Pynchon Fort," whose walls had defied King Philip's warriors,-taught an object lesson that inspired them with ardor in contest with their opponents.
The "Water-shop" boys were true and steady,
While the "South-end" boys were always ready.
The "North-end" boys were prompt to action
And had desires to break the factions.
The boys from the neighboring towns
Who kept aloof with air profound
And did not join the friendly fray,
Stood aghast, —and went their way.
The neutral ground was the place
Where they sometimes met, face-to-face.
The games of base ball, wicket, and foot ball were held on the "old goal" lot, now the "High School lot," State street, the "Oliver B. Morris lot," now Temple street, the "Jonathan Dwight lot," now West State street, the "Col. John Worthington lot," now West Worthington street, and the "Col. Israel Trask lot," now occupied by residences on the east side of Elliott street.
Edmund Dwight, a native of this town and an eminent Boston merchant, was the donor of several silver medals, which were given out to the most proficient scholars at the public exhibitions held in the old Town Hall on State street. Among, the donees were John B. Stebbins, whose medal bears this inscription
ADJUDGED
BY THE
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
AS A
REWARD OF MERIT
TO
JOHN B. STEBBINS.
Obverse:—
SPRINGFIELD
HIGH SCHOOL.
With the representation of two quill pens and open book. No date given.
page 26
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