From the Lafayette Advertiser of June 22nd, 1904:
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.
Judicial Committee and Delegates to State Convention June 20, Elected.
Democratic Mass Meeting Called For July 9 to Select Delegates to Congressional Convention.
The following are the official minutes of the Parish Executive Committee:
Lafayette, La., June 15, 1904.
The Parish Executive Committee of Lafayette Parish, La., met this day pursuant to call.
On roll call the following members answered to their names viz - : J. E, Mouton, Lucius Duhon, L. S. Broussard, John Broussard, J. O. Broussard, Arthur Bonin, Jean Begnaud, proxy to Honore Begneaud, proxy to Honore Begneaud. Absent: P. L. DeClouet.
The meeting was called to order by Secty. J. O. Broussard, and on motion Mr. J. E. Mouton was elected president pro tem.
JUDICIAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
On motion the following named persons were elected on the Democratic Judicial Executive Committee, for the Parish of Lafayette, La., viz: Crow Girard, Judge Julian Mouton, Ed. G. Voorhies. The Chairman was instructed to notify the Chairman of the Democratic Parish Executive Committee of Acadia Parish of this appointment and request that a like Committee be appointed by Democratic Parish Executive Committee of Acadia Parish; said Committee to constitute the Democratic Judicial Executive Committee of the 18th Judicial District composed of the parishes of Lafayette and Acadia.
DELEGATES TO STATE CONVENTION.
On motion the following delegates were selected and appointed to represent Lafayette Parish at the State Convention to be held at Baton Rouge, La., June 20th, 1904, for the purpose of selecting delegates to the Democratic Nominating Convention, viz - : Alexander Delhomme, Louis Ancelet, Clairborne Avant, Dr. A. O. Clark, P. L. DeClouet, Judge Julian Mouton, Louis Lacoste, William Campbell, Crow Girard, Judge C. Debaillon, Jules J. Mouton, I. A. Broussard, Ed. G. Voorhies, R. W. Elliot, J. L. Kennedy, Jerome Mouton, J. Aymar Labbe, Lucien S. Broussard, Harrison Theall, Alcin Comeaux, J. Gilbert St. Julien, Lucious Duhon, Aurelin Olivier, A. C. Guilbeau, C. C. Brown, J. O. Broussard, Sigismond Bernard, Gustave Trahan, John Whittington.
The delegates present at said Convention shall cast the vote as unit.
MASS MEETING.
On motion, it was resolved that a Democratic mass meeting be and is hereby called to meet at the Court House at Lafayette, La., July 6th 1904, at three o'clock, p. m., for the purpose of selecting delegates to the Congressional Convention to be held at New Iberia, La., July 14th 1904.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned.
J. E. MOUTON, President pro tem.
J. O. BROUSSARD, Secretary Parish Democratic Executive Committee.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
FARMER'S INSTITUTE
To Be Held at the Court House Saturday, June 25.
Dr. Morgan will Lecture on the Boll Weevil. A Number of Other Distinguished Speakers.
[To the Press of Lafayette.]
Gentlemen: On the 25th day of June the Annual Farmer's Institute will be held in Lafayette at the court house at 10 a. m. There will be a night 8:30 p. m. sharp at which time the business men of the town are requested to be present in force to discuss the reciprocal relation of business men and farmers, since it is only by co-operative action that the interests of all can be furthered.
The President and members of the Police Jury and the Mayor and Council are invited to serve as a reception committee at all meetings.
Prof. H. A. Morgan, State Entomologist and President of the Boll Weevil Commission, at great personal inconvenience has consented to come, and will discuss this momentous problem, the Mexican Boll Weevil. He will be armed with charts and specimens of this pest. No subject can be of more vital interest and importance to the people of this parish, particularly in view of the possible existence of the pest in portions of Calcasieu. The Department of Agriculture will make every effort to furnish an expert on "Charbon" for the occasion. The outbreak of this disease in several parts of this and the adjoining parish of Acadia is a great menace to the live stock industry of South West Louisiana. Addresses of welcome will be delivered by Mr. Caffery, Mayor of Lafayette, and by Mr. M. Billeaud, Jr., on behalf of the parish. The Department will respond through some member of its corps.
Several eminent agricultural scientists, including Prof. Pittuck, of the L. S. U., and Dr. Brown, of the Audubon Station, will be on hand to read papers and discuss.
Ladies are invited to attend all the meetings, and particularly teachers. The program will be interspersed by musical numbers, the quality of which can be imagined when it is known that the enthusiastic amateur and lover of music, Mr. Felix Voorhies, is chairman of the musical committee.
That public spirited citizen, Mr. Biossat, has donated sufficient ice for the occasion to temper the ardor of discussion, and Mr. Hirsch with his usual enthusiasm will preside over the floor committee, and call the farmers to meeting with the bell at 9:30 a. m.
The young ladies are respectfully requested to bring enough flowers to decorate the speaker's and reporter's desks.
The institute is a post graduate course for scientific agriculturists, a school of review for students of agriculture and animal husbandry, and a bureau of information for the busy farmer and stock raiser. Everybody interested in the agricultural prosperity and development of the State is invited to attend.
Ladies are cordially invited to attend all meetings. Three sessions daily - morning session, 10 a. m. to 12:30 p. m. - Night session 8:30 p. m.
On behalf of committee on arrangement.
F. J. MAYER.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
METHODIST CONFERENCE
For the Crowley District Held in Methodist Church Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
Encouraging Reports from Churches Received. - Three Young Men Admitted to the Ministry. - A Missionary Sermon Preached.
The Crowley District Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church met in Lafayette Wednesday with presiding Elder S. S. Keener in charge and Rev. J. I. Hoffpauir, secretary. About fifty delegates were in attendance, among them the following ministers.
Presiding Elder S. S. Keener, Revs. R. S. Isabell, R. W. Tucker, John F. Wynn, J. I. Hoffpauir, M. Hebert, A. T. Vaughn, T. M. Finley, J. D. Harper, N. E. Joyner, J. J. Kelley, J. F. Waltman, A. W. Turner, P. H. Fontaine, J. D. Nesom, H. N. Brown and M. T. Johnson.
The sessions of the conference were held in the Methodist church, two being daily, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The business sessions were devoted mainly to the receiving of reports and the consideration of means and methods for the advancement of the church work in the district. The reports were very encouraging and gave inspiration for renewed efforts.
An interesting event of the conference was the acceptance of three young men for the ministry, Attorney L. I. McCain, of Crowley, W. L. Doss, Jr., of Gueydan, and Joseph C. Duplantis, of Cypremort, Wm. Beadle, of Lafayette; and Wm. Doss, Sr., of Gueydan, were elected by delegates to the annual conference.
Thursday evening Rev. Joyner, who was a missionary to Mexico for five years, delivered a lecture upon his work to a large congregation. He spoke hopefully of the outlook of Mexico, but showed the urgent need for large support that the opportunities of the field might be fully and adequately developed.
Friday morning Mrs. E. R. Kennedy, secretary of the Home Mission Society, presented a report of the work of the society, including statistics which illustrated the importance of the efforts of the society and its valuable aid to the church. The conference, by a special resolution, ordered the report published in full in the official journal of the church.
Friday at 11 a. m. Rev. P. H. Fontaine preached an eloquent sermon and Presiding Elder Keener officiated in the celebration of the Lord's supper. In the afternoon the committee on Sabbath desecration submitted a report. They called attention to the fact that disregard for the observance of the Sabbath was increasing, and emphasized the duty of the ministers and the people in regard to it.
Friday afternoon the conference adjourned after a most successful and encouraging meeting, all business having been finished. All the delegates were entertained at the homes of the people.
Church services were held each day of the conference at 11 a. m. and 8 p. m.
Many of the delegates and ministers left for home on the 5 p. m. train Friday; but a large number remained over until Saturday morning. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Death of A. B. Francez.
Aristide Bernard Francez, son of the late Dr. R. J. Francez, died at the home of his brother-in-law, Galbert Guilbeau, in Carencro, Friday, at the age of 26 years.
He had been sick for a long time, and had just returned from Marlin, Texas, where he had gone in search of health, but had failed to receive benefit.
He belonged to a prominent family of the parish and widely connected. Five brothers, Dr. J. P. Francez, and Gaston, Ernest, Maurice, and Romain Francez, and one sister, Mrs. Galbert Guilbeau, survive him.
His remains were interred in the Catholic cemetery in Carencro Saturday. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
YOUNG-COMEAUX PHARMACY
Organized Into a Wholesale and Retail Drug Co., With a Capital of $15,000.
Last Tuesday the Young-Comeaux Pharmacy, which has been engaged in the wholesale and retail drug business, was organized into a stock company with the following officers: Dr. J. D. Trahan, president; Dr. Roy O. Young, vice-president; Sam P. Brown, secretary; and C. I. Young, treasurer.
The capital stock has been placed at $15,000, which will be increased as the growth of the business requires. The firm name will be the Young-Comeaux Drug Co., and Mr. R. H. Comeaux, of the company, who is an experienced drug salesman, will represent the company on the road. The new company will occupy the entire building corner of Vermilion and Washington streets, part of which they have occupied up to the present.
The success which Messrs. Young and Comeaux have already met with in the wholesale business encouraged them in the formation of a stock company, and now with a larger capital, the prospect for a rapid growth is fine.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
New Drug Store at Scott.
Drs. G. W. Scranton and H. D. Guidry have opened a drug store at Scott under the firm name of Scranton & Guidry.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Small Fire.
Some excitement was created Saturday about noon by the cry of fire. The roof of Miller's blacksmith shop had caught and was rapidly burning. Prompt work with buckets of water soon checked and extinguished the blaze with slight damage. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Band Concert.
The Sontag Band concert at Parkerson's Grove Thursday evening was a rare treat to all who attended. A number of new selections were rendered, which were much enjoyed. The Band will give regular weekly concerts every Thursday evening during the summer, to which a small admission fee of ten cents will be charged. The band numbers eighteen members with Scott W. Heywood as cornet soloist and Yves Hernandez trombone soloist. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Tacky Party.
A delightful social affair of the week was a Tacky Party given at Martin's Hall last Wednesday evening by the Young Men's Social Club.
This club was organized June 11 and is composed of a number of the young men of the town. The officers are: Richard Chargois, president; Jos. Bienvenu, vice-president; Chas. Martin, secretary; James Breaux, treasurer.
The Tacky Party was the first effort of the club at entertaining and judging by their success in this instance, they will add much to the social side of Lafayette.
The hall was tastefully decorated with magnolias and evergreens giving the hall a most attractive appearance. The costumes of those participating lent an added charm and interest, and displayed both novelty and ingenuity. There were farmers, milk maids, hospital nurses, rubens, and various other characters represented who "took off" the rules true to life. During the evening ices and cooling refreshments were served and a good band furnished music for the occasion.
Those present were: Misses Agnes Breaux, Hattie and Francis Clark, Ana and Anita Bernard, Lydia and Martha Broussard, Lucy Mills, Louise Chiasson, May McClellean, Emma Dearborn, Martha Chargois, Elva Brun, Lucy Vigneaux, Thursey Stelley, Mignon and Louis Robicheaux, Louise Nolive, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Nevue; Messrs. Jerry Fuller, Rene Hebert, Richard Chargois, Jos. Bienvenu, Charles Martin, James Breaux, Rousseaux Dugas, A. L. Martin, Armand Deffez, Babe Chopin, Mentor Chiasson, Harry Lindsay, George Shows, Nicholas Hebert, Ferdinand Siadous, A. Germier, R. Creswell, Blake Theall, Lee Delahoussaye. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Horses Taken.
Three horses disappeared from the premises of their owners Saturday night and on Sunday night a horse and buggy were taken at Scott. A bay mare was taken from Mrs. Vincent Domingue's place, an American bay horse from P. J. Scanlan's pasture and a fine mare and colt belonging to Mr. Olivier Chiasson. The horse and buggy was Mr. Valery Boudreaux recovered his horse and buggy, and it is expected that the other two horses will be returned. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
CLOSING EXERCISES
Primary School at Auditorium Monday Night Excellent.
A Rather Difficult Cantata Presented by Small Children And All Parts Rendered Well.
A large and appreciative audience filled the Institute Auditorium Monday night to witness the closing exercises of the Primary School, which was the first of the three entertainments to be given by the public schools, every seat was taken and many had to stand.
The exercises were not long, just a nice length, and owing to their high excellence the time appeared shorter than it really was.
The little folks attempted quite a difficult little play, called The Happy Family of Father Time, a juvenile cantata, but their skillful rendering of all the parts showed that their efforts were fully up to their ambition. There was not a single part that was not creditable performed, which is high compliment to the ability of the children and to the able and careful drilling done by Miss Fadra Holmes, the principal, and Misses Read and Horton her assistants. Miss Robertson of the Kindergarten, aided materially by playing all accompaniments.
The cantata was in two acts, and opened with the court of Father Time, all singing, and a noticeable feature was the large number of fine boys and pretty girls, the wee tots especially.
Father Time was dressed in a long flowing robe, his hair was white and long and in his hands he carried a scythe. A pair of wings showed his swift flight. He sang a fine solo which greatly pleased the audience.
Little Eunice Blanchet, a pretty black haired little girl, represented Monday by washing an apron as she sang. Her bright winsome way and sweet voice captured the audience. The Seconds chorus which followed was fine. Alida Primeaux sang well as Tuesday, ironing day, and her duet with Mabel Bell, who took the part of Duty, won much applause.
Wednesday was amusingly represented by Eppie Moss and six other little girls all dressed as mothers with caps, aprons and spectacles, mending garments. Their odd looks and odd ways made a hit provoking considerable mirth.
Thursday, shopping day, was represented by 12 little girls dressed as young ladies of fashion with parasols and 12 boys in long pants with straw hats and high hats, all carrying bundles. They caused great merriment in the audience by their grown-up appearances and bright comical ways as they went through a number of intricate figures. This was one of the special hits of the night.
Friday, cleaning day, was represented by Joanna Hebert and Saturday, baking day, by Louise Guichereau, both of them whom have good voices and sing well.
Little Patrick Mouton as the Thief of Time was a success. He wore a tall particolored hat and looked mischievous and jolly. In the second act where he attempted to steal the hours, he did some real good acting.
Ruby McBride as Hope was a bright, sweet little girl and seemed specially fitted for the part. Little Ruby Long with bow and arrow and wings made a most lovable little Love, and did her part in a winning manner. She held the place of honor at the court of Father Time.
All the little bit of seconds, and they were little boys and girls 4 to 6 years old, sang and marched and played their parts as sweet as could be. They won the audience completely. The minutes, boys and girls from 6 to 8 years, all were good, sang well and did well. They were a bright lot of little folks. The hours were represented by older children from 9 to 12 years, and they two filed their part in the cantata nicely and creditably. And little Alida Primeaux as as Patience sang sweetly and was a very pretty Patience.
The play entire was simply fine and would do credit to much older children.
The choruses, and there were a number, were all good and sung most pleasingly. The teachers and children deserve high credit for giving such a meritorious performance. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Leap Year Dances.
The leap year dance was given by the young ladies of Pilette last Wednesday was a delightful affair. A number of young people from here attended.
The leap year dance at Scott Sunday night, given by the young ladies of that charming little village, was a fine success, and those who had the pleasure of participating, will ever remember the occasion as one of the delightful evenings which kind fortune has awarded them. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Charbon Spreading.
[Crowley Signal.]
Dr. Vulliamy, the veterinary surgeon, said to a Signal man that the reports concerning the outbreak of charbon (anthrax) in this parish are founded on facts. The disease is causing the death of a number of head of cattle. Six cases are said to exist in the Ebeneezer country, while three are said to have developed near Lyons point. Very little can be learned of the cases in Mamou prairie except that they are some miles north of Jennings. From the Crowley Signal and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Improvements.
Work on the First National building, the hotel and the opera house is going forward rapidly. A large force of men is employed and that corner presents a lively appearance.
The concrete walk on both sides of Moss & Co.'s store is about completed. There are now concrete walks finished from the Crescent News Hotel on both sides of the street to Moss's corner, and on Vermilion street, north side, from Morgan & Debaillon's to Dr. J. F. Mouton's office. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
School Funds Apportioned.
Supt. Aswell has completed the apportionment of school funds for the second quarter of this year. The pro rata is twenty cents for each educable child. Lafayette is credited with 8,834 educable children and is apportioned $1,766.80. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Farmers' Institute.
A Farmers' Institute will be held in Lafayette at the court house Saturday, June 25. Dr. Stubbs, Dr. Morgan and other prominent gentlemen will be present. All the members of the Police Jury will attend and a large crowd is expected. Everybody come. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Badly Burned.
Chas. Webb's little child, about five years old, was badly scalded last Friday night. The unfortunate child turned over a kettle of boiling water, burning one side of its face and body. We are glad to state that the child is doing very nicely. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Police Jury Proceedings.
Lafayette, La., June 11, 1904 - The Police Jury of Lafayette met this day at Court-House and there were present: A. Lacy, Cornelius Spell, Valery Boudreaux, J. E. Mouton, Albert Theall, Martial Billeaud, Jr., Hector Connelly, Pierre Landry, and L. G. Breaux; and proceeded to organize as follows: L. G. Breaux was elected president, D. A. Cochrane, secretary; J. E. Martin, treasurer; Leopold Hirsch, constable; C. H. Mouton, attorney; and Jerome Mouton, printer. L. Lacoste, the newly elected sheriff, here appeared and submitted to the Jury, that he was willing to contract with the parish for all its criminal work at $6,000.00 a year the same amount received by the outgoing Sheriff Broussard. The Jury refused to contract for that amount.
Road overseers were appointed by the members of their respective wards as follows, to-wit: 1st ward, Lucien Arceneaux; 2d ward, no appointment; 3d ward, no appointment; 4th ward, Robert Hebert; 5th ward, Lucius Duhon, appointment to begin March 1, 1904; 6th ward, Ernest Broussard; 7th ward, Rosemond Langlinais; 8th ward, Antoine Broussard; on motion it was resolved that the regular meetings of the Jury were fixed for the 1st Thursday of each and every month.
It was moved and seconded that all officers' salaries be fixed as same as in the budget. Moved and seconded that a committee of three be appointed by the chair to investigate the additional work of the treasurer's office whereupon the chair appointed on said committee: M. Billeaud, Jr., J. E. Mouton, and Valery Boudreaux. Attorney Mouton submitted the following report, and read and ordered spread on the minutes:
Lafayette, La., May 17th, 1904.
To Dupre Landry, of the Parish of Lafayette, La.
In the name of Martial Billeaud, Jr., president of the Police Jury of the parish of Lafayette, La., you are hereby notified, requested and ordered, to permit and allow Alcee Dugas, the overseer of public roads in the third ward of said parish, to enter your premises and enclosures, with hands, laborers, tools, implements and appliances, necessary to clean out and open the old ditch and drain, which runs from the public road leading from the town of Lafayette to Scott and which passes through the land of Osma Boudreaux and through your land, so as to remove therefrom all obstructions, dirt and impediments to the flow of water, so as to put said ditch or drain in a condition as it was formerly, to allow the water at a point where said ditch intersects said public road to flow freely for the purpose of draining said road at a point of the intersection of said ditch with the same; and unless you comply with this request and order, suit will be forthwith instituted to compel you thereto and to have said work done.
C. H. MOUTON, Attorney of the Police Jury of Lafayette.
WM. CAMPBELL, Dist. Attorney, 18th Judicial District of La.
Original of the above notice and, demand was served by me, on Mr. Dupre Landry, personally, in presence of W. Campbell, on May 19th, 1904, and Mr. Landry gave his consent to have the ditch in question opened and cleaned.
C. H. MOUTON, Attorney.
Moved and seconded that a standing committee of two be appointed to see to all minor repairs necessary on Court House, jail, etc.
The chair appointed on said committee: J. E. Mouton and Valery Boudreaux:
J. E. Mouton was appointed a committee of one on the Olidon Broussard bridge.
All the members of the Police Jury were authorized and empowered to sell or dispose of all old lumber of the parish in their respective wards, to the best interest of the parish.
There being no further business, the Jury adjourned to next regular meeting.
L. G. BREAUX, President.
D. A. COCHRANE, Secretary.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 6/22/1904.
Monday morning the force at work on the new hotel, bank and opera house buildings was increased to about one hundred men. Every effort will be made to have all three buildings completed by Nov. 1.
Dr. N. P. Moss spent several days in Baton Rouge during the week, returning Thursday.
Chas. S. Babin and son, Orest, have returned from a visit to the World's Fair, which they greatly enjoyed.
William Brown, colored, was arrested at Beaumont and brought here Friday by Sheriff Lacoste and lodged in jail. He is charged with having embezzled the funds of the express company for whom he worked about eighteen months ago.
Andre Prudhomme, L. Cunningham and A. Trahan took in the World's Fair for a week, returning several days ago.
Simeon Begnaud and Gaston Blot, of Carencro, have returned from the World's Fair.
Drs. G. W. Scranton and H. D. Guidry have opened a drug store at Scott under the firm name of Scranton & Guidry.
Prof. Greig closed his school Wednesday for the summer vacation.
Ex-Sheriff I. A. Broussard left Wednesday for Baton Rouge to make final settlement with the Auditor.
Mr. and Mrs. Vic Levy and little daughter returned from Hot Springs Thursday, where they have been visiting Mrs. Levy's parents.
Delicious Ice Cream and all cold drinks served at E. F. Morgan & Co.'s fine fountain. Also a fine line of WILEY'S crystallized fruits and chocolates. There is none better.
C. O. Mouton returned Wednesday from New York, where he was called on business.
At a regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Bank of Lafayette held this day at their office, a semi-annual dividend of five per cent was declared, payable July 1, 1904. J. J. Davidson, Cashier.
Dudley Campbell, who is employed at Bon Ami, arrived in Lafayette Sunday and will remain some time at the home of his mother, Mrs. A. C. Campbell.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
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From the Lafayette Gazette of June 22nd, 1901:
INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTE.
Dedication Exercises of the Institute Held Last Saturday - A Large Crowd Present.
Last Saturday marked an epoch in the history of the town and parish of Lafayette. The Industrial Institute situated in their midst, was dedicated on that day for the uses for which it was planned, by imposing ceremonies in which prominent educators, politicians and officials of the State participated. The people of the town and parish showed their interest in the institute by their presence, and by doing all in their power to render the day a pleasant one and the exercises interesting. A large number of visitors from different parts of Louisiana graced the occasion with their presence, and hundred of school children, the immediate beneficiaries of the great institute of learning came in from neighboring parishes and evinced keen interest in every event of the day. All were profuse in their praise of the beauty of the main building and its appointments and acknowledgments of Lafayette's public spirit were heard from every one. Nothing could better make us realize what a boom has been placed in our midst than these encomiums of our visitors.
By the time the exercises at the school began, a number of excursionists had arrived in town and the auditorium was filled when President Stephens rapped for order and introduced Hon. T. H. Lewis, who on behalf of the Board of Trustees, made the presentation speech. The old States right Democrat from our sister town made the best of the occasion by suggesting in the course of his address that our schools should give special instruction in the principles of our constitutional government and arrest, if we can, the tide of commercialism and imperialism which is undermining the foundations of the government.
Gov. Heard made the speech of acceptance on behalf of the State, and turned over the building to President Stephens.
In taking charge of the Institute Dr. Stephens spoke as follows:
"Mr. Chairman, Your Excellency, Ladies and Gentlemen: It needs not that word of mine be spoken here to give assurance of the pride and gratification I feel for being your servant in this place and for this cause. And I am willing that time so enriched with the high thought and graceful expression of the distinguished speakers here present should be taken up by myself. But even had I graces of speech to express my sense of the great meanings implied by this occasion. I should never be able to do justice to the value which this presence sets upon the movement celebrated here to-day, the upward lift it gains from your approval, the inestimable fortune of its beginnings in so fair a land, and the promise of its prosperity among so hospitable a people.
"It has been but little more than a year, Mr. Chairman, since the spot whereon this building stands was indistinguishable from the stretch of earth around it; the material whereof it is made may scattered and unrelated in many a field and forest and storehouse and factory; and the men and women who now compose this vast assemblage had no common cause to call them into this place. But witness to-day, sir, a magic transformation; the voice of a people's history has spoken, the strength of a noble purpose has prevailed, and here has risen, like an exhalation from the breath of God, this temple of a people's hope, this ever-enduring symbol of their faith in the high destiny which awaits their children's children, this altar of a noble sacrifice for the sake of mankind.
"And what, sir, may I ask, is the meaning of these changes? Why will a people do a thing like this? It is because of the divine discontent. It is because man knows to be nobler than he is, and aspires that his children may be so. He suspects that there is a fullness of life accessible to which he does not attain, and he would help those who would come after him to explore deeper into life's unending mystery. Who can say what treasure lies hid between within the soil beneath our feet? How much less can one say what treasures lie ready for man's search among the infinitudes of the realm of mind and spirit!
"Well may it be said that the material resources of this country are unfathomed, and quite as unfathomable are the intellectual and moral resources of this people, and these work be a proof of this! Met witness the marvelous flow of mineral oil from the earth about us, and straightaway they have visions of material wealth and luxurious splendor like the emperors and kings, but this oil has meaning greater than this; the material wealth of the earth, ready for man's need and his use, is meant to keep alive the body in order to give the soul its best play. What can be the value of great riches to a man if he but feed and feast this body that does in no wise distinguish him from the brutes that perish; if he have not the educated hand and the educated brain to do and to devise for the welfare of his people; if he have no true appreciation of art, of the best that is in literature, in painting, sculpture, architecture, music and all the forms in which the mind of man has shown its origin divine? What can be the satisfaction of his each and idleness in the presence of that pathetic and heart-stirring struggle which those who toil must wage against the usurpations and the tyrannies of every land; if he have no sense of the awful injustice of the private monopoly of public necessities; if he cherish no ideal for the larger economic and political freedom of the masses of the people, what shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world of matter, of body, of self, and lose the world of mind, of soul, of unselfishness?
"But the Lord of all the earth has placed within the heart of man aspirations and longings for a larger life than that of the body. In the wilderness of the world may be heard the voice of the husbandsman crying aloud: 'I have produced enough from my field to feed and clothe myself and many others for the coming year; but I would have more than food and raimant. Give me greater knowledge of this strange world I live in, and of the peoples that live in distant lands. Let their experiences be added to mine. Give me acquaintance with the great men that are moving the world with their marvels of invention and scientific discovery. And grant me most all that by greater knowledge and power and sympathy I may be enabled to be a help to my fellow men - shedding an influence that shall make for a truer justice, a larger liberty, and greater good to the peoples of the earth, so that, even with all my imperfections, I shall not have lived my life in vain. And if it please God that already it should be too late for me to profit from the lessons that the world offers, then take my sons and daughters and teach them these things. Help them to be practical; help them to develop strong and healthy bodies; give them exercise for hand and brain, and let them make some useful things or do some useful work. But see that they shall be lifted up in spirit; show them the world's great masterpieces of literature and art; fill their souls with great and beautiful thoughts, and attune their lives to the music of lofty ideals.'
"Such is the prayer of mankind; and blessed are the forests and the instruments, such as these, which work together to render that prayer effectual."
In conclusion, Dr. Stephens made acknowledgment in these words:
"Not without grave considerations, your Excellency - not without a deep sense of the greatness of the task you require of me - do I accept the charge you place in my hands to-day. I accept it, not without doubt and misgivings as to my own worthiness and fitness for the duties of so sacred an office. But relying, sir, upon the innate greatness of the cause which this undertaking represents; relying upon the consecrated spirit of this people, upon their faith, their loyalty and their self-sacrifice for the sake of this institution, and relying upon the inextinguishable obligation which this community and this parish have placed upon the State of Louisiana - with humble and grateful spirit I take from your hands this symbol of sacred trust, and commend its destiny to the wisdom on high."
Rev. I. W. Cooper concluded the exercises begun in the morning by the dedicatory address.
At about five o'clock in the afternoon the annual parade of the local fire department took place. The fire lads presented a fine appearance in their bright uniforms. Each company had decorated its hose reel and the Hook and Ladder boys their truck. The decorations were artistically done, and the parade was a pretty one.
The Breaux Bridge Silver Band furnished music for the parade, and too much cannot be said in their praise. It was a gratuitous act on their part, and the people of Lafayette feel grateful to their neighborly town. After marching through the principal streets, the parade proceeded to the school, and were addressed from the steps of the main building by Judge S. McLawrason, who counts many friends in Lafayette. The Judge made a graceful address and was frequently applauded by his large audience. During the afternoon ceremonies, Dr. F. S. Mudd in a few happy remarks presented the school the portrait of Mrs. M. E. Girard who with Hon. Crow Girard, donated the Institute grounds. The portrait was accepted by the Board through Mr. John H. Overton, of Alexandria, in an eloquent speech.
The day's ceremonies concluded with the addresses of greeting in the evening.
J. B. Aswell, president of the Industrial Institute at Ruston; Col. A. T. Prescott, of the State University; Prof. Brown Ayers, of Tulane; B. C. Caldwell, president of the Normal School at Nachitoches; and Senator Murphy J. Foster were the speakers of the evening.
The musical part of the program was in the hands of Misses Lea Gladu and Lucille Revillon and Mr. Wm. Hayden. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1901.
A Serious Charge.
Constable Albert Labbe arrested Eloi LeBlanc, of Broussardville, a few days ago, on the serious charge of having attempted to criminally assault his step-daughter. He had a preliminary hearing before Judge Julian Mouton, who released him on a two thousand dollar, bond, in the absence of Judge Debaillon. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1901.
Lafayette Building Association.
The Lafayette Building Association made two loans at 28 per cent discount last Wednesday, one loan being for $500 and other for $2,000. This association is serving a useful purpose in our community by encouraging home-building among the people, at the same time that it affords a safe means of investment to shareholders at a very fair rate of interest. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1901.
Anse la Butte.
Drilling at Anse la Butte continues unabated, and though the exact depth which has been reached cannot be ascertained from the workmen, it is supposed that it is several hundred feet. Large numbers of our people frequently visit the place and report having seen unmistakable evidences of oil from the well. It is likely that the drillers have reached the same depth at which oil was found a few years ago when the first borings were made. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1901.
Lecture on Hawaii.
The Gazette would call the particular attention of its readers to the descriptive lecture which Dr. Stubbs will deliver this evening at the court house on the Hawaiian Islands. Dr. Stubbs, who always proves an interesting talker, was a recent visitor to our new possessions, and will undoubtedly give his hearers a pleasant evening. Photographic views taken in the Islands will be given by the magic lantern. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1901.
REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS.
The following real estate transfers were recorded in the clerk's office during the past week.
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Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1901.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 6/22/1901.
Mr. William Hayden, the accomplished young musician, is the guest of Dr. E. L. Stephens.
Gov. Heard was the guest of Sheriff Broussard during his stay in Lafayette. The Governor paid a visit to Anse la Butte while here.
Peck & Broussard have dissolved partnership. Mr. Peck will remain at the old stand, where he solicits the patronage of the public.
Masters Tom and Louis Debaillon, Lee Delahoussaye, Willis Roy and William Campbell, students at Jefferson College, have returned home to spend the summer vacation.
Mr. John Marsh, of Crowley, and Miss Marie Revillon were married Monday at the Catholic church, Rev. Father Forge officiating. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1901.
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From the Lafayette Advertiser of June 22nd, 1901:
Oil in Lafayette.
Before speaking of the oil found in the well of the Falk-Hannen Brick yard, The Advertiser has investigated completely both the vicinity and the samples of the liquid obtained from the well. We are now convinced beyond the possibility of a doubt that oil exists in that locality. The analysis of it corresponds to that of the oil found at Anse la Butte. The surface indications are very good and in view of that fact the Lafayette Oil and Mineral Co., leased valuable lands in the neighborhood. The shareholders are rejoicing that they have invested in this company as the prospects are very bright indeed. The company's machinery will soon be in Lafayette, and the work of drilling will begin at once. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1901.
INAUGURATION OF THE INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL.
June 15th., was a memorable day in Lafayette and the people came en masse to the Industrial School to take part in the inauguration of that institution. Two excursion trains cane from the neighboring parishes, and many distinguished visitors participated in the exercises.
The large assembly hall of the main building was crowded to its utmost when Hon. T. H. Lewis of Opelousas, one of the trustees of the school made the formal presentation of the building to the State.
Gov. Heard made a speech of acceptance, and President E. L. Stephens in assuming charge of the institute, spoke eloquently of the possibilities of the Louisiana Southwestern Industrial School.
Rev. J. W. Cooper delivered the dedicatory address and Rev. C. C. Wier the invocation.
The hall had been artistically decorated with the national colors, palms and ferns, and upon the wall was hung the picture of Hon. Robert Martin, whom the people of Lafayette hold in such high gratitude. Another picture that will adorn the Industrial School was presented by Dr. F. S. Mudd and is a large portrait of Mrs. M. E. Girard the generous donor of the land upon which the institute is built and Hon. John Overton in accepting the gift paid a high tribute to the one whose patrician features will be looked upon by coming generations with feelings of deepest gratitude.
In the afternoon of the same day the annual parade of the Firemen was witnessed, and this display was successful in all its details. Chief G. A. Martin and Assistant Chief Mr. B. Falk on their splendid mounts rode at the head of the parade, their gallant bearing proclaiming them worthy of the honor the companies bestowed upon them by electing them to their respective offices.
Much credit is due Mr. E. Mouisset for her generous aid in the decorations of the tracks, and the graceful little maidens who took part in the parade received may compliments. Mrs. John O. Mouton as sponsor of the fire department occupied a decorated carriage, and the artistic taste displayed by all connected with the parade elicited comment.
Greetings from the States Educational Institutes were in order at the evening exercises, and the spending of this session was made with a brilliant selection from the opera Fra Diavolo executed by Miss L. Gladu. Prof. Aswell of the Ruston Industrial School was the first speaker, and Miss Lucille Revillon sang prettily a solo from La Favorite. The blind but talented William Hayden played several appreciated selections during the course of the evening. Col. Prescott of the L. S. U., represented that school. Prof Brown Ayres, Tulane, and Prof. Caldwell, the Normal. Senator M. J. Foster was the last speaker and expressed greeting from the political institutions.
The main building of the institute where the exercises were held was constructed under the Supervision of Favrot and Livaudais cost $45,000 and was built by A. E. Mouton of this town. It is handsome two story and basement brick structure, contains eighteen class rooms and the assembly hall with a seating capacity of 700 pupils.
This building will be used for the academic and commercial departments of the school, English, Mathematics, gymnastics, singing, mechanical and free hand drawing, stenography, cooking, sewing, and all academic studies. It is fitted with all the appliances of a first class American school and will also contain the library and reading room, president's and secretary's office.
The dormitory for the girls is in process of construction and work will soon be begun on the machine shop. This building will cost $25,000 and will be supplied with tools and machines for manual training in wood and iron, for blacksmith and carpentering and work to preliminary to engineering.
President E. L. Stephens is indefatigable in his work and a successful opening of the school in the Fall will be the result of his endeavors.
The Board of Trustees of the Industrial School is composed of Gov. W. W. Heard, Baton Rouge; Lieut. Gov. Alb. Estiponal, New Orleans; Hon. J. V. Calhoun, Baton Rouge; Hon. Robt. Martin, St. Martinsville; Hon. J. G. Lee, Baton Rouge; Hon. J. H. Overton, Alexandria; Capt. J. C. Buchanan, Lafayette; Hon. T. H. Lewis, Opelousas; James A. Lee, New Iberia; Prof. Brown Ayres, New Orleans. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1901.
Breaux Bridge Brass Band.
The Breaux Bridge Brass Band kindly lent its assistance for the Firemen's Parade last Saturday afternoon and were highly appreciated by their Lafayette neighbors. The different selections executed by them were of a high order, and the director Mr. Jean Durand possesses fine musical abilities. Knowing as we do the talent of this young man, and the capacities of each member of his band, we can predict that the Breaux Bridge Brass Band will soon be among the best of the state. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1901.
Imposing Ceremony.
To-morrow at eight o'clock p. m., an imposing ceremony at the Catholic Church will be the blessing of the beautiful statue of St. Anthony of Padua. A sermon on the life and merits of St. Anthony will be preached, and we hope that before long the habit of contributing to St. Anthony's Bread will be so fully established in our midst that there will be no suffering from want. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1901.
To Assist Mr. Hayden.
Next Friday the 28th, a concert will be given by the young artist Wm. Hayden assisted by local talent, at the auditorium of the Industrial School. Mr. Hayden's talent was appreciated on the occasion of the inauguration of the Industrial School on the 15th, and we are certain he will receive the encouragement he so richly deserves. All those musically inclined have a great treat in store and should by all means attend this concert. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1901.
MARRIED.
Mr. J. J. Marsh, who is the harness-maker in charge of that department in Mr. H. Loewer's establishment, was married Monday evening at 1 o'clock at the home of the bride, in Lafayette, to Miss Marie Revillon. The happy couple came to Crowley on the evening train and will make this city their home. Mr. Marsh has made a large number of friends in Crowley who will join with the NEWS in extending congratulations and best wishes. From the Crowley Daily News and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1901.
Women's Literary Club.
The last meeting, for the season, of The Woman's Literary Club was held last Tuesday afternoon, with Mrs. C. D. Caffery as hostess. A most charming evening was spent on the cool gallery of that cultured home, and delicious refreshments were served. The program for the evening consisted of the Lesson in English History, led by Mrs. Rane ; a piano solo, Auld Lang Syne, by Miss Gladu; A Character sketch, Anna Gould, by Mrs. Denbo; Table Talk, the Sacred Nature of Promises, Miss Parkerson, and a puzzle by Mrs. Davis. Besides the regular members the club has as its guests Miss Mattie Wier of Houston, Tex., and Miss Annie Betts of Shreveport. Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1901.
Selected News Notes (Advertiser) 6/22/1901.
A grand ball will be given at Gus. Lacoste's hall, on June 27th, by the Brotherhood of Rail Road Trainmen. This ball will no doubt be a very successful one, all that the Railroad boys attempt succeed, and in the matter of enjoyments they are experts.
Misses Agnes Smith, Bertha Richard and Nina Sandoz were among the Opelousas "jolly crowd" who attended our Industrial School Inauguration on last Saturday.
Dr. and Mrs. Geo. C. Mouton with their beautiful daughter Miss Corine, came from Rayne to attend the Industrial School inauguration, and to visit their relatives and many friends.
Broussard & Broussard occupy the Henry Church property, and invite you to send them a bill of groceries. They guarantee satisfaction on anything they sell. Their stock is a fresh one and their prices most reasonable.
A. Peck is running the store formerly kept by Peck & Broussard and sells cheaper than ever.
Miss Marie Mouton has as her attractive guest, Miss Antonio, of San Antonio, Texas.
The People's Cotton Oil Co., shipped during the week four carloads of ice to Alexandria, Crowley and other towns.
Jolly Thomas Debaillon returned during the week from St. James College, and means to be as popular as ever. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1901.
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From the Lafayette Gazette of June 22nd, 1895:
OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
Last Friday the public schools of Lafayette parish closed a ten months' session, having opened Sept. 10, 1894. There are altogether 20 white schools employing 24 teachers and while the actual enrollment of pupils cannot be stated just here, there, has been an unprecedented increase during the last scholastic year. While the Board, ably assisted by the Police Jury, has provided new school houses and more and better accomodations, still the capacity of the schools in several instances has been taxed to the utmost extent. The efficiency of the schools we are happy to state has shared in the onward and upward movement in educational affairs and while this department has been seriously handicapped by various and unavoidable causes yet we feel confident that much has been accomplished. Able and conscientious teachers alone should be employed and every effort made to bring the entire system to a high state of perfection. The officers in charge will certainly do all in their power and if sincerely seconded by the school patrons the coming scholastic year will be marked by considerable progress. The wonder is not that so little has been accomplished, but that so much has been done with so little. Not one cent of local school tax is levied outside of the regular poll tax of $1 per capita. The Board owing to the liberal appropriations made by the Police Jury has been enabled to do a great deal, but with increased expenditures incidental to increased demands on the system, the time will soon come - if it is not already at hand - when direct local taxation will be the only means of maintaining the schools in a proper state of efficiency. People who ride in palace cars and who build a $12,000 jail for the accomodation of a miserable set of criminals, should not hesitate to expend a few thousand dollars in the education of their children into whose hands soon will be committed the destiny of this great nation. This is not the highest nor purest motive to be advanced, but it will suffice, we hope, to impress our readers with the importance of additional interest in a matter so vital. Let the people bestir themselves to renewed activity in furnishing the sinews of war and soon Lafayette will forge ahead and be in line with its more fortunate sister parishes. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
Earns Diploma.
Sterling Mudd returned home Thursday night having completed his studies at the Hunt-Chamberlain Academy the well-known institution of of learning at Port Gibson, Miss. As a reward for years of diligent application to his books he was presented with a diploma, and is now well-equipped to battle with the world. We hope he will meet with much success wherever he will cast his lines. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
A Settlement.
Just before going to press we learned that Mr. John Vigneaux has settled with the finance committee of the City Council, taking as a basis the commissioner's report which was made to the council at its last meeting. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
Dance at Falk's.
The Gazette has received an invitation to be present at a dance at Falk's Opera House to-night. The following well-known young men are on the arrangement committee; Chas. O. Broussard, Willie Huff, Richard Chargois, Fernand Mouton, Andrew McBride, Sosthene Martin. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
Much Needed Rest.
Prof. W. A. LeRosen, principal of the Lafayette High School, left Monday to enjoy a much needed rest at his home in Shreveport. During the scholastic months the professor devotes all his attention to his duties as teacher and he naturally sees the approach of vacation with pleasure. Under the management of Prof. LeRosen the high school has made steadily progress and though it has been in operation only two sessions we believe its good work has already made itself felt in our parish. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
Livery Stable Changes Hands.
Henry D. Engleman, of New Orleans, has purchased the livery stable of Ernest Constatin, and will conduct is business in the future. Mr. Engleman will move to this place with his family, having rented the Ervin residence.
Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
A Born Reported.
We were standing at street corner the other day when our attention was called to a runaway was called to a runway team advancing at lightning speed. The poor driver was thrown from the vehicle, but before he had reached the ground, a gentleman standing near-by remarked in an excited manner: "There goes an item for you!" This man has undoubtedly the stuff in him to make a good reporter. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
BURGLARS
Effect an Entrance in Mr. Plonsky's House Thursday Night.
Two negroes, Edward and Villere Arceneaux, are behind the bars of our parish jail charged with having burglarized the home of Mr. Leon Plonsky, Thursday night. Early Friday morning Sheriff Broussard was informed of the bold act of the robbers the night before and he immediately started to work upon the case which resulted in the arrest of the two negroes, into whose possession were found articles thought to have been stolen. A pair of trousers and a white fan were found in the neighbors' yards, the thieves having dropped them in their haste to escape as Mr. Plonsky had been awakened by the noise. Mr. Plonsky says says three watches were taken, and probably a number of other things were carried away but he is unable to say of what description they are. Sheriff Broussard is still engaged looking up the case and it is safe to say that the guilty ones will soon be in the meshes of the law.
It is Mrs. Plonsky who first discovered that there was a burglar in the house. She was awakened during the night and noticed that the light in her room had been suddenly put out, and rushing out of her bed to arouse the other members of the family, she was the form of a man and heard the noise of his feet on the floor. By this time Mr. Plonsky was up but before he could use is pistol the burglar was out of sight.
Since writing the above Sheriff Broussard has come into possession of facts that establish the guilt of both Edward Arceneax and his son Villere, and Leonce the young negro who has been in the employ of Mr. Plonsky. This morning the sheriff visited the home of the Arceneaux negroes and found a number of articles some of which proved to be the property stolen from the stolen from the store of Henry Crouchet at Carencro on the 27th of April. The sheriff found the following in a valise; a pair of shoes, a pair of pants, a pair of gloves, a pair of gray pants, a blue suit, two rings, three cravats, one bottle of cologne, all of which were recognized by Messrs. Plonsky and Crouchet.
When confronted by these evidences of guilt young Arceneaux confessed all, but the old negro pretended to know nothing of the thefts and when questioned closely by the officer gave several contradictions answers. In the course of his confession the younger Arceneaux stated that he had secured the key of Mr. Plonsky's house from the little negro Leonce for a promise of fifty cents. The latter was subsequently arrested and put in jail.
It is fortunate that Sheriff Broussard has succeeded in ferreting out these audacious thieves who will before many moons be in the service of the State. The sheriff has conducted the investigation in this case as to make the escape of these bold burglars an impossibility. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
Fourth of July Celebration.
The Southern Pacific offers to all patriotic citizens round trip tickets to all point on the system, from any station on July 2nd, 3rd, & 4th, with final limit for return July 6th, at four cents a mile for the round trip. Boom.
L. J. FALKS A. G. P. & T. A.
S. F. F. MORSE, G. P. & T. A.
Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
An Exciting Chase.
Last Wednesday afternoon when the Alexandria train was entering the yards Sheriff Broussard saw two negroes jump off the train was running at a very fast speed. This singular action of the negroes naturally aroused the suspicions of the sheriff who mounted a horse and proceed in that direction. Immediately upon seeing the officer the negroes took to the heels in opposite directions. By this time some parties among whom were Deputies Billaud and Mouton, were attracted to the scene started in pursuit of the fugitives while the sheriff followed the other who was finally captured in Dr. Mudd's field. During the chase the sheriff fired on shot which cut through the fleshy part of the negro's left arm. The other negro who had taken a westerly direction was brought to bay in Mr. Sanders' yard. Before surrendering he drew a knife but did not use it as he was soon overpowered. The were taken to jail where they gave the names of Alb. Williams and Geo. Scott. As it was ascertained by Sheriff Broussard, that they hailed from St. Landry, they were transferred to Sheriff Fontenot who happened to be in town. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
Will Summer Here.
Acting upon instructions from Sheriff Bland of Orange, Texas, Sheriff Broussard arrested two negroes who answered to the description of Jessie Miller wanted in the Texas town for murder. The next morning the sheriff received information that Miller had been captured and the suspects in jail here were released with the exception of two negroes upon whose persons had been found concealed weapons. The proper affidavits were made against them and they will likely spend the summer as guests of Jailer Billaud.
Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
Selected News Notes (Gazette) 6/22/1895.
Our efficient clerk of court, Wm. H. Bailey, was on the sick list during the past.
The Gazette had the good fortune to be present last Tuesday with a lot of most delicious plums from Mrs. J. D. Lafond.
We are informed that Nellie Blye, Mr. DeClouet's mare, has been entered in the races to take place at Opelousas on June 30.
The executive committee of the parish Sunday school will meet at the Methodist church to-day to transact some important business.
Don't forget the entertainment at the convent Wednesday night. During the afternoon refreshments will be sold on the grounds.
Prof. J. Claude Martin will give a pic-nic to his pupils on June 26 at Pont-des-Mouton's. We return thanks for an invitation to be present. Lafayette Gazette 6/22/1895.
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From the Lafayette Advertiser of June 22nd, 1889:
THE ATTAKPAS REGION AND THE FLORIDA PARISHES.
The following item is taken from the "Question and Answers" columns of the Times-Democrat.
LATE ARRIVAL: Which parishes of Louisiana constitute the so-called "Attakapas Region," and whence is this named derived? 2. What parishes are are called the "Florida Parishes," and why are they so called?
1. The Attakapas region of Louisiana has no clearly defined limits. The name is applied to a large and fertile limits. The name is applied to a large and fertile section of Southwestern Louisiana, which, though often mentioned in commercial reports, from no accurately known subdivision of the State. The name comes from the Attakapas Indians, who lost in the mists of Early American antiquity.The name means "man-eaters," was first applied to the tribe of Choctaws. Th Attakapas were first made known to the French by the adventures of Belle-isle, who was accidentally left on shore during one of the early expeditions, and remained among those Indians for some time. In the year 1803 more than 100 of the Attakapas were dispersed through Southwestern Louisiana, principally up on Bayou Vermilion. In less than twenty years thereafter they ceased to be enumerated, having disappeared. Their language was peculiar, abounding in harsh monosyllables.
2. When France sold Louisiana, in 1803, to our government for $15,000,000, the United States - claimed - and justly, too - that its extent was the same as the "Louisiana" that Spain had ceded to France some years before. This would have made the eastern boundary of Louisiana the Perdido river, which now forms the western boundary line of Florida. Spain, on the contrary claimed that the Mississippi river bounded Louisiana on the east, and that all the territory from the Mississippi to the Perdido was included in Florida. But was included in Florida. But, by force of arms, the United States made good its claimed, and so the "Florida territory," in so far as it included the country between the two rivers named, and made a part of Louisiana. Hence the "Florida parishes" came to be formed out of this originally disputed district. But as the Alabama and Mississippi each took a slice of this admitted as States, the "Florida part" of Louisiana was finally bounded on the east by the Pearl river. If, then, the Florida parishes be those between the Mississippi and Pearl rivers, they are West Feleciana, East Feliciana, East Baton Rouge, St. Helena, Livingston, Tangipahoa, Washington, St. Tammany, St. Bernard and those parts of the following parishes which are east of the Mississippi; Ascension, St. James, St. John, St. Charles, Jefferson and Plaquemines. But it has come to be understood that the "Florida parishes" have no such wide extent, the name being appicable only to the parishes wholly East of the Mississippi.
Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1889.
lagniappe:
A NOISELESS FOURTH OF JULY?
[New Orleans States, June 15.]
Nearly all of the large cities in the North are now engaged in a campaign for a noiseless Fourth of July, and it is proposed to bar toy pistols, giant crackers and dynamite explosions. In order to make amends to the small boy it was proposed in Chicago for the city authorities to contract with an amusement company to set off fire-works in designated places in the public parks and furnish to all the youngsters who apply free crackers of the small and harmless Chinese type. It was planned to have a policeman, a fireman, a teacher and a doctor at each celebration center.
This plan was agreed upon as the best way to celebrate the Nation's birthday, and it involved the raising of a sum of $50,000,000 with which to purchase the fireworks, but as only $6,000 has been raised it is fair to assume that the Fourth of July in Chicago this year will be far from noiseless, and the citizens will have to endure the discomfort and the ear-racking din to which it seems they can not get accustomed. However, the efforts to suppress the exploding of revolvers and giant crackers may be attended by a fair degree of success.
The city of Cleveland has passed a municipal ordinance against the sale of toy pistols and blank cartridges which have sent so many promising small boys to the far-angel land. St. Paul has provided against the sale of fireworks in that city during the thirty days preceding the Fourth of July. The small boy, of course, in the cities mentioned feels that he has been made the victim of the most crushing tyranny, because if he were alone consulted he would be in favor of running any risk, no matter how great that enabled him to make a noise. But it is quite clear that the efforts that are being made to protect him against himself are praiseworthy, and it would be well for all the cities to do something to prevent him from running amok on the Glorious Fourth, blowing himself up and burning down parts of the town. From the New Orleans States and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
lagniappe:
IDLE NEGROES.
[From the Shreveport Times.]
The idle and worthless negroes in the cities of the south are not only non-producers, but they are a menace to the peace and prosperity of the State in every way. They congregate in the cities, towns and villages, and at all places where day labor can be had, and refuse to work on the farms and plantations. They live by stealing outright or making their women who work for the whites, steal for them when they fail to get work. And yet there are people who contend that it will not do to enact a vagrant law that will reach the loafers. Listen to what Commissioner Lee of the State agricultural department said along this line in his latest report: "During the year 1902 our supply of farm labor was entirely inadequate to the demand. Owing to the short crops in neighboring State and the shortage of the sugar crop in this State, there was some improvement in 1903; but even then there was a scarcity of labor during the harvesting season. I hardly think we can look for any permanent relief in the labor situation unless there is some legislation to prevent the congestion of idle negroes in the larger towns at a time when they are most needed on the farm. I think a law that could accomplish this, in whole or in part, would not only benefit our farmers, but would materially lessen the work of our criminal courts." From the Shreveport Times and in the Lafayette Advertiser 6/22/1904.
ON STAGE AT JEFFERSON.
The musical treat will open at the Jefferson Theatre on Tuesday, October 17, with the engagement of that most famous of all American musical organizations, the U. S. Marine Band. After a considerable amount of negotiation, which involved securing the permission of the U. S. Naval Department, under whose direction the Band is officially organized, arrangement have been perfected which permit a six weeks tour in which the city of Lafayette is so fortunate as to be included. The work of the Marine Band is unique in that it is equipped for the performance of the most serious and artistic classes of music and is at the same time called upon by the very nature of its function, to render music for the dance and, as especial occasions may arise, for other lighter styles of entertainment.
A popular program by the Marine Band therefore ranges from the moods of classic superiority to those of popular condescension. Its programs exhibit the same facile variety as those o Patti or a Tetrazzini, who after a brilliant, difficult aria from the most celebrated and exacting composers responds to an encore with some sweet and touching strain of simple song, like "The Last Rose of Summer."
While not in any sense a man of martial character of ambition, the leader of the Marine Band, William H. Santlemann, is entitled to the Marine Band has been distinguished by a wonderful success in bringing out the delicate details of execution and, at the same time, preserving volume and breadth in a manner which lends itself with peculiar effectiveness to concert work. In preparing the program for this tour, Lieut. Santelmann has recognized the interest which attaches to a soloist as a menas of varying an evening's program. He will present several gentlemen who have specialized until their mastery of their respective instruments has won them wide celebrity. Among these are:
Arthur S. Whitcomb, Cornet; Hans Jorgensen, Cornet; Robert Clark, Trombone; Lee Sanford, Trombone; George O. Frey, Baritone, Edw. McIntyre, Baritone.
The extensive repertory of Lieut. Santlemann's Band permits the recognition of requests for special numbers to the almost unlimited extent and the presence of such remarkable solists naturally makes the famous sextette from Lucia in almost invariable demand with audiences everywhere.
The program will include selections which range from Wagner and Chopin to some of the light composers of current fame.
The tour has opened with brilliant success, an engagement with Lexington, Ky., having brought forth the most enthusiastic, critical and popular response. The engagement in this city must be regarded as worthy of that often abused phrase "an occasion of extraordinary artistic interest," since its close relation to affairs in Washington makes a performance by the Marine Band elsewhere necessarily an exceptional success. Lafayette Advertiser 9/22/1911.
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