The New England Magazine, Volume 1, No. 5, Bay State Monthly, Volume 4, No. 5, May, 1886

In Short

The New England Magazine, Volume 1, No. 5, Bay State Monthly, Volume 4, No. 5, May, 1886 is a periodical that offers a rich tapestry of articles, essays, and stories reflecting the intellectual and cultural life of New England in the late 19th century. It covers a wide range of topics, from history and education to literature, travel, and social issues, providing a snapshot of the region's concerns and interests during this period.

The Story

This issue of The New England Magazine and Bay State Monthly is a compendium of diverse articles that reflect the intellectual and cultural milieu of New England in 1886. It begins with a detailed account of Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, written by Samuel Hart, D.D., Professor of Latin. Hart traces the college's history, from its founding to its current state, highlighting its academic achievements, notable alumni, and contributions to education.

The magazine then shifts to a biographical sketch of the Webster family by Hon. Stephen M. Allen, focusing on the life and legacy of Daniel Webster. This is followed by a poem dedicated to Oliver Wendell Holmes, written by Edward P. Guild, and a romantic tale of King Philip's War by Fanny Bullock Workman.

Mary D. Brine contributes a short story titled "The Picture," while Herbert L. Aldrich provides a comprehensive description of New Bedford, Massachusetts, complete with illustrations. The late Hon. John D. Philbrick writes about Henry Barnard, the American educator, and Anna B. Bensel offers a portrait of a Puritan daughter.

Charles Cowley, LL.D., discusses judicial falsifications of history, and Marjorie Daw presents a romance of the olden time titled "Dorris's Hero." The Editor's Table provides a space for commentary and reflection, while the Historical Record, Necrology, and Literature sections offer a mix of historical notes, obituaries, and literary reviews.

The issue concludes with an index to magazine literature, ensuring readers can easily navigate the wealth of content.

How It Unfolds

Trinity College, Hartford: Samuel Hart, D.D., provides a detailed history of Trinity College, from its founding to its current state, highlighting its academic achievements and notable alumni. The Webster Family: Hon. Stephen M. Allen offers a biographical sketch of the Webster family, focusing on Daniel Webster's life and legacy. To Oliver Wendell Holmes: Edward P. Guild dedicates a poem to Oliver Wendell Holmes, celebrating his departure for Europe. A Romance of King Philip's War: Fanny Bullock Workman tells a romantic tale set during King Philip's War. The Picture: Mary D. Brine contributes a short story titled "The Picture." New Bedford: Herbert L. Aldrich provides a comprehensive description of New Bedford, Massachusetts, complete with illustrations. Henry Barnard: The late Hon. John D. Philbrick writes about Henry Barnard, the American educator. A Daughter of the Puritans: Anna B. Bensel offers a portrait of a Puritan daughter. Judicial Falsifications of History: Charles Cowley, LL.D., discusses the issue of judicial falsifications of history. Dorris's Hero: Marjorie Daw presents a romance of the olden time. Editor's Table: The Editor provides commentary and reflection on various topics. Historical Record: This section offers historical notes and records. Necrology: Obituaries of notable individuals are presented. Literature: Literary reviews and notes are provided. Index to Magazine Literature: An index helps readers navigate the magazine's content.

The People

Samuel Hart, D.D.: Professor of Latin at Trinity College, Hartford, who provides a detailed history of the college. Hon. Stephen M. Allen: Author of a biographical sketch of the Webster family, focusing on Daniel Webster. Edward P. Guild: Poet who dedicates a poem to Oliver Wendell Holmes. Fanny Bullock Workman: Author of a romantic tale set during King Philip's War. Mary D. Brine: Contributor of a short story titled "The Picture." Herbert L. Aldrich: Author of a comprehensive description of New Bedford, Massachusetts. The Late Hon. John D. Philbrick: Writer who discusses Henry Barnard, the American educator. Anna B. Bensel: Contributor of a portrait of a Puritan daughter. Charles Cowley, LL.D.: Author who discusses judicial falsifications of history. Marjorie Daw: Writer of a romance of the olden time.

In Its Own Voice

"In 1826 there were fifty undergraduates. A library had been obtained which, in connection with Dr. Jarvis's, was called second in magnitude and first in value of all in the country."

This quote from Samuel Hart's article on Trinity College highlights the college's academic achievements and resources.

"The feeling between the settlers and the Indians, as narrated by Dr. Moore Russell Fletcher, became so bitter that the Indians determined on the total annihilation of the villagers, and with that intent seventy-five or eighty Indians left their tribe in the vicinity of Canada, and came down the head waters of the Pemigewassett as far as Livermore Falls, and there camped for the night."

This passage from Stephen M. Allen's article on the Webster family illustrates the tensions between settlers and Native Americans during the early days of New England's colonization.

What It's Really About

The New England Magazine and Bay State Monthly is a reflection of the intellectual and cultural life of New England in the late 19th century. It showcases the region's interest in history, education, literature, and social issues, providing a platform for writers, scholars, and thinkers to share their ideas and perspectives.

The magazine's diverse content highlights the complexity and richness of New England's cultural heritage, from its Puritan roots to its emerging industrial and educational institutions. It also reflects the region's engagement with national and international issues, such as the ongoing conflicts with Native Americans and the role of education in shaping society.

Why Read It Today

The New England Magazine and Bay State Monthly offers a fascinating glimpse into the intellectual and cultural life of New England in the late 19th century. Readers interested in history, literature, and social issues will find a wealth of material to explore, from detailed historical accounts to thought-provoking essays and stories.

The magazine's focus on New England's unique cultural heritage provides a valuable perspective on the region's development and its place in American history. Its articles and stories offer insights into the lives and concerns of New Englanders during this period, from the challenges of colonization to the emergence of new educational and industrial institutions.

However, readers should be aware that the magazine reflects the attitudes and values of its time, including some that may be considered outdated or offensive by modern standards. The language and terminology used in some articles may also be challenging for contemporary readers.

Despite these limitations, The New England Magazine and Bay State Monthly remains a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history and culture of New England. Its rich content and diverse perspectives provide a unique window into a bygone era, offering a deeper understanding of the region's past and its ongoing influence on American society.