The Road to Baton Rouge.
Southern Pacific says the Work of Construction will Begin at Once.
The Following special to The Times-Democrat from Baton Rouge, Nov. 26 indicates that the Baton Rouge-Lafayette railroad will soon be a reality.
The party of engineers under the leadership and supervision of Chief Engineer Stubbs, that has been surveying from the river front in West Baton Rouge for the Southern Pacific Company, is still at work in the neighborhood, through four miles back from the river, having completed surveys and soundings along the front. All the desired property on the front has been either purchased or options secured thereon, and the work progresses in a business-like way.
The engineers yesterday found the old line laid some years ago by an engineer named Holloman, and have now three lines from Port Allen to Lafayette, which will be submitted in a day or two to Thornwall Fay. One of these lines will be selected and the work of construction will begin at once.
It was reported in this city that an option had been secured by the Southern Pacific Company on the on the Anchorage plantation, with a view of extending their terminal and transfer facilities, if found expedient, and the combination of the Frisco system, in transfer arrangements, seems to imply that extensive properties will be needed to accommodate the business of the two roads working in conjunction at the transfer slip.
The engineers in the party have inside information regarding the intentions of the projectors of the road, and are satisfied that one of the three lines already surveyed will be chosen within the next few days and active operations begun at once toward the building of the line and the arrangement of the transfer facilities at this point. All indications point to the tact that the promoters of the enterprise are in earnest in their furtherance of the project. The people of West Baton Rouge are jubilant over the prospect of the road coming to their section.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904
THANKSGIVING
Fittingly Observed in the Town Public Schools - Excellent Programs Presented to a Number of Appreciative Visitors, and Tasteful Decorations Make Pretty Reminders of the Day.
The little folks at the Primary School presented an entertaining Thanksgiving program to quite a number of appreciative patrons and friends on Wednesday afternoon, and although only three days had been given to its preparation, the program was excellent.
Each of the three rooms was tastefully and appropriately decorated for the occasion, Miss Holmes room, the third grade, in which the exercises were held, was very prettily adorned with autumn leaves, strung pop corn and chrysanthemums, the color scheme being red and yellow. Fine red apples, oranges and bananas displayed in corners added to the effect. Underneath the borders of red and yellow leaves around the room, samples of work were tacked against the wall, showing deft fingers and busy minds. The front black board was the most attractive to the eye, it being tastefully draped with decorations.
In Miss Cockerham's room, first grade, the decorations were similar, but no so extensive, the main effect being shown in the corner near the teacher's desk, which was most pleasing to the eye.
Miss Horton's room, 2nd grade, was also decorated like the others, but displayed more of the children's handiwork in the way of painted fruits, comic pumpkins and fat turkeys. One corner was particularly noticeable with its plants, flowers in vases and a scary Jack o' Lantern carved from a plump pumpkin. Spread out on each desk was an appetizing display of nuts, apples, oranges and bananas, which were contributed by the children, and on top of the stove, shining in a glistening white coat, was a delicious cake. Miss Horton's contribution to the feast which, at the close of the exercises, the children thoroughly enjoyed. Mayor Caffery also kindly remembered the children with a large basket of bananas and apples. The afternoon was a most pleasant one for children and visitors alike and the good feeling and spirits of the day were most fitting for the beautiful custom of Thanksgiving.
The program was as follows:
PRIMARY SCHOOL
Song - Father, We Thank Thee....Tots.
Harvest Song...Children
The Turkey Gobblers...8 little boys.
Recitation - We Thank Thee...Eppie Moss
Reading of Thanksgiving Proclamation ...Maxim Roy
Newsboys Chorus...16 boys.
Song - Old Thanksgiving Time
Shaking Quakers...9 Puritan maidens.
Indian Lullaby...1st grade.
Song - Over the River...Children.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904
High School.
Last Wednesday afternoon at two o'clock all the pupils of the High School assembled in one room for the occasion. Only a short time had been given to the program, but the pupils were much interested, and the program was a fitting one for the occasion. It was given as follows:
The whole exercise was designed to teach the lesson of the first Thanksgiving more than to entertain, and the pupils put forth their earnest efforts to make the lesson a good and interesting one.
After the exercises given by the school, Supt. Alleman gave a short, but pointed talk, emphasizing some of the things for which we should be thankful, as well as telling the origin of Thanksgiving, when and how it came to be recognized as a national holiday. He said that one of the things for which the boys and girls should hope to be thankful for by November next is a good, comfortable schoolhouse.
There were several visitors, patrons and others interested in school affairs. Their presence is well as that of others at different times during the year proves the increasing interest (last 2 sentences unreadable). Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
A Bold Thief. - Thursday a negro broke into the residence of Mr. J. C. Nickerson at noon, and stole a pair of pants. No one was at home at the time, but Mr. Nickerson, who was at his father's across the street, chased the robber, but failed to catch him. The officers arrested several suspects, but as Mr. Nickerson could not positively identify either of them, they were turned loose.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904
After Pistol Toters. - The officers are making a specialty of "pistol toters" and are after them sharp, especially the negro "pistol toters," of which last there are now eight serving sentences on the public roads, and Monday the officers gathered in two more. Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
Grading Court House Square. - Sheriff Lacoste is having the court house square well graded, employing seven negroes, who were sentenced at the last term of court to hard labor on the public roads. One of the negroes, Ed Jones, ran away several days ago, but was captured and is back at work, but with shackles on his legs so he can't run away again.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
The Sugar Campaign.
[Sugar Planter's Journal.]
So far, the season for removing the cane crop has continued exceptionally fine, the only interruption having been the stoppage of many mills for a few days while windrowing was practiced in different parishes during the past fortnight. Cane tonnage returns continue to prove surprisingly high, though it seems we are destined to run through the entire campaign with the sugar yields per ton figuring materially less than last year's results. The sugar yields, while showing improvement each week now as grinding progresses, were so low, as a rule, the first part of the season, as to overbalance the late increase in figures and so hold down the general average. The high cane tonnages and the satisfactory price of sugar, however, far more than offset the discrepancy in sugar yield, and accordingly the manufacturer is not giving utterance to such great complaint. The cane grower who sells by the ton fully appreciates the bright state of the market, and we can look for such an increase in their cane acreages next season as to bring up the total for sale to centrals to a figure beyond any ever reached in the sugar history of Louisiana.
Present indications are for the campaign extending into the new year on many plantations. From the Sugar Planter's Journal and in the Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
A STRIKING EVIDENCE.
That Small Industries Will Pay in Lafayette, If Properly managed.
The Advertiser has advocated and urged the establishment of a number of small industries in Lafayette, believing that if properly conducted, they could be made to pay. Large industries requiring large capital are difficult to secure; but it is within the power of our own citizens to start in a modest way, and we believe, from a business stand point, it is by far the best; for no manufacturing plan can succeed unless it has a market ready for its output. To secure a market time is needed, and in the case of a small industry, the output is small and marketing it is reducing the difficulty to insignificant proportions. If the finished product is of high quality, its desirability will soon be known and the demand will grow steadily and satisfactorily.
A case in point is the Lafayette Mattress Factory. About a year ago it was established by J. A. Deffez and H. Shuling, the latter an expert mattress maker, Mr. Shuling at first did all the work. From the beginning he found a ready sale for all he could turn out and it was but a short time before the business needed more help. It has steadily increased until to-day they have four mattress makers and other help employed. They have turned out a class of work that is readily saleable, and have succeeded in securing several large contracts against other bidders, among them the supplying of the State insane asylum at Alexandria. Last week they added two other large contracts, one to fit out the new modern three story hotel now in course of construction here, for which only high grade felt mattresses will be used. The fact that they can make mattresses of the very best quality. The other contract is to fit out the Brown News Hotel, generally known as the Crescent News.
The success of this industry is an evidence of what can be done in small industries, and a big inducement for those having capital to invest to start in some kind of manufacturing in a small way and build up as this industry has.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
STATE TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION.
Largest Attendance in its History Expected at the Lafayette Meeting Dec. 27-29.
Reports from various parts of the State indicate that the meeting of the State Teachers Association in Lafayette Dec. 27, 28 and 29 will be one of the largest in its history. It is estimated that 500 and possibly 600 teachers will attend and it behooves us to prepare to entertain them. Various committees have been appointed to arrange for the visit of this important body and they will need the co-operation of the all the citizens, and especially will it be necessary for the people of Lafayette to open their homes to them. Lafayette knows how to entertain and in this case should exert herself specially.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
Two New Homes. - Dr. J. A. Martin has let the contract for a one story cottage to be built on Johnston street opposite Dr. N. P. Moss' home. Mr. B. J. Pellerin has also contracted for a two-story residence on the lot adjoining Dr. Martin's. Work has already begun on both houses and when they are completed, they will be quite an addition to that part of town. B. F. Anderson has the contract for Dr. J. A. Martin's residence, and Emes & Alexander will erect Mr. Pellerin's.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
Small Fire. - Sunday morning about 5 o'clock a negro cabin near Judge Julian Mouton's residence burned to the ground. A large number of people were awakened by the alarm and rushed to the scene.
Laf. Advertiser 11/30/1904.
A LAFAYETTE BOY.
Mr. and Mrs. Fernand Mouton are home again after six months spent in Paris, France, where Mr. Mouton had charge of the New York Life Insurance Company's agency at 199 bis Boulevard St. Germain. Mr. Mouton has been connected with the New York Life for several years, having begun as a solicitor here in Lafayette, where is fine work soon earned him promotion. He was sent to Paris as director of agents, then promoted to an agency, and lately has been again promoted with headquarters in New York. He has the congratulations of a large number of friends upon his steady advancement in the Company's service.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
A few days ago this writer witnessed within the corporate limits of the town of Lafayette one of the most brutal and cowardly acts conceivable by the mind of man; an act that ought to make the blood of every man or woman whose soul is not totally devoid of sympathy for God's creatures boil with indignation; an act that is a disgrace to a country which calls itself enlightened. It was the afternoon of a bright Sunday. The perpetrator of the shameful deed was a white man of giant stature and Herculean strength; the victim, a splendid and lovely young pony. The heartless master took this care-free, prancing little animal and hitched him single to a heavily loaded cart, comfortably perched himself on the seat, and with a crack of the whip ordered the little horse to start. Wild frantic efforts were made by the dumb little creature to break the inertia of a heavy load, whilst brutal blows fell thick as hail-stones upon him; but it was wasted energy, for the task was beyond his strength. Whereupon the cruel driver came down from his seat, seized a stick about four inches in circumference, and beat and beat the defenseless animal until the ground was reddened with his blood; the little horse fell down, still the merciless beating continued, and only when the merciless beater was exhausted did he cease inflicting that infernal torture upon the harmless, little animal.
This heartrending scene took place in the presence of several horror-struck ladies and young children, who, with one voice, loudly protested against such fiendish criminal brutality, but with no avail. O ye Gods! Where is our boasted twentieth century civilization? There is a great need in this community of a society for the prevention of cruelty to animals. New Orleans already as a very active organization of this kind, which is greatly to her credit. Cannot the progressive town of Lafayette afford to have a similar benevolent association?
Are we so engrossed with the worship of Mammon, Lucre and Self, that we have not a particle of time to devote to charitable purposes? Will not some humane person arise in our midst and initiate a movement to prevent human brutes from torturing animals? And you, ladies of the Woman's Club, can't you do something in this line?
In conclusion I would suggest that the public school teachers when teaching children how to till the soil, as they are now required to do, would also teach them to be kind to the animals that pull the tools by which the soil is tilled. Let the teachers so educate the children under their charge that their motto will ever be: "Never be cruel to a dumb animal for it cannot tell how much it suffers." and "He who maltreats a defenseless creature is a coward."
Signed, ZOOPHILIST.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
Mexican Supper Monday Night.
The Mexican Supper given by the Ladies' Guild of the Episcopal church Monday night was a flattering success. A large crowd was present and so well enjoyed the unique menu offered that the ladies sold out everything. The fruit cake which was "guessed off" at 10 cents a guess realized about $14.00 and was won by Mrs. L. W. Mayer. The evening was a very pleasant one and everybody present will long remember the delightful "hot" supper a la Mexican. The receipts were $84.70. Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
Complimentary Supper.
Saturday night a delightful duck and oyster supper was given complimentary to Miss Aimee Mouton at Mrs. Delhomme's restaurant by a number of young friends. Those present were: Mrs. J. L. Hulse, Misses Aimee and Estelle Mouton, Ruby Scranton, C. Riis, Leftwich, Hattie Shannon, and Messrs. Ben Schmalinski, John Odonhoe, W. A. Stephens, W. S. Middlemas, Jasper Nusz, G. B. Harris, Chas. Debaillon, Wheelerhan, and Dr. A. R. Trahan. Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 11/30/1904.
Fractured an Arm. - Mrs. Etienne Mouton had the misfortune Sunday to fall from her gallery and fracture her arm.
Mrs. F. Demanade went to New Orleans Thursday to spend a few days with her son, Harold, who is attending school in the city.
Scholarship Fair. - The Woman's Club will give a Fair in the Century Club building Dec. 10, to raise money for the Scholarship given by them at the Industrial Institute.
For low rates to the World's Fair via the Texas and Pacific Railway, ask any ticket Agent, or write E. P. Turner, General Passenger Agent, Dallas, Texas.
Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Nickerson and baby, Lucile, after spending a few days with their sister, Mrs. Darling in Houston, Texas, returned home Sunday night.
Cameron McNally, who has been the guest of his cousin, J. C. Nickerson, left for Houston, Texas, to visit Mr. and Mrs. C. K. Darling.
Mrs. L. D. Campbell, of Bunkie, is visiting her sister, Mrs. Biossat. Mr. Campbell, who was here also, left for home Sunday.
A number of Lafayette people went over to Breaux Bridge Sunday to the Fair.
Mr. and Mrs. Leo Judice, of Scott, visited friends here Sunday.
The First National Bank moved into their handsome new stone building Monday.
Miss Laura Magon has resigned her position at the Telephone Exchange.
Dr. C. E. Terry, son-in-law of Mr. A. E. Mouton, who has been located in Jennings, has moved to Lafayette and will practice his profession here. Dr. Terry will occupy an office being built by Mr. Rene Delhomme next to the People's Pharmacy. Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1904.
From the Lafayette Gazette of November 30th, 1901:
LET THE GOOD WORK GO ON.
The Gazette is pleased to learn that the work of acquiring signatures to the petition relative to the special tax election is progressing very satisfactorily.
During the past few days quite a number of property holders have signed the petition. It is believed that the required number will soon be obtained and the Council will be asked to order the election. The people of the town have had ample time to discuss this matter among themselves and it is safe to say that the merits of the proposition will appeal to their good sense and public spirit. While there may be two sides to the question of a public market, all voters seem to agree that it is absolutely necessary to have a central school building and an extension of the water and light plant.
Before the close of 1902 Lafayette should be able to point with pride to a school building commensurate with its needs as a progressive and enlightened community. The children of the town are entitled to the best educational advantages. Right at our doors is an institution with splendid equipments and efficient faculty to train the minds of our boys and girls - in other words, to give them a practical education. That unquestionably is a boon worth striving for. But in order to place it within the reach of every ambitious child there must be a preparatory training and it is toward that end the town must exert itself. A first-class central school is needed in Lafayette - a fine building and suitable grounds - something that the teacher and pupil and patron will look to with pride.
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1901.
THANKSGIVING EXERCISES
Held at the Lafayette High School - Large Attendance of Parents and Friends of Education.
Wednesday afternoon at half past one o'clock the children of the Primary School were seen to pass on the streets on their way to the High School where they are going to witness the Thanksgiving exercises. Their fine discipline elicited the comments of the people on their route and showed that even young children may be taught to compose themselves properly on public occasions. The primary children took up a good portion of the floor space of the hall, there being no seats to accommodate them. All the available seats of the school were placed in the hall, but these were occupied, we take pleasure in saying, by the patrons of the school and the friends of education. The meager accommodations of the school were referred to by Mr. LeRosen in a few well-chosen remarks. He said that it was unfortunate that a town the size of Lafayette should be so poorly equipped as to school facilities. Besides the disadvantage of being located in a low place, the school was bounded by the railroad on one side, by a cotton gin on the other, and at times it was impossible to hear one's self speak. He referred to the effort being made by the public-spirited people of Lafayette to procure a school building that would put it in line with the other progressive towns of its size, and reflect credit upon the town. He hoped that the next Thanksgiving exercises would be held in the new High School.
The exercises were well prepared and gave evidence of the work of the painstaking teachers. There was not a hitch in the whole programme and the children were fairly well composed. We are glad to note that our teachers realize the value of exercises of this kind, and that the friends of education and the patrons of the school so liberally encouraged the teachers and pupils by their presence.
The exercises were superintended by Miss Devall and Miss Christian and the programme was as follows:
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1901.
CRIMINAL COURT
A Number of Cases Disposed of During the Week - The Eloi LeBlanc Case.
The district court, Judge C. Debaillon presiding, was in session during the week, excepting Thursday when there was an adjournment on account of Thanksgiving. The trial of the case of the State vs. Eloi LeBlanc an account of which was given in last Saturday's Gazette, resulted in a failure of the jury to agree. Owing to the prominence of the persons interested and the peculiar nature of the case this trial has attracted a great deal of attention. The State was represented by District Attorney Campbell and the accused by Judge O. C. Mouton and Jerome Mouton. The attorneys concluded their arguments late Friday and the jury was locked up until the next day when it was discharged and a mistrial entered. The case was refixed for the following Friday.
The following cases were disposed of in the manner stated:
Jules Martin, charged with using loud and obscene language, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to pay a fine of $50 and costs or to an imprisonment 30 days in the parish jail.
Monroe Joseph pleased guilty to the charge of larceny and was given six months.
Fernest Jean Baptiste, charge with burglary in the night time and assault with intent to rape, was tried and acquitted. Baptiste was represented by Col. Breaux.
Charles Thompson pleaded guilty of larceny and got six months in the penitentiary.
Camille Frank, who was convicted of larceny, was sentenced to nine months in the penitentiary.
Numa Domingues, convicted of the larceny of a watch, was given eight months in the penitentiary.
Alphonse, Lucien and Treville Narcisse, charged with shooting with intent to commit murder, were found guilty.
Alcee and Ambroise Fils, charged with shooting with intent to murder, were tried and convicted. They shot and wounded Mr. Adelmar Martin several months ago. They were in the act of stealing cane when Mr. Martin stopped nearby in the public road and was shot in the arm.
Peter Levergne pleaded guilty of larceny and was sentenced to 3 months in the parish jail.
Philibert Anderson pleaded guilty to the charge of striking with intent to kill.
To-morrow will be the last day of the term. An unusual feature of this term was that nearly all the accused were represented by counsel.
The case of the State vs. Eloi LeBlanc, which was fixed for trial yesterday morning, was continued on account of the indisposition of Judge Debaillon. Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1901.
Stereopticon View Slated for Falk's Opera House.
At Falk's opera-house, Sunday night, there will be a moving picture exhibition, illustrated songs and stereopticon views, full of fun and interest. A musical programme will also be rendered. The little wonder baby violinist, Miss Hazel M. Eckert, will open the entertainment with a violin solo overture, her brother, Master Leo Ross Eckert, the boy pianist, who makes a hit everywhere, and who will render several of his selections. Miss Hazel will also entertain you with comic rag time songs. Admission, 25, 35 and 50 cents.
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1901.
"At Valley Forge" to be Presented at Falk's Opera House.
"At Valley Forge," a play dealing with the romantic period of our so-called colonial days, will be presented at Falk's Opera-house, Thursday, Dec. 5. The play is replete with stirring situations followed by the rapid climaxes of the act endings, showing pictures of the time with vividness which immediately impresses itself indelibly upon the mind. The story is one of those simple, consistent love tales which have moved the world from its beginning. The romance is credited with having all the swing of Anthony Hope's "Prisoner of Zenda;" the fire of D'Ennery's "Two Orphans;" but unlike either it deals with a subject nearer the heart of the American. Its incidents are threaded on a story which gives ample license to the dramatist to introduce the characters made famous in the infancy of our our country during the memorable struggle from the tyranny of the rule of King George the Third of England. From a scenic point of view Messrs. Lester & Co. have been praised for the excellent manner in which they have mounted the play. The cast is also another point of congratulation to this firm. Mr. Wm. L. Roberts and Miss Olive Martin will be seen in the feature roles and the subsidiary members of the company show an unusually careful selection.
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1901.
Died. - Miss Gabrielle DeClouet, aged 48 years, died last Saturday evening at the home of her brother, Mr. P. L. DeClouet, in this town. The funeral services were held at the Catholic church Sunday morning and the remains were interred in the family vault in the cemetery at St. Martinville. Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1901.
Necrological. - Mrs. A. T. Caillouet, nee Clementine Lagarde, aged 79 years and 10 months, died at her home in this town last Monday. Her remains were taken to Thibodaux where the burial took place Wednesday morning. Laf. Gazette 11/30/1901.
Necrological. - Miss Gabrielle DeClouet, aged 48 years, died last Saturday evening at the home of her brother, Mr. P. L. DeClouet, in this town. The funeral services were held at the Catholic church Sunday morning and the remains were interred in the family vault in the cemetery at St. Martinville.
Laf. Gazette 11/30/1901.
THE PARISH FAIR.
Mr. J. G. Lee, commissioner of agriculture for the State of Louisiana has written to Dr. G. A. Martin, chairman of the committee to organize the parish fair association, commending the action of those who have interested themselves in this matter and urging them to continue their efforts in this movement which has for its object the development of this section. Mr. Lee is an enthusiastic advocate of parish fairs and will do all in his power to help the local association. He has been actively interested in similar movements in the northern portion of the State and he knows how much they are calculated to develop the resources of a country. The thing is new in this section, but it is in no wise an experiment. It has been tried in all States of the Union and the results have the most encouraging in every instance. The success achieved by Dr. Mayer at Scott shows what can be accomplished in this parish if the movement receives the support it is entitled to.
The committee on organization will meet in this town next Monday, when the movement will take definite shape. The committee is called together to perfect a permanent organization.
This is pre-eminently an agricultural parish and peculiarly adapted to diversified farming. We do not know of another parish in the State so happily situated to hold an agricultural fair. The town of Lafayette is a splendid site for a fair. All that is needed to make a success of the undertaking is unity of action of the part of the people. Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1901.
SCHOOL BOARD.
Lafayette, La., Nov. 25, 1901.
At a called meeting of the Board of School Directors the following members were present: Dr. R. O. Young, H. Theall, Alex Delhomme, S. J. Montgomery, Jasper Spell, Pierre Landry, N. P. Moss and A. C. Guilbeau.
The president stated that as Dr. Young and Mr. Theall, the gentlemen who had asked for the meeting, and not stated the object for having it called, he was compelled to ask them for an explanation, whereupon Dr. Young arose and said, "Our object is to find out why the public school lands were not leased on Nov. 16, 1901, as advertised."
The secretary, who was a member on the committee appointed to arrange all preliminary matters incidental to the lease of school lands, explained that the lands had not yet been leased because they were not advertised according to the requirements of the law; that persons were present wishing to rent all of the land contained in each section and others wished to rent small tracts, and rather than run the risk of standing a lawsuit the committee decided not to offer the lands and re-advertise the lands in the whole sections because it was a committee's firm belief that it would be to the interest of the parish school funds to offer them for lease in the manner.
Dr. Young argued that the Board had no moral right to take advantage of the technicality and that it was the duty of the Board to re-advertiser the land in tracts as they were advertised by the committee for lease on November 16, of offered the following motion:
"Owing to the primary action of our committee on the lease of school lands, that the secretary instruct the parish treasurer to notify the public in the proper manner, that the public school lands of this parish will be offered on Dec. 21, 1901, in tracts as were advertised on Nov. 16, 1901."
Dr. Moss explained that in his opinion it was not a question of morality, but that it was purely a business proposition and that unless the land was advertised to whole tracts, the present occupants would combine and offer ten cents, twenty-five cents and fifty cents per acre as they have done before, whereas in whole tracts there were offers of one dollar and two dollars per acre; in small tracts we would receive six hundred dollars as heretofore whereas in whole tracts the revenue would be two thousand, five hundred to three thousand dollars per year.
A vote on Dr. Young's resolution was called. Dr. Moss, Mr. Montgomery and Mr. Delhomme voted against; Dr. Young, Mr. Pierre Landry, Mr. Spell, Mr. Guilbeau and Mr. Theall for the motion.
Mr. Marcel Melancon and Mr. Jos. G. LeBlanc were refunded one dollar each for double poll taxes paid for the year 1901.
Dr. Young moved to adjourn, which being duly seconded, was carried.
A. OLIVIER, President.
L. J. ALLEMAN, Secretary.
Lafayette Gazette 11/3o/1901.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 11/30/1901.
A ball was given at Falk's hall last Wednesday for the benefit of the Lafayette Brass Band. It was well attended.
Lafayette had its Thanksgiving. The district court adjourned, the offices of the sheriff and clerk were closed, the various schools showed their observances by giving a day's vacation, the post-office was open only a part of the day, the banks did the same thing and there was but little business transacted in town.
John Landry, a negro, was killed Monday night by Jim Harris, another negro. Jealousy seems to have been the cause of the trouble. Harris escaped and has not been captured.
Ophelias Boudoin, a negro wanted here for fighting, was arrested at Crowley Tuesday. Deputy Trahan went to Crowley Wednesday and returned the same day with Boudoin. Boudoin pleaded guilty and was fined $50 and costs.
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1901.
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From the Lafayette Advertiser of November 30th, 1901:
Train Accident.
Mr. Walker met with an accident Thursday that came near bearing serious consequences. While crossing the railroad at Vordenbaumen's lumber yard, the switch engine collided with his wagon almost demolishing it. Three of the wheels were wrecked, the axle broken, and the body damaged. Fortunately Mr. Walker and his horses escaped without injury.
Laf. Advertiser 11/30/1901.
INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTE NOTES.
- The program of the Literary Society last Saturday evening was entertaining and showed careful preparation by all who took part. Some of the readings, and especially the selection read by Mr. Thomas Irwin, were very amusing, and the debate was highly instructive. Among the debaters Mr. N. E, Normand acquitted himself with exceptional credit. His preparation, although brief, was such as to open the eyes of all members to the possibilities opened up by the society. The music of the program was all well rendered and thoroughly enjoyed. We believe there is a bright future before this literary club.
- Mr. Davis of the Moss Pharmacy, ever urbane and alert as to the best interests of everyone and the society at large, very kindly offered a prize to that member of the society who would suggest the most acceptable name for the society. The matter has not yet been settled.
- A tennis court has been laid out and is being prepared on the grounds of the Institute. The basket ball scheme has not yet matured. The foot-ball team is at work systematically, but can hardly prepare this fall to play opposing teams on the gridiron.
- Thursday was given a full and free holiday at the Institute. On Wednesday morning Dr. Stephens read the Governor's Thanksgiving proclamation, and supplemented this by one of the sublimest and ablest talks it has ever been our pleasure to listen to. The writer regrets that every sincere and true man and woman, boy and girl, in the state of Louisiana could not hear the grand yet simple, the sublime and noble words of the Institute's President. The thundering applause which the school roared forth spontaneously and with one mind, the sincerest and loudest yet heard in the Auditorium, gave evidence that the speaker had played with a master's hand on the chords of his auditor's feelings.
- The buzzing and hammering, the sawing and nailing, the walking and moving, the earnest and interested looks, the busy appearance of everyone in Mr. Woodson's workshop, are things refreshing to the teacher who knows how much of real discipline and of real mental development and of genuine culture there is the doing of things with a purpose and with one's own hands.
- Another busy little society is the bookkeeping class, one of the regular branches in the course of the Second year pupils. It would do good for the heart of the business man to-day to see the work doing in this commercial study. The young ladies and gentlemen of the class can scarcely grasp the full importance of this work, but when experience and added years have broadened the scope of their vision, then will they rejoice in the good derived from this study.
- The piano-forte exhibition of Mr. Goodwal Dickerman, high class musical artist last Friday evening, which the old maid explained as meaning the playing of the piano like forty, was an undisputed success. We think this execution contains a valuable hint for a new departure in piano playing. Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1901.
Will Reopen Soon. - I wish to announce to the public that I have about recovered from my recent illness, and will reopen my blacksmith shop in a week or two. All work done is guaranteed. As to the thoroughness and finish of my work those who have given me their repairing can testify.
Respectfully,
JOSEPH DAURIAC.
Laf. Advertiser 11/30/1901.
To-Morrow Night. - Do not miss the attraction at the Opera House, Sunday night, Dec. 1st - "The Little Wonder," baby violinst ; and Master Leo, Ross Eckert, the boy pianist, Moving Pictures and other interesting attractions. Price 50, 35 and 25 cents.
Laf. Advertiser 11/30/1901.
At the Institute. - A tennis court has been laid out and is being prepared on the grounds of the Institute, The basket ball scheme has not yet matured. The football team is at work systematically but can hardly prepare this season to play opposing teams on the gridiron. Laf. Advertiser 11/30/1901.
Caracrist's Report On Anse la Butte.
The immediate superstructure of the apexes of the topographical undulations belong near the surface, to the Port Hudson Pliestocene, while the territory following the hydrographic system of the Vermilion and Teche bayous are alluvian sediments of verhy recent geological date, and consist of extremely fine silts, composed of calcium carbonate, sulphate and phosphate; silica and magnesia together with some carbon of mineral organic substances that go to add to the fertility of the soil. These are the surface conditions caused by erosion's floats and the sediments resulting from them. Both the alluvian lands and the Port Hudson deposits are remarkably free from gravel. Below the Port Hudson is found the Grand Gulf Drifts, and below this are the Lafayettes, with their gravel consisting of white, smoke and rose quartz; and, contrary to statements of some authorities, some casts of mollusks and others remain, as well as chert and other gravels. Everything associated with the Lafayette Drift show signs of continuous water action for a long period. In these drifts in Louisiana and Texas nodules of flints having rectangular geometrical forms are abundant. At Anse la Butte but little ferruginous sand and ochre is associated with this drift, as is the case in Alabama and Mississippi.
Following the Lafayette we reach some mataphored sandstone and porous semi-indurated limestone, both of which show signs, not of the effects of the corrosive influences of the ordinary elements, but unmistakable signs of rapid chemical changes caused, doubtlessly, by the exudation of subterranean vapors escaping from crevices dating subsequent to the stratification of the Lafayette. I base this statement on the fact that the same stratum changes in chemical composition within 800 yards, and that only the volatile elements have been driven off, such as carbonic acid gas, sulphur and the volatile carbons. This is quite apparent in the difference in the chemical composition of the same stratum as shown in the Moresi and Anse la Butte well which I have already analyzed.
In this connection I must call attention to the fact that the substructure of the country changes within 350 yards in an east and west line from the Anse la Butte, and that this may possibly account for the difference in the analysis of what appears to be the same rock.
From the register of the various wells which have been submitted to my professional investigation in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas, I am convinced that the substructure consists of a series of low hills covered by recent drifts and sediments, and that the belief by geologists that the underlying stratified formations are almost horizontal is incorrect. At Anse la Butte this condition surely exists and the apex of the sub-structural geological formation has unquestionably been located by recent drilling.
I am of the opinion that the overlapping folds that have been recently projected by subterranean pressures, so as to cause a well defined ridge, follows the gas seepage and sulphur-iron water through the country. These were the weak spots, or the places where the material petroliferra and its expansive force, under proper thermal conditions, could raise the surface and recent drifts. Allowing the greatest antiquity, the condition of the soil and the density of the gases - the present gas mound (I apologize for the term) are unquestionably subsequent to the fluvial deposits, and in some instances, at least, coepochal with the existence of man because there are certain archeological remains that must antedate the formation of the mounds. This is a report and not a scientific discussion. I shall not, therefore, go into details to support my assertion.
The salt, and the immediate substructure following it, it very probably cretaceous, and in this formation the natural gas and petroleum are found in more or less abundance, according to the thickness of the sand which carries it. The "dip" of what we may assume to be the cretaceous is to the westward, which goes to explain why it reaches so near the surface in close proximity to the gulf coast; and, at places, underlies it; especially is this true at the salt islands.
I have just referred to the fact, that in the cretaceous natural gas and petroleum are found in more or less quantities. I must qualify this statement by adding the explanation, that it is characteristic of the North and South American Eocene and cretaceous sedimentary strata, where either liquid or gaseous hydrocarbons are found to vary in degree of thickness, porosity and saturation, according to location. Describing the condition by a comprehensive definition. I will state that the petroleum and gas bearing sandstone, limestone or shales are lenticular in form, and that where the lenses reach their greatest thickness the oil and gas are found in greater abundance that where the stratification is thin. This is especially the case where thinness of the sedimentary measure is due to compression, or to the fact that the stratigraphy has been affected by the undulation of the substructure. This condition, which has not been observed by our learned geologists and oil experts, fully accounts for the existence of natural gas and petroleum in certain sections of a formation while other sections are almost barren.
In the case of the Anse la Butte properties, the valuable gas and petroleum-bearing sand lie to the east of the salt rock, or rather approach nearer the surface in this direction; provided, however, that we go sufficiently to the east to pass beyond the apex of the overlapping geological fold at the anticlinal where natural exudations, both of petroleum and gas have drained the formation - a drainage which is still in progress.
The importance of these conditions got to accentuate the great value of the project under consideration, and prove the importance of prompt and active efforts that are being made, under proper scientific direction looking to the operation of your valuable properties.
From the survey made, as well as upon the register of various wells I find that the range of the anticlinal fold varies from north 32 1/2 degrees east to north, 15 degrees east, and at right angle to the "dip" of the formation.
In the accompanying map I have located the position where wells should be "drilled in," in order to supply both gas and petroleum for the reduction of the salt by evaporation, and other purposes.
It is a well known scientific fact that the stratified sedimentary rocks all carry more or less carbon, either in the form of natural gas [its lightest form], petroleum [the second in the scale of gravity] and coal and lignites (the heaviest, according to the percentage of fixed carbon contained.)
I feel justified in stating that by the drilling of six wells, as hereinafter provided for, you would be enabled to have a minimum supply of natural gas of 5,000,000 cubic feet each twenty-four hours, equal to 166 tons of best coal. This will be more than sufficient for all the purposes of operating your plant, and leave approximately, 2,000,000 cubic feet of gas for sale; valued, for fuel and other purposes at Lafayette, at 25 cents per 1,000 cubic feet, or $500 per day. The cost of piping the gas into the town through a 4-inch pipe should be about $15,000, not counting the cost of the gasometer in the town proper.
While I am discussing the certainty of the existence of natural gas, if you should drill in your wells in the lower segment of the cyclinal, in place of gas you will encounter petroleum; and then your cost of salt production must be based upon the scale I have set in my working report. The continuity of gas and petroleum seepage to the east of the Lucas well, which has been going on for many years, and the existence in the clay of petroleum residuum, as well as the well-defined geological substructure, convince me that petroleum and gas do not exist in large quantities, and that the large salt deposits also found on your Anse la Butte lands will create a market for these elements as fuel on your own property. The great question of the day, even if you have petroleum, is: "How can you market it?"
The high grade of the natural gas found in your property, as well as the chemical composition of the petroleum from the oozes found to the southeast, justifies me in stating that the oil is very similar to that of Navarro County, Texas, and while I do not feel that you will find oil in the gusher form you will unquestionably find good pumping wells that invariably form the world's petroleum supply.
Again, it must be remembered that the light gravity petroleums command a far greater price in the oil markets than the heavy gravity fuel oils of doubtful durability and composition.
The value of your salt proposition will be appreciated when I state that the salt deposit can reasonably estimated to have a minimum workable area of five acres, with a thickness of 300 feet; equal to, approximately, 40,000,000 tons of rock salt. Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1901.
From the Lafayette Gazette of November 30th, 1895:
Shot and Robbed Near Depot.
On the night of the 22nd instant, a young man by the name John Rosenski was struck down by an unknown negro and robbed of $75. Rosenski had just returned from Abbeville and was on the way to his home at Crowley. Upon reaching here on reaching here on the night train a strange negro offered to escort him to a boarding house, and instead of doing so conducted him to a field and there assaulted him on the head with some blunt instrument and then robbed him of all he had and fled. The young man succeeded in making his way to the depot, where his pitiful condition attracted the attention of the railroad employees, who kindly attended to him and sent for Drs. Martin and Tolson, who were soon on the grounds and relieved the unfortunate young fellow by dressing his wounds. The physicians pronounced his wounds very dangerous and advised that he be sent to the hospital at New Orleans for proper care and treatment. Rosenski was accordingly put aboard the early morning train and he is now in the hospital doing as well as could be expected. He is reported on a fair way to recovery.
Sheriff Broussard and the town authorities at once began to work on the case. The sheriff having obtained the information that a suspicious negro answering the descriptions given by the victim of the assailant had left for Beaumont, took the proper steps to effect his capture. The sheriff left Sunday afternoon and returned the next morning at 2 o'clock. The sheriff was not willing to take any risk in the matter and he left the same morning for New Orleans with the negro for the purpose of identification by Rosenski, who was critically ill at the hospital. As soon as he saw the prisoner he said positively that he recognized him as his assailant. The sheriff returned the next day and placed his prisoner in jail. There is said to be other evidence besides the identification of Rosenski to prove the negro's guilt.
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1895.
Both Legs Gone.
Joseph Maroney, a stranger, met with a terrible accident at this place last Wednesday night. According to his own story he came from Austin, Texas, and when he reached this point he attempted to board a train, when he fell across the rails, resulting in both legs being fearfully mangled.
Drs. Tolson, Martin and Girard kindly volunteered their services and amputated both legs, this operation being deemed necessary to give him a chance for his life. He was sent to New Orleans to be placed in the hospital. In speaking of his chances for recovery and his arrival in the city, The Item says: "Recovery in a case of this kind is out of the ordinary and seldom occurs, but it will not be at all surprising if Maroney pulls through from his present danger. He has wonderful courage and relating the true facts of his actions this morning would strike most people as almost base fabrications. Moroney came to the city seated on the floor of a coach with his back against the wall and eating peaches from a can. His mangled limbs were wrapped up in cotton soaked with drugs, and while the pain must have been excruciating the poor fellow hardly uttered a cry from agony. An ambulance was summoned and Maroney was removed to the hospital, where he was worked upon for some time in the ampitheatre and then placed in a ward. His condition was pronounced very serious and the chances for recovery poor."
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1895.
FOR SHERIFF.
Isaac A. Broussard is Out for the Democratic Nomination.
In another column appears the card of Isaac A. Broussard, who announces that he is a candidate for re-election to the office of sheriff of this parish. Of course Mr.Broussard's candidacy is subject to the White Democratic primaries on Dec. 14, 1895, ordered by the regular Democratic Executive Committee presided over by Hon. J. O. Broussard.
The Gazette is not inclined to praise public officials, but in this instance it believes that it is only a matter of simple justice to say a few words about the splendid record of the gentleman who submits his name to the Democrats of Lafayette for the nomination of the Democratic party.
It is a fact generally conceded in this as well as in the other parishes that Mr. Broussard has proven himself to be one of the very best sheriffs in this State. Mr. Broussard entered upon the duties of the office of sheriff of Lafayette parish on the 6th day of June, 1888, having been elected twice by overwhelming majorities over his opponents. The people were quick to appreciate the value of Mr. Broussard as an officer, hence the large vote cast for him. Since his induction into office he has performed his duties to the satisfaction of all fair-minded people. The tax-collector's department, in charge of that tried and true Democrat and high-toned gentleman, Ozemee LeBlanc, has been managed in a straight-forward and business-like manner so characteristic of Mr. LeBlanc.
It may be interesting to our readers to be presented with a few facts and figures to show how active Mr. Broussard has been in the performance of his duties. Unlike some of his predecessors, he never remained idle and was not content to be comfortably seated at home or in his office when duty called him elsewhere. Whenever a criminal was at large, he always went after him and got him. He has never failed to execute a warrant placed in his hands, and in many cases where there seemed to be no evidence obtainable he conducted the investigation with such skill and energy that he succeeded in fastening the guilt upon the guilty ones. To show that he has been a "hustler," it is only necessary to say that during the seven years of his incumbency he has arrested and conveyed to the State penitentiary from this parish eighty-five prisoners. When it is taken into consideration that 184 persons were sent to the penitentiary from this parish during the last twenty-seven years and since Mr. Broussard has qualified as sheriff, it is readily seen that his reputation as a diligent and conscientious official is founded on something besides the ordinary political "buncombe."
Although having always devoted all the attention necessary to the apprehension of our own criminals, Mr. Broussard has found time to capture many fugitives from justice who had found refuge within the borders of Lafayette.
Some years ago the now notorious "Greasy Jim," presently under sentence of death in New Orleans, drifted to this place. He was wanted in Mississippi for murder and in Texas for burglary, and as he answered the descriptions published, Sheriff Broussard arrested him and held him over until he was identified by a Texas official who took him away. While in jail here his picture was taken and subsequently, when "Jim" killed a policeman in New Orleans and escaped, the sheriff sent to Chief Gaster the picture which was used to capture the dastardly negro assassin.
A very important capture effected by Sheriff Broussard was that of Moses Roay, wanted in Woodruff, Ark., for murder. He arrested him on the levee in New Orleans. Roay had been a fugitive four years and was sent to Arkansas, where he was tried and convicted. The sheriff received a reward for this arrest. There are hundreds of other instances of some very clever work done by Mr. Broussard, but we will mention only a few of them, as scarcity of space prevents us from giving them all. The capture of Alcee Mitchell in Florida about a year ago is yet fresh in the minds of our people, and we will pass it by with a mere reference to it. The capture of the negro, Henry Jones, who had raped a white girl in Lake Charles, is another instance where Sheriff Broussard's bravery was displayed. After a hand-to-hand combat with the negro he used his winchester with fatal results, only when such a step was absolutely necessary. Five years ago a white man named Johnson was arrested by Sheriff Broussard. Johnson had just returned from Mexico, where he had been a fugitive five years. He was wanted in St. Mary for arson and robbery. The people of this town will remember the arrest of "Bump Campbell, the counterfeiter. The latter was armed and the sheriff being unarmed, had probably the toughest dead he ever encountered during all his experience with desperate characters. "Bump" was on horseback with pistol in hand. The sheriff seeing this, concluded that he had to do some pretty good work or let go his game. He had been a cowboy and knew how to "throw a horse." This he quickly and skillfully did; he then paid his undivided attention to "Bump" and his gun. He overpowered and disarmed him after quite an exciting tussle.
Before closing this article we will mention the arrest, four hours after the commission of the deed, of the two negroes who attempted to assassinate the railroad agent at Iowa Junction; the arrest of Joe Andrus, who shot Mr. Alcide Begnaud; of Elie Howard, the notorious thief and escaped convict from St. Landry; of Baptist Martin, the negro who burglarized the home of Mr. Dida Mouton. Baptist's bond had been forfeited and a warrant was placed in Sheriff Broussard's hands at 4:50 p. m., and the next day at 4 o'clock he personally arrested his man at Victoria, Texas, a distance of over 400 miles from Lafayette.
We could keep on and cite innumerable other arrests to show our readers Mr. Broussard's worth as an officer, but we do not think that is necessary. We will simply ask the question: "Has Lafayette parish ever had a sheriff who has done as well?"
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1895.
A Negro's Cowardly Act.
On the night of the 22nd instant a young man named John Rosenski was struck down by an unknown negro and robbed of $75. Rosenski had just returned from Abbeville and was on the way to his home at Crowley. Upon reaching here on the night train a strange negro offered to escort him to a boarding house, and instead of doing so conducted him to a field and there assaulted him on the head with some blunt instrument and then robbed him of all he and fled. The young man in making his way to the depot, where his pitiful condition attracted the attention of the railroad employes, who kindly attended to him and sent for Drs. Martin and Tolson, who were soon on the grounds and relieved the unfortunate young fellow by dressing his wounds. The physicians pronounced his wounds very dangerous and advised that he be sent to the hospital at New Orleans for proper care and treatment. Rosenski was accordingly put aboard the early morning train and he is now in the hospital doing as well as could be expected. He is reported on fair way to recovery.
Sheriff Broussard and the town authorities at once began to work on the case. The sheriff having obtained the information that a suspicious negro answering the descriptions given by the victim of the assailant had left for Beaumont, took the proper steps to effect his capture. The sheriff left Sunday afternoon and returned the next morning at 2 o'clock. The sheriff was not willing to take any risk in the matter and he left the same morning for New Orleans with the negro for the purpose of identification by Rosenski, who was critically ill at the hospital. As soon as he saw the prisoner he said positively that he recognized him as his assailant. The sheriff returned the next day and placed his prisoner in jail. There is said to be other evidence besides the identification of Rosenski to prove the negro's guilt. Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1895.
Thanksgiving Celebrated in Laf.
Lafayette celebrated Thanksgiving day in many ways. At the Oak Avenue Park there were mule races, horse races, bicycle races, a tournament and a trotting race. At night there was a ball at Falk's Opera House which concluded the celebration.
The amusements at the park were very interesting and well conducted.
In the tournament Messrs. C. and F. Girard, J. C. Nickerson, O. Delhomme, I. A. Broussard, Robert Cochrane and Gaston Veazey participated. Dr. Girard made the best record.
The bicycle races were won by Charles Bienvenu who got the three 1st prizes; Alb. Robichaud, 2nd prize in the one-mile race; Chas. Broussard, 2nd prize in half-mile race; Gaston Veazey, 2nd prize in quarter-mile race.
O. Delhomme got 1st prize in the mule race and Dick Palmer's mule came in for the second premium.
There were six entries in the horse race. Gilbert Delhomme was the winner of the 1st prize and Apolinaire Patin was awarded the second one. Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1895.
Thanksgiving at Public School.
On last Wednesday afternoon the pupils of the Lafayette public school, in accordance with national custom, observed Thanksgiving by treating the public to a most entertaining and patriotic celebration of the day. The school-house had been transformed into a veritable store-house and products of various kinds adorned the room, in great abundance, while the floral decorations made a most attractive display. "Old Glory" supplemented by an abundant exhibition of national colors, did honorable service and manifested very emphatically, the national character of the observance. The exercises were varied, as will be seen, and, while pleasing were at the same time instructive. Altogether the occasion was most fittingly and appropriately observed.
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1895.
AT FALK'S.
On Monday night next (Dec. 2nd) that very amusing comedy, "A Pair of Kids," will be upon the boards at Falk's Opera House. This is the fifth season, which is sufficient in favor of its hold upon popular favor. Mr. Kendall is considered one of the funniest "old countryman" characters on the American stage, and is supported by a fine company of comedians, including the very amusing French actor Sarony in his excruciatingly funny "Giddy Girl" impersonations, the peerless little Miss Jennie Dunn in attractive song and dance specialties, and several other well known favorites. The following is from the New Orleans, Picayune, of Monday, where the company is now playing: "The best show the St. Charles theatre has had this season is on its stage now, and was joyously received last night. Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1895.
THE BOLTERS AGAIN.
The gentlemen who bolted the meeting of the Parish Executive Committee last week and organized the rump affair which we will call the bolting committee through courtesy - for correctly speaking they do not amount to bolters - have cause to be published what purports to be the proceedings of the "Democratic Executive Committee" of this parish. In that remarkable document we find the following paragraph:
That the committee had met for the sole purpose of selecting delegates to the State Convention, and that nothing in the published call indicated such action; that inasmuch as Foster had no opposition it was unfair to hold the primaries for parish officers, on the same day, and as early as suggested.
There is no explanation of how the paragraph got there; whether it is a part of the resolutions or if it was a foot-note to the address on the political situation in Maryland and the sins of poor Senator Gorman, we can not say. We can't account for its presence there. It seems to have recklessly forced its way in with a total disregard for the rights of position and regardless of consequences. At any rate the extraordinary paragraph was printed in the proceedings of the meeting of the bolters or anti-Gormans. Without going any further let us say that we not with commendable pride the courage of the bolters, though seriously questioning the soundness of their judgment. They are not satisfied with being "agin" the administrations of this parish and State. They are dead against anything that dares show its head. They are particularly bent on the extermination of "bosses" and as they do not find any of these unfortunate people in this parish they have jumped on Gorman of Maryland and Brice of Ohio. Nothing small about them; they are after big game.
Mais, revenons a nos moutons. Let us see if the committee had met for the "sole purpose of selecting delegates to the State Convention." The following is the call pursuant to which the committee met:
A CALL.
Isle Pilette, Nov. 11, 1895.
To the Gazette:-The Democratic State Central Executive Committee having fixed the State Convention at Shreveport for Dec. 18, 1895, and the Democratic Judicial Committee of this district which met at Abbeville having called a convention at Lafayette for Saturday, the 21st day of December, 1895, the members of the Democratic Parish Executive Committee of this parish are urgently requested to meet at the court-house in Lafayette, La., on Thursday, Nov. 21, at 11 o'clock a. m. for the purpose of taking such action as may be necessary for the selection of delegates to said conventions, and to take such other measures which may be deemed to the interest of the democracy of this parish.
J. O. BROUSSARD, President pro tem.
Now, in all frankness, Messrs. Bolters, from Rumpville, can any one who understands plain English honestly interpret the above call to mean that the committee was to meet for the sole purpose of selecting delegates to the State Convention?
Evidently, gentlemen, you do not know what you are talking about or else you are guilty of willfully misrepresenting facts in a futile attempt to give to your bogus committee the semblance of authority.
The esteemed bolters tell us that "inasmuch as Foster had no opposition, it was unfair to hold the primaries for parish officers, on the same day and as early as is suggested." In the parish of Ouachita, the home of Gov. McEnery, Congressman Boatner and Judge Gunby, the leaders of the opposition to Gov. Foster, the parish Executive Committee met on the 14th day of November and ordered one Democratic primary to be held on the 14th of December to select delegates to the State, judicial and senatorial conventions and to nominate parish officers. There was nothing unfair about that. The minority in Ouachita, if there existed a difference of opinion, did not bolt. In Caddo parish the committee did the same thing as was done in Ouachita, Bossier, Lafourche, Jefferson and many other parishes. In those parishes, there were no bolts. It remained for the bolters in Lafayette to discover that such action was "unfair."
The Gazette is still of the opinion that the court-house bolt was concocted before the meeting. Despite their loud professions of Democratic faith and their avowed intention to submit to the "action of the Democratic party," it is clearly evident that they never intended to go before the white Democrats of Lafayette. Their purpose was to split the party. They knew they had no show. They know it now. By bolting they have thrown off the hideous mask under which they have been masquerading as advocates of Democratic harmony.
Wait till the day after the ides of December, gentlemen; wait and you shall see ! Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1895.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of November 30th, 1889:
MMMmmm. SMELL THAT FRESH PAINT AND LUMBER !!!
The spirit of improvement has rolled up its sleeves and taken a new grip on Lafayette. In almost any direction can be heard the sound from saw and hammer, and new lumber and fresh paint can be seen. Improvements are more general than would be noted by a casual observer. Laf. Advertiser 11/30/1889.
AT THE OPERA HOUSE.
On Monday night next (Dec. 2nd) that very amusing comedy, "A Pair of Kids" will be upon the boards at Falk's Opera House. This is its fifth season, which is sufficient in favor of its hold upon popular favor. Mr. Kendall is considered one of the funniest "old countryman" characters on the American stage, and is supported by a fine company of comedians, including the very amusing French actor Sarony in his excruciatingly funny "Giddy Girl" impersonations, the peerless little Miss Jennie Dunn in attractive song and dance specialties, and several other well known favorites. The following is from the New Orleans Picayune, of Monday, where the company is now playing. "The best show the St. Charles theatre has had this season so on its stage now, and was joyously received last night. Mr. Ezra F. Kendall is a young man who has shown himself to be a eccentric comedian of such rare powers that for years the public has been wishing that he could be seen in more than one part. "A Pair of Kids" has been so successful that he will remain fastened to Jiles Button while the play continues to draw. The piece is very farcical and and comical, braced up by numerous clever people in entertaining specialties, musical and otherwise. "A Pair of Kids: will run during the week.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1889.
Maude Atkinson Co. - The Maude Atkinson dramatic company gave exhibitions last Saturday and Sunday nights to good houses at Falk's Opera House. Their performances were excellent, and were highly appreciated by delighted audiences. This is a company of superior merit, and we take pleasure in recommending them to the public.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1889.
Hillyer's Lilliputian Wonders. - Don't fail to go to Falk's Opera House to-night and enjoy one of "Hillyer's Lillipution Wonders" performances. This company has some remarkably talented artists and their performances are highly entertaining. Besides, they give away 150 presents, more or less valuable, each night, and you stand a chance to get one. If you should get nothing, the pleasure and fun derived from the performance is ample satisfaction. Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1889.
A Pleasant Evening. - Monday night, in company with Mr. C. O. Mouton, we visited the cosy home of our genial and clever electric friend Mr. W. W. Wall, to assist the family in disposing of supper in honor of the anniversary of Mr. Wall's birthday. It is needless to say that the banquet spread was sumptuous and elegant, and that a most delightful evening was spent in social intercourse. We would give the number of years Bro. Wall has been blessed with but for the amiable objection of Mrs. Wall, however, we wish him many happy returns.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1889.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 11/30/1889.
Prof. Devoe's weather predictions were approximately fulfilled here. Tuesday night brought a slight wind storm, accompanied by rain and a little sleet. Until Friday a steady north wind prevailed, and there were heavy frosts and slight ice.The spirit of improvement has rolled up its sleeves and taken a new grip on Lafayette. In almost every direction can be heard the sound from saw and hammer, and new lumber and fresh paint can be seen. Improvements are more general than would be noted by a casual observer.
Mr. Robert Greig, Secretary of the Police jury is erecting a neat residence fronting St. John street, on the same block upon which stands Judge Moss' residence. We can congratulate ourselves upon soon having "Bob" for a near neighbor.
Mr. A. V. Jeffers is building for himself a dwelling house adjoining Mr. John Walters new residence, East of the railroad. That portion of town is getting to be studded thickly with comfortable and attractive residences of railroad men where two years ago not even a fence was to be seen.
Gouaux's Asthma Mixture will relieve almost any cough by taking a few doses, according to directions. Kept by all druggists.
The Southern Pacific railroad changed the schedule of its passenger trains last Thursday, whereby we get our evening New Orleans mail 5 hours earlier at 1:10. We have not room this week, but in the next issue we will note the full schedule.
The Southern Pacific "band wagon," or pay car, arrived Friday of last week and distributed several thousand dollars amongst "the boys" here, consequently business in our town has been quite brisk during the week. When a railroad boy has money in his pocket he "makes Rome howl" as long as it lasts, and then tries to hire somebody to kick film.
The next annual meeting of the Attakapas Medical Association will be held at the Crescent Hotel parlors, Lafayette, La., at 7 o'clock, on the evening of Tuesday, December 3rd. Members of the profession in good standing are cordially invited to attend. The fact of the Association choosing the "Crescent" as the place for their next meeting argues on their part a strong affection for their stomachs, and is an implied acknowledgement of the splendid management and excellent menugiven by Mr. Kalckstein.
Wagons loaded with cotton for the gins traverse our streets constantly, and the output of this staple from our parish this season will be greater than was calculated.
Last week there was on exhibition at the stock yards here a Clydesdale horse that measured seven feet six inches in height. Capt. Pat Drewry says he was nothing else but Jake Hendrick's little creole pony, which since Jake raffled him off had got plenty to eat, and was so surprised that he didn't know when to stop growing. What is the matter with the society young folks of Lafayette? They have given no entertainment this season. This is not usual with our gay and pleasure loving young people.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1889.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of November 30th, 1878:
THE MAIL SERVICE.
The mails from New Orleans to this place are becoming so irregular and unreliable that business men are complaining that they are seriously inconvenienced. The contractors obligated themselves for a daily mail service between New Orleans and Washington, La., via the place. The whole trouble seems to be with the Teche steamboats between Morgan City and New Iberia. Mr. Pharr's line is carrying so much freight and is anxious to crowd out the opposition line, that he can afford, or is willing to afford, to pay the fines for failures which the Post Office Department may inflict. If the Pharr line doesn't choose to perform the mail services for which it has contracted, proper representation ought to be made to the Department, and the same course pursued as was lately done in the case Hall, the contractor between Morgan City and Galveston, that is, let the contract to some one who will perform the service.
Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1878.
Police Jury.
The Police Jury at its session of November 19th, attempted to re-adjust the apportionment of the funds by a simple resolution instructing the Parish Treasurer to set apart twenty per cent of all money paid in by the tax collector, for the purpose of paying certain bridge contractors. We are informed that other creditors of the parish will contest the right of the Police Jury to do this, and litigation and embarrassment are likely to arise from this ill-considered move. It is clear that this is illegal.
The revenues of the year were apportioned into seven different funds at the commencement of the year and the Treasurer was directed to apportion to these funds, pro rata, the monthly payments of the collector. This has been done regularly. The fund for Roads and Bridges, was fixed at $500, yet in the face of this small appropriation, the Police Jury have contracted debts for bridges and repairs to bridges, amounting to more than $1,200.
They were prohibited by law from contracting these debts and were so advised. The appropriation for the other funds, unless every cent of the taxes due are paid, will not be sufficient to meet the claims against these funds. It does not seem proper of just that funds already appropriated and pledged for other purposes, should be diverted to pay debts not in existence when the apportionment was made and which the Police Jury were prohibited from contracting. Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1878.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of November 30th, 1909:
FROM NEW YORK TO ATLANTA BY AUTOMOBILE.
To the Advertiser:
If I am willing to give the readers of this paper an account of the recent automobile endurance run from the metropolis of America to the gate city of the South, in which I took part as the guest of the White Star Automobile Company, it is because of the interesting relationship this notable undertaking bears to the important question of good roads not agitating the whole country.
This endurance run, or contest, which was projected by the Atlanta Journal and New York Herald, had for its principal object the building up of public sentiment among the American people for a national system of highways. Two great and influential newspapers pledged their united efforts toward enlisting the sympathy and support of the press at large, and of the powerful automobile interests of the country, in a concrete and practical movement to further the cause of good roads in America.
The plan employed for this purpose was unique and effective. During the past summer scout motor cars were dispatched from New York city and Atlanta to map out a highway between these two points for permanent adoption. The fact was given wide publicity, and to further fix and hold the attention of the public on subject, it was announced that $2,000 in cash prizes and trophies would be awarded to entrants of automobiles in the endurance run to be carried out over this proposed national highway, and $3,000 additional would be distributed among the counties or townships through which the route would pass for the best roads shown.
Interest began to grow in the project immediately, and it increased in extent and intensity until the culmination of the event four weeks ago, and it is certain that the good influence of this movement will go on making itself felt for a long time to come.
Sixty-two automobiles were entered in this good roads and durability contest, representing thirty-two different makes of motor cars and ten states of the Union, to-wit: New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Florida and Louisiana.
The tour was carried out under rules and regulations formulated by the Automobile Association of America, and the enforcement of these rules and regulations devolved upon the following officials: Referee, Winthrop E. Scerritt, ex-president of the Automobile Club of America; checker, E. L. Ferguson, secretary of the Automobile Association of America; good roads judges, Chas. A. Hoyt, United States superintendent of road contstruction; Jos. Hyde Pratt, state geologist of North Carolina; A. L. Westgart, president of the Touring Club of America.
The tour started from Herald Square, New York, at 9:45 a. m. Oct. 25, and the sixty-two official and contesting automobiles were preceded to the Battery by an escort of mounted police and an honorary squad of seventy-five motor cars from the New York Automobile Trades Association. At the Battery the escorts bade farewell to the contesting cars which were then ferried across to Staten Island. It was a brilliant and impressive "send-off" that Gotham gave to the eager and good-natured touring party bound for the Southland on the beautiful Monday morning to spread the welcome gospel of improved highways.
The run for the first day was from New York to Philadelphia (99 miles) by way of Staten Island. The noon stop for lunch was made at Perth Amboy, N. J., and the night stop was Philadelphia.
The second day's run was from Philadelphia to Gettysburg (120 miles), with a noon stop for lunch at York, Pa., and night layover at Gettysburg, Pa. By special arrangement provision was made for the contestants and their guests to drive over the historic battlefield of Gettysburg. It was a never-to-be-forgotten pleasure. The run of the good roads tour through Gettysburg battlefield was featured by the presence there of a Confederate veteran, Col. George L. Carson, Sr., of Commerce, Ga., who was the only civil war veterans of the tour. Standing on the summit of Little Round Top, whose commanding strategic position turned the rising tide of the Confederacy in that famous battle, and after the guide had concluded his lecture, Col. Carson, moved by feelings which he could not express, introduced himself to his fellow tourists, securing their immediate and interested attention. He said that though he himself had fought through the war on other fields than Gettysburg, two of his brothers had been killed in that battle, and he pointed out the peach orchard where they met their death. Looking out across the valley of death toward that spot under the setting sun. Col. Carson's speech grew husky and the throats of many around him tightened. He was the older generation's representative in this great good roads movement that the united younger generation is championing, and Col. Carson's little Confederate flag now frayed by the breezes that have ripped it since his car carried it down Broadway Oct. 25, was still on the Commerce, Ga., car in Gettysburg battleground. It had for a companion an ensign of the union. It is probably the only Confederate flag that has been seen on this battle field since Lee's retreat, 46 years ago.
The run of the third day extended from Gettysburg, the historic ground over which the battle of Antietam was fought, was encountered. It was approached through a lane of towering oaks, glorious in their autumn garb. To the right and left stood the monumental shafts which commemorate to the present generation the bravery of the regiments and army corps of the North and the South that clashed in that desperate struggle.
The fourth day's run was from Staunton to Roanoke, Va., a distance of 92 miles over steep mountainous roads. This run lay through historic territory. The tomb of General Robert E. Lee, in the ivy shrouded chapel of Washington and Lee University in Lexington, was visited by the tourists en route. They were also spectators of a special battalion drill by the cadets of the Virginia Military Academy located in Lexington, the institution where "Stonewall" Jackson was a professor of mathematics when he took up arms to fight for his country; and where one of our own promising youths, James P. Caffery, is making a creditable record as a cadet and student.
Not long after leaving Lexington the tourists feasted their eyes and emotions upon the glories of Natural Bridge, where the noon halt was made for luncheon. There are ten of these natural curiosities, many of them of great beauty, in various parts of the United States. This one in Virginia is the most celebrated, having an arch of 60 feet spring, a depth of 200 feet and a crown 40 feet thick. Natural bridges are tunnels eaten though rocks by streams, etc.
The distance covered the fifth day was 126 miles, Roanoke to Winstom, Salem, N. C. The first 25 miles out the roads were a repetition of those between Staunton and Roanoke - steep grades up and sharp declines over hills and mountains. Several small creeks were traversed, and in going through one of these near Synodsville the car in which I was a passenger (just like other cars whose drivers or chauffeurs, disregarded the instructions of the official route book) became stalled in deep water and mud, midway between the two banks of the creek without a name. This meant get out and "push and pull." An energetic young mule was the principal actor in the drama, and two negro youths labored with all their might. "Cap'n, if yo don't dat mule look back, he can sho pull dat thing outen dis creek," spoke one of the two negro boys who were willing to take a surf bath for 50 cents apiece and nobly did the mule do it and made everlasting friends of the four occupants of car number 29 of the endurance run. The farmer who owned the mule and who gave us valuable assistance by his personal services, politely declined our proffer of pay explaining, "I believe in helpin a feller when he's in trouble"; and understanding that our farmer friend scorned money as compensation for an act of kindness, we merely gave him our profound and sincere thanks, and presented him with a pound of sweet chocolates for the enjoyment of his wife and children in a small house perched on the mountain side. He was an unlettered man, but very much of a man for that and, like most of his class, not as fully appreciated by the world as they deserve to be, simply because they are only diamonds in the rough.
The noon stop on the fifth day was spent at Martinsville, where the touring party was entertained most hospitably by the citizens of the place.
The night layover at Winston-Salem was made memorable by a grand public reception extended by the populace to the visiting tourists.
The sixth day of the endurance run extended from Winston-Salem to Charlotte, N. C., 138 miles. The noon stop was at Lexington, a little more than half way between Winston-Salem and Charlotte; and here the tourists were feasted and feted in true Southern style. A delightful barbecue was prepared on long tables ranged under the trees and the fair hands of the ladies of Lexington served the appetising viands and cookies to the hungry travelers. The city and all it afforded was given over to the autoists, and thousands of people turned out to welcome them.
It is the proud boast of Lexington and the township in which it is situated that $100,000.00 had been voted for good roads during the current year. And the very excellent roads leading in and out of Lexington fully attest to the intelligent and effective manner in which this bonded road tax is being utilized under combined county and state co-operation. Several prominent business men of Lexington told that this road tax was bringing larger and better results than all the other taxes put together.
On this day's run an extr 15-minute stop was allowed at High Point to enable the tourists to enjoy hot coffee and delicious sandwiches that were served to them in their cars. A banner stretched across the main street of High Point extolled its "Pure air, pure water and the best people on earth," and the tourists to a man stood ready to swear the truthfulness of the statement.
Salisbury, eighteen miles further on, begged the tour to stop a few moments and partake of some refreshment, was compelled to compromise by putting the refreshments into the cars.
At Thomasville, a large manufacturing center, the factorries were closed to enable the thousand of men and women employes to join in the greeting to the tourists, every employe, receiving full time, such was the spirit displayed toward this good roads movement all along the line.
At a school house after passing Newel, every child was out upon the highway waving tiny flags, while a pretty young woman stood at the edge of the road and waved a large ensign for the tourists to salute.
It was a common occurrence all along the route for the schools to close so as to allow the children to witness the unusual sight of a long procession of automobiles scouring through the country spreading the gospel of good roads.
The highway approaching Charlotte was lined for several miles up from the city with automobiles whose occupants has come out to greet and welcome the array of travelers of many miles to Charlotte, the "city of electrical energy," as was blazoned on an attractive banner of mammoth proportions. And right royalty did these warm-hearted Southerners entertain the emissaries of improved highways for the nation, who had come into their midst to spend two nights and a Sabbath day in rest and religious devotion.
Greatly refreshed from their travels, the touring party took leave of the good people of Charlotte Monday morning at 7 o'clock, this being the eighth day of the endurance run out of New York city. The distance for this day's run from Charlotte to Greenville, N. C., was 117 miles. There was a tedious delay eleven miles from Charlotte, where the cars, two at a time, had to be ferried over the Catawba river.
At Gaffney, the noon or lunchoen stop, an al-fresco feast was given to the tourists in the public park. The food and light refreshments served by those lovely ladies and affable men of Gaffney was of the most toothsome variety, and all were made to feel at home indeed. Even water, soap and towels had been provided for the auto travelers, and winsome lassies distributed artistic souvenir post cards among the wondering strangers on which they might (and did) send tidings of themselves and messages of love to the dear ones at home.
At Spartanburg, twenty miles southwest of Gaffney, more gracious hospitality was dispensed to the touring party, and here they were given the choice of a hot afternoon luncheon or imprisonment in jail. A squad of policemen were planted solidly athwart the pathway of the moving cars to impede their further progress through the town. It is needless to say that everybody enjoyed a nice luncheon, so as to not be compelled to got to jail.
The night spent in Greenville was one of the pleasantest ones of the tour. Private homes were thrown open to the stranger within the gates of that attractive little city to help out the hotels in entertaining the sudden influx of new population.
That Greenville, N. C., is a Democratic stronghold may be readily inferred from a comment of the Daily News of that place, evoked by the presence of the tourists in Greenville. In a copy of that newspaper I purchased just before leaving Greenville I read: "Of course the autoists who are participating in the New York to Atlanta endurance run have the Republican party to thank for the fine weather which has been smiling upon them." Being something of a Democrat myself, I could not help enjoying this neat way the Greenville newspaper man adopted of paying his respects to the g. o. p., which, not content in its exclusive and unmolested possession of a choice variety of the American "plum tree," must needs lay claim to everything else in sight (and out of sight as well), even to the pretension that the north pole could not have been discovered one time (let alone twice) except under a Republican administration!
A light rainfall (furnished by the g. o. p. no doubt) Monday night, and the first and only rain encountered on the entire trip, nicely laid the dust for the ninth day's run from Greenville, N. C., to Commerce, Ga., a distance of 110 miles. The populace turned out in full force to give the glad hand to the tourists at Anderson, the noon stop for luncheon.
For the benefit of those persons who find pleasure in trying to spell and pronounce different names, I will state that the checking station for the autoists at Anderson was Hotel C-h-i-c-q-u-o-i-a. And another place we passed through that day bore the euphonious appellation of Pacataligo.
The arrival of the tour at Commerce, Ga., was celebrated in a very noisy fashion, by the tolling of bells and the blowing of many steam whistles - but this was not at all. The surviving members of a company of Confederate veterans uniformed in gray fired volley after volley as the retinue of automobiles filed by them running in high feather; and the old veterans seemed to be well pleased with the doings of the day into which they had entered with light hearts and sympathetic spirits. At night on a large platform erected for the purpose there was an open-air concert, and city and county and state officials voiced the sentiments of the people of Georgia in behalf of good roads, praising the automobile for the very important part it was playing in the cause of improved highways for the farmer, the doctor, the business men and everybody in general.
The state of Georgia adopted the system of using convicts to build public roads several years ago, and with the help of special taxes for the purpose has constructed hundreds of miles of macadamized dirt roads, and is pushing forward with vigor the completion of one of the finest networks of state highways in this country. The state of Georgia is going to become the mecca of the automobilists of the South and of the country at large, and its good roads are going to bring to the state of Georgia hundreds of thousands of dollars left there by the "honk," "honk" fraternity in their travels through this country of rare scenic beauty.
The tenth and last day of the endurance run and good roads contest was auspiciously begun early in the morning of Nov. 3 and ended in a blaze of glory in the city of Atlanta shortly after high noon. It was the great day toward which the whole South had been looking for several months, rich in the fulfillment of an ambitious plan and richer still in the promise of results to be achieved hereafter.
The whole city of Atlanta was on the qui vive for the caravan of automobiles was just now completing its historic tour from Broadway, New York, to Whitehall, Atlanta, under the auspices of two great enterprising newspapers - The Atlanta Journal and the New York Herald. Automobile enthusiasts, public spirited citizen and the general public, headed by the mayor and council and other leading city and state officials escorted, and in other fitting ways, extended a cordial welcome to the tourists who were completing their journey of more than a thousand miles.
This endurance run and good roads contest was a great undertaking, and by means of it a sentiment has been aroused in all the states between Atlanta and New York, and, indeed, throughout the whole country in favor of better roads. Such was the primary purpose of the undertaking. The road tax is one of the heaviest burdens imposed upon the farmers and agricultural interests of the United States. Good roads mean a higher standard of culture such as comes from closer communication and greater facilities for transportation.
The Atlanta Journal and New York Herald, and all participants, have rendered a patriotic service to their country in having undertaken and successfully carried out so effective a campaign in so good a cause, the fruits of which will be gathered year after year for a long time to come. And this is merely the beginning. The national highway is now an established institution, and these tours are to be an annual event, growing in interest, value and importance every year.
The city of Atlanta, with its claim to being the "Gateway of the South," celebrated the climax of this eventful movement in a very lavish manner. The tourists, after arriving within the gates of Atlanta, were made welcome to the best the city afforded. Banquets and other social functions followed each other in rapid succession; and the spirit of good fellowship and good will which was displayed on every hand, was of a rare quality and of a most gratifying nature.
The pleasures of the 10-day trip between New York and Atlanta were greatly enhanced by the presence of a goodly number of the fair sex who made the tour in a style that would have done credit to the sturdiest men in the party. They were accompanied by their fathers, brothers or husbands, and included Mrs. John Cuneo, who drove her own car; Mrs. E. A. de Giers; Mrs. F. D. Hughes, Mrs. C. H. Page; Mrs. E. B. Douglas; Mrs. W. Stoddard; Mrs. R. M. Owen; Mrs. W. A. Neely, all of New York City; Mrs. A. Schwalbach and daughter, Miss Mildred, of Long Island; Mrs. Futrelle and daughter, of Scituate, Mass., accompanied by Mr. Jacques Futrelle, an American author of some note; Mrs. Peel, wife of Col. W. L. Peel, president of the Third National Bank of Atlanta.
In the last generation not one woman in a hundred did anything outside the four walls of her own home; to-day, on the other hand, there is hardly one in a hundred who is not interested in some form of outdoor sport or recreation. A woman driving her own automobile forms an unusual sight at the present time, and and attracts scarcely passing attention.
All of these things automobiles and good roads will do, and are now doing at a rate that is truly gratifying.
Automobiles are the advance agents of good roads, so let them come, and encourage them to come and impress in our midst the lesson of good roads, in the same way those pilgrims carried the lesson from New York to Atlanta, over the heights of the Blue Ridge and down that seat of Nature's splendor, the valley of the Shenandoah, rich in its memories of the civil war that resulted in its memories of the civil war that resulted in the cementing until time shall be no more.
(Signed) N. P. MOSS.
LAGNIAPPE:
Mark Twain as a Candidate.
I have pretty much made up my mind to run for president. What the country wants is a candidate who can not be injured investigation on his part history, so that the enemies of the party will be unable to rake up against him things that nobody ever heard of before. If you know the most about a candidate, to begin with, every attempt to spring things on him will be check-mated. Now I am going to enter the field with an open record. I am going to own up in advance to all the wickedness I have done, and if any congressional committee is disposed to prowl around my biography, in the hope of finding any dark and deadly deed which I have secreted, why, let it prowl. In the first place, I admit that I did a free a rheumatic grandfather of mine in the winter of 1859. He was old and inexpert at climbing trees. But with a heartless brutality that is characteristic of me, I ran him out of the front door in his night shirt, at the point of a shot-gun, and caused him to bowl up a maple tree, where he remained all night, while I emptied shot into his legs. I did this because he snored. I will do it again if I ever have another grandfather. I am as inhuman now as I was in 1859. No rheumatic person shall snore in my house.
I candidly acknowledge that I ran away at the battle of Gettysburg. My friends have tried to smooth over this fact asserting that I merely got behind a tree, that I did so for the purpose of imitating Washington, who went into the woods at Valley Forge to say his prayers. It is a miserable subterfuge. I struck out in a straight line for the Tropic of Cancer, simply because I was scared. I wanted my country saved, but I preferred to have somebody else save her. I entertain the preference yet. If the bubble of reputation can be obtained only at the cannon's mouth, I am willing to go there for it, provided the cannon is empty. If it is loaded, my immortal and inflexible purpose is to get suddenly over the fence and go home. My invariable practice in war has been to bring out of any given fight two-thirds more men than I took in. This seems to be Napoleonic in its grandeur.
My financial views are of the most decided character, but they are not likely, perhaps, to increase my popularity with the advocates of inflation or contraction. I do not insist upon the special supremacy of rag money or hard money. The great fundamental principal of my life is to take any kind that I can get.
The rumor that I buried a dead aunt under one of my grape vines is founded upon fact. The vines needed fertilizing, my aunt had to be buried, and I dedicated her to this high purpose. Does that unfit me for the presidency? The constitution of our country does not say. No other citizen was ever considered unworthy of office because he enriched his grape vines with his relations. Why should I be selected as the first victim of an absurd prejudice?
I admit, also, that I am not a friend of the poor man. I regard the poor man, in his present condition, as so much wasted raw material. Cut up and properly canned, he might be made useful to fatten the natives of the Cannibal islands, and to improve our export trade with that region. I shall recommend legislation upon the subject in my first message. My campaign cry will be "Desiccate the poor working man ! Stuff him into sausages. ! These are about the worst parts of my record. "On them I come before the country. If my country don't want me, I will go back again. But I recommend myself as a safe man - a man who starts from the basis of total depravity, and proposes to be fiendish to the last. Lafayette Advertiser 11/30/1878.
MORE LAGNIAPPE:
Mr. Cable's Plan.
George W. Cable, who has put his great talents to the vile use of defaming the South, is the latest doctor to prescribe a remedy for the negro question. Cable wants to "citify" the negroes, or to be more explicit, his plan is to herd them in the towns, where they are to receive proper spiritual and educational training. Every one who knows anything about the negro will see the folly of Cable's plan. The negro is infinitely better off on the farms and plantation, where he has employment throughout the year. In the town he is the easy victim of the innate vices of the African. That he spends his time in the grog-shops and soon learns to live without working. Formerly he developed into a political leader; now he joins the "basket brigade" and becomes a "gentleman of leisure." Of course, there are exceptions, but is a fact that in the large majority of cases the town demoralizes the negro and unfits for work.
In offering so unwise a solution of the race question Mr. Cable displays unpardonable ignorance of the real conditions in the South. Had he advised the Negroes to leave the towns to work on the farms and plantations instead of telling them to flock to the centers of population, his advice would have been that of a friend rather than that of a mischief-maker. What he is pleased to call the "colored man's salvation" is in reality the colored man's damnation.
For some time municipal governments in the South have vainly endeavored to find a way to rid the town of the large number of idle negroes. Legal enactments have, in most cases, utterly failed to afford any relief, and in some instances violent methods have been resorted to. Now comes Mr. Cable who cooly informs the audience, composed chiefly of Boston negroes, that it's all wrong; that he would solve the racial question by "cityfying" the seven million darkies in the South. We are inclined to think that if Mr. Cable tried to work out his plan he would play hell generally.
Lafayette Gazette 11/30/1901.
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