McKenzie College Dialectic Society ledger, 1858–1868

McKenzie College Dialectic Society ledger, 1858–1868

The second item documenting the history of McKenzie College is a manuscript ledger containing minutes of the College Dialectic Society. The society formed in December 1858 and held weekly public debates on topics of interest to its members. The topics debated in 1860 and 1861 foreshadowed the oncoming American Civil War, from which McKenzie College never completely recovered.

May 19, 1860: “Should the South patronize the literary institutions of the North?” [debate results not indicated]

October 13, 1860: “Is it morally right for one nation to go to war with another under any circumstances whatever?” [negative]

October 20, 1860: “Is public opinion the standard of right?” [no clear winner]

February 23, 1861: “Should Texas withdraw from the Union would it be to her advantage to unite with the Southern confederacy?” [affirmative]

March 2, 1861: “Is the present condition of affairs in our country likely to result in good?” [negative]