W&L Must Live By Its Mottos
Washington and Lee’s presentation of history violates the goal of a liberal arts education.
Washington and Lee University’s Coat of Arms is adorned with the timeless motto: “Non Incautus Futuri; Not Unmindful of the Future.” An admirable goal, this phrase beckons W&L, from its students to administration, to look to the times ahead in all actions, plans, and decisions.
But there is a more critical verse for a liberal arts education found at the top corner of the Coat of Arms, or crest. Rooted in Paul’s Epistles, 1 Thessalonians 5:21, “Omnia Autem Probate” is most often translated as “Test All Things.”
Other translations, including “prove all things” and “examine all things,” universally signal the same exhortation: do not take assertions for granted. Thinking “freely” requires one not to be easily swayed by all they hear, but to, as the university's Mission Statement suggests, “critically” analyze new information.
Peale’s George Washington Portrait Loaned for Semiquincentennial Celebrations
The one-of-a-kind portrait will be displayed across Virginia over the next year and a half.
Gerard Baker’s Run-in with “the Law”
Campus police intervened to prevent engagement with Washington and Lee’s history.
Speaker Shares African-American History Through Art
Stephen Towns, a quilting artist, shares his art’s connections to African-American history.
Classicist Speaks About Writing Book on Alexander the Great
Professor Kousser discusses studying and writing about Alexander the Great.
Challenges to the Proposed Institutional History Museum
W&L faculty, along with community leaders, express concern about the proposed museum.
Historian Overviews Western Virginia During Revolutionary War
Historian Robert G. Parkinson uses western Virginia conflicts to describe “belonging and citizenship” in the Revolutionary era.
End W&L’s Misrepresentation of History
The university follows a philosophy that is intentionally deceitful about its past.
An Open Letter Regarding Lee Chapel
The guest experience at the chapel leads to many questions.
Historical Highlight: Washington Responds to Gift Solicitation
President George Washington picks Liberty Hall Academy to receive his gift of stock.
Five Years and Waiting: Museums at Washington and Lee
The tragic closure of Lee Chapel’s museum five years ago should be W&L’s biggest concern.
W&L Community Speaks on Institutional History
Selected correspondence about the upcoming museum.
Book Review: “Longstreet: The Confederate General Who Defied the South”
UVA’s Varon expertly navigates the life and times of the enigmatic general, raising questions that tie into Washington and Lee’s history.
The Generals Redoubt Celebrates Founders’ Day at Fancy Hill
The alumni organization celebrated “one of the most significant traditions at W&L.”
Professors Discuss Jim Crow and Colonialism in Virginia
Virginia’s Racial Integrity Act of 1924 is part of a long history of dehumanizing legislation.
Naming Commission Historian Rationalizes Name Changes in Campus Talk
Robert E. Lee “truly led to the deaths of I think more American soldiers than any enemy we have faced,” said historian Connor Williams…
Whom does the Board think they’re convincing?
The university no longer honors George Washington and Robert E. Lee, so stop telling us you do…
