Jasper County, Missouri - Chapter with an unread heading (no. 22 of those read), 1912

City Op Carthage

Officers and City Politics - Temperance and Local Option - The Harrington Hotel - Carthage Woolen Mill - ^White Marble and Lime - ^Volunteer Fire Department - Schools - The Allen Oratorical Contest - Carthage Collegiate Institute - M. E. Church - Major Cole's Revival - Carthage Light Guard - Christmas PosTOFPiCE Surprises - Firemen's Tournament, June 12-14, 1888 - Entertains the Grand Lodge, K. op P. - Jasper Commandert No. 31, K. T. - The Skating Rink - Carthage City Hall.

Carthage during the 'eighties made the greatest gain, in point of numbers, of any of the cities of the county, growing from 5,316 in 1880, tx) 9,323 in 1890. This decade was a great period of activity in a business way and each of the ten years saw many building improvements. Many of the old landmarks were torn down, and new and modem residences and business blocks erected. In short, so many imj)rovements were made, and the business activities were so great that in the limited scope of this chapter mention of all could not be made. We will, however, give a few of the important transactions and happenings of a general nature, to the end that the reader may form a correct estimate of the people and their business pursuits during this ten years of its important history.

City Collectors - ^Pred Crocker (three terms), Thomas M. Garland, Jesse Rhodes (two terms), Fred Crocker (two terms), and Thomas M. Garland.

In 1882 Carthage, by an almost unanimous vote, granted a franchise for the building of a city water works plant, and thus took a great step forward.

In 1884, when the Blue Ribbon movement was at its height, the tempearance people put out a city ticket and won by a handsome majority. In 1887, after the passage of the local option law by the state legislature, Carthage voted on the question of shutting out the saloons and the Prohibitionists won by a majority of 354, thus, for a second time in the decade, showing that the temperance sentiment at the county seat was in the majority.

In 1882 C. O. Harrington, owner of the Aetna House (formerly the Carthage House and, by the way, the first hotel built in Carthage after the war at the northeast comer of the square) tore the building down and erected on the site of the old hostelry a magnificent up-to-date fourstory brick hotel, modem and well appointed in every way. The building, still the leading hotel of the county seat, was opened in September, 1882, with a reception and banquet which pleasantly lingers in the minds of the guests Who still survive. During the now almost thirty years of its catering to the traveling public the Harrington has made good, C. 0. Harrington, its proprietor, having always had the active management of the house.

0 larger factory built than the first one, both being operated during the 'eighties. The importance of this industry cannot be overestimated, for its products were noted all over this and adjoining states and found their way to the wholesale houses of both Kansas City and St. Louis. This same year W. B. Myers, one of the original owners of the Carthage Woolen Mill, built the Missouri Woolen Mill and operated it with a high degree of success.

The Carthage White Marble, now so much used and far-famed, came into prominent notice in 1880. C. W. Fisher, a stone cutter in facing a piece of stone for a base to a monument noted that the white lime from the Carthage Stone Quarry was of an exceptionally high grade and, as an experiment, polished with great success a stone block and placed it on exhibition. From this small beginning the stone industry grew. W. B. Myers, late of the Carthage Woolen Mill, became interested in the stone industry and in 1885 shipped the first car of Carthage marble beyond the confines of the county.

When the Carthage Water Works were completed in 1882 the fire department was reorganized and three volunteer companies enlisted and equipped with hose carts and modem fire-fighting apparatus. Charles O. Harrington was the first chief of the reorganized department and inaugurated a system of drills and discipline which brought it up to a high standard of proficiency. The press of business, however, caused Mr. Harrington to resign after a year's service and J. B. Buchanan was elected chief and made a good officer. At the annual meeting of the department in 1887 Mr. Buchanan retired from the department on account of a press of business, which had prevented his punctual attendance of meetings as in the past, and George H. Thomas was chosen as chief. James Deagan was also elected assistant chief. The promotion of Messrs. Thomas and Deagan caused a murmur all along the line and the companies elected the following officers:

Daring Mr. Harrington's administration as chief of the department a fatal accident occurred which brought sorrow to the members of the fire-fighting brigade.

On the evening of July 3, 1884, when Hose Company No. 1 was making a practice run, David Holt stumbled and fell and was struck on the right temple by the cart. His skull was cut and the scalp badly lacerated. Dr. Brooks was immediately called, but found that the unfortunate fireman was beyond human aid, and he died in a few hours. The funeral was largely attended and was under the auspices of the fire department and Knights of Pythias.

During the 'eighties Carthage doubled in size and her school system kept pace with the times and likewise expanded. $25,000 was spent in school improvements in 1886. Two very able educators guided the destinies of the public school i^jrstem during this decade, Prof. Dan Mathews, during the first half, and Prof. J. M. White during the last half of the period. Prof. E. E. Dodd, late of Cornell University, came as principal of the high school in 1886 and made for the citizens a strong head of the institution. To illustrate his popularity, we recall the following little incident. At the commencement exercises of 1887, over the stage was the following class motto: ^'In Dodd we trust''

The first contest was, from a literary standpoint, a complete success, as it brought to Carthage a number of young men who were the best debaters of their respective towns.

A. L. Sherman, a law student in the office of L. P. Cunningham at Joplin, won the medal at the first contest. In 1884 the medal was again contested, but in 1885, on account of the lack of interest, the offer was withdrawn.

During September, 1883, just at the time when the young people of the county were going away to attend the State University, the Normal schools, and other higher institutions of learning. Rev. Dr. Enight of the First Presbyterian church of Carthage, called the attention of his congregation to some fifty or more young ladies and gentlemen of Carthage and immediate vicinity who had gone that month to one of the several educational institutions of the state and suggested that it would have been a great saving of money to the community if these students, who annually go abroad for an education, could be schooled at home.

After an earnest plea for a higher education he closed his remarks with the su^estion that a college be built by the Presbyterians of the county and located at Carthage.

A meeting was called for December 17, 1883, and was largely attended by the Presbyterians of Carthage. Rev. Dr. J. S. Reeser, of St. Louis, an educator of ability, was invited to attend the meeting and in a convincing talk pointed out the need of a college for the Empire county. A committee of ways and means was appointed and a considerable sum was pledged during the spring and summer of 1884. Rev. Dr. H. D. Ganse, of Chicago, secretary of the Presbyterian Board of College Aid, now visited Carthage and guaranteed $1,000 annually toward the support of the school. On December 23rd, the formal organization of the school was perfected and the name Carthage Collegiate Institute chosen.

The following gentlemen were chosen for the first board of trustees : W. S. Knight, H. C. Cowgill, M. G. McGregor, P. C. McElroy, J. L. Moore, I. C. Campbell, A. H. Caffee, W. W. Calhoon, W. H. Crothers, J. W. Burch, R. L. Galbreath, J. G. Irvin, W. A. Wheatley, A. L. Thomas, D. Matthews, Thomas E. Gray, Wm. McMillen and E. W. Baines.

The charter for the school was issued on Pebruary 2, 1885, and on May 18th a beautiful site was selected on South Main street and work began in real earnest to finance the project.

The grounds were purchased at a cost of $3,100 and the contract price for the college was, in round numbers, $14,000. While the building was being erected the annex of the Pirst Presbyterian church of Carthage was used temporarily for a school and there the Collegiate Institute opened its doors.

^ In November, 1886, Rev. Dr. J. G. Reeser of Westminster College, Fulton, Missouri, accepted the presidency of the new college. On June 6, 1887, the corner-stone was formally laid, and we reprint here the report of the ceremonies published in the Carthage Banner,

The Corner Stone

Of the Cabthaoe Collegiate Institute Laid this Afternoon - With all the Pomp and Pageantbt Known to Modebn Times. No event has ever before transpired in the city of Carthage, of a lllce character, that has attracted so large a crowd of pec^le from all parts of the southwest as has the laying of the comer stone of the Carthage Collegiate Institute, which took place this afternoon ; nor has this ceremony, which marks the literal foundation of a grand educational institution of the future for all this section of the Great West, ever been accorded in so royal a manner to any other like institution in the state of Missouri. Such an outpouring of people as has been seen on our streets today was not called together for the purpose of pleasureseeking or in commemoration of any national Jubilee. To-day men turned their backs upon the harvest fields ripe with golden grain, merchants closed their stores in the faces of clamoring customers, the miner left his drill and the lawyer his desk - ^all stopped suddenly In the greedy rush for the sordid gains of this world, to do honor to that greatest ard grandest of American Institutions - education. What more positive sign of an Intelligent, prosperous and advanced i>eople could Le sbowu In any section of the inhabited globe, than has been witnessed here to-day? Thousands of people, who, aside from thU coiuiuon interest in education, have no interest in particular with Carthage, came from the surrounding counties and towns. They came as individuals and societies - all classes and all orders - to show their devotion to this great cause. Carthage is proud of this recognition of her enterprise and is also proud of the country in which she is built ; proud of the position her schools, private and public, hold in the state; proud that this great school has been founded in her midst; proud of the distinction awarded her to-day; proud of the grand old fraternity and brotherhood that otiiciated in this ceremony; proud of all the benevolent and civic orders that honor her this day. This occasion will link bonds of friendship between our i)eople and our neighbors that time will never sever.

The early morning trains were well filled with visitors and long before noon the streets were crowded. Joplln, Webb City, Carterviile, Oronogo, Cherryvale, Oswego, Columbus and delegations from other towns arrl\ed at nine o'clock on the Frisco. In uniform were the Knights Templar, (Jrand Army, A. O. U. W., Knights of the Golden Eagle, Select Knights and others. At 9 :30 the train came loaded with the same orders from Sarcoxie, Peirc»e City. Springfield and other eastern points. The Missouri Pacific brought In the visitors from I^raar, Nevada and Clinton.

The Light Guard Band and a delegation of Knights Templar met the incoming trains on the Frisco and escorted the visiting orders to their various headquarters. At 1:30 the procession lornied on Fourth street and marched around the square and south on Main street to the college grounds In the following order, under command of S. E. Wetzel, marshal of the day :

A copy of each of the following newspapers : Church at Home and Abroad, Presbyterian Banner, St rx)uis Evangelist. Interior, Carthage Daily and Weekly Banner, Press, Patriot, Democrat, and Feathered Home; list of subscribers to the building fund; report of Carthage public schools for 1885-86; cc^y of the immigration pamphlet; a piece of continental money dated December 7, 1776. and another dated April 10. 1777; drafts for one dollar from each of the city banks; coins and fractional currency; catalogue of the Carthage Business College.

The comer stone ceremonies were in charge of the Masonic fraternity of this city and were carried out according to the ritual of the order. The management of the occasion have been successful In carrying out the day's program in good style and are to be congratulated on the great success of the entire affair.

The following are the addresses delivered this afternoon, except that of Past Grand Master Vincil, which it was Impossible to obtain In time for this issue:

In the name of the people of Carthage, and on behalf of her citizens, I most cheerfully welcome you to the work and labor of laying the foundations of an Institution in our midst, which we hope and believe will he, not only the pride and ornament of our city, but which will in time, send forth its representatives from our midst to advance the civilization of the world.

We hope and trust that here, no dread edict **Carthago delenda est,'* will ever go forth to blight this fair spot and to send the ploughshare of ruin to obliterate and wipe out the place we now dedicate and set apart to become the pride and glory of our name and enterprise.

While we admire self made men, and hold them up with pride as examples before our country of what personal energy and character may accomplish, yet as our great leaders, both in church and state, and In every department of literary and sdentlflc enterprise lay aside their worldly honors and cares, and dose their lives full of worldly greatness you will almost Invariably see. In that short summary which foots up so concisely the record of a well spent life. "He graduated at Yale College, or Harvard, or Andover, or Dartsinouth, or Columbia, or Athens, or Kenyon, and so on down through the bright and shining list of our Public Institutions, which so adorn this enlightened age. established and built up in every state in this free country.

And all along the pathway of that great man*s career, where ever he cast his lot and Influence in life, the classic shades of his cherished **Alma Muter*' were never forgotten.

In long years to come, in the stormy conflicts of life; on every battle fleld of human progress and reform, this Institution will send her champions to the conflict and when the l>attle of life is fought and won and the summary is made up, the proud record before the world will be, as to many you shall send forth, *'He graduated at Carthage." Guard well then, and cherish tenderly fellow citizens, the Interests this day committed to your charge. May they be in your midst ; what they are worthy to become ; more cherished than the Sacred Penates of Ancient Mythology, more honored than the Star and Garter, or the Roman Eagles of ancient pride and glory, more durable than the monuments of ancient Power and Grandeur.

Rev. Hibbard'S Remarks

Mb. President and Fellow CrrizENS: While I fully appreciate the kindly consideration which has asked me to address you to-day, I also understand that it will not be becoming that I trespass IcHig on your time nor exhaust the patience which has already been drawn upon by services and words that must pertain to such an occasion.

It has occurred to me that some of you may be asking, Why this outlay of money, of care, of anxious interest, to provide such an institution in a state that makes complete provision for the education of her sons and dau^^ters, and especially in a community remarkable for the excellence of its schools, and where fitting preparation may be had for higher grades of culture? I have not the time, nor is this the place to give careful answer to this honest query. But I would suggest that the very system upon which our public education is based is the reason why this institution is demanded. Instruction provided by the conmionwealth must be adapted in its methods and in its rate of progress to the average ability of those whom It seeks to educate. The problem which our public school educators have sought to solve is something like this: Givoi, the average child, having the average constitution, the average natural ability to study and learn, the average opportunities, how may I do the most for, and make the most of that child with the money and time at my command?"

The problem is a great one, and it requires a process of induction extending through generations In order to answer it wisely and well. Meanwhile, our systems are largely experimental, and it is their glory that they are going on from good to better, and, as we hope, to best.

But, pertaining necessarily to such a system, there must be an inflexibility which is a constant repression upon the scholar of ability above the average, and of wearying and perhaps exhausting strain upon those below it The boy or girl coming from a home which is itself a school and which r^resents generations of culture cannot do their best when held back to accommodate the slow progress of those who represent homes and families of precisely the opposite character. The active Intellect will find vent somewhere, and the necessities of the system may explain that not infrequent expression of our teachers, '*our brightest scholars make us the most trouble.**

Hence the academy, and never was It more needed than to-day. Its power to adapt itself to all grades of ability; its longer period in the class room; the tenure by which it holds its pupils ; the esprit de corps which it ordinarily arouses, the closer contact between teacher and pupil - each and all of these things call it into being, and so far from making it a rival of the public sdiool, in any rivalry which can be injurious, it gives the latter the relief that Is needed in order that Its greatest efficiency may be secured and its highest usefulness promoted. It takes each class of ability and attainment and grades it where it may do its best work, with as little repression or strain as possible. The experience of centuries has demonstrated its usefulness, and, unlike our public schools, which are the outgrowth of present necessities, has proven the wisdom and utility of its methods. Our older states point with conscious pride to their academies, and it is a glory to this new west that she is emulating the acquisitions of the older east, and will soon stand abreast of her in all that pertains to the best and highest intellectual culture.

But we cannot pause here in our statement of reasons for the foundation of such an Institution as this. The inception of this enterprise was in the minds of those who believe that in Jesus Christ and his religion Is the most enduring foundation and the most powerful motive and active stimulant for intellectual growth and mental culture. The active promoters of this work are men and women who believe not only in the doctrine of mens sana in oorpore aano, but also In that grander, more far-reaching truth, omma ad Dei gloriam. They recollect that the glory of our land to^iay and the hope of its future is largely in those institutions where both precepts of the Divine maxim are taught which enjoins that we "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's and unto God the things that are God's." It will be fostered by the gifts and embraced in the prayers of fathers and mothers who live as seeing those things which are invisible, and who would have the culture of their children reach upward beyond the intellect and beyond the purest morality, to the highest part of our human nature - ^the spiritual - which not only allies us with God but the culture of which shall prepare for Divine companionship when these objects about us shall have passed away. So they come here to-day with glad and trusting hearts, interested in this institution because it is likely to become the crowning glory of our beautiful Queen City ; Interested in it because it is likely to exert a power which shall attract hither men of means who shall help forward all our enterprises; men who love learning and purity, whose presence shall exalt the moral tone about us and clarify the moral atmosphere we breathe ; interested in it, because here their sons shall be made strong to sustain and active to carry forward all tliat is good, and "their daughters may be as comer-stones, polished after the similitude of a palace."

The diurch whose fostering care adopts it has shown by the history of hundreds of institutions like that which this is to become, that she knows how to be christian and not sectarian in their management; that she knows how to exercise the largest toleration ; that she would not only "live, but let live ;" that she appreciates and can command, and is satisfied with nothing but the highest culture; that the work to-day commenced is a work to be carried on always; that every institution that is her pride had a commencement of less promise, perliaps, than this of ours. And so her honored representatives stand here today equipped with testimonials giving them the best of authority to call upon all good citizens for their continued interest and benefactions, and upon all true christians for their gifts and their prayers.

As I look forward into the future years I see this beautiful campus covered with buildings devoted to high culture, filled with eager students and wise professors; I see our citizens bringing strangers here and pointing with pride to the then present, and with greater pride to the sacrifices through which the great things have been accomplished ; I see pleasant homes all through this section of our state; I see better schools in every village - a high tone of intellectual life on farm, in workshop, store and office. I see our Sabbaths honored; I see a higher type of citizen, and all this because upon every building erected and upon the heart of every student educated there has been written the words so glowing with light and so full of holy uplifting power, pro Christo et humanitate.

The First Methodist church, during the 'eighties, as in the pioneer days, continued to be a great power in Carthage, and closed the decade with the building of a magnificent house of worship, costing $24,000. Dr. Stewart, who was assigned to the Carthage charge in 1881 continued until 1885, when the Rev. Dr. George H. Hughey of St. Louis was sent to the First church and remained until 1888. Dr. Hughey was a splendid Christian gentleman, kind and pleasant in manner and eloquent in speech. During Dr. Hughey 's pastorate the membership of the church was greatly increased. During 1881-2 additions were made to the church as a result of his earnest work.

A farewell meeting was held in the old church building March 7, 1889, and was attended by seventeen members who were present at the dedication twenty years before: R. H. Rose and wife, Mrs. J. J. Hall, D. A. Harrison, Mrs. Sandige, Mrs. Ragsdale, John Easton, Bennett Hall, R. G. Seawell, Amelia Haughawout, Mrs. Hanna Potter, Mr. and Mrs. 6. W. Fosdick, A. B. Parkell, Mrs. J. N. Stephenson and Nelson Damon and wife.

The dedication of the new church took place Sunday, May 5th. The Right Reverend Bishop Bowman, of St. Louis, bishop of this diocese for seventeen years, came out from St. Louis to dedicate the church and occupied the seat of honor in the pulpit. At his right sat Rev. Dr. Miller, of Kansas City, one of the most prominent and eloquent divines in the west and whose reputation as an orator, as well as a Christian worker is such that his church is always filled to overflowing. On the left of the Bishop sat Rev. Dr. Tuttle, of Sedalia, a venerable gentleman who two years ago celebrated his half century in the Methodist ministry and has since been superannuated. Presiding Elder Hamel and Rev. A. R. Cronce, pastor of the church, also occupied chairs in the pulpit. The benign countenance of Rev. Dr. Hughey beamed upon his congregation from the platform and an expression of pardonable pride was visible on his face as he viewed the grand building which his efforts and influence had done so much toward securing for Carthage. To the Doctor's indomitable energy, more than any other one thing, are the Methodists of this city indebted for their magnificent building.

There were present to assist in the services. Rev. J. J. Martin, of Marionville, Rev. C. V. Criss, of Lamar, and Rev. H. M. Hackney, of Joplin.

The dedicatory address was delivered by Rev. D. Miller of Kansas City and his address was pronounced by many to have been the ablest sermon ever delivered in Carthage.

The vast congregation sat as if spell-bound for over an hour and were so en rapport with the speaker that when at his final outburst of glorified eloquence, a genuine Methodist shout was heard from a happy, sympathetic old man, the majority of the congregation felt as though they would like to join him in his hallelujah.

More than eighteen hundred years ago there was bom In Bethlehem, of Judea, a being who has shaped the progress of the centuries until now - ^a being sustaining the most marvelous relations to all things. I^t any one read the biographical sketches as given by the evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, and then let him say whether Jesus of Nazareth is not the most wonderful person of history. But the wonder lies deeper. It is not merely the historical

Christ that engages the world's attention. It is the perpetually present Christ; the Christ who went away from the outside only to come back on the inside.

Christ's influence is as permanent as it is varied. If we test the continued potency of the influence which has come down to us from Bethlehem and Calvary by the extent to which they have become incorporated In the thought and life of our times, we shall be compelled, whether disciples or critics, to recognize in the teachings and example, and above all the death of Jesus of Nazareth the reservoir of moral and intellectual force from which mankind have been continually drawing their highest forms of energy, and on which the whole world is becoming more and more consciously dependent for its renewal and reformation. I know that social and national ethics are still as far f ron^ the gospel ideal as is the practical morality of every day life. But I know, too, that both social and national standards tend to approximate that ideal, and that men, whether In public or private life, are commended or censured just in proportion as they conform to it or depart from it The critics and enemies have been at work like sappers and miners to subvert the truth on which the church Is founded; but they have only disclosed the Gibraltar like strength of her foundations. I would as soon fear the digging down of the Rocky mountains, with their hundreds oi miles of granite base, with a penknife, as to fear for all the petty assaults of infldelity on the mount of God*s revealed truth.

"Inmiovably founded in grace She stands as she ever hath stood. And brightly her builder displays And flames with the glory of God,*' while the more portcfntous but foundationless structure which her enemies have tried to rear in her stead have been swept, one after another, by the tempests of a common sense judgment out of existence. According to all rules and logic, the church, as a mere human institution should long since have disappeared from the earth, destroyed, if in no other way by the weakness and Infidelities of her 0^^ children. But of all powers, whether of light or of darkness, she remains th&« perpetual and immortal mistress. Statesmen must heed her voice, philanthropists must invoke her aid and follow her as an infallible guide; moralists must recognize her ideals and standards, and reformers must draw the support of their cause from her ample and exhaustless bosom.

The influence of Jesus never grows old. It is as young a« the sunshine, which is no older this morning than when it brightened on the hill-tops of Judea on the morning of the nativity. Look at the ship on yonder ocean ; the toughest oak will rot and the staunchest ships will lay their decayed timbers on the strand. That is the fate of all human systems, but the religion of Christ is like the ocean itself, stretching away to the far shores of an eternity and bearing all ships, whether little or large, that venture on its sunny bosom, to the desired haven.

The dedicatory services were brief and to the point and in a fervid prayer the venerable Bishop dedicated the handsome structure to the Glory of God.

In February, 1888, Major Cole, a noted revivalist of the 'eighties, began a series of meetings in Carthage, which stirred the county seat to great religious activity. His meetings were held in the skating rink and the first one for men was attended by 800. Before the close of the revival the great audiences which nightly gathered at the rink taxed its capacity and overflow meetings were necessary to accommodate the throng who came to hear the gifted preacher. Many united with the several churches as a result of these meetings.

It would hardly do justice to the splendid military organization which Carthage maintained during the 'eighties to pass it with a formal mention of its officers and the several military encampments which the company attended; for the Light Guard, during the 'eighties, was not only the pride of all Carthage on account of its military achievements, but it was the center of the social life of the county seat.

On the retirement of Captain Tuttle, in 1880, the following officers were elected : Captain, W. K. Caflfee ; first lieutenant, C. 0. Harrington ; second lieutenant, Charles Brown ; first surgeon, A. M. Hurty.

The company now procured new uniforms and equipments and their fine appearance excited the admiration of every one. During July 3-5, 1881, the company went into camp at Cassil's Place, with two companies from St. Louis and the Fort Scott Company of the Kansas State Guard as their guests. On July 5th a sham battle was fought to commemorate the battle of Carthage on July 5, 1861.

Washington's birthday was the time set apart for the company's annual military ball and it was the society event of the year in Carthage. Preparations were made weeks in advance for these functions and the memories of those happy occasions are pleasant recollections to this day. We describe at length the Light Guard ball of 1884, as it will give an idea of the Company in a social way. We print here the Banner's account of the affair: vrashlngton's birthday was never honored by a more brilliant and enJoyal)le occasion than the Light Guard ball at the Opera House last night. The gas jets of a military ball at the Nation's capital could scarcely have lighted up a more bewUdering array of "fair women and brave men." The room was very handsomely decorated and in the best of taste. The columns and chandeliers were draped with bright colored decorations artistically blended. The walls were covered with evergreens, mottoes and flags. Every point of advantage was occupied by something bright and beautiful and the scene was brilliantly lighted by numerous gas jets under red, white and blue shades. There were upward of one hundred guests present, comprising large delegations from Joplin, Springfield, Lamar, Peirce City, Nevada, Neosho and Kansas City. The large number in attendance forbids even an attempt to name all, or to describe the many rich and beautiful costumes. It was made a full dress occasion and there were numerous magnificent toilets. Bright silks and satins, gauzy laces, gold, pearls and the sparkle of diamonds.

The gentlemen were in conventional black excepting that large proportion of the company whose manly forms were covered by the gray uniforms of the Carthage, and Springfield Light Guard, or the blue and gold of the Joplin Rifles,

Peirce City Guard and Lamar City Guards. The grand march began at nine o'clock and was participated In by at least one hundred couples. This was followed by the regular program of dances. At half past ten o'clock the Carthage Light Guard entered the hall, led by the L. G. Band and gave their

They went through the manual of arms and all the evolutions without a word of command and with the utmost precision. The performance was repeatedly and enthusiastically cheered and even our own people who know so well the proficiency of the Guard were surprised and felt a new pride in our "crack military company/* and many were the words of praise and commendation from the visitors from neighboring towns.

At 11 o'clock, supper at the Harrington was announced and for an hour or two the ball room divided the attractions of the evening with the banquet hall. Mr. Crlley, of the Harrington, had prepared an elegant oyster supper, with all its unusual accessories, and presented the homely but popular bivalve in Its most attractive forms. Mr. Crlley is always equal to the occasion whether it be of a special nature or merely the provision of the every day comfort of hotel life. When the more sedate and elderly people had taken supper, they called it quits and went home, but those who attend a ball to dance had merely been taking their preliminary exercise, and as the departures left a good free space In the hall, the business of the evening began In good earnest, and as nearly as we can learn the musicians earned their money before their night's work was over. The music by the way Is worthy of special comment

The L. G. Band played excellently, and the music furnished by the Kansas City Orchestra was an entertainment in itself. This orchestra has the reputation of being one of the best In the state, and the reputation is deserved.

The Floob Managers

Messrs. A. M. Hurty, A. B. Deutsch, Ben Allen. J. D. Perkins and C. O. Harrington were ubiquitous throughout the evening and untiring in their efforts to make the occasion enjoyable for everybody. Too much cannot be said of their skillful and energetic work, to which the splendid success of the ball Is largely due.

John H. Taylor, Miss Marcle Webb, Miss Bertha Brader and Miss C Goodwin, of Joplin. Also Lieut F. E. Williams, Sergeant F. A. Franklin, Lee Carerter, E. C. Summerfield, Harry Laudback, Ben Landauer, L. G. Houard, W. W. Pate^ Jr., and Arthur Leonard, of the Joplin Rifles.

Mr. Chas. Neiswager and wife, Miss Addle Boyden, Mr. Dan Herman, of Springfield, besides Capt. Geo. Townsend, Lieut. J. Hastings, Lieut R. C. McMillan, Gus Clements, S. McGregor, A. B. Dlggins, W. S. Purcell, C^as. H. Hanan and Pratt Saylor, of Springfield Light Guard.

Mrs. J. Gillette, Mr. Ben LaFayette, and Lieut J. Gillette, J. L. Johnson, Albert Newman, R. S. Crebs, W. A. Duncan, F. C. Stellhom, Jas. B. Davis of the City Guard, Pefrce City.

Ball 170Te8

The Springfield Light Guard sent up a delegation whom the girls declare, first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of their country women.

A lady, who last year witnessed the prize drill in Chicago, was heard to remark last night that she saw nothing there to equal the silent drill of the Carthage Light Guard.

Col. C. C. Allen of the "Gallant Fifth" made his first public appearance in his new uniform last night. He looks every inch a soldier which gives him more soldierly inches than many a bigger man.

Mr. Arthur J. Weir and his brother, Falcon L. Weir, of Neosho, who were at the ball, are connected with the Scotch Land Company of Newton county, the former being assistant manager and acting superintendent of the company. He has been a commissioned oflicer In the British army, and says he has seen a good deal of fine drilling but that the performance of the Light Guard will compare favorably with any of it. y

On January 5, 1886, the Light Guard celebrated the tenth anniveiv sary of its organization with a banquet at the Harrington Hotel whichwas a brilliant success. The arrangements had been placed in the hands of a competent committee consisting of Lieutenant Ed. P. Cassil, Sergeants 6. H. Thomas and A. B. Deutsch, Corporal R. G. Smith and Private A. H. Miller, and nothing had been omitted which was calculated to increase the enjoyment and success of the occasion. The tables in iJie spacious dining room of the Harrington Hotel were very handsomely arranged, and the supper, under the liberal and skilful direction of Mi?. Pabyto, the courteous landlord, and his efficient lieutenant, Mr/Poss, left nothing undone to make it the crowning event of the Guard's te^ years of success.

Among the guests were Governor John S. Marmaduke, Labor Commissioner 0. Von Kochtisky, R. Roche, of the adjutant-generals' department. The field officers of the Fifth regiment, namely, Col. C. C. Allen, Maj. Clark Craycroft, Adjutant Harrington, Surgeon Crebbsand Quartermaster Hillyer; Ex-mayors Harding, Caffee, Harper, Luscombe and Moore, Mayor OTCeefe; ex-officers Capt. Tuttle and Lieut. Cahn; members of the press, A. W. St. John, A. P. Lewis, and S. D. Carpenter; vocal quartet consisting of Dr. L. I. Matthews, Geo. Blakeney, S. S. WeUs and W. Mitchell, with Mr. Cort Hill as accompanist. Prof. Dumar and his orchestra were also in attendance and furnished some excellent music.

The most interesting feature of the evening was the after-dinner speeches. "Sketch of Our Ten Tears' History" was responded to by Capt. W. K. Cafl?ee, in the following able and interesting speech, which is given in folL

Our company Is, I believe, the out-growth of a convention held between Mr. Deagan and myself upon a Sunday in December, of the year 1875. The interest we excited communicated Itself to others and upon the 3d of January, 1876, in the then Regan's Hall, was held the meeting whose tenth anniversary we are commemorating so pleasantly tonight.

The Carthage Light Guard, though a ten years* existence is but a comparatively brief one, is venerable in the roll of similar organizations in our state, for change has so wrought among them that we now rank as the oldest.

Our earlier years were uneventful beyond the incidents, which we still partially experience, of a struggle for existence. Our first and most ambitions trip was to the Grant reception at Kansas City in 1880 ; it Is now most memorable to many of us as our last sight of the grand commander, whose honest simplicity of character, inflexible purpose and military genius, carried him up to and tlirough the honorable and glorious career which is so bright a page in the country's history. To that trip we are indebted for the impetus which has carried us through the succeeding years, for comparing our uniforms, worn, seedy and shabby, with the bright and handsome outfits of so many other commands we were spurred to the exertion which made us equal in appearance at least, to any other.

We have visited Fort Scott twice ; Cherryvale, where we found It possible to provide too liberally against suffering from the peculiar draught supposed to exist within the borders of our sister state, and in omsequence the unwise amount of preventive absorbed caused the introduction of many startling and unknown manoeuvers in our exhibition drill to the astonishment of a few posted, but to the wild delight of the greater number of uninitiated spectators; twice Nevada, whose whole-souled hospitality and cordial welcome yet warms oar hearts and claims from us a fitting requital in the future ; Springfield twice ; Joplin, whose kind citizens have entertained us more than once ; twice Pelrce city, whose people proved to our regiment, as well as ourselves, their right to be numbered among the most genial and capable of hosts, and last Pittsburg.

Our camp in Cassirs Place was one of the pleasantest events of our history ; we there first had the happiness of the presence of this evening's most honored guest ; the warm expression of appreciation from our St Louis visitors, so often since extended to us individually, has amply repaid us; that they were sincere in their declarations the beautiful medal presented to us through Oapt. Bull and Sergeant Gareschie amply testifies. There crosses my mind a« faint recollection of an entertainment offered these gaitlemen on the banks of Spring river, but the details are obscured beyond the memory that the aflkir was wUdly-JoyfuL

To the ladies we owe as an organization, what all men do as individuals, much of that inspiration, which leads to success. Our flag la their gift, and the graceful act was worthy of their tender hearts. Their bright smiles and approbation are prizes we have ever striven for, and from our rapidly increasing number ot Benedicts, I think not altogether in vain.

Of the gentlemen who have ofllcered the company, our first Captain, Garrison, lives far away. My predecessor, Capt Tuttle, ex-Lieutenants Cahn, Brown, and Deagan, the latter now through modesty most faithful of privates, we have with us to-night Hardin, the faithful and Sclent officer, the courteous and polished gentleman, Is no more.

We have borne upon our roles the names of two hundred men. Of these forty-eight are now active members ; fifty are still our townsmen, but no more of us; five have joined that greatest army, and **Bivouac with the dead;" the remainder are scattered, many, I know not where.

Through all our existence we have enjoyed the well wishes of our people. At first many smiles greeted our awkwardness, but increased proficiency brought its corresponding respect, and I believe few of our citizens but think we have measurably succeeded in our endeavor to build up an organization, which, by its efficiency In drill and the conduct of its members, redounds to the credit and honor of Carthage, we all love so well.

My sketch would hardly be complete without allusion to the phenomenally Bmall amount of friction which has existed among us. Other companies in the state have had much larger membership, more money, more elaborate equipments and better armories, but have lacked that something, I know not what, to preserve their existence. Dissensions have arisen, factions formed, disgust followed and then, the end. Even in our own regiment, organized but two years ago, there is but one company, besides our own, in which as great changes have not occurred in that time as in our ten years' life. We have had our little domestic quarrels and strife, but have gotten bravely thro' or over them. We have never had factions ; we could not even stay mad at our state long enough, when the last legislature failed to "appropriate,*' to stick out our intention of disbanding; but are here tonight celebrating the completion of one decade of our company's being, and looking forward to unnumbered ones to follow.

Governor Marmaduke answered to the toast, **The State of Missouri,'* in a very interesting manner. He complimented the Light Guard, and expressed the hearty wish that the state of Missouri might come to appreciate its gallant militia, by making a proper appropriation for its support.

**The Fifth Regiment" was the topic to which Colonel Allen responded with all his characteristic ability, and his remarks were among the best and most entertaining of the evening.

'*The Rank and File" was the sentiment which Private Ed. Crow was allotted. He made an eloquent and able speech, and concluded with the presentation, in behalf of the company, of a magnificent sword to Captain Caffee, accompanied with the roster of the company handsomely written out and framed.

At the session of the state legislature in 1887 that body made no appropriation for the National Guard and the companies all over the state disbanded, among them the Light Guard. The Ca/rthage Banner, speaking editorially of the matter, said: '* Company A, Fifth Regiment N. G. M., is no more. This means that the Carthage Light Guard, the flower of the regiment, the pride of our people and the oldest company in the state, has, like many other companies throughout the state, laid down its arms to the legislative cowards who fear the threats of a secret organization that defies the law whenever opportunity offers, and to the demands of the mossback element from the back counties. It is a most humiliating surrender after nearly eleven years of faithful service. While our people feel most keenly the loss of the Light Guard and are chagrined beyond measure that this step has been forced upon the company, they all unite in approving of the action taken Wednesday night.

emor, the adjutant-general, the chairman of the senate and the hooae committees on militia for the efforts they made for the success of the bill; also to the citizens of Carthage for their support and encouragement in the past. The arms will be returned to the state, and the uniforms and other property carefully stored and kept in good condition for the future, in case another company should ever be organized under more favorable legislation. It was decided that after the debts of the company are paid, the surplus remaining in the treasury shall be donated to the Board of Trade. This amount will probably be between $180 and $200. The first prize medal held by the company was voted to Capt Caffee, and the second medal to Capt. Harrington. The company flag was voted to Lieutenant Deutsch. ' *

At the 1889 meeting of the general assembly a liberal appropriation was made for the state guard and Company A was reorganized, fully one half of the old members going into the reorganized company. The company will be spoken of again in our military article covering the 'nineties.

In 1880 Maj. A. F. Lewis, editor of the Carthage Banner, was appointed postmaster of Carthage and under his able management many new and business like innovations were made. So thoroughly did he syatematize the work and so quickly and satisfactorily was business transacted that before the end of the year the office had been raised from third to second class, which brought with it more and better mail service and postal accommodations. This was greatly appreciated by the citizens of Carthage and it was decided by the business and professional people of the county seat to present the postmaster with an appropriate testimonial of their appreciation. Christmas day was selected as the most appropriate time for the presentation.

Major Lewis was not aware that he was to be the recipient of a Christmas present and himself had planned a Christmas surprise. At about eleven o'clock Christmas day, 1880, the postmaster called all of his help to his desk and in a neat speech related the raising of the office from a third to a second class station, stating that he desired to give full credit to the office force for this important designation. He said that howsoever well he might plan, if there was not perfect accord and loyal support from the ''men behind the guns" he could not succeed, and in testimony of his appreciation of their loyalty and faithfulness he presented each with a handsome Christmas souvenir. He had scarcely finished his remarks when one of his intimate political friends asked him to step over to the restaurant and get an oyster stew. Now oysters were Major Lewis's long suit and' he accepted. On arriving at the oyster parlor he found there assembled some hundred or more of the business men and leading citizens and before he had time to ask the meaning of the assemblage Attorney Al Thomas, a most ardent Democrat and political adversary, as spokesman for the people, told Mr. Lewis that regardless of their political affiliations they were loud in their praise of his management of the postoffice and desired to show him in some tangible way their feeling of commendation and on behalf of the business men of Carthage presented him with a gold watch appropriately engraved. The watch was a beautiful one, costing one hundred and fifty dollars. It is needless to say that Major Lewis was overcome with feelings' of gratitude and thereafter on account of the two Christmas surprises, the postoffice work was improved still more.

The Southwestern Volunteer Firemen's Association held their annual tournament at Carthage and it was a great success, being attended by some twenty-five companies and $3,500 was distributed in prizes.

The firemen were quartered at Camp Thomas, in Central Park. One of the features of the tournament was a band concert, the opening night being attended by twelve bands combined for the occasion into one monster organization of one hundred pieces.

The people of the county seat always entertain with a lavish hand and on this occasion did themselves proud. The business houses and many residences were beautifully decorated with the flag of the nation and the colors of the order. The session lasted for three days and brought to the Queen City a thousand visitors including, besides the delegates to the grand body, eight divisions of the uniformed rank. Among these were drill corps from St. Louis, Sedalia, Moberiy, Nevada, Port Scott and Columbus, Kansas, as well as the uniformed divisions of Joplin and Carthage. The parade of the Uniformed Rank escorting the representatives to the place of meeting was an imposing affair and gave to Jasper county and Southwestern Missouri its first glimpse of the red plumed Knights who, during the latter 'eighties and 'nineties created such wild excitement at the national encampment of the order.

One hundred and fifty dollars was given away in prizes. The cham^ pionship prize open to all divisions was won b}' the then celebrated Tancred Division of Columbus, Kansas, winners oi the second priie at New Orleans in 1884 and the first prize at Toronto, Canada, in 1886, The first prize, open to Missouri drill teams, was won by the Sedalia knights, where the divisions from Moberiy and St. Louis also carried off honors.

At the close of the first day's session a grand ball was participated in by the members of the order. At this meeting of the grand lodge, John H. Holmes, now for twenty years reelected grand keeper of records and seals came into prominent notice, making a taking speech in presenting a jewel for faithful service to Charles J. Gelwitz, then holding that office, and being designated by the grand chancellor as the leader of the grand march at the military ball.

What St. John's day is to Masonry, so Ascension day m to the Knights Templar. The occasion is the one day during the year when an appropriate celebration is alwayi9 had.

, This important annual event was three times publicly observed by the Carthage commandery, until during the 'eighties the exercises of 1885 were perhaps the most elaborate of its public gatherings. Ascension commandery of Joplin, and Mount Olive of Lamar were the guests of the mother commandery and participated in the parade and other exercises. The day was concluded by a banquet at the Harrington Hotel. Among the speakers at the banquet were D. A. Preston, of Joplin, who spoke eloquently on the subject *' Ancient Knighthood. ' ' Col. A. A. Hulett of Webb City spoke of **Templarism of Modern Times" and paid a glowing tribute to the work of the temple as exemplified now,

S. S. Wells, on behalf of Jasper commandery, responded to the toast ** Carthage," while S. WeUs, of Lamar, spoke of the tender memory of the Mount of Olives. H. H. Bams of Joplin told of the wondrous charm of lady fair, and paid a glowing compliment to the Eastern Star.

ment commander of that organization. As will be noted from the number, the Carthage Post was one of the first to be organized in the state and has always been a strong organization, both in point of numbers and good works. It has exerted a great influence in Carthage and has cared splendidly for its members. The feeling of comradeship has been strong and has brought the brothers-at-arms closer together as neighbors and friends. *

In 1884 Messrs. J. E. Sombart and Prank Jeans built a skating rink which at that date was the finest institution of the kind west of the Mississippi. The structure is one hundred and fourteen by sixty-six feet, the auditorium being one hundred by sixty-six. The building, since 1890, has been used as an iirmory for the Carthage Light Guard and is admirably fitted for drill purposes. The old rink has been the scene of many a brilliant military ball and other social functions where space was a factor. The building originally cost $5,000.

In 1884 Carthage built a commodious city hall, and we clip, from the Banner of June 6, 1884, the following description of the building: * * Certainly no fault can be found with the contractors for the new city hall with reference to their promptness in completing the building Their contract called for its completion by the 13th of July, 1884. The structure was today turned over to the city for examination and acceptance. Another feature of the business upon which the city is to be congratulated is that the city hall is a fixed fact without having exceeded the $7,000 voted for the purpose.

**It is a building of which our city may be proud. It is not particularly magnificent, but is neat, commodious, conveniently arranged and in every way fills the bill.

'*The ground floor contains the city jail, which is subdivided into a corridor and five cells, six by eight feet each, besides the iron cage ^/hich is seven by fourteen feet, the remainder of the ground floor, twenty-two by forty-three feet is intended for the fire department, and is connected by an archway in one comer with the hose tower.

**The second floor is divided by a hall way running the full length of the building north and south. On the west of the hall is the recorder's court room, eighteen by forty-five feet in dimensions, with a stairway at the south end leading to the jail department, for the convenience of those lodging below who are called upon to meet His Honor. On the east side of the hall are three rooms for the use of the various city oflScers. Water, gas and every convenience are admirably distributed throughout the building. A broad stairway from the front on Grant street, which goes up between the city hall and Harrington & Sanderson's new block, affords the main communication of the oflSces with the outer world, besides which however the hallway extends clear across the block and the building is accessible from Harrington's front stairway opening on the public square.

**The city council this morning thoroughly inspected the building and found it in every particular up to contract. Messrs. Harrington & Sanderson will receive due credit from the public for the promptness and thoroughness with which they performed their obligations to the city."