The "Pace" medal for the best English essay was awarded to Frank Noland, of Virginia, the first to win it. This medal was offered by Mr. James B. Pace, of Richmond, Va.
Prof. Harry Estill resigned, July 8, 1878, the chair of Mathematics after ten years' service. He was the last of President Duncan's Faculty to leave. He went to the Washington and Lee University, and took the same chair at that institution, his Alma Mater.
To the chair thus vacated Royal Bascom Smithey (A. M. 1876) was elected, and he has filled it with great satisfaction to his pupils and the Board to the present time (1898).
[Illustration: CLARENCE EDWARDS, A.M., "Pace" Medalist, 1879;
Attorney-at-Law.]
The old chapel was consumed by fire March 12, 1879. Fortunately there was nothing in it but the furniture, which was saved. It had a varied history. Before the war it was a ball-room; during the war a hospital; after the war a place for religious service for nearly eleven years. Its walls had resounded with the eloquence of Duncan, Wightman, Guard, Ran. Tucker, Rosser, Bennett, and others. In it many of Randolph-Macon's brightest sons had received their diplomas; in it many had been "born again" to a new life. Services were held afterwards in the Mathematical lecture-room in the Pace building until the "Duncan Memorial" building, with church and chapel, had been completed.
[Illustration: CHARLES W. TILLET, A. B., Sutherlin Medalist, 1879;
Member of North Carolina Senate.]
Immediate steps were taken to erect the new building, and Rev. George W. Nolley took an active and successful part in raising the funds for its erection. The ladies of the church also did a good part in this work; also the Faculty and the students.
In June, 1879, the Finance Committee reported that about one-half the "floating debt" had been subscribed. Nevertheless, for want of endowment, the current expenses of the year had exceeded the income. They therefore recommended that the President be requested to devote his time and attention specially to the raising of funds for retiring the debt.
The following degrees were conferred, viz.: