At a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Opelousas railroad, it was decided to accept the propositions of Messrs. Price, Chouteaux & Co., for building the road. Precisely what those propositions are, we are not informed ; and in moreover, to "build the road," many mean much less than the people of this city have a right to expect. What New Orleans desires and needs is that the Opelousas road be extended to the Sabine river, there to connect with the Texas roads, thus opening up railway communication with the immense and fertile regions beyond the Sabine. To "build the road" may mean simply to extend it to Opelousas, which would be of some benefit, it is true ; but which would be by no means what is needed. It is stated that Messrs. Price, Chouteau & Co. will not undertake to build the road unless the State and city and bondholders, display the same liberal spirit as that exhibited by the company. The city and State could not do better than to give up their nominal interest in this company, provided a guarantee be given that the road will be extended to the Sabine ; but they would be very silly not to use their interest for the purpose of assuring this result. It is to be hoped that some arrangement will be affected by which the road will be "built ;" but by "building the road," we understand extending it to Texas, and not simply to the town of Opelousas. Of course the city and the State will not sacrifice their interest in the company unless under this assurance. - From the N. O. Crescent and in the Lafayette Advertiser 1/2/1869.
Mouton Appointed Agent. - Col. Wm. Mouton of our town has been appointed agent of the Mound City Mutual Life Insurance Company for the Parishes of Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin and St. Mary. We wish him success in his agency. The importance of life insurance to Southern people in their present reduced pecuniary condition, will be lengthily discoursed in our next number. Col. Mouton's office in Vermilionville. Give him a call and you will be satisfied. Lafayette Advertiser 1/2/1869.
WITHIN THIRTY DAYS
Baton Rouge-Lafayette Railroad Will Be Started. Improvements to Be Made by Southern Pacific.
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.
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 1/3/1903.
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. Lafayette Advertiser 1/3/1903.
KRUTTSNITCH SAYS NOT.
General Supt.Kruttsnitch, according to the Picayune, has said emphatically that the Southern Pacific has no intentions of building a road from Baton Rouge to Lafayette, not withstanding the "sure thing" interview with a prominent railroad man published by the same paper some time ago. Certainly Mr. Kruttsnitch ought to know, and that simply leaves the project where it was last year and the year before and before that.
Lafayette needs the road and so does Baton Rouge; the next thing, or course, is for the two towns to get together and build it. It is a big undertaking; but not too big for determined people. It may not be possible to build it this year, nor perhaps the next; indeed it may be a case of try, try again; but of the effort is made strenuously, persistently, success must eventually follow.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/4/1905.
RAILROAD NEWS.
The Lease of Southern Pacific's Louisiana Lines Expires.
And the Company Will Now Operate Them separately.
[From the N. O. Picayune.]
A complete surprise was sprung in the local railroad world yesterday by the issuance of the following circulars:
Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company -- having been terminated at midnight, Dec. 31m 1901, the following officers are hereby designated to conduct the business of this company, with headquarters at New Orleans, La.: W. H. Masters, traffic manager; T. Fay, general superintendent; J. B. Richardson, secretary and treasurer; Chas. E. Wermouth, auditor; A. C. Hutchinson, president.
Louisiana Western Railroad Company -- Office of the President, New York, Jan. 1, 1902: -- Notice! The lease of this company's properties to the Southern Pacific Company having been terminated at midnight, Dec. 31, 1901, the following officers are hereby designated to conduct the business of this company, with headquarters at New Orleans La.: W. H. Masters, traffic manager, T. Fay, general superintendent; J. B. Richardson, treasurer; Chas. E. Wermuth, auditor; E. H. Harriman, president.
Thornwell Fay, who becomes general superintendent under new regime, made the following statement in relation to the change:
"The owners of the properties, that is, the stockholders of the railroad companies concerned, that the Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company and the Louisiana Western Railroad Company should operate their own railroads under their own charters. The resulting change does not involve any change in the facilities or conveniences or service heretofore afforded the public."
A. C. Hutchinson, president of the Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad, was asked to explain the significance of the change.
"It is entirely a matter of form," he said. "The properties will be operated practically just as they have been. The Southern Pacific's lease expires to-night, and the properties will be operated under their own charters. That is all."
"Will Mr. Fay have entire charge of the transportation affairs of the two properties?" was asked; "or will the Louisiana lines continue under the jurisdiction of Manager Van Vleck?"
"Mr. Van Vleck's jurisdiction will take in Texas. Mr. Fay will report direct to Mr. Kruttschniti."
"How about the traffic departments?"
Mr. Masters is named as traffic manager. He will be in control, as far as freight matters are concerned, Mr. Decker will continue to look after passenger matters."
"Will the passenger affairs of the Louisiana lines continue under the jurisdiction of Mr. Morse?"
"As I have told you, the change is largely a technical one. The control of the properties remains where it was."
There are several details of jurisdiction which are still to be given out. They will be awaited with interest. Lafayette Gazette 1/4/1902.
Last Tuesday evening a carload of cotton in the Southern Pacific yards was considerably damaged by fire. The fire is believed to have originated from sparks from a locomotive. Laf. Gaz. 1/4/1902.
Time To Stop It.
With utter disregard for the convenience and safety of people the officials of the west-bound passenger trains obstruct more than half of the crossing on Lincoln avenue. Nearly every afternoon, if not every afternoon, the locomotive pulling the passenger train is stopped in almost the center of the crossing, leaving less than one-half of the road to vehicles to pass. It is not only inconvenient to persons in vehicles, but it is absolutely dangerous to them. In order to drive across the horse must be made to pass two for three feet from the cow-catcher, and unless the animal is exceedingly gentle it is at great risk that this is done. This very reprehensible practice of the engineers or conductors has already caused several teams to run away. Again last Tuesday a spirited horse came very near running away with a carriage, but fortunately the lady, who held the reins, very skillfully managed the horse and what might have been a fatal accident was averted, thanks to the skill and courage of the driver.
There is a fence to show the ground assigned the crossing and the locomotive should not be allowed to remain beyond that fence a longer period than ten minutes, the time fixed by a town ordinance. We believe that the matter should be attended to at once by the municipal authorities. If the following ordinance don't cover the offense let the Council at its next meeting adopt one that will.
"It is unlawful for any train of cars to obstruct any street or public highway within the city limits of the corporation of Lafayette for a longer period than ten minutes; and any engineer, conductor or manager of any train obstructing any street or public highway within the corporation limits of Lafayette for a longer time than above specified, shall upon conviction be fined in the sum of twenty-five dollars for each and every offense."
This practice has been going on for a number of years and it is fully time that it be stopped. It were better to stop it now than to allow it to go on until some fatal accident results from it. Lafayette Gazette 1/4/1896.
AN UNFORTUNATE MISFORTUNE.
A friend of ours in Carencro, who read with throbbing interest and undeveloped excitement the thrilling poem of the Brakeman's misfortune, as related by Col. Mugtugger, in last week's ADVERTISER, sends us the following true version of the affair:
The agent looked out at Carencro,
Anxiously awaiting the coming "tap;"
The brakeman gave him something, you know,
Wrapped in a brown wrap.
The train departed, and the agent flew
To examine his new-found treasure,
And discovered that poor, unsophisticated Jagou
Had drained the last of the measure, -
having punched in the cork with the end of his tongue, and substituted a weary
smile to keep nothing from leaking out.Lafayette Advertiser 1/4/1890.
At exactly the first moment of the new year, the railroad men here opened up the whistles of all their live locomotives, fired off anvils, howled, and made themselves heard; showing their joy at the birth of the new year. This has a particular meaning with them. Every day they take their lives in their hands and offer them for bread, and the fact that so many of them can welcome a new year is naturally a joyous occasion. Laf. Adv. 1/4/1890.
Miss Leila Cornay was the lucky winner of the very handsome doll raffled at the Moss Pharmacy on January on January 1st, and Master Alley Sprole won the little steam railway train. Laf. Adv. 1/4/1890.
We are happy to state that Engineer Ben Dugas who had been on the sick list has resumed work. Laf. Adv. 1/5/1895.
Freight Conductor Tom Hebert received painful injuries to one of his hands one day this week whilst giving an object lesson in car-coupling to an inexperienced brakeman. Dr. Martin dressed his hand and pronounced the injuries not serious. Laf. Adv. 1/5/1895.
DEADLY TRAIN DE-RAILMENT
On Friday afternoon, Dec. 28th, the California express, on the Texas and Pacific railroad, was derailed at a plantation switch a few miles north of Vachere station, about forty-eight miles from New Orleans. The accident was caused by some cold-blooded villain who had broken the switch lock, thrown the switch, and twisted the signal as as to make appear to be right. The engineer, Will Alexander, saw the danger too late to avert the catastrophe, but he had just time to put on the air brakes and reverse the lever before the shock came and he lay prisoner beneath his engine. The baggage and mail coaches were also overturned. Before assistance could be rendered to the struggling engineer the drumhead of the boiler exploded and the poor fellow was literally boiled to death. The baggage master was considerably bruised, but no one else on the train was injured. Mr. Alexander was considered to be the fastest and best engineer on the road, and by his fearlessness while at his post had earned him the sobriquet of Wild Bill. He had been married but little more than a year to a daughter of Col. John C. Dowty, of North Louisiana. He was head of the Division of the Brotherhood of Locomotive engineers of New Orleans.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/5/1889
Last Monday morning we saw a strange and sad sight. Three tramps came walking down the railroad track. The one in the middle had his legs cut off at the knees; the one on his right had his left leg cut off, near the hip; the one on his left had is right leg off, near the hip. What had the new year in store for them? Laf. Adv. 1/5/1889.
Just as the hands of the clock pointed to midnight, on the 31st of December, every live engine on the tracks in the Lafayette yard of the Southern Pacific Railroad lifted up his voice (or whistle) and sent forth its welcome to the New Year. The effect was startling, and many in the town misconstrued its meaning, thinking it was the alarm for a fire in the neighborhood of the depot. But when they learned that it was merely the railroad boys' greeting to the New year, all joined in the welcome, and exclaimed, "Bully for the railroad boys."
Laf. Adv. 1/5/1889.
WITHOUT FOUNDATION
The Report of Removal of Round House to New Iberia. Prominent Railroad Officials State That There is no Intention of Making Any Change.
In order to settle positively all the irresponsible talk about the round house and division being moved from Lafayette to New Iberia, which as been going on for some time to the detriment of Lafayette, the editor of this paper called on Assistant Supt. C. C. Mallard in regard to the matter. Mr. Mallard was most courteous, and when questioned about the dispatch to the Picayune from Franklin, stated that there was absolutely no foundation for the statement made, and that furthermore he knew of no intention on the part of the Southern Pacific management to make any change.
The editor also interviewed L. G. Cox; tax agent for the Southern Pacific, who was here last week, and he also stated in positive terms that the Road had no intention of making the change. He also added that only recently the division had been moved from Orange and Echo to avoid the anomalous condition of having a division run over from one road to another involving two different sets of officers. The L. W. ends at Echo and has its own officers, the road on to Houston is a separate road and has its officers. The change to Echo was made in order to have the men on each road altogether under its own officers. "Now," said Mr. Cox, "it would be absurd to create the same state of affairs, which has just been corrected, by moving the end of division to New Iberia."
To further make a finality of the matter, Real Estate Agent J. C. Nickerson and the editor each addressed a letter to General Freight Agent Thornwall Fay, enclosing the Picayune special from Franklin, and requested Mr. Fay to kindly state whether there was any truth in the special. We print his letters below, which are sufficiently positive and emphatic.
New Orleans, La. Dec. 29, 1903.
Mr. W. A. LeRosen,
Lafayette, La.
Dear Sir:
Your favor of Dec. 29 and its enclosure received. This Company has no intention at the present time of removing its round-house, terminal equipment, etc., now at Lafayette to New Iberia.
New Orleans, La., Dec. 26, 1903.
Mr. J. C. Nickerson,
Lafayette, La.
Dear Sir:
In reply to your favor of Dec. 28, with respect to removal of terminal from Lafayette, would advise that there is no foundation for the rumor. Our Company has no intention of removing its round-house and terminal from Lafayette to New Iberia.
Yours truly,
T. FAY.
Gen'l Superintendent.
These declarations by high officials of the Road ought to silence any further talk on this subject, and restore confidence to those whom these persistent rumors have made uneasy.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/6/1904.
Change in Schedule. - A late change in the railroad schedule has made it possible to hold an earlier service in the Episcopal church hereafter, and so Rev. Kramer announced to the congregation last Sunday that the hour of the service would be 4 o'clock p. m. in the future. Regular services will be held on the second and fourth Sundays in each month, as heretofore.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/6/1904.
1894 Probabilities for Lafayette.
A central sugar factory.
A railroad to Breaux Bridge.
An ice factory.
A graded school in complete operation.
A better system of public roads.
Water works for the town.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/6/1894
Mr. E. H. Mayfield, after resting up several days in Lafayette, resumed his regular railroad duties on the Cypremort branch, on the 31st. ultimo.
Laf. Adv. 1/6/1894.
New Year's day passed off pleasantly and quietly. It was a magnificent mid-winter. Opening with a hoary white frost, the king of day soon took command and no year ever had a fairer commencement.
Laf. Adv. 1/6/1894.
Bringing In The New Year.
The first of the year was celebrated in a very effective manner at the railroad yards. At midnight Masters H. B. Allingham and L. Nickerson caused engine 705 to whistle as a signal to the others, and in less time than we can tell it, the other engines followed. The noise produced can better be imagined than described. Lafayette Gazette 1/6/1894.
Important Meeting. - We are informed by J. T. Allingham, the affable secretary of the American Legion of Honor, No. 1055, that this council held a very important meeting at their hall last Tuesday. Three applications were received and sent to the medical examiner. Another meeting will be held on Jan. 16, at 7:30 p. m. All members are earnestly requested to attend.
Lafayette Gazette 1/6/1894.
A Letter From Mr. Leslie. - The Business Men's Association received, a few days ago, a letter from Mr. Leslie, in regard to the railroad which that gentlemen promised to build, provided a tax be levied for that purpose. We did not read the letter, but we are informed that Mr. Leslie expresses his readiness to carry out his proposition.
Lafayette Gazette 1/6/1894.
Superintendent Owens arrived, here Thursday night on a special and left for Cheneyville Friday morning, returning to Algiers the same day. it is rumored that a new schedule for the freight trains will go into effect on Sunday Jan. 7. Lafayette Gazette 1/6/1894.
THE BATON ROUGE BRANCH.
Officials Make Initial Inspection - Road Completed After Battling With Great Difficulty.
The initial trip over the newly completed line from Lafayette to Baton Rouge, through the Atchafalaya swamp, will be made to-day by a party of Southern Pacific officials. Thornwell Fay, general manager of the line, and E. B. Cushing, construction engineer, arrived in New Orleans yesterday to take the trip. J. H. R. Parsons, general passenger agent, and several other New Orleans officials of the Southern Pacific, will also be in the party.
Few if any pieces of railroad in America have proven so difficult of construction as the fifty-two miles of line from Lafayette to Baton Rouge. Two years have been consumed in building it where under ordinary conditions three months would have sufficed, and for months to come the roadbed will have to be watched and reinforced. The expense attached to the construction has been enormous.
For miles it was necessary to build the roadbed of piling of exceptional length. Sometimes even fifty-foot piles would sink out of sight with a single blow from the driver and could never be found again. Again a dozen of the piles would disappear over night and no amount of searching could discover them. Several times it seemed that to bridge the almost bottomless swamp would be impossible, and the enterprise would have to be abandoned. But the management persevered, and after two years of effort were rewarded by the completion of the line into Baton Rouge. Lafayette Advertiser 1/6/1911.
FROM THE SOUTHERN PACIFIC CO.
Atlantic System.
Houston, Tx., Dec. 30th, 1898.
Circular:
The Lafayette Train Gate System (early crossing gate on Jefferson/Lincoln) established on these lines in May, 1896, as a measure of protection to life, limb and property has been successfully operated since that time, and the results of the Company in decreasing accidents and in increasing revenue have been very satisfactory.
The opposition of the public to the System, however, instead of decreasing, has steadily grown, and in deference to its wishes and with the view of trying to please our patrons, it has been decided to discontinue the system on Jan. 1st, 1899.W. G. VANVLECK,
Manager.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/7/1899
CLEAR THE TRACK! - The Sunset Limited Express is coming. Give right of way, Clear the track. Levy Bros., have been clearing the track of high prices for the last few months and the express of low prices is still coming. All aboard for Levy Bros. - They have tremendous bargains this new year. Lafayette Advertiser 1/7/1899
BAD ACCIDENT.
Crowley, La. -- The Southern Pacific depot was the scene of a sad and horrible accident about noon Monday. The Gueydan train had just arrived and was discharging its passengers. Among them was Mrs. W. S. Gault and her two little children, from Morse Station. Mrs. Gault had descended with her youngest child and was reaching to lift the oldest one, a little girl Ethel, about four years old, to the ground when the train moved, unbalancing the child and throwing her legs beneath the cars. The wheels passed over her left arm, crushing and severing it below the knee. Fortunately, Drs. J. F. and N. B. Morris were present and gave the little child quick medical attention, and notwithstanding the loss of arm and leg, it is standing the ordeal nobly and doing well. The mother received a slight contusion on the head and was miraculously saved from the greater injury by a bystander, who caught her as she was herself falling between the cars. The train was in charge of Conductor Smith and Engineer Dolan. Lafayette Gazette 1/7/1899.
THE NEW ORLEANS AND OPELOUSAS RAILROAD.
We are credibly informed that Charles Morgan will favor the enterprise entered into by Gen. Price and Mr. Chouteau in relation to extending the Opelousas Railroad to the Sabine, to connect with the Houston and Orange Railroad. If this is be so the road will be speedily built. Will any man of capital of this place, in this State, or Texas oppose this important movement? We trust not. On the contrary, we hope to see all who can throw the weight of a feather in favor of the movement does.
If agents are needed to bring this grand scheme to a practical, working point, let them be working, efficient agents. Let us leave no silk glove, high priced, ( 2 paragraphs of unreadable words.)
But now let us see if we have come to the end of those troubles, and if a brighter future draws upon us. It is for the people who are most interested in this road to say whether it shall be built at once, or not. What say the people Louisiana and Texas? We look to the papers of New Orleans and Houston to answer these questions. -
From the Banner and in the Lafayette Advertiser 1/9/1869.
OUR TRADE TERRITORY.
We publish in another column an article from the New Orleans Picayune which states that the Owen's road, known as the Crowley, New Orleans and Western, will be built, and that the information given out is that the same parties who are building the electric road from Baton Rouge to New Orleans are behind the project. Whether this statement is correct or not, nevertheless it is certain that it is only a question of time when a railroad will be constructed through the territory which this road contemplates passing through. That means a great deal to this town, for the road will pass within five of six miles south of here, cutting into the most valuable trade territory of Lafayette. This is decidedly worth considering by the business men of Lafayette.
We have a very satisfactory little town at present, but if we remain idle and let our supporting territory be invaded and divided we will realize much to our sorrow the result of inactivity and self content. Things do not stand still and as long as competition exists why we must recognize its existence, and do some competing ourselves. And the first way is to hold what territory we have and reach out for more.
Our obvious move is not to wait for a railroad to be built through the Milton and Mauriceville section to carry the trade to Crowley or New Iberia or absorb it into country stores; but to build one from Lafayette and make it the convenience of residents of that section to trade with us. We are all of one parish, what is to the interest is to our interest and vice versa. Give them easy access to Lafayette and they would prefer to do business in this city. As we see it, there are two best ways of accomplishing this: First by building good roads, for they are chief considerations for holding trade within six to eight miles. Good dirt roads should be constructed and then permanent roads of shell or other material. The durability and satisfaction shown by the model shell road built by the government experts in front of the Industrial Institute would suggest that the same kind of permanent road should be begun and added to yearly, along the main highways leading to town. And this can be done. All that is needed is united action on the part of the people of Lafayette, and with united action we can also accomplish the second object, which is to be build short railroads from town, radiating into the parish, making Lafayette the center in the parish's trade as it is the center geographically.
The motor power for these railroads could be, we think, satisfactorily supplied by gasoline motor cars. They are much cheaper than the electric trolley and will answer the purpose, we believe. But if after investigation it should be deemed advisable to install a trolley system, its cost will be no bar to its construction, if the people of Lafayette will stay united and work in harmony. The 1907 has a great deal in store for us if we will get together, stay together and push together; but unless we do, we greatly fear that that said to be cure for economic ills, competition, is going to give our fine little town a hard knock before another January rolls around. We are not disposed to be pessimistic but it is a folly to blind ourselves to the fact that there are forces at work sapping our trade sources - and the chief asset of town is its trade territory. This we must protect if we want to grow or even hold our own. To do this we must make a big effort and do it "all in good time".
Lafayette Advertiser 1/9/1907.
The Road to Baton Rouge.
[Times-Democrat.]
"There is greater activity in railroad construction in the New Orleans territory at this time than in the city's history," said Hon. J. D. Fisher of Baton Rouge will get two and probably three new lines within the next few months. While there has been no talk of the Frisco system coming into Baton Rouge, yet the city has assumed a commercial importance that is naturally attracting new lines, and we would not be surprised if the Frisco came in by way of Natchez. It is an assured fact that the Red River Valley will come into Baton Rouge and I don't think it will be very long till its line will be in operation. Then there is the Louisiana Southern projected from Lafayette to Baton Rouge, which we expect to come in a short time. The company has transferred its holdings to the Southern Pacific, I understand, and the line will now be completed. The distance to Lafayette is about fifty miles, and about half the grading has been done. This will be a splendid road for us, and it will open a good territory, passing as it does, through the oil, timber and rice belts. The Southern Pacific has recently completed a second survey for a bridge across the river at Baton Rouge. Lafayette Gazette 1/10/1903.
THE LOUISIANA CENTRAL RAILROAD.
A PROMISING OUTLOOK FOR THE EARLY COMPLETION.
[From the N. O. Times.]
Concerning the anticipated action of the Northern capitalists, who have undertaken the construction of the Louisiana Central Railroad to extend from Vermilionville to Shreveport, and thus creating an unbroken line of railroad communication between New Orleans and Texas, it will be a cause for public gratification to learn that recently received dispatches from Mr. G. B. Ward, of Detroit, Michigan - the leading spirit in the enterprise - work on the road will be commenced forthwith.
On the 6th inst. Governor Kellogg received the following:
DETROIT, MICH., Jan 5, 1874.
Gov. Kellogg :
Will immediately commence and complete road according to terms of charter.
G. B. WARD.
Gov. Kellogg telegraphed back that the bill had become a law, and received the following reply :
Gov. Kellogg :
Am much gratified by your action. The people of your city and State will heartily approve. Will comply with terms of charter.
G. B. WARD.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/10/1874.
Monday Sheriff Lacoste gathered in a bad negro, who was raising several kinds of disturbances on the west bound Southern Pacific train, and gave him free lodgings in jail. The negro had a big gun on him and he will have to answer for carrying concealed weapons. Laf. Adv. 1/11/1905.
C. W. Nichols resigned his position with the Southern Pacific a few days ago, and has been succeeded by Robt. Stenhouse. Mr. Nichols was tendered a supper by his friends at Delhomme's restaurant. He leaves to-day for his old home in Algiers. Laf. Adv. 1/11/1905.
Drew Their Guns.
Last Wednesday Samuel Foreman, accompanied by two other persons, entered a restaurant near the depot and without any provocation drew a pistol on Mr. John Greig, who was there for the purpose of getting a meal. Officer Hebert heard of the affair, arrested Foreman and locked him up. The next day he was charged with two offenses - carrying a concealed weapon and making an assault with a dangerous weapon. Friday morning Foreman was brought before Judge Debaillon and bills of information were filed against him by District Attorney Campbell. When arraigned he pleaded guilty to both charges. He will be sentenced on Jan. 27.
Last Thursday night a white man named Joe Trahan imbibed too freely of the juice that is red and displayed his pistol. He was arrested by Deputy Alb. Trahan and put in jail. The next morning District Attorney Campbell filed a bill of information against him and he was arraigned before Judge Debaillon. He pleaded guilty. He will be sentenced Jan. 27. Lafayette Advertiser 1/11/1902.
RAILROAD NEWS.
The Lease of Southern Pacific's Louisiana Lines Expires, And the Company Will Now Operate Them Secretary.
[New Orleans Picayune.]
A complete surprise was sprung to the local railroad world yesterday by the issuance of the following circulars:
Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company - Office of the President, New Orleans, La., Jan. 1, 1902. - Notice! The lease of this company's properties to the Southern Pacific Company having been terminated at midnight, Dec. 31, 1901, the following officers are hereby designated to conduct the business of this company, with headquarters at New Orleans, La.; W. H. Masters, traffic manager; T. Fay, general superintendent; J. B. Richardson, secretary and treasurer; Chas. E. Wermuth, auditor; A. C. Hutchinson, president.
Louisiana Western Railroad Company - Office of the President, New York, Jan. 1, 1902. - Notice! The lease of this company's properties to the Southern Pacific Company having been terminated at midnight, Dec. 31, 1901, the following officers are hereby designated to conduct the business of this company, with headquarters at New Orleans, La.; W. H. Masters, traffic manager; T. Fay, general superintendent; J. B. Richardson, treasurer; Chas. E. Wermuth, auditor; E. H. Harriman, president.
Thornwell Fay, who becomes general superintendent under the new regime, made the following statement in relation to the change:
"The owners of the properties, that is, the stockholders of the railroad companies concerned, have deemed it proper and to the best interests of all concerned, that the Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company and the Louisiana Western Railroad Company should operate their own railroads under their own charters. The resulting change does not involve any change in the facilities or conveniences or service heretofore afforded the public."
A. C. Hutchinson, president of the Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad, was asked to explain the significance of the change.
"It is entirely a matter of form," he said. "The properties will be operated practically just as they have been. The Southern Pacific's lease expire to-night, and the properties will be operated under their own charters. That is all."
"Will Mr. Fay gave entire charge of the transportation affairs of the two properties?" was asked; "or will the Louisiana lines continue under the jurisdiction of Manager Van Vleck?"
"Mr. Van Vleck's jurisdiction will take in Texas. Mr. Fay will report direct to Mr. Kruttschnitt." "How about the traffic departments?"
"Mr. Masters is named as traffic manager. He will be in control, as far as freight matters are concerned. Mr. Decker will continue to look after passenger matters."
"Will the passenger affairs of the Louisiana lines continue under the jurisdiction of Mr. Morse?"
"As I have told you, the change is largely a technical one. The control of the properties remains where it was."
There are several details of jurisdiction which are still to be given out. They will be awaited with interest. Lafayette Gazette 1/11/1902.
Accident at Train Yard.
Last Sunday in the local yards of the Southern Pacific Company a switch engine ran into the rear part of a locomotive, causing considerable damage and seriously injuring Engineer Bill Ottey and spraining the ankle of the fireman, John Lisboney. Mr. Ottey, who was found to have sustained internal injuries, was taken to his home in Algiers. Lafayette Gazette 1/11/1902.
Owing to the great demand for water the town has decided to secure an air compressor to be used at the power-house. The town now furnishes water to the railroad company and the Compress. Laf. Gaz. 1/11/1902.
Not S. P.'s Intention. - Some days ago the Crowley Signal remonstrated with the Southern Pacific Company for the apparent desire of the latter to induce Acadia rice growers to settle in Texas. Such was not the intention of the Southern Pacific, however. Press Agent Henry Mayo explains that the purpose of the company was merely to get the Acadia rice planters to "look at the Texas rice lands" and then go back home.
Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1901.
Mr. Geo. DeBlanc has had a very neat little office built near his wood and coal yards by the railroad depot. Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1895.
"Capt. Jagous" owing to slack business on the Tap has resumed his "old post."
Laf. Gaz. 1/13/1894.
Train Derailed.
The West bound Texas passenger train was thrown from the track, near Rayne Station, on Sunday night 29th. ult., by a cow. Fortunately no one was hurt ; a delay, however, of ten to twelve hours was caused by the mishap. Lafayette Advertiser 2/4/1882.
Owing to the great demand for water the town has decided to secure an air compressor to be used at the power-house. The town now furnishes water to the railroad company and the Compress. Laf. Gaz. 1/11/1902.
Last Tuesday evening a carload of cotton in the Southern Pacific yards was considerably damaged by fire. The fire is believed to have originated from sparks from a locomotive. Laf. Gaz. 1/11/1902.
To Promote the Cane Industry.
A corporation has been organized with the purpose of building a tramway through the parish intersecting the Southern Pacific near the refinery and running North and South from this point. Active steps have been taken to obtain the necessary right-of-way from the farmers whose lands the proposed road will pass. Such a means of easy transportation of the cane crop will undoubtedly develop that great industry in Lafayette parish. During the out-going season the cane raised here was not adequate for consumption of our local refineries. A great deal of it was shipped to other parishes. The road will run to Carencro North and in the direction of the Verot place South. We do not know the exact directions but were informed that the above would be about the sections visited. Our soil is unsurpassed for the cultivation of sugar cane, and this undertaking will, we hope, prove beneficial both to the farmers and the company instrumental in its organization.
Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1901.
Saloon Reopened. - Mr. Philibert Crouchet has reopened his saloon near the depot. Under the old license law, the revenues of the town from the saloon business were $2,600. The three saloons now doing business in town pay $3,000. It is probable that another one will soon be opened thus giving the town a revenue of $4,000 a year from that business alone. Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1901.
Captured in New Iberia.
Joseph Breaux, alias Derbes, a notorious negro character from this place, has been arrested in New Iberia on a charge of breaking open a freight car and stealing therefrom. Officer Edwin Campbell arrested Manuel Jones here during the week as an accomplice. A lot of shoes were recovered, in the possession of Jones. Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1901.
ACCIDENT AT MOUTON SWITCH.
When the east-bound passenger train reached Mouton switch yesterday evening it ran against a young negro boy who was going over the crossing on horseback. Some parties, who saw that the train was dangerously near, told the boy not to cross, but he insisted upon doing so and was struck by the locomotive. He sustained painful injuries and his horse was instantly killed. Conductor Kelley who was in charge of the train, secured the services of Dr. Haas, a passenger, who examined the boy and said that his injuries were not of a serious nature. Witnesses to the accident say that the boy's escape was most miraculous. Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1895.
Messrs. Horace and Herman McClure, of Gibson City, Illinois, were passengers on the West-bound train Thursday being on their way to Lake Arthur where they went to attend to some business. Both these gentlemen are very popular in Lafayette and during their twenty minutes that the train stopped at the depot they shook hands with a large number of their friends. Mr. Horace McClure and other members of the same family were at one time identified with several business enterprises in this town and it is not to be regretted that they did not remain longer in our midst. It is such men as the McClures that we need in Lafayette and when we are fortunate enough to have them locate among us, we should extend to them every inducement rather than pursue a selfish and narrow minded policy whose baneful effects are exceedingly injurious to the growth of a town. Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1895.
From the Sugar Cane State to the Golden Gate.
A ride of Three Thousand Five Hundred Miles (3,500) made in five days in a Pullman Tourist Sleeper through the great States of Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California, to Portland, Oregon, with only one change of cars.
This is what the Traveler, Sight-seer or Home-seeker can do. Sights of mountain grandeur, superior in vastness to any in the known world, open upon the vision, changing with kaleidoscopic rapidity from the last beautiful bit of scenery to to new ones even more so. The Southern Pacific Railroad is the artery over which the finest trains run over the best track of steel rails in the South, reaching from Gulf to Ocean. Her equipment is modern, her road-bed magnificently ballasted, and her motive power is unequaled south of the Ohio river. All these qualifications are facts. Her employes always courteous. A trip from "The Land of Sugar Cane, Rice Fields and Cotton" to the Pacific Coast is an education in itself never to be regretted. Write for any information to the nearest representative of this great system of railroads and steamship lines, and receive in return your question answered, reliable and to the point. Any of our readers contemplating a trip will do well to inquire of the nearest Southern Pacific System's Agents before buying elsewhere. S. F. B. Morse, G. P. & T. A., New Orleans, La.
Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1895.
Mr. E. Priollaud boarded the west-bound train Wednesday for Lake Arthur and will be gone until Monday. Mr. Priollaud will move his family to Lafayette as soon as practicable. Laf. Gaz. 1/12/1895.
Mr. J. E. Dunlap, Yard Dispatcher for the Southern Pacific Railroad here, has resigned to take the position of yard dispatcher at Algiers. Mr. A. F. Church, an old-time and much liked conductor, succeeds Mr. Dunlap.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/12/1889.
A New Railroad Project.
The following special telegram from Morgan City was published in the New Orleans Picayune a few days since:
“Mr. Humphries, representing the New Orleans & Southwestern railroad, has been a visitor here several times lately in the interest of a projected new railroad from New Orleans to Morgan City, with this place as the terminal. He has been present at a session of the city council, and it is probable that body will grant the company a frontage on Berwick bay, while the citizens are disposed to encourage the new line in every way they can.
“Last Monday a party of seven, under Engineer Corbin, started to survey the route to Luling, by way of Bayou Black and Houma, and are now in the field working as rapidly as possible. The company has secured a right of way. It will connect at Luling, on the Texas & Pacific railroad. Many are under the impression that by the time the line is completed to this place it will be met in Berwick by the Kansas City Southern from Lake Charles. The company will also put in a line of transportation in the Teche trade.”
The construction of this new road should prove an added stimulus to the people of this section to bestir themselves and seek to induce connection between this projected road and the Kansas City Southern, which now runs into Lake Charles.
New Iberia should revive the movement started last summer for a north and south railroad connection for the Teche country. A right of way secured from this point to and along the Hunter’s canal to Gueydan and a surveyed route would be an inducement to the Kansas City Southern to reach out into this rich and populous section. – New Iberia Enterprise.
The rapid development of this section has rendered one road entirely inadequate. There is too much business for one road and a competing line is much needed. Several railroad projects have been mentioned in the newspapers and it will be wise for the people of this section to keep well-informed on the subject. Lafayette Gazette 1/18/1902.
Car Shortage On the Morgan Road Explained by
President Hutchinson.
The people of this section have been handicapped during the business season by inadequate transportation facilities. The cane-growers, as well as people engaged in other industries have been seriously hampered in their business by the inability of the railroad company to meet the demands imposed by the unprecedented increase in the freight office. Speaking on this subject to a reporter of the New Orleans States, President Hutchinson, of the Morgan road, said :
"The blockade is not confined to the Morgan road or the lines of the Southern Pacific. Every railroad in the country is complaining of lack of cars to handle the business. All the car factories are away behind with their orders. We are just now receiving cars which should have reached us last fall. In addition to this we have over 14,000 cars in service. We are building cars in the shops at Algiers every day. We have the rolling stock in use we can find. It is as much to our interest to dispatch the business rapidly as it is to the interest of the shipper to have it done. We are using every effort to move the freight. The situation is very unusual and could not have been foreseen by the longest-headed railroad man in the country. The demand far exceeds any other season in the history of the country. Generally there is some way of arriving at a fair estimate of what the tonnage in the territory is liable to be, but this time everybody's calculations went wrong, and the whole country is in the same condition we are.
"The blockade and car famine will continue just so long as the present wave of prosperity continues. How long that will be it is impossible to say. WE are going to try and have the cars, but we are dependent upon the car factories elsewhere and the capacity of our shops for the supply, and we cannot furnish cars faster than they can be constructed. We have done all we could to keep the enormous business moving, but we have been unable to do so. There is a great blockade in Algiers. The congestion is new. Never before has the tonnage from the terminal equaled the volume of business we are doing now. Export and domestic trade is tremendous. The public ought to know these things. They can find out by writing to any car factory and asking when cars can be built and delivered in any part of the United States. If the factory will agree to deliver them in less than from ten to twelve months from the factory is showing more favor to others than is accorded to us. I can only say we are doing everything we can to relieve the present situation. We move the freight as rapidly as we can. If the public will wait for a while it will see plenty of cars standing on the side-tracks. As soon as the crops are moved there will be a big surplus of cars, because there are more in use now than ever before since the first railroad was constructed."
From the New Orleans States and in the Lafayette Gazette 1/18/1902
President Hutchinson.
The people of this section have been handicapped during the business season by inadequate transportation facilities. The cane-growers, as well as people engaged in other industries have been seriously hampered in their business by the inability of the railroad company to meet the demands imposed by the unprecedented increase in the freight office. Speaking on this subject to a reporter of the New Orleans States, President Hutchinson, of the Morgan road, said :
"The blockade is not confined to the Morgan road or the lines of the Southern Pacific. Every railroad in the country is complaining of lack of cars to handle the business. All the car factories are away behind with their orders. We are just now receiving cars which should have reached us last fall. In addition to this we have over 14,000 cars in service. We are building cars in the shops at Algiers every day. We have the rolling stock in use we can find. It is as much to our interest to dispatch the business rapidly as it is to the interest of the shipper to have it done. We are using every effort to move the freight. The situation is very unusual and could not have been foreseen by the longest-headed railroad man in the country. The demand far exceeds any other season in the history of the country. Generally there is some way of arriving at a fair estimate of what the tonnage in the territory is liable to be, but this time everybody's calculations went wrong, and the whole country is in the same condition we are.
"The blockade and car famine will continue just so long as the present wave of prosperity continues. How long that will be it is impossible to say. WE are going to try and have the cars, but we are dependent upon the car factories elsewhere and the capacity of our shops for the supply, and we cannot furnish cars faster than they can be constructed. We have done all we could to keep the enormous business moving, but we have been unable to do so. There is a great blockade in Algiers. The congestion is new. Never before has the tonnage from the terminal equaled the volume of business we are doing now. Export and domestic trade is tremendous. The public ought to know these things. They can find out by writing to any car factory and asking when cars can be built and delivered in any part of the United States. If the factory will agree to deliver them in less than from ten to twelve months from the factory is showing more favor to others than is accorded to us. I can only say we are doing everything we can to relieve the present situation. We move the freight as rapidly as we can. If the public will wait for a while it will see plenty of cars standing on the side-tracks. As soon as the crops are moved there will be a big surplus of cars, because there are more in use now than ever before since the first railroad was constructed."
From the New Orleans States and in the Lafayette Gazette 1/18/1902
TO THE FARMER, HOME-SEEKER, AND TRAVELER.
Contemplating a trip West or East, the Southern Pacific Co.'s advantages are worthy of consideration. We can save you time and you can save money by asking any of her representatives for the information you desire relative to Ticket Rates, Routes, Time, etc. We especially call your attention to the train service, which comprises the latest modern improvements in equipment. Her road-bed is the best in the South, and her facilities for Speed Safety and Comfort assure you of a pleasant journey and safe arrival at your destination. Her trains run through all the largest cities in Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. At New Orleans her trains connect with all Railroad and Steamship Lines for the North and Northeast. Through Pullman Sleepers of the latest design and Pullman Tourist Sleepers between New Orleans, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Her courteous employees will aid the traveler and solicit your patronage. Apply to nearest Southern Agent.
Lafayette Gazette 1/19/1895.
Mr. J. P. Nolan of the Southern Pacific was in town Monday.
Laf. Adv. 1/19/1895.
Should Be Stopped. - The Gazette's attention has been called to the way in which the westbound passenger train blockades nearly all the street crossing. This train stops at this station twenty minutes and during that time vehicles are very much inconvenienced. There is no necessity for this practice by the railroad officials; it is simply a piece of carelessness on their part and the town authorities should see that it is stopped. Lafayette Gazette 1/19/1895.
Interesting Sight at the Depot.
Quite a sensation was created among the sight-seers about the depot, last Wednesday morning, by the apperance of two men chained together by the neck, who got off the morning train from Texas for breakfast and "refreshments." We learn that it was the famous train robber, F. E. Bunch, and his companion, who robbed the express and killed a passenger, who was assisting the conductor in a fight with them, at Duck Hill, Miss., a few weeks ago. They had been captured in Texas, and were being conducted back to the scene of their crime. Mr. Bunch was most probably making for Mexico, but if the Duck Hill crime is fastened to upon him, he will take a trip still "further South." Lafayette Advertiser 1/19/1889.
Mr. F. R. Davis, Jr., the efficient assistant to the agent's office of the Southern Pacific railroad at this place, has been promoted to the position of night operator at Eola, La. He was succeeded by our popular young friend G. R. DeLaureal. Mr. DeLaureal only remained a few days, his services being in demand at Algiers. We are sorry that "Georgie" could not stay with us.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/19/1889.
Mr. Albert Delhomme, of Breaux Bridge, has accepted a position in the office of the Southern Pacific railway at this place. We extend him a hearty welcome. Lafayette is the place for young men of energy and enterprise.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/19/1889.
A FEW MILES OF RAILROAD IRON AND CROSSTIES WANTED.
[From the Donaldsonville Chief.]
The Lake Charles Echo of last says :
"Thos. Kleinpeter, engineer, informs us that he and engineer Barr inspected the railroad bed eastwardly to a point about forty miles east of Vermilionville, and found it in much better condition than they anticipated."
It is a crying shame that the commercial interests of New Orleans should be suffering and declining for want of railroad connection with the prolific agricultural and stock raising regions of the great State of Texas, when all that is necessary to secure this desideratum is a few miles of grading and the laying of a few tons of railroad iron. The extension of our New Orleans and Texas road to the Sabine, opposite the town of Orange, Texas, would connection with the road running from that point towards Houston, and develop a trade that would prove remunerative from the start, and soon make the New Orleans and Texas the best paying railway in the South.
In fact the simple closing of the little gap of a dozen miles between the western terminus of our Donaldsonville section of the New Orleans and Texas, and the eastern bank of the Grand river, would place the line speedily upon a substantial paying basis. This extension would provide connection with steamboats plying the Teche Atchafalya and various other streams throughout the Attakapas region, thus insuring cheap and rapid communication between that productive section and the New Orleans Market. The benefits of such a consummation are obvious, but unfortunately we cannot entertain much hope of their fruition in the near future, as the lack of capital in the South, and the financial depression existing throughout the North, evidenced by the numerous failures daily recorded in the press telegrams, demonstrate that the men who have money to invest are far and few between, and they will naturally be very cautious in their ventures until there is promise of better times and a sounder status ahead. Lafayette Advertiser 1/19/1878.
Arm Crushed. - E. A. Landry, a brakeman on the Morgan Railroad had his arm crushed Saturday at Franklin by being caught between two cars. H e was taken to New Orleans for treatment.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/20/1904.
THE TRAMPS.
Town Authorities Making an Effort to Rid the Community of Them.
At this season of the year this town is the headquarters for a large army of tramps. These migratory sons of rest seem to like this place. Whether they are fond of good cooking or wish to show their appreciation of the proverbial hospitality of the house-wives of Lafayette it is hard to say. But there is no doubt that there is some peculiar attraction here for the hobo. From time immemorial he has visited us regularly. He comes on every freight and stays with us until he gets a chance to ride the rod. The railroad facilities of this point and the epicurean tastes of the hobo make Lafayette an eminently suitable resort. This was the place selected by Deignan, the Merrimac hero, some years ago, to organize the Brotherhood of American Tramps. Those who know these things can appreciate the magnitude of the job that Mayor Caffery has undertaken. He is determined to rid this community of the tramps whose numbers have grown to such proportions that they have gotten to be an intolerable nuisance.
Last Wednesday Mayor Caffery ordered Officers Veazey, Himel and Hebert to arrest all the tramps found in town. Before night they had fifteen in town jail. The next morning they appeared before Mayor Caffery. They gave the following names: John Williams, Morgan McGraw, Charles Piggett, Frank Ervel, Alpha Nelson, John Shantain, John Welson, Edgar Alexandria, Paul Reams, Williams Schmitt, John Kelly, Harry Walreath, John Murphy, Ed Harris, Hugh Spencer.
Each was called up and interrogated by the mayor. Strange to say not one of them was a beggar. They were, all industrious, honest, hard-working men looking for work. By some extraordinary coincidence they happened to be together just when the police appeared upon the scene. Not one was in the habit of running with "de gang". They were there simply by accident. That so many gentlemen should be found at the Hotel de Bum all at the same time attired in the regulation habiliments of the hobo, uncombed and unwashed, was more than the mayor would believe and he proceeded to tell them and hereafter they would be compelled to seek other climes better suited to their mode of living. All, excepting four who gave satisfactory reasons for being found in such questionable society, were given ten days or $5 and costs. In default of payment of the fine Marhsal Veazey was instructed to provide them with spades and shovels for use on the streets. Eleven big, healthy, and apparently well-fed fellows, were taken out and made to work. The mayor will continue to treat the hoboes in this manner until they have made up their minds to keep away from this town.
Among the belongings of the men were two pair of new low-quarter shoes for ladies. None would claim ownership of this rather suspicious piece of property. Among the numerous articles found in their possession were a horse doctor's surgical instruments, a shoe-maker's knife, a bodkin, a rat tail file, a hammer, two reasons, brass knuckles, and a half dozen pocket knives.
Lafayette Gazette 1/21/1899.
The Street Fair.
The fencing near the railroad depot, in which the street fair attractions are to be enclosed has already been built, and everything is ready for the fair on Monday.
Excursions from Lake Charles, Opelousas and New Orleans will run to Lafayette during next week. On Sunday, the first day of February, the fireman's parade will take place. Militia companies from Opelousas and New Iberia will participate in the parade.
Lafayette Gazette 1/24/1903.
Near Fatal Accident - A few days ago, Judge L. I. Tansey met with what came near being a fatal accident. He tried to board a West bound afternoon train as it was pulling out, and moving pretty fast. He grabbed the irons and jumped for the steps. His foot slipped and he was jerked to the ground and dragged some distance hanging by the hand. Several times he was almost caught by the wheel. The train was stopped and he was rescued by bystanders. It was indeed a narrow escape, and we congratulate the judge upon the fortunate outcome.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1899.
Changes to Train Schedule. - A recent change has been made in the passenger schedule, which we give for the benefit of our readers: No. 87, East bound, leaves Lafayette at 1:29 p. m., and arrives at New Orleans 7:25 p. m. No. 19, East bound leaves Lafayette at 1:50 a. m., and arrives at New Orleans at 7:30 a. m. No. 18, West bound, leaves Lafayette at 2:15 p. m., No. 20, West bound leaves Lafayette at 10:30 p. m. On the Alexandria branch, No. 51 leaves Alexandria at 9:05 a. m., and arrives at Lafayette 1:05 p. m. No. 50 for Alexandria leaves Lafayette at 2:15 p. m. Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1899.
Pay Car. - The pay car came in Tuesday night and dropped a wad of over $5,000, consequently everybody and their friends were made happy. Laf. Advertiser 1/24/1891.
Passed Through Lafayette. - One of those beautiful vestibule trains, run by the Raymond & Whitcomb Excursion company, passed through Lafayette at 8 o'clock Wednesday night. These excursions are run from Boston to points in Mexico and California. This train was composed of ten elegant coaches and two baggage cars. None but the wealthy can ride in them. They eat and sleep on the train, have drawing-room and library, and wherever they stop the excursion company pays back hire, hotel bills, etc. Fare for round trip from Boston, $685.00 each. (Nearly $17,000 in today's money.)
Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1891.
W. B. Mulvey, Superintendent L. W., was stopping at the Crescent Hotel Monday. Laf. Adv. 1/24/1891.
The frame work of the new round house is now in place, but we understand it will be about two months before it is finished. It has eighteen stalls.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1891.
The man with the flying horses, down at the railroad, gave the children much amusement and pleasure during the week. Laf. Adv. 1/24/1891.
Business in town has been brisk during the week, owing to the disbursements of the pay car. Laf. Adv. 1/24/1891.
East-West Rail Route.
(First words of article n/a)
.....Northern Railroad is going to build a branch to New Orleans in the near future, which will parallel the Southern Pacific. The route is to be south of the Southern Pacific from Houston to Lake Charles, and then from Lake Charles it will cut across Lousiana and strike the Texas and Pacific at Mellville, saving an expenditure of over a million dollars in building a bridge across the Atchafalaya river.
According to the people who are on the inside the route has already been selected, and the surveys are practically finished. The distance between Houston and (rest is unreadable)
Lafayette Advertiser 1/25/1902.
Crowley Perturbed. - Crowley is much perturbed because the Southern Pacific is offering inducements to Crowley-ites to visit the rice lands in Texas. It strikes us that Crowley is unnecessarily alarmed, for surely that town's prosperity does not rest upon so unsound a foundation as to be injuriously affected by cheap excursion rates. The people of Lafayette could not be induced to emigrate by a thousand excursions to Texas or anywhere else. Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1901.
Lake Charles and Rice Belt Railroad.
A special to the Times-Democrat from Lake Charles, dated Jan. 21, says: The long-talked-of railroad to Lake Arthur assumed a real aspect to-day by the filing of the charter of the Lake Charles and Rice Belt Railway, with a capital stock of $1,000,ooo, for record in office of the district clerk.
The first officers of the corporation are: President, C. A. Lowry, Lowry; vice-president, H. C. Drew, lake Charles; secretary, C. A. McCoy, Lake Charles; treasurer, L. Kaufman, Lake Charles; directors, J. A. Bell, H. C. Drew, L. Kaufman, A. V. Eastman, C. A. McCoy, all of Lake Charles, C. A. Lowry of Lowry, Dr. E. I. Hall of Lakeside, J. B. Haber of Jennings, H. L. Gueydan of Gueydan, D. R. Swift of Mobile (City), Texas; general manager A. V. Eastman, Lake Charles. These officers will serve until January, 1902.
The formation of the company dates back about six months. Last year the locam men above named, together with with a number of leading Mermentau rice planters, were figuring upon tapping the Mermentau rice country by means of a canal connecting Big Lake and the Mermentau river, but the plans for getting it in operation last season failed. The road passes through a fertile country, well peopled by rice farmers. The road is to follow an almost air line from Bonair, on the K. C., W. & G. railway, to Gueydan, and will be extended from that point to Abbeyville. The road is to be completed to Gueydan in time to handle this season's crops. Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1901.
A FAITHFUL EMPLOYEE.
For over twenty years an employee of the Southern Pacific R. R., in the Lafayette yards and known by every man, woman and child in this community, the Advertiser uses its editorial columns in paying tribute to the loyalty, fidelity and devotion to duty of that sterling gentleman, Mr. J. J. Mitchell. We have been told that the "old man" (as he is familiarly called by the R. R. boys) has severed his connection with the S. P., and he has made Lafayette for all these years, the Advertiser hopes with all candor that he still remain in this midst. As honest man is God's noblest work, a good man is woman's loving ideal, and as these sterling principles of manhood belong to he whose integrity has battered this world for nearly 60 years and whose usefulness still seek to sooth the want of many, the Advertiser again says, Mr. Mitchell you have done your duty well. Lafayette is proud of you and Lafayette begs that you still remain remain with us. Lafayette Advertiser 1/26/1901.
Incident at Depot. Quite a sensation was created near the depot Wednesday evening at the arrival of the passenger train from New Orleans. A young girl evidently laboring under mental aberration jumped from the cars and attempted to escape from some gentlemen who had her in charge. Fortunately the poor girl was soon overtaken and persuaded to return to the train. Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1895.
A Stranger Run Over.
Henry Marten, a stranger about 20 years of age, was run over by a freight train at Duson Wednesday evening, sustaining injuries from which he died a few hours later. It appears that Marten fell under the wheels of the cars in the attempt to steal a ride. He was terribly mangled, his legs and one arm being nearly severed from his body. The railroad men say that Matten tried to accomplish the dangerous feat of jumping on the rods while the train was running. As the train was going west Marten was taken to Rayne where he was kept a few hours after which he was brought to Lafayette by the east-bound local freight train for the purpose of securing the medical assistance of Dr. Tolson, the company's physician, but before the train reached this place the unfortunate man was dead. Dr. Gladu, the coroner, took charge of the body and had it decently buried.Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1895.
A Wrecking Car. - A wrecking car will now be kept in the Southern Pacific round-house at this place. One was received by the railroad officials Thursday morning. It will be in charge of Steve Spar, formerly general yard master at Algiers. Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1895.
Purchased Store.
Prudhomme & McFaddin have purchased the store and lot formerly occupied by them across the railroad. The purchase price was $1,500. They are contemplating opening a branch store in the property acquired. Lafayette Advertiser 1/27/1904.
Persistent Efforts to Wreck Trains.
Jules Pointboeuf, assistant engineer at the power house, was arrested Friday, Jan. 19, and charged with an attempt at train wrecking. For about a month trainmen in the Southern Pacific yards have been suspecting that someone was making persistent efforts to wreck trains. Several times it was discovered that a switch had been tampered with, but fortunately it was found out in time to avoid any serious accident. Detective Long of the Southern Pacific Company detailed Henry Gianelloni, a railroad man to keep close watch and capture the culprit of he made any further attempts.
At 11 o'clock Friday night, Gianelloni says, a man approached the switch near the electric power house, broke the lock and so arranged the rails that any incoming train would run into some cars standing on a side track. Gianelloni says that he recognized the man as being Jules Pointboeuf. The man walked about two acres to a switch on the Louisiana Western Tracks. He repeated what he did with the other switch The removal of this switch was calculated to cause fearful damage to both life and property.
After shifting the rails, Pointboeuf, in order to complete his diabolical work, threw away the lamp whose red light might have given a signal of danger to the trainmen. At this juncture he was covered by Gianelloni's pistol and was told to throw up his hands, which he did. He was taken to town and turned over to Marshal Peck of the police force. He protested his innocence, and insisted that he had not tampered with the switches. He still claims to be innocent.
Pointboeuf was a for number of years employed as engineer, but was discharged and given an inferior position, which he held for some time, and quit to work for the town at the power house. Pointboeuf is about forty years old and has a wife and five children.
Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1900.
EUGENE V. DEBS
Arrives on the Afternoon Train and Delivers His Famous Lecture at night.
Eugene V. Debs, the most popular leader of the laboring classes in America, and who, next to William J. Bryan, has the largest personal following in this country, arrived in Lafayette on the afternoon train yesterday. He was met at the train by a number of gentlemen and escorted to the Crescent Hotel where he registered. He was introduced to a large number of people with whom he chatted very pleasantly.
Mr. Debs spoke last night to a crowded house at the opera. Owing to the lateness of the hour we can not say as much about the lecture as we would like. He was given a flattering ovation by the audience and was greatly applauded throughout his lecture.
Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1900.
RAILROAD TRUST.
A railroad trust, which will divide up the country into zones and place each for railroad purposes under the control of railroad magnates, is in process of formation. The zones and their railroad monarchs are named as follows in the news paper report: "In the Southern Pacific zone Collis P. Huntington will be master; E. H. Harriman will control the central western, or Union Pacific zone; Goulds H. Porter and others will swing the southwestern lines, through the Rock Island, Missourri Pacific, etc. In the northwest James Hall and J. P. Morgan will control the Northern Pacific and Great Northern. The Belmonsts will control the Louisville & Nashville." Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1900.
To New Orleans for Sugery. - The Gazette regrets to state that it was necessary for Mr. O. P. Guilbeau to go to New Orleans to undergo a surgical operation on account of the injuries he sustained some time ago at the hands of rowdies on the excursion train between Duson and Crowley. This affair has caused much suffering to Mr. Guilbeau, to say nothing of the expense and trouble, and we are sorry that his condition is such as to necessitate another surgical operation . Reference to this matter will recall to the minds of many people the outrage which perpetrated on the night Mr. Guilbeau was so mercilessly shot. The shooting took place on the 17th of last November, over two months ago, but nothing has yet been done looking toward the punishment of the guilty. The question of jurisdiction has not ever been settled and there is a large number of people who still believe it was done in this parish. It is not for us to say who is or who are guilty in this affair, but there was unquestionably enacted on that night in this country, which boasts of law, order and civilization, a scene which would have disgraced the most barbarous of savage tribes. Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1900.
Railroad Bridge Work. - We notice among us A. J. Ross, who is in charge of the bridge gang for this division of the Southern Pacific. He has been repairing the bridges and track in and out of this place.
Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1894.
M. Dupuis has just moved in the Hession's building north side of the R. R. with a large and new stock of goods. Laf. Adv. 1/28/1899.
Struck by a Train. - While lying near the track at Scott, George Gray, a young man twenty-two years old, claiming to hail from Boston, was struck by an east-bound train and received severe injuries on the right side of the head. He was put off here Saturday at noon and received medical attention by Dr. A. R. Trahan, and taken to the Charity Hospital that night. His injuries were pronounced severe. The unfortunate man arrived in New Orleans safe and was immediately taken to the hospital. He had to remain in the waiting room at the depot here for several hours, but he received all the comforts that could be given him under the circumstances.
Lafayette Gazette 1/29/1898.
William Hane, who has recently bought the Tivoli Saloon near the depot, has received handsome pool and billiard tables. Laf. Gaz. 1/29/1898.
Archbishop Chapelle will pass through Lafayette en route to New Orleans on February the 9th. A brilliant reception will be given to him at New Orleans, by the clergy and laity. Our people should turn in mass and greet him here at the depot.
Laf. Adv. 1/29/1898.
A business directory of Lafayette merchants posted in the R. R. depot, hotels, and other public places of the town would not only be a good innovation but a badly needed want. Laf. Adv. 1/29/1898.
SOUTHERN PACIFIC TO ADD TO LAFAYETTE SHOPS
Announcement Made Wednesday by Supt. Sheridan - Large Sum Will Be Spent Here.
The Times-Democrat of yesterday says:
Added shop facilities for the Southern Pacific at Lafayette and Algiers were announced Wednesday by Hiram W. Sheridan, the new general superintendent of the Lousiana lines. How much will be expended in these improvements was not stated, but it is believed the appropriation will be about $250,000. Mr. Sheridan said he was certain that the work of the mechanical department could not be adequately handled without the addition shoproom, and he believed the improvements ought to be made within a year. Mr. Sheridan stated also that the company had no intention of removing its shops or division offices from Lafayette. Lafayette Advertiser 7/1/1913.
PRAISE FOR TROLLEY
Geo. T. Hedges of Iowa Tells of Advantages of Interurban Lines in His State.
Mr. Geo. T. Hedges, who was in Lafayette on business for a few days past, was interviewed on this paper in reference to his views on the benefits and advantages of interurban railroads. Mr. Hedges lives at Cedar Rapids, Ia., where interurban lines have been in operation for several years, and other lines are now being built; so he as he has had the opportunity to know of the benefits of interurban lines to a city. Mr. Hedges states that the trolley lines, by reason of their frequent trains, bring to the business centers the people from the surrounding country in large numbers, because of the advantages derived by being able to get it and out of town at a great saving of time. He states that the farmers along the lines not only use the trolley for the transportation of themselves and families, but also for the transportation of their products. And they also create employment for many people. One of these lines in Cedar Rapids, with its power house employees and others, has over 250 people in its employ. Mr. Hedges also states that he noticed that one of the railroads operating in Lafayette has opposed the building of trolley lines, but in the north the railroad companies have found that the trolley lines are feeders for their business, and they are very much in favor of them and help them along instead of opposing them. He also stated that the lands contiguous to and within two miles of the trolley lines had increased from fifty to one hundred per cent in value after the trolley lines have been in operation. He states that many citizens of Cedar Rapids have acquired a few acres of land along the different trolley lines and have built their homes there where they can live in the country and have the advantages of quick and easy access to the city.
With the building of the proposed trolley lines in Lafayette and the building of the proposed shops of the Southern Pacific Railway, Mr. Hedges states that the city should grow rapidly, and that in ten years from today Lafayette should be a city of from twenty to twenty-five thousand people. He said it is the wide-awake, live, progressive, pushing, energetic people of a town that make a city. One could almost tell of how the city would grow by the character of its business men. If a majority of the people of a city or town are opposed to public improvement and public utilities, you will find a town that is dead and will never grow to any extent. On the other hand, a town that is composed of live, wide-awake, enterprising people will never stand still, but will grow rapidly. Mr. Hedges is interested in a large tract of about sixty thousand acres of land on the Atchafalaya River in St. Martin and Iberville parishes, which was purchased for the purpose of colonizing with Northern farmers as soon as the levees are constructed so that the lands will be protected from overflow. Lafayette Advertiser 1/31/1913.
Fifty Cases. - 50 cases of Murray Hill Whiskey just received at Pellerin Bros'., near the Southern Pacific station. This brand of whiskey is famous for its purity. It is absolutely free from any unhealthy ingredients. For a drink of Murray Hill call at Pellerin's saloon, or it you want a bottle or more call up phone 37.
Lafayette Gazette 2/2/1901.
Mr. J. Hennington has returned from a visit to relatives in Washington, and has accepted the position of fireman on the switch engine at this place.
Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
The extra switch engine that had been running for some time at this place was pulled off this week, and Engineer Rogers was granted a leave of absence for a few days. Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
Mr. P. J. Tierney, the able mechanic of the Lafayette Round House, has returned from Algiers, where he has been working on a wrecking derrick which will henceforth be stationed in the Round House at this place. Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
Baton Rouge Railroad.
Speaking of the recent purchase of land opposite Baton Rouge by the Southern Pacific, the Baton Rouge State expresses its belief as follows that the Baton Rouge-Lafayette road will be built.
"The important question to our people now is whether the projected transfer is for the sole purpose of accommodating the Frisco road. Mr. Harahan states that it is for the purpose of allowing any to cross who wish to do so. This statement in connection with the acquirement of property on the other side of the river by the Southern Pacific alone would seem to indicate that the Southern Pacific alone would seem to indicate that the Southern Pacific will come across from Lafayette. And the close connection of Illinois Central and Southern Pacific interests strengthens that conclusion. The combination of the Southern Pacific for control of trans-continental traffic seems to be clearly indicated in these movements. In fact, it would appear that the prime reason for placing the transfer here is to shorten the route of the combined roads across the continent and provide more favorable conditions with the Northern Route."
From the Baton Rouge State and re-printed in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/8/1905.
IMPORTANT CHANGES.
An Assistant Superintendent and a Corps of Dispatchers Added to the Local Force of Railroad Men.
During recent years the railroad company has made a number of very important improvements at this point. The great increase in the traffic, both passenger and freight, necessitated enlarged facilities at this station, but despite these preparation to handle the business which seems to have grown more rapidly last year than in any previous year, the rush was so great during the past months that it was impossible to give the people that prompt and reliable service so essential to commerce in the business season. It is believed the establishment of the assistant superintendent's office at this place will facilitate matters and will result in better accommodations to the people.
But there is another feature connected with these changes which is of unusual interest to Lafayette. We refer to the increased importance of this point as a railroad center. Lafayette owes much of its prosperity to the large number of railroad people who have made their homes here, and the coming of several more families should be a source of much satisfaction to the community.
G. F. Hawks, the assistant superintendent, who has transferred his office to this station, has jurisdiction over the lines of the Morgan, Louisiana and Texas and those of the Louisiana Western. He is using that part of the building occupied by the local agent, Mr. Boudreaux, who has moved into that end of the freight depot utilized by the Morgan conductors as lodging apartments. The dispatcher's office is in charge of the following: G. C. Comstock, chief; H. White, D. B. Harris, W. F. Goldsberry. Lafayette Gazette 2/8/1902.
Fatal Collision. - It is reported that there was a collision yesterday morning on the Morgan road near Gibson, resulting in the death of Jack Mitchell, the engineer. Particulars of the wreck are not obtainable.
Lafayette Gazette 2/8/1902.
Found Unconscious.
A white man was found lying unconscious in front of Meyer's saloon on Monday morning. He was taken up by the police, and every effort was made to revive him, but it proved unsuccessful and he died Monday night. It is supposed that his death was caused by exposure, as it is believed that Sunday night he started home and being very drunk, fell and was unable to rise, so lay there all night exposed to the severe cold. So far the identity of the man has not been established, though there is some reason to believe that he was a railroad switchman by the name of Donovan. He was 5 feet, 10 inches in height and weighed about 165 pounds, and seemed to be somewhere near 40 years of age. He had gray eyes and a blonde moustache. He had $14.50 in his pockets. He was buried by the city Tuesday morning. Lafayette Advertiser 2/8/1902.
THE RAILROAD
(1873 Perspective.)
We are sorry that our people will not permit us to reproduce the entire article entitled, "To the Southern Pacific. A visit to the New Orleans and Texas Railroad, etc.," published in the N. O. Times Picayune of the 5th inst.; but extract the following, which we think will be of interest to our readers !
Where the railroad strikes Grand River a magnificent bridge and trestle-work, nearly 300 feet in length, has been built, with wide arches for logs and boats to pass underneath. On the other side of the Lower Grand River the earthen embankment again commences, and is completed up to what is called the Little Pigeon Bayou, eight miles from the Atchafalaya. To reach this latter river a road has to be cut through what is called an impassable swamp, and on which work was abandoned until Col. James, the present contractor, took the matter in hand. He placed over 1,500 men on the work, Capt. Hawthorne building the bridges and Capt. Dodge the trestlework, and has so far completed to within twenty-seven miles of Vermilionville, which place he expects to reach in the latter part of April.
The railroad trains will then reach Vermilionville in June, by which time the entire line will be completed to that place.
The line between Vermilionville and Houston, Texas, is now being built by Col. Riley and other contractors, and by the 1st of January next the road will be complete from New Orleans to Houston.
On the road between the Lower Grand River and the Atchafalaya, a distance of (either "26" or "36 miles"--somewhat unreadable), 19 of which is completed, the tract has to be built through an immense Cypress Swamp, which had been pronounced impassable. Embankments have, however, been built, with the exception of, in two places, in what is called the Travis Swamp, about 16 miles from the Atchafalaya, where trestle works, respectively 4000 feet at Bayou Goodrich and 2700 feet at Bayou (unreadable-4 letter name starts with C) are in process of construction, and will be completed in less than fifteen days. Besides these bayous, trestles have to be laid over four others, named Sullivan, Platte, Pigeon and the Ten Saws, of each about fifty or one hundred feet in length.
As the road now stands there is sixty-five miles completed miles completed to Donaldsonville, on which the trains are running nine miles beyond to where the track is laid, and twenty-four miles graded ready for the rails.
The road is being pushed through the swamp at the rate of a quarter of a mile a day, and will be completed in me. The railroad will run to Vermilionville in June, and to Houston in January.
Laf. Advertiser 2/8/1873.
S. P. & Mardi Gras. - The Southern Pacific will sell tickets to New Orleans and return on Feb. 10th, 11th, 12th and 13th at rates of one fare. Tickets good for return up to and including Feb. 24th.
Children under 12 years of age adult rate.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/11/1899.
Morgan's Railroad. - Morgan's Louisiana & Texas Railroad and Steamship Company will sell tickets from all Sun Set Stations to New Orleans and return Feb. 17 to 23, 1903, with return limit Feb. 28, 1903 at a rate of one fare on account of Mardi Gras. For additional particulars, apply to local agent, or to C. B. Ellis, Division Passenger Agent. New Iberia, La.
Lafayette Gazette 2/21/1903
Leaving Our Midst. - The Houston Post, of Tuesday, states that Supt. W. B. Mulvey, present superintendent of the Southern Pacific road from Lafayette to Houston, will be appointed superintendent of the Morgan division, to succeed Wm. F. Owen, who will shortly assume the office of general manager of the San Antonio Pass road, with headquarters at San Antonio.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/5/1893.
KRUTTSNITCH SAYS NOT. - General Supt.Kruttsnitch, according to the Picayune, has said emphatically that the Southern Pacific has no intentions of building a road from Baton Rouge to Lafayette, not withstanding the "sure thing" interview with a prominent railroad man published by the same paper some time ago. Certainly Mr. Kruttsnitch ought to know, and that simply leaves the project where it was last year and the year before and before that.
Lafayette needs the road and so does Baton Rouge; the next thing, or course, is for the two towns to get together and build it. It is a big undertaking; but not too big for determined people. It may not be possible to build it this year, nor perhaps the next; indeed it may be a case of try, try again; but of the effort is made strenuously, persistently, success must eventually follow.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/4/1905.
AN UNFORTUNATE MISFORTUNE. - A friend of ours in Carencro, who read with throbbing interest and undeveloped excitement the thrilling poem of the Brakeman's misfortune, as related by Col. Mugtugger, in last week's ADVERTISER, sends us the following true version of the affair:
The agent looked out at Carencro,
Anxiously awaiting the coming "tap;"
The brakeman gave him something, you know,
Wrapped in a brown wrap.
The train departed, and the agent flew
To examine his new-found treasure,
And discovered that poor, unsophisticated Jagou
Had drained the last of the measure, -
having punched in the cork with the end of his tongue, and substituted a weary
smile to keep nothing from leaking out.Lafayette Advertiser 1/4/1890.
RAILROAD NEWS.
The Lease of Southern Pacific's Louisiana Lines Expires.
And the Company Will Now Operate Them separately.
[From the N. O. Picayune.]
A complete surprise was sprung in the local railroad world yesterday by the issuance of the following circulars:
Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company -- having been terminated at midnight, Dec. 31, 1901, the following officers are hereby designated to conduct the business of this company, with headquarters at New Orleans, La.: W. H. Masters, traffic manager; T. Fay, general superintendent; J. B. Richardson, secretary and treasurer; Chas. E. Wermouth, auditor; A. C. Hutchinson, president.
Louisiana Western Railroad Company -- Office of the President, New York, Jan. 1, 1902: -- Notice! The lease of this company's properties to the Southern Pacific Company having been terminated at midnight, Dec. 31, 1901, the following officers are hereby designated to conduct the business of this company, with headquarters at New Orleans La.: W. H. Masters, traffic manager, T. Fay, general superintendent; J. B. Richardson, treasurer; Chas. E. Wermuth, auditor; E. H. Harriman, president.
Thornwell Fay, who becomes general superintendent under new regime, made the following statement in relation to the change:
"The owners of the properties, that is, the stockholders of the railroad companies concerned, that the Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company and the Louisiana Western Railroad Company should operate their own railroads under their own charters. The resulting change does not involve any change in the facilities or conveniences or service heretofore afforded the public."
A. C. Hutchinson, president of the Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad, was asked to explain the significance of the change.
"It is entirely a matter of form," he said. "The properties will be operated practically just as they have been. The Southern Pacific's lease expires to-night, and the properties will be operated under their own charters. That is all."
"Will Mr. Fay have entire charge of the transportation affairs of the two properties?" was asked; "or will the Louisiana lines continue under the jurisdiction of Manager Van Vleck?"
"Mr. Van Vleck's jurisdiction will take in Texas. Mr. Fay will report direct to Mr. Kruttschniti."
"How about the traffic departments?"
Mr. Masters is named as traffic manager. He will be in control, as far as freight matters are concerned, Mr. Decker will continue to look after passenger matters."
"Will the passenger affairs of the Louisiana lines continue under the jurisdiction of Mr. Morse?"
"As I have told you, the change is largely a technical one. The control of the properties remains where it was."
There are several details of jurisdiction which are still to be given out. They will be awaited with interest. Lafayette Gazette 1/4/1902.
From the Lafayette Gazette of January 4th, 1896:
FOUR CHILDREN
Meet With a Terrible Railroad Accident Near Broussardville.
As the result of one of the awful railroad accidents which are altogether too frequent in this country, Effie Girouard, a little girl of 9 years of age, is dead, a sister of 12 years is suffering from external injuries and may die, a third sister of 14 years has the marks of less serious wounds, and a 4-year-old brother has a crushed leg.
Last Tuesday at about half past two o'clock in the afternoon, the four children of Mr. Hebrard Girouard, a farmer living near Broussardville, were driving home from that place where they had gone to buy some toys for New Year's day. When crossing the track just outside of the limits of the town they were run down by a train, which consisted only of a locomotive and caboose, and which, from all accounts, was running at a very fast speed. The little children were thrown in different directions, the horse was killed outright and the buggy was knocked out of shape. After the accident the train stopped, backed up to where the children were, put them in the caboose and brought them to the depot at Broussardville, a few arpents from the scene of the occurrence. Drs. DeLaurel and Struhmer were immediately called and they did all in their power to alleviate the pains of the ill-fated children, one of whom was in a dying condition as its brains were oozing out. By means of mattresses the unfortunate little ones were carried to the hospitable home of Mr. Ed. St. Julien, where they received the attention of skillful physicians and kind nurses.
News of the accident was wired to Lafayette by Officer Geo. Malagarie during the afternoon and Sheriff Broussard, Coroner Gladu and a representative of this paper left immediately for Broussardville. A train bearing Judge Parkerson, Dr. Tolson and Capt. Jas. Mitchell was dispatched to Broussardville by the railroad company. As there had not yet been any death resulting from the accident the coroner had nothing to do wait the end of little Effie, of which there was no doubt in the minds of the attending physicians. At about 8 o'clock the same day the poor little girl breathed her last and death put an end to the most excruciating pains that it has ever been the lot of one so young to bear.
In order to secure the attendance of all the wintesses Coroner Gladu postponed the holding of an inquest until Thursday, on which day he and Judge Debaillon and Sheriff Broussard went to Broussard and impaneled the following jury of inquest: Henri Fournet, Aurelien Olivier, Louis J. Gary, D. G. Bernard and Raoul J. Malagarie. The testimony adduced went to show that the train which caused the accident consisted of a locomotive and caboose and was running at an unusually fast speed and did not whistle before reaching the crossing where the children were run over -- and that the whistle was heard only after the accident. Avie Girouard, who sustained slight injuruies, says that the locomotive did not whistle, and that at about an arpent from the crossing she stopped the horse and stood up in the buggy, but failed to see any train.
Stripped of its legal trimming the jury's verdict is that Effie Girouard came to her death by the accident "through the gross and wanton negligence" of Alex Whitmore, the engineer, and G. D. French, the conductor, who were charged with the crime of manslaughter.
Sheriff Broussard arrested Whitmore and French and placed them in the parish jail awaiting an order from the district judge at Franklin. The order came on the 11 o'clock train and the prisoners were released after furnishing bond of $1,500 each. Judge J. G. Parkerson, Hon. Charles D. Caffery and S. R. Parkerson signed as bondsmen.
The prisoners did not care to make any statement for publication, but they expressed sorrow over the deplorable affair and said that at the proper time they would establish their innocence.
Lafayette Gazette 1/4/1896.
Freight conductor Tom Hebert received painful injuries to one of his hands one day this week whilst giving an object lesson in car-coupling to an inexperienced brakeman. Dr. Martin dressed his hand and pronounced the injuries not serious.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/5/1895.
DEADLY TRAIN DE-RAILMENT
On Friday afternoon, Dec. 28th, the California express, on the Texas and Pacific railroad, was derailed at a plantation switch a few miles north of Vachere station, about forty-eight miles from New Orleans. The accident was caused by some cold-blooded villain who had broken the switch lock, thrown the switch, and twisted the signal as as to make appear to be right. The engineer, Will Alexander, saw the danger too late to avert the catastrophe, but he had just time to put on the air brakes and reverse the lever before the shock came and he lay prisoner beneath his engine. The baggage and mail coaches were also overturned. Before assistance could be rendered to the struggling engineer the drumhead of the boiler exploded and the poor fellow was literally boiled to death. The baggage master was considerably bruised, but no one else on the train was injured. Mr. Alexander was considered to be the fastest and best engineer on the road, and by his fearlessness while at his post had earned him the sobriquet of Wild Bill. He had been married but little more than a year to a daughter of Col. John C. Dowty, of North Louisiana. He was head of the Division of the Brotherhood of Locomotive engineers of New Orleans.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/5/1889
Just as the hands of the clock pointed to midnight, on the 31st of December, every live engine on the tracks in the Lafayette yard of the Southern Pacific Railroad lifted up his voice (or whistle) and sent forth its welcome to the New Year. The effect was startling, and many in the town misconstrued its meaning, thinking it was the alarm for a fire in the neighborhood of the depot. But when they learned that it was merely the railroad boys' greeting to the New year, all joined in the welcome, and exclaimed, "Bully for the railroad boys." Lafayette Advertiser 1/5/1889.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of January 6th, 1904:
WITHOUT FOUNDATION
The Report of Removal of Round House to New Iberia.
Prominent Railroad Officials State That There is no Intention of Making Any Change.
In order to settle positively all the irresponsible talk about the round house and division being moved from Lafayette to New Iberia, which as been going on for some time to the detriment of Lafayette, the editor of this paper called on Assistant Supt. C. C. Mallard in regard to the matter. Mr. Mallard was most courteous, and when questioned about the dispatch to the Picayune from Franklin, stated that there was absolutely no foundation for the statement made, and that furthermore he knew of no intention on the part of the Southern Pacific management to make any change.
The editor also interviewed L. G. Cox; tax agent for the Southern Pacific, who was here last week, and he also stated in positive terms that the Road had no intention of making the change. He also added that only recently the division had been moved from Orange and Echo to avoid the anomalous condition of having a division runover from one road to another involving two different sets of officers. The L. W. ends at Echo and has its own officers, the road on to Houston is a separate road and has its officers. The change to Echo was made in order to have the men on each road altogether under its own officers. "Now," said Mr. Cox, "it would be absurd to create the same state of affairs, which has just been corrected, by moving the end of division to New Iberia."
To further make a finality of the matter, Real Estate Agent J. C. Nickerson and the editor each addressed a letter to General Freight Agent Thornwall Fay, inclosing the Picayune special from Franklin, and requested Mr. Fay to kindly state whether there was any truth in the special. We print his letters below, which are sufficiently positive and emphatic.
New Orleans, La. Dec. 29, 1903.
Mr. W. A. LeRosen,
Lafayette, La.
Dear Sir:
Your favor of Dec. 29 and its enclosure received. This Company has no intention at the present time of removing its round-house, terminal equipment, etc., now at Lafayette to New Iberia.
New Orleans, La., Dec. 26, 1903.
Mr. J. C. Nickerson,
Lafayette, La.
Dear Sir:
In reply to your favor of Dec. 28, with respect to removal of terminal from Lafayette, would advise that there is no foundation for the rumor. Our Company has no intention of removing its round-house and terminal from Lafayette to New Iberia.
Yours truly,
T. FAY.
Gen'l Superintendent.
These declarations by high officials of the Road ought to silence any further talk on this subject, and restore confidence to those whom these persistent rumors have made uneasy.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/6/1904
FROM THE SOUTHERN PACIFIC CO.
Atlantic System.
Houston, Tx., Dec. 30th, 1898.
Circular:
The Lafayette Train Gate System (early crossing gate on Jefferson/Lincoln?)
established on these lines in May, 1896, as a measure of protection to life, limb and property has been successfully operated since that time, and the results of the Company in decreasing accidents and in increasing revenue have been very satisfactory.
The opposition of the public to the System, however, instead of decreasing, has steadily grown, and in deference to its wishes and with the view of trying to please our patrons, it has been decided to discontinue the system on Jan. 1st, 1899.W. G. VANVLECK,
Manager.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/7/1899
BAD ACCIDENT.
Crowley, La. -- The Southern Pacific depot was the scene of a sad and horrible accident about noon Monday. The Gueydan train had just arrived and was discharging its passengers. Among them was Mrs. W. S. Gault and her two little children, from Morse Station. Mrs. Gault had descended with her youngest child and was reaching to lift the oldest one, a little girl Ethel, about four years old, to the ground when the train moved, unbalancing the child and throwing her legs beneath the cars. The wheels passed over her left arm, crushing and severing it below the knee. Fortunately, Drs. J. F. and N. B. Morris were present and gave the little child quick medical attention, and notwithstanding the loss of arm and leg, it is standing the ordeal nobly and doing well. The mother received a slight contusion on the head and was miraculously saved from the greater injury by a bystander, who caught her as she was herself falling between the cars. The train was in charge of Conductor Smith and Engineer Dolan. Lafayette Gazette 1/7/1899.
THE NEW ORLEANS AND OPELOUSAS RAILROAD.
We are credibly informed that Charles Morgan will favor the enterprise entered into by Gen. Price and Mr. Chouteau in relation to extending the Opelousas Railroad to the Sabine, to connect with the Houston and Orange Railroad. If this is be so the road will be speedily built. Will any man of capital of this place, in this State, or Texas oppose this important movement? We trust not. On the contrary, we hope to see all who can throw the weight of a feather in favor of the movement does.
If agents are needed to bring this grand scheme to a practical, working point, let them be working, efficient agents. Let us leave no silk glove, high priced, ( 2 paragraphs of unreadable words.)
But now let us see if we have come to the end of those troubles, and if a brighter future draws upon us. It is for the people who are most interested in this road to say whether it shall be built at once, or not. What say the people Louisiana and Texas? We look to the papers of New Orleans and Houston to answer these questions. - From the Banner and in the Lafayette Advertiser 1/9/1869.
THE LOUISIANA CENTRAL RAILROAD.
A PROMISING OUTLOOK FOR THE EARLY COMPLETION.
[From the N. O. Times.]
Concerning the anticipated action of the Northern capitalists, who have undertaken the construction of the Louisiana Central Railroad to extend from Vermilionville to Shreveport, and thus creating an unbroken line of railroad communication between New Orleans and Texas, it will be a cause for public gratification to learn that recently received dispatches from Mr. G. B. Ward, of Detroit, Michigan - the leading spirit in the enterprise - work on the road will be commenced forthwith.
On the 6th inst. Governor Kellogg received the following:
DETROIT, MICH., Jan 5, 1874.
Gov. Kellogg :
Will immediately commence and complete road according to terms of charter.
G. B. WARD.
Gov. Kellogg telegraphed back that the bill had become a law, and received the following reply :
Gov. Kellogg :
Am much gratified by your action. The people of your city and State will heartily approve. Will comply with terms of charter.
G. B. WARD. Lafayette Advertiser 1/10/1874.
Changes at Southern Pacific.
C. W. Nichols resigned his position with the Southern Pacific a few days ago, and has been succeeded by Robt. Stenhouse. Mr. Nichols was tendered a supper by his friends at Delhomme's restaurant. He leaves to-day for his old home in Algiers. Lafayette Advertiser 1/11/1905.
A complete surprise was sprung to the local railroad world yesterday by the issuance of the following circulars:
Morgan's Louisina and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company - Office of the President, New Orleans, La., Jan. 1, 1902.
---Notice!---
The lease of this company's properties to the Southern Pacific Company having been terminated at midnight, Dec. 31, 1901, the following officers are hereby designated to conduct the business of this company, with headquarters at New Orleans, La.; W. H. Masters, traffic manager; T. Fay, general superintendent; J. R. Richardson, secretery and treasurer; Chas. E. Wermuth, auditor; A. C. Hutchinson, president.
Lousiana Western Railroad Company - Office of the President, New York, Jan. 1, 1902. -- Notice!
The lease of this company's properties to the Southern Pacific Company having been terminated at midnight, Dec. 31, 1901, the following officers are hereby designated to conduct the business of this company, with headquarters at New Orleans, La.; W. H. Masters, traffic manager; T. Fay, general superintendent; J. B. Richardson, treasurer; Chas. E. Wermuth, auditorE. H. Harriman, president.
Thornwell Fay, who becomes general superintendent under the new regime, made the following statement in relation to the change:
"The owners of the properties, that is, the stockholders of the railroad companies concerned, have deemed it proper and to the best interests of all concerned, that the Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company and the Louisiana Western Railroad Company should operate their own railroads under their own charters. The resulting change does not involve any change in the facilities or conveniences or service heretofore afforded the public."
A. C. Hutchinson, president of the Morgan's Louisina and Texas Railroad, was asked to explain the signifigance of the change.
"It is entirely a matter of form," he said. "The properties will be operated practically just as they have been. The Southern Pacific's lease expires to-night, and the properties will be operated under their own charters. That is all."
"Will Mr. Fay have entire charge of the transportation affairs of the two properties?" was asked; "or will the Louisiana lines continue to be under the jurisdiction of Manager Van Vleck's jurisdiction will take in Texas. Mr. Fay will report to us direct to Mr. Kruttschnitt."
"How about the traffic departments?"
Mr. Masters is named as traffic manager. He will be in control, as far as freight matters are concerned. Mr. Decker will continue to look after passenger matters."
"Will the passenger affairs of the Louisiana lines continue under the jurisdiction of Mr. Morse?"
"As I have told you, the change is largely a technical one. The control of the properties remains where it was."
There are several details of jurisdiction which are still to be given out. They will be awaited with interest. Lafayette Gazette 1/11/1902.
Fire in S. P. Yards.
Last Tuesday evening a carload of cotton in the Southern Pacific yards was considerably damaged by fire. The fire is believed to have originated from sparks from a locomotive. Lafayette Gazette 1/11/1902.
Southern Pacific & Emigration.
Some days ago the Crowley Signal remonstrated with the Southern Pacific Company for the apparent desire of the latter to induce Acadia rice growers to settle in Texas. Such was not the intention of the of the Southern Pacific, however. Press Agent Henry Mayo explains that the purpose of the company was merely to get the Acadia rice planters to "look at the Texas rice lands" and then go back home. Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1901.
Accident at Mouton Switch.
When the east-bound passenger train reached Mouton switch yesterday evening it ran against a young negro boy who was going over the crossing on horseback. Some parties, who saw that the train was dangerously near, told the boy not to cross, but he insisted upon doing so and was struck by the locomotive. He sustained painful injuries and his horse was instantly killed. Conductor Kelley who was in charge of the train, secured the services of Dr. Haas, a passenger, who examined the boy and said that his injuries were not of a serious nature. Witnesses to the accident say that the boy's escape was most miraculous. Lafayette Gazette 1/12/1895.
Mr. J. E. Dunlap, Yard Dispatcher for the Southern Pacific Railroad here, has resigned to take the position of yard dispatcher at Algiers. Mr. A. F. Church, an old-time and much liked conductor, succeeds Mr. Dunlap. Lafayette Advertiser 1/12/1889.
Petty Thefts. - We have to record several instances of petty thieving in the neighborhood of the depot lately. On last Tuesday night some one burglarized the barber shop of Mr. C. C. Higginbotham, and took from there all his razors, some towels, soap and other small articles. It is very convenient for tramps who stop off at the railroad to raid buildings in that vicinity, and a strict watch should be kept until the tramp season slacks up.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/12/1889.
Had to Pay. - The following is a special from New Iberia to the N. O. Times-Democrat of the 12th instant.
"Some excitement occurred at the Southern Pacific depot yesterday when west-bound passenger train No. 18, rolled in. This train had passed the train having on it the Breaux Bridge excursionists at Olivier Station. The Lafayette excursionists boarded the regular train, and when they reached this place refused to get off, claiming the company had not kept its contract, in which it was stated the excursion train would run a half hour ahead of the regular. The conductor, the agent here and the brakeman all tried to persuade them either to get off or to pay fare. They refused to do either. The agent then sent down town for the chief of police, who took up with several officers, who convinced the excursionists that they must either pay their fares or go to jail. They paid their fares after having detained the train for two hours, and in the meantime the excursion train passed No. 18 at this place and reached Lafayette an hour before the regular."
From the N. O. Democrat and in the Lafayette Gazette 1/14/1899.
Sterling Mudd has enjoyed a well earned rest from his work at the Southern Pacific depot. During his vacation he visited New Orleans.
Lafayette Gazette 1/14/1899.
The Coming Railroad.
We learn by private correspondence, and most reliable authority that Gen. T. Price and James B. Price, who but a short time ago passed through our Town have returned to New Orleans, from Texas.
They report a most cordial and encouraging reception along the whole proposed line of Railroad, and especially in Houston, Texas, which is destined ultimately to be the terminus of our route, which will there tap the immense net work of Railroads extending over every portion of that almost boundless State. The people there are anxious to see that work completed and Texas and Louisiana bound together in iron grasp, march on with giant strides to wealth and strength. We are convinced from the correspondence above alluded to that the completion of the Road between Brashear and the Sabine has become a certainty. there can be no longer any doubt as to that fact. - It behooves us then to respond in ready spirit to the zeal and public feeling of our Texas brethren, in its construction ; as we have said before let us be up and working, let us not be frightened or taken aback by sacrifices ; they may seem hard at present, but they will be temporary and will in after days repay one hundred fold. The advantages resulting from this road are immense and will be lengthily discussed in our next number.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/16/1869.
The N. O. O. & G. W. RAILROAD.
We learn by private correspondence, and most reliable authority that Gen. T. L. Price and James B. Rice, who but a short time ago passed through our Town have returned to New Orleans, from Texas. They report a most cordial and encouraging reception along the whole proposed line of Railroad, and especially in Houston, Texas, which is destined ultimately to be the terminus of our route, which will there tap the immense net work of railroads extending over every portion of that almost boundless State. The people there are anxious to see that great work completed and Texas and Louisiana bound together in iron grasp, march on with giant strides to wealth and strength. We are convinced from the correspondence above alluded to that the completion of the Road between Brashear (now Morgan City) and the Sabine has become a certainty, there can be no longer any doubt as to that fact. - It behooves us then to respond in ready spirit to the zeal and public feeling of our Texas brethren, in its construction; as we have said before let us be up and working, let us not be frightened or taken aback by sacrifices; they may seem hard at present, but they will be but temporary and will in after days repay one hundred fold. The advantages resulting from this road are immense and will be lengthily discussed in our next number.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/16/1869
THE LOUISIANA CENTRAL RAILROAD.
PROMISING OUTLOOK FOR ITS EARLY COMPLETION.
[From the N. O. Times.]
Concerning the anticipated action of the Northern capitalists, who have undertaken the construction of the Louisiana Central Railroad ti extend from Vermilionville to Shreveport, and thus creating an unbroken line of railroad communication between New Orleans and Texas, it will be a cause for public gratification to learn that recently received dispatches from Mr. G. B. Ward, of Detroit, Michigan - the leading spirit in the enterprise - work on the road will be commenced forthwith.
On the 6th inst. Governor Kellogg received the following.
DETROIT MICH., Jan. 5, 1874.
Gov. Kellogg:
Will immediately commence and complete road according to terms of charter.
G. D. WARD.
Gov. Kellogg telegraphed back that the bill had become a law, and received the following in reply:
DETROIT, Jan. 7.
Gov. Kellogg:
Am much gratified by your action. The people of your city and State will heartily approve. Will comply with terms of charter. G.D. WARD.
From the N. O. Times and in the Lafayette Advertiser of January 11th, 1874.
A New Railroad Project.
The following special telegram from Morgan City was published in the New Orleans Picayune a few days since:
“Mr. Humphries, representing the New Orleans & Southwestern railroad, has been a visitor here several times lately in the interest of a projected new railroad from New Orleans to Morgan City, with this place as the terminal. He has been present at a session of the city council, and it is probable that body will grant the company a frontage on Berwick bay, while the citizens are disposed to encourage the new line in every way they can.
“Last Monday a party of seven, under Engineer Corbin, started to survey the route to Luling, by way of Bayou Black and Houma, and are now in the field working as rapidly as possible. The company has secured a right of way. It will connect at Luling, on the Texas & Pacific railroad. Many are under the impression that by the time the line is completed to this place it will be met in Berwick by the Kansas City Southern from Lake Charles. The company will also put in a line of transportation in the Teche trade.”
The construction of this new road should prove an added stimulus to the people of this section to bestir themselves and seek to induce connection between this projected road and the Kansas City Southern, which now runs into Lake Charles.
New Iberia should revive the movement started last summer for a north and south railroad connection for the Teche country. A right of way secured from this point to and along the Hunter’s canal to Gueydan and a surveyed route would be an inducement to the Kansas City Southern to reach out into this rich and populous section. – New Iberia Enterprise.
The rapid development of this section has rendered one road entirely inadequate. There is too much business for one road and a competing line is much needed. Several railroad projects have been mentioned in the newspapers and it will be wise for the people of this section to keep well-informed on the subject. Lafayette Gazette 1/18/1902.
Car Shortage On the Morgan Road Explained by President Hutchinson.
The people of this section have been handicapped during the business season by inadequate transportation facilities. The cane-growers, as well as people engaged in other industries have been seriously hampered in their business by the inability of the railroad company to meet the demands imposed by the unprecedented increase in the freight office. Speaking on this subject to a reporter of the New Orleans States, President Hutchinson, of the Morgan road, said :
"The blockade is not confined to the Morgan road or the lines of the Southern Pacific. Every railroad in the country is complaining of lack of cars to handle the business. All the car factories are away behind with their orders. We are just now receiving cars which should have reached us last fall. In addition to this we have over 14,000 cars in service. We are building cars in the shops at Algiers every day. We have the rolling stock in use we can find. It is as much to our interest to dispatch the business rapidly as it is to the interest of the shipper to have it done. We are using every effort to move the freight. The situation is very unusual and could not have been foreseen by the longest-headed railroad man in the country. The demand far exceeds any other season in the history of the country. Generally there is some way of arriving at a fair estimate of what the tonnage in the territory is liable to be, but this time everybody's calculations went wrong, and the whole country is in the same condition we are.
"The blockade and car famine will continue just so long as the present wave of prosperity continues. How long that will be it is impossible to say. WE are going to try and have the cars, but we are dependent upon the car factories elsewhere and the capacity of our shops for the supply, and we cannot furnish cars faster than they can be constructed. We have done all we could to keep the enormous business moving, but we have been unable to do so. There is a great blockade in Algiers. The congestion is new. Never before has the tonnage from the terminal equaled the volume of business we are doing now. Export and domestic trade is tremendous. The public ought to know these things. They can find out by writing to any car factory and asking when cars can be built and delivered in any part of the United States. If the factory will agree to deliver them in less than from ten to twelve months from the factory is showing more favor to others than is accorded to us. I can only say we are doing everything we can to relieve the present situation. We move the freight as rapidly as we can. If the public will wait for a while it will see plenty of cars standing on the side-tracks. As soon as the crops are moved there will be a big surplus of cars, because there are more in use now than ever before since the first railroad was constructed."
From the New Orleans States and in the Lafayette Gazette 1/18/1902
C. C. Mabray, the Southern Pacific's hustling assistant agent at this place, will leave on the 21st of this month for his former home near LaGrange, Ga., He will be away for several days.
Lafayette Gazette 1/19/1895.
RAIL-ROAD RACKET.
Our aim is to build a branch Rail-Road through this fertile section of the Teche Country and we will not rest until our mission is accomplished, and we hope at no far-off date, we may compliment ourselves in its realization as having contributed in every means possible towards the building of said Branch.
A branch built from here to Lafayette, as we have heretofore maintained, would be more beneficial to us as being a prominent Rail-Road center for going in any direction; but it seems that our our neighbors of Lafayette possess the same dormant spirit as our people, as we have not heard from them since the first article published by the VALLEY OF THE TECHE. We are led to believe that if our good Confreres of the "Gazette" and "Advertiser" would give us a PULL, that we could by constantly clamoring and calling their attention to this important question, infuse some life into their dormant bodies. We must go at it with vim and force and combine our energies in wrestling vehemently towards the realization of it.
Let our Businessmen call a meeting at once and organize a substantial "Board of Trade" and that this subject be their main object of consideration. "L 'Union fait la Force' ."
We acknowledge the correctness of the charge made by our esteemed contemporary that we are possessed of a "dormant spirit", and but for this fact it is probable the branch for which Breaux Bridge has been opining so much, would have sprung into existence long ago. However, it is to the future we must look for the accomplishment of this much hoped for commercial link, and so let us not think of what might have been, as that would involve only a loss of time, but let us strive to extricate ourselves from the state of lethargy instead, by energizing this same dormant spirit that has proved such a drag to our progress in the past. How do this? By all pulling together in all matters involving the common prosperity of the country. By active cooperation in every single movement having for its object the advancement of the common interest, and certainly, railroad connection with Breaux Bridge deserves a prominent place in this classification. Whilst the present much disturbed condition of the country is bound to offer material opportunities to an immediate enlargement in the undertaking, it should not deter the citizens of the towns desirous of this condition, from entering on preliminary steps leading to the final consummation of more mature plans. We believe Lafayette will do her full part in laying the foundation now, for future work in this regard. Through a body of its citizens, this town showed an earnest disposition to cooperate with citizens of Breaux Bridge, on a former occasion, in a movement contemplating railroad communications between the two localities. The first effort resulted in failure; let us hope a second trial will meet with a more successful (unreadable word.) Lafayette Advertiser 1/19/`1895.
A FEW MILES OF RAILROAD IRON AND CROSSTIES WANTED.
[From the Donaldsonville Chief.]
The Lake Charles Echo of last says :
"Thos. Kleinpeter, engineer, informs us that he and engineer Barr inspected the railroad bed eastwardly to a point about forty miles east of Vermilionville, and found it in much better condition than they anticipated."
It is a crying shame that the commercial interests of New Orleans should be suffering and declining for want of railroad connection with the prolific agricultural and stock raising regions of the great State of Texas, when all that is necessary to secure this desideratum is a few miles of grading and the laying of a few tons of railroad iron. The extension of our New Orleans and Texas road to the Sabine, opposite the town of Orange, Texas, would connection with the road running from that point towards Houston, and develop a trade that would prove remunerative from the start, and soon make the New Orleans and Texas the best paying railway in the South.
In fact the simple closing of the little gap of a dozen miles between the western terminus of our Donaldsonville section of the New Orleans and Texas, and the eastern bank of the Grand river, would place the line speedily upon a substantial paying basis. This extension would provide connection with steamboats plying the Teche Atchafalya and various other streams throughout the Attakapas region, thus insuring cheap and rapid communication between that productive section and the New Orleans Market. The benefits of such a consummation are obvious, but unfortunately we cannot entertain much hope of their fruition in the near future, as the lack of capital in the South, and the financial depression existing throughout the North, evidenced by the numerous failures daily recorded in the press telegrams, demonstrate that the men who have money to invest are far and few between, and they will naturally be very cautious in their ventures until there is promise of better times and a sounder status ahead.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/19/1878.
RAIL-ROAD RACKET.
Our aim is to build a branch Rail-Road through this fertile section of the Teche Country and we will not rest until our mission is accomplished, and we hope at no far-off date, we may compliment ourselves in its realization as having contributed in every means possible towards the building of said Branch.
A branch built from here to Lafayette, as we have heretofore maintained, would be more beneficial to us as being a prominent Rail-Road center for going in any direction; but it seems that our our neighbors of Lafayette possess the same dormant spirit as our people, as we have not heard from them since the first article published by the VALLEY OF THE TECHE. We are led to believe that if our good Confreres of the "Gazette" and "Advertiser" would give us a PULL, that we could by constantly clamoring and calling their attention to this important question, infuse some life into their dormant bodies. We must go at it with vim and force and combine our energies in wrestling vehemently towards the realization of it.
Let our Businessmen call a meeting at once and organize a substantial "Board of Trade" and that this subject be their main object of consideration. "L 'Union fait la Force' ."
We acknowledge the correctness of the charge made by our esteemed contemporary that we are possessed of a "dormant spirit", and but for this fact it is probable the branch for which Breaux Bridge has been opining so much, would have sprung into existence long ago. However, it is to the future we must look for the accomplishment of this much hoped for commercial link, and so let us not think of what might have been, as that would involve only a loss of time, but let us strive to extricate ourselves from the state of lethargy instead, by energizing this same dormant spirit that has proved such a drag to our progress in the past. How do this? By all pulling together in all matters involving the common prosperity of the country. By active cooperation in every single movement having for its object the advancement of the common interest, and certainly, railroad connection with Breaux Bridge deserves a prominent place in this classification. Whilst the present much disturbed condition of the country is bound to offer material opportunities to an immediate enlargement in the undertaking, it should not deter the citizens of the towns desirous of this condition, from entering on preliminary steps leading to the final consummation of more mature plans. We believe Lafayette will do her full part in laying the foundation now, for future work in this regard. Through a body of its citizens, this town showed an earnest disposition to cooperate with citizens of Breaux Bridge, on a former occasion, in a movement contemplating railroad communications between the two localities. The first effort resulted in failure; let us hope a second trial will meet with a more successful (unreadable word.) Lafayette Advertiser 1/19/`1895.
Mr. A. E. Clark who worked for about three months as Engineer on the Raceland Branch, returned home Sunday. Laf. Adv. 1/19/1895.
Engineers Sheely, Scrugg and Lou, who had been transferred for sometime from the L. W. Division, have returned to Houston. Laf. Adv. 1/19/1895.
Nice Promotion. - Mr. F. R. Davis, Jr., the efficient assistant in the agent's office of the Southern Pacific railroad at this place, has been promoted to the position of night operator at Eola, La. He was succeeded by our popular young friend G. R. Delaureal. Mr. Delaureal only remained a few days, his services being in demand at Algiers. We are sorry that "Georgie" could not stay with us. Lafayette Advertiser 1/19/1889.
Moving to Laf. - Mr. Albert Delhomme, of Breaux Bridge, has accepted a position in the office of the Southern Pacific railway at this place. We extend him a hearty welcome. Lafayette is the place for young men of energy and enterprise.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/19/1889.
COURSE IN TELEGRAPHY.
To Be Added to the Institute Course, Beginning Jan. 25.
It has been announced that a Department of Telegraphy will be added to the courses of study at the Southwestern Industrial Institute, beginning at the opening of the second term of the present session, Monday, Jan 25, inst. The establishment of this department arises as a result of the opinion expressed by General Manager Thornwell Fay, of the Southern Pacific road, that such a department was needed here and would be a valuable source of trained and efficient telegraph operators for this and connecting lines. Arrangements are being made whereby one of the Chief Train Dispatchers of the Southern Pacific line at this point may take charge of the new department, without letting it take away any of his regular duty hours in the Dispatcher's office. This arrangement is possible by reason of the fact that President Stephens, of the Industrial Institute, is himself an experienced railroad telegrapher having devoted a number of years to that work in responsible positions on the Texas and Pacific, Iowa Central, and Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroads. He will be able therefore to supplement the work of the Chief of the Telegraph department, and relieve him when necessary. This organization of the department will be an assurance will be an assurance to all railroad companies of the thoroughness of the training received and the full practical preparation to take a position immediately upon finishing the course at the Institute. The course as planned will require two years of study and practice, and will include English, Mathematics, Railroad bookkeeping and Telegraphic practice.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/20/1904.
Course in Telegraphy Receives Commendation of Railroad Officials.
It is gratifying to learn of the favor with which the proposed Telegraphy Course at the Industrial Institute is being received in official railroad circles, as evidenced by the following letters: Morgan's La. & Texas Railroad and Steamship Co., Louisiana Western Railroad Company. Office of General Superintnedent.
New Orleans, La., Jan. 15, 1904.
Mr. E. L. Stephens, President,
Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute.
Lafayette, La.
Dear Sir:
Your letter of January 8, applying for permission of our Train Dispatcher, Mr. J. I. Hulse, to teach telegraphy in your institution, has been received. I had already received Mr. Hulse's application upon the same matter, and had passed favorably upon it.
I am very glad indeed to know that the State of Louisiana has added this department to the Southwestern Industrial Institute, and I hope that the results will meet with your fondest expectations. There is a steady demand for competent, reliable, and sober telegraph operators.
Yours truly,
T. Fay,
General Superintendent. East Louisiana Railroad Company Office of Vice President and General Manager.
Covington, La., Jan. 15, 1904.
E. L. Stephens, Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute,
Lafayette, La.,
Dear Sir:
I note with great pleasure that you have established a Department of Telegraphy at the Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute. In my opinion such work could be in charge of no better man than yourself, as I know from the work you have done as a practical telegraph operator in my service. From the standpoint of a railroad official, I wish to say that I believe that you are thus conferring a benefit upon the children of the State by helping them to learn a business that will be a help to any young man or woman, and also upon the railroads by giving them better employees. Wishing you every success in this undertaking, I remain,
Yours truly,
N. G. Pearsall.
Vice President and General Manager.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/20/1904.
Arm Crushed.
E. A. Landry, a brakeman on the Morgan Railroad had his arm crushed Saturday at Franklin by being caught between two cars. H e was taken to New Orleans for treatment. Lafayette Advertiser 1/20/1904.
Partial Recovery. - Mr. A. E. Mouton recovered a part of his valuable papers which were stolen from his office. They were found on the trucks of a freight car in the railroad yards at Lake Charles by a night watchman. The car was set into the yard from Texas. Thus while the officers were going East, the culprits traveled west. Lafayette Advertiser 1/20/1900.
Hoodlums on the Train. - Last Wednesday afternoon, while returning from the Sheriff's meeting in New Orleans, sheriff Broussard was a passenger on the train and during the trip chanced to observe that three individuals, passengers on the train, would get off at stations and gather rocks and pieces of coal, and while the train was running on its way, they would throw at people along the track for amusement. So when the train crossed the line into this parish he paid close attention and saw the same three young hoodlums apparently trying to leave their mark in this part of the State. One little negro was sitting on a fence post, and one of the throwers sent a piece of coal after him which struck the post and scattered into the smallest pieces. On arrival of the train here the sheriff placed them under arrest without ceremony, and brought them before Judge Martin, where the proper charge was made against them and the case fixed for hearing at eleven o'clock Wednesday morning.
The prisoners were all young men and gave their names as J. T. Martin, E. S. Summerford and F. M. Saurrels. Bond was fixed at twenty-five dollars for each accused, and we learned was procured by placing the sum of forty-seven dollars and two silver watches in the hands of a citizen who signed as security. On Wednesday morning however, the prisoners were conspicuously absent, but as they did not say "farewell" to any one so far as we know, we are unable to give their present address, and likely they will never be heard of again, especially throwing at people from a train. We desire to commend the course of sheriff Broussard in this matter. He did just what an officer should do under the circumstances. The result of the missiles thrown by these people might have been most serious; it is said that a missile thrown from a running train moves with a peculiar velocity. When rocks are thrown at trains much indignation is felt and justly so. The reason is the same when the conditions are reversed. Lafayette Advertiser 1/20/1894.
KNOCKED DOWN
And Robbed - Locked in Box-Car and Shipped Home.
The headlines of this article tell the story of which Felix Jacquet, a resident of this town, was the unwilling victim. Mr. Jacquet is a poor man and sells patent medicines for a livelihood. The other night while walking near the track of the Southern Pacific road at Crowley he was set upon by two negro tramps, who knocked him down, after which he was dragged into a boxcar where he was robbed of several dollar and left in a senseless condition.
The negroes then got out of the car and locked the door, thus making Mr. Jacquet a passenger on a freight train which was bound east. When the train reached this point some railroad men heard an unusual noise in a car which upon investigation proved to be the appeals of Mr. Jacquet to be liberated. Mr. Jacquet was pretty badly injured about the face, but fortunately was not seriously hurt. Lafayette Gazette 1/21/1899.
FLYING SWITCHES.
Made by Our Railroad Reporter for the Readers of the Advertiser.
Mr. Feeney, of Train No. 17, will please accept thanks for favors shown scribe.
General Manager Kruttschnitt, of the S. P., passed through here Monday enroute for Houston.
All the boys will probably be happy to-night as the pay wagon is expected to reach Lafayette sometime to-day.
We were sorry to learn of Mr. Ruone Gentil's mishap last Thursday morning, resulting in the crushing of several fingers while making a coupling.
Quite a crowd of Chinamen passed through the city the early part of the week, bound for Havana, via New Orleans, where they go to work on plantations.
Mr. John A. Morris, of Lottery fame, passed through here last Monday on his way to the City of Mexico. He traveled in the private car of Mr. Hutchinson, the San Carlos.
Mr. C. H. Lusted and his good lady entertained a number of their friends last Monday evening. Music and singing together with anecdote and story made the evening pass very pleasantly. If anyone understands the art of entertaining and making guests feel at home, is is Mr. and Mrs. L. Choice refreshments, including their famed Cherry Bounce, added to the enjoyment of the evening.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/21/1893.
Mr Price is Right? - We have seen Mr. J. B. Price since his return from Texas, and he speaks in terms of confidence in regard to the early completion of the railroad between Houston and New Orleans. He thinks that capitalists are so thoroughly appraised of the importance of the road, and the profits it will pay, that other companies would immediately take it up, even if abandoned by Messrs. Price & Chonteau.
Besides, the attention which is now turned to this as the great southern route to the Pacific coast makes this enterprise still more important. The snows on the two upper lines of the Pacific Railroad are found to be in terrible impediements in winter, and the lower route will be entirely free from this difficulty. Beyond a doubt, in from ten to twenty years the great highway between the Mississippi and the Pacific will be through Attakapas, and over this part of the Opelousas Railroad. From the "Banner" and in the Lafayette Advertiser 1/23/1869.
Missouri Capitalists wish to Build the Texas and New Orleans Railroad.]
[From the Houston Telegraph.]
THEIR PROPOSITION TO TEXAS MADE IN THIS CITY.
Yesterday we had a protracted interview with General Thomas L. Price and J. B. Price of St. Louis, the former, one of the company of Price, Choateau and Co., the lessers of the New Orleans and Opelousas Railroad to Texas. General Price has just closed a contingent lease -- to be made final on the 24th of March, of prospects in this quarter are satisfactory -- for the early completion and extension of the Orleans road from Brashear to the Texas line. General Price is managing Director and principal stockholder in the Kansas Union Pacific Railroad, now some four hundred miles west of Kansas City. This road has been transporting Texas beeves to eastern markets, that have been driven to Abilene and other stations on its track, three hundred miles north of Red River, at the rate of 48,000 cattle per month.
Impressed with the fact of the prospective importance of a rail route that would connect the whole projected system of roads now in Texas, with the entire system of Southern roads east of the Mississippi, receiving the title of travel and traffic as a neck to an hour glass, through which would pour the concentrated commerce of the region east and the region west the great dividing river ; we say that General Price, first realizing on the Kansas Pacific the enormous value of the Texas beef trade alone, and upon subsequent inspection, having seen that the Opelousas Road would be the only connecting link between the Gulf States east and this great Southwestern grain and beef region, he visits Texas, to learn what can be done to remove the rubbish on the track this side of the Sabine.
If the complications that now envelope this section of the road from Houston to Orange are adjusted, so that the whole route from New Orleans to Houston could be under one administration and thus insure those who build the Louisiana end, that they could have certain connections with this city. General Price assured us that upon these facts being manifested to him he would close his contingent lease on the route in Louisiana, and prosecute the work to immediate completion to the Texas line.
So deeply interested was he in the route, that he has traveled from Brashear overland to this city, to inspect the topography of the line, and the present actual condition of the Texas end of the road.
He finds the embankments where thrown up, in better condition than expected ; but all the ties rotten and worthless, and the road in the same condition as if nothing but the iron lay convenient for ultimate construction.
What can be done reconcile, harmonize and remove the cloud of complications that envelope this Texas end of the road, so calculated to repel any effort upon the part of capitalists to embark in the work, either in Lousiana or Texas?
The case stands thus -- that the bondholders and creditors, and all others interested in any manner with the Texas road, from this city to the Sabine, have a lifeless, and rotting and rusting apology for a railroad, that is not only utterly profitless, but unless capitalists from abroad come to the rescue, is an incubus on their hands, and a shameful ulcer on State enterprise.
What will these parties at interest do to induce General Price, or any representative of money to embark at once to vitalize, and repair, and complete the work from city to city?
We have heard this day several of our largest local bond-holders say that if General Price will take hold of the work, they will relinguish or extinguish their at present worthless bonds and stocks. Unfortunately most of the bonds are in the hands of non-residents and foreigners -- can they be disposed of satisfactory to them.
We answer yes !
We will make our point as brief as possible. We assume as irrefutable that this road is the sole connecting link between the Texas system of roads and the whole system east of New Orleans, with the positive certainty of its being the coast link of the Southern Pacific connecting New Orleans with the International Pacific track at Austin and San Antonio. This route, we say, from Houston to New Orleans can carry first and second mortgage bonds of $20,000 each per mile, and pay the handsomest dividends of any road, without exception, on this continent. First mortgage bonds of $15,000 per mile, can be put in the market and complete the work, and the whole complications, now so seriously embarrassing the work, can be disposed of, if the bond-holders of the old road, and all others legally interested, will consent to convert their now worthless interests and claims into second mortgage bonds, convertible into stock at some rate, say fifty per cent below their face value.
This we feel assured would, if presented by this city, and the deeply interested Central and Buffalo Bayou roads, to the bond-holders and claimants abroad will find a prompt and cordial response on this basis.
Let these parties find the man and let man at once act for our profoundly interested city, and those companies, whose freight and travel would be quadrupled in two years -- and our city population largely augmented in the same time.
General Price has ninety days to close his lease contract, and will await the reply of Texas in that time.
We see the way clear. The best minds already concur with us. Will these three corporations or either of them act?
General Price was one of Lincoln's first Brigadier appointments, but was elected to Congress upon opening of hostilities. He was the Acting Vice President of the National Democratic Convention in New York, in July last. He is president of the California quicksilver mine, and as we have before stated, is managing director of the Kansas Union Pacific. His associate in this splendid projected enterprise to our city is C. P. Chonteau, of St. Louis, son and successor of Pierre Chouteau, founder of the American Fur Company, and a millionaire. They are lessors and present operators of the Avery's Salt Island, on the surveyed line of this road. Their financial capacity is ample. They would supply Texas and the Gulf States with salt, and control the best paying road in the United States. They are willing, if we will remove the rubbish and clear the track, so they can see their way clear through Houston to New Orleans.
This is an extraordinary opportunity for Houston and our interested roads and State to obtain the desired connection with the Mississippi river at New Orleans. Shall we lose this opportunity ? Let the City Council lead at once in this matter.
Since the above was in type, we learn from the highest authroity, that General Price and Colonel Price have agreed to cut the gordian knot of this unfortunate complication, and solve the whole difficulty by a master stroke, as credible to their sagacity and enterprise, as it will, if successful, be remarkably advantageous to Texas. At 5 p. m., yesterday, they dispatched to the Governor of Texas, as the representative of the State interest, that Price, Chouteau & co., offer to lease the Texas end of the line on the same terms and time as they have already leased the Opelousas end ; that they will construct the road at once, taking the whole work on their own hands, subject to all the encumerances hanging over the road. If litigation is impending and inevitable between the State, the Gentry interest, and the first and second mortgages, Price, Chouteau & Co., are willing that any or all the parties at interest, shall, after their legal interests are defined, then consolidate. And they will negotiate with such parties to admit a perfect and fair consolidation to the extent of their declared and defined interest ; said parties, on their part, recognizing the interest of Price, Chouteau & Co., to the exent of their actual expenditures upon the work.
This is an extraordinary offer, and we are glad to announce that acting President Roberts, representing the Gentry interest, has, by telegraph to Governor Pease, signified his concurrence in this arrangment. The interests of all parties are fully and amply protected in this proposition. Any ring combinations that will thwart, or attempt to thwart, this first vital hope for a Texas connection with New Orleans, will have to render a terrible accountability to the people of this State. Day dawns, and the sun will soon arise with healing on its wings. From the Houston Telegraph and in the Lafayette Advertiser 1/23/1869.
Mr Price is Right? - We have seen Mr. J. B. Price since his return from Texas, and he speaks in terms of confidence in regard to the early completion of the railroad between Houston and New Orleans. He thinks that capitalists are so thoroughly appraised of the importance of the road, and the profits it will pay, that other companies would immediately take it up, even if abandoned by Messrs. Price & Chonteau.
Besides, the attention which is now turned to this as the great southern route to the Pacific coast makes this enterprise still more important. The snows on the two upper lines of the Pacific Railroad are found to be in terrible impediments in winter, and the lower route will be entirely free from this difficulty. Beyond a doubt, in from ten to twenty years the great highway between the Mississippi and the Pacific will be through Attakapas, and over this part of the Opelousas Railroad. From the "Banner" and in the Lafayette Advertiser 1/23/1869.
Push It Through!!!
The Business Men's Association held a meeting last Monday night to take action on the proposition submitted by McKinney, the general agent of the Emigration Bureau of the Southern Pacific and Illinois Central railroads, that his bureau would distribute free of charge fifty thousand booklets or folders describing the natural resources and advantages and educational facilities of Lafayette town and parish. There is to be no expense whatever attached to the service rendered by the bureau, but the community, is expected to furnish the advertising matter, which can be obtained at the trifling cost of one cent per copy for a 24 leaf folder or pamphlet, provided not less than 50,000 copies be ordered at one time.
The bureau in question operates through nearly 700 agencies scattered throughout the north and, east and middle west and each agency is in command of the very best facilities for distributing advertising matter in a thorough and effective manner. Through the personal efforts of President Stephens of the Industrial Institute, Mr. McKinney, the chief of this Emigration Bureau, was induced to spend a short while in Lafayette last Saturday and explain to a number of our citizens who were able to meet him on the short notice given, the best means by which Lafayette town and parish might reap some of the advantages of the general emigration movement southward being stirred up by the united efforts of the Southern Pacific and Illinois Central railroad companies. Mr. McKinney's suggestion that we adopt the plan of Iberia and other parishes in Southwest Louisiana which have entered in this movement, met with the approbation of those who happened to be present when the plan was explained, and it was decided to bring the matter before the Business Men's Association for final action. Recognizing the advantage it would be to the town and parish to present to the people of North, East, and West, in a practical and effective way, the vast undeveloped resources of this section and extending to these same people a cordial invitation to come and join hands with us in development of these resources, the Business Men's Association endorsed the movement on behalf of the community and appointed committees to raise the required amount of $500 by popular subscription, and the expectation of reasonable appropriations by both the City council and Police Jury, inasmuch as the establishment of a cotton mill, furniture factory or similar industry in our midst, for which we have an abundance of raw material, would redound to the great and general good of the town and parish. And the Business Men's Association is convinced that if the subject is presented in the intelligent and forceful manner now contemplated, to 50,000 people interested in buying homes and making investment in the South, that the $500 it is proposed to spend in the effort, will bring certain and handsome returns.
The Advertiser is thoroughly in accord with this movement for the upbuilding of Lafayette town and parish, and concurs in the opinion that good results will follow the plan it is proposed to carry out for advertising in a special way the advantages and the needs of our section of country, at a time when the railroad companies we have already named are busily engaged in arousing an active interest in Louisiana and Texas among many thousands of good people of intelligence and capital who are desirous of changing their homes to a milder climate, or who wish to invest their money in the development of the boundless idle resources of the country.Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1903.
The B. M. A's. Public Spirit.
(Communicated.)
The movement that is being taken up by the Business Men's Association of Lafayette for the purpose of having literature concerning the agricultural and industrial opportunities of our town and parish printed in proper form and distributed through the immigration agencies of the Southern Pacific Railroad, is an enterprise deserving the attention and interest of all our citizens.
The exodus of population from the regions of the North and middle West into this section is no longer a rumor, a report, or mere boom cry for speculating purposes; it is a plain indisputable fact, substantiated by trainload after trainload daily passing through our city. And there is good reason for it besides. That section of our country is already over populated, relatively speaking, the climate is cold to the extent of great inconvenience and suffering, and the industries are so thoroughly worked up, that profits have dwindled to the minimum per capita. It is therefore a paying investment for a man to sell there and buy here. All the more intelligent classes are perceiving this, and are looking for literature concerning this newly discovered El Dorado of the Southwest.
Our citizens, therefore, should not neglect to have the merits of our town and parish thoroughly and accurately presented to the minds of prospective immigrants. We ought to describe our soil and its productiveness, list our lands that are for sale, write up our industries and suggest the half a dozen new ones that we ought to have, exhibit the progress that we are making education both in our public school system and in our splendid new State Industrial Institute, and invite those seeking homes and investment to come and see us.
After a conference last Saturday with G. M. McKinney, general immigration agent of the Southern Pacific Railway, followed by a called meeting Monday night, the Business Men's Association resolved to have prepared a twenty-four page pamphlet upon Lafayette, town and parish, and to give fifty thousand copies of this for general distribution in the North and middle West by the railroad's Immigration Bureau of Chicago. The cost of the pamphlets will be five hundred dollars of which one hundred and fifty dollars was immediately subscribed by only the few members present; and a committee was appointed to wait upon our citizens and raise the balance.
We heartily endorse the plan, and feel sure that its execution will result in a most valuable progress for our community and parish.
Lafayette Gazette 1/24/1903.
THE RAILROAD TO BATON ROUGE.
A railroad between Lafayette and Baton Rouge would result in the greatest possible good to both communities. That a survey has been made is no doubt. The railroad people are, as is always the case, very reticent. When asked to speak they say they know nothing about it. But no importance should be attached to the silence of the representatives of the railroad companies. They never tell what they know about railroad matters. That a road will be built between these points seems reasonably sure. The great advantages of such a road cannot be ignored much longer by the people who build railroads.
It is not in the power of Lafayette and Baton rouge to build this line, but they can do a great deal toward hastening its construction. If both towns will only pull together in this matter effective work can be done. The combined efforts of the two communities, intelligently directed, would no doubt be productive of good results.
The distance between Lafayette and baton Rouge is fifty-two miles, thus placing this town within a two-hours' ride of the capital and affording a shorter route to New Orleans. We need not speak of the vast benefits that this town would derive from direct rail communication with the Mississippi Valley and the Shreveport and Red River Valley at Baton Rouge. The last named road has not yet been built to Baton Rouge, but its extension to that is only a question of a few months at the most. There is every reason to believe that the great Frisco system will before long make its way through that city.
Lafayette Gazette 1/24/1903.
Changes to Train Schedule. - A recent change has been made in the passenger schedule, which we give for the benefit of our readers: No. 87, East bound, leaves Lafayette at 1:29 p. m., and arrives at New Orleans 7:25 p. m. No. 19, East bound leaves Lafayette at 1:50 a. m., and arrives at New Orleans at 7:30 a. m. No. 18, West bound, leaves Lafayette at 2:15 p. m., No. 20, West bound leaves Lafayette at 10:30 p. m. On the Alexandria branch, No. 51 leaves Alexandria at 9:05 a. m., and arrives at Lafayette 1:05 p. m. No. 50 for Alexandria leaves Lafayette at 2:15 p. m. Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1899.
Pay Car. - The pay car came in Tuesday night and dropped a wad of over $5,000, consequently everybody and their friends were made happy. Laf. Advertiser 1/24/1891.
Passed Through Lafayette. - One of those beautiful vestibule trains, run by the Raymond & Whitcomb Excursion company, passed through Lafayette at 8 o'clock Wednesday night. These excursions are run from Boston to points in Mexico and California. This train was composed of ten elegant coaches and two baggage cars. None but the wealthy can ride in them. They eat and sleep on the train, have drawing-room and library, and wherever they stop the excursion company pays back hire, hotel bills, etc. Fare for round trip from Boston, $685.00 each. (Nearly $17,000 in today's money.)
Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1891.
The frame work of the new round house is now in place, but we understand it will be about two months before it is finished. It has eighteen stalls.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1891.
The stock pen adjoining the depot warehouse at this place has been put in thorough repair, which would argue that much more stock is expected to be shipped to or from Lafayette than has been done in the past year or two.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1891.
Louis Domengeaux has a monkey named Jake, who plays at Louis' restaurant, near the depot, and attracts much attention by his queer actions and funny sayings. Lafayette Advertiser 1/24/1891.
Some Encouraging Reading.
The (New Orleans) Picayune Friday contained another special from Baton Rouge in regard to the Lafayette road, which makes some encouraging reading. It is as follows:
It is believed by local railroad men that within the next year the Southern Pacific will build their line from Lafayette to the river, and that the property which has been purchased by the two roads will be used as the approaches to transfer until such a time as the traffic will justify the building of a bridge across the river at this point, which is conseded by engineers to be the best location for such a structure in the entire lower river.
If the Southern Pacific builds their line from Lafayette to the river, as now seems almost certain, as their agents are purchasing a right of way between the two points, the Illinois Central, through its Yazoo and Mississippi Line from Memphis, will be able to transfer all its westbound freight and passengers at Baton Rouge, instead of bringing them through New Orleans. This will result in a very considerable saving in both time and expense, as it is almost a straight line across from Baton Rouge to Lafayette.
The Southern Pacific will be able to make the same transfer on eastbound freight and passengers, resulting in time and expense.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/25/1905.
East-West Rail Route.
(First words of article n/a)
.....Northern Railroad is going to build a branch to New Orleans in the near future, which will parallel the Southern Pacific. The route is to be south of the Southern Pacific from Houston to Lake Charles, and then from Lake Charles it will cut across Lousiana and strike the Texas and Pacific at Mellville, saving an expenditure of over a million dollars in building a bridge across the Atchafalaya river.
According to the people who are on the inside the route has already been selected, and the surveys are practically finished. The distance between Houston and (rest is unreadable)
Lafayette Advertiser 1/25/1902.
N. A. Walton and W. A. Leoyd, two Southern Pacific brakemen, were arrested Friday by Sheriff Lacoste at Bayou Sale for breaking into and robbing a car of a lot cloaks, shoes, etc. Both prisoners confessed.Lafayette Advertiser 1/25/1905.
The Morgan and Texas Railroad.
[N. O. Picayune. 21st inst.]
Senate bill amending the act of March, 1877, relative to Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company, was reported upon favorably yesterday by the Senate Committee on Railroads, and on motion of Mr. Breaux, take up and passed the body by a unanimous vote without a single amendment thereto.
The first section refers to the corporate powers of the company.
The second section relates to the land necessary for the construction of the road, right of way and the mode of procedure in the courts of the State in connection there with , between the parties owning the land and the railroad company expropriating said land, in order that its just value may be ascertained.
Pending appeal in the Supreme Court of the State, as well as pending all appeals from parish courts to district courts, the said company may take and hold or retain possession of any lands to which the said proceedings shall relate ; provided it shall deposit such a sum of money, or give such security as the court, or any judge thereof shall direct, as security on such appeal.
Section 3 amends the section 28 of the act of 1877, so as to read as follows:
1. That the railroad which is now being extended beyond Morgan City by M
organ's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company shall be completed to Vermilionville within eighteen months from the passage of this amended act ; and to some point on the Sabine River or Texas boundary line by said company, or other company connecting with them, within eighteen months thereafter.
2. When the said road shall be completed in Vermilionville, La., a distance of about sixty-three miles from Morgan City, all the privileges and franchises granted by the said act, No. 37, approved March 8, 1877, shall be fully vested in said company ; provided. however, that if the road be not completed to the Sabine River or the Texas boundary line within the time above stipulated by the said Morgan Company, or other company uniting with them, then the railroad franchises herein granted shall extend from New Orleans only to that point of the road which shall be completed within the stipulated time by said company, or other company acting with or under them.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/25/1879.
PACKAGE OF MONEY
Disappears Mysteriously - Package Contained Nearly Two Thousand Dollars.
The officials of the Southern Pacific Railroad and of the Wells-Fargo Express Company are greatly puzzled over the disappearance of a package of money containing $1,950, which was shipped from Lafayette on January 11th. The news of the mysterious affair reached New Orleans immediately, but the railroad men and the express officials kept the matter very quiet, and only yesterday did the story leak out.
Up to date the investigation, which is being made for the purpose of trying to trace the missing package, has been conducted by the express officials, as the railroad is safe-guarded by the receipt of the express messenger to whom the agent at Lafayette turned over the package. Several of the Wells-Fargo people, including Assistant Superintendent McKenzie, whose headquarters are in Houston, and Auditor Ott, have personally visited Lafayette and made investigations from every standpoint, but so far they have gleaned no facts definite enough to warrant action. Mr. McKenzie, with Auditor Ott, was in New Orleans yesterday, and a three-cornered conference was held with J. C. Stuart, the agent in this city, upon the subject.
B. J. Pellerin is the agent at Lafayette of both the Southern Pacific and the Wells-Fargo Company. On January 11 he had four packages of money for New Orleans, including the package which disappeared. This package contained $1,950, to be shipped to New Orleans for account of the railroad. He delivered them to Messenger Page, of the Wells-Fargo Company, and Page duly receipted for them. When the train on which Page was running reached Iberia, twenty miles this side of Lafayette, Page wired back to Pellerin that he could only find three packages, while the bill called for four. According to Page's story, as developed by the investigation, he discovered that there were only three packages of money soon after leaving Lafayette. He claims that only three packages were delivered to him. Agent Pellerin, however, holds Page's receipt for four packages, so the responsibility for the loss seems to rest on the express company.
Ever since the loss of the package the special agents of the express company have been working day and night to try and clear up the mystery surrounding the case. The Southern Pacific officials have the most implicit confidence in Pellerin, and Page enjoys the confidence of the Wells-Fargo officials. A solution of the affair is eagerly awaited.
From the N. O. Picayune and in the Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1901.
Lake Charles and Rice Belt Railroad.
A special to the Times-Democrat from Lake Charles, dated Jan. 21, says: The long-talked-of railroad to Lake Arthur assumed a real aspect to-day by the filing of the charter of the Lake Charles and Rice Belt Railway, with a capital stock of $1,000,ooo, for record in office of the district clerk.
The first officers of the corporation are: President, C. A. Lowry, Lowry; vice-president, H. C. Drew, lake Charles; secretary, C. A. McCoy, Lake Charles; treasurer, L. Kaufman, Lake Charles; directors, J. A. Bell, H. C. Drew, L. Kaufman, A. V. Eastman, C. A. McCoy, all of Lake Charles, C. A. Lowry of Lowry, Dr. E. I. Hall of Lakeside, J. B. Haber of Jennings, H. L. Gueydan of Gueydan, D. R. Swift of Mobile (City), Texas; general manager A. V. Eastman, Lake Charles. These officers will serve until January, 1902.
The formation of the company dates back about six months. Last year the locam men above named, together with with a number of leading Mermentau rice planters, were figuring upon tapping the Mermentau rice country by means of a canal connecting Big Lake and the Mermentau river, but the plans for getting it in operation last season failed. The road passes through a fertile country, well peopled by rice farmers. The road is to follow an almost air line from Bonair, on the K. C., W. & G. railway, to Gueydan, and will be extended from that point to Abbeyville. The road is to be completed to Gueydan in time to handle this season's crops. Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1901.
A FAITHFUL EMPLOYEE.
For over twenty years an employee of the Southern Pacific R. R., in the Lafayette yards and known by every man, woman and child in this community, the Advertiser uses its editorial columns in paying tribute to the loyalty, fidelity and devotion to duty of that sterling gentleman, Mr. J. J. Mitchell. We have been told that the "old man" (as he is familiarly called by the R. R. boys) has severed his connection with the S. P., and he has made Lafayette for all these years, the Advertiser hopes with all candor that he still remain in this midst. As honest man is God's noblest work, a good man is woman's loving ideal, and as these sterling principles of manhood belong to he whose integrity has battered this world for nearly 60 years and whose usefulness still seek to sooth the want of many, the Advertiser again says, Mr. Mitchell you have done your duty well. Lafayette is proud of you and Lafayette begs that you still remain remain with us.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/26/1901.
Incident at Depot. Quite a sensation was created near the depot Wednesday evening at the arrival of the passenger train from New Orleans. A young girl evidently laboring under mental aberration jumped from the cars and attempted to escape from some gentlemen who had her in charge. Fortunately the poor girl was soon overtaken and persuaded to return to the train. Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1895.
A Stranger Run Over.
Henry Marten, a stranger about 20 years of age, was run over by a freight train at Duson Wednesday evening, sustaining injuries from which he died a few hours later. It appears that Marten fell under the wheels of the cars in the attempt to steal a ride. He was terribly mangled, his legs and one arm being nearly severed from his body. The railroad men say that Matten tried to accomplish the dangerous feat of jumping on the rods while the train was running. As the train was going west Marten was taken to Rayne where he was kept a few hours after which he was brought to Lafayette by the east-bound local freight train for the purpose of securing the medical assistance of Dr. Tolson, the company's physician, but before the train reached this place the unfortunate man was dead. Dr. Gladu, the coroner, took charge of the body and had it decently buried.Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1895.
A Wrecking Car.A wrecking car will now be kept in the Southern Pacific round-house at this place. One was received by the railroad officials Thursday morning. It will be in charge of Steve Spar, formerly general yard master at Algiers. Lafayette Gazette 1/26/1895.
A GREAT EVENT AT FALK'S.
In Louisiana, America's greatest sensational melodrama, at the Opera House on Sunday Jan. 31., is a beautiful story of Louisiana and Texas, and one of the most sensational plays ever produced on the stage.
There is a head-on collision between two trains in full view of the audience. In the distance you see two trains moving down the mountain side in and out of tunnels; all at once there is a crash and you see one of the most thrilling effects you ever witnessed.
The scenic settings of the four acts are all original and realistic. The names of the principals of the cast give promise of a strong dramatic production. The mechanical effects are all original. This play is assuredly one of the most interesting events of the entire season. Secure your seats early.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/27/1904.
Southern Pacific Changes.
[The Picayune.]
Important changes were announced yesterday by General Passenger Agent T. I. Anderson, of the Southern Pacific, while in New Orleans on his way to St. Louis. That which will attract the greatest attention is the appointment of F. S. Decker, Assistant General Passenger Department, and assigned to office work. The position of Assistant General Passenger Ticket Agent is filled by the appointment of F. C. Batters, who is now chief clerk to Assistant General Passnger Agent Donaldson, of the Pacific system of the Southern Pacific, with headquarters in San Francisco.
Mr. Decker has been known for many years in New Orleans as one of its most substantial citizens, and in the railroad world as one of the most painstaking railroad men to be found anywhere. His connection with the Southern Pacific in various capacities has extended over a period of several years, and under his direction the local office has been very prosperous and the volume of business which has gone through it very gratifying.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/27/1904.
Persistent Efforts to Wreck Trains.
Jules Pointboeuf, assistant engineer at the power house, was arrested Friday, Jan. 19, and charged with an attempt at train wrecking. For about a month trainmen in the Southern Pacific yards have been suspecting that someone was making persistent efforts to wreck trains. Several times it was discovered that a switch had been tampered with, but fortunately it was found out in time to avoid any serious accident. Detective Long of the Southern Pacific Company detailed Henry Gianelloni, a railroad man to keep close watch and capture the culprit of he made any further attempts.
At 11 o'clock Friday night, Gianelloni says, a man approached the switch near the electric power house, broke the lock and so arranged the rails that any incoming train would run into some cars standing on a side track. Gianelloni says that he recognized the man as being Jules Pointboeuf. The man walked about two acres to a switch on the Louisiana Western Tracks. He repeated what he did with the other switch The removal of this switch was calculated to cause fearful damage to both life and property.
After shifting the rails, Pointboeuf, in order to complete his diabolical work, threw away the lamp whose red light might have given a signal of danger to the trainmen. At this juncture he was covered by Gianelloni's pistol and was told to throw up his hands, which he did. He was taken to town and turned over to Marshal Peck of the police force. He protested his innocence, and insisted that he had not tampered with the switches. He still claims to be innocent.
Pointboeuf was a for number of years employed as engineer, but was discharged and given an inferior position, which he held for some time, and quit to work for the town at the power house. Pointboeuf is about forty years old and has a wife and five children.
Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1900.
RAILROAD TRUST.
A railroad trust, which will divide up the country into zones and place each for railroad purposes under the control of railroad magnates, is in process of formation. The zones and their railroad monarchs are named as follows in the news paper report: "In the Southern Pacific zone Collis P. Huntington will be master; E. H. Harriman will control the central western, or Union Pacific zone; Goulds H. Porter and others will swing the southwestern lines, through the Rock Island, Missourri Pacific, etc. In the northwest James Hall and J. P. Morgan will control the Northern Pacific and Great Northern. The Belmonsts will control the Louisville & Nashville." Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1900.
To New Orleans for Sugery. - The Gazette regrets to state that it was necessary for Mr. O. P. Guilbeau to go to New Orleans to undergo a surgical operation on account of the injuries he sustained some time ago at the hands of rowdies on the excursion train between Duson and Crowley. This affair has caused much suffering to Mr. Guilbeau, to say nothing of the expense and trouble, and we are sorry that his condition is such as to necessitate another surgical operation . Reference to this matter will recall to the minds of many people the outrage which perpetrated on the night Mr. Guilbeau was so mercilessly shot. The shooting took place on the 17th of last November, over two months ago, but nothing has yet been done looking toward the punishment of the guilty. The question of jurisdiction has not ever been settled and there is a large number of people who still believe it was done in this parish. It is not for us to say who is or who are guilty in this affair, but there was unquestionably enacted on that night in this country, which boasts of law, order and civilization, a scene which would have disgraced the most barbarous of savage tribes. Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1900.
Mardi Gras in New Orleans. - New Orleans Mardi Gras.One fare for the round trip from all points via the Texas & Pacific Railway. Dates of sale February 10-15, inclusive, final limit. February 20, 1904. On payment of fee of 50 cents an extension to March 5, 1904, will be granted. For further information call on any T. & P. Agent, or write, E. P. Turner, General Passenger Agent, Dallas, Texas. Lafayette Advertiser 1/27/1904.
Railroad Bridge Work.
We notice among us A. J. Ross, who is in charge of the bridge gang for this division of the Southern Pacific. He has been repairing the bridges and track in and out of this place. Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1894.
Railroad Florists.
Jack Whitmore and Charles Olivier, amateur florists for the Southern Pacific at this place have been beautifying the front of the "car repairer' shanty" by planting some flowers, principally violets. Lafayette Gazette 1/27/1894.
READ, CONSIDER AND ACT!
The letter we publish below, which was handed us by Mayor Wm. Campbell will explain itself, and it should be carefully read and deeply considered by every person in the parish, for undoubtedly, it means a great deal to every property holder in both the town and parish. The following is a copy of the letter:
DeWitt, Ark., Jan, 1893.
Mayor Wm. Campbell,
Lafayette, La.
MY DEAR SIR:
I am thinking of visiting Louisiana next week again and if I was assured your people would give hearty co-operation in the building of a railroad from your place to Abbeville, I would visit it with my engineer and view the advantages.
I presume I might as well state what aid I would want to take it up, and if your people think it too hard I need not come down.
If your town will vote a five-mill tax for ten years to aid it, and the parish a three mill tax for same time, and Abbeville a five mill tax and Vermilion three mill, I will at once take up the matter and build you the road during the summer. Do you think this can be accomplished? Alexandria has offered us this to build west from there.
If you are favorable to the deal please ascertain the facts and be ready to mail me a letter to Alexandria should I wire you the date of my arrival there, and if favorable I will visit you.
I should want to know your tax valuation in the city and the parish, also as near as you could ascertain the value of the Abbeville and Vermilion.
It is doubtful if they will respond very liberally as they will not be profited by the road as your city will be, as quite, a territory will be drawn to your city who have business on the coast and especially all living north on the roads will come to Lafayette as being more convenient that going around some other way.
The main value to your city is the fact that it opens up an outlet direct to water water navigation and thus attracts attention from manufacturers to your railroad and other advantages and brings about internal self-sustaining plants that gather in the profits and causes constantly increasing resources that eventually make a wealthy, populous city that continually gathers strength and reputation as a thriving business city. The world is full of men seeking desirable locations for all manner and all lines of business. But what do they seek for first? An outlet and an inlet; cheap transportation and a thrifty, live, progressive people. That is what they all want. Do you want to make a city? If so bring about these condition and plenty will be found ready and willing to cast their lot with you.
Yours, truly,
T. H. LESLIE.
It will be seen by the above that Mr. Leslie expects to be in this part of the country next week, and would at that time like to learn of the feelings of our people towards the enterprise, and as the time is short, steps should be taken at once to ascertain as far as possible what the popular opinion regarding the building of the proposed road is. Of course, the time is too short to make a thorough canvass of the question, but the opinion of some of our leading townspeople and influential planters could be learned, which would afford a fair idea of the general feeling.
There can be no question as the benefit to be derived from such a road, for the advantages which would accrue to the country and people generally from a competing road are too apparent to everyone to admit of argument on that score. The only question which can arise and which will need to be considered and discussed is whether it will be a paying investment for the amount asked.
Mr. Leslie asks for a 3-ill tax for ten years from the parish, and a 5-mill tax from the corporation. As the assessed valuation of the property in the parish is $1,894,572, therefore a 3-mill tax would amount of $5,683,72 per year, or a term of ten years, the gross amount given to the road by the parish would be $56,837,20. The assessed valuation of property in the corporation is $392,485 and a 5-mill tax would amount to $1,962,17 per annum, or for a term of ten years, $19,621,70. The two amounts together would give us a total of $76,458,90 which the town and parish would invest in the road, looking to an enhanced valuation of property and a reduction of freight rates, brought about by competition, for their remuneration. Would it, from a business standpoint, be a good investment? We believe that it would. Property values would only need to advance about 8 per cent, to say nothing of the saving in freights, to make it a (unreadable words) let to water navigation (unreadable word) the value of all property at least 10 per cent.
Again, we believe that the only existing railroad we have absorbs nearly all the net profits that the country produces. A competing line could not help reducing freight rates to and from this point, and every cent saved in freight would add just that much to the wealth of the parish. The fact that the people were helping, financially, to build the road, would become known abroad, and thus attract people and capital to our town.
View the matter in any light that we may, we cannot but see advantages to be gained by the people from the building of the road.
Do not let us by procrastination lose this opportunity of freeing ourselves from the oppressive grasp of the railroad monopoly that now holds our country by the throat, and like a vampire suck the life blood from our veins. But go to work and secure this road and thus take the first step that shall lead to the future wealth and prosperity of our town and parish. Nature has given us as fair a laud as the sun ever shone on, and if we are too blind to see our opportunities and take advantage of them, then we deserve nothing but hardships and poverty.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/28/1893.
Train Wreck at Carencro.
Saturday night nine freight cars derailed near Carencro and were thrown into the ditch along the track. The locomotive and a few cars were not injured. The nine cars thrown off the track were totally wrecked, and it is a wonder that no one received injuries. The cause of the accident could not be ascertained by us. Traffic was temporarily stopped on account of the damage done to the track. It was rumored that a pair of gloves and mangled flesh had been found under the wreckage which led to the supposition that some one stealing a ride had been killed, but The Gazette was assured by several gentlemen who were at the scene of the wreck that no such find was made and that there was nothing in the rumor.
Lafayette Gazette 1/29/1898.
Struck by a Train. - While lying near the track at Scott, George Gray, a young man twenty-two years old, claiming to hail from Boston, was struck by an east-bound train and received severe injuries on the right side of the head. He was put off here Saturday at noon and received medical attention by Dr. A. R. Trahan, and taken to the Charity Hospital that night. His injuries were pronounced severe. The unfortunate man arrived in New Orleans safe and was immediately taken to the hospital. He had to remain in the waiting room at the depot here for several hours, but he received all the comforts that could be given him under the circumstances.
Lafayette Gazette 1/29/1898.
...Fatal Train Accident...
Should Be Investigated.
As usual with railway accidents it is impossible to know the facts connected with the Raceland collision which caused the death of Robert Bailey of this town and seriously injured another employe of the company. We have failed to see an authentic account of the accident published in any of the New Orleans papers, and so far the only we know concerning the unfortunate occurrence is that it resulted in the death of young Bailey. From the fact that there was a collision it is clearly evidenced that there was negligence, carelessness or disobedience of orders on the part of the company or some of its employes. Somebody was at fault. When two trains, going in opposite direction, collide, there is something wrong somewhere. There may or may not be criminal negligence, but we submit as a plain proposition of common justice that whenever an accident causes the death of a human being there should be a judicial investigation, ascertaining the cause, if possible, and putting the blame where it belongs. Is human life such a trifle that it is not worth the attention of the constituted authorities? Are railroad companies amenable to the laws which are supposed to govern this country?
If we understand the jurisprudence of this country, the act of any individual or corporation which causes the loss of human life should be investigated by the State. If a citizen accidentally kills a fellow-being he is held accountable to the courts and the searchlight of judicial scrutiny must establish his innocence beyond doubt before he is liberated. Does this principle of justice apply to the acts of corporations? Or, have we one kind of laws to deal with the citizens, and another kind, or none at all, for corporations?
Lafayette Gazette 2/1/1902.
T. G. Shannon Promoted.
T. G. Shannon, the local Southern Pacific agent, left Sunday to take charge of the Lake Charles agency, having been promoted to that position. His family will join him some time during the week. He is succeeded by Don L. Caffery.
Mr. and Mrs. Shannon and family have won a large number of friends during their stay here, who regret their leaving, but nevertheless congratulate them upon this recognition of Mr. Shannon's faithful service to the company. Lafayette Advertiser 1/30/1907.
FOR SALE. - A fine plantation situated about four and a half miles from the town of Lafayette, La., on the public road to Opelousas, La., containing 125 arpents of prairie land and 45 arpents of wood land; and being about a half a mile from the Morgan's rail road. The land is of first quality for the cultivation of corn, cotton or sugar cane. Said property will be sold on easy terms. For further particulars address Wm. Campbell, lock box 26 Lafayette, La.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/2/1895.
Mr. Florian Cornay returned from Barbreck last Tuesday and is now in the employ of the railroad at this place.
Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
On account of two L. W. Enginemen being unable to go on their Engines, Thursday -- Engineers F. Poinboef and J. Hennington went to Houston in their place. Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
Master Hebert Mouton has been working as car checker in the Southern Pacific yard, lately. Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
Double Railroad Track.
We learn from the Iberian that the Southern Pacific Company has commenced building an additional track from New Orleans to Lafayette. It is intended to build twenty-five miles each year until the road is completed. Judge Parkerson, of this place, has been negotiating for the right of way forty feet wide from Olivier to Bayou Sale, this portion of the road being built first as it is there that trains going opposite directions generally meet. This looks, says the Iberian, as if the Southern Pacific had firm faith in this country, bounty or no bounty, that it should be preparing to do a larger business.
Lafayette Gazette 2/2/1895.
The Opelousas Railroad Company Election.
The election on the 27th of directors of this company, usually one of much monopoly, was enlivened by raid into the quiet enclosure by that by that very popular person known as the Governor of Louisiana, who, not content with the patronage given him by the constitution, and by the law passed at the last session of the Legislature, thought to govern the selection of directors of this company also.
It will be recollected that by an act passed in 1867, just as the session ended, the right of the State and of the city to vote for directors of this and the Jackson Road, which was then thought a doubtful one, was relinquished. The bill was not signed by Gov. Wells, but was subsequently approved by one of his military appointed successors, whose power to do this has been sustained by judicial authority.
Gov. Warmoth, it seems, regards this act as not binding on him, and undertook to vote yesterday, not withstanding its provisions, and proceeded to the vote of the State for 26,000 shares of stock for the following gentlemen most of had not previously been interested in a single share of stock, but who, as we are told, were the day before invested each with one of its present very valuable and high priced certificates of ownership, that they might be qualified for the post.
The following are the gentlemen for whom the Governor offered to cast his vote:
James Graham, Robert Watson, J. B. Robertson, A. B. Long, S. T. Delasize, M. A. Southworth, J. O. Noyes, Geo. S. Cleveland, J. J. Williamson, S. B. Packard, A. E. Barbour, P. D. Pratt, R. W. Francis, D. W. F. Bisbee, John F. Deane, J. H. Oglesby, W. L. McMillan, A. D. Greiff.
We presume that all who read this notice know the gentlemen and their eminent fitness for this responsible position. From the N. O. Crescent and in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/6/1897.
An Early Blaze.
At about 3 o'clock Tuesday morning Mr. Wm. Huff was surprised to discover his barn on fire. Though the flames had already consumed the upper portion of the building prompt and intelligent work saved the balance of it. Mr. Huff was fortunate in receiving the assistance of the "crew" from the railroad yard who worked hard to put out the fire. Mr. Huff desires to thank these gentlemen for their efficient work, especially to the old veteran railroader, Henry Church. Lafayette Gazette 2/9/1895.
"A Double Header." - The west-bound Sunset No. 1000, reached here Thursday with nine cars, necessitating the use of a second engine. This is termed a "double header" by railroad men and is the first one run on this road. Laf. Gazette 2/9/1895.
The first of the new series of vestibule trains, to be run by the Southern Pacific railroad from New Orleans through to the City of Mexico three times a month, passed through Lafayette Thursday afternoon. The vestibule arrangement makes one continuous car of the whole train. The trains is composed of sleeping cars, barber shop - in fact, is a rolling first-class hotel.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/9/1889.
THE RAILROAD QUESTION.
Last
week we published in the local columns of the ADVERTISER, certain
propositions from Mr. T. H. Leslie, together with the action taken by a
meeting of business men, regarding the same. Mr. Leslie's proposition to
the tax-payers of the corporation and parish of Lafayette in substance
is as follows;
In consideration of a 5 mill tax by the corporation and a 3 mill tax from the parish for a period of ten years Mr. Leslie agrees
1st. To build a railroad from Lafayette to Abbeville.
2nd.
To donate $20,000 as a bonus to be given to anyone who will erect a
cotton factory in Lafayette, which will shall employ not less than 150
hands.
3d. To donate $10,000 to anyone who will erect a sugar refinery in our city.
To
make it possible to accept the proposition it would be necessary for
the Police Jury to order a special election, and for the people by a
majority vote to sanction the proposition. This, we believe, would be
done by the people, for they have everything to gain and nothing to
lose. The tax asked for would amount to about $76,000, taking the
present valuation of property as a basis ; this sum would be paid to the
promoters of the railroad in ten equal installments, covering a period
of ten years, providing the road was built, for nothing asked, nor would
a cent be paid until the road was completed and trains running. In
addition to building the road we would secure two industries, one of
which -- the sugar refinery -- is of vital importance to the people, for
with $10,000 offered as a bonus, a sugar refinery would soon be
erected, as such offers do not "go a begging." The cotton factory,
employing as it would, not less than 150 hands, whose salaries would add
to the money circulation of the parish a nice sum each month would
likewise prove of great benefit to our people generally.
The
construction of the road would be commenced and carried on from this
end of the line, affording work for a large number of people, who would
expend their salaries in our city. The establishment of the two above
named industries would cause the distribution of about $10,000 per month
in our town as wages, besides what would be paid to laborers
constructing the road.
In
consideration of the above facts we believe that the statement can be
truthfully made that all property values would increase at least 25 per
cent within six months from the date that the building of them becomes
as assured fact. For all of the above benefits the people who are asked
to vote a tax for ten years, the total of which would amount to about 3
per cent of the present assessed valuation of property in town and
parish. It seems impossible that a question of the people being blind
enough to refuse the offer made, should for a moment be entertained.
We
believe that when the question is voted on, it will be accepted by an
overwhelming majority. Let this matter be carried through the railroad
built, the factories erected and running, and Lafayette would double her
population within five years, and the wealth of the entire parish would
increase 100 per cent in the same length of time. The establishment of
one industry would lead to another, until the sound of the whistle would
be heard in different parts of our city calling the people to their
daily work, and Lafayette would ere many years in Southwestern
Louisiana.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/11/1893.
Now, Let's Work On It.
Now
that we have something tangible to work on, something that holds but
encouragement to those who have so long wished for the advancement of
our town and parish a stimulant with which to incite the people to labor
with a united and earnest effort for the future welfare and prosperity
of our country, now that the dark clouds are rolling away and the bright
sun of advancement is beginning to shine on our land, it behooves us to
consider well the future actions, lest a mistake may cause the clouds
again to gather and shut out the new light and spirit which is dawning
on the view of our over-anxious watchers. In the words of the immortal
Shakespeare, "there is a tide in the affair of men, which taken at the
flood leads to success," and our people now have the chance of launching
their bark, the New Era, on the flood tide and riding joyfully forward
to the goal of success.
Let
us consider well our actions and set upon plans formed by mature
judgment. Two great and vital questions present themselves in
considering the steps that must be taken to insure success, and these
questions are: Upon what foundation shall we build? What shall be used
as the corner stone upon which to build that new temple of prosperity? A
fertile soil and perfect climate has been given us by the Divine Ruler -
of these advantages we are certain - they are natural advantages but
what it the most necessary artificial or human built requisite is what
we must decide. It is a competing railroad ? No ! Is it a cotton factory
? No ! Is it the erection of a sugar refinery ? Again reason as well as
experience answers, No ! Then what is it that we most need ? What will
have the greatest influence with people inducing them to locate here and
invest their capital ? We answer, feeling confident in the knowledge
that experience will support us in our decision and assertion, that the
one great thing needed, is better schools and greater interest in
educational matters. Unless a move is made, and made at once, to
complete our school building, and open therein a first-class graded
school, we might as well drop the railroad question and give up all
thought of advancement, for without better school facilities than we now
possess, our efforts to induce new people and new capital to locate
here will prove futile and of no avail. Let us, therefore, unite our
efforts and work together with this end in view, and get our school
opened. When this is accomplished, then, and not till then, we will be
able to make any headway in advancing the material interests of our
people.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/11/1893.
Railroad Burglar. - On Thursday night about 1 o'clock an attempt was made by unknown parties to burglarize a car of the Southern Pacific. The night watchman, Mr. William Graser, discovered them as they were carrying off some of the goods and fired at them. The robbers dropped the goods and returned the fire of the watchman, but without wounding him. They made their escape.
Laf. Advertiser 2/11/1893.
Railroad from Brashear (Morgan City) to Texas?
Strange fell the rumor on our ears last evening that the new projected road from Brashear to Texas, was to leave the Town of Vermilionville to the right and running by the salt works, follow an air line to Texas. The rumor though credited by many is not believed by us. The building of the Road to Texas from Brashear has become a fixed and incontrovertible fact, and the only question to be discussed is, shall it run to Vermilionville or below by the Telegraph line. We cannot in any way understand the reasons why any preference should be given to the lower route or air line. The upper line offers all the advantages and certainly is the cheapest, though perhaps the longest route. In following the upper line the new company will find the Road already graded as far as Vermilionville, nay as far as Opelousas but of that part of the now graded road between Vermilionville and Opelousas, we shall say nothing for the present ; as the contractors have no use for the same now. One thing we hold up to the consideration of the new contractors is, that the adoption of the upper or Vermilionville route, possesses advantages which cannot be had on the lower or air line and which can in no manner be compensated by difference of distance ; the Vermilionville route, is graded from Iberia to Vermilionville, nay to Opelousas, runs through a section of country densely populated and highly growing and productive, and is now high and dry and easy to lay on, and that would pay well as the road progressed ; and withal were the lower line shorter than the upper, we would venture to say that the lower line runs through a low, marshy country, less thickly populated, less growing, and full of difficulties, which upon mature consideration will lead Messrs. Price & Chonteau to the adoption of the upper route. In connection with our above remarks we would mention the spirited suggestion of "Indamara" in the last Opelousas "Journal" which holds out the great inducement of all the St. Landry and Bayou (unreadable), by the building of a branch from Washington to Vermilionville at the expense of the citizens of that parish ; the trade of that section of country is immense and it is growing.
We follow the spirit of enterprise and progress and are willing to do anything in our power to benefit the country and our native Town ; the spirit shown by St. Landry will be responded to by Lafayette. We do vouch for that. The road we must and will have here, such is our interest, the interests of the contractors and of the whole country.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/13/1869.
ARREST MADE AT DEPOT.
Last Wednesday evening the following telegram was received by the authorities here:
New Orleans, Feb. 13. Sheriff, Lafayette, La. -- Arrest J. W. Edwards. Left on morning train. Has a small boy-child with him Age 34, height 5 feet 8 inches, slim built, black hair, eyes and moustache, side tips, sallow complexion. Has two overcoats. Charge, grand larceny.
D. C. GASTER,
Chief of Police.
In accordance with the above instructions, Marshal Vigneaux and Deputy Sheriff Billaud went to the depot and immediately after the arrival of the train they noticed a passenger carrying a child in his arms and answering to all the descriptions given in the telegram. He was placed under arrest and readily admitted that his name was J. W. Edwards, but disclaimed all knowledge of having committed any crime. The news of the arrest was wired to Chief Gaster and Detectives Kerwin and DeRanee arrived here on the midnight train and left with the prisoner the next morning for New Orleans. Edwards seemed to be very much affected by his arrest and broke down and cried. He was neatly dressed and had the appearance of a man in good circumstances. The story of his crime, as told by the detectives, is about as follows:
Edwards made the acquaintance of a New York drummer on one of the trains running to New Orleans, and made known to him his misfortunes and soon gained the sympathies of the New Yorker who assisted him financially and when they arrived at New Orleans they occupied the same room at the Grunewald Hotel. Early Wednesday morning Edwards stole his benefactor's gold watch and overcoat and left the city on a Southern Pacific train.
Lafayette Gazette 2/16/1895.
Carnival Low Rates.
The Carnival season in New Orleans is a season of absolute gaiety and good humor. The fame of the Crescent City in relation to its Mardi Gras festivals has spread until it has encompassed the entire earth. The Carnival is made up of a series of "fiestas" in which the people participate generally and which creates a long train of brilliant occasions and gorgeous pageants. The Carnival of 1900 will be the most brilliant in the history of New Orleans. There will be two additional street parades; the one occurring Feb. 21, at night, being an electrical display, the others occurring as follows: At night, Feb. 22, Momus; at noon Feb. 26, arrival of Rex, on night of same day, Proteus; at noon Feb. 27, Mardi Gras Day, Arrival of Rex, and Mardi Gras night, Comus.
Arrangements have been made for a general elaboration of the various spectacles and street masking. The Southern Pacific, Sunset Route, will make a one fare for the round trip rate, with tickets on sale Feb. 19, to the morning of Feb. 27, inclusive, going, and good for returning until March 10. For particulars see agent. S. F. B. Morse, Passenger Traffic Manager; L. J. Parks, General Passenger and Ticket Agent, Houston, Texas.
Lafayette Gazette 2/17/1900.
C. P. Huntington Passes Through Lafayette.
A special passenger train passed through Wednesday having on board President Huntington and other high officials of the Southern Pacific. Superintendent Owens accompanied the party as far as this place, where they were joined by Superintendent Mulvey. Mr. Owen boarded train No. 20 for San Antonio where he goes to meet his family who have been in that city for several weeks.
Lafayette Gazette 2/17/1894.
AN OUTRAGE.
Last Sunday the train which left here at 11:45 for New Orleans was wrecked a short distance on the other side of Cade. The track was blockaded and no train could go through that point. The railroad authorities were certainly aware of this condition of affairs, but strange to say the east bound train, scheduled to leave here about 1 o'clock, left as usual, as if nothing had happened. The railroad company knew that the train could not go through Cade, and it knew also that in the coaches were a number of women and children, who, in case of a long stay at Cade, would be subjected to much inconvenience, if not real suffering. The train reached Cade at about 1:30 and remained there until 2 o'clock the next morning. Anyone can imagine to what the passengers, especially the women and children, were exposed. With the thermometer registering six degrees above zero and little or no fire in cars, and without anything to eat, they were penned up and compelled to stand the bitter cold. What reason can Superintendent Owens, who was present, give for keeping these people over 12 hours at Cade without a mouthful to eat? Had the superintendent had a decent regard for the comfort of the patrons of his road he would have ordered the train back to Lafayette or some point where they would have been able to secure proper accommodations. It seems to us that the people of this section have some rights left which even Mr. Owens ought to be made to respect. There is absolutely no excuse for this outrage perpetrated upon the traveling public. Had the superintendent been unable to avoid all this, we are confident that there would not have been a word of complaint uttered, but as it was the result of either indifference or something worse, be believe the traveling public should exercise their privilege of registering a lusty and vigorous kick if that is all the satisfaction they can get.
Lafayette Gazette 2/18/1899.
A RAILROAD ITEM.
Every business man in town should help along the Abbeville railroad scheme. -- Lafayette Advertiser.
It was once stated by a distinguished English nobleman that a railroad laid down in any part of the United States would prove a paying institution, and the truth of this statement is being almost daily, fully confirmed by practical experiment. It is a known truth that railroads create and develop the resources of a country by opening up all the avenues to the wealth of its productions, and give life and animation to dull and dormant communities; but alas! we have too many in this section, we regret to say, are so blind to the advantages of a railroad to this place, and prompted solely by their own selfish motives, prefer to favor the old, slow and expensive mode of locomotion than to hear the lively snort of the iron horse in their midst. While we have some enterprising men in our community, who favor improvements of all kinds and wish to see the country prosper, it seems that we have others who prefer to remain and die in the old rut of ignorance than to follow in the wake of enlightenment and civilization. Under these circumstances we do not, nor can we expect, if the co-operation of our citizens is relied upon to effect that purpose, soon to see a railroad running to within a few miles of Abbeville, on its way to the seashore.
From the Abbeville Meridional and in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/18/1888.
Railway Mileage. - The railway mileage constructed during the calendar year 1881 is reported by the Railway Age at 8242 miles, much in excess of that built in any preceding year in the United States. In 1871 the figures were 7379 miles ; in 1880, 7174 miles. The table presented shows that on 258 lines in forty-two States and Territories has this work of developing the commercial arteries of the country been going on. Laf. Adv. 2/18/1882.
Promotion for Mr. Hawks. - A special from Houston to the New Orleans dailies announces the probable promotion of Mr. G. F. Hawks, now assistant superintendent of the El Paso division of the Galveston, Houston and San Antonio Railway. Mr. C. C. Mallard who is connected with the Southern Pacific in the capacity of resident engineer at New Orleans, is slated to succeed Mr. Hawks, according to this report. Mr. Hawks has been a resident of Lafayette for several months, and the news of his promotion was received with satisfaction by his friends. Lafayette Gazette 2/21/1903.
THE LOUISIANA CENTRAL TO BE BUILT.
We have never doubted but that sooner or later the projected railroad connecting Baton Rouge with Lafayette, La., would be built. It would seem now that a scheme is on foot to bring about this consummation, so devoutly to be wished for by the people of Baton Rouge, which seems more business-like and practical than any which has yet been discussed. The Vicksburg Herald, of a recent date says that the Mississippi Valley road, which has lately been so active in constructing loops and feeders to its magnificent line, now propose to broaden the gauge of the "Little J" road from Harrison to Jackson, Miss,. and extend it to three hundred miles further East to the Alabama coal fields at Decatur, where it will make connection with the East Tennessee, Virginia and Georgia road. They will then construct the Louisiana Central from Baton Rouge to Lafayette, La., and thus by connecting with the Texas and Pacific, at the latter point, secure a short and direct line of communication with the great railroad system of Texas and the West. Judge Parkerson of Lafayette, was in our city Monday, and though his business was not generally made known, it was shrewdly surmised by some that it had some reference to this railroad project, and the linking of Lafayette and Baton Rouge by railroad "tics", a scheme in which he is known to be deeply interested.
We feel that in the proposed route of this new road, and are satisfied that no great length of time will elapse before Baton Rouge will secure this most important and desirable new connection. If this should be so the business of our little Capital City would be given an impetus never experienced before, while the value of real estate would advance fifty or one hundred percent.
From the Baton Rouge Truth - Printed in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/22/1890.
FLYING SWITCHES.
Made by our Railroad Reporter for the Readers of the Advertiser.
It is rumored that work on the new depot building will soon commence.
Mr. Andrew Burkholder has returned to Houston to resume his duties with the electric road of that city.
Mrs. J. A. Burkholder will leave to-morrow for her home in Canada, and Mac will again become a "lone widower."
Mrs. Judge Bowen and children returned from New Orleans this week after viewing Rex and the minor royalties.
All the boys are buying tickets for the ball to be given on St. John's night at Falk's Hall in interests of the high school.
We are glad to state that Mr. F. V. Mouton, of the Southern Pacific road, has fully recovered from his severe illness, and is again at work.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Kelly returned home after an absence of a month which was spent most pleasantly at Mr. Kelly's home in Alabama.
The pay car on the Southern Pacific made the many employees of that road happy this week. We hope it will not be many moons before the pay wagon of the Lafayette, Abbeville & Gulf railroad will be performing a similar duty in Lafayette.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/25/1893.
THE BATON ROUGE RAILROAD. - There is an old saying that opportunity knocks once at every man's gate, but in these twentieth century days it is out of fashion to wait for the knock. He who would succeed must find or create his own opportunities for the growth and development of the town. We have a progressive league; let is president call the members together earnestly and determinedly set to work to do something.
A fair start was made towards the building of the Baton Rouge Lafayette road - why not take up the matter again and carry it as far as possible. Obstacles look very big sometimes, but when attacked in the proper spirit, they often dwindle to insignificant proportions, and though the roadway may look look like a big proposition for us, let us remember that confidence and hard work, joined with patience, have accomplished wonders. By all means let us have a strong try and a try altogether for the road. And then keep on trying till we get it. Lafayette Advertiser 3/15/1903.
Lafayette Advertiser March 21st, 1874.
1874 Railroad News.
We copy the following from the N. O. Picayune of the 18th :
We had the pleasure of meeting yesterday, Judge J. F. Crosby of Houston, Texas, former Receiver of the Texas and New Orleans Railroad, now attorney and agent of the line from the Sabine to Houston. Judge Crosby reports that the owners of the Texas and New Orleans Railroad are ready and anxious to put the road in perfect order from the Sabine to Houston, as soon as arrangements are consummated for the building of the line from New Orleans to the Sabine.
Morton, Bliss & Co., E. D. Morgan, and the capitalists who control the Texas and New Orleans, are ready with the cash to complete and stock their end of the line.
The people of Houston are deeply interested, and anxious to see the work commenced on the New Orleans division.
We learn that a meeting of the first mortgage bondholders of the New Orleans and Texas Railroad Company (Western Division), held in New York on the 10th inst., a resolution was passed instructing the President L. H. Meyer, to call on the bondholders to subscribe $300,000 to finish the road to Grand River, in order to buy additional rolling stock, etc., provided Gov. Kellogg signs the bill passed by the Legislature at the last session, in the interest of the road. From the N. O. Picayune and reprinted in the Lafayette Advertiser 3/21/1874.
Now For the Railroad Tax.
To Advertiser Editor A. C. Ordway:
Your great interest in the march of improvement of our parish, emboldens one to trespass upon your columns.
In the existing condition of things, I am in favor for building a railroad from Abbeville to Lafayette. Every railroad built in a country improves every acre of land within almost any possible radius from it. It facilitates and cheapens the transportation of every pound of freight, and therefore adds to the value of the product of the soil that is for sale, and diminishes the cost of every article, brought into the community for its consumption.
Railroads are the great modern civilizer of the world. Wherever they have penetrated, especially as competing lines, they have developed the intelligence of the masses of people; they have brought them that contact of thought; that opportunity for comparison and observations which is the supreme educator of our race.
Advancement and prosperity are to be attained by a people only moving on with the world, in the great revolutions which art and sciences, and better governments are pushing forward for the benefit of mankind.
Do our people wish for any evidence of the truth of what is here written - then let them recall how little progress our section had made until railroads brought it into sympathetic touch with the broader, living world. Look at the transformations which the community west of us, coming as it did with new thoughts, wider knowledge, greater experience than our narrow and peaceful life had heretofore given us, wrought in a very short years, on a soil we had always thought ungrateful.
Think you that this new mine of agricultural wealth that unsuspected lay dormant in our soil so long, would have been discovered but for the greater facility of communication and transportation to and from the section?
So, multiplied facilities, additional railroads, will increase the number and value of products which your rich soil and genial climate will bring forth at the magic touch of broader thought and greater knowledge of your ennobling and attractive calling, because you will be able to turn them to account by pushing them upon a market. Says Mr. Wells, the great economist of our country: "He must be stupid who does not at once see that the greater the facilities afforded to him for exchange such as good roads, bridges, horses and wagons, cheap and swift railroads and steamships, low tolls, freight and taxes, the greater will be the opportunity for trade and exchange to advantage."
The statement is of universal application, and equally true everywhere.
But a specious, and unsound argument is being urged, I am advised, to some effect, it is this: "Build as many railroads as you may, it will not increase the fertility of the soil." Beware of such sophism, it simply conceals the truth. Let me admit, that the naked statement is true, but then is it not equally true that if the value of your product is increased by being nearer to a market, only having a larger brought to your door, that practically the power of producing is increased, that is that your profit from that which your land over produce a certain quantity and value is lessened, is not your profit increased by that much? There can be but one answer to these question.
Now let us think for a moment who pays for the transportation of products to market, or for the supplies purchased. In the market, cotton will say is worth eight cents per pound. A ships is cotton, pays 1/4 of a cent freight because he lives on a competing line. You ship your cotton at an expense of 1/2or 1/4 of a cent because you have but one way of shipping. Both get the same price for their product. Who does not see at a glance that the farmer who gets 1/4 or 1/2 less, because he pays that much more freight, gets in reality that much less than his more fortunate brother farmer for his cotton?
You are asked, therefore, as a simple business transaction to contribute of your own for your own advantage, to obtain the increased facilities that will save you this extra expense upon both your products and supplies.
Again, it is said, that building railroads will increase the value of property, and thus increase the value of property, and thus increase taxation. This could be true only if the increased expenses of carrying on the government, necessarily followed the increased assessments. Obviously this not the fact, why should the expense of carrying on your parish government increase because your land or mine increased in value? It is a fact that when your lands could be bought for a song, your parochial government was largely in debt, whereas in the face of the largely increased value of lands all over the parish, you are now measurably if not entirely out of debt, and if your assessment, by railroad properties, new industries and even increased value of land could be doubled, is it not certain that you could decrease the per centage of taxation?
After all, I think that even if the decrease of taxation were not obtained, then the increased profit on your crops would much more than pay the increased tax, and leave a margin of profit to your credit.
Let me illustrate my idea. A farmer has four acres of cane to sell to a factory. That factory pays him $8.50 for his cane, because it is compelled to pay the only road which carries it, 50 cents a ton. A second road is built, which reduces the freight to 25 cents a ton. The central factory is able to pay $8.75 instead of $3.50 at ton, cane being worth $4 at the mill. Does not the farmer perceive that this profit alone not only pays any possible increase on his taxes, but the whole of his taxes? And pray, what brings about this (to him) happy result? Simply multiplied and competing facilities of transportation.
I earnestly ask my fellow citizens to join our efforts and united in the way of a light tax, to procure these benefits to ourselves and to our parish.
GUS. A. BREAUX.
Mardi Gras in New Orleans. - New Orleans Mardi Gras.One fare for the round trip from all points via the Texas & Pacific Railway. Dates of sale February 10-15, inclusive, final limit. February 20, 1904. On payment of fee of 50 cents an extension to March 5, 1904, will be granted. For further information call on any T. & P. Agent, or write, E. P. Turner, General Passenger Agent, Dallas, Texas.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/27/1904.
READ, CONSIDER AND ACT!
The letter we publish below, which was handed us by Mayor Wm. Campbell will explain itself, and it should be carefully read and deeply considered by every person in the parish, for undoubtedly, it means a great deal to every property holder in both the town and parish. The following is a copy of the letter:
DeWitt, Ark., Jan, 1893.
Mayor Wm. Campbell,
Lafayette, La.
MY DEAR SIR:
I am thinking of visiting Louisiana next week again and if I was assured your people would give hearty co-operation in the building of a railroad from your place to Abbeville, I would visit it with my engineer and view the advantages.
I presume I might as well state what aid I would want to take it up, and if your people think it too hard I need not come down.
If your town will vote a five-mill tax for ten years to aid it, and the parish a three mill tax for same time, and Abbeville a five mill tax and Vermilion three mill, I will at once take up the matter and build you the road during the summer. Do you think this can be accomplished? Alexandria has offered us this to build west from there.
If you are favorable to the deal please ascertain the facts and be ready to mail me a letter to Alexandria should I wire you the date of my arrival there, and if favorable I will visit you.
I should want to know your tax valuation in the city and the parish, also as near as you could ascertain the value of the Abbeville and Vermilion.
It is doubtful if they will respond very liberally as they will not be profited by the road as your city will be, as quite, a territory will be drawn to your city who have business on the coast and especially all living north on the roads will come to Lafayette as being more convenient that going around some other way.
The main value to your city is the fact that it opens up an outlet direct to water water navigation and thus attracts attention from manufacturers to your railroad and other advantages and brings about internal self-sustaining plants that gather in the profits and causes constantly increasing resources that eventually make a wealthy, populous city that continually gathers strength and reputation as a thriving business city. The world is full of men seeking desirable locations for all manner and all lines of business. But what do they seek for first? An outlet and an inlet; cheap transportation and a thrifty, live, progressive people. That is what they all want. Do you want to make a city? If so bring about these condition and plenty will be found ready and willing to cast their lot with you.
Yours, truly,
T. H. LESLIE.
It will be seen by the above that Mr. Leslie expects to be in this part of the country next week, and would at that time like to learn of the feelings of our people towards the enterprise, and as the time is short, steps should be taken at once to ascertain as far as possible what the popular opinion regarding the building of the proposed road is. Of course, the time is too short to make a thorough canvass of the question, but the opinion of some of our leading townspeople and influential planters could be learned, which would afford a fair idea of the general feeling.
There can be no question as the benefit to be derived from such a road, for the advantages which would accrue to the country and people generally from a competing road are too apparent to everyone to admit of argument on that score. The only question which can arise and which will need to be considered and discussed is whether it will be a paying investment for the amount asked.
Mr. Leslie asks for a 3-ill tax for ten years from the parish, and a 5-mill tax from the corporation. As the assessed valuation of the property in the parish is $1,894,572, therefore a 3-mill tax would amount of $5,683,72 per year, or a term of ten years, the gross amount given to the road by the parish would be $56,837,20. The assessed valuation of property in the corporation is $392,485 and a 5-mill tax would amount to $1,962,17 per annum, or for a term of ten years, $19,621,70. The two amounts together would give us a total of $76,458,90 which the town and parish would invest in the road, looking to an enhanced valuation of property and a reduction of freight rates, brought about by competition, for their remuneration. Would it, from a business standpoint, be a good investment? We believe that it would. Property values would only need to advance about 8 per cent, to say nothing of the saving in freights, to make it a (unreadable words) let to water navigation (unreadable word) the value of all property at least 10 per cent.
Again, we believe that the only existing railroad we have absorbs nearly all the net profits that the country produces. A competing line could not help reducing freight rates to and from this point, and every cent saved in freight would add just that much to the wealth of the parish. The fact that the people were helping, financially, to build the road, would become known abroad, and thus attract people and capital to our town.
View the matter in any light that we may, we cannot but see advantages to be gained by the people from the building of the road.
Do not let us by procrastination lose this opportunity of freeing ourselves from the oppressive grasp of the railroad monopoly that now holds our country by the throat, and like a vampire suck the life blood from our veins. But go to work and secure this road and thus take the first step that shall lead to the future wealth and prosperity of our town and parish. Nature has given us as fair a laud as the sun ever shone on, and if we are too blind to see our opportunities and take advantage of them, then we deserve nothing but hardships and poverty.
Lafayette Advertiser 1/28/1893.
Train Wreck at Carencro.
Saturday night nine freight cars derailed near Carencro and were thrown into the ditch along the track. The locomotive and a few cars were not injured. The nine cars thrown off the track were totally wrecked, and it is a wonder that no one received injuries. The cause of the accident could not be ascertained by us. Traffic was temporarily stopped on account of the damage done to the track. It was rumored that a pair of gloves and mangled flesh had been found under the wreckage which led to the supposition that some one stealing a ride had been killed, but The Gazette was assured by several gentlemen who were at the scene of the wreck that no such find was made and that there was nothing in the rumor.
Lafayette Gazette 1/29/1898.
Chas. Debaillon has resumed work at the express office. Laf. Gaz. 1/29/1898.
On account of two L. W. Enginemen being unable to go on their Engines, Thursday -- Engineers F. Poinboef and J. Hennington went to Houston in their place. Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
Master Hebert Mouton has been working as car checker in the Southern Pacific yard, lately. Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
The extra switch engine that had been running for some time at this place was pulled off this week, and Engineer Rogers was granted a leave of absence for a few days. Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
Mr. P. J. Tierney, the able mechanic of the Lafayette Round House, has returned from Algiers, where he has been working on a wrecking derrick which will henceforth be stationed in the Round House at this place. Laf. Adv. 2/2/1895.
An Excellent Dinner.
A number of convivial gentlemen met at the home of Mr. Edmond Mouton last Sunday and partook of a most excellent dinner. And when it is known that the expenses were borne by Mr. Kruttschnitt, of the Southern Pacific Company, the reader will wonder how that was possible?
Some time ago a car-load of cotton caught fire and the officers of the train not being able to save it abandoned the whole load, consisting of about 50 bales, near Mouton's Switch. Mrd Edmond Mouton and a number of his neighbors who happened to be near the track thought the cotton could yet be saved and with commendable energy they worked until a large portion of it was rescued from the fire. Mr Mouton wrote to Mr. Kruttschnitt telling him that the cotton which had been abandoned had been saved and was in good order. Mr. Kruttschmitts thanked him and his friends for their kindness, and a few days ag0 stopped his private car at the switch and thanked the gentlemen again, at the same time handing them a check sufficiently large to pay for the dinner mentioned in this article -- and this how the citizens in the neighborhood of Mouton's Switch enjoyed a dinner at Mr. Kruttschnitts' expenses. Lafayette Gazette 2/2/1895.
Pullman Monopoly.
The Pullman Palace Company has at last succeeded in purchasing all the sleeping car companies in this country, with the exception of the Wagner (which run on the Vanderbilt roads) it will have a monopoly. Lafayette Advertiser 2/2/1889.
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UNCLE SAM'S GIGANTIC RAILWAY MAIL SYSTEM.
A Trip on the Heaviest Mail Train in the World - Distributing Letters and Papers on the Car.
From the New York Register and in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/2/1889.
Train No. 11 of the New York and Chicago Railway Post Office is considered the heaviest mail train in the world. The line is divided into three divisions, viz: The eastern division, from New York to Syracuse; the middle division, from Syracuse to Cleveland, and the western division, from Cleveland to Chicago. A representative of the New York Press recently made a trip over the eastern division of the train named with the clerk in charge, H. LeF. Brown, and his crew. The mail began to arrive at the Grand Central Depot at 2:30 P. M. , and from that hour until 9:00 P. M. there was almost a constant line of heavily-laden mail wagons waiting to unload. Each pouch and sack was labeled, stating its contents and destination, and many were so heavy that it required two strong men to handle them; none were feather weights, yet the postal clerks labored vigorously with them, and knew intuitively in which particular car and compartment each of the many hundreds of sacks and pouches belonged. There was not an idle moment even during the process of making up the train. Promptly at 9 o'clock the doors were closed, the wheels set in motion, and immediately "the fast mail" was speeding on its way with every one at his post of duty, letters and papers flying in every direction as if by magic.
The train consisted of seven cars in all. First there was an express car, next the letter car, then followed the storage and two paper cars, an extra storage car and a Cleveland sleeper.
The letter car is fifty feet in length, and with the exception of a small storage compartment at one end, every inch of space on either side and at the opposite end is utilized; even the center of the car, which was designed for standing room, has been brought under contribution, so pressing is the demand for more space, as a consequence of the increase in the amount of matter to be handled. Overhead and dangling in the air was stretched and suspended a considerable amount of twine which resembled a string puzzle, but the arrangement had been devised by some ingenious clerk to hang letter pouches on.
The letter cases are arranged with reversible labels that they may be used for four separate States at different times.
The greater part of the letters when received at the railway postal office are bunched and pouched according to States, then they are distributed and bunched according to routes by the postal clerks, and each clerk works a certain State or States; it is their duty to know every post office in the territory assigned to them, as also by what route any given point may be soonest reached, watch for changes of time in the run of the trains, the discontinuance of old post offices and the appointment of new ones; in brief, they must be a walking geography, up to the times and a little beyond.
It was past midnight when the train pulled out of Albany. "How many tons of mail do you estimate are on board?" was asked of Mr. Brown. "At least thirty-five tons," he replied, "And this is a light night, too," he added. "Wednesday night is our heavy paper night. Sometimes the storage car is pilled full from floor to ceiling and the aisle is filled also. Now you see the stalls are only a little more than half full. Sometimes we have more than we can carry: the surplus is left at Albany."
A short stop was made at Palatine Bridge, another at Utica and again at Rome. Syracuse was reached just as the gray dawn was breaking. One hundred and thirty-seven thousand one hundred and forty pieces of mail had been distributed. Here the crew for the middle division took charge of the train and in a short space of time the many volume of written thoughts were hastening on to their destination. The other crew, all tired out and sleepy, disbanded after signing their name in a book provided for that purpose. They had worked for thirty-six hours with the exception of a little rest received in New York. This crew makes three consecutive trips from Syracuse to New York, which covers a period of six days. Then they "lie off" and rest for the same length of time. It is beyond the power of human endurance to work and greater length of time in the railway mail service.
Chief Clerk W. W. Canfield and Assistant Clerk W. J. Guernsey at Syracuse were interviewed in regard to the railway service. Mr. Canfield stated that an examination of all clerks in the service occurs annually. There are 109 clerks in the New York and Syracuse division and their average is 93 percent: the increase in mail matter has been 47 percent and the increase in men but 3 percent in the past five years. New men are being educated in the business and the force will be increased. A new line of cars is also building which will contain new improvements. Five of these cars will be run on train No. 11. They will be sixty feet in length, yet with the additional force and equipments proposed the facilities will still be inadequate, so rapidly is the mail matter in the division increasing. Applications for a position in the railway mail service are made to the General Superintendent at Washington, and when accepted a probationary appointment is given for six months, and examinations are made every thirty days, and if at the end of the time stated a satisfactory examination is passed a permanent appointment is given.
A miniature case is used for examination and cards on which are written the names of all post offices in any given state in lieu of letters. These are to be distributed in their proper places and percentage made is governed by the errors that occur. The best record of examinations was made by H. LeF. Brown on New York State which contains 3273 offices. Time, one hour and twenty four minutes; percentage, 99.49; and for 8201 offices in four hours and thirty-seven minutes; average per cent., 99.21.
From the New York Register and in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/2/1889.
THE WORK OF THE RAILROAD COMMISSION.
The Gazette has been favored with a pamphlet containing the decisions and orders in cases brought before the Railroad Commission of Louisiana from Jan. 1, 1899, to Dec. 31, 1899. The commission is composed of three members: C. L. de Fuentes, of New Orleans; R. N. Sims, of Donaldsonville; W. L. Foster, of Shreveport. W. M. Barrow, of Baton Rouge, is the secretary.
During the year fifty-nine cases were presented to the commission for trial. A goodly portion of these were disposed of, some were taken under advisement and others were held in abeyance.
Any judgment rendered at this time as to the usefulness of the commission would be premature. It is true that the commission has rendered a considerable number of decisions ordering the railroad companies to build depots, spurs, etc., but in the matter of rates not so much has yet been accomplished. We appreciate the fact that the establishment of a standard tariff of rates is a task in the performance of which good judgment must be exercised, and because the commission has so far failed to make any radical change in this direction is no evidence of a dereliction of duty. Responsive to appeals from the people nine depots were ordered to be built. In several cases discriminations in freight rates were adjusted. Action upon a number of complaints relative to rates was postponed until the commission will be able to adopt a standard tariff of rates to apply over all the lines in the State.
It is too early to either praise or censure the Railroad Commission. It has not doubt done some good and we believe that it has been guided by a sense of justice. The first year of its existence has been employed in building a foundation for the great work which it will be called upon to do. How well it will do its duty the future alone will tell. The people have rights and the corporations too have rights. Both sides should receive at the hands of the commission what they are entitled to.
Of course the State commission is greatly hindered by the laws regulating interstate commerce, but it can do a great deal without trespassing its powers. The interstate commission of the United States has not given the people the relief which was promised and some State commissions have not proved much of a protection against the greed and rapacity of corporations. In Louisiana there is no disposition on the part of the people to drive away capital by oppressive measures, but there seems to be a very pronounced determination to demand just treatment at the hands of railroad, telegraph and telephone companies -- a fact which the commission will do well to remember. Lafayette Gazette 2/3/1900.
We are in receipt of a well gotten-up pamphlet issued by the Southern Pacific settling in relief the attractions of New Orleans during the Carnival season. Laf. Adv. 2/3/1900.
NEW ORLEANS MARDI GRAS. - One fare for the round trip from all points via the Texas & Pacific Railway. Dates of sale February 10 to 15, inclusive final limit February 20, 1904. On payment of a fee of 50 cents an extension to March 5, 1904, will be granted. For further information call any T. & P. Agent, of write, E. P. Turner, General Passenger Agent, Dallas, Texas. Lafayette Advertiser 2/3/1904.
Southern Pacific Mardi Gras Rates. - The annual celebration of the Mardi Gras Carnival at New Orleans will take place February 15 and 16, and for this spectacular event the Southern Pacific railroad has announced a reduced rate of of one fare for the round trip from all points on its line. Tickets will be placed on sale February 10 to 15, inclusive, good for return until February 20. Those desiring to remain in the delightful old city of New Orleans may do so by depositing tickets with the joint agent at New Orleans and may remain until time to reach home by March 5. Any agent of the Southern Pacific can give information concerning the trip. Lafayette Advertiser 2/3/1904.
C. E. Motter has taken the place of time-keeper for the Southern Pacific. Laf. Adv. 2/3/1904.
Be sure to get a $5,000 accident ticket from Parkerson & Mouton before leaving for Mardi Gras. Only 25 cents a day. Laf. Adv. 2/3/1904.
Beginning to-day, and until the 6th inst., the Southern Pacific Co. will charge one fare for the round trip from all stations along the road, as an inducement to the people to visit the Crescent city for the carnival festivities. Tickets will be good to return until the 10th. instant. A special train for the accommodation of excursionists will be run from Lafayette down. The train will leave this station at 10 o'clock a. m. each day. Lafayette Advertiser 2/3/1894.
N. D. Finch, traveling passenger agent of the Illinois Central Railroad, paid The Advertiser Office an agreeable call Saturday. 2/4/1904.
A GRAND MEETING
Of Business Men to Consider the Proposition Made by Mr. T. H. Leslie.
Almost an Assured Fact that a Railroad Will Be Built from Lafayette to Abbeville This Year.
A BUSINESS MEN'S ASSOCIATION PROPOSED.
Mr. T. H. Leslie, President and General Manager of the Stuttgart and Arkansas River Railroad, from whom we published a letter in last week's ADVERTISER, arrived in Lafayette Thursday afternoon, and called at this office. We soon discovered that Mr. Leslie meant business, and was a man who talked "straight from the shoulder."
He stated that he could remain only a short time in our city, and as he had several propositions to make to the people, requested us to call a meeting of some of our representative citizens to meet him at 11 o'clock Friday morning, which we agreed to do. Our own time was fully occupied, but we saw as many as was possible, and as possible, and as a result a number of business men congregated to the director's room of the People's State Bank, who kindly granted the use of the room for a meeting. Mr. Leslie submitted the following written proposition which was read to the meeting.
Lafayette, La., Feb. 3, 1893:
A. C. Ordway, Esq.,
Editor Advertiser,
DEAR SIR: - I would be pleased to submit through you, confidentially to some of your representative citizens, the following co-operative proposition.
In the event of your people being induced to vote the aid requested by me, I will at my own expense have issued a satisfactory pamphlet setting forth your advantages and resources ; and will offer a bonus of $20,000 to anyone who will establish a cotton factory, employing not less than 150 people, and $10,000 bonus for a good No. 1 sugar refinery, which I will pay upon the erection of one or both of the above-named plants. I will agree to bring about a reduction of an average of at least 10 per cent on all freight rates to and from this town, and also these representative men to select the Treasurer and two Directors of the road, thus ensuring many direct benefits to your city.
T. H. Leslie.
It may be well to explain here that the aid requested by Mr. Leslie and referred to in the above proposition is a 5 mill tax for ten years from the town and an 8 mill tax for the same period from the parish.
After the reading of the above proposition Mr. Leslie was introduced and spoke as follows:
"GENTLEMEN: In the event of your advocating and securing the aid requested by me, I will obligate myself to meet your city and parish in a co-operative spirit for the development of your country, by inducing the investment of capital in various enterprises calculated to promote the rapid development of your dormant resources. Among the number that I should aid and encourage would be the following:
A Sugar Refinery, An Electric light plant, A System of Water Works, A Cotton Factory and
A Street Railway,
As an incentive to establish the two most important industries named, viz: a Sugar Refinery and a Cotton Factory. I will give a bonus of $10,000 to the first named and $20,000 to the second, and with this encouragement and the general stimulation given by the building of a railroad to the coast. I do not question or doubt the future prosperity of your city. I have never seen greater average advantages than here, and they only need to be known to the outside world to be most wonderfully developed in the next few years. If by a liberal policy you can double your population in the next five years and increase the value of all property 100 per cent., at a nominal cost to yourselves, you are certainly the gainers by the transaction. My proposition contemplates mutual benefits and is all one-sided as is the case frequently in railroad matters. My theory is, and my experience has demonstrated the fact that a large tonnage and low rates are better for both the railroad and the people, as low rates encourages the people to handle many articles that otherwise would be impossible."
After his remarks were finished a general discussion of the matter took place, and Mr. Leslie convinced everyone present that he was thoroughly in earnest in the matter and was in a position to carry out every proposition made by him to the people. Arrangements were made for further correspondence with Mr. Leslie regarding the matter, and after receiving assurances from all present that they would support the matter earnestly and heartily, Mr. Leslie took his departure.
At the close of the railroad discussion advantages was taken of the opportunity afforded by the presence of the business men to take preliminary steps for the organization of a Business Men's Association, which in the future could take charge of any movement started that would benefit our town, and the following named gentlemen were enrolled as members:
Chas. O. Mouton, N. P. Moss, I. A. Broussard, Judge O. C. Mouton, T. M. Biossat, John O. Mouton, Julian J. Mouton, Julian J. Mouton, Alfred Hebert, J. Higginbotham, B. Falk, Wm. Campbell, Capt. J. C. Buchanan, A. J. Moss, A. M. Martin, A. C. Ordway, A. C. Guilbeau and Crow Girard.
On motion Messrs. O. C. Mouton, Alfred Hebert and A. C. Ordway were appointed a committee to draft a constitution and by-laws to be submitted to a meeting Monday evening, the Chairman to act as a member of ex-officio of the committee.
A motion was made and carried that a meeting be held at the Court House, next Monday evening, at 7:30 o'clock, and that all business men and citizens of Lafayette be urgently requested to attend with a view of affecting a permanent organization, after which the meeting broke up, and everyone present seemed to realize that if Lafayette was ever to advance in wealth and prosperity, the time had arrived for earnest work.
Let there be a large attendance on next Monday night. Everybody owes it as a duty to the community to attend.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/4/1893.
FLYING SWITCHES.
Made by Our Railroad Reporter for the Readers of the Advertiser.
Conductor Joe Fauril has taken the place of Conductor Wm. Quinn, during the latter's vacation.
Engineer Joe Burts, who shot Engineer Sullivan in Houston some time since, is again on his regular run.
Mr. James Mitchell, assistant master mechanic of the Morgan division, made a short trip to New Iberia, last Saturday.
Mr. M. C. Thornton, the popular night operator of the Southern Pacific, has returned from his vacation and his smiling face is to be again seen on our streets.
The special train carrying the official of the road over the Morgan division was in charge of Conductor J. Ashton, while the throttle of engine No. 709, which pulled the train was held by Engineer C. Devor.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Cayard returned from New Iberia on last Sunday, where they had been to celebrate their wooden wedding. May they live to celebrate many anniversaries of a prosperous married life, is the earnest wish of the Advertiser.
Mr. J. Mitchell, of the Morgan division and Miss Florence Betencourt, of Algiers, were married in St. Mary's church at Algiers, Monday, January 30th. The Advertiser joins their many friends in wishing them a happy and prosperous voyage on the matrimonial sea. and trust that their lives will be spared for many years to enjoy life together.
On Wednesday, evening a party of prominent Southern Pacific officials were in Lafayette. They traveled on a special train on a tour of inspection. The party was composed of Messrs. T. Crocker, 1st vice president ; J. Kruttschnitt, general manager ; Wm. F. Owens, superintendent of the Morgan division, and W. B. Mulvay, superintendent of the Louisiana division. The officials report themselves as being well pleased with the condition of the road.
We are informed that the question of erecting at an early date a new depot building at this place, to contain waiting rooms, lunch room, express and baggage room, is under construction by the officials of the Southern Pacific. The new building would be erected near the track, thus avoiding the inconvenience of going the distance now necessary on rainy days. It would be a great improvement and one that would be appreciated by the patrons of the road.
We had the pleasure of inspecting the air brake instruction car of the Southern Pacific Co. last Wednesday. The car is fitted with eight Westinghouse air brakes, and a small upright steam engine which furnishes the power to work the brakes. The car is under the direction of Mr. W. C. Cox and the object of the company in sending the car over their road is to thoroughly instruct trainmen in the use of the brakes. It is a good idea and shows that the company is solicitous of the comfort and safety of the passengers.
While the day yard manager master, Mr. Henry Church, and City Marshall C. H. Bradley were having a dress parade at the depot Friday. Charlie Devoe with his old 709, came along. When Charlie saw the procession he pulled open the throttle to give them a salute, but the whistle seemed to be too full for utterance as it were, and "kinder" choked up with its feelings, but you should have seen the procession after the whistle got in its deadly work - two white and spotless shirts changed to the hue of midnight and a disgusted parade was the result.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/4/1893.
Freight Charges.
Complaints against the Morgan Company on account of extortionate freight charges have, of late, been loud and numerous among our business people, -- and if the current reports be true, these complaints are far from being groundless. It is well known that when the Morgan road was completed here, and for some time after, many of the merchants of this place were receiving their freight direct from New Orleans by boat, and though this could not have interfered to a great extent with the business of the company, a plan was arranged to get rid of what might be a serious leak in their freight receipts. Thus contracts were made by which regular freight charges were reduced materially, the contract was made for the term of one year, at the end of which time there was no more boat and charges went up to the old figures. But the company was not content with this, the "old figures" have been increased at irregular intervals with startling rapidity, and we take it that no one who has received freight at this point, will contend that current rates are not in keeping with all the features of a gigantic monopoly.
In addition, these rates are not only extortionate,--they are arbitrary, in fact it amounts to this, "Now we've got you cornered,--give us all your money, or you don't get anything to eat." It is asserted as a fact, that goods may be ordered from New Orleans to Washington, La., and back from there to this place and the difference in the cost of this mode of shipment and that from New Orleans here at once is against the company. The solution of this paradoxical statement does not require the time and thought on a complicated riddle,--boats run regularly to and from Washington. The Morgan company evidently means to "make hay when the sun shines;" the (unreadable words) ... unmistakable,--the (unreadable words) ... important day, a railroad commission (unreadable words) .... fair rates.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/4/1882.
RAILROAD WRECKS.
An editorial in last Sunday's Picayune calls attention to the unusually large number of railroad wrecks which have occurred recently in the United States. Mention is made of the wreck on the New Hersey road which called twenty persons and injured double that number, and the Southern Pacific catastrophe in California where the loss of life was still greater, the death list exceeding thirty. In both instances the accidents are attributed to the neglect or obedience of employes. In one case the engineer ignored the signals, and in the other an operator failed to deliver an order to the engineer and conductor of train. The appalling results in both accidents have awakened the authorities to a realization of their duty and it is reported that rigid investigations will be made with a view of finding out who is responsible for this terrible loss of human life. Further than fixing the blame upon the derelict employes, the judicial investigations will not accomplish much. The men whose negligence or disobedience caused the awful sacrifice of human life are not criminals and a prosecution can not be expected to result in their conviction on either the charge of murder or manslaughter. But is nevertheless a move in the right direction.
According to the bulletin issued by the Interstate Commerce Commission 240 persons were killed and 2,339 injured in railway accidents occurring during the months of July, August and September. It is safe to say that these figures do not include all the railroad in which people were killed and injured during the three months mentioned. The unwillingness of the railroad companies to give any information on this subject is well known. In many instances the fatalities do not find their way into the newspapers. Railroad men are under strict orders not to speak of accidents and when they occur at remote points it is almost impossible to find anything out anything about them.
The people have become so accustomed to hearing that some one has been killed by a railroad accident that unless the number of deaths is very large the occurrence causes no comment and the authorities pay no attention to it.
While The Picayune bemoans this awful record of death, it offers no remedy to stop this cruel waste of Lafayette. It merely suggests "that the best inventive thought of the present generation ought to be applied to the task."
Though The Gazette frankly confesses its inability to deal with this very vital problem, as it should be dealt with, it believes that some good will result from an investigation by the authorities of every accident which is accompanied by loss of life.
Every time a person is killed in a railway accident his death should be made the subject of a full judicial inquiry. Railroad companies should be held to a stricter accountability when they or their agents cause the death of a human being. Investigations by the officers of the law may not put an end to these death-dealing accidents, but they will at least show that society has yet some regard for the sacredness of human life.
Lafayette Gazette 2/7/1903.
CHEAP RATES TO CALIFORNIA POINTS.
The Southern Pacific "Sunset Route" has created an innovation in the matter of rates to California points.
Commencing Tuesday, February 12th., and every Tuesday, thereafter, to and including April 30th, 1901, the "Sunset Route" will put into effect second class tickets from New Orleans, Alexandria and intermediate points in the main line, to and including Beaumont, $27.50.
From other points on the T. & N. O. R. R., and from stations on the G. H. & N. Ry., the rate will be $25.00.
These colonists rates are so low as to enable persons contemplating a visit to California, to make it under circumstances unparalleled in the matter of cheap transportation.
Excursion sleeping cars leave New Orleans six days of the week, through without change to California, the berth rate therein being less than one-third of the standard charge.
For additional particulars, see your agent, or address,
S. F. B. MORSE, A. P.T. N.,
Southern Pacific, "Sunset Route",
P. T. M., :-- G. H. & S. A. Ry.,
T. & N. O. R. R.
G. H. & N. Ry.
or
L. J. PARKS,
G. P. & T. A.
Houston, Texas.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/9/1901.
Railroad Engineer Cordinar met with a painful accident the night of the 14th instant. Whilst walking through the main hall of the Olivier hotel he slipped and fell dislocating the right shoulder joint. Dr. Martin attended the patient.
Laf. Adv. 2/9/1895.
The barn of Mr. W. D. Huff was discovered to be on fire the 4th instant, but before much damage had been done the flames were promptly extinguished with the valuable assistance of a switch engine crew that went to the rescue.
Laf. Adv. 2/9/1895.
An Early Blaze.
At about 3 o'clock Tuesday morning Mr. Wm. Huff was surprised to discover his barn on fire. Though the flames had already consumed the upper portion of the building prompt and intelligent work saved the balance of it. Mr. Huff was fortunate in receiving the assistance of the "crew" from the railroad yard who worked hard to put out the fire. Mr. Huff desires to thank these gentlemen for their efficient work, especially to the old veteran railroader, Henry Church. Lafayette Gazette 2/9/1895.
The ever-courteous conductor on the tap, Emile Pefferkorn, who was on the sick list several days, returned to work Wednesday morning.
Laf. Adv. 2/9/1895.
Engineer Howard, of Houston, who was employed in the Lafayette yards during the rush, was relieved from duty Monday and returned to Houston. He was replaced by the popular engineer, Frank Pointboeuf.
Laf. Adv. 2/9/1895.
Our friend Wall. at the depot, now wears a smile of his countenance which even a question as to the whereabouts of a delayed train fails to dissipate. He is now living in his own house, instead of paying rent; that is the Building and Loan association have purchased the cottage on Pierce street which he occupies, and his payments - installments and interest - to the Association are but little in excess of the rent paid by him. We advise others of our citizens to avail themselves of the benefits of this Association and become owners of their dwellings. Laf. Adv. 2/9/1889.
RAILROAD NEWS.
Foot Crushed.
Tuesday afternoon Mr. Felix Landry, a conductor on the Alexandria branch, had the misfortune to have his foot crushed by falling between the cars at Washington. He was holding to as handbolt, which gave way. He was brought back to Lafayette on a special, and received prompt medical attention. Drs. Tolson and Martin, who attended him, after examining the injured foot, concluded there was a chance to save the foot, but found it necessary to amputate three toes. The accident happened a week ago. Yesterday Mr. Landry was doing as well as could be expected. He owes the saving of his foot to the fact that he was wearing very heavy soled shoes, which partly held up the heavy weight of the cars which passed over his foot. Lafayette Advertiser 2/10/1904.
May Lose an Arm.
Wednesday Mr. A. B. Trahan, a brakeman on the Alexandria branch, while coupling cars at Washington got his arm caught and so badly mashed that he will probably lose his arm. He was at once brought to Lafayette, where Drs. G. A. Martin and Jno. Tolson attended him. He was sent to the hospital at New Orleans. Lafayette Advertiser 2/10/1904.
Low Mardi Gras Rates On Morgan Line. - Morgan's Louisiana & Texas Rail Road and Steamship Co. will sell tickets from Lafayette to New Orleans and return Feb. 10th to 15th, at the rate of one fare for the round trip, final limit Feb. 20th. Children under 12 years one half fare. For further information apply to local agent, or C. W. Owen, D. F. & P. A., of New Iberia, La. Laf. Adv. 2/10/1904.
New Orleans Mardi Gras. - One fare for the round trip from all points via the Texas & Pacific Railway. Dates of sale February 10 to 15, inclusive, final limit February 20, 1904, will be granted. For further information call on any T. & P. Agent, or write, E. P. Turner, General Passenger Agent, Dallas, Texas. Laf. Adv. 2/10/1904.
Mardi Gras Rates. - The annual celebration of the Mardi Gras Carnival at New Orleans will take place February 15 and 16, and for this spectacular event the Southern Pacific railroad has announced a reduced rate of one fare for the round trip from all points on its line. Tickets will placed on sale February 10 to 15 inclusive, good for return until February 2o. Those desiring to remain longer in the delightful old city of New Orleans and may remain until time to reach home by March 5. Any agent of the Southern Pacific can give information concerning the trip. Laf. Adv. 2/10/1904.
Carnival Low Rates.
The Carnival season in New Orleans is a season of absolute gaiety and good humor. The fame of the Crescent City in relation to its Mardi Gras festivals has spread until it has encompassed the entire earth. The Carnival is made up of a series of "fiestas" in which the people participate generally and which creates a long train of brilliant in the history of New Orleans. There will be two additional parades; the one occurring Feb. 21, at night, being an electrical display, the others occurring as follows:
At night, Feb. 22, Momus; at noon Feb. 26, arrival of Rex; on night of the same day, Proteus; at noon Feb. 27, Mardi Gras Day, Arrival of Rex, and on Mardi Gras night Comus.
Arrangements have been made for general elaboration of the various spectacles and street masking. The Southern Pacific, Sunset Route, will make a one far for the round trip rate, with tickets on sale Feb. 19, to the morning of Feb. 27, inclusive, going, and good for returning until March 10. For particulars see agent S. F. B. Morse, Passenger Traffic Manager; I. J. Parks, General Passenger and Ticket Agent, Houston, Texas. Lafayette Gazette 2/10/1900
Beginning March 1st, the Cheneyville & Lafayette Railway Post Office will be extended to Alexandria, La. This will prove of great benefit to our people as heretofore a letter mailed to Alexandria was put off at Cheneyville, and the following eve at 3:48 it left Cheneyville for Alexandria, taking over 24 hours to reach a place only 4 to 5 hours distant. The change will be a welcome one. Lafayette Advertiser 2/10/1894.
Claims aggregating a considerable sum have been recorded against the Teche Railroad Company. Laf. Adv. 2/10/1894.
Railroad Burglar. - On Thursday night about 1 o'clock an attempt was made by unknown parties to burglarize a car of the Southern Pacific. The night watchman, Mr. William Graser, discovered them as they were carrying off some of the goods and fired at them. The robbers dropped the goods and returned the fire of the watchman, but without wounding him. They made their escape.
Laf. Advertiser 2/11/1893.
THE RAILROAD QUESTION.
Last
week we published in the local columns of the ADVERTISER, certain
propositions from Mr. T. H. Leslie, together with the action taken by a
meeting of business men, regarding the same. Mr. Leslie's proposition to
the tax-payers of the corporation and parish of Lafayette in substance
is as follows;
In consideration of a 5 mill tax by the corporation and a 3 mill tax from the parish for a period of ten years Mr. Leslie agrees
1st. To build a railroad from Lafayette to Abbeville.
2nd.
To donate $20,000 as a bonus to be given to anyone who will erect a
cotton factory in Lafayette, which will shall employ not less than 150
hands.
3d. To donate $10,000 to anyone who will erect a sugar refinery in our city.
To
make it possible to accept the proposition it would be necessary for
the Police Jury to order a special election, and for the people by a
majority vote to sanction the proposition. This, we believe, would be
done by the people, for they have everything to gain and nothing to
lose. The tax asked for would amount to about $76,000, taking the
present valuation of property as a basis ; this sum would be paid to the
promoters of the railroad in ten equal installments, covering a period
of ten years, providing the road was built, for nothing asked, nor would
a cent be paid until the road was completed and trains running. In
addition to building the road we would secure two industries, one of
which -- the sugar refinery -- is of vital importance to the people, for
with $10,000 offered as a bonus, a sugar refinery would soon be
erected, as such offers do not "go a begging." The cotton factory,
employing as it would, not less than 150 hands, whose salaries would add
to the money circulation of the parish a nice sum each month would
likewise prove of great benefit to our people generally.
The
construction of the road would be commenced and carried on from this
end of the line, affording work for a large number of people, who would
expend their salaries in our city. The establishment of the two above
named industries would cause the distribution of about $10,000 per month
in our town as wages, besides what would be paid to laborers
constructing the road.
In
consideration of the above facts we believe that the statement can be
truthfully made that all property values would increase at least 25 per
cent within six months from the date that the building of them becomes
as assured fact. For all of the above benefits the people who are asked
to vote a tax for ten years, the total of which would amount to about 3
per cent of the present assessed valuation of property in town and
parish. It seems impossible that a question of the people being blind
enough to refuse the offer made, should for a moment be entertained.
We
believe that when the question is voted on, it will be accepted by an
overwhelming majority. Let this matter be carried through the railroad
built, the factories erected and running, and Lafayette would double her
population within five years, and the wealth of the entire parish would
increase 100 per cent in the same length of time. The establishment of
one industry would lead to another, until the sound of the whistle would
be heard in different parts of our city calling the people to their
daily work, and Lafayette would ere many years in Southwestern
Louisiana.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/11/1893.
Now, Let's Work On It.
Now
that we have something tangible to work on, something that holds but
encouragement to those who have so long wished for the advancement of
our town and parish a stimulant with which to incite the people to labor
with a united and earnest effort for the future welfare and prosperity
of our country, now that the dark clouds are rolling away and the bright
sun of advancement is beginning to shine on our land, it behooves us to
consider well the future actions, lest a mistake may cause the clouds
again to gather and shut out the new light and spirit which is dawning
on the view of our over-anxious watchers. In the words of the immortal
Shakespeare, "there is a tide in the affair of men, which taken at the
flood leads to success," and our people now have the chance of launching
their bark, the New Era, on the flood tide and riding joyfully forward
to the goal of success.
Let
us consider well our actions and set upon plans formed by mature
judgment. Two great and vital questions present themselves in
considering the steps that must be taken to insure success, and these
questions are: Upon what foundation shall we build? What shall be used
as the corner stone upon which to build that new temple of prosperity? A
fertile soil and perfect climate has been given us by the Divine Ruler -
of these advantages we are certain - they are natural advantages but
what it the most necessary artificial or human built requisite is what
we must decide. It is a competing railroad ? No ! Is it a cotton factory
? No ! Is it the erection of a sugar refinery ? Again reason as well as
experience answers, No ! Then what is it that we most need ? What will
have the greatest influence with people inducing them to locate here and
invest their capital ? We answer, feeling confident in the knowledge
that experience will support us in our decision and assertion, that the
one great thing needed, is better schools and greater interest in
educational matters. Unless a move is made, and made at once, to
complete our school building, and open therein a first-class graded
school, we might as well drop the railroad question and give up all
thought of advancement, for without better school facilities than we now
possess, our efforts to induce new people and new capital to locate
here will prove futile and of no avail. Let us, therefore, unite our
efforts and work together with this end in view, and get our school
opened. When this is accomplished, then, and not till then, we will be
able to make any headway in advancing the material interests of our
people.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/11/1893.
The East bound Texas passenger train, due at 10 a. m., did not reach here on Wednesday until 6 p. m. The cause of the failure is said to have been the failure of connections at Houston brought on by "washouts" in the road beyond. Laf. Advertiser 2/11/1882.
A RAILROAD COMMISSION.
Opelousas Courier.
We think Louisiana ought to have a railroad commission. A large number of the States of the Union have one, and wherever they have been given a trial the results have been satisfactory. As the Constitutional Convention meets this month, and the Legislature in May, we think it is a good time to explain to our readers what a railroad commission is, and we therefore take the following extract from the A. & E. Encyclopedia of Law, volume 19, which clearly presents the matter:
"State legislatures have authority to establish reasonable regulations for the control of railway corporations. To enable them to exercise such authority prudently and intelligently, boards of railroad commissioners frequently are created, charged with the general duty of preventing the exacting of unreasonable or discriminating rates upon transportation within the State, and for the enforcement of reasonable police regulations for the comfort, convenience and safety of travelers and persons doing business with the companies. These boards are required, usually, to make annual reports to the legislature of their doings, including such statements, facts and inspections as will disclose the actual workings of the system of railroad transportation in its bearing upon the business prosperity of the State, and such suggestions as to the general railroad policy, the amendment of the laws, and the condition, affairs, or conduct of any railroad corporations as may seem appropriate, and to recommend and draft for the Legislature such bills as, in their judgement, will protect the interests of the public. The authority to create these boards is founded on the principle that railroad corporations enjoy privileges and franchises created and exercised in order that the public may not fail to receive it. Lafayette Gazette 2/12/1898.
Low Rates to Opelousas. - Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company will sell tickets from Lafayette to Opelousas and return Feb. 22 and 23, 1903, with return limit Feb. 25, 1903, at a rate of 65c. on account of Carnival and Parade. Lafayette to California,Common Points, Colonists rates $30, Feb. 15, to April 30, 1903. For additional particulars, apply to local agent or to C. B. Ellis, Division Passenger and Freight Agent, New Iberia, La. Laf. Gaz. 2/14/1903.
Fragile Cargo. - Effective This Date, a tri-weekly egg service will be established between Lake Charles, Cheneyville and Lafayette and New Orleans. This service will be run on Monday, Wednesday and Friday of each week, in the following manner.
Train No. 84, leaving Lafayette on Monday, Wednesday and Friday of each week, will have a car into which will be loaded eggs for New Orleans from points between Lafayette and Morgan City, From Morgan City it will be run into New Orleans in the first available train. Lafayette Advertiser 2/14/1903.
New Orleans, Mobile and Texas Railroad.
A subject worthy of serious consideration which it appears, will be brought up in the Kellogg Legislature during its present session, is the new charter, or charters desired to be procured for the New Orleans, Mobile and Texas Railroad, in order to secure its completion on to Texas and the Southern Pacific.
The road, as it now stands, has been completed between this city and Mobile, and westward of this point from Westwego to Grand River, east of the Grosse Tete. Here, owing to the lack of money, energy or something else, it fell through and everything remains in status quo.
Mr. Alley, the President of the road, and Mr. Hart, one of the largest stockholders, have been for some time at work on the affair, and with an agreement from the rest of the stockholders, have at last resolved on the following course :
The road between here and Mobile having been completed, will be made an entirely separate road. Of, Mr. Alley will assume the presidency ; while another charter will be procured for the road between Westwego and Texas - European capitalists having already agreed to furnish money for its competition. Mr. Meyer, the representative of large German bankers, will, it is thought, be President of the latter section under the new charter ; and a consolidation taking place with the Central Railroad, the Backbone and other, the road is guaranteed to be completed. One particular point worthy of notice is that this is intended to be done without a cent of money from the State, the gentlemen in charge stating their willingness to assume every risk and responsibility. The road under this new charter will, it is alleged, run to Houston, Texas, with a branch line to Shreveport, bringing all of the cotton which is now diverted elsewhere into our market. A bill covering all these points is said to be in preparation, with a view to its immediate appearance before the Dryades street Legislature. We have heard it suggested that the fact of its "having no money in it," ought to secure prompt and favorable action, but whether that novel circumstance will avail anything for good remains to be seen.
From the N. O. Picayune and re-printed in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/14/1874.
Mrs. J. E. Declas, a railroad employee, stated to the Advertiser reporter, that notwithstanding the severe weather he had a fine patch of strawberry vines and expected to have the ripe strawberries in about a month.
Laf. Adv. 2/15/1905.
Death of a Stranger. - Last Saturday morning a man was found on the pavement in front of Meyer Bros.' saloon. From all appearances he had been exposed to the cold part of the night and was in an unconscious condition. He was taken in by the police and provided with lodgment and medical aid, but he died Sunday night. It was ascertained that the man had been drinking freely which accounts for his failure to secure a place to sleep, as he had some $14.00 in his possession. His identity is not positively known, but it is believed that his name was Donovan and that he was a railroad man.
Lafayette Gazette 2/15/1902.
For the benefit of those who wish to witness the fight between Maher near El Paso, the Southern Pacific will sell tickets to that point at one fare rate. For further information apply to Agent Davidson at the depot. Laf. Gaz. 2/15/1896.
The Southern Pacific announces one-half fare rate for the round trip to New Orleans and return for the Mardi Gras celebration which will take place on the 18th of February. Tickets will be sold February 15, 16, 17 and 18, good for return until February 28, inclusive. Laf. Gaz. 2/15/1896.
We note that Mr. W. W. Well has been appointed signal observer at Cheneyville, and Mr. J. J. Davidson, our railroad agent, has been appointed for Lafayette. These are good appointments, and we know that these gentlemen will thoroughly discharge their duty. A signal observer has to be accurate, or his work is worth nothing. Laf. Adv. 2/15/1890.
RAILROAD NEWS: A late dispatch from New York conveys the welcome intelligence that arrangements for pushing forward the link of the Houston road connecting Orange in Texas with Vermilionville in Louisiana have been concluded. The part of the road between Vermilionville and Morgan City being taken in charge by the Morgan Railway and Steamship Company, will, of course, be pushed to completion as fast as possible. The road between Orange and Houston is to be improved and put in first class order. There can be no doubt, now, that we shall have railway connection with Houston and the whole railroad system of Texas perhaps during the summer of 1879.
From the N. O. Picayune and re-printed in the Lafayette Advertiser on February 15, 1879:
From the Lafayette Gazette of February 16th, 1901:
TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS
Asked by Rene Delahoussaye for Injuries Sustained In a Railway Collision.
Walter J. and Porteus Burke, attorneys for Rene Delahoussaye of New Iberia, have filed a suit in the district court against the Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad Company to recover damages caused by injuries sustained in the collision which occurred last November near the Lafayette Refinery.
Mr. Delahoussaye was one of the passengers on the excursion train which was run from New Iberia to Lafayette on Nov. 23 on account of the performance of the Buffalo Bill Show at this place.
Mr. Delahoussaye avers in his petition that the coaches were overcrowded and he and other passengers were compelled to stand in the aisle of the coach, that while he was standing the train collided against a freight train coming from the opposite direction and that the collision caused a severe and violent shock which threw him forward fracturing and dislocating the inner bone of the forearm. He avers that the injuries were inflicted without the slightest contributory negligence on his part; that the injuries were due exclusively to the gross negligence and misfeasance if duty on the part of the defendant's agents. He avers further that because of the fracture of his arm he was made to undergo extremely severe pain and that he could not get rest at night and could not attend to his business in the day, and states that the injuries are of a permanent character thus seriously affecting the utility of the injured arm. The petitioner alleges that he has suffered damages in the sum of $2,000, a portion of which was incurred in procuring medical treatment.
It will be remembered that the collision referred to in the petition happened referred to in the petition happened last November just beyond the eastern limit of the Southern Pacific yards. A number of persons were slightly hurt. The accident was the result of the failure of the engineer of the west-bound train to stop at Landry's switch as he was ordered to do.
Lafayette Gazette 2/16/1901.
A Case of Flirtation.
The Gazette reporter was very much amused the other day at the railroad depot by a genuine case of flirtation. It was done in the most approved style and showed that those engaged in this popular pastime were adept in the art and had "been there before," especially on the part of the young man, who is generally about the depot at train time. "He winked the other eye" act was certainly performed with the grace of the true artist."
Lafayette Gazette 2/16/1895.
Dislocated His Shoulder. - Engineer Canard, who runs on the Southern Pacific road between here and Houston, while playing in the snow Thursday slipped and fell on the floor of the porch at the Olivier Hotel and dislocated his left shoulder. Dr. G. A. Martin was called and rendered Mr. Canard the necessary help.
Lafayette Gazette 2/16/1895.
Real Shiny for Southern Pacific Officials. The railroad boys say that Fireman Bocker put such a bright polish on the number of switch engine 528 that it dazzled the eyes of the officials, who failed to see the engine. Jake is an expert at polishing brass.
Lafayette Gazette 2/17/1894.
A new schedule will go into effect on the Southern Pacific road to-morrow.
Laf. Gaz. 2/17/1894.
The railroad boys say that Fireman Bocker put such a bright polish on the number of switch engine 528 that it dazzled the eyes of the officials, who failed to see the engine. Jake is an expert at polishing brass. Laf. Gaz. 2/17/1894.
Mr. A. Dugal, assistant agent at the Southern Pacific station here has been appointed night operation.
Laf. Gaz. 2/17/1894.
A special passenger train arrived here at 11:20 a. m. Tuesday having on board president C. P. Huntington, his first assistant H. E. Huntington, and other officials. Laf. Adv. 2/17/1894.
From Duson: Mr. Huntington's special train with a real live Prince and Princess on board passed through here recently and the train caused no more comment than an old engine would have. Evidently blue blood does not cut much of a figure here. Laf. Adv. 2/17/1894.
AN OUTRAGE.
Last Sunday the train which left here at 11:45 for New Orleans was wrecked a short distance on the other side of Cade. The track was blockaded and no train could go through that point. The railroad authorities were certainly aware of this condition of affairs, but strange to say the east bound train, scheduled to leave here about 1 o'clock, left as usual, as if nothing had happened. The railroad company knew that the train could not go through Cade, and it knew also that in the coaches were a number of women and children, who, in case of a long stay at Cade, would be subjected to much inconvenience, if not real suffering. The train reached Cade at about 1:30 and remained there until 2 o'clock the next morning. Anyone can imagine to what the passengers, especially the women and children, were exposed. With the thermometer registering six degrees above zero and little or no fire in cars, and without anything to eat, they were penned up and compelled to stand the bitter cold. What reason can Superintendent Owens, who was present, give for keeping these people over 12 hours at Cade without a mouthful to eat? Had the superintendent had a decent regard for the comfort of the patrons of his road he would have ordered the train back to Lafayette or some point where they would have been able to secure proper accommodations. It seems to us that the people of this section have some rights left which even Mr. Owens ought to be made to respect. There is absolutely no excuse for this outrage perpetrated upon the traveling public. Had the superintendent been unable to avoid all this, we are confident that there would not have been a word of complaint uttered, but as it was the result of either indifference or something worse, be believe the traveling public should exercise their privilege of registering a lusty and vigorous kick if that is all the satisfaction they can get.
Lafayette Gazette 2/18/1899.
ONE VIEW OF IT.
The establishment of a cotton and sugar refinery in Lafayette parish, together with the building of a railroad from here to Vermilion bay, via Abbeville, would without question bring other industries, build up the town of Lafayette and add a great deal to the taxable property in the parish, therefore we believe it to be a sound deduction that notwithstanding a tax of 3 mills be levied in favor of the railroad, that the amount of taxes the property holders would be less five years from now than at the present time.
The cost of running the parish would be no greater with these and other industries added than it is to-day, and as new industries would add to the assessable property of the parish, the percentage of taxation would be reduced. The assessed valuation of taxable property in the parish is now $1,894,572.00 and the tax levied 10 mills ; if the railroad is built, we are certain of having a cotton factory and sugar refinery, besides other industries and mercantile establishments, new residences in town and parish, which would add at least $1,000,000 to the assessable property, giving a total of say $3,000,000 as against $1,894,572 at present. The expenses of the parish are not increasing, the tax would be lowered and instead of paying 10 mills you would not pay over 6 or 7 mills, therefore, even if no other benefits were to be derived, it would be a paying investment to vote the railroad tax.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/18/1893.
Busy. - Our railyard presented a lively appearance last Wednesday, nine passenger trains from the east besides those from the west passing through.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/18/1893.
As "The Star" Sees It.
The Vermilion Star, of Abbeville, in referring of the proposed railroad between that place and Lafayette, speaks as follows:
"If the people of our parish will bestir themselves with enough energy to "press the button," we have no doubt but there will be a strong responsive movement from the live and watchful quarters of speculators and capitalists ; and already Mr. T. H. Leslie, of the Stuttgart and Arkansas River R. R., is standing ready to consider any encouragement that we may offer. Lafayette has already taken up on Mr. Leslie's proposition for the building of a railroad between here and that place, and it would be ill accord with our modern pretensions for us to sit idly here and depend upon the single-handed exertions of Lafayette, which if crowned with success we will be anxious to have a share in. There is as much good to got from the active prosecution of a scheme, though in its way, as there is in the realization of a scheme itself.
"The importance of this connection between Lafayette and Abbeville will be but insignificant if it is only to be between these two points and no more ; but should the Louisiana and Northwest R. R. be completed and its terminal be Little Rock and Alexandria, and with Gulf in view, wouldn't this road between Lafayette and Abbeville be an inducement and a convenience in reaching the Gulf? For after all, the Gulf is what these north and south Mississippi railroads are driving at, and get there they will by the shortest convenient route possible.
"So let's throw ourselves in the whirl and simmer away with all the importance that we can scrape up ; call a mass meeting, discuss the project with your best vim, and if the scheme miscarries, you are none the worse.
"We would respectively suggest that a committee of several gentlemen from this place and Lafayette meet at an early date and talk the subject over. Dr. W. D. White informs us that he has interviewed a majority of the leading citizens of Abbeville on the subject of the tax and finds them all willing to vote the 5 mill tax. From the Vermilion Star and in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/18/1893.
FLYING SWITCHES.
Made by Our Railroad Reporter for the Readers of the Advertiser.
The officers of the Southern Pacific passed through Friday on a tour of inspection.
Messrs. Schriever and Stubbs, of the Southern Pacific, passed through on a special train last Thursday, on their way to California.
Mr. Andrew Burkholder came in from Houston last week to make a visit tho his father and old friends in Lafayette. He is in the employ of the Electric Street Car Co., of Houston.
Mr. Burkholder of the S. P. went to New Orleans Sunday to meet his wife, who came down from Leamiug, Ont., to attend Mardi Gras and pay her husband short visit. She returned to Lafayette and will remain here a few weeks.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/18/1893.
The Southern Pacific Company have supplied a long felt want in having four improved street lamps put up at the depot. Build that plank walk. It is needed badly, and won't cost much.
Laf. Adv. 2/18/1888.
"The Anti-Scalpers Law."
From the New Orleans Times-Democrat, Feb. 6, 1897.
"Congress has at last attacked that growing abuse, ticket brokerage, or scalping, as it is popularly called, which preys upon the railroads and traveling public; and a bill is now before the House favorably reported from the committee on commerce to be voted on February 16th. If public sentiment declares in its favor the bill will be passed, as Congressmen are willing to do whatever the people want in this matter, and it is for this reason that the Times-Democrat appeals to the Exchanges and under commercial bodies of New Orleans to aid, by their sympathy and support, the success of this bill. The Interstate Commerce Commission has already declared in favor of such a law as proper and necessary. The commerce committee of the House is being flooded with petitions asking for its passage. The merchants and business men of St. Louis are unanimous in its favor, and petitions by the score from have come from St. Paul and Minneapolis, the commercial bodies of the twin cities having been stirred to action. Perhaps no city in the Union is more interested in getting rid of the scalpers than New Orleans, the scalping business keeping away thousands of winter visitors from the city, and actually causing higher rates here during our carnival, season than would otherwise exist.
"In the consideration of the matter Congress should be guided by the effect of the proposed law on the people. The scalpers do not deserve the slightest business, if not an illegitimate one, is yet very devious, and an encouragement of violation of the law. It is based, upon the theory of beating the railroads, the scalpers telling the public that they will let it into the transaction and divide the plunder. That the railroads lose millions annually on their passenger business by scalping is true, but the public receives no benefit whatever from this plundering. The money goes into the pockets of the scalpers, not a few of whom are millionaires, and all that the public gets from the business is limited, ironclad tickets and various other inconveniences.
"It is not in the interest of the railroads, however that Congress proposes to interfere by putting a stop to the scalping business, but in that of the traveling public. Let us see how it and the larger cities, particularly New Orleans, are affected by the inconveniences to which they are subjected.
"The railroads and the scalpers have have been carrying on a warfare for years, the former finding necessary various protective measures to prevent inroads into their business. Originally the railroads sold unlimited tickets, good until they were used, and with the privilege of stopping over at points on their lines. This was most convenient in many ways, and the public appreciated it; but when the scalpers, or ticket brokers, came into existence the railroads found it necessary in order to protect their interests to adopt the limited ticket. This change not breaking up the scalping business, they went a step further and issued the ironclad signature ticket - which the traveling public has found annoying; then they required descriptive mileage tickets and withdrew all stop over privileges. Thus the worst victim in this struggle has been the traveler, who is subjected to numerous annoyances in order to assure the railroad companies protection from scalpers. The former have lost money and the public has been inconvenienced simply that the scalpers might plunder the railroads.,
"Mr. F. S. Wilkins, general secretary of the Baptist Young People's Association, with headquarters at Chicago, telegraphed the committee on commerce a few days ago, apropos of the anti-scalping bill now before Congress, as follows:
On behalf of our constituency of 1,000,000 or more - the Baptist Young People's Union of America - promote the passage of the anti-scalping bill. We are utterly opposed to all improper manipulation of tickets, which our experience in holding our large annual conventions demonstrates is always the case so long as ticket scalpers exist. We fully believe it for the best interests of the public that such legislation as in now before Congress should be enacted.
"Mr. Wilkinson is right. The railroads are prevented from giving better rates to conventions, and to other public gatherings of that kind, simply because they know that if they do it will be playing into the hands of the scalpers.
"New Orleans and all the other commercial centers of the country are thus deeply interested in getting rid of the scalpers, for as long as they prey on the revenues of the railroad companies it is impossible for the latter to grant reduced round trip tickets to the larger cities.
'
Unreadable paragraph.
New Orleans is further injured by the withdrawal of the stop-over privilege that passengers enjoyed before the railroad is abolished to protect themselves. The passenger going from New York to San Francisco or vice-versa, by way of New Orleans, would be almost certain to stop here a few days and see the sights; but, unfortunately, he cannot do so. His ticket is 'limited,' his trip must be continuous, and he cannot stop anywhere en-route. The railroads would be very glad to return to the old system of 'stop-overs,' but they cannot do so as long as this privilege gives the scalpers new opportunities to plunder them. And thus, in order that a few scalpers may live at the expense of the railroads thousands of passengers pass through this city annually without spending an hour or a dollar here, when they would like to do so, and when a score of business would be benefited if they were allowed to stop here. The travel through this city between the Atlantic and Pacific has grown to immense proportions of late years, but New Orleans enjoys from it none of the advantages it should - and all because of the scalpers.
"New Orleans is not in the line of the short rate-making route between densely populated portions of our country or leading commercial centers. These short lines make the rate, and the business passing through this city is prorated by the lines in interest, who do not receive as high a rate per mile. Stop-over privileges, therefore, are impossible as long as the scalpers carry on their trade.
"It is the same as to mileage tickets. Our commercial bodies would like to have the rates reduced, the tickets made interchangeable and more available; but it is impossible to entertain this idea as long as the scalper is permitted to manipulate these tickets, as he would certainly do.
"We find, therefore, that the scalping business has injured the railroads, cutting off profits in their passenger business and reducing their dividends; that it has done away with the stop-over privileges formerly enjoyed; prevented cheaper, more available and more convenient tickets, prevented reduced rates for conventions, festivals, etc., and subjected the general public to great annoyance, inconveniences and expense. Taking New Orleans as an example, it has prevented thousands of people from coming here who would like to do so, and thousands of others from stopping over who desire to. When it is considered that the only beneficiaries of the system are a few scalpers, carrying on their trade mainly (as side issues) in cigar shops and similar places. Congress is certainly acting in the public interest when it proposes to break up their business, allowing the railroads all they entitled to for passenger transportation and assuring the public cheaper rates and greater convenience in traveling. The public and the railroads will, if the law is passed, divide the profits now pocketed by the scalpers. The railroads can afford to reduce rates and yet get more from their passenger business than do now, the profits of the scalpers being eliminated; and the public will enjoy further advantages and privileges.
"For these reasons all the pressure possible, particularly from New Orleans, should be brought to bear on Congress to assure the passage of the anti-scalper's law." From the N. O. States and in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897.
POLICE JURY.- By motion M. C. C. Brown was appointed assessor for railroads, telegraph and telephone lines for the year 1897, and authorized to represent Lafayette in pursuance of Act 82 of 1888. Laf. Adv. 2/20/1897.
City Council Proceedings of Feb. 5, 1897:
Among other things....
The following communication was laid over:
To the Hon. The Mayor and members of the City Council of Lafayette, La.
The undersigned respectfully ask permission to be granted to the Louisiana Western Railroad for extending its present existing spur track, known as the Degrez track, Southwardly, crossing second street and continuing over the extreme Southern side of the Alley of Block No. sixteen to the North side of third street, for the purpose of accommodating. "The American Brewing Association of Houston, Texas who propose erecting a cold storage Depot on lots twelve and thirteen of said square sixteen. Respectfully submitted and trust for favorable action as it will give more business for the city and add to its revenues. Lafayette, La. Feb. 1st, 1897.
The Louisiana Western (R. R.)By J. G. Parkerson.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/20/1897:
This story has its first few sentences missing. Its about the need for electric lights in Lafayette, so we'll pick it up here...
...What a railroad center of the importance of Lafayette, with its constant solid growth, needs is electric lights; and we are bound to have them - sooner or later. A plant amply sufficient to supply demand for a few years need not cost more than $5,000 or $6,000 - say it costs $8,000. We feel assured that with what lights the town would take the revenue collected would be sufficient to pay running expenses and good interests on the money invested the first year. The electric light grows in appreciation and demand by use, and those who have once used it are not considering the time and trouble of cleaning lamps, the breakage of chimneys, etc., it is much cleaner and cheaper than oil and also safer. As new inventions and methods are constantly cheapening the production of electric light in a few years use will become more general. The company that secures the territory of Lafayette will have a good thing. Here is food for reflection and enterprise.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/21/1891.
Hurt by Hoboes. - Conductor Jim Whitmeyer was injured Monday night at Rayne by a hobo whom he had ordered off the train. Mr. Whitemeyer was struck on the head by a brick or rock, knocking him senseless for a few moments. When he recovered consciousness he returned to the caboose and was immediately brought to Lafayette, when Dr. F. R. Tolson gave him all the necessary medical attention. Examination disclosed that the skulk was not broken, but there was a long scalp wound.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/22/1905.
Oil is to substituted for coal fuel by the Southern Pacific railway.
Laf. Adv. 2/22/1902
THE NEW ORLEANS AND TEXAS RAILROAD.
To the Editor of the Picayune:
The following statement may be of interest to your readers in regard to this road.
The track laying on the New Orleans, Mobile and Texas Railroad has now reached a point 10 1/2 miles west of Donaldsonville.
The grading is complete to Bayou Pigeon - a distance of 31 miles west of Donaldsonville. At the Atchafalaya there are two miles finished, and 58 miles west of Vermilionville is also ready for the iron, with the exception of bridging.
Major James is at Atchafalya with about 600 men, grading.
Mr. Dodge is west of Grand River, running two steam and one hand pile driver, doing about 800 feet of track piling per day, employing about 180 men. He has about 8000 feet of this work to do, between Grand River and Bayou Pigeon, a distance of nine miles.
Capt. Hawthorne having finished the bridge at Grand River crossing is now at Atchafalaya doing that bridge.
S. B. Cole & Co., are laying track. They are equal to about two and half or three miles per week.
After passing Vermilionville their progress will be much more rapid.
Distances graded west of Vermilionville during the past season, and finished recently, are by the following contractors :
E. Reilly, 20 miles, J. M. Scurry, 10 miles, Walsh & Ferret, 4 1/2 miles, Dyche & Armington,-4 3/4 miles, J. Castello, 15 miles, Rus & Meyborne, 4 1/3 miles -- 58 3/4 miles about 2000 feet of which is incomplete.
From the N. O. Picayune and reprinted in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/22/1873.
CHEAP RATES TO CALIFORNIA POINTS.
Southern Pacific's "Sunset Route" has created an innovation in the matter of rates to California points.
Commencing Tuesday, February 12th., and every Tuesday thereafter, to and including April 30th, 1901, the "Sunset Route" will put into effect second class tickets from New Orleans, Alexandria and intermediate points on the main line, to and including Beaumont, $27.50.
From other points on the T. & N. O. R. R., and from stations on the G. H. & N. Ry., the rate will be $25.00. o the local fare from such stations to Houston.
From all points on the main line of the G. N. & A. Ry., the rate will be $25.00.
These colonist rates are so low as to enable persons contemplating a visit to California, to make it under circumstances unparalleled in the matter of cheap transportation.
Excursion sleeping cars leave New Orleans six days of the week, through without change to California, the berth rate therein being less than one-third of the standard. charge.
For additional particulars, see your agent.
Commencing Tuesday, February 12th., and every Tuesday thereafter, to and including April 30th, 1901, the "Sunset Route" will put into effect second class tickets from New Orleans, Alexandria and intermediate points on the main line, to and including Beaumont, $27.50.
From other points on the T. & N. O. R. R., and from stations on the G. H. & N. Ry., the rate will be $25.00. o the local fare from such stations to Houston.
From all points on the main line of the G. N. & A. Ry., the rate will be $25.00.
These colonist rates are so low as to enable persons contemplating a visit to California, to make it under circumstances unparalleled in the matter of cheap transportation.
Excursion sleeping cars leave New Orleans six days of the week, through without change to California, the berth rate therein being less than one-third of the standard. charge.
For additional particulars, see your agent.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/23/1901.
A FATAL WRECK.
Another Unfortunate Added to the Long List of Victims of Railroad Accidents.
The passenger train which was due here Thursday night at 11:55 ran off the track near Franklin. We did not learn any of the particulars of the accident except the scalding to death of Fireman James Donolly and the wounding of Engineer Devoe, who is reported to have sustained only slight injuries. The only fatal result of the wreck is the death of the unfortunate fireman. Several coaches were derailed, but all the passengers are believed to have escaped uninjured.
Young Donolly was well-known in Lafayette and his sad and unexpected death was learned with sincere regret by a number of people here, who knew him well. He was an industrious young man, esteemed by his employers and a favorite among the railroad boys. Being of a jovial nature, kindly disposition, charitable and honest, his tragic and untimely end has caused much sorrow among his many friends in Lafayette.
Lafayette Gazette 2/23/1895.
One Fast Run. - The Sunset Limited train arrived here very late Sunday afternoon. It left this station at 4:55 and reached Algiers at 7:50 making a run of 144 miles in two hours and fifty-five minutes. When it is known that the train was in charge of Marks Newhauser no one will be surprised at his splendid run. Marks is a hustler as well as a safe conductor. Engineer L. S. Stinger was at the throttle. Lafayette Gazette 2/23/1895.
Mr. J. P. Nolan of the Southern Pacific Railroad was in town Wednesday.
Laf. Adv. 2/23/1895
We are in receipt of vague and indefinite information regarding the wreck of the west-bound passenger train near Franklin, Thursday night. Several coaches were derailed, engineer Charley Devoe was injured and his fireman Jim Donnely killed. It is sad. Laf. Adv. 2/23/1895
Low Carnival Rates.
The Carnival season in New Orleans is a season of absolute gaiety and good humor. The fame of the Crescent City in relation to its Mardi Gras festivals has spread until has encompassed the entire earth. The Carnival is made up of series of "fiestas" in which the people participate generally and which creates a long train of brilliant occasions and gorgeous pageants. The Carnival of 1900 will be the most brilliant in the history of New Orleans. There will be two additional street parades; the one occurring Feb. 21, at night, being an electrical display, the others occurring as follows: At night, Feb. 22, Momus; at noon Feb. 26, arrival of Rex; on night of the same day, Proteous; at noon Feb. 27, Mardi Gras Day, Arrival of Rex, and on Mardi Gras night, Comus. Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
Arrangements have been made for a general elaboration of the various spectacle and street masking. The Southern Pacific, Sunset Route, will make a one fare for the round trip rate, with tickets on sale Feb. 19, to the morning of Feb. 27, inclusive, going, and good for returning until March 10. For particulars see agent S. F. B. Morse, Passenger Traffic Manager; L. J. Parks, General Passenger and Ticket Agent, Houston, Texas. Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
THE CARENCRO RAILROAD. - We read in a late issue of the Valley of the Teche of Breaux Bridge that Prof. S. A. Knapp, builder and manager of the Teche railroad and also of the Huron Refinery was a visitor at the latter place not many days since. He was accompanied by a party of English capitalists and it is assumed that he will very soon be relieved of the embarrassment in which he has been involved, as well as to obtain funds to complete the enterprise of which the Carencro railroad and Huron Refinery are but a part.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1894.
Teche Railroad.-The Teche Railroad Co. will in a few days resume the building of the road between Huron and Breaux Bridge. There is but a mile of grading, and four miles of rail to be laid to complete the work. Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
Letter from Mr. T. H. Leslie of the Southern Pacific to the editor of the Laf. Advertiser.
The following letter, received Thursday, explains itself, and it will be seen that it rests entirely with ourselves how soon we will have a railroad and sugar refinery:
STUTTGART, ARK., Feb. 21, 1893.
A. C. ORDWAY, Esq.,
Sec'y R. M. A., Lafayette.
DEAR SIR. - I read with much interest the proceedings of your association, and I am glad to notice the large list of your representative citizens in the organization. You have started right, and if you will continue to push forward you will be greatly surprised at the results. The agreement came to hand to-day and am much obliged at promptness of same. How soon can you secure a vote on the matter? and do you consider it certain the people will ratify it.
Upon receipt of your answer, if favorable, I will look to my financial arrangement and immediately upon ratification, organize the R. R. Co., and very shortly get at work. I am encouraged to believe that Abbeville and Vermilion parish will come up to the requirements.
Will you please to have your Collector or the proper officer send me a certified statement of the valuation of the city, also the parish, for my use in financial arrangements. Tender my thanks and most grateful acknowledgement to your association for their evident deep determination to have a railroad and other valuable industries established; and I am free to acknowledge it is a great satisfaction to become identified with such active and liberal people.
I will shortly visit you, and if your end is hurried up, I will take up your matter before any other, and if I find the field I believe is there I will make Lafayette my at least the greater part of the year. Yours truly,
T. H. LESLIE.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/25/1893.
WHAT WOULD WE PAY?
To secure the proposed railroad to Abbeville, it will be necessary for the people of the parish as well as the corporation of Lafayette to vote a tax to assist the promoters of the road. Let us see what such a tax would amount to, and what proportion of the amount so voted would be paid by actual residents. The total assessed valuation of property in the parish is $1,894,572.00 and in the corporation $392,435.00; a 3-mill tax in the parish would amount to $5,683.71 per annum and a 5-mill tax in the corporation would amount to $1,962.17, giving us a total of $7,645.88 annually for ten years. The resident tax-payers own only 76 1/4 per cent of the total property in the parish, therefore non-residents, if the tax be voted, will pay 23 3/4 per cent, of the amount given to the railroad, which would amount to about $1,365.00, leaving only $4,318.00 for the resident property-owner to pay in the parish. In the corporation, resident's own 63 1/2 per cent of the property, therefore, non-residents would be compelled to pay 36 1/2 per cent of the tax voted, which would amount to about $491.00, leaving only $873.00 that the resident property holders would be called upon to pay.
The amount that the resident taxpayers of the parish would pay in ten years of the parish would pay in ten years would, therefore, be $43,187.10 and in the corporation $8,730.00, making a total of $51,917.10.
Of this amount the promoters of the railroad agree to return $30,000 in a bonus offered for a cotton factory and a sugar refinery, which would have to be paid within two years at the outside, for both industries would be built within that time. It will be seen therefore, that the railroad proper will only receive $21,917.10 from the home tax-payers of town and parish.
When the above facts are taken into consideration, together with the great benefits to be derived from a central refinery and a cotton factory employing 200 or more hands, and disbursing thousands of dollars each month to our people in wages, we cannot help but believe that the tax will be supported by every person in both town and parish.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/25/1893.
Railroad and Agricultural Development. Say what you may about the monopolistic tendencies of the railroads, they are the greatest aids to the development of the country that any section can have. We have striking examples of this in Louisiana: Southwest Louisiana, beyond Lafayette, was always regarded as a country unfit for farming, but when the great Southern Pacific railroad was built through it, presto! what a change. First it was proven to be GOOD GRASS COUNTRY, and its natural product per acre exceeded that of cotton, which cost so much to cultivate. Next, it was found to be THE BEST RICE REGION in the world, producing that valuable grain cheaper than any where else, now it promises to become A SUGAR COUNTRY, and the central sugar factory at Lake Charles will soon be offered from that section alone more cane than it can handle.
Coming further east, the vast prairie county between New Iberia and Abbeville, while very fertile, has for a hundred years made but little progress, simply because of the lack of transportation facilities. That section, long so idle, will ere long become one VAST FIELD OF CANE, and the prospects of the people will be great. The growth of the country will add greatly to the prosperity of the towns, and all this prosperity comes from railroad extension. This very fact has led the good people of Lafayette to move towards the building of a new from their town, on the west side of Bayou Vermilion, and we have no doubt it will be done. In fact Mr. T. H. Leslie, a Northern rail man, "who represents considerable railroad capital, proposes in effect that in consideration of the 3-mill parish tax for ten years and a 5-mill city tax for the same time his company will construct the proposed road and besides give A BONUS OF $20,000 for the establishment of a cotton factory of freight $10,000 for the establishment for the erection of A SUGAR REFINERY AT LAFAYETTE. A reduction of freight rates to and from Lafayette is also guaranteed." This offer will undoubtedly be accepted, and within a year from the road will be built, thus doubling the value of property there at once, and soon quadrupling the agricultural product of that section.
The Kansas City, Watkins & Gulf railroad, extending northward from Lake Charles through Alexandria, is also developing another section long wholly without population, and the same is the case all over North Louisiana, where a half-dozen lines of railroads are in course of construction. All this demonstrates the fact that in the next ten years, Louisiana will double her agricultural productions, which means an equal increase in commerce and population. The tidal wave of prosperity has struck our State at last and the result will surprise everybody - From publication Sugar Bowl and in the Lafayette Advertiser 2/25/1893.
THE RAILROAD QUESTION.
(Letter to Editor of Advertiser from Gus. A. Breaux)
I have read with keen interest and hopeful interest the proposition made by Mr. Leslie, and your comments.
I am decidedly in favor of securing the contemplated improvements; and as a tax-payer of the town and parish, I am in favor of taxing my property to for forward the object.
I approve of the organized means which my fellow parishioners are taking to "boom the coming road and the factories." I shall not, therefore, I trust, render myself amenable to the charge of throwing water on the project in what I have to say.
If I understand the proposition of Mr. Leslie correctly, he proposes that we insure him a tax, which in the appointed time, at present assessments, would give him about $75,000. For this he is to build a railroad from Abbeville to Lafayette, which is, to my notion, entirely acceptable, because this road must necessarily seek extended connection in time and possibly give us competition in freights.
Besides he is to give $20,000 for a cotton factory and $10,000 for a sugar refinery, to be built in this parish. But by whom ? and when ?
In the proposition, I see no guaranteed that either will be built, Mr. Leslie don't propose to build either, nor does he undertake that any capitalists whom he controls or influences shall build either.
I think it absolutely certain that no practical man will say that a cotton factory is likely to be built in an interior town of Louisiana for many obvious reasons, within any period in reason, to this extent, therefore, I deem the proposition mere bruteme falmen; and I fancy that the men at the head of the local movement to encourage the building of the railroad are too sagacious to be misled by this part of the offer; of course I don't mean to suggest that the offer is made with intent to mislead, I am considering it practically. I may assume as considering it practically. I may assume, as a premise that the great, the pressing, the t0-day want of our parish is that institution, that concern that will enable the owner of the soil to cultivate it at a profit, by the ready and remunerative sale of their product. However desirable a cotton factory would employ only trained labor, which is not there, and which would have to be imported, and of course give some trade to the town.
But I submit to an intelligent public, that the development of our land, profitable cultivation, and that is the main dependence of vastly the greater portion of our population, demands, before anything else, a good sufficient central sugar factory; indeed this seems to be conceded in the public mind. Of course a railroad line, which brought more land into immediate relation with this factory, would be a help to both the farmer and to the factory, and hence it is that I advocate it.
We do know that, for want of capital, our people are unable to build this factory, and we know that if the $10,000 now offered to be contributed out of the contemplated tax, were added to the voluntary subscription recently made, still the amount would be inadequate to the purpose of securing the one thing most needed.
Now, what does practical judgment suggest ? If you levy the tax contemplated, the recipient tells you that he can afford to give $30,000 (out of it practically) in bonus to secure two things, a cotton and a central sugar factory; and it strikes one as somewhat odd that the largest bonus should be offered to secure the less needed, and the less likely to be secured object.
Why not have the proposition modified as a condition to levying and granting the tax, so that a refinery must be built, and that the $30,000 bonus shall all go to secure it? By concentrating means we may, and probably will, secure one object ; by dividing them, it is certain we will secure neither.
I wish to see the tax levied and paid to Mr. Leslie, but I also wish to have him pay, for the benefit of the parish the $30,000 bonus he names. In no other way, in my judgment, will he ever be called on to pay it, but by the above, or similar practical suggestion.
And, fellow citizens, when we have secured what you, and I, and everybody most urgently need, it will pave the way for obtaining what we surely need less, and that too, when we will have a surplus population which factories are needed to support and convert from consumers into producers of wealth.
My apology for these views are that I am a tax-payer of the parish, and one of you by birth and affection. Very Respectfully, GUS. A. BREAUX.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/25/1893.
Advertiser Assesses Gus. A. Breaux's View on Railroad. On the local page will be found a communication from Gus. A. Breaux, of New Orleans, in which he discusses the proposed tax in aid of the Abbeville railroad. Mr. Breaux seems to misunderstand the offer made by Mr. Leslie, as he treats the $10,000 offered, as a stock subscription, when in fact it is a free gift, for which no equivalent is asked in stock or otherwise, except that a factory be built and operated. Furthermore, the Business Men's Association have corresponded with prominent sugar refinery men of this State, and have been assured that the inducement offered - a $10,000 bonus, free land and a certain amount of the capital stock subscribed for by citizens of this parish, will be accepted by capitalists as soon as the tax is voted, and a central refinery erected at once. Therefore, why give $30,000 when $10,000 is sufficient to ensure the desired end. Would it not be very poor business policy, to say the least.
Now, regarding the cotton factory, we cannot agree with Mr. Breaux's view on the matter. We know a strong feeling exists among cotton manufacturers in the East to locate factories in the South have made much larger dividends for the stockholders that those located in Eastern states.
Lafayette is centrally located, and is undoubtedly a good location for a cotton factory, and no good reason exists why a mill here should not be made to pay most handsomely and return large dividends on the capital. Some skilled labor would, of course, be needed and would have to be imported, but a majority of the labor could and would be performed by home people. We consider the location of a cotton factory here a perfectly sound and feasible business undertaking, and if the tax is voted, we believe that the $20,000 offered by Mr. Leslie will prove sufficient to induce capitalists to build a factory here, where the raw material can be bought for so much less than in the New England states where the large cotton factories are now located. The proposition of Mr. Leslie has been carefully considered by sound businessmen, and it has been accepted as meeting the approval of their mature judgment.
If the tax is voted, we are certain of having the railroad and the sugar refinery, and a strong probability exists that the cotton factory bonus will not long go begging. Lafayette Advertiser 2/25/1893.
Mardi Gras Ball. - A grand masquerade and calico ball will be at St. John's night, Sunday March 19th, in Falk's opera house, under the direction of the employes of the Southern Pacific railroad. A general committee consisting of Messrs. F. C. Tuay, H. J. Church, J. B. Coumers, R. Coffey, and W. E. Bowen have charge of the arrangements, and it is needless to say they will be perfect. The proceeds will be turned over to the high school fund. The object is a worthy one and should meet with a hearty support from everyone.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/25/1893.
FLYING SWITCHES.
Made by our Railroad Reporter for the Readers of the Advertiser.
It is rumored that work on the new depot building will soon commence.
Mr. Andrew Burkholder has returned to Houston to resume his duties with the electric road of that city.
Mrs. J. A. Burkholder will leave to-morrow for her home in Canada, and Mac will again become a "lone widower."
Mrs. Judge Bowen and children returned from New Orleans this week after viewing Rex and the minor royalties.
All the boys are buying tickets for the ball to be given on St. John's night at Falk's Hall in interests of the high school.
We are glad to state that Mr. F. V. Mouton, of the Southern Pacific road, has fully recovered from his severe illness, and is again at work.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Kelly returned home after an absence of a month which was spent most pleasantly at Mr. Kelly's home in Alabama.
The pay car on the Southern Pacific made the many employees of that road happy this week. We hope it will not be many moons before the pay wagon of the Lafayette, Abbeville & Gulf railroad will be performing a similar duty in Lafayette.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/25/1893.
Improvements the year 1893 will give Lafayette:
A New Railroad,
A Sugar Refinery,
A Cotton Factory,
A Street Car Line,
A Graded School,
A Rice Mill,
A Cotton Seed Oil Mill,
An Ice Factory,
and a dozen minor industries.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/25/1893.
Our Mardi Gras. - Our Mardi Gras celebration this year consisted of several fellows mounted on ponies whose appearance betrayed a close acquaintance with the plow and a total absence or corn in the cribs of their respective owners. To break the monotony of the mounted brigade a few youngsters, dressed in all the colors of the rainbow and wearing hideous masks, appeared in different parts of the town and afforded much amusement to the little boys who crowded the street corners, and made the welkin ring with shouts of joy. Everything passed off very quietly, all the maskers behaving well and creating no disturbance of any kind. A spirit of fun and good fellowship reigned everywhere. However, there was one feature of the day's celebration which, we believe, was ill-advised and displayed very bad taste. It was the carrying of the coffin through the streets of the town. The coffins was placed in the center of a wagon and around it sat a half dozen maskers. This ghastly scene was explained by the following inscription evidently painted by some ambitious young artist: "Our carnival interest has departed, 1898."
After parading itself through the streets this lugubrious float stopped near the Southern Pacific depot, we presume for the purpose of showing to the passengers on the west-bound train what some of our local talent were capable of producing when properly inspired. This may or may not have been the reason why this dazzlingly brilliant piece of Mardi Gras enterprise was exhibited to strangers, but it is safe to say that it made a rather unfavorable impression upon the minds of those who are not familiar with the eccentricities of some of our boys.
Lafayette Gazette 2/26/1898.
A RAILROAD COMMISSION.
Several newspapers agitating the question of a railroad commission, and are urging upon the constitutional convention the necessity of adopting an ordinance which will give to the people of this State protection against railroad corporations. The Gazette joins its confreres in their efforts to have the convention bring about this much needed legislation.
The Gazette is not in favor of government ownership of railroads, but it believes in the justness and wisdom of a law that will place railroad companies under governmental surveillance. This, we believe, in thorough accord with the Democratic idea of government and free from the least taint of socialism or populism. With the exception of one harmless Populist the present constitutional convention is composed wholly of Democrats. It is in the fullest sense of the word a Democratic body. The Democratic party will be held responsible for its acts of commission and commission. The Democracy of the State cannot and should not escape the censure which would result from its failure which would result from its failure to do its duty.
It is the boasted policy of the Democratic party to advocate the passage of the necessary laws to protect the people against the grasping and extortionate demands of trusts and corporations, and nowhere is this sort of legislation more needed than in Louisiana. Not only do the railroads charge what they please and discriminate as much as they see fit, but in the past they have held undisputed sway over the legislative bodies of this State. A law to force them to deal fairly with the people and at the same time insure their proper treatment at the hands of the latter would forever be a monument to the wisdom and sagacity of the present constitutional convention.
A splendid opportunity is offered the Democratic party of Louisiana to carry out one of its cardinal principles. Let it show to the people that its platforms and the utterances of its leaders are not merely the idle talk of the demagogues, intended to deceive the masses.
Lafayette Gazette 2/26/1898.
Blind to Our Own Interest.
From official sources we found that 289 persons went from Lafayette to the Crescent City on last Tuesday, and that 454 went to New Iberia on the same day. Calculating the railroad fare ($4.30) of the 289 passengers to New Orleans we find that $1262.70 went away from Lafayette.
The fare of those who went to New Iberia amounted to 454 at 60 cts. - $272.40.
In supposing that the New Orleans passengers spent only $10 which extra which is a very low figure. $2,890 found its way from the pockets of our people into those of the wide awake people of the city, and adding to that $2,270 for the amount was disbursed by those who spent Tuesday in New Iberia which is a very conservative estimate as it only gives a $5 bill to each one of the 454 we have a grand total of $6,675.10, quite a snug sum to have our "Rex" at home.
Of course we realize now that we have made a mistake in allowing ourselves to fall into this lethargic state but it is too late to cry when the milk is spilled; all we can do now is to let the cream and milk go and keep out stock in readiness for another year.
Now adding to the expenses above the money that would have been left by our visitors, Lafayette would have been ahead, as year before last 2000 visitors were in our midst and allowing the same ratio of pocket money to each one of them that we allow to our people, $10,000 were into the pockets of our merchants.
Oh! blindness! blindness!!
It is surprising that we can't see our own interests in this matter, let us hope that in the future we shall remove the blindness from our own eyes and that we will understand that in investing a few dollars to entice visitors to come here we will reap a rich harvest. Lafayette Advertiser 2/26/1898.
THE NEW ROUND HOUSE.
The new round house has now assumed shape and the carpenters will have inside work from now on. The roofing force has arrived and have commenced their work. The roof is to be concrete - a layer of heavy waterproof paper covered with asphalt and gravel, and will be fireproof. A proper conception of the magnitude of this building can only be had by getting on top and viewing the vast expanse of roof. It is sufficient for a good buggy drive.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/28/1891
We are glad to note that our clever young friend Mr. Wm. Kelly, conductor on the Morgan tap, who was confined to his room by sickness several weeks, was able to take his run again the latter part of last week.
Laf. Advertiser 2/28/1891.
ORDINANCE.
"An Ordinance prohibiting the obstruction of sidewalks, streets or other public passage ways within the corporation."
Section 1. Be it ordained by the City Council of Lafayette, that from and after the passage of this ordinance, it shall be unlawful for any and all persons to congregate and obstruct the same in any other manner.
Section 2. Be it further ordained, etc., that it shall be unlawful for all persons having no business relative to the service of the railroads to congregate at any railroad station on the arrival and before the departure of all passenger trains and obstruct the free passage way to and from said trains, within the corporate limits of this corporation.
Section 3. Be it ordained, etc., that it is hereby made the duty of the police officers of this municipality to clear all such unlawful obstructions, and any person failing to comply with the orders of said obstructions, and any person failing to comply with the orders of said police officers, shall be arrested and brought before the mayor for trial, and on being found guilty will be fined not exceeding ten dollars or imprisoned not exceeding ten days, or both, at the discretion of the mayor.
Section 4. Be it further ordained, etc., that this ordinance shall take effect from and after its passage.
Unanimously carried.
Moved by T. M. Biossat, seconded by B. Falk, that a committee of three be appointed by the mayor (including himself) to secure public place for the public police telephone box at the depot.
The mayor appointed to serve in connection with himself the following gentlemen; Dr. J. D. Trahan and O. C. Mouton.
The Council then adjourned.
A. J. MOSS, Mayor.
Lafayette Gazette 2/29/1896.
General Manager Van Vleck, Superintendent Owens and C. C. Mallard of the Southern Pacific Co. were in Lafayette this week.
Laf. Gazette 2/29/1896.
Two carloads of cotton near the depot caught fire Sunday about one o'clock and considerable damage was done before the flames were extinguished. Lafayette Advertiser 3/1/1905.
MORE PAY AND LESS WORK.
As a result of an agreement centered into by the Southern Pacific Company and representatives of the employes, on the first of March the men engaged in certain departments will have the benefits accruing from increased pay and a shortening of the time constituting a day's work. The change becomes operative to-day and affects a great number of men. A monthly increase of $20 has been allowed to day yard masters and $10 to night-yard-masters. The switchman's day's work will now be nine instead of ten hours. The switchmen were given an increase was also granted to the conductors and brakemen. This augmentation in their wages is not only a great encouragement to the railroad men, who are a hard-working class of people deserving of the most generous treatment by their employers, but is evidence of a liberal policy on the part of the company which has agreed to the reasonable demands of the men without the unpleasant features which generally attend transactions of this kind between labor and capital.
Lafayette Gazette 3/1/1902.
RAILROAD COMMISSION.
Mr. Pugh's Case Against the Railroad for Excessive Charges.
Mr. Overton Cade, member of the Railroad Commission from the district, returned home Thursday from Baton Rouge where a meeting of that body was held. A considerable amount of business was transacted by the Commission, relative to freight rates and other matters pertaining to the railway service.
Among the cases which came up for the consideration of the Commission and which was decided in favor of the plaintiff was the complaint of Mr. Philip S. Pugh of Crowley. Mr. Pugh used to live in the cane district where he has relatives engaged in the manufacture of sugar. Every year, after the grinding season is not over, Mr. Pugh is made happy with the present of a barrel of sugar and a barrel of molasses without which the man born and reared in the canefields would find life an empty dream indeed. Well, to be brief with the story, Mr. Pugh's relatives in Assumption sent him his annual allotment of sugar and molasses. When Mr. Pugh called at the Crowley depot for the goods, the agent collected freight charges at the rate of 51 cents per hundred. Mr. Pugh protested against the excessive charges, and carried the case to the Railroad Commission. Mr. Pugh went to Baton Rouge when the Commission met and made his plea. After looking into the matter the Commission decided that Mr. Pugh was clearly in the right and that the railroad company had charged an excess of fourteen cents per hundred pounds on the shipment of sugar and molasses. Mr. Pugh stated that he was not satisfied with the results, not because of the trifling amount at stake but because the principle involved in the controversy. Mr. Pugh is to be commended for his efforts to compel the railroad company to conform to the rates fixed by the Commission for the protection of the people.
Lafayette Gazette 3/1/1902.
Algiers Dispatchers Coming Here. -We are reliably informed that the Morgan dispatchers now at Algiers will be transferred to this point. This change, taking place shortly after the transfer of the Beaumont dispatchers to this, adds greatly to the importance of Lafayette as a railroad town, Lafayette Gazette 3/1/1902.
The pay car arrived Monday, and with that and the large attendance upon court the town was lively and business brisk.
Laf. Advertiser 3/1/1890.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of March 1st, 1879:
Tripartite Agreement.
CONTRACT RELATING TO THE COMPLETION OF A RAILROAD TO HOUSTON WHICH HAS BEEN ENTERED INTO BETWEEN THREE POWERFUL CORPORATIONS - THE TIME FOR THE CONCLUSION OF THE ENTERPRISE FIXED.
[From the Houston Age]
At a meeting of the directors of the Texas and New Orleans Railroad held yesterday a tripartite agreement between Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company, as party of the first part, the Louisiana Western Railroad Company, as party of the second part, and the Texas and New Orleans Railroad Co., as party of the third part, was ratified and approved by the other two companies named as parties.
By the terms of the agreement, thus ratified and made binding, the Morgan company contracts to build, equip and put in good running order, the road from Morgan City to Vermilionville. The Louisiana Western contract to build and road and put it in good running order from Vermilionville to Orange, on the Sabine. And the Texas and New Orleans company contracts to fully equip and put its road in good running order from Orange to Houston. And the parties of the contract bind themselves that the work they have respectively undertaken shall be completed, one-third in six months, two-thirds in twelve months, and the balance in eighteen months from the date of the agreement.
The road is to cross the Sabine five miles above the town of Orange, and following the course of the river will connect with the present road at the rear of the town in a prairie admirably adapted to the connection. The change of crossing from the immediate front of the town will not lengthen the line of the road exceeding two miles.
Thus the question of an all rail connection between the city and New Orleans is settled at last, and a time is definitely fixed within the which the connection is to be completed. The contracting parties, from abundant caution, have allowed eighteen months - that is until August of next year.
But three powerful corporations have joined in the undertaking. Their means are ample. They will push the work forward as fast as men and money can push it ; and no one will be surprised if, by the 1st of January next, "change cars for New Orleans," shall become to Houstonians familiar as a house-hold word.
From the Houston Age and reprinted in the Lafayette Advertiser of 3/1/1879.
In an issue of The Advertiser (3/2/1904) there is an article titled "A Parallel Line to The Southern Pacific From Houston to New Orleans Talked of."
Unfortunately, it is largely unreadable. I made a google search and found this article on the subject of a Parallel Line to The SP Mainlanes.
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"...One other move by the Rock-Island Frisco interests should be noted. Reference is made to the development of a line from Houston to New Orleans, parallel to the Southern Pacific line. The Frisco is building a road through Lousiana, from Baton Rouge to the Sabine river, known as the Colorado Southern, New Orleans and Pacific, which is held by the Frisco under a 999-year lease. This company in turn owns all the stock of the Beaumont, Sour Lake and Western, which was built from Beaumont to Sour Lake in 1905, and has since been opened to Houston. From Beaumont to DeQuincy, Louisiana, the tracks of the Kansas City Southern are used and from Baton Rouge an outlet to New Orleans is secured over the tracks of the Illinois Central and the Yazoo and Mississippi Valley. The Orange and Northwestern, extending, from Orange to Newton, sixty-one miles, is also held by the Colorado Southern, New Orleans and Pacific, while the Beaumont, Sour Lake and Western owns a one-fourth interest in the Houston Belt and Terminal Railway. It might be added that the Rock Island has built a line from Little Rock, through Arkansas and Louisiana, to Eunice, on this Houston-New Orleans line, thus giving the Rock Island a direct outlet to New Orleans." 'From Railroad Commission of Texas - Annual Report Vol 12.'
Departing the Espee. - After having served about 12 years in the employ of the Southern Pacific Railroad Company, as blacksmith at this place, Ed McBride has resigned that position. Laf. Gazette 3/2/1901.
Seriously Injured. - Last night just before going to press we learned that Mr. Henry Gankendorf, fireman on the Alexandria branch and a most estimable citizen of Lafayette, had been brought home seriously injured and in an unconscious condition. It appears that a cylinder head became detached from the engine and struck Mr. Gankendorf's head with great force, inflicting injuries of a very serious nature. Owing to the lateness of the hour we were unable to get any of the particulars.
Lafayette Gazette 3/2/1901.
Distinguished Visitors.
Several distinguished persons passed through Lafayette this week and honored the Southern Pacific station with their presence just a few minutes. Mme. Bernhardt, known to fame as the "divine Sarah," and the great Coquelin, who were on their way to New Orleans from the Pacific coast, paid Lafayette a visit, but as their stay was necessarily short they failed to "drop in on" the local press. President Hays who is said to receive an annual compensation of $55,000 to shape the destinies of the of the Southern Pacific system, Mr. Julius Kruttscnnitt, Mr. Van Vleck and other big guns of the railway circles spent one night at the station occupying some of the company's finely equipped cars. The Gould party passed through a few days ago on its way to Texas.
Lafayette Gazette 3/2/1901.
Mr. P. B. Torian, the genial assistant ticket agent of the S. P. R. R., has informed the Advertiser that over 800 tickets were sold to New Orleans for Mardi Gras. On average of $14.30 per head including fare and expenses, makes the large sum of $11,440 taken out of Lafayette in two or three days. Lafayette Advertiser 3/2/1901. Mr. A. L. Dyer, of Royville passed through town Tuesday on his way to the city. Mr. Dupre Bernard as accepted a position with the Southern Nursery Co.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/2/1901.
Father and Son Meet. - The father, Prof. J. A. Schlesinger, for many years a resident of Breaux Bridge, had never met his only son now 24 years of age. Through domestic disagreement the husband and wife had become separated and all trace of his offspring was lost by the father until by an extraordinary coincident tidings were received not long ago, of the former's whereabouts. The discovery once made, no time was lost to bring about a meeting. Since neither the father or child had ever seen each other it was necessary to agree on some mark of identification, so it was arranged by correspondence that each would wear a white handkerchief around the neck and the railroad station at Lafayette, La., was selected as the meeting point. Thus came to pass, on the arrival of the eastbound passenger train at 1 p. m. last Monday, one of those romantic happenings that usually falls to the lot of the novel writer to record.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/2/1895.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of March 29th, 1890:
HOUSTON, CENTRAL ARKANSAS AND NORTHERN RAILROAD.
To show the importance which Alexandria is assuming as a railroad center, and the rapid development of railroad enterprises in that section of the State, we extract the following interesting report from the Alexandria Town Talk. By way of the Morgan tap the H., C. . & N. R. R., which will no doubt be running into Alexandria inside of a year, will give Lafayette the most direct line to St. Louis:
Major C. G. Woodbridge, Chief Engineer of the Houston, Central Arkansas and Northern Railroad, arrived at Alexandria early in the week, a meeting of the citizens of Alexandria and surrounding country was held at the city hall, March 12th. Judge J. R. Thornton stated that Major Woodbridge was of the opinion that it would be best for a citizen of Alexandria to explain the meeting what the railroad company asked for, and what the company proposed to do in return. He then stated what was expected of Alexandria, and what the Company would do in return.
He said that the road had passed into the hands of Jay Gould, and it was well known that when Mr. Gould ordered a road built it was done. A short line from St. Louis to New Orleans was what Mr. Gould wanted, and the extension of the Houston, Central Arkansas and Northern Railroad from Columbia, La.m, to Alexandria would give him a short line to St. Louis. This road has already been located to the head of Catahoula lake. From this point two routes have been selected - one crossing the Red river near Experiment plantation, running through Avoyelles parish and connecting with the Texas & Pacific at Rosa Station; the other route comes direct through Rapides parish, for about eight miles, crossing the Red river at Alexandria. Mr. Woodbridge, the speaker said, was in favor of the Alexandria route. Mr. Gould, some weeks ago, preferred the Avoyelles Route, because it would shorten the route from New Orleans to St. Louis at least 20 miles. The grade by the Avoyelles route was less also than that to Alexandria.
The chairman said he had seen proof from Mr. Gould stating positively that if the City of Alexandria would give what was asked of it through Major Woodridge, that the road would be completed to Alexandria as fast as money and men could do it. The chair emphasized the fact that this was the best offer that Alexandria had yet had, because the gentleman at the head of the Company had the means to carry out his statements and contracts, and would do so.
Judge Thornton informed the meeting that if this railroad was built to Alexandria that we would be only 526 miles from St. Louis instead of 772 miles, the distance via the T. & P. and Iron Mountain roads. The distance from Alexandria to Kansas City by this new road would be 809 miles instead of 1055 miles as by the present nearest mail route.
If the people of Alexandria secure the Il, C. A. & N. R. R., the chairman stated that it would prove a great lever in securing other projected railroads. He spoke of the Aransas Pass Railway Company now building to Alexandria, and surveyed to Anno Coco Bayou. That if we secure the H., C. A. & N. R. R. that we were certain of getting other roads. The following is what is asked of Alexandria by the H., C. A. & N. R. R.:
Right of way through the parish for about 8 miles.
Thirty acres of land for depot and terminal facilites.
Exemption from parish taxation for ten years.
A 5 mill tax for 10 years time.
The property owners have already voted a 5 mill tax for 10 years to this company, arrangements have already been made to give the 30 acres of land, and the parish authorities have already passed an ordinance remitting taxation for 10 years to the first railroad company building into Alexandria from the North.
A committee of six prominent and influential citizens was appointed to carry out the sense of the meeting, which endorsed all the propositions made by the Company.
The people of Alexandria are alive to their interests, and their city is bound to grow rapidly under such spirit and enterprise. Mr. Woodbridge stated that he could have the road completed and cars running into Alexandria in 11 months; then Lafayette will be 246 miles nearer St. Louis and 246 miles nearer Kansas City (by railroad) then at present.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/29/1890.
LAGNIAPPE:
Charles Morgan says, "Fooled ya'?!"
The following extract shows how the State and the people are humbugged, but it is an old trick, not at all original with Charles Morgan. Some years ago, the old Chattanooga company threw up a few shovels of dirt on the branch road from this place to Shreveport, and up to this day, that is all we have of the branch, for which the company received seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars from the State.
A few pieces of wood, and a few spades full of dirt was put on the rail road bed near Berwick City a few weeks ago. Instantly the news spread like wild fire that the rail-road would soon be completed to Texas. A damper was however put on the whole matter by a statement of Mr. Charles Whitney in the Picayune a few days ago, in which he said the rumor of the completion of the rail-road to Texas "had no foundation in fact."
The whole matter is explained when we learn that those pieces of wood, and those several spades full of dirt had to be put there to prevent the loss of the privilege granted by the State. They stand for work on the rail-road you understand.
From the Franklin Enterprise and in the Lafayette Advertiser of 3/30/1878.
LOOKS LIKE BUSINESS.
The New Orleans Picayune of the 29, instant, contains the following special:
Arnaudville, La., March 28, 1894 - Representatives of the Texas & Pacific railroad left Palmetto, a station of that road, for this and other places on the proposed route of the branch road, which is to be built to deep water in Vermilion Bay."
We may add in this connection that our sister town of Breaux Bridge and towns along the projected line of railroad, following in the steps of the Business Men's Association of Lafayette, have taken action directed to the construction of the branch road in question, and it is not unreasonable to expect results of a tangible nature at a not far removed date.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/31/1894.
Rumors of Railroad Through Our Area.
There is much talk of a Railroad being built through our section of the country to Texas and the Red River Valley! What certainty there is in the rumor we cannot precise ; but we can say, that several companies, of ample means, and experience, are determined to carry the project into execution ; all probabilities are in favor of an early completion of the contemplated Road. We, who are deeply interested personally, and as members of the broad community to be benefited by the construction of the said road, and feel the vital importance of the further and complete development of the immense, countless, and some as yet unknown, resources of our beautiful prairies, must certainly realize the fact, that the present system or amount of labor is not adequate to the grand result. Leaving aside the urgent necessity of of systematizing labor under compulsory process, and ignoring even the construction of the contemplated Road, we again, and will again, call upon our fellow citizens, to invite immigration in our midst. Our fields are rich, they are almost boundless, and demand cultivation, and with the proper labor, would yield plenty to the honest laborer, and make our country what it was once, the gay abode of peace and a granary of prosperity. Our fields are immense and rich, aye, but labor is wanting ; how many acres are now vacant and untilled? It is very true that the resources of our section of country are generally unknown to the world out side, and the traveler from abroad, who crosses our plains, always wonders at the bright field for labor, which has been so far, lost to public appreciation.
The assertion is daily made by the wayfarer -- we had no idea, no knowledge, of such a rich country as this! And the question, how come that such fertile and immense vacant fields are not under cultivation is daily asked!
Are we of the Parish of Lafayette disposed to sleep over the hidden treasures and known resources of our native fields? Shall we always remain dormant, and never wake from the lethargy which seems to have overpowered our energies? No, we give the answer to the interrogatories propounded. A short time and the iron horse will pant over our lands ; this is a fact known to all, -- let us prepare for the great event -- let us invite immigration in our midst -- let us introduce labor, intelligent, active, go-a-head labor, in men who will faithfully perform their contracts, settle our vacant globe, and seek its most hidden wealth.
The action we propose to be adopted by our co-parishioners, is being followed by other parishes, and we should follow their example. Let us divide our lands into sections of twenty-five, thirty, or fifty acres, or more, and let them, come from Erin Sweden, Norway, France, and all parts of the earth, they are welcome ; let the sturdy sons of Germany come and disembowel the earth of its hidden treasures ; but, to do this, we must and should have immigration societies, they are indispensable to the carrying out of the project. We call the attention of all the planters of our Parish to our above remarks.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/3/1869.
Leaving Our Midst. - The Houston Post, of Tuesday, states that Supt. W. B. Mulvey, present superintendent of the Southern Pacific road from Lafayette to Houston, will be appointed superintendent of the Morgan division, to succeed Wm. F. Owen, who will shortly assume the office of general manager of the San Antonio Pass road, with headquarters at San Antonio.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/5/1893.
Railroad Roadbed Near Readiness.
Capt. Polk and his engineer corps completed the location of the road bed from Orange, Texas, to Vermilionville last Saturday. We are informed by members of the corps that a large portion of the old road bed is in good condition and will require but little labor to prepare it for the cross ties and rails. Capt. Polk left here Monday for Lake Charles to take command of a construction corps at that place, and the corps of engineers were ordered to Welsh's near the Mermentau to await further orders. Lafayette Advertiser 4/5/1879.
The Railway Zone System.
Official figures just issued of the working of the "zone system" on the railways of Hungary show excellent results. The system was introduced some three years ago. The country is divided into circles or zones, within which stated fares are charged, the principle being that the greater the distance from the capital the less the proportionate rate per mile traveled. The system has greatly increased the amount of travel. For some years previous to its introduction the number of travelers averaged 8,000,000 a year. In the first year of the zone tariff system the number rose to 16,000,000, the second year to 19,000,000, while last year the number of travelers on the railways was 28,000,000. The recipients have increased from 9,705,000 guilders during the last year of the old system to 28,300,000 guilders in 1892. From the Chicago Tribune and in the Lafayette Advertiser 4/5/1902.
Walked Out. - Friday morning about twenty-five employees at the round house made a demand for higher wages; but were refused, and their places supplied by others. Lafayette Advertiser 4/6/1904.
The Southern Pacific freight and passenger depot at Crowley was completely destroyed by fire last Thursday night. It is thought that the roof of the building was ignited by sparks from a passing locomotive.
Laf. Adv. 4/7/1894.
Complaints have been frequent of late against the distributing mail clerk on the Opelousas branch. The mail does not reach the post office here of a half hour or more after the train arrives, owing it is said, to the fact that the Clerk does not distribute the mail until the arrival of the train here. Laf. Adv. 4/7/1894.
The Opelousas Railroad.
SUIT OF CHARLES MORGAN AGAINST THE COMPANY.
The Order of Court.
In the United States Circuit Court, Judge Durrell presiding, Chas. Morgan Esq., has filed a petition, through his counsel, Hon. Miles Taylor, of which the following is a brief synopsis:
The petitioner represents that he is the legal holder and owner. 840 bonds issued by the New Orleans, Opelousas and Great Western Railroad Company, and also 3625 interest coupons, of $40 each, attached to said bonds ; also of 4296 coupons, of interest detached, of $40 each. That by act before S. Magner, notary public, on 1st of April, 1859, these bonds constituted a first mortgage lieu or privilege on the road and effects, and was recorded in this parish and city on the 8th of April, 1859. That said, New Orleans, Opelousas and Great Western Railroad has failed and neglected to pay said 7921 coupons of interest as they respectively fell due, and are still unpaid. That the said company is indebted to petitioner in the sum of $316,840.
That the sixteenth annual report of President and Directors of said company to stock holders of date 25th June, 1868, represented that there are 14,464 past due interest coupons of $40 each on first mortgage bonds, amounting to $606,600, which are now outstanding and unpaid.
That said act of mortgage aforesaid imparted confession of judgment. That petitioner is informed and believes that said coupons of interest, in law, bear interest from and after they respectively matured and became payable, and that he now expressly reserves his right to claim interest on same respectively in another suit, and prays for executory process, etc., and for general relief.
Upon the above petition Judge Durrell issued the following order:
It is ordered that executory process issue in this case, as prayed for in the within petition, and that the said New Orleans, Opelousas and Great Western Railroad Company be notified for three days to pay to petitioner the sum of $316,840, and the cost of this proceeding, and that in default of said payment, the said mortgaged property described in the petition may be seized and sold according to law, for the whole of the debt, the payment of which is secured by the said mortgage described and set forth in said petition ; the price of said sale payable as follows, viz. The sum of $606,600, and the costs of this proceeding in cash, and the remainder payable on the first day of April, 1869, with interest thereon at the rate of 8 per cent, per annum, payable semi-annually, on the first day of April and the first day of October each year. Lafayette Advertiser 4/10/1869.
Price in Town.
Gen. Thomas L. Price arrived in this city yesterday noon from New Orleans, and, having cast his vote for Pacific Railroad Directors, he left last evening for Jefferson City. He goes next Monday to attend an election of officers of the Union Pacific Railroad, Eastern Division, to be held at Topeka, and intends returning in a few weeks back to New Orleans with a view of looking after the important railroad enterprises in which he is interested - the connection of New Orleans and Texas by rail, which will form a link in the great chain of railroads terminating on the Pacific Ocean.
Messrs. Price & Chouteau are also fully developing the Avery Rock Salt Island banks in Louisiana.
They think it will be a success and prove to be one of the most fruitful investments known to the West or South. They have employed all the modern machinery and the engineers known in the United States, in the opening of this great salt deposit,,, which has no equal in the world. Its quality is pure. No impurities have been found after the most careful tests by the chemists of New Orleans and St. Louis. The enterprise engaged in by Messrs. Price & Chouteau this winter through not fully consummated by the Legislature of Louisiana, are not delayed by any fault of theirs. Though the invention of law has placed the Opelousas, New Orleans and Great Western Railroad in bankruptcy, they do not despair of still obtaining possession of that invaluable franchise, and railroad connection between New Orleans and Texas. Mr. Chouteau is expected to return in a few weeks to St. Louis. - [From the St. Louis Republic and printed in the Lafayette Advertiser of 4/10/1869.
THE BATON ROUGE ROAD.
The proposition made by Vice-President and General Manager Fay Thursday to the citizens' meeting, as a condition of the Southern Pacific's early construction of the road to Baton Rouge that the people of Lafayette give the right-of-way, is as reasonable as could possibly be hoped, and is certainly within our power to grant. It will cost some money, but not more than we can easily afford to spend to secure such a large benefit.
The Baton Rouge-Lafayette road is now only a question of prompt and active work on the part of the Right-of-Way committee appointed at the meeting and a hearty support financially on the part of the citizens. That the committee will do their full duty is assured, and we believe that the people of Lafayette, too, will meet the situation in every way necessary. Lafayette Advertiser 4/12/1905.
Frank and Reasonable.
From the Baton Rouge Times.
The Southern Pacific purposes to at once build from Lafayette to the river opposite Baton Rouge, the sole proviso being that the right-of-way be donated. General Agent Lee is quoted by to-day's Picayune thus: "It has been found by Mr. Fay and the others making the inspection that the line would be a very costly one to build," said General Agent Lee. "It penetrates a fine country, one that is rich and should be opened up, but the land is low and swampy, and it will necessitate a large amount of grading, trestling and bridging. The Southern Pacific is in this position: If the people have enough interest to turn over the right-of-way, without compelling the company to buy it and go into court and all that, the line will be constructed at once. But it is not going to purchase the right to build. That's the situation."
Mr. Lee's statement is direct and unequivocal. It is not a demand, but a categorical statement of the conditions under which Baton Rouge and Lafayette may get direct railroad connection at the earliest practical moment.
Both cities should, by joint and separate effort, assist the railroad to get the right-of-way on its terms. No land owner would give away as much as he will receive in added value of the tract from which he gives. From the Baton Rouge Times and in the Lafayette Advertiser 4/12/1905.
Mr. and Mrs. A. M. Martin entertained Gen. Agent, J. M. Lee, Jr., of the Southern Pacific Thursday. Those present were Mayor C. D. Caffery, Clerk of Court E. G. Voorhies, Mr. I. A. Broussard, Mrs. Wm. Campbell. Sr., and daughter, Miss Philomene, and Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Preager. Lafayette Advertiser 4/12/1905.
At the Latest City Council Meeting...
Among other things the following ordinance was adopted:
AN ORDINANCE - Granting A. J. Moss the privilege of building a railroad switch or spur across Grant Avenue on the East side of the Southern Pacific Co.'s Railroad.
Be it ordained by the City Council of Lafayette, La., that the right and privilege of building a railroad switch or spur across Grant Avenue on the East side of Southern Pacific Co.'s Railroad be and is hereby granted and conceded to Anderson J. Moss; provided said switch or spur does not in any manner impede or interfere with public travel along said avenue.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/13/1889.
Train Wreck. - Last Sunday evening the east bound passenger train collided with the west bound train on the switch at Raceland, but fortunately nobody was hurt, the only damage occasioned being a crushing of the cow-catchers of the two locomotives.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/14/1894.
For a clean and easy shave and stylish hair cut go to the Railroad Shaving parlor near Jno. O. Mouton's restaurant opposite the depot. Laf. Adv. 4/16/1898
The Sun-Set Limited made its last trip through here for this season, last Thursday. Laf. Adv. 4/18/1896
The train gate system went into effect on trains No. 19 and 20, on the 15th, inst. It is expected to be in force on all trains on the S. Pacific in a short while.
Laf. Adv. 4/18/1896
POSSIBILITIES OF MOTOR-CAR. - Some time ago we called attention in these columns to what promises to be a certainty in the near future, that a rural communication especially between small towns not far apart, would be revolutionized by what we called for want of a better name, automobile railroads. In this day of rapid transportation and economy of time and effort the availability of the automobile, which has been developed to a practical and efficient stage, for the purpose of rapid rural transportation is bound to be recognized and that it will be used largely is certain and sure, because of its great cheapness as compared with the trolley. As to service, is is being demonstrated in New York suburban traffic that it is up to requirements, and it is, but lately the London, England, county council has decided to use automobile cars with thirty-five passengers capacity on the suburban street railways in place of mule cars.
We again call attention to this matter, because we believe Lafayette to be most fortunately situated to make a great success of the adoption of this motor car for transportation purposes, surrounded as it is on all sides by thriving little towns. With an automobile road connecting each, it would bring the whole parish in close touch socially and commercially and result to the advantage of all in a most satisfactory way. And the attractive part is that the cost would be comparatively small and easily within our own means. If each would help as he could there would be no lack of funds, and it is a certain proposition that the roads would be profit-paying investments.
The idea is offered and it now remains for the people of Lafayette to use it or lose it. At least, it is well worth careful consideration.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/19/1905.
New Fence Up at Southern Pacific Yard. - The Southern Pacific railroad company has enclosed the entire lower part of their railroad yards by a good strong barbed wire fence. A line of fencing having been run from the old Pellerin brickyard to the railing running from the lunch stand. This was done principally to prevent cattle from passing onto the switches, situated near the round-house. Since the stock law has not been very rigidly enforced, the stock has become very troublesome about these switches. Supt. Owen did not feel disposed to pay for any dead cows or horses.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/20/1895.
A Lively Time. - Quite a commotion was caused at the Southern Pacific depot Tuesday night by a fist-fight between three of the town boys and about the same number of railroad men. It seems as though the trouble was the outcome of the actions of the clerk the night before in performing his duties as night clerk. One of these town boys came into the passenger waiting room Monday night, almost senseless from excessive use of strong drink, and began a disturbance. The clerk attempted to gently eject him from the place, but he resided and insulted the clerk, who then struck him and drove him out of the room. The following night about 8:30 o'clock this same man returned to the depot with two of his companions to renew the trouble. The man who was drunk the night before first addressed in very insulting terms and then struck him. This the young man would not stand and he bravely started in to give them the "best he had in him." Pistols were drawn, but not used, and after a few knock-downs the fight was stopped and the matter is to be finally settled by Justice McFadden. Several railroad men who were near assisted the clerk. It is quite right that the waiting room should be kept clean of drunken men and we are glad to see the night agent so prompt to attend to his duties.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/20/1895.
Railroad news: The Railroad: Morgan City to Franklin?
It is still reported that the railroad will soon be completed between this place and Morgan City. The news it too good to be true, yet we cannot refrain from pleasant hopes whenever it is mentioned. It does seem hard that the railroad bed which has been thrown up between Berwick Bay and Opelousas, and which has been there for the last twenty years, should remain there forever, while its completion would result in untold good to this section of country. If Mr. Morgan will not finish the road to Texas, it is to be hoped that circumstances will force the control of it out of power. From the Franklin Enterprise and in the Lafayette Advertiser of 4/20/1878.
RAILROAD TALK. - There are indications that point to certain changes, in the not far distant future, in railroad circles, that will redound in no little degree to the advantage of New Iberia. As may have been noticed from out last issue, from the Crowley Signal, surveys are being made from Abbeville west, which point to an extension of the Iberia & Vermilion Branch. It is rumored that there will be a severance of interests between the Morgan's La. & Texas R. R. Co. and the Southern Pacific, at the expiration of an agreement now existing between the two companies and which will soon be at an end ; hence it is probable that the former are seeking a new outlet west to Lake Charles and thence north by connection with their Kansas City, Gulf & Watkins R. R. at that place.
A well informed gentleman, resident of Lafayette, recently said to us that there exists much uneasiness among resident employees of the Railroad Company at that place, who have built their homes there, caused by talk of removal of the shops and round house from that place to New Iberia. Here it is said that the Morgan people are negotiating for the purchase of a thirty acre tract of land in the vicinity of the depot. Connecting all of this together, it does seem as though there is a chance that even the croaker who still croaks about the special tax voted by this place in favor of the L. & V. R. R. will soon have to admit that is was "a good thing" after all. And when, eventually, the Morgan R. R. C. reaches out from New Iberia to Port Barre, by way of St. Martinville, Breaux Bridge and Arnaudville, then all will unite in saying that the special tax was a superlatively good thing. From the New Iberia Enterprise.
The above, insofar as it relates to a severance of interests between the Morgan's Louisiana & Texas Railroad Co. and the Southern Pacific, and the contemplated removal of the railroad shops and round house from Lafayette to New Iberia, is only railroad "talk," as our esteemed contemporary very aptly denominates it. The agreement entered into by the two companies named was made in the year 1880, we believe, to continue for a period of either 20 or 25 years. There is no good reason to expect such changes to take place as are hoped for by the New Iberians, and we, of Lafayette, are glad to know such is the case. The former are privileged to reach out for other things, but they must be satisfied to allow our railroad shops and round house to remain with us, as they ever will in all probability.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/21/1894.
RAILROAD FARE.
It should be self evident to every reasonable person informed of the number, variety and the character of the business houses in Lafayette, and the keen competition carried on between these mercantile establishments, that prices for the commodities of life here are kept down to the lowest possible notch to the particular advantage of consumers.
Our local tradesmen control cash of equal purchasing power with the cash manipulated by tradesmen in other towns and they possess business ability of an order not inferior to that of their colleagues in other localities, then why should any consumer doubt the capability of the local merchant to supply his needs on as small a margin of profit as a merchant doing business fifteen or twenty miles away. And the local merchant is compelled to do it as a matter of self preservation.
Then why pay the railroad fare to a neighboring town under the delusion that you can save money by the operation?
The species of impression that we refer to herein as a delusion, is capable of accomplishing (unreadable words) money away to build up other towns at the expense of one's own. Even if it were true that a resident of Lafayette could buy a given thing from another merchant in another locality at a lower price than at home, we contend that, even then by sending his money away from his own town, he loses in a direct way, more than the slight saving in price. It is a poor business policy to take money out of circulation in the town where your own prosperity and well being is gauged in a direct ratio with the volume of that circulation. It is one of the most certain ways of holding back a town, and what could be worse for the residents and property holders of a town than its backwardness.
This thing of "sending off" for what we need that can be gotten right at home at equally low prices, is a two-edged knife, and a most dangerous one. It is a knife that is likely to cut more against your own interests than in your favor, as you must understand when you reason the matter out to its legitimate sequel. The average person does not always view a subject from its two sides and this is a great error. The Advertiser believes it is sub-serving the true interests of the home people by dwelling particularly on this important subject and feels confident much substantial good will result from an awakening of this line of thought among residents of Lafayette. Lafayette Advertiser 4/24/1897.
Levee Breech Affects Rail Service. - The breaks in the Mississippi have cut off communication with New Orleans by way of the Texas & Pacific railroad, and now that road since Tuesday has been running its freight and passenger trains through this place through Cheneyville, where they can strike their own line. After the overflow in 1884 the bed of the Morgan railroad, subject to overflow, was raised several feet higher, and it is not likely that the present water will reach such a stage as to cut off communications with New Orleans by this route. Lafayette Advertiser 4/26/1890.
Mail by Rail. - A change has been made in the railway postal service on the Morgan tap which gives Mr. Paul L. Burke, who for several years has efficiently served as sole postal clerk on this line, well earned relief. Heretofore Mr. Burke has daily made the round trip between Lafayette and Alexandria. Recently Mr. M. S. Alexander, of Myersville, Avoyelles parish, has been assigned to this route, and this now on duty. This gives each one a lay off every other day. Lafayette Advertiser 4/26/1890.
OUR RAILROAD.
Work is progressing steadily. The two barges, reported as arrived last Saturday from Orange, were delayed last Saturday from Orange by water in the ditch through the inner bar of Calcasieu Pass, but Capt. Thos. Reynolds, who has the contract for all transportation of railroad material here via the Gulf arrived with one of them last Monday night, and the other arrived next day. They brought over two hundred tons of a general outfit of provisions and material for work on the road, and Capt. Reynolds has returned with them to Orange for more. A force of about fifty men, with teams, scrapers, etc., is grading at Pine Island, fifteen miles east of Lake Charles, while four sub-contractors, with a large force of laborers, are at work between Lake Charles and the Sabine. Judging from the heavy supplies of meat, flour, potatoes, molasses, and other provisions brought here this week by Capt. Reynolds, it is evident that the workmen on the road are to be well fed.
From the Lake Charles Echo and in the Lafayette Advertiser 4/26/1879.
Southern Pacific Should Pay Up. - The officials of the Southern Pacific Railroad Company made a formal protest against the action of the Board of Assessors created by the Legislature to equalize the the assessments of Railroad, etc. Is this a trick? Do these officials hope to escape taxation? We suggest then that the Assessor and our Police Jury take these gentlemen at their word and proceed to list and assess the Railroad property for taxation just as they would have done had not the act of 1888 passed. This can not be done by way of supplementing the acts of the Board and in conformity with them, so that there will be no need of allowing the Railroad property to go untaxed this year. Should this happen now, after the Railroad Company has shown its hand, the people will have the right to severely blame the local authorities. The Railroad representatives in protesting did so in general terms. They said they were only preserving the rights to appeal to the Courts to test the constitutionality of the law creating the Board. Do they mean to say that if the assessment suits them they will graciously permit it to stand, and if it does not they will knock it, and the Board and the act of the Legislature higher than Gilroy's kite? Lafayette Advertiser 4/27/1889.
Assessors Meet. - The Board of Assessment of railroads and telegraph lines, etc., met her on Wednesday. All of the parish's touching the Morgan road and the L. W. were represented save one. Mr. T. J. Fosterm of St. Mary, was elected president, and Jno. D. Schaffer, of Terrebone, Secretary. They assessed the main lines at $7,000 per mile, and branch roads at from $3,500 per $5,000 per mile. The Western Union telegraph was assessed at $100 per mile, and the telephone at $15 per mile. The railroad filed a formal protest against the action of the Board as unconstitutional. Lafayette Advertiser 4/27/1889.
RAILROAD ?
Charles Morgan.
A
notarial act of sale, dated April 9th, 1878, was recorded in this
parish a few days ago, by which A. C. Hutchinson as agent of Charles
Morgan transfers to Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship
Company organized under Act No. 37 of the Legislature of this State
approved March 8th, 1877, represented by George Pandely, the railroad
from New Orleans to Berwick's Bay and the franchises from thence to
Washington and to some point in the Sabine river. Other properties also
transferred by this act and all in consideration of $5,016,000, payable
in full capital stock, except $22,000, which is payable in bonds to
become due in forty years and bearing interest at seven per cent.
Under
ordinary circumstances, such a transaction would attract much attention
and excite hopes that a railroad would soon be built, but past
experience has taught us to view such maneuvers with suspicion
and distrust. If Mr. Morgan did not build the road, or permit any one
else to do so, this new company composed of his friends and employees,
and of which he will have entire control, will certainly do likewise. We
consider this new company and Charles Morgan, one and the same concern,
and we will see how long they can retain their character without
complying with its terms.
After
being so deceived and hum-bugged, if this new concern should exhibit
any serious intention of extending their road to Texas without delay,
the population of this whole section of the country will be most
agreeably surprised.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/27/1889.
Texas and Pacific Railroad to Lafayette.-- Arnaudville, La., April 15th, '94.
Pursuamt to a call a meeting of the citizens of Arnaudville, La., was held on the 15th day of April, at which were present 43 interested parties.
On motion it was resolved that Hon. Charles Clay be appointed president, and A. P. Durio, Esq., secretary.
The chair explained the object of the meeting which was to take notice action to secure, if possible, the passage at this place of a proposed extension of a branch road by the Texas Pacific, which is to run from the main line in St. Landry parish to Port Barre, Leonville, Arnaudville and Breaux Bridge and then the road to go either St. Martinville or Lafayette.
The chair appointed a committee of four, Messrs. L. M. Roger, D. H. Bernard, Quehebedeaux and A. A. Durio to confer with similar committees, which will take place at St. Martinville on the 26th day of April.
(Signed) A. P. Durio, Secretery.
It will be noted from the foregoing that a committee of citizens of Arnaudville was to confer with another of St. Martinville, presumably, similarly interested, on the 26th instant. If such a branch should be built, St. Martinville, naturally, would like to be its "terminus." It must be by invitation of the citizens of the latter place that the conference was to be held there. The Advertiser is pleased to see the continued interest that is being shown in this movement inaugurated by the Business Men's Association of Lafayette and hopes to tell of a materialization of the project in due course of time. We believe that if the proper authorities of the T. & P. can be induced to make a serious investigation of the matter, they will recognize the judiciousness of owning and operating such a piece of road, and, if they decide to carry out the project at any time we are of the opinion that the propriety of building by way of Lafayette will be so manifest that our chances of securing the road are of a most assuring character. Up to now Lafayette, Breaux Bridge, Abbeville and Arnaudville have taken formal action to the movement in the order we have named the towns. If these places and others equally interested in this move will combine forces and persevere long enough in that direction it is not unreasonable to expect tangible results, and we urge the citizens of the different towns along the projected railroad line to not allow their efforts to slack until the object can be accomplished.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/28/1894.
For the first time in the history of Lafayette ice is being sold at one-half cent a pound, No doubt much more of the cooling articles will be consumed at this price than in past years. We hope the (unreadable word) may last forever. Laf. Adv. 4/28/1894
Supt. Owens, who has been seriously ill, is well again and was up Tuesday and Wednesday on an inspection of the M. L. & T. Division.
Laf. Adv. 4/28/1894
Mr. H. J. Bishop, of El Paso, Texas, traveling photographer for the Southern Pacific "Sunset Route" was in Lafayette last Wednesday.
Laf. Adv. 4/29/1899
Railroad Moguls Stop in Laf. - President Chas. A. Whitney, Mr. R. Morgan and Mr. J. Krutchnits, C. E., of the Morgan Company came up on the local train last Wednesday evening and passed the night at the La. Western Hotel. They left Thursday morning for Texas with the regular train and had in use Supt. Swanson's handsome private car. Lafayette Advertiser 4/29/1882.
Derailment on the S. P.
A wreck of five freight cars including an oil tank happened during the early morning of Friday on the Southern Pacific Railroad near the Oil Mill. A defect in the rails was the cause of the accident. Train workers were set to work and in a few hours the track was cleared and ready for business. Laf. Adv. 4/30/1898.
Courtesy to the Public.
The discourteous and unaccommodating railroad employee is rapidly disappearing from view, and every day it is being instilled into him by his superiors that civility and courtesy must be practiced by the men who come in contact with the traveling public, says the Houston Post.
The following circulars, sent out to the employees of the various Harriman lines in Texas and Louisiana by C. H. Markham, president of the Houston, East and West Texas and vice-president of the Houston and Texas Central railroad and W. G. Van Vleck, manager of the Southern Pacific company, are self explanatory:
Houston, Texas, April 16 - In transacting business with the public, you should remember that you are representing the company, and that many people who may not transact business with any other representative of the company, will form their opinion of the way its affairs are managed on their intercourse with you.
Civil and courteous treatment and proper recognition of the rights of the public are most valuable capital in trade for a railroad company, and you are earnestly requested to keep these considerations constantly before you in your intercourse with the patrons of this company.
The company wishes to maintain a reputation second to no line in the United States for fair dealing and courteous treatment, and your co-operation in whatever direction your duties may lie is earnestly requested.
C. H. Markham,
President.
In the stations of these lines and at other prominent places there will be posted the following notice, showing that there is a disposition upon the part of the company to enforce the rules and inviting the public to assist them to such determination.
To the Public:
Although employees are instructed as to their relations with the public, and civility and courtesy are enjoined, it may occasionally happen that these instructions are forgotten or ignored. The management will be glad to have attention called to uncivil or discourteous treatment suffered by patriots in transacting their business with the company, the information will be of material assistance in placing responsibility and in improving the service, and will at all times be most gratefully appreciated.
C. H. Markham.
In connection with the issuance of these circulars Mr. Markham states that heads of departments have been requested to take advantage of every favorable opportunity to invite criticism from patrons of matters pertaining to relation of company's employees to its patrons, to the end that civility and manifestation of a disposition on the part of each employee to go out of his way to impart information to acquiring patrons shall be the rule and not the exception.
"The attention of our employees," said Mr. Markham, has been called to the fact that passenger conductors, ticket agents and baggage men present more points of contact with the public than all the other employees combined; that the general condition of the public mind toward railroads is largely determined by result of contact with the employees named, and that the company will expect that its employees shall sustain the same relation to the company's patrons as the salesman in a store is expected to sustain toward his employer's customers; and that a pleasant manner in dealing with the public will be regarded as one of the most valued assets." Lafayette Advertiser 5/2/1903.
Hold Up at the S. P. Yard. - Last Sunday night an old negro was held up in the R. R. yard near the round house by a young negro highwayman who becoming angry because he got only $1.75, shot the negro. Several of the yard men gave chase, but the robber escaped. Lafayette Advertiser 5/2/1903.
Conductor C. H. Lusted and Brakeman R. L. Cochrane left Sunday for Marksville to serve as witness before the Grand Jury at that place in the case of a negro charged with shooting into a Southern Pacific train.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/3/1905.
RAILROAD TAX.
[From the Valley of the Teche.]
A great and sweeping question is now deeply agitating our good and friendly neighbors of the parish of Lafayette. We mean a tax on real estate for the building of a railroad from Lafayette to Abbeville, and very likely afterwards to the Gulf of Mexico. Although this matter does not see at first to concern us in the least, it does truly in fact. For all railroads that are built so closely to us work a great deal of good in our behalf. It is true that we have nothing to say in this matter of the tax, for it might be reproached to us that we are advocating a measure whose weight bill bear altogether on other shoulders than our own, but this fact is only seemingly apparent for in truth we would bring to our neighbors a fair share of our patronage; for whenever we visit our sister town in our travels or for some other purpose or on our way to the railroad, we largely contribute our might to her advancement and prosperity. Every one knows that the railroads that are actually running through the parish of Lafayette either north or west draw crowds of our people in both directions to that town, and each and every time we stop more or less in it. There is no doubt that the more there will be or railroads in Lafayette the more there will be of that. If we dared to give a word of advice to our good neighbors, we would tell them in all sincerity; vote for the tax. If you do not, you will regret it and afterwards it will be too late. In building this railroad they will be making of the parish seat more of a central point like Alexandria, which is now progressing and and advancing in proportion of the number of railroad lines that center around it. The people of Lafayette can now feel the benefit of a railroad line. Just compare it with the past and the old stage coach. If we speak thus it is just because we are without a railroad of any kind. We can only brag of the wagon, the cart and the buggy, and whenever we have to handle them, especially in winter, in deep and boggy roads, there is not one who would not be disposed to vote any tax to get out of those muddy holes. We can easily foresee that at no distant day we will be called upon to perform the same duty; we will then tell our people what we are now saying to our neighbors. We feel more the necessity of railroads since we see others in the full employment of them. Railroads enhance the value of lands, cheapen transportation of any kind; make certain products more valuable and salable at remote markets; give access to the country by lower rates and quicken transportation and work to all. And the tax after all brings within its own benefits which is larger by far than the tax itself. With our high and fertile lands, our valuable forests, and our numberless resources, if we had a railroad, our country would soon enter into a boom which would beggar description. From the Valley of the Teche and in the Lafayette Advertiser 5/3/1893.
FIRST STEP TAKEN.
Company Organized to Build the Baton Rouge, Lafayette and Gulf Railroad.
Citizens of Baton Rouge, Lafayette and Breaux Bridge Meet in New Orleans and Decide to Organize and Solicit Subscriptions.
A railroad to Baton Rouge has been the dream of the people of Lafayette for twenty years and at last there are fair prospects of the dream being realized. A corporation with a capital of $100,000 will be organized in a few days and subscription list circulated in Baton Rouge, Breaux Bridge and Lafayette.
Mayor C. D. Caffery, who has quietly for some time, communicated with the people of Baton Rouge and receiving a favorable reply, with a suggestion to send a committee to meet a like committee in New Orleans, called as many citizens together Monday night week ago as could be reached that afternoon. The meeting was held at the Century Club, and after some discussion as to best means to proceed, for those present were of one mind as to making every effort to carry the project through, a committee was appointed to arrange with Baton Rouge for a conference at once, and invite Breaux Bridge to participate. Members of the present were present were requested to publish nothing until a definite step was taken.
Mayor Caffery arranged next day to meet Baton Rouge people in New Orleans Thursday.
At 5:30 that morning the following committee left for the conference: C. D. Caffery, chairman, C. O. Mouton, Louis Lacoste, C. S. Babin, Julian Mouton, N. P. Moss, S. Begnaud, A. B. Denbo, P. L. DeClouet, J. C. Nickerson, F. E. Girard and Jerome Mouton.
Breaux Bridge was represented by Mayor G. D. Domengeux and J. C. Daspit. The Baton Rouge delegation was as follows. Messrs. D. M. Reymond, W. J. Knox, Jos. Gottlieb, Ben R. Mayer, Henry L. Fuqua, W. P. Connell and L. J. Richard. The meeting was held in the rooms of the Interstate Banking & Trust Co., of New Orleans. After thoroughly canvassing the subject from all points, it was decided to organize a company of $100,000, providing that when 5 per cent of the stock shall have been subscribed the company should begin business, and Messrs. Jos. Gottlieb, chairman, J. C. Daspit, C. D. Caffery, P. L. DeClouet, W. P. Connell and Judge Julian Mouton were appointed a committee on organization.
The name selected is The Baton Rouge Lafayette and Gulf, and the road will run from Baton Rouge to Lafayette, via Breaux Bridge.
It will be about 60 miles in length, 23 miles of which are swamps, necessitating trestle work; but as the high land is very fertile, the swamp filled with fine cypress timber, it is almost assured that the road will be a fine paying investment.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.
Jas. Breaux, who has been connected with the Lafayette Gazette for some time, has resigned and taken a position with the Southern Pacific Railroad.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.
The committee appointed by the Business Men's Association, to offer inducement to the Northern Louisiana and Gulf Railroad now in course of construction from Junction City to Vermilion Bay, met at the court house and elected Hon. O. Cade chairman and R. C. Greig secretary.
Messrs. B. Flanders and Hon. O. Cade were appointed to correspond with the management of the road and take such measures as might secure the construction of the line through Lafayette parish.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/6/1899.
On last Sunday at the Southern Pacific Depot, a negro, was very blustering in his words and actions; being told to desist he became impudent and as a result a flyer in the shape of the ticket stamp dated, was forwarded to the seat of his mental faculties in the hands of the ticket agent. To elude arrest he started on a run followed by (unreadable word) Lisbony of the police.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/7/1898
Man Loses Two Fingers. - Tuesday afternoon a stranger in attempting to board the west bound train received a very painful injury which resulted in the loss of the first joint of fingers, which makes an ugly wound and will lay him up for some time. As the gentle,an was getting on the car the gateman slammed the heavy iron "cattle guard," that the Southern Pacific have placed at the entrance to all of the cars for the protection of their patrons (?), shut which caught the gentleman's right hand crushing two of his fingers in a most cruel manner.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/8/1897.
Railroad News.
The first locomotive equipped with oil burners passed here Wednesday, with Mr. J. F. Emery at the throttle. Master Mechanic, J. W. Nichols says that in 60 days all the engines on the Southern Pacific will use fuel oil. Laf. Adv. 5/10/1902.
Railroad business at Lafayette has been on a boom for three weeks past. The boys in the yard here frequently handle from 30 to 40 trains in 24 hours.
Laf. Adv. 5/10/1890.
Leaving the Southern Pacific Main Line.It is with much regret that we note the departure from Lafayette, of Mr. John Mitchell, for a number of years the trusted Southern Pacific's master mechanic at this place. The company has seen fit to reinstate the venerable gentleman by placing him in charge of the branch road to Abbeville. Our sister town of Vermilion can justly feel proud of acquiring such an excellent resident, and though Lafayette can hardly express its regret in words, yet it is a source of pleasure to know that our good old friend is not so far away after all. Good luck to you Mr. Mitchell. The Advertiser and your hosts of Lafayette friends wish you much joy and prosperity in your new location. Lafayette Advertiser 5/11/1901.
The Best Service - North & East via
The Illinois Central...
To Louisville, Cincinnati, St. Louis, Chicago...
Two Daily Fast Trains.
Dining Cars, Meals al al Carte, Buffet Library Cars, Pullman Showers.
No Transfer at New Orleans.
Ask your ticket agent for information, or address:
N. D. Finch, T.P.A., Houston, Texas.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/11/1905.
New Railroad Project. - A company with a capital stock of $200,000 has been organized in Opelousas to build a railroad from that place in a northeasterly direction to intersect the Texas and Pacific at some suitable point; also to extend the same railroad in a southwesterly direction to the Gulf. Laf. Adv. 5/11/1904.
First Train After Flood. - The first through train over the Morgan road since the flood came up last Monday, since which time the local train has been running regularly. The repair of the damage done by the flood to the road bed, sufficient to permit the running of trains was accomplished much sooner than was anticipated, and the reports current as to the extent of such damage were in now way exaggerated. Freight trains will begin to run on Monday. Lafayette Advertiser 5/13/1882.
Excitement At the Depot.
Last Thursday there was quite an excitement around the depot for a little while, upon the arrival of the afternoon train from New Orleans. Sheriff Broussard had received a dispatch from Jeanerette to arrest a negro on the train, by the name of Noyes Archez, who had a ticket for Duson. The sheriff in company with Marshal Veazey met the train and boarded it in search of the negro. The negro became alarmed and jumped from the train before it stopped and attempted to escape. He could not have known Isaac very well or he would have known how futile would be his attempt. Sheriff Broussard and Marshal Veazey immediately started in pursuit, but he proved very fleet of foot, and the Sheriff after calling him to stop, was compelled to fire at him. The negro was about 800 yards in advance when he when he fired, but notwithstanding the distance his aim was true and he struck the negro in the heel, which brought him to a sudden stop, when the Sheriff arrested him and placed him in jail. Lafayette Advertiser 5/13/1893.
Lost 2 Fingers in Railroad Accident. - Mr. Emile Gerard, who recently met with a severe accident while switching in the railroad yard at this place, is out again. He luckily escaped with only the loss of two fingers, although it was feared for some time that it would be necessary to amputate his arm in order to save his life, but his youth and strong constitution pulled him through with only the loss above mentioned.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/13/1893.
Now A Conductor of "Law." - Mr. Mark Neuhausce, the popular passenger conductor of the Morgan division, is now a full fledged attorney-at-law, having passed his examination at the Tulane law school, in New Orleans, last week. We extend our congratulations to the new legal light and wish him success in the future commensurate his legal knowledge. Lafayette Advertiser 5/13/1893.
Accident On the Morgan Line.
On the 7th inst., near Baldwin in St. Mary parish, Capt. J. T. Dowdell, Roadmaster of the Morgan railroad, was thrown from a hand car, which ran over him, resulting in severe and painful injuries. His right arm was broken and the bones considerably crushed, his face and head were bruised and his back injured. He was sent to his home her in a special by the Morgan Co., where he received medical attention from Drs. Trahan and Hopkins. He is doing well and bears his misfortune with good humored philosophy, and suggests that if he can not fill his place on the road, he can soon help his wife pick strawberries with one hand.
Being an old and greatly respected citizen at this place, he and his family have the sympathy of the whole community.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/15/1886.
RAILROAD NEWS:The Extension, to and through Attakapas, of the New Orleans, Opelousas and Great Western Railroad.[From the N. O. Picayune.] The property holders, planters and citizens of the parishes of St. Mary, Iberia, St. Martin, Lafayette, St. Landry, Vermilion and Calcasieu are one and all, very much interested in the early completion of the Opelousas Railroad through their section of the country to Texas.
Many gentlemen of means, from the Western States and elsewhere have since the war, purchased farms and plantations on Bayou Teche and in the Attakapas country. These persons should and doubtless do know, from experience, what are the advantages of having communication by rail with the principal market for their products ; they know also that the value of their lands will be greatly enhanced by the building and operation of the railroad. Therefore, it is their manifest duty, as it is the duty and interest of all, to come forward now, when it only needs "a pull, a strong pull and a pull altogether," to lift the road out of the mire and carry it specifically and triumphantly through to Texas. In the parishes above named a large subscription ought to be obtained to the stocks and bonds called for in the plan to save and complete the Opelousas Railroad, submitted by its Board of Directors.
The exhibit of the condition of the Opelousas Railroad Company, made by the directors who have signed and published their address to our citizens, show that with proper encouragement and the aid asked for the success of this great public work will be made certain. The gentlemen who have signed this address are well known in this community and there can be no doubt of the reliability of their statements. If the road is sold under the executory process obtained in the suit of Charles Morgan it will be a sale only of the present finished part of it, ending at Brashear. (Now Morgan City.) The purchaser would find many difficulties in his way, even if he desired to extend the road, for the company would not be disolved, necessarily, by the sale; its charter, franchise, land grant, etc., would still remain.
The true condition of affairs, as we understand the case, is this: Mr. Morgan buys that part of the Opelousas Railroad now built from Algiers to Berwick's Bay, eighty miles in length - and it is almost certain that he will do so, if it is sold - he could not if he would, and it is reasonably certain that he would not if he could, build it a single foot beyond Brashear.
We will add that the people of this city and State, if they will not subscribe the small amount needed to save the road from sale, and to insure its immediate extension to Vermilionville and thence to Texas, will have forfeited their right to blame Mr.Morgan, if he does purchase the road and will not extend it beyond its present terminus. The line, by rail and steamship from New Orleans to Texas, is complete now, so far as Mr. Morgan's business is concerned.
If, the road, therefore is sold, then the property holders and planters of St. Mary, Iberia, St. Landry and the rest, will have no more prospects of having a railroad than of no portion of the road had ever been built.
A writer in our paper of yesterday says: "The city has given her bonds for one million five hundred thousand dollars, the State for six hundred thousand dollars. (should be $650,00.) making over two millions in all. Should the road be sold, all this money is lost, and we and our descendants will be taxed for three generations, to make up the loss. Your property is bound for every cent of this money."
It is easy to prevent this loss, and easy to secure the immediate extension of this railroad to Vermilionville, and thence to the Sabine River, and to a connection with all the railroads in Texas, by a joint effort at this time. We urge upon our city and country property holders, bankers, and business men generally, to come forward to unite to contribute and make the proposed plan a complete success and we justified in believing that it will succeed. The address of the Directors of the Opelousas Railroad Company, published in our columns shows clearly that a guaranteed preferred bond stock subscription of one million of dollars will clear off the interest debt of the road and insure its immediate completion; and President Seger and Engineer and Superintendent Bayley say that they can build the road to Vermilionville in from nine to twelve months.
We call upon all to come forward and to join hands in saving and building our New Orleans and Texas Railroad.
"God always helps those who help themselves."
From the N. O. Picayune and in the Lafayette Advertiser of May 15, 1869.
The local brotherhood of railroad trainmen will give their annual ball at Falk's Opera House, May 22. Remember the date. Laf. Adv. 5/17/1902.
Laf.'s New Rail Depot. - The lumber and material for the new depot has arrived and work will be commenced this week, and the building pushed rapidly to completion. This is an improvement that has long been needed and will be thoroughly appreciated by our people. Laf. Adv. 5/17/1893.
The 3:35 train from the east was over an hour late yesterday, owing to a freight wreck on the road.
Laf. Adv. 5/17/1893.
Train Hit Cow. - Wednesday afternoon an incoming excursion train from Texas, on the L. W. railroad, struck a cow near Vordenbaumen's lumber yard, and crippled it so badly that it had to be killed. It is a wonder that more stock roaming in the vicinity of the railroad are not killed, so accustomed and indifferent have they become to moving trains; but now and then one will get caught, in spite of great precaution on the part of the engineers. Lafayette Advertiser 5/17/1890.
Lots of "Clucking," "Gobbling" and "Quacking."
Last Saturday several of the "Live Poultry Transportation Co.'s" cars passed through Lafayette en route from Missouri to New Orleans, loaded with turkeys, chickens, ducks, etc. The car is really an immense grated and well ventilated coop, divided into compartments containing about 50 fowl each, with passage ways between for feeding and watering. The car we noticed particularly contained 4,300 fowl, and presented a novel and attractive sight. Lafayette Advertiser 5/17/1890.
Railroad Racket.
Mr. J. P. Nolan, foreman at Algiers, La., was in town Monday.
Fireman J. E. Pefferkorn suffered lately of his eyes, but we are happy to state that he is well now.
Mr. J. Martinsin, of Gouldsboro, has come to this place to take charge of the wrecking derrick.
Mr. F. Guidry, formerly of this place, but now an employee of the Southern Pacific Railroad at Algiers this week.
W. F. Owen, superintendent of the Morgan division, arrived in town on his special train Thursday evening at 6:30 o'clock.
Mr. Victor Choppin, an employee of the round-house, has resumed work after having been sick several days with the measles.
Mr. S. Thornton, formerly telegraph operator at the depot in Lafayette, passed through town Thursday on his way to Barbreck.
Engineer J. Jos. Hannen, attended court at Opelousas this week. Engineer F. Poinboeuf relieved him on the switch engine at this place.
Mr. Pat Drury, night watchman at the shops, left Friday on a visit of several weeks to the Crescent City. He is relieved by Mr. A. Deffez.
Assistant Master Mechanic Jas. Mitchell and the able carpenter of the railroad at this place, Mr. J. A. Burkholder, went to New Iberia Monday.
Car repairer J. D. Ducharme, Sr., had to lay off two days last week on account of the sickness of his wife. He was relieved by Mr. John Whittmeyer.
Mr. Jos. Lisbony, who, on account of the decline of business had been suspended from work at the shops sometime ago, was recalled Friday of last week.
Mr. Lucien Choppin, boiler washer at the round-house, had his left foot injured last week. We are happy to state that he has resumed work. Mr. Andrew Mouton relieved him during that time.
Brakeman J. I. Younger, of the L. W. division, with family have left this place for Houston, where they will reside in the future. Miss Belle McBride accompnaied them and will henceforth live with them.
Mr. John Bowen left last week for Galesburg, Ill., where he will take part in the annual national convention of the order of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen: Mr. Bowen went as delegate of the Lafayette Lodge, B. R. T., No. 317.
The Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen will run an excursion from Morgan City to Opelousas June 30. The fare for the round trip from Lafayette will be 75 cents. For full particulars see bill which will soon be posted.
Mr. Ed. Givens, the able clerk in the agent's office at this place, lately secured a leave of absence of a few days, during which time the position was filled by his brother, John, who in turn was relieved by Mr. Herbert Mouton.
Notice: - The Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen are ready to receive bids for lunch stand privileges on the excursion train to be run from Morgan City to Opelousas on Sunday, June 30. All applications should be addressed to Mr. H. Jagou, Lafayette, before June 20th
Lafayette Advertiser 5/18/1895.
The Pay car will arrive Sunday or Monday night.
Laf. Adv. 5/19/1894.
The freight traffic on the Southern Pacific Railroad has increased considerably during this month. Laf. Adv. 5/19/1894.
Trains Running Again.
Trains are now running as before the flood. The local and Texas express have been coming independently and on time since last Wednesday. Freight trains were also started this week and the wild shriek of the locomotive is heard again at all hours of the day and night. Laf. Adv. 5/20/1882.
La. Central. - The act of incorporation of the La. Central Railway Co., organized to construct a railroad from this place to some point on the Mississippi river, between Bayou Goula and Bayou Sarah, was published a few days since in the N. O. Times-Democrat. The incorporators are Messrs. J. G. Parkerson, E. B. Parkinson, Wilson, Rayne, Palfrey and W. S. Parkerson. Judge Parkerson is President; we sincerely hope that this is not delusion. It is a matter of immense importance to this parish, and its consummation would be to us of untold value. Lafayette Advertiser 5/20/1882.
The westbound Texas and Pacific passenger train, a few days ago at noon, ran over Oscar Holmes, a colored man, near Seymourville, about a mile below Plaquemine, killing him and throwing his body off the track. Holmes was drunk and was lying on the track.
Laf. Adv. 5/21/1898.
Our readers will hail with pleasure the election of WM. S. PIKE, to the Presidency of the New Orleans, Opelousas and Great Western Rail Road and the liberal spirit with which the capitalists of New Orleans, are subscribing to free the line from Morgan's thraldom and monopoly. No better selection could have been made and we feel buoyed with the hope that the fast waning destinies of the Road, will soon be revived under his able guidance and supervision ; such tidings are cheering and always acceptable.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/22/1869.
Better Accommodations for Ladies Needed at Depot. - The Vindicatoris correct when it says much reform is needed in the way of better accommodations for ladies at the depot waiting room, but it is wrong when it says the Crescent parlors are used for that purpose. THE CRESCENT hotel is entirely distinct from railroad business. Its parlors are reserved for the use of the guests of the house, and negroes are never permitted in there under any circumstance. Lafayette Advertiser 5/23/1891.
The New Passenger Station.
Yesterday morning a force of carpenters began work on the new depot building which the Southern Pacific Co. are to build. The building is located between the Crescent hotel and the track, on the south side of the wagon road, and will be 20 x 90 feet and will be occupied by the baggage room, express office, waiting room for white's, ticket office, waiting room for blacks, and lunch counter, in the order named commencing at the west end of the building. The building is to be made of wood, and will have a bay window from the ticket office so that tickets may be secured without entering the building. The depot when completed will present a very neat appearance, judging from the plans seen in the office of Station Agent Davidson and we are informed that it will be finished and ready for occupancy inside of a month. Lafayette Advertiser 5/24/1893.
Our Railroad.
Work is going right along. The schooner James. W. Drury from New York with 650 tons of steel rails is off Calcasieu Pass, and Capt. Thomas Reynolds, with the tug Alert No. 2, and two barges, is bringing her cargo to Lake Charles. On the 13th inst., the O. B. Stillman left New york for Lake Charles with a locomotive, 418 tones of steel rails and 60 tons of fastenings : and on the 14th inst., the schooner Sarah T. Bind left New York for Lake Charles with 15 switches, 590 tons of steel rails, and 44 tons of fastenings. Both these vessels will arrive within three weeks. The old piling in the northern edge of Lake Charles is sound below the water's edge, and will be utilized by sawing it off just below the surface of the water, laying sills upon it and raising new pilings above it.
The piling across Bayou Osier is about completed and new piling across English bayou will commence next week. The railroad officials are satisfied with the progress of the work so far, and are confident of its completion as originally expected. From the Lake Charles Echo, and in the Lafayette Advertiser of 5/24/1879.
The pay train came up on Tuesday evening and many were made happier hereby. Laf. Adv. 5/26/1894.
A. F. Church, General Yard master at Algiers, formerly of this place, was here Thursday shaking hands with the railroad boys.
Laf. Adv. 5/26/1894.
On Wednesday, Willis Eaves. Asst. Section Foreman at this place, while running in front of a hand car fell and was run over, seriously injuring the calf of the left leg. Laf. Adv. 5/26/1894.
Morgan's Excessive Freight Rates.
For the uninitiated we furnish the subjoined figures, showing freight charges paid the Morgan Railroad Company by some of our business people in certain instances, and these are not by any means isolated. Read and tell us if railroads are an "alloyed" blessing!" It is notorious that the cost of transportation of freight was but little if any, greater when a few years since it had to be hauled by wagon from the Teche:
Freight charges on eleven stoves from Cincinatti to New Orleans including reshipping, $16.00; from New Orleans to Vermilionville by railroad, $24.75. ($543.33 in today's money.)
Six stoves from Cincinnati to New Orleans including reshipping, $6.40; from New Orleans to Vermilionville, $16.00.
Freight by rail from N. O. to Vermilionville on bbls. flour, 1 bbl grits, 1 bbl shoulders and 3 boxes soap, $7.60.
Charges on 1 bbl molasses from Carencro station to Vermilionville, (6 miles) $1.00.
1 bbl. containing 6 dozen bottles beer, from Vermilionville to Washington, 60 cts.
5 bbls. flour from Washington to Vermilionville, $5.00.
By boat and railroad from New Orleans to Vermilionville via New Iberia, 1 box dry goods 3 x 3 x 11 feet hight, $2.85, 1 bbl tobacco, $1, (?) bbls flour, 1 bbl grits, 2 sacks oats, $10.35.
Regular rates on flour, &c., from N. O. to Vermilionville, 80 cts per bbl. From N. O. to Washington, La., 30 miles further, 40 cts per bbl.
But these examples need not be further multiplied. Such charges are the rule. Receipted bills for many more at hand. Lafayette Advertiser 5/27/1882.
Morgan's extortionate policies:
The Morgan La. & Texas railroad extorts summer and winter when the opportunity offers.
Unreadable portion that appears to outline the rates depicted in the previous article and we pick it back up with...
...The railroad, to compete, entered into freight contracts with merchants here, binding them to ship exclusively by rail, giving them as the alternative to be entered on a black list and charged exorbitant freight rates.
Just as soon as this had the effect intended, that is the driving away of the boats, the company declined to renew the contracts and jumped the rates up forty and sixty per cent.
Will "healthy competition of water transportation" and magnificent system of inland navigation" remedy that evil?
Discrimination is made against the shipper, too, in which New Orleans merchants are interested.
Three different lots of barbed wire lately shipped to this place were charged as many different rates, the only difference in the wire being that it was purchased from different shippers.
The merchant in New Orleans dare not cry out against this outrage for fear of worse. He must stand by and see trade rightfully his, driven to another, because the railroad monopoly has put him on the black list and levies a fine on anybody purchasing from him.
For shame, neighbor of the Capital, do not say "the evils complained of can never apply to Louisiana" when they exist under your very nose. Lafayette Advertiser 5/27/1882.
State Takes Action? - With a view of ascertaining if any legislation is necessary regulating directly or indirectly railroads, in the matter of freight and passenger charges, the State Senate has ordered and appointed a "committee on railroads." We assure the honorable members of this committee they need but put themselves to little trouble to become convinced - except they be difficult to impress - that legislative interference is absolutely necessary. Lafayette Advertiser 5/27/1882.
Opelousas Railroad Sold.
CHARLES MORGAN THE PURCHASER.
The sale took place yesterday, as advertised, in the presence of a large concourse of citizens of property and character, and was awaited with intense interest by all assembled.
Mr. Morgan, who was present, kept in the background, though his representative was near the stand.
During the somewhat tedious reading of the mortgage certificate from the various parishes, in which the order of seizure and sale was often repeated at length, there was breathless stillness.
Judge Durell had come down himself from the judgement seat, and sat smiling and talking in a low tone of a friend upon the end of the platform.
At last, the reading was ended, and Gen. West began to call for bidders for the property, the percent of the cost payment to be paid in Treasury notes at the stand, fifteen more per cent more in five days, and the residue as soon as the deeds were ready.
His voice hesitated and faltered as he called for bids. The first came from the rear, but came after several calls without answer.
"One million of dollars."
The next bid was:
"Fifteen hundred thousand dollars," and either by Mr. Whitney or Mr. Jules A. Blanc, between whom the bidding continued until Mr. Blanc bid.
"TWO MILLION OF DOLLARS."
Then, after one or two calls, comes a bid from Mr. Whitney.
"Two millions and fifty thousand dollars."
There was no response to a further call for bid.
At last the Marshal pronounced the word: "Gone! The road is sold."
"Who," said the Marshal, "is the purchaser?"
"Charles Morgan."
Mr. Morgan's friends gathered around him to congratulate him, though he did not seem to regard his purchase as a very low one; but he said he would now show the people of New Orleans how to build a road.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/29/1869.
THE RAILROAD ELEMENT IN LOCAL POLITICS.
Until the present time the ADVERTISER has refrained from taking sides with either of the parties who were candidates at the late municipal election. But the events of the last few days have left no option in the matter, and believe it is now our duty to call the attention of our people to the "writing on the wall," that they fully realize the menace to good government contained in the action taken by some of the defeated candidates.
The official returns of the election showed that those gentlemen who now hold their commissions, were elected, and the defeated candidates should have abided by the returns, and we believe they would have done so had they been governed by unselfish and and patriotic motives and a desire to advance the best interests of the town.
The great trouble with municipal elections is the present system of voting, which allows a minority faction - the railroad element - to hold the balance of power. Out of 300 voters in round numbers about 80 are railroad men, and they have tried to fill the same position in local politics that New York state has occupied in National affairs, and by forming a ring, have tried to defeat the will of the majority.
On the defeated ticket were three railroad men, two of whom appear as signers of the petition for a trial contest. LAFAYETTE ADVERTISER 5/30/1893.
Lagniappe:
TOO FAST.
The Almost Fatal Mistake of an Engineer of a Through Train.
An engineer on one of the fastest trains between New York and Chicago had a narrow escape one night. He had received instructions to pass a certain station at 2:15, so as to keep clear of a freight train, which was to be run on a siding at that point. The instructions had been communicated by the conductor, but had made little impression upon the engineer because his train was behind time, and it did not seem possible to reach the station at the time indicated.
"The freight train will have to wait for us some time," he had said to the conductor.
It was a still, cold night. The roadbed was in fine order, and the engine with clean fires was at its best. . The engineer, invigorated by the bracing air, and deriving pleasure from the perfection with which the mechanism was operating, began to think he might pass the station on time after all. He spurred on the engine and the lost time was rapidly made up.
By a trick of mental aberration the engineer had dropped five minutes from his instructions. With his watch in his hand he was aiming to pass the station at 2:10 instead of 2:15.
The conductor had noticed the extraordinary speed at which the train was running. "Jack is in a hurry tonight," he said at first. Then after frequently consulting his watch he exclaimed: "The engineer must be crazy."
Too nervous to remain in the car, he went out on the platform and recognized a small station as the train whirled by it. It was 2:09, and the station where the freight train was to be side tracked was very near. He signalled to the engineer to the stop the train.
There was not a moment to spare. The air brakes acted sharply, and the train was brought to a full stop on the edge of the station. There was the freight train on the main track, and about to be switched off to the siding. In a moment more the express train would have dashed into it end-on, and a deplorable accident would have followed.
"I thought I was to pass the freight train at 2:10!" exclaimed the dazed engineer as the conductor ran up to him with a white face and an excited air.
"No," shouted the conductor. "It was 2:15. I read the telegraphic order aloud to you at the last station. Why, Jack, you have given me the worst fright I ever had."
The train reached its destination on time, and without further incident. The engineer took the conductor aside, and told him that it was their last run together.
"I have lost my nerve," he said, "or I could never have made such a mistake. The work is too fast for me, although I have done it for twenty years. They must give me slower work."
That is what many overworked business men require. They are running under higher pressure than their nervous mechanism will endure. Over wrought and prematurely old, they have lost their nerve. Youth's Companion and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
The work on the new depot building is being pushed rapidly, and it will be ready for occupancy in the near future. We have been crowded with job work for the past week. Our people appreciate good work and know where to come when they want it. Laf. Adv. 6/3/1893
Freight and Passenger Rates On the Morgan Railroad Line.
It is a fact worthy of note that those opposed to any legislation at this time, regulating the freight and passenger charges of railroads in this State, have the advantage of water competition, and we are met by these with the plea that the State needs railroads and legislation should be shaped to encourage rather than repulse capitalists having this object in view. These "would be" friends of railroads surely know not whereof they speak. Now, it seems to be very generally conceded that the State has the right, through its legislature, to enact such laws, and this being admitted the query arises, does the necessity exist? As far as this section is concerned it can be shown that the necessity unquestionably exists. It can be shown the Morgan company has continuously been guilty of discrimination as to individuals - and discrimination as to localities, - and one in each case that is unjust and extortionate. We recognize the fact that discrimination may, in certain cases, be reasonable and fair both as to individuals and localities. That a difference should be made between the prices to be paid by one who receives five and another who receives one hundred barrels of flour is patent.
It can be shown that the Morgan Co. has repeatedly made a difference between receivers of equal amounts of freight.
Now as to localities, - it is clear that a reasonable difference may be made between competitive and non-competitive points. In fact, in some instances, companies are compelled to charge less than profitable rates in order to compete with steamboats or other lines. But, is this difference reasonable, - the freight charge on a barrel of flour from New Orleans to Vermilionville, 145 miles, is 80 cents, on same from New Orleans to Washington, 30 miles further, is 40 cts., and it can not be denied, with any show of reason, that the latter is a profitable charge, - hence, if 40 is a paying rate to Washington, what is 80 cents to Vermilionville? Echo answers - unjust and extortionate discrimination.
We have no senseless or extreme warfare to make (unreadable words) fare to make a (unreadable word) railroads, but it would appear (unreadable words) most of them in (unreadable words) State control.
Wholesome and well considered legislation will not have the effect of driving capitalists to other fields. State control over common carriers can not be denied, and intelligent managers will admit that some law with that end in view is necessary. Let the legislature enact reasonable statutes and create a tribunal or commission to apply such statutes to special cases. It can not be done by direct legislation.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/3/1882.
Central Pacific Railroad's President Passes Through Vermilionville.
(First hint of Southern Pacific moving our way?)
Ex-Gov. Leland Stanford, of California, president of the Central Pacific Railway Co., passed through here with the regular train, in a special car, last Wednesday morning. The Central Pacific includes the Southern Pacific and has under its control about 3000 miles of road.
Laf. Adv. 6/3/1882.
We had the pleasure of meeting in town a few days since J. B. Buchanan, Esq., who lived here some time when the La. W. Railroad was in process of building, and was the civil engineer in charge on this end of the work. The Captain says he is temporarily connected with the La. Central; we hope it may be permanent, for such would, no doubt keep him with us, and mean besides, the building of the road in question.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/3/1882.
The Real Question for the Public to Consider.
However inconsistent the recent attitude of Mr. Pike, as President of the Opelousas Railroad Company, may have appeared, to cursory observation, with his former relations to Mr. Morgan and other bond-holders in Judicial proceedings with reference to the road, we presume that a candid consideration of his reply to Mr. Taylor's card will suffice to relieve his motives from the imputation of bad faith. But it is idle now to review the personal variances and the litigious complications and troubles which culminated in the recent compulsory sale of the company's mortgaged property. It is of no consequence to the public at this moment to recite what possibilities have been neglected. What can now be done, and who are the men prepared to do it, is the question that solely concerns the public at present with respect to the Opelousas Railroad. Hence we are glad to observe that Mr. Pike adds his testimony to other evidence going to show that nearly a year ago Mr. Morgan expressly entertained the intention of completing the road to the Sabine as soon as circumstances would allow him to undertake the enterprise. "It is a fact," says Mr. Pike, "that has never been questioned by me that should Mr. Morgan become possessed of the road, he would - if no legal difficulty or opposition on the part of the company interposed to prevent building the road to Texas." If the company or the friends of extension should have any doubt as to the real disposition of Mr. Morgan in this regard, now that he is the owner of the finishing division of the road, there is a very simple way to put his sincerity to the test. Let them respond to the pending proposition of that gentleman with overtures of co-operation so clearly reasonable and equitable as to admit of no objection unless upon palpably frivolous pretexts. Seeing how miserably hopes and plans have heretofore failed touching the extension of this road, we are disposed to say, let us accept thankfully what the gods may offer us in that direction, and if Mr. Morgan present himself as a medium of such a favor by all means let him be welcome. For the rest, a short time will determine what is the real obstacle to extension, and who see the practical extensionists or obstructionists. From the Commercial Bulletin and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/5/1869.
Laf. City Council:
"...It was moved and seconded that Mr. J. C. Nickerson be heard in regard to railroad crossing at Second street. Laf. Adv. 6/6/1896
Railroad Between Lafayette and Palmetto? Monday the last Business Mens' Association held a meeting during which they decided to appoint a committee of three to correspond with Mr. L. S. Thorne, Vice-President and Gen. Mgr. of the Texas & Pacific Railroad, to ask that a branch be established from Palmetto to Lafayette. Those of the committee were Messrs. Chas. D. Caffery, B. A. Salles and Dr. T. B. Hopkins. We will give in our next issue the result of the inquiry.
Laf. Adv. 6/6/1896.
It seems that that railroad spur was never built between Lafayette and Palmetto; however a railroad line currently does go through Palmetto ; its between Alexandria and Brusly ( pronounced "broo-lee") which is across the Mississippi River from Baton Rouge.
Morgan Railroad's Offices Move to Lafayette.
Moved Here June 1 and Domiciled on Second Floor of Brown-News Hotel.
On June 1 Superintendent Shackford, who has succeeded Mr. Owen, moved his entire force to Lafayette and is now domiciled on the second floor of the Brown-News Hotel, part of which has been arranged for offices. The office force is as follows:
E. E. Shackford, R. M. Glover, H. F. Ricker, R. Tierney, M. Tompkins, E. J. Dowling, F. W. Stegelmeyer, H. L. Rencry, P. B. Warner, A. F. Moursund, M. J. Mullor, P. Muntz, C. Gerrets, A. B. Carson, W. C. Yeager, F. S. Porter, P. C. Bennett, B. V. Wright, S. A. Guilbeau, W. J. Finley, Adam Boyd.
The Advertiser extends a cordial welcome to them and hopes that they will find Lafayette a pleasant place to live. Lafayette Advertiser 6/7/1905.
Sad Event. - A sad event happened at the depot in this city yesterday. A Mr. McCormick, of Beaumont, Texas, was taking his little six-month-old baby to New Orleans to place it in a hospital for treatment for intussusception. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intussusception_(medical_disorder While enroute the child became worse and at this place Dr. G. A. Martin and Dr. T. B. Hopkins were called, but the little was beyond help of professional skill and expired in a few moments after their arrival. The little body was laid out in one of the rooms of the Crescent Hotel to await the afternoon train for Texas. Lafayette Advertiser 6/8/1895.
Railroads Liable For Cattle Killed By Trains?
The liability of railroad companies for the value of stock killed by running trains seems to be settled, and it may be considered as an accurate statement that the killing of stock can not be avoided by trains running over an unfenced road in a region where stock are permitted to run at large.
If this and neighboring parishes hundreds of head of cattle have been destroyed, by trains running over the Morgan and La. Western Roads and the policy of the two companies, in the matter of satisfying claimants for the loss of this stock is worthy of note. Under the management of Judge Parkerson the La. Western company has promptly paid for all stock destroyed on its road, and, no doubt in many instances this willingness to make good the loss, induced the owner to bear a part of it by taking less than the animal was worth. This would be but fair, since the killing of stock could be of no benefit whatever to the company.
On the hand the Morgan company have refused pointedly to make good the value of any stock killed on their road, forcing claimants to resort to the courts to recover, and it may be said that in every instance the question has been passed upon adverse to the company. Judge Hudspeth of St. Landry, held that the proof the killing alone was sufficient to put the owner in a position to recover, and this ruling is correct. We do not know that Morgan has greater rights than any other company or individual, and strict proof should be required of circumstances necessary to exempt, - from it and every other defendant.
This question was recently considered by the Same Senate Committee on railroads, and when the proposition was made requiring companies to fence their roads, President Wheelock of the N. O. Pacific, said that it was cheaper in the end to kill and pay for the stock than to fence them out. Such a law, however is necessary so long as stock is permitted to run at large ; companies can then exercise the option of fencing, or paying for all stock destroyed. Lafayette Advertiser 6/10/1882.
Stopped Trains. - We have heard frequent complaints of late that the public road crossings on the railroad near the depot and Dr. Hopkins' place are often stopped by trains of cars, to the annoyance of people traveling these roads. This ought not to be, and we have reason to believe that when the matter is brought to the notice of the agents or other proper authority, there will no longer be reason to complain.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/10/1882:
Schedule Adjustment.
The following change in the time of arrival and departure of trains on the La. Western Railroad will take place to-day:
Express West leaves 7:10 P. M.
Express East arrives 8:30 A. M.
Accommodation West leaves 10 A. M.
Accommodation East arrives 3:15 P. M.
Laf. Adv. 6/10/1882.
Mr. Morgan's Railroad Plan. Mr. Morgan's plan for extending the road, of which he has purchased the main stem, though doubtless a wise one in the abstract, is palpably impracticable and impossible in the present condition of our people and country. Mr. Morgan is a cash man; he will have no connection with any railroad enterprise which requires the issue of bonds and loans on mortgage. It must be cash on the nail for every thing. This is a good system with great capitalists and in communities where there is a large accumulation of reserved capital, derived from a prosperous state of affairs for many years. But our city and State and our people are not in that condition. Nor even in those parts of the country where these conditions have long existed has it been found practicable or desirable to build railroads in this manner. The largest and most successful roads in the country have been paid for by bonds and mortgages and land grants. We hardly know one which has been obstructed in any other manner. To ask this people, so prostrated by misfortune, and so dependent on other communities for their capital, to adopt at once the cash system, in reference to the extension of the Opelousas Railroad, is not reasonable and hardly looks sincere. It does not improve the aspect of this proposition, when the new road to which our people are invited to subscribe is made to depend upon a main stem, which is exclusively owned by Mr. Morgan, and for which he gives less than one third of what it cost. We cannot indulge any hope that Mr. Morgan's scheme will be accepted.
It is fortunate that a railroad connection with Texas will be effected without the necessity of the people cooperating with Mr. Morgan on the terms he proposes. A route is now being actively surveyed and laid off, which we have every assurance will ensure a railroad connection with Texas in two years. If Mr. Morgan adheres to his proposition he will, in all probability, be "left out in the cold."- Within the last twelve months several robberies of the most daring character have been perpetrated in this community, by a band of organized robbers whose deeds had become so frequent, bold and mysterious that they became a terror to the country. On Saturday the 5th inst., information was received by Deputy Sheriff Elmer, from private sources, of the place of concealment of merchandise stolen from different stores in this place. The Deputy Sheriff immediately went to Justice Salles, procured a search warrant, and with a posse proceeded to the plantation of Edgar Martin, and arrested Charles Davis, Paul Davis, Despalliere and David John, freedmen; upon searching their cabins, large quantities of dry goods were found and recognized to be the goods of Messrs. W. Bendel, A. Haas and Jean Gerac, merchants in Vermilionville. The robbers were brought to jail; on Monday they were taken before Justice Salles, who, after due investigation of the case, sent them up to the parish Court, to be dealt with according to law.
From the N. O. Times and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/12/1869
Railroads Fully Represented Here. - The railroads will be fully represented here from now on. There are railroad commission bills introduced at each session of the Legislature, but heretofore the strongest fight that has been made in the interest of such a measure that has been made in the interest of such a measure was that of Julien Mouton a the last session. Mr. Mouton, who was recently elected a circuit judge, made an aggressive war on the roads and came mighty near his bill, but with all his energy he found the interests too strong for him. Mr. Sujacques will probably be able to show that large benefits have been reaped in other States from the organization of commissions and he will have the cordial spirit of the T. P. A., but it is doubtful if he will meet with any greater degree of success than that achieved by Mr. Mouton.
From the Baton Rouge correspondent of the Daily States and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1896.
A fire-man by the name of Lee Tramwell, running on the L. W. Division fell from his train while in motion a few miles from Lafayette rendering him unconscious and inflicting slight injuries. His absence was not discovered till the train reached the yards. A searching party was immediately sent out, and his unconscious body was discovered in the ditch several miles away.
Laf. Adv. 6/13/1896
Mr. Chas. Durgwin, a popular engineer on the west division of the Southern Pacific road has just returned from a brief sojourn at Biloxi. He reports to have enjoyed at delightful visit.
Laf. Adv. 6/13/1896
Train Tickets. - Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Lines will sell tickets as follows. From all stations to points named below:
Chicago and return June 13, one fare for the round trip return limit Sept. 15, account of Summer Normal.
Baltimore Md. and return July 16, and 17, one fare plus $2.00 for round trip limit return July 31, account Elk's Convention.
Nashville Tenn. and return June 19, 21, July 3, 4, and 5, rate one fare plus $2.00 for the round trip limit return Sept. 30, account Peabody Normal.
Denver Col., and return July 5, 6, and 7, rate one fare plus $2.00 for the round trip limit return Aug. 31, account of Christian Endeavor Convention.
Coupon tickets to all points and low rates to all summer resorts can be had on application to your local agent or address C. B. Ellis, Passenger division agent in New Iberia, La.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1903.
W. A. Stevens has accepted a position with the H. E. & W. T. railroad with headquarters at Houston. Mr. and Mrs. Stevens left this morning for their new home. Laf. Adv. 6/14/1905
Change in Time Card of Southern Pacific Railroad.
The several passenger trains now leave Lafayette as follows: No. 18 from New Orleans for Texas leaves at 1:15 p. m. No. 17 from Texas for New Orleans leaves at 2:10 p. m. No. 20 from New Orleans leaves at 2:30 a. m. The trains on the "tap" leaves as follows: For Cheneyville at 8:15 a. m. For Alexandria 2:10 p. m.
Laf. Adv. 6/14/1905
The excursion given by the New Iberia Fire Company No. 1 to Alexandria, will leave Lafayette to-morrow (June 15th,) at 7:25 o'clock a. m. All aboard!
Laf. Adv. 6/14/1890
RAILROAD ITEMS. - Within the next two days Capt. Reynolds will have delivered at the railroad dock here the 650 tons of steel rails brought from New York by the Schooner Drury. About 100 piles have been driven in the Calcasieu river for the railroad bridge. Work is going right ahead all along the line. - Lake Charles Echo.
The Louisiana Western road bed is being built ahead quite rapidly. The work of bridging Cypress bayou, preparatory to invading the Pelican soil, is now about completed. The scene along "the front" is indeed a busy one. Every man has his allotted work to to do, and with a system that must be seen to be properly appreciated every one pitches in heartily and performs just what is expected from his muscular arm or guiding brain.
No reason now exists why the entire line to the Crescent City should not be in running order by the first day of October next.
From the Houston Daily Telegram and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/14/1879.
THE RAILROAD EXPROPRIATION SUIT
A FINAL ARRANGEMENT ARRIVED AT.
(From the N. O. Picayune, 11th inst.)
The following decree, which explains itself, was duly recorded yesterday in the United States Circuit Court.
Morgan Louisiana and Texas railroad and Steamship Company vs. Frank M. Ames, trustee, et al -- Matter of the expropriation of a portion of the trust property, in hand of said Ames--This cause came on to be heard upon the petition , answers, orders, report and testimony, the solicitors of the parties being present, and submitting the same for a decree.
And, thereupon, the court declares and decrees that the proposed purchase on the part of the petitioner (Morgan Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company), of so much of the property sold by Charles Morgan, deceased, the New Orleans, Mobile and Texas Railroad Company, as forms the railroad projected to be made between Brashear, now Morgan City, in the parish of St. Mary, and Vermilionville, in the parish of Lafayette, with the rights of way, and all other rights, interest and estate of the said New Orleans, Mobile and Texas Railroad Company, in and to the land occupied, for a railroad between those places, and in the town of Vermilionville, to the point where the said railroad is to join the main line of the railroad of the New Orleans, Mobile and Texas railroad company, and to all the lands acquired along said railroad from Morgan City to Vermilionville, for the purpose of constructing or operating the same, or for depots, stations, tracks, structures of any kind, and all the accessories or appurtenances to the said railroad, or which were acquired to build the same and are now to be found with it, in as full and complete a manner as the same is owned and possessed by the said Frank M. Ames under the deeds of trust of the said company, or the orders, decrees, sale and conveyances made in this court in the suit No. 7073 of the chancery document of this court is sanctioned by this court.
The court decrees that the said Frank M. Ames be authorized and empowered upon the terms set forth in the master's report, to make to the petitioner for the bonds specified in the petition and report, being 695 bonds and the settlement otherwise provided therein, to make all such deeds; assurances and agreements as shall invest the petitioner with all the right, title, estate, interest and claim which he is invested with by any form of title under Charles Morgan, New Orleans, Mobile and Texas Railroad company, or that he can convey under the authority or order of this court.
The court orders the costs to be paid equally by the parties.
Under this decree the parties interested came to an agreement, which effectively removes all barriers. Lafayette Advertiser 6/15/1878.
The Rail Road - Assured? - We learn that Morgan's Louisiana and Texas Railroad and Steamship Company and the bondholders of the New Orleans, Mobile and Texas Railroad Company have finally closed all matters of difference between them. They have waived report of the arbitrators, and have themselves fixed the value and price of the property between Morgan City and Vermilionville required by the Morgan Company.
We presume work will be at once commenced on the road.
From the N. O. Picayune and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/15/1878.
Rail Road News.
The Brotherhood of R. R. Trainmen, announces a grand ball, at Gus. Lacoste's Hall, on Thursday the 27th., inst. It is needless to say that whatever the R. R. boys undertake, will be a success.
Ask Bunt, of the Sun Set House, which of the switchmen, can eat the most pie?
Louis Bazin's faith in oil stocks has lessened somewhat. Ask him if he wants to buy some more Beaumont stock.
Felix Landry on the Alexandria freight, happened to be at Opelousas when the cyclone struck that town last Friday afternoon, and some of the boys in the caboose claim that Felix, got on his knees, and said, "Let us pray."
Since the Beaumont oil is being hauled through here so much of late, the boys in the yard have become oil experts, and can be heard discussing the difference between the oil of the Guffey Co., and the Higgin's Co., but to us, all Beaumont oils smell alike.
Gentil, the flagman, wishes that the little oak tree, near the track was large enough to spread its shade over the entire crossing these warm days.
Foreman of the Round House Nichols has two very nice flower gardens, well kept, and some choice specimens of our southern roses may be seen there in full bloom.
Pumper Clifford has the coolest place in town these days. On the lower floor of the large well at the Round House, the temperature is near the freezing point.
Chief car Inspector Alingham, has lately made some attractive improvements around the shanty, the car material, has been sorted out and arranged in apple pie order, the office has been painted, and George Coniff now sits behind the mahogany roller top desk, as secretary.
Last Tuesday morning the boys in the yard, had an opportunity of seeing a trainload of the much talked of Philipinos, 150 of them being en-route to the Pan American Exposition at Buffalo. Mac Mouton, of the car repairers force, will never make a good fireman. One evening last week the fire alarm sounded, Mac ran up the ladder of a box car, and on reaching the top, Mac promptly fell off, and sprained his wrist.
The Southern Pacific Co., has put a much needed improvement on each end of the passenger depot, that is, a sign bearing the name of the Station, distance from New Orleans and San Francisco, and elevation above sea level.
The chair cars on all trains on the Southern Pacific, are up-to-date, and models of beauty, there has been added to them lately a strip of carpet, and a silver cuspidor at each seat, this is much appreciated by the traveling public.
Agent C. D. Boudreaux, lately transferred from Pattersonville to this station, is winning many friends by his genial and urbane manners.
Uncle Ben Donlon the old Vet is handling the throttle, on yard engine 528 this week at nights. Tom Rogers is doing the same act on day this week.
Des Doucet, the station police officer, keeps everything orderly around the depot.
Albert Coumes, of the yard crew, now drives a horse and buggy, Albert says he is tired of riding on cars all the time, he wants some variety.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/15/1901.
Improvements at Railroad & Telegraph Offices.
The sudden appearance a few days ago, a corps of workmen in that portion of the railroad hotel building used for telegraph and freight offices proved the signal for important changes in a re-arrangement of those offices. The alterations that have been made are a decided improvement and lend a much more business-like air to the place. The facilities for transacting the business of the railroad and telegraph companies have been much increased by the innovations and agent Davidson and assistants Mabry and Givens, as well as operators Voneye and Serret feel justly pleased over the change.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/16/1894.
From Algiers, La.
Long Time S. P. Engineer Gravely Ill.
Mr. Joseph Vallier, an old time engineer on the Southern Pacific Railway, is very ill at Hotel Dieu, and his life is despaired of. Mrs. W. A. Gorman, his eldest daughter, of New York city, is at his bedside, and will remain until his condition is changed. Mr. Vallier's home is in Lafayette but he has many friends here who regret his illness and hope that there will be a change for the better.
From the Algiers Herald and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/16/1894.
There passed through this place Monday, on Train No 20, two coaches containing Portuguese emigrants en route to California under the management of Senor Jose Francisco Martines. Laf. Adv. 6/16/1894
Railroad Update From Texas:
GALVESTON, Texas, June 13 - A special dispatch from Austin, dated to-day, (13th) state that the Southern Pacific Railroad bill passed the Senate to-day by a vote of 21 to 5. It is thought it will pass the House and receive the Governor's signature this week. The bill grants $16,000 to the mile, and is the most popular bill before the Legislature.
The Mayor explained the object of the meeting, when upon motion the following resolutions were unanimously adopted:
Resolved, that a committee of two be and is hereby appointed to receive in the name of and for the use of the Corporation, the sale of such portions of the lots on Lafayette street belonging to Hon. A. Mouton and Aureline Scheneicksneider as will be necessary for the opening of said street. The Mayor appointed E. E. Mouton, Esq., on said committee, and on motion his Honor the mayor was added to the committee.
Resolved, That a committee be and is hereby appointed to wait on the Hon. Police Jury of the Parish at its next regular session, and request that Hon. body to aid and assist the Corporation of Vermilionville, in opening a road Southwest of the town to that portion of the Parish called "the Cove."
The Mayor appointed Messrs. J. H. Wise and J. J. Revillon; and on motion the Mayor was added to the committee.
Resolved, That fifteen days after the passage of this resolution, hogs will be allowed to roam at large within the limits of the Corporation, provided that they have rings in their noses. All hogs running at large without rings in their noses will be taken up by the Constable, and (after notice to the owner, if the owner be known and he pay a fine of one dollar per head, he will be allowed to reclaim his property,) will be sold to the highest bidder by said officer.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/18/1870.
About that Trip to the Crescent City.
Wm. B. Bailey
(Bringing Back the New Steeple for St. John's on the Train)
It was but a few days ago, when it was our lot to visit the Crescent City ; the trip, though in some measure compulsory, was rendered in every way agreeable. We left Vermilionville, on Friday morning, we were few in the stage, and I experienced no inconvenience of pressure, to New Iberia, which point we reached at about 2 P. M.; much to our disappointment, the mail boat had changed its hour of departure, and was not expected before eleven o'clock to leave again at twelve ; these hours of expectation we spend agreeably at the commodious and well regarded Boarding House of Mrs. (unreadable name), which by the way, we must recommend to the patronage of the traveling public. At half past eleven, we embarked on boarding the Warren Belle and steamed off to the Bay, - night soon gave way to day and we were happy to witness signs of retaining wealth and prosperity on the fields of St. Mary. We reached Brashear at 10 o'clock, and at half past two P. M. we were making our way to the midst of the ever busy, bustling Crescent City.
We found the city gayer, more alive and thronged than it usually is at this season of the year. We met all of our old friends in good health and fine spirits, and their faces brightened at the universal tidings from all parts of the country of the prospects of plentiful crops.
During our short stay we had but little to do with the political world, though we were summoned in daily attendance before the Congressional Investigating Committee of Elections. We had never before seen a real genuine radical, but must say, that as far as we are personally concerned, we found them to be courteous and not bearing too heavily upon the witness. What will be the result of the investigation no one seems able to prognosticate with any degree of certainty - the conjectures are many and most varied - patience et nous verrons (We shall see what we shall see).
The Railroad which has passed into the hands of Mr. Morgan, we heard nothing of and its continuation and completion on the present line is a foregone hope ; at the can be of interest to our people on the subject of Railroad, is the assertion we often hear from the lips of seemingly knowing ones that the Chattanooga Company was determined to complete the road from Mobile to New Orleans thence to Texas, striking Vermilionville or some point not more than one mile north of it. This we thought pretty reliable when we heard it, but what is reliable authority now? Who can say?
The extreme heat of the season often drove us to the Lake, to enjoy the ne'er ceasing and refreshing breeze, and some of Boudro's best.
It is useless to mention again the names of our mercantile friends whom we would recommend to the public favor, though we cannot close our article without favorably noticing the Boarding House of Mr. Stocktons, corner of St. Peter and Royal streets, where large and commodious rooms, - a table furnished with the best of the market, at most moderate prices can always be had. Mrs. Stockton is a creole lady, native of the parish of St. Martin and we hope that our country friends will not forget to give her a call when they go to the city.
Kind readers, our trip is nearly over, after eight days sojourn in the capital, we have returned to the little burgh and the field where we all frolicked and gamboled in the days of our youth, and to which, we think nothing equal after it. Lafayette Advertiser 6/19/1869.
To-morrow, Sunday, the Southern Pacific Company will run two regular passenger trains per day, one arriving here at about 1 o'clock p.m. and the other at 12 o'clock at night. Laf. Adv. 6/20/1891
Right of Way.
Committee Held Meeting Thursday and Discussed Route Adopted for Baton Rouge-Lafayette Railroad.
A meeting of the Right of Way Committee for the baton Rouge-Lafayette railroad was held in C. D. Caffery's office Thursday afternoon with A. M. Martin, Crow Girard, C. D. Caffery, C. Debaillon, P. L. DeClouet, L. Lacoste, J. Edmond Mouton and O. C. Mouton present. Absent: C. O. Mouton, J. E. Trahan and G. A. Martin. E. G. Voorhies acted as secretary.
Nothing definite was decided upon except that as many as could would attend the joint meeting of the Right of Way Committees from West Baton Rouge, Iberville, St. Martin and Lafayette called to meet in New Orleans yesterday.
The committee discussed at considerable length the proposed right of way, which runs east from the La. Western at a point near the Cotton Oil Mill, passing through Dr. T. B. Hopkins' land, the Compress property, the Brick Yard, Capt. Buchanan's field, C. D. Caffery's, Fred Webb and J. E. Trahan's. The line as fixed will practically cut the Compress property in half and cross the Brick Yard between the plant and the pit, which will make the cost of securing the right of way very costly. In order to avoid this, an effort will be made to have the route deflected. Lafayette Advertiser 6/21/1905.
Railroad Notes From the West.
A squad of Penitentiary convicts-one hundred and five-under the superintendence of Capt. Hayden, arrived at this place on Saturday, 14th inst., and were lodged at their headquarters, now temporarily located about two miles west of town (Lake Charles). They began work on Monday morning on the the Louisiana Western Railroad going west.
There has been a large increase of laborers during the last few days. All laborers coming find employment. A locomotive is expected today, per schooner Piper, from Galveston. The second schooner from New York, the Sarah F. Bird, will finish today discharging at Calcasieu Pass her 550 tons of steel rails and fastenings. About 1000 tons of steel rails and fastening left New York for Lake Charles this week, and also tubes, by the Mallory Line, for the Calcasieu river bridge. Laborers camps are rapidly moving eastward. Three saw mills here, and three at Orange are sawing for the railroad. Work goes right along.
From the Lake Charles Echo and in the Lafayette Advertiser of June 21st, 1879,
To the East of Vermilionville. - A. C. Hutchinson, Esq., of the firm of C. A. Whitney & Co. with Superintendents Pandely and Tilton, arrived in Morgan City, Wednesday evening, on a special train, and on Thursday morning in company with our efficient agent, R. Natili, passed over the new railroad from Berwick to Jeanerette, on an inspection tour. They returned to New Orleans on Thursday afternoon.
From the Morgan City Banner, 14th inst. and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/21/1879.
RAILROAD NOTES OF 6/21/1901.
The pay car came in Thursday, gladdening the hearts of the boys.
Telegraphy brought the sad intelligence last Tuesday afternoon, at 8 p. m., of the death of Superintendent W. B. Mulvey, of the L. W. Division of the Southern Pacific Railroad Company. This sad news cast a gloom of sorrow, over the fraternity, as Supt. Malvey was a man of sterling qualities, and beloved by all whose business brought them in contact with him. As an official, he was easy to approach, even the humblest laborer on his division could always have a hearing from him.
Bat Coumes and Andre Hebert, of the yard crew, spent a pleasant day in piscatorial pursuit out at Lake Martin, last Monday returning home laden with magnificent strings of golden and goggle eyed perch.
The boys in the yards here were very much disappointed last Saturday, that the parade did not pass down Lincoln Ave., and railroad crossing, especially Gentil the flagman who had diked out in his salt and pepper suit, and a new hat, and had prepared himself to handle the crowds at his crossing. Some of the boys were mean enough to ask Gentil if he got his suit at the refinery fire.
Conductor Lusted, of the Alexandria Branch brought in upwards of 335 people on the excursion train last Saturday. The Napoleonville excursion in charge of Uncle Andy Flood, came in with 8 coaches comfortably filled.
We are informed that Zack Guidry was the handsomest railroader in the firemen's parade.
Jake Bachert, fireman on Engine 528, says, "I vish me dot gumpany vould dose Beaumont oils put on and maybe it be not so warm, and I get some cinders in mine eye not," "don't it."
Quinlan the car repairer, is the comedian of the force. When Quinnie is around, his jokes keep everybody in good humor, in spite of the warm weather.
There was a lot of twenty new oil tank cars, built for the Southern Pacific Co., by the American Cart Foundry Co., of Milton Penn., passed through here Wednesday last. The tanks are 34 feet long, and of 6500 gallons capacity.
Yard Master, Henry Church is something of a horse trainer as well as railroader. His horse comes at hid bid, or stands still when told to, and climb up the incline leading to the coas chutes.
Section Foreman Jake Weigel, has been sick for the past month. His many friends pray for his recovery, and hope to see him back in his usual place.
Some of the boys are wondering what causes Bob Bailey's face to be wreathed in such radiant smiles, "we know, but won't tell," cards will be out in due time.
Ed. Delas, formerly switchman in the yards here, is now holding a run on the Lake Charles local.
Dick Tanner, of the East local, says, "that if it keeps on getting much hotter he is going to quit, and go to the Klondyke.
The yards presented a lively appearance last Thursday, being completely glutted with cars, and incoming trains. Put the boys on their mettle.
SWITHCMAN.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1901.
The Texas and Pacific Railroad.
Best Passenger Service in Texas.
4 Important Gateways 4
Texarkana, Shreveport, El Paso, New Orleans.
NO TROUBLE TO ANSWER QUESTIONS.
35 miles shortest line between Shreveport and Dallas. Superb Pullman Vestibuled Sleepers, Handsome Reclining Chair Cars (seats free) on all Through Trains. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
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