Repository: UIHistories Project: Dedication - Ag Building [PAGE 10]

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lege could be placed on a basis fitting- to the rank which this state holds in agricultural productions. Accordingly a committee from the State Farmers' Institute asked the legislature for an appropriation of $150,000 for a building for the college of agriculture. This appropriation was readily granted, and we now have the pleasure of seeing the building ready for use. Through the united and persistent efforts of the farmers of Illinois we have, after thirty years, a collesre of agriculture which we confidently trust will be an honor to this great state. Notwithstanding* the fact that the instructors have been handicapped by want of proper facilities and equipment, they have done excellent work, proof of which is found in the fitness of graduates to fill responsible positions; one, Mr. F. D. Gardner, lately having* been appointed by the United States government to take charge of the agricultural interests in the island of Porto Rico. But we must remember that the equipment and instruction are only helps to students. Success is dependent upon personal effort. * Already we have been gratified by honors won by students of this college at the inter-collegiate live stock judging contest at Chicago, and we unhesitatingly predict that the winning of the Spoor trophy will be only the beginning of the honors which shall be accorded to students of the Illinois College of Agriculture.