OCR Text |
Show Liberal Arts and Administration Buildings It was customary in those early days for the professors and instructors, together and with the Board of Regents to associate with the people and to take a part in all the affairs of the State. In other words, the people were not isolated from the University, nor the University from the people. In the year 1869, there was a celebration, in honor of our nation's natal day, and in the procession, the regents, faculty and students of the University marched. A large banner was carried, on which appeared in relief "University of Deseret," surmounted by a figure of Minerva, with the inscription, "Protecterian Scientar et Artium." Robert L. Campbell and John R. Park -were at the head of the University faction, and they were followed by thirteen young ladies dressed in "white with red sashes, representing the original thirteen states and territories. The states "were represented by other girls of the school. They carried a banner on which was inscribed the words "The Union Inseparable." The girls representing the territories carried a banner with the motto "The Territories. Our hope in the Future." The young men of the University brought up the rear bearing sextants, quadrants, telegraphic instruments, and a banner with the following sentiment: "Our Nation's Prosperity Lies in the Education of Her Children." In the fall of 1868, Dr. John R. Park was made president of the University in which capacity he served for over twenty-five years. Under him, the University took its place among the noted institutions of learning of the far West. Dr. Park was succeeded by Dr. James E. Talmage in 1893. His administration was only a few years' duration, and in 1897, Dr. Joseph T. Kingsbury was made President. During his administration, the University was built on the present campus, and the new administration building was completed in October, 1914. In April, 1916, the Regency called to the head of the institution Dr. John A. Widtsoe, and in September of that year, Dr. Wldtsoe began his administrative duties. He is one of the best known educators of the West, having had the best of training in American and European universities, in his scientific studies, has gained international fame. His books are not only used by the universities of America, but have been placed in the universities of Germany, France, and Russia. The University under Dr. Widtsoe will undoubtedly grow fast and take its place by the side of the noted institutions of the West. 11 |