Monday, January 12, 2015

**MAY 4TH M C

From the Lafayette Advertiser of May 4th, 1904:

FIRST STEP TAKEN.
Company Organized to Build the Baton Rouge, Lafayette and Gulf Railroad.

 Citizens of Baton Rouge, Lafayette and Breaux Bridge Meet in New Orleans and Decide to Organize and Solicit Subscriptions.

 A railroad to Baton Rouge has been the dream of the people of Lafayette for twenty years, and at last there are fair prospects of the dream being realized. A corporation with a capital of $100,000 will be organized in few days and subscription lists circulated in Baton Rouge, Breaux Bridge and Lafayette.

 Mayor C. D. Caffery, who has been a worker for this road quietly for some time, communicated with the people of Baton Rouge and receiving a favorable reply, with a suggestion to send a committee to meet a like committee in New Orleans, called as many citizens together Monday night a week ago as could be reached that afternoon. The meeting was held at the Century Club, and after some discussion as to best means to proceed, for those present were of one mind as to making every effort to carry the project through, a committee was appointed to arrange with Baton Rouge for a conference at once, and invite Breaux Bridge to participate. Members of the press present were requested to publish nothing until a definite step was taken.

 Mayor Caffery arranged next day to meet the Baton Rouge people in New Orleans Thursday.

 At 5:3o that morning the following committee left for the conference: C. D. Caffery, chairman, C. O. Mouton, Louis Lacoste, C. S. Babin, Julian Mouton, N. P. Moss, S. Begnaud, A. B. Denbo, P. L. DeClouet, J. C. Nickerson, F. E. Girard, and Jerome Mouton.

 Breaux Bridge was represented by Mayor G. D. Domengeaux and J. C. Daspit. The Baton Rouge delegation was as follows: Messrs. D. M. Reymond, W. J. Knox, Jos. Gottlieb, Ben. R. Mayer, Henry L. Fuqua, W. P. Connell, and L. J. Richard. The meeting was held in the rooms of the Interstate Banking & Trust Co., of New Orleans. After thoroughly canvassing the subject from all points, it was decided to organize a company with a capital of $100,000, providing that when 5 per cent of the stock shall have been subscribed the company should begin business, and Messrs. Jos. Gottlieb, chairman, J. C. Daspit, C. D. Caffery, P. L. DeClouet, W. P. Connell and Judge Julian Mouton were appointed a committee on organization.

 The name selected is The Baton Rouge - Lafayette and Gulf, and the road will run from Baton Rouge to Lafayette, via Breaux Bridge.

 It will be about 60 miles in length, 23 miles of which are swamps, necessitating trestle work; but as the high land is very fertile, the swamp filled with fine cypress timber, it is almost assured that the road will be a fine paying investment. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.



 LET EVERYBODY HELP.

 Last Thursday a number of our progressive citizens, with two gentlemen from Breaux Bridge, met a committee from Baton Rouge in New Orleans, and after discussing the building of a railroad from Baton Rouge to Lafayette, it was decided to organize a company, draw up a charter and solicit subscriptions. This road is a necessity. Lafayette has reached a point where further growth must come from more railroad facilities, and this road, giving a direct line north and east, is vital to the future development of this parish and town. It is a big undertaking, but not too big with the help of Breaux Bridge and Baton Rouge, each of which are fully interested as we are; and if we pull together with a long pull and a steady pull, the thing is done. Every citizen must come to the rescue, and when the opportunity is presented to subscribe stock, let every man do so to his utmost ability. Let us keep constantly in mind that we must have the road, not alone to grow, but hold what growth we have; and that to secure the road it is worth while, to make sacrifices; for with it attained, our sacrifices will turn to rewards.

 And let us also bear in mind that timid people get but little, while the bold get much. If we sit back waiting for some one to come along and build the road, we may wait another twenty years. The way to build it is to join hands with Baton Rouge and Breaux Bridge and build it ourselves. Then it will be done. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.



CONVOCATION DAY
Saturday at the Industrial Institute a Big Success. Two Thousand Children Present and Nearly an Equal Number of Grown People.

 Gov-Elect Blanchard Addressed the Meeting. Senators and Representatives from Southwestern Louisiana Attend. Unique Event in the School History of the State of Louisiana.

 The Convocation of the Public Schools was a success, a big success.

 The day marked a significant event in educational affairs in this parish and set in motion a wave of sentiment that will grow as it rolls onward to till next Convocation day to receive another impetus.

 The assembling of the schools was an awakener as to the number of little children who are reaching upward for the blessings of knowledge. They seemed a host, and yet all were not there.

 As the spectator looked upon the long line marching past, banner after banner following, twenty-eight in all, and noted the bright faces, the enthusiasm, and heard their childish voices blend in song he could but be impressed with the magnitude and grandeur of public education which in the true spirit of democracy makes no distinction, but gives all an equal chance to rise by sheer merit, at the same time bringing all into friendly fellowship.

 The sight was inspiring, making every heart friendlier to the cause of the public schools and stimulating and encouraging every onlooker to greater things.

 Such another procession never before passed over the streets of Lafayette. Two thousand school children, two by two, following their standard bearer proudly as if filled with the spirit of the occasion, watched over by earning teachers, who showed pride in the little ones under their charge, keeping step to the inspiring music of the Sontag Military Band, marched from the courthouse to the Industrial Institute, singing their school songs as they went. Children of all sizes were in the ranks from the little wee tot of the kindergarten to the big boys and girls of the high school and the young men and women of the Industrial, and the spirit of the occasion shone from every face. How bravely those little tots walked? Not a complaint, but walking just as sturdily as if they were big folks and singing in the sweet childish way simple little tunes that went straight to the hearts of the grown ups lining the sidewalks.

 THE START.

 The place or assembly was the courthouse, the time 9 a. m., but long before that time pupils and teachers began arriving in buggies, wagons and vehicles of all types. Numbers of townspeople and country people came and augmented the crowd, and by nine o'clock fully 3,000 people, counting school children, were gathered on the courthouse square and nearby, to see the start. Promptly at nine the formation for the march began. Supt. Alleman, assisted by Profs. Roy, Avery, and other teachers rapidly placed the schools in their proper line, and as the formation proceeded,the marching, counter-marching, banners, ribbons, hats, dresses, made a beautiful kaleidoscopic picture of blending color and action that touched the sense of sight with a pleasurable sensation. Without haste or tardiness, but in methodical and rapid manner, though apparently slow, the line was formed and proceeded down Lafayette street to Vermilion to Johnston avenue, to the Industrial Institute in the following order:


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THE ARRIVAL.

 As the head of the parade entered the Institute grounds, the carriage of Governor-elect Blanchard stopped near the entrance, where standing up he reviewed the procession as it passed in and wound around the large circle in front of the building, while the band, stationed in the center, played sweetest music. It was a beautiful sight as the children entered the grounds, slowly forming into a circle, then doubling, and tripling, weaving in and out, seemingly in confusion, yet in order, while the fresh green of the sward glinted the sun rays, mingling in with the bright bits of color in banners and ribbons and flowers and fabrics, combining into a moving picture, ever changing yet the same, that fascinated with its beauty and animation, complemented by the strains of melody. It was an indescribable picture that the fifteen hundred spectators gazed upon, yet one than will linger in each one's memory with tingling pleasure.

 IN THE AUDITORIUM.

 Upstairs in the auditorium a large audience was assembled, with nearly all seats taken as children began marching in. Seated upon the platform were: Governor-elect Blanchard, Senator-elect Jos. A. Provost, of Iberia; Representatives T. H. Casey, of Terrebone; J. A. Oge, of St. Landry; Hiram Carver, and Wm. Egan, of Acadia; T. Derouen, of Iberia; P. L. DeClouet and J. G. St. Julien; P. D. Olivier, of St. Martinville; Mayor C. D. Caffery, District Attorney Wm. Campbell, Clerk E. G. Voorhies, Assessor A. M. Martin, Judge Julien Mouton, Judge C. H. Mouton, Sheriff I. A. Broussard, Railroad Commissioner O. Cade, Police Juror M. Billeaud, Jr., School Directors Dr. N. P. Moss, A. Olivier; S. Bernard, Jules Girouard, N. Breaux, J. O. Broussard, R. C. Landry, P. B. Roy, A. Judice, Jerome Mouton, and J. E. Barry, superintendent of the Crowley schools.

 The different schools filed in ranging along the sides and in the aisles of the auditorium, and each sang a school song in turn which evoked hearty applause. It took some time to march in the first half, for the hall could accommodate no more at one time, and meantime students of the Institute enlivened things by giving their school yell with vim and gusto. The high school would answer with their special yell, and the little tots of the Primary, to show that they were "up to snuff," would get off a ringing "yell" winding up with Primary vociferously on a high key, that won for them admiring applause from everybody, Judge Blanchard included.

 After the first half had sung their songs, they were taken down stairs, and the others brought in, who sang their songs receiving applause, then were also taken down stairs.

 The champion spellers of each school next were brought in and stood upon the platform to contest for the gold medal to be awarded the best speller in any grade up to and including the fourth. Prof. Roy gave out the words, and as the contest proceeded the interest was intense. One little bit of a girl received a storm of applause as she spelled down several, and when at last she was overcome by hard word, she had the sympathy of the entire crowd, she was so little. But the interest grew tenser as one by one the spellers fell until it reached the two last, and when little John Lessley of Carencro, triumphantly spelled down his last opponent the applause was deafening. Everybody on the platform shook hands with him, and Judge Blanchard congratulated him, and presented him with the medal.

 At the close of the spelling match Dr. Stephens announced that the second contest would take place at 8 p. m. and then in a few words introduced Judge Blanchard, who said in part:

 That he had addressed many audiences within the last six months during the campaign just closed, but that at no time had he ever addressed one which so inspired him. Two thousand children were gathered together, making a meeting that was unique in the history of the State. There have been many meetings, but none which included all the schools. Lafayette is down in recent statistics of the past as a laggard in education, showing an illiteracy among the whites of forty per cent; but this crowd showed that the cloud of illiteracy was drifting away. He predicted that this convocation would be the inaugural that would set the example that other parishes would follow. He then spoke of the Industrial Institute and the tremendous impetus it gave to education as this assembly testified. He said that he wanted to make it one of the great collegiate and industrial factors in the State. Already the Institute had done well. Now only in its third year it had 200 pupils enrolled, and the State had done well to establish it. With proper care by the State in another three years the enrollment would be apt to be 800 or 1,000. The great colleges and institutes were doing great good. The State University, Tulane, the Normal, the Ruston and Lafayette Industrial schools, these, the awakening educationally was comparatively late, compared with other States, were turning out young men to build up the State to rank with any in the Union. While fostering colleges, we must not forget the common schools, which also are entitled to our fostering care. He intended to make education his chief care, to make it the principal feature of his administration. On May 16 in his inaugural address he would give education the principal mention in it. He said, that God had blessed this land in many ways, that it remained for the people to do their part. This State is a veritable land of promise. Four great staple products grew in south Louisiana on a fifty acre farm. Lafayette especially was favored in soil, climate and capacity to raise almost anything. He spoke of the State's resources in timber and minerals, but said that a State was not its land nor its forests, its minerals or its streams, but its people. That after all the greatest wealth of a State is not the people, but the educated people. If we wish to make Louisiana great, we must educate the children. "Subordinate," said he, "everything to the education of your children." "We want to make Louisiana." he continued, "that State in the South where every child will have access to school in a modern school building, taught by competent teachers, with an eight months session." He said that when we do this in this State, bowed and broken by war and reconstruction, if we do our part, we will push Louisiana into prosperity and power beyond those States which do not. He spoke of the need of more money for the schools and stated that he should recommend in his message to the general assembly that two mills be set aside for the purpose; but, nevertheless, the main reliance was local taxation. He spoke in praise of the two mill tax for the Industrial and three mills for the public schools voted by the people of Lafayette and urged them to continue and make the tax five mills for the schools for ten years when the present taxes expired. He advised not to be afraid of taxation. Enlightened sentiment the world over realized that there could be no such progress without taxation, that the only man not taxed was a savage. He cited the experience of Shreveport, where they almost tax themselves out of existence, but for every dollar paid in taxes they get back another dollar. He urged that the people keep taxing until the schools are their pride. Better than lands or banks or stocks is education. "Let this celebration," said he, "be an object lesson." He regretted that many more public men had not come to see it. "As a parting word," he said, "let us be up and doing and do our part." The Judge then closed by exhorting those present to build up education to make good citizens of the State and worthy citizens of our glorious Union.

 AFTERNOON.

 Promptly at three o'clock with the auditorium packed with people, the second spelling match was begun. This match was for pupils from the fifth grade up, and was to be decided by the two best in three. It was not less exciting than the one in the forenoon, possibly more so. Representatives from the various schools took part. The gold medal was won by Mary Patin of the Scott school, and it was presented to her by Representative Oge, of St. Landry, Judge Blanchard, having left on the 1:27 train for the city.

 Certificates and a prize of ten dollars worth of books were then awarded to the following schools for having the best average attendance for the year:

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 The following pupils - attendance 93.4 per cent.

 The following pupils were then called to the platform and presented with a certificate as the best spellers in the several schools, each of whom will be presented with a handsome book as a prize:

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 After the awarding of prizes, Dr. Stephens announced that the exercises in the auditorium were closed and that the tournament and basket ball would follow immediately. He dismissed the audience with a brief and appropriate talk in regard to the success and possibilities of the occasion.

 Numbers left before the tournament began, and still there was a big crowd left.

 Eleven young men from Broussard and one from near Lafayette participated in the tournament. Gil Monte was grand marshall; Norbert Bernard, aide; Luke Langlinais, herald; Adelard Duhon, bugler; D. G. Bernard, timekeeper.

 Leon Monte won the prize, a gold watch.

 Two spirited games of basket ball followed. The first between the Blues and Greens of the High School, resulting 32 to 27 in favor of the Greens. The second was between the Industrial and High School teams, resulting in 31 to 26 in favor of the Industrial.

 These exercises closed one of the most notable days in the history of the parish. Convocation Day, Saturday, April 30, 1904 is destined to be remembered and recalled many years in the future. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.



NEW FIRM.

 We call the attention of our readers to the advertisement of E. F. Morgan & Co. which appears elsewhere. Mr. Eben Morgan, who will be the manager, is well-known to the people of Lafayette, having been born and raised here, and his many friends will be glad to know that he has entered business for himself, and will, we do not doubt. Call him and see him in his elegantly arranged ice cream parlor in the building formerly occupied by the Doucet Pharmacy. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.



 Jewish Cemetery Association.

 A meeting of the Jewish Cemetery Association was held Sunday and the following officers elected:

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 Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.




Real Estate Transfers.

 The following sales were made through Broussard & Guilbeau, real estate agents:

 C. Doyle & Co. to Paul Bonnet, 1 lot in Mills addition, $175.
 Gondo Joseph to Alcee Guidry, two lots in Joseph's addition, $425.
 Leo Doucet to J. O. Trahan, three lots with improvements in Mouton addition, $1,600. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.




Ladies' Auxiliary Organized.

 Monday evening a Ladies' Auxiliary, B. R. T., was organized by Mrs. Jeanette, of St. Louis, with eighteen members and with the following officers:

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 Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.






 Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 5/4/1904.

 Sunday afternoon a slight shower of rain fell. It was accompanied by considerable wind and hail, the hail being quite large many of them the size of marbles. There was so little of the hail, however, that the crops were not injured to any great extent.  


 Arrested Thursday. - Three brothers, Robert, Felix and Clesmaire Girouard, prominent young farmers living near Bayou Tortue, were arrested Thursday night by Sheriff Broussard on a charge of shooting into the dwelling of a white man named Jeff Carlin. They were released on bond. The trouble is said to have originated over some missing pigs.

 Vic Levy, of the firm of Levy Bros., left yesterday for Hot Springs to join his wife, who is visiting her parents there. He expects to be away four of five weeks.

 Messrs. Bertrand & Barras, Contractors, have just completed an addition to the home of Mrs. Eugene Trahan. They will also complete Mr. Cleophas Broussard's house near the Catholic cemetery this week.

 Mr. Herbert Phillips brought to this office Saturday some large fine tomatoes as a sample of what Lafayette soil can do. They were raised by him on the O. B. Jenkins place near town.

 Mrs. Romain Frances and son, Dr. Z. J. Francez, of Carencro, passed through here Sunday on their way to Gueydan.

 Misses Ida, Estelle and Aimee Mouton, and Hattie Shannon spent Sunday in New Iberia.

 A joint meeting of the Teachers' Club and Parish Institute will be held Saturday, May 7, 1904, at the Industrial Institute.

 E. S. G. Titus, Field Agent for the Department of Agriculture, Washington, was among the visitors Convocation Day. Mr. Titus has been spending some days investigating the cane weevil near Broussard.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1904.


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From the Lafayette Gazette of May 4th, 1901:

THE OIL FEVER.

Rages With Un-Intermitting Virulence - Frog Ponds Bring Fancy Prices - Two Local Companies Organize and Elect Officers - Temporary Organization of an Exchange.

The question which is now asked of every one is "When will they bore?" While there has been great activity among the land-seekers, lease hunters and option-chasers no one is able to say when the first well will be bored. It has been currently reported that the Ladanois of the Robert Martin company would be the first to drill though no authoritative statement has come from that company to confirm the report. The different companies to confirm the report. The different companies which have secured valuable leases do not appear top be in any very great hurry to tap the earth, for oil or anything else. What The Gazette and many citizens would like and many citizens would like to see is a real, genuine effort to bore. A number of companies own land in the far-famed Anse la Butte districts, but no rig has yet been brought there. But the boom is not dead by a long shot. It is not even betraying symptoms of decay. On the contrary it grows in intensity every hour. Our most sedate and phlegmatic citizens have been stricken with pitiless severity buy the prevailing fever, which, like the grim reaper, is no respecter of persons. It assails all - young and - old and with resistless force draws the most conservative financier late the alluring field of speculation. Land which denied a livelihood to the most industrious goat has been gobbled up at $100 and $125 an acre. Swamps which are too dismal to afford an asylum do self-respecting frogs and where toads have actually been known to die of chill and fever are sought with more eagerness than the gold-bearing soil of Colorado. And the end is not yet. The ball has just started and the music is the merry-jingle of silver dollars and the rustling of crisp bank notes.

 Two local oil companies have been organized and there is talk of two more. On April 26 the Evangeline Oil and Mineral Company was organized with the following officers: John Hahn, president; Leopold Lacoste, vice-president; B. N. Coronna, Manager; J. R. Domengeaux, secretery; Louis Lacoste, treasurer. The board of directors is composed of the following gentlemen: John Hahn, L. Lacoste, A. J. Leblanc, Alphonse Mouisset, D. Shwartz. This company, which is capitalized at $200,000, has a number of valuable leases among which is a tract of twenty acres within a short distance of the Anse la Butte well.

 Last Wednesday the Lafayette Oil and Mineral Company was organized. The following officers were elected; Leo Judice, president; J. Arthur Roy, vice-president; A. B. Denbo, secretary; S. R. Parkerson, treasurer. The directors are: Leo Judice, Chas. D. Caffery, S. R. Parkerson, C. O. Mouton, J. Arthur Roy, vice-president; A. B. Denbo, secretary; S. R. Parkerson, treasurer. The directors are: Leo Judice, Chas. D. Caffery, S. R. Parkerson, C. O. Mouton, J. E. Trahan, R. O. Wood, J. Arthur Roy, Dr. N. P. Moss, A. B. Denbo, J. C. Nickerson, Judge John Clegg, J. C. Lyons. The capital is $100,000. This company has leases on several thousand acres of good land. A large tract less than one mile from Anse la Butte and some very valuable leases in Calcasieu are on its list.

 Among the prospectors in Lafayette during the were J. C. Lyons, State Senator G. W. Flynn, Geo. Wiltz, Mr. Frawley of New Orleans, Col. Sharpe of Mississippi, Hon. Thos. H. Lewis, Dr. John Haas of Opelousas, and I Hechinger of New Orleans. All have secured land in the "Butte" district. J. C. Nickerson, the local real estate man, informs us that has sold to J. C. Lyons 70 arpents of land 2,000 feet from the Anse la Butte well for a cash consideration of $9,100.

 An evidence of the eagerness with which oil land is sought is offered in the most exciting contest for a tract of land belonging to Horace Broussard had authorized Mr. Nickerson, the real estate agent, to sell land for $9,600. Mr. Broussard, claiming that the time given to Mr. Nickerson to dispose of the land has expired, was about to sell to Mr. Thos. H. Lewis and his associates for $8,000, the vendor retaining a sixteenth interest. Before this sale was consummated Mr. Nickerson called on Mr. Broussard and made a tender of the $9,600, the amount previously stipulated. Mr. Broussard refused to accept the money as he was about to close the deal with Mr. Lewis. The matter is now in abeyance and it is impossible to say how it will end.

 A number of citizens met in Martin's hall Thursday night to organize an oil exchange. Mr. W. B. Harvey explained the working of an exchange, clearly setting forth the advantages of such an association. A temporary organization was effected with Chas. O. Mouton as president and J. R. Domengeaux as secretary. The following committee was appointed to frame the outlines of the proposed plan:  R. W. Elliot, J. E. Trahan, W. B. Harvey, Mr. C. O. Mouton was made chairman of the committee.

 It was decided to hold a meeting at 8 p. m. Monday for the purpose or organizing permanently. An invitation is extended to the people of the town to be present and lend their aid to the movement which, the promoters are confident, will result in incalculable good to the community. 

Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.





Leo Judice & Anse la Butte Rd.

 Leo Judice informs The Gazette that after obtaining the $200 appropriation from the Police Jury to repair the Anse la Butte road he called upon a number of citizens in Lafayette for private subscriptions and that in less than two hours he has realized considerably over $100. Mr. Judice is confident that a sufficient sum will be easily raised to put the Anse la Butte road in good condition. Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.



THE BREAUX BRIDGE COMPANY IS QUITE RIGHT.

 The esteemed Breaux Bridge Valley administers a spirited rebuke to the Breaux Bridge Oil and Mineral Company, which has, in the opinion of our valued contemporary, committed a most grievous offense. The company has issued a prospectus on the back of which is printed a map of the oil fields of this section. The map innocently shows Lafayette to be neared the "Butte" than Breaux Bridge. The Valley considers this a "great injustice to Breaux Bridge" and calls upon the company for a reparation of the wrong it has so unjustly inflicted upon that deserving community. The Valley then proceeds to enlighten the public on the moot question of "how far is Anse la Butte" and gives the information that Breaux Bridge is two and half miles from the famed spot while Lafayette is six and half miles away. The plain truth of the matter is that Breaux Bridge is nearer Anse la Butte than Lafayette. The difference is, in the opinion of the well-known civil engineer, Mr. C. E. Babin, about one mile and half. Breaux Bridge has cheerfully conceded that advantage and it should be commended for making the best of it, but there is no necessity for the Valley to shove us off the map altogether.

 The Gazette can readily understand the motive of the Breaux Bridge & Mineral Co. in putting Lafayette within easy reach of its oil lands. The company appreciates the superior advantages of Lafayette as the headquarters of prospectors. The exceptional railway and hotel facilities of this town are in themselves a sufficient inducement to land-seekers and the difference of one or two miles in distance is not to be thought of at all. The prospectus is intended to serve as an invitation to investors in oil lands and the company very wisely considered it an important matter to impress upon the minds of visitors the essential fact that by making the trip by Lafayette they would have the benefit of day and night trains and of splendid hotel accomodations. The Gazette does not wish to speak disparagingly of Breaux Bridge. On the contrary, Breaux Bridge is a delightful town and strangers are sure to find within its gates the most open-handed hospitality and the most generous treatment. Our intention is merely to dispel any erroneous impressions which our friend Begnaud may have created in the minds of the unwary. Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.



THE FIRST
To Find Oil and The First to Bore.

 Former Judge Israel Falk has contracted with A. E. Mouton for a derrick to be used in drilling for oil on his land near the Southern Pacific yards. It looks like Judge Falk will be the first to drill. He found oil ten years before any one else and he will be the first to drill. Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.

       

















NOW IS THE TIME.
 The road between this town and Breaux Bridge should be put in first class condition. It is one of the most important roads in the parish at all times of the year. It is the connecting link between this point and a very fertile section in this and St. Martin parish and is the means of securing for the local business houses the trade of a large number of prosperous farmers. At this time more people will travel on this road than on any other in the parish. The reason of the unusual activity for land in the vicinity of Anse la Butte, and it is safe to say that the present excitement will continue several months at least. Should oil be found in large quantities a well-graded and well-kept road to Anse la Butte will be absolutely indispensable, that is, if this town expects to be in the game. In any event it is of the greatest importance that this road should be thoroughly repaired. And if the work is to be done at all, now is the time to do it. 

Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.




DEMOCRATIC TICKET.

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Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901. 








President KcKinley Passes Through Lafayette.
 President McKinley and party passed through Lafayette at 11 o'clock Thursday night. Owing to the lateness of the hour no demonstration was made in honor of the distinguished travelers, but a large crowd gathered at the depot and looked only at the palatial coaches, their occupants having retired to their sleeping apartments. The crowd was sensibly refrained from making any noise and the slumber of the statesmen was not disturbed.
Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.




Small Audience as Usual.


 The third and last entertainment of the Thomas Lyceum took place at Falk's hall last Tuesday. It was a lecture by Harr Wagner, of California, who commanded the rapt attention of the audience from the beginning to the end of his interesting discourse.

 We regret to say that the audience was very small and that the people of Lafayette have failed to show their appreciation of this very creditable series of entertainments, which was secured by a number of citizens who signed the required guarantee.
Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.   


J. R. Domengeaux & Co.

 Attention is called to the advertisement of J. R. Domengeaux & Co., real estate agents and brokers, who have opened an office in the Lafayette Bank building. The firm is composed of J. R. Domengeaux and John L. Kennedy, both active and industrious young men. They will attend also to the business of abstracting titles. Mr. Kennedy was connected with the New Orleans land office a number of years and is very efficient in that kind of work. Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901. 








New Business. - The Bon Ton Tailoring Company has opened a shop in John O. Mouton's building, near Gardebled's drugstore. The company guarantees all its work which is done by skilled workmen. Cleaning, pressing and repairing a specialty.
Laf. Gazette 5/4/1901.





REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS.
The following real estate transfers were recorded in the clerk's office during the past week:

Lewis Whittington to Charles Foreman, 20 arpents in second ward, $550.

 Mrs. P. Gerac et al to Jacques Lanery, 59 arpents in sixth ward, $1,500.

 Chas. D. Caffery to Joseph D. Dugas and J. B. Peres, one arpent in Scott with improvements, $900.

 Clarence Avant to Ben Avant, 60 acres in second ward, $964.

 Edwin T. McBride to M. Rosenfield, three lots with improvements in Lafayette $1,900.

 Galbert Bienvenu to Lafayette and Carencro Railroad Co., right of way, $550.
Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.




Died. - Mrs. T. N. Blake, Sr., nee Mary Elizabeth Bessac, died Sunday morning at the residence of her son, Mr. Thos. N. Blake, in Lafayette. Mrs. Blake was born in Hudson, New York, and was 73 years of age. Sunday evening Rev. W. J. Sechrest, of the Presbyterian church, conducted the funeral services at the home of Mr. Blake, and the remains were taken to New Orleans and interred in the family vault in that city.
Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.






Catholic Knights.

 Council No. 867, Catholic Knights of America, was organized in Rayne last Sunday afternoon by Mr. Mair of New Orleans, and 29 members were enrolled. The following are the officers installed for the ensuing year: Reverend Father Doutre, spiritual director; O. Broussard, president; Mrs. Rosa H. Poulet, vice-president; Mrs. Justine Manouviere, second vice-president; R. Duhon, recording secretary and treasurer; F. J. Bernard, financial secretary; J. E. Haines, G. Besse and Henri Blanc. Trustees: O. Comeaux, sergeant-at-arms; J. H. Carlin, sentinel. The following delegation from the Lafayette Lodge were in attendance: President, Alfred Mouton; A. V. Labbe, Frank Moss, Robert Broussard, U. Poimboeuf, D. Mouton, A. and R. Meaux. From the Rayne Tribune and in the Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.  





POLICE JURY.
Delegates to Good Roads Convention Make Their Report - Appropriation for Anse la Butte Road.

 The Police Jury met yesterday with all the members present.

 Messrs. M. Billeaud, Jr., and F. G. Mouton, delegates to the Good Roads Convention held in New Orleans, April 20 and 30, reported a most profitable and enthusiastic meeting. An object lesson in scientific road building greatly impressed the delegates with the importance of a change in the present system of working the highways as well a change in the implements used. Uniformity throughout the State was urged and to that end the convention had perfected a State organization. C. C. Brown, of Carencro, was nominated by Mr. Billeaud as one of the vice presidents and this action was approved by the Jury. The various Police Juries will report to the president of the State association be to the national organization. Assurances are given that appropriations from both State and national governments will be forthcoming in aid of the movement to secure good roads. Messrs. Billeaud and Mouton were much impressed with all they saw and heard (even the singing at the Methodist Missionary Convention) and are determined to carry into practical operation the many useful and economical ideas they received on the subject of road building. The Jury heartily thanked both delegates for the report and commended them for diligence.

 Messrs. L. Judice, B. N. Coronna and O. P. Guilbeau appeared and asked for an appropriation to aid in the construction and repair of the Breaux Bridge road. The sum of $200 was appropriated and Messrs. Billeaud, Buchanan and Mouton appointed to let the contract. Citizens will contribute an additional amount and a fine roadway will be built.

 Mr. Cunningham was notified to remove a certain levee on his place near the Breaux Bridge road.

 Mr. Blanchet reported purchasing two mules for the fourth ward at $325.

 Felix Begnaud, justice of the 8th ward, was allowed the same salary as his predecessor.

 Messrs. Mouton, Labbe and Greig were appointed to verify the sheriff's deduction list for taxes of 1899 and grand a quietus. Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.



 Selected News Notes (Gazette) 5/4/1901.

 Judge Julian Mouton was in Crowley this week to hold a session of the circuit court with Judge Gordy of Vermilionville.

 Mr. E. J. Olivier, representing the Hart Well Company., bored the well for the new ice factory. Mr. Olivier informs us that he found a large quantity of excellent water at a depth of 150 feet.

 J. C. Nickerson, the local real estate man, informs us that he has sold to J. C. Lyons 70 arpents of land 2,000 feet from the Anse la Butte well for a cash consideration of $9,100.

 Despite the oil fever the farmers are engaged in their fields. The farmers are to be encouraged. In the event that oil is not found the products of the man with the hoe will help out considerably.

 It is said that the Jeanerette Oil Company is getting ready to bore a well near Anse la Butte. It is to be hoped that that rumor is true.

 Mrs. C. C. Wier and Miss Mattie Wier are visiting friends and relatives in Avoyelles.

 Rev. and Mrs. I. T. Reams are on a visit to their many friends in Lafayette.
Lafayette Gazette 4/5/1901.




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 From the Lafayette Advertiser of May 5th, 1901:

 PRESIDENTIAL PARTY THROUGH LAFAYETTE.

 The magnificent car conveying President McKinley, the members of his cabinet and several ladies, to the Pacific Coast, passed through our town last Thursday night at 10:55. A goodly number of our people congregated to the depot to endeavor to catch a glimpse of the head of the nation, but as he had retired, no one ventured to disturb his dreams, so the train quietly pulled out, and we did not get a speech or a handshake. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1901.



Oil Company.

 The Lafayette Oil and Mineral Company was organized Tuesday with a capital of $100,000. The following officers were elected: President, Leo Judice; Vice-president, J. Arthur Roy; Secretary, A. B. Denbo; Treasurer, S. R. Parkerson.  The Board of Directors is composed of the following: Leo Judice, Chas. D. Caffery, S. R. Parkerson, C. O. Mouton, J. E. Trahan, R. O. Wood, J. A. Roy, Dr. N. P. Moss, A. B. Denbo of Lafayette, J. C. Lyons and Judge John Clegg of New Orleans.

 This company has thousands of acres leased in St. Martin, Lafayette and Calcasieu parish, and especially desirable lands near Anse la Butte.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1901.


Outward Appearances.

 Nothing enhances the appearance of a building so much as fresh coat of paint. We are not habitual fault-finders, but can not refrain from criticism the neglected condition of most of our public edifices. The influx of visitors here is daily increasing and as strangers can only judge of a population by outward appearances, it would be much to our advantage if we made a few improvements. Let's paint our buildings and also cut the weeds on the sidewalks. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1901.


 Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 5/4/1901.

 Isn't it dusty? Kind people who are subscribers to the water works, do sprinkle liberally and you shall receive the thanks of this entire community.

 The beautiful Spring Season is with is and pic-nics are the order of the day. Two jolly crowds of young folks enjoyed an outing in the woods last Sunday. One party of pleasure seekers chose Beausejour Springs and the other Chargois woods.

 An interesting and very instructive service, at the Presbyterian Church next Sabbath at 11 o'clock illustrated by natural analogy. Services also at 7:45 p. m. W. J. SECHREST, Pastor.

 After a long siege of sickness, Miss Etta Domengeaux is reported as being out of danger.

 The "Bon Ton" Tailoring establishment has rented John O. Mouton's store, opposite Gardebled's drug-store, and will shortly open a first-class tailor shop, where special attention will be given to cleaning, dying, etc.

 A young colored woman, by name of Heloise Gerac, while cooking in her yard, got her clothing ignited and was badly burned in the body. The physician A. R. Trahan pronounces here in a serious condition.

 Dr. J. D. Trahan, who is a member of the State Board of Medical Examiners, went to New Orleans, last Wednesday, to attend the spring examinations.

 Mrs. Henri Gerac of New Orleans is visiting the family of Mrs. P. Gerac.

 Harr Wagner delivered his lecture "Uncle Sam, Jr.," at Falk's Hall, last Tuesday night and it is to be regretted that his audience was not larger.

 Mrs. P. LeDanois left last Monday for Paris, France, where she will remain for a few months. During her absence, Mr. Degrez will purchase hides, wool and bones as Mrs. LeDanois did in the past.

 "Fanny Hill" at Falk's Opera House, Sunday, May 12th.

 Our young friends J. R. Domengeaux and John L. Kennedy have formed a partnership as Real Estate Agents, Brokers & Abstraction of Land Titles, and have their office in the Bank of Lafayette. These young men are energetic and progressive and will no doubt receive a full share of the public patronage.

 Miss Cecile Beadle and John W. Faulk of Acadia parish were married at the Methodist Church, Wednesday.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1901.



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 From the Lafayette Gazette of May 4th, 1895:

MUNICIPAL ELECTION.

 The municipal ticket published in this issue is the one which was fairly and regularly nominated at the late Democratic mass meeting. The ticket is a good one, and the people of the town can safely trust their interests to its keeping. It has the advantage also, of being responsible to, and owing allegiance only to the people, and proposes to run the affairs of the town on business principles. Every goo Democrat will be expected to go to the polls next Monday and vote the Democratic tickets without a scratch.

 We must be on the alert, and if an opposition ticket should make its appearance, be prepared to snow it under with Democratic votes. Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1895.


DEMOCRATIC TICKET.
CORPORATION OF LAFAYETTE.
ELECTION MONDAY MAY 6TH, 1895.

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 Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1895.

 A Woman Arrested.

 Thursday afternoon a mulatto woman named Emma Bernard of Abbeville, was jailed by Sheriff Broussard for the theft of $100 from a white man named Charlie Hamilton of Vermilion. The warrant for her arrest was sworn out before Judge McFadden. Just before her arrest the woman attempted to change a hundred dollar bill at Moss Bros., and this led to her arrest as Sheriff Broussard had her under surveillance. The money was recovered. Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1895.



 Social Affair.

 A very enjoyable and successful party was given at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Reeves last Saturday night. Too much praise cannot  be give our friend Jim Marsh for artistic decorations, as nothing was left out to make this affair a success. Amongst those who participated, were: Mesdames Aug. Maitie, F. Poinboeuf, E. McDaniel, G. Lisbony, F. Hill, J. C. Reeves, Misses I. Pefferkorn, L. and I. Lester, A. Raggio, I. and A. Ledet, M. Lisbony, L. and I. McDaniel, C. Breaux, F. Eves, Ida and Della Hill, Messrs. C. Harnish, H. Fontenot, R. Horaist, J. and G. Pefferkorn, J. Mitchell, N. Furlong, L. and C. Chapin, W. Lange, S. Villet, J. Weigel, C. Pointboeuf, A. H. Cooksie, E. Delas, J. B. and A. Coumes, T. M. and W. Eves, J. W. Eves, J. E. Reeves, E. Bertrand, F. Ledet, A. Maitrie, E. Hill, J. S. Raggio, J. Marsh, Chas. Broussard, Willy Elmer, R. Pellerin, C. T. Bienvenu, E. Pellerin, Louis Lacoste. Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1895.



Police Jury Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., April 29, 1895.

 The Police Jury met this day in regular session with the following members present:  J. G. St. Julien, C. C. Brown, A. D. Landry, H. M. Durke, J. W. Broussard, Alf. A. Delhomme and Alf. Hebert. Absent: R. C. Landry.

 The president being absent the secretary called the meeting to order and by motion duly made, Mr. J. G. St. Julien was chosen president pro tem.

 The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.

 On motion it was ordered that the secretary be authorized to rebind the book as per bid for the rebuilding of St. Julien's bridge, he had repaired same at slight expense. Mr. Langlinais was continued on the committee.

 Messrs. Alcide Judice and L. G. Breaux, here appeared and asked for an appropriation to erect a suitable public school house at Scott, there being at present no such building for the purpose. By motion duly made the sum of $200 was appropriated for said purpose and made subject to the order of Messrs. Judice and Breaux.

 By motion duly made it resolved that Messrs. O. C. and J. Mouton, attorneys, be and are hereby instructed to have issued execution of judgement, in suit of Parish versus Numa Schayot, and take all other steps necessary in securing satisfaction of said judgment according to law.

 By motion duly made it was resolved that Sheriff and tax-collector I. A. Broussard be and is hereby instructed to proceed forthwith to the collection of all licenses due the parish of Lafayette in those sections knows as the Mouton, McComb and Mills' additions for the years 1893, 1894 and 1895.

 Mr. Gustave Duhon, here appeared and requested payment for land expropriated for public road. The matter was referred to the member of the 2d ward.

 Messrs. Wm. Clegg and R. C. Greig were appointed a committee to advertise and receive bids, for painting the court house, two coats outside and one inside. The jury reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

 Mr. Delhomme was authorized to advertise for bids for building a bridge at Martin Begnaud's place.

 The secretary was authorized to have framed all road maps in Police Jury records.

 By motion Mr. Faustin Vincent was allowed to pay a half license as Peddler, for 1894, he having conducted business one half year.

 Mr. Brown was authorized to purchase a car load of bridge lumber for the 6th ward.

 The following petition was read and referred to drainage committee of the 6th ward consisting of Messrs. Homer Durio, V. E. Dupuis and Numa Breaux.

            CARENCRO MARCH, 26, 1895.\

 To the President and Members of the Police Jury, Parish of Lafayette.

 Gentlemen: - We the undersigned residents of the 6th ward of said parish, would most respectfully call the attention of your honorable body to the following facts.

 The public road recently traced from Carencro to Breaux Bridge runs through a certain "Marais Copal" which had been thoroughly drained when the road was traced. But some obstructions had been put in the drain north of the road which renders it impassable after an ordinary rain, and we fear that after a protracted rain it may remain so for months.

 The dead water which remains on the road and in the fields is also very detrimental to the health of the residents in the immediate vicinity. We therefore pray that you will take steps to have some outlet for this water, or have the said obstructions removed at your earliest convenience.

 Hoping this will receive your favorable attention, we remain yours respectfully.

 E. M. Connally, E. G. Villere, Albert Guilbeau, A. Breaux, Jno. Connally, E. Connally, F. Abbadie, Elie Bernard, Felix Bernard, Vve. Eugenie Abbadie, J. G. Abbaddie.

 The following indigents were allowed $12.50 each; Alphonse Delhomme, Baptiste George, Melvina DeBiencoeur.

 Antoine Broussard was appointed member of the drainage committee of the 8th ward, instead of Jno. Landry removed.

 In the matter of justice and constable fees presented by Judges Meaux and Primeaux, and their constables for costs in civil suites for nonperformance or road duty, the secretary was instructed to communicate with Dist. Atty. M. T. Gordy and forward him the original accounts for the purpose of obtaining information in reference to the criminal prosecution of parties defendant in suits.

 The Treasurer submitted his monthly report as follows:

 To the President and Members of the Police Jury Parish of Lafayette, La.

 Gentlemen: - The following is a statement of receipts and disbursements of parish funds since last report.

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 Respectfully submitted,
                 WM. CLEGG,
                        Parish Treasurer.

 Lafayette, La., April 29, 1895.
     The following accounts were approved:

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 There being no further business the Police Jury adjourned.
J. G. ST. JULIEN, Pres. pro-tem.
R. C. GREIG, Secretary.
Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1895.




 Selected News Notes (Gazette) 5/4/1895.


 The picnic to be given last Sunday was postponed on account of rain until to-morrow.

 Mrs. J. G. Parkerson and daughter Miss Lizzie, are visiting relatives in San Antonio, Texas.

 Judge O. C. Mouton and wife visited relatives and friends in Grand Coteau this week.

 A most enjoyable party was given at the home of Mrs. P. Riu last Sunday night.

 Felix Voorhies, now of the Carencro Union gin, spent Sunday in Lafayette.

 Mr. Leopold Lacoste lost his pocket-book last Saturday containing eighty dollars, and found it Monday with twenty-seven dollars short.

 Mr. Chas. Jennaro and wife of Abbeville, arrived in town Monday. Mr. Jennaro will establish a first-class shoe-shop here, and we wish him success, as it is a thing badly needed.

 Agent Davidson informs The Gazette that 1,029 cases of eggs were shipped from here during the month of April.

 We are informed by Mr. J. C. Couvillon, that the crop of peaches, plums and pears, on his place near Carencro, and will be abundant. He reports, also, that so far, crops are all that can be expected.

 We are sorry to learn of the sad accident which has befallen Miss Louisa Broussard. While out riding last Wednesday, the horse took fright, and she, in trying to jump out of the buggy, broke her leg. Dr. Mudd attended the unfortunate young lady.
Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1895.





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 From the Lafayette Advertiser of May 4th, 1895:

 A PALPABLE INJUSTICE.

 At its last sitting the Police Jury instructed the tax-collector to proceed forthwith to the collection of licenses for the years 1893, 1894 and 1895, from persons residing and engaged in business in the McComb, Mouton and Mills additions of the town of Lafayette. This action of the parish authorities is based on the late decision of the State Supreme Court declaring these additions to be subject to the jurisdiction of the parish. The legal right of the Police Jury to enforce payment of the taxes and licenses claimed cannot be questioned, be believe, under the judgment rendered, but the mitigating circumstances surrounding the case would seem to justify the opinion held by fair-minded persons that the action of the Police Jury in the present instant is ill-advised and has no defense in equity. The question to be passed on is a most peculiar one and should be dealt with on its own merits than from a legal standpoint, up to the time of the decision of the supreme court, and to act otherwise is to commit a gross injustice on the part of that population involved. In equity the parish is not rightfully entitled to the back licenses claimed and should not undertake to enforce its demand on the basis proposed. If called for at all, an adjustment of differences should be effected on a more moderate line. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1895.



 Railroad Meeting.

 The citizens and business men of Breaux Bridge held a large railroad meeting in Dramatic hall of that place Tuesday night for the purpose of calling on our corresponding with the officials of the Southern Pacific Railroad to induce them to extend their St. Martinsville branch as far as Breaux Bridge. A committee was appointed as asked to act immediately. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1895.





New Job Press For Advertiser.

 We have placed an order for a new Jones-Gordon job press, a Challenge paper cutter and other material needed to enable us to turn out first-class job work with the rapidity and neatness of any city office. The Gordon printing presses have long been acknowledged the standard job presses of the country and can be found in all establishments in the city. While the old Gordons were presses of great merit and many are yet doing duty in the best offices of the country, they cannot be compared with the new Jones-Gordon jobber. It has all the latest improvements in press building; is in every way a modern press and is a fine piece of mechanism of the present day. We want the best obtainable that we may successfully meet competition no matter where it comes from. If the people of Lafayette and vicinity go away from home to have their printing done it will be because they have caught the fever so prevalent throughout the country, viz: to go away from home you can invariably do better than with your home people. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1895.   




Improvements Near the Depot.

Mr. John O. Mouton contemplates making some great improvements at his place of business near the depot. The bar will be enlarged and additional room will be built for beer tables, etc. The place will be lighted with electric lights from a private dynamo which is among the proposed improvements.
Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1895. 

  







Fake Money.

 A negro woman by the name of Caroline, living in the Mouton addition, is trying to pass advertisements (which somewhat resemble bank notes) as money. She was successful in her attempt with an Italian but the "fake" did not work when she tried it at the stores. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1895.


Stole $100 Bill.

 A colored woman by the name of Emma Bernard, of Abbeville, was arrested in Lafayette Thursday accused of stealing a $100 bill of Mr. Chas. Harrington, also of Abbeville. The officers here received information of the theft and were asked to be on the lookout for the thief. After securing the money the woman drove in Lafayette, where she has a child living. She with another colored woman came up town to get the money changed. The latter had just succeeded in getting it changed at Moss Bros. & Co's. when Sheriff Broussard arrested the said Emma. She claims that the money was given to her. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1895.  




Back to Vermilion.


 Mr. Numas Frederick, Justice of the Peace and deputy sheriff of Vermilion parish, came to Lafayette yesterday and took charge of Emma Bernard who will have to answer in the Vermilion District Court to the charge of stealing a $100 bill. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1895.





 Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 5/4/1895.

 Mr. J. P. Nolan, of the S. P. R. R. was in town during the week.

 A new real estate firm will soon open for business in Lafayette.

 A dancing party was given at Aug. Lisbony's Thursday evening. A pleasant time is reported.

 The first dewberries of the season appeared in the market this week. Strawberries are no plentiful and sell as low as ten cents per quart.

 Mr. B. A. Salles and son, Felix, will attend the veterans convention at Houston and will go from there to St. Louis, Mo., and other places in the north.

 Judge J. G. Parkerson had the misfortune to lose his fine buggy horse, the 1st instant. The animal died within a very few hours exhibiting signs of being sick. Lafayette Advertiser 5/4/1895.

















  





        

  











   







  

   

   













  





     

  



















  














  



    









  







      

 









lagniappe:
THE STREET FAIR.

The great New Orleans Street Fair and Spring Festival will open May 6, and continues fourteen (14) days. The crowning of the Queen will be the great event of the opening night. All the military companies of the city will participate and about one-hundred of the city's loveliest young ladies and children. Mayor Capdevielle will crown the Queen with appropriate ceremonies.

 The railroads are giving a half-rate for the entire period while a $4.50 excursion is being run from Galveston, a $4 excursions from all nearby points almost every day of the Fair. The attractions are the finest to be had in the country. The entire Frank C. Bostock combination being engaged while the greatest free attractions in the world will give exhibitions hourly. The Elks, the Commercial Travelers, the Eagles, the Royal Arch and every merchant in the city of New Orleans are working to the limit to make this the biggest thing New Orleans has ever seen. That the entire management is in the hands of Mrs. H. McCall Travis assures the success of the whole. Lafayette Gazette 5/4/1901.

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