Sunday, January 11, 2015

**JANUARY 3RD M C


From the Lafayette Advertiser of January 3rd, 1906:


WITHIN THIRTY DAYS


 Baton Rouge-Lafayette Railroad Will Be Started. Improvements to Be Made by Southern Pacific.

 One hundred and eleven miles of 80-pound steel rails will be laid on Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad between here (Baton Rouge) and Lafayette during the year 1906.


 This announcement was made by Thornwell Fay, Vice-President and General Manager of the Atlantic System of the Southern Pacific, who reached the city from Houston yesterday morning. He will remain today and probably return tonight.


 New construction, new equipment, and plans and specifications and the beginning of a new year of development brought Vice-President Fay to New Orleans at this time. The company year will be a year of great industrial development on the Atlantic System of the Southern Pacific. Mr. Fay made other important announcements.

 A new steel bridge will be built across the Atchafalaya at Morgon City, work starting at once.

 The Lafayette-Baton Rouge short cut will be started within thirty days.

 "Yes," replied Mr. Fay, "the coming year will witness considerable new construction. We will relay 111 miles of the Morgan Line between New Orleans and Lafayette with 90-pound rails. When that is done there will be very little between here and there that does not have 80 or 90-pound rails. We already have ten miles of the new rails distributed."


 The new bridge at Morgan City over Berwick Bay will be of the latest steel design. It will rest on concrete foundations, with cylindrical concrete piers. The new structure will cost between $300,000 and $400.00.

From an unknown Baton Rouge publication and in the Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.






TEACHERS' INSTITUTE

Opens Monday at the Courthouse with Over Fifty Teachers Present.

 Entertaining Talks by Conductor Keeny and Dr. Bennet. Two Sessions Daily Decided upon.

 The week's institute for Lafayette parish under the conduct of Prof. J. E. Keeny assisted by Dr. Bennett, of the L. S. U. opened at the courthouse Monday with over fifty teachers in attendance. A number of citizens were also present.

 The institute was opened by singing America, after which Supt. L. J. Alleman made a few remarks. Then upon Mr. Alleman's request, Dr. N. P. Moss, president of the School Board read the following beautiful classic, written by Edwin Osgood Grover and named ...

A TEACHER'S CREED.

I believe in boys and girls - the men and women of a great tomorrow; that whatsoever the boy soweth the man shall reap. I believe in the curse of ignorance, in the efficacy of the schools, in the dignity of teaching, and the joy of serving another. I believe in wisdom as revealed by human lives as well as in the pages of a printed book, in lessons taught not so much by precept as by example; in the ability to work with the hands as well as to think with the head; in everything that makes life large and lovely. I believe in beauty in the school room, in the home, in daily life and out of doors. I believe in laughter, in love, in all ideals and distant hopes that lure us on. I believe that every hour of every day we receive a just reward for all we are and all we do. I believe in the present and its opportunities, in the future and its promises, and in the divine joy of living. Amen!

 Supt. Alleman then introduced Mayor C. O. Mouton who extended a warm welcome to the teachers on behalf of the city. He also assured them of the appreciation in which their work was held and that they might count upon the assistance of the citizens of Lafayette.

 Prof. Keeny was then introduced and made and entertaining preliminary talk preparatory to beginning the real work of the institute. His whole talk was calculated to arouse thought and act as a stimulant to the teachers to get them in proper attitude to get as much from the week's work as possible. In the course of his remarks he spoke of three classes of teachers, the un-adjustable, the over-adjustable and the adjustable, the last being the class from which most is to be hoped, for they recognize the progress of educational work and keep abreast of it.

 He also gave a new, to many, at least, definition of teaching. After speaking of the teachers as burdened with their work in the sense that its problems lie before them for right solution, he said, "They keep working our propositions, and they keep coming - that's school teaching." Before closing he called attention to the need of good teachers, stating that he can at once place 200 good teachers at from $50 to $100 per month, and 15 could find places in this parish.

 During his interesting talk Mr. Keeny took occasion to pay a high compliment to the school system of Lafayette, to Supt. L. J. Alleman, and to Dr. N. P. Moss, who, as president of the School Board, has done so much for the schools.

 Mr. Keeny after referring to his plan for the week of calling upon the teachers to do most of the talking, introduced Dr. Bennett, of the Louisiana State University. Dr. Bennett's talk was in the nature of an appeal to the teachers to keep foremost as their duty the great work of lifting the ideals of the people through the children. He cited the meeting of the little band of Christians in the catacombs of Rome as portrayed in Siencawicz' great novel Quo Vadis, as representative of what zeal and devotion could do and compared the body of teachers now as bearing the torch of higher things in this material age; and he urged the teachers here to be earnest and faithful in the work. His talk was greatly appreciated.

 Prof. Keeny then stated to the teachers that he would give them a little mathematics to consider and placed the following on the board requesting everybody to copy it:





 The hours for institute work were decided upon as 9 to 12 a. m. and 2 to 4 p. m. after which adjournment was taken until 2 p. m. when the regular work of the institute began.

 The public is cordially invited to attend each session of the institute.
  Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.







DESERVE A PENSION.

 Last week a petition was being circulated to be presented to the School Board at its next meeting, requesting that body to pension two old teachers, Philip Martin and J. Flechet, both of whom are about seventy years of age and in poor circumstances. Mr. Martin for thirty years and Mr. Flechet for forty, in this parish, devoted their best years to the noble service of teaching the young, and at a time when the teacher was so little appreciated that his pay was meager indeed. The services of these two men have been of inestimable value to the community and it is but just and right that in their old age the community should see that they do not suffer; and it is possible for the School Board to grant the petition, they should do so, even though it be necessary to construe their powers exceedingly freely. To this, we are sure, not a single citizen of this parish would interpose the least objection. Everyone to whom the petition has been presented for his signature has promptly signed it, and it is inconceivable that a single person would refuse to sign or hesitate to wish that the School Board may be able to pension these deserving and faithful old teachers, now in their time of need.

 The plight of these two old teachers brings strongly into view a harsh defect in our social system which allows a man or woman to suffer want or lack of care, or to become a dependent after contributing his capable years to to the world's work and services. That such a defect should exist in the institutions of the most enlightened nation of the earth, as we are pleased to call ourselves, is astonishing when we think of the numerous sociologists, scientists, economics, philanthropists, preachers, and great scholars of this wonderful nation, and is only to be partially accounted for by the utterly practical, which runs to money madness, that is the salient characteristic of American progress. In our headlong chase for the shining dollar our eyes have been blinded to higher things among them, our duty to the old; but the time is approaching, which we hope is not far off, when the national conception of what is best in life will be, not the accumulation of millions, but the accumulation of honesty, worth, high ideals and a vast consideration for humanity that will make the conscience of the nation quick to respond to injustice or ingratitude. When that time comes, man's duty to man will be recognized, and the heartless and ungrateful casting aside of the old will cease to be a reproach; for society will then be proud to reverence gray hairs and gladly show its appreciation of service, done whether humble or great, by providing for the comfort and happiness of the aged. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906. 


Sanitarium Association Elects Officers.
 The Lafayette Sanitarium Association organized last week, elected the following gentlemen the compose the first Board of Directors: Dr. F. R. Tolson, Dr. J. F. Mouton, Dr. L. O. Clark, Dr. N. P. Moss, and Mr. A. E. Mouton chairman, and Dr. Moss secretary and treasurer of the Board.


 The site which has been selected for the sanitarium is the vacant lot at the rear of the First National Bank, this lot being owned by Dr. N. P. Moss. The location is a very central one and faces the west side of the Gordon Hotel. The close proximity to the hotel besides being of business advantage will also make it possible for the sanitarium and other valuable conveniences at a much more moderate cost than if these conveniences had to be provided separately for the sanitarium.

 The Board of Directors will lose no time in building, and the work of construction may soon be in the full enjoyment of a modern sanitarium conducted along the most approved lines. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.




Arrested for Burglary. - Villemont Hubac's store near Sunset Hotel was broken into early Friday night. He promptly reported to the officers stating his suspicions as to who the guilty parties were. They at once arrested Eddie and Jim Brown, whose names were given and immediately confessed to the burglary. The pocket book taken was recovered. 
Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.



Frightened the Neighbors. - New Year's eve Chief Chargois was summoned by a frightened negro to go and arrest a crazy man. Following his informant he found a big negro, known as Lewis, shut up in house with a double-barreled shot gun, frightening the neighbors and raising a "rough house" generally. The chief went to the door, when the officer promptly "covered" him and forced him to submit to arrest. 
Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.




DESERVE A PENSION.

 Last week a petition was being circulated to be presented to the School Board at its next meeting, requesting that body to pension two old teachers, Philip Martin and J. Flechet, both of who are about seventy years of age and in poor circumstances. Mr. Martin for thirty years and Mr. Flechet for forty, in this parish, devoted their best years to the noble service of teaching the young, and at a time when the teacher was so little appreciated that his pay was meager indeed. The services of these two men have been of inestimable value to the community and it is but just and right that in their old age the community should see that they do not suffer; and if it is possible for the School Board to grant the petition, they should do so, even though it be necessary to construe their powers exceedingly freely. To this, we are sure, not a single citizen of this parish would interpose the least objection. Everyone to whom the petition has been presented for his signature has promptly signed it, and it is inconceivable that a single person would refuse to sign or hesitate to wish that the School Board may be unable to pension these deserving and faithful old teachers, now in their time of need.

 The plight of these two old teachers brings strongly into view a harsh defect in our social system which allows a man or woman to suffer want or lack of care, or to become a dependent after contributing his capable years to the world's work and services.  That such a defect should exist in the institutions of the most enlightened nation of the earth, as we are pleased to call ourselves, is astonishing when we think of the numerous sociologists, scientists, economists, philanthropists, preachers, and great scholar of this wonderful nation, and is only to be partially accounted for by the utterly practical, which runs to money madness, that is the salient characteristic of American progress. In our headlong chase for the shining dollar our eyes have been blinded to higher things, among them our duty to the old; but the time is approaching, which we hope is not far off, when the national conception of what is best in life will be, not the accumulation of millions, but the accumulation of honesty, worth, high ideals and a vast consideration for humanity that will make the conscience of the nation quick to respond to injustice or ingratitude. When that time comes, man's duty to man will be recognized, and the heartless and ungrateful casting aside of the old will cease to be a reproach; for society will then be proud to reverence gray hairs and gladly show its appreciation of service, done whether humble of great, providing for the comfort and happiness of the aged. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.





THE ROAD QUESTION.

 In a recent issue of this paper we presented to our readers an interesting and instructive article on the subject of public roads, by our esteemed townsman Mr. John Nickerson.

 The point raised by Mr. Nickerson of a special land tax for road-building purposes, is altogether reasonable and would place the principal cost of keeping up the roads upon the class of property which is most benefitted by good roads. And it is clear that a revenue derived from a land tax would bear with great uniformity and equity upon the whole people.


 The Advertiser commends to the thoughtful consideration of the public the plan of a special road tax levied upon landed estates. We are confident that some regular agitation and education along this line would result in the adoption of the plan with an advancement and improvement in road conditions which would justify full the new departure. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.


 A Good Example to Follow.

 In talking about the work of the Citizens' Road-building Association a few days ago, the secretary, Dr. Moss, said that the Association intended to follow the sound advice Gen. Prescott gave his men at the battle of Bunker Hill, "not to fire until they could see the whites of the enemy's eyes." This was to provide against any waste of ammunition. To provide against any waste of the road funds, the Association will wait until the weather conditions are more favorable for road work before beginning regular operations. Awaiting such a time, however, the Association is preparing the way for permanent work by opening and increasing the drains of the public roads. 
Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.

   



The Cane Crop.
[La. Planter.]

 Heavy rains have characterized the week which has elapsed since of last issue and these have retarded the operation of the factories which are still conducting the campaign, operating against the successful prosecution of it. Such fair weather had as been utilized to the utmost, but the fields and roads were rendered so heavy rainfall that the delivery of cane was very much retarded even during the fair portion of the week. While a short crop is reported from almost every section it is nevertheless true that some factories will be grinding until nearly the end of January.  From the Louisiana Planter and in the Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.



 
Has Lafayette's Watch.

 S. S. Wertz, of Altoona, has come into possession of a most valuable and historic heirloom. It is a watch that was once owned by Lafayette. He came by the watch through the death of a relative, John Van Pelt. at Germantown. The watch, a rather unique timepiece, was made by Gregson, Paris, France, for Lafayette. It is made of gold and is studded with some 480 pearls, and instead of a mainspring a small chain encircles the drum and keeps the watch in motion. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906. 


The Woman's Club.
 The Woman's Club met Dec. 30, with Mrs. F. E. Davis. After the minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved the resignation of Miss Gladu was accepted. There being no further business, the study of King Richard III was commenced with the following program:




 Mrs. McConnell, the president of the Era Club in New Orleans, then favored the Club with a very interesting talk, after which the Club adjourned and Mrs. Davis served tempting refreshments.

 The guests of the afternoon were, Misses Faulk, Eastman, Stephens, Mmes. DeBlanc, of New Iberia, Jack Nickerson, Mrs. Darling, of Houston, Texas, Mrs. McConnel of New Orleans, Miss Frith, of Bunkie.

 The club will meet Jan. 13, with Mrs. Denbo.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.




Installation of Officers Mizpah Lodge No. 300.

 On Thursday, Dec. 28, the Ladies Auxiliary to the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, installed their officers elected for 1906, as follows: Clyde Harris, Past Mistress; Maud Boudreaux, Mistress; Lily Triay, Vice-Mistress; Martha Chargois, Secretary; Bertha Baldwin, Treasurer; Leonce Coumes, Chaplin; Eden Church, Condustress; Mae Shows, Warden; Alma Montgomery, Inner Guard; Viola Rourke, Outer Guard.

 The aims and intentions of the Auxilary, are to unite the families of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen; to promote their welfare socially, morally and intellectually, and to encourage them in all things pertaining to the good of the Brotherhood. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.


Walking Around the World.

 Saturday a German accompanied by his wife and little girl and pushing a cart arrived in town and soon gathered a curious crowd around them. On the front of his cart was his name, Anton Haslian and 24,700 miles. He stated to an Advertiser reporter that he was traveling around the world on a wager, one condition of which was that he push his wife and baby in a cart. He had traveled 24,700 miles and expected to reach his destination and starting point, Vienna, Austria, in full time. He was making his expenses selling photographs of himself and family. His experiences so far have been frequently exciting and always interesting.    Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.




THE STAGE
The Punkin' Hustler.

 An intrigue of love and politics is "Punkin Husker," and the triumph of manliness and hard-headed honesty over graft, craft a chicanery is a pleasing feature of the well told story. The opening scene depicts a "barn warming" on an Indiana farm, with an old fashioned country dance in full swing. The fun is fast and furious and the audience enjoys it even more than the dancers, who reproduce the frolic true to life. Then comes the serpent, and fine clothes and polished manners for a time eclipse the honest manliness of the hero who accepts a nomination to congress tendered to him as a joke, is selected, makes a name for himself and comes back to discomfit his enemies. The selection of the company gives evidence of the good judgment of Wallace J. Derthick, the experienced theatrical manager, who presents this popular rural comedy at Jefferson Theatre on Sunday, January 7. Art Whitting is winning fame as The Punkin Husker, and Miss Ethel Davis, who portrays the character of Alice Thatcher, is the recipient of most flattering comment in every city where the company appears. The comedy parts give unusual scope to the fun-makers of the company which is one of the most successful tours recorded in recent theatrical annals. The supporting company throughout has been carefully selected and the special scenery carried by the company is elaborate and expensive. The company carries its own band and orchestra and is altogether one of the best equipped theatrical attractions on the road.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1906.




Moving to Lafayette. - Dr. Henri Ducrocq, of Lafourche Crossing will shortly move to Lafayette and engage in the practice of his profession. Mrs. Ducrocq is now visiting her parents Dr. and Mrs. J. D. Trahan. 
Laf. Gazette 1/3/1906.





 From the Lafayette Gazette of January 3rd, 1903.


A REVOLTING OUTRAGE.
[Abbeville Meridional.]

 There are crimes which are so horrifying to the moral sense as to arouse the righteous indignation and wrath of every decent man. Yes, to cry aloud to high Heaven for punishment. Such indeed, it the latest outrage which liquor and debauchery afford to shock the public sentiment.

 Last week a ball was given at a public dance hall at Kaplan, this parish. Among those who attended was the thirteen year old daughter of a worthy farmer of the neighborhood, who was at the time absent in another parish. The child was plied with liquor and "kop kop," a sort of knockout drop specially concocted in Kaplan, and when properly dosed was assisted into a buggy by the proprietor of the dance hall and driven by her abductor - a young man about twenty-five years old - to a house on the other side of Gross Isle, where she was subjected to indignities that can better be imagined than described. Here she remained for several days, until her anxious mother discovered her whereabouts and Sheriff Hebert arrested them and returned the child to her family.

 We refrain from mentioning any names as we do not care to prejudice the case. It is just such crimes as this which the vile liquor of the viler cross roads doggeries incite in the depraved wretches who hang about them like flies on a festering carcass. Take away the opportunity to fill up on mean rotgut whiskey at every corner and you will remove from many the temptation to idleness and crime. From the Abbeville Meridional and in the Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.   



FAIR AT BROUSSARD.

 Large Crowds Witness the Tournament and Theatrical Entertainment.

 The fair given at Broussard last Saturday and Sunday, under the management of Mr. Gilbert St. Julien, Dr. DeLaureal and other citizens, was a great success. The fair, the theatrical entertainments and the tournament were conducted in a most intelligent manner, reflecting much credit upon the managers and the participants. The ladies who so tastily arranged the several booths and those who so gracefully presided over the culinary department are deserving of the highest praise. The writer had the good fortune to partake of the dinner given to the members of the Sontag Band and he wishes to express his appreciation of the excellence of the feast and of the charming manner in which it was served.

 The two plays, "Par le Troude la Seccure," and "Jeanne l'Orpheline," were most creditably presented. All who took part in the plays did well, but Misses Cora and Rosa Bernard and Mr. Paul Bertaind acquitted themselves with unusual ability. Miss Idolie Girouard displayed considerable histrionic talent and was much applauded.

 A feature of the entertainment was the singing of Mr. Ed. Voorhies. Saturday night Mr. Voorhies sang "Gringalet, le Fils a n'Oncle Pierre," a character song of unquestioned merit, written by Judge Felix Voorhies. The audience was so pleased with "Gringalet" that Mr. Voorhies was prevailed upon to appear Sunday night in the equally popular and meritorious song, "La Noce a Josephine."

 Though not on the program, Mr. F. V. Mouton consented to sing and he contributed largely to the success of Sunday night's entertainment.

 Miss Rose Bernard, a pupil of Prof. Sontag, played a "Reverie de Schuman" on the violin and showed much skill and excellent training.

 The tournament which took place Sunday afternoon, was witnessed by a large crowd of people and was splendidly carried out. Albert Olivier, who scored 8 times out of a possible 12, was awarded the prize, a handsome bridle. We print below the names of the officers of the day, and the score.

 Gil A. Monte, grand-marshal; heralds, Carlos Broussard, Norbert Bernard; trumpeter, Cleopha Girouard; ring master, George Malagarie.



Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.


Lafayette Building Association.

 Secretary B. J. Pellerin, of the Lafayette Building Association, has sent the following circular to the shareholders of the association:

 "At the last regular meeting of the Board of Directors held Dec. 17, 1902, the following resolution was offered by Dr. Moss and was unanimously adopted:

 "Resolved, that a fee of 50 cents be charged for every new share of stock placed, said fee to be paid by the new stockholder, which amount, together with a fee of 50c. per share, to be borne by the Association, shall be paid to the stockholder securing the new shareholder. Cost of pass book to be deducted from sum paid the solicitor."

 "The board passed the above resolution to encourage any member to secure new shareholders for our Association. The increasing demands for loans at handsome premiums (last loan was made at the premium of 41 per cent) manifested to the Board the advisability of offering to members the handsome fee of $1 per share for every new share of stock secured. This in itself is quite an inducement and certain to enable every member putting forth a little endeavor to pay his present stock for several months ahead. Not only this, but it will increase our membership, enable our Association to make more loans and earn more dividends for all stockholders.

 "The board trusts that every member will realize his own interest in this matter, will put a "shoulder to the wheel" and help to carry Series No. 13 which will open January 3, 1903, to at least one thousand new shares.
Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.



S. P. TO NEW ORLEANS.
The Union Passenger Depot.
[New Orleans Picayune.]

 Beginning on Sunday next, the Southern Pacific Railroad will inaugurate the running of trains into the Union Depot at Howard Ave, heretofore known as the Illinois Central Depot, and belonging to that road. The trains of the Southern Pacific will be ferried across the river at Avondale, above the city, and then be run through the yards of the Illinois Cetnral Railroad into the Howard Street Depot.

 The ferriage of trains across the river will involve no difficulty whatever, as it has been done for years, both by the Texas Pacific and Southern Pacific railroads, in transferring their trains from the city to Algiers and Gouldsboro. The arrival and departure of the Southern Pacific trains from so central a location will be an important public improvement. From the New Orleans Picayune and in the Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.



SOCIETY.

 The hospitable home of our venerable townsman, Dr. F. S. Mudd, was the scene of much gaiety on New Year's eve. Little less than a hundred people responded to the invitation issued by the Misses Mudd and met at met at their home at Sterling Grove to see the old year out and the new year in. A better place could not have been selected to say goodbye to the old year and extend a hearty greeting to the new. Dr. Mudd's home is built on the order of the ante-bellum structures, in the midst of a picturesque grove of live oaks. It is suggestive of the old south and recalls to the mind the best days of Dixie's glory and valor. It serves to link the old with the new and is an ideal spot to think of the past and the future. The house had been fittingly decorated for the occasion. The reception rooms and the dining hall were tastily arranged with garlands of evergreens and moss and the holly berries on the walls lent an artistic coloring to the scene.

 A most interesting musical program had been prepared, several pieces of vocal music being rendered in a manner that was delightfully clever and pleasing. Selections on the violin by Prof. Sontag and Mr. Ned Voorhies, on the piano by Misses Lea Gladu, and the singing of Mrs. Crow Girard, Miss Anna Hopkins, Miss Lizzie Mudd and Dr. Girard made up a musical entertainment of rare excellence. A recitation by Miss Hopkins was greatly enjoyed.

 After eating a splendid lunch and the advent of the new year was announced there was a sincere interchange of good wishes, and all went home contented with the pleasing memories of the closing hours of 1902 and satisfied with the auspicious beginning of 1903. The guests were: Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Nickerson, Mr. and Mrs. B. Clegg, Mr. and Mrs. A. Mouton, Mr. and Mrs. B. J. Pellerin, Mr. and Mrs. T. N. Blake, Mr. and Mrs. T. M. Biossat, Mr. and Mrs. O. B. Hopkins, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Kennedy, Mr. and Mrs. Crow Girard, Dr. and Mrs. J. A. Martin, Mesdames C. K. Darling, M. Meriwether, Tom Hopkins, A. B. Denbo, R. M. DeLaney, F. S. Mudd, jr., Jno. Nickerson, Mrs. Jones of Texas, Misses J. Torian, L. Gladu, L. Tolson, E. and A. Hopkins, M. Marion, B. Cornay, R. DeBlanc of New Iberia, M. Robertson of Mississippi and K. Davis of Texas, Messrs. F. Sontag, N. Voorhies, L. Judice, L. Marion, G. B. Harris, Wm. Middlemas, E. W. Chase, D. Greig, A. and E. Morgan, C. Debaillon, H. Mouton, S. Nicholls, W. S. Torian, J. S. Givens, Wm. Clegg, Drs. H. P. Beeler and F. E. Girard.    Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.


At the Crow Girard House.

 On last Tuesday evening Mr. and Mrs. Crow Girard threw open, to their many friends, the doors of their new home in Industrial street (now University Ave). Brilliant lights cast their scintillating beams from every window and door of the beautiful home and as one approached this gorgeous blaze of light, a picture of the fairy palaces of the long ago was recalled, and Cinderella and her Prince, and the fairy elves of the "Once upon a time" seemed not afar. Upon entering this ideal home the exquisite taste manifested in the decorations appealed at once to the artistic sense of every guest, however aesthetic. The mantles were linked with soft moss, peeping from which were rich red camellias harmonizing with the scarlet and green of the holly. From every chandelier swaying draperies of moss were suspended, half hiding the tempting sprigs of mistletoe that hung defiantly down above the heads of the gay young folk. By nine o'clock the last guest had arrived and a Quotation Hunt was indulged in, affording much merriment. Mrs. B. Clegg, Miss J. Torian and E. Morgan  succeeded in matching the same number of quotations, and upon cutting Mrs. Clegg was the fortunate winner of the prize, a beautiful box of stationary. After the game delicious refreshments were served and several musical selections fittingly closed a most delightful evening. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1903.



 Biossat's Give Christmas Reception.

 Prominent among the social functions of Christmas week was the reception given by Mr. and Mrs. T. M. Biossat in honor of Miss Horn, of Keachie, La. Choice piano selections were rendered by Miss Horn, Miss Mudd, Miss Gladu and Mr. Stephens, and Mrs. Alfred Mouton sang an appreciated song. Little Inez Biossat, with a fairy wand in her hand, invited the guests to return to their childhood days. After indulging in amusing games and relating the most thrilling experiences of their youthful days, the guests were ushered into the dining room where delicious punch and cakes were served. Useless to say that on this, as on former occasions, Mrs. Biossat entertained in her usual charming manner, and the genial host contributed much to the pleasant hours spent in their beautiful home. Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.




Mr. and Mrs. Dautrive Entertain.

 The past week was essentially one of pleasure and gaiety in local society, but one of the most pleasant and enjoyable of the several functions was the one given at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel Dautrive by Misses Mabel Dautrive and Cora Desbrest. These young ladies proved themselves most charming hostesses. The guests were: Misses Viola Young, Laurence Campbell, Rita Trahan, Irma Mouton, Lucille Revillon, Medora Lindsay, Lizzie and May Bailey, Marie Ducrocq, Mrs. H. C. Ducrocq, Mrs. M. Boudreaux, Messrs. Eben Morgan, Pink Torian, Frank Broussard, Frank Jeanmard, T. Guilbeau, John Torian, Amick Courtney, Jerome Mouton, Frank Mouton, Chas. Debaillon, Geo. Debaillon, F. Sontag, M. Boudreaux, B. Dautrive, Drs. H. P. Beeler and A. R. Trahan.   Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.



Raffle. - Pellerin & DeClouet request The Gazette to announce that No. 1590 was the winner of the cooking stove raffled a few days ago by the firm. The holder of the number will please call for the stove. 
Laf. Gazette 1/3/1903.


La. Experimental Station. - Prof. G. D. Harris and his assistant, Mr. Lines, geologists, who are making a geological and topographical study of the State under the supervision of Dr. W. C. Stubbs of the Louisiana Experimental Station, arrived in Lafayette Thursday. With the assistance of Mr. C. S. Babin they will make investigations of the greatest importance to the section.    Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.





A FINE TROUPE.
 "A Wise Woman, under the management of Mr. Leslie Davis, was greeted both at matinees and regular performance yesterday by large audiences, notwithstanding the patrons of Elks Theatre had received several severe jars during the first days of the week by coming in contact with "rotten shows," and were, in consequence, considerably disgusted. When it became known, however, that Mr. Leslie Davis was manager of "A Wise Woman," people were convinced that his show was a fine one and so it proved.

 Of the many excellent troupes brought here by Mr. Davis, this one stands at the head of the list. Among the actors and actresses there is not a single one but is perfect in the role in which they appear. The parts are lively, dialogues exceedingly witty, music catchy and song sweetly sung. The entire show from start to finish is highly amusing and of the most refined character. There is nothing coarse or vulgar, as is too often the case, in low comedy. Truth seldom prints after notices of a show, either or approval or condemnation, but in the present instance, wishes to convey an idea of the excellence of presentation, in this city of "A Wise Woman." It was a good show and just what was expected under the management of that popular gentleman. Mr. Leslie Davis, whose motto is "the best or none."
 The engagement of this company at the opera house gives promise of being the most important musical comedy event of the season. The play, which is in three acts, is so constructed as to give scope for the introduction of specialties, and from the reviews, seen of the production these features are said to be of a very superior order.  Lafayette Gazette 1/2/1903.




The Union Passenger Depot.
[New Orleans Picayune.]

 Beginning on Sunday next, the Southern Pacific Railroad will inaugurate the running of trains into the Union Depot at Howard Avenue, heretofore known as the Illinois Central Depot, and belonging to that road. The trains of the Southern Pacific will be ferried across the river at Avondale, above the city, and then be run through the yards of the Illinois Central Railroad into the Howard Street Depot.

 The ferriage of trains across the river will involve no difficulty whatever, as it has been done for years, both by the Texas Pacific and Southern Pacific railroads, in transferring trains from the city to Algiers and Gouldsboro. The arrival and departure of the Southern Pacific trains from so central a location as the Illinois Central Depot will be an important public improvement. Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1903.   





THE CATHOLIC PRIESTS AND PUBLIC EDUCATION IN MAINE.
 We had the occasion to read this week a most interesting pamphlet, entitled "A Study of the Schools of Northeastern Maine," issued by Mr. W. E. Stetson, superintendent of schools in that State. Mr. Stetson give a brief history of the settlement of Northeastern Maine and of the growth of its public school system.

 The fact that that section is inhabited by Acadians makes Mr. Stetson's booklet unusually interesting to the people of Southwestern Louisiana. The story of the expulsion of the Acadians, familiar to most of our readers, is told in an entertaining style and the racial characteristics, customs and traditions of our cousins on the bleak coast of New England are very cleverly portrayed. It will no doubt be source of satisfaction to the people here to know that their kindred who found homes on the hospitable shores of Maine have preserved their good qualities and to-day are esteemed a worthy portion of one of the great commonwealths of the North. But it is rather their educational development than their commendable traits that we wish to dwell upon. Mr. Stetson gives us an interesting history of their schools and shows how adverse conditions have been met and overcome and how, to-day, public schools, well managed and largely attended, are to be seen throughout the settlement, teaching to the Acadian children the language of the country and the duties of American citizenship.

 A distinguishing trait of the Acadians of Maine is their unswerving fealty to the Catholic church. They have the true Acadian attachment to their religion, and we are wont to seek the advice of their priests even in affairs which are not purely spiritual, but fortunately for their welfare the advice which they have received regarding their relations with the public schools has been of a most enlightened character. The intelligent clergymen of that country have not considered their support of public education incompatible with an honorable discharge of their clerical duties. They rather believed that education and religion go hand in hand, that as the two greatest militant forces of civilization they should receive the earnest, active support of all the well-wishers of the race.

 The rapid growth of the public school system among the Acadians of Northeastern Maine has been in great measure due to the co-operation of the Catholic priests to whom Mr. Stetson pays the following deserved tribute:

 The circulars issued have been sent to the clergymen of these towns and by them have been brought before the parents, teachers and children in such a way as to give them a full understanding of the instructions in which they contained. They have voluntarily read them to their people both in French and English and explained their meaning with a faithfulness with the reforms which have been inaugurated and their desire to make them useful to their people. The parents and children have been instructed by their spiritual advisers as to what their duties are in the matter of attendance, conduct, obedience, and studiousness. They have been told in terms which it was easy for them to understand that it was for their interest as well as their moral duty to follow the instructions given and make the largest possible use of the schools which are provided. Directions have been given as to the care of school yards and school-buildings and more intelligent and economical expenditure of school funds. They have done all it seemed possible for them to do to make the work attempted successful and useful. The support which has been thus given has been largely instrumental in effecting the changes which have taken place. Whole communities have been aroused to the importance of school work and the necessity of having better schools. The results have been seen in the efforts which the teachers have made to improve themselves, the disposition which is manifested to employ the best teachers and continue them for a considerable length of time in the same school, the support which has been accorded teachers who are doing faithful work, the gain which as been made in the average attendance, and the improvement that is shown in the extent and quality of the work done. These pastors are entitled to the most cordial approbation of all lovers of the common schools for their interest in them and efforts to improve them.

 The conditions which exist in the Acadian communities in Maine are no doubt familiar to many of our readers, and it can be easily understood by them how much more difficult would have been the task of the school authorities if they had not been assisted by the priests. Let it be said to the glory of the representatives of the church that they wielded their power for the promotion of the great cause of education.


 Though further evidence is not needed to show how effectively the Catholic  priest of Maine have worked to build up the Acadian schools, we are pleased to print the following letter written by Superintendent Stetson in reply to an inquiry:

         State of Maine, Educational Department, Augusta, Nov. 19, 1902.

 Dear Sir: - We have a settlement of some twelve thousand French Acadians in Northeastern Maine. They are members of the Catholic church. Several of the priests in this part of the State have read circulars issued by this Department to their people, after translating them into French. They have most cordially and helpfully seconded the efforts which have been made to improving the local schools. I wish to speak in the highest praise of the assistance which they have rendered.
                         Yours truly,
                             W. W. STETSON.

Without the co-operation of the church the State authorities would have been greatly hampered in their efforts to give to the Acadian boys and girls the same educational advantages enjoyed by the children of other sections of Maine. Had the Catholic priests, in whom the Acadians repose implicit confidence, pursued a less enlightened course, it is safe to say that the majority of the Acadian children, who are without the means to attend private schools or colleges, would to-day be hopelessly groping in the darkness of illiteracy.

 As was to be expected the combined  efforts of the priests and the school officials have been productive of the most beneficial results. On this subject Superintendent Stetson says:

The circulars which have been sent to the teachers and school officials have been read from the pulpits of the churches, translated into the language which the people understand, and the influence of the spiritual advisers of the people has been thrown heartily and effectively in favor of an honest compliance with the requests made and the instructions given. The change which has taken place in these schools is hardly less than a revolution.

 We find much more in Mr. Stetson's pamphlet which we would like to reproduce, but we can not do so for lack of space. However, enough has been given to show that the Acadians of Northeastern Maine have been blessed with spiritual advisers whose conception of religion is not inimical to public education and who are evidently of the opinion that the church and the school-house are the handmaids of morality, enlightenment and progress - not antagonistic forces engaged in perpetual warfare and bent upon each other's destruction.   Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.



 Selected News Notes (Gazette) 1/3/1903.
 Mrs. Avery Theall, after a pleasant visit to her mother, Mrs. L. J. Mouton, is in Scott.

 Miss Florence Price, of Scott, is in Lafayette on a visit to relatives.

 Wanted. - A young lady as telephone operator. Apply at once at Cumberland telephone office.

 Pellerin & DeClouet request The Gazette to announce that No. 1590 was the winner of the cooking stove raffled a few days ago by the firm. The holder of the number will please call for the stove.

 The next meeting of the School Board will be held Wednesday, Jan. 7.

 Mrs. Achille Dupre, of Opelousas, is the guest of Dr. H. C. Salles' family.

 Miss B. Veazey, of New Iberia, was the guest of Miss Mabel Dautrive last week.

 Dr. H. C. Sales is in New Orleans.

 Dr. E. C. Terry was in Lafayette during the week. Lafayette Gazette 1/3/1903.

  







 From the Lafayette Advertiser of January 3rd, 1903.

NEW YEAR'S BALL.

 The New Years ball given by the Jewish Ladies on New Year's eve was a pleasant affair, was well-attended, and realized a nice sum. The hall was prettily decorated for the occasion. The young people danced till a late hour, md all who were present had a delightful time. Miss Wilson of New Iberia won the prize for the best lady dancer, a handsome pin, and Mr. Ben Schmalinsky, the gentleman's prize, a silver shaving set. The sofa pillow, which was raffled was won by Mr. Pelletier's baby boy.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1903.


Reception.

 Mr. and Mrs. Biossat entertained a number of friends last Friday evening, complimentary to Miss Horn of Keatchie, La.

 The occasion was an old time Christmas frolic and as enjoyable as it was informal. A delightful musical program was rendered by Misses Mudd, Gladu, Horn, Mrs. A. Mouton, Mr. Stephens.

 The party then assembled in the reception hall were little Inez Biossat addressed them saying "That the good Chrismas fairy would turn again into children."

 Every one entered into the spirit and seemed to be only too glad to be children once more.

 Mr. G. B. Harris distinguished himself in the games by capturing two prizes.

 Dainty refreshments were served in the prettily decorated dining room. At a late hour the guests said good night to Mr. and Mrs. Biossat thanking them for one of the most pleasant events of the holiday season.

 Those present were; Mr. and Mrs. B. J. Pellerin, Dr. and Mrs. J. A. Martin, Mrs. C. Parkerson, Mr. and Mrs. A. Mouton, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Comstock, Mrs. Darling, Mr. and Mrs. Mays, Dr. and Mrs. Moss, Mr. and Mrs. Nickerson. Missies Torian.Parkerson, Caffery, Horn, Littel, Mudd, Gladu, Robinson, DeBlanc. Messrs. Torian, Harris, Middlemas, Stevens, Gladu, Judice, Robichaux, Trahan, Parkerson.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1903.


At the Girard's.
 Mr. and Mrs. Crow Girard threw open the hospitable doors of their new home to their many friends on Tuesday night in a most charming manner. The house was brilliantly lighted all over with electric lights and the rooms were decorated with ferns and potted plants giving them an artistic and lovely finish. The evening, which was delightfully spent in agreeable conversation, was enlivened by a game of quotation matching. Several lucky one drew for the prize, a lovely box of note paper, of which Mrs. Baxter Clegg was the lucky winner. Dainty refreshments were served later in the evening. The number of guests present was between 90 and 100.
 Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1903.


Rainy New Year's Day.

 On New Year's day it rained all day long beginning early in the morning and continuing till night. Of a necessity most people stayed in doors, only a few of the young men being brave enough to venture out to pay New Year calls.

 However, the rain may have helped a few since it forced them to remain indoors, this giving them plenty of time to reflect on the past year and form resolutions of amendment for the future. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1903.


 Gorton's Minstrels.

 The approaching engagement of Gorton's Famous Minstrels at Lafayette, Thursday, Jan. 8, 1903, is looked forward to with much pleasure by all lovers of this popular form of amusement. Gorton's company has long been regarded as one of the standard attractions, which always more than fulfills all of its promises, and the addition this season of many new and important features insures a performance of unusual excellence. A grand street parade will be given by the entire company at 3 o'clock especial attention being called to the magnificent. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1903.


Newton Bros.

 The Newton Bros.', acrobatic comedians, who are with Gorton's minstrels this season, are making a pronounced hit with their act, which is a combination of difficult feats and ludicrous situations, and which never fails to please. With Gorton's minstrels at Lafayette, Thursday, Jan. 8th, 1903.





Southwestern Louisiana Institute.
 The event that has called for the most interest on the part of the students of the Institute during this month has been the organization of a third literary society. The movement was led in part by a majority of the Fourth Year class, and seems to be very popular. The faculty has welcomed the appearance of the new society in the hope that a healthful rivalry in matters literary will result in greater and more substantial benefit to the students.

 The preliminary contest for the Julian Mouton medal, which is to take place before a committee of the faculty will be held in the near future. The successful competitors in this contest will then be permitted to compete for the medal at the annual debate which takes place during commencement week in May.

 The improvement of the institute grounds has been systematically begun and a number of orange trees have been planted east of the (unreadable word) and other trees and plums have been set out in the part of the grounds set aside for President Stephens.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1903.  



Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 1/3/1903.

 Mr. Willie Parrot, who was at one time conductor on the Alexandria branch, died at Millerville last week. Mr. Parrot was a young man, being only 36 years of age, leaves a wife and two children. His widow was a Miss Stagg. He was well-known in Lafayette where he resided several years, and had a large number of friends, who will be sorry to hear of his death. His remains were carried to Opelousas for interment.

 The next regular meeting of the School Board will be held Wed., Jan. 7.

 Dispatches from Austin and Dallas, Tex., allege that the Standard Oil Company has secured control of the Texas oil field.

 The new Louisiana Board of Appraisers of Railroad, Telegraph and Telephone Lines will  be elected Jan. 3.

 Gen. Samuel Pearson, the Boer leader, is in Monterey, Mexico, as the agent of thousands of countrymen who propose to establish colonies in Mexico and Texas.

 Fire totally destroyed the Elma Sugar Refinery at New Iberia, La., Loss, $50,000; insurance, $27,000.

 Hon. F. F. Myles has been awarded the franchise for an electric road from New Iberia to Jeanerette, La., construction to begins within eighteen months.

 Mr. W. S. Parkerson of New Orleans spent several days in Lafayette visiting relatives.

 Mr. E. T. McBride is able to out on the streets again after two week's illness.

 Those who attended the Broussardville Fair last Saturday speak of it in high terms. The Fair was a great success, and the management deserves much credit. The receipts were very satisfactory.

Dr. H. P. Beeler received Wednesday a handsome new dentist's chair.

 Lost on Dec. 26, on the Breaux Bridge road, near Sidney Martin's plantation, one leather gun case. Finder will be fairly rewarded by returning same to Chas. D. Caffery. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1903.




 From the Lafayette Advertiser of January 3rd, 1913:

BUNTY PULLS THE STRINGS.

[Review from the New Orleans Times-Democrat Newspaper.]

 Simple life in the Scotch Highlands is powerfully delineated in the three-act comedy, "Bunty Pulls the Strings," which opened at the Dauphine Theater Monday night for a week's engagement. There was a large audience, and one such as is seldom seen in a local playhouse, hardly a seat in the parquet was unoccupied and the balcony and gallery were filled with persons of Scotch attraction, who had been wooed to the theater by the opportunity of hearing the quaint dialect and seeing depicted the scenes they themselves had witnessed in the old country. It was an audience that laughed rather than applauded. After the ear once was accustomed to the unusual sounds, the dialogue riveted the attention, and was of so absorbing a character that the delighted hearers laughed spontaneously. In fact, the situations were so keenly amusing and so rapid in their succession, yet of so refined a character, that it was more like real life than anything else set upon the stage. And it was in that way that the work was received. While applause was a rarity, there was no lack of warmth, and those who did enjoy the production were so keenly alive to its merits that they considered it one of the best plays brought to New Orleans in years.

 The play is more of a character sketch than a drama. It has no particular plot other than can be divined the minute the various characters make their entrances. There are no effects, and no striving after them is done. There are no set phrases, no attempts to gain favor by stage settings or costuming, and with the exception of the kirk (church) scene there is nothing out of the ordinary in scenic art. The background of the kirk is a pretty mountain view, and that, with the odd costumes of the Highland characters, give a realism that is notably striking. Nothing is out of place or overdone and everything is essentially natural. The actors come and go just as persons might enter and leave a room in a country home, and the men's Sabbath day clothes, from high beaver hats to well-worn boots, are just as unkempt as though they had seen actual service instead of being used for play-acting. The frocks of the women are true to type according to the hoop-skirt fashions of the early 60's, and they are so capacious that the doors have to be made of extra width in order to permit the female characters to pass through.

 Dawsey McNaughton as Bunty Biggar appears in the plainest of plain dresses, and her costume, like that of the other female characters, is picturesque and typical rather than elegant. The managing Bunty reminds one somewhat of the managing lodger in "The Passing of the Third Floor Back." She takes her intended victims one by one, sizes them up, builds her plans and carries her point in every case. The designing spinster Susie Simpson, is first foiled in her purpose of ensnaring Tammas Biggar. Eugenie Magnus, in the character of Susie is superb in the proposal scene, and the business-like Tammas, though visibly taken aback by Susie's forwardness, shows much inclination toward matrimony as a means to wiping out his debt to the spinster. Both show superior ability in the scene. Rare touches of native wit are injected into the dialogue, and there is common sense of philosophy in almost every speech of Bunty's.

 The cast is excellently well balanced. Rare discretion has been shown by the management in its selection, and every principal is a master in character work. Next to Miss McNaughton, Stanley Harison, as the art-less Weelum Sprunt, the budding deacon, and Norman A. Blume and the incorrigible Rab Biggar, divide the honors as purveyors of merriment. Weelum is clothed in with an air of sanctimonious unctuousness that is ridiculously taken off by Bunty as she sends him off to find the un-punctual dominie. (schoolmaster) Mabel Stanton as the "perpetual bride" is wonderfully virile in the character of Eelen Dunlop who had been desrted at the altar by Tammas. The scene in which she discloses the perfidy of the elder, and that in which Bunty sizes her up as a prospective stepmother, are rich both in humor and horse sense, and both actresses make the most of their opportunities for comedy. Geo. Ingleton as Tammas displays fine perception in his work. From the overbearing puritanical parent he changes into the crestfallen near-villain in rapid succession, and his exit after Bunty admits she has lost her respect for him is powerful.

 The minor characters likewise are good, but no amount of description will do justice to the merits of the production as a whole. It must be seen to be appreciated, for it is unusual. It is such a play as can be viewed by the most fastidious.

 At the Jefferson Theatre Monday, Jan. 6, 1913. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1913.    




No comments:

Post a Comment