From the Lafayette Gazette of June 2nd, 1900:
AN UNPARDONABLE ERROR.
We are reliably informed that when the Catholic priest appeared in the pulpit last Sunday he uttered certain remarks which were evidently calculated to prejudice his congregation against this paper. It appears from the ill-tempered criticisms of our self-appointed censor that The Gazette has committed an unpardonable error in stating that the blessing of the cross in the cemetery would take place on the 8th of June. Instead of the 8th this ceremony will take place on the 10th of June.
Wishing to be correctly informed in this matter we called upon a gentleman of un-impeached veracity whom we had and still have every reason to believe absolutely trustworthy and incapable of intentionally misleading anyone. This gentleman who is a Catholic and closely connected with the affairs of the church at this place, informed us that the blessing of the cross would take place on the 8th of June and it was so stated in The Gazette on the following Saturday. The information was given to us in good faith and it was published in good faith and the allegation or intimation that this paper had been guilty of an attempt to mislead the Catholics of this parish by purposely making an erroneous statement is unfounded.
In order that the readers of The Gazette may see for themselves that there is nothing in the article mentioned to warrant any offensive remarks or to cause any one to forget the dignity of his calling it is appended below.
It is distasteful to us to indulge in personalities, but we will always defend ourselves against unjust actions; unjust censure from any source. As this matter can be of but little concern to the readers of The Gazette we will not revert to it unless necessary.
The following is the article in which it is said we have so grievously sinned:
"...CATHOLIC MISSION
Will Begin Sunday, June 3 - Fathers O'Connor and Leotier Will Preach.
During fifteen days beginning on Sunday, the 3d of June, there will be a mission at the Catholic church. Two eloquent Jesuit missionaries, Fathers O'Connor and Leotier, will preach; one will speak in English and the other in French.
On the 8th of June the large cross, which has recently been placed in the cemetery, will be blessed. On this occasion both Fathers O'Connor and Leotier will preach in the cemetery. As it is expected that a large number of people will be present it has been decided to serve meals under the trees on the church green. Whatever money is realized in this manner will be turned over to the cemetery fund.
The Catholics of the parish are looking forward to the approaching mission with pleasurable anticipations. Fathers O'Connor and Leotier are widely known as two of the eloquent orators and learned theologians in the diocese and it is safe that very large congregations will listen to their daily discourses on the word of God..."
The Gazette wishes it to be understood that it has referred to this matter solely to place itself right before the Catholic congregation.
Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
A Missing Husband.
The following sent to The Gazette for publication explains itself:
NEW ORLEANS, May 23, 1900.
To the Lafayette Gazette:
Will you please advertise in your paper for Amos B. Mix. He is supposed to be in Lafayette, La. He left home two months ago and I do not know if he is dead or alive. His description is as follows: Five feet, 7 inches; has grey eyes; has the two first fingers off of left hand. He is a carpenter. If he answers your advertisement, will you please let me know. Please tell him to come home at once; that his little child, Nettie is very sick. I have tried to find out where he is but I can not. Thanking you in advance, I remain, yours respectfully,
Mrs. A. B. Mix,
3520 Baronne Street,
New Orleans, La.
The Gazette will be pleased to forward to Mrs. Mix any information as the whereabouts of her husband. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
BISHOP ROUXEL,
And Gov. Heard Will be Lafayette's Guests on the 21st of June.
Although it is impossible to print to-day the complete program of the ceremony of laying the corner-stone of the Industrial Institute we are in a position to state positively that Bishop Rouxel and Gov. Heard will be among Lafayette's distinguished guests on that occasion. A letter received from President Stephens is authority for this statement.
President Stephens will be in Lafayette to-day or to-morrow and will confer with local committees as to the arrangements of the program and other details of the celebration.
A meeting of the Business Men's Association will be held at Falk's hall on Monday next at 8 o'clock for the purpose of formulating a program of the day's celebration.
All the citizens of the town are requested to be present at this meeting.
Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
Meeting of the Democratic Committee.
Pursuant to call the Democratic executive committee of this parish met last Monday morning for the purposes of organizing and electing delegates to the Baton Rouge convention which will be held to send delegates to the presidential convention at Kansas City.
Mr. John Hahn was elected chairman and Paul DeClouet secretary. Owing to the absence of Mr. DeClouet Mr. F. H. Thompson was made secretary pro tem.
The following members were present: John Hahn, Dr. R. O. Young, Robt. H. Broussard, Elias Spell, John Whittington. Mr. DeClouet arrived while the meeting was being held.
The following gentlemen were elected to the Baton Rouge convention:
Alex Delhomme, A. O. Clark, Nathan Broussard, Wm. Campbell, Julian Mouton, A. M. Martin, C. Debaillon, I. A. Broussard, O. Cade, Dr. N. D. Young, Alex Billeaud, A. Olivier, H. Durio, O. P. Guilbeau, Robt. Broussard, A. D. Verrot, John Whittington.
The delegation is uninstructed and no proxies will be allowed.
Upon motion of Dr. Young a committee of three was appointed to confer with a like committee from Acadia. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
Water and Lights.
The town has bought of Dr. Hopkins a lot of ground adjoining the power house. It is the intention of the water and light committee of the Council to build a fence around the power house and the lot was bought to make room for a coal bin. This will enable the town to buy coal in larger quantities, this securing better rates. It is the purpose of the Council to run the plant on a strictly business basis. The price paid for the lot is $100. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
Dr. Mayer at State Capital.
Dr. Fred J. Mayer, of Opelousas, is in the capital in the interests of a bill to establish a State Bureau of Hygiene to promote the advancement of sanitary science, the establishment of hospitals for contagious and infectious diseases and for the restriction and prevention of tuberculosis and charbon. The bill seems to be drawn along practical, common sense lines, and its objects have been endorsed by various medical and sanitary associations throughout the South, as well as by many of the most eminent scientists of the country. Dr. Mayer has devoted much time and study to Hygiene and sanitary problems, and his bill is the result of deep research and of a careful study of the best methods prevailing in this country and Europe. Ex-Speaker Henry has charge of the measure in the House, and with his well known energy and ability he will doubtless make many friends for the bill. From the Baton Rouge Advocate and in the Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
About the Industrial School.
The Baton Rouge correspondent of the N. O. Daily States writes the following to his paper:
"The City of Lafayette and the Board of Trustees of the new Industrial school to be located at Lafayette desire authority to issue $70, one worth of ten-year bonds to carry the project of the school to complete accomplishment. The board has already contracted to expend for the main building, heating apparatus and architects' commissions, etc., some $42,703.50. They propose further to erect a machine shop and a dormitory for girls, which, with their equipments and the work already contracted for, will bring the total expenditure, up to $71,703.50. The idea is asking permission to issue bonds to anticipate the revenues derivable from the ten-years two-mill tax is to enable the board to go forward without delay in developing the institution. The board will ask the legislature for a straight appropriation of $35,000 to assist in meeting the expenses of constructing and equipping the school buildings, $10,000 for maintenance during the first year and $12,500 for maintenance during the second year.
The whole of southwest Louisiana is enthusiastic over the establishment of the school, and though Senator Labbe's town was not favored with the location, the senator promises to be exceedingly zealous in securing adequate recognition from the State of the needs of the new educational institution. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
Long Distance Telephone at SLI
Work on the Industrial Institute has been started in earnest. The masons are already laying the bricks and other workmen are preparing to begin work. In order to facilitate matters a Cumberland long distance phone has been placed on the grounds.
Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
B. M. A. Meeting.
A meeting of the Business Men's Association was called to take place at Falk's hall last Thursday, but was not held because only the president and two members were present. It is very essential that the laying of the corner stone of the Industrial Institute be celebrated in fitting style and it is to be hoped that another effort to bring the citizens together will be more successful. Another meeting of the B. M. A. has been called for 8 o'clock Monday evening. A large attendance is desired. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
A Good Appointment.
The Gazette understands that Mr. Charles D. Caffery will be appointed to succeed Mr. Wm. Campbell as mayor of the town. The selection is a good one. Mr. Caffery is eminently qualified to fill the office of mayor. He has served the public in that capacity and the record that he has made is decidedly to his credit. The Gazette hopes Mr. Caffery will accept the office for the town needs the services of good men of ability. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
NUPTIALS.
Mr. Henry McBride, of Gueydan, and Miss Martha Mouton, of this town, were married at the Catholic church last Wednesday afternoon. A large number of people witnessed the ceremony at the church after which relatives and a few intimate friends repaired to the home of the bride's mother, Mrs. E. E. Mouton, where a reception was held. The Gazette extends to the groom and bride its best wishes for a happy union and congratulates them upon the auspicious beginning of their married life, which, let us hope, will grow still brighter as the years roll round. The bride, who is deservedly popular in this community, was born and reared here, where her charming manner, splendid qualities of heart and mind and exceptional attainments have won for her an enviable place in the esteem and affection of everyone.
Mr. and Mrs. McBride will live in Gueydan where Mr. McBride is engaged in the drug business.
Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
Meeting of the Ladies' Club.
The members of the Ladies' Five O'clock Tea Club were entertained Tuesday afternoon at the beautiful home of Mrs. F. E. Girard, Brookside, where a most novel program was enjoyed. A magazine, "The Munsy" was published, members of the club contributing articles.
Mrs. F. E. Girard, as "frontispiece" representing "Spring Fancies," was a picture that would have adorned a painter's canvas. "In the Public Eye" was instructively written by Miss Parkerson.
Too much cannot be said of "A Little Journey in the World," so cleverly written by Mrs. F. E. Davis. The reading of this story elicited much merited applause.
Mrs. Delaney's poem, entitled "Work for Points," was much appreciated.
"The Haunted House," a storiette by Miss Hopkins, was so realistic as to send shivers through the audience.
Mrs. Biossat, as author of "Current Topics," interested her listeners with a skillful description of the Paris Exposition and the latest theories concerning the eclipse.
"The Advertisements," by Miss Lizzie Mudd, in her inimitable manner, were bright and spicy, and brought forth loud peals of laughter.
After the program the guests had a work puzzle to unravel. Mrs. Biossat was so lucky as to win the prize.
Cooling ices and delicious cakes were served in the spacious dining room.
The club then adjourned to meet next Thursday, May 15, with Mrs. Sechrest.
Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1900.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of June 2nd, 1894:
OUR LAST CHANCE.
Our last chance this year at least, to secure a Sugar Refinery in Lafayette parish near the site of the town, lays in a disposition to establish a plant, manifested by an outside capitalist who was in our midst a few days ago. At this writing the undertaking is assuming shape of an encouraging nature but is far from being an assured fact and the merchants and business men of the town are acting wisely in favoring the establishment of a convenience so sorely needed in our parish at this time, by offering as a bonus to the refinery a $3,000.00 site, free. The location that is offered leaves nothing to be desired as it is a natural site for a central sugar factory, affording every convenience that it is in the power of any plot ground in the parish to give, besides possessing the decided advantage to the town of Lafayette, of being within a most suitable distance.
It is to be hoped that this offer to donate so valuable a site will meet with proper appreciation and serve to more strongly induce the establishing of a refinery available for the present season. It is unmistakable evidence of the good sentiment and friendly spirit in which our people regard the proposed undertaking, and even though the tender be not accepted it will go on record to the credit of Lafayette that it holds within its borders, citizens who are not altogether dead to the welfare and advancement of its interests, and the knowledge of this fact alone, will cause our citizens to view kindred matters with broader minds and make thriving cities of small and apathetic towns.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
The Fire of Last Night.
At one o'clock this morning the large barn and corncrib of Mr. Pierre Gerac, situated about 100 yards from his dwelling, was discovered to be on fire. The inflammable nature of the contents to spread with lightning rapidity and with dire effect.
The structure and 400 barrels of corn together with a quantity of peas quickly passed away into smoke in full view of over a hundred spectators who were powerless to stay a fire so far advanced, with means at hand. Fortunately, the burning building was isolated besides being completely surrounded by green trees, and the night was an unusually calm one, or we might have had a far different tale to relate to our readers.
The origin of the fire can be only theoretical, as no one known to have visited the barn later than about 7 o'clock last evening, and it is not probable that the structure was set on fire.
In the absence of a more plausible explanation it is not unreasonable to suppose it was cause by one of those dangerous combination of a match and mouse, or rat, that are so often responsible for most destructive conflagrations.
The loss is a total one as there was no insurance on the property destroyed.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
HIGH SCHOOL.
The first commencement exercises of the Lafayette High School will be held at Falk's Opera House on June 8th & 9th. A very entertaining and instructive program has been arranged for the occasion and will fully repay all who may attend. The exercises will consist of recitations, dialogues, character sketches, and short plays, interspersed with excellent music and singing. A band will be in attendance both nights, and after the exercises the hall will be given up to the young people to enjoy themselves. An admission fee of 25 cents for grown people and 15 cents for children will be charged each night, for the purpose of purchasing a cistern which is badly needed, and making some other additions. We trust that the people of Lafayette and the friends of the High School everywhere will assist by their presence both nights. Remember the dates, June 8th. and 9th. Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
Entertainment at Convent.
The pupils of Mount Carmel Convent will give an entertainment covering the 17th and 18th days of June, for the benefit of the Catholic church here. The program will be made up of dramas, songs and drills and no doubt will prove of much interest to the public. Refreshments in abundance will be prepared for the occasion, and all are invited to attend. Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
Off to West Point.
Judge A. J. Moss of this place was among the passengers on the East bound train on Wednesday last with West Point, New York, as his ultimate destination. The Judge has gone, we learn, to witness the graduation of his son James A. Moss, who for the last four years has been a cadet at the U. S. Military Academy, and while away will take in the cities of New York and Washington. THE ADVERTISER wishes him "bon voyage." Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
Doing Well In Chicago.
The name of Geo. B. Petty is not an altogether unfamiliar one in Lafayette. Indeed during his stay of two years in this community that gentleman made many friends in and out of business. It will be a source of gratification to these to know that Mr. Petty's energy and ambition is meeting with suitable reward in the city of Chicago, to which place he removed his business from Lafayette in the spring of 1892. A constantly growing trade in the Crayon Portrait and Picture Frame line forced him to enlarge his facilities to meet all requirements, as occasion demanded, until necessity arose for a radical increase in the capacity of his business plant. It was for the purpose of carrying out such design that, in the beginning of the past month, M. Petty moved into much larger quarters and remodeled and greatly increased the scope of his establishment which he now conducts under the name of the "Consolidated Portrait and Frame Company." His is a well deserved success and we hope to note still greater advancement in Mr. Petty's affairs, as time goes on. Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
Ice Cream.
Mr. G. C. Bienvenue has had constructed a conveyance designated especially to sell ice cream on the street and in the public places, and commenced serving customers several days ago. Mr. Bienvenue is prepared to make ice cream on a large scale and will promptly till all orders received for the delectable article, for balls, parties and at domicile.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
POLICE JURY PROCEEDINGS.
Lafayette, La. May 28, 1894.
The Police Jury met this day in regular session with the following members present: Ford Huffpauir, C. C. Brown, A. A. Delhomme, A. Hebert and A. D. Landry. Absent: J. G. St. Julien, R. C. Landry and H. M. Durke.
The minutes of the previous meeting was dispensed with.
The clerk reported that he had settled with the Lafayette Advertiser there being a balance of $3.00 in favor of the parish.
The secretary also reported progress in the adjustment of fines with sheriff Broussard and was granted until next meeting to make a complete report.
Mr. Martin reported progress in the search for titles to public roads and was granted further time.
By motion Messrs. A. Herbert, R. C. Greig and L. Hirsch, were appointed to procure estimates for painting and kalasamining the Court House.
By motion Mr. Alfred Hebert was appointed and authorized to enter into a formal contract with Mr. B. Falk for the laying of a brick walk in and around the court square, at the rate of $48.75 per hundred feet length by six feet width, and $64.80 per hundred feet length, by eight-feet width. The said walks to be laid with pressed brick, and covered with cement. The said work to be done, in first class workmanship and all materials therefore to be furnished by said contractor price shall be paid cash and the remainder one year from date without interest. Adopted.
The sum of $12.50 each was granted, unto. Adrien Sonnier, Louis Sam, Rodolph Prejean and Madleine, indigents.
The committee to appoint and trace the public road from Lafayette to St. Julien's Bridge, made the following report which was accepted and approved.
STATE OF LOUISIANA PSH. OF LAFAYETTE.
L. St. Julien, Albert Landry, J. S. Ronia, Thos. F. Webb, Jr., J. O. Broussard, Don Louis Herpin, R. W. Bernard do solemnly swear, that I will layout the road now directed to be laid out by the Police Jury of the parish of Lafayette to the greatest ease and advantage of the inhabitants and with as little prejudice ton enclosures as may be without favor or affection, malice or hatred, and to the best of my skill and abilities, so help me God, and - furthermore that I will truly assess all damages to proprietors caused by said road to the best of my judgment and ability. L. St. Julien, Albert Landry, J. E. Bonin., Thos. F. Webb, Jr., J. O. Broussard, Don Louis Herpin, R. U. Bernard; Subscribed and sworn to before me this 5th day of March 1894.
Ed. G. Voorhies.
REPORT.
We the undersigned Jury of freeholders of the parish of Lafayette, duly appointed by the Police Jury of said parish, to trace and lay out a road, leading from Lafayette to St. Julien's Bridge through the lands of the following proprietors to wit ; hereinafter specially named, to Josephine St. Julien, at St. Julien's Bridge, having been notified of our appointment and of the time and place of meeting by the person first named in said order of appointment, and having severally taken and subscribed the foregoing oath and having given notice to each and every one of the aforesaid proprietors in writing, at least three days previous of the time and place of meeting and of the intended laying out of said road through the lands of said proprietors which notices were duly served on said proprietors did meet on the 28th day of May 1894 at Lafayette, the place designated in said notices, and did then and there, in the presence of the following named of said proprietors which notices were duly served on said proprietors to wit : J. G. Broussard, L. St. Julien and S. C. Landry, proceed to trace and lay out said public road as follows : Beginning at Lafayette and running thence through the lands of the proprietors hereinafter named, for a distance of about eleven miles, taking a strip twenty feet wide off of the land of each one along their common boundary line, which boundary was mutually agreed upon and shown us by said proprietors, and by then designated to us by setting stakes and plowing furrows, so as to be easily visible and recognizable, and thence through the lands of the Hebrew Graveyard Association, A. T. Caillouet, Alex. Mouton, Mrs. Frank Gardner, Crow Girard, C. A. Mouton, Felix Girard, Protestant Graveyard Association, Alfred Hebert, Acadia Gun Club, P. Girard, E. Lane, suc. of Isaac Chatman (Price) E. Marquis, J. H. Knite, Mrs. B. Dupuis, Sy. Landry, Lessin Meaux, Old Betsey, Sigismond Bernard, R. Landry, Ernest Smith, Chas. Broussard, J. O. Broussard, Francois V. Comeaux, Adolphe Comeaux, R. C. Landry, Horace Comeaux, Alphonse Broussard, Albert Landry, Homer Landry, Mrs. Olivia Landry, Eraste Guidry, Edgar Guidry, Alex N. Guidry, Dr. Geo. W. Scranton, Raphael Guidry, Mrs. J. B. Malagarie, N. Melancon, Mrs. Emile Montet, Vasin Broussard, Mrs. M. E. Bernard, J. G. St. Julien, Martial Billeaud, Jos. Girouard, Eraste Landry, Jules Girouard, Mrs. Julien, St. Julien, Therence Girouard, Agelique Louis Sam, L. St. Julien, Marie Virginie, Jean Louis, Jules Mouton, Jos. Girouard, Israel Jean Louis, Lucious Duhon, T. Girouard, S. C. Landry, M. Billeaud, Mrs. Elizabeth Aubry, Mrs. Marie Boudreaux, Mrs. Mathilde Broussard, Estorge & Billeaud, P. B. Roy, Willie Potier, Mrs. Josephine St. Julian, Edgar Breaux and the St. Julien Bridge, the termination of said road which is forty feet wide throughout its entire length and was so traced and staked out as to be plainly visible throughout its entire course, and we have caused to be made a plat of said road showing the location, and course of said and the location of the lands of the different proprietors, through which said road runs, and the distance and quantity of land, expropriated from each one for said road which plat is annexed to thos our report, of said road for reference.
And we further report that we said jury of freeholders did on our oaths aforesaid assess the following damages to proprietors, in compensation for their land so taken, and expropriated for said road as follows to wit: Taken from the Rihosky plat drawn in the year 1857, with exception of a few changes authorized by the Police Jury since then and to the other proprietors no damages were assessed in our opinion the benefit of said road rully compensates the value of the land taken and the parish having a previous title : Done at this Parish of Lafayette this 28th day of May, 1894.
Signed: J. O. Broussard, S. C. Landry, R. U. Bernard, L. St. Julien, Thos. F. Webb, Jr., S. Bernard, J. C. Bonin - Jury of Freeholders.
Endorsement of Consent: I, one of the proprietors named in the written report do hereby consent to the location and direction of the road, as described in the written report and accompanying plat, and hereby agree to accept the amount of damages allowed me by said jury of freeholders as by the written report set forth in full compensation of all damages by me sustained by reason of the expropriation of my hand, for the use of said road; signed and dated _____of _____ 1894. Sigismond Bernard, Francois Comeaux, Francois Zuime, Aymar Bonin, J. O. Broussard, Adolphe Comeaux, Azena Comeaux, R. C. Landry, Chas. Landry, Sy Landry, A. L. Broussard, Horace Comeaux, Louisa Comeaux, Albert Landry, Rosemond Landry, Homer Landry, Sy Landry, Martial Billeaud, Eraste Landry, Jules Girouard, Louis Jean Louis, Angeligne Louis Sam, Marie Virginie, Estorge & Billaud, Therence Girouard, S. C. Landry, Elisabeth Anbry, Marie Boudreaux, L. St. Julien, Josephine St. Julien, Edgar Breaux, Edouard St. Julien, P. B. Roy, Lucius Duhon, Alex M. Guidry, Mrs. Olivia Landry, Mr. J. B. Malagarie, V. Broussard, J. G. St. Julien, M. Melancon, M. E. Bernard, Emelie Monte.
The Treasurer submitted his monthly report as follows:
--------------------------------------
Ther being no further business the Police Jury adjourned.
FORD HOFFPAUIR, President.
R. C. GREIG, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 6/2/1894.
So far as we can learn from partial observation, and general inquiry, the prospects for all crops in this parish are excellent. Cane has a splendid start, cotton is well advanced, corn is everywhere in good condition, thought a little behind.
The summer season is now upon us, and every precaution should be taken to prevent local causes for disease. A free use of lime and other disinfectants properly applied may remove the causes and be conducive to health. A word to the wise is sufficient.
Mr. Chas. B. Porch, the popular local agent for Waters Pierce Oil Co., sustained painful but not serious injuries last Sunday in endeavoring to hold in check a team of horses he was driving, that took fright and tried to run away after Mr. Porch had disembarked from the vehicle.
The supply of trough rice having become exhausted in this section the Lafayette Rice Mill discontinued operations this week until the next crop will be harvested.
Mr. Leopold Lacoste was on the street again this week, much reduced in flesh by his late attack of illness but his friends are glad to know that he is already on the high road to recovery.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1894.
From the Lafayette Gazette of June 2nd, 1894:
MR. MOUTON'S EDUCATIONAL BILLS.
The bill introduced by the member of the Legislature from Lafayette prohibiting the employment of any minister of the gospel, member of any religious order or teacher of religion as teacher of religion as teacher in the schools of this State, was finally passed in the House of Representatives on Tuesday by a vote of 63 yeas to 7 nays evidencing the popularity of the measure in the lower house.
The idea involved of the total separation of church and State, is in full accord with the principles of our government. The school taxes are collected by the State from all her citizens, and consequently must be expended for the education of all, without preference to any religious sect or denomination.
Our organic law, State and national, expressly prohibits any legislation for the establishment of any religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; therefore, the funds levied for educational purposes should not be diverted for the benefit of any sectarian school. The law does not, even by implication, evince, any prejudice, much less enmity, against any church or religion; the evident object of it being to secure for all the use of the school fund, without offense to any creed, on hindrance to the free exercise of any faith. Its enactment will undoubtedly prevent the occurrence in this State, of the serious troubles which arose in other States by reason of the divergence of public school funds for sectarian purposes. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1894.
A RAILROAD COMMISSION.
[The Houma Courier.]
A bill of vital importance to the people of Louisiana is one recently introduced in the Legislature by Representative Mouton of Lafayette, to create a railroad commission, and to provide for the regulation of rates on railroads. Substantially this bill provides, that, from the State at large, the Governor shall appoint three commissioners at an annual salary of $2,000 or $3,000. The appointment of these commissioners will be confirmed by the Senate and they will be required to furnish bonds of $10,000 each for the faithful performance of their duty.
Mr. Mouton asserts that the object of the bill will not be to retard the growth of the railroad interests of the State but to allow a fair and equitable return to the railroads on the capital invested, while at the same time it will have a restraining effect on these very large and very often rapacious corporations.
In many parts of the State and particularly in Southern Louisiana, the people are entirely at the mercy of grinding railroad corporations. They are forced to abide by any schedule of rates that the railroads may see fit to impose on them.
Lately the railroad corporations throughout this State have shown a disposition to make reductions in freight rates. This move is a commendable one and one that has been appreciated by the people of every portion of the State whose interests are materially benefited by the reductions. But this fact should not exert an influence in restraining the passage of Mr. Mouton's bill. Under the present laws of this State the railroads have a perfect right to cancel any of the present rates and charge as much for transportation as they may see fit. It is this power that the bill aims to limit.
Two years ago, during the session of the Legislature a bill similar to the one now before that body was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the commission on railroad. This commission was composed of thirteen members, five in favor and seven against the passage of the measure and consequently the bill was pigeon-holed. About this time, however, Mr. Dupont, one of our representatives from this parish, offered the following bomb-shell resolution which created consternation for a little while in railroad circles and threatened to blow up the little game that was unmistakably at the bottom of the pigeon-hole scheme:
"...Whereas, House bill NO. 106, provided for the creation of a railroad commission is a measure of great importance to the State, and one in which the white people are greatly interested; and
"Whereas, the present session of the General Assembly is drawing, to a close, and the calendar is becoming crowded to such an extent that an early consideration of this bill is rendered necessary in order to pass it at this section;
"Be it further resolved, That the committee on railroads be and it is hereby directed to report said House bill No. 106 to the House on or before Thursday 23rd. instant..."
These resolutions finally passed by a vote of 45 to 24. This brought the committee on railroads to time and they of course handed in an unfavorable report. Subsequently a vote for indefinite postponement was taken in the House, the result being 51 yeas, 21 nay and 15 members absent.
The Courier earnestly hopes that Mr. Mouton's bill will not meet with a similar fate. Texas has had a railroad commission for a number of years and it has given protection and general satisfaction to the people of that State. During the existence of the commission there has been no noticeable decline in the growth of railroad interests of that State. If anything the development has been more rapid than before the establishment of the railroad commission. From the Houma Courier and in the Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1894.
HIGH SCHOOL.
The first commercial exercises of the Lafayette High School will be held at Falk's Opera House on June 8th, and 9th; a very entertaining and instructive program has been prepared for the occasion and will fully repay all who may attend. The exercises will consist of recitations, dialogues, character sketches and short plays, interspersed with excellent music and singing. A band will be in attendance both nights and after the exercises, the hall will be given up the young people to enjoy themselves.
An admission of fee of 25 cents for grown people will be charged and 15 cents for children will be charged each night for the purpose of purchasing a cistern, which is badly needed, and making some other additions. We trust that that people of Lafayette and the friends of the High School everywhere, will assist by their by their presence both nights. Remember the dates, June 8th and 9th. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1894.
The Sunday Law.
Dispatches from Baton Rouge to the New Orleans papers announce that the bill to repeal the Sunday Law has been reported unfavorably by the committee. It is also stated that Mr. Mouton, the author of the bill, claims that in his section there is a clamor for the abolition of the Sunday Law, and that he will carry the fight on the floor of the House and endeavor to carry is measure. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1894.
A Serious Charge.
Constable Geo. Malagarie, of the 7th ward, come to town Friday evening having in custody a young man named Adam Primeaux, who was arrested near Royville under a charge of having criminally assaulted a negro girl named Regina Nisette about 11 years old. The affidavit was made before Judge Sidney Greig by the mother of the girl. Primeaux was incarcerated in the parish jail. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1894.
A Good Time Assured.
The entertainment of the pupils of Mount Carmel Convent for the benefit of the Catholic church, will take place on the 17th and 18th of June. The dramas, songs and drills will be unusually interesting and all kinds of good things to eat will be sold at reasonable prices. An invitation is extended to all and a good time is assured to the old and young. Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1894.
First Communion.
Wednesday was the day fixed for first communion at the Catholic church, which was filled to its utmost capacity by the faithful from all parts of the parish. The church has been beautifully decorated and the altars tastefully arranged for the occasion. Mass was said at 7 o'clock by Rev. Father Forge and an appropriate and very interesting sermon was preached by the Rev. Father Danglois, of St. Martinville, who had come to assist Father Forge. One hundred and eighty-eight children under the direction of the good sisters of the Mount Carmel Convent, were in church and presented themselves to the altar to receive their first communion. The perfect order that prevailed throughout the holy ceremonies showed how well and zealously the sisters and the local pastor had labored to prepare the children for this most solemn occasion. The customary acts before and after the communion were read by Miss Hilda Delhomme and Master Ralph Thompson, and the act of consecration by Miss Anna Mouton.
Among the priests who participated in the ceremonies were: Rev. A. Mehault, of Abbeville; Mesnil, of Loreauville; Morin, of Patoutville; Blanc, of Grand Point; Branch, of Rayne; J. M. Langlois, of St. Martinville.
The choir was under the direction of Miss C. Mouton, and the soloists were Mrs. Alf. Mouton, Misses Genevieve Salles, Nellie Bailey and Marthe Mouton.
Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1894.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 6/2/1894.
The maiden trip of the street sprinkler met with an accident Friday morning; just as it started out the barrel was capsized and came near rolling over the driver Joe Guidry, but fortunately he escaped unhurt.
The old waiting room at the depot is being partitioned and will be occupied by the road master and the car checkers. The telegraph operator's off ice has been enlarged.
Dr. A. R. Trahan, of this town, is attending the meeting of the Louisiana Medical Association in New Orleans. Dr. Lessley, of Carencro, is also in attendance.
A very curious little engine arrived here Wednesday evening in charge of Engineer Jeff DeBlanc. It is simply at upright boiler upon four wheels about 20 inches in diameter. The engine which has a cog wheel, is capable of running twenty-five miles an hour. It is so arranged as to comfortably seat four persons. It is used on the Beeville, Texas, branch exclusively by the officials.
Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1894.
lagniappe:
LINCOLN PARDONED HIM.
The President Took the Risk on the Side of Mercy.
Hon. H. L. Dawes, in some recollections of Lincoln and Stanton, relates an experience of his own in dealing with these two men, who, "so wholly unlike in ways of work and thought, walked together arm in arm, each sustained in the load he carried by the arm he leaned on, and helped on his way by the caution and counsel of him who walked by his side." A quarter-master of a Massachusetts regiment had been caught gambling with government money, and had been sentenced to five years' imprisonment in the Albany penitentiary. Says Mr. Dawes:
"I had received a petition to the president, signed by many leading citizens of the neighborhood of the offender's home, endorsed and certified to by the physician of my own town, asking for his pardon on the ground of failing health, and representing him to be in a sad condition of decline, with every prospect of a speedy death unless he were released.
"I took this petition to Mr. Lincoln, who, after carefully reading it, turned to me and said :
" ' Do you believe that statement?'
" 'Certainly I do, Mr. President, or I should not have brought it to you.'
" 'Please say so here on the back of it, under these doctors.'
"I did as requested, adding : 'And because I believe it to be true I join in this petition.'
"As I signed my name Mr. Lincoln remarked, 'We can't permit the man to die in prison after that statement,' and immediately wrote under it all :
" 'Let this man be discharged. A. L.'
"He handed the paper back to me, and told me to take it to the war office and give it to Mr. Stanton. He saw at once something in my countenance which led him to think that I had already encountered some rough weather in that quarter, and had little relish for more. Mr. Lincoln took back the paper, and smiling, remarked that he was going over there pretty soon, and would take it himself.
"The next day, on giving to the house, I was met by two Michigan representatives with the inquiry 'What have you been doing at the White House? We went there to get a poor Michigan soldier pardoned who been sentenced to death for desertion, but we couldn't do anything with the president. He told us that you were there yesterday, and got him to pardon a man out of the penitentiary, and when he took the paper to Mr. Stanton he wouldn't discharge him.
" ' "He told me," said the president, "that it was a sham, and that Dawes had got me to pardon the biggest rascal in the army, and that I had made gambling with the funds perfectly safe. I couldn't get him to let the man off. The truth is, I have been doing so much of this thing lately that I have lost all influence with this administration, and have got to stop.
"I went immediately to the White House, with my hair on end, but was greeted by the president in the mildest manner. I inquired if the pardon had gone out. He replied that it had not, and then recounted, in his quaint way, the scene in the war office.
"I said to him that I could not afford to have this matter rest on any uncertainty. 'Retain this pardon, send a message to Albany, and make certain the truth or falsity of this statement - at my expense, if we have been imposed upon.' Mr. Lincoln's reply was:
" ' I think, if you believe it, I will. At any rate, I will take the risk on the side of mercy.'
"So the pardon went out. And yet the sequel proved that Mr. Stanton was the nearest right of three; for, on my return to Massachusetts, almost the first man who greeted me in the street was the same dying quarter-master, apparently as hale and robust as the best of the people around him."
From the Atlantic Monthly and in the Lafayette Gazette 6/2/1894.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of June 2nd, 1908:
CHAPEL IN MUDD ADDITION.
The plan of the Catholics in Mudd Addition to have a Chapel, saving the long walks, is fast ripening. We understand that the first benefit will be given next Thursday by Youngs' Drug Store giving the Committee a share of the proceeds of their new and splendid soda stand. The Reverend W. Teurlings, Rector of the Catholic church, hopes to meet with encouragement and success at the very start, from the Soda Fountain to the Horn of Plenty. Lafayette Advertiser 6/2/1908.
No comments:
Post a Comment