From the Lafayette Gazette of June 13th, 1903:
SHOOTS HIS FATHER
Rufus Buchanan, a Negro, Shot and Fatally Injured by His Son.
Rufus Buchanan was shot and seriously wounded by his son, Cesaire, at 6:30 Thursday morning, a few acres from Dr. Clark's home, in the second ward. Two shots were fired. Drs. A. O. and Oran Clark, who attended the wounded man, found nine buckshots in his left leg, five in his right leg and several in the thigh. The right knee joint was badly broken. Sheriff Broussard happened to be in the neighborhood and a few minutes after the shooting he had the man under arrest. Sheriff Broussard turned the prisoner over to Dave Spell who brought him to jail.
The would-be parricide claims that his father was about to beat his mother, but the latter does not bear him out in this statement. She says he was whipping a young son when the other son shot him.
The wounded negro was taken to Duson where he was sent to the Charity Hospital at New Orleans. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
DRILLING STARTED
By the Martin Oil Company Last Wednesday Evening.
Due solely to the persistent efforts of Assessor Martin Lafayette can boast of a prospective oil field. Mr. Martin's faith in the oil possibilities of this section has been of the kind that moves mountains. While most of our citizens had ceased to take an active interest in the development of the local oil lands, Mr. Martin worked with a zeal that overcame all obstacles and resulted in the organization of a company which is now operating within a mile of this town. The Martin Oil Company, of which Mr. Martin is the promoter, began to drill yesterday. The company has the means and equipments necessary for a thorough exploitation of the field. The drilling is in charge of a competent oil man, Mr. Scott Clay, and the work will be prosecuted without delay. This enterprise is of the greatest importance to this whole section, but this town, is, for many reasons, particularly interested in its success.
There has been a great deal of talk, but the credit for making the practical move to develop what may be properly called the Lafayette oil field belongs exclusively to the Martin Oil Company.
Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Advertiser Under New Mgmt.
Our local contemporary, The Lafayette Advertiser, appeared last Saturday under the management of Messrs. W. A. LeRosen and James Alpha, Mr. H. A. Van der Cruyssen having retired from the paper on account of ill-health. Having been the principal of the Lafayette High School during several years, Mr. LeRosen is well and favorably known in this community. James was born and reared here, and, equally with his associate, he enjoys the confidence and esteem of the people of Lafayette. For a period of nine years Mr. Alpha was employed in the office of The Gazette and by intelligent and conscientious work has contributed to the success of this paper. Messrs. LeRosen and Alpha have our best wishes for success. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
D. B. Hudson vs. The Compress.
The attention of the district court was occupied this week by the trial of the suit of D. B. Hudson vs. The Lafayette Compress. The suit is for the recovery of the alleged loss of seven bales of cotton. The cotton was shipped from Eola to New Orleans, with stopover at this point to be compressed. The contention of the Compress is that the cotton was shipped from here after being compressed. Mr. Hudson is represented by Mr. Chas. D. Caffery and the Compress by Judge O. C. Mouton. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
The Fireman's Parade.
The order of the firemen's parade on June 18 will be as follows:
The parade will form at the court-house square at 5:30 p. m. It will leave the square at 6 o'clock, taking the following route: Lafayette to Vermilion street. Vermilion to Jefferson (Moss corner), Jefferson to Crescent hotel, Crescent hotel to Sixth (Sunset hotel), Sixth to Vermilion (post office), Vermilion to Washington (J. O. Mouton's residence), Washington to Falk's hall. At this point the parade will disband and the firemen will attend the smoker. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
In Honor of Miss Dupre.
The graduating class of the Industrial Institute gave a picnic in Chargois' woods last Wednesday in honor of their English teacher, Miss Edith Dupre. Having enjoyed the hospitality of Miss Dupre's home at Opelousas a few days ago, the members of the class decided to give a picnic in honor of this able and popular teacher. Those present were: Mrs. V. L. Roy, Mrs. F. Demanade, Miss Dupre, Miss Maxim Beraud, Miss Rhena Boudreaux, Pothier Voorhies, Henry Smedes, Willie Mills, Harold Demanade, Jeff Caffery, Fred Voorhies. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
THE ROMERO SCHOOL
Has Not Been Closed - Change Made to Greatly Benefit Community.
Lafayette, La., June 9, 1903.
Editor of The Lafayette Gazette:
There is a rumor in the neighborhood of the Blanchet or Romero school to the effect that the School Board at its last meeting decided to close the school in this community. What the Board did at its last meeting was to accept a tract of land about half-way between the present Royville school site and the present Comeaux school site "to carry out a resolution adopted by the Board at a previous meeting." In other words "the resolution adopted at a previous meeting" was one by which the Royville school will be moved about one-half mile to the east and the Comeaux school one-half mile to the west and the two school consolidated. Thus both communities will be vastly benefited. Instead of two weak schools each in charge of one teacher, both communities will have one strong school in charge of two, and very probably, of three teachers. Next year the children of these two communities will do just twice as much work as they did during the past year because in the one large school there will be two or three teachers to hear the same number of recitations which each teacher heard separately in the separate schools. To take a common illustration let us suppose two churches, situated as these two schools are, only one mile apart. For these two churches, one mile apart, there are two priests who each preaches the same sermon every Sunday to a congregation of forty. Now if the site of each of these two churches be removed at half mile to a point half way between the two, and a church large enough to contain a congregation of eighty be constructed, one priest could do the work of two. One sermon would do for eighty persons as well as for forty. In the same way the two first-reader classes are combined into one first-reader class; the two second-reader classes are combined into one second-reader class and so on. Instead of having eight classes in two schools, the classes are combined and you have four classes in one school; and instead of having one teacher for four classes you have two teachers for four classes. In the modern system of teaching by classes it is just as easy to teach a class of 20 as it is to teach a class of 10.
It must not be forgotten that two schools mentioned above are only one mile apart and by considering these two schools not one child is wronged but eighty children are given an opportunity to do two years' work in one year. Any person who is willing to be reasonable is bound to admit that the School Board has in this instance done its sworn duty. This is the only case of consolidation in Lafayette parish.
But the Romero school is four and a half miles from Royville and the School Board being reasonable has not required and will not require the children to walk four and a half miles to school. The School Board has not closed the Romero school.
L. J. ALLEMAN.
Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Replies to Mr. Alleman.
[To the Lafayette Gazette.]
Lafayette, La., June 11, 1903.
Knowing how tolerant the editor of The Gazette is, I venture to send this for publication. It is claimed, and generally recognized, that education broadens the mind and makes us tolerant and sympathetic. This rule however, evidently, and at times very unfortunately, has exceptions; for intolerance is the characteristic feature of the belabored communication of the erstwhile esteemed parish superintendent of our public schools in your issue of May 30.
Without intending to criticize the method of levying a special tax for the parish as proposed, instead of doing so for each ward separately as allowed by the Constitution and laws of the State, it will certainly be admitted that those who advocate the latter should be allowed to do so without being charged as being unfriendly to education or as being "deathly afraid of anything that smacks of a reform movement."
It is refreshing to learn from such a luminary that the constitutional and other provisions of law securing the secrecy of the ballot does not obtain in this proposed election by the people; but however that may be worked or allowed to be worked, the esteemed champion of intolerance will learn that the people of this parish have the manhood to record their convictions, and that sedate and well balanced minds, although willing to record their convictions if needs be, would look upon this "reform movement" of disregarding the laws of the State with much concern.
(Signed) THAT PUBLIC OFFICER FROM THE 8TH WARD.
Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
The Trainmen's Ball.
The thirteenth annual ball to be given by Morgan Lodge, No. 315, Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, at Falk's hall, on Thursday, June 25, promises to be a social event of unusual brilliancy. The following committees have charge of the affair:
Committee of Arrangements - A. J. Comus, ex-officio; I. R. Deffez, chairman; L. Nevue, J. A. Deffez, Willie Mouton, C. E. Harnisch.
Honorary Committee of Arrangements - L. Lacoste, chairman; G. C. Comstock, Amick Courtney, Albert Trahan, R. Dugas.
Invitation Committee - L. Nevue, chairman; W. Lalanne, G. C. Comstock.
Reception Committee - G. A. Deffez, chairman; E. B. Fontenot, L. Nevue.
Floor Managers - A. D. Joret, chairman; H. L. Fontenot, L. Lacoste.
Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
The Mattress Factory.
The Lafayette Mattress Factory, owned and operated by H. Schuling & Co., will soon be compelled to enlarge its quarters on account of a rapidly increasing business. Messrs. Schuling and Deffez, who have charge of the work, are turning out a superior quality of goods at reasonable prices. They will be pleased to send their price list to anyone who will apply for it.
Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Baseball To-morrow.
The Lafayette Juniors and the Jeanerette Seniors will play a game of ball at the baseball park to-morrow afternoon at 3:30. People will be taken to the park free of charge. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
New Meat Market.
Jordan & Co. have bought the meat market of Mr. Wilfred Riu and will continue the business at the same stand. The new firm has had much exprerience in the meat business and is prepared to supply the local demand for first class meat. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Miss Gladys Entertains.
Little Miss Gladys Cunningham delightfully entertained a number of her young friends at her country home, east of town, Saturday evening. Dainty refreshments were served under the mammoth oaks on the lawn where the children spent the time in playing games and making wreaths of moss and roses which they wore on the ride home. Among the little ones who partook of Miss Gladys' hospitality are: Lilian Guilbeau, Paola and Lila Mouton, Gertie Scranton, Gertrude, Odeide and Helen Mouton, Florence Kahn, Elizabeth Denbo, Alida Martin, Louise Domengeaux, Fred Fiero, Tom Guilbeau, Marshal Denbo, Patrick and Raoul Mouton. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
The School Tax is Assured.
Supt. Alleman, Dr. Moss and Mr. Alcide Judice have been very busy visiting different sections of the parish during the past few days in the interest of the special school tax, and they find that the people, generally, are very favorably disposed toward the tax, understanding as they do that more school funds must be provided or the children of the parish cannot have adequate educational advantages.
In their canvas of the parish this committee of gentlemen have been able to correct the harmful impressions created by some false rumors, and in this way new strength had been added to the tax movement, and all indications point to another great triumph for the cause of education in Lafayette parish. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Band Concerts.
The people of Lafayette will be pleased to learn that the Sontag Band will give weekly concerts at Parkerson's grove. These concerts were deservedly popular last summer and the lovers of good music will be delighted to hear that they will be repeated this season. Instead of Sunday, as heretofore, the b and will play every Friday evening. An admission fee of 10 cents will be charged for a limited time to enable the band to pay up a little indebtedness. Besides the regular musical program, the audience will be entertained with a vitascope. The Gazette is requested to state that the presence of children is especially desired, but that parents will be expected to check the youthful exuberance of their young hopefuls, who were just a little bit to boisterous last year. The opening will take place at 7 o'clock next Friday evening. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Concert by Pupils of Prof. F. Sontag.
Prof. F. Sontag will give a concert on Thursday, July 2, in which his pupils will take part. No admission price will be charged. The concert will be given at the auditorium of the Industrial Institute and will begin promptly at 8:30 p.m. A fine program has been prepared, which The Gazette will publish in the next issue. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Mexican Weevils.
These very troublesome little insects have made their appearance in this parish in large numbers and are already at work destroying the corn and cane plants. Mr. John Whittington has brought to this office several stalks of corn infested with these Mexican weevils, or boll worms, as they are sometimes called. Mr. Whittington informs us that unless something happens to stop this pest, his corn and cane crops will suffer very much, and from what he is able to learn the same thing can be said of the neighboring farms. It appears that nothing has been discovered to rid the farmer of this insect which threatens to do untold damage. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Ordained a Priest.
Mr. Jules Jeanmard, of Carencro, was ordained a priest of the Catholic church by Archbishop Chapelle, the ceremony of ordination taking place in New Orleans last Thursday morning. The young priest is the son of Mr. Jules Jeanmard of this parish. He will say his first mass next Sunday at Carencro.
Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Lafayette Building Association.
Next Wednesday, June 17, the Board of Directors of the The Lafayette Building Association will hold their regular monthly meeting. At the meeting money will loaned to shareholders wishing to borrow. The shareholders interested should attend. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Southern Pacific Immigration Convention.
Mr. J. C. Nickerson will leave Sunday to attend the convention of the Southern Pacific land and immigration agents to be held at Chicago on the 16th, 17th and 18th of this month. Mr. Nickerson will be away about ten days during which he will put in some good work toward advertising and making known the splendid resources of Lafayette parish. Mr. Nickerson has been recently appointed by the Southern Pacific Co. land and immigration agent for Lafayette parish and it is that capacity that he will attend the Chicago convention. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Beginning to Boil.
The local political pot is beginning to boil. Though the election is nearly a year off, there are many rumors of combinations. While no candidacies have been publicly announced, it is pretty well known who will be the candidates. As usual the sheriff's office is the bone of contention among many political aspirants, but the opposition to the present incumbent has not assumed formidable proportions. Sheriff Broussard has ample evidence of increasing popularity, and judging from the the many expressions favorable to his candidacy which have come from the different parts of the parish it is safe to say that his re-election is reasonably certain. On the gubernatorial question the local leaders are saying nothing and as one expresses it, "They are lying low for black ducks." Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
NOW FOR THE EIGHTEENTH.
On Thursday, the 18th of June, a question of the most vital importance will be submitted to the tax-payers of this parish. If we are permitted to base our predictions upon our knowledge of the people of Lafayette we have no hesitancy to say that the question referred to will be decided in a manner creditable to the civic pride and intelligence of the community.
It is proposed to levy a three mill tax during six years for the support of the public schools of the parish. It is needless to say that not a single sound reason has been advanced to show that this tax should not be levied. On the other hand, every reasonable argument has been offered to establish the justness, wisdom and absolute necessity of the proposed tax.
Surely none but the hopelessly blind can fail to see the need of more and better schools in this parish. The good work that has been done here in recent times to improve the school system has emphasized one fact above all others - the great, crying need of superior educational facilities for the children of this parish. The well-directed efforts of the local authorities, aided by the progressive and patriotic citizens, have not only been productive of practical results, but they have served to bring out the imperfections of the school system, pointing the way by which it can be strengthened, improved and made to ultimately attain the highest standard of efficiency.
Is there one white man or woman in Lafayette parish who does not want to see his or her child given the best educational advantages that money can secure? Is there one parent in this good old parish, in whose veins courses the rich red blood of the Caucasian, who would deny to his boy or girl the right of an education? We hope not. If there be any who are about to make this fatal mistake, surely they have not given the subject that earnest, thoughtful consideration which it deserves.
It has been shown by irrefutable evidence that the schools of this parish are inadequate, and that if present conditions remain unaltered, hundreds, aye thousands, of white children will grow up in ignorance, without even being accorded the poor privilege of acquiring the rudiments of an education.
Within the past few years Lafayette has written a glorious page in the history of Louisiana. Already this progressive little parish is pointed to as an example to be followed by the laggards on the road to educational emancipation. Louisiana heads the black list of illiteracy and the Southwestern parishes hold the least enviable position in the State. Be it said, however, to the credit of Lafayette that it decided some time ago to no longer suffer this reproach. What has been accomplished need not be repeated here. The readers of The Gazette are familiar with it all. But much remains to be done. Retrogression now would be worst than folly. After so splendid a start, it behooves every citizen of this parish to join in this campaign and contribute to the great victory which should make June the eighteenth a red letter day in local history. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
The Cane Crop.
[Louisiana Planter.]\
A rain was experienced throughout quite a large section of the sugar district during the past week and while the precipitation was not as heavy as desired, still it was sufficient to do a great deal of good and it has imparted a marked impetus to the growth of the crop. The rainfall was in most places a slow drizzle, which soaked into the ground as it fell, and was not heavy enough for any of the water to be wasted by running off through the ditches. The crop looks well in most places and looks well in most places and while backward it is yet quite possible of it to catch up to its normal size and from present indications this year may prove to be a fairly favorable one. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Board of Supervisors Meet.
We the board of supervisors having this day met, have appointed election commissioners and clerks of election to serve in the respective wards and precincts in and for the parish of Lafayette, La., for the special election to be held on the 18th day June, 1903, upon the question of levying a special tax of 3 mills for 6 years to-wit:
-----------------p. 2---------------------
A. M. MARTIN,
Assessor and Registrar.
ARTHUR COMEAUX,
ALF. A. DELHOMME,
President of Board,
Assessor's Office, May 30, 1903.
Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Police Jury Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., June 4, 1903. - The Police Jury met this day in regular session with the following members present: M. Billeaud, Jr., F. G. Mouton, J. C. Buchanan, Saul Broussard, Alex M. Broussard, John Whittington, Alonzo Lacy and J. O. Blanchet. Absent: P. R. Landry.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.
Attorney Mouton submitted the following report which was approved:
Lafayette, La., June 4, 1903.
To the Hon. President and Members of the Police Jury of Lafayette Parish.
I have carefully examined the law concerning the claims of A. I. LeBlanc and of A. J. Andrus, marked A and B, and here unto annexed, for damages against the parish of Lafayette, and my opinion is that said parties have no cause of action against the parish for the recovery of said damages.
In support of my opinion I refer the Police Jury to the following decisions, of the Supreme Court of Louisiana, viz: 9 An., p. 461;12 An., p. 190; 50 An., p. 413;51 An., p. 880;52 An. p. 429 and 106 L., p. 333.
Respectfully submitted,
C. H. MOUTON,
Attorney.
By motion of Mr. Mouton Road overseer Dugas was authorized to remove from the public road the fencing on the pest house land, a distance of twenty feet back.
By motion of Mr. Buchanan the committee on dams in the 2d ward was discharged and the following committee appointed to the carry out the resolution adopted April 2, relative to the removal of said said dams, when in its judgment the said dams are injurious to the public roads.
By motion of Mr. Buchanan Assessor Martin was notified to instruct his deputies to assess the per capita road tax on all male citizens between the ages of eighteen and fifty years, according to law.
Mr. Lacy moved that the tax collector be instructed to collect peddler's license from Alton Foreman. Carried.
A petition for a public road near L. E. Bernard's place was read but no action taken.
By motion of Mr. Buchanan Messrs. L. Hirsch, F. G. Mouton, John Whittington and M. Billeaud, Jr., were appointed a committee to arrange for the Farmer's Institute to be held at Lafayette in June.
Dr. Roy O. Young appeared and asked that Mrs. Pierre Guilbeaux be pensioned but a formal petition being necessary no action could be taken.
By motion of Mr. Mouton a committee of two was appointed to confer with the Police Jury of Vermilion at its next session relative to building a bridge across Vermilion river at or near D. O. Broussard's ferry. The president appointed Messrs. F. G. Mouton and P. R. Landry.
The treasurer submitted his monthly report as follows:
DR.
Balance on hand last report ... $4,473.37.
Tax coll'r taxes coll'd April ... $151.12
Tax coll'r licenses coll'd April ... $100.00
E. Comeaux constable stock sold ... $21.75.
Total receipts ... $4,746.24
C.R.
Five percent com. tax coll'r taxes ... $7.55
Five percent com. tax coll'r licenses ... $5.00
Approved orders ... $449.30
Approved orders District Judge ... $25.00
Total disbursements ... $486.85
Balance on hand $4,259.39
Respectfully submitted,
J. E. MARTIN,
Treasurer.
Lafayette, La., June 4, 1903.
To the President and members of Police Jury Parish Lafayette, La. - Following is a statement of receipts and disbursements of special road funds since my last report:
DR.
Balance on hand last report ... $1,119.05
J. Whittington R. machine rent 8th ward ... $18.75
J. Whittington R. machine rent 2d ward ... $2.25
Total receipts ... $1,140.05
CR.
Approved orders ... $645.65
Balance on hand ... $494.40
AS FOLLOW BY WARDS.
Balance on hand, 1st ward ... $13.67
Balance on hand , 2d ward ... $2.34
Balance on hand, 3d ward ... $218.23
Balance on hand , 4th ward ... $63.03
Balance on hand, 5th ward ... $143.30
Balance on hand, 6th ward ... $24.05
Balance on hand, 7th ward ... $20.01
Balance on hand, 8th ward ... $9.77
Total ... $494.40
Respectfully submitted,
J. E. MARTIN,
Treasurer.
Lafayette, La., June 4, 1903.
The following accounts were approved:
Phil Broussard, nails ... $8.00
Trahan & Brandt, lumber ... $21.90
E. M. Stebbins, lumber ... $24.99
V. H. Sibille, lumber ... $43.81
A. E. Mouton, lumber ... $15.36
P. A. Dupliex & Co., nails ... $22.58
Edras Breaux, nails, etc ... $1.70
J. O. Blanchet, com. work ... $5.00
Alex M. Broussard, com. work ... $10.00
T. Spell, com. work ... $7.50
E. S. Martin, bus. for jury ... $1.50
A. H. St. Martin, coroner's juror ... $2.10
H. Van der Cruyssen, printing ... $2.50
L. Lacoste, coal, etc ... $3.85
Waters Pierce Oil Co., oil ... $7.58
Lafayette City, light and water ... $14.00
Leon Plonsky, shirts, etc ... $3.65
B. Miller, repair lock ... $1.50
Philip Domingue, road work ... $15.00
K. Blanchet, road work ... $24.00
P. A. Dupliex & Co., road work ... $16.85
T. Spell, road work ... $338.25
E. Broussard, road work ... $222.25
Alcee Dugas, road work ... $60.00
Phil Broussard, road work ... $5.55
There being no further business the Police Jury adjourned.
M. BILLEAUD, JR., President.
R. C. GREIG, Secretary.
Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 6/13/1903.
There should be a shillinger walk from the court-house to the railroad depot. Plankwalks are becoming obsolete. Let the Council take up this matter and push it through.
Negro Shot. - Thursday in the second ward, a young negro named Caesar Buchanan shot his father, Columbus Buchanan, breaking one leg and badly fracturing the other, for whipping his mother.
Bishop Sessums of New Orleans conducted services at the Episcopal church last Monday. He preached a sermon and administered confirmation to the class.
Rest for the Barbers. - The Gazette is requested to announce that hereafter the barbershops in Lafayette will not open on Sunday. This announcement is the result of an agreement among the barbers to do all their work during six days in the week and to rest on the Sabbath like other folks.
L. E. Thomas, examiner of State banks, stopped in Lafayette this week in the course of his regular journey through the State.
Dr. F. E. Girard, L. F. Mayer and Jerome Mouton went to New Iberia to hear Capt. Hobson, who lectured before the Chautaqua.
A farmer's institute will be held here on June 24, under the auspices of the State Board of Agriculture and Immigration.
Dr. J. L. Duhart is to be congratulated upon the very neat appearance of his new home. The doctor has not only exercised splendid taste in beautifying his home but he has displayed considerable public spirit by building a shillinger sidewalk along his property.
Messrs. Piat & Theall have bought the livery stable of Ed Martin in this town and will continue to do business in the same place. Omnibus meets all trains, day and night. Good rigs on short order; baggage transfer; telephone No. 8. Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
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From the Lafayette Advertiser of June 13th, 1903:
THE SCHOOL TAX.
The proposition of levying a special School tax of three mills for a term of six years, beginning with the year, 1904, is now squarely before the people of Lafayette parish; and next Thursday, June 18, has been fixed for taking the sense of the tax-payers on the question. All the fact and figures obtainable on the subject go to prove any doubt that the present revenues for public school purposes fall far short of the actual requirements of the educate white children in the parish.
There are nearly seven thousand educable white children to the parish now. Two thousand of this number were enrolled in the public schools this session, as against only nine hundred last session. The increase in number over last year made it necessary for the School Board to employ fifteen teachers more this year than were needed the year before. Instead of having two thousand children to educate in the public schools next session, the School Board will be called on to furnish the means of education for three or, may be, four thousand children, because the number is bound to go on increasing from one year to another. The present school houses are already overcrowded (being much to small) and are poorly arranged and unsuitable for modern school methods. The School Board has not enough funds to do all the work that is needed in the present, how, then, is this pressing demand for additional school facilities going to be met? Shall we educate some of the children and allow the rest to go without education, by refusing to build larger school houses and refusing to provide all the teachers necessary. Or, will we try to make the only funds now available for public education reach every nook and corner in the parish by cutting down the school term to 3 or 4 months in each year?
These are the cold facts of the case, and there is no way of getting around them. It is now for the fathers and mothers of these children to decide what shall be done for their education. Unless more money is raised for school purposes the children will suffer for a lack of school facilities and will find the battle of lire that much harder to fight. There is but one fair and equitable way to raise money for the schools, and that is by taxation.
Gov. Heard explained clearly in his recent address at Carencro that it is impossible for the State to increase its appropriations for schools without in increase in the rate of taxation, which is now limited to 6 mills by the constitution. And the governor strongly advocated a special school tax as the best solution of the problem.
The Police Jury has declared that the general revenues of the parish do not admit of larger appropriations for schools than what the Jury now gives, and has officially recommended a special tax in further aid of the schools.
The School Board has adopted a special resolution insisting that the levying of the proposed school tax is absolutely necessary to the proper and satisfactory administration of the public schools in the parish.
Many of the leading citizens of the parish recognized the need and the advantage of levying a special school tax. From among a large list of our parishioners who are in favor of the proposed school tax of 3 mills for 6 years, we mention the following well known citizens:
M. Billeaud, Jr., Alcide Judice, Hebrard Girouard, C. C. Brown, Father Roguel, Alex. Delhomme, Jasper Spell, Dr. J. P. Francez, Aurelien Guidry, Dr. Roy O. Young, Dr. A. O. Clark, Saul Broussard, Martial Billeaud, J. O. Broussard, R. C. Landry, Sidney Greig, Calvin Moss, Dr. P. M. Girard, Toledano Begnaud, J. Ovey Savoy, Alf. A. Delhomme, P. A. Chiasson, M. Langlinais, Louis G. Breaux, Israel Prejean, Geo. Malagarie, P. R. Landry, J. Arthur Roy, Charles Burke, Jules Girouard, J. H. Bernard, Francois Comeaux, P. B. Roy, Baptiste Peres, L. G. Stelly, Martial Labbe, O. Blanchet, Marcel Melancon, O. H. Theriot, C. Doucet, S. Begnaud, Gustave Bacque, S. J. Montgomery, J. N. Breaux, Octave Bertrand, Darmas Landry, P. L. DeClouet, Ben Avant, Alex. Hoffpauir, T. S. Singleton, Jules Langlinais, Alex. M. Broussard, Etienne Mouton, Alex. Verret, A. L. Dyer, J. R. Davis, Geo. E. Brown, Dr. W. W. Lessley, J. E. Mouton, Valery Boudreaux, Chas. A. Boudreaux. Hugh Wagner, Adrien Theall, L. H. Prejean, John Roger, Aimee Landry, Louis Ancelet, Dr. P. A. Dupleix, and others whose names cannot be published of lack of space.
The proposed tax is very small (3 mills on the dollar) and the railroad and non-residents of the parish will pay together more than one-half of the total amount to be raised by this tax, which means that the resident tax-payers will be getting the benefit of just twice the amount they will be contributing themselves for the support of the schools.
The tax when levied and collected shall be used exclusively repairing, building and furnishing school house and for maintaining public schools in the parish exclusive of the town of Lafayette.
Every vote in favor of the tax next Thursday will mean a vote in favor of progress enlightenment and the happiness of our children.
Every vote against the tax next Thursday will be a vote against progress, enlightenment and the welfare of every child in the parish.
The question cannot be viewed in any other light, and as the law requires that the name of every voter and his assessment be written on the back of each ballot, the public will have no difficulty in ascertaining who have shown themselves to be the friends of the children and the poor in this contest.
In next Saturday's issue of The Advertiser we will publish a complete list of the names of those who voted for as well as those who voted against the school tax, as The Advertiser believes this will be a valuable record to preserve for future reference and guidance.
It is sincerely to be hoped that the result of the election will show that there is not written within the borders of our parish a single man or woman who would deliberately lift a finger against the welfare and the happiness of the children by voting against the special tax. Those who can not fully grasp the magnitude of this question should at least of others who are in a better position to understand.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1903.
Lafayette vs. New Iberia.
The ball game Sunday afternoon between the New Iberia team and the Lafayette Juniors was one of the best that has been played on the local grounds this season. Both teams had excellent pitchers who did fine work. The scoring was pretty close until the seventh inning, when Riu batted in three runs for the home boys. At the close of the game the score stood 6 to 2 in favor of Lafayette. Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1903.
A Generous Act.
Simeon Begnaud and A. Judice, two of Lafayette's liberal and progressive citizens, offered the School Board at its last meeting to build the Begnaud school, and let the Board repay the money at their convenience without interest. Such a generous act on the part of these two gentlemen deserve the highest appreciation, and should be an example promptly to be an example promptly to be imitated by those in a position to do so. Were others to do likewise, the day of the cabin and shack would soon close, and instead, modern, comfortable school houses would dot the parish and stand as monuments to the large-hearted, patriotic men, who believe that services for their fellow men in the highest achievement. Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1903.
Education and Politics.
By education we understand that intelligent training of the heart, the hand and the mind which finds its highest expression in a life of service and usefulness to home and country, and a capacity for the enjoyment of the beautiful and the sublime in nature.
Politics we understand to be the science of government - the conduct of public affairs in the interest of the whole people, as viewed in the light of mature experience sustained by sound and enlightened public opinion.
Politics, then, is one form or phase of education, and is concerned with emphasizing the purpose of education in promoting human happiness and the higher destiny of mankind. Politics may then be regarded as the child of education, and in that sense it embodies and reflects the parental character, the source of its origin and influence.
The force of politics and education are closely related and are interdependent in their operation for the well being of society ; and believing that universal education offers and assures the largest returns to the people in human happiness and human progress. The Advertiser purposes to make education the principal plank in its political platform. And to enforce that idea in a practical way The Advertiser shall exercise its influence toward electing only sound school men to offices of public trust. In giving (unreadable word) in withholding its support and good will to candidates for public office in the town of and parish of Lafayette, and in state politics as well, the course of this paper shall be determined principally the public deeds and the public pledges of the candidates for office, with relation to the public schools. The private and the public record of individuals will be carefully examined and will serve as a guide to The Advertiser in its honest endeavor to cultivate and strengthen among our people, a wholesome and active conception and appreciation of the men and measure openly for the force effectively at work for the moral, the intellectual and the material upbuilding of the race. And in this way The Advertiser hopes to render its highest service to the community and the country whose interests it aspires to subserve. Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1903.
City Council Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., June 1, 1903. - A regular meeting of the City Council was held this day, with Mayor C. D. Caffery president. Members present: A. F. Mouton, J. O. Mouton, D. V. Gardebled, F. Demanade. Absent: G. A. DeBlanc, M. Rosenfield, R. L. Fontenot.
The minutes of the previous meeting were approved and read.
Chairman of the water and light committee reported that was corresponding with various parties with a view of getting the pump which was called for in the (unreadable word) work at the plant.
The treasurer's report was accepted as follows:
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The following bills were approved:
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There being no further business the Council adjourned.
CHAS. D. CAFFERY, Mayor.
LOUIS LACOSTE, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1903.
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From the Lafayette Advertiser of June 13th, 1896:
The Early Closing of Stores.
In response to a general desire an agreement is being circulated among our merchants for their signatures, to close the stores at 7 o'clock in the evening, except Saturdays, during the heated term. This is a very sensible custom that prevails in most mercantile communities where store-keepers have a proper appreciation of life and its requirements. For the sake of their health and enjoyment, and that of their employees, the retail merchants of Lafayette can well afford to relax from the fourteen or fifteen hours a day work-rule for a few weeks, especially at a season of the year when business is quiet and when the heat renders the confinement of the merchant's occupation doubly trying to himself and those in his employ. And there is no greater stimulus to the activity of the mind and body than rational relaxation from regular strain; that kind of rest from one's regular occupation that is obtained from diversion and change of habits, and, speaking from our own experience, we know that the apparent loss of time in such cases is paid back ten fold in better health, renewed activity and increased interest in one's work. With earlier closing [6 o'clock would be even better than 7] the merchant and the clerk could daily enjoy a little outing that would prove of undoubtful benefit to him. They would be enabled to cultivate family and social ties that could not fail to result in good to them, even from a business stand point.
The other side to this question is the one that concerns the general public. Does early closing operate a serious hardship on the public? Of course not. That the practice should interfere with the convenience of the people must be admitted, but to such a small extent after they have adopted themselves to the new conditions, the people themselves would be the last to object to the inconvenience, in view of the so much greater benefits that result on the other hand. And besides, the early closing continues for a short time, only, and an exception is made of Saturdays, on which day stores may be kept open as late as will suit the idea of the merchants. Also, drugstores and saloons are not included in the number of business places to be closed at 7 o'clock p. m. Pity it is that the custom should not apply to all business establishments but, we suppose, that could not be reasonably expected - it might be carrying too far, the idea of reform in this particular.
The Advertiser hopes the agreement for earlier closing until Sept. 1st. will receive the signatures of all our merchants, being convinced that the success of the movement will, in reality, redound to the advantage of this class of our citizens without militating against either their pockets or the public convenience to an appreciable extent.
A list of the signers of the agreement will be published in our next issue. Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1896.
Railroad Legislation?
The railroads will be fully represented here from now on. There are railroad commission bills introduced at each session of the Legislature, but heretofore the strongest fight that has been made in the interest of such a measure was that of Julien Mouton at the last session. Mr. Mouton, who was recently elected a circuit judge made an aggressive war on the roads and came might near passing his bill, but with all his energy he found the interests too strong for him. Mr. Sirjacques will probably be able to show that large benefits have been reaped in other States from the organization of commissions and he will have the cordial support of the T. P. A., but it is doubtful if he will meet with any greater degree of success than that achieved by Mr. Mouton. From the Baton Rouge Daily States and in the Lafayette Advertiser of June 13th, 1896.
Entertainment at Mt. Carmel.
Keep in mind that the entertainment to be given by the Mt. Carmel Convent is to take place on June 17th, at 7:00 p. m. The exciting contest for the gold watch will be decided on that evening. Much interest is already being manifested over this contest, both by the pupils and their champions. Besides the contest there will be an interesting program for the evening, which we publish in another column. We hope to see this event meet with generous patronage. Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1896.
Best Cotton Sample.
In our last issue, we offered one year subscription to the Advertiser, free to the person who exhibited at our office by June 8th, the finest specimen of cotton raised in the parish during the season of 1896. Many beautiful samples have been shown, the champion one being that exhibited by Mr. Numa Breaux of Carencro, measuring 62 inches in height, Mr. Alcee Dugas of Scott, presented a 61 inch and Mr. J. C. Couvillon of Lafayette one of 56 inches, and containing 49 bowls. Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1896.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 6/13/1896.
The indications for a large crop of cane, cotton and corn in this parish, leave nothing to be desired. Most encouraging reports are coming in from every section.
Mr. Chas. Durgwin, a popular engineer on the west division of the S. P. road has just returned from a brief sojourn at Biloxi. He reports to have enjoyed a delightful visit.
Those wishing to join the Catholic Knights are requested to meet at the residence of Rev. Father Forge on Sunday after high-mass. We learn that there are a good many who will join.
Mr. T. M. Biossat, made a business trip to New Orleans Tuesday, and returned on Wednesday.
A more general cutting down of weeds in the town than has already taken place, is a much desired thing just now.
Mrs. Boas is actively engaged in preparing her pupils for a school exhibition that will take place July 8th, 1896.
All signs point to the erection of a 30 ton cotton seed oil mill by local capital, at Lafayette, of the coming season.
Mr. W. T. Blieke the general representative of the Houston Ice & Brewing Co. spent several days in our city during the week. Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1896.
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From the Lafayette Advertiser of June 13th, 1874:
TO THE WHITE PEOPLE OF THE PARISH OF LAFAYETTE.
FELLOW CITIZENS.
Since the termination of the war between the States, the negroes banded together, under the leadership of carpet-baggers and bad men, have acted and have voted as a unit, in all our State and parochial elections. As soon as they were enfranchised, they raised the black banner, rallied under it, and formed a negro party in the State ; and notwithstanding the many repeated efforts made by good and prominent white men, to make them understand that their welfare was so closely linked to the welfare of the white people, that is was their interest to act with them in the elections for the purpose of putting an end to the corruption and abuses of all sorts, which had crept in the administration of our public affairs, under the rule of adventurers, into whose hands the State Government had fallen, no argument, and no concessions could induce any of them to desert and abandon their cherished black banner. They have refused with scorn the hand extended to them by the Fusionists and afterwards by the Unifiers. They had made the issue, they had formed their League, and they persisted and do now persist in their design to govern the State. Through their influence and their united votes in the elections, the State Government first fell at the hands of an adventurer and was at last usurped by another. Those put it power them, by a multifarious series of bad laws and corrupt Legislation have reduced Louisiana to a state of bankruptcy and her people to a state of poverty, bordering on beggary. Must this state of things continue for ever ? We say no. We hope not.
Our brothers of other parishes throughout the State, believing that the time had arrived to make an effort to change the current of events and rid the State of her present polluted Government; and knowing that to combat successfully; and knowing that to combat successfully a political organization, a counter political is necessary, have at least raised the white banner in opposition of the black banner. They invite all who belong to the Caucasian race to join them in this supreme effort and perhaps the last struggle at the ballot box, to restore our beloved Louisiana to her former prosperity, and her sons to their ounce proud and fair name. They have formed, what is called "THE WHITE LEAGUE" that is a political party composed of white men, the main object of which is to reform the abuses in our State Government and to place the same under the influence and control of the white people.
The two banners, white and black are now unfurled. Each banner indicates the principles and objects of their followers.
The undersigned, following the instinct of their nature and the promptings of Honor, invite you, the white people of the parish of Lafayette, to meet in public assembly at the Court House, on Sunday the 28th day of June 1874, at 11 o'clock A. M., for the purpose of organizing and rallying under the white banner, to rid Louisiana of the negro supremacy by which she has been ruined and degraded.
Whether many or few respond to our call, will have no effect on the course we intend to pursue hereafter in all elections ; convinced of the righteousness of our intentions and purposes, we will keep together like a band of brothers and will act, with concert, in the accomplishment of our object.
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Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1874.
Police Jury Proceedings.
This being the first Monday and the first day of the month of June 1874, the day fixed for a regular session of the Police Jury of the parish of Lafayette, the following members met, at the Court House of the parish viz : G. Dubau, President; S. J. Montgomery, R. C. Landry, Rosemond Leblanc and Jean Bernard, all present.
On motion the account of the Jurors de tribus in the case of the State vs. Villeor Vallot, tried in the parish of Iberia, were referred to the Parish Attorney, and the account of Paul Lalande for $15 was referred to the Finance Committee.
Resolved , that the following accounts against the parish, be and same is hereby allowed and warrants ordered to issue for the payment of the same, viz:
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And the following accounts were rejected, viz:
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On motion of Mr. Rosemond LeBlanc, the sum of three dollars and fifty cents is hereby allowed per day, to John P. Mouton, from the 2d day of June 1874, for the use of Ferry now used by him at the crossing of the Bayou Vermilion, at the Bridge, and for keeping said Ferry for the use of the public in crossing said Bayou until he be notified by S. J. Montgomery, chairman of the committee on public works, to cease to keep said Ferry.
Resolved, that a warrant issue to said John P. Mouton on the order of S. J. Montgomery for the amount which may be due him for keeping said Ferry as above provided.
On motion of Mr. Dubau, the Clerk of the Police Jury is requested to write to the President of the Police Jury of the parish of St. Landry, to inform him that the bridge on the bayou Carencro, require some repairs and to invite him to appoint a committee, to meet the committee on public works of this parish works of this parish in order to take the necessary steps to make the repairs needed.
On motion of Mr. R. C. Landry, it was resolved, that the President of this body, together with the Finance committee, are requested to collect all the parish warrants, which have been paid by the parish Treasurer and to make a list thereof and compare the same, with the vouchers, in the hands of the Clerk of the Police Jury and make their report to this body at its next regular meeting.
Resolved further, that the President of this Police Jury is hereby requested, together with the Finance Committee, to cancel said warrants,
(rest of article is unreadable)
Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1874.
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lagniappe:
CATCHING FISH.
Grover Cleveland's annual article on the subject of catching fish is out. It is a subject which he always adorns, so its frequent repetition is quite pardonable. The particular point which the distinguished fisherman lays stress on this time is that we should limit ourselves to the number of fish we take on a favorable day. On no account should edible fish be caught in such quantities as to be wasted. By restraining ourselves in this matter we discourage in our own natures the growth of greed, we prevent waste, we make it easier for us to bear the fall between what we may determine upon as decent good luck and bad luck, or no luck, and we make ourselves at all points better men and better fishermen. Fishermen will please note this, and curb their aspirations accordingly. From the Daily States and in the Lafayette Gazette 6/13/1903.
From the Lafayette Advertiser of June 13th, 1913:
CANNING INDUSTRY.
Mr. George A. DeBlanc believing there is an opportunity here for a canning industry, has installed a very complete canning outfit with a capacity of 200 cans a day and will put up beans, corn, okra, figs, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, etc. The plant can be enlarged at any time should it become necessary. He is now ready and farmers and gardeners are urged to take him their surplus of above vegetables.
Mr. DeBlanc has had considerable experience in canning and his goods have been very satisfactory. While this plant is more extensive than his previous one, nevertheless he is prepared to fully maintain the quality, and when buying canned goods everyone should insist on having Made in Lafayette goods as far as possible. Patronize your home industries.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/13/1913.
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