Evening Republican, Volume 21, Number 8, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 18 January 1918 — “Thrift Day” Near [ARTICLE]

“Thrift Day” Near

On February 3, 1916, under the inspiration of one G. Y. Clement, whose memory should be blessed, there was instituted in this country a new national holiday to be known as “Thrift Day.” Whether, by purpose or accident it coincided with the 100th anniversary. of the establishment of the first savings bank in America. It was not of itself a mere accident, but resulted from careful thought and serious consideration on the part of its originator. Its purpose was to give an impetus to >the practice already begun by putting by a portion of the income of the present for the needs of the future. The benefits which the few were reaping from wise economy, it was hoped would be shared by a greater number under the stimulus of awakened interest. Savings institutions and philanthropists generally seconded the efforts of the founder, and February 3rd was, even that year, observed in many localities. The influence of the observance gradually widened, so that in 1917 there were “Thrift Day” exercises in sufficient numbers to give the day a place by the side of the two great February birthdays—Washingtons’ and Lincoln’s. A part of Thrift Day observance consists in the opening of new sayings bank accounts, or deposits _ in those already opened, the distribution of literature and blank bank books inviting an entry, and the discussion of thrift in schools, churches, fraternal societies and the press. A publishing house furnishing appropriate literature offered prizes for the best short stories on Thrift and evolved some very convincing as well as interesting facts, woven into the web of fiction. For the year of 1918, February 3rd falls upon Sunday and the suggestion is made that the day itself be utilized in Sunday schools and churches for expounding the religious side of Thrift Abundant Scripture texts can be found as the basis for such teaching from the Proverbs of Solomon to the Nazarene’s injunction to “gather up the fragments that nothing be lost” Then, the economic, practical part of the celebration is staged for Monday, Feb. 4th.