Searchable Index For:



Searchable Index For:

“Writing Pedagogy at Oak Park High School, 1913-1917”

 

This project examines how Oak Park High School (OPHS) teachers worked to improve writing at their school through:

1.      Classroom research

2.      Progressive pedagogical methods

3.      Student/teacher publication

4.      Extracurricular activities (including writing clubs)

 

Key:

TR = Trapeze

TA = Tabula

OPRFHS = Oak Park and River Forrest High School Archive

HS = Historical Society Archives

OL = Oak Leaves

HA = Hemingway Archives at Oak Park Public Library

 

Category One: Classroom Research

Entries:

Grammar

“The Preposition and the Sentence.” [TA March 1914, v20n3, pg. 40] Article written by George Howland (linguist) contributed by Hanna, arguing for the end of the don’t end a sentence with a preposition rule. (Almost every sentence in the article ends with a preposition.)

 

Category Two: Pedagogy/Methods of Writing Instruction

Entries:

English, Courses

“English II Themes For Year Form ‘History of Language’.” [TR Feb 12, 1912, p. 1].  Description of English II as “a study of language from the time the Angles and Saxons lived on the European continent until the time of Shakespeare.”

“Senior English Classes See Herbert Lee in Henry VIII.” [TR Dec. 8, 1916, pg. 3, by Laura Canode.] Seniors from six classes—those of Miss Smith, Chamberlain, Dixon, and Wright) attend production at Illinois Theater.  Author notes that play was interesting because students had been studying Shakespeare’s “characters and plots” for the past months.

“Grammar Test is Given to Freshman.” [TR Dec. 10, 1915, pg. 2]  Names listed of students who scored 90% or above.

“Commas and Periods Come to Life in English 1” [TR Feb. 13, 1920, v9n15, pg. 1 by Lois Yeakle] In English 1, taught by Miss Smith (?) students “are engaged in a competition, involving cartoons, posters and advertisements, each illustrating a punctuation mark” (1), and are put on display for the entire school.

Ferrell, Keith. Ernest Hemingway: The Search for Courage. Evans, NY, 1984] In English VI, “the class modified itself after a newspaper office, with students receiving a different assignment each day. Every aspect of newspaper work was covered in the class, from layout, reporting to proofreading, headlines to personal columns. It was the most wonderful course of Ernest’s high school career” (51).

 

English, Department of

“English” [TA January 1913, v14n1, pg. 37] Hanna takes over as head of the department, and Miss Clarke and Gallup return.  Start of Biggs, Froning, Dixon, and Bell.  Change to English III (junior English) over two semesters.  See for details, but includes long and short themes, study of essays as models, short stories, preparation and delivery of 5-minute speech.  Second semester: students then choose between English III B or C.  Shifts then to English IV, which is college prep.

“English Department.” [TA November 1913, v20n1, pg. 44] Report on Senior class play, As You Like It.

“English” [TA February 1914, v20n2, pg. 53] Mostly discusses senior class play (“Miss Civilization”), though does mention that the senior class will choose Miss Biggs to be in charge of the Story Club.

“English Department: Burke Debating Club and Story Club.” [TA November 1914, v21n1, pg, 31.] Identifies purpose of Burke Club (for boys) to “gain fluency in extemporaneous speaking.”  Also discusses Story Club, directed by Miss Wright.

“English.” [TA November 1916, v23n1, pg. 33] Split into two entries, one on “Public Speaking,” and another on “The Library Talks.”  Mentions Dixon, who teaches a course on public speaking, and offers speeches for the whole population in the auditorium (November 17th).  Also mentions speech competitions.  Miss Carter also holds library talks, one on the “Evolution of the Book,” and the “History of Libraries.”  This is for juniors specifically.

College

"Changes in Curriculum Planned for Next Year." [TR April 25, 1913, pg. 2] because of college entrance requirements including a new English VIII "one-semester study mainly to fit girls for the requirements of Eastern schools."

"More Honors to Us in Scholarship Tests" [TR May 4, 1916, pg. 1] discusses the exams given at the U of Chicago in which "in the English contest, a comparatively large number of" OP students entered, 3 with honorable mention"

“The Small College” [TR Feb. 16, 1917, v6n13, pg. 2] Essay that discusses, “Shall he [a student] go to a university or a small college?” and discusses class size, interaction with faculty, and faculty areas of expertise.

"Colleges Specify New Admission Requirements" [TR Nov 24, 1916, pg. 2]

“English Department.” [TA December 1921, v28n1, pg. 38]  Announcement for seniors that a course—offered as a part of English IV—on taking college entrance exams for Midwest schools is available.  “See Mr. Platt” for more information.

Curriculum

“English.” [TA March 1917, v23, pg. 29] Announcement from Platt to “standardize the English work of the whole school,” including: Juniors and Seniors must pass a test on “two hundred commonly mispronounced and misspelled words, a list of “What Every Freshman Should Know About Grammar,” and “What Every Freshman Should Know About Composition.”

First Report of the Township High School Board of Education of Township High School District Comprising Oak Park and River Forest, Cook County, IL. [OPRFHS, 1901, “Appendix: High School Courses of Study,” pgs. 14-32] See pgs. 20-23 for English requirements.

Second Report of the Township High School Board of Education of Township High School District Comprising Oak Park and River Forest, Cook County, IL. [OPRFHS, 1902] See pgs. 20-23 for English requirements.

Fourth Report of the Township High School Board of Education of Township High School District Comprising Oak Park and River Forest, Cook County, IL. [OPRFHS, 1904, “Appendix: High School Courses of Study,” pgs. 1-?] See pgs. 17-20 for English requirements.

Sixth Report of the Township High School Board of Education of Township High School District Comprising Oak Park and River Forest, Cook County, IL. [OPRFHS, 1906, “Appendix: High School Courses of Study,” pgs. 14-32] See pg 15 for English requirements.

“English. Special Statement for Colleges.” [OPRFHS, no date, 1 pg.] Outlines goals of English sequence, number and frequency of themes, and specific readings and topics covered for English courses.

“English. Special Statement for Colleges.” [OPRFHS, no date, 1 pg.] Includes “Brief Description of Courses” including number of weeks spent on readings and topics. For example, under English I: “The classics read during the year furnish the basis for the introduction of the principles of narration and description.” Includes description of English V and VI, which are elective courses, and “themed.” English V is based on “study of the short story,” while English VI is “in review of the four forms of English prose composition,” and based off Wendell’s English Prose Composition.

“List of Textbooks Used During 1915-16.” [OPRFHS, no date, 1 pg.] Lists Galey’s Classical Myths for English 1, Thomas and Howe’s Composition and Rhetoric for English 2 and 3, and Long’s History of English Literature for English 4.

“List of Textbooks Used During 1916-17.” [OPRFHS, no date, 1 pg.] Lists Galey’s Classical Myths for English 1, Thomas and Howe’s Composition and Rhetoric for English 2 and 3, and History of English Literature for English 4.

“List of Textbooks Used During 1917-18.” [OPRFHS, no date, 1 pg.] For English 1: Idylls of the King; English 2: David Copperfield; English 2 and 3: Composition and Rhetoric by Thomas and Howe; English 3: Stevenson’s Essays; English 4: History of English Literature by Long.

“List of Textbooks Used During 1918-19.” [OPRFHS, no date, 1 pg.] For English 1: Readings from Literature by Halleck and Barbour; English 2: David Copperfield; English 2 and 3: Composition and Rhetoric by Thomas and Howe and O’Hair (revised); English 3: Stevenson’s Essays; English 4: History of English Literature by Long.

Letters

“Classes to Write Letters for Parent-Teachers.” [TR Feb. 3, 1914, v3 no.6, pg. 1]. Frank Platt invites students to write six form letters (business letter, friendly letter, informal note, etc.) to post on lockers for parent-teacher conferences.  Platt believed this “practical” instruction was beneficial, and brought this contest from a previous school.

"Prize Letters are Chosen by Women" subtitle "Booklets Hung on Lockers for Parents-Teachers Meeting" "Contest an Annual Affair" [TR March 10, 1914, pg. 1]

Oratory

"Members of the Junior English classes have been practicing oratory during the last week. Promising material for future statesmen is reported." [TR Jan 24, 1913, pg. 2]

"Negative Side Wins Most in Week of Junior Debates" [TR May 15, 1914, pg. 1]

“Make Orators While They Wait.” [TR Feb. 23, 1912, p. 3] Bertha Smith, in her English II course, trains students in public speaking, delivering “nomination speeches, as well as orations of famous men.”

“English Department Junior Debates” [TA March, 1915, v21n3, pg. 39] Junior English courses prepare a speech on “Conciliation with America” (Edmund Burke).  Also announced is a “scholarship test” offered by U of Chicago for seniors.  Winner receives one year tuition.

"Junior Debates on With Enthusiasm (double-check this title)" Marcelline Hemingway [TR May 4, 1916, pg 2] a humorous look at the junior debate season at OP.

"Public Speaking Class Gives Program to Juniors" [TR Dec 22, 1916, pg 1] about Dixon's public speaking class.

“Game of Improving Speech.” [OL, no date, pg. 90.] As a part of “Better Speech Week,” grade levels had a competition where students wore a tag stating, “I speak good English” until they made an error listed as “most common faults.” Freshman won the competition, with 1 student making an error; seniors and sophomores lost, with 3.

 

Readings

“Democracy Today” [TR Feb. 8, 1918, pg. 2 by Robert Harris] Junior and Freshman English classes (English I and III) included a collection, titled “Democracy Today,” as part of their course.  The collection will serve two purposes: 1) Define “democracy” and the rational for the war (WWI), and as “a text in the schools for a study of a literature made by great American statesmen.”

 

Category Three: Student/teacher Publication

Entries:

Essay Contest

“Students’ Essay Chosen.” [TR Feb. 3, 1914, v3 no.6, pages 1 & 4]  Essays chosen “by ministers” as a part of “Go-to-Church” Sunday.  Includes full essays (one a short story, one an argumentative essay) from two students, one female, and one male.

"Contest in Operation to Improve Students Spelling" [TR March 10, 1915, pg 2]

"Spelling Contest Successfully Completed" [April 14, 1915, pg. 4] Biggs was not impressed with the contest.

“English Department Prepares Contest.” [TR Jan. 13, 1916, v5n3, pg. 4] A contest of pronunciation is instituted by the heads of English and a member of the community; students are given a list of words commonly mispronounced, and will be quizzed on 20.

"Great Pronunciation Contest Has Started" (Marcelline Hemingway) [TR Jan 27, 1916, pg.3]

“F.R. Macomber Gives Prize.” [TR Jan 13, 1916, v5n3, pg. 4] OP resident Macomber offers an essay contest on “The Advantages of Life Insurance,” judged by editor of the Oak Leaves, and indicated that junior and senior English classes will require the essay (300 words.)

“Prize Essay Contest Open to Seniors.” [TR Feb 24, 1916, v5n9, pg. 4] Essay contest for seniors, sponsored by Oak Park Trust and Savings, on “The Importance of Thrift and Saving and the Best Methods to Pursue.” (300 words, prize of $20.)

Insurance Essay Contest Winners. [TR April 27, 1916, v5,n15, pg. 1]  Two argumentative essays that address the benefits of life insurance.  Both refer to accruing insurance as a moral duty.

“Prize Winners Named in Insurance Contest.” Marceline Hemingway. [TR April 27, 1916, v5n15. pg. 1]  Indicates that this was included as a part of English classes, and 139 essays, poems and short stories were submitted.

"Prize Essay Contest" [TR May 4, 1916] the "Thrift and Savings" essay contest has closed.

“Letter Writing Contest.” [TR March 22, 1918, v7n11] Members of the English department chose one student to represent OP at an “interscholastic contest” hosted at Lake Forest University.

“Davies Second in Lake Forest Letter Contest.” [TR April 26, 1918, v7n15, pg. 2, by Stuart Standish] Escorted by Biggs, Davies took second in the contest, writing a letter “to a soldier or sailor.”

“Seniors Write for D.A.R. Essay Contest” [TR Feb. 13, 1920, v9n15 by Antoinette Harcus] Sponsored presumably by the Daughters of the American Revolution, an essay contest that took two periods (one to write, one to revise) was held on the Monroe Doctrine.

“Trap Limerick Contest.” [TR Feb. 13, 1920, pg. 4] Trapeze holds a weekly limerick contest, to be turned in to Miss Blackburn.

“Prize Story Competition.” [TA January 1913, v14n1, pg. 27] Story competition advertised in the Tabula.

“English” [TA March 1914, v20n3, pg. 39] Under the department notes in the Tabula, the article discusses how the department is overwhelmed with letters from the letter writing contest, and announces a reading contest for the “two lower classes.”

 

Magazines

“The Echo: A Suburban Newspaper.” [OPRFHS, “Literary Pubs” folder, June 4, 1914] Independently published newsletter. Includes 1 short story, comments from editors about a publishing company, and a fictional photo of the earth (drawn) with comments and location of OPHS.

The Literary Indigestible [HS, dated February 1, 1917, folders: “Oak Park Schools” – “OP & RF High School” – “Literary Pubs,” 6 pgs.] Combination of drawings (some political) and writing. One article mentions “Mrs. B” (presumably Biggs) as having a party for southern girls, and “Dixie Davis” (Miss Dixon?).

Tabula

“Editorial: Criticism and Fault-Finding.” [TA February 1912, v18, pg. 19 by Herbert Lewis] Asks students at OP to “hand in a well-based criticism with your next contribution” (19), seeking “intelligent criticism” for the publication.

“A Freshman Theme: Two Rivals.” [TA April 1912, v18n2, pg. 18 by John Ritchie] Short story about Sally Jenkins who had three suitors, one of whom she accepted a proposal from. Editors note at bottoms states, “The Freshman are certainly up and coming” (18).

“Editorial: Apologia and Your Help.” [TA April 1912, v18n2, pg. 24] “Apologia” begs for student support and cooperation to “produce a publication worthy of the school,” whereas the “Your Help” asks upperclassmen especially to submit, especially those who have finished English III, and to submit them to any English teacher.

“A Little Conference.” [TA March 1913, v19n2. pgs. 34-36]  Hanna discusses options for OP curriculum students take, and suggests that students “get a hobby and ride it” (35), meaning that their training at OP will prepare them for many professions and/or college.

“ Student Assemblies” [TA February 20, 1914, v20n2, pg. 42]  A call from the Tabula to make the Monday night assemblies more interactive through speech and oral debate from students.

“In Comment” [TA March 1914, v20n3, pg. 32] Discusses the “prize story contest” for stories entered in this volume of the Tabula.  First place as a detective story, second a story of “exceedingly good humor.”

“Comment” [TA February 1915, v21n2, pg. 21] Author (the editor?) comments that a “certain English teacher” made an “erroneous” statement about literature—that little of worth is published in the Tabula.  The editor begs to differ, citing two stories included as examples of up-and-coming, brilliant literature.

"High School Boys to Publish a Humorous Year Book" [TR April 20, 1915, pg 3] includes reference to Biggs

Co-Authored

Lura Blackburn's book on school clubs that she co-wrote with her English class (later work) Chamberlain's annotated lists of readings for boys/girls that were annotated by OP students Smith's 800 themes that included OP student work

  

Category Four: Extracurricular Activities

Entries:

Assemblies

“High School Assembly.” [OL March 29, 1919, pgs 50-51.] Article written “under the direction” of the high school PTA. Article discusses weekly assemblies at OPHS, and what occurs at these. Mentions outside speakers, including the president of Princeton University, cellists and pianists, poets, and local members of the community. “Life, national, and world problems are discussed in such a way as to bring squarely before the young people their individual responsibility to themselves” (50).

Burke Club

“Burke Club Stages Exciting Meeting” [TR Feb. 16, 1917, v6n13, pg. 1 by Leroy Huxham] Club formally debated the topic, “Resolved, That the Adamson Law is Practical.”

“I.W.W. Condemned at Burke Club.” [TR Feb. 28, 1919, v15n10, pg. 2 by William Whitner] BC votes unanimously to be in “favor of Law and Order” and “strongly against I.W.W. and Bolshevism” during its debate: “Resolved that Congress should enact a law to abolish the I.W.W.”  Arguments in opposition to the resolution cited the Constitution “prevented Congress” from abolishing the group.

“Girls at Burke Club.” [TR March 7, 1919, v8n11, pg. 1, by Stuart Pettigrew] BC holds a “Ladies night,” debating: “Resolved: That there should be free and compulsory education for everyone through high school and college.” Girls in attendance were observers.

“Burke Club.” [TA Senior Tabula, 1916, pg. 100.] Organization worked “for development of public speaking,” and included a debate on the “question of intra-school athletics.” (Includes photo of Hemingway.)

“Girls’ Burke Club” [TA March 1919, v25n2, pg. 28 by Frances Jamison] Announcement that the women of OPHS will form a Burke Club after attending “Ladies’ Night” of the boys’ club. Hard to tell if this is a serious statement, but the GBC proposes to discuss matters such as “Resolved: That marcel wave lasts longer than water wave,” and “Resolved: That beauty spots should be worn on the chin instead of the cheek bone.”

“Developing Talents” [OL March 1, 1919, v33n9, pg. 1] Story written for OL from PTA representatives; it’s purpose is to “acquaint parents, and all other residents, with the school, its methods and accomplishments.” Mentions the Burke Club, especially, as an organization that teaches students to “stand up on his feet and express his ideas. It also teaches him to organize his ideas into forcible and coherent form.”

 

Conferences

“Girls from 15 to 19 Admitted [TR April 20, 1917, pgs. 1 & 4, by Marcelline Hemingway]  The “Oak Park Conferences of Girls” holds a conference for high school girls to “enthuse them an ambition for leadership in the best of things” (1).  Representatives from each church youth group will represent the women, and the conference has particular sessions and key note speakers.  3-day event.

 

English Clubs

“22 ½ Forms English Club” [TR December 12, 1919, v14n10, pg. 2 by Frances Jamison] The class of 1922 (22 ½) forms a “literary club” in Miss Blackburn’s first year English class.

"Almost every Freshman English class has a Friday club. They elect a chairman, secretary and seargeant-at-arms. They decide exactly what the work is to be every Friday." [TR Nov 17, 1916, pg 3]

"Miss Wright's first period English class has formed a club which meets once a week. The following are officers: President, Alfred Crawford; vice president, Hazel Reading; secretary, Margaret Hill; sergeant-at-arms, Mauriel Plummery; critic, Merrill Smeeth" [TR Dec 8, 1916, pg. 3]

Platt's students for a club as well...

 

Essay Contests

"Critic Praises Theme" "Florence Grandland's Essay on Music Lauded in Herald" "'Shakespearean Music Extant' Commended by Dramatic Writer of City Paper" [TR May 24, 1912, pg. 2]

"Award Prizes in Tabula Contest" "Elizabeth Pickett Wins First Honors in Competition" "Juniors Write Best Stories" [TR Feb 21, 1913, pg. 1]

"Literary Teams Third" [TR May 14, 1915, pg. 2] OP student finished first in Letter Writing.

“Daughters of the American Revolution Prize Cup Awarded Friday Night.” [TR March 1, 1918, v7n9, pg. 1 by Wilbur Brandt] Essay contest for seniors, sponsored by the DOTAR.  Contestants were given “two English class periods and one study period” to write an essay to “inspire patriotism and to interest the writers in some present day national problem” (1).

“Individual Responsibility in a Democracy” [TR March 1, 1918, v7n9, pg. 4 by Stuart Ulmann] Winning essay from the DOTAR contest. Essay stresses that the success of democracy is on the individual’s shoulders, includes a definition of democracy from Lincoln, and argues that “we are responsible to the world for the success of democracy” (4).

“English” [TA March, 1919, v25n2] See above entry. Topics for this year’s contest—which was “compulsory for the Seniors”—included “The Advantages and Disadvantages of Military Training, Pro and Con,” and “Lessons to the United States from the Present War,” among others.

“Individual Responsibility in a Democracy” [TR March 1, 1918, v7n9, pg. 4 by Stuart Ulmann] Winning essay from the DOTAR contest. Essay stresses that the success of democracy is on the individual’s shoulders, includes a definition of democracy from Lincoln, and argues that “we are responsible to the world for the success of democracy” (4).

“High School Spirit” [OL April 12, 1919, pg. 46] Another in a series written for the OL from the high school PTA; general article about school spirit and “allegiance to the common good.” Mentions, however, that in June of 1919, at a scholastic contest of U of Chicago hosting 37 schools in the area, 4 students won scholarships while “twenty papers received honorable mention” (46).

 

French Club

“French Club Final Meeting Wednesday” [TR May 11, 1917, pg. 4, by Marcelline Hemingway] Various activities planned, including games and songs.

 

Girl’s Club

“Girl’s Club Starts with an Interesting Meeting.” [TR Dec. 8, 1916, pg. 1, by Helen Carr]  Second year of Girl’s Club (started in 1915), meets every Wednesday.  Guest speaker talks about “the journey of life.”

“Girl’s Club Meeting.” [TR Feb 24, 1916, v5n9, pg. 2] First meeting of the year, they invite a Mrs. Hunter, youth coordinator for the Congressional Church.

“Girls Club Hears Talk on Immigrants.” [TR December 22, 1916, v6n8, pg. 1, by Helen Carr] Helen Beaver, resident of the “Northwestern Settlement,” talked with the Girl’s club concerning the settlement of European and Jewish Americans near Oak Park.

“Miss Mary M’Dowell Will Address Girl’s Club” [TR Feb. 16, 1917, v6n13, pg. 2] McDowell, a representative of the University of Chicago Settlement House, and “one of the leading women of the city,” will talk at the next Girl’s Club meeting.

“Big College Day at Girl’s Club Friday” [TR Feb. 16, 1917, v6n13, pg. 4, by Marcelline Hemingway] Reports on Feb. 7th GC meeting where OP alum discuss universities and college life in the area, including: University of Chicago, Columbia School of Music, Chicago Normal, and Northwestern.

“Girl’s Club Holds Final Meeting” [TR April 20, 1917, v6n20, pg.1, by Helen Carr] Speaker was Miss Mary Bartelme, assistant to a local judge and keeper of the girls’ “Detention House” for the county.

“Girls’ Club Adopts French War Orphan.” [TR March 8, 1918, v7n10, pg. 1 by Helen Carr] See title.  Mentions speaker who talked about the values of an “intellectual ideal,” of “balance, poise,” of “physical strength” and “the moral, straight forwardness” and of “spiritual, altruism.”

“Girl’s Club Hears Good Talks from Alumnae.” [TR April 19, 1918, v7n14, pg. 3, by Elizabeth Snyder] At the April 15th meeting, the GC invited 4 OP alum to talk about their college experiences.  Mentions Martha Whitlock.  GC also chose to adopt a French girl rather than a boy.

“History of the Feminist Movement Comes to Oak Park.” [TR March 28, 1919, v13n14, pg. 2 by Edwin Wells]  History of the Girl’s Club at OP. Cites that the club was founded in Jan. 1916 at the suggestion of McDaniel, and that Miss Rattarray and Miss Chamberlain were faculty in charge. Cites activities, including: speakers, “College Day,” and overall argues that the “masculine influence” of boys clubs initiated the GC.

“Girl’s Club.” [TA June 12, 1918, v24n3, pg. 81] Chamberlain and Miss Rattaray as faculty advisers.  Club works to “boost” the Red Cross work, to “clean up the halls, sell class play tickets and Red Cross stamps, and discuss issues such as “talks on personal habits to experiences in Japan and Russia.” Club also donates dues to support a “French war orphan.”

“Girls’ Club” [TA Senior Tabula, June 11, 1919, pg. 78, by Margaret Murray] Notes holding the Football Dance and inter-class parties, as well as book, clothing, and magazine drives for soldiers in France.  Also held discussions on “Democracy at School,” and “School Spirit.  Also thanks Miss Chamberlain for being faculty supervisor.

 

Hanna Club

“Pete Russell Talks at Hanna Club” [TR Feb. 16, 1917, v6n13, pg. 1&3, by Elliott Smeeth] Russell talks with Hanna club about the college experience, urging them to stick to an “ideal,” try out for athletic teams, and keep up with studies.

“Surprise at Hanna Club Tonight.” [TR March 8, 1918, v7n10, pg. 4 by Edwin Wells] President Taft, of the Baptist Theological Seminary of Chicago, speaks to the group.  Also reports on John A. Lyle speaking the week before on “hard work.”

“Ernest Hemingway Speaks at the Big Meeting of the Hanna Club, Tonight.” [TR Jan. 31, 1919, v8n6, pg. 1, by Stuart Pettigrew] Nothing noteworthy, except that the author states, “Concerning the Italian surgeons and nurses, ‘Ernie’ cannot say too much” (1).

 

Journalism

"Freshmen Edit Two Newspapers" [TR March 8, 1912, pg 3] "Miss M. O. Richey's first year English classes have organized two amateur newspapers..."

“High School Journalism.” [TR, Jan. 26, 1912, v1, n1, p.3].  Attempts to define the purpose of the paper, arguing for vocational qualities gained in covering stories.

“Girls Edit Valedictory Issue of Unique Paper.” [TR, Jan. 26, 1912, v1, n1, p. 1]  Kathryn E. Darnell’s class distributes the student written/edited journal in gymnasium classes (and on the walls of the gymnasium.

“New Books in Library Trapeze Staff.” [TR Feb. 21, 1919, v8n9] Trapeze library adds Newspaper Writing and Editing by Bleyer and “a book of synonyms” to library.

“Tabula: A Tradition of Excellence.” [TR Jan, 14, 1972, v31n15, pg. 1 by Thomas Abtahi] History of the Tabula and Trapeze.  Includes: Edmund Luff was editor of Tabula in 1899.  In its early times, the Tabula was published as a pamphlet, and “one half school newspaper…and one-half literary magazine” (1).  10 issues published each year.

“For ‘Us Fellers’” [TR February 1914, v20n2, pg. 42-43] A call for OP boys to start a “journalistic club” that would include debate and short story writing.

Humorous Trapeze, "The Oak Park Examiner" published on June 11, 1915.

“High School Notes” [OL May 19, 1917, pg. 9] Mentions that the final edition of the Trapeze will be released on May 26th, and edited by Hemingway.

 

Oratory

“Class for Instruction in Oratory Has Been Started.” [TR Feb. 23, 1912, p. 1]. Minnie Porter starts a class in oratory every Monday after 8th period.

“Speaking Contest Today: O.P. After Three Firsts.” [TR, January 10, 1919, v13n3, pg. 1] OP Speaking team participates in interscholastic contest; “current topics” chosen by J.W. Linn of Chicago University.

“Everybody Urged to Join Public Speaking Contest.” [TR  April 9, 1920, pg. 1 by Helen Benoit] Miss Dixon leads tryouts for an “interscholastic public speaking contest” to take place in May.

 

Story Club

"Conditions for Contest of Story Club Announced" {TR April 11, 1913, pg. 2] explains the procedure for submitting stories to be admitted to the club. Done by blind review by English teachers.

[TR Feb 12, 1912, p. 1] “Several short stories were read and discussed by the members.”

“Senior Story Club Girls Act in Farce for Juniors.” [TR Feb. 3, 1914, v3 no.6, pg.1].

"Story Club Magazine Is Issued at Assembly Program" [TR April 24, 1914, pg. 3]

“Story Club Hears Parody and Several Stories.” [TR Dec. 8, 1916, pg. 1]. Club meets in English club room every Tuesday, hearing 1 parody of Shakespeare and 4 short stories.

“Story Club Meeting” [TR Dec. 10, 1915, pg. 1] Meeting announcement; group meets in Mr. Bobbitt’s room.

“Story Club Elects New Members.” [TR Jan. 13, 1916, v5 n3, pg. 4] Stories read, including “Cold Revenge,” by Marceline Hemingway.

“Story Club Entertains Thirty-Five Soph Girls.” [TR May 11, 1916, v5n17, pg. 4] Meeting of the club, featuring a musical ensemble and a reading of stories.

“Story Club Contest” [TR May 18, 1916, v5n18, pg. 4] Fifty-seven stories submitted, noting large amount of sophomore girls who submitted.  10 or 12 will selected as having “made it.”

“Story Club Entertained by Janet Lewis ‘16” [TR February 2, 1917, v6n11, pg. 1] Meeting of the Story Club with and OP alum in attendance.  Meeting included plays, music, and an impersonation of Ms. Biggs.

“Story Club Open to Junior and Sophomore Girls.” [TR April 20, 1917, pg. 1 by Florence Winder] Story Club holds a contest on May 18  1917, and opens it to sophomore and junior girls.  Led by Miss Wright, the Story Club read three stories, and outlined the conditions of the contest, including that they must be “short” stories, must be anonymous, and must be legible.

“Story Club Meets.” [TR April 20, 1917, pg. 2, by Helen Carr] Meeting held Tuesday afternoon (the 17th), and read six short stories.

“Story Club to Give Assembly Program Today.” [TR May 11, 1917, pg. 3]  Story Club presents a skit, “An English Class in Utopia,” a look at “what the perfect English class is like” (3).

“Story Club Holds Meeting.” [TR April 12, 1918, v7n13, pg. 3] SC holds its “first open meeting of the year; every member contributed either poems or stories.

“Story Club Contest” [TR April 26, 1918, v7n15, pg. 2] Story Club holds short story contest, for stories “which have not been used for class work.”

“Story Club.” [TR May 24, 1918, v7n18, pg. 2] See v7n15 for details.  Added to this, the SC “requires two short stories, and six rhymes or sketches in a year” in addition to English class writings.

“Story Club.” [TA February 1916, v22, pg. 32] Update on SC, who had two meetings (in October and November, 1 per month).

“Story Club.” [TA June 12, 1918, v24n3, pg. 80-81] GC goes without refreshments for the year to “give their dues to aid social settlement work in the city, as they consider it a patriotic duty to help strengthen the American life of the foreign-born” (80).  Girls write a poem, essay, or one-act play in addition to two short stories for the club.

The boys form a "Scribblers" club in the early 20th century...their own Story Club

 

Category Five: Teachers

Entries:

“Changes in Faculty.” [TR September 26, 1919, v14n1, pg. 4] Identifies changes in faculty.  Noted English teachers: Miss Froning (moved), Miss Mann (moved), Miss Scott (married, now Mrs. Ernest B. Motely, and moved), Miss Bell (returned to OP after teaching in Denver), Miss Felemly (new), Miss Harrington (new).

“New Teachers Enter” [TR Feb. 6, 1920, v14n14, pg. 2] Miss Ruth Holmes (U of Chicago Teacher’s College and Principal in Paxton. IL), and Mildred Linden (Reed College) both join English department.

“Interviews With the New Teachers.” [TR October 1, 1920, v10n1, pg. 1] Two English teachers noted, Miss Payne and Mr. Thompson.

“High School Faculty” [OL May 10, 1919, pg. 30-31] Another in a series written by the PTA to Oak Parkers, noting mostly that faculty are the ones who set “the standard of unselfish devotion and loyalty to the school” (31). Most notable is that the principal has sole responsibility over a “roving commission” to offer extraordinary teachers a bonus for good work.

 

Bell

“Former English Teacher Going to France.” [TR Jan 18, 1918, v7n4, pg. 3] Bell, former OP teacher and currently at Denver High School, goes to France to serve with Base Hospital Unit No. 29 (Red Cross).  She taught at OP for 5 years before moving to Denver.

 

Biggs, Fannie B. (1912-1920), University of Michigan

“Miss Biggs To Go To Europe.” [TR March 14, 1920, v9n22, pg. 1 by Wesby Paker] Biggs heads to Europe to “tour,” “visit relatives in Britain,” and represent OP at an “international conference of English teachers,” held in July.

“Salary Schedule For 1914-1920” [OPRFHS, 2pgs. “Teacher Salaries,” no date.] Ranged from $1,200 to $1,970

 

Blackburn, Lura (1915-1940)

“Who’s Who in Trapeze: Miss Blackburn, Faculty Supervisor of Trapeze.” [TR May 12, 1920, v9n28, pg. 4] Sketch of Blackburn. She has “educated the staff of the paper to a point where it can almost toddle through...without her help,” she “demands verbosity and minute detail, with each and every one getting a square deal,” and as an English teacher, students receive a “trip to Europe, or a year with Aristotle.”  She started as Trapeze editor in 1917.

“Salary Schedule For 1914-1920” [OPRFHS, 2pgs. “Teacher Salaries,” no date.] Ranges from $1,250 to $2,050

 

Chamberlain, Essie (1913-1945)

“Social Activities in Other Schools.” [TR March 29, 1918, v7n12, pg. 3, by Helen Carr] Chamberlain is reported to be “making some interesting investigations concerning the social activities of other high schools,” including plays, dances, and “mixers” at schools.

“Salary Schedule For 1914-1920” [OPRFHS, 2pgs. “Teacher Salaries,” no date.] Ranges from $1,400 to $2,220.

“Miss Chamberlain Rises to Brilliant Career in English” [OPHS, “OPRF High School Publications,” 1 pg.] Mentions her book, Essays Old and New, and her service to IATE and NCTE.

Letter from Dr. Ken Holmes of IATE [OPHS, 1 pg. no date.] Confirming Chamberlain as president of IATE from 1926-1929. Platt became president in 1929.

“Death Takes Miss Chamberlain, Long Time Teacher Here.” Oak Leaves, Feb. 12, 1948, pg. 46. 1 pg.] Not much additional information, except that she taught at Illinois State Normal University, received her M.A. from the U of Chicago, and founder of OPHS’s Girl’s Club.

Dixon, Margaret (1915-19xx) Albion College

“Faculty Entertained” [TR Friday, May 25, 1917, v25n25, pg. 1] Last Friday (the 18th, Dixon, Biggs, and Blackburn hosted a party for faculty.  The main attractions were a fortune teller, and Mrs. McDaniel, who sung.

“English” [TA December 1918, v25n1, pg. 37] Miss Dixon mentioned as director of the Senior Class play for the year.  Tryouts held in December.

“Salary Schedule For 1914-1920” [OPRFHS, 2pgs. “Teacher Salaries,” no date.] Ranges from $1,450 to $2,300.

Gehlmann, John (1916-17; 1926-1959)

“Ernest Hemingway” [OPHS, “Hemingway, Ernest, Biographical Material” article in WORLD: Hemingway Supplement, July 21, 1974, pg. 6, by Bob Hagan] Gehlmann reflects on his experience during 1916-1917 as faculty adviser for The Trapeze, with EH as student. Calls EH’s writing “adequate,”

Holloway (1916-19xx)

"Miss Holloway's Class Enjoys Henry VIII" [TR Dec 8, 1916, pg. 2]

Hanna, John Calvin (1898-1914), Illinois State Normal, University of Wooster

“How Do You Like Your Job?” [TA April 1916, v22n3, pgs. 14-15, by Hanna] Letter to students that begins with a racist anecdote and urges students to grow into adulthood, to take on the “problems that will stare the American nation in the face twenty years from now,” including the problem of “race prejudice,” using “skills” gained in school to do so.

Johnson, Minna Ferrell (19xx-1940

“Mrs. Minna Ferrell Johnson” [TA 1940, pg. 67] Obituary for Johnson, who served under Hanna as head of the English Department (no years given) and later served as president of the Board of Education for OPHS.

McDaniel, M.R. (1915-1940) Rio Grande College, Ohio and University of Chicago

“The History of Oak Park High School.” [TA, Senior Tabula, 1916, pgs. 7-8., by McDaniel] Notable facts about Hanna: Taught until 1913, then moved to Springfield to be State Supervisor of High Schools.  Teachers in 1913: 52.

“Salary Schedule For 1914-1920” [OPRFHS, 2pgs. “Teacher Salaries,” no date.] Ranges from $3,200 to $5,000.

“Morale in the School.” [OL March 8, 1919, pg. 23] Reporter covers McDaniel’s address to the NEA session for principals. In it, McDaniel encourages student participation outside of the classroom, in sports and clubs, noting, “Pupils should be contributors [to school assemblies] and producers as well as accumulators. The pupils should plan and produce many of the assembly programs themselves and in addition should have some part in every other program” (23).

Platt, Frank J. (1913-1945)

"New Teachers Elected" "Frank Platt of Joliet to Head English Department" "Board Definitely Offers New Courses in Civics, German and Bookeeping" [TR May 8, 1913, pg. 1]

“Classes to Write Letters for Parent-Teachers.” [TR Feb. 3, 1914, v3 no.6, pg. 1]. Frank Platt invites students to write six form letters (business letter, friendly letter, informal note, etc.) to post on lockers for parent-teacher conferences.  Platt believed this “practical” instruction was beneficial, and brought this contest from a previous school.

“Ernest Hemingway” [OPHS, “Hemingway, Ernest, Biographical Material” article in WORLD: Hemingway Supplement, July 21, 1974, pg. 6, by Bob Hagan] Platt recollects his experiences with Hemingway, having taught his freshman English class and saw stories of his for the Tabula.

“Salary Schedule For 1914-1920” [OPRFHS, 2pgs. “Teacher Salaries,” no date.] Ranges from $1,925 to $2,600.

Porter, Minnie E. (1905-19xx), Ohio State University

“Class for Instruction in Oratory Has Been Started.” [TR Feb. 23, 1912, p. 1]. Minnie Porter starts a class in oratory every Monday after 8th period.

"Former Oak Park English Teacher Wins Distinction"  [TR May 23, 1913, pg. 1] discusses what Porter is doing now.

Smith, Bertha (1915-19xx)

"Trip to Essanay Studio" [TR Dec. 10, 1915, pg. 4] Smith took her junior English class to this film company's studio. Article concludes, "Every one seemed to enjoy the trip. Many interesting papers were written of their trip through the plant."

“Salary Schedule For 1914-1920” [OPRFHS, 2pgs. “Teacher Salaries,” no date.] Ranges from $1,550 to $2,450.

Windate, Ida M. (1902-19xx), Ohio Wesleyan University

“Boys Not Crooks, Says English Head.” [TR Feb. 23, 1912, p. 1]  Story about Windate criticizing Franklin Johnson (principal of University High School) for accusing high school boys of being thieves.

Windate taught Latin during her first year at OP, according to: Second Report of the Board of Education [OPRFHS, pg. 47]

Wright, Mignon G. (19xx-1940

"Royal on Mormonism" [TR April 30, 1915, pg. 2] subtitled, "Miss Wright's Senior English Class Hear Series of Daily Lectures" "Interesting Opinions Revealed."

"Mrs Hemingway and Miss Biggs were present at Miss Wright's Fourth period class to hear the morality plays written by the Seniors" [Nov 10, 1916, pg 3]

“Mr. Ingalls to Speak to Miss Wright’s English Class.” [TR May 24, 1918, v7n18, pg. 1] President of the board Ingalls speaks to Wright’s senior English Class (English IV) on Mark Twain.

“Salary Schedule For 1914-1920” [OPRFHS, 2pgs. “Teacher Salaries,” no date.] Ranges from $1.300 to $2,050.

“Miss Wright Has Party for Story Club.” [TR Feb. 7, 1919, v8n7, pg.1 by Claire Foy] Wright holds meeting at her home, and contributors read stories based on “futurist ideas” (1).

“Smith Finds How to Make English Pay” [TR January 9, 1920, v14n11, pg. 1 by Paul Trebilcock] Student—Jack Smit—auctions off a leather notebook he won for a “competitive series of extemporaneous themes.” This occurred just after Miss Wright’s seventh period English class.

“Miss Wright Surprised.” [TR Jan. 9, 1920, v14n11, pg. 2 by Rhea Mays] Story Club holds surprise birthday party for Miss Wright.

 

 

Hemingway, Ernest:

Articles By

"Concert a Success" [TR Jan. 20, 1916, pg. 2]

"Hanna Club Tomorrow Night" [TR Jan. 27, 1916 pg.3]

"Hanna Club Members Hear Practical Talk" [TR Feb 3, 1916, pg.2]

"Practical Education VS. Theoretical" [TR Feb 10, 1916, pg.1]

"Mr. Quayle Rouses Hanna Club" [Feb 17, 1916, pg. 4]

"Problems of Boyhood Discussed at Hanna Club" [March 9, 1916, pg. 4]

"Big Hanna Club Neeting [sic] Hears Rousing Talk" [March 23, 1916, pg. 2]

"Athletic Organization to Organize Next Week" [TR Nov 3, 1916, pg. 1]

Punctuation Poem [Nov 10, 1916, pg 4]

"Midwayities Downed by Oak Park Team" [TR Nov 24, 1916, pg 1]

“Basketball Season Opens, Poor Lightweight Prospects” [TR Dec. 8, 1916, pg. 1]

“Our ‘Ring Lardner’ Jr. Breaks Into Print With All-Cook County Eleven.” [TR Dec. 8, 1916, pg. 3]

“Athletic Notes” [TR Dec 22, 1916, v6n8, page 3] From track to shooting, Hemingway covers athletic participants.

“’Ring Lardner Jr.’ Writes About Swimming Meet.  Oak Park Rivals Riverside.” [TR Feb. 2, 1917, v6n11, pg. 4, by Ernest Hemingway] EH writes in the voice of Lardner, to “Pash” (who I assume is the editor of the paper?) about the “meat,” and schemes for beating Riverside during the next meet.

“Ring Lardner, Jr. Discourses on Editorials” [TR Feb. 16, 1917, v6n13, pg. 3 by Ernest Hemingway] Editorial written in response to Feb. 2nd article, discussing a fictional speech he prepared in response, yet no one showed to hear it.  Response by claiming he will now write editorials, first to “the Germans.”

“Oak Park Second in Northwestern U” [TR April 20, 1917, pg. 1] EH covers track meet.

“Ring Lardner Returns.” [TR April 20, 1917, pg 3] Addressed “Dear Marce,” Lardner discusses the brothers and sisters attending school together, noting that the “sister is good-looking and the brother is not” (3).  Also includes a section of “Pure Personals,” presumably made up events in the lives of other students.

“Some Space Filled By Ernest Macnamara Hemingway” [TR May 11, 1917, pg. 3] No real way to describe this, except EH includes a fictional “actual” conversation between students at OP and a new student, George Washington.

“High Lights and Low Lights” [TR May 25, 1917, v25n25, pg. 4 by Ernest Michaelowitch Hemingway, B.S.]

“Learn This for Assembly” [TR March 14, 1919, v13n12, pg. 1] Asks OP students to learn a song dedicated to Hemingway’s valor.

“Hemingway Speaks to High School.” [TR March 21, 1919, v13n13, pg. 1 by Edwin Wells] Again, nothing noteworthy except what’s already included in biographies.

“Judgment of Manitou” [TA February 1916, v22, pg. 9-10] Short story about Dick Haywood and Pierre, trappers in the North.  Pierre accuses Dick of stealing his money, sets a trap for Dick (who gets caught and eaten by a wolf, and gets caught himself in a bear trap.  Pierre kills himself, exclaiming that it is “the judgment of Manitou.”

“A Matter of Colour.” [TA April 1916, v22n3, pgs. 16-17] Told by Bob Armstrong, the narrator relates the “classic” tale of a Montana Dan Morgan, who schemes to cheat in a fight against Joe Gans, who is black.  The plan goes awry when a Sweded, who is supposed to knock Gans out with a bat, hits the wrong fighter, explaining that he is color blind.

“Sepi Jingan.” [TA November 1916, v32n1.] Story told to the narrator (in first person) by Billy Tabeshaw, an Cree Indian in the UP.  Tells of him and his dog (Sepi) tracking down another Indian murderer.

“The Worker.” [TA March 1917, v23, pg. 22] Poem about a stoker in the “sweltering guts of the ship.”

“Class Prophecy.” [TA, Senior Tabula, June 1917, pgs. 9-14] Hemingway writes the prophecy in the first person, as a communications expert receiving a transmission in Morse Code, and translates it for General Wilcoxen (Class General).  He mentions Martha Whitlock and Gehlman.

“Glimpses of the Curious Chinese.” [TA, Senior Tabula, June 1917. pgs. 19-21, by Marcelline Hemingway] Seems to be a report on Chinese culture, from class separations, to holidays, to customs of marriage and food.

Biography

“Hemingway Family Nicknames” [HS “Biographical Material,” dated 7-3-84, 1pg.] Nicknames of family members listed.

“To Miss Chamberlain.” [OPHS, High school paper from Edith (Rosenfels) Nash, written for Chamberlain, written presumably in 1928 or 1929, 5 pgs., handwritten. Submitted to OPHS, June 1982.] Nash recalls a conversation with Hemingway at 600 N. Kenilworth Avenue, and depicts EH remembering the Trapeze, Gehlmann, and his old home.

Hemingway, Marcelline

Papers

English I

“The New Girlhood” [HA “Marcelline Hemingway Sanford High School Papers,” June 14, 1917, 5 pgs.] Marcelline’s commencement address to OPHS, arguing for a new kind of “girlhood” for American women.

“Theme III: A Description of A School Marm.” [HA, Sept. 22, 1913, 1 pg.] Description exercise for English 1

“Theme IV: How Vucan Became Lame.” [HA, Sept. 24, 1913, pg.] Story of Jupiter and how he harmed his son Vuncan, making him lame, but giving him a mythical hammer. (Presumably an assignment (a narrative assignment?) based on readings of mythology assigned in English 1.)

“Theme V: Helen Aids the Greeks” [HA, Oct. 1, 1913, pg.] Story of Helen’s plan to steel the keys to Troy by tricking Paris into making her the “Royal Keeper of the Keys.” Again, perhaps a combined narrative assignment based off of mythology for English 1.

“Theme VIII: Ulysses Adventure With Two Strange Fruit Trees.” [HA October 8, 1913, pgs.] Story of Ulysses’ men who eat fruit and turn into monkeys. Told as if Ulysses conducted an experiment to turn back into a man. Narrative assignment in English 1.

“Theme VI: An Interesting Story.” [HA, Oct. 10, 1913, 1 pg.] Clever story about a boy who names 5 germ carrying insects. Brief narrative exercise, perhaps?

“Theme VII: The Miraculous Escape of Aeneas through Sorcery.” [HA Oct. 13, 1913, pgs.] Story of Aeneas’ escape from an island of natives, using Juno’s spell that turns his dead father into a living horse.

“Theme IX: Description of the Gorgon, Medusa.” [HA, October 23, 1913, 1 pg.] Just as the title implies, but told in the first person, as if looking in a mirror.

“The King’s Decision.” [HA, Dec. 6, 1914, pgs.] Assignment for English 2. Seems to be a mythical tale where War (a man) tries to persuade Ruler to engage in war, and Peace (a woman) intervenes and wins her side.

English II

“The Odor of a Rose.” [HA, May 19, 1915, pgs.] Short story written for English 2. Grandmother tells her children a story about a time when “filthy Indians” burned down her cabin when she was a young girl and alone in the cabin.

“The Origins of the English Language.” [HA, October 15, 1914, pgs.] Report written for English 2. “The purpose of this essay is to continue our study of origins from the time of the landing of the Norman missionaries to about the 15th century when Shakespeare was writing.” Includes a historical discussion of missionary activity in Anglo-Saxon England, as well as the Danish, Normans (and feudalism) and how religious influences contributed to the modern English language. At times connects this history to the literature read for the course (Ivanhoe) and Chaucer. Essentially a report from early English on through middle English and into Shakespeare.

“The Locker Mistake (“Showing there ought to be more lights in the Halls”)” [HA, March 16, 1915, pgs.] Assignment for English II. Short story about Janet, James, Robert, and a misplaces fountain pen due to not enough lighting in the hallways in January. Seems to be an argumentative short story.

“At 12 minutes after 10.” [HA, April 1915, pgs.] Unfinished short story about Bobby Danford, set in during the Revolutionary War, where Bobby hides his father, who has escaped. Written for English 2.

English III

“Lack of Ideals (Speech)” [HA, February 9, 1916, 1 pg.] Speech written for English 3. A plea to save the reputation of the American people from base desires, and to embrace literature, art, and music.

“The Reason (Supposedly Kipplin’s Style)” [HA, January 7, 1916, pgs.] Assignment for English 3. Short story meant to mimic the style of an author, in this case Kippling (a favorite in the Hemingway house). Story of Lieutenant Appleby, who is in love with Miss Allden, and mistakenly writes a letter of heartache to his mother, but addresses it to Miss Allden.

................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download