An Automobile In Town.
Something of a sensation was created Saturday by the appearance of an automobile on the streets. As it passed everybody stopped to look, and the question was asked everywhere, "Have you seen the automobile?" While in front of the Gordon Hotel it attracted quite a crowd, who examined it with a great deal of interest. Contrary to expectations, while passing over the streets where numbers of horses were hitched, it caused very few to become frightened, but somebody's saddle horse in Buchanan street didn't like the "funny thing" a bit, and waved his tail vigorously as he took his sudden and emphatic farewell.
The automobile belongs to Mr. Hebert Billeaud, of Broussard, and the trip from Broussard was in the nature of a trial trip. He was accompanied by Messrs. Andre and Paul Billeaud and Palmer Abbott, of New Orleans, who is agent for the company from whom the automobile was purchased. The automobile is called the Oldsmobile.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
THE PRIMARY ELECTION.
The result of the election last Saturday was virtually a victory for the C. O. Mouton ticket. We publish a tabulation of the votes in another column, showing that the candidates on that ticket received a bare majority of the votes cast, with the exception of one councilman, the town constable, the jailer and three members of the democratic executive committee.
The election was a very peaceable, but closely contested one, and the Young Men's ticket is to be congratulated on the splendid showing it made as a popular movement against factional or partisan politics in the administration of municipal affairs. This, after all, was the really vital question involved in the election, and only four weeks of agitation and campaigning did not allow sufficient time to overcome the powerful opposition offered by the well-organized parish political machine, against which the Young Men's ticket had to contend any counterbalancing experienced political leadership of its own.
A majority of the electors having decided at the polls that the control of the municipal government of Lafayette for the next two years be entrusted to those of our fellow citizens who were represented in the campaign as being long avowed and open opponents of the policy and methods of the present city administration, The Advertiser submits to the will of the majority, and, like all other good citizens, we stand ready to aid and encourage the new administration in carrying out its platform, which, it put into actual effect, can not fail to give general satisfaction. We reproduce it here:
And if the incoming mayor and councilmen will give to the people of Lafayette an administration of public affairs that will not surpass in any respect, but only measure up to the enlightened and progressive and honorable administration of the outgoing mayor and city council, they will place the community under lasting obligations to them, and, we feel safe in saying, they will also gain the favor and united support for re-election to office of the large and influential class of citizens who believe their duty lay in opposing the C. O. Mouton ticket in the municipal election. Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
ELECTION RETURNS.
For Municipal Primary Held Saturday, March 4, 1905.
The Democratic Executive Committee for the town of Lafayette, La., met this day at the court house in accordance with resolutions calling the primary held March 4, 1905, for the purpose of canvassing and tabulating the returns of said primary. Present: Julian Mouton, William Campbell and Alfred Hebert; absent members of the committee. I. A. Broussard and Henry Church. After canvassing the returns of said returns, we find that the hereinafter named candidates of the offices herinafter mentioned have received the number of votes cast as said primary and set opposite their respective names :
For Mayor.
C. O. Mouton - 193
Felix H. Mouton - 184
For City Councilmen.
Simeon Begnaud - 221
O. B. Hopkins - 217
A. R. Trahan 217
P. Krauss - 208
C. D. Boudeaux - 201
F. E. Girard - 199
G. A. Martin - 197
Gus Schmulen - 188
F. H. Landry - 177
Pierre Gerac - 165
F. O. Broussard 162
A. A. Morgan, Jr. - 160
J. F. Tanner 147
L. F. Rigues - 145
For Town Constable.
A. Edwin Chargois - 191
B. J. Veazey - 181
For Town Tax Collector.
A. J. Leblanc - 195
H. H. Hohorst - 179For Town Clerk.J. P. Colomb - 218
L. D. Nickerson - 155
For Treasurer Town Council.
A. T. Caillouet - 191
D. V. Gardebled - 181
For Town Jailer.
Abraham Hirsch - 220
Faustin Vincent - 152
FOR MEMBERS DEMOCRATIC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE FOR THE TOWN OF LAFAYETTE.
Felix E. Voorhies ... 199
William Campbell ... 197
A. E. Mouton ... 193
Raoul Pellerin ... 192
Alfred Hebert ... 191
J. L. Kennedy ... 190
P. B. Torian ... 187
Ovey Herpin ... 186
Henry Church ... 167
W. P. Bracken ... 155
The returns show that the following named candidates have received a majority of the votes cast at said primary for the hereinafter named offices and are therefore declared by this committee the regular nominees of the Democratic party of this town for the offices mentioned, as follows:
MAYOR: Chas. O. Mouton.
COUNCILMEN; Simeon Begnaud, O. B. Hopkins, A. R Trahan, P. Krauss, C. D. Boudreaux, F. E. Girard, Dr. G. A. Martin.
TOWN CONSTABLE: A. Edwin Chargois.
TOWN TAX COLLECTOR: A. J. Leblanc.
TREASURER TOWN COUNCIL: A. T. Caillouet.
TOWN CLERK: J. P. Colomb.
TOWN JAILER: Abraham Hirsch.
The following named candidates having received a majority of the votes cast as said primary for members of Democratic Executive Committee for said town are hereby declared elected as members thereof : F, E. Voorhies, Wm. Campbell, A. E. Mouton, Raoul Pellerin, Alfred Hebert.
There being no further business before the committee, and having promulgated the results of said primary election, said committee adjourned.
JULIAN MOUTON, ALFRED HEBERT, Wm. CAMPBELL, Committee.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
Mardi Gras.
Yesterday the day opened cloudy and about noon set in drizzling, but it did not deter a number of bold maskers from celebrating Mardi Gras by parading on foot and horseback. In the afternoon it cleared up and with the brighter weather the maskers increased in number, affording lots of tun to the boys and girls who found much amusement in watching for "Mardi Gras." About half past one the town schools turned out and from then until late the children enjoyed the day hugely. Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
Delightful Euchre. - Mrs. James Parkerson gave a most delightful euchre to her friends Friday evening, March 3. The house was appropriately decorated in Rex's colors, yellow, purple and green. On each table was placed a bouquet of California violets, causing the whole house to be filled with their fragrance. About 4 o'clock each guest was presented with a score card, tied with yellow, purple and green ribbons. The cards were made in the shape of a crown, painted in yellow and green, with Rex written on one side and number of table and couple on the other side. As soon as the tap of the bell at the head of the table was heard, the excitement commenced and ran high until the bell sounded the end, which was the eighth game. The games were so close that several ladies were compelled to cut of each prize, which was a lovely china bonbon dish which was won by Mrs. Moss; Mrs. Goldsberry fell heir to the second prize, a beautiful picture, and the third prize, a pretty silk fan, was captured by Miss Christian. The consolation prize, and immense bouquet of California violets, tied with yellow ribbon, fell to the lot of Mrs. Lehman. Mrs Parkerson so thoroughly carried out the color scheme that even in serving luncheon she selected her menu of dainty dishes of Rex's colors. The pleasure of this euchre will long remain fresh in the minds of those present, who were: Mesdames Davis, Martin, Pellerin, Moss, Mills, Clegg, LeRosen, C. Parkerson, Doucet, Middlemas, S. Mouton, Goldsberry, Abramson, Corrona, Jagou, Nickerson, Tom Hopkins, Blake, Lehman, Rosenburg, Stennhouse, Miss Lizzie Lizzie Parkerson and Miss Christian.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
Euchre Club.
Mrs. Alex Mouton entertained the Married Ladies Euchre Club Thursday, March 2. After thirteen exciting games were played it was found that Mrs. B. J. Pellerin had won the first prize, a very handsome urn, and Miss Ruby Scranton the second prize, which was a beautiful ornament. Mesdames Middlelmas, Rosenberg and Lehman having the same number of games, cut for the third prize, and Mrs. Rosenberg became the proud possessor of the lovely bouquet holder. This was the last meeting of the club before Lent, after which Mrs. C. M. Parkerson will entertain. Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
Woman's Club.
Mrs. J. I. Hulse entertained the Woman's Club on March 4. Mrs. Blake called the meeting to order, and in the absence of the secretary the president appointed Miss Riis secretary pro tem. The hour of meeting was changed from 3 o'clock to 4 o'clock. After all the business was transacted the following interesting program was rendered:
There being no further business the club adjourned to meet March 11 at Mrs. J. C. Nickerson's, with Mrs. Leo Judice as hostess. This will be an important meeting, as an election of officers will be held. After the club adjourned Mrs. Hulse invited the ladies into the dining room, where she served delicious refreshments. Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
Delightful Moments Ahead.
A "love of a bonnet," especially the spring kind, has a deep and abiding fascination for the feminine heart, and the ladies of Lafayette, knowing that Easter is on its way and everybody must, of course, have an Easter hat, will learn with great pleasure that Mouton Sisters have received most of their spring line of ready-to-wear and tailor made hats, and that means that they can from now on spend some delightful moments in looking at the "very latest" in spring millinery, for the "latest" are certainly fetching.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
New Restaurant. - Alexander Feverjon has opened a restaurant in the Clegg building on the court house square and will serve regular meals at twenty-five cents. The patronage of the public is solicited. Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
At the Jefferson Theatre.
The Grattan-DeVernon Stock Co., which showed here four nights, closing Sunday night, played to rather small houses, although the troupe was, considering all things, a pretty fair one as traveling stock companies go, and really deserved better patronage. Possibly their choice of plays was unfortunate, for the interpretation by the actors was to say the least clever.
The next attraction at the Jefferson will be the Imperial Stock Co., three nights, March 13, 14 and 15. The company carries all of its own scenery and comes here with flattering press notices.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
Financial Embarrassment.
During the Saturday night performance of the Gratten-DeVernon Stock Co., officers seized the trunks of the company upon an attachment caused to be issued by one of the members on account of back salary. An arrangement was come to, and the attachment released. On account of the financial embarrassment of the company, Manager Girard very liberally gave them a benefit performance Sunday night to assist them in settling their hotel bill. Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
The Cane Crop.
[La. Planter and Sugar Manufacturer.]
Our correspondents throughout the sugar district report with practical unanimity that the seed cane has been uninjured by the wet and cold weather, which prevailed during the month of February. This news is distinctly good and there is now every reason to suppose that the crop of 1905 will be started favorably and suspiciously. We have enjoyed some ten days of dry weather, during which the work on the plantations has been pushed with the very greatest activity and a great deal has been accomplished. Our Iberia and Assumption correspondents both refer to certain reports published in the New Orleans daily papers to the effect that the seed cane has been seriously injured in those parishes and they hesitatingly pronounce these reports to have been incorrect. From the La. Planter and Sugar Manufacturer and in the Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
School Board Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., 1905.
A special meeting of the Parish School Board was held on the above date with the following members present: Messrs. Alex Delhomme, Mr. J. A. Roy, Dr. N. P. Moss, Arthur Comeaux, J. H. Bernard, A. D. Verot, C. C. Brown and Alcide Judice. Absent: Jasper Spell.
A committee composed of Hon. Paul L. DeClouet and Messrs. Paul Ducharme and Eugene Breaux petitioned for the erection of a school house in Anse St. Clair on the grounds that there are fifty-two children in the community that are five miles removed from the nearest school. The committee further contended that the few patrons who are in a position to send that distance to school can not do so on account of the extremely bad condition of the public roads in that section of the parish. The board recognized the justice of the demand for a school house, but postponed action for the present on account of the fact that provision has already been made for the present year. It was decided that the next school house built will be in Anse St. Clair, and that it will be built on the same conditions as the others already contracted for.
The building committee was authorized to proceed with the construction of school houses at Whittington's, second ward.
Messrs. Jean Hebert and Bazil Sonnier petitioned for the removal of one of the two rooms of the Matthieu school to a point two miles north of the present site. The board decided that it would not be wise to make any change in the school in the midst of a session.
A committee composed of Messrs. Stutes, Guilbeau and others asked for the transportation of their children to the Bertrand school. The committee contended that their children were from three to five miles from a school house by the public roads and that it was not possible for them to send their children to school. The board agreed to provide transportation for the children and appropriated $10 per month for that purpose on condition that the patrons of the community subscribe $15 per month and on condition further that no child under two miles from the Bertrand school be transported in the wagonette.
Committees appointed to sell abandoned school houses reported sales as follows: G Hutchinson, $105; Alex Martin, $50; Sellers, $70.
The secretary reported that Vermilion parish had sent a warrant for $120, being the pro rata of that parish for the maintenance of Milton school during the latter part of the past session. Acadia parish had not acted on the demand for settlement for its part of the running expense of the Duson school.
The committee appointed to contract for the construction of a canal and nine miles of ditching on the school land in the second ward reported having awarded the contract to L. E. Patterson for $300, to be paid when the committee, Messrs. Judice, Spell and Alleman, accepts the work. The specifications and contract are on file in the school board office.
The secretary reported the congested condition of the Milton school and the inability of the Vermilion authorities to do anything for the enlargement of the school at present. The board authorized the superintendent to take the matter up with the parish of Vermilion at once, and to request the temporary withdrawal of the children of Vermilion parish if in his judgment he found it necessary.
Messrs. Delhomme and Alleman were appointed a committee to expend fifty dollars or as much as necessary for the erection of a cistern and fence at the Alex Martin school in the first ward. The proceeds of the sale of the old school house are to be used for this week.
On motion duly seconded it was agreed to appropriate fifty dollars toward digging a canal extending from the southern limits of the school section in the first ward to the railroad, a distance of over a mile provided that the parish appropriates two hundred dollars for the said canal extending from the southern limits of the school section in the first ward to the railroad, a distance of over a mile provided that the parish appropriates two hundred dollars for the said canal.
The following bills were approved:
There being no further business, the board adjourned.
N. P. MOSS, President.
L. J. ALLEMAN, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 3/8/1905.
An Easter Monday Ball will be given by the Ladies Auxiliary Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen at Martin's hall on April 24.
J. E. Melton, of the claim department of Southern Pacific, was in Lafayette Wednesday on business connected with his department.
I. A. Broussard was in town Saturday.
Mr. and Mrs. Jas. D. Kelly have moved into the Thos. H. McMillan residence.
Egg Rolling. - Mouton-Gardner Chapter, No. 700, will give an egg rolling on Easter Sunday, April 23; place will be mentioned later. Mrs. W. S. Middlemas, President. Cecilia M. Guidry, Secretary.
Mr. A. B. Denbo left Saturday night for Indiana, and will return this week accompanied by Mrs. Denbo and children.
Mr. and Mrs. Leo Judice were in town during the week.
Ramsay & Upton can supply you with meal, grits, peas, feed oats, timothy and alfalfa hay, wheat bran and other feed stuffs. Phone 192.
J. E. Melton, of the claim department of the Southern Pacific, was in Lafayette Wednesday on business connected with his department.
Miss W. D. Huff left Sunday for New Iberia to visit her daughter, Mrs. C. P. Moss. Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1905.
From the Lafayette Gazette of March 8th, 1902:
THE TOWN IN DARKNESS.
Since last Monday night one of the dynamos at the electrical power house has been incapacitated by the accidental burning of the armature and in consequence the town has not been able to light the streets. Fortunately the other dynamo is unimpaired and the residences and business houses which depend on the municipal plant for light are not affected by the accident. The burning of the armature necessitates the rewiring of that of that instrument for which the services of N. J. Hoey, an expert armature-winder, have been secured. The work, which will cost the town a considerable amount, will not be finished before the 20th of the month and until that time citizens who are called away from home at night to attend lodge meetings, etc., will have to trust to the moon and stars to show them the right way. It is needless to say that the trouble at the power-house is not the result of any negligence on the part of the employes but is due to an unavoidable accident.
Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
TO THE PUBLIC.
Having decided to retire from the mercantile business I will close my store on or about Monday, March 17, 1902. As I will dispose of my stock at cost price I have some very advantageous bargains to offer.
Before retiring I desire to thank the public for their kind and generous patronage.
MRS. P. GERAC.
Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTE.
Outdoor Sports for the Spring Season - Faculty Treated to a Lunch - Meeting of Literary Society.
Now that Spring comes on a pace, outdoor sports are the order of the day at the Institute. The base ball enthusiasm is running high - already a couple of teams are about to be organized to do battle with each other, and to play teams from other schools. There is also talk of organizing an athletic association. This is very much to be desired, and it is hoped that some time in March or April the people of Lafayette will be treated to an exhibition of field sports. This will bring visitors to the school in large numbers and will give them an opportunity to see the school as it really is - the boys, their loyalty, the faculty, the grounds, the young ladies staying at the Dormitory - in fact everything connected with the school and its work.
The Literary Society held a very successful meeting on Saturday night last. The subject for debate, "Resolved that Napoleon was a greater general than Julius Ceaser," was decided in favor of the negative side of the question. There were many other entertaining numbers on the programme. The next regular meeting will be held this Saturday night, when this question will be debated: "Resolved that the Chinese should be excluded from the United States." It is needless to dwell upon the importance of a society like this particular one that has debating, speech-making, etc., as features of its programme.
The dining room in the department of domestic science was perhaps the most interesting and animated spot in the whole school on last Wednesday at the lunch period - that being the day in which this department tendered its first luncheon to the faculty. It would be idle to dwell upon the exquisite taste that characterized the occasion, and the splendid menu was so elegantly served by still more elegant cooks. The writer was very fortunate to see the whole affair, and to say that it was recherché would be putting it lightly. The following was the menu:
MENU.
Mock Bisque Soup.
Crackers.
(Maxim Beraud.)
Oysters - Swedish Timbales.
Celery.
(Annie Bell.)
Jellied Vale.
French Peas.
Mashed Potatoes.
Beaten Biscuit.
Olives.
(Mabel Alford.)
Apple and Lettuce Salad.
(Edith Trahan.)
Mayonnaise Dressing.
Charlotte Russe - Gelatin.
(Alma Gulley.)
Cafe Noir.
(Miss Edith Dupre.)
Dr. Stephens took a photograph of the faculty while seated at the table, with the charming cooks in the background. This picture will doubtless be largely sought after.
The sewing classes are now ready to make summer dresses, but are waiting for the season's goods to come in; in the meantime they are occupying themselves with making Flemish, point, duchess, and Batten burg lace work, and embroidering on linen. This is very interesting work, and the practical knowledge resulting from learning it cannot be overestimated.
Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
Invest in Crowley Lots. - W. W. Duson & Bro., the men who built Crowley and made it famous for its grit and push, announce in another portion of this paper that they will have an auction sale of town lots on Friday, March 28. One of the inducements of the sale will be the giving away of a valuable corner lot situated in a desirable part of that hustling town. Crowley is one of the wonders of the day and the Dusons have made it wonderful by their progressive business methods. The marvelous growth of Crowley is proof enough that an investment in town property there promises the greatest returns on the money invested. Every facility to make a good investment will be afforded prospective buyers on the 28th, and a hearty invitation is extended to all to be present. Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
OIL TANKS
Being Built by Railroad Company to Keep a Supply of Fuel.
A number of men are at work near the railroad yards building large tanks which are to hold the oil to be used as fuel on the locomotives. As is pretty generally known the railroad company has decided to use oil instead of coal and the tanks are being built for the purpose of making the change. The men are at work on two tanks, each of which will have a capacity of 30,000 barrels. A third one, with a capacity of 56,000 barrels, will be built when the two smaller tanks are completed. This is one of the many important improvements the railroad company is making at this point.
This work has necessitated the employment of a number of skilled mechanics and laborers and as a consequence things around the station have been greatly enlivened. The transfer of the dispatchers from Beaumont and Algiers to this place has also largely increased the pay-roll of the company at this place and the beneficial results have already been felt. It is said that other changes will be made which will greatly benefit this community.
Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
Street Improvements. - The City Council has authorized the street committee to shell Jefferson street from the end of Lincoln avenue to Moss' corner and Vermilion street from Gardebled's store to Pizzo's corner. For this purpose forty carloads of oyster shells will be bought. The committee is also authorized to do away with as many bridges as possible, replacing them with titles, thus widening the street considerably. It is also intended to remove all unnecessary horse-racks. This is a splendid move on the part of the Council. The town's money can not be used for a better purpose.
Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
A Very Neat Studio. - The neatness and the splendid taste displayed by Mr. Alb. S. Clark in the fitting up of his photographic studio can not fail to please the eye. The fine collection of picture shows the thoroughness and skill of Mr. Clark as a photographer and is the most convincing proof of the high quality of his work. Mr. Clark will be pleased to have the people visit his studio and see for themselves what he is able to do in the art of photography. Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
Wholesale Grocers. - Lafayette is to have a wholesale grocery which will do business under the name of the Salles-Mouton Grocery Company. Felix Salles and Fernand Mouton are the members of the new firm which has every reason to hope for a most successful career. Lafayette has reached such proportions that it can not well get along without a wholesale establishment of this kind. Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
Home Company Elects Officers.
Home Fire Company held a meeting last Thursday night and elected the following officers: President, C. O. Mouton; vice-president, O. P. Guilbeau; financial secretary, A. V. Labbe; recording secretary, F. E. Voorhies; treasurer, S. R. Parkerson; foreman, Dr. G. A. Martin; 1st assistant, Gus Schmulen; 2d assistant, D. L. Caffery; directors, J. E. Mouton; E. G. Voorhies, B. J. Pellerin; house-keeper, Jerome Mouton. Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
Saw a Gusher at Jennings.
J. C. Nickerson, the real estate agent, went to Jennings last Saturday and bought 200 town lots for A. Judice & Son of Scott. While in Jennings Mr. Nickerson visited the oil section and was given an opportunity to see a real gusher. Mr. Nickerson says that the oil gushed out several minutes and that it was a genuine gusher. He says Jennings is enjoying a great boom.
Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
WEDDING.
Lacoste-Gerac.
St. John's Church was filled with an interested assemblage of relatives and friends Tuesday afternoon to witness the nuptials of Miss Estelle Gerac and Mr. Gus Lacoste. While awaiting the arrival of the bridal party, the Lafayette Brass Band played several selections. Promptly at five o'clock, the appointed hour, the organ pealed forth the wedding march and the party entered the sacred edifice which was brilliantly illuminated with myriads of incandescent lights and waxen tapers burning brightly on the magnificent altar. The ushers, Messrs. Debaillon and Siadous, were followed by the bridesmaids and groomsmen: Miss Elen Gerac and Mr. Rene Delhomme, Miss Hitter of St. Martinville and Mr. Jos. Lacoste, Miss Monique Lacoste and Mr. G. Bonin of Abbeville. The maid of honor, Miss Louise Gerac, walked in alone, and then came the pretty little flower girl, Miss Ida Roy, escorted by the handsome young page, Master Loyd Martin, acting as ring bearer, who preceded the bride who, accompanied by her brother, Mr. Pierre Gerac, advanced to the chancel railing, where the groom and his best man, Mr. Frank Broussard, awaiting her coming.
As they knelt before the altar, Miss Marthe Mouton's sweet voice was heard in an "Ave Maria" and then Father Bollard performed the impressive ceremony of the catholic Church.
The bride was a picture of loveliness in her regal costume of white embroidered mouseline de soie over satin with trimmings of duchess lace and flowers, the long tulle veil being simply fastened to her dark hair with orange blossoms. She carried an exquisite bouquet of bride's roses, lilies of the valley and ferns.
The bridesmaids, a bevy of pretty girls, were daintily gowned in white organdy over silk and carried bouquets of pink and white roses.
After the ceremony a reception was held at the residence of the bride's mother, Mrs. P. Gerac, for the relatives and a few intimate friends. A delicious collation was served and many toasts were drunk to the health and prosperity of the couple. Mr. and Mrs. Lacoste were the recipients of numerous costly presents as well as many congratulatory telegrams.
They Left the same night for a trip to Dallas, Tex., and other cities in the West.
Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
THE POLL TAX AND THE ELECTION LAW.
The Baton Rouge Advocate says that the recent municipal election held in that town showed the "admirable efficiency" of the primary law and the "dangerous uncertainty, inequality and failure" of the poll tax law.
The Advocate states that the poll tax provision, which has been tacked on our suffrage laws by the last constitutional convention, not only failed to increase the school revenues, but disfranchised a number of the good citizens of the capital.
The Gazette is inclined to agree with its contemporary that the law making the payment of the poll tax a qualification to vote is a most unwise clause in the State's organic law, and it is fortunate that the Legislature of 1908 (?) has been vested with the authority to repeal it.
The poll tax provision places a serious impediment in the way of the voter who wishes to exercise the franchise. It complicates the system, burdens it with red tape opens wider the door to fraud and fails to furnish increased revenues for the schools. Even if it afforded greater revenues for public education, it would still be a source of vexation. The question of revenues should be absolutely divorced from the suffrage. The State possesses adequate authority to compel the citizen to pay his share of the school taxes, without threats of disfranchisement.
When a man's eligibility as a suffragen is established, or, in other words, when he has complied with the requirements of the law qualifying the suffrage, he should be permitted to exercise his right to vote without any sort of hindrance. The ballot should be easily accessible to every qualified voter.
The Gazette believes the repeal of the poll tax clause and certain amendments to the election law will meet with the approval of a majority of the people of Louisiana. The present suffrage law, imposing a property or an educational qualification, affords ample protection against an ignorant and corrupt electorate, and all other alleged safeguards are mere instruments which may be used by designing men to set a at naught the will of the people.
All that is necessary to protect the ballot is an honest enforcement of the suffrage law. Now that the supremacy of the white race is guaranteed by the constitutional provision qualifying the suffrage, it can serve no good purpose to annoy and harass the voter with a lot of useless requirements. Everything should be done to promote the free and untrammeled exercise of the franchise. No obstacle should be placed in the voter's way and the election law should be so simple that the expression of his choice should not be impeded by the technical zigzagging which characterizes the existing statute. If we can not return to the viva voce method which prevailed in some State in the earlier days of the Republic, let us at least do away with the red tape proceedings which serve only to befog the mind of the voter and to prevent a free and fair expression of his will. Under the present law regulating the elections it can not be said that the average citizen is permitted to use the franchise intelligently and independently. Unless the voter is unusually bright and well-informed he must stamp a party emblem or else run the risk of spoiling his ballot and practically disfranchising himself. Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
NO DESIRE TO QUARREL.
In Monday's Times-Democrat appears a communication dated at Baton Rouge and evidently written by one familiar with affairs at the capital. The writer of the communication, who signs himself "X. Y. Z.," takes issue with Mr. L. J. Alleman, relative to certain statements made in the circular recently sent out by that gentleman with a view of securing increased appropriations for the public schools of the State. X. Y. Z. says a great deal concerning public education in this State which is true and offers some very sound advice to the friends of the public schools, but he is in error in assuming that those who are advocating larger appropriations for the primary and grammar schools are antagonistic to the interests of the higher institutions. In making the comparison by quoting Auditor Frazees's figures the purpose was not to show that the colleges were getting too much but that the public schools were not receiving enough. That, we believe, is conceded by everyone who has given any thought to the question. Mr. Alleman and every other practical school-man doubtless knows that a blow directed at the larger State schools will cause injury to the whole system of public education in the State. Every dollar spent for the maintenance of the Normal or any other of the splendid institutions supported by the State helps the cause of popular education. Every one familiar with the growth of the public school system in Louisiana appreciates the powerful influence wielded by the larger schools in the battle against illiteracy, and the advocates of increased State appropriations for the lower schools would be among the first to oppose any measure which would hamper them in the great work that they doing.
The Gazette is satisfied that Mr. Alleman and those with whom he has joined in an effort to improve the school system of the State have no desire to quarrel with the friends of the higher institutions of learning. We are surprised that so well informed a person as "X. Y. Z." shows himself to be should have so misunderstood the contents of Mr. Alleman's circular as to construe them into a declaration of war against the colleges of the State. This is a question upon which sincere friends of public education can not afford to disagree. As the circular puts it, "Let's all work together." Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
POLICE JURY
In Regular Session - Refusal to Refund Compress Tax - Appropriation for Mouton Switch School.
The Police Jury met last Thursday with all the members present.
Mr. Whittington moved to reconsider the vote adopted at the last meeting rejecting the claim of the Compress Company for exemption from taxation. Judge O. C. Mouton appeared and argued in favor of refunding the tax under the original agreement made by the previous administration. The motion to reconsider was put and and a majority favored reconsideration. Mr. Mouton made the point that a two-third vote was required to reconsider and President Billeaud sustained that point.
Mr. Broussard reported that the Carencro bridge had been repaired at a cost of $35 of which Lafayette parish paid $10. Approved.
Messrs. Lacy and Broussard appointed to investigate the alleged case of glanders at Mr. Honore Begnaud's reported that the general opinion was that the animal, supposed to be affected with the disease, simply had an aggravated case of catarrh. The animal had been affected for nearly two years and was usually fat and strong. No other stock had been affected although the alleged diseased animal had been allowed to mingle freely with others of the place. The report was accepted and committee discharged.
Mr. Mouton move to secure the services of Dr. W. H. Dalrymple, State Veterinary Surgeon, for an authoritative diagnosis. This motion was lost.
The committee appointed to settle with the tax-collector for licenses of 1900 and 1901 submitted a report and a quietus was granted the collector.
Clerk Voorhies appeared and asked that the jury take steps to provide for the safe keeping of public records. Messrs. Mouton, Buchanan and Labbe were appointed to secure needed files, etc.
Messrs. J. E. Mouton and Edmond Martin, representing the citizens of Mouton Switch, appeared and prayed for an appropriation to repair and furnish the public school house there. By motion of Mr. Buchanan $50 were allowed.
A petition from the citizens near D. O. Broussard's ferry asking for the construction of the new bridge at a point above the old site was read and the secretary instructed to inform the Vermilion authorities that Lafayette parish is ready and anxious to build the bridge at any point desired.
The road-overseer of the first ward was instructed to remove the fencing of Albert Arceneaux from the public road.
Messrs. Mouton and Greig were appointed to secure estimates for a fence around the parish jail.
Mr. Blanchet appointed Aristide Savoi as an additional road-overseer of the fourth ward.
The treasurer's reports showed a cash balance for general fund of $6813.27 and special road fund $1,362.43.
The secretary was authorized to issue warrant in favor of the Industrial School tax for 1901, less expenses of collection.
After approval of accounts the Jury adjourned. Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
City Council Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., March 3, 1902. - The City Council met this day in regular session with Mayor C. D. Caffery, presiding. Members present: J. O. Mouton, A. E. Mouton, F. Demanade, G. A. DeBlanc, F. E. Girard, H. Hohorst.
The minutes of the previous meeting were adopted as read.
The water and light committee reported that pipe line in the Mudd's addition was complete excepting hydrant, and poles for lights were on the ground, and work on Washington street had been started.
Moved by A. E. Mouton, seconded by J. O. Mouton, that G. Mass, be notified that the City Council considers him to be in default in the performance of his contract for the new boiler, and that if the same is not completed in 10 days from this date the Council will take charge of boiler and complete same at his expense.
Resolved, further, That secretary furnish Mr. Mass with copy of this resolution by registered letter. Adopted.
Moved and duly seconded, that $20.00 be paid Babin for taking down smoke stack. Carried.
Moved by G. A. DeBlanc, seconded by F. E. Girard, that all bridges and hitching posts be removed from Jefferson street from the Episcopal church up to First National Bank and also from Vermilion street, from Jos. Pizzo's corner to J. O. Mouton's residence.
Moved further, That it shall be unlawful for persons to place bridges on said streets within these points.
Moved further, That all persons desiring yard crossings shall build same according to specifications to be furnished by street committee. Carried.
Moved and duly seconded, That Industrial Institute tax of 1901, be turned over to officers of the Institute. Carried.
Moved and seconded, That mayor be appointed a committee of one to settle with the parish. Carried.
Moved and seconded, That petition of J. Nickerson, W. S. Torian and others relative to weights and measures be taken up and that same be laid over to next regular meeting for consideration. Carried.
Moved and seconded, That the treasurer's report be accepted as follow:
The following bills were approved:
There being no further business the Council adjourned.
CHAS. D. CAFFERY, Mayor.
LOUIS LACOSTE, Secretary.
Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 3/8/1902.
All the firemen of the town are requested to meet in Falk's hall on the night of the 10th to elect a chief and other officers of the department.
The town is laying water pipes along Washington street, starting from Gardebled's corner to Wm. Campbell's and from the latter point to Dr. Gladu's.
To the Public. - I have decided to retire from the mercantile business I will close my store on or about Monday, March 17, 1902. As I will dispose of my stock at cost price I have some very advantageous bargains to offer. Before retiring I desire to thank the public for their kind and generous patronage. Mrs. P. Gerac.
Regular services at the Episcopal church to-morrow evening at half past four o'clock.
Families who are able to give board and lodging to the teachers who will attend the summer normal to be held here are requested to communicate with L. J. Alleman or W. A. LeRosen, stating price, etc.
At its regular meeting last Monday, Fire Co. No. 1 enrolled five new members. Lafayette Gazette 3/8/1902.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of March 8th, 1879:
OUR RAILROAD.
#1 - From the Lake Charles Echo...
Judge J. G. Parkerson, of St. Mary, and Benj. Rayne, Esq., of New Orleans, are in town. Judge Parkerson is engaged in securing from property owners the right of way for the Louisiana Western Railroad Company. So far he has been eminently successful. He says that work on the road will shortly be commenced, probably at three points - at Orange on the Sabine river, at Lake Charles on the Calcasieu river, and at the Mermentau river. There will be a determined effort to complete the road, and have the cars running from Houston to New Orleans, by the first of next November.
#2. From the Lake Charles Echo...
Our esteemed contemporary, the Orange (Texas) Tribune, contains in its last week's issus some important and very gratifying news about the railroad from Orange to New Orleans. Most of its information is taken from the Houston Telegram, which says the bridges across the Sabine and Calcasieu rivers have been purchased, tugs and lighters are being inspected for the work of carrying iron, engines, material, etc., into the Calcasieu river, fifty flat cars, two engines and and a general outfit of tools have been purchased in Philadelphia, to be shipped this (last) month, the road bed from Houston to Orange is to be raised three feet, and the road from Houston to New Orleans is to be completed in eight months, instead of eighteen as at first contemplated.
#3. From the Morgan City Review...
The steel rails for the railroad from Morgan City to Vermilionville, now at Algiers, are brought here and taken across the bay as needed. The work goes on bravely, at the rate of one-fourth a mile daily. Two cars, fifty feet in length, were recently built at the works in Algiers, and are now here ready for service - one is in Berwick and one on this side. They are used for pushing cars from the level portions of our wharf to the Ferryboat Porter.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1879.
To the Voters of Lafayette.
Considering the shortness of the time within which to call a Parish Convention to select candidates for delegates to the convention ordered to assemble in New Orleans on the 21st of April next, to form a new constitution, which delegates should be chosen by the people at the election on the 18th of March, the undersigned have thought it proper and sufficient in their capacity as Parish Executive Committee of the Democratic Conservative party of the parish of Lafayette, to recommend to the voters of the parish of Lafayette the names of John Clegg for the Senatorial District and M. E. Girard for the parish, and thus dispense with a Parish Convention.
NATAHAN FOREMAN, J. O. BROUSSARD, V. MARTIN, J. G. ST. JULIEN, JEAN BERNARD, N. D. YOUNG.
A true copy:
H. M. Bailey, Secretary.
Dem. Con. Parish Ex. Com.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1879.
Lafayette Fire Co. No. 1.
At a meeting of Lafayette Fire Company No. 1, on Thursday last, the following officers were elected for the following year, viz:
M. E. Girard, president; W. B. Bailey, vice-president; Ed. Pellerin, foreman; Gustave Lacoste. 1st asst. foreman; H. M. Bailey, secretary; Jean Gerac, treasurer; Antoine Caro, keeper.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1879.
Hall Lafayette Fire Co. No. 1.
Vermilionville, March 6th, 1879.
At a regular meeting of Lafayette Fire Company No. 1, the following resolution was unanimously adopted:
Resolved, That the thanks of the Fire Company are hereby tendered to Prof. Will Willie, for his good will shown to us in tendering his services as Elocutionist and Phrenologist, in an entertainment given for the benefit of said Company. H. M. Bailey, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1879.
City Council of Vermilionville.
Regular Session, March 3rd, 1879.
: J. O. Mouton, Mayor, and Councilmen Alpha, Hebert, Vigneaux, Ed. McBride, Landry and R. L. McBride. Absent: Lindsay.
The minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted.
The Treasurer presented his monthly report, which, on motion, was unanimously adopted.
E. E. Mouton, Esq., in a very feeling address to the Council, presented his resignation Mr. Mouton as Attorney of said body be and is hereby accepted, and that the thanks of this body be tendered him for his past services as well as their regrets at this severance of his official intercourse with said body.
On motion of Ed. McBride seconded by Mr. Landry, the account of Chas. O. Olivier, jailer, amounting to $9.90 was approved for $8.80.
On motion of Mr. Vigneaux seconded by R. L. McBride, the account of Gerac Bros. for $6.87 for lumber was approved.
There being no further business, the Council adjourned.
J. O. MOUTON, Mayor.
H. M. BAILEY, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1879.
Police Jury Proceedings.
February 8th, 1879.
Pursuant to adjournment the Police Jury met at the Court House.
Members present, Martial Billaud, A. Primeaux and S. Hernandez. Absent: L. J. Prejean.
The following named officers were elected for the ensuing year:
On motion, Mr. Martial Billaud was elected President. J. N. Judice, Clerk, with a salary fixed at one hundred and twenty-five dollars; Alphonse Neveu, Treasurer, salary fixed at two hundred and fifty dollars; W. B. Bailey, Printer, salary fixed at three hundred dollars; Edgar Mouton, Constable, salary fixed at one hundred dollars.
On motion, it was resolved, that the resolution passed on the 19th of November, 1878, authorizing the Treasurer to transfer to the Road and Bridge fund twenty per cent of the different monthly amounts of money paid to him by the parish tax collector, be paid to John I. Gardner, Dominique Cayeret, John S. Whittington and Eduoard Fabre, be and the same is hereby repealed.
On motion, resolved, that the Tax Collector be and is hereby authorized to receive Parish paper in payment of back taxes.
On motion, resolved, that the printer be and is hereby authorized to receive Parish paper in payment of back taxes.
On motion, resolved, that the printer be and is hereby authorized to publish the resolution passed on September 24th, 1877, in regard to horned cattle in the First and Third Wards. Also resolution passed September 3d, 1877, in regard to hogs in the First and Second Wards.
On motion, resolved, that any person who shall shoot, kill, or disable, any horned cattle, mule or horse found roaming in his field or on his premises, shall be fined in the sums of fifty dollars. The amount to be recovered by the owner before any court or competent jurisdiction. Any law in conflict with the above is hereby repealed.
On motion, resolved, that the use of the court house shall be tendered the firemen's Hook & Ladder Co. for the purpose of giving a ball on the 24th of February or on the 4th of March.
On motion the following accounts were approved, and certificates ordered to be issued
There being no further business the Police Jury adjourned to Saturday the 8th day of March, 1879.
MARTIAL BILLAUD, President.
J. N. JUDICE, Clerk.
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1879.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of March 8th, 1873:
The Weather - During the past week we have experienced a variety of seasons ; Saturday, warm, heavy shower at night ; Sunday, strong north wind ; Monday, ice and heavy frost ; Tuesday, light frost, pleasant during the day ; Wednesday, heavy frost ; Thursday, southeast wind, chilly and disagreeable ; Friday, southeast wind, weather damp and cloudy.
The freeze of Monday injured many gardens, but we are happy to state that the fruit trees were not damaged. If we have have no more cold weather this season, the fruit crop will be much larger this year than last, in this parish. Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1873:
Messrs. M. P. Young & Co., have in addition to their extensive establishments, opened a large dry goods store in their new building on Washington street. They have everything on hand that a person can desire. They are now erecting another extensive building on Vermilionville street, which, when completed, will be used for a furniture store. Then we will have a Drugstore, a Grocery, a Dry goods store and a Furniture store all adjoining each other and belonging to the same firm.
These young gentlemen deserve credit for their energy and business tact, and we hope that they will be sustained and encouraged in all their undertakings. A few more such energetic and a g0-ahead men as Messrs. Young and Clegg in Vermilionville would give it the appearance of a city in a very short time. May they continue to proper and keep on with the good work of improvement. Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1873:
From the Lafayette Advertiser of March 8th, 1912:
ST. PAUL'S CHURCH.
Archbishop Blenk Will Be Welcomed Tomorrow - Dedication of Church Sunday Morning.
On Saturday, March 9, His Grace Archbishop Blenk of New Orleans, will arrive in our city, his visit being for the purpose of blessing and dedicating the new Saint Paul's Church, colored.
The Archbishop will be met here by a large number of the priests from different parts of the diocese, including a representative from Galveston, Texas.
On his arrival at the presbytery on Saturday afternoon His Grace will be met by the different colored Catholic societies, and others, and the line of march will then be formed and proceed to St. Paul's church, where His Grace will be tendered a public reception.
Hymns of welcome and praise to God will be rendered by the two hundred or more pupils of Saint Joseph's School, addresses of welcome will be made to His Grace and the visiting clergy and the exercises will then suspend until Sunday the 10th, when at 9 o'clock a. m., the Archbishop will then perform the ceremony of blessing and dedicating the Saint Paul's church. At 10 o'clock, solemn high mass will be held. The church will be decorated in the colors customary for such an occasion, the grounds have been cleaned, and everything presents an attractive and neat appearance.
The main altar, and the stations of the cross are in place and the organ in the choir gallery will peal forth its paeans of joy and melody on that day, which will mark an epoch in the history of our colored Catholic citizens. Under the spiritual and executive guidance of their pastor, Rev. W. J. Teaurlings, there is but one word to be said, "They have builded well."
Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1912.
lagniappe.
ROOSEVELT BECOMES PRESIDENT.
Inauguration Surpasses Everything Heretofore Attempted. Every Section of the Country Represented.
Grand Civic and Military Pageant. Night Decorations and Illumination Most Brilliant Ever Witnessed. [From the N. O. Times-Democrat.] Washington, March 4. - The most brilliant and imposing inauguration that the citizens of Washington have ever prepared passed t0-night into the history of the republic.
The traditional Jeffersonian simplicity was replaced by a pageant which has not been surpassed in the annals of the nation. For a week the District of Columbia has been the the host of the Union. Term after presidential her citizens, without regard to party, unite with enthusiasm in preparing an inauguration that shall fittingly show forth the national respect for the executive office.
NATIONAL AND POPULAR. - It is a mistaken idea that Congress has much to do with the wonderful display with which the District of Columbia welcomes each successive President, be he Democrat or Republican. The citizens provide the money and do all the work. With to-day's demonstration Congress had less to do than ever. But all obstacles were overcome under the unrivaled management of Gen. John M. Wilson, chairman of the inaugural committee. He was ably assisted by his vice-chairman George Truesdell, and the inaugural committee of seventy-five citizens, and by Lieut. Gen. Chaffee.
It was the first thoroughly national inauguration since the civil war.
The South sent up its warriors and its State officials. Men who fought each other for years under different flags, men who together in the war with Spain under one flag, executive orders of the States who upheld the Stars and Bars, and those who stood for the flag of the Union, marched together in review before their President, a soldier of the republic, elected by the largest popular and electoral vote ever given a President.
With these, to illustrate the new nationality, came marching representatives from the Philippines and Puerto Rico, lands where the sunset fading from the flag in the Far Pacific is the sunrise on its fold along the Atlantic horizon.
FLOWERS AND FLAGS. - The whole city was a garden of flowers and flags. The committee on street decorations, street illumination and parks and reviewing stands, worked together with artistic taste and transformed two and half of the city's noted avenues into a fitting highway for the nation, in its countless representative bodies, to march as an escort to its President.
Gen. Chaffee had provided a well ordered and perfect cavalry escort, which could have been rapidly passed over the line and possible the prompt reopening the streets to the car-lines and the public in order that the greater portions of the city might reach the centers of interests with the least delay. But the grand army, as is its habit, and the President, sharing the universal appreciation of its past deeds, yielded and his rate of progress to the Capital was reduced to the pathetic pace of men who were fast approaching the scripture limit of life.
DELAY HAS COMPENSATIONS. - Many thousands thus had opportunity to see and greet the President as his cortege slowly passed along the two miles from the White House to Capitol Hill. For three hours this national temple was the vortex of activity. Legislation was in the rapids. It was a mighty chaos to most onlookers. But the skilled officers of each house, and those handling and guiding the rush of closing work in the conference, where the last supply bills were being hammered into agreement, like the pilots in the rapids of the St. Lawrence, were speedily conducting their legislative craft into smooth waters.
The five minutes remaining at the close of the Senate's session were given to inaugurating the new Vice-President. He appeared at the main entrance escorted by the joint committee of arrangements, and as the Senate and its guests rose, and as the Senate and its guests rose, he was escorted to a seat at the right of the presiding officer, where he delivered brief inaugural remarks, and repeated the oath of office after the presiding officer, Senator Frye.
When the stroke of noon put an end of the session, little was known beyond the fact that no important appropriations had failed.
INAUGURATION. - Then immediately began the opening and formal organization of the new session in the Senate chamber. In this little box, whose galleries seat about 800, the Senate after a dull roll call and a duller reading of the President's proclamation assembling the body began its work. Packed like Sardines in the restricted space of the little chamber were the official visitors, the President and Cabinet in plain clothes; the ambassadors and ministers gorgeous in gilt braid and decorations; the Supreme Court in deep black, the army and navy in silver and gold and swords; and last of all, the members of a dead House of Representatives banked about the walls or crowded into cloak-rooms. Each of these grand divisions of official life, or official death, was announced and saluted by the Senate rising. All this prolonged form, with its solemn progress and weighty dignity, was preliminary to the ceremonies outside, and the march at once began to the immense platform, where the President was to deliver his inaugural address and take the oath of office.
Here the great pageant for the benefit of the public began to unfold itself, and the people were on hand to see. For the day a long winter had given way and the never more welcome sun blessed the occasion.
CHEERS MERGE INTO MIGHTY ROAR. - With the appearance of the President from the Senate chamber the shouting began, swelling into a road like Niagara, rising to the cyclonic effects and continuing while the Senate and members of the House, the Cabinet, the Supreme Court, the heads of the army and navy, ambassadors and ministers, representative of every subordinate branch of the government and a great company of guests filed out of the Senate doors and filled the immense platform.
At length all was ready for the crowning ceremony. The sea of humanity was stilled. The President advanced to take the oath of office. With his hand upon the Bible, held by the Chief Justice, he reverently repeated the oath, kissed the book at the end, and Theodore Roosevelt became President by the votes of the people following the unbroken line of soldier Presidents which his party has installed since the close of the civil war. He then delivered his inaugural, which surprised his hearers by its brevity and simplicity.
As the ceremony closed he was again greeted by the roaring cheers of the immense throng.
CIVIC AND MILITARY. - Accompanied by his escort and followed by troops and civilian paraders, it was the most perfect column that ever marched in an inaugural parade, though in number less than often before. Gen. Chaffee had insisted that a brigade of the National Guard from each State should be the maximum representation. This obviated such an imposing but wearisome and finally monotonous sight as when Pennsylvania's 12,000 finely-equipped State troops marched the McKinley inaugural. Everywhere, as the column passed, the skill of Gen. Chaffee's supervision was apparent to every practiced eye. The regulars, the National Guard and the civic grand divisions had their orders of formation for each unit of the column and conformed to them.
Never has there bees so perfect a regular army column in any previous pageant. Cavalry, infantry, artillery, engineers, marines, seamen and properly classed with all this, the Annapolis and West Point cadets thrilled all the soldiers with this exponent of the perfection of our military arm.
CIVIC DIVISION. - The civic grand division of eight brigades in three divisions made up of over fifty organizations was in every respect better organized than ever before, and so like the whole column more interesting. There were Governors and their gorgeous staffs, many noted political clubs from East and West, college and university men, high school cadets from North and South, Roosevelt's neighbors, anthracite miners, rail-splitters, Italian clubs, Spanish veterans, secret societies, boys' brigades, newsboys, drum corps, bugle corps; church societies, cowboys and clubs in great variety. It was a column in mosaic, fairly representing every prominent element of American civic life. Though strictly civilian, B. H. Warner, its committee organizer, had given it a semi-military character by appointing Quartermaster and Commissary Generals, Inspector Generals and every other brand of officer of high rank, and Adjutant Generals and aides sufficient for an army corps, with Gens. Howard and Joe Wheeler as leading military features.
The whole column, military and civic, under Gen. Chaffee and his staff, marched with a steadiness and celerity hitherto unattained, and like every section of this unrivaled inauguration, its praises are on every tongue.
NIGHT PROGRAMME. - Turning from the pageant of the day, the doubled population of the city disposed itself for the three imposing spectacles of the night, the promenade at the Pension Office misnamed a ball, the fireworks on the White lot and the dazzling street decorations. The attendance at the ball was limited to 12,000 or 15,000, all the building, would hold. The street decorations were viewed by a solid marching column, filling the wide pavements of the avenue and the street itself, and reaching for two miles and a half. No such illumination was ever witnessed before in this country nor in any other, for here electric effects had their origin and have their greatest development. The dome of the Capitol stood white against the darkness, illuminated by searchlights from the top of the Washington monument, and the monument was made visible for many miles.
The fireworks exceeded all previous displays. There were no ordinary places. Rockets, with their dangerous sticks, were discarded. The set pieces were of large dimension - such as a wheel more than a hundred feet in diameter, a presidential piece 200 feet in length, and a national flag 300 feet long, carried up a thousand feet by balloon and there developed in the sight of the city beyond.
THE BALL ROOM. - The decorations of the ball room most successfully conformed to the agreement that every inauguration should exceed all previous efforts. All that could be effected by extended (unreadable word) of color, spreading up and down the immense room and its galleries with miles of evergreen vines, carloads of cut flowers, flags in artistic combination, electric lights by the thousands upon thousands and electric pieces, large and small, with one of unrivaled proportions carrying 6000 lights of various colors woven into a most beautiful design.
The instrumental music and the orchestra of 500 voices filled the vast building to its remotest recesses with perfection of musical attainment. In deference to the Sabbath, all ceremonies stopped at midnight, but it was well toward morning before the lights were turned down on the most brilliant spectacle that Washington has seen it its long line of notable occasions. Till long after midnight the gathered thousands walked wondering and enthusiastic on Pennsylvania avenue's long reaches of fairy land.
From the N. O. Times-Democrat and in the Lafayette Advertiser of 3/8/1905.
lagniappe:
A BRAVE SPIRIT.
Young men be brave. Many people imagine that courage is confined to the field of battle. There could be no greater mistake. Even contentions with men - unavoidable contentions - are not by any means limited to the battle fields. And there are other struggles with worse circumstances - struggles, it may be habits, or appetite, or passions - all of which require as much courage and more of perseverance, than the brief exciting encounter in battle. Enough to contend with, enough to overcome, lies in the way of a young man. It may be one kind of a difficulty of some kind or other every young man just starting in life may be sure that he will find. And the essential thing about him us, whether he will be a coward and succumb or what the Indians so significantly term "a brave." He who never falters, no matter how adverse the circumstances, always enjoys within himself the consciousness of a perpetual triumph, of which nothing can deprive him.
Original source unknown. In the Lafayette Advertiser 3/8/1873.
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