund
Alfred C. Malm, '00. Ch.
Walter B. Foster, '78
Luke W. Halfyard. '21
Harold W. Edwards. '10
Alfred W. Jacobs, '10
Bell Fund
Will F. Davis. '79, Ch.
Henry A. Fox. '79
James H. Graham. '79
Nominating
Norman F. Morse. '85, Ch.
Howard B. Ellis. '98
Frederick W. Pearson, '78
James Smith '66, a loyal alumnus,
Beacon subscriber and frequent corre-
spondent, died in Plant City, Florida, in
July. Mr. Smith was very active in com-
munity affairs and had been Mayorof his
city. We were recently notified that a
part of his real estate and personal proper-
ty assessed at approximately $2,000.00 was
left by legacy to The Farm and Trades
School.
Raymond H. MacQuesten, '25
designed our window display for the 1940
Community Fund. It is on display at the
S. S. Pierce Copley Square store. It is a
masterpiece of art.
Howard F. Lochrie. '16. is Sales
Managerforthe General Foods Company
250 Park Avenue, New York City.
John Goodhue. Jr. .'21. was a recent
visitor. He is the owner and operator
of the Goodhue Boat Yard in Braintree.
He is also with other enterprises, all of
which keeps him very busy. His mail
address is Arborway Drive, East Braintree.
A. Conrad Ericsson. '28, works
for a South Boston metal corporation.
Recently he arranged for the School brass
quartet to be in a Christmas program at
his Church, in Cohasset. His home is in
that town, and mail addressed to him at
North Main St., Cohasset. will reach him.
Clyde W. Albee '33 is listed in
the December issue of "The New England
Naturalist" as Assistant in the Installation
and Preparation Department of the Boston
Society of Natural History.
Frederick S. Very. '33, has re-
turned to his former position with the
Buck Printing Company of Boston. His
home address is 31 Gordon Steet, Allston.
David R. Harris '36, has returned
to Washington, D. C, and his address
there is 317 Crittenden Street, N. W. He
visited us during the past summer, and
spoke interestingly of his contacts in the
nation's capital.
J^ Vol. 43 No. 10 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. Feb. 1940
* Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874
The First Dinner
Tuesday, January 23, will be remem-
bered as a red-letter day in the history of
our school, for at one o'clock on this day
we served the first meal in our new
building. We were privileged to have with
us many members of the Board of
Managers, and Alumni representatives.
The transition from the old dining room
to the new was made in the morning, with
almost unbelievable smoothness, and the
first dinner, with its main dish consisting
of chicken, was very much enjoyed.
Following dinner three members of
the student body spoke briefly, telling in
their words, just what the new building
meantto them. Those who spoke included
Murdock C. Moore, representing the post-
graduates; Charles A. Pecce, representing
both Cottage Row Goverment, of which
he is Mayor, and the Class of 1940, of
which he is president; and William J.
Mara, Jr., who represented the younger
boys.
President Arthur A dams, of the Board
of Managers, told of the eld dining room
as it was forty years ago, and the vast im-
provements made since then. He said that
the development ofthe school demanded
the new building, and he congratulated
the building committee on its splendid
work.
Vice-Pres. Edward Wigglesworth, the
building committee chairman, was invited
to speak concerning the work connected
with the planning and actual construction
of the building. He paid tribute to our
Headmaster, William M. Meacham, who,
Mr. Wigglesworth related, had accom-
plished much of the detail work in con-
nection with the project.
The other members of the Board were
introduced, as were the alumni representa-
tives. The occasion, informal through-
out, was concluded by the singing of "God
Bless America".
The Managers and guests spent a
pleasant hour inspecting the building, and
were exceedingly pleased with the entire
structure.
Guests present on this occasion were:
Arthur Adams
Edward Wigglesworth
Augustus P. Loring
Philip H. Theopold
Alfred C. Malm, '00
Gorham Brooks
Mr. and Mrs.Walter B. Foster, (78)
Philip S. Sears
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott, '84
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Merton P. Ellis, '97
Howard B. Ellis, '98
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Our Sunday School Contest
Each Sunday morning when we have
Sunday School we have a contest in Bible
knowledge. Our minister, Mr. Perrigo,
gives two questions and those who can
find the answers in the Bible before the
time limit gain points for their team. The
School is divided into two teams, called
the Gold and the Blue. I belong to the
Gold team and we are ahead, although
the Blue team has a good chance to win.
Curtis J. Nelson
Skating
During the past few weeks there has
been good ice and Henry Porter and I
played a kind of hockey game every after-
noon. He won a few times, and then I
began to win. We enjoyed this game
until yesterday, when Porter fell on the
ice and hurt himself. He had to stop
skating for a few days.
Arthur B. Stilphen, Jr.
Sixth Grade Plans
While we are eating, the boys in my
class make plans for the day. Usually
Clifton Dunn says, "iMeet me at the gym".
He always makes plans, but he never keeps
them. The other boys, Curtis J. Nelson
and Gerard Harrington, make a great
many plans, and scheme all sorts of things.
But when we leave the dining room they
forgot all the schemes and do something
else,
William J. Robelen
Visiting Hour
The boys who live in the new
building have visitors each evening. Boys
who do not have rooms in the new
building enjoy visiting with their friends.
Usually we listen to the radio, talk, or
sometimes play games. Some of us go
visiting every time we have an oppor-
tunity, and the dormitory is certainly a
busy place during visiting hours.
Robert P. Donnelly
The Point System
In our printing class we have been
studying the point system. This is the
system of measurement that all printers |A
use for everything except paper. There ^
are 72 points in an inch. Type is measured
by points, so that 24 point type is I3 of an
inch from nick to back. Leads, furniture,
brass rules, and other materials used in the
printing ofhce are measured in picas. A
pica is 12 points thick.
Malcolm C. Huston
Our Assembly
Our class, the seventh grade, gave a
play entitled, "Signing the Declaration of
Independence", last Monday. Wellman
Bonsey played Jefferson's part; Glendon
Campbell, Franklin; Robert W. Duquet,
Adams; Robert Donnelly, Sherman; and
Henry J. Porter, Livingston. The play
opened with a speech by Jefferson. The
other characters then entered into a period
of discussion and finally agreed to work
unitedly for independence.
Glendon L. Campbell
Our Music Class
Every day, at five o'clock, we have
a music class of beginners, Mr. Albee is
our teacher. There are four boys learning
to play the alto horn. They are: Clifton
Dunn, William Robelen, Curtis Nelson
and myself. We first learned about the
treble clef and then we beg m to practice
tones on our instrument. We are learning
now to play simple pieces.
Gerard W. Harrington
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The Nut League
This seems like a strange title, but it
isn't. It is the name of our basketball league.
There are five teams in the league, the
Cocoanuts, Walnuts, Chestnuts, Peanuts
and Beechnuts. We have good close
games. Most of the boys in this league
have never played before, and nearly all
i of them are small boys. The Cocoanuts
^ have not lost a game this season. Ralph
E. Piatt is the captain. The Beechnuts,
captained by Donald W. Lowery, are in
second place. I play for the Cocoanuts.
Walter W. Smith
Our Game
Last Saturday a group of beginners in
basketball came from the Trinity Church
and played a beginners team which we
organized. Our team didn't have much
practice. The visitors were much taller
than we were. We lost, but everyone had
a good time. One of the visitors shot a
goal into the wrong basket and scored
two points for us. The final score was
Trinity 18, F.T.S. 4. Our lineup was:
Henry Porter, if; William Robelen, rg;
Robert Duquet, rf; Robert Donnelly, c;
Clifton Dunn, Captain, Ig; Gerard W.
Harrington, substitute. Robert W. Duquet
The Game of Spy
One of the games which has become
popular with the boys lately is the game
of "Spy". This can be played by either
two or four players. A large board, made
up of small squares, is used. Each player
has twelve men, including two secret
policemen and a spy. The object is to
move your men through the route marked
on the board; whoever gets his "spy" into
one of the colored boxes at the end of
the board wins. Each man has a certain
value, and a man must be of a higher
value in order to make a capture. Police-
men may only capture spies. This game
gives hours of fun. Wellman E. Bonsey
The Dishwashing Machine
We have a new dishwashing machine
in the new building. Itis CHtirely diflferent
than the one we had in the old dining
room, and is much better. The old
machine was operated by a motor which
rocked a basket, containing the dishes,
back and forth. The new machine washes
by water being forced onto the dishes with
great pressure. By pushing a lever the
dishes wash, and by changing the position
of the lever the dishes rinse. The temp-
erature of the water is controlled by a
steam valve. The machine is entirely
closed in, while the old one was not.
James Patterson
Winter Farm Work
The boys who work on the farm in
the afternoon have many varied jobs to
do. Some are helping to build a semi-
permanent garage in back of the storage
barn. Others bring freight from the wharf
to the storerooms. Butchering takes time,
and many of the boys help in this work.
Manure is hauled from the barn and piled
by fields where it will be used as needed.
Some of the boys are helping repair
machinery, while others work on the
woodpile sawing wood into lengths for
fireplace use. Earl W. Hooper
Our Glass Program
Last Monday night the sixth grade
gave a program based on the Geography
of the North Central States. William J.
Robelen was the announcer. He first
introduced Darwin Baird, who told some
interesting things about Chicago. Gerard
Harrington spoke about the agricultural
products. Clifton Dunn told about mining
in the North Central States. Curtis Nelson
told about the manufacturing of many
products. Darwin Baird concluded the
program with a piano solo.
Clifton M. Dunn
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
CbOltipSOn'S Island Beacon ^ ^^'^^ ^^^^^ ^f The Farm and Trades
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS, SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS.
MuRDocK C. Moore
Richard J. Nelson
- - Editor
Assoc. Editor
Vol. 43 No. 10
February 1940
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. D.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gdrham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charic* K. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
George P. Denny, M. D.
Clarence W. Loud
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonshire Street, Boston
School
Established 1814 Thompson's Island Boston, Mass.
By Headmaster William M. Meacham
This school has been operating 126
years, 107 of these on its 157 acre farm
property, Thompson's Island in the city
of Boston in Dorchester Bay near South
Boston. It has continuously provided a
year round home to 100 well recom- ^
mended, worthy boys of Greater Boston,
a wholesome farm environment, swimming
and other summer camp facilities, trades
and academic training, clothes, medical
needs and other incidentals. We do not
exclude boys from outside this area if
there are vacancies not filled by Boston
boys. Last year 89 of our boys came from
Greater Boston.
Our boys are selected with a view to
providing for boys of good character from
homes broken by death or other causes
and who would not otherwise have the
normal opportunities of life. We do not
accept delinquent boys. Our complete
course of study extends six years, from
the sixth grade in school through the
third year of high school. We prefer to
have boys enter at the age of ten or eleven
for the entire six years through the ado-
lescent period because we find that real
development can be and is made during
that continuous period. The Island location
is especially good because of the many
facilities here and because it keeps the boys
from the harmful influences of congested
areas. Yet we are so near the mainland
that ten minutes takes us to Boston and
provides opportunity for rather frequent
visits to relatives, athletic contests, band
festivals and many other worthwhile
events.
The complete cost per boy for his
living, clothes, medical, education, music,
sports, entertainment and other incidentals
for the entire year is reasonably low. The
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
average expenditure is approximately $700
per boy for the entire twelve months.
This is less than half the cost of tuition and
board at many schools for nine months.
This comparitively low figure is made
possible by careful, economical manage-
ment and by the fact that every boy learns
to do many things by working in the
various departments. Part time every day
w . is devoted to work under competent men
and women in cooking, sewing, and
household duties for the younger boys,
and their rotating in the various depart-
ments of woodworking, printing, en-
gineering, power boat operation, care of
registered herd of Guernsey cattle, poultry,
vegetable production and fruit raising.
Our entire program is so organized
that each boy has four hours of study, four
hours of practical work and four hours of
play. The play time includes all athletics
with school teams and intra-mural teams for
every boy, a school band of 40 boys
(America's first boys' band and three
Boston Symphony Orchestra members
started here), a Boy Scout troop. Cottage
Row Government with its Mayor, Alder-
men and other city officials, swimming,
skating, snow sports, photography and
many other hobbies and individual inter-
ests. We are proud of this program of com-
plete development and happy experience
for our boys because it gives every boy a
rich opportunity for normal development,
a happy life and a preparation for
adult citizenship unequalled in any other
organization.
Parents, relatives and local organi-
zations are encouraged to help with the
expenses of each boy. Not more than
half the expenses of a boy is ever paid.
The boys are really worthy, needy boys,
boys who given normal opportunity de-
velop into fine, useful citizens but who
if permitted to continue in their home
community situations with little or no
guidance would in many instances be
likely to develop into undesirable citizens
and even expensive menaces to society.
Our current expense budget for 1939
was $69,900. The actual expenditures
were $68,884.40. The income was from
the following sources:
Permanent funds and trusts . $32,744.39
Printing and Woodwork . . 328.03
Board and Tuition . . . 11,317.64
Community Federation . 11,532.00
Donations 1,751.00
Deficit 11,211.34
Total $68,884.40
Our four-story Bulfinch main building
built in 1832-33 provides the major part of
our housing accommodations. Additions
and other buildings have been constructed
from time to time. The most recent
building, Bowditch House, was completed
in 1939. This is a two-story fire-proof
brick building, houses 26 boys and provides
dining room and kitchen for the entire
school. The Charles Hayden Foundation
helped financially with this building but it
was necessary to draw heavily upon our
permanent funds. This reduces our
annual income but it seemed the only
thing to do in order to properly provide
for these fine, worthy boys. We need
funds to complete our building program
and to make up our annual deficit.
This school has done a grand job in
providing for boys these 126 years. It has
taken good boys from improper environ-
ment, given them a chance in life and
turned out hundreds of valuable citizens.
More than 95 percent of our graduates are
excellent citizens and seldom does one be-
come a problem to society.
We are proud of our work and the
results attained with the resources available.
Words cannot adequately describe the
work. It must be seen to be appreciated.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
It is little less than amazing, this work
which goes on quietly right at Boston's
front door. It has been called by some
Boston's Boys' Town and that is not far
wrong.
Topics in Brief
On January 9 we had the pleasure of
enjoying a fine program arranged by
Malcom E. Cameron, '19. Mr. Cameron
gave his annual performance of mystifying
tricks of magic. For more than an hour
he kept the boys interested as well as
amused with a show that was second to
none. The boys had anticipated his visit
with enthusiasm and they were not disap-
pointed, for Mr. Cameron, assisted by
Mrs. Cameron, provided an entertainment
that will long be remembered.
The musical part of the program con-
sisted of trumpet duets and trios by
Howard B. Ellis, '99, Benjamin White
and Elmer Webster, all members of the
Omar Grotto Masonic Band of Boston,
of which Mr. Ellis is conductor. Howard
B. Ellis, Jr., assisted at the piano. Every-
one enjoyed the trumpeters very much.
We take this opportunity of thanking
Mr. and Mrs. Cameron and Mr. Ellis and
his friends for providing this splendid
entertainment.
On Saturday, January 6, Mr. Walter
C. Fannon, a South Boston scoutmaster,
and our Band Director, Mr. Frank L.
Warren, arranged the program for the
Music Festival to be given by Mr. Fannon's
scout troop. Our Band will play several
selections which we know will be received
very favorably by an anticipated large
audience. This event will take place in
the South Boston High School auditorium
on Febuary 20, and a varied and inter-
esting program is assured.
On Tuesday, January 23, the day
that we had our first dinner in the new
building, the boys began using the old
dining room as a place for general recre-
ation. Of course it will be some time
before this room is remodelled completely
but for the present we shall use it as often
as possible. Its use as a recreation room
fills a need which has long been apparent,
and the room will be a source of great •
pleasure and satisfaction to the boys.
The boys have enjoyed a vacation
from classes extending from December 22
until January 2. Many of the boys spent
part of this time at home. All of the boys
were here to observe Christmas Day.
During this period basketball season got
underway, and conditions were favorable
for outdoor winter sports.
On New Years Day basketball and
hockey games took place. For the first time
in many years an organized hockey game
was played between the Faculty and Boys.
The Faculty team won. Ice hockey has
been played steadily, and this game as
well as other ice games, has been popular
this winter. There are several skating
areas, and this sport is participated in by
nearly all of the boys.
The annual Sears Basketball series got
underway during the month. A schedule
of 38 games will be played. Four teams
in the Sears league are competing for the
silver shield awarded each year by Manag-
er Philip S. Sears. Mr. Sears also provides
individual trophies for the best player in
the five positions. The smaller boys are
grouped in another league of five teams
and have an interesting program of games.
The varsity is playing weekly and giving
a good account of itself in competition
with Y. M. C. A. and church teams.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Ten of our boy took part in the pag-
eant and parade held by the Community
Federation at the Mechanics Building on
January 22. This was an impressive cere-
mony, held to launch the 1940 campaign
for funds. We are a participating agency
in the Community Federation
Our boat trips have been run regularly
every day, though without some difficulty
due to ice conditions. We have not been
icebound, mainly because of government
and city boats keeping the ice broken so
that it could float out to sea. From the
southern end of the island to Squantum,
where there is no boat travel, the ice has
formed so that it has been possible to cross
to Squantum during the latter part of the
month.
The farm crew has been busy this
month making repairs on farm equipment.
The sprayer has been overhauled, and is
now in first class condition. Work has
also been accomplished on the tractor and
trucks.
There were three assemblies held
during the month. On January 8 the
eighth graders gave a variety program of
readings and musical selections. A week
later, on January 15, the seventh graders
presented a play based upon the signing
of the Declaration of Independence. The
sixth grade gave a geographical sketch
based on the North Central States. At
each Assembly, which are usually held
weekly, the Band gives a short concert.
Headmaster Meacham speaks briefly, and
makes various announcements. The as-
sembly period is opened and terminated
by singing.
A number of the boys have formed a
Bible study group and meet weekly with
our minister. Rev. Lloyd Perrigo. These
weekly discussion periods have proved
very helpful to the boys.
Moving pictures are always popular
with the boys, and we are having a regular
weekly program. The films are varied
and are supplied by the Y. M. C.A. motion
picture bureau.
During the month the School basket-
ball team played four teams, and won
decisively over each. On January 6 the
Quincy Baptist quintet was defeated 45-42;
on the thirteenth the Trinity Church lost
toF.T.S. 10-13; on January 20 the Ruggles
Baptist group lost 50-44, and on January
27 the Y. M. C. A. team lost 13-32. The
Junior varsity and the varsity second team
have both played contests with Church and
Y.M.C.A. teams.
Calendar 90 Years Ago, January, 1850
As Kept by the Superintendent
1. Total boys, 89. Two of these are
between six and eight years old; nine,
between eight and ten; forty, between ten
and twelve; thirty, between twelve and
fourteen; six, between fourteen and fifteen;
and two fifteen years of age.
12. A warm rain which carried off
the snow.
13. The Superintendent read a dis-
course from Abbott's School-boy— subject
"Other Worlds". The girls returned to
their school.
24. M. Grant, J. I. Bowditch and
S. E. Brackett, Esqrs., of the Board of
Managers made a visit to this institution.
The teacher, Mr. Marden, left the Island
for a week's vacation.
January Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 52" on the
fifteenth.
Minimum Temperature 8'' on the
twenty-seventh.
Mean Temperature for the month 28°.
Fifteen clear days, five partly cloudy,
and eleven cloudy.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Che >iiunini >issociation of Cbe Tarm and trades School
Frank L. Washburn, '83, Presidei
Roxbury, Mass.
Harold W. Edwards, '10, Treasu
Arlington, Mass.
Clifton E. Albee
Thompson's
'21, Vice-President
Island
Merton p. Ellis, '97, Secretary
77 Summer Street, Boston
G. George Larsson, '17, Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
Clarence W. Loud, '96 Elected
Manager
On the oc-
casion o f the
annual meeting
of the corpora-
t i o n of The
Farm and
Trades School
on January 30,
Clarence W.
Loud, '96, was
elected to the
Board of Man-
agers. The Al-
lunmi Associa-
'96
Clarence W. Loud
tion was requested last year to nominate
annually one of its members, who would
be an alumni representative on the Board
of Managers. The nomination was
reached by secret ballot, all the graduates
having an opportunity to vote.
Mr. Loud was born in Fort Scott,
Kansas, March 14, 1879. He came to
Boston in 1887, and entered the School
during that year. He graduated in 1896,
and soon after entered the employ of
Alfred Bowditch, a managingtrustee, who,
at that time, was Treasurer of the School.
For 42 years he remained at work in this
office, serving under Alfred Bowditch, and
later his nephew, IngersoU Bowdiich until
the death of both employers.
He then engaged in real estate man-
agement f)n his own account, having an
office at 104 Hanover Street, Boston.
Mr. Loud has been both President and
Treasurer of the Alumni Association. He
has served on many committees, and has
been a valuable member of the Association
in many respects. Other organizations of
which he is a member include the Boston
Real Estate Exchange and the Building
Owners' and Managers' Association,
He is married and has three children,
Mrs. Francis D. Fane, Miss Edith Loud
and Clarence W. Loud, Jr. He is a mem-
ber of the Central Congregational Church,
Newtonville, and lives at 23 Eddy Street,
West Newton.
Russell Adams, '19, visited us
duringthe month. Mr. Adams is employed
by the Eastern Massachusetts Railway Co.
He was impressed by the strides forward
which the School has made.
Thomas C. Kenvin, '38, has earned
distinct success as the drum major of the
Maiden High School Band. His show-
manship has been particularly evident at
the athletic meets staged by the school
teams during the fall and winter. He also
acts as drum major for other bands.
John R. MacDonald, '35, is living
at Weston, Mass., and is employed in the
Wellesley Dairy. He spends much time
on his drawing, at which art he is espec-
ially adept.
Howard M. Colpitts, '39, is at-
tending Wakefield High School. He was
a recent visitor and told of his activities in
school. He is working part-time in a store
in his town. He has continued his mem-
bership in the Boy Scouts, and has trans-
ferred to the troop in his town.
Weston O. Page. '38, has been a
visitor here several times this fall. He
speaks interestingly of his school work
at Lexington High School, where he is a
Senior. He takes an active interest in all
phases of school life.
Vol. 43 No. 11 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. March 1940
Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874
A Printing
Five Hundred Years of Printing
This year marks the 500th anniversary
of the birth of printing. This great in-
vention, as we know it today, is generally
credited to John Gutenburg, a German,
in 1440, although there were methods of
printing by impression as early as 4000 B.C.
Our School was the first in America
to include printing in its course of study.
It was in 1881 that this subject was added
to the curriculum, and this pioneer course
is nearing its sixtieth birthday. The study
of printing has grown by leaps and bounds
and most school systems in our larger
towns and cities include this course.
Innumerable articles will be published
OflBce Scene
during the year in honor of the 500th
anniversary of this most cosmopolitan and
international invention. Although the
Germans perfected the invention every
nation had a part in its development.
The observance this year is world-wide.
John Gutenburg is most famous for
his 42 line Bible, a work which is greatly
prized. A copy today would cost the
purchaser about a third of a million
dollars. Gutenburg's printing shop must
have been a type foundry, ink manu-
factory, machine shop, and printing
office combined, for all authorities agree
that he made, or supervised the making
of, all equipment he used.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Living in Bowditch House
When I was told that I was to be one
of the fortunate boys to live in Bowditch
House, I was very much pleased. I cannot
describe the great change in living there
and in the Main Building.
The dormitory rooms in Bowditch ac-
commodate six boys, excepting two which
have room for four. All the furniture is
new. The beds are especially good. The
dressers are of a unique pattern, as one of
the drawers opens into a desk. Chairs and
rugs complete the furnishings, excepting
for personal things, such as radios. The
furniture is made from maple, and is very
attractive. The bedspreads and curtains
have a nautical design very pleasing to the
eye.
There are two instructors who have
rooms in the building. They settle all
problems and are in charge of the boys
who live there.
The boys in each room are responsible
for the cleanliness of the room. We take
turns each day sweeping and cleaning.
Each boy makes his own bed.
The essential diflference in living in
Bowditch and in living in the Main
Building is that each Bowditch pupil lives
individually and depends on no one but
himself for his everyday needs, while in
the Main Building the boys are given
more supervision and have litde of the
freedom which the Bowditch boys enjoy.
Naturally everyone in Bowditch
House is pleased with the many advantages
it offers.
Axel R. Hallberg
A Seventh Grader's Day
Reveille awakens me every week day
at 6:15. I get ready for breakfast, and
have a half hour or so to spend in the recre-
ation room. When it is almost 7 o'clock,
I go to the Bowditch House for breakfast.
After breakfast, at 7:35, I go to school. I
finish at n:30. Dinner is at 12:00, and after
dinner 1 help in the dining room for an
hour. From 1:30 until 5:00 is free time,
and I can do whatever I wish. At 5:00 I
return to the dining room and help set the
tables for supper. Supper is at 6:00 and
after supper it is my duty is to clear some
of the tables. At 7:30 I can go to bed, or
if I wish, I can play basketball or play
games in the recreation room until 9:00.
At 9:00 everyone must be in bed.
Henry J. Porter
Horse Barn Experience
For several weeks one of my part time
jobs each day was working in the horse
barn. Two other boys also worked with
me. We had three horses and a pony
to feed and water. Each day we gave the
horses a good cleaning with a curry comb,
and then brushed the horses until their
coats shone. We cleaned each stall every
day.
Glendon L. Campbell
A Birthday Party
On March 1 we had a birthday party
in honor of Mr. Meacham's birthday. It
was begun in the Gymnasium, where we
had a picnic supper of sandwiches, fruit
punch, ice cream and cake. The next part
of the program was held in the Assembly
Hall. Moving pictures were shown,
followed by a number of stunts and
sketches. I thought the best part of the
show was the German Band, although all
the acts were good. Mr. Meacham re-
ceived some books as a gift from the In-
structors and Henry Porter, one of the
small boys, was chosen to be messenger
and deliver the books to Mr. Meacham.
The party was very good, and we en-
joyed it very much.
James Patterson
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The Snow Fight
On February 22, for the first time in
three years, there was enough snow for
an old-fashioned snowball battle. This
battle is to commemorate the birthday of
George Washington. Heavy snowfalls
left great quantities of material from which
were built two magnificent forts. General
"Bob" MacWha's army constructed a huge
rectangular fort on the north lawn. General
Warren Banner's army built a circular one
near the flagpole. Both were within snow-
ball range of each other.
Gen. MacWha's fort was considered
by many as the best because it was well-
packed and larger. General Banner's
fort was higher and smaller and it was
believed that it would fall under the first
hard attack.
The day of the batde dawned, and
each side spent the forenoon putting the
finishing touches on the forts. Last minute
instructions were given the staffs by the
commander of each army. The rules of
the fight were talked over and preparations
completed before the zero hour.
The armies met with the officials
shortly before two o'clock. At this hour
the signal "Charge" was given. General
MacWha, whose army was to make the
first charge, rushed towards the area of
the opponents. The defenders fought
valiantly, and their fort resisted all attacks,
although it seemed the enemy would break
through the snow barricade. The period
ended with both sides inactive excepting
for a few skirmishes here and there.
The small sacks, which represented
points to be captured, were then placed in
General MacWha's fort. General Banner
and his army prepared for their charge
while the opponents got in position to
defend their fort. Many thrills made this
period the most exciting of the battle. The
attackers knew that a successful charge
would mean much towards a final victory,
while the defenders were determined to
repulse the attackers. The older boys at-
tacked the fort under cover of an incessant
barrage of snow balls fired by the younger
boys. Thrill followed thrill, and just as
it seemed that the attackers might break
through the fortress, valiant fighting kept
the defenders in possession of their fort.
The period ended with neither side gain-
ing an advantage.
The third and final phase of the con-
flict followed. Both armies were de-
termined to make the most of the "free-
for-all". The small sacks, representing
points, were placed on "No man's land"
and both armies charged for them. Skir-
mish followed skirmish, and as the sacks
were captured they were taken to the forts.
Finally all the sacks were in the possession
of one side or the other and General
MacWha found he needed a very few
points for a victory. General Banner,
realizing that victory was his if his side
could protect the sacks, called his men to
defend the hard-earned points. Although
the opposition fought valiantly the winning
points were too well protected and as the
signal to cease war was given General
Banner and his men gave a cheer which
rocked the battlefield.
A victory party followed the fight.
General Banner and his men went to the
gymnasium where the trophies of war were
served. Cocoa, candy, fruit, and dough-
nuts were relished. "To the victors belong
the spoils" was true, but the losers were
also invited to the Gym and joined in the
fun and the "eats".
Those who have seen the annual snow
battle here over a period of the past sever-
al years agreed unanimously that the 1940
fight was the best they had seen. Certain-
ly those who participated knew they had
been in a battle. Murdock C. Moore
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
Cbompson's Island Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS.
MuRDocK C. Moore
Richard J. Nelson
- - Editor
Assoc. Editor
Vol.43 No. n
March 1940
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. D.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gorham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charlc<i E. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adams
Leverett Saitonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
George P. Denny, M. D.
Clarence W. Loud
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonshire Street, Boston
Let's Give the Boy the Help
He Needs.
(Contents of a letter recently written
by the Headmaster.)
I appreciate your thoughtfulness in
sending me the Herald clipping of
Wednesday, March 6, 1940 of Angelo
Patri's article "Boys Need Constant Help
— Boarding School if Parents Cannot."
This is exactly the service The Farm and
Trades School has rendered these 126
years.
Patri says, "When the child who is
left alone all day begins to go wrong, it is
time to place him where he can be at-
tended to and helped to go right. The
boarding school ofifers the best solution
for his difficulty." He goes on to advise
the working mother to find an inexpensive
boarding school, and if she cannot find
one, "then a boarding home can be
certainly found." There are some who
would take issue with Mr. Patri but I am
confident that this child expert is right on
this point. (1 would suggest getting him
before he begins to go wrong.)
You will be interested to know that 1
received in the same mail a letter from a
former Melrose boy, Weston Page. He
completed the post graduate year at our
School last June and is now a senior at
Lexington High School. The letter
indicates that he is not finding it too diffi-
cult to adjust himself in new surroundings
after seven years with us. Lexington is
entirely new to him. He says in his
letter.
"I find that what you told me in differ-
ent Sunday School lessons is very true, that
life is a hard road and many hardships are
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
found on it, and also many opportunities.
I am going to Church three times each
Sunday and try not to miss a time. I
would like to know if it would be possible
for me to bring down my Young People's
group some Sunday afternoon to give a
service.
"I received four B's and one A in my
last report card thus placing me on the
honor roll for the term. Out of 185 Seniors
about 30 are on.
"A great accomplishment to my satis-
faction, however, was being voted to a
member of the Student Council, a body
that runs most of the affairs of the school.
There are 15 Seniors and 5 Juniors on the
Council, and I think I was very lucky to
get on. They usually pick someone who
has been at Lexington High two or three
years."
Topics in Brief
A group of the boys are studying the
prescribed Red Cross course in First Aid.
This is a valuable course, and our teacher,
Raymond Thomas, always has more appli-
cants for the course than he can properly
teach. The younger lads must wait their
turn. Most of the boys who graduate are
proud possessors of the certificate issued
by the American Red Cross to those who
complete the course.
The annual snow battle, for nearly
four decades a famed part of our
Washington's Birthday celebration, took
place this year under ideal conditions.
Two old-fashioned blizzards provided
plenty of snow and the boys made snow
forts which withstood all attacks. A free-
for-all rush gave General Warren A.
Banner's army, a victory by seven points
over General Robert W. MacWha and
his army. A visitor on the day, and one
who watched the battle with much interest
was Alfred C. Malm, '00, assistant treasur-
er of the school, and a member of the
Board of Managers.
Our Scout troop invited the School to
a program of entertainment during Boy
Scout Anniversary Week. During this
program the Chairman of our troop com-
mittee, Carleton W. Stiles, presented
Star Scout Certificates to four of our
scouts. George F. Connors, William N.
Dodge, Murdock C. Moore and Albert
E. Wilder were so honored. These boys
have earned the highest rank yet achieved
in our troop. Our Boy Scout Troop is
young, and we hope that greater honors
may be earned as the years go by.
The Annual Alumni Dinner was held
on Feb. 28, at the Hotel Lenox, with an
attendance of 42. Frank L. Washburn,
'83, newly-elected president, was intro-
duced. A full account of the gathering
may be found on the Alumni Page.
The National Youth Association is
sponsoring an American youth Symphony
Orchestra to be trained by Leopold
Stokowski. Candidates are being selected
country-wide. One of our young cornet-
ists, William N. Dodge, wasinvited to an
audition before Arthur Fiedler, director
of the Boston Pops Orchestra. Although
our young musician was of the youngest
age permitted an audition, Mr. Fiedler
congratulated him on his high musical
knowledge.
A group of our boys had the privilege
of broadcasting from Station WCOP on
February 24. This was the program of the
International Friendship League, of which
league several of our boys are members.
The boys spoke of letters they had re-
ceived from young people of high school
age in foreign lands. The program, of
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
one half hour in duration, was given over
to the boys and a round table discussion
was held. Murdock C. Moore was
chairman. Musical numbers were given
by William N. Dodge and Robert G.
Ryerson. Mrs. Marjorie Ronka, a member
of our staff, arranged for the program and
worked with the boys in preparing a fine
broadcast which resulted in high praise
for all concerned. Others who took part in-
cluded Frank Anderson, Arthur W. Chase,
William Dodge, Linwood L. Meacham,
Robert G. Ryerson, David A. Wilson,
William Schlegel, and Albert E. Wilder.
Nearly all the members of our Boy
Scout Troop attended a special service in
the Old South Church on February 11,
Scout Sunday. Music for accompaniment
to the singing and special numbers was
furnished by our troop brass quartet. The
twelfth scout law, "A Scout is Reverent",
was emphasized. The service was fine in
every way. In the evening, in our Chapel,
our scout troop assisted with our Sunday
evening service.
The Sears League basketball schedule
has been completed, and on the final day
of play the Antelopes, led by Richard
John Nelson, won the coveted Sears
Shield. The season has been one of great
interest. The smaller boys, grouped in
the Nut League, still have some games
remaining on their schedule, while the
Varsity will finish their games with the
return contest with Gordon College.
A group from the Trinity Church,
Copley Square, Boston, was here on
February 3, to play our boys in basketball.
Boys from three age groups were organ-
ized into as many teams. Our senior
varsity won, also our junior varsity. The
cub team from Trinity won over our
smallest boys. The school team played
three other games during the month losing
to the Ruggles Street Baptist Church team
and to the Braintree five; but winning over
the Village team from the Boston Y. M-
C. A.
There were three assemblies held
during the month. On Feb. 5 the Juniors
gave a pantomime based on Whittier's
"Snowbound". A week later the Sopho-
mores gave a fine play on Lincoln, while
on Feb. 26 the Freshmen presented a
splendid program of familiar words and
their derivations.
A considerable part of the main
building has been re-wired during the past
year, and this very important work is
being continued at this time.
Our Band was to have taken part at
a music festival at the South Boston High
School auditorium, but the program was
deferred because of the weather. The South
Boston Boy Scouts, who are staging the
festival, have set March 20 as the new
date, and our Band will be present to
assist in what is always a fine evening of
music.
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, February 29, 1940
RESOURCES
Savings Bank $1277.47
Cash 83.40
$1360.87
LIABILITIES
Boys' Deposits $598.34
Trading Co. Deposits .... 649.38
Cottage Row Deposits . . . 3.31
Photo Company Deposits . . 42.39
Surplus 67.45
$1360.87
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Che ijluinni JJssociation of Cbe farm and trades School
Clifton E. Albee, '21, Vi
Thompson's Island
Frank L. Washburn, '83, President
Roxbury, Mass.
Harold W. Edwards, '10, Treasurer
Arlington, Mass.
Annual Alumni Dinner
The Annual Alumni Dinner took
place on February 28, at the Hotel Lenox,
Copley Square in Boston. There were
42 members present, includingthree under-
graduates.
The Association was fortunate in
having a fine room off the main lobby of
the hotel. For the first hour of the pro-
gram the graduates enjoyed an informal
get-together in the hotel lobby. Experi-
ences of the past were retold with great
zest, and surely the older "boys", who
have been graduated for a half century or
so, retain deep, happy memories of their
boyhood days on Thompson's Island.
After a fine steak dinner Robert H.
Dudley, '16, Chairman of the Entertain-
ment Committee introduced William
Alcott, '84, a member of the Board of
Managers. Mr. Alcott, representing the
Board, paid special tribute to the Bowditch
family for over a century of service to the
School. Mr. Alcott emphasized the fact
that no school could have a finer group
of distinguished gentlemen serve as its
Board,
Frank L. Washburn, '83, who is the
President of the Association, spoke and
had interesting thoughts for the members.
Clarence W. Loud, '96, Alumni nom-
inee to the Board of Managers this year,
and who was duly elected to the Board last
January, was next introduced. He ex-
pressed his deep appreciation to the associ-
ation members for selecting him for this
high honor.
Lieutenant E. W. D. LeBlanc, '97, of
the Boston Police Department was asked
to address the group. Lieut. LeBlanc
spoke on the value of the training given
Merton p. Ellis, '97, Secretary
77 Summer Street, Boston
G. George Larsson, '17, Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
boys at The Farm and Trades School
for these past 126 years. He pointed out
that Farm School boys perhaps forget the
privileges they have enjoyed in their boy-
hood, and that continual appreciation is
due the Board of Managers.
Raymond Thomas, '26, gave a half
hour program of motion pictures taken at
the School during the past year. These
fine films held complete attention. There
were scenes of the boys at work and play;
of the buildings, farm and general activi-
ties. The construction of Bowditch House
was shown from the turning of the first
sod until the completion of the building.
Music was furnished by a brass quartet
from the School composed of William N.
Dodge, '40, Robert G. Ryerson, '40,
James J. Macdonald, '41 and George F.
Connors, '39. Several selections were
played and many comments were received
praising the boys on their fine appearance
and good musicianship.
Our Bandmaster, Frank L, Warren,
who was a guest of the Association, was
next called upon, Mr. Warren told of his
early contacts with Thompson's Island,
and then spoke of the band at the present
time. The interest of the graduates in the
welfare and progress of our school band is
intense and Mr. Warren's remarks were
followed with much interest.
Headmaster William M. Meacham
was the next speaker. He confined his
remarks to the school at the present, and
spoke of contacts which may ultimately
result in great benefits to the school, in
the not too distant future. Mr. Meacham
stated that progress, development and
growth were essential and that our School
was endeavoring to improve always in its
8
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
efforts to serve worthy, needy boys — the
identical type of lads for whom the School
was founded in 1814. Mr. Meacham had
many interesting comments and sidelights
which he related much to the satisfaction
of the gathering.
It was deeply regretted that President
Arthur Adams, of the Board of Managers,
was unable to be present. Pres. Adams
sent a telegram of regret from Washington.
The attendance of 42 was smaller than
we like to have it. During this winter the
weather has been unfavorable for such
gatherings, and those who live out-of-town
find it extremely inconvenient to travel,
especially in the evening. Conditions
being as they were, the committee felt,
that the attendance was good.
Robert E. Dudley, '16, Chester W.
Buchan, '21 and Waldo L. Waters, '30
comprised the committee which planned
the dinner, and to these gentlemen goes
the credit for a pleasant, happy evening
for the Alumni.
View from the Schoolroom Window
Looking out towards the North from
our schoolroom window one can see many
things. The most prominent are the snow
forts, both quite large even though they
were built three weeks ago. Then there is
the flagpole, which was broken at the first
joint by the blizzard on February 19.
Cottage Row is easily seen. The flower
gardens, hedge and playground are quite
near. The view is completed by Boston
Harbor's main ship channel in the
distance.
Arthur B. Stilphen, Jr.
Moving Pictures
During the past few months we have
had a showing of moving pictures every
week. Many of these come from the
Motion Picture Bureau of the Y. M. C. A.
The films from this bureau are very good.
and are chosen from lists of films for high
school students. Scientific, industrial, and
films of general instructive nature are
shown.
We have pictures of purely recreation-
al interest, most of which come from film
libraries in Boston.
We have had some motion pictures
showing national parks of the country.
These are issued by the Department of the
Interior in Washington. Other government
pictures show life in the Army, Navy and
C. C. C. camps.
Stanley C. Morton
Calendar 90 Years Ago, February, 1850
As Kept by the Superintendent
10. Religious exercises conducted by
the Superintendent.
Mr. Dickinson went to the city and
returned on Monday, 11th, bringing with
him James Love, who is admitted into the
School. The present number of boys is
ninety-seven.
15. William H. Furman, a colored
boy, from New Bedford was received into
the school, making the number one
hundred.
24. Received a visit from Alderman
Grant who addressed the boys.
Our Bulletin Board
In the seventh grade schoolroom there
is a bulletin board, and our teacher. Miss
Graham, sees that many interesting
things are posted there. There are pictures
and articles on the war being fought in
Finland, and another set about the war in
China. There is a newspaper clipping
about the rich natural background of the
state of New Mexico. Two maps of the
United States, one by Arthur B. Stilphen
and the other by Earl Hooper are also
posted.
Malcolm C. Huston
Vol. 43 No. 12 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. April 1940
Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874
Our boat, Pilgrim III, a familiar sight in Dorchester Bay, as it
makes several daily trips from the School to the mainland.
Band Notes
Our boys are eagerly anticipating the
school music festivals to be held during
May in Lawrence and Wellesley. During
these festivals thousands of pupils from the
public and private schools of New England
meet, and it is an inspiration to all to take
part in these great festivals. Our readers
know that communities finance their
school music groups. Our boys are de-
pendent entirely upon contributions from
friends, such as our Beacon readers, trusting
to their generosity.
On April 26, at eight o'clock, the boys
will give a full evening concert at Faneuil
Hall in Boston. This will be the fourth
annual concert that the boys have given in
this historic hall. A capacity audience
will greatly please the boys. No contri-
butions will be accepted at the door.
We hope that our many friends will
give our boys their whole-hearted support.
Our readers are cordially urged to
attend both the Massachusetts and New
England Music Festivals. On May 11, at
Wellesley, the school orchestras, bands
and choral groups of this state will have a
festival, and two weeks later the out-
standing groups of New England will hold
a festival at Lawrence. This New England
festival will be of two days duration, al-
though the final day, Saturday, will be
the most interesting, for on that day there
will be held the outstanding events.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
A Rotary Club Luncheon
On April 3 the members of the Band
attended a luncheon of the Boston Rotary
Club, and took part in the program. The
invitation extended the Band by the club
was secured through the efforts of our
Headmaster, William M.Meacham, who
is a Rotarian.
We left the island at eleven o'clock and
went to the Hotel Statler by bus. Upon
arrival there we went to the main ball
room of the hotel and formed on the stage.
We made everything ready so that we
could play a concert for the Rotarians.
Mr. Meacham then asked the boys to
choose a table at which to sit during the
luncheon. There were thirty or more
tables, each table seating eight. Two boys
sat at some tables, and one at the others.
This was done so that the Rotarians could
ask questions about the School. Each of
those present received a pamphlet de-
scribing the School, and as these were
read many comments were made and the
boys were asked to explain some points
more thoroughly.
Those who had birthdays during the
month were seated in the center of the
room at a special birthday table. Three
of our boys, David Haeger, Winthrop
Davidson and Robert Pecce sat at this
larger table.
After the dessert was served, the Club
president, Dr. Daniel L. Marsh, gave a
fine talk on birthday remembrances. He
then introduced the guests at the head
table. Among these guests were: Charles
A. Pecce, Mayor of Cottage Row, who
typified the average F. T. S. boy; Mr.
Frank L. Warren, director of the Band
and Mr. Clifton E. Albee, the assistant
director.
Mr. Meacham also sat at the head
table and was introduced as a member of
the team which had charge of the program
for that meeting.
The secretary of the club, Paul W.
Kieser, then gave his report. The visiting
Rotarians were introduced, and a book
written by the club president was given to
Reuben A. Mark, member of the Brook-
ings, South Dakota, Rotary Club. It is
the custom of the Boston Club to give a
book each week to the visitor whose home
club is located furthest from Boston.
The Northland College choir was
introduced and sang several selections.
This music was very fine, and enthusiasti-
cally received.
As the choir left the stage Mr.
Meacham took his place at the speaker's
platform and asked the members of the
band to go to the stage. He then talked
briefly about the School, stating some of
the more important facts about F. T. S.
Our band director, Mr. Frank L.
Warren, then led the boys in the ever-
popular "National Emblem" March. This
was followed by a selection of favorite
melodies from the Gilbert and Sullivan
operas. A trumpet duet, "Ida and Dottie"
was played by William Dodge and Robert
Ryerson. The fourth and concluding
number was the "Barrel Polka", presented
with novelty effects.
The boys were very happy over the
response of the club members who hearti-
ly applauded each selection played.
President Marsh thanked the com-
mittee for the fine program and made one
or two other very brief announcements.
The meeting was closed by the club
singing "The Star Spangled Banner", to
the accompaniment of the Band.
The members of the Band enjoyed
the luncheon immensely. We were very
well treated and in our opinion Rotary is
a club in which friendship and good
fellowship are outstanding. Their jovi-
ality and friendliness made us feel at
complete ease. We had a happy time.
Murdock C. Moore
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
The Easter Concert
The Easter concert this year look
place on March 24. The outstanding part
of the proaram was the Bible play "Even
Unto Death", which was superbly pres-
k^ ented by a cast of nine. Musical se-
;# lections were given by the Choir, together
with instrumental and vocal pieces by indi-
viduals. There were recitations by the
younger boys.
The play, "Even Unto Death", by
Marjorie G. Stephens, had the following
cast: Timna, a little maid of Caiaphas,
William Mara, Jr.; Akan, a servant of
Caiaphas, Linwood Meacham; Justus, a
Roman soldier, James J. Macdonald; a
Priest, Winthrop Davidson; Peter, a dis-
ciple of Jesus, Frank L. Anderson; a
Scribe, Murdock C. Moore; Zibeon, a
lame beggar, Russell L. Letson; another
Roman soldier, Arthur L. Thibodeau;
and the ministering angel, William H.
Britton. It was staged and directed by Mr.
Ronka.
The setting of the play is in Caiaphas'
reception room. The time for the trial of
Jesus draws near, and His followers are
denying that they know Him. They have
been bribed and blackmailed so that they
testify against Jesus, but Timna and Justus
remain loyal followers.
The play told a beautiful story simply
and was very impressive. Those who took
part deserve much credit for their fine
work.
The entire program was as follows:
A PROGRAM
Selection Face to Face
Choir
Invocation Rev. Lloyd Perrigo
Hymn Crown Him With Many Crowns
Congregation
Recitation He is Risen
Robert P. Donnelly
Baritone Solo Come Unto Me
George F. Connors
Scripture Reading
Robert H. Stone
Selection
Beneath the Cross of Jesus
Choir
Vocal Duet The Man of Gallilee
Joseph F. Harrington, Charles Gilbert
Recitation Miserere, Alleluia
Glendon L. Campbell
Brass Quartet Calvary
William N. Dodge Robert G. Ryerson
Axel R. Hallberg George F. Connors
Recitation Easter Sacraments
Alan P. Stewart
An Easter Drama Even Unto Death
Remarks
Mr. W. M. Meacham
Hymn
Christ Arose
Congregation
Benediction
Rev. Lloyd Perrigo
The members of the choir were:
Donald W. Lowery, Robert H. Stone,
Joseph F. Harrington, Gerard W. Har-
rington, Charles Gilbert, Jr., William J.
Robelen, George F. Connors, Wesley C.
Gustafson, Walter H. Johansson, Charles
H. Grant, Edwin W. Colby, Jr., William
B. Pratt.
Richard J. Nelson
New Building Work
Every day I have duties to do in
Bowditch House. I sweep the halls, empty
the waste basket and do other cleaning.
My job is also to keep the stock room
neat and clean. Later in the afternoon I
pour the milk into 10 quart cans from the
large 40 quart cans which come to the
refrigerator room from the dairy.
Earl W. Hooper
THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON
^bomp$on'$ Island Beacon
Published Monthly by
THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL
Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor
A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF LIMITED
MEANS. SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS.
MuRDocK C. Moore
Richard J. Nelson
• - - Editor
• Assoc. Editor
Vol.44 No. 12
April, 1940
Subscription Price
One Dollar Per Year
BOARD OF MANAGERS
Arthur Adams, President
Edward Wigglesworth, Vice-President
Tucker Daland, Secretary
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
Philip H. Theopold, Assistant Secretary
Alfred C. Malm, Assistant Treasurer
MANAGERS
Henry Jackson, M. D.
S. V. R. Crosby
Gorham Brooks
N. Penrose Hallowell
Charleo E. Mason
Robert H. Gardiner
Philip S. Sears
Walter B. Foster
Karl Adaros
Leverett Saltonstall
Charles Wiggins, 2nd
Edmund Q. Sylvester
John L. Batchelder
Moses Williams, Jr.
William Alcott
William M. Meacham
George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
George P. Denny, M. D.
Clarence W. Loud
Contributions may be mailed to
Augustus P. Loring, Jr., Treasurer
82 Devonshire Street, Boston
The end of our school year is ap-
proached at this season and marked by
intensified preparation for the music
festivals. It is difficult to say which feature
of our program is most important but The
Farm and Trades School without an ex- i
cellent band would be about as different
as springtime without robins.
Since America's first boys' band was
started here in 1857 almost every boy at
the School has learned to play a musical
instrument. The total number has been
comparatively small" because in these 83
years the enrollment of the School has
been limited to about 100 but in the aggre-
gate many have learned to appreciate
good music. Several excellent musicians,
including band leaders and three Boston
Symphony Orchestra members started
their musical careers here.
Human life and music are practically
inseparable therefore music should have a
vital part in education. Our school was
a pioneer in this thought and took the
lead on that memorable day 83 years ago.
When we claim pioneer honors in
music we must pause to give credit to the
Greek schools of more than two thousand
years ago. The school curriculum then
consisted of reading, writing, music and
gymnastics for the boys. The girls were
given gymnastic training only. The music
teacher was known as a citharist, and the
instrument used was a seven-stringed lyre. \
The important function of musical edu-
cations was "to sooth, purge, and harmo-
nize man within and make him fit for
moral instruction."
In the stress and turmoil of present-
day conditions is it strange that we claim
for music a place at the top in our edu-
cational program?
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Topics in Brief
Our Band had the opportunity to take
part in a world-wide broadcast, via short
wave radio station WRUL, on Saturday
March 16. This was the program of the
International Friendship League, and was
heard in 86 countries. Our boys furnished
the accompaniment foi' the singing, and
William Dodge, ourcornetist, played the
Danish National Song, "King Christian".
The members of the League for the most
part are high school students, and corre-
spond with other young people in foreign
lands. On this broadcast greetings were
sent by about fifty young people to their
foreign friends. Following the radio
program cablegrams were received from
Europe, and it was a thrill to hear them
read to the audience. The program has
since been rebroadcast by transcription on
two different occasions. The Boston press
stated that the hookup was the most ex-
tensive ever taken in short wave radio.
Many of the boys not in the Band
attended the broadcast, the arrangements
being made by Mrs. George R. Ronka,
who is the sponsor of our International
Friendship League group.
A group of our boys had the fine
privilege recently of attending the grand
flower show held in the Mechanics Build-
ing; another group enjoyed the motion
picture "Pinochio", at an intown theatre.
The basketball season has been
completed. It provided a schedule of
f games in which 74 boys took part. The
Varsity played ten games with Church and
Y.M.C.A. teams and won eight. The
second team also played, as did a team
composed of the younger boys in school.
These games with outside teams were very
well played.
Manager Philip S. Sears annually
gives a silver shield to the team winning
the championship in the Sears League.
This league is composed of four teams,
the boys for the most part being a little
younger than the members of the Varsity.
In this league the Antelopes, captained by
Richard J. Nelson won the championship.
The "Nut" league, made up of five
teams with the younger boys as players,
had a fine season. A twenty game schedule
was played, at the conclusion of which the
Walnuts, captained by Wellman Bonsey
and the Beechnuts, captained by Donald
Lowery, were tied for the championship.
A playoff game was won by the Beechnuts.
The leading scorers for the season
were: Varsity, Richard A. Martin; Sears
League, Gerald Connor; Nut League,
Donald Davis.
The Agriculture classes gave a fine
program on March 4. The boys il-
lustrated the method of judging cattle, and
used a Guernsey chart for this purpose.
Ralph Pratt gave an excellent talk giving
his reasons for deciding to specialize in
agriculture. Some of the boys gave musi-
cal selections.
A group of about forty students from
Gordon College were here on March 7
for the annual Gordon — F. T. S. basket-
ball game, which our boys won 31-16.
We enjoyed having this fine group as our
guests.
The week of March 25 was vacation
week, and the Spring term began on April
1. During vacation week the boys had
ample time to work on various hobbies.
Our old dining room, transformed into a
permanent recreation room, was a busy
place during this week, especially with the
stamp collectors, whose numbers have
suddenly become greatly multiplied.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Scout News
Our Scout troop comprises twenty-
one members at the present time. As soon
as those now second class work into first
class rank, so there will be enough leaders,
a group of 12 and 13 year old boys will be
invited to join as tenderfoots. The maxi-
mum number in a scout troop is thirty-two.
Our troop is now in the fourth year. The
roster of the troop at present is:
Star Scouts
George F. Connors
William N. Dodge
Murdock C. Moore
Albert E. Wilder
First Class
Stanley C. Morton
Second Class
Ernest Burns
Glendon L. Campbell
Donald L. Davis
David G. Haeger
Roland Hallberg
Franklyn S. Harris
George W. Harris
Malcolm C. Huston
Walter H. Johannson
James J. Macdonald
David A. Wilson
Tenderfoot
Asa M. Duquet
G. Wallace Hardy
William J. Klaila
Linwood L. Meacham
James F. St. Coeur
The Jester's Comments
— Pugno, the Latin word for fight, attracts
Bill Dodge's attention, for that worthy
lad has been practising the manly art of
self defence. Since the days of the old
Romsns good fighters have been in de-
mand and Bill intends to make a place
for himself. Let's hope it isn't a quiet
place.
— Bob MacWha, the Thompson's Island
Romeo, is always on the lookout for new
companions. The following conversation
took place at the supper table:
MacWha (to new student), "How's
your sister?"
New boy, "I have no sister."
MacWha, "What good are you!"
— Never seen:
Francis Daniel hurrying.
Cliff Dunn in a quiet atmosphere.
Bill Dufault neglecting his lady friends.
Bob MacWha working.
Shoe stores to accommodate Ray Perry.
Alan MacLean in an industrious mood.
Bill Schlegel forgetting to play cribbage.
David Wilson with a grouch.
— Every so often we get to thinking
about names. Did you ever realize that
a corner, or even corners, may get
burns? A fisherman might catch a stone,
but he would have done a dodge in moor-
ing too close. In a chase a boy named
brown might grant the prize to a porter,
a hardy lad, but the law might change it.
Maybe you can't figure this out. If
you have trouble ask George Harris. 'Tis
said Bucky once won a race by a nose.
What I Like Best at F. T. S.
I came to the School on April 6, and
have been asked to write about those things
which I like best here.
So far what I like best is playing the
game of marbles. This is marble season
and I have a good time playing, "poison"
and "ringer". I also like going in the
recreation room to read a good book or
play a game. I also enjoy going on beach
walks with the other boys, We find all
sorts of interesting things on the beach.
Howard B. Snell
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Calendar 90 Years Ago, March, 1850
As Kept by the Superintendent
4. Edward McManners went to live
with Mr. Edw. Thatcher, a farmer in
Yarmouth.
16. Received a visit from Geo. F.Law-
rence, a former pupil of the school.
17. A sermon was read by the Super-
intendent.
24. Deacon Grant addressed the boys.
26. The carpenters commenced work in
the clothesroom.
The Farm and Trades School Bank
Statement, April 1, 1940
RESOURCES
Savings Bank $1277.47
Cash 77.69
$1355.16
$590.00
650.51
3.31
43.89
67.45
LIABILITIES
Boys' Deposits . . . .
Trading Co. Deposits . .
Cottage Row Deposits
Photo Company Deposits
Surplus
$1355.16
Printing OflBce Machinery
The machinery in our printing office
consists of two printing presses, a stitcher,
a paper cutter, a proof press and a puncher.
The presses and stitcher are powered by
an electric motor. The other machines
are hand-driven.
The smaller press is an 8x12 Chandler
and Price, This is one of the most widely
used presses and is patterned after the
famous Franklin Gordon press. This
machinery is busy much of the time, as it
can handle nearly all the work done in
our printing office. The large press is a
Colts Armory 14x22. This is one of the
best presses made. It is used for larger
jobs such as the Beacon and school bulle-
tin. Visitors often ask how much work
each press can do. This depends almost
entirely upon the operator. A beginner
has to work very slowly and be extremely
careful. The size of paper being, fed to
the press also determines the proper press
speed. I think that an average of be-
ginners and advanced boys feeding the
presses would show that about 1000 pieces
of paper are printed for every hour that
each press runs.
The stitching machine is a Boston
Wire Stitcher, No. 4. It is very useful
and is utilized in the production of much
of our printed material. It can stitch both
"saddle" and "fiat"; that is, material which
opens in the center such as this Beacon,
and calender pads which are stitched flat.
It will stitch approximately one-half inch
of paper.
The proof press is used principally for
proofing long columns of type before the
type is made into pages. It has a flat bed
and a roller which makes the impression.
The paper cutter is a Brown and
Carver cutter with a 26 inch blade. The
blade is operated by a hand lever. Practi-
cally all our paper is cut in our shop so
that this machine is used consistently.
The punching machine is utilized for
loose-leaf book paper, and for programs
which are to be bound together with a
cord.
The machinery in our printing office
enables us to print most anything that a
small printing office handles. All School
printing is done in our shop, as well as
some work for friends in town.
Stanley C. Morton
March Meteorology
Maximum Temperature 60° on the
thirty-first.
Minimum Temperature 14° on the
twenty-fourth.
Mean Temperature for the month 33°.
Eleven clear days, nine partly cloudy,
and eleven cloudy.
THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON
Cbc Hlumni flssociation of Cbe Tarm and trades School
Frank L. Washburn, '83, President
Roxbury, Mass.
Harold W. Edwards, '10, Treasurer
Arlington, Mass.
Clifton E. Albee, '21, Vice-President
Thompson's Island
Carl G. Weeks, '29, writes from
Fort Monroe, Virginia, where he is an
enlisted electrical student. His letter is
well written and very interesting. Part
of it follows:
"On February 1st I received orders
which sent me here as an enlisted electri-
cal student. Fort Monroe is the "hub"
of the Coast Artillery, and the Coast
Artillery school located here is one of the
best in the Service. If I complete this
course I will be eligible for a staff sergeant's
rating as soon as there is a vacancy corre-
sponding to the place I make on the eligi-
bility list. The course will be over about
September 1st.
"Since I could not finish college I am
naturally delighted at my present oppor-
tunity. And, as I have said before, de-
lighted also with those things I learned at
F. T. S. Whether a soldier or civilian, I
have found the experiences at the School
to have been almost invaluable. At present,
in our machine shop work, I find my F.
T. S. training of great value."
We feel certain that he would appreci-
ate a letter from his classmates. Address
him at Fort Monroe, Virginia.
William F. Reagan, '37, is a stu-
dent at the Bendey School of Accounting.
He visited us recently and spoke of the
great interest he is finding in his advanced
schoolwork.
IVERS E. WiNMILL, '23, is a member
of the Boston Police Department. He is
attached to the traffic division, and is on
duty at a busy intersection in downtown
Boston.
Merton p. Ellis, '97, Secretary
77 Summer Street, Boston
G. George Larsson, '17, Historian
Hyde Park, Mass.
Frederick W. Pearson, '78, was ill
during part of the winter. He was un-
able to attend the Alumni Dinner in
February, much to his regret, for he is
very much interested in the Association,
and may always be counted upon to be
among "those present" at every alumni
gathering. We wish for him a very
speedy, complete recovery.
Robert E. Dudley, '16, is a very
active member of the Alumni Association.
He has served on many committees and
is now chairman of the Entertainment
Committee. He visits the school frequent-
ly and is very much interested in every-
thing pertaining to F. T. S.
For years he has been employed as a
confectionery salesman. His home is in
Belmont.
Randolph S. English, '37, is a
student at the Leiand Powers school,
where he is specializing in languages and
public speaking in preparation for a
career as a radio announcer. He has been
heard on the radio, and has been fortu-
nate in having some original scripts per-
formed. His address is 6 Copeland
Terrace, Maiden, Mass.
Harold W. Edwards '10, former
President of the Alumni Association and
present Treasurer, is Master of Russell
Lodge of Masons in Arlington. The
second officer of the Lodge, Senior War-
den, is Rev. John Nicol Mark.
Mr. Edwards lives in Arlington, at
54 Temple Street.
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