Monday, January 12, 2015

**SEPTEMBER 2ND M C


 From the Lafayette Gazette of September 2nd, 1893:



THE GAUNT KNIGHT.






 The editor of the Advertiser unnecessarily allowed his temper to get the best of his judgment, and indulged in language extermination, in the last edition of his paper, because the Gazette saw fit to make some remarks on an article of his published in a preceding issue of his paper.

 To show the public that The Gazette was within the lines of legitimate journalism, we shall quote from the record. In its issue of the 12th., the Advertiser said:


- The Clerk of the Police Jury, Mr. R. C. Greig, in utter disregard of his duty delays giving us the Police Jury proceedings -

 Why did it not stop there? The sentence would have been complete, and the whole matter, as a result, would have been one between it and Mr. Greig, and had The Gazette taken exceptions thereto, it could, with some reason, be called a "gratuitous inter-meddler." They why did the editor add, and we call special attention to the words italicized:


- owing to the fact that his personal friends in the office of The Gazette have to be served first.

 This last clause we considered an unnecessary interpolation, and we did not so characterize it at the time simply because the intelligent readers could see it for themselves ; and upon this uncalled for sentence The Gazette felt it its right to comment, and in doing so, let us repeat, we were within the bounds of legitimate journalism.

 We beg the readers to notice well these words of the Advertiser:
 

 * * * owing to the fact that his personal friends in the office of The Gazette have to be served first.


 In our rejoinder, Aug. 19, we said in substance that the write got mad -
 
- because the Secretary gave The Gazette the proceedings of the Police Jury first.
 
Any discrepancy between the two statements? Is not the meaning, - and the wording nearly, - the same. Yet the editor of the Advertiser has the brazen assurance to say in its issue of the 26th:

The statement there is any other motive for our complaint is untrue.
 
 
Who said there was? It is true we added near the end of our article the words "and lead us to believe that every one not biased saw through the pretext," which was a corollary to the article commented a charge, therefore when the editor commented upon, and in nowise contained a charge, therefore when the editor said that "the statement that there is another motive for our complaint is untrue," he was only "talking in his hat and interviewing his whiskers."

 The editor then solemnly proclaims war. We presume, war to the knife, and the knife to the hilt.

 Now, in reviving and assuming the the role of the gaunt knight Don Quixotte de la Mancha - a character evidently not ill-suited to him - the editor of the Advertiser has scored a decided hit. The next time that he feels the "heat running down his collar band," and nothing but read, yea, red gore will appease his fiery and sanguinary ardor, he can don his armor and sally forth, cap-a-pie, and make a dash on the flock of sheep that occasionally browse on the court house green, but if the game is too tame, he can rein about his old war steel, Rosinante, and charge the wind mill close by, dismount, ascend, dampen the forefinger, rub it against the red paint, glare around, and like Father Boniface, imagine it is blood, then shriek out : "b-l-u-d, b-l-u-d." He will surely bring down the house.


 And by all means let Sancho Panza, at the same time, make a flank movement on the depot windmill.
 
P. S. - Brother, don't kill us all; please leave one behind to tell the tale.
Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1893.






IT'S COMING. 

"There's a good time coming, boys,     There's are good time coming, There's a good time coming, boys,     And it won't be long coming."  

Yes, that refinery is coming, and it's coming soon as the dense financial clouds roll by, which surely ought to happen at an early day, and the people should then get together and make a united and strong pull, and the refinery will be a reality. We have sailed one course and then another, and nothing has been accomplished. The reason would seem to be because our efforts were directed against insurmountable obstacles. Consequently, it seems to us, it would redound to our advantage to concentrate our energies and direct them in a channel that promises success. The Gazette has demonstrated in the preceding issues that there is no better investment than in a sugar refinery, and it is particularly so in Lafayette, when the possibility of cane acreage is considered. It is no stretch of imagination to assert that within a radius of six miles at least 50,000 tons of cane could be raised. This would mean $200,000 to our farmers, and the town would receive the biggest share of it. In our estimation it is the only industry which would enhance, immediately, the prosperity of our city. It would not only enrich the town people, but the farmer's would be much, a great deal, better off. And the most encouraging feature of it is that with a little effort and contributions sufficient to form a reasonable bonus, it would be a reality inside twelve months. Other communities appreciate the value of refineries, and are making strenuous efforts to get them, as can be seen by reading the following taken from the Times-Democrat:

  -The people of Iberia parish recognize the importance of central sugar factories, and have set about securing them in the right way of securing them in the right way by offering liberal inducements for their construction. Iberia will raise a splendid crop of cane this year - the largest it has ever grown - and the outlook is good that is talk of increasing the acreage in cane next year 25 per cent. The increase will be even more, if the construction of central factories assures the grinding of all produced. -  

 A committee has been at work in Iberia seeing what inducements can be offered capitalists to construct the desired factories already in operation would, one might imagine, be sufficient inducement to capital to embark in this enterprise, but the Iberians offer a great deal more. They are perfectly willing to give all the necessary ground for the factories and to build eight miles of railway by which the cane can be conveyed to them from the plantations, and the Police Jury has agreed to exempt any factory from parish taxation for the period of ten years. These are certainly liberal terms, and we have no doubt will be accepted. They are said to be under consideration in New Orleans t0-day. In the present financial stringency there will naturally be some let up in the matter, bus as soon as the clouds clear away, which we may look for any day, the negotiations will be reopened, and we have little doubt that they will meet with success. There is no better investment for capital than a central sugar factory, as the experience of those already in operation shows.
From the New Orleans Times-Democrat and in the Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1893.





Visited Lafayette From Vicksburg. - Mr. Bernard Foster visited Vermilion and Lafayette parishes in southwestern Louisiana, and was the guest of Sheriff Broussard from whom he received many kind attentions during a trip through his parish. Cotton, sugar and rice promise excellent returns in those parishes. The hospitable, generous people welcome all to their Eden which they claim yields greater returns for labor than any place on the continent. They have a steady increase of desirable white population yearly, as evidence of their efforts and claims.

 From the Vicksburg (Miss.) Post. and in the Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1893.


 Special Meeting. - H. E. Toll, Esq., the Secretary of the Board of School Directors requests The Gazette to state that there will be a special meeting of that body held in Lafayette, on the 4th., instant, (next Monday) at 9:30 a. m., to which the members are urgently requested to attend for the transaction of important business.  Laf. Gazette 9/2/1893.



Hoe-Cake Soap. - G. R. Wilson, of Houston, Texas, representing the firm of P. C. Tomson & Co., Philadelphia, Penn., has been in our city selling the famous Hoe Cake Soap. A laundry soap that softens hard water, and washes the clothes whiter, cleaner and in one-third the time required when using yellow soaps. It is said to please every one. Give Hoe Cake a trial and you will use no other laundry soap. Call on your grocer for it. The merchants we understand will have it on sale in twenty days. Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1893.



Base-ball. - Quite an interesting game of base ball took place last Sunday at the grounds near town between a nine of Ile Pilette and the Black Diamonds of Lafayette. They played five innings and the visitors were ahead at the end of their fifth inning. Nothing daunted the Lafayette boys, went to bat to win their half of the last inning, and by a fine spurt succeeded in batting out three runs, and won the game. Appended is the score by inning:



Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1893.



Gardebled Leaving Clegg's. - Mr. D. V. Gardebled, who has been in the employ of Mr. Wm. Clegg for the past nine years as druggist and confidential clerk in the banking department of that house, having an opportunity to engage in business on his own account at Bay St. Louis, has felt impelled to accept it, and will leave for that place on next Tuesday. Mr. Gardebled is a young gentlemen of strict integrity and fine character. By his urbane manners and pleasant disposition, he has created a large circle of warm friends, and is most favorably known by the whole community, who regret his departure, and The Gazette, in common with them, wishes Mr. Gardebled a full measure of success in his new field.
Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1893.



MARRIED.
Williams-Hopkins.
On Wednesday morning, 30th. ult., at the residence of the bride's parents, in the town of Lafayette, Mr. Benjamin J. Williams, of Greenville, Texas, and Miss Mattie Hopkins, Rev. Mr. Miller officiating.

 The groom is the tax collector of Hunt county. Miss Hopkins is the lovely and accomplished daughter of Dr. T. B. Hopkins of this town. The social circles of Lafayette will lose one its fairest flowers, and fortunate indeed is the gentleman in his choice. The Gazette begs to tender its congratulations to the contracting parties with the fervent hope that they may enjoy a long life of prosperity and unalloyed happiness. For kind remembrance of this auspicious event The Gazette returns thanks.    Laf. Gazette 9/2/1893.



MARRIED.
Pointboeuf-Pellerin.
On Wednesday evening, 30th. ult., at the Catholic church, in Lafayette, Mr. Frank Poinboeuf and Miss Annisse Pellerin, Rev. Healey officiating.

 Mr. Pointboeuf is an engineer in the round house at this place, and is one of the most popular young men in the employ of the company, and the bride is the charming and lovely daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Damartin Pellerin. The church was largely filled with friends and acquaintances of the young couple, and after the ceremony many expressions of heartfelt wishes for their future happiness were made, to which The Gazette adds it own.
Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1893.  




[Communicated.]
PUBLIC ROADS.
To the Editor Lafayette Gazette:
 The old adage "time will tell" has been verified in the late road contract of fifty miles, granted since last year to one individual for the consideration of $2,000 a year, has gone to the bottom as predicted by many.

 Now, if my memory is right, an article was presented by Mr. J. C. Couvillon to the Police Jury, giving his mode of operation, dividing the fifty miles into five ten mile beats, to contractors granting them about the same privilege stipulated in said contract, which would readily have found contractors to take up the work at once and in less than ninety days every inch of said road would have been put in order, in accordance with the contract; besides the advantage of having good roads the first year, it would cost less the second year, and still less the third year. Considering the whole the parish would be better off one hundred per cent than it is now, with half-worked and abandoned roads left to the mercy of roads hands, which will, as heretofore, cause a good deal of hard scuffle and discontentment throughout the parish, as the season for moving the crops and the winter wood is at hand, and the roads in a deplorable condition. Judging from the past it would be much better to offer the fifty miles of roads to as many contractors who will undertake the work under the same condition granted to Mr. Saterfield who could not fulfill his contract.

 By all means, we need good roads, why not try the above plan; no doubt, it will find ready hands to put them in good traveling condition as per contract, the season being so far advanced, but better late than never.
   (Signed.)   X X X.
Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1893.



Selected News Notes (Gazette) 9/2/1893.

 The public school of the town of Lafayette, as well as those of the parish, will not open next Monday as was previously stated. 

 That splendid institution, the Mount Carmel Convent, in which the people of Lafayette can well take special pride, will reopen its classes next Monday.


The Police Jury meets in regular session next Monday.

 John J. Tierney, engineer on the Alexandria branch, left for Galveston Thursday.

 Our young friend Charley Debaillon leaves to-morrow for New Orleans to resume his studies at the Jesuit college in that city.

 Thirteen car loads of cotton, 40 bales to the car, transit from Houston to New York, passed through Lafayette Tuesday.

 That was quite a nice dancing party that took place at the Lisbony's hotel Tuesday given by Miss Lisbony to her friends.

 Judge John Vandergrief, ever with an eye opened to the wants of his business, has secured the services of W. M. Murray, a fine barber, recently from Houston.

 Governor M. J. Foster, passed through Monday on his way to Calhoun, where he delivered an address before the agricultural convention at that place. The Governor appears to be in good health.

 Mr. J. H. Humble, the genial and popular representative of the Ferris Sugar Refinery, was in town Tuesday looking after the interests of his company.

 W. D. West, the electrician and chief operator of the Western Union Telegraph company in New Orleans, with two assistants, were in Lafayette Sunday, making some repairs to the telegraph apparatus, in the office at this point. Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1893.









 From the Lafayette Advertiser of September 2nd, 1893:  

SCHOOL TIME!

 As the season approaches when boys and girls take up again the thread of school life, we are reminded that the work in behalf of our high school is not yet ended; much has been done by willing hands in the work necessary to put the school in operation but we hear no talk of its opening soon. This is because the task so generously begun by the people is not yet finished. It is because of this that we mention the subject now. The interest heretofore shown by the people in this particular work should not be allowed to die. We do not know exactly the status of the High School fund but it is safe to say there is not near enough money on hand to run the school for one term. We have not heard of any plan in regard to the school; we do not know whether the Director's hope to open the school in the fall, but it is safe to say they will do for the best. Our present mission is to urge the importance and necessity of keeping alive the very wholesome interest heretofore exhibited in the work. It must not be allowed to flag. It is our plain solemn duty to build up and establish on a solid basis, a good high school in our midst. The season advances now when much good may be done for the cause.  Let us again put aside every other consideration and give the High School, another shove forward. For our part we have the deepest interest in the work and are ready to do our share in attaining success. Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1893.


Married. - Miss Mattie Hopkins, daughter of the much respected citizen, Mr. T. B. Hopkins, was married to Mr. Benjamin J. Williams, of Greenville, Tex., at her father's home on Wednesday morning last, the 30th instant. The ceremony was performed by Rev. J. A. Miller of the Methodist Church. None were present but the family and immediate friends. The newly wedded were passengers on the East bound train over the Southern Pacific, which left at 1 o'clock the same day, destined for Chicago and the North generally. The Advertiser tenders congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Williams upon this consummation of their manifest wishes, and hopes that much prosperity and happiness may be their portion. Every one says who knows, that the groom has secured an excellent wife, whereas the groom brings with him from his home in the Lone Star State, a most enviable reputation.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1893.





For Want of Progress.

 We want that fence around the court house square before every other place in the whole country gets fences around their's, electric lights, waterworks and perfect fire protection. Lafayette is far behind many other places in the way of improvements and progressive energy, and there is no excuse, either, for our backward disposition, as she possesses wider and more substantial advantages that any other city on this branch of the Southern Pacific railroad.

 Merchants and business men often break because of a lack of trade. The closest mathematicians over-look the continual decrease in their affairs, but can not comprehend just why they fall short in that which they consider themselves apt and going in. But when your advertisement is found in display form, showing to the people your thrift and determination, you find also that you are selling goods rapidly. The days of the ravens are past, and every one must be up and doing to succeed.

 There are many things that have been started up in this town that have fallen back from whence they came, but it is not altogether the cause of non-support. Everything in this progressive age needs working up. The leading institutions of this country must make surge after surge in order to be among the living ;  they must be self-sustaining in that they must reach out and grasp that which they have the right to handle ;  they must manifest a noticeable life and stir to be heard in the procession of commerce. This is the kind of vim that urges insignificant hamlets into a prosperous and imposing cities and it is the material that lies within the reach of all who have the disposition to "live like the living." Every energetic and rustling business nab in town would like to see Lafayette converted into a city, while every old fogy wants the same strain of monopoly to drag behind every hour for time eternal.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1893.


Schooling.

 As the season approaches when boys and girls take up again the thread of school, we are reminded that the work in behalf of our high school is not yet ended; much has been done by willing hands in the work necessary to put the school in operation but we hear no talk of its opening soon. This is because the task so generously begun by the people is not yet finished. It is because of this that we mention the new subject now. The interest heretofore shown by the people in this particular work should not be allowed to die out. We do not know exactly the status of the High School fund but it is safe to say there is not near enough money on hand to run the school for one term. We have not heard of any plan in regard to the school; we do not know whether the Directors hope to open the school in the fall, but it is safe to say they will do their best. Our present mission is to urge the importance and necessity of keeping alive the very wholesome interest heretofore exhibited in the work. It must not be allowed to flag. It is our plain and solemn duty to build up and established on a solid basis, a good high school in our midst. The season advances now when much good may be done for the cause.

 Let us again put aside every other consideration and give the High School, another shove forward. For our part we have the deepest interest in the work and are ready to do our share in attaining success. 
Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1893.
     

    

FLAT CULTIVATION FOR SUGAR CANE.
 [To the Editor of Lafayette Advertiser]

 Mr. Editor :  I claim that in this progressive age in which we live, where every class of business men are trying to save time, labor and money by taking advantage of new methods and labor-saving machinery, that it behooves the farmers of Louisiana, in order to keep pace with the times to set aside old prejudices and take advantage of the new, improved machinery and methods of cultivation.

 Now Mr. Editor, I claim that old system of cultivating cane by plowing a ditch from ten to twenty inches deep between every row is useless, and detriment to both soil and crop. I know by making these assertions that I will be rapped over the knuckles right and left, but the old adage in "The proof of pudding is chewing the string" - come and see my cane.

 I have a field of cane on the Mudd plantation, immediately opposite the Doctor's house, which field has been cultivated for the last hundred years, without any fertilizing, consequently must be comparatively poor. This case, I claim to be equally as good, if not the best in the parish, raised on the same class of soil.

 I claim for the system of flat cultivation that it can save from ten to fifteen per cent in labor ;  that I can raise fro two to three tons more cane per acre ;  that I have at least twenty-five per cent better drainage, on either rolling or flat land ;  that any cane will stand more wind and rain and will not blow down ;  that it will be much easier harvested ;  that the stubble will be better protected through the winter, consequently will have a better stand in the spring.

 As it will make this letter too long, I will leave the explanation of the above assertions until my next, when I hope to prove that I am correct.
                                Very truly,
                                       J. NICKERSON.

Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1893.





Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 9/2/1893.

 We have had very fair weather during the last three weeks for hay making, and our people have taken the necessary advantage of it by making a supply of hay. The crop is very good this year, but is not all harvested yet.  


Dust is spread over everywhere to a disagreeable extent. Rains are scarce, which adds to the volumes of passing soil, as they float by like clouds. 

Some very neat grading is being done upon the side walk throughout town, which adds material convenience to the rustling pedestrian.
  
 The new depot has proved a success in every respect, being the result of long experience on the part of the builders. It is small, but represents its purpose in every way.

 The lock-up is seldom void of an occupant. The evil-doers that fall into the custody of our city officials are given lessons generally in road working and grading streets.

 The fruit crop, with the exception of the late varieties, is gone. It was once though, of abundance during its stay.

 The Black Diamond Base Ball Club No. 3, of our town, defeated the Isle Pilette, No. 3 last Sunday at this place. The last inning drew the score 5 to 4.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1893.









 From the Lafayette Advertiser of September 2nd, 1899.


ELECTION RETURNS.

 The town election in regard to the Industrial School Tax was held last Sunday. 

 One hundred and nine voters voted for, and ten against. Two Blanks. The evaluation of assessments voted for was $132,275 while the one voted against amounted to $14,040. The blanks were valued at $200. It was known that the majority in favor of the tax was quite large and that those opposed were in a very small number, consequently being certain of victory, many didn't go to the polls.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1899. 


Orchestra Instruments. - The Lafayette Orchestra has just purchased new musical instruments to the amount of $146.00. Before long these gentlemen will be able to render music in such a way that other bands will find it hard to excel them. Their musical help has in all public occasions always been required, and as a good turn deserves another, the orchestra proposes to give a grand concert, the fourth of October  to get the money back which has been paid for the new outlay. The orchestra is a necessity in Lafayette, their services are for the public who are benefited thereby and consequently the orchestra depends upon this same good public to help them to become an extra musical body. Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1899.


Even before the advent of the automobile, but, especially after, talk of decent roadways for Lafayette Parish seemed to be a constant topic of conversation. This is from the Lafayette Advertiser on September 2nd, 1899.                         




LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
OUR PUBLIC ROADS   

 Mr. Editor:-   In taking a little drive the other day through the country on roads leading from the corporation of Lafayette out in the direction of Breaux Bridge. I was agreeably surprised to find the road between the corporation and Col. Breaux's plantation, ploughed, scraped and graded up, with good ditches on both sides and cross-ditches leading off through the fields to drain the water from the low places in the road. I have been credibly informed that this work was all done gratis by the farmers living along the line of the road. Col. Breaux, F. Webb, O. B. Jenkins and others turned out with their teams and men and done a splendid job. I crossed over South to the road leading from Lafayette out to what is called the Ross farm, two or three miles from town. There I was informed that the farmers--Mr. Ross, Squire Chargois, J. C. Nickerson and others are intending as soon as they can get the road scraper to all turn out and grade up their road in the same way. Mr. Editor, this is the right spirit that should take hold of our farmers every where throughout the Parish. Now is the time to work the roads. Now is the time that the farmers have their crops laid by.  Now is the time that the farmers have very little or nothing for their teams to do and they can just as well put in 4 or 4 days work on the road as not; when they know is is nearly all for his own benefit, and the farmer that won't do it, deserves to wallow through the mud all his life. A man that won't try to help himself, has no right to expect others to help him. I say by all means give us good roads and I think we are in a fair way to get them, if every man does his duty to himself and his neighbors.--FARMER
Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1899.                 




Bad Lightning Strike.  

During the electrical storm of last Wednesday the lightning struck the house occupied by Mr. Edward Bertrand, and owned by Mr. C. K. Melancon, of Breaux Bridge, La.   

 The half-chimney standing reveals the fact that it entered the house that way, then visiting a bed room the mantle piece was torn up, all the pictures hanging to the walls were thrown promiscuously on the floor, the lamp-chimneys and vases being broken in small particles. Then passing through the wall which took fire and torn to shavings, the mantle piece of the adjoining room was also destroyed. A parasol near by had its handle taken off and reduced to shreds. Hats were completely burnt. Nails topper boxes (box of nails?)were perforated through each end. A corner of a trunk was burnt. A quilt was perforated in about twenty different places, just as it had been used for a shooting mark. The small steel chains used in hanging the pictures were soldered together as if they had been one piece.  Then entering another room near the kitchen, heavy pieces of timber were thrown down making its exit through the outside wall. In all rooms visited by the unwelcome visitor, beginnings of fire were apparent.  Mr. and Mrs. Bertrand with their baby were in the kitchen when the lightning struck the house and it was the only room not visited. They experienced a terrible shock and a deafness lasting about ten minutes, until a neighbor named Key came to tell them that their house had took fire on the inside, which was put out easily.  A miraculous escape it was indeed for Mr. Bertrand, his wife and his baby.  Mr. Joe Breaux, who driving a wagon, happened to be in front of the house received a severe shock in one of his legs.
Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1899. 



A Surprise Party.
A surprise party took place last Sunday night at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Lusted.

 Some of Mr. Lusted's friends from Alexandria, came to Lafayette to visit him and were accompanied by a string band. This was enough to organize a party so familiarly known in that hospitable home. Invitations were sent and when night came the house's capacity was too small for the guests. All that went knew that a number of games would be on hand and in this they were not mistaken and the time rolled by gayly, which causes us no doubt, from experience. Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Lusted do know how to entertain visitors. 
Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1899.


Back in Town. - Mr. S. B. Kahn returned to Lafayette last Friday from New York where he bought quite an assorted winter stock to please his numerous customers. By the smile our popular clothier wears on his face, we judge that he has struck some rich bargains. Everyone who intends to be up in style during the coming season will do well to visit Mr. S. B. Kahn, he will surprise you about his prices. Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1899.




Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 9/2/1899.

 It is said that lightning struck also the corn crib of Mr. Ross and killed several hogs.

 Mr. Jules Dugas informs us that a china tree about ten feet from his residence was also struck.

 Mr. B. Falk left New York on his return trip and will probably be in Lafayette when these lines will appear in print.

 Dr. and Mrs. R. B. Raney, left last Thursday for an extended trip through the North and East, on a visit to friends and relatives.

 Photographer F. F. Carter is back from his trip to Lake Arthur and his numerous customers can find him at his usual studio over Moss & Co.'s store.

 Mr. A. J. Ross brought to our office a sample of sugar cane with ten red joints coming from a second year's stubble. Mr. Ross has sixteen acres in the same condition.

 Mr. Sidney Veasey came back from Missourri where he went to purchase some stock. A visit to his stable will amply repay you . Twenty-two fine horsed are to be admired there.

Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1899.







From the Lafayette Gazette of September 2nd, 1899: 


In the "Advertiser's" Own Addisonian English. 


 In the last issue of his paper our esteemed contemporary suggests the advisability of publishing as a standing advertisement a certain editorial which appeared in The Gazette a few weeks ago. Being unable to express it in the diction so characteristic of our amiable confrere we will quote his own Addisonian English, wishing to bring the matter before our readers in that clearness of style which his pen seems so peculiarly adapted. The Advertiser says:  

 Verily, any other request that our friend "Cherokee" might make upon us will be cheerfully complied with, but we think ONE DOSE of the medicine in question is enough for anybody, but should our friend wants the people to be dosed again, he might request "The Gazette" to inseert it as a standing "Ad." 

 The editor of the Advertiser, is, as everyone knows, a great journalist and his opinion in matters of journalism are certainly entitled to the thoughtful consideration of all newspapermen, especially of the younger members of the "fourth estate." We regret our inability to do as our friend advises. We have not the space and cannot do as he suggests. We will, however, compliment our friend upon the excellent taste and good judgement which he at times displays in making up his paper. It is fortunate that he is not compelled to publish his editorials as standing advertisements for he would first have to write editorials, an emergency we reluctantly allude to. It is true that he has several times expressed himself editorially upon the weather and the African limbless cotton, but a reproduction of his views upon such inordinately momentous questions would hardly be necessary.
Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1899. 



INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL.
The election for the special tax was held last Saturday. The results were eminently satisfactory. The vote was:

 For the tax ... 109;
 Against ... 10.

 The vote for the tax represents an assessment of $132,275 while (unreadable word) opponents  assessed $140.40. Messrs. R. C. Greig, H. A. Eastin and Jos. Ducote acted as commissioners and Mr. D. V. Gardebled served as clerk. Aby Demanade and George Debaillon did yeoman service. They worked the whole day and thoroughly canvassed the town in favor of the tax. They contributed largely to the achievement of the victory and deserve credit for their good work.

 Just before going to press we learned that the tax in New Iberia was carried by advocates of the measure. There was considerable opposition to it as is shown by the following vote: For, 193: against, 114; valuation for the tax, $126,260. The vote on the proposition to issue $125,000 worth of bonds to build a waterworks and electric light plant and to dig a canal to the gulf was: for 213; against, 92.

 It is reported that the opponents of the tax will contest the New Iberia election on the ground of illegality. The Gazette is not inclined to place any credence in this report. Be it as it may Lafayette is still in the race with splendid chances of winning.

 Local politics is beginning to stir in the parish. We understand that the Republicans are not asleep, but will enter the fight. It is reported that they will hold a meeting to-day. Some of the leaders have been quite active recently, it is believed for the purpose of mustering their forces together to organize and formulate a plan of campaign. Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1899.




SATURDAY'S ELECTION.

 The result of the election held in this town last Saturday is another evidence that Lafayette does not intend "to get left", as the boys would express it. It shows that with few notable exceptions the citizens of Lafayette are wide-awake to their own welfare. It shows the prevalence of a most wholesome  public spirit among our people. It shows that when it is a question of the commonwealth our citizens are united. It shows that the petty, narrow-minded notions of factional supremacy which have too long impeded our progress, have been put aside and replaced by the broad-minded policy. The vote last Saturday means a great deal to Lafayette. It means that the town is forging ahead and that all who don't get into the band-wagon which is heading the procession will be either run over are left behind. The question submitted to the intelligent voters of the town last Saturday was: Progress or Retrogression; Education or Illiteracy; Advancement or Mossbackism. The verdict was nearly unanimous and it was recorded on the right side. It was a crushing defeat to the opponents of municipal development. The Gazette does not question the sincerity nor impugn the motive of any one, but if the old adage is true that there is wisdom in the multiplicity of counsel, "our friends, the enemy," who voted against the tax were egregiously in error and hopelessly wrong.

 The town has done its duty well. Now, let the parish do its part. Lafayette ought to present a united front in this most important contest through apathy or a mean and sordid parsimony it will have shown itself unworthy the high position to which it is entitled by reason of its wealth and intelligence.

 The first battle is won. The rest ought to be easy. Let's all work with that vim and earnestness which insure success in all human undertakings. Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1899.



PUBLIC EDUCATION.

 There is much to be hoped for in the public school system of this State. A State as rich in resources as Louisiana should have a system of free education to any in the union. There is something radically wrong in the manner of conducting the educational affairs of the State or in the methods of providing the school authorities with funds. When a member of the Legislature wants to collect his. The same may be said of the judge, district attorney and other officers. But not so with the pedagogue; he must work on credit. He is, not even excepting the country editor. the most poorly paid laborer in the vineyard. If he does his duty he works more and is paid less than any other government employe, and his services are just as indispensable as are those of any other public servant. Then, why is it that he is so inadequately compensated and irregularly paid. It is not only unfair, but it is a very unwise policy. The State needs good teachers but good teachers can not be expected to work without due compensation. The same may be said of a parish superintendent. Without the services of an efficient and painstaking superintendent the schools must not be expected to be conducted properly. And it is not reasonable to suppose that a good man with the necessary qualifications will devote his time to the performance of duties of that important office unless he is paid for his work.

 Undoubtedly more money is needed to run the schools and better judgment should be exercised in the selection of persons who are entrusted with the management of the educational department of our State government. The Gazette does not care to particularize, but it knows of several cases in this and other parishes where this most sacred trust has been prostituted for the furtherance of the personal and political interests of some persons who evidently do not believe that "public office is a public trust" but that "public office is a private snap."

 It is a patent fact that our statesmen have not paid enough attention to the subject of public education in this State, and without wishing to do an injustice to the State Superintendent we will venture to say that an officer has not taken the interest in educational matters which he should have taken. Four years ago The Gazette advocated the election to that office of a gentleman, who, we think, would have made an efficient and industrious superintendent, but he was defeated by the solid vote of New Orleans in the nominating convention, and a favorite of the city ring was nominated.

 Just how much is much is being said about the selection of a governor, but we have yet to see the first word uttered for better and more efficient public schools. We dare say that there is not a more important question and one whose proper solution is fraught with more genuine good to the people. Since the war Louisiana has no doubt made a marked advancement in educational matters, but she has not in recent years kept up with the spirit of the age. Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1899.



Will Give a Concert.

 Some time during this month the Ladies' Industrial School Association propose to give a concert. The date of the concert has not yet been decided upon but will be announced in our next issue. The following ladies constitute the committee on program: Mrs. Jules Mouton, Mrs. Crow Girard, Misses Lea Gladu, Clye and Lizzie Mudd. Mrs. Biossat, the president of the association informs The Gazette that a most interesting entertainment is assured.   Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1889.




THE KINDERGARTEN.

 Editor Gazette - Permit in view of the opening of the kindergarten in our town, to offer a few expressions, designed to emphasize the importance of this system as an educational factor. President Harper of Chicago University, said in a recent address: "The beginning or real university work is the kindergarten, thereby two or three years' work being saved to each student."

 The little child enters the world an involuntary investigator - a bundle of energies constantly impelling him to act. This impelling force is blind and may as easily become destructive as creative. What is to determine which it shall be? The child is too much left to the mercy of his untrained energies, which we seem to think will be divinely directed, instead of by our own wit and larger experience, made helpful and educative.

 There is no human being so eager, thirsty, so earnestly and divinely alive as the child, and the question may well be asked: How long, will it be before the hunger of other senses, than that of taste, shall be recognized and command our compassionate interest? At so early an age, as three or four years, the child is making his beginnings, in science, mathematics, manual training, physical culture, music, art, literature and religion. This is a startling statement, but all conscientious investigators of the kindergarten will agree to it. Josiah Royce has truly said: "Science has the element of noble play about it, and one plays with steam, silk amber glass, with kites that one flies beneath the thunder clouds, with frogs' legs and acids. The play is a mere expression of curiosity, that former centuries might have called idle. But the result of this play recreates an industrial world."

 In the true kindergarten the child is encouraged in his natural interest to observe plants and how they grow, the protection, distribution and uses of different seeds and fruits; the foods, homes and habits of animals, the sources and uses of sand, clay, stones, metals and minerals; the moon, sun, stars and clouds; the effects of rain, frost, wind, etc. As soon as he clearly observes any of the facts, they are expressed and tested in the form of play. This is simple, truly, but is it not worthy to be called the beginning of science?

 It has been found that the children with kindergarten training are much quicker of perception, that they have a greater regard for truthfulness, and the rights of others and are more susceptible to school influences. When we know how open to the truth the child is, and how much harder he is to reach, mentally, morally and physically each succeeding year of his life, how can we let pass these most important years of his life? How easy to map out the channel for the tiny stream and how impossible to guide or control the swollen river! We know this is so and yet we wait, until the child is past his most impressionable age ere we begin to educate him; and when we wonder why his mind is so sluggish, his morals loose, and his physical nature already dwarfed by bad habits. Juvenal said: "The man, the character is made at seven. What he is then will he be always in spite of a thousand teachers you may give him after the formation period has passed."
        (Signed) A LOVER OF CHILDREN.
Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1899. 



....from Leopold Lacoste...
To My Patrons:

 After the most pleasant relations, extending over a quarter of a century, with the patrons of the "Lacoste Blacksmith Shop," I have decided to close that business on the first day of September, 1899, in order to devote all my time to the management of my store, whose rapidly increasing trade demands my undivided attention.

 Before closing the old blacksmith shop, however, I desire to thank most sincerely those who have favored me with their patronage. With pardonable pride I will refer to the splendid record of the "Lacoste Blacksmith Shop," established, as it was, when our flourishing city was a mere hamlet. In those days, the plow and the harrow were practically the only farming implements used, but now it is different. The progressive farmer must take advantage of the latest improved labor-saving inventions, and with a view of adapting myself to the changed conditions, I have fitted up and equipped a thoroughly up to date store where the farmer can get everything necessary to work the soil.

 I have an addition to this department all kinds of Blacksmith Supplies, Hardware, Buggies, Wagons, Pipes and Pipe Fittings, Ready Mixed Paints, etc.

 Again thanking those who have so generously patronized me in the past, I hope to have a continuance of their valued patronage in the future.
    LEOPOLD LACOSTE.
Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1899.




Lightning's Queer Pranks.

 Mr. Ed Bertrand and his family had a narrow escape last Wednesday morning. While he and his wife and her sister were in the dining room lightning struck through the roof of his house and did some queer things about his place. It seems that it entered by breaking through the roof and ceiling, broke the chimney, set fire to a roof, then made its way to the dining room, where it demolished a corner of that apartment, scattering pieces of the weather boarding in different directions and making itself generally obnoxious to Mr. Bertrand and his family, without, however, injuring anyone. Mr. Bertrand considers himself as having been exceptionally lucky, as he was just on the eve of putting his little girl to sleep in the cradle which was in very close proximity to the fire place where the lightning appeared to have struck with the greatest force. The house was damaged to the extent of about $75, but Mr. Bertrand will cheerfully pay that amount, feeling that the kind hand of Providence has protected him from what might have been an awful calamity.
Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1899.





DEWEY'S CAPTURE.
Confederates Get Him in '63 in Front of Port Hudson.

 The lamented General Frank Gardner, who lived and died in Lafayette and whose widow is now a resident of our town, had the honor during the civil war of having the hero of Manila as a prisoner in his charge. The following from the Mount Pleasant (Ill.) correspondent of the Globe-Democrat will no doubt prove interesting to the readers of The Gazette:

 Capt. J. J. McDaniel, a prominent cotton merchant and well-known ex-Confederate soldier of Mineola bears the distinction of being the only man who ever held Admiral Dewey prisoner of war. In the spring of 1863, when Gen. Banks was preparing to invest the Confederate stronghold, Port Hudson, on the Mississippi river, prior to placing his army in position, it became necessary to send war vessels to that point, and if possible, run the blockade, and thus cut off the supplies of the Confederate forces, which were contributed from Shreveport on transports down Red River. Farragut's fleet was dispatched to do the work, and on its arrival began bombarding and throwing shells from the mortar vessels into the lines occupied by the Confederate forces, commanded by General Gardner.

  The position of the Confederates was considered very strong on account of the fortifications, consisting of nine batteries, with from eight to ten guns each, on a bluff, and two mortar batteries down the river. George Dewey was a young Lieutenant, just from the Naval Academy, on one of the largest vessels of his fleet, the Mississippi, commanded by Capt. Smith. This vessel had fifty-four large guns, 500 small arms, 480 marines and officers, with the capacity of turning loose a broadside of twenty-seven guns at one time. Said Capt. McDaniel in an interview to-day:

 "After one of the most terrible artillery engagements I ever saw, and the loss by fire of one of the finest vessels of the United States navy, the Mississippi, on which was Lieut. Geo. Dewey, the Federals succeeded in running the blockade on the night of March 21. It was then and there that Dewey got his first lessons in the destruction of war vessels. Farragut's fleet was arranged in single file up and down the river, with the Hartford (port holes closed) in the lead. The Switzerland, a smaller vessel, was fastened to the Hartford on the opposite side from the Confederate batteries. Both vessels were painted black, and the night was as dark as Egypt. The Mississippi was next in line, and was the first vessel to open fire on our batteries. Battery No. 9, a hot-shot battery on the extreme end of the line next to the enemy, was the first battery to receive the fire of the enemy's fleet. This was commanded by Capt. Ramsey of the First Alabama, and was the only battery which used red-hot shot exclusively.

 "The process of firing was necessarily slow on account of handling the balls and the heat produced in the guns. There were only four shots fired, three of which took effect, set the vessel on fire and burned it up. It became necessary for all on board to get off the ship to save their lives. Lieut. George Dewey, with 380 men, lowered boats and escaped to the opposite side of the river, and took refuge in a sugar mill. During the night a force of 300 confederates crossed the river in lifeboats, proceeded to the mill, captured Lieut. Dewey and the 380 marines, and brought them prisoners to Port Hudson. Being surrounded, and having no place to keep prisoners where they could be protected from the fire of their own men, and not wishing to hold them up between us and the enemy, they were immediately sent to Baton Rouge and exchanged. I was in the fight, and commanded the Confederate batteries that did this work."

 Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1889.

    



LIEUTENANT MOSS-
Writes From Manila Harbor - Tells of the Burial of a Hawaiian Queen and Other Items of Interest.

Location at noon to-day:
Latitude, 190 18' North
Longitude 1290 18' East.


 On board U. S. A. Transport Sheridan, July 21, 1899.

 My Dear Father - I presume the letter I wrote to my mother from Honolulu was duly received.

 We were very fortunate in reaching Honolulu the day of the funeral of Kapiolani, Queen Dowager of the Hawaiian Islands. Being exceedingly popular among the whites and the natives, Honolulu turned out en masse to pay a last tribute of respect to the dead queen. A fine opportunity was thus afforded to see something of the native character.

 The funeral services were held in the historic Kawaiahas church, most gorgeously decorated with flowers, draperies, kahilis, (affairs resembling large feather dusters) etc.

 The procession, which required about forty minutes to pass a given point, was headed by four natives bearing torches made by binding kukui nuts between ti leaves. The followed the mounted police, the foot police, native cadets, benevolent societies, clubs of Hawaiian women gowned in black; tenants, employes and retainers of the late queen, Hawaiian National Guard and U. S. Army soldiers; servants of Kapiolani, the clergy and the surplice choir. After this came the Royal Catafalque drawn by 350 natives, with small yellow silk capes thrown over their shoulders, and wearing white canvas hats, white trousers and black sweaters. A number of carriages with President Dole, members of the House of Representatives, Judges of the Supreme Court, Foreign Ministers, etc., completed the procession. Here and there along the line of march native men and women could be heard singing weird, mournful chants.

 The services and the procession were the greatest combination of heathenism and Christianity I ever witnessed.

 What I saw of Honolulu and the natives, impressed me most favorably. The city is just a little different from anything I had ever before seen, and possesses a certain charm that completely captivated me.

 It was our misfortune to leave San Francisco without a band on board. The day we reached Honolulu I started a subscription list among the officers, and secured about $100 with which to buy musical instruments. From among the 1,800 soldiers on the Sheridan, I succeeded in organizing an orchestra of seven pieces, and we have been having daily evening concerts on the saloon deck. A quartette from my detachment also favors us with songs. These concerts are very popular and do much toward breaking the monotony of the voyage.

 About 4 o'clock a. m., July 18, we passed within five or six miles of Farallon de Pajaros, an active volcano, and could plainly see volumes of smoke and fire coming from the crater. It is on the northern most island of the Ladrome group, and he's in Lat. 200 33' N., and Long. 1440 48' East.

 The sea air seems to agree with me, and my health is now better than it has been at any time since my return from Cuba. From what I have read on the subject, as well as from what I have been able to learn from persons who have lived in Manila; the Philippines are not so unhealthful, and with due care there is no reason why one should not enjoy a good health there.

 Since leaving the United States I have read several magazine articles on "Expansion" and "Anti-Expansion," with the result that my mind is now filled with doubt and uncertainty. Indeed, I am what may be called a "Philippine Agnostic" - for "I know not." Read what Carl Schurtz says about "Anti-Expansion," and you are convinced that the Philippines should not be annexed - read what Whitelaw Reid says about "Expansion," and you are convinced they should be annexed. However, I worry but little about the matter - as a soldier my duty is plain - follow the flag and fight my country's enemies!

 We expect to reach Manila next Monday, July 24. Upon our arrival, I'll add a postscript, giving the exact time.

 You will find herewith some Kodak views I took while in Honolulu.

 I will write home as often as possible, but, on account of being in an active campaign, my letters will necessarily be irregular.

 I know how both you and mother feel about my going back to the Philippines, but I beg of you not to worry too much about me - the unnecessary anxiety will do me no good, and will do you both harm. I chose the army as my vocation of my own free will and accord, and am still perfectly satisfied and content with my lot. In case anything serious befalling me, you will at once be notified by cable - in the absence of such news, you will, therefore, know that I am getting along all right.
            Your loving son,
                           JAMES A. MOSS.

 P. S. In Manila Harbor, 9:30 p. m., July 24, 1899. - Entered the harbor at 10 o'clock this morning, and are now anchored about three miles from the city.

 My company and three other companies of the 24th arrived yesterday on the Zealandia, and are now at Caloocan, five miles north of Manila, and where myself and detachment will join them within a day or two.
Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1899.



Selected News Notes (Gazette) 9/2/1899.

 The Gazette is requested to state that there will be a meeting of the Ladies' Industrial School Association at Falk's Hall Monday afternoon. A full attendance is desired as business of importance will come up for consideration.

 Last Thursday there was held in the Methodist Episcopal Church a parish Sunday school convention. Delegates from the various schools throughout the parish were in attendance and much interest was manifested.

 Elias Broussard, of Vermilion, unloaded a car of Texas horses at this point last week.

 Messrs. B. Falk, S. Kahn and Vic Levy returned this week from New York.

A Cutting Affray. The sharpest edged knives for the table or pocket can be always be found at Moss & Co.'s.

 Watch Found. Gold watch found in Lafayette. Owner can secure same by paying cost and proving ownership. Apply to Olivier Jeffreys, Lafayette, La.

 Lafayette Gazette 9/2/1899.




From the Lafayette Advertiser of September 2nd, 1913:

SANITARIUM NOTES.

 Mr. Sidney Guillot, of Marshal, Texas, brother of Miss Alive Guillot, the head nurse, was a visitor at the Sanitarium this week.

 Drs. Gardiner and Guilbeau, of Sunset, came in Sunday with little Burnie Peck, who was dangerously ill, and operated on at once by Dr. L. O. Clark, assisted by Drs. Saucier, Gardiner and Guilbeau.

 Mrs. (Dr.) G. A. Martin was operated on yesterday by Dr. L. O. Clark, assisted by Drs. Saucier, M. Mouton and L. A. Prejean. She is doing very well.

 Mrs. E. Guidry, of Scott, is in the Sanitarium and will be operated on Wednesday morning.

 Mrs. Pedergos, on her way back home from a visit to Galveston, was taken from the train to the Sanitarium at 3:30 a. m. Monday, suffering from acute indigestion. She was able to leave that afternoon for her home in Mississippi.

 Miss Ruth Mouton is now in the rolling chair. Mrs. Jos. Guidrop is rapidly recovering and all the other patients are doing well.

 The Sanitarium is filled to its utmost capacity, an indication of the necessity of such an institution in this city and the appreciation the people have for the great good being done by it.

Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1913.



LAGNIAPPE:

From the Lafayette Advertiser of September 2nd, 1959.

1959:

Southern Pacific Completes Move to West Yard. 

 Lafayette Southern Pacific employees yesterday completed the transfer of railway offices and shops to their new location in the west yard, about 3 miles west of Lafayette.  The $1 million - dollar move marked the first day in which freight traffic will not stop in the city.   


 Numerous complaints had been registered in the past regarding traffic congestion at railway crossings  on Vermilion, Refinery, E. Third, Simcoe, and Frey streets.       At a cost of about $587,000, the Southern Pacific's new tracks and facilities will allow freight traffic to pass directly through the city to the west yard and eliminate previous traffic congestion at the crossings.   The move, which was first planned about a year ago, was prompted by the desire to relieve city traffic congestion as well as provide more modern facilities for yard operations, said E. P. Evans, Lafayette superintendent. Fourteen new yard tracks for the classification of rail cars, and the routing of cars to their various designations, as well as three repair tracks and a (unreadable word) track have been laid. Detailed planning for the move began last Friday, said F. A. Heuschkel Jr., traveling engineer. "Everything's been working like a well-oiled machine," he said. The new yard, located about three miles west of the railroad passenger station, comprises the telegraph office, store department, master mechanics, car repair shops, and roundhouse.     All personnel except those in the freight station, superintendent's office, and automotive department will be transferred to the new location.  

Lafayette Advertiser 9/2/1959. 

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