3. Landmarks—Give a brief history of the town; and mention the chief incidents in it, and the names of the principal persons who shared in them. Suggestions as to public memorials, tablets, and monuments.
4. Specific Improvements—Removal of unsightly objects and buildings. Regulation of saloons. Improvement of unsanitary houses. Drainage of swamps and pools in the neighborhood. The surroundings of the railway station.
5. Organization—What committees are needed to help improve the town? How can such committees coöperate with similar men's committees and with the public authorities? How can public sentiment be aroused? Value of an exhibition of plans for ideal towns.
Books to Consult—M. M. Penstone: Town Study. A. D. Webster: Town Planting. H. I. Triggs: Town Planting. Raymond Unwin: Town Planting in Practice.
This program should be of practical value to the local town, summing up the meetings that have preceded this, and presenting certain definite propositions for civic improvements. It might be well to invite some of the officials of the town to be present and offer suggestions. A committee should be appointed at the close to take up the specific plans adopted.
CHAPTER XI
Holland
INTRODUCTORY
No historical study could be of greater interest to clubs than that of Holland. The story of the rise of the Dutch Republic is more stirring than any romance. Her army was small, but unconquerable; her navy successfully fought the navies of far greater nations. Her commerce was unrivaled; her colonies were planted in unknown countries; her artists were the greatest of the world at the time. But, most of all, Holland was wonderful for her great struggle for liberty when liberty was unknown, and the effects of her victory were world-wide. The English and American revolutions were founded on hers.