Excerpt from The Stentor, Vol. 13: Oct, 5, 1898

In all the history of Lake Forest University, the prospects have never been brighter than at the opening of the present college year. There is the largest matriculation in the history of the under-graduate departments. In the college North Hall is filled and many rooms in College Hall are occupied. Mitchell Hall, Ferry Hall and the academy could accomodate no more students. Many improvements are under way, while others will be begun in a short time.

In the way of improvements the Young Men's Christian Association has not been behind, and it now occupies the large room on the second floor of North Hall, which was originally intended for the college reading room. The room remained unfurnished and useless all last winter, and prospects were favorable for the some condition of affairs during the coming winter. This summer, however, through the generosity of Mrs. Reid and others the room was elegantly furnished and turned over to the Y. M.C. A. A handsome piano now occupies one side of the room. Several beautiful pictures adorn the walls, and the floor is covered with expensive rugs. All these things, the gift of Mrs. Reid, make the room so home-like and beautiful that it has become the popular gathering place of students rooming in the two dormitories. Two large tables are filled with the current numbers of all the best periodicals, including religious publications. The room is open from four to eight, and between these hours music and a general good time is in order.

Too much praise cannot be given Mrs. Reid for placing such an elegantly equipped room at the disposal of the students. Such a place where students may meet together daily will tend to develope more college spirit, an end toward which everyone is working.

The improvements which have been made in the university boarding club are much appreciated by the students. During the summer, the authorities of the university papered and painted the dining hall of the Academia, and gave to the club an entire new outfit consisting of silver-ware, table linen, cooking utensils and a large range. New tables and chairs were also placed in the room. Various rules have been made regarding behavior, and the club is now a model boarding club. Improvements are being made in the assembly room of the Art Institute, and while these are in progress chapel is held in College Hall.

When seen by a reporter Dr. McClure expressed himself as much gratified at the increase in attendance this year. The total registration in the three departments at the present time is 374, compared to 294 at the same time last year. The registration in the college is 106, compared to 85 at the same time last year. Referring to the new buildings Dr. McClure said:

"Work has been begun on the woman's dormitory and the hospital, and it will be carried on as rapidly as possible. The hospital, which is the gift of Mr. Henry C. Durand, is to be called the "Alice Home". Its chief object is to provide a place for sick students. Its administration is to be in the hands of a committee of three trustees, namely: Dr. Haven, Mr. Delevan Smith and Mrs. Charles B. Farwell. The new woman's dormitory will accomodate forty students."

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