LAWLESSNESS.
The (St. Martin) Messenger tells of several acts of lawlessness in St. Martin parish. The Messenger very properly condemns the lawless spirit which seems to prevail in our sister parish and endorses the action of Mayor T. J. Labbe who has shown a determination to enforce the laws and to protect life and property within the corporate limits of the town of St. Martinville. Let the good people stand by Mayor Labbe in his commendable efforts to uphold the majesty of the law. Those who are disposed to take the law into their own hands must be made to learn that it will not be tolerated. Particularly when negroes are charged with crime there is a tendency among many misguided men to set up a tribunal of their own and to punish the offenders in their own way. As The Gazette has repeatedly expressed there is no reason to resort to the methods of Judge Lynch. Every branch of the government is in the hands of the white people. From governor to constable white men are at the helm. They are elected exclusively by white men. The negro is practically disfranchised and he is not permitted to participate in the administration of governmental affairs. The last constitutional has taken away from him that which he is by nature and education unfit to exercise.
Politically speaking the convention has placed him in harmless obscurity. He is where he belongs and ought to be made to stay there. God didn't make the nigger to sit on Judicial benches nor on legislative halls. He isn't cut out for that kind of business. But he should be afforded every protection. His life and property should be held as sacred as those of the white man. Even-handed justice should be meted out to him. When he appeals to a court for justice his color should not be taken in the account. When he violates the law bring him up before the court and if he is guilty a white judge, a white district attorney and a white jury will, without doubt, convict him and as he has no political pull the Board of Pardons will not intervene and he will be allowed to serve his time.
The white people are in possession of every department of the government and the denial to the negro of simple justice is an acknowledgement that they are unfit to properly administer the affairs of the country. The whole structure of our government rests upon the enforcement of the laws. It must either be the sober, impartial rule of the law or the wild, turbulent anarchy of the mob.
Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
A HAPPY NEGRO.
The happiest man in the Union last Tuesday was, beyond doubt, the negro who had the smallpox and who was pronounced cured and given his liberty and told to go where he chose. It will be remembered that the negro was taken in charge by Dr. Girard of the Board of Health and treated at the expense of the town. When the negro reached here he did his best to conceal the fact that he was afflicted with smallpox as he was afraid to be burned. He said that he had been led to believe by other negroes that if found in that condition he would surely be killed and his body destroyed by the flames. One can well imagine in what state of mind the poor fellow was and how relieved he must have been when the health authorities at this place informed him that he would be protected and properly treated. The nurse, Poulette, has not yet been allowed to come to town, but he will soon be unless unfavorable symptoms should make his further isolation necessary. The Gazette congratulates the health authorities, particularly Dr. Girard, for the intelligent and successful isolation and treatment of this case. It will serve as a splendid lesson to people who fall into fits at the mere mention of smallpox or other contagious diseases.
Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
A Hot Target.
The New Orleans Times-Democrat and Lafayette Gazette have been throwing hot shot into the Crowley Board of Health for shipping a pronounced case of smallpox from this place to Lafayette to the great danger of spreading the disease in another locality.
The citizens of Crowley are not to blame in this matter and we believe the Board of Health as a body did not act in the matter, as there was no meeting called to decide what disposition should be made of the case before he was allowed to go where he said he came from.
In all justice and fairness the Board of Health should have detained the case of smallpox and isolated it in a pest house. It was a serious and unwise conclusion to let the infected negro go elsewhere.
From the Crowley Mirror and in the Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
THE INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL.
The Gazette calls the attention of the people of Lafayette to the following special from New Iberia to the Times-Democrat of April 17:
New Iberia, April 18. - The ladies auxiliary of the Industrial School Association of this place has taken an earnest, substantial interest in raising funds for the erection of an industrial school in this city. At their last meeting it was decided to inaugurate a paper carnival, to take place on May 12. These carnivals have proven not only a novelty wherever given, but a decided success. The School Board has ordered a general holiday throughout the district for the day, and the business houses have agreed to give a half holiday. Already significant application for space in a parade, which will take place at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, has been received to make a procession over one mile long. Excursions will be run by rail and water and special rates will be given on railroads for a longer stay. The police jury and city council have each made appropriations for the proposed school. A public-spirited lady has offered to donate the land in a suburb of the town suitable for the site. The business men have subscribed liberally and property holders signify their intention of voting a special tax for the purpose.
This parish has a system of public education second to none in the State, and the erection of an industrial school will complete the system and enable those unable to send their children away for higher education and learning a trade an opportunity to secure the same at home.
Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
Town Growing Rapidly.
A gentleman who has closely watched the progress made by Lafayette during the decade since the last census was taken, stated to The Gazette the other day that the town had more than doubled in property and population in that time. The last census gave Lafayette a population of 2,300 while the next census will no doubt show a population of at least 6,000, and perhaps more. Few towns in Louisiana have forged to the front faster than Lafayette and if the past is a fair criterion it is safe to say that the not distant future has in store for Lafayette a period of unexampled prosperity. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
Carpenters Busy.
The carpenter's hammer continues to make itself heard on every hand. A dozen or more buildings are always in the course of construction, evidencing the fact that Lafayette is enjoying a rapid and healthy growth. Another sign which shows that the spirit of improvement has taken possession of our people is the warning everywhere to "look-out for fresh paint."
Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
Railroad Clue?
We are informed by one of the Crowley papers that Mr. C. C. Duson and two other gentlemen left a few days ago for the East to transact some business and while in that section they will visit the men who are putting up the money to build the proposed railroad through this portion of the State. The Crowley gentlemen will no doubt endeavor to convince the railroad builders of the advisability of running their line through Crowley. In the meantime Lafayette is doing nothing. Several times The Gazette called the attention of the people of this town and parish to this proposed railway, but they have evidently not thought it worth while for them to make a move in the matter. Should the road be built The Gazette fears that it will glimmering without even knowing that there is such a thing as Lafayette. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
"The Advertiser's" Plan.
The Advertiser's plan if carried to its legitimate conclusion would result in having some sweet-scented birds in all offices, because if it is good policy to sell the sheriff's office to the lowest bidder the same methods ought to be employed in the selection of all the officers. Let's see what kind of bargain a man would make if he accepted the sheriff's office for a yearly salary of $300. We will consider only one item, that of taking prisoners to the penitentiary. This parish sends about 25 prisoners to the penitentiary a year. In order to ensure the safety of the prisoners and to guard against a possible escape the $300-sheriff will find it necessary to travel on a regular passenger train otherwise he could ride the rod with his prisoners. Twenty-five tickers to Baton Rouge will cost him something in the neighborhood of $175 and added to this $14 for a round trip ticket for himself he will have to spend $189 each year for railroad fare alone. Add to this the following items: two nights lodging 30 cents, six meals, 90 cents; one pack red-cross, 5 cents; and $50 to a good man who will have to look after him and see that he takes the right train and that he does not fall into the hands of the good brick fraternity. Those items summed up make $240.25 which deducted from the salary of the Advertiser's choice leave $59.75. It can easily be seen that at this rate the sheriff with a $300 salary will, in less than a year's time, land in the pen, asylum, or the Home for the Homeless Men. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
Lieut. Moss. - A letter received by Judge A. J. Moss from his son, Lieut. James A. Moss, brings the information that the latter is now at the Presidio, a few miles from San Francisco. Lieut. Moss has been quartered at Fort Russell, Wyoming, for some months. He is delighted with the change and speaks in glowing terms of his new quarters.
Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
Races Tomorrow. - Boney, Lucien Roy's horse, will, run half a mile tomorrow at the Oak Avenue Park, against a horse belonging to Boagni & Ogden of Opelousas. Other interesting races and a base ball game will take place. The management of the park requests The Gazette to state that everybody on the stand will be made to remain seated and that all will be given a chance to see the races. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
THE SUNDAY LAW.
[From the Abbeville Meridional.]
"At the last term of court in Lafayette parish Judge Debaillon fined a number of saloon keepers $200 or nine months imprisonment for violating the Sunday law. This action has well nigh paralyzed the saloon keepers, and thrown the editor of Facts and Fancy, a sprightly New Orleans weekly into a fit of terror, and raids lustily at our righteous judge. We do not believe Judge Debaillon is personally an advocate of the Sunday law, at least his political enemies do not charge him with it. He found it on the statute book, just as he did the law against cowstealing and he gave the saloon men fair warning that he meant to execute it fearlessly. If they conscientiously believe the right to sell whisky on Sunday is the concentrated acme of "liberty and the pursuit of happiness" guaranteed under the Federal Constitution then no doubt they will agree with the New Orleans editor when he censures Judge Debaillon for doing his duty. In closing the editor says: "We ought to teach the men we place in authority that they are but placed in positions to voice the wishes of their sovereign, and their sovereign is the people. Search the annals of history and you will find that tyranny invariably succumbs to the wishes of the people. Such names as Rienzi, William Tell, John Hampden, Lafayette, Washington, Charlotte Corday, and those who brought monarchy to France to the dust, should be sufficient reminders to deter men like Judge Debaillon from abusing powers that had been entrusted to them by their masters." Abbeville Meridional.
The Gazette agrees with the Meridional that the New Orleans paper is considerably off. Judge Debaillon has nothing to do with the popularity or unpopularity of the Sunday law. He found it upon the statute books just as it was passed by the Legislature. Facts and Fancy is preaching a strange and pernicious doctrine when it says that "men are placed in power to voice the wishes of their sovereign." This may be true of Legislators, but it is not so with judges. The Sunday law is unquestionably unpopular in this parish, but all right-thinking people want to see it respected just as much as any other law, and in his efforts to compel liquor dealers as well as other dealers to respect it Judge Debaillon will have the support of all good citizens.
Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 4/22/1899.
The court-house now looks like a new building. It was very proper to paint the old edifice.
"Lafayette has more sweet flowers and pretty girls - or sweet girls and pretty flowers - than any other town of its size in the State," remarked a cheerful old bachelor to The Gazette man the other evening.
The home of Mr. William Walker near Arnaudville was completely destroyed by fire last Sunday evening. Not a thing was saved.
A prominent educator who was in town the other day expressed the opinion that Lafayette is the most suitable place in this senatorial district for the Industrial School. The gentleman is unquestionably correct. But the people of Lafayette don't seem to think so.
O. B. Hopkins, an experienced salesman and accomodating young gentleman of Lafayette, La., has accepted a position with the Lorch Dry Good company. He is a brother of Mrs. B. J. Williams of this city. From the Greenville (Texas) Banner.
Judge O. C. Mouton's law office has been enlarged and painted, and now presents a very neat appearance. Contractor Anderson and Painter Carey did the work.
Important meeting of the Business Men's Association will be held Monday night, at Falk's Hall. All members will please attend . JNO. I. BELL, Secretary.
Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of April 22nd, 1899:
SUCCESSFUL MISSION FOR BAYOU.
On last Thursday a week ago, Mr. Chas. O. Mouton, president of the Business Men's Association of Lafayette went to New Orleans to confer with Major Quinn about the appropriation made by Congress to improve Bayou Vermilion.
It will be remembered that at a meeting of the B. M. A., Mr. Mouton had been chosen as delegate for that purpose and soon after he entered into correspondence with Hon. R. F. Broussard, our congressman, asking his help to enable him to be successful in his mission.
Hon. R. F. Broussard cheerfully granted his help and influence and promised to meet Mr. Mouton in New Orleans on last Friday a week ago.
According to promise, our congressman met Mr. Mouton, and both of them accompanied by a reporter of THE ADVERTISER called on Major Quinn, at his office, and after having explained to him the object of their visit, the Major readily consented to do everything in his power to further the project to a successful ending and joining the action to his words, he ordered two of his engineers, Messrs. Bryant and Brownlee to come to Lafayette about May, to make a careful survey of the necessary work to be done so as to render the bayou navigable to Lafayette.
The Major was well disposed towards the request and it was with pleasure that he granted it.
As we have already said in one of our preceding numbers the appropriation made by Congress is $2,5000 and in adding to it $1,000 left from last from last year, still the amount is small.
But in all things there must necessarily be a beginning and further on Hon. R. F. Broussard has promised to put forth his best efforts to secure a larger appropriation.
We congratulate Mr. Mouton on his success. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1899.
INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL.
We remind our people of a fact that seems to have escaped their memory, namely the establishment of an Industrial School to be located in this district.
Since the legislature passed the Act creating such an institution we have, at various time, urged our people to take some steps to secure this school to Lafayette.
Has anything been done by our people in that direction? We don't think so, and while we have been apathetic on the subject, other towns in the district have been wide awake to their interest and have done the preliminary work towards ascertaining if the conditions required to secure the institution in their midst could be met.
And yet our people are as much public spirited and liberal as in other towns.
In fact we can report that at several times some of our public spirited citizens have stepped in our office expressing the desire to subscribe hundreds of dollars towards securing the Industrial School.
Judging from appearances all that is needed now is an awakening from the seeming stupor in which we have fallen and go to work in earnest, starting the preliminary work that will bring the Industrial School to Lafayette.
In some towns the work is done.
In New Iberia, the ENTERPRISE informs us, that the committee on subscriptions of the Industrial School having about completed their labors, the board of directors has decided to have subscribers give notes for the amounts subscribed, payable in four equal installments.
In Jeanerette the people are wide-awake, and we are informed they are sanguine to succeed.
What will Lafayette do about it?
What will Lafayette do about it?
The inestimable value of the prize is within our grasp, all we have to do is to secure it. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1899.
The Weather. A delightful and welcome rain fell last Sunday in time to renew the buoyancy of our farmers and to spread smiles of contentment upon their faces. It was very welcome as the land had become thirsty, but Providence was watchful and kind. Since, we have enjoyed balmy spring days, listening to the warbling of the birds and smelling the fragrant flowers.
This is indeed growing weather.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1895.
BE PATIENT.
We are glad to know that the musicians who belong to the brass band are meeting every Sunday morning to blow their horns and other instruments in practice.
A leading member of the band assured the local reporter of THE ADVERTISER, a few days ago, that ere long we will have the pleasure to listen to an evening concert.
There is nothing like martial music in the Summer moonlight nights to afford good rest and peace to the soul.
From the beginning of the human family until now, music has taken a large share in the affections of mankind.
It is related that King David, played on his harp to appease the anger of King Saul.
Anger is still rampant in the land specially during the Summer months when the heat is unbearable; and what King David did for King Saul, the brass band of Lafayette can do to the inhabitants - appease their heated anger ! !
It is a fact that blowing in a cornet, sliding trombone, tenor or bass during the heated term is more than enough to create musical anger, but there is no pleasure without effort, and therefore it is to be hoped that our musicians will not for a moment consider their own welfare but will relieve the monotonous season in Lafayette in giving to their fellow citizens a chance of hearing good music. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1899.
At the Opera House.
Bancroft's European Entertainers and grand Gift Carnival under the sole management and personal direction of the Bancrofts - will appear at Falk's Opera House Saturday & Sunday April 22 & 23. - The grandest and most mysterious entertainment of its kind, - over two hours of the most amazing wonders ever conceived, fascinating marvels, almost bordering on the miraculous. This is not a sleight-of-hand exhibition! No magic, no conjuring, no prestidigitation, and yet an entertainment that will set everybody talking, guessing.
Elegant and Costly Presents Distributed Gratuitously to the Audience Each Evening. - Prices of admission 15, 25 and 35 cents. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1899.
A New Chief.
For the Fire Department.
A new Fire Chief has arrived. Mrs. J. T. Allingham presented her husband this a. m. with a bouncing baby boy whom some day we hope will be seen in our uniform department ranks. The mother and son are doing well. And the old chief has a broad smile upon his good natured countenance. Long live the chief, mother and son. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1899.
James Moss in San Francisco.
A letter received by Judge Moss informs us that his son James is for the present at the military post "The Presidio" in San Francisco, California, which is justly considered one of the finest and most desirable posts in the army. Lt. Moss says that his quarters are as well amenaged as those of a general. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1899.
Died After Funeral.
Mr. James Hannen returned from New Orleans this week. Mr. Hannen spoke of the death of his wife as follows: "Both of us were staying with friends in New Orleans. Mrs. Hannen while attending the burial of one of her acquaintances felt indisposed during the ceremony and help was required to bring her in a neighboring house. Called very soon after I went to her bedside of my wife who though yet breathing did not recognize me; she died a few minutes after my coming."
Mr. and Mrs. Hannen were on their way to Gulfport where they intended to build a Summer residence, and where plans were to be submitted to them for the erection of it. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1899.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 4/22/1899.
The Century Club will give a billiard Tournament on Monday and Tuesday nights April 24th and 25th. Prizes will be given to the winners.
Contractors J. Broussard and Emes are building a fine residence for Mr. J. E. Trahan, near Dr. Mouton.
Judge Julian Mouton will soon begin the addition of another story to his house. The work will be in charge of contractor Anderson.
Graser Bros., of Lafayette are busy working for Mr. John Castex, of Mermentau, who is building two rice flumes, one 340 feet in length the other 120 feet.
Races to-morrow at Oak Avenue Park at 1:30 p. m.
Mr. and Mrs. Walker, of Arnaudville, had the misfortune of having their home and its entire contents burned up on last Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, while they were away from home attending church. There is no clue as to how the fire originated.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1899.
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From the Lafayette Gazette of April 22nd, 1893:
SUGAR REFINERIES FOR ALL.
There is room for sugar refineries and several other manufacturing enterprises, in the several towns of the parish. And each of these town, The Gazette makes bold to predict, will have one or more, in course of time - and the time is limited only to the energy and enterprise displayed by the people.
Appearances indicate that Carencro will be the first to land a factory, although not long ago rumors were rife to the effect that two gentleman of means, and residents of the neighborhood, had joined their capital for the purpose of erecting a refinery with a mile or so of Broussardville, but it failed to materialize owing to one of the gentlemen failing to come to time.
The Gazette thinks that if the acreage now devoted to the cultivation of cotton was put in cane, the tonnage would be enough to give a refinery, in each town, their full quota of work.
Now, then, let us show a desire to rise up William Riley, and say to each other, come along and let's try our best, and with such thoughts animating each one the results, in a few years, will be marvelous. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1893.
THE FOREMAN CASE.
The case of the State of Louisiana versus Willie Foreman, charged with the murder of J. G. Bertrand, at Duson, some months ago, and which, upon the first trial, at the term of court before this, resulted in a disagreement of the jury, was brought up last Monday, and after a trial lasting two days and the best part of a night, resulted in a verdict of manslaughter, with a recommendation of mercy attached.
The particulars of the case are so well known to the readers of The Gazette that it would be waste of time to again go over the details.
The case had attracted much attention, in view of the alleged desperate reputation of the accused, coupled to the proclaimed statement that on account of large family connections, it would be, as it had been in the past, well nigh impossible for the State to secure a conviction, when one of the Foreman's are concerned. The district attorney laid particular stress upon this point, and made a forcible argument of his side of the case.
The following is the jury: Martial Billaud, foreman; Charles Billaud, Louis Deleglise, Henry Eawein, Albert Labbe, Hazard Bernard, I. N. Satterfield, Armance Guilbeau, G. Abbadie, Auguste Labbe, T. Estilette, Wm. Dural (colored.)
It appears this young man has been up before the authorities many times, for a number of offenses and among them were two accusations of murder. Upon trial of the first he was acquitted.
All this trouble can be traced to the reprehensible habit of carrying weapons. Had Willie Foreman and Columbus Spell left their pistols at home it is probable that J. G. Bertrand would be living to-day, and Columbus Spell would have been saved the suffering caused by the two wounds he received, and Willie Foreman, instead of now being on the threshold of the penitentiary where a long stay may await him, would be in the bosom of his family, a solace and joy, and spare them the consequent disgrace entailed by an act, that would not have been committed it that pistol had been left at home. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1893.
AN ASSURED FACT.
It may be remembered that two weeks since The Gazette called attention to the formation of The Teche Railroad and Sugar company and that it was the fixed purpose of the gentleman at its head to build, at an early day, a railroad from Huron plantation, on Bayou Teche, to Carencro. That the company means to carry out their intentions The Gazette has all along believed, and we are happy to note that it is coming.
Through the courtesy of that public spirited citizen, Mr. Romain Francez, we have in our possession a letter, written to that gentleman by Mr. S. A. Knapp, the moving spirit in the projected railroad, wherein the information is sought (1) as to a through "right of way" between the two points, which, we understand, will be readily granted; (2) terminal facilities at Carencro; (3) the amount of cane that can be purchased at Carencro with the agreement that the road shall be completed in time to take the cane.
To the first question, as we stated before, there is no difficulty whatever existing in regard to securing the "right of way;" the second Mr. Francez has definitely settled by donating sufficient land for depot purposes, and to the third, the planters we are sure, will be able to deliver enough cane to satisfy the wishes of Mr. Knapp.
In a year or two from the present an acreage in cane will be cultivated sufficient demand increased manufacturing facilities, which will undoubtedly be met, hence, this will necessitate the erection of a large refinery in the immediate neighborhood of Carencro, and for this latter purpose, Mr. Francez stands ready to donate the land necessary.
Now that a new era is beginning to dawn on that section of the Parish of Lafayette, let the enterprising people thereof see to it that the opportunity of a lifetime be not permitted to escape them. Let them give all proper encouragement to the capital that is knocking at their door, and in a few years they will reap such prosperity, as they never dreamed of. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1893.
Most Advantageous.
There is not a town more advantageously situated than Lafayette for manufacturing enterprises. The obstacle is want of knowledge of the fact, and were it known abroad, we have not the least doubt that the money, brains and brawn that is so essential would come to us. The principal step is to reach the people we need, and how best to do this is a problem confronting us, and it should and can be solved, but it will necessitate a small expenditure of money. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1893.
ANNOUNCEMENT.
Lafayette, La., April 20, 1893.
We, the undersigned, submit our names as candidates for the offices of Mayor and Councilmen for the town of Lafayette, to the white Democratic voters of said corporation et the election to be held on May 1, 1893, and if elected, we shall endeavor to give the people an economical, business like administration.
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Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1893.
THE LITTLE DIAMONDS.
A large concourse of people was present at the establishment of the "Little Diamonds" at Falk's opera house Thursday, and they witnessed and enjoyed a very interesting programme, admirably rendered.
The children, in their several parts, showed an epitat and thorough drilling, indubitably demonstrating the painstaking and intelligent instruction they had received.
The scenic effects were very pleasing to the view, especially pleasing was the harmonious blending of the profusion of flowers which decorated the stage, in fact, all the details, and adjuncts necessary to a successful rendition of the cast, was most admirably employed and utilized.
While some of the children did a little better than others, still it would be invidious to particularize where all did their best and many so well, consequently we say to them all: You have done splendidly, and the approbation manifested by the liberal applause was merited, and The Gazette compliments you. And deserving of the highest praise are the ladies who so graciously gave their appreciated assistance, to make the entertainment all the more enjoyable.
At the conclusion of the dramatic entertainment the hall was cleared, and the young folks indulged in the fascinating mazes of the dance to the sweet strains of the Lafayette string band, which lasted until admonished by the too hasty flight of time that pleasure must cease and repose sought.
The whole furnished a very agreeable recreation, and the compliments paid to the management were many, and The Gazette takes pleasure in adding, were fully deserved. The following is the programme:
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In concluding this imperfect compte rendu The Gazette wishes to make this observation : When a lady is kind enough to give her assistance to a worthy cause, she deserves the highest commendation and warmest thanks, and every sense of honor, manhood, and chivalry exacts that she should not be disturbed by the exhibition of gallery god methods, as was the case in one instance. It is not necessary to say more, the act speaks for itself.
Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1893.
King's Comedy Company.
The King's Comedy Company played Friday week at Falk's Opera House, and again Sunday night, presenting on the latter day, Mrs. Burnet's dramatized story, "Little Lord Fauntleroy," to a crowded house. There is an agreeable contrast between this sterling organization of talented people, and the many inferior troupes that we have been afflicted with. This excellent company presents only legitimate plays well rendered, and deserve crowded houses wherever they go. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1893.
Some Observations.
A Gazette man was out in Broussardville and Royville Monday, and was pleased to note the many improvements going on in that section of our Parish, one thing that struck him rather forcibly is the general prosperity of, and feeling of hope for the future by the people. The store keepers have large and varied stocks of merchandise, and appear to be doing a very satisfactory business.
The crops in the neighborhood, while a little backward, owing to the recent spell of cold we have had during the past few days, and especially has its effect been felt by the cane, still, as a whole, the out look is very encouraging.
The roads are in splendid condition making traveling over them a pleasure.
Farm operations are being prosecuted with much energy and we noted some intelligent cultivation in more than one place. By intelligent farming we mean that some of the farmers are putting in a diversity of crops, and are not depending so much on a single one. This is wisdom, and will pay in the long run.
This is a great poultry country, nearly every farmer has his poultry yard, and makes it contribute largely to household expenses.
One lady Mrs. Albert Landry in the vicinity of Broussardville, has some 600 chicks, and a much larger number of grown chickens. This lady has sold as high as $15 worth of eggs at 10 cents a dozen, in one week, and averages a very handsome amount throughout the year. We are told that the range is such that raising poultry entails such little labor that it becomes a pleasurable recreation, besides being quite profitable.
We also had the pleasure of visiting the public school in Broussardville taught by our friend, Claude Latiolais. There is a noticeable entente cordiale between the children and teacher, and we are informed that the parents are well pleased with the progress made by their children. Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1893.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 4/22/1893.
Mr. W. B. Bailey is having an annex built to his house.
Mrs. Livron is having some repairs made to the front of her hotel building.
The political cauldron, for the town offices, to be elected on the first day of May is simmering.
Miss Lizzie Parkerson has returned home from a pleasant visit to relatives in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
Mr. Leopold Lacoste has received a large stock of shelf hardware and agricultural implements.
Judge C. Debaillon went to New Orleans Friday and returned Saturday, on business, taking with him his young son, Thomas.
The boys went out to the grounds last Sunday and had some practice, preparatory to organizing a base ball club.
Mr. S. A. Knapp, one of the directors of The Teche Sugar Company, was in Lafayette Monday.
Mr. T. M. Biossat made a flying trip to Alexandria Saturday and returned Sunday, with his wife and children, who had been on a visit to relatives in that town.
Mr. Gus. Lacoste is having a tasty building put up next to his store, which when finished, will be occupied by Cornelius Higginbotham as a barber shop.
Mrs. Cornay's ice-cream parlors are deservedly well patronized. Besides ice-cream nice cold lemonade, cakes, etc., are kept and courteously served.
The Gazette is requested to state that from next Monday the office of registrar of voters will be opened at the court-house, for the purpose of registering those qualified and who wish to vote at the municipal election on the 1st of May. The office will also be kept opened on election day.
Mr. S. Georgiades wishes to announce to the public that he has just received some fine Kentucky apple and Maryland peach cider which he is selling ice-cold. He will, also, have ice-cream three times a week, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Upon the occasion of the nineteenth birthday of their daughter, Miss Mamie, Mr. A. Lisbony and wife, gave a dancing party in honor of the event Monday night.
Dr. G. Gladu has returned to Mermentau, after spending a few days in town.
Dr. F. E. Girard left Sunday for New Orleans, where he goes to occupy the position of resident surgeon in the Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital. His many friends wish him success.
Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1893.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of April 22nd, 1893:
Had Meeting in Lafayette.
Yesterday were seen in our city delegates from many Parishes, appointed to attend the Convention held for the purpose of assessing and taxing Rail Roads, Telegraph and Telephone Companies, and it was gratifying to see able men to handle such an important question. The following parishes were ably represented by the following gentlemen: Avoyelles, D. B. Hutson; Acadia, B. E. Clark; Iberia, P. L. Renoudet; Jefferson, L. H. Marrero; Lafayette, C. C. Brown; Rapides, C. J. Barstow; St. Charles, J. W. Freison; St. Mary, J. M. Burgieres; St. Martin; A. E. Duchamp; Terrebonne, J. M. McBride.
The meeting was called to order at 10:30 a. m. with President C. C. Brown in the chair, Mr. P. L. Renoudet acting as Secretary. After a careful and thorough examination of the work before them, bearing in mind the best interest of the State, with due justice to the companies, they have agreed and did tax. The following properties as follows: The Morgan Line $7,500 per mile and branches at $3,500. The La. West. R. R. was taxed at the rate of $7,000 per mile. The Western Union Telegraph Company at $100 per mile when the line consisted of one or two wire, $150 when 3 to 5 wires were used, and $25.00 for each additional wire to the above. The meeting adjourned at 12:15 p. m. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1893.
An Important Capture.
During the night of the storm, some days since, three prisoners, one white man held for safe blowing in Houston, and two negroes, one under sentence of death for a criminal assault, and the other for burglary, escaped from the Lake Charles jail. Sheriff Broussard had been apprised of the escape. Monday Conductor Vossburg and crew, when near Crowley, discovered the three men in a box car, and suspecting that they might be the escaped prisoners, proceeded at once to secure them, and after a desperate struggle the white man was held locked in a box car, brought here and turned over to the sheriff, but the two negroes, for the time being escaped. Tuesday, Mr. Henry Church, the yardmaster, saw two suspicious looking negroes loitering around, and with C. Olivier and J. B. Commes held them and notified the sheriff, and they proved to be the right men, although they tried to deceive the officers by saying they had just come from chopping wood at some wood camp. All three are now safely incarcerated in the Lake Charles jail. The sheriff turned the prisoners over to the Calcasieu parish authorities without making any charges. A baseless rumor had gained some currency to the effect that the sheriff and Marshal Bradley had received an offered reward for the capture. We are requested to state that this rumor is false, and that the sheriff has not only not received any reward for their capture, but knows of none being offered. And, further, should there be one it will go, every cent of it, to the railroad men who caught the prisoners.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1893.
THE LITTLE DIAMONDS.
The Entertainment Given by Them Proves a Great Success.
As early as seven o'clock on last Thursday night the people began to enter the opera house, to see the Little Diamonds, and by 8 o'clock standing room was at a premium. All the chairs had been taken and many brought in from the outside, yet many were compelled to stand up through the entire performances, ladies, as well as gentlemen.
The program was opened by music by the band, which was followed by the "Spring Festival," by the children. The little ones were dressed to represent the different months of spring, and joined with the other subjects in paying homage to their queen who was seated on her throne, which presented a beautiful appearance, with its trimmings of flowers and roses. All the children in this presentation did remarkably well, and the little ones in their bright costumes, with their arms filled with floral offerings for their queen, formed a picture that will long remain in the memory of those present.
This was followed by an instrumental selection entitled "Martha" and was beautifully executed by Miss Ida Hopkins.
Next came the "Doll Drill" by sixteen "Little Diamonds," who were all dressed in slate color Mother Hubbards with white aprons and caps, and each one carried her doll in her arms. Little Miss Viola Young headed the drill, and all did remarkably well, and reflected great credit on Miss Clye Mudd, who drilled the little ones. This part of the programme greatly pleased the entire audience who heartily applauded the efforts of the Little Diamonds. They all looked very sweet, and finer group of children would be hard to find.
At the close of the Doll Drill, a duet was sung by Miss Mattie Hopkins and Master Orin Hopkins, entitled "The Texas Cow Boys," which was finely rendered.
Then came the little piece - "Entertaining Big Sister's Beaux" by Gillie Duverne and Alex. Whittington, and the little lady did remarkably well.
Miss Lea Gladu next favored the audience with an instrumental selection, which was finely executed and called forth loud applause.
The "Quack Doctor" represented by Godfrey Soloman and others was the next on the programme, and the acting in this was very fine for ones so young.
Miss Anna Hopkins then recited, "A Similar Case" with pleasing effect.
A duct on the Harmonica and Guitar by Messrs. L. Miller and Chas. Bienvenu, followed and received much applause and the gentlemen kindly responded to an encore.
Mrs. Wm. L. Walker then recited that beautiful selection entitled "Vasti" with fine effect and received great applause.
Mr. Baudier next favored the audience with several instrumental selections on the piano which pleased the audience greatly and drew forth loud applause.
The entertainment as a whole was a great success, the only thing to be criticized or deplored was the rowdy-like disturbance by the boys several times during the evening. We were greatly surprised that the boys so far forgot themselves and their manners, as to indulge in such actions. We trust that next time the boys will act in a more gentlemanly manner.
After the entertainment refreshments consisting of ice cream, strawberries and cake, were served by the ladies.
The entertainment will net about $110 besides seventeen dollars received from the raffle of "Baby Ruth" which was won by Miss Philomene Voorhies.
The following receipt speaks for itself:
LAFAYETTE, April, 21st, 1898.
Received: Seventeen Dollars proceeds of the Raffle of Baby Ruth for account of High School Fund.
CHAS. O. MOUTON,
Sec'y and Treas.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1893.
Our Public Streets.
A persons coming to Lafayette from the north or west will see many strange, and, we may say, novel sights. One which will strike him as being peculiarly strange, is the system of ditches, to be found on each side of our public streets. He will wonder why they are there; he may inquire of some resident of our city, why we have such deep ditches, and will be told that they are to drain the city; but that will be the extent of the information he will receive. Why these ditches should have been dug we have been unable to learn, even after the most diligent research. That they are an absurdity cannot be denied. They are worse. They are a menace to public safety, as well as a great nuisance. A person in a carriage who wishes to call at a house, cannot tie in front of it, but must hunt up some place where a bridge has been built over the ditch for the horse to stand on. Even if you do not wish to tie the horse, having someone along to hold it while you go in, you must either perform an acrobatic feat and vault the ditch or walk down the road until you find a crossing. Another thing, if one is driving a spirited horse and he becomes frightened and runs into one of these ditches, great damage must follow, with perhaps a broken limb or loss of life. And yet they are constantly being made deeper, and unless some different plan is adopted by our city authorities, there is no telling how deep they may become; some of them are so deep now that if a cow gets into them, it is hidden from view.
Reformation is badly needed in this direction. The streets should all be worked over. They should be plowed up, and graded to the center, leaving only a gutter in place of the present ditches. The street should be surveyed and the levels marked. By doing this the drainage system would be improved and the streets made that much wider. We are soon to have a new city council, and we sincerely hope they will see the advisability of giving this matter prompt attention. As it is now, all the money expended on our streets is thrown away, for sooner or later, the change must be made and these dangerous ditches done away with.
There seems to be an earnest desire on the part of our people to see our city advance in prosperity, and wealth, but if we ever expect to make any headway, we must throw off some of our old notions and ideas and adopt modern ones in their place. We must have our city "up to date" in the matter of streets and public improvements, if we desire to attract outsiders here. Let Reform and Advancement be our watchword; let us put our city in such a condition as to present a pleasing and modern aspect to strangers, and our advancement will be sure and certain. A man does not want to move away from a modern town and locate in one that is fifty years behind the age in public improvements; and that is the position Lafayette occupies to-day. Shall it continue? It is for our new council to decide. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1893.
The Foreman Case.
The Trial of Willie Foreman for the murder of G. J. Bertrand, at Duson, two years ago, was ended last Tuesday night. A night session of court, which last until 12 o'clock was held, at which time the arguments for the defense and for the state were made. The trial had created a great deal of interest, and the court room was packed in the evening, many ladies being present. District Attorney M. T. Gordy made a very fine plea to the jurors for his conviction and arrayed the testimony in a masterly manner. The prisoner was represented by Attorneys J. O. Chargois and Wm. Campbell. After the arguments were finished, the jury reaching no verdict, they were locked up for the night. Wednesday morning at 6 o'clock court was convened, and Judge Allen was informed that the Jury had reached a verdict. Foreman was brought into court, and retained his self-possession. The jury was brought in and marched to their places. In answer to the question of the Judge, the foreman of the jury, Mr. Martial Billaud, said they had decided on a verdict, which he gave to the court. The Judge read it and handed it to Clerk of Court Bailey, who read the verdict as follows: "Guilty of manslaughter and recommended to the mercy of the court."
The finding of the jury has given general satisfaction to all our people, and all join in giving thanks to the district attorney for the conviction. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1893.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 4/22/1893.
The weather for the past few days had been quite cool and delightful.
Corn looks well but the weather is a little too cool to make it grow very rapidly.
"Border Land" will be the next entertainment given for the benefit of the school fund.
Mr. Gus. Lacoste is erecting a small building next to his place of business, which is to be used as a barber shop.
We call the attention to the new advertisement of Mr. John Vigneaux to be found in another column.
Still the high school fund grows. The interest of the people and their determination to have a good public school is increasing all the time; let the good work go on.
Mr. John Nickerson, has so far recovered from his accident as to be able to go about with the assistance of crutches. He was out riding for the first time since the accident last Sunday.
Dr. G. A. Martin moved his family into the building owned by Mr. A. M. Martin, adjoining the Lisbony Hotel. He will also have his office in the same building, hereafter, giving up his present office, next to People's Bank.
As we go to press, we are informed that Hon. Overton Cade has been urged by his many friends to accept the position of superintendent of the mint, at New Orleans, if tendered him, and that, after weighing the matter fully, has yielded to their request.
Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1893.
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From the Lafayette Advertiser of April 22nd, 1882:
OUR GOOD FORTUNE.
We cannot but reflect how great our good fortune has been, when evils and misfortunes afflict our neighbors on every hand. The flood, the most extensive in the history of the country has devastated houses and other works of the hand of man, ruined promising crops and swept away stock by the hundreds, leaving in its wake destitution and hunger, - a condition in fact allied to famine. But for government relief, in conjunction with private energy and enterprise in certain cases, many would doubtless have found a watery grave, or "had wolves at the door." From Tensas to Terrebone the same scene has been enacted. Along the lower Teche and certain sections of other parishes it would appear that a war of the elements was declared to hurl to destruction such as had been left unhurt by the flood. Reports from St. Mary as to the extent of damage done to property and others along the Teche are astounding. Of course we are made to feel indirectly the effect of those afflictions, but cannot fortunately be counted among the dramatis personae. But this is not all, for though the physical geography of this section is such that high water never reaches us, to hurt, we are not less happy in other respects. By this we mean the efficient administration of law and the preservation of order that now obtains with and for us. If we look back to the time, not many years since, when others usurped or tried to usurp the prerogatives and powers of officers of law, and the officers of law, and the officers themselves by reason of the want of a healthy tone of public sentiment to support them, were lax in their discharge of duty, and compare that time with the present, we find a great improvement. We believe the people of this parish are growing more energetic that was their wont, and are likely before a great while to feel the effect of it. We have often had occasion to refer to our many natural advantages, in the way of soil, climate, &c., and to do so at length here, would be superfluous ; but, if there be any from the overflowed region or anyplace else, looking for new homes, we say come up and take a look. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1882.
HOMICIDE.
Thusday night, 20 ints., one Jack or John Farrell was killed by Thomas Duffy alias Murphy. The circumstances as developed by the Coroner's inquest, held not two hours after the killing took place, point to a cold and deliberate murder. The two men had been employed for some time by the street committee of our Town Council, and though they were given to excess in drink were generally regarded as orderly and peaceably disposed men. The crime was committed between 11 and 12 o'clock p. m., in a house on Mr. A. Poinboeuf's premises, in this town, where the two men slept, and was the outcome of a previous quarrel. It was done with a hatchet, the deceased having received several blows, the head and forehead being fractured and cut. A quarrel between the deceased and accused a few minutes previous to the killing aroused Mr. John Rand, living near, who proceeded to awake a deputy constable, Mr. Louis Ouielhe who on reaching the premises, arrested the accused in the act of dragging the body out into the streets. The accused has lived about here for two years back ; he came from New Orleans ; the deceased came here about two months ago from Lake Charles. The former claims to have been born at Natchez, Miss., and is of Irish decent, the latter is said to have been a native of Ireland. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1893.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 4/22/1893.
It is said that a large number of refugees from the overflowed regions along the Teche have located in and about New Iberia, many of whom are much in need. A concert entertainment, &c., was given for their benefit at the latter place on Thursday and Friday of last week and a fund of considerable amount realized.
F. A. Gallagher, Esq., of Lake Charles, was in town last Saturday, enroute home from above. Travelers from above going west, and vice verse, are compelled to lay over here nearly 24 hours, - owing to the time in which trains run on the two roads.
Judge Clegg and District Attorney Chargois left last Monday for Abbeville to hold court. Criminal cases, wherein the penalty was not necessarily imprisonment at hard labor, were tried this week. The Court will probably sit next week for civil business.
Mr. W. M. Nelson who has been for two or three years among us, following the grocery business, folded his tent this week and left for some point in St. Landry parish on the N. O. & Pacific, railroad his future home. Lafayette Advertiser 4/22/1893.
lagniappe:
Memory.
Truly memory is an elusive thing that passes all understanding. In some ways it is like a great cavern in which faces and facts and incidents are stored away. The well regulated mind is in possession of a searchlight by means of which it can illumine even distant parts of the cave, but in every mind it is true that there are nooks and corners in which lie hidden treasures that cannot be found at will. Then, too, what is written in the brain is curiously like the row of blocks with which the child plays, setting them up, one after another, so that when the first is overturned the whole train follows it in succession. And it does not require a violent force to start the operation. The slightest touch, the faintest impulse is often all that is necessary to produce great results. The sound of a voice, the notes of a long-forgotten song, a breath of the scent-laden, balmy breeze, may recall the days and nights gone by when things were, ah, so different from what they are today. We remember the times in childhood we were as free from care as the birds that fly from tree to tree singing their cheery songs; when we roamed the fields and woods and wandered along the grassy banks of some little stream with friends who grew very dear to us. The blue sky was above our heads and from it the sun shone gently. We cared not for dress or the devices of pride and convention - we were ourselves, as natural and free and it is given man to be. We kept no masks in front of our faces in those days. The soft wind brushed the hair from our brows and we, like the wind, went hither and thither, wherever we listed, reading each other's hearts as readily as now we read the printed page. Every squirrel, every bird, every tree was a friend or ours and there were no enemies in the world. And now, whenever the air blows from the fields, sweet with the odors of the flowers and the freshness of the woods, or whenever a bird trills as we were wont to hear it, the train of memory set in motion and we rove again as of old, the same happy, merry-hearted children that knew no sorrow.
From the Detroit Free Press and in the Lafayette Gazette 4/22/1899.
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