1920

SIXTIETH REUNION

In 1916 over 400 future members of the Class of 1920 gathered in Hanover to matriculate under President Ernest Martin Hopkins. It was a great group of men destined to accomplish much. In 1980 that class returned to Hanover for its 60th reunion.

From far and wide they came. Geographically, the East had the largest number; but many came from Florida, the West Coast, and the Southwest, and there was a big delegation from the Midwest. Honors go to Kenneth Pike Emory for traveling the greatest distance. Ken came from Hawaii via Paris, where he had left his Nefertiti to visit with her family in France while he joined his classmates in Hanover. Later they met in New York and together continued their return to Honolulu. Jim Parkes from Rumson, N.J., took honors for bringing with him the largest family group. When registering, Jim casually wrote: "James S. Parkes and 10 guests." A little digging revealed that the Parkes clan consisted of James C. Parkes '57 and his wife and daughter (Jacqueline, aged 14), and the delightful Rexer family, of varying ages all part of the Parkes clan.

Anne Thomson brought with her from California a large family contingent, as did Mrs. Frank D. Johnson.

In summary, our total attendance was 75:30 classmates, 17 wives, 10 widows, and 18 guests. Dave Orr characterized our performance as "a great show."

The highlights were the Laddie Myers ceremony at the Leverone Field House and the program at the astounding new complex of the Medical School which 1920 men helped to build.

The Laddie Myers memorial service was simply but tastefully arranged by Seaver Peters, Director of Athletics, and Chairman Leo Unger of the Myers Committee. We gathered in the Leverone Field House at the proper spot, and unveiling ceremonies were conducted. Pridefully we gazed on the beautiful bronze plaque honoring our Laddie. Just beyond it stood another bronze plaque honoring Tommy Thomson. Two great 1920 men, both Olympic medalists. We also had an opportunity to note the record-breaking performances of other famous Dartmouth track stars, some of the 1920 class, such as Jake Gorton. Several classmates stepped forward to throw new light on the fine character of Laddie as revealed by his World War II experiences. During the war he was given the sobriquet of "Captain Dartmouth" for his devout praise of the college he loved. Among the speakers were Prexy McGoughran, Hib Richter, and Charlie Crathern.

We thank Dean Fred Berthold and his organist, Ms. Moore, for the splendid and touching chapel service honoring our departed comrades. The Dean's words and Ms. Moore's music were both fitting and consoling.

Diana Seymour's arrangement of our memorial books program, with its informative scroll explaining our accomplishments over the years since its inception, deserves our deepest thanks.

The new quarters at the Blunt Alumni facility are very impressive. Here we were happy to see on display Art Pfeiffer's object d'art honoring the Class of 1920, of which he was a devoted member a touching remembrance by this very thoughtful man.

Too much praise cannot be given to Pat King, Development Officer of the Medical School, for the splendid program she arranged in honor of the Class of 1920. Following a friendly cocktail hour, a sumptious dinner was served in the dining room of the Medical School. Early pictures of classmates were shown in a film which brought forth many laughs. A most enjoyable event.

Unfortunately, threatening weather forced the commencement crowd into Thompson Arena. One of our classmates, Kel Smith, friend Milton Friedman, and another good friend and former faculty colleague, Wing Tsit Chan, were among those who received honorary degrees.

Our class meeting went well and much was accomplished. Details will be provided in "Twenty" when Bud Weymouth gets the press rolling again.

To all the college staff, we give thanks for the thoughtful care you provided for us. It was af superb reunion, and a time of serenity too. Now we look forward (many of us) to our return in 1985. Adios, amigos, Hasta la vista.

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