FIRE BUGS AT WORK ! ! !
Pelican Grist Mill Completely Destroyed Last Saturday Night, and An Attempt to Burn Mr. F. Demanade's Store.
Last Saturday night at ten o'clock fire broke out in the Pelican Grist Mill near the depot and before the department could respond had attained such headway as to be beyond control. The building, contents and machinery were entirely destroyed and will prove almost a total loss as there was but $1000 insurance on the establishment which was owned by Mr. George DeBlanc and occupied by Mr. Adolph Mouton as a feed store and fuel supply. Mr. DeBlanc';s loss will aggregate $2000, but Mr. Mouton will lose but little as there was only a small lot of hay and feed-stuff on hand at the time. The firemen saved a carload of wood just switched into the yard.
Hardly had the flames been subdued than a second alarm was sounded about midnight and Mr. F. Demanade's store was discovered afire. This, however, was put out before serious damage, but on close examination it was found that the fire had been set by some miscreant, a lot of oil and cotton waste being discovered on the spot. No doubt exists that both fires were of incendiary origin and the only regret generally expressed was that the friends escaped detection. It is to be hoped that the officers may yet find some clue to fix responsibility for the crimes that the criminals may receive their just deserts.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
CONDITIONS ARE FAVORABLE.
It is a source of pleasure and satisfaction to see the numerous and substantial improvements which are being made in Lafayette. They are a gratifying evidence that the citizens of the town have confidence in it, and that is a most valuable asset. Capitalists seeking investments are greatly influenced by the estimation in which local moneyed men hold their own town, and consider a proposition in proportion to the amount of cash home people are willing to put up. And as outside capital is needed to fully develop opportunities, it is fortunate that the spirit of confidence is so pronounced among our citizens.
The next step, and the obvious one, would be to take advantage of the favorable conditions and make an effort to secure the necessary outside capital in order to make the growth of the town permanent, for it is certain that without it, a point must be reached where growth must stop. This effort, of course, will not be made, if it is left to individuals acting their own initiative; it must be done through an organized body of substantial citizens. There are enough public spirited men in Lafayette to make an effective body of the right kind, and who, we are sure, would not hesitate to assist along these lines. All it needs is for some one to take upon himself the responsibility of calling for an organization.
Let some one of our business men take the lead.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
DIES SUDDENLY AT THE CRESCENT NEWS HOTEL.
Capt. R. T. Vinson, of Shreveport, Arrived in Lafayette Saturday in Apparently Good Health, But it Found Dead Monday Morning.
Last Saturday night Captain R. T. Vinson, ex-mayor of Shreveport and a prominent State politician, died suddenly at the Crescent News Hotel of apoplexy. Deceased arrived in Lafayette Saturday representing the distilling establishment of Goodman Brothers, of Memphis, and Sunday evening retired in apparently good health. Monday morning Captain Hahn called his lodger in vain and on going into the room found him rigid in death. Coroner Mouton was summoned and gave certificate of death from apoplexy.
Sheriff Broussard, who was personally acquainted with the deceased, and Manager Hahn, whose kindness and chivalry needs no commendation, took charge of the body and notified friends and relatives of the sad event. Mayor Querles, of Shreveport and Judge Blanchard wired instructions to prepare remains and ship to that city, which was accordingly done. Mr. Nathan Broussard kindly volunteered to accompany the body home. Captain Vinson was a man of family, much popularity, and about sixty years of age.
The Advertiser extends to his friends and relatives expressions of sincere sympathy. Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
Mardi Gras Ball. - The ball given by the Benevolent Knights of America on the evening of the 16th proved a most highly enjoyable and successful affair in every respect. Many ladies and gentlemen from Breaux Bridge and other towns were present and lent beauty and charm to the happy occasion. Refreshments were served and social intercourse added to the many pleasant features of enjoyment. The Association extends its hearty thanks to the ladies who so kindly served at the tables. Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
Electric Light Plant Disabled. - The electric light plant has been partially for a week past and part of the town has been groping in darkness, owing to the breaking down of one engine in the power-house. The machinery had only recently been repaired in New Orleans, but it seems a bungle was made on the job and consequently the breakdown noted. Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
A Rumor.
Editor Advertiser.
It is rumored that one of my students failed to pass the required examination at the Industrial Institute, and was refused admittance. I will state that there is no foundation for such a report. The student who I am told failed to pass the required examination, was a student from a college, and has never attended my school.
I prevailed upon him to got the Industrial, thinking he was qualified, and I wrote to Dr. Stephens, telling him that I had never examined the student, and if there was any possible chance for him to enter the Industrial, let him do so.
In conclusion I will say, that all of the students from my school who presented themselves for examination, at the Industrial, passed a very creditable one, and were admitted.
G. J. YOUNG.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
Lafayette Teachers Club.
At two o'clock Saturday, February 13, 1904, the following teachers met in the Industrial Institute and permanently organized the Lafayette Teachers Club: Messrs. L. J. Alleman, Arceneaux Ashby Woodson, J. W. Lillibridge, J. M. Barnham, V. L. Roy, and W. J. Avery. Misses Hahle Lefwich, Zelta C. Christian, Christene Rifs, H. D. McLaurin, Edith Dupre, Emily Horton, Edna Close, Susie Rochelle, Virginia Robertson and Kathleen Reed.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
At the Primary School.
Did you pass the Primary School Monday? If so, as you looked in, a flash of color, red, white and blue, met your gaze?
Had you stopped only a minute you would have heard the sound of childish voices, singing with such hearty good will, that even the well worn air "America" deemed to have imbibed a new life.
They were celebrating the Birthday of Washington, and in the salutation of the flag one hundred and fifty pledged their hearts and lives, to protect the flag for which Washington fought so well. This birthday should mean much to us, because it commemorates the life of one of the greatest men of which America can boast.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
Truant Captured. - Prof. Young had three detectives on the look out last Friday for a truant, and after a chase of two hours they cornered him at the Southern Pacific Railroad depot, and after considerable resistance he was over powered and taken back to school.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
MARRIED. - Mr. Charles May, of Franklin, and Mrs. Delia Cotter, were married at the home of the bride's mother, Mrs. C. P. Alpha, in this town last Thursday, Rev. J. D. Harper officiating. Mr. and Mrs. May left the same day for Franklin. Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
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Give Us Cement!
CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS.
Lafayette, La., Feb. 1, 1904.
The regular meeting of the City Council was held this day. Members present: F. Demanade, J. O. Mouton, A. E. Mouton, G. A. DeBlanc, D. V. Gardebled, H. L. Fontenot, M. Rosenfield.
Petition from property owners on Lee avenue praying for cement walk on South side received and accepted, and the following ordinance adopted:
Be it ordained that the City Council of Lafayette, La., that under and by virtue of an ordinance adopted October 5, 1903, entitled "An ordinance relative to sidewalks in the town of Lafayette, La.," and in accordance with the provisions of Act. No. 147 of the acts of the Legislature of this State, of the year 1902, and considering that the public interest requires it, that a cement walk six feet in width, and the necessary curbing thereto and otherwise according to specifications in possession of the street committee of this Council, be built along the following routes to wit:
1. Starting from Vermilion street at its intersection with Lee avenue and going thence on the east side said Lee avenue to Sixth street, thence on the southeast side of Sixth street, thence on the southeast side of Sixth street to Grant avenue, and thence on the southwest side of Grant avenue to the Crescent News Hotel.
2. Starting from Main street in said town at its intersection with Lafayette street, and going north on the west side of Lafayette street to Vermilion street.
Be it further ordained that public notice be given for ten days of this ordinance and moreover calling for bids to do said work, shall be let to the lowest responsible bidder who shall give satisfactory security to the street committee in a sum to be determined by them for the faithful performance of said contract and the completion of said work.
Be it further ordained that the entire cost of said walk shall be paid by the owners of the real estate abutting the same on the basis of the respective frontage of said real estate which amounts shall be due and collectible within ten days after the completion of the work and its acceptance by the City Council of this town, and if not paid within ten days the Council shall proceed by suit against the said owners and said real estate to collect said delinquent at assessment, and for the payment of said sums so addressed.
This Council shall have a special privilege on said property, with six per cent annum interest thereon from the expiration of said ten days until paid which lien shall be the first privilege over all other claims except taxes, and shall effect third persons, from the date of the registry of the assessment in the Mortgage Book of the parish of Lafayette.
Be it further ordained that said walk shall be six feet in width, wherever possible.
Be it further ordained that the street committee of this Council may and they are hereby authorized in their discretion to accept said work, or any part thereof, by sections of one or more blocks.
Be it further ordained that in case no satisfactory bid is received for the construction of said cement walk, then the street committee is hereby authorized and empowered to proceed without delay to construct the same, or cause the same to be constructed, as provided by said Act. No. 147 of 1902.
Be it further ordained that this ordinance shall take effect immediately after promulgation.
Moved, seconded and carried that it is hereby prohibited for all owners of wagons and carts and other vehicles to back the same against the cement walks of this town or to unload their freight in such a way as to injure or damage said walks of this town or to unload their freight in such a way as to injure of damage the said walks and that a fine of not less than $2.50 nor more than $10.00 is hereby imposed for each and every violation of this ordinance.
There being no further business Council adjourned.
Louis Lacoste, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
Home Fire Co.
At a regular meeting last Thursday night the members of Home Fire company proceeded to elect officers for the ensuing year. Over 40 were present and it was ordered that besides new hooks, hose, and other appliances the company should have a grand supper Thursday, March 3. The following were the officers elected: Chas. O. Mouton, president; Jos. Ducote, vice-president; F. E. Voorhies, recording and financial secretary; S. R. Parkerson, Treasurer; Gus. Schmulen, foreman; C. O. Broussard, first assistant foreman; Joe E. Mouton, second assistant foreman, E. G. Voorhies, B. J. Pellerin, and Joe E. Mouton, finance committee, Sidney Mouton, O. P. Guillbeau and Pierre Guchereau, nozzlemen; Sidney Mouton and Dolze Broussard, keymen; Lue Mouton, house-keeper.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
Lafayette is Improving. - At present Lafayette is experiencing a period of steady and substantial improvements. The principal business street has just been widened, and concrete sidewalks are being rapidly placed on both sides. A number of two-story brick buildings have been and are being erected, with others. Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
AN ELOQUENT TRIBUTE.
To Gen. John B. Gordon by John Temple Graves.
The paean and the requiem dies, the captains and the camps depart. The eulogies are ended and the sacred dust awaits the last consignment to its kindred dust. The bugle "taps" are waiting and the soldier citizen, wrapped in the mantle of his people's praise, is gathered to his last repose.
It is well worth living and well worth dying to say farewell like this.
As we stand here amid the pulsing tenderness of this inspiring scene; as we listen here to the tributes of touching eloquence paid by noble gentlemen to this chivalric life--here where the muffled drums throb reverence and the vaulted arches echo the praise--here where the thronged aisles are tearful, and the flowers defying winter's breath their perfumed incense to the soldier's name--there comes to every noble heart the inspirational: "May I die the death of the patriot, and may be my last end be like this."
I think that our Georgia has never had a funeral like the sweet and solemn pageant of to-day. It is the spontaneous tribute to a citizen soldier from a people who, under their thin crust of materialism, are as great and noble as himself. The capacity to appreciate high things and the grace to love good things argues somewhere within us the possession of those great qualities which we idealize in death.
I think that Georgians have never known how much they loved and honored John B. Gordon until he lies here in our stately capitol, with the memory of all human foibles smitten by his silence, and his high and heroic qualities made glorious in the sacred majesty of death. In this hour we separate the dross from the fine gold of his great career, and in this uplifting moment, all that is best within us rises to claim kinship with the illustrious dead.
It is the better Georgia which stands to-day with clasped hands beside the great Gordon in the brotherhood of worth.
His martial comrades have told us the gallant story of our hero's life. On the living canvas of their living speech we have seen his service limned in all his great campaigns. We have seen him win his spurs at Seven Pines. We have thrilled with his splendid dash at Malvern Hill. We have watched him, bullet-pierced, bleeding, - ride with five wounds to the Sharpsburg trenches, where his own heroic help-meet followed him, unflinching over the harvest of the slain. We have heard his saber ring of Chancellorsville. We have seen him on the "Twelfth of May" seize the bridle-rein of Robert Lee, and with one gallant pledge to his great commander, rush to that glorious retrieve at Spotsylvania. We have him through tangled thickets of "The Wilderness," and over the "carnage blasted heights" of Gettysburg, to that final tragedy at Appomattox, where, having led the last charge of the lost Confederacy, he sheathed his dauntless and stainless sword and took his place in history as the ideal soldier, the beau sabreur of Dixie--the last and knightliest of the Paladins of Lee.
His civil colleagues have told us the civic years in which he was the statesman whose word in counsel was his bond, whose hands were clean of trickery, and whose ends were all of honor and the State. In this strong day of national service the supreme need was the tranquil but unflinching assertion of Southern right and Southern character. The economic problems had not then emerged into the open of a material strife. And in the Senate of his country when John B. Gordon voiced the South's professions and the South's desires his fellow-Senators, fellow citizens listened always with respect to a dauntless gentleman, who had set his life against his brave convictions, and came to them crowded with the boundless love and confidence of all his State.
It is my privilege to tell you, from personal association in kindred lines, that General Gordon's closing years were set to the service of a re-united country. His last days were a benediction. The soldier here had no trace of antagonism to his former foes. He shot out all his bitterness in battle, and like his great commander gave his final energies to the healing of the wounds his shining sword has made. He was the evangel of fraternity. He was the apostle of good will. There were other men who spoke as fervently, and some, perhaps, as eloquently. But the messages that come to this funeral chamber laden with love and tenderness of the Northern campus assure us that the voice potential and the uniting words come from the reconstructed soldier, with the record of a dauntless integrity in his life, and an epic poem written by a Federal saber on his cheek.
And surely where Robert E. Lee has spoken peace, and John B. Gordon has preached fraternity, the broken host of the Confederate veterans' sons may rebuke the spirit, captious and relentless that protests a re-united land.
I speak for the Sons of Veterans from Texas to the Virginia line. We are the legatees of memory. We are the inheritors of heroism. We are the children of t0-day. With deathless loyalty to our fathers, we are due a deathless devotion to our children, too. We thank God for the pulsing of this earlier chivalry into the currents of our material age. We thank God for a touch of Gordon in the trends of trade. We thank God for the pageant of the hour which gives us promise that the better sentiment of this dear Dixie is not dead. And we thank God with fervent earnestness of to-day's assurance that valor and virtue, love of country and eloquent defense may yet be glorified upon the earth!
For ourselves and for our children, we wish the life and labors of this soldier citizen shrined in bronze. A monument to a great man is a guidepost to the higher way. It is a signboard to aspiring youth. It is a daily monitor that will remind our children how they make their lives sublime. Let us write in Gordon's statue the noble lesson from which war children may learn unselfish service to the State.
Let us lift above the rattle of the cobblestones and the roar and wrangler of the greedy mart this high and heroic figure that will stand to the clear eyes of youthful Georgia for patriotic and unflinching faith.
The heroes of the Confederacy are passing in a flood. The few who linger are dearer for their numbers, but the tide is going out. We lay our Gordon here in the soil that bore him, and from his brave record we must reap our future riches in a noble race of men. He was a high figure in our Arthurian legend of 1865. He was the Launcelot of that great round table of matchless knights and gentlemen who made the cause that rose without shame and fell on slumber in the land of flowers. Let us bear him on our hearts and in our bronzes to the land of immortal memories, and in the royal grace of our own and this great country's rich remembrance, let us liquidate in part the debt which the republic that lives and the storm cradled republic that tell owes in freedom and fraternity to this prince of Christian chivalry.
By John Temple Graves in unknown Exchange Paper. In the Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
Woman's Club.
The meeting of the Woman's Club Saturday, Feb. 13, fell on Valentine's day and the hostess, Miss Gladu welcomed the Club to a charming Valentine entertainment. Pretty reminders of the day were placed in artistic fashion about the house and lent an added pleasure to the occasion. Frank R. Stockton and John Rendrick Bangs were two authors selected for discussion this meeting, and the members on the program treated the subjects assigned in an interesting way, Mrs. O. B. Hopkins owing to illness, could not attend, but Mrs. Biossat read her paper.
The following was the program:
Lady and the Tiger...Mrs. G. C. Comstock.
Mr. Bonaparte of Corsica...Mrs. O. B. Hopkins.
Houseboat on the Styx and its Sequal...Miss M. C. Riis.
Music.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 2/24/1904.
Mrs. Henri Crouchet is spending a few days in Abbeville, the guest of her daughter, Mrs. John Miller.
Henry Schuster, of Milton, was a pleasant caller at The Advertiser office Thursday.
Wood all kinds, all lengths, at Adolph Mouton's. Phone and he will deliver.
Supt. L. J. Alleman, having been appointed by the Parish School Board as delegate to the National Education Association Convention to be held in Atlanta Feb. 23, 24, and 25, left Sunday for that place.
Mr. and Mrs. Cleobule Doucet were visitors of the home of their daughter, Mrs. A. T. Comeaux, in Royville, during the week.
Mr. and Mrs. W. A. LeRosen and little child are on a visit to friends and relatives in Shreveport.
A few ladies cloaks left, come see what a bargain we will give you. - Levy Bros.
Our groceries are always good and fresh. You can be sure. Broussard Bros.
Miss Eliza Olivier, of St. Martinville, spent a few days in Lafayette, the guest of her brother, Eugene Olivier.
Ed. L. Alpha, of Franklin, was a visitor at the home of his sister-in-law, Mrs. C. P. Alpha, Sunday and Monday.
The "Crescent" and "Tribune" bicycles are models of mechanical perfection, come and see samples at A. J. Bonnet's.
Miss Estelle Mouton left Sunday for St. Louis, where she will purchase a full and complete stock of Spring and Summer goods for Mouton Sisters millinery store.
We are under obligation to Mr. A. J. Bonnet, the bicycle doctor, for a very handsome lithograph.
Miss Louise Gaudet, of Schriever, is visiting her aunt, Mrs. C. W. Campbell.
Try the famous Rose Leaf butter, the butter that betters the bread. In one pound bricks. - Prudhomme & McFaddin.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1904:
From the Lafayette Gazette of February 24th, 1900:
LOUISIANA POLITICS.
Cade and Sholars Gracefully Withdraw to Make Room for Don Jr., the Erratic Son of Louisiana's Able Senior Senator.
Cade Will Run for Secretary of State.
After a cruel waste of time and breath the Sugar-teats and their allies, the middle-of-the-roadersm gave agreed in the Moses who is to lead them from the wilderness of blasted hopes and withered ambitions. Don Caffery, Jr., who is theoretically a good Democrat, has been selected to make the race for governor; D. M. Sholars, the gentlemen who was nominated for Governor by the Populists, is the candidate for lieutenant-governor; Capt. Taylor Cade, has magnanimously consented to accept the portfolio of secretary of State; O. H. Deshotels, a St. Landry Populist, will stand for auditor; Geo. Hassinger, is the nominee for treasurer; W. G. Wyly, an ex-judge of the supreme court, is the choice for attorney general, and O. B. Staples for superintendent of education.
Mr. Caffery is a Palmer-Buckner single-standard-gold-Democrat; Mr. Sholars is a sixteen-to-one-er; Mr. Cade is not known to have any well-developed ideas of economic questions; Mr. Deshotels is a middle-of-the-roader of the Tom Watson species; Mr. Hessinger is said to be a straight-Republican; Judge Wyly is an old-timer; Mr. Staples is believed to be a Populist.
Had some concession been made to the Prohibitionists, this ticket, would, from a standpoint of variety, be a marvel of perfection. The candidates on this ticket agree only on one thing. That is a blind and unreasonable hatred for the Democracy of Louisiana. They are unable to show where they present administration has failed in its duty. They do not offer a single argument against the State government. They have gathered all the enemies of the Democratic party and out of these discordant elements has emerged a ticket that promises to wage a campaign of hate and vilification. It is safe to say that it will meet with the inglorious defeat that it so richly deserves.
Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
Louisiana Republicans.
In the present wrangling among the Louisiana Republicans for recognition by the national organization Wimberly seems to have the advantage. The collector of the port embraces the nigger with unblushing indifference to racial distinctions of the old timer and endorses Republicanism as it really is. The other wing audaciously assumes the title of "Lily Whites," advocates negro suffrage, endorses and administration which is notoriously in favor of negro supremacy, admits negroes in its conventions and committees, ignominiously follows the leadership of Henry Clay warmouth, and coolly announces that it is a white man's party. Away with such arrant hypocrisy! A white Republican party can not be. What would intelligent people think of the man who would propose to organize a black Democratic party? Republicanism is eternally linked to negroism, just as it is wedded to a robber tariff, trusts, imperialism and centralization. Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
NOW, FOR A COTTON MILL.
An invitation was extended by the Business Men's Association through the columns of this paper to the citizens of Lafayette to meet at Falk's Opera-house last Monday to take action upon a matter of vital importance to the community.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss and consider the possibility of building a cotton mill at this place.
For some cause or other the meeting was so poorly attended that nothing was done.
A little energy and concert of action secured the refinery. All now admit that enterprise has done incalculable good to this town. We can not think of any thing which has benefited this community more than has the refinery. It is needless to add that if the public-spirited men of this town had not exerted themselves Lafayette would have no refinery to-day.
The co-operative efforts of a few enterprising men made it possible for Lafayette to have an oil mill. Who will attempt to estimate the amount of good resulting from this mill. Started by local capital, managed by home men, operated by home labor, the oil mill has been from the beginning a pronounced success.
At the earnest and urgent solicitation, if not with the help, of some of our progressive citizens the compress was built here. That the compress has been a great factor in the prosperity of the town in recent years is a well-known fact. Instead of reaching out for the compress had our people pursued a course of inactivity to think that the results would have been the same?
Had not the people of the town worked together in the (unreadable words) for light and water does anyone believe that we could boast to-day of one of the best and most modern plants in the State? Had the people failed to recognize the importance of these great improvements the town would not have forged along with the other progressive communities of this section. The electric light and waterworks were the forerunners of municipal prosperity, the handmaids of progress and industrial advancement.
When the State generously offered the Southwestern Industrial Institute to that parish in the eleventh senatorial district which would show itself worthy of it, Lafayette captured the prize by presenting a united front. The people responded to an appeal for progress and education and made as gallant a fight as was ever made as gallant a fight was ever made by any community in this or any other State.
With such an enviable record, gentlemen, are you going to stop at this point when the time is peculiarly ripe for the exertion of your best efforts? Now is the time opportune moment to put your brain and brawn together and for for the common weal. The B. M. A. wants you to meet at Falk's hall next Monday night to talk about the cotton mill. Your success in the past is proof enough of your ability to do in the future. The difficulties which at first appear insurmountable will be easily overcome when you are united.
The slogan should be, "Now, for a cotton mill." It is conceded that this is an understanding of great magnitude, a fact which makes it all the more important that an early start will be made. "Where there is a will there is a way" is a trite saying, but peculiarly applicable to this case and just as true in the affairs of communities as it is in the affairs of individuals.
Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
THE INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL.
The Executive Committee of the Board of Directors Held a Meeting in Lafayette This Week.
Transacted Business Preparatory to the Establishment of the Institution as Early as Possible.
Judging from all appearances it is safe to say that things anent the Industrial School are about to take definite shape. The members of the executive committee, Messrs. Martin, Lee and Buchanan, were here this week. Prof. Stephens, president elect of the institution was here also. The main purpose of the committees meeting was to consider the proposition to select a site two or three acres from the ones originally chosen. We are informed that the committee has decided to accept the new site which is considerably nearer town. It is a part of the property of Mrs. M. A. Girard and Mr. Crow Girard, who are perfectly willing that the change be made if it is the desire of the authorities entrusted with the affairs of the school. When a change was first proposed we were inclined to doubt the wisdom of such a move, but after visiting the two sites and considering the advantage of each we were soon convinced of the superiority of the second site over the first one offered. We are therefore of the opinion that the decision of the committee is eminently proper and calculated to redound to the welfare of the school.
We understand that a meeting of the Board will soon be called and measure will be taken looking to the early commencement of the buildings. It is the intention to put up the main building at a cost of about $35,000. There are only $18,000 of available cash at this time, but the Legislature will be called upon to make up the difference. The main building at Ruston cost $12,000. It is believed that the laying of the corner-stone will take place sometime in April and then the work will go on as rapidly as possible. It is the intention of President Stephens to have everything in readiness for the opening of the next scholastic year.
Owing to the absence from this State of Gov. Foster, who has gone to West Point, Miss., to visit a sick daughter, the Board may not meet this week as was intended by the executive committee.
Prof. Stephens has just returned from an extensive tour which he visited several industrial institutions in search of information which will be of great help to him in the preparation of his plans.
Prof. Stephens speaks interestingly of the work which is being done in the various institutions which he recently visited. He was accompanied in his trip by the well-known New Orleans architect, Mr. Favrot, who visited this place a couple of months ago. Mr. Favrot went along with the professor to thoroughly familiarize himself with the best and most modern plans of constructing industrial colleges.
Prof. Stephens expressed himself as being favorably impressed with the local outlook. To say that he was pleased with this town and the many evidences of good feeling for the institution noticeable on every hand is to express it mildly.
Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
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.
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.
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MASS MEETING IN LAFAYETTE.
Mr. Heard, Gov. Foster, Senator McEnery and Hon. R. F. Broussard
Will Speak to the Democrats of Lafayette.
The Issues of the Campaign Will be Thoroughly Discussed.
On Thursday March 8, the big guns of the Louisiana Democracy will be in Lafayette. A meeting will take place at the court-house where a number of distinguished Democrats will tell the people why they should stand by the Democratic party.
In common with the other Democrats of the parish we hope that there will be a great outpouring of the people on that day.
The Gazette would suggest that the local campaign committee - if there is such an organization - take steps to make the meeting a success worthy of the Lafayette Democracy. Why not secure a larger hall and have a regular old-time gathering of the ever-faithful Democracy of Lafayette. We are sure the ladies will be willing to do their share toward having suitable decorations. There is an abundance of flowers and evergreens which can be procured if the local Democratic authorities will only exert themselves a little bit. Arrangements should be made for a band of music without which a political meeting is a painfully dull affair.
The Gazette hopes that the visit of the future governor of Louisiana and the other honored chieftans who will accompany him will be made an occasion of unusual importance. In '96 Lafayette gave the best meeting of the campaign. Why not in 1900? Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
The Building Association. - The Lafayette Building Association, the organization of which was announced in last week's Gazette, is progressing very nicely. The secretary, Mr. Schwartz, informs us that nearly all the shares have been accounted for. In this connection which had arisen have been adjusted and perfect harmony now prevails in the affairs of the association. A large number of persons have expressed a desire to take shares in the next series. Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
The Firemen. - Lafayette Fire Co. No. 1 will hold a meeting to-night at 8:30. Officers will be elected to serve during the ensuing year. After the election there will be a smoker and a good time will be had by the boys. Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
Soldier's Christmas in Luzon. - In the next number of The Gazette will appear an interesting article written by Lieut. James A. Moss, who is now in the Philippines. The article, which is entitled, "Soldiers' Christmas in the Philippines" was published iun William Marion Reedy's paper, the St. Louis Mirror. Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1900.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of February 24th, 1894:
PRISONER ATTEMPTS ESCAPE.
Last Wednesday morning, no little commotion was created in town by the escape, or attempt to escape of a prisoner from Deputy Constable Romero, who was taking him to jail. It appears that the man, whose name we learn to be Eli Royland was arrested by Constable Vigneaux near the depot on the complaint of certain people in that vicinity, charging him with shooting into their house some time in the night previous. Constable Vigneaux then turned the prisoner over to Deputy Romero to be taken to jail, and so while going along the street the prisoner said to the officer "good bye, partner" and taking to his heels developed the qualities of a first class sprinter. The officer gave chase and fired several shots in the air, but these only seemed to give wings to the fleeing prisoner. An escape, however, under the circumstances, in broad daylight was difficult to accomplish and the fugitive was shortly arrested on the outskirts of town, vainly trying to hide himself. The prisoner is said to be Royland, member of the railroad bridge gang; two others, Hagan and Hines were also arrested under same charge, all of whom now repose in the parish jail.
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1894.
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.
MARRIED. - On the 14th inst., Mr. Mr. W. B. Sloan and Miss Caro Wise were united in marriage, in Shreveport, La. The large circle of friends and acquaintances the groom possesses in Lafayette, gives the event a tingle of local interest here and the felicitations of these go out to the happy young couple as they start on their journey of wedded life. Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1894.
A Road Tax.
In view of the strong desire now existing for supplanting the present unsatisfactory of caring for the public roads, by a more practical and effective and as the popular wish seems to tend toward the creating of a special road fund by means of taxation, we publish the law governing the first measure in such a procedure, for the information of those who may care to take the initiative in the move. The law provides that whenever one third of the property tax payers of any parish, shall petition the police jury to levy a special tax in aid of public improvement, the said police jury shall order a special election for that purpose and I submit to the property tax payers entitled to vote under the general election laws of the State the rate of taxation and the purpose for which it is intended.
So. if a move of this kind is contemplated it will be necessary to obtain the signatures of one third of the property tax payers in the parish, to a specific petition addressed to the police jury, before that body can feel authorized to submit the question to a vote in the regular way. In such cases the law limits the rate to five mills on the dollar for any given improvement intended. A five mill tax at the present total assessments of property in parish, $1,600,448 would realize $8,002.24 as a special fund for any purpose, and three mill tax would provide a fund of $4,801.84, and so on.
Should the special road-tax idea as some definite form, persons who desire to actively interest themselves in the movement will be able to obtain at the ADVERTISER office, suitable petition blanks for securing signatures. We will take pleasure in preparing any number of these we may be called on the furnish, and will gladly and the movement in every other way at our command. Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1894.
Road Overseers and Public Roads.
(Communicated)
Editor Lafayette ADVERTISER:
For some weeks past the readers of the ADVERTISER have been entertained by a series of articles on the Public Roads, and, possibly, it would be a good idea now for the Road Overseer to account for himself.
As road-overseer of the 3rd, ward, I have done all that I could do under the circumstances since my appointment, and the public can rest assured I will always do all in my power for the roads and will give the parish full value in time and services for all of its money received by me.
As to success, I do not think we will ever have good roads under the present system, for many reasons. Firstly, the parish pays an overseer $120.00 a year and requires him to look after the road and bridges of a distance of over thirty miles. With upward of 300 men to work, were the overseer to work these men 12 days in the year it would take more than 8 months of the year to do this. Now, I ask can a man afford to put in so much time and use of horseflesh (for it requires to keep him going) on a salary of $120 a year. Secondly, the law operates unjustly; a poor laboring man may be called 12 days in the year to work the roads. This man's labor is his capital. Allowing 300 working days to the year, this man pays a road tax of four percent, while the property holder -- the one who is most benefitted, whose property is much enhanced in value by good roads and the one who uses the roads to the greatest extent, contributes much the least in proportion, and, if a non-resident, as often happens, actually does not pay a single cent toward keeping the roads. Owners of lands in the parish who live in town and land owners who are excused from road duty on account of debility from sickness or old age do not pay anything for keeping the public roads. Those who do not know better would be surprised to learn how many property holders of the kind I have named, do nothing for the parish roads. Thirdly, the labor cannot be equalized fairly. A good, strong man goes to work by the side of a feeble, or indolent neighbor and does four times as much which dissatisfies him and causes him, also, to slack up, and so it goes on from bad to worse. Good or bad, supposes the present system cannot be changed. If it could, though; I believe a far better way would be to make every one pay a poll-tax and an additional tax according to value of property earned. Then let the roads be worked under paid contract as already been proposed.
Yours for better roads,
(unreadable name)
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1894.
CHILDREN'S COLUMN.
The management of the ADVERTISER has decided to place at the disposition of the children and youths of Lafayette, a standing space for their special use and benefit. We hope that those for whose profit this is intended will improve the opportunity thus afforded them and will not feel any undue timidity or backwardness about utilizing the space it is purposed shall be devoted to their interests. Parents and teachers will be doing a good turn by the children in encouraging them to write short communications and compositions for publication, express opinions, seek and impart information, etc., within the compass of their years. It will be of practical benefit to the young people and the results of their efforts in this direction will prove to be a source of pleasure and satisfaction to them. The idea here presented had occurred to our mind several months ago but we neglected to put it to regular account until now when it is forced on our attention again by a request to publish the two following productions of a pair of juvenile minds arrayed against each other in debating the question "Who did the most for America, Columbus or Washington?"
The little debaters are pupils of the Carencro public school having Mrs. E. W. Glenn for principal. This worthy lady has been for many years an ardent promoter of education and innumerable young minds have received a practical and useful mental training under her careful guidance. The purpose of publishing the compositions in question is well explained in the words of Mrs. Glenn herself. "I send two debates regarding which I wrote you. The little children are delighted with the idea if their publication, but for private reasons you will pleased sign only the "nom de plume' to each one.
I hope this may lead to an effort in the same direction, not only in my school but in others of our parish. The stimulating effect to be thus exerted on the minds of the children must necessarily be productive of good."
Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1894.
Lafayette Negro to Graduate
University of N. O.
It may be of some interest to our readers to know that Lafayette has contributed one member to the graduating class of 1894, of the New Orleans University, in the person of I. C. Chapman, to be known hereafter as a Doctor of Medicine. A negro regular graduate of medicine is a novelty never before enjoyed in the experience of this community. Chapman is a son of old Isaac Chapman, the brick-mason, who died in this parish a few years ago. At an early age he evinced a marked disposition to improve and elevate himself, educationally, and persevered in that direction until he entered upon the study of medicine. The institution from which he graduated on the 21st. instant, the medical department of the New Orleans University, was regularly incorporated under the laws of this state in the year 1873, and is authorized to confer the degrees of Bachelor of Law and Doctor of Medicine, and the persons receiving such degrees are entitled to practice their profession unrestricted, in Louisiana. Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1894.
From the Lafayette Gazette of February 24th, 1894:
A Fatal Accident.
The following is a special from Houma to the New Orleans Picayune of Feb. 20. Felix Bonvillain, who had such a narrow escape from a most horrible death, is the brother of Mrs. J. L. Duhart of this town, and is well-known in Lafayette.
"To-day at 3 o'clock p. m., on the Laurel Farm plantation of Mrs. C. Bonvillain, situated on bayou Black, 6 miles from town, the boiler of the draining machine exploded, killing three boys and wounding four others, one of which the doctors declare will die, thus making the total casualties four. At the time of the explosion Mr. Felix Bonvillain, manager on said plantation, was standing over the boiler with St. Clair Quick and a colored man named Johnson Clement, who had charge of the machine. None of the men were hurt, though badly shocked from the noise of the explosion. The three boys that were killed and the four that were wounded were fishing at the time on the banks of a levee, just in the rear of the draining machine. All three boys are colored. The names of the killed are: John Clement, Jr., aged 14 years; Wiltz Rollins, aged 12 years, and George McKinner, Jr., aged 10. Young Clement had the top part of his head and his brains completely blown away. A brother of George McKinner, Jr., was badly wounded, and the doctors declare he cannot live. John Matthews, a colored man on the place, had two boys badly scalded; Joe Martin, aged 12 years, was badly scald."
From the N. O. Picayune and in the Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
More Clever Work by Sheriff "Ike."
Sheriff Broussard did some clever and quick work last Monday. One Jacob Buack, an agent for a patent spring lock, who was stopping at one of the principal hotels, had left an east bound train without settling his board bill. The sheriff boarded the 1:10 train and located him at New Iberia where he was arrested. The sheriff returned on the 3:35 train having in custody the man Buack who paid his bill and was released. Immediately upon his arrival the Sheriff received a telegram from Deputy Sheriff Read, of St. Landry, telling him to watch for Batiste Hill, wanted for horse stealing. Before 4 o'clock Hill was behind bars. Sheriff Broussard had found him seated in one of the coaches of the west-bound train having a ticket for Lake Charles.
Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
A Fleet-Footed Prisoner. - The report of two pistol shots Wednesday morning attracted quite a large crowd of people at the corner of Vermilion and Jefferson streets. Officer Romero was conducting Eli Royland to jail and was walking immediately behind the prisoner who showed no desire to run away until he reached the Lacoste corner where he made a break for liberty and started down the street as fast as his legs could carry him. The officer followed and fired two shots in the air to frighten the prisoner, who did not stop bet continued to run and being a very fast runner distanced his pursuer. Mr. Romero mounted a horse, overtook and captured the fleet-footed prisoner near Dr. Hopkin's field. Royland was arrested by Marshal Vigneaux as he was thought to be implicated in the shooting through the house of Dick Richey Tuesday night, but evidence in possession of the police proves that he was not with the party that did the shooting.
Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
Exempt from Taxation.
The suit instituted by the parish against Mr. Numa Schayat, who lives in what is known as the McComb addition, for a license tax was decided by Judge Allen last Tuesday in favor of the defendant. The suit was for the recovery of a license tax as retailer of spirituous liquors and retail merchant. The defendant among other things, contended that he, as a resident of the town, was exempt from the payment of a parish license by virtue of the act of 1836 incorporating it, although the territory where he carries on his business was not in the limits of the corporation as therin fixed; and this because the town authorities had, by an election, amended the charter, taking in the territory in question. The parish contended that this territory, having been placed under the jurisdiction of the parish in 1823 when created, could not be taken by the town to the exclusion of the power of the parish to tax it - the same as other towns in the parish. The judge found that from the evidence these salient facts appeared: that 1884, some time after the town had taken in the territory, the then Police Jury appointed a committee to meet a like committee to meet a like committee from the City Council to confer and report as to whom was due the licenses from persons doing business there; that the joint committee reported they were due to the town; that this report was adopted by the Police Jury, which body never attempted to collect licenses from that part of the town; that the town authorities took charge of the territory, made streets, etc.,m and that it was only several years when a new Police passed a resolution instructing the sheriff to collect licenses.
Under these facts the court held that the parish had relinquished its right to levy a license tax on people doing business in the territory included in the corporation limits as extended by the amendment. The judge added that the question is involved in many legal difficulties.
We understand that the case is appealable to the Supreme Court.
Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
Louisiana Republicanism.
If reports in some of the papers in the Southern portion of this State are to be believed quite a number of people will join the Republicans if the Senate fails to put a duty on sugar. We are loathe to believe these reports. No one will regret to see sugar on the free list more than we, as sugar is fast becoming one of the principal industries of this parish, but we cannot conceive how the people of this State can so far forget the past as to vote for a party that has caused them so much turmoil, and which, only a few years ago, made a desperate effort to pass the obnoxious Force Bill, a measure which threatened to re-establish the reign of Sambo, a reign yet fresh in our minds. Eliminate the negro from politics and a division among the whites will follow, but as long as he remains a possible factor in our elections in our elections, the white people will continue to present an unbroken front to the common enemy.
Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
Changes at Levy Store.
Sam Levy is now "hustling up" trade for his store here. The attention of our readers is called to the change in the advertisement of L. Levy & Son. They have received a complete stock of fresh spring goods and are desirous of showing to the People of Lafayette what they can do in the way of bargains. These gentlemen have sent an experienced buyer to the North to purchase their spring and summer stock and are in a position to sell you goods of first quality at the lowest prices possible. Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
Road Maintenance.
The "Cherokee" plan for working the public roads is a good one; the only change we could suggest which we believe might be an improvement on it, would be, that instead of dividing the work into five mile contracts, let it be apportioned by wards. Have it understood between the parish, and the several contractors that the work will be paid for after completion, and acceptance by a suitable committee to be appointed by the police jury. This proposition would accomplish three purposes. The contractors would in the first place hasten to finish and submit their work; secondly the parish would risk nothing. "No work, no pay" a rule that governs every legitimate undertaking; lastly these contracts would very likely be awarded to residents of the wards through which such roads lead and can be conducive to a to a certain rivalry that would prove beneficial to the public at large. In addition to the regular rate agreed upon, let the police jury offer a premium of a certain amount to the contractor doing the beat work. Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
Chess. - Chess, the greatest of all great games, has become very popular in the neighborhood of the depot lately.
Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
Amusement.- "Flying Horses" and a hand organ in the Deleglise lot, are catering to the tastes of children and darkeys.
Lafayette Gazette 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.
C. Micaud Store.- Mr. Fred Jones, one of our popular young men is now employed as clerk at the large store of C. Micaud. Laf. Gazette 2/24/1894.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of February 24th, 1966:
CITY TO HOUSTON AIR SERVICE SET.
A commuter air taxi service between Lafayette and Houston will be inaugurated Feb. 28 by Longhorn Airlines, Ft. Worth, Tex.
Executives of the firm made arrangements for the service between Houston and Lafayette twice daily, Monday through Friday. The firm's six-passenger plane will will leave Lafayette at 8:45 a. m. and arrive in Houston at 9:45 a. m.; and again at 5:45 p.m. and arrive in Houston at 6:45 p. m. It will depart from Houston to Lafayette at 7:15 a. m. and arrive here at 8:15; and again at 4:15 p. m., arriving here at 5:15.
The firm operates two-engine Aztec liners. Longhorn was founded last year by two ex-Naval pilots. A third one has joined the firm. At the present time the firm operates commuter service between Ft. Worth and Oklahoma City. Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1966.
lagniappe #1
Comfort from the Conductor.
The train had stopped at a station and several men had alighted, as was their custom, to stretch their legs on the platform, and when it started again one of the men, who had strayed a little too far off, was left behind.
In a minute or two there was a loud scream and a woman rushed up to the conductor and exclaimed excitedly: "You left my husband behind at that station!"
"Never mind, Madam," replied the official, "calm yourself. We shall be at Chicago in three hours and then you can get another husband." - Judge.
In the Lafayette Advertiser 2/24/1894.
lagniappe #2
NATURAL GRACE,
A Beautiful Quality, But When Assumed a Detriment.
Gracefulness, when natural, is a very pretty accompaniment to youth and beauty in women, but when it is assumed, or rather imitated in an exaggerated form by women of mature years for purposes of coquetry and flirtation, it becomes most distasteful to those possessed of any refinement. Naturally graceful women in this country are by no means common nowadays. Indeed, the compression of corsets and the religiously tight-fitting tailor-made gown appear almost incompatible with gracefulness. Gracefulness belongs essentially to freedom and nature, and, as a rule, it is easy to discover when only acquired. Nice manners are far preferable to acquired gracefulness, which requires a continuous effort to keep up. Doubtless much of the grace of the ancient Greek and Roman women was due to their loose style of dress, the corset being an unknown infliction of later years. However this may be, certain it is that the women to to-day do not possess the gracefulness of Helen of Troy or Cleopatra.
From the Chicago Post and in the Lafayette Gazette 2/24/1894.
lagniappe #3
GENESIS OF THE STEAMBOAT.
Ancient Craft That Foreshadowed the Modern Greyhounds of the Sea.
The first steamboat was built by Dennis Papin, who navigated it safely down the Fulda as long ago as 1707. Unfortunately this pioneer craft was destroyed by jealous sailors, and even the very memory of it was lost for three-quarters of a century. In 1775 Perrier, another Frenchman, built an experimental steam vessel at Paris. Eight years later, in 1783, Jouffroy took up the idea that had been evolved by Papin and Perrier and built a steamboat which did good service for some time on the Saone.
The first American to attempt to apply steam to navigation was John Fitch, a Connecticut mechanic, who made his initial experiments in the year 1785. To what extent Fitch was indebted to the three illustrious French inventors named above we are not informed, but that his models were original there is not the least doubt. In the first he employed a large pipe kettle for generating the steam, the motive power being side paddles working after the fashion of oars on a common rowboat. In the second Fitch craft the same mode of propulsion was adopted, with the exception that the paddles were made to imitate a revolving wheel and were fixed to the stern - clearly foreshadowing the present sternwheeler.
This last mentioned boat was the first American steam vessel that can be pronounced a success. It made its first trip to Burlington in July, 1788. But, after all, it was not until after the opening of the present century that steam navigation started into actual life. In 1807 Robert Fulton (who every school child knows was an American), in conjunction, built the Clermont and established a regular packet service between New York and Albany.
The success of this undertaking was so satisfactory that four new boats were built before the end of 1811, at least two of them being designed for service in the other rivers.
From the St. Louis Republic and in the Lafayette Gazette February 24, 1894.
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