Normal Work (c. 1900-1902)

This lantern slide shows eighteen young boys, some wearing caps with the Springfield College and YMCA insignia, the triangle, sitting and standing in three rows. George Henckel, a student at the International YMCA Training School, sits in the center of the second row.During the late 19th and early 20th century, “normal work” occupied a vital role at the core of the International YMCA Training School, now known as Springfield College. Referring to “directed laboratory work and service activities,” normal work addressed “the cry against ‘theory’ and the demand for more practical experiences.” Students traveled to churches, Sunday Schools, playgrounds, and public schools, and performed a variety of duties. Depending on the students, these service opportunities were either paid, for credit, or on a volunteer-basis. The student pictured may have been entertaining a boys’ club, leading a scout troop, or teaching at a Sunday School. In 1897, George Henckel began working as the Assistant Physical Director of the Albany YMCA (New York). In 1899, he left this position to attend the International YMCA Training School, from which he graduated in 1902. During his time at college, Henckel played for the football team and spent his summers with the Springfield NA 5x7 glass duplicate is available (SC21230); Text on border reads, "YMCA College Normal Work Group Springfield Boys.