Barry Collins and George Verber, looking forward to a week of new experiences, joined with six hundred other boys from Chicago and its surrounding suburbs to attend the Premier Boy's State, held in Springfield on June 21. On the trip down, which was made by train, the boys spent their time getting acquainted and playing cards.

Upon their arrival in Springfield 'later that evening, lodgings were arranged for them at the fair grounds. George and Barry were assigned to one of five rooms, each room being occupied by 120 boys who slept in 60 bunk 'beds.

There were ten counties represented, each county in turn being represented by 120 boys who met the requirements of being a well‑rounded person. Out of the 1,300 boys attending Premier Boy's State, Barry and George estimate they met between 120 and 200 boys.

George said of the fellows he met, "I was very pleased with the wonderful citizenship and companionship I found among the boys. During the week I met many boys, and there wasn't one of the group that I disliked. Everywhere I went, no matter what I did, there was always some nice person waiting to meet me. Also, our instructors and counselors were very kind and considerate."

Barry was impressed with the consideration and lack of racial prejudice with which two Negro boy's were treated, one being elected to the office of lieutenant governor. He also feels that the boys were nice fellows and gave him an idea of boys from all parts of the state.

An average day at Premier Boy's State began with reveille at 6 am. and ended with lights out at 10 p.m. During the day, military drill and marching were taught by ROTC instructors. Points were deducted for being out of step, but this presented no problem for George who was elected to the rank of drill sergeant as well as to the offices of county treasurer and city alderman.

"At law school," George states, "I learned many important facts about court cases and criminal law."

During their stay the boys heard guest speakers such as the lieutenant governor of Illinois, and paid a visit to the state assembly. Toward the end of the week, the boys were tested and graded on what they had learned. After passing an exam they became accredited lawyers of Boy's State.