schools in Central New York, having been founded in 1798. The location was a happy choice, on a beautiful spot bordering one of New York's finest lakes. The first settlers in this village demanded, and-for that day-abundantly provided for the higher education of their children. The interest in education, and delight in all the higher forms of intelligence and culture, have been the most prominent characteristics of the village, and through generous citizens, it has sustained the Academy, gathered a choice library, and established and thoroughly equipped Wells College. The educational institutions are, therefore, not separate from the interests of the citizens, but the natural outgrowth of their tastes, and the object of their special regard. At an early date the Academy attracted students from larger and distant places, and has been a prominent and favorite school in succeeding years. The building is made of brick and is four stories high. Thoroughly supplied with all modern improvements as regards heat, light, ventilation and all those advantages which tend to make a comfortable, attractive home for the student. It is situated on a slight elevation overlooking the lake and is surrounded by spacious grounds which serve alike for various athletic sports and the military drills of the school curriculum. AURORA-ON-CAYUGA. Aurora, Goddess of the Morn, Thy sunlight hath a brighter sheen, As one in loneliness doth greet As rising, falling, low and near, In liquid rhythm idly beat The shining sand, and then retreat. Adown thy fair, broad avenue, Where stately elms their shadows strew As o'er the quiet town both fall, By Franklin Hill again I wend, And round "The Turn" which seems to bend, To show the aster's twinkling star, And golden-rod that shines afar, I see again the blue lake shine, 'Neath oak's broad boughs or tall straight pine. That well-worn path whose curving trend, Doth country fair or town attend. |