1940

"Baker Tower Flood Lighting Is a Gift of The Class of 1940," reads the plaque on the Hanover Inn porch.

During the energy crisis of the early 1970s, the incandescent lighting of Baker Tower was discontinued at night. Toward the end of the decade new, highly efficient lighting hit the market. Through classmate Bob Graham (director, office of news services) the class of 1940 expressed interest in funding permanent lighting on Baker Tower. Until this time the lights were turned on only for selected functions such as Dartmouth Night, Winter Carnival, Green Key Weekend and reunions. After some negotiations with Norwich, Vermont, residents (they couldn't sleep with the bright lights) and adjustment of the lights, one 1,000-watt and two 400-watt lamps were installed.

In 1976 the class agreed to underwrite as a class project the cost of lighting Dartmouth Hall and Baker Tower on special occasions. Over a five-year period the class paid for the new lights, their installation and cost of operation. In 1982 the class arranged to contribute $350 annually during a 10-year period to defray the cost of lighting Baker Tower on a year-round basis.

An endowment was set up in 1985 for the lighting of Baker Tower, including costs of electricity and maintenance of the equipment involved. The Class of 1940 Fund was initiated with a U.S. Treasury note from the class totaling $5,028.89 on June 19,1985. As of June 30, 2002, its market value was $17,601.20.

President McLaughlin stated: "I hope that you will always take pride in seeing that magnificent spire illuminated, for it is an inspira- tion to all of us who draw strength from the great tradition of this College."

Webmaster Marion Weinberg put her computer to work and determined who is the oldest and youngest classmate. Les Nichols was born December 28,1913, and Art Root was getting ready for College when he was born April 16,1921. Four classmates were born between Les and Rowl Hall. Total classmates by years: 1913, one; 1915, two; 1916, nine; 1917,35:1918, 109; 1919,39; 1920, two; 1921, one.

Baker Tower is lit at night "forever more" by our class gift. (Thanks to Nancy Bates and Douglas Kerr of the College staff for their research work.)

Mini-reunion is October 3 and 4.

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