Graham Taylor to Jane Addams, August 11, 1920

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August 11, 1920

[My dear] Miss Addams, --

The Trustees Minutes and the action of the University trustees, copies of which are enclosed, complete the record of the complicated transaction which at last seems to be satisfactorily, under the circumstances, to all concerned.

As you know, I am deeply disappointed that after all these years of successful demonstration, the School could not have maintained its independent status in [cooperation] with all three surrounding universities. But I am sure all of us except a few who might have achieved this result, have done all we could and are not warranted in continuing the struggle any longer against such odds. Miss Lathrop, however, thinks that the School might have won a younger constituency that would have rallied adequate support, had a year or two more been granted to work out this result.

You may be sure that I am quite ready to be relieved of the responsibility, even by the acceptance of this second choice to save something and not lose all that we have struggled so long to attain. I fear, however, that the Recreation Department, the social training for public health nursing, and other features of the School, will be lost temporarily at least. However, President Judson and Professor Marshall who will direct the new school seem very eager to make the most of it.

As Hull-House and you personally have deposited many valuable books and pamphlets in the library of the School, you are of course free to withdraw what you need before the collection is transferred to the University next month. If you wish to do so, please notify Miss Lavery at the School. Some of us will be here at least until the middle of September, though most will scatter when the summer quarter closes September third.

Hoping Miss Smith and yourself are having a fine outing.

Sincerely yours,

Miss Jane Addams,
Hull-House