Ella Ebersole Carper’s report card from Fall of 1912
As we celebrate Elizabethtown College’s 125th anniversary, we’re sharing the favorite stories of our alumni, students, staff, faculty, and friends during their time at Etown. Whether it’s a funny anecdote from your dorm days, a moment of mentorship from a class or professor, or a standout experience from a campus event, these stories submitted by members of the Blue Jay community not only commemorate the rich history of our institution but also serve as a reminder of the lasting impact that Elizabethtown College has had on the lives of so many individuals.
Jim Carper
In 1909, the Elizabethtown Church decided that students must bring their Church letters to the Elizabethtown congregation while attending college. My grandfather Frank Stauffer Carper did not want to transfer his letter from his home church in Palmyra. During his first week at College, two deacons arrived, informing Frank that there was an objection to granting his church letter (it was held in Palmyra) because he wore a little black bowtie. The deacons must have backed down because Frank kept his membership in the Palmyra church his entire life.
My grandmother, Ella Ebersole Carper, also attended Elizabethtown College before she married my grandfather. She took and passed a variety of courses. One of the most useful was sewing. Ella made all of her own dresses and those of her three daughters. My family is still in possession of one of Ella’s report cards from 1912, where she earned high marks in Reading, Grammar and Composition.
Be a part of the celebration of 125 years of excellence at Etown by sharing your Etown story.