Benjamin Rush on education.

Excerpt from
OF THE MODE OF EDUCATION PROPER IN A REPUBLIC
By Dr. Benjamin Rush

I proceed in the next place, to inquire, what mode of education we shall adopt so as to secure to the state all the advantages that are to be derived from the proper instruction of youth; and here I beg leave to remark, that the only foundation for a useful education in a republic is to be laid in Religion. Without this there can be no virtue, and without virtue there can be no liberty, and liberty is the object and life of all republican governments.

Such is my veneration for every religion that reveals the attributes of the Deity, or a future state of rewards and punishments, that I had rather see the opinions of Confucius of Mahomed inculcated upon our youth, than see them grow up wholly devoid of a system of religious principles. But the religion I mean to recommend in this place, is that of the New Testament.


~Spencer

Pictures from the Renfroe ball

A few weeks ago my family went to a ball where we were taught and danced Civil War Era dances. Here's a few pictures that I got from the ball.

Etiquette of the 1860's Ballroom:

If, in the course of conversation,a lady repeatedly interjects the
word "sir,"she is being exceptionally reserved. It is a sign that
she does not desire his acquaintance; she is merely being polite.

Yay! A new family picture!(Spencer and Jessica McCurdy)

It is best to carry two pairs of gloves, for you may soil a pair, &
then you may slip unperceived from the ballroom, change the soiled pair
for a fresh pair, and avoid that mortification.


When an unpracticed dancer makes a mistake, we may apprise him of
error;but it would be very impolite to have the air of giving him a lesson.(Andrew and Victoria)
In dancing, the performers should endeavor to wear a pleasant and festive countenance.
A lady who declines dancing with a gentleman, should afford him
some reason; the gentlemen...receiving graciously her answer.(Andrew)
It is expected all dancers will participate in some dances with other partners.(me, Spencer, and Andrew)

Back row, from left to right: me, Katie McCurdy, Kait Culbertson, Jessica McCurdy, Lizzy Carnley
Front row, from left to right: Spencer White, Josh Carnley, Matthew Carnley, Danny McCurdy, and Andrew White


"Dancing is, in itself, a very trifling and silly thing; but it is one of those established follies, to which people of sense are sometimes obliged to conform; and then they should be able to do it well!" -Lord Chersterfield

-Victoria

A New Post...Finally!

A lot of people have frequently reminded me, "What happened to your family blog? You never write on it anymore."
Hopefully now that school is slowing down for summer and our schedule is getting a little less busy I'll begin writing again. (I've got quite a few posts in my imagination that I can't wait to get published!)
So this blog is up and running again, be looking for new posts!
Although I have to say I rather enjoyed all the comments I got when I wasn't updating the blog... :D

~Victoria