A larger number of people never assembled in the Town Hall than was there on Wednesday night to witness the closing exercises of the Plymouth Academy.
A more entertaining program was never arranged or more perfectly rendered than on this occasion. That Prof. HASSELL has done his full duty as a teacher, together with his assistants, was fully demonstrated by the manner in which the students discharged their duties. This night was devoted to the advanced classes, and a medal offered on oratory, and so equally matched were the contestants that the judges could not agree as a whole, having halted between five of the contestants, Mises Emily FAGAN and Eva CHESSON, and Mess. Richard LUCAS, Cleveland BEASLEY and Louis GAYLORD. After remaining out some time, the judges returned a decision, two to one, in favor of Louis GAYLORD, and the medal was fittingly presented by Mr. W. Fletcher AUSBON.
Last night the Junior, or Primary department, had its exercises, and was a most pleasing event. We may say more of this later.
The names of those receiving medals or prizes will appear next week.
Source: Roanoke Beacon, 8 Jun 1900.
