SEMI-CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION 69 



expensive for the College. I recall one large oak stump with 

 a large tap root and a mass of others needed to sustain the tall 

 sturdy tree, cut from it. It was only a few feet from the front 

 door of the boarding-hall. Digging away the dirt and cutting 

 off the roots required about ten days' work. Then it took the 

 stump machine to roll it out and two yoke of oxen and four 

 span of horses a half-day to draw it to the river bank near the 

 president's house, costing about $20. 



I have also a distinct recollection of some of the ditches. 

 One between College and Abbot was in places one and two feet 

 deeper than the height of the boys. The dripping from the dirt 

 thrown out and the spatter of the water from the chopping of 

 the roots made the boys look as though they had taken a mud 

 bath. 



The administration was frequently criticized for this exten- 

 sive work, but the legislature which fixed the limit of the location 

 of the College and those who selected the site should share the 

 responsibility. 



I have imperfectly and hurriedly mentioned a few of the 

 happenings of the six college terms ending November, 1859, and 

 can now simply add that about two hundred acres had been 

 cleared, four residences, a barn, and a small toolhouse had been 

 erected, the lots well fenced and in condition to produce good 

 crops, and a creditable garden and a greenhouse were well 

 started. Better than all this, I believe the boys generally had 

 reached that point where they appreciated that the work helped 

 pay their way, gain health and vigor, and assist rather than 

 hinder their studies. 



I mentioned the dearth of female society during most of the 

 terms until partially supplied by the girls of the "Fern Sem." 

 I would not have it understood nor leave it to be inferred that 

 the wives of the officers were not thoughtful and ready with 

 kindly assistance; but they lived in Lansing until the latter 

 part of the period covered and so could do little. I am sure 



