From the Lafayette Advertiser of July the 16th, 1898:
Lieut. JAMES A. MOSS,
At El Caney.
[From the Ne w York Herald.]
Our loss was very heavy, but our men continued to advance without flinching.
Finally orders were given to charge the fort, and the Twelfth and undertook the difficult task. They positioned behind a clump of trees four hundred yards from the fort and advanced in open order.
They gave a cheer as they broke from cover and began to run up the precipitous ascent. The Spanish opened a fierce fire and many men fell, but the regiments kept on.
When our men were within fifty yards of the fort the Spaniards gave way and fled down the hill into the village. Many of them were killed as they ran. Cheers rose from hundreds of throats as the hill was taken.
Other blockhouses were still held by the Spaniards and these continued to fight. Our men were shot by scores as the lines closed in. After half an hour all opposition ceased.
Several regiments lost heavily, and among them the Twelfth and Twenty-fifth, which made the charge suffered severely. Company G, of the Twenty-fifth, lost nine killed. Lieutenant Mc Corkle was killed, and Captain Lawards and Lieutenant Murdoch were wounded. So great was the loss among our officers that at one time Lieutenant Moss commanded two companies.
From the New York Herald and in the Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1898.
Negroes in the Army.
The disposition on the part of the President, and others in authority at Washington, to continue the enlisting of negroes in the army, is very properly meeting with considerable objection in various parts of the country, and, we desire to be counted among those objectors. We do not hesitate to assert as a fact that the white man in this section who approves of this feature, of our military affairs, is one in many thousand. For our part we are convinced that the inclusion of the negro in the ranks of the army is unnecessary, unjustifiable and in the end is bound to make trouble. It is strange indeed, that Mr. McKinley should be so persistent in the development of this project. The wishes of the white people of the South and other sections of the Union, the property owners and taxpayers evidently count for nothing with him.
The negro is entitled to equal rights before the law, but by this means he is getting more. The Federal administration is making a pet of him, and for what reason?
At best the scheme is prompted by over-wrought anxiety and morbid solicitude for the welfare of the negro; developed and carried out in utter disregard and contempt of the wishes of a considerable portion of the people.
There are white men enough ready, willing and able to fight the battles of the country without going out of the way for experiments.
Original author unknown. It appears to have been an "exchange story" not written by, but published in the Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1898.
THE HOBSON SOCIAL CLUB.
The members of the Hobson Social Club were delightfully entertained on Wednesday evening with a "Butterfly party", at the home of Mrs. E. McDaniel in honor of brave Lieut. Hobson's release.
The cozy home had been artistically decorated for the occasion with flowers, palms, moss, evergreens, and Chinese Lantern. The parlor represented a living garden; cut flowers, palms, and moss being placed in every available nook. The piano had been converted into a bank of living flowers, so beautifully arranged, that one involuntarily paused to admire it. Above this lovely scene were an American and Cuban flag crossed supported by a golden eagle. This was the work of Mr. J. T. Allingham of this place.
The porch and front yard presented a veritable fairy land, the decorations consisted of flags, moss, greens, flowers and Chinese lanterns while "High o'er head, there proudly streamed Old Glory", free and gay.
At 9 p.m. the merry guests began to assemble, and soon the sound of gay laughter was floating on the evening breeze. After the musical programme had been rendered the feature of the evening - "The Butter-fly contest, which called forth much laughter. Miss Lena Kleb was the fortunate winner of the first prize, a pretty paper weight while Mr. Ike Plonsky was awarded a "little black doll baby" as a consolation.
After the contest Miss I. A. McDaniel played "Coxy's March", while the guests marched into the dining room where again the exquisite taste of the hostess was displayed in the artistic arrangement. Delicious refreshments were served. Patriotic toasts were given, and should the well wishes of all come to pass, Lieut. Hobson will indeed be happy and prosperous.
Your correspondent regrets not being able to send in all the toasts, as they were masterpieces in their line. The following one is delivered by Miss. I. A. McDaniel, the young hostess of the evening and composed by the young lady, for the occasion.
"Dewey is the conqueror,
Modest, bold and true.
Sampson is the victor,
Not so humble though.
Cervers, though our enemy,
Won our deepest praise,
When he made his daring run,
Across the harbor waves.
But shall we say of Hobson,
Our hero young and brave,
Who made the greatest feat,
E'er found on history's page.
My words, dear friends, are all too weak.
Our gratitude to give vent,
But let us hope o'er many years,
He'll be our Vice-President.
Then here's to our gallant hero,
Our nation's pride and best,
And let us hope e're we'd aband,
He'll be our honored guest."
It is useless to say this was enthusiastically received.
It was not until the parlor clock sweetly chimed the wee hours of a new day, that the merry guests bade their kind hostess a reluctant good night, with many regrets that the delightful evening had closed so soon.
Misses L. Kleb of Patterson, La., and E. Holland, of New Orleans, La., were the honored guests of the Club.
Miss Flora Plonsky will entertain the Club on Wednesday next.
Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1898:
INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL FOR SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA.
Senator Martin of our district has secured the passage by the house of a bill providing conditionally for an industrial school to be located in his senatorial district. The bill declares that the parish the district which shall present in most favorable terms shall have the honor of having the school located in its midst.
Now this is an opportunity for the parish of Lafayette to show to the district that in its bounds, a progressive people is living. It, would never do to let some other section pluck the prize.
The advantages of such a school in our midst are not to be underestimated. It is a gold mine for our merchants, an increase of trade and also the up building of the entire community.
It is expected that some section of the district will provide the ground and some of the funds for the erection of the necessary buildings to be used by the school. This can be done easily by the citizens of our parish.
Let us be up and doing as other sections are already moving up to secure this much desired school.
Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1898.
Selected News Notes 7/16/1898.
Mr. Constant Leger has brought to our office an agglomeration of small ears of corn about three inches long which were cut from the top of a corn stalk.
Mr. Thomas Wier, one of the old confederate veterans, is going to Atlanta, Ga., as a delegate from Camp Gen. f. Gardner, to attend the reunion of United Confederate Veterans on the 22nd. of this month. Good time to you.
Extra fine watch work by T. M. Biossat the jeweler.
Israel Prejean and Burt Smith from the western part of our parish, sent two carloads of cattle to J. W. Broussard, who of late goes to New Orleans very often to attend to the sales. The surrounding of the Crescent City do surely agree with Joe. Just look at him.
Mr. E. H. Bauer, of St. Louis, Mo., manager of the Lafayette Compress and Storage Co., is now with is accompanied by his wife and will be one of the genial and business-like gentlemen who will help Lafayette on it's prosperity's march.
Mr. Wm. Lena, announces that he has opened a barber shop at the stand formerly occupied by Mr. O. Patureau. He is now ready to give you a first-class shave and an artistic hair cut. Give him a call.
We have made a visit to the office of Lehman, Stern & Co., the managers of the Lafayette Cotton Compress, and we found everything there in first class order. The office proper is nicely arranged and furnished and is nicely arranged and furnished and there is also a sample room where next fall the samples of cotton will be piled up. Our visit revealed to us that the gentlemen who are at the head of the concern are men of great business qualities, and that our planter's will find in them, men who will grant them the very best accommodations.
It is with much regret that we record the death of a young child of Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Martin. The little one was buried last Sunday.
Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1898.
From the Lafayette Gazette of July 16th, 1898:
SUIT INSTITUTED
Against the Municipality by the Consolidated Engineering Company.
The City Council of Lafayette has been made party to a suit instituted by the Consolidated Engineering Company of New Orleans to enforce the payment of $1,000 due said company as per contract for Water Works and Electric Light Plant. The suit is based upon the refusal of the Council at its recent meeting on July 7, to pay the amount mentioned. It appears from the record that on final acceptance of the plant on the 2d day of April last, the Council withheld $1,000 of the amount due to secure the completion of minor details about the plant and machinery, and since that date the unsatisfactory operation of the boilers, etc., led to an investigation by a mechanical engineer, Mr. C. A. Gaines who positively declares that "the condition of the two boilers is exceedingly bad and dangerous" and that "the entire boiler plant is very cheap and of very poor construction and should be torn out and rebuilt."
Upon this information the Council passed a resolution refusing payment and notifying the contracting company of its liability in the premises. Mayor Caffery and Council show a determination to hold the company to a strict compliance with the terms of the contract and doubtless will use all efforts to protect the interests of the town.
The Consolidated Engineering Company through its agent Mr. C. M. Pasquier instituted suit immediately claiming the amount to be justly due owing to the acceptance and approval of the work by the Council and its supervising engineer. Attorney, Chas. A. O'Neal of Franklin and Judge Jno. Clegg of New Orleans have been employed by the company to represent its interests and Mayor Caffery has bee authorized to secure Counsel in behalf of the city.
The plant was constructed under the superintendence of Mr. Robt. R. Zell, mechanical engineer of New Orleans who received $1000 for his services in behalf of the city. The plant was accepted upon the recommendation of Mr. Zell who expressed entire satisfaction as to the condition of the machinery in particular. Mr. Zell was recommended to the Council as a first class mechanical engineer and upon him the city authorities placed implicit reliance. According to the report of Mr. Gaines the entire boiler plant is worthless and should never have been put into the plant. The construction he also condemns and recommends that the whole be "torn out and rebuilt." Here very plainly arises a question as to the competency and veracity of two gentlemen both of whom are considered experts in their profession. Whether there has been any collusion and fraud practiced upon the town is a question for the courts to decide. In advance of such decision no opinion is expressed but if the judicial investigation should establish fraudulent practice, no condemnation will be too severe. The Gazette expresses the sincere hope that justice be dealt impartially and above all that the interest of the city be protected regardless of any personal considerations. The public treasury is too often considered an object of plunder by public contractors and measures should not only be taken to conserve the public interest, but the full penalty of the law should be administered to those who may be found guilty of dishonest or fraudulent practices.
The following extracts the contract shows that the city authorities guarded very carefully the interest of the corporation in framing that legal instrument.
"It is intended that each of the items in these specifications shall be truly of the first class of the kind specified as to design, material and workmanship. It is also intended to secure the systems of water works and electric lights thoroughly complete and in perfect readiness for operation any omissions, necessary thereto in these specifications to the contrary notwithstanding. Contractors for any portions of these systems will be expected to maintain the work executed by them in perfect order and good repair for one year from completion, except ordinary and legitimate wear and tear and except also the results of accident or circumstances for which they may not also be accountable for, nor contributory to; but they will be held responsible and liable during the period of one year for defects, injuries or damages to any portion of the systems or to any other property, public or private, or to persons due to clearly established defects, imperfection or deficiencies in any portion of the work contracted for by them."
"The whole workmanship and materials used in said works to be of the best of their respective kinds."
The Consolidated Engineering Company is also bound in the sum of $10,000 surety given by the American Surety Company of New York. Should the contention of the city be maintained by the courts, not only will it be protected by the $1,000 withheld, but in the full amount of the surety which expressly stipulates that the contract shall be considered as a part of the bond. The provisions of the contract above quoted are very explicit and hardly admit of doubt as to their proper construction. Considering the serious aspect the whole matter has assumed affecting so keenly not only the pecuniary interest of the city, but also the honesty and integrity of the contracting company and supervising engineer, the public naturally demands the most thorough investigation, let the consequences be what they may. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
Lieut. Jas. A. Moss, Company G., 25th Infantry.
The New York Herald describing the taking of Caney near Santiago, speaks as follows of Lieut. Jas. A. Moss, Company G., 25th Infantry.
"Our men call Caney the Hornet's Nest, and San Juan, the Slaughter Pen. Slowly our lines crept forward toward the doomed village. Regiment after regiment dashed across the open spaces exposed to the galling fire. The roar of musketry was sharp and continuous. Finally, orders were given to charge the fort, and the Twelfth and Twenty-fifth infantry and undertook the difficult task. They gave a cheer as they broke from cover and began to run up the precipitous ascent. The Spaniards opened fierce fire and many of our men fell, but the regiments kept on. When our men were within fifty yards of the fort the Spaniards gave way and fled down the hill into the village. Cheers rose from hundreds of throats as the hill was taken."
"Several regiments lost heavily, among them the Twelfth and Twenty-fifth which made the charge, suffered severely. Company G. of the Twenty-fifth lost nine killed and Captain Lawards and Lieut. Murdock were wounded. So great was the loss among officers, that at one Lieut. Moss commanded two companies."
Thus it will be seen that our "Jimmie" is giving a good account of himself at the front, and his many friends will join us in giving three cheers and a tiger for our gallant boy. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
Lafayette and Acadia Boundary.
Some time since the Police Jury in order to establish definitely the boundary line between Lafayette and Acadia appointed one of its members Mr. Ben Avant to act in conjunction with the authorities of Acadia in tracing and fixing clearly the old line of demarcation between the two parishes. Not long since the committee of the two parishes, Messrs. Webb of Acadia and Avant of Lafayette, submitted a report to their respective Police Juries, establishing a new line altogether, and not according to the instruction or understanding of the Lafayette authorities. The jury failed at the time to notice the mistake and adopted the report. Within the last few days, however, the fact was discovered that a large portion of territory had been incorporated by the report in the parish of Acadia. It was further brought to light that the proposed line was defective and incomplete, and thereupon the jury telegraphed our representatives in the legislature to postpone action until the matter could be rectified. The bill notwithstanding passed both houses and went to the governor for signature. The jury as a body then wired the executive to veto the bill and dispatched Hon. C. C. Brown as a special messenger to represent the true state of affairs to Gov. Foster and urge him to withhold his signature from the bill. Mr. Brown left Tuesday night for Baton Rouge and took him the official map and other statistics to show the just contention of our Police Jury. Should the bill become a law not only will Lafayette lose a portion of old lifelong residents will be thrown out of the parish among strangers. To this procedure most strenuously object and The Gazette sincerely hopes that the governor will see his way clear to veto the bill, otherwise a gross injustice will have been perpetrated upon many of our oldest and best citizens.
The governor has signed the bill fixing the boundary.
Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
Parish Jail Contract.
The Police Jury last Tuesday resolved to withhold any further payments to the Pauly Jail Building Company on account of the contract for jail repairs and alterations. The company introduced into the jail an evaporating vault in lieu of the sewerage system previously employed. The contract contains a clause guaranteeing the successful operation of the vault for a period of two years, But very recently the company found it necessary to make complete alteration in the vault and although the management was left in the hands of an expert employee of the company, still the system failed most signally to come up to requirements of contract. Thereupon the jury refused to make the payment now due amounting $1,700. While it is true the interests of the parish are fully protected by the large sum still due the company, amounting in all to over $3,000 including the payment now due, "yet the authorities in view of legal complications which might ensue have wisely concluded to withhold all further payments and require the company either to fulfill or forfeit its contract. The proposition of Mr. Hull to substitute a system of closets and cesspool was rejected promptly and properly. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
Santiago Has Fallen.
Santiago has surrendered with all eastern Cuba. About 30,000 prisoners taken, nearly all of whom will be shipped back to Spain by the United States.
Yellow fever has broken out among our troops at Santiago and vicinity, and our troops will be removed. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
Our Cadets.
At the recent meeting of the Police Jury the scholastic report of Cadets Andrew McBride and J. O. Herpin was read from an official communication addressed to President Landry from Col. Boyd, president of the State University. It will be a source of extreme gratification to their many friends to know of the excellent record made by both young men, both as to conduct at school and progress in their respective studies. The subjoined communication will be appreciated by all who feel an interest in education and take pride in this well organized institution of learning:
To the Editor - Lafayette Gazette:
The Louisiana State University and Agricultural College has brought to a close a most successful term, considering the many odds with which it had to contend. Notwithstanding the yellow fever disaster, at the late opening of the school over two hundred students gathered within its walls. Owing to the shortness of the term the faculty wisely mapped out a schedule of studies with a definite aim in view, so as to complete the required amount of study in this limited time. With no friction, few holidays, and a strict adherence to the schedule, the work was accomplished in such a manner as to bring no little credit to the school.
The State University is a military institution. It is a common error to think that under the military system academic work is sacrificed to drills and discipline. Nearly as much time is given for study, and, owing to the better observance of the rules of health and physical culture, the mind is prepared to effect greater and more lasting results. The rapid increase of military schools speaks for itself. The system tends to make a youth a perfect man, obedient and gallant. As one casts his eye over the military array of Louisiana in the present war, he perceives with agreeable surprise how largely the University if represented in the officers. With few exceptions Louisiana troops are commanded by L. S. U. cadets, and many are in the ranks and file of these gallant regiments, which facts can not fail to bring to the institution imperishable glory and renown.
* * * * *
The time has come when it is no longer necessary for the youths of Louisiana to leave their native State to seek an education abroad, but within her own border is a school with a corps of alumni whose success in life is a guarantee that its training fits young men for almost every pursuit.
While I am not of the opinion that it receives the proper support, financially, from the State, I am certain that with its able faculty, and willing and obedient corps of cadets, it will continue to advance steadily onward in the march of prosperity.
But it becomes necessary to make mention of the man who presides over the destinies of this institution of learning. It has been the good fortune of the University to secure the services of Col. T. D. Boyd, a wise and practical man, and a tireless worker. Under his management it is steadily forging its way to the front, and it is safe to say that it will continue, for he is the right man in the right place
The site of that University is historic. The present barracks were occupied successively by the armies of France, England, Spain and of the United States, and the ground was trod by several of our heroes. As one is about to tread upon this sacred spot, he remembers with awe the command, "Loose the shoe from off thy food, for the place whereon thou standest is holy.
(Signed) ANDREW MCBRIDE.
Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
NEGRO SOLDIERS.
As the Lafayette Gazette Sees It...
The disposition manifested by the national authorities at Washington to enlist companies and regiments of negroes in the army is a most foolish and impolitic attempt to place these unfortunate people on a plane with the white people of the South. What a constitutional amendment backed by Federal arms failed to do, the Republican party now seeks to accomplish by forcing the negro upon equal terms in another and more diplomatic way. Will the Republican party and the people of the North never learn that the white people of the South will not submit to such degradation and dishonor any more diplomatic way. Will the Republican party an the people of the North never learn that the white people of the South will not submit to such degradation and dishonor any more than they would yield to social equality and amalgamation with the heathen Chinee? The Southern Stats not only constitute a large proportion of the national population, but in the present war are furnishing very large quotas of troops for the invasion of Cuba and other islands, and the policy adopted may be considered an insult. How would our brethren in the West and out on the Pacific coast consider the enlistment of large numbers of Chinese in the regular army? Would ths be tolerated a moment?
And yet there are many who think that if the people of the South do not tamely submit to a procedure far more revolting and disgusting, they are guilty of treason and rebellion. Our soldier boys have no objection whatever fighting shoulder to shoulder with their brethren of the North, East and West, but do most seriously object to any affiliation with the negro.
We protest against the enlistment of the negro upon the ground, first that there is no necessity for it, second, it is in direct opposition to the expressed will of the white people of the South, and third, it is likely to bring serious trouble in the end. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
Sunday School Lectures.
Last Wednesday evening very interesting lectures were delivered by Mr. and Mrs. Mayo at the Methodist church on the subject of Sunday Schools. Mr. Mayo is superintendent of the State Sunday School Association and is probably one of the most live and energetic workers in this particular branch of Christian endeavor. The lecturer very briefly but pointedly brought out various marks of successful Sunday School management, and the presentation of the subject coupled with the deep earnestness of the speaker, made a most favorable impression upon all present. Mrs. Mayo gave a blackboard illustration showing the manner of conducting Normal work in the schools. The lady required the audience to participate in the exercise and demonstrated most forcibly the advantages of the system. It is to be regretted that more of our good people were not present to receive the benefit of these instructive lectures.
Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
The New Bank.
The committee entrusted with the selection of a site for the new bank of which Crow Girard is President and Mr. J. J. Davidson, cashier has secured the property known as the M. E. Girard office, situated on South Main street opposite the clerk's office. The selection of this well known site demonstrates the good judgment of the committee, as it was hardly possible to have selected a more favorable location for the business in view. Plans for the building are now under consideration and ere long another handsome and imposing structure will grace the principal thoroughfare of the town.
Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
Hobson Social Club.
The Hobson Club gave another pleasant party last Wednesday evening at the residence of Mr. E. McDaniel. A goodly number of young people gathered at this hospitable home, and through the efforts of Mrs. McDaniel and her estimable daughter, Miss Isaure, enjoyed themselves to their hearts' content. The guests of the evening were Miss Lena Kleb of Patterson, and Miss Ethel Holland of New Orleans. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
Van Winkle Waked Up.
Hon. H. L. Garland, of Opelousas, passed through Lafayette Tuesday on his way to Crowley on legal business. The following note left in the office of Hon. Wm. Campbell will be appreciated by his numerous friends: "Old Rip Van Winkle has waked up and finds none of his old cronies in. Are they asleep in their turn?
(Signed) H. L. GARLAND.
Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
The High School.
By reference to the minutes of the School Board our readers will notice the appointment of Prof. W. A. LeRosen of Shreveport was principal of the High School, with Mrs. R. M. Delaney and Miss Lizzie Mudd as assistants. Prof. LeRosen, it will be remembered, took charge of the school several years since and managed it during its first year of existence. While recognizing the ability and success of Prof. Charles Trudeau, the late principal, it may be said that the selection of Prof. LeRosen is a good teacher and we sincerely trust that the school under his direction will attain that degree of organization and efficiency which will be a source of pride and satisfaction to the people of the town and parish. So far as appears from the official record no resignation was tendered and no reason appears for the change above noted. The question of salary is reported to have been the consideration. The Board, however, had full knowledge of the situation, and doubtless acted wisely in the behalf of the public interest. Let all the good people give the new principal a hearty welcome and cordial support in the performance of his most responsible duties.
No appointments were made or the primary school taught by Prof. Cunningham. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
School Board.
The parish School Board met last Monday and appointed teachers for the public schools throughout the parish. No changes were made except where resignations were tendered, or teachers voluntarily abandoned their schools. Owing to some contention in the 4th ware and the absence of Mr Durke, the director, no appointments were made there. No appointments were made for the primary town school taught by Prof. Cunningham and Miss Bagnal. The above information obtained from Supt. Latiolais includes all the business of any importance transacted by the board. The Gazette was unable to get the official proceedings and we therefore secured the above general statement of the minutes for the benefit of all interested in the public schools of the parish. Prof. W. A. LeRosen was selected principal of the High School with same corps of assistants. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
TOO MANY ROADS.
It is safe to say that no question so directly and vitally effects the interest of a rural population as the proper maintenance of the public roads. Taking into consideration the enormous amount of energy, time and money lost annually on account of the miserable condition of the public roads of the country is it not passing strange that no greater interest is felt in them by the people? Millions are thus expended by farmers in conveying their crops to market and yet as a class they show an astonishing amount of indifference to a matter which concerns agricultural prosperity as nearly as any other factor or element to be considered. The necessity and advantages of good roads, needs no elaboration, nor is it the province of this article to fix the blame for the sad neglect of highways on any particular body or class. The problem presents many difficulties and its solution is a Gordion knot, awaiting the master stroke of some great public benefactor.
The point desired to be impressed upon the people of Lafayette is that there are too many roads in the parish. A very conservative estimate places the mileage at five or six hundred, with yearly additions thereto. Considering the small area of the parish, Lafayette certainly stands foremost among her sister parishes in the number and extent of her public roads. This one consideration renders their maintenance, under present conditions, an utter impossibility and besides imposes responsibilities upon the parochial authorities, which, not only subject them oftentimes to harsh and unjust criticism, but will lay them liable to pecuniary damages, resulting from the dangerous and unsafe condition of roads and bridges. It is apparent that just in proportion as the mileage of roads is increased, will the liability and responsibility of the public authorities multiply. The suit now pending against the parish for $1,000 damages, resulting from the alleged unsafe condition of a public bridge is sufficient to demonstrate the pertinence of this proposition.
The Police Jury has been unduly liberal in the granting of public roads, so called, and to-day is confronted with the problem of performing what is entirely beyond its financial ability. A large proportion of the roads are mere neighborhood roads traced to accommodate one or two individuals, and many more miles are parallel and in very close proximity. All these roads afford much convenience, it is recognized, to the people directly interested but cannot and should not be classed as public roads. A public highway or thoroughfare is a way leading from one public point to another and no other construction is contemplated under the law. If this definition holds good then it must be conceded that there are too many roads in this parish.
Estimating the cost of maintaining roads at $50.00 per mile as per contract a few years since, and placing the mileage at five hundred, it will appear at a glance the amount $25,000.00 equals the revenues of the parish from all sources. The futility of keeping up so much roadway, can hardly be gainsaid, when the fund available constitutes so small a part of the amount requisite. Admitting that $4,000 can be levied under the special per capita tax authorized by the new constitution, $1,000 from vehicle licenses, and $5,000 by special appropriation, the inadequacy of the amount is very apparent. The present labor system cannot be taken into account as it is hardly of sufficient importance to enter as a factor.
Bearing in mind that the condition above mentioned are constantly becoming more aggravated the natural conclusion that some other system must be adopted in order to protect the public interest forces itself irresistibly and the abandonment of a large number of private or neighborhood roads seems to offer the only solution. If the authorities would concentrate all their energy and resources upon several main highways, leaving the care of by-roads to those directly concerned the vexatious problem would be greatly simplified and many elements of responsibility eliminated. One hundred miles of principal thoroughfare, kept in prime condition under supervision of road overseers or contractors would evidently benefit the traveling public to a much greater extent than several hundred miles allowed to remain in a dangerous and at times well nigh impassable condition.
This plan no doubt would meet with strenuous objections from those who now derive the benefit of public appropriations for what might properly be denominated private roads but in the end these people would see the wisdom of doing little but doing that little well. It is utterly unreasonable to argue that because a certain individual or individuals pay a certain amount of tax or perhaps have no ingress or regress that necessarily the jury must grant a road to him or them, and yet such argument is common.
The jury when assembled represents the entire parish and should never act with a view of pleasing any particular section of locality, but consider all questions as concerning the parish as a whole. This is the only safe method and any other will surely bring final disaster. Let the jury therefore put a stop to the creation of public roads, abandon those not actually public thoroughfares and maintain only those arteries of traffic essential to the entire parish. The Gazette offers the above suggestions, keenly appreciating the difficulties attending any proposed system, and modestly requests a careful consideration of them in the public interest. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
Police Jury Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., July 7, 1898.
The Police Jury met the day in regular session with the following members present: R. C. Landry, C. C. Brown, Ben Avant, Alonzo Lacy, Alfred Hebert, Jno. Whittington, Jr., J. E. Primeaux and M. Billeaud, Jr.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Mr. F. B. Hull, agent for the Pauly Jail Building and manufacturing company appeared before the jury and made a statement relative carried out by his company in the parish jail. Judge Mouton representing Mr. Hull, also addressed the body and explained the matter from a legal standpoint. No understanding being reached as to the successful operation of the evaporating vault, subject was deferred until later during the day.
A communication from Mr. P. Monlejon denying that the dams erected by him across Bayou Queue Tortue obstructed the free course of the stream was read and on motion duly made the following resolution was adopted:
Resolved that the road overseer of the second ward brand is hereby instructed to cut and remove the said dam, to the center of said stream, on the Lafayette side.
By motion of Mr. Avant the following was adopted: Resolved that the general assembly be requested to postpone action on senate bill 126 fixing the boundary line between Lafayette and Acadia, parishes until further notice from this jury.
The following was adopted:
Resolved that the road overseers of the parish, be and are hereby instructed to remove all dams or other obstructions to the natural drains of all streams in this parish.
By motion Messrs. M. Billeaud, Jr., and R. C. Landry were authorized to determine as to the railway crossing proposed in the town of Broussard, and to make such arrangements as shall be deemed best for the public interest. communication from Major J. G. Lee, State commissioner of agriculture proposing to hold a Farmers Institute at Lafayette July 15 and 16, was read and by motion the offer was accepted and Messrs. Alfred Hebert and R. C. Greig appointed to make all necessary arrangements there for.
The sum of $2.50 cash was granted unto Paul Morvant and, Henry Scase, indigents.
By motion all officers were reelected for the ensuing fiscal year as follows: President R. C. Landry; Secretary, R. C. Greig; Treasurer, J. E. Martin; constable and Court House Keeper L. Hirsch. Respective salaries the same.
The following road overseers were appointed:
1st, Ward - L. Arceneaux.
2d, Ward - Jean Meaux.
3d, Ward - L. Allemand.
4th Ward - Clement and Eugene Landry.
5th Ward - Albert Labbe.
6th Ward - O. H. Breaux.
7th Ward - Horace Comeaux.
8th Ward - Antoine Broussard.
The following report was read and approved:
To the Hon. Police Jury.
The undersigned appointed to investigate the Treasurer's office balance his accounts, cancel vouchers and grant him a Quietus would respectfully report that duty performed and submit the following general statement of parochial funds to date:
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page 4 column 4
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Respectfully submitted,
R. C. GREIG, ALFRED HEBERT, Committee.
(more in next issue)
Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1898.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 7/16/1898.
The Police Jury will meet to-day at nine o'clock as a Board of Reviewers.
Very extensive alterations and repairs are now being made on the Lafayette Sugar Refinery. About seventy-five workers are employed and the plant is fast assuming grand proportions.
Mr. J. E. Mouton is building a new gin at Mouton's switch with all modern improvements; another evidence of a quiet boom.
The foundation for the cotton compress has been laid, and the contractor is rushing the construction of the plant, in order to comply with his agreement to deliver by the first of September.
Sheriff Broussard returned from Baton Rouge yesterday where he has been for some time in the interest of legislation affecting the Sheriff's State Association.
The ladies of the Episcopal church gave another entertainment for their church building fund last Tuesday evening at the residence of Mrs. M. P. Young. The affair was most pleasant and successful.
A number of young people on bent on pleasure gathered at Caillouet's hall Tuesday evening and indulged in the giddy mazes of the dance until a late hour. Refreshments were served and joy reigned supreme. Lafayette Gazette 7/16/1898.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of July 16th, 1870:
THE VERMILIONVILLE EXPRESS.
Our townsman, Mr. J. B. LEDGER, will run an express carriage between this place and New Iberia, three days during the week, which will give us a daily communication with our sister town ; he will run his express, so as not to conflict with the U. S. Stage Co., and will carry only passengers and light freight. Mr. LEDGER deserves credit for his energy and enterprise and should be encouraged by all lovers of progress. Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1870.
The Crops. - The cotton crop throughout the parish has never been better at this season. The corn crop is very bad, owing to the drought ; we learn that many of our planters will lose their entire corn crop, unless they have rain in a short time. Sugar cane is doing well, Col. IRVINE, who purchased the Beraud plantation has sent us fine specimens of his cane - one stalk having five red joints and three white ones. He has 150 acres of fine cane, and his prospects thus far, are very encouraging. Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1870.
Accused Shooter Brought Before Judge. - Mr. Francois Bourges, accused of shooting Mr. Grand some weeks ago, was brought before the Hon. A. J. Moss, parish Judge, on the 12th inst., for an investigation of the case, when on motion of his counsel and with the consent of the District Attorney, the examination was waived and the accused admitted to bail in the sum of $5000 to appear at the next term of the District Court. Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1870.
DIED, - At Vermilionville, La., on the 10th instant, MARIE THERESE - CAROLINE, aged 2 months and 27 days, youngest child of Judge A. J. MOSS and OCTAVIE CORNAY.
Planter's Banner please copy.
Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1870.
From the Lafayette Daily Advertiser of July 16th, 1968:
CITY PARKS ARE NAMED BY TRUSTEES.
The Lafayette Board of Trustees today adopted a resolution naming five parks in the city.
The city playground on the Eraste Landry Rd. was named the Neyland Park, the area on the Guilbeau Rd. named Chargois Park, the playground near the Doc Bonin Power Plant named Debaillon Park, the baseball diamond in City Park now designated the D League Baseball Field is renamed the Malcolm Fischer Field and the area on Alexander St. named Acadiana Park.
The board also gave permission to advertise the proposed extension of the corporate limits on Eraste Landry Rd. to include, primarily, the land to be used in the relocation of the Coca-Cola bottling plant.
Approval was granted to an ordinance introduced by title only to reclassify Lots 140 and 141 of the Rufus Peck addition from R-3 (single family residence) to B-1 (neighborhood business.)
The property involved is bounded by Arthur St., Edison St. and property owned by Marie Elaine Roger.
The board awarded contract to Brine Service & Chemical Co., Houston, at $93.50 per ton for prime commercial chlorine and granted permission to advertise for bids for water valves and iron fittings for the utilities system and water line construction in Bois de Lafayette Extension No. 2 and Wentworth Blvd. Lafayette Daily Advertiser 7/16/1968.
FIRE GUTS CITY BUILDING.
A three-section building, 105-109 Jefferson Blvd. was completely gutted by flames yesterday, which about 50 firemen with 10 engines fought for three hours to get under control.
The blaze started in the attic of the first section at about 5 p. m., from an as yet undetermined cause. No one was injured in it though a Civil Defense rescue unit was on hand.
An estimate on damage was not available at press time.
The contents included from 100-150 pieces of coin-operated music equipment. Fire Chief L. F. Babin stated that the blaze was probably worse than a major fire last year, which occurred in Hub City Bar, cater-cornered to the building to the building burned yesterday.
Owner of the three part building is Gabriel Elias. Worth several thousand dollars, the structure was only partially insured. The contents, owned by Dixie Phonographic Co., and valued at approximately $45,000, were heavily damaged, but some of them can be salvaged.
The series of rooms were all used by the company for storage and repair work. Owners of the company are Antoine and George Mouton, who couldn't give an estimate on damage to their property. The contents (mostly pinball machines and juke boxes), were not covered by any insurance.
Antoine George Mouton said he had recently moved his business office out of the first section of the building to have more room for storage.
The roof of the brick building caved in over every section. Firemen did keep the blaze confined to this structure alone, and no damage was done to structures adjoining the fire-gutted building on either side.
Five of the engines on the scene and two aerial, ladder engine units, were from this city. The other three engines came from the Duson, Scott and Breaux Bridge volunteer fire companies. Fire District One on Bertrand Drive sent men but no engine to the scene.
The Lafayette Fire Protection Association, a mutual aid setup, enabled all these additional engines to be sent from out of town stations, Babin said. Lafayette Advertiser 7/16/1968.
LAGNIAPPE:
Is All Fair In Love And Politicals?
A prominent Cuban of this city has a very handsome and intelligent daughter, as only child, who, having arrived at a marriageable age, fell in love with a young Spaniard, a member of the volunteer force.
This old gentleman, and particularly his wife, are reported to be strong sympathizers with the Cuban cause, and haters of everything Spanish. When the young Spaniard came and demanded the hand of the young lady from her father, it was positively and firmly refused. The captain of the volunteer company then called at the house on the same errand, when the young lady's mother told him that she would not permit her daughter, under any circumstance, to marry a Spaniard, much less a volunteer. The Captain then caused the arrest of the old gentleman as an insurent, and he still remains in jail. The young lady being determined to marry the volunteer, was taken from her father's house and according to Spanish laws placed in chains.
Thus are love and politics mixed up in this country, for although the young lady is a strong insurgent, she loves her volunteer more than Cuba.
Original source unknown. In the Laf. Advertiser 7/16/1870.
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