GAZED AND WONDERED!!!
Sensation Created Monday Night by the Appearance of a Ball of Fire in Air Above City!!!
Something of a sensation was created Monday night a few minutes after eight o'clock by the remarkable appearance in the northern part of the city, high above the tree tops, of a brilliant light.
It seemed to hang oscillating in the heavens and flamed and glowed with lessening and growing and lessening intensity until suddenly it darted earthward leaving a trailing tail of brilliancy until it nearly reached earth when suddenly it flared and went out, while people in all parts of town stood gazing and guessing what could it be, whence it sprang and wherefore such a happening.
The superstitious were inclined to imagine a visitation of Providence, either foretelling some impending calamity or, happy thought! a sign of purification signifying that Lafayette was cleansed of yellow fever. But to their astonishment the ball of fire suddenly blazed again, seemingly higher and brighter, between earth and sky and wonder grew and guesses flew until people knew not what to do. The flames were a mystery. Neighbor called to neighbor and excitement buzzed upon the still air of night, while the torch flaming against the surrounding darkness, circled in a miniature orbit, rising and falling, minute lengthening into minute until suddenly the ball of light darted earthward and for several moments after striking the ground shot up rays of brilliance. Then darkness closed down and the light appeared no more.
Some people imagined it one thing, some another, all were at a loss to explain the strange phenomena. One sister called to another, "Come quick! Look, what a big meteor!" And many others thought it a meteor, too. Some took it to be a signal of some kind, while everybody marveled. Telephone inquiries came from the country asking an explanation of the light, and when they failed to receive it, joined in marveling, guessing and wondering.
And all the astonishment and wonderment and guessing was caused because night time is the best time to go after bees. The Council has let out the contract to paint the standpipe and preparatory to beginning the work, the man who is to do it, climbed the standpipe Monday night and the light that shone over the city and shot rays across the prairies, was but the torch that was being applied to the ambitious bees who had pre-empted the top of the standpipe and had to be dislodged before the painter, dared awing himself on a light platform betwixt earth and sky. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
Parish Quarantine Will Be Raised Next Friday Night.
The parish quarantine now in force against the town of Lafayette will be raised, next Friday night and all guards removed, says Dr. L. A. Prejean, President of the Parish Board of Health, unless a second case of fever shall develop in the town. This will be welcome news to both the town and country people, for the quarantine has worked a great hardship on both and its removal will afford the liveliest satisfaction to everybody. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
CONFERENCE AT PINHOOK.
City and Parish Boards of Health Meet and Discuss Quarantine Matters.
Friday afternoon the city and parish boards held a conference at Pin Hook relative to raising the parish quarantine. The parish authorities agreed to allow wagons to enter Lafayette and return if drivers were changed, instead of requiring wagons to be unloaded at guard stations as heretofore. An effort was made to secure permission for two of the butchers to go to their slaughter houses which are a short distance outside the guard stations as heretofore. An effort was made to secure permission for two of the butchers to go to their slaughter houses which are a short distance outside the guard lines, but consent was refused. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
FEVER CASE WELL.
No Second Infection to Date, Showing that Scientific Measures Promptly Applied are Effective.
The one case of yellow fever, and a very mild one, has been discharged cured. No other case has followed and it is reasonably certain that there will be no secondary infection. The fact that the employment of scientific methods has stamped out the disease with such ease should be reassuring to everyone and especially to our parish friends who so promptly clapped such a rigid quarantine upon the town. Knowing what we do of the origin and propagation of the disease, neither one case nor a half dozen cases should causes a panic. Prompt and effective measures will check the fever just as it has in the present case. There is nothing like demonstration, and our experience in this case has furnished the demonstration.
With such evidence, should Lafayette be so unfortunate as to get a second case, certainly our parish friends should hesitate to quarantine the entire town; rather they should join with the city in quarantining the infected house or square and let develop a case, most assuredly the town would never think of quarantining the whole parish, especially with its recent experience with fever. Suppose a case should occur in some country home. Confining it to that one house and most likely to that one case, would be a very simple matter. All that would necessary, would be to quarantine the house and destroy all mosquitoes on the premises. And those details could well be left to the health officials who have already shown readiness and zeal to protect the public health. Meantime everybody could and should attend to the ordinary affairs of life, ignore the fever's presence and maintain a calm and equable state of mind.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
NOW THE TIME TO PLAN.
During these quiet times of quarantine while business is slack and everybody has a chance to do any amount of thinking, a most excellent opportunity is presented for doing some practical planning for the upbuilding of Lafayette. The man who plans and perseveres is the man who succeeds and the same is true of communities. We want railroads, we want factories and we want more and better school facilities and better roads. These are the things to plan for, work for, strive for, and now is the time to begin. Present conditions will soon pass away, then business will awake, the wheel of commerce move and life become strenuous again. While we are marooned in the eddy of the stream let us prepare for the race in its current.
Other towns about us are reaching out, up and doing, and if we sit idly by, it is not even a question of years before Lafayette will find itself encircled with railroads, its territory limited and energetic competition contesting for trade that rightfully should be ours.
The town has reached a certain growth, the smile of promise beams upon it and possibilities lie at hand; but it takes the genius of "all-pull-together" with the fairy of "put-your-hand-in-your-pocket," to sustain the growth, merit the smile and touch with magic wand the bud of possibilities that it may bloom into the flagrant rose of progress and prosperity.
In these quiet times of quarantine let us then lavishly use our plenteous store or spare moments in mapping out the lines upon which to direct our efforts when the dark shadow of the fever shall no longer envelope us, to the end that our little city may experience no check to her growth, but advance onward to a greater Lafayette. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
A GOOD SUGGESTION.
Because of the hardships and inconveniences inflicted by the parish quarantine both on the town and country people, we consider good and timely the suggestion made by a prominent citizen a few days ago that the town and parish Boards of Health, the Police Jury and City Council hold a joint session as soon as possible and agree upon some arrangement in the event a case of yellow fever should develop in the parish or a second case should be pronounced to be in the town. It is reasonable to be in the town. It is reasonable to suppose that wherever the case may occur, whether in the town or parish, that precautions could be taken by the parish and town authorities jointly in isolating, screening, guarding and quarantining the house and surroundings so that a minimum of danger would be present, and thus avoid both great expense and the absolute interruption of communication between the town and parish. This, it seems to us could be done and the public health be thoroughly protected at the same time.
The town has a considerable supply of labor, and a way to make their services available to the farmers would be most acceptable. Besides farmers need to come to town for various reasons, and many men who live in town, own farms which this harvest time require their personal attention.
Lafayette is not alone subject to fever, the parish is equally as exposed, and probably so. Numbers of laborers from the plantations in the infected sections below us are on the move hunting work, they are just as likely to this parish as any other parish and secure work; for labor, owing to the supply shut up in town upon which many farmers depend for gathering their crops is scarce and under these conditions the introduction of fever into the parish is both possible and to be feared.
Should a case break out in the parish we would not consider it either wise, necessary or expedient for the town to quarantine the whole parish. The proper thing to do would simply be to quarantine that case only and use every method to confine the disease to one case.
It is not only possible to do so, it has been demonstrated that it can be done.
With this knowledge before us, we certainly hope that the town and parish authorities will act on the suggestion and immediately get together and come to some arrangement, in the event of any future outbreak of fever either in the town or parish, which will fully protect the public and at the same time allow the fullest communication between the town and parish possible. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
BARBECUE TO-DAY.
A jolly crowd will break into the monotony of quarantine to-day by getting all the enjoyment possible out of a barbecue at Chargois' Woods, not neglecting, however, to pay the proper attention to a lot of good things to eat which will be part of the occasion. Lafayette Gazette 8/30/1905.
Resolutions.
Whereas, it has pleased the Almighty God in the inscrutable but all merciful ways of his divine providence to bereave The Woman's Club of its founder as well as an untiring worker.
Whereas, the demise has been a severe blow to The Woman's Club and a loss inexpressibly great to the entire community.
Whereas, by her tact, her prudence and here executive ability she organized The Woman's Club, acting, for a long time, as president and proved an unfaltering, never-failing, devoted worker.
Whereas, our lamented member was staunch and ardent defender of The Woman's Club, gave to it the strength of her own personal gifts as well as her influence, especially approving, encouraging, supporting, with a solicitude, all things for the advancement of this organization.
Be it resolved, that we, The Woman's Club, five public expression to our sorrow at the death of a useful and ambitious member.
We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved husband and children, also to the sisters, and pray our Father in heaven may assuage their grief. May his kind Providence soothe the anguish by the remembrance of her fond devotion, and may their overwhelming sorrow be calmed into the gentle tears of recollection.
Be it also resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family, to the town papers for publication, and a copy placed on record in the minutes of the club.
(Signed) MRS. A. B. DENBO, MISS LEA GLADU, MISS ROSE DEBLANC, Committee.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
City Council
To Ask for Conference with Parish Authorities to Consider Quarantine Matters.
The City Council held a called meeting Monday night to consider quarantine matters. It was decided to request a meeting of the City Board of Health with the Council to take measures for putting on city guards when the parish shall take off theirs, to see that no one from an infected place enters the town. The Council also resolved to ask a conference with the parish authorities to come to some understanding as to precautionary and protective measures in the event another case should develop in town or a case should occur in the parish. The intention is to hold such a conference as soon as possible. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
Home Mission Notes.
[By Local Superintendent.]
The Home Mission Society met at the Parsonage on August 14. The meeting was opened with prayer by the president. Meekness was the subject of the lesson which was made very interesting by an earnest talk from the leader, Mrs. Kennedy. Slips were read by each member present, these slips being quotations on meekness. An interesting paper was read on the supply department of the society.
The president proposed that the society take up the study of the Bible lessons which are published each month in Our Homes. This was unanimously agreed to and Mrs. Kennedy was appointed leader for next lesson. Mrs. Delaney was welcomed as a visitor to our society and was requested to tell us what the Home Mission society, of which she is a member, is doing, to which she kindly responded in an interesting account of their work. Mrs. Crouch was welcomed as a new member and was given charge of the baby roll. Lafayette Advertiser 8/20/1905.
The Cane Crop.
[La. Planter and Sugar Manufacturer.]
Good weather for the cane crop, and a steady development of it along satisfactory lines, are reported from all portions of the sugar district, and there seems no necessity for qualifying in any way the optimistic views we have hitherto been able to express concerning the general situation. That the labor problem with be the most disturbing factor that our planters will have to contend with seems tolerably certain. The railroads are prepared to facilitate the transportation of labor to the sugar district in every way they possibly can, and we believe it will be found possible, by the time the grinding season it at hand, to alleviate the situation by bringing in men from the non-infected points. The officials of the Louisiana Immigration Association, and the sugar planters themselves, are trying to solve the problem, but they are necessarily somewhat at sea at present. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
Parish Quarantines.
(Communicated.)
If the present theory of the propagation of yellow fever, sanctioned by the highest medical authority, is to be accepted, then the present quarantine of the parish against the town of Lafayette is totally unwarranted. Parish authorities have apparently discarded the town as part and parcel of the parish, and when supposed danger threatened, proceeded to cut it out from its body and quarantine - what? Simply mosquitoes, for they alone could spread the fever abroad, even if it existed. There was no resort to common sense recourse.
The town authorities acted wisely; they isolated the focus of supposed danger, screened the patient, and dwelling and surroundings, and sought to destroy the only means of conveying the danger. Now it the parish authorities had with a measure of practical common sense joined the town authorities and helped them in their well conceived action; directed their attention to the exclusion of strangers, possibly infected elsewhere, then some favorable result might be expected. Instead guards were put on, with instruction to let any one pass into town, but to prevent such newcomers from going out, persons who under the high authority of Dr. A. Wyman, of the Marine corps of the U. S., and of all medical authority having the yellow fever condition in charge, could not transmit the fever; it was, it is suggested, practically quarantining the dreadful mosquito only. Surely this action was counseled by panic, which had driven away common sense. Of course the pure motives of the parish solons is not questioned - the act only are criticized for the benefit of the future.
In support of these vies the following extract is taken from the Picayune which took it from the Jefferson Democrat, giving as the writer, Mr. George A. Cox, the responsible editor and proprietor of the paper:
"A report article in one of the New Orleans papers calls attention to the freedom from fever which our parish and town has experienced. I wish to call the matter to your careful attention, and suggest that the fact that there is not a case of yellow fever in Gretna, at town of several thousand persons, nor in McDonoghville, directly across the river from your big city, is of tremendous importance. If those places can keep their doors open as they do, and by this observance of only sane measures of precaution, keep the fever out, notwithstanding that their citizens and the people from New Orleans intermingle every day, does not this fact speak volumes in denunciation of the brutal and even fanatical behavior of localities far remote and not in the slightest degree endangered?
"Do you believe that a wide dissemination of the facts set forth would serve a helpful purpose in the effort now being made to bring fear-stricken communities to an actual realization of what the situation really is and how remote the danger of infection under modern methods and doctrine? In my opinion the (unreadable word) of Jefferson Parish is an eloquent testimonial to the (unreadable word) of common sense measures in the treatment of the yellow (unreadable word)".
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
Presented With a Banner.
Monday night the Ladies Auxiliary to the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen presented Morgan Lodge 317, B. of R. T. with a beautiful banner, made of white and blue silk trimmed with gold fringe, handsomely mounted and bearing the name and device of the order in gilt. The presentation was made by Miss Martha Chargois assisted by Misses Ellen Church and Viola Burke. Mr. A. E. Chargois accepted it on the part of the lodge in a few brief but appropriate and appreciative words. Mr. F. C Triay also made a few remarks, during which he recalled a pleasant incident which happened at the Los Angeles Convention in 1889, which was the presentation of the American flag to the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen by Mrs. Anna Hendricks Warner. Mrs. Warner's grandfather was a patriot of the Revolutionary War. When dying he declared that the only monument he desired was the purchase of a flag to be presented to some labor organization noted for its sterling worth and independence. While looking down from a window on the parade the opening day of the Convention, Mrs. Warner concluded that it (unreadable words) body of young men she had ever beheld and accordingly awarded the B. of. R. T. the flag; which was decidedly a compliment from the fact that it had been held in trust so many years in a country filled with labor organizations, awaiting a disposition according to the wishes of the dead patriot.
After the interesting occasion of the presentation of the flag was over, the members of the Lodge and the ladies of the Auxiliary repaired to Domengeaux's restaurant where delightful refreshments had been prepared. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
Tough on the Fish.
This quarantine business is tough on the fish. It has caused a regular epidemic of fishermen and they are after the finny denizens of the bayous with hook and line early and late. And they are not all of the "don't-wet-your-feet" variety. Some of them wade right into water and pull the little ones and big ones right and left, and while the fish flap and twist, laugh at the clean shoe fishermen who sit on the bank and play "bob little bob" with their cork in the water.
This quarantine business is tough on the fish. They can't take a morning nap before some Lafayette amateur comes annoying them with a seductive worm. They don't bite, but they slap their fins at it and wish they had a wire screen so they could rest in peace. They don't dare mangle up the bank, for the amateur with his clean shoes is there to worry and pester. But the hardest luck of all is when the sure-enough, know-how fisherman walks right into their homes and without a "by your leave" tickles them so they have to catch a hook, and then gently lifts them up for future attention.
In fish circles, this quarantine business is a tough proposition and it is the general opinion the Parish Board of Health can't raise the quarantine any too soon. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
THE NEED IS NOW.
Committee: Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital Ask Aid of Police Juries to Erect Large Building.
The building committee for the "New, Ear, Nose, and Throat Hospital has sent a circular letter to the various police juries of the State giving the following statistics and asking for a contribution to assist in erecting a new building sufficient to meet the constant demands which have far outgrown its present capacity and to enlarge its powers of usefulness.
We beg your reference to our annual report (went to you, by this mail), folios 42 and 43, showing that since its foundation in July 1889, we have given treatment to 77,849 poor people, to whom 547,431 consultations were given and on whom 12,986 operations were performed.
Of the number of patients mentioned above, 17,471 were from the parishes of Louisiana, outside of Orleans.
As this hospital has rendered notable and universally recognized services to the community and has assumed such proportions that it is impossible to continue in its present cramped and insufficient quarters, we have decided to build a modern hospital on a site suitable to carry out our charitable work.
Several parishes have already contributed (besides the annual appropriation for running expenses) handsome sums towards the building fund of a Hospital, which will be a pride to the State of Louisiana.
All our doctors and surgeons give their time and skill free of charge to the indigent and ours is a just cause appealing to all elements of our of our community and country.
We now call on you, on this occasion, for such financial support as your Honorable Body will deem it advisable, to help us erect the "New Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital," which we have been expected to see in our midst for several years.
Respectfully,
For the Committee,
Dr. A. W. ROALDES,
Chairman Building Fund Committee.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905
Barbecue To-Day. - A jolly crowd will break into the monotony of quarantine to-day by getting all the enjoyment possible out of a barbecue at Chargois' Woods, not neglecting, however, to pay the proper attention to a lot of good things to eat which will be part of the occasion.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS.
Supt. of Water Works and Electric Light Plant Elected.
Standpipe to Be Painted.
Lafayette, La., August 24, 1905- Special meeting the City Council was held this day with Mayor Chas. O. Mouton presiding; members present A. R. Trahan, Simeon Begneaux, B. N. Coronna, O. B. Hopkins; absent, F. E. Girard, P. Krauss, C. D. Boudreaux. Moved and seconded that the painting of the stand pipe be referred to the water and light committee with full power to act in the matter. Carried.
Moved and seconded that the water and light committee is empowered to contract with Mr. Armas Dario as General superintendent of the Lafayette water works and electric light plant, at a monthly salary of $125, it being a part of said contract with the said Armas Durio that 30 days notice cancellation of this contract may be given and received at any time by each party to said agreement. Carried.
Moved and seconded that Mr. Crow Girard, attorney be requested to give the Mayor and Council, his written legal opinion, as to the legality of the said Council authorizing the Mayor to borrow money upon his signature as Mayor of the town of Lafayette, La. Carried.
There being no further business the Council adjourned.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 8/30/1905.
Friday was a record day for high temperature. A certain citizen who tips the scales at a handsome weight declares it was the hottest day this summer and he arrived at that conclusion, not by consulting the thermometer, but by - well, suppose you guess.
Saturday morning a considerable crowd on Jefferson street, and most likely a number of people in various parts of the town, relieved the monotony of the quarantine and the general do nothingness consequent, by watching a box kite which floated above the city.
Mr. J. E. Martin is having a very handsome stone fence built around his new residence. It is a novelty for Lafayette. Mr. T. J. Gelvin is contractor.
Dr. Moss intended attending the American Road Makers' annual convention at Port Huron, Mich., as a delegate from Louisiana, but was compelled to cancel the engagement on account of existing yellow fever and quarantine conditions.
It is mighty pleasant, this not being bothered with mosquitoes. The sensation is so satisfactory, how would it do to have a mosquito fight every summer? From now on screening cisterns ought to be quite the fashion.
The first bale of cotton ginned in Carencro was raised by Ralph Voorhies and was ginned by A. Broussard & Bros.
The express wagon delivering express was a welcome sight on the streets Saturday afternoon, the first time since the quarantine gripped the town. Express matter for this place is put off outside the city limits and brought for delivery.
Visiting friends and relatives at the guard stations has been one of the pleasures of "shut in" Lafayette folks, since our parish quarantined us. Every afternoon numbers of people assemble at the line and see and talk with each other and for several hours each day the guard posts are busy centers where greetings are passed and the news exchanged. But after Friday these meetings at the "line" will be a memory, pleasant it its way, but they will be relegated to memory with considerable satisfaction. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
Personals Mixed With Ads.
Buy your groceries from Broussard Bros. You will like the kind you get and the prices will suit you.
If you want a comfortable shoe that has splendid wearing qualities, go to Schmulen's.
Good reliable groceries and the lowest market prices at Morgan & DeBaillon's.
Look over the fine line of toilet articles and novelties at the Lafayette Drug Co.
Mrs. G. A. Breaux left on the special New Orleans train last week for Charleston, S. C. Miss Dowling, who had been visiting her brother here, left on the same train for her home in Chicago.
Leave your order for groceries with Prudhomme & McFaddin and then it will be filled to your satisfaction.
Send or phone your order for groceries to Bernard & Meaux. Their goods are reliable and their prices will suit you.
Dr. Felix Girard returned Friday from High Island, Texas, where he had been spending a number of weeks.
Mt. Carmel Convent will open for the session of `1905-1906 on the first Monday in September.
Onion Sets, Creole Onion Sets, Shallots, in any quantity, at the Moss Pharmacy.
For Sale. Gentle pony, well broken to harness and saddle - suitable for a boy.
J. R. JEANMARD.
John Bunt, after an absence of five months spent in Germany, returned to Lafayette Sunday. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1905.
From the Lafayette Gazette of August 30th, 1902:
THE COUSA MURDER.
Sheriff Broussard Solves The Mystery. - Anita Chapman Confesses Her Guilt.
Ever since the mysterious murder of Jacob Cousa, the Syrian peddler, on the plantation of Hon. R. C. Landry three weeks ago. Sheriff Broussard has devoted all his ingenuity and detective resource in clearing away the seemingly independent veil which shrouded the crime and the perpetrator. At last when all others had abandoned hope of ever obtaining a reasonable solution of the many strange and apparently inexplicable circumstances of the horrible deed, the sheriff has finally, not only revealed the mystifying circumstances, but has actually mystifying circumstances, but has actually fixed the responsibility for the murder beyond question upon Anita Chapman, a negro living in the cabin where the body of the murdered man was found.
It will be recalled that the crown of the unfortunate man's head had been blown entirely off by some terrible explosion, resembling in effect that of dynamite, but as absolutely no evidence of any instrument or explosive substance could be found the verdict of the coroner's jury as well as all who reviewed the bloody scene, left the cause of death still shrouded in deepest mystery. Many inclined to the suicide theory and endeavored to establish this view mainly from the lack of any material from the lack of any material evidence to account for the peculiar nature of the wound which caused the death.
Sheriff Broussard, who had been away, appeared upon the scene in the afternoon, and proceeding to make it a thorough investigation of the affair, soon discarded the suicide theory as totally absurd.
Searching the cabin he secured a shot-gun, one chamber of which had recently been discharged and still further quest was rewarded by finding the bloody cartridge, shell and wadding used in the charge. From this evidence the sheriff immediately arrested Charles Paddio, Zenon and Joseph Payne, negro men, and two negro girls, Anita Chapman and Ida Scranton, all suspected of participation or connection with the crime. All the prisoners, however, stoutly protested their innocence and ignorance of any knowledge of the foul deed, compelling the sheriff to cast about for other means of tracing the criminal and discovering his identity. Thoroughly convinced of the correctness of his conclusions and with his characteristic determination, the sheriff resorted to the magical working of that "rabbit foot" which has so many times led to the vindication of the law and the discomfiture of the evil-doer. Without entering into details in advance of the regular judicial inquiry, it will be sufficient to say that the sheriff first found the statements of the two girls, Anita and Ida, as to their actions, did not correspond either as between the two or with the testimony of several neighbors. Then a positive eye-witness of the killing was found and ultimately confessions secured from Anita and Ida, as to the commission of the deed in all its details. Anita Chapman acknowledged her guilt and stated that Cousa came to the cabin where she and Ida were; that although she told him to leave he persisted in talking to her principally in a foreign language and made what she supposed to be improper movements and proposals to her. She threatened to shoot him, meaning only to scare him away, but he only laughed and replied that she had no gun. Going into the cabin she secured the gun and thinking it unloaded placed the muzzle to his head and pulled the trigger. To her astonishment the weapon discharged, producing the horrible effect already noted. She gives no explanation of her persistent denials.
Now that the matter has been satisfactorily explained all the suspects will doubtless be released from confinement. A preliminary examination will be held Monday and Judge DeBaillon will decide upon the evidence there adduced as to the disposition of the prisoners.
Sheriff Broussard in this case has again demonstrated his extraordinary skill in detective work and proven his ability as an executive officer of the highest order.
Lafayette Gazette 8/30/1902.
Martin Development Company.
As foreshadowed in the last issue of The Gazette a gigantic consolidation has been effected for the control and development of the vast mineral resources of the Lafayette and Anse la Butte oil fields. Representatives of the Martin families of Lafayette, Acadia, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Landry, Calcasieu and Orleans, headed by Hon. Robert Martin of St. Martinville, met at the Crescent News Hotel last Thursday evening and organized the Martin Development Company with capital stock fixed at $5,000,000. A charter was adopted and the domicile of the new enterprise located at Lafayette.
The following officers were elected: Hon. Robert Martin, president; Dr. J. S. Martin, vice-president; Charles Martin of Welsh, secretary; Ed. Martin of Crowley, treasurer; and Dr. F. R. Martin of Crowley, general manager. Dr. G. A. Martin of Arnaudville together with the above named officers constitute the Board of Directors. It is the intention of the promoters to issue one half of the capital stock for the purpose of defraying the preliminary operations will receive prompt attention, it being the determination of the company to push to successful issue the exploiting of all the mineral resources of Southwest Louisiana in general and the Lafayette and Anse la Butte fields in particular.
The activity in the local oil fields evidenced by the formation of this company augurs well for rapid development and now that men of ample means, unhampered by outside influences have taken matter in hand prospects are exceedingly encouraging for the realization of genuine gushers al la Spindle Top. The promoters of this scheme are especially enthusiastic over the indications on the many holdings in Lafayette and St. Martin parishes although at Welsh, in Acadia, Calcasieu and St. Landry, where the company owns large tracts of land, the surface indications are highly satisfactory.
Lafayette Gazette 8/30/1902.
Third Congressional District.
Secretary E. G. Voorhies of the Third Congressional Democratic Executive Committee has issued a call for a meeting at New Iberia, Sept. 3, to adopt measures for the nomination of a candidate to represent the party in the approaching election. The following parishes under the recent State apportionment now constitute the third district; Ascension, Terrebonne, Lafourche, St. Mary, Iberia, St. Martin, Vermilion and Lafayette. The following gentlemen representing the respective parishes are members of the committee and have been notified to attend the meeting: W. T. Jones, Lastie Broussard, J. Y. Sanders, J. D. Schaffer, Wilbur Kramer, Adrien Nunuz, C. J. Edwards, Ed McCullum, Alfred Daspit, T. J. Labbe, A. V. Fournet, W. H. Price, A. M. Martin, Jos. A. Prevost, Clay Dugas, Albert Domingue, C. P. Caillouet, Aurelien Olivier, Geo. M. Robertson, A. N. Muller and E. P. Muson.
The principal subject for discussion and decision will be the method of to be adopted in selecting the party candidate, whether by convention or primary election. Opinion seems divided on the issue all over the State, but if properly guarded, selection by primaries would seem to insure freer and better expression of the popular will than manipulations incident to the ordinary nominating convention.
So far there appears no opposition to the renomination of Hon. R. F. Broussard, the present representative in Congress, and unless other aspirants materialize, the selection will be devoid of spice. Congressman Broussard has served three terms of two years each and the honors of a renomination rest with the easy grace upon his shoulders. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
Accidents.
Last Thursday morning Mr. Siadous' horse ran away with his wagon near the Blue Store and caused some damage to the vehicle.
Mmes. Antoine Guidry and A. J. LeBlanc, while out driving, had a narrow escape from a runaway Wednesday evening. Fortunately neither lady sustained any hurt.
Landry's livery team took fright Friday morning in front of the Cottage Hotel and upset the buggy. No damage resulted, however. Lafayette Gazette 8/30/1902.
Broken Bones. - Little Miss Alice Moss, daughter of Dr. Moss, last Saturday evening while playing on the plank walk in front of her home fell and broke both of her left forearm. Dr. Mouton was called and reset the injured limb. The little girl is now up and about again.
Laf. Gazette 8/30/1902.
Moss Pharmacy Vanilla. - Vanilla is by far the best and most popular flavoring extract used. Judging from our sales there is more used than all the other extracts combined. It is a pleasing fact to us that many have said, "your vanilla is the best we have ever used." We grantee all our extracts to be strictly pure and have fifteen or twenty different kinds. When you want something nice, try the vanilla. Moss Pharmacy.
Lafayette Gazette 8/30/1902.
A New Store. - Mr. R. H. Broussard will open on September 1, a general merchandise store in the building occupied by L. Levy as a furniture store on Main street. He will constantly on hand a complete line of fresh groceries, and solicits a shore of public patronage. Laf. Gazette 8/30/1902.
Public Schools Open. - The High School and Primary School will open Monday, Sept. 1. Parents are urged to send their children promptly on the opening day.
Each family sending to the school is required to pay $1.00 incidental fee as a prerequisite for enrollment, and is requested to send the dollar the first day.
W. A. LEROSEN,
Principal High School.
Laf. Gazette 8/30/1902.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
Teachers Appointed for the Session 1903-1903.
The appointing committee for the parish of Lafayette met and selected the following teachers:
First Ward - J. C. Broussard, Notley Arceneaux; Alex Martin, Jr., Philip Martin; Mathieu, Mrs. R. Beers; Guitroz, Geo. P. Lessley.
Second Ward - Isle des Cannes, ____; Duhon, Miss Edith Babers; Ridge Central School, Miss Z. C. Christian, principal; Jno. W. Faulk, assistant; Indian Bayou, Miss Sara Christian, Louis Bonin, Hugh Wagner; Duson, Jno. M. Foote; Alex Broussard, H. H. Hays.
Third Ward - Lafayette High School; W. A. LeRosen, principal; Miss Edna Close, assistant; Miss Annie Trichel, assistant; Primary School, Guy G. Tanner, principal (resigned) Miss Maggie Bagnal, assistant; Miss Emily Horton, assistant. Lafayette Colored; P. L. Breaux, principal; Mrs. P. L. Breaux, assistant; Mrs. Ella Barnes Clay, assistant; Mouton Switch, Jos. C. Martin.
Fourth Ward - Royville Central, Miss Eola A. Bascale; Sellers, Miss Odile A. Smith; Theall, Ed. Parent.
Fifth Ward - Broussard Central, Miss Elizabeth Trousdale, principal; C. K. Olivier, assistant; Comeaux, Miss Roberta Nesbit.
Sixth Ward - Roger, Miss Mary H. Webb; Carencro Central, W. H. Smith, principal; Miss Lucille Sweat, assistant; Cormier, G. J. Abbadie; Stelly, Miss Edith Wands; Domingue, C. J. Jordon, principal; Miss Leila Phillips, assistant.
Seventh Ward - Pilette Central, Alcibiades Broussard, principal; Miss Edith L. Pierson, assistant; Verrot, Miss Virgie Younger.
Eighth Ward - Scott Central, ______; principal; Miss Edith Mayer, assistant; Bertrand, Miss Agnes D. Hays; Whittington, Mrs. G. Mims; Cormier, Preston Watson. Lafayette Gazette 8/30/1902.
Court News. - Attention is called to the regular venire list published in this issue and drawn for the approaching criminal term of court, opening Monday, Sept. 29. The jury commissioners have exercised good judgment and wise discrimination in selection of jurors as will appear by reference to the published list. Lafayette Gazette 8/30/1902.
Tea With Mrs. Denbo. - Mrs. Denbo, that who there is not a more gracious hostess, entertained at a handsome tea last Tuesday evening from six to eight. Her guests were: Mmes. Meriwether, Coulter, Blake, Pellerin, Darling, Biossat, Comstock, Kennedy, Clegg; Miss Robertson of Tennessee, Miss Hall of Marksville, and Misses Parkerson, Gladu, Mudd, and Littell.
Lafayette Gazette 8/30/1902.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 8/30/1902.
The picture business seems to be a boom. F. F. Carter says he is busier than ever before at this time of year.
With an electric railroad and oil in paying quantities, town property will double in value within 12 months. Call on J. C. Nickerson, real estate agent, and buy while prices are down.
The sisters of Mt. Carmel Convent announce the reopening of their school on next Monday, Sept. 1.
Judge C. Debaillon and Simeon Begnaud, after three weeks' pleasant recreation at Sour Lake and Highland, returned home Tuesday.
Judge Julian Mouton and Rev. Father E. Forge returned home Monday after an extended tour of some two months through California, New Mexico, Utah and other western States, much benefited and reinvigorated.
F. C. Triay and family left Monday to spend a week with relatives and friends in Houston and Galveston, Texas.
The Fire Department of Lafayette is invited to attend a grand ball at New Iberia given under the auspices of Iberia Steam Fire Co. No. 1, Thursday, September 11, 1902. Music will be furnished by the renowned Pelican State Band.
The sisters of Mount Carmel Convent announce the reopening of their school on next Monday, Sept. 1.
The next grand races at Surrey Park will take place in October.
Taken up on my place near Scott about one month ago, one dark grey horse about 15 1/2 hands high, unbranded. Owner can secure same by proving ownership and paying costs.
LEONCE MARTIN,
Scott, La.
Lafayette Gazette 8/30/1902.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of August 30th, 1902:
The Brick Factory.
The Lafayette Brick and Tile Company are testing their machinery thoroughly this week and so far everything works smoothly. This is one of the completest plants in the United States, has the very latest machinery, some of which is very valuable as labor savors, especially the car for handling the brick after it comes from the machine. The building is a one story structure, excepting the part containing the brick machine works which is two stories in height. The dirt is loaded on a car from the field where the dirt is to be taken, then drawn by machinery up an incline to the second floor; here the dirt is dumped into a large bin, feeds a disintegrating machine where the dirt is pulverized to a powder. Thence the powder passes to a pudder into which a pipe conveys water. In this a large revolving beam with blades thoroughly works the powdered dirt into a dough, which is then formed into a cylindrical machine having two circular blades moving in different directions, one horizontally, the other vertically. The last named pressing the dough through a rectangular opening the exact length and thickness of a brick. This column of dough is caught on a belt and carried to a revolving cylinder with wires which cut the bricks the exact width, the belt carrying them further where two men remove them, placing them on a rack made for the purpose. As soon as the rack is full, a lever is bent on the car underneath the rack, which raises a platform, also lifting the rack. One man pulls the car with its load, the car running on a track to a cross track fronting the row of brick sheds. The car can thus be taken to any shed, and rolled down its length. At every point of the shed are rests, upon which the load of the car can be left by simply raising the lever on the ear. One man can thus handle the entire out put of the factory, which is estimated at 30,000 bricks daily.
This factory represents on of the coming valuable industries of Lafayette, and we predict for it great success because of its economical methods of making brick and its able superintendent, Mr. F. G. Mouton.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
Opening of High School. - The Lafayette High School and the Primary School will open on Monday, Sept. 1. Parents are urged to send their children on the opening day. Each family will be required to pay $1.00 incidental fee, and parents are requested to send the money the first day.
W. A. LeRosen, Principal. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
To Improve Vermilion Bayou.
The Advertiser has received from Lieut. Col. Engineers, H. M. Adams, New Orleans, La., a copy of specifications, form of contract, etc., in regard to the work of removing snags and obstructions to navigation in Vermilion Bayou from Olidon's Ferry, 18 miles from Abbeville to the mouth of the bayou.
Sealed bids for the work will be received at the engineer's office in New Orleans until Sept. 25, 1902, contractors desiring to see the specifications, etc., can do so at this office, or secure a copy by writing Col. Adams. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
Special to the Times-Democrat.
Two weeks ago David Cousa, a Syrian peddler, was killed on R. C. Landry's Plantation, in Cote Gelee, the crown of the victim's head being blown entirely off by some terrific explosions. The body was found on the gallery of a negro cabin occupied by Charles Paddio, but no one seemed to know anything beyond the fact of discovering the dead man's body.
Paddio claimed to have been in the woods chopping some distance away, and none of his family would admit of being present when the crime was committed. Mystery shrouded the entire affair and the idea of suicide was adopted by many, who accounted for the absence of any evidence of gunshot wounds or violence inflicted with any deadly instrument upon the theory that Cousa placed a dynamite cartridge nostrils and exploded it. The coroner's jury inclined to this explanation and the verdict threw no light upon the cause of death nor indicated any other view, although certain phases of the case seemed to render the theory of suicide improbable.
Sheriff Broussard, however, refused to accept the theory and set to work upon the case by arresting five negroes, Paddio, two men and two girls, all charged with being implicated in the death of Cousa. The prisoners protested their absolute innocence. Sheriff Broussard instituted a vigorous investigation on the quiet which has led to the discovery of evidence which the sheriff says points directly to murder. Anite Chapman, one of the girls, is suspected. A double barreled shotgun was the instrument used and this, together with the bloody cartridge, shell and wadding used in the charge, will be produced before court next Tuesday, when a preliminary examination will be held.
From the New Orleans States Item and in the Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
Oil Near the Tracks? - Mr. Israel Falk, who is boring on his lot near the S. P. Railroad, reports having struck his first pocket of oil at 18 feet, and his second at 32. From the second pocket he took sample bottles of oil, which is of a high grade, and left for the city. It is his intention to interest capitalists in his well and secure sufficient funds to thoroughly explore his ground. Indications are very strong for a flow of oil and we trust Mr. Falk will succeed.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
Accident at Sterling Grove. - Little Alice Moss, daughter of Dr. N. P. Moss, had the misfortune while running to stumble and fall on the 67uconcrete walk in front of the Doctor's residence and fractured her arm. She is doing as well as could be expected and it is the sincere wish of her many friends that she will soon recover.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
Horse Frightened. - Thursday while Mr. Siadous was unloading his wagon in front of the Lafayette Clothing House, his horse became frightened and ran away, striking the wagon against the telephone pole and breaking one wheel. His son Fernand, who was in the wagon, was thrown out and slightly bruised. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
Died on the Train. - Last Saturday a young lady by the name of Miss Florence Burnham of Amite City, died on the train before reaching Lafayette. Undertaker Vigneaux was notified to take charge of the remains and prepare them to be shipped on the night train. Miss Burnham was returning from a visit to Texas where she had gone on the hope of being benefited in health; but not finding the improvement she had expected started home, only to meet death ere she could rejoin loved ones. Her parents were at once notified of the sad occurrence and they met the remains in New Orleans.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/20/1902.
Boarding Places for Institute Boys.
The growth of the Southwestern Louisiana Institute since its inception has been gratifying to all the friends of that institution and to all people interested in education, but with the growth of such a school, problems develop which gradually assume large proportions and which call for a proper solution.
Among such problems, arising with the development of our Institute, is the matter of boarding accommodations for its students. The management of this institution was enabled to provide munificently for the ladies in attendance. Their dormitory is an elegant building equipped in the most modern manner. It is heated by steam by steam and lighted by electricity. It is supplied with the best sanitary plumbing and conveniences, and has a number of elegant bath rooms supplied with an abundance of filtered water. It has large halls running the length of the building, with commodious galleries on the East and West sides. The comforts of the Dormitory are equal to those of the best homes; and under the direction of the matron, Mrs. E. F. Baker, the life of the young ladies is most happy and agreeable.
With regard to the young men, however, the school has not been able to act as generously; and it has developed upon our town to supply board and lodging for them. During the past session, private families gave accommodations to over fifty such young men, and we have been informed by Mr. V. J. Roy who is entrusted with the matter of, securing board for students, that the attendance of boys at the Institute from a distance will be, during the next session, not less than one hundred, very probably over one hundred and twenty-five. These young gentlemen, our townspeople must board and lodge. Under no circumstances must one student of the Institute be returned home for lack of a suitable boarding place. Hence every one who can supply board to young men, and who can surround them with the proper home influences, should confer with Mr. Roy at once.
This matter of boarding the young gentlemen of the Institute is one which must appeal to the civic pride of our people. Lafayette's record in educational matters is enviable. Our town is pointed to as a model in educational advancement. Let it not be said that in the matter of board we have been weighed and found wanting.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 8/30/1902.
Constructive of the Lake Arthur branch of the Southern Pacific is progressing rapidly.
Judge C. Debaillon and Mr. Simeon Begnaud returned from Sour Lake Tuesday.
Mr. Frank Moss returned from the North where he went to purchase his fall stock.
Mr. F. E. Davis returned Monday after an extended trip North where he went to purchase goods, and also to see his parents.
Mr. Gus. Schmulen and Mrs. S. Kahn returned Monday from New York.
Rev. Father Forge and Judge Julian Mouton have returned after a two months stay in California and other places. They report having had a most delightful, and speak in glowing terms of California.
Mr. N. Abramson has returned from New York and states that he has selected a stock of goods that will catch the admiration of the whole country.
Little Alice Moss, the daughter of Dr. N. P. Moss, had the misfortune while running to stumble and fall on the concrete walk in front of the Doctor's residence and fractured here arm. She is doing as well as could be expected, and it is the sincere wish of her many friends that she will soon recover.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1902.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of August 30th, 1899:
Another Capture For Broussard.
Last Saturday Sheriff I. A. Broussard with his deputy C. H. Bradley surprised and captured Desire Broussard, colored, who was wanted here for cattle stealing; and on Sunday night the Sheriff left for Bayou Sallee where, after hard work, he succeeded in capturing Perkins, colored, who is connected with the same steal, and last Wednesday landed him in jail at this place. All honor to our Sheriff. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1899.
[From the Advertiser's "Special Correspondent."]
Mr. Homer Monnier, "The King Cotton Buyer," of Lafayette, will fire the first gun in the great cotton buying battle for the fall of 1890, on the first day of September. He has made considerable improvements in his buildings for handling cotton.
Your correspondent took a turn around the round-house this week to the boys. Climbed into the cab of Engine No. 547, presided over by Mr. Philip Coine who was a fireman when the fireman had to get down on the ground to open the cylinder cocks. Mr. Coine took great pains in explaining the workings of the many improvements that have been made since our railroad days. We also met another old "war horse" Mr. John B. Williams, who has been a Railroad man since 1853, but like our friend Gregory, "there is a sparkle in the eye that might kindle a flame of love in some younger hearts." Mr. Williams and family make their future home here, and with all our heart we say welcome. Mr. J. Mitchell, the courteous Master Machinist, coupled on to us to where the new round-house is to be built, which when finished will be one of, if not the most attractive in Louisiana. We are informed that New Iberia has made fine offers of money and land to the company if they would build her, but as work has commenced at this place it must be a settled fact. There is no reason why Lafayette should not become a city in a short while if our people would only unite on a few improvements. Let us all pull together. After meeting with Mr. Mitchell we met Mr. A. Brower, his accomplished clerk, T. J. Graham, Lawrence Stenger, O. Brien, Chas. Lusted, St., and his assistant. We pulled up to Capt. Church's and Billy Bowen's headquarters of which we will speak hereafter. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1899.
Sugar Cane.
What sugar cane was planted in the parish this year has matured magnificently. We have always advocated the extensive planting of cane in our parish, and the establishment of central sugar factories in the most suitable sections. See what our parish is capable of producing profitably ! three of the most important and marketable commodities in the world - cotton, rice and sugar. Why confine ourselves to any one, or two, of these resources of wealth. We have the advantage in this, that no other belt of latitude in America can grow these products simultaneously with profit. We again urge our farmers to consider this matter, and we believe a sense of their own interests will guide them aright. If all the sugar lands of even Louisiana and Texas were made yield their wealth, the United States would not need a grain of foreign sugar. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1899.
PARISH DEMOCRATIC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
Lafayette, La., Aug. 25, 1899.
Pursuant to call the committee met this day at the Court House. There were present Messrs. Alex. Delhomme, Sr., W. B. Torian, O. Cade, F. C. Latiolais, C. C. Brown, J. O. Broussard, Aimee D. Landry, A. C. Guilbeau by proxy, and Paul DeClouet. Absent: Dr. M. L. Lyons.
The chairman stated that the object of the meeting to be the election of delegates to Democratic Congressional convention of the 3rd District at Lake Charles Sept. 16th prox.
By motion of Mr. Cade, it was resolved, That the delegates be elected by mass meetings in the various wards to be held Saturday, Sept. 6th, 1890, at 12 o'clock P. M., and the representation shall be one ward, which shall be entitled to two delegates.
On motion of Mr. Cade, the chair appointed the following campaign committee: 1st ward, Dr. F. J. Mayer; 2d ward, Ford Huffpauir; 3rd ward, R. C. Greig and Conrad Debaillon; 4th ward, H. Theall; 5th ward, A. A. Labbe; 6th ward, R. W. Elliot; 7th ward, C. N. Landry; 8th ward, G. Doucet.
On motion, it was resolved, That these proceedings be published in the LAFAYETTE ADVERTISER and "Attakapas Vindicator."
There being no further business the committee adjourned.
C. C. BROWN, Chairman.
R. C. GREIG, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1899.
Police Jury Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., Aug. 25th, 1899.
The Police Jury met this day in extra session with the following members present: C. P. Alpha, C. C. Brown, Ford Huffpauir, A. A. Delhomme, R. C. Landry, O. Theriot and Aimee Landry. Absent: J. G. St. Julien.
The committee on probable expenses for the current year submitted the following report, which was unanimously adopted:
Lafayette, Aug. 25th, 1890.
To the Hon. Police Jury: - We the undersigned committee on Budget appointments of the probable parochial expenses for the year 1890-91 would respectfully submit the following as our report thereon:
Criminal fund ... $5,500.00
Salaries of Par. Officers... $2,000.00
Sheriff's salary ... $1,000
Dist. Atty's con. fees ... $250.00
Bridge fund ... $4,500.00
Contingent and Election ... $1,750.00
Total: $15,000.00
(Signed) R. C. LANDRY,
C C. BROWN.
There being no further business the Police Jury adjourned.
C. P. ALPHA, President.
R. C. Greig, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1899.
THE LOTTERY ISSUE.
To the Editor: Lafayette Advertiser.
In the affairs of States as well as of individuals there is ordinarily no safer guide than experience. It is because of the warning voice of experience that in every government limitations and checks upon power are imposed. Experience is the foundation of scientific investigation. In fact, in all things experience is the surest and safest guide for human conduct. It was their experience is the surest and safest guide for human conduct. It was their experience with lotteries which caused England to suppress them in 1826; Belgium in 1830; France in _____; New Hampshire in 1791; Pennsylvania and Massachusetts in 1826; New York in 1833; Connecticut in 1831; Maryland in 1836 and Virginia in 1837. It is accounted the height of folly in the individual to disregard the plain dictates of experience; but in their collective capacity the people of Louisiana are expected to pursue a policy shown by universal experience suicidal and injurious, and thus as a State to disregard that experience which has individuals in the ordinary affairs of life they regard as the safest rule for their guidance of human conduct. It is often the case with individuals that the experiences of others go for nothing; but an intelligent people, charged with the onerous duties and responsibilities of self-government, should not display the fatuous blindness of ignoring the results of the experience with other States in determining the weighty and grave question of governmental policy. I appeal to the historic fact of the universal suppression of lotteries in other countries, and even here on American soil, independent of the amount of revenue they paid, as conclusive that they are unwise, vexatious and injurious. No political economist, writing in the light of the nineteenth century, with the results of experience before him, has ever advocated the employment of a lottery as a lawful, legitimate and wise method for raising revenue. Licenses granted under the police power of the State, by which for a while the public morals are bartered away, are now advocated by respectable writers on political economy and the science of government as suitable and proper agencies for raising agencies for raising revenue. Such schemes have long since been relegated to that limbo of exploded political heresies along with such absurd and effete doctrines as the divine right of kings, etc. Discussing the question of taxation in all its bearings, neither Burroughs nor Desty in their law books on the subject has ever ventured in text or foot to suggest that of all systems of taxation, the lottery system being the easiest, cheapest and most expeditious method of obtaining the revenue necessary for the conduct of government, should commend itself to the practical legislator. The fact that no Christian commonwealth adopts this method of supplying its pecuniary wants - though many of them, notably the Southern States of this country and some of the smaller powers of Europe, are heavily in debt and are taxed to the utmost limit of endurance - is proof conclusive that such a system of taxation is repugnant to every moral principle, and is frowned down by the enlightened, far-seeing and Christian statesmanship of this age. It is useless to contend that the suppression of lotteries has been the work of fanaticism and a visionary morality. The universality of the suppression of these "wide-spread pestilences" shows beyond the shadow of a doubt that anti-lottery legislation has become the settled policy of Christian States, and that the civilized world in the abolition of lotteries has been guided by a wiser and sounder reason than a mere fanatical craze. To assert otherwise is to insult the morality and intelligence of the nineteenth century.
The evil tendencies and results of lotteries have been established by the unerring evidence of fact, by the unmistakable voice of experience. That gambling is a voice of experience. That lottery playing is gambling; that gambling is a vice; and that a vice is injurious to the people, are axioms or first principles in the science of morals; and yet, there are lottery men so radical in their view as to deny these self-evident propositions, and thus to make a covert and insidious attack upon a fundamental principle of Christian morality. With those who are so radical it is almost impossible to argue. As Cicero says: "Apud negantes prima principia non est disputandum." (There can be no dispute) But the fact that the current defense of the lottery is that it is made necessary by the fiscal exegencies of the State is a gratifying indication that public sentiment has not been quite so vitiated as to tolerate the denial that gambling is a vice. The modern policy of States in regard to the vice of gambling and of lottery gambling is one of stern repression, of energetic and vigorous resistance to its further encroachment and expansion. The State is an aggregation of individuals, and the life of each must be moulded in the light of analogous principles. An individual conscious of a private vice, and desirous of eradicating it, will give it no scope or opportunity for development and expansion by partial indulgence - by moderate gratification, for the power of successful resistance is weakened by the slightest yielding to its demands, and the first barrier being overridden all others are successfully overridden - until the vice asserts its complete and despotic mastery. The drunkard and the gambler finds himself in a perilous position, indeed, when he concluded to take just one drink or play just one game of cards. One drink leads to another, one game of cards is but a prelude to another. This drunkenness and gambling are enabled to maintain their vicious empire and despotic sway over human character.
The position of the State is analogous to that of the individual. It should be its wise policy to remove every possible inducement to vice; to create no occasion for its generation; to lay no snares for the feet of thoughtless humanity. As the individual vigorously suppresses and controls the first instinctive movement of a vicious appetite or desire by a firm and inflexible resolution not to yield one inch to its encroaching demands, so should a State remove from its citizens the perpetual and ever present temptation to do wrong. Every institution which tends to generate a vice should be removed from root and branch. This is the lesson of all history; and a wise and broad statesmanship will countenance no institutions calculated to have a permanent effect upon the habits, character and thought of a people but such as have an elevating, ennobling and humanizing influence. With States, as with individuals, it may be said:
"Vice is a monster of such hideous mien, That to be hated needs but to be seen;
But seen too oft, familiar with its face,
We first endure, then pity, then embrace."
It is on this principle, and on no other conceivable ground, that bull fights, prize fights, cock fights, etc., are reprobated in every enlightened code of Legislation; because, by familiarizing the people with scenes of blood and cruelty they exert upon the mind and heart a brutalizing and debasing influence. It is a mournful and instructive fact that murderers, brigands and assassins abound most in those countries where bull fights and the bloody triumphs of the gladiator's arena have prevailed. Thus may an institution, according as it is good or bad in principle, leave its eternal impress for weal or woe upon the character of a people. It is the part of a wise people to consider the remote as well as the immediate consequences of a proposed policy; and, casting a prophetic glance into the dim future, to calculate its probable effect upon them. If that policy affect their character injuriously by plunging them headlong into the vortex of vice and corruption, by what fine standard of comparison can it be accurately determined that the good produced by the employment of the money paid by the immoral institution for educational and charitable purposes more than overbalances the evil which it does? This lottery problem is one of the profoundest problems of government ever submitted to a free people for solution, and calls for the wildest thought and the most mature reflection. It should be discussed in the light of principle, experience and truth. The proposition should not be hastily rejected or accepted, but due weight should be given to every consideration for and against it. Ignoring the teachings of history, the lottery advocates propose to make a new departure by abandoning the settled policy of Christian States in dealing with this vice hitherto, and propose to adopt the policy of regulation instead of the policy of absolute prohibition. It is a dangerous and untried innovation in a matter of grave importance to the future welfare of this State; and Louisianians may well hesitate before casting aside all conservative regard for the experience of the past, and speculating in such weighty matters with a policy altogether new and untried and at variance with the accepted ideas of the civilized world. The danger is, that in all popular governments it has ever been found difficult to get the masses of the people to attach due importance to the remote consequences of given institutions and State policies; so it may be that the people of Louisiana may remain blind to the inevitable evil tendencies of lotteries, and adopt a measure which in its ultimate consequences may prove them to have utterly devoid of that far-seeing wisdom upon which the theory of self-government is predicated. Let us hop that the decision they will reach in this great issue may not be unworthy of a Christian and enlightened people, but that it will prove Louisiana to be fully abreast of the civilization of the 19th century.
HENRY L. GARLAND, JR.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1899.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of August 30th, 1879:
Steamer Mattie Runs Aground.
From a private letter, the contents of which were kindly communicated to us, we are informed that the Steamer Mattie on her last trip last week from this place to Morgan City was caught by the storm of last Friday and driven ashore near Salt Point or Marsh Island. No serious loss happened. As soon as possible after the accident became known the owner, the E. W. Fuller, another of the Pharr Line steamers, was dispatched to the assistance of the Mattie - reaching her on Monday. The passengers, among whom were Col. Gus. A. Breaux and family and Mr. J. T. Hankins, and the freight was taken by the Fuller to its destination.
It is said that it will cost one thousand dollars to float the Mattie again.
We are also informed that the Fuller left Morgan City yesterday bound for this place to fill the Mattie's engagements. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
The Railroad.
The Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad Company have completed their track laying to the northern limits of the town of New Iberia. The switches and sidings for that place are now about completed and the track is laid westward at the rate of about one-fifth of a mile a day.
The grade is cleared of brush and trees to the vicinity of Broussardville. The bridges over the coulees near Garry's and Lopez and over Coulee LaSalle are completed.
There remains but one bridge to be built between the Bayou Vermilion and New Iberia, that is the one over Porter's Coulee, near Mme. Cormier's plantation, which will be about two hundred and thirty feet long and will require a large number of very heavy timbers.
At the rate the work now progresses we may expect trains to this place about the 15th of January next. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
Half-Rate Telegraph Messages. - Mr. John H. Meehan, the energetic Superintendent of the Attakapas Telegraph Line, authorizes us to state that on and after the first of September, the half-rate or night message system will go into effect between all offices on his line. Half-rate messages will also be sent over the Western Union lines to all parts of the United States at half-rates on both lines. Such half-rate messages may be filed at any hour during the day, to be transmitted at night and delivered the next morning. Under the system a message of ten words from Vermilionville to New Iberia will cost twenty-five cents, making the entire cost for a ten word message from Vermilionville to New Orleans only fifty cents. This reduction of rates will, no doubt recommend the Attakapas Telegraph Line to our business community and secure for it a liberal patronage.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
Bad Weather. - The wind and storm of last week seems not to have seriously injured the crops of this parish as was first feared. The cotton was bent and bruised some, but it is only in a few places that the bolls will be rotted to any great extent. Beyond the shredding of the blades of the late corn, no serious damage was done that crop. No buildings or fences were reported blown down. To the west of us, towards the Calcasieu and Sabine, the storm was violent and much damage to crops and property is reported.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
Sugar Cane. - Mr. Perry Moser sent two stalks of sugar cane to this office last Monday, grown on his plantation near Pinhook, one having 13 and the other 14 red joints. The largest measured 5 feet 2 inches in length and 4 3/4 inches in circumference. Mr. Moses has forty arpents of cane under cultivation this year, and all of it in a flourishing condition. This is a good showing, considering that Lafayette is not classed as one of the sugar parishes of the State. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
Charged With Assault. - Mr. E. H. Levy was arrested last Monday on a warrant issued upon the affidavit of Dr. W. G. Kibbe, charging Levy with assaulting Erastus Kibble with a dangerous weapon and inflicting a wound less than mayhem. Levy furnished bond in the sum of $500 for his appearance at the next term of the District Court. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
Should Be Torn Down. - The attention of the City Council is called to that old building opposite to Mr. Jos. Plonsky's store, on Main street. The roof is caving in - the walls are tumbling down, - it is in fact, in a general state of dilapidation. It is not only an "eye-sore," but is dangerous to passers on that side of the street as well as to those living near it. We suggest that some action be taken in the premises. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
Proposition on Vermilion Bayou.
The proposition referred to in our last issue to open the Vermilion Bayou so as to connect with the Bayou Teche is of more importance to us and perhaps more practicable that some might at first suppose. The Vermilion Bayou is connected with Bayou Teche by a small stream known as Bayou Fuselier. Mr. Acklen has secured an order for the survey of Vermilion Bayou, but he does not propose to drop it there. The cleaning out of the Vermilion Bayou and Bayou Fuselier, (which is but a continuation of the former,) so as to render them navigable, would really do more towards developing the resources of this country than two railroads to Texas. The sections of country contiguous thereto are not surpassed by any other part of Louisiana in natural beauty and fertility of soil. Another result would be the draining of an immense area of swamp land. Those portions of Lafayette and St. Martin through which this stream runs are widely known for their natural advantages.
This undertaking could be put through at a comparatively low cost. It only remains to obtain the necessary aid from Congress to insure the success of this enterprise. Mr. Acklen's efforts in that behalf are certainly laudable, and we sincerely hope that he will not be disappointed. Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
City Council of Vermilionville.
Special Session - August 16th, 1879.
The Council met this day and were present, Councilmen Alpha, Bailey, Lacoste and McBride. Absent, Mayor Clegg and Councilman Mouton :
In the absence of the Mayor, Mr. Alpha was called to the chair.
The reading of the minutes of the last meeting were dispensed with.
The Treasurer presented his monthly report, and on motion, the same was adopted and ordered to be filed.
On motion duly seconded, it was unanimously Resolved, that the Secretary give notice to Chs. G. Bienvenue, late collector, to settle the amount due by him to this Corporation within ten days from notice, and should he fail to settle the same, the Mayor is hereby instructed to institute suit against him and his sureties on his official bond, for the amount due.
On motion duly seconded, the following ordinance was unanimously adopted :
Be it ordained, by the Mayor and City Council of Vermilionville, that each and every peddler or hawker shall obtain a license in due form before offering, or exposing for sale, or selling any of his goods or wares. That any peddler or hawker who shall sell or offer to sell his goods or wares before he has procured and paid for his license as such, shall be subject to a fine of not more than ten dollars or imprisonment not more than five days, or both, at the discretion of the Mayor.
That this ordinance take effect from and after its publication.
On motion the Council then adjourned.
C. P. ALPHA, Mayor pro tem.
H. M. BAILEY, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of August 30th, 1873:
New Orleans & Texas Railroad.
Our people grow very impatient to know what has been done or will be done about the New Orleans and Texas Railroad. We are constantly lulled favorable reports of compromises, reorganization and new arrangements which will certain to put the enterprise in a favorable turn. But the time is rapidly passing during which the work can be prosecuted with efficiency, and nothing definite is done or known. The work between the present terminus of the road, near Bayou Goula, is through the swamp, and ought be pushed forward before the river rises, so that the track can be laid to Vermilionville by next January or at least March. The greater portion of the lumber needed has been prepared, and can be obtained at very low rates ; and, indeed, all the conditions are favorable to a rapid prosecution of the work. With a large force set to work, a very few months would suffice to secure connection with Vermilionville. After reaching that place, the prosecution of the enterprise will be easy.
There is no portion of the continent where a railroad will encounter so few obstacles and involve so little expense as the extension of this road westward to the Sabine and northwestwardly to Shreveport. It should be the primary object of all the schemes to redeem and revive our city. If the present stockholders or bondholders, or whoever may have control, are unable to agree and go forward with the work, they ought to quit, throw it up, and let somebody else do it. Most valuable time is being lost, and our city is suffering incalculable damage from the delay in prosecuting this enterprise.
From the N. O. Herald and in the Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1873.
Mad Dog. - Town Constable Treville Bernard killed a mad dog on Madison street (now Buchanan), near the Court House, last Wednesday ; but not before the dog had killed a small Scotch terrier and bitten several other dogs.
Laf. Adv. 8/30/1873.
Moved School. Mr. John M. Gardner has removed his school from the building on the corner of St. John and Vermilion streets to the building on Lafayette street between Main and Second (now Convent) streets, where he will resume his labors on Monday next. Laf. Adv. 8/30/1873.
Fresh Groceries. - Our friend Mr. Rene Gagneaux, a grocer on Lafayette street is now receiving a fresh supply of groceries of all kinds. Call and see his stock.
Laf. Adv. 8/30/1873.
Curiosity. - Mr. Duncan Greig has on his plantation two pigs that have adopted one of his best milk cows as their mother, sucking her as regularly as a calf would. The cow lies down to allow the pigs to suck her, and is apparently contented with her pigs. Laf. Adv. 8/30/1873.
City Council of Vermilionville.
Regular Session, Aug. 4th, 1873.
Present: Aug. Monnier, Mayor, and Councilmen, L. P. Revillon, F. C. Latioslais, H. Landry, Jos. O. Girouard, and R. L. McBride. Absent : Messrs. Brandt and Olivier.
The reading of the minutes were dispensed with, and
On motion it was resolved, That the Committee on streets wait or: Mr. A. Judice, street Contractor, and confer with him to the fulfillment of his contract, and that said Committee make their report to the Mayor on Monday the 11th inst.
The following accounts were presented and approved :
C. C. Bailey, Coms. Election ... $2.20.
L. Hirsch, Police Officer ... $2.20.
On motion, the Council adjourned.
A. MONNIER, Mayor.
H. M. BAILEY, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1879.
SCHOOL BOARD.
Parish of Lafayette, Aug. 11, 1873.
At a special meeting of the School Board, held this day, the following named persons were appointed as public school teachers in the parish of Lafayette, to wit :
1st Ward, Mrs. Viviana Melchoir.
3rd Ward, Mr. John R. Freeman, boys' and Mrs. Aureloia Olivier, girls' school, and Messrs. W. H. Williams & Bro., colored school, in Vermilionville, and Mr. J. L. Flechet, in Carencro.
4th Ward, Mrs. S. T. Rand.
The above named persons will signify their acceptance or non-acceptance of said appointment by calling upon the President or Secretary of the Board, at an early day.
All teachers will be required to sign a contract with the President of the Board, before entering upon their duties, and in all cases, they will also be required to exhibit a certificate or competency from the Division Superintendent before obtaining such contract.
Under no consideration, whatever, will teachers be paid for their services, before rendering their "monthly school report." Blanks and time-books will be furnished by the Secretary.
The 2d and 5th wards will be supplied with teachers as soon as practicable.
The schools will be opened on the first Monday in Sept. next.
The following accounts for past dues, were approved and ordered to be paid:
W. H. Williams & Bro. ... $375.00
Mrs. S. T. Rand ... $50.00
Total ... $425.00
There being no further business the Board adjourned.
A. MONNIER, President.
L. E. SALLES, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1873.
Lagniappe:
A TERRIBLE DEATH.
A SOLDIER OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION ENTOMBED ALIVE.
A strange story comes from Ohio. During a thunder storm a few days since, a large oak tree in the Miami valley was struck by lightning and rent from top to bottom and rent from top to bottom. In the falling apart the fragments disclosed a skeleton, yellow with age, which instantly fell to pieces and scattered over several feet of ground. With the remains was found a fes buttons of ancient pattern and leather pocket-book well preserved. The pocket contained papers which discovered the secret of the entombed skeleton. The remains were those of Roger Vandenburg, a captain in the revolutionary army and an aide to General Washington. After participating in the privations of Valley Forge and the retreat across the Jersey's, he marched with St. Clair against the northwestern Indians. On November 3, 1791, he was wounded and captured, but managed to escape, and, being closely pursued took refuge in this oak tree. The hollow tree gave him a hiding place, and, to make his retreat still more secure from observation, he allowed himself to drop into it. He had mistaken its depth and when too late he discovered that he was walled in and without the possibility of escape. He spent the remaining hours of his life writing an account of the manner of his imprisonment, and also of his sufferings as he felt himself starving to death. It is supposed that he must have lived about eleven days. Now, after nearly a century has elapsed his secret is disclosed by an accident, and the story of his death given to the world.
From the Crescent City and in the Lafayette Advertiser 8/30/1873.
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