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ARY


Mrs. Nellie G. Ferris
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RS. NELLIE G. FERRIS 'was born in New Haven, fr: ‘,7’
N. Y., September 7, 1853. She was fortunate in her
parentage. Her father, John C. Gillespie, of Scotch descent,
was born in Richland, N. Y. He was reared on a farm under
old-time conditions which encouraged industry, thrift, sobriety,
integrity and loyalty. His book learning was acquired at a
country school. He was a systematic reader, a careful ob-
server, and a practical thinker. His life occupation was farm‘
ing. He was a courageous, industrious, progressive, ambitious
God-fearing, public-spirited man.
Her mother, Martha House-Gillespie, of English descent,
was born in Trenton N. J. Hers was a humble home in which
.she and her sisters and brothers learned the fine arts of work
andself-denial. Her educational advantages were exceedingly
meager. She was a fine type of old-fashioned American wom-
anhood, prudent, retiring, deeply religious—a home—builder.
_ Nellie’s girlhood surroundings were simple, substantial,
wholesome andinspiring. Her childhood days were spent on a
farm where with two older sisters, an older brother and a
younger brother she shared in the life of a happy home. The
father desired better‘educational advantages for his children
than the country school could offer, consequently when Nellie
was twelve or thirteen years of age, the family moved to a farm
just outside the corporation of Fulton, N, Y. Nellie and her
sister Alice attended Mrs. Caldwell’s private school for girls
and Falley Seminary, aggregating in all three or four years.
_At the age of fifteen she was awarded the “Mathematical
Prize.” This indicates that she was much more than an ordi-
nary studerit. At the age of sixteen she taught two terms in a
district school. In February, 1870, she entered upon a course
of training for her chosen vocation at the Oswego Normal and
Training School, Oswego, N. Y.
She was a bright, industrious, ambitious student. On ac-
count of her inborn timidity, her instructors were slow in dis—
covering her brilliancy of intellect. It was her good fortune ._
,.
, . :;.
1 ‘\I
to be associated intimately with seven of the noblest girls in
the school. Two‘ of these, Mrs. Lena Hill-Severance of Buf-
falo, N. Y., and Miss Alice L. Olds of Ogdensburg, N. Y.
remain to pay tribute to Mrs. Ferris’ girlhood character and
student traits.
I entered this school in the spring of 1871. At that time,
as now, the girl students were overwhelmingly in the majority.
Until the autumn of 1872 I gave very little attention to the
school functions. I devoted my time unremittingly to my
studies, spending my Saturday afternoons in the Gerrit Smith
library. During my early boyhood life, I had kept aloof from
girls, although I associated daily with my four sisters. I con-
fess that while I was humiliatingly bashful, I cherished an un-
expressed admiration for the girls in the Normal who were.-
handsome and brilliant. Just when or where I first met Nellie
I cannot recall. I do know that she was a‘ member of the
literary society, The Adelphi, which I helped to organize,
and that at the close of an evening session, I was sometimes
privileged to accompany her to “The Welland,” a girls’ dor-
mitory connected with the school. The regulations of “The
Welland” were exceedingly rigid, consequently my calls were
few and far between. So far as I can recall these days of
long ago, Nellie Gillespie gave me no special consideration.
In the spring of 1873 my efforts to see her more frequently
were touched with enthusiasm. Her course of study was Ad-
vanced English, mine Classical, consequently we never recited
in the same classes. I have reason to believe, however, that
she learned through her girl associates who did recite in my
classes, something of my scholarship and my aggressive
characteristics. It was a joyous Saturday for me when I
could secure her companionship for a few hours. Sometimes
we went boat riding onv Lake Ontario, sometimes we drove
into the country. On the 22nd of May while we were ap-
parently admiring a beautiful sunset from the lake shore I
expressed my love for her, my fondest hopes and ambition.
She was frank, gentle and considerate, manifesting a degree of
2
self-control that intensified my determination. She said that she
would visit her home at Fulton, twelve miles from Oswego,
on the following Saturday and counsel with her father and
mother. These were the good old days when daughters ap-
preciated the wholesome wisdom, generously offered by their
parents. A short time after this event Nellie offered me the
greatest opportunity of my life, the opportunity of meeting
her father and mother in her own home. I must have made
a favorable impression because our engagement followed short-
ly after this visit.
Nellie graduated in July, 1873, and in the fall of the same
year she accepted a position as teacher in the public schools
of Franklin, Indiana, and taught there one year. Four months
of the following year she taught in the High School of Fulton,
N.‘ Y. in order that she might be at home with her parents
immediately previous to our marriage December 23, 1874-.
Five days later, December 28, we both began teaching
in the Spencer Academy at Spencer, N. Y. In the fall of
1875, we went to Freeport, Ill., where, with a former class-
mate, Mr. E. B. Sherman, I organized a Business College
_ and Academy. Although this was entirely successful, a better
field seemed to present itself at Rock River University, Dixon,
Ill. We went to Dixon in the spring of 1876, taking charge
of the Normal'Department of the University.
It was in the dormitory of this University that our first
son, Carleton Gillespie Ferris, was born, September 18, 1876.
Mrs. Ferris taught almost continuously during this period.
In the fall of 1877 the University was hopelessly handicapped
financially. I organized the Dixon Business College and
Academy and conducted it successfully for two years, Mrs.
Ferris doing now and then a little teaching. In the fall of
1879 I accepted the superintendency of the Pittsfield Public
Schools of Pittsfield, Illinois, holding this position for five
years. While living at Pittsfield, Mrs. Ferris did not teach.
It was here that our second son, Clifford Wendell Ferris, was
born, June 3, 1881. The little fellow, though vigorous at
3
birth, was one of many infants unable to overcome the disease-
of cholera infantum. Little Clifford died September 20.
In the summer of 1884 we came to Big Rapids, Michigan,
and in the following September organized what was then called
Ferris Industrial School. In 1894, the name was changed to
The Ferris Institute. From the very beginning of this school
Mrs. Ferris taught regular classes and did her own house-
work. On April 16, 1889, our third son, Phelps Fitch Ferris,
was born. Notwithstanding her additional home cares Mrs.
Ferris continued to teach until 1901, when on account of
shattered health she was compelled to discontinue all work in
the school room.
In the School Room
She was associated with me in teaching approximately
twenty years, the larger part of this time in the Ferris Institute.
Although handicapped as a mother and housekeeper, the quality
of her teaching was extraordinary. Her love for young people
was profound. She was eager to assist, direct, encourage and
instruct the most backward and discouraged pupils. Her
scholarship was broad and thorough. She was religiously
painstaking in her daily preparation. She never failed to
recognize and emphasize the salient points in a recitation. She
was a lorn logician. She talked little and never preached.
She stimulated self-activity in a most fascinating way. Her
gracious manners won the abiding love of all who came under
her instruction. Her students exerted themselves to the utmost
simply because they could not summon courage to disappoint
her. Hundreds of America’s noblest men and women who
knew her as a teacher, testify to her inspiring influence. Her
presence in the class room was a benediction. Her ideals were
exemplified daily in her personal contact with the school.
Whatever there is in the Ferris Institute that resembles the
work of the teacher of teachers, had its origin in the seven-
teen years of loving service rendered by Mrs. Ferris.
4
In the Home
F orty-two years in one home is, by the calendar, a long
time. ' Measured in heart beats, it is all too short. Mrs.
Ferris came out of an unpretentious home, out of a home
where loyalty, self-sacrifice, purity and love reigned supreme.
In her own home she faced courageously the ordinary hard-
ships allotted to woman. For a quarter of a century her
home taxed her physical and mental energies to the uttermost.
As I recall those years of extreme frugality, those years of in-
cessant toil in the school and the home, I marvel at her en-
durance and self-denial.
I was born with a melancholy disposition. Mrs. Ferris
furnished the sunshine for her husband and her two boys.
The home was her kingdom. In the home she was a beacon
light. No sacrifice was too great for her to make. Her
natural refinement was graciously expressed morning, noon
and night. She loved beautiful surroundings, beautiful
flowers, beautiful books, beautiful trees and beautiful human
characters.
As a mother she manifested firmness mingled with tender
ness. She listened patiently to the’ trials and tribulations of
her children and her husband. Her sense of humor made the
child life of her boys joyous and delightful. Her love and
sympathy for children extended far beyond her own hearth~
stone.
She rarely spoke of religion. Apparently she was never
perplexed with the problems of life. Her faith in the Father
of us all made her silent, divinely trustful and active in good
works. She was my tower of strength, my comfort in hours
of stress and seeming defeat.
In 1903, I feared that she was stricken with a fatal
malady. When the morning came for her to start for the
Battle Creek Sanitarium, my duties at the Institute hindered
me from accompanying her to the train. On my return to my
home at noon, I found the rooms .empty. The clock ticked
5
in the silence with the sound of a trip hammer. I turned to
my desk and there I found a vase of fresh flowers and a loving
note bidding me to be tenderly watchful over Phelps, as-
suring me that she would triumph over her ailment. This is
only one of a hundred incidents that I could relate.
Six years ago, her physical condition became critical... It
was my blessed privilege to care for her in countless ways.
During these years I came to really know her. I confess that
for thirty-five years I had been so close to her that I was
unable to appreciate her really divine qualities. These years
constitute a beautiful benediction. For me these were precious
years, transforming years, regenerating years. For her chil-
dren, for her close friends these were holy years. Again and
again she declared that these were the happiest years of all
her life. She realized fully what it meant to love and be
loved.
Young Folks in the Home
Up to 1911, more than a quarter of a century, Mrs.
Ferris ‘kept open house for the students of our school.
Occasionally she gave a reception. Her most charming work
was done with the individual student who came for assistance
in his studies, or who came for a book. Mrs. Ferris, after‘
asking a few searching questions was usually invited to select
a volume. When the book was returned it was freely dis-
cussed. Many of these visitors caught a new vision of life
in her radiant presence. She was always suggestive, never
dogmatic. '
During the boyhood of Phelps, Mrs. Ferris read aloud for
an hour every Sunday night during the winter months. At
one time sixteen boys were in regular attendance, eagerly
listening to “Wild Animals I Have Known,” “My Kalulu,”
"Cudjo’s Cave,” “Captain, January,” “Modern Vikings,” etc.
Under no circumstances would she read beyond eight o'clock.
6
Mrs. Ferris handled these boys with consummate skill. Her
activities were organized about the home—her anteroom to
heaven.
Political Helper‘
Mrs. Ferris realized, as none‘- of my friends realized,
that I had no political ambition. She felt that, insomuch
as my relations to a minority party almost precluded the pos-
sibility of political success, why enter the arena? Further-
more, as already stated, she was keenly sensitive to unkind
criticism. When I was finally persuaded to become a candidate
for Governor, she was my most enthusiastic helper. Naturally
she was elated over my final success.
I am constitutionally a radical, a “natural born”'fighter,
prone to favor extreme measures, in order to secure reforms.
Under her tuition, I grew in patience and wisdom. My
daily letter to her when I was at the Capitol made her familiar
with the important problems of state. I always shielded her
so far as possible, from the thousand and one petty annoyances
that came to me in my public life. For the best service I
rendered Michigan, Mrs. Ferris deserves a large part of the
. merited commendation. Her sense of justice, her purity of
motive, her Christian democracy illumined my pathway. In
solving the problems that confront me, I shall ever ask,
“What would Mrs. Ferris suggest or advise, if she were at
my side?” Her ideals were the ideals described in the Sermon
on the Mount.
Love of Nature
Here and there in her home could always be found a
handful of fresh flowers. I now daily look with gratitude
and delight upon the magnificent ferns that her years of
watchful care have made triumphantly beautiful. The spring
time was little less than heaven to her. She had the enthu-
siasm of a child for getting out of doors into the sunshine
where she could laugh with the flowers, the trees and the
7
birds. During her last days she frequently remarked, “I
had hoped to see the flowers again.” She was always ready
for a long drive into the country. She did not like solitude,
consequently it gave her great joy to invite one or more of
her friends to accompany her. She took it for granted that
they too loved all out of doors. She admired her beautiful
lawn and would not consent to have it broken into patches
of artificial designs. She co-operated with nature. Among
her favorite flowers were lilies of the valley, violets, roses,
sweet peas, Easter lilies, gladioli, carnations and orchids. Her
love for the beautiful was little less than a religion.
Books
Mrs. Ferris was a lover of great books. She was
especially interested in American Biography. The achieve-
ments of noble Americans was for her a tonic. Her keen
discrimination and appreciation of constructive thought led
her to read and reread the great essayists. Her favorite
author, for more than a third of a century was Emerson.
After reading some popular inspirational book she would re—
mark, “It is all in a few paragraphs of Emerson.” My older
editions of Emerson’s Essays contain many marked passages
expressing the precious thoughts that furnished food for her
soul. During the last years of her life she read a very large
number of wholesome American and English works of modern
fiction. She avoided novels that discussed sex problems. She
was ever alert for bright, wholesome, inspiring stories. Her
unwavering belief in human goodness, her admiration for heroic
deeds, guided her unerringly in her choice of books. At Christ- .
mas time the “morning readings” at the Institute are com-
memorative. Mrs. Ferris eagerly read and selected the Christ-
mas stories. Her judgment was exquisite. '
The Drama
~Mrs. Ferris was passionately fond of the drama. In her
life time she had the good fortune to_hear Edwin Booth,
8
Lawrence Barrett, Henry Irving, Joseph Jefferson, Sol Smith
Russell, John Drew, Mrs. John Drew, Richard Mansfield,
E. H. Sothern, Mme. Janauschek, Mme. Modjeska, Denman
Thompson, J. Forbes Robertson, Maxine Elliott, Maude
Adams and many others. She most enjoyed plays that abounded
in good cheer, plays that expressed the “simple life” like “The
Old Homestead,” “The Passing of the Third Floor Back,”
and “The Servant in the House.” The last play she ever
saw was at Vicksburg, Mississippi, November 10, 1916, where
together we fell in love with Maude Adams in “The Little
Minister.” This is another one of my precious memories.
Love of Humor
All who came in close contact with Mrs. Ferris were
quick to recognize her keen sense of humor. Her merry
‘laugh was contagious. This found its heartiest expression
when she came in touch with children. She was untiring
in her efforts to entertain them and revelled in their play.
She was never boisterous.
The humor of Mark Twain and Josh Billings failed to
command her attention. She preferred ‘the quiet, elusive
humor of Oliver Wendell Holmes, Samuel M. Crothers and
Robert J. Burdette. _
She always manifested a happy, joyous disposition, a dis-
position made beautiful through self-mastery.
In Society
On account of her school and home duties, and on ac-
count of her delicate constitution, she afliliated with few
social and public associations. She was deeply ‘interested
in every movement for making the world better. So far
as her health would permit, she visited the sick, helped the needy,
and comforted, and encouraged those who were discouraged
and heart sick. Her inborn timidity made it impossible for
her to address, under any circumstances, any audience large
9
or small. She always underestimated her ability. Only her
students and friends who came in close touch with her, knew
that she was a woman of remarkable intellect, rare culture
and refinement.
Mrs. Ferris loved her neighbors. She regretted her in-
ability to entertain them frequently in her own home;,=she
regretted her inability to attend social functions except on
rare occasions. This was a cross which was hard for her to
bear. Her callers always found her cheerful, frank, sympa-
thetic and sincere. She could not be induced to discuss human
weaknesses. She was absolutely free from even the semblance
of malice. Doubtless she recognized faults in herself, faults
in her husband, faults in her children, faults in her friends,
but her admiration for their redeeming qualities grew out of
her appreciation of the beautiful, the good and the true.
Her Letters and Essays
In her letters Mrs. Ferris revealed all of her characteristics,
especially the sunny and sympathetic side of her nature. To
the unfortunate, to the discouraged, to the bereaved she sent
words of healing and comfort. For me her letters were a well-
spring of life.
Occasionally she wrote a short essay for some one of our
school publications. Her style was simple, direct, clear and
discriminating, a revelation of her inner self. In January,
1897 she wrote a brief essay for “Useful Education,” entitled
"Loyalty to Purpose.” I take pleasure in quoting the follow-
ing paragraphs: * "* * A steady purpose attended by in-
creasing effort will accomplish more than we have yet dreamed
of. If we form the habit of giving to small matters our best
endeavor, then great things must receive it. I have come to
feel that our possibilities and powers are almost unlimited, if
we will but listen to the voice of duty and hold ourselves
responsive to the light. * at *
* * * One of the chief elements of success in any line
of work is the power to take infinite pains with that work.
10
No part of a task should be regarded as trifling, unworthy of
attention. ,* ,* ,,,
Submission to our mistakes is the climax of cowardice.
Submission to the right is the height of nobility.
in a a
In February, 1900 she wrote for the “Ferris Institute
News” an article entitled, “Vision Without Decision." I
quote the following paragraphs:
* *_ * George Eliot makes the destiny of each hero or
heroine turn upon the use of those critical hours when some
ideal confronts the soul for acceptance or rejection. The two
factors most essential to culture, growth and achievement, are
to see the right and then to do it, to have the courage and
force to work this into the web of life and carry our intuitions
and better impulses into action. We curb our ambitions and
distrust our ideals. When ease, comfort or pleasure stand in
the way of advancement, they must be swept away with a
power as relentless as fate.
is in ii
* * * This inward vision is the mainspring of our con-
tinual improvement, the inspiring influence without which we
never could press onward and upward. I can find nothing
that has hindered more effectually mental and moral growth
than the failure to heed these promptings and act upon them
immediately. Selfishness creeps in and whispers some other
time will do as well. The convenient time never comes and
to all eternity those impulses, which, carried into action, would
have conveyed happiness and joy, remain unused.
is a 'BIK-
* * '* Many a virtue struggling into being is warmed and
stimulated by the sunshine of appreciation. Many a battle
with temptation owes its final victory to the reinforcing in-
fiuence of encouragement. No one can estimate the effect of
a single worthy deed, still less fix any limit to its influence.
We all have the impulses toward right action; the need is for
11
us to spontaneously follow them from the leap and spring of
the spirit within.
Last Days
On March 8, 1917, I came from the Institute to my home
a few minutes before noon. Just as we were about to enter
the dining room for lunch, Mrs. Ferris was seized with ex-
cruciating pains unlike any she had ever experienced. I called
our family physician immediately. He was unable to diagnose
her ailment. The following morning her condition was such
‘that little hope for her recovery could be entertained. On
March 20th a serious operation was performed. She rallied
and again manifested new hope. Three days later she passed
to the Great Beyond. During these fifteen days of awful
suffering she manifested the courage that conquers. For her
loved ones and for all who were allowed to come into her
presence she had a smile and a word of cheer. Her last
days were in harmony with all the other days of her heroic
life of self—sacrifice. She had no fear of death. She worshiped
at the shrine of the living. Again and‘ again she fondly wel-
comed the visits of her only grandchild, little Helen.
The life of Mrs. Ferris adds new luster to _American
womanhood. For years, her husband has carried in his pocket
the following sentiment:
“Say not welcome when I come;
Say not farewell when I go,
For I come not when I come
And I go not when I‘ go,
And a greeting ne’er I’d give you
And farewell would never say;
In my heart I'm always with you
Always shall be every day.”
Mamma.
WOODBRIDGE N. FERRIS.
12 I
Words of Appreciation from
Her Friends
Mrs. Lena L. Severance
‘Buffalo, N. Y..
In an old autograph album is written a tender message
signed,
“Your friend and classmate,
HELEN F. GILLESPIE
Fulton, N. Y.
No. 8 Welland, Jan. 22, ’73.”
It was in June ’73 that I last saw the writer of that message,
but her personality is as vivid as if we had parted yesterday.
In person she was slightly taller than the rest of us eight
girls who roomed in Nos. 8 and 9. She had very beautiful,
long blonde hair which she wore parted in the middle and
.waved on either side and neatly coiled in the back. Never a
hair was misplaced; there was always the most beautiful ‘sheen
on that hair and it was never tumbled, nor mussed. I was
just learning to “do up” my hair and it was a marvel to me
and to the others as well, how Nellie could always dress hers
day after day Without the slightest variation and always have
it so beautifully done. She had a fresh, clear complexion and
very expressive eyes. Her laughter always showed first in
her eyes. She was a model in dress. Her clothes were always
attractive, but what was more to the point to ‘us school girls,
they always seemed to be in perfect order. We wore bustles
in those days and some of the girls used to make them of news-
papers. The New York Herald was the favorite paper for
this use because it was softer and more pliable than the others
and not so likely to rustle. I never recall some of my school
13
friends without visions of those hideous paper bustles that
were generally awry. Nellie never descended to anything of
that kind. Make shifts of any sort were never necessary for
her.
These traits contributed to her dignified appearance. She
never gave the impression of primness or priggishness however.
She was just the warm hearted, generous natured, but rather
reserved girl with these touches of superiority to the average
girl.
We used to do a great deal of note book work in the
Oswego Normal School, taking the notes during recitation and
writing them up after class. It never seemed to be any effort
for Nellie to keep her note book strictly up to date, and she
never seemed to have any difficulty in discriminating as to what
was worth while to put in her book. We were in the same
classes. Occasionally we wrote up our note books together
and sometimes I would borrow her note books. I was always
impressed by the conscientiousness with which she did her work,
but I was always more impressed by the willingness with which
she would loan her books and her eagerness to help when one
appealed to her. ‘
School girls are often harsh in their judgment of others,
exacting and critical. Nellie was never of this type. One
could not know her without realizing her uncompromising
standards of conduct, her high ideals, her absolute discrimina-
tion between right and wrong, but at the same time, one
could not but be impressed by her generous judgment of others.
I never heard from her an unkind comment or criticism of
schoolmate or teacher, and she never descended to ridicule.
Not only that, but one could not do so in her presence with-
out feeling it to be an unworthy act. She had a fine sense
of humor, however, which she could put to very good use,
but it was always free, from sting. She was never moody
nor depressed in spirit. With her calm, even temperament, her
sunny disposition, her strength of character she must have de-
veloped into a fine teacher and a model home-maker.
14
Miss Alice L. Olds
Ogdensburg, N. Y.
One of the brightest recollections of my school days is my
memory of N ellie—a royal friend, always ready with sym-
pathy, encouragement, and inspiration. Among my old school-
mates, she is the one whom _I remember best. What good
times both in work and play we enjoyed together! Well do
I remember her kindness in taking me to her home where I had
the opportunity of meeting her people.
Words seem inadequate to express all I can remember of
my friend, her sunny disposition, her faithfulness to whatever
she undertook, and her loyalty to her friends. Her life has
made the world "better and that is the greatest thing that can
be said of any one.
Julia B. Douglas
Camp N eosho, Evergreen, Colo.
As I think of the years of our girlhood, when Mrs. Ferris
and I were most intimately associated, the trait of character
' which comes first and most forcibly to my mind was her lovable-
ness. She had a wonderful gift for inspiring affection, for her
own heart was so full of love for others. I do not remember
that in all those years, I ever heardt'her speak an unkind word.
With all her gentleness, her strength of character, her
steadfastness of purpose, her ,faithfulness and sincerity were
such as to make a profound impression upon one who had the
privilege of her friendship.
Then there was her unwavering loyalty to her friends.
I saw her last after a long separation, and I found the faithful
friend of years before. _
I can think only with admiration of her qualities of mind;
her beautiful character called forth' both admiration and the
warmest affection.
15 s
W. D. Henderson
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich.
It was not my good fortune, as a student, to attend any
class in the Ferris Institute taught by Mrs. Ferris. It was
my privilege, however, to be associated with her as a member
of the faculty of the school, and later to enjoy her friendship
in the home. '
My impressions of Mrs. Ferris as a teacher were formed
largely by what I saw of her methods of instruction during
occasional visits to her classroom, and more especially by the
effect of this classroom upon her students. Many of the stu-
dents who were enrolled in my classes in physics were at the
same time taking geometry of Mrs. Ferris. I thus hadfian ex-
ceptional opportunity to estimate her work, both with reference
to the thoroughness with which it was done, and also with
reference to its reactive effect upon the student. This effect
was very marked,-—being characterized by a thoroughness of
method, a neatness of manner, a logical order of procedure,
and a toughness of mental fiber which they had unconsciously
imbibed from a teacher who possessed these qualities to a re-
markable degree. _
It was not in the schoolroom, however, but through social
intercourse in her home and in mine that I came to know Mrs.
Ferris best. I spent many never-to-be-forgotten hours as a
guest in her home, and many at my own fireside. On these
occasions we talked of books, of her sons, Carleton and Phelps,
and of my own children, and always of “the school,” and of
Mr. Ferris. She rarely, if ever, talked of herself. She was
always genuinely interested in her friends,——their hopes and
ambitions were always her hopes and ambitions; their sorrows
became her sorrows; their joys, her joys.
I‘ distinctly recall my last visit with her in her own home.
It was on a bright sunshiny day in the spring. We sat in the
16
bay window corner of the library—the morning sun streaming
across the room and upon the books on the opposite wall. She
was engaged in some light work, I think needlework of some
sort. The conversation turned upon Phelps, and upon the little
one—Helen. At some sally of mine, she laughed heartily, her
voice ringing out, clear and bell-like, but low. I remarked at
her excellent spirits, and she replied, “Yes, how could one feel
otherwise on such a glorious morning.”
When I attempt to visualize my impressions of Mrs. Ferris,
three pictures stand out clear and distinct. '
The first characterizes the calmness and serenity of her
hearing. The graciousness of her manner was enhanced by
the calm, firm lines of her face, and by the clear and penetrat-
ing, yet sympathetic glance of her eye.
The second impression indelibly stamped upon my memory
is that of the notable quality of her voice, always low, un-
ruflled, and exceedingly pleasant to the ear. Hers was a voice
that could throb with love and friendship—a voice, too, which
in the classroom could galvanize into new life the flagging
energies of the thoughtless or careless student.
The third picture—or rather impression, is the most pro-
nounced of all, and it is, at the same time the most difficult
to define or analyze. I refer to that undefined something of
which one was always conscious when in her presence—a qual-
ity or attribute of the nature of a spiritual exultation. Of this
I have often heard her students speak, and attempt to analyze
the effect of her presence upon them. This characteristic was
as undefinable and-intangible, and at the same time as real, as
the perfume of a rose—an experience that lifted one into higher
realms of thought, stimulated one to nobler action, and impelled
one irresistibly toward finer conduct. I suppose the quality
which I have so poorly described is that which is known as
personality.
17
Rose Anderson
The .Smead School, Toledo, Ohio
To me Mrs. Ferris was the embodiment of ideal woman-
hood, beautiful, gracious, gentle, with rare charm of voice
and manner.
As‘the years went by, I realized how fully these qualities
were the'outward grace, the fitting temple of the fine intellect
and the noble soul, dauntless, cheerful, hopeful, unselfish.
Throughout a long and intimate friendship I never found
her otherwise. Never was there look or word or deed that I
did not admire and love. She was always a source of great
inspiration and strength to me.
How kind life was to give to me a friend so wonderful, so
perfect, whose radiant spirit still uplifts me now as it did then.
Mary McNerney
Big Rapids, Mich.
I think the two traits of character that stand out most
prominently in my mind are these‘: first, her purity of thought
and action, shown in all she did and said—that utter lack of
any of the cruder, coarser things; second, her sincerity, that
feeling that what she said, she meant, a trait that brought
people to her with both joys and sorrows of a personal nature,
feeling that her congratulation or sympathy rang true.
Then her unselfishness, that prompted her to sacrifice every-
thing for other people, where many would call her unwise.
Her own interests and convenience were always subordinate.
I have never met any woman, who represented a “lady,” in
the true sense of that term, more than Mrs. Ferris. Her
_ manners were not put on and off, as she chose—they were an
outward sign of her real nature—used alike with rich and
poor, deserving and undeserving, with real friends and with
mere acquaintances.
18
In connection with this, I cannot help but think of the
care and attention she gave to her dress and to her personal
appearance in general—she always gave that impression at home
and outside—she herself loved it and through it, she gave
pleasure to herself and to others. This characteristic, com-
bined with her conservative taste and her love of the beautiful,
gave wonderful results.
Here, too, would. come her love of formality—her desire
to see things done, and to do them, in the right way and at
the right time. Although she liked formality in its place, she
thoroughly enjoyed the informal, and no person brought in
contact with her, no‘ matter how lowly he might he, could feel
embarrassed or out of place. I know, in the case of my sister,
whose hearing makes her very uncomfortable when she meets
people in a social way, that there was no one in Big Rapids
who could make her-feel more at ease than Mrs. Ferris.
, The love of home was so pronounced in Mrs. Ferris’ life,
that it seems unnecessary for me to mention it, but I always
think of her as a “home” woman—no place seemed quite so
good to her as her own home, no people quite so dear to her
as her own people. Surely, her life as wife and mother was
a beautiful example to all who knew her. .
Her loyalty and love for the school, her grief over her in-
ability to come into actual contact with the students in their
social life, in the F. C. A. etc., always appealed to me. I
have enjoyed many a visit with her, when I could bring to her
some little ‘news of the school, trifling in itself but of interest
to her.
I remember, too, the sense of humor that made her such a
happy, cheerful companion, even after she had suffered so much;
her fairness of judgment, that made her loved by all; that
regard for other people's views, that reverence for other people’s
religion, etc.; her tact in dealing‘with people and thus bring- I
ing out the best in them; her independence of thought and ac-
tion, when she felt she was right, and yet her avoidance of un- .
necessary clashing, even when her views were widely different.
19
In general, Mrs. Ferris seemed to me to be a true lover
of people, encouraging and helping them to have the highest
standards of living, interested in all that pertained to them,
putting her stamp of approval on everything that could bring
about enjoyment and happiness and usefulness in their lives.
Every human being has faults, but I think Mrs.‘ Ferris’
were so hidden by her good qualities that in the eyes of her
friends she stands forth as an ideal type of woman, leading a
life of service, and moulding those who came in contact with
her, into the highest types of men and women. -
Bertha A. and Rhoda G. Houtz
Pontiac, Mich.
She was always dignified, yet cordial and approachable;
courteous, without being subservient. She impressed one with
her own superiority without intimidating.
In a gift from Mrs. Ferris—“Stevenson’s Attitude to Life,”
by John F. Genung, we find the keynote to her own lofty
thinking and living: “the free, joyous erectness of the undis-
mayed soul.” She loved humanity and'found her greatest joy
in increasing the happiness and usefulness of others. We could
not imagine Mrs. Ferris asking, “Is life worth living?” She
made it worth living. She demonstrated the great “Theorem
of the Liveableness of Life.” Her gentleness and buoyancy of
spirit were contagious. The true nobility of her most noble
womanhood quickened the finer sensibilities and called forth the
best, in those with whom she had to do.
Mrs. Irene Pomeroy Shields
Bay City, Mich.
On meeting Mrs. Ferris one was instantly conscious of her
rare and beautiful personality, and impressed by her cheer, her
sweet serenity, her sympathy and above all with her sure and
strong sincerity. One felt instinctively that here was a woman
20
to trust, to depend upon and one who would prove a “tower of
strength in time of trouble.”
A closer acquaintance led one to marvel at and admire the
quiet skill and ability with which she directed and executed her
household affairs, her remarkable talent for arousing interest,
enthusiasm and inspiration among her pupils, her gracious charm
in social life, her deep devotion to husband, home and family
and with all her sweet spirit of kindliness, helpfulness and love
for humanity “which makes the whole world kin.”
While for her the golden key has turned which opens the
door into the “Beautiful Beyond,” the “Land of Dreams,” she
is still with us and her influence can end only with time.
Mrs. May M. Bancroft
Lansing, Mich.
I was an invalid during those earlier years of our acquaint-
ance. Perhaps it was my frailty and suffering that first turned
her kind heart toward me. She was teaching in the Institute
then and often stopped at my home on her way from work,
frequently bringing a flower, usually a half-opened rosebud,
and many times she shared with me the violets from her waist.
Days/that she came were red letter days indeed. Her presence
was like sunshine—warm, inspiring, health-giving; as inde-
scribable and as sweet as the influence and perfume of the rose.
It was not so much what she said or what she did that helped
one—it was herself, that wonderful radiant personality. Most
people merely touch the outside of one’s life, but Mrs. Ferris
had the inborn gift of going straight to the heart, always for
its betterment and uplift. To meet her once was to remember
her always. '
She was beautiful, possessing grace and charm of manner,
ready sympathy, intuition and understanding, a rare sense of
humor, pride of spirit, indomitable strength of purpose, appre-
ciation of the best in every human soul, integrity of life, un-
selfishness, and a wealth of love.
21
It was impossible to come into personal relation with her
without being inspired to do one’s best; she had that rare and
priceless gift of giving to the soul a vision of something higher
to which it might attain. I think that gift is the secret of her
great power that drew to her the love of all. She simply lived
her luminous life, and the quality of it made you feel you would
give the world to be beautiful like her.
Mrs. Ferris’ love for flowers was a passion. She liked to
_ have them always near her, especially the rose and the violet.
“I think one rose can express all the lovely things one cannot
or dare not speak,” she would say. Violets she loved to wear,
yes, and to share. She would say, “I am so constituted that I
cannot enjoy what I cannot share.” She dispensed freely what
she had, and what she was.
Her home was to her the center of the universe, and in it
she was a model—an efficient housekeeper, a charming hostess,
a wise and devoted mother, a loyal loving wife, and with all
so human, and so approachable and sweet.
She never could have grown old; her life was keyed to the
eternal verities. Outward circumstances‘ could not make or
unmake her. She was royal despite circumstance or vicissitudes.
The love of truth and right was the very essence of her char-'
acter. In her, this virtue lost its austerity, and transmuted into
something unspeakably lovely—a character like the pearl of
great price, for which a man would sell all that he has.
For nearly a quarter of a century I knew her, as woman
and friend.
But, O my friend, my beautiful friend in heaven, as I try
to write for someone else to read what you are like to me, I
find the hot tears falling down my cheeks. Not tears of sorrow
nor grief, but tears of gratitude and of joy for having known
a beautiful life like yours. It is wealth unspeakable to have
shared in your friendship. 'Your belief in me has helped me
try to live, your faith has lighted mine, your courage has made
me braver, your precious letters have been open doors revealing
the depth and warmth of your earnest spirit. The light of
22
your life has wakened answering lights in the hearts of others.
It was your greatest joy to help to make this world better. You
were so modest, so self-depreciating; you never even guessed
how like “a trailing robe of glory” your influence followed
along your way, and follows yet, into that life that “lies around
us like a cloud,” across whose nearby boundary your feet have
led the way.
We think of you’and love you in that land where you will
feel at home among the other shining ones. We miss your let-
ters and your presence, but we do not need the testimony of
your voice to know that, like as in the past, so now your love
surrounds us, appealing for the very best that we can give in
effort and attainment. Believing this, we walk with hearts up-
lifted the little while till we meet again.
Mrs. Elsie M. Robinson
Big Rapids, Mich.
I see her, as in life, a woman of radiant graciousness. The
greeting of welcome that sometimes I thought was just for me,
was bestowed upon the next who came, and every one left her
with a warm feeling of friendship. She always maintained a
quiet, calm attitude whatever may have been her burdens and
cares. Her rare personality will ever remain a precious memory.
We are told that our character is what we make it. Surely
she labored well, for hers was beautifully rounded. There was
an absence of the sharp angles so common in most lives.‘ She
was gentle and did not offend, even when she dispelled an
error. '
She was broad mindedand charitable; she had the power
of forgetting self and of becoming interested in her friends.
Hers was a magnificent womanhood! and one
“To those who knew thee not,
No words—can paint;
And those who knew thee,
Know all words are faint.”
23
As a personal tribute to a life so rich and full, I acknowl-
edge an appreciation and an inspiration that will never cease.
Mrs. Michael Brown
Billings, Mont.
My mental photograph of Mrs. Ferris has, as you know,
been many years in developing and is full of tender recollec-
tions. It is a picture made up of the lights and shadows of her
life in all its phases. Lights intensified by her brilliant intel-
lect and the sunshine of her nature; shadows made lighter by
the finest of womanly attributes and by the great strength of
her character.
From our earliest acquaintance, she was to me a kind and
considerate neighbor, a loving friend whose intellectual com-
panionship and staunch principles were a help and an inspira-
tion which can never be effaced from my memory.
Endowed by nature and accomplishments to be a leader
among women, yet possessed of a delicate modesty too sensitive
for the public eye, the fruits of a mind stored with riches found
their truest expression within her family circle and among those
fortunate ones whom she called her friends.
Of the last great shadow in this life picture it is diflicult to
speak. It is too pitifully,heroic for expression. But against
even that, unyielding, penetrating, and enveloping though it
was, she arrayed the force of her undaunted spirit, her forget-
fulness of self, in an effort to lighten the burden of sorrow
for those she loved. ‘ -
Such are my impressions but feebly expressed, of one of the
best friends I have ever possessed. _
Mrs. S. J. Reynolds
Sanitaria Springs, N. Y.
After almost a third of a century of close friendship with
Mrs. Ferris, I can hardly find words deep enough to express
the worth of such a woman—a rare type. Above all, she loved
24 .
her home and the dear ones there. Self—sacrifice was one of her
chief charms, and to that end her endurance was marvelous.
She always wore a smile. Charity and a kind thought for all,
were uppermost in her mind. High ideals and love for the
beautiful were with her, in the very passing of her gentle spirit.
In her nobility and purity of life, she exemplified Christianity.
Clara A. Osborn
Billings, Mont.
Mrs. Ferris was my neighbor during all the years of her
residence in Big Rapids, and I had many opportunities of ob-
serving her both in public and private life. She impressed me
as one who regarded life seriously. For her it was not a flow-
ery pathway along which one danced in the sunshine regardless
of what lay beyond, but a road to be trodden carefully and
thoughtfully. This view of life led her to give herself unre-
servedly to her husband, her home and her children, and then
to the school which was an adjunct to the home. The burdens
that life imposes, she did not shift to other shoulders but bore
them gracefully and sweetly upon her own to the very end.
Mrs. Ferris ornamented any social position she chose to oc-
cupy, but she was at her best as a keeper of the home, the God-
given institution dedicated to the salvation of the race. When
the final test came her courage rose to meet it, and it was proven
from what her spirit was molded.
It requires infinity to measure the influence of such a life.
“For they rest from their labors, and their works_ do follow
them.”
Mrs. Minnie B. Smith
St. Johns, Mich.
Mrs. Ferris was my ideal of a woman. Intellectually she
was of the highest type. She was a most lovable and gracious
personality. Always setting a high ideal for herself, she radi-
25
ated a subtle influence that was felt by all who came in con-
tact with her. Personally my life is the richer for having known
her. '
Mrs. Sophia F. Sweet
Washington, D. C.
Mrs. Ferris had not been in our home an hour when I felt
we had a rare spirit with us. Her beautiful saintly character
radiated from her sweet face, so full of sympathy and strength.
I cannot describe the feeling I have often had in thinking of
her. It was more as though she were surrounded by an in-
visible halo. The atmosphere of the home was better for her
presence. I was better for knowing her. It is a pleasure to re-
call the letter she wrote me regarding my suggestion of the
Columbine for our National Flower.
I only wish you could see not hear, my “mental photograph”
of your saintly wife.
Mrs. Loraine Pratt Immen
Grand Rapids, Mich.
I recall with pleasure my first meeting with Mrs. Ferris
at the time I gave a lecture at the Big Rapids Woman’s Club;
we were friends at once, and I was impressed with her cor-
diality to me, a stranger, and the volume of thought that she
had at her command so ably expressed.
This was emphasized later as our friendship grew and we
had the pleasure of meeting and knowing each other better.
The. ever to be remembered note and lovely flowers she sent
me on one occasion, were an expression of her friendship and
care for every one she came in touch with.
Truly her good works do live after her and will be an in-
spiration to all who kn‘ewiher.
26
.J. M. Fitzgerald, M. D.
Chicago, Ill.
I have never forgotten my first meeting with Mrs. Ferris
at your home. The impression that I gained of her that eve-
ning has not been dimmed in the least, and I am sure that as
long as my memory is trustworthy I shall see her as the same
fine woman, splendid wife, affectionate mother, and sincere
friend that I then saw.
She had a rare capacity for friendliness and hospitality that
must have influenced every one with whom she came in contact.
Her mental interests were those of a woman who had labored
long with great ideals. She sought the best in human life for
herself and especially for those who came within her influence.
She had a rare sense of the fitness of things. She was a sympa-
thetic and appreciative listener, far more eager to listen than
to advance her own ideas. She was entirely free from a desire
to dogmatize, resorting to suggestion rather than argument.
Her interest in the students of the Ferris Institute was
catholic, sincere, an expression of her heart and affections. Her
intuitions were notably true, concerning students whose lives
had justified her hopes and her predictions.
She had the spirit of a great mother, and her interests were
not confined to those of her household. She spread this feeling
of companionship, love, and sympathy out into the lives of those
who were struggling bravely for a larger light and a nobler
manhood or womanhood.
She was a natural teacher, a woman of fine mind, of clear
understanding, with unusual loyalty and devotion to the work
which she had taken up as the best possible occupation to which
she could give herself without reserve.
If she affected others as she affected me, they will feel
throughout their lives that a great, divine privilege was theirs
to have come to know and to experience the lasting pleasure of
her acquaintance.
27
Mrs. C. D. Carpenter
Big Rapids, Mich.
Her character was “true blue,” forceful, optimistic, ele-
vating. Her personality commanded alike the attention of the
highly educated. and the attention of the foreigner who could
not read or write a word of English. Her high aims, her clear
conceptions, quick decisions and keen realization of passing time,
all contributed to her powerful executive ability. Every word
spoken by her had a meaning, fraught with kindness. Her
poise of character was so remarkable, that, to me, she was as
a balance wheel.
I was privileged to accompany her on many of her drives
in the country during the last two or three summers of her
life, and I found in addition to the traits of character already
mentioned, that hers was a soul of deep sympathy. To me, her
noble character was an inspiration. I never met and talked
with her, without feeling better for it. When fighting the bat-
tle for life, she manifested the same cheerful disposition, the
same care in the execution of details, the same thought for
others that'she manifested when she was well and vigorous.
Even when hope of her recovery was doubtful, she could talk
calmly and bravely. Without a murmur she resigned herself
to the will of her Heavenly Father.
L. Gayle Griswold
Chicago, Ill.
It was not my good fortune to be associated with Mrs.
Ferris in the schoolroom. I envied those who could daily listen
and profit by her teachings and counsel. Possessing the highest
ideals, she instilled into the hearts of all with whom she came
in contact, a love for the ‘true and the beautiful.
A woman with such unusual force of character, and such
perfect poise, impressed one as equal to any emergency.
I love to think of her'in her home where my first happy
' 28
impressions of her patient sweetness and gentle grace were
formed. My admiration of her many unusual qualities was
intensified as our acquaintance developed. To me, she embod-
ied all that goes to make up the highest type of womanhood,
and I count as one of my choicest blessings the opportunity of
having known and loved her.
I
Words of Appreciation from Her
Former Students
Carleton G. Ferris
Taylorville, Ill.
During the greater part of my boyhood days, my Mother
was actively associated with my Father in his work. In those
early days of struggle the family purse permitted no luxuries,
consequently my Mother assumed nearly all of the home duties.
It would seem that no ordinary woman could under these
circumstances do otherwise than neglect, to some extent, her
home responsibilities, but my Mother was more than an ordi-
nary woman. As far back as I can remember, she never failed
me. Somehow, some way, she found time to amply provide
for my necessary wants, for directing my play, and for healing
my childish wounds.
‘ For twelve years I was the only child. I did not enter
school until I was eight, yet so efficient had been my Mother’s
home teaching that I found myself not only holding the grades
to which I was assigned but even advancing beyond them. This
home instruction was accomplished by her in such a manner as
to make it seem like play to me. Furthermore, she taught me
at a very early age to amuse myself, an asset which has been
invaluable to me.‘
In common with all boys, I not infrequently needed dis—
cipline. My Mother was firm, but kind. She always talked
matters over with me in a quiet way. If punishment was nec—
essary, I knew why it was to be administered. Usually I was
deprived of some privilege or pleasure for the violation of the
home code of good conduct.
Her sacrifices for me were legion. She always tried to shield
me from disagreeable situations, even of my own making, but
30
never failed to point out wherein I had erred so that I might
not again make the same slip; however there was no compro-
mise with wrong. She never interfered when it became neces-
sary for my Father to take a hand. My brother Phelps re-
ceived the same kind of consideration.
My childhood days were bright and happy. My Mother
was an excellent story teller. Her stories, and those she read
to me, always radiated joy.
My Mother believed in the good old-fashioned virtues and
practiced them. I can pay her no higher compliment than to
say that in after years, when temptation sometimes came to me,
that my training was so well grounded that I was able to avoid
many pitfalls. Her influence always hovered about me, pro-
tecting me from myself.
Her memory is to me a possession beyond price, her life an
inspiration, her love a benediction. Our joys and sorrows were
hers. The home was her shrine; everything began and ended
there. ‘
Dec. 28, 1917.
Dr. J. L. Chester
Emmett, Mich.
The friendship of Mr. and Mrs. Ferris meant so much per-
sonally in my early school days that I welcome the opportunity
afforded to pay my sincere tribute to the best teacher I ever
knew. , Mrs. Ferris was my teacher in algebra and geometry
for nearly two years. In teaching mathematics, she taught
spelling, reading, rhetoric, pronunciation, and best of all, she.
taught us how to study. With masterful logic, she drew sound
conclusions that were illuminating. Her recitations were al-
ways interesting. I never knew a student on any pretext, to
drop one of her classes.
I was backward and at first the work was very hard for
me. It seemed to me that I would never get started, so I told
Mrs. Ferris that I would have to drop one of her classes. But
31
after a short talk in a clear voice and earnest manner, so char-
acteristic of Mrs. Ferris, I would sooner drop all other sub-
jects than one of her classes. After I got started, each of her
recitations was a real intellectual treat. I did not think very
much about the encouragement given me then, but now, after
a quarter of a century, I cannot sufiiciently express my gratitude
for the splendid help and co—operation given me by the teachers
of the Ferris Institute, especially by Mrs. Ferris.
While a student at the Ferris Institute, I had the great priv-
ilege of visiting at the Ferris home. There I had a splendid
opportunity of recognizing the depth of Mrs. Ferris’ knowledge
and of appreciating the charm of her manner. Mrs. Ferris’
home life was ideal; as a teacher she had no peer.
A. J. Walrath
Bozeman, Mont.
Mrs. Ferris was a rare gem among womankind. Genial
and Winsome in disposition, self-possessed and graced with a
quaint dignity, in addition to her unusual talents and training
as an educator, she impressed her sterling qualities upon every
student enrolled .at Ferris Institute during its earlier years when
she was actively engaged as one of its instructors.
Much of my instruction came from Mrs. Ferris at the be-
ginning. I was an uncouth, untrained boy of sixteen years, just
off the farm. She taught me and my classmates not book knowl-
edge alone, but also those more valuable elements that enter
into the building of character.
A single incident will illustrate the invaluable training given
by Mrs. Ferris to all of her students. I was inclined to be un-
tidy in the preparation of manuscripts in class work. She never
failed to show her disapproval of this trait in me. One morn-
ing, in class, she sent me to the blackboard to place upon it a
solution of a problem in algebra. I was untidy in my work.
She quietly but sternly rebuked me for it, more by look and
mien than by what she said to me. This was only one of many
32
much needed reprimands that has always been remembered,
much to my lasting benefit.
The world has been made immensely better because Mrs.
Ferris lived in it.
Mr. and Mrs. H. T. Dunstone
Hubbell, Mich.
We have always been glad that during the entire two years
at the Ferris Institute we were able to be in Mrs. Ferris’ classes.
We were able to draw very near to her. So many dark places
in our lives she lighted. Few days passed when we would not
find some student in her classroom before class opening, asking
her advice on some problem entirely separate from school work.
She was never too busy to listen and set things right. As a
teacher she was patient, persevering, and always an inspiration
to her students. There was something about her that gave us
confidence in ourselves. Her manner with the backward stu-
dent was so assuring, and her greeting to the new student
brought hope and confidence.
We can both say, knowing Mrs. Ferris intimately, that her
charming personality ever radiated hope, cheer, charity, and
fidelity. We believe that the wonderful love Mrs. Ferris re-
flected, and the Christian principles she lived, are passing on
and on, gathering force, the greatness of which cannot be es-
timated or measured by human minds.
Mrs. Vesta C. Furniss
Grand Rapids, Mich.
I have a wonderful picture of Mrs. Ferris in my mind, and
I love to look at it, but it is a hard matter for me to put it on
paper. She possessed so many splendid qualities that I may as
well try to measure a sunbeam as to enumerate them.
I like to think of Mrs. Ferris in the days of my girlhood
at the old school where I became acquainted with her. Here,
33
as everywhere, she was a shining example of inflexible refine-
ment and sincere loveliness. From the first, I was attracted
by her sweet and gentle manners, kind voice, simple tastes, and
earnest sympathy. To me she was a representation of every-
thing good and beautiful. With her sympathy, she gave en-
couragement and new hopes to those who were losing heart.
In fact, just one of her gracious smiles gave us new life on
dark days, and inspired us to be more thoughtful of others.
Truly, she was a beautiful type of womanhood.
B. J. Ford
Big Rapids, Mich.
Her life was and always will be an inspiration to me. My
impression of her was that I must be at my best when in her
presence and that she would not accept anything short of that
from her students.
Mrs. Cora Kier Fulkerson
, Kalamazoo, Mich.
Memory’s storehouse! How grateful I am for its mirrored
reflections of the blessed characteristics of Helen Gillespie F er-
ris, sweet, lovely, womanly, embodiment of all that is ideal and
ennobling in woman.
I knew her first in an intimate way, in the class-room, as
her pupil. What an inspiration she was! Always spurring her
students to higher endeavor, impressing them constantly with
the fact that nothing short of the supreme effort would suflice.
When discouraged, she was ever at my side, encouraging, help-
ing and gradually, but persistently demanding that I reach_the
goal. Even now, I hear her words ringing in my ears, “It can
be done, and you can do it.” The sweetness of her soul shone
forth constantly as she modestly and patiently led us on to the
pinnacle of our God-given talents. As I sat in those days,
drinking at her fountain of knowledge, how I longed to be
like her.
34
How she did love folks! My cup of happiness was full
when I. came to the assurance -of being her friend. It was in
the loved library of her home that I saw her dear soul shine
as the sun. There, perched on the arm of her big leather chair,
or on a hassock at her feet, I was permitted tobask in the sun-
shine of her maternal heart while we shared joys and sorrows
together. Those confidences will ever remain among my most
treasured memories." '
One of her greatest charms rested in her queenly presence
in her home. ’Twas there that the dynamic force of her per-
sonality was at its zenith. Her fine thought was ever for her
family, whose virtues and interests she discussed freely with
those dear to her.
Frail as a zephyr, she was anent strong, never shrinking
where courage was demanded.
I feel richer for having known her.
E. B. Korns
Tracy, Minn.
Mrs. Ferris had a grace of manner, a sympathy and gentle
firmness in the high and noble purposes of life that made her
a magnet drawing and holding those who were fortunate enough
' to come within the velvety touch of her presence and instruc-
U011.
Always a perfect lady, gentle, most gracious, with a depth
of wisdom, she was at all times and everywhere the embodiment
of lofty ideals, so that her life became a tower of strength to
all who came under her influence. There was an indescribable
charm in her life. She was the embodiment of a noble and
perfect woman, as well as a most delightful companion. I shall
never forget Mrs. Ferris.
L. F. Korns
Minneapolis, Minn.
Those were trying days for educational work when it took
the combined efforts of two people to make success for one.
35
Financial returns were almost nothing for the work. Mrs.
Ferris plunged into the work with the thought alone of making
a success for Mr. Ferris and the school. Mrs. Ferris did a
prodigious work for the school but the home never lost any-
thing by this added effort.
Apparently rather a frail woman, she not only filled each
sphere of activity, but seemed to widen in each. The only way
that I am able to explain this is that she combined a harmony
of intelligence and womanliness that makes an irresistible in-
fluence. She possessed a balance of womanhood rarely met
with.
Instinctively morally right in her conception always, she did
not grow to harshness which is so often the bitter fruit that
grows on the tree of righteousness. It was a pleasure to be
corrected by her. To make pleasure out of the right things in
life is not always easy, but Mrs. Ferris was a master of the
problem.
We build monuments to those who become great in some
particular field of human endeavor. We pay tribute to the
sculptor who can symbolize the work of one of these heroes.
He perhaps carves but one monument and upon that alone rests
his reputation. Mrs. Ferris carved in human character and
the monuments are legion.
C. S. Kenney, M. D.
State Sanatorium, Norton, Kansas
I shall never forget her consideration, advice and help to
me when needed. It seemed to me she was a perfect teacher
and her beautiful character has been an inspiration to me
throughout my life.
Dr. and Mrs. E. O. Gillespie
‘Stephenson, Mich.
It was at the early age of 18 years when, fortunately, I
came under the influence ‘of Mrs. Ferris’ beneficent character.
36
The impressions formed during a brief six weeks, during which
time I met her daily in one class period, were most delightful
and inspiring. She even then appealed to me as one having a
big view of life; one whose first thought was to be of spiritual
and inspirational help to her students. The impression was
very vivid to me that nothing short of absolutely the most thor-
ough,—the most supreme effort to accomplish the task assigned,
was to be expected.‘ Her wonderful tact, her earnestness, her
thoroughness, her almost affectionate kindness so reorganized
me, that even the thought of presenting her with anything but
my best effort was foreign to my mind.
During the (twenty-five years that have since passed, to the
early impressions formed by her beautiful womanhood, many
others have been added, all of which have long since grown
into convictions—have become intimate knowledge.
The good fortune has been mine to sit daily for a continuous
year under her classic instructions. Under these circumstances
only the‘ unemotional, the aesthetically or spiritually dead, the
person with soul wholly atrophied could fail to respond to the
stimulus to reach up, to strive to attain the high ideals as imper-
sonated by the character of this wonderful woman.
Possessed of a keen‘, logical mind, and always in complete
command of her subject, she has always impressed me as being
by far the most capable, instructor I have known in my life-
time. Her kindness begot patience. Her discernment was so
clear, however, that the least lack of honesty and sincerity of
effort on the part of any student was intolerable to her. Sham
could not long endure in her presence.
Upon the death of a student, she spoke briefly with her
class at the first session thereafter. How well do I recall that
calm, quiet dignity—‘that exhibition of perfect faith and trust
leaving nothing further to be desired. It was no blind dogma
that she held, but a faith in God whose attributes are kindness,
love, justice—those which so largely entered into the building
of her own character.
37
Mrs. W. D. Henderson
Ann Arbor, Mich.
I was only sixteen when I saw her first,~and I thought then
as I still think, that she was the most ideally perfect woman
I had ever beheld. Then I thought her beautiful in feature,
but learned to know that her great beauty was the character
revealed in every thought and deed. She was so gentle and yet
so firm, so true. ‘Then our relations were as teacher and pupil
——later, we were as woman to woman. Never in all the years
of our friendship did she ever fail. She was always the same
beautiful, dignified woman that I knew as a girl. She was a
queen among women. Her place was accorded her always,
never with envy or jealousy, but as her inherent right. Every
one loved her; children worshiped her. Margaret and Robert
will always idealize “Auntie Ferris” and I rejoice with them
in their beautiful memory. When she came into the school each
day and walked to her room, in the heart of every student was
hero worship. N 0 young man could be with her and not have a
higher conception of true womanhood, no young woman could
sit in her presence without feeling that she would strive harder
to approach the ideal. When with her, the very- ‘best was
brought out. Nothing but the highest motives and the most
lofty impulses radiated from her remarkable personality.
Somehow the only thing I seem able to say is that I loved
her most clearly. Nothing ever could change my affection for
her. She was so beautiful in her home in every capacity. It
was always a joy to sit with her, even for a few moments. She
was purely unselfish. She gave so willingly of her frail strength
to home and friends. Her sense of duty was too keenly de- '
veloped for her own sake. She gave and gave until nothing
was left.
Sheleft us all too early counted by years, but she had lived
so fully, so completely, that the years in no manner measured
the years of her life. Thousands whose lives she has influenced,
thousands who loved her with a devotion almost unbelievable,
38
miss her. Did we not know how true and lovely she was to
inspire this love and affection? I cannot feel that I am doing
right when I speak of her in the past. To me she is as truly
alive as ever. We miss the voice, the beautiful smile, the af-
fectionate kiss and clasp of the hand, but Mrs. Ferris can never
die. Just as truly as the plant life lives, though dead, so truly
do ‘all “great personalities live on.
Her -influence will go on and on, kept constantly alive by
her friends and the numberless students who will hold her
memory as a sacred and beautiful factor in their development.
Her early life and her life while she was still able to move
among people are known to many, but the great victory accom-
plished at the close'is known to but few. I have thought and
thought how this could best be told. I know it, but I feel so
helpless when I attempt to put it into words. Mr. Ferris, you
alone can tell it, for I know only too well that no one so fully
appreciated her beautiful character, her perfect loyalty, her de-
vo'tion’to home and friends and her absolute faith in the high-
est ideals as you. Yours is a rich heritage. There is only one
Mrs. Ferris. She made her place in our hearts and there will
she stay. No one can take in my life just the place she filled;
I miss her, oh, so much. Would that I could have added to
her life in pleasure and happiness even a small percentage of
what she gave to me. I loved her dearly. That seems to ex-
press my innermost feelings.
C. U. Woolpert
Escanaba, Mich. _
One characteristic of Mrs. Ferris was her invariable pleas-
ant greeting to her students. Not just a general salutation to
the class, but a kindly smile and a word to each as he en—
tered the room. We all soon came to expect this. It was the
beautiful expression of a perfect gentlewoman.
In the recitation there was the same unfailing kindness of
manner. She always enjoyed a good joke but she lost no time
39
on light words. She was absolutely free from sarcasm or irri-
tating words, but she did impress one with the seriousness of
the work at hand. In none of my classes would I have felt
so undone by a failure on my own part as in her class. It
seems to me she compelled one to want to do his best.
James M." Rose
Benton Harbor, Mich.
There is no question but what Mrs. Ferris’ influence made
a marked impression upon me, because of the evident sincerity
of purpose at all times expressed by her. Her high ideals were
always an inspiration and a standard which I set for myself
at that time, and which I have never yet been able to attain.
To me, she has always been an ideal, high and unapproach-
able. Her lovable disposition endeared her then to me and left
me to carry, on my departure from her classes, an inspiration
of the cleanest and highest kind. Knowing Mrs. Ferris in the
home as well as in the schoolroom, she has long been to me the
ideal of womanhood.
Archibald Broomfield
Detroit, Mich.
My mental picture of Mrs. Ferris is clear, distinct and beau-
tiful. Memory visualizes it for me, but words fail me when
I try to give written expression. Mrs. Ferris had a most re-
markable combination of qualities that make life worth while.
Doing good in the world was her mission. Always and ever
she had closest to her heart the interests of others—her hus-
band, her children, her friends, her pupils. These were her
immediate concern, and in a broader sense she was vitally in-
terested in all the problems of humanity. Outside of her love
and devotion to her family which were beautiful, service to oth-
ers was the dominating feature of her life. She was the very
personification of kindness. I never knew her to speak a harsh
40
word of or to any living creature. I well remember my work
in her geometry class. There were times when her patience
must have been severely taxed, but she always maintained per-
fect poise. The shy, dull or backward student always got from
her a word of encouragement and help. The lazy student was
spurred on to higher effort and endeavor, not through fear, but
rather because he regarded her so highly that he did not want
her to be disappointed in him. Her classroom achievements
were due, not alone to her thorough knowledge of her subject,
nor to her logical method of presentation, but primarily to the
respect which every student had for her. They knew she was
pure in mind and heart and that she was devoted to their best
interests. Mrs. Ferris had a charm of manner and a personal
magnetism that unconsciously made her presence felt in any
assemblage, or any community. She had dignity without stiff-
ness; she had poise without being too formal; she always said
and did the right thing at the right time and in the right place.
She was one of the world’s noblest and best women. My life
is immeasurably richer because I have known her. My mental
picture of her goodness will remain undimmed as long as mem-
ory and life serve me.
A. A. Worcester
Big Rapids, Mich.
While attending a short summer term at the Ferris Insti-
tute in 1894-, I first met Mrs. Ferris, but I really came to know
her in the years 1898 to 1900 while a student in her classes.
As a teacher she had no superior. Her influence went far
beyond the classroom and became a part of the lives of her stu-
dents. She was always gentle in her manner, firm and cour-
ageous in her conviction but always kind and considerate of
others. As her student I loved and respected her, and during
all the years since have held her in the highest esteem and cher-
ished her friendship as a precious gift. I knew her in the class-
room and in her home and I always found her the same lovely,
41
noble woman. Apart from my own mother she had more in—
fluence of a lasting and beneficial nature on my life as a young
man than any woman I ever knew.
James Lee F elton
Tempe, Ariz.
My mind goes back just twenty-one years to a day, when
I was privileged to visit her geometry class. That was the first
time I ever saw Mrs. Ferris. I remember as if it were but
yesterday how she appeared as she stood before her class. A
vase upon her desk held a beautiful gladiolus blossom, and I -
thought, “How like the flower is the teacher.” There was a
delicacy of perfection in both. Her presence radiated calm,
ease, grace, intensity of thought, and keenness of interest. Dur-
ing the next two years I was privileged to enroll in those'classes
and have a share in the wonderful process of thought building
and mind training that Mrs. Ferris directed. While I was
in these classes the numbers enrolled were not large, and this
made it possible for every student to take an active part in all
recitations. How we did love those hours of intense study over
the demonstrations. We were never forced—always led; never
repressed—always encouraged; never confused—always enlight-'
ened. In all my study with Mrs. Ferris I never once saw her
' evince a trace of impatience or irritation. She moved her work-
ers to their intensest effort by her own love for the subject,
by the sincerity of her interest in each student, and the invisible
power of her great personality. To know Mrs. Ferris as a
teacher was worth more than any course in intensive pedagogy.
My memory of her classroom is tinged with an indescribable
sense of scholarly culture, of order, of gentle and lasting har-
mony.
And later when I came to the Ferris Institute to teach, I
found the influence of Mrs. Ferris upon the school and faculty
to possess the same strong, effective qualities. We were al-
ways glad to see her as a visitor, always helped by her gracious
42
presence and inspired by her interest in us. Her co-operation
and counsel in all school affairs, particularly those of the
F. C. A. were indispensable. In her devotion to the welfare
of faculty and students she personified the great mission and
message of the Ferris Institute, “To Make the World Better.”
,H. H. Fuller
" Madison, Wis.
As a teacher Mrs. Ferris was most sympathetic, always
alert, never losing sight for a moment of essentials, ever ready
to give lavishly of her time and energy where assistance was
needed. She seemed to know everything about her subject.
I have never seen her superior in the schoolroom.
It is more difficult to put into words what I think of Mrs.
Ferris as a woman. She was always attractive and her engag-
ing smile and manner made her presence a flood of sunshine.
Her saving sense of humor made her see things in their proper
perspective, her great mind and sound judgment straightened
out every tangle; her unbounded energy was contagious; but
best of all, the “old boys” remember her for her queenly wom-
‘anhood, their ideal of the true gentlewoman.
Mrs. Ferris’ physical body has left us, but her spiritual
presence will always be with us. Such women do not die.
Eva Peterson
Grand Rapids, Mich.
Mrs. Ferris was my ideal of a teacher. I felt her nobleness
of character, her wonderful personality the instant I entered
her class. She led her pupils to feel at ease, to express them-
selves without fear, knowing they had a sympathetic listener
' and just critic.
She impressed me as a very superior person. Her generosity
to her inferiors is best illustrated by a bit of personal experience.
I entered the Ferris Institute soon after all the home I had
43
was broken up. I was much older than the other students,
and it took real courage to mingle with the younger pupils. I
had no idea that anyone cared, till one day as I was passing
from class, Mrs. Ferris said she would like to speak to me.
She took my hand and said, “Miss Peterson, I want to tell
you what a source of strength you have been to me this winter.”
I was amazed and said, “Mrs. Ferris, I don’t understand you!”
Then she went on, “When I see you going on day after day
without complaining, I am ashamed to murmur.” It was this
genuine sympathy which led pupils to love and reverence her.
She touched their inner lives and gave them courage to go on
and fight the battles of life. She had that gentle bearing, that
innate refinement that leaves a lasting impression.
In the home her nobleness reigned supreme. Her husband
and family were her first thought. N o task or sacrifice for her
family was too great. She never failed tobe at the door to
greet you, Mr. Ferris, if you had been out of town.
She was an immaculate homekeeper, systematic and orderly
to the extreme. I used to say, “If I had a girl wanting to
learn house work I would rather Mrs. Ferris would teach her
than any other person I ever knew.” Your home was an ideal
home. Guests always went away with gladness and gratitude
in their hearts. ~
Dr. Carrie H. Staines
Battle Creek, Mich.
I shall never forget her daily arrival at the school. She
would climb the steps of the Bank Building rather slowly, and
with a radiant smile that would thrill with the sympathy of
her own personality every one with whom she came in con-
tact. She was a delightful inspiration to every one who knew
her. In the classroom she was the ideal instructor. She im—
pressed me as being not only a teacher, but, in addition, the
sympathetic companion and friendly counselor. She possessed
the great gift of stimulating us, by her very presence, to the
44
development of the best that was in us and we were always
conscious of her warm, personal interest. I have always con-
sidered the hours I spent in her classroom as among the pleas-
antest of my experience at the Ferris Institute.
Mrs. Ferris stands apart in my memory as a woman among
women, a woman of great intellectual attainment, but more
than all, a woman of charming personality, kindly sympathy,
and tender affection.
It seems to me that in her was embodied every essential at-
tribute of ideal womanhood.
P. N. Sawyer
Bad Axe, Mich.
I see her now as in those early days—quiet, helpful, inspir-
ing. I attended the Institute during its early years when Mrs.
Ferris came into personal touch with all its activities. Hers
was a powerful guiding influence not only upon the Institute
as a whole but upon the individual student. She was the ideal
teacher,——-patient, gentle, kind yet firm, rendering to her stu-
dents the best of herself in service and expecting of them their
best in return. She was the ideal friend, full of helpfulness,
guidance and kindly criticism. Her cheerful smile and glad,
happy personality was the inspiration of thousands struggling
upward. She was the ideal woman of the early life of many,
possessing those elements of character which endeared her to
all, inspired all.
Of all the influences of my early school life that have tended
to make me what I am, or have contributed to my success as
a teacher of youth, none stand out today in memory more
clearly or give me more satisfaction to recall than those that
came into my life through the gracious personality of Mrs.
Ferris. I am proud to say she was my teacher and my friend.
45
Mrs. Susie F. Sawyer
Bad Axe, Mich.
I entered the schoolroom when very young, and therefore
the quiet dignity of Mrs. Ferris’ perfect womanhood made an
impression which will go with me through life. I remember
her best as she appeared each day in the classroom to present
lessons in arithmetic and algebra. The lessons have been of
value in mental discipline, but of much more value was the
teacher, whose quiet, helpful, inspiring presence was creating
ideals and standards. With all of her sweet graciousness, she
was most exacting as to the minutest detail, and I soon began
to feel that surely everything counted in the sum total of life.
The painstaking preparation which she made for the recitation,
in spite of the fact that I knew she was teaching the same
work each term, was then quite beyond my comprehension.
To me, it seems quite impossible that any student could have
given less than his best effort in her class. Another quality
which was decidedly helpful was her rule—never to deviate
from the subject in hand.
I coveted Mrs. Ferris’ approval, and so you can understand
the severe lesson I learned one day when Miss Griswold and
myself chose to enjoy a beautiful spring day by taking a long
walk rather than attend to our usual work. Whom should we
meet, but Mrs. Ferris! I can still see the knowing smile with
which she greeted us. It was quite enough, we attended school
thereafter.
The many kindnesses which Mrs. Ferris has extended to
me since my school days, are among my choicest memories. I
rejoice in having been among the early students who really
knew her.
E. J. Willman
Gladstone, Mich.
In 1901-02, my first year in the Ferris Institute, Mrs. Fer-
ris taught her last regular class in geometry. Her knowledge
46
of the subject, her skill in teaching, and her beautiful person-
ality won for her at once the full devotion of the entire class.
The class had no room for laggards. Mrs. Ferris assisted the
pupils very skillfully to the point where they could go alone
providing they put forth the right amount of effort.
Her control of the class seemed more wonderful than her
instruction. Her own quiet self-control and her quick intui-
tion to sense anything inimical to the best interests of the class,
were the secrets of her success. She reproved in the same quiet
tone that she used in her usual speech, but with extraordinary
effectiveness. Her remark, “I am sorry you did that, Mr.
Willman,” went deeper and was remembered longer than any
reproof I ever received in my life. It left no sting nor bitter-
ness whatever. Her words and tone of speech alone would
have been powerless had they not rested on her traits of char-
acter and personality, dignity, firmness, calm self-confidence,
and a gentleness that could not be concealed. At the time, I
believed her to be an ideal teacher. Now, after years of work
in schools, I know, what I then felt to be true. Not only was
she an ideal teacher, but she was also a great character—one
that young men and women meet only occasionally in their
educational careers.
47
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