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loc=Champaign
pub=Q123479417
au=Anna Shattuck Palmer
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alt=Illinois Poetry
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{{xx-larger|{{uc|Illinois Verse}}}}
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{{asc|By}}<br />{{larger|{{uc|[[Author:Anna Shattuck Palmer|Anna Shattuck Palmer]]}}}}
{{dhr|5}}
❦{{gap}}❦
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{{smaller block|Copyright, 1926<br />{{uc|Illini Publishing Company<br />Champaign, Illinois}}}}
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-ded
{{c|{{asc|To<br />the memory of}}<br />{{uc|my husband}}<br />{{asc|a loyal Illinus}}}}
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{{ph|class=chapter|Preface}}
This collection of verse relating to the University of Illinois is an attempt to gather into poetical form some of the Illini traditions; to preserve old university landmarks, and to give the atmosphere of the campus of the present day.
It is hoped that this little book will have an appeal not only for the alumni and students but, also, for the many friends throughout the state who have helped make the University of Illinois the great institution that it is today.
Thanks are due Mr. [[Author:Carl Stephens|Carl Stephens]] of ''[[The Alumni News]]'' and Mr. [[Author:Richard Atwater|Richard Atwater]] of ''[[The Chicago Evening Post]]'' for their kind permission to reprint some of these poems. I wish, also, to express my gratitude and indebtedness to Mr. [[Author:Francis E. Johnston|Francis E. Johnston]] for his helpful criticism.
{{right|offset=2em|{{sc|[[Author:Anna Shattuck Palmer|Anna Shattuck Palmer]]}}}}
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{{c|{{larger|{{uc|Contents}}}}}}
{{TOC begin}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Illinois Salute|Illinois Salute]]|1}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Burrill Avenue|Burrill Avenue]]|2}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The College Chimes|The College Chimes]]|4}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Auditorium Steps|The Auditorium Steps]]|5}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Within the Auditorium|Within the Auditorium]]|7}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Once Upon a Time|Once Upon a Time]]|9}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Passing of the Bone-yard|Passing of the Bone-yard]]|10}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Thomas Arkle Clark|Thomas Arkle Clark]]|12}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Old Clock|The Old Clock]]|13}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Rock Garden—Spring|The Rock Garden—Spring]]|14}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Rock Garden—Summer|The Rock Garden—Summer]]|15}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Homecoming|Homecoming]]|16}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/And He Is Ours|And He Is Ours]]|17}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Senior Hobo Parade|Senior Hobo Parade]]|18}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Stuart Pratt Sherman|Stuart Pratt Sherman]]|20}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Senior Bench|The Senior Bench]]|21}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Ballade of the May-pole Dange|Ballade of the May-pole Dange]]|22}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Circus—Interscholastic|The Circus—Interscholastic]]|24}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Talbot Portrait|Talbot Portrait]]|27}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Gregory Boulder|The Gregory Boulder]]|28}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Illinois Field|Illinois Field]]|29}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Red Grange|Red Grange]]|31}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/A Tradition|A Tradition]]|33}}
/foot//
{{TOC end}}
//foot/
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{{TOC begin}}
//head/
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Snyder Bust|The Snyder Bust]]|34}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Burning of the Freshmen Caps|Burning of the Freshmen Caps]]|35}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Triolet—Gold Feathers|Triolet—Gold Feathers]]|37}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Triolet—Orange and Blue Feathers|Triolet—Orange and Blue Feathers]]|37}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Sun-dial|The Sun-dial]]|38}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Fountain|The Fountain]]|39}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Zuppke—Two Sketches|Zuppke—The Artist—The Coach]]|40}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Illinois Union|Illinois Union]]|41}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Woman's League|The Woman's League]]|42}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Changing Forestry|The Changing Forestry]]|43}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/University Band|University Band]]|45}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Y's|The Y's]]|47}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Mortar Board|Mortar Board]]|48}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Ma-wan-da|Ma-wan-da]]|49}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Open House|Open House]]|50}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Sachem Calls|Sachem Calls]]|52}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Torch|Torch]]|53}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Experiment Strips|Experiment Strips]]|54}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/At the Mum Show|At the Mum Show]]|56}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Sonnet to M. L.|Sonnet to M. L.]]|57}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Military Day|Military Day]]|58}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Illini Corner|Illini Corner]]|60}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Eyrie|The Eyrie]]|61}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/The Old Library|The Old Library]]|62}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/President Kinley|President Kinley]]|64}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Illinium—Element 61|Illinium—Element 61]]|65}}
{{TOC row 2-1|[[Illinois Verse/Farewell|Farewell]]|67}}
{{TOC end}}
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-1
{{ph|class=chapter|Illinois Salute}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
:::::Illinois! Illinois!
At your very sound with a love profound/begin/
We, Illini true, salute where honor's due.
Devoted sons and daughters of the orange and blue,
We pledge forever our allegiance firm to you.
:::::Illinois! Illinois!
Of the flowery plains but little trace remains;
From the prairie soil with long, determined toil
There grew the campus green, the spacious college halls,
Your soaring collonades and massive stadium walls.
:::::Illinois! Illinois!
Pride of wondrous state! Fine men have made you great
Once a valiant band,—now over all the land
Illini true salute. In loyalty we stand
United in dear Alma Mater's proud command.
}}
-2
{{ph|class=chapter|Burrill Avenue}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
Flows all the campus life down Burrill Avenue
:Beneath the mighty arch of branching elms
The Grand Old Man had placed so true,
:With wise attentive care for tender life
Whose growing needs he so well knew.
Brave old Uni Hall, like some great sentinel rock
:That stems mid-stream the onward buoyant tide,
Stands firm and calmly meets the shock
:Of years.—Ah, at the sight of your weathered height
What doors of memory unlock!
When loudly sound the chimes to tell the passing hour,
:The gay-capped boys, co-eds and thoughtful profs,
From out the halls and every tower,—
:Mosaics bright soon form on the broad, grey path
That weave and change as with magic power.
}}
-3
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
In the twilight of the early spring come campus sings.
:And the luring melody of Varsity Band
Both old and young to the fresh lawn brings;
:While strolling couples fill the avenue,
And along its green vault music wings.
In balmy days of May the caps and gowns appear,
:Which lend the walk scholastic dignity.
Then comes to a close the college year,
:And that last long line moves down your shadowed length,
O, Burrill Avenue so dear.
}}
-4
{{ph|class=chapter|The College Chimes}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Across the campus, how many times
I've heard the music of the chimes!
:The voice of that old grey tower that sings
:Ever through my memory rings.
For {{hinc|football}} games it shouts aloud;
In victory chants its paeans proud
:Demurely, it raises each Sabbath morn
:Its hymns, on prairie breezes borne.
The warning of its shaking bells
The fleeting passage of time foretells,
:And students passing from college halls
:Give anxious heed to its constant calls.
Those clarion tones that sound so bold
Each new class greet, ring out the old;
:And returning, they of many climes
:Receive their welcome from the chimes.
}}
-5
{{ph|class=chapter|The Auditorium Steps}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
Up and down the Auditorium steps
:What heights, what depths
Of human joy and hope and passing sorrow.
Each fall, so eagerly the freshman climbs
:Not knowing the times
He'll tread that path till baccalaureate.
On Sundays, at five, the organ's deep, rich voice
:Draws all by choice
Up the broad stairs to vespers musical.
Both town and gown on famous Star Course nights,
:Mid blazing lights.
On the steps in anticipation gayly crowd.
The campus sings and twilight concerts in spring
:Great crowds soon bring.
Then Sachem's gorgeous warriors throng the steps
And at the close of the year the frats' song fest,
:Each striving its best,
Fills them high with white-sleeved boys.
}}
-6
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
Soon on your heights a noble group will arise
:That time defies.
Wrought by Illinois' son, Lorado Taft.
A fitting place for Alma Mater to be
:Where all may see,—
Enthroned upon the Auditorium steps.
}}
-7
{{ph|class=chapter|Within the Auditorium}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
In the foyer sways the human mass
Thru the doors into the great rotunda.
Up the winding stairs the people pass,
To the balcony seats ascending.
East of the central doors a portrait we see,
President James in gown and crimson hood.
West, a beautiful bronze of memory,—
Ruth among the alien sheaves, low bending.
Crescent shaped the rows of seats extend
Within. Above, the great dome sparkles with lights
On the stage green folds of velvet lend
Drooping softness to the long, harsh lines.
Dominating the space above, Ulysses
Watches Penelope's maidens spin. The title,
{{fqm}}Everybody Works. But Father," his ease
Has won from the gay, irreverent students.
}}
-8
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
On that stage have spoken men who led.
Prima donnas have sung and orchestras played.
Final rites for our celebrated dead
Here were performed. Athletic meetings held,
Student carnivals each year without fail;
Concerts by the Band and Choral Society.
While above Ulysses with the years grows pale,
—Painted by Millet, lost with the Titanic at sea.
Gathering place for enlightened college life.
How many different groups your walls enfold
In the college year. Within that broad expanse
All-University services they monthly hold;
Sunday vesper concerts with organ music,
Sweeping arches and dome, the students lure,—
Beauty seeking. Fine old Auditorium.
Temple of knowledge, pleasure, peace and culture.
}}
-9
{{ph|class=chapter|Once Upon a Time}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Once upon a time, dear father of mine,
You opened that wonder-book of sphere and line
To us. So much of that lore is gone, alas!
But deeper truths that last you taught your class:—
To solve the long hard problems that life brings
And striving, reach the plane of higher things.
{{fqm}}Not necessarily,"—Those words drift across
Time's space to me, and the great the sense of loss
How sweet the memory that brings once more
Each little treasured phrase! Thus on death's shore
We light from out the past the broken spars
And with their sparks we see above the stars.
A gallant soldier in your country's need,
The training to obey and yet to lead
Gave to your mien a fine integrity,
A dignity,—a privilege to see.
O, blest are we who've known in this world's strife
The quiet inspiration of your life.
}}
-10
{{ph|class=chapter|Passing of the Bone-yard}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
:::::Historic stream!
Mysterious bones in the distant past were found
Upon its banks. Then came the surmise sound
That drinking Indians, thirstily bending low,
Perished here by hidden enemy's bow.
:::::Romantic stream!
Along its banks the early violets grew;
Across the rippling waters soft winds blew.
And here would linger when the moon was bright
Amorous couples far into the night.
:::::Quiet little stream!
Demure and calm; now showing scarce a trace
Of its turbulent youth when it would race along its
Path, and students then would bear
Across to class belated co-eds fair.
:::::Passing stream!
Tradition fading from the college life,
Tho Skull and Crescent still conducts its strife
Each spring across the stream in East Side Park
And occasional frosh are ducked here for a lark.
}}
-11
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
:::::Ancient stream!
Your course on the campus now is almost run.
No more can you join in youth's hilarious fun.
For many strenuous years you gave your best—
Meander slowly along; you've earned your rest.
}}
-12
{{ph|class=chapter|Thomas Arkle Clark}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Silvery hair and shrewd face, whimsical smile
Crowning a slight and straightly boyish form,
Kindly eyes forever seeking the best
Yet seeing much of selfish human guile:
Pilot true in many a violent storm
Met in restless youth's unending quest.
Strenuous efforts made to save the farm
Early test the growing boy and train
Courage for future tasks,—bravely borne alone,
Cheerful words and rarely tactful charm,
Soothing the invalid mother's constant pain,
Thousands of sick and troubled since have known.
Teacher,—stimulating, earnest and fair;
Leader, counselor valued;—rapid his rise.
Writer of ''The Eight O'clock'' that's open
Now for all the world its wit to share.
Steadfast ever, individual and wise;
Dean of deans and friendly maker of man.
}}
-13
{{ph|class=chapter|The Old Clock}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Product of those early students' skill,
The venerable clock serenely looks down still
Upon the changing classes of every race
Who rush by with a hurried glance at her face.
Her noisy rival in the library near
May shake those chimes on the breeze,—She has no fear.
The campus has looked up for fifty years
To her,—the monitor of youths and seers.
First class memorial! Uplifted, high!
The careless crowds can never pass you by.
The class of seventy-eight will mark the hours
As long as Uni Hall upholds her towers.
}}
-14
{{ph|class=chapter|The Rock Garden—Spring}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Spring enchanted spot!
At the end of a long gray trail
Across level land,—wearily monotonous,
A sudden dip! Down rough stone steps
To a winding path that cleaves
The lovely scattering color of tiny iris,
Crocuses, the bright blue of scilla,
And thick masses of Icelandic blossom
—White, pink and pale purple.
Brave bits of color life!
How did you slip thru the hard, cold
Grasp of that black, clutching earth?
}}
-15
{{ph|class=chapter|The Rock Garden—Summer}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Out of the blaze of the sun into a flood of color.
Waves of red, purple and yellow break
On either side in which your vision swims
Delightedly!
Gorgeous pinnacles of bright pink and pure white flox
Rise from banks of green.,
And the gaze clings lingeringly to their lovely refuge.
Canterbury bells chime your beauty on the vibrant air
Across that white pool of rippling daisies.
Lilies, sway and dip your sweetness
In the many hued stream.
You defiant tiger-blossoms on the rocky ledge,
How fiercely you stare up into the sun,
Sucking its heat.
The golden glow of coreopsis sheds its beams
Upon all the palpitating, merging tones and shades
:While beside a tiny rill,
:Delicate and cool,
:Forgetmenots spill
:Their baby blue.
}}
-16
{{ph|class=chapter|Homecoming}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Great fall festival of the Illini tribe
When gather loyal sons from far and wide.
Glorious orange floating on the breeze
Matches the mellow foliage of the trees
While mingling with it blends the navy-blue
Deepest color of the sky's own hue.
Stunt shows bright and celebrations gay
Make a carnival of night and day.
Mask and Bauble stages comedies,—fine
For those who ask the best in the drama's line.
The Senior Hobo Band parades the place;
Music and dancing add their fleeting grace.
Stadium supreme! Great scene of the strife
Huge magnet of the active campus life
That draws within its mammoth walls the crowd
Chanting "Loyalty" both deep and loud,
Only here can gather all; from here depart,
—The ardent pride of each homecomer's heart.
}}
-17
{{ph|class=chapter|And He Is Ours}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Father of athletics, strong and quiet and wise
Master of baseball; there his greatest skill still lies
Leader of sports, and force in the ten great powers
:{{fqm}}There is but one Huff,"—And he is ours.
Once the east claimed him, but only for a brief space
Back to the middlewest that bred him he turned his face.
Illinois welcome gave with gifts and flowers
:{{fqm}}There is but one Huff,"—And he is ours.
Coach and trainer of coaches, ever true, on the square
What attentive care always for his boys' welfare
How above all his dauntless figure towers
:{{fqm}}There is but one Huff,"—And he is ours.
{{***|4}}
::Stadium triumphant!
:Mighty dream come true!
Worthy vision long ago Huff held of you.
Soaring shafts of memory,—high above the game,
{{fqm}}G" unseen there mingles with each hallowed name,
Symbol of silent service that our thought embowers.
:{{fqm}}There is but one Huff,"—And he is ours.
}}
-18
{{ph|class=chapter|Senior Hobo Parade}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
Shrill and loud above the beating of the drums,
Syncopated,—jazz music urges the heterogeneous rabble
Down Burrill Avenue and back to the Auditorium
:Tattered and torn,
::Blackened and painted,
On they come to make a ludicrous spectacle
For the Homecoming masses.
Dignified seniors have shed academic pride
With their customary conventional clothes.
Weary Willies and Dusty Rhoades mix
With strenuous Wild Bills and competing clowns
Jaywalkers and awkward hay-seeds;—All stirred into one
:Highly colored,
:Shifting throng.
Swerving and tumbling about with savage glee
Or infantile joy, they play their various pranks
To win the plaudits of the laughing crowds.
}}
-19
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
::Final high carnival,
:::Last dashing gesture
To end the careless gaiety of their college days,
And enter upon the dignity of the senior year.
}}
-20
{{ph|class=chapter|Stuart Pratt Sherman}}
{{ph|class=chapter-subtitle|June, 1924}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
{{fqm}}Another good man gone East!" No more to see
Him on our street,—tall, strong and slightly bent,
His solemn face light up so suddenly
In salutation,—hear the jest that's sent
By his satiric wit,—is loss indeed.
Yet flashing memories stay; A book-lined room,
A paradise for those who love to read,
Where gathered friends who sought some mental boon,
A littered desk, a fireplace deep and wide
And dominating all, the master mind,
The gallant, militant spirit that defied
All shallow pretense, struck and yet was kind
:Neighbor, poet, critic—American;
:A simple, true and rarely gifted man.
}}
-21
{{ph|class=chapter|The Senior Bench}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Stately grey bench, what calmness, strength!
:Forbidding in aspect just at first
:When as freshmen we so often thirst
To spread ourselves on your cool, smooth length.
But soon comes respite from our alarms
:For with the years that quickly go
:More courtesy and warmth you show
Till seniors you welcome with open arms.
Proudly each May when days are fair
:A plaque of highest honor you hold,
:Girls' names in gleaming letters of gold
Which Mortar Board entrusts to your care.
That century mark proclaims your age
:When great events have come to pass
:Long may you give to every class
Yourself in service,—true and sage.
}}
-22
{{ph|class=chapter|Ballade of the May-pole Dange}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
The loveliest sight of the college year,—
:The dance that comes in the month of May
When all the pretty co-eds appear
:Upon the green in dresses gay.
:As the sun is casting its last bright ray
The ribbons from the pole they slip,
:And with a whirl and a long sash-ay
To Spring's blithe song they lightly trip.
They twist around till comes the fear
:The pole cannot be wrapped that way;—
A burst of music; a deafening cheer!
:And not a flutter to betray
:That hands had touched it other than fay.
The bright-hued figures flash and dip
:And back to their places with rythmic sway
To Spring's blithe song they lightly trip.
}}
-23
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
The queen enthroned with attendants near,
:The crowning event of the festive day,
The Morris dancers with horse so queer
:Prance and turn. Then shepherd-hay
And the jesters skip and have their say.
Now clouds and flowers dance a bit
:And as their lord, the Sun, obey
To Spring's blithe song they lightly trip.
{{ph|class=envoi|Envoi}}
O Alma Mater, this happy lay
:Accept we pray, if it seems fit.
Smile on your children in their play;
:To Spring's blithe song they lightly trip.
}}
-24
{{ph|class=chapter|The Circus—Interscholastic}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
Throng the many curious, pleasure loving thousands
To where the huge stadium casts its jewels of light
Upon the black screen of night.
From the high schools scattered thruout the state
Come these young people in the month of May
To compete in sports and join the hospitable Illinois students
In rollicking fun, ending in the great circus
:Staged for their benefit.
Bursts of music, cheers and laughter!
Here comes the parade led by the band playing "[[Barnum and Bailey's Favorite]],"
:In full regalia,—orange pom-pons, belts and dress cords.
Into the rings sweep huge, grotesque, shambling shapes,
Comical clowns, dashing riders, marvelous acrobats;
A motley fleet of gun-boats and bright-hued motor cars,
:Coasting and careening in and out.
:Bewildering array!
}}
-25
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|end=follow|
Now begins the performance and the fraternities put on their stunts,
Ever with the idea of adding to that silver row above the fireplace
Yet another cup. Many and clever the take-offs on college notables.
Swift runners in the relay race contest for favorite sororities.
Thruout it all the clowns tumble and play their tricks,
:Firing guns to attract the attention of the crowd.
And without ceasing, the lively jazz music of the band
:Beats on—on—blaring upon the quivering night air.
Trapeze and bar experts perform wonderful feats of strength and agility
In the spot light, above a long straight line of men in white,
:Rises a great human pyramid, immovable, stupendous.
At the end comes the grand climax,—always impressive, startling:—
A diver, blindfolded, plunging into a tank of burning oil;
}}
-26
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=follow|
A realistic sham battle or Indian fight staged by the military:
:Fireworks of extraordinary brilliancy and beauty.
Happily, the crowd filters away into the darkness
And on the field lies a litter of broken animals,
Steamboats, torn pieces of colored cloth, and rough and ready scenery,
—The scattered debris of a great circus at Interscholastic.
}}
-27
{{ph|class=chapter|Talbot Portrait}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
{{fqm}}The Portrait Of A Man!" No broadened brim
That shades the austere face of some pilgrim
Or circling ruff with dashing feathers' droop
:On doublet and cloak that portray
:The cavalier carelessly gay.
Such art is zealously treasured from the past
We, too, guard a valued portrait that will last
A man who's calmly seated in his chair
:Of noble, commanding brow,—
:One of those the wise fates endow.
The master-builder of dominant, virile strength
Yet genial, willing to go to any length
To help a friend. In life's long stress of fibre
:He has bravely stood the test.
:Great Talbot,—Illini's best!
}}
-28
{{ph|class=chapter|The Gregory Boulder}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Half hidden by the bushes,
:A massive boulder lies
Near the John Street entrance to the campus.
Hurrying crowds, unseeing, pass by it every day.
:Thousands enter college
:And at the end of four years leave,
Not knowing that the huge granite stone
:Marks the last resting place
::Of the University's first able leader
::Revered by the old graduates.
{{fqm}}If you seek his monument
Look about you"—the epitaph.
Could John Milton Gregory himself but stand here and look about him
:What amazement would fill his soul!
Only old Uni Hall remains intact.
Far, far beyond the reach of human sight
Stretches a great sea of new buildings and grounds,
:Stupendous! Inspiring!
}}
-29
{{ph|class=chapter|Illinois Field}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=follow|
On Illinois Field the first great building stood
And all the college life was centred there
Until in years old Uni Hall was built
And to the south flowed fast the tide of life.
A college dormitory it became
Till soon swift progress swept it from its path
And all the field was cleared for college sports.
The {{hinc|battle-ground}} of Uni {{hinc|base-ball}} strifes,
Jake Stahl and Lundy gave to it great fame—
Here the game of foot-ball got its start;
And Stagg himself played in that first great fight
Against the struggling, striving Illini team.
Purdue, the ancient enemy, was downed
And many were the victories,—defeats.
Red Grange began here on his famous runs
And Huff and Zuppke turned out fine athletes.
Each spring the Interscholastic contests came
With circus at night for boisterous, wild fun.
The May-pole dance a touch of beauty gave
When the field became a fairy-land
Inhabited by elves and lovely nymphs
Lightly dancing on the fresh green turf.
}}
-30
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=follow|
Again the current turned both south and west,
Out to the great new stadium it swept,
And carried sports and Interscholastic,
But left behind baseball, the first great game,
And for practice work the old field still was kept.
The glamor of its glorious past for old grads
Must ever cling,—the scene of all their sports—
The old {{hinc|battleground}},—historic Illinois Field.
}}
-31
{{ph|class=chapter|Red Grange}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=follow|
Greatest half-back in the world is Grange,
:Play boy of the middle west.
To him came high adventure, romantic, strange,
:Tho flamboyant fame was not his quest.
Modest youth,—slim, with auburn hair,
:Students, unheeding, passed him by.
In training under Zuppke's watchful care,
:Industrious, quiet, earnest and shy.
Marvelous runs on the foot-ball field soon brought
:Varsity recognition and praise;
A hero-worship and adulation unsought
:From flappers for whom Red was the craze.
Stadium crowds uprose with ringing cheers
:When seventy-seven with the ball
Sped for the goal and dissipated fears
:That come, however successful, to all.
}}
-32
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=follow|
Like a mighty tide then spread the fame
:Of his spectacular career
And from the papers came delighted acclaim
:Whenever Grange on the grid would appear.
On our fields the seeds of his success were sown,
:National now and spread afar,—
And Illinois is proud to proclaim her own
:Red Grange, the noted foot-ball star.
}}
-33
{{ph|class=chapter|A Tradition}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Just within the wide entrance of Lincoln Hall
:With white marble severe and cold,
In the path where all foot-steps would naturally fall,
:Lies the [[Gettysburg speech]] in bright gold.
Lowly place for those glowing, fine words of renown
:By the world ever justly revered;
But their dynamic power could not be tread down,
:As some people so greatly had feared.
By consent, all the students have "hallowed this ground"
:And no matter how hurried or tired
Thru the years, with due reverence, they've passed around
:—A tradition respected,—admired.
}}
-34
{{ph|class=chapter|The Snyder Bust}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
The hurrying girls pass by it every day,
The bust that ornaments the lower hall,
A noble head thrown back in strength and pride.
The gallant air still holds in medium cold
That characterized the man in glowing life
When he for freedom fought in Italy
And exiled from his native Polish land.
Made offer of his sword in our great strife.
The many years that followed till the end
He gave to Illinois; inspired and taught
His classes and counselled all who sought his help.
The Snyder Fund he left and still can aid
The struggling student to attain his goal.
His special sympathy was for the girls.
Alethenai first recognized his worth
By placing his sculptured head by Taft in their hall.
And now the Woman's Building holds the bust
Where all the girls in the course of their college life
May see and revere their ever loyal friend.
}}
-35
{{ph|class=chapter|Burning of the Freshmen Caps}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
In snake dance now the freshmen go
Bending sinuously to and fro.
:Rattle! Boom!
Beat the drums. "Hi there! Make room!"
{{fqm}}Oh say! We're going to be rid
Of the little old green lid."
:Hoop! Hey!
Back and forth they push and sway.
Soon the crowd rushes without tire
Out where roars the big bon-fire
:Snap! Blaze!
But a greater noise the boys can raise.
See the buttons,—White and yellow and blue
Green and purple and red-brown, too.
:Smart! Bright!
{{fqm}}Pep up! We can't stay here all night."
}}
-36
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
Into the flames they're flinging them fast.
The frosh are rid of their spots at last.
:Hoop! hoo-ray!
The little green caps have had their day.
}}
-37
{{ph|class=chapter|Triolet—Gold Feathers}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Bright gold feathers that adorn
:The sophomore girls' attire.
By the chosen they are borne,
Bright gold feathers that adorn.
With great pride they are worn
:Where the world can admire.
Bright gold feathers that adorn
:The sophomore girls' attire.
}}
{{ph|class=chapter|Triolet—Orange and Blue Feathers}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Dainty orange and blue,
:The feathers they wear,—
Leading girls who are new;
Dainty orange and blue.
Greatest honor their due.
:For the care they will bear;—
Dainty orange and blue
:The feathers they wear.
}}
-38
{{ph|class=chapter|The Sun-dial}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
The sun-dial stands amidst its shrubs and grass
And marks the time of day for all who pass.
Nineteen-hundred-six, the long since gone,
Still lingers here for each succeeding class.
{{fqm}}Make the passing shadow serve thy will,"
Students have read, and tarried here until
A favorite place for kodaks it became.
Now sun-dial pictures many albums fill.
{{fqm}}Amidst ye flowers I tell ye howres," you see.
{{fqm}}Take tent o' time ere time be tent." Ah, me!
Such sage advice the young since Omar's time
Have read,—and hastened on in liberty.
}}
-39
{{ph|class=chapter|The Fountain}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
In attitude benign the elm holds out
Absolving arms above the great grey stone
That murmurs always in a monotone.
Not as water gushed from the rock when struck
By the Prophet Moses. Here a steady flow
To quench the thirst,—unceasing, clear and slow.
Nineteen-hundred-two, perchance you thought
Of that young immortal poet whose name
Was writ in water, but undying his fame.
And so you chose your class memorial
Whose liquid tones forever will allude
To you who serving win our gratitude.
}}
-40
{{ph|class=chapter|Zuppke—Two Sketches}}
{{ph|class=section|The Artist}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Impressionist who wields a clever brush!
When comes the winter's hush
With ardor that ne'er faints
He mixes his glowing paints
And on the canvas, woods and stream and field
In a riot of tumultuous color yield.
}}
{{ph|class=section|The Coach}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
::Zup the coach
:::Without reproach,
::Each move seen
:::With eyes so keen.
::Fighting hard,
:::Forever on guard.
He moves his team with all his soul
On,—on,—toward the desired goal.
}}
-41
{{ph|class=chapter|Illinois Union}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
The heart of campus activities for men.
:Thousands wear the Indian head,
:Both leaders and the many led,
And proud are they to proclaim by that token
::Illinois Union.
So wide its field the departments now are five
:That try to serve and are in charge
:Of functions, various and large.
The organizations which together thrive;—
::Illinois Union.
A busy hive is old Illini Hall
:With offices and book-exchange
:And lounge where no one can feel strange.
Director of Homecoming every fall,
::Illinois Union.
Today, its members spread thruout the land
:To Union ideals do these inscribe
:And together form a mighty tribe.
Forever may it flourish and expand,
::Illinois Union.
}}
-42
{{ph|class=chapter|The Woman's League}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
The Woman's League gathers all into its fold
Without regard to creed or opinion they hold.
All-University parties for women it gives
And strives that a friendly spirit always lives.
Every Wednesday, from three to five, at tea
The girls can gather for sociability.
In the parlors of the Woman's Building they meet
To laugh and talk and different friends to greet.
The League has sponsored and worked for Mother's Day,
To make it a custom both impressive and gay.
Full half-a-dozen times in the college year
It gathers Inter-Illinae groups for good cheer.
At Homecoming, too, it holds out a helping hand
To entertain the guests from every land.
Free from politics and petty intrigue
A fine, united group is the Woman's League.
}}
-43
{{ph|class=chapter|The Changing Forestry}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=follow|
{{fqm}}Foresty? Forest you mean, I know," So the wise stranger says alway.
We alone thus call a grove of trees—name that, unique, survives today.
Trees of all kinds that the prairie's black soil can grow, planted here, took root,
Flourished, and stately and tall became. Birds built their nests in the spreading limbs,
Squirrels and rabbits and small wild things soon made their homes in the protecting shade.
Lovers came to stroll down the winding paths strewn with dry leaves and soft pine-needles.
Bird classes roamed thru its aisles each spring. Violets first shyly crept out here.
Children, also, shouted and ran about; slipped thru holes in the hedges to play,—
Swing on the wild grape-vines and wigwams build,—happy and free in the wood beloved.
}}
-44
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=follow|
Years passed by. All around houses were built. Hedges gone, menacing fences now stood
Guard o'er the Forestry, locked against all but the few who bore treasured keys.
Progress soon swept all these barriers away. Open lay once more the grove of trees.
Paths were tread south and west leading from campus to faculty homes beyond.
Facing on Lincoln the hospital now stands in the midst of its sheltering trees,
Serving the students in sickness and trouble. The gift of their friend so true.
Senator McKinley. Changed is the Forestry and what the years may bring
We know not. Always a part of the campus life it must remain. Of this
We rest assured, and the sacrificed some of the fine trees, those spared will
Keep alive the ancient name and ever will this wooded strip be called, as now, the Forestry.
}}
-45
{{ph|class=chapter|University Band}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
How our hearts swell with glowing great pride when we see
Uni band on the march in its yellow and blue.
First comes twirling his mace round with great dignity
The imposing drum major who makes much ado;
Then the boys who are playing our "Loyalty"
And the great title drum always goes along, too.
The block I and Illini they form on the field.
Strains of "[[Hail to the Orange]]" rise gently and swell
On the air as the leader his baton doth wield
With soft waves, as a wizard of old wove his spell,
And standing uncovered, the crowd can but yield
To the melody sweet that we all know so well.
}}
-46
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
When the band takes its trip every hall is packed tight,
And the home concert draws all to hear and to see.
With fine instruments glowing,—in uniforms bright,—
The performers blend harmony in every key.
Grouped en masse on the stage they're a glorious sight,
So their many warm friends must surely agree.
On the campus, at twilight there's music in spring.
As the people stroll quiet or sit on the ground
And the children oft dance with a wild, merry fling,
A more pastoral scene nowhere can be found.
At commencement the finish; Loud praises e'er ring
For the great college band, justly loved and renowned.
}}
-47
{{ph|class=chapter|The Y's}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Great in their influence are the Y's.
:Both dwelling on the street called Wright,
Then surely all must realize
:They're ready for the hard, good fight.
They place all those who have the need
:To work and strive to make their way,
No difference what the race or creed,
:And service render without pay.
Tho Christian endeavor is their aim
:And uplift is the constant goal
The social life, too, has its claim
:As being healthful for the soul.
So here's to both the valiant Y's,
:And long may they live on the street called Wright
For close and precious are their ties
:And many seek their kindly light.
}}
-48
{{ph|class=chapter|Mortar Board}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
We watch for the gowns of Mortar Board in spring,
:As they appear but a single day,
And delightful is the thrill they always bring
:On that eventful day in May.
Their names we've read emblazoned on the shield
:The senior bench so proudly bears
In letters of gold upon a sable field,—
:Prominent women in college affairs.
Activities, distinguished scholarship;
:Above all personality,—
Those who resolved will never lose their grip
:No matter what the pull may be.
These the high requirements Mortar Board
:Demands and holds to be most dear,
And precious, indeed, to those will be the reward
:Who serve her that last critical year.
}}
-49
{{ph|class=chapter|Ma-wan-da}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Near the fountain stands a great tree.
:On its trunk an arrow-head,
Placed each spring where all may see,
:Holds the list of those who led.
Nervous juniors consult the screed
:Anxious as to their future fate.
Stop Interscholastic crowds to read
:Blazoned names of the campus great.
Captains of the major teams,
:Also, Illinois brigade;
Heads of Union and Y it seems
:Greatest honor, too, have made.
Illini editors are found;
:Names of others,—only a few
Whose attainments are deemed sound.
:Recent Illio figures, too.
Braves are they now, eager, strong,
:Ready to lead when comes the call
Campus struggles hard and long,—
:Those Ma-Wan-Da has chosen from all.
}}
-50
{{ph|class=chapter|Open House}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
Open House we've known for twenty years
:And more. The engineers first opened up
Their wonders of whirling wheels and belts and gears
And blazing electric lights and in spite of fears
:The public entered to wonder and admire.
Then physics offered its mysteries to all;
:The glorious beauty of its Geysler tubes,
The delicate instruments that rise and fall
At slightest pressure; and sounds that oft appal
:The ignorant, yet hold a fascination.
Chem Open House is not so fair to see
:With test-tubes, carboys and desks so grimly marred.
But in a cave they practice alchemy
In secret, and wonder grows how it can be
:This marvelous science was saved for us today.
}}
-51
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
The Ags and Household open up their doors
:And offer hospitality to all
So thru their corridors a great crowd pours,
Investigates and eagerly explores;
:Sees and hears and even tastes delights.
A settled custom this has long become
:To let the students and the public know
The work that each department does and some
Of the wonders wrought. With all, some tricks and fun,
:And what more popular than Open House!
}}
-52
{{ph|class=chapter|Sachem Calls}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
One spring night of the college year
Sachem's warriors proud appear.
After Varsity's band is gone
Still all linger on the lawn
Watching braves in blankets bright
Merge from shadow into light,
Forming into one long line
As the chief makes mystic sign.
Loud and clear is called each name
Lucky sophomore picked for fame!
Proudly he rises to grasp the hand
Held out by each of that war-like band.
Quickly he mounts, as those before,
Reaches the Auditorium door;
Passes he then out of sight
Eager for the secret rite.
}}
-53
{{ph|class=chapter|Torch}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Bearers of the torch,
:Honorable and high,
Juniors, chosen vestals,
:Never let the flame die.
Yellow scarfs betoken
:Firmest friendship's tie;
At the ends are graven
:Torch and U. of I.
Gathering oft together,—
:Fireside talks and fun,—
Dear will be the memory
:In the years to come.
}}
-54
{{ph|class=chapter|Experiment Strips}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
Near the dome where men search the wide heavens above
Lie the Morrow experiment strips where they study the earth
Beneath us. Closely watched for the forty-three years since their birth
By the seekers of truth about the soil that they love.
Next the oldest in the world are these strips that record
The results of exacting research on rotation of crops,
The alarming, increasing degree that fertility drops
And the richness intensive, wise care will reward.
The old country, at Rothempstead, holds the first place
Where the study of crops was attempted and knowledge attained,
But from Cyril G. Hopkins at Illinois there was gained
Redemption of the soil for the human race.
}}
-55
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
Just black earth we could tread underfoot with a glance
As we pass? We are thrilled when we read of our forefather's fight,
But the second great conquest of the land was made on this site;
In these strips you will find a true record of romance.
}}
-56
{{ph|class=chapter|At the Mum Show}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Bewildering flower!
:In your gorgeous tatters,
:A splendid mendicant,
Boldly begging admiration for your beauty.
Amazing blossom!
:Sinking sometimes to a tiny
:Button of delicate tint;
Often swelling into a great balloon of color
Held to earth by its long green stem.
:Sumptuous! Regal!
Under the long stretches of protecting glass
The evanescent life of vivid tones and varying shades
Merges, as some great crashing chord,
Into an ensemble of magnificent harmony.
}}
-57
{{ph|class=chapter|Sonnet to M. L.}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
A gracious presence in the college life,
An atmosphere serene and softly bright,
Eyes of deep brown that hold a higher light;
A power to quiet every petty strife.
Hers the rule of love and sympathy.
Big sister all the girls must trust, admire.
The friend who helps their interests without tire,
Both leads and guides with rare ability.
She's consecrated to her chosen task
As truly as nun who takes her sacred vows
Before the altar. Sincerity endows
Her with a radiant spirit granted few
A charm the daily routine cannot mask.
The Dean of Women, ideally fine and true.
}}
-58
{{ph|class=chapter|Military Day}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
Military Day in the last full week of May
Brings out on the drill-field all the great brigade.
Both the regiments of infantry appear;
Batteries of artillery, troops of cavalry
Follow, and line up proudly for the grand parade.
Companies abreast, they stand; imposing sight!
On their right flank is the military band.
Officers are facing them across the field
Sent by the government to decide our military rank
Among distinguished colleges of the land.
Gayly playing a grand march, the band leads down the field
Men swing into columns; four abreast they go.
In two long lines each of the companies passes before
Its judges in review. The cavalry now displays
Great skill. And the artillery moves along the row.
}}
-59
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
Passing down the ranks of companies at attention,
Judges look at equipment and men with closest care.
Many hours were spent before by anxious cadets
Polishing bayonets and rifles, puttees, belts,—
Knowing this severe inspection they must bear.
Presentation of the Hazleton medal follows.
Best of the freshman units wins it; given for
Over thirty years. The Uni medal of gold
Comes next and bronze. Then back to the huge old armory
March the men and disband to rush forth free once more.
}}
-60
{{ph|class=chapter|Illini Corner}}
{{ph|class=chapter-subtitle|An Impression}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
From the vast brick expanse of old Uni Hall
Scarcely a gleam shines forth after the sudden lull
Of five o'clock. But bright always are the basement windows
At Illini corner where toil underground
:The gnomes of the college press.
On their numerous little black machines
:How feverishly they pound the keys,—
::Click—clack! Click—clack!!
Then spring up and rush madly to and fro.
:Drawn and anxious are their faces
As they endeavor to dig up gems of thought
:To please the uncertain public,
On whose door-steps must be placed their offering
:Early the following morning.
}}
-61
{{ph|class=chapter|The Eyrie}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
High up in big Administration Hall
Abide headquarters of ''The Alumni News''
And busy presiding genius over all,
(Who can no earnest, true old grad refuse)
:Carl holds his genial sway.
Attractive nest from which to wing new's flight
Across the land and sea and carry joy
To graduates afar. A place of light
Where with humor and patience naught can annoy
:Carl holds his genial sway.
Below, a stretch of the broad and shaded walk
A calm glance at the classes hurrying to and fro;
His future prey he has no need to stalk.
Time will deliver them to him, tho slow.
:Carl holds his genial sway.
}}
-62
{{ph|class=chapter|The Old Library}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
Treasure house where hoarded wisdom is stored
:All sorted and labeled on shelves, row on row;
And students who're eager for knowledge and some who're bored
:Hasten quickly to partake or with motions slow
Just glance at the books assigned,—all sitting around
The tables with which the reading rooms abound.
Behind the loan desk's curved, confining length,
:Where busy librarians according to rule
Deal out from the stacks, a tablet of great strength
:Is seen to the founder of the Library School
Katharine Sharp, and President James' fine face
In profile, high above the central space.
The mural decorations still bright today
:Are scenes from college life by Newton Wells
Whose dust lies now in Egypt far away.
:Overhead we hear the chimes' deep bells,
And see beyond the drawers of reference cards
The Lincoln yolk, a framed glass case safe-guards.
}}
-63
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
A pleasant place for students to gather and read
:In scholastic atmosphere forever serene,
Tho many a whispered date is made, indeed,
:Behind the cover of book or magazine.
To the great new library soon we shall depart
But memories of the old dwell in many a heart.
}}
-64
{{ph|class=chapter|President Kinley}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
Responsibility is his to guide
The training ship thru many dangers rife
In the whirling currents of the resistless tide
That pours out toward the unknown sea of life.
And wise must be his choice of those who aid
In carrying on the task of teaching youth
The wisdom that experience has made
Their own while yet they ever seek fresh truth.
A chieftan whose piercing eyes sweep o'er the heights
To which he must attain and lead his band.
And keenly he watches for the signal lights
With which progress onward beckons those in command.
In single phrase his character to sum,—
{{fqm}}Difficulties were made to be overcome."
}}
-65
{{ph|class=chapter|Illinium—Element 61}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|end=stanza|
Illinium, the first element to be
:Discovered in America!
That it existed, the wise would all agree
But vainly sought to capture it,—
Most elusive of elements,—sixty-one.
:In our fine rare earths laboratory
At Illinois the long, hard battle was won
:And recorded by the faithful X-ray.
For full six years it was the department joke
:Whenever they thought the end in sight
Some delicate piece of apparatus broke
:But still the persistent search went on,
A "trouble book" was kept that showed the pace
:At which they climbed the upward path,
The times the crystal slipped from out its place,
:The tube broke when success was near.
}}
-66
{{ppoem|class=poem|start=stanza|
Faint lines upon a photographic plate,
:A tiny vial of pinkish yellow
Are closely guarded, for these proofs relate
:The story to the outer world.
To Professor Hopkins great the honor due
:And to his able associates
Yntema and Harris. The name rings true,
:—The metal of the Illini.
}}
-67
{{ph|class=chapter|Farewell}}
{{ppoem|class=poem|
To Illinois we do not say ''adieu.''
Tho the Good God with her forever be!
We hope to meet again both happy and free,
But ''auf wiedersehen'' does not meet our view.
We love our fine old English word farewell
With its hearty wish to prosper and succeed,
Its blessing on the future word and deed,
—Its ringing sound like some intoning bell.
The end has come and we into the world
Pass out,—bearing treasures rich and rare,/last/
Cherishing memories surpassing fair.
Prosperity and greatness all foretell
Dear Alma Mater. Beneath her flag unfurled
We the Illini say,—"Fare-the-well."
}}
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