Page 137 - YB1901

Browning Literary Society. ",.,. N 1867 the girls of Western Maryland College, realizing that "Life without learning is death," organized a Literary society to be devoted D entirely to literature and truth. As the society was to be composed only of girls, it was thought that the name of a distinguished woman of letters would be the most appropriate for this literary band, and right wisely did they call the society after the greatest of English writers-Eliza- beth Barrett Browning, adopting at the same time the motto: "Vita Sine Litteris 1\.[01'5 Est." And this motto was painted upon a handsome banner, which also bears the date 1867. From the first the society made untold progress, the number of mem- bers increasing, until in 1881 it was found necessary to form a new society under the name Philomathean. Although both societies have the same purpose in view, the same love of letters and truth, there has always been some rivalry which is shown more clearly, perhaps, at commencement times when two members from each society compete for the Newell trophy. In 1901 the faculty, realizing that the hall in which we had been bald- ing our meetings for thirty-four years was too small, gave us a suite of rooms on Smith Hall. The entrance to this hall is by a vestibule, which leads you into a hall, and on either side is a bright room. One of these rooms is the society hall proper, and a fine room it is. From four large windows you have a splendid view of the surrounding country, while the aspect within is none the less inviting. Neatly furnished with entirely new furniture, it is just the place to inspire one to seek after the truth, raising her to ennobling influences, and creating in her firm resolutions. On the other side of the hall is the reading room, and where can one find a more cheerful spot? Book-cases stand along the wall, and in them are contained books to meet every demand. The table is covered with the latest magazines, and the new books are not wanting there. Indeed hardly a week passes without some late book being added to our already full supply. While we ourselves, as active members, have worked hard and faithfully for our new hall. we must not forget to say that the ex- Brownings have helped us in every possible way, and to them we owe a debt of gratitude for the generosity which is ever characteristic of a Browning. The society comes before the public twice each year, once at the contest, and again at the joint entertainment given with either the Webster or the Irving society. With a new hall, a sound treasury, a good library, and earnest, active members we feci encouraged and proud, for surely we see "success 'facing us.