"I am decidedly in favor of what is called 'Home Life,' as distinguished from that of one large institution; and, from all I have read and reflected upon the subject, I think the advantages of the former System are as follows:
"1. The boys will be under better moral control by being inmates of small homes and having the advantages of home life.
"2. It avoids the necessity of large structures, and the consequent temptation to erect imposing buildings and make an architectural display.
"3. It enables you to feel your way, and to provide from time to time only such buildings as can readily be filled by scholars; whereas, if the other plan of one large institute is adopted, there might be a much larger expenditure made than could actually be required for those who apply for admission."
The seven trustees chosen by Williamson were not only men of demonstrated ability in large affairs, but belonged to his circle of friends.
John Baird was a successful and wealthy marble merchant, who had begun with hard work, polishing marble by his own toil in the cellar of his building on Ridge Avenue, and had a wide practical knowledge of the field of mechanical trades. At this time he was President of the City Bank.
