foundation for this noble guarantee of freedom was laid here in St.
Mary's City, only 15 years after the Ark and the Dove anchored in
the river only a short distance from here.

Today, we regard the freedom of worship and the recognition of
women as a part of society as two of civilization's greatest advance-
ments. As Marylanders, we are proud that our ancestors, with feelings
and beliefs well in advance of the age in which they lived, laid the
groundwork for these two significant advancements. And so, I repeat
that all of you—administrators, members of the faculty and students of
St. Mary's Seminary Junior College enjoy a rare privilege in being able
to work and pursue your studies in such a noble environment. Let me
thank you once again for your graciousness and your thoughtfulness in
inviting me here today.

REMARKS ON ACCEPTANCE OF
CIVIL WAR CENTENNIAL AWARD

ANNAPOLIS
November 11, 1961

It is difficult to find words to express the feeling of appreciation
I have tor the high honor I have received here today. I accept this
medallion of the National Civil War Centennial Commission with deep
gratitude, of course, but in awareness that credit for whatever we have
accomplished here in Maryland in commemorating the Civil War era
must go to the men and women who comprise our Maryland Civil
War Centennial Commission.

We in Maryland are pleased to have the opportunity to participate
in this celebration of the one-hundredth anniversary of the great con-
flict. We are pleased to receive this recognition for what we have done
during this first year of the commemoration period. We are determined
to go forward during the remainder of the period to achieve the high
objectives of the centennial—to honor the courage and the devotion
of our ancestors who fought in this war between the states of our
Union.

The five years, 1861 to 1865, is the most tragic era in the history
of our Republic. The deep tragedy lies in the fact that it was a
fratricidal war—a struggle between countryman and countryman, be-
tween brother and brother. Maryland, being a border State, torn
between a deep affection for the South and a strong bond with the
union, suffered more than most states in the terrible conflict.

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