Launched Out Upon the World

Seven Graduates Will Begin Life Anew

 Maysville, Ky., Special to The Freeman It was a rare treat to the many who gathered at the opera house on the 14th to witness the commencement of the colored high school. The stage was decorated with rare tropical plants and a profusion of flowers.  This occasion will long be remembered as the greatest event in “old Maysville.”  The graduating class was composed of three young gentlemen and four young ladies: Misses Lottie Howard, F. Barber, Lida Walker, and Ella Alexander; Messrs. Oliver Lee, Geo. W. Jackson, and C. T. L. Henderson. 

Miss Howard’s essay came first, subject, “Growlers” which was ably handled and showed talent not usually accredited to her.  Miss Walker’s essay, “The Higher Education of Our Women,” was splendid and deserves special mention, but time and space will not permit.  The oration by Oliver Lee, “Agriculture as an Art,” was highly appreciated.  Mr. Jackson’s oration, “Perseverance Conquers,” showed intellect, moral stamina and a force of will-power that was worthy of the highest recommendation.  Miss Barbee’s essay, “Music,” was delivered by her without the least affectation and with eloquence worthy of the highest praise.  Mr. Henderson’s oration, “Punctuality,” was exceptionally well rendered.  Miss Alexander’s essay, The Journey,” had a tendency to impress one with the great imaginary propensity possessed by her. 

The pauses were filled in by music.  “Plum Pudding,” sung by C. S. Johnson and the duet, A.B.C.” by Miss Barbee and Mr. Johnson made quite a “hit.”  Prof. C. G. Harris, principal of the high school, furnished the music.  The “Gloria,” from Mozart’s Twelfth Mass was rendered most excellently by about thirty voices, as also was the anthem, “Bow Down Thine Ear.” The “Mothers’ Watch By the Sea” sung by Miss Barbee, Miss Howard, Messrs. W. E. Waterfield and Jackson, was beautiful.  

Three cheers and all praise to the class of ’90.  Long may they live to practice that which they so earnestly propounded and say, “Non nobis solum” but “pour encourager les autres” that we do this.   

From Indianapolis’ The Freeman, An Illustrated Colored Newspaper, June 28, 1890.