It was a distinctly religious institution devoted to radical reforms of many kinds.

Not only was the use of all intoxicating beverages discarded by faculty and students but the use of tobacco as well was discouraged.
Within fifteen years after the founding of Oberlin, there were women graduates who had something to say on numerous questions of public interest.

Especially was this true of the subject of temperance.
Intemperance was a vice peculiar to men.

Women and children were the chief sufferers, while men were the chief sinners.

It was important, therefore, that men should be reached.