CHAPTER VII.The membership increased so rapidly and the detail work became so extended, that it was found necessary to increase the number of officers, from two boys to eleven. The constitution and by-laws provided a Central Association, which was officered by boys who had experience upon the streets, as sellers and carriers. The vice-president gradually became familiar with the objects of the association, and the work among the boys. He was a typical newsboy, a good street-seller and his power was felt among the boys, especially those who were inclined to be bad. A secretary was elected from the ranks of the carriers. He was a good worker. The treasurer was a boy who received the unanimous vote of the association. The money he received was small donations, from benevolently-inclined friends. This was used for purchasing flowers for sick boys, etc. The real work of the association depended upon the executive committee of five members. Like most organizations, the committee-work centered in the chairman. The chairman of this committee proved to be one of the most active and faithfulboys of the association. He left nothing undone in his efforts to unravel a difficulty or in correcting and building up a boy who had done wrong. The four boys on his committee were untiring in their efforts for the success of the association. This committee was in constant touch with the president.The membership committee of three boys looked after old as well as new members. Each applicant had to be submitted to them for approval.With these eleven officers, all boys under fourteen, the association began life. The constitution and by-laws embraced in its power and force simply one aim, one object, to do good among the boys. To do it effectively, and make the results lasting. To build up, never pull down; to encourage honesty, to watch and warn a boy.The work among the street boys became more interesting as the months rolled on, and, at the end of a year the membership of Boyville had increased to two hundred and fifty sellers and bootblacks. This number not only included boys who sold papers every day, but those who sold extras, and on Saturdays, and special occasions, and boys who sold magazines or other periodicals. Theassociation began to grow and become recognized by the boys generally, and new sellers appeared upon the streets daily, all anxious to join. The working officers remained the same—but two boys doing the detail work.Two years passed under the new officers and rules. The Boyville Newsboys’ Association began to be felt in the community. Compliments were frequent concerning the good work. The association had increased its membership to fifteen hundred and twenty boys. A little army, and all working harmoniously together for each others good, and in trying to assist and build up the association. Doubting men and women, and the world is full of them, were perfectly satisfied of the success of the boys governing themselves, as was shown almost daily in the work. The boys solved a problem never thought of being tried by men and women who had long experience in working among boys.The success of Boyville increased in proportion to the work done by the young officers.People began to look upon a newsboy with some consideration, and as a necessary adjunct to the growth of a city. His politeness, his honesty, his general deportment attracted special notice,and the boys received many kind words and increased attention.The association began to assume such magnitude that it was found necessary to divide it into auxiliaries, to get a suitable badge, and a membership card defining more explicitly certain rules.Boyville was therefore divided into five auxiliaries—the sellers, north, south, east and west branches, with the constitution of the Central. Each auxiliary had eleven officers, making a total of sixty-six officers—all boys. In the annual election of officers great interest was taken by the boys, many displaying political “wire pulling” qualifications that would equal the work done by great political bodies.These sixty-six officers were scattered in all parts of the city, making it almost impossible for a boy whom they wanted for violating a rule of the association, to escape their notice.The membership card told the story of what was expected of a member. It is herewith given for that purpose.No.—————THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT——————————is an active member for life of The Boyville Newsboys’ Association. He does not approve of swearing, lying, stealing, gambling, drinking intoxicating liquors, or smoking cigarettes, and is entitled to all the benefits of said association, and the respect and esteem of the public.Signed by the officers.With these rules, and simple pledge, if pledge it can be called, in the hands of each newsboy, the reader can imagine the good that must result.It does not say the holder is guilty of any of these evils, neither does it imply that he must not swear, etc., but it does say, and each boy is strongly impressed with the fact, that he does not approve of these things, and will not permit a fellow member to violate a single rule.A boy who says I do not believe in swearing, while he may swear himself, will take great pleasure in checking some one else, and often bumps up against a strong proposition when he finds some other boy, probably of greater strength, watching him, and waiting anxiously for an opportunity to correct him. If not corrected with a simple warning it may end in a fight.A boy makes an application for membership. He is recommended by a friend. He is approved by the membership committee. In case there is something wrong with the applicant, particularly if he steals, or swears, or smokes cigarettes, he is sent with a note to the president, or as is more frequently done, one of the officers reports in person giving the president a history of the applicant and the failing he has.The new member knows nothing of this, in fact he gives expression to his thoughts and says, after he receives his credentials, “It’s dead easy.” It is, as far as the business he has with the president, but the moment he leaves the president’s office, the officers living in his district are notified of the trouble this boy gives, or bad habit he delights in keeping up.Even the boys with whom he associates become familiar, through methods of their own, with his failings, and go after him with all the authority of an official.With all the interest taken by the boys to correct a member for violating one of the rules, and the severe methods adopted by them to correct a known evil, it is seldom a boy will appear against one of his associates as a witness.A BUNCH OF SELLERS.See Page38A gentleman whose sympathy was with the work, brought a boy to the president whom he accused of using language, “unbecoming a criminal.” As witnesses he brought with him four newsboy companions.Imagine the gentleman’s surprise to hear the boys say: “Mister, you’re dreaming through a pipe. He didn’t swear.” The boys did not even show signs of embarrassment but faced the charge with perfect ease. No argument could get the boys to testify against their friend.The gentleman left disgusted with newsboys.“I will let you boys settle this among yourselves,” said the president.They went upon the street, into the alley. Half an hour later the newsboy accused of swearing returned. Timidly he approached the president and said.“I swore but I will never do it again, and I mean it, I am sorry.”At the door the president saw four little faces peeping through the window. They were watching their friend.“Where is your badge?” asked the president.“The boys took it from me, they’re out there,” he replied.They were beckoned to come in.“Did you do the right thing?” one of the boys asked the accused.“Yes, didn’t I Mr. President?” he answered, looking for sympathy.“Yes, boys, he is all right. I understand everything,” said the president.The badge was returned to the boy and they left the office talking and laughing.
CHAPTER VII.The membership increased so rapidly and the detail work became so extended, that it was found necessary to increase the number of officers, from two boys to eleven. The constitution and by-laws provided a Central Association, which was officered by boys who had experience upon the streets, as sellers and carriers. The vice-president gradually became familiar with the objects of the association, and the work among the boys. He was a typical newsboy, a good street-seller and his power was felt among the boys, especially those who were inclined to be bad. A secretary was elected from the ranks of the carriers. He was a good worker. The treasurer was a boy who received the unanimous vote of the association. The money he received was small donations, from benevolently-inclined friends. This was used for purchasing flowers for sick boys, etc. The real work of the association depended upon the executive committee of five members. Like most organizations, the committee-work centered in the chairman. The chairman of this committee proved to be one of the most active and faithfulboys of the association. He left nothing undone in his efforts to unravel a difficulty or in correcting and building up a boy who had done wrong. The four boys on his committee were untiring in their efforts for the success of the association. This committee was in constant touch with the president.The membership committee of three boys looked after old as well as new members. Each applicant had to be submitted to them for approval.With these eleven officers, all boys under fourteen, the association began life. The constitution and by-laws embraced in its power and force simply one aim, one object, to do good among the boys. To do it effectively, and make the results lasting. To build up, never pull down; to encourage honesty, to watch and warn a boy.The work among the street boys became more interesting as the months rolled on, and, at the end of a year the membership of Boyville had increased to two hundred and fifty sellers and bootblacks. This number not only included boys who sold papers every day, but those who sold extras, and on Saturdays, and special occasions, and boys who sold magazines or other periodicals. Theassociation began to grow and become recognized by the boys generally, and new sellers appeared upon the streets daily, all anxious to join. The working officers remained the same—but two boys doing the detail work.Two years passed under the new officers and rules. The Boyville Newsboys’ Association began to be felt in the community. Compliments were frequent concerning the good work. The association had increased its membership to fifteen hundred and twenty boys. A little army, and all working harmoniously together for each others good, and in trying to assist and build up the association. Doubting men and women, and the world is full of them, were perfectly satisfied of the success of the boys governing themselves, as was shown almost daily in the work. The boys solved a problem never thought of being tried by men and women who had long experience in working among boys.The success of Boyville increased in proportion to the work done by the young officers.People began to look upon a newsboy with some consideration, and as a necessary adjunct to the growth of a city. His politeness, his honesty, his general deportment attracted special notice,and the boys received many kind words and increased attention.The association began to assume such magnitude that it was found necessary to divide it into auxiliaries, to get a suitable badge, and a membership card defining more explicitly certain rules.Boyville was therefore divided into five auxiliaries—the sellers, north, south, east and west branches, with the constitution of the Central. Each auxiliary had eleven officers, making a total of sixty-six officers—all boys. In the annual election of officers great interest was taken by the boys, many displaying political “wire pulling” qualifications that would equal the work done by great political bodies.These sixty-six officers were scattered in all parts of the city, making it almost impossible for a boy whom they wanted for violating a rule of the association, to escape their notice.The membership card told the story of what was expected of a member. It is herewith given for that purpose.No.—————THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT——————————is an active member for life of The Boyville Newsboys’ Association. He does not approve of swearing, lying, stealing, gambling, drinking intoxicating liquors, or smoking cigarettes, and is entitled to all the benefits of said association, and the respect and esteem of the public.Signed by the officers.With these rules, and simple pledge, if pledge it can be called, in the hands of each newsboy, the reader can imagine the good that must result.It does not say the holder is guilty of any of these evils, neither does it imply that he must not swear, etc., but it does say, and each boy is strongly impressed with the fact, that he does not approve of these things, and will not permit a fellow member to violate a single rule.A boy who says I do not believe in swearing, while he may swear himself, will take great pleasure in checking some one else, and often bumps up against a strong proposition when he finds some other boy, probably of greater strength, watching him, and waiting anxiously for an opportunity to correct him. If not corrected with a simple warning it may end in a fight.A boy makes an application for membership. He is recommended by a friend. He is approved by the membership committee. In case there is something wrong with the applicant, particularly if he steals, or swears, or smokes cigarettes, he is sent with a note to the president, or as is more frequently done, one of the officers reports in person giving the president a history of the applicant and the failing he has.The new member knows nothing of this, in fact he gives expression to his thoughts and says, after he receives his credentials, “It’s dead easy.” It is, as far as the business he has with the president, but the moment he leaves the president’s office, the officers living in his district are notified of the trouble this boy gives, or bad habit he delights in keeping up.Even the boys with whom he associates become familiar, through methods of their own, with his failings, and go after him with all the authority of an official.With all the interest taken by the boys to correct a member for violating one of the rules, and the severe methods adopted by them to correct a known evil, it is seldom a boy will appear against one of his associates as a witness.A BUNCH OF SELLERS.See Page38A gentleman whose sympathy was with the work, brought a boy to the president whom he accused of using language, “unbecoming a criminal.” As witnesses he brought with him four newsboy companions.Imagine the gentleman’s surprise to hear the boys say: “Mister, you’re dreaming through a pipe. He didn’t swear.” The boys did not even show signs of embarrassment but faced the charge with perfect ease. No argument could get the boys to testify against their friend.The gentleman left disgusted with newsboys.“I will let you boys settle this among yourselves,” said the president.They went upon the street, into the alley. Half an hour later the newsboy accused of swearing returned. Timidly he approached the president and said.“I swore but I will never do it again, and I mean it, I am sorry.”At the door the president saw four little faces peeping through the window. They were watching their friend.“Where is your badge?” asked the president.“The boys took it from me, they’re out there,” he replied.They were beckoned to come in.“Did you do the right thing?” one of the boys asked the accused.“Yes, didn’t I Mr. President?” he answered, looking for sympathy.“Yes, boys, he is all right. I understand everything,” said the president.The badge was returned to the boy and they left the office talking and laughing.
The membership increased so rapidly and the detail work became so extended, that it was found necessary to increase the number of officers, from two boys to eleven. The constitution and by-laws provided a Central Association, which was officered by boys who had experience upon the streets, as sellers and carriers. The vice-president gradually became familiar with the objects of the association, and the work among the boys. He was a typical newsboy, a good street-seller and his power was felt among the boys, especially those who were inclined to be bad. A secretary was elected from the ranks of the carriers. He was a good worker. The treasurer was a boy who received the unanimous vote of the association. The money he received was small donations, from benevolently-inclined friends. This was used for purchasing flowers for sick boys, etc. The real work of the association depended upon the executive committee of five members. Like most organizations, the committee-work centered in the chairman. The chairman of this committee proved to be one of the most active and faithfulboys of the association. He left nothing undone in his efforts to unravel a difficulty or in correcting and building up a boy who had done wrong. The four boys on his committee were untiring in their efforts for the success of the association. This committee was in constant touch with the president.
The membership committee of three boys looked after old as well as new members. Each applicant had to be submitted to them for approval.
With these eleven officers, all boys under fourteen, the association began life. The constitution and by-laws embraced in its power and force simply one aim, one object, to do good among the boys. To do it effectively, and make the results lasting. To build up, never pull down; to encourage honesty, to watch and warn a boy.
The work among the street boys became more interesting as the months rolled on, and, at the end of a year the membership of Boyville had increased to two hundred and fifty sellers and bootblacks. This number not only included boys who sold papers every day, but those who sold extras, and on Saturdays, and special occasions, and boys who sold magazines or other periodicals. Theassociation began to grow and become recognized by the boys generally, and new sellers appeared upon the streets daily, all anxious to join. The working officers remained the same—but two boys doing the detail work.
Two years passed under the new officers and rules. The Boyville Newsboys’ Association began to be felt in the community. Compliments were frequent concerning the good work. The association had increased its membership to fifteen hundred and twenty boys. A little army, and all working harmoniously together for each others good, and in trying to assist and build up the association. Doubting men and women, and the world is full of them, were perfectly satisfied of the success of the boys governing themselves, as was shown almost daily in the work. The boys solved a problem never thought of being tried by men and women who had long experience in working among boys.
The success of Boyville increased in proportion to the work done by the young officers.
People began to look upon a newsboy with some consideration, and as a necessary adjunct to the growth of a city. His politeness, his honesty, his general deportment attracted special notice,and the boys received many kind words and increased attention.
The association began to assume such magnitude that it was found necessary to divide it into auxiliaries, to get a suitable badge, and a membership card defining more explicitly certain rules.
Boyville was therefore divided into five auxiliaries—the sellers, north, south, east and west branches, with the constitution of the Central. Each auxiliary had eleven officers, making a total of sixty-six officers—all boys. In the annual election of officers great interest was taken by the boys, many displaying political “wire pulling” qualifications that would equal the work done by great political bodies.
These sixty-six officers were scattered in all parts of the city, making it almost impossible for a boy whom they wanted for violating a rule of the association, to escape their notice.
The membership card told the story of what was expected of a member. It is herewith given for that purpose.
No.—————THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT——————————is an active member for life of The Boyville Newsboys’ Association. He does not approve of swearing, lying, stealing, gambling, drinking intoxicating liquors, or smoking cigarettes, and is entitled to all the benefits of said association, and the respect and esteem of the public.Signed by the officers.
No.—————
THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT
——————————is an active member for life of The Boyville Newsboys’ Association. He does not approve of swearing, lying, stealing, gambling, drinking intoxicating liquors, or smoking cigarettes, and is entitled to all the benefits of said association, and the respect and esteem of the public.
Signed by the officers.
With these rules, and simple pledge, if pledge it can be called, in the hands of each newsboy, the reader can imagine the good that must result.
It does not say the holder is guilty of any of these evils, neither does it imply that he must not swear, etc., but it does say, and each boy is strongly impressed with the fact, that he does not approve of these things, and will not permit a fellow member to violate a single rule.
A boy who says I do not believe in swearing, while he may swear himself, will take great pleasure in checking some one else, and often bumps up against a strong proposition when he finds some other boy, probably of greater strength, watching him, and waiting anxiously for an opportunity to correct him. If not corrected with a simple warning it may end in a fight.
A boy makes an application for membership. He is recommended by a friend. He is approved by the membership committee. In case there is something wrong with the applicant, particularly if he steals, or swears, or smokes cigarettes, he is sent with a note to the president, or as is more frequently done, one of the officers reports in person giving the president a history of the applicant and the failing he has.
The new member knows nothing of this, in fact he gives expression to his thoughts and says, after he receives his credentials, “It’s dead easy.” It is, as far as the business he has with the president, but the moment he leaves the president’s office, the officers living in his district are notified of the trouble this boy gives, or bad habit he delights in keeping up.
Even the boys with whom he associates become familiar, through methods of their own, with his failings, and go after him with all the authority of an official.
With all the interest taken by the boys to correct a member for violating one of the rules, and the severe methods adopted by them to correct a known evil, it is seldom a boy will appear against one of his associates as a witness.
A BUNCH OF SELLERS.See Page38
A BUNCH OF SELLERS.See Page38
A BUNCH OF SELLERS.
See Page38
A gentleman whose sympathy was with the work, brought a boy to the president whom he accused of using language, “unbecoming a criminal.” As witnesses he brought with him four newsboy companions.
Imagine the gentleman’s surprise to hear the boys say: “Mister, you’re dreaming through a pipe. He didn’t swear.” The boys did not even show signs of embarrassment but faced the charge with perfect ease. No argument could get the boys to testify against their friend.
The gentleman left disgusted with newsboys.
“I will let you boys settle this among yourselves,” said the president.
They went upon the street, into the alley. Half an hour later the newsboy accused of swearing returned. Timidly he approached the president and said.
“I swore but I will never do it again, and I mean it, I am sorry.”
At the door the president saw four little faces peeping through the window. They were watching their friend.
“Where is your badge?” asked the president.
“The boys took it from me, they’re out there,” he replied.
They were beckoned to come in.
“Did you do the right thing?” one of the boys asked the accused.
“Yes, didn’t I Mr. President?” he answered, looking for sympathy.
“Yes, boys, he is all right. I understand everything,” said the president.
The badge was returned to the boy and they left the office talking and laughing.