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THE KATIOKAL TBEBTJNE: WASHIGTO, D. 0., MAY 27, 1882.
3
7
OUR JUBILEE IN JUNE.
MARYLAND COMRADES PREPARED TO
WELCOME THE BOYS HANDSOMELY.
The Grand Tarade and Camp-Fire Preparations
for Hie Reception or the Visitors President
Arthur and the Cabinet to ho Present,
The Programme of Festivities.
Other G. A. It. Matters.
Special Correspondence National Tribune.
Baltimore, May 25. Judging from the
character and extent of the preparations being
made by tho Executive Committee for tho
reception and entertainment of delegates and
visitors to the National Encampment, the com
ing Reunion will prove the most notable in the
history of tho Grand Army organization, and
the affair will, in every way, bo worthy of the
flattering and unprecedented interest which
lias been manifested among tho citizens of Bal
timore. Tho fact that this is tho first time a
Southern city has ever been honored by tho
Grand Army in being selected as the place for
a National Encampment, as well as the accept
ances from Southern soldier organizations to
participate in tho demonstration, lends an
extraordinary interest to the occasion. Corres
pondence is pouring in at headquarters from
Departments all over the country, and every
thing points to a grand display and a thor
oughly enjoyable Reunion. Tho programme,
as far as outlined, contemplates numerous
features of more than ordinary interest, and, in
fact, tho only difficulty in the way appears to
he how to crowd into threo days all the " good
things" that have been prepared through tho
zealous efforts of Comrade Ross, Chairman of
tho Executive Committee, and the indefatiga
ble efforts of Secretary Thompson and his able
corps of assistants. Every mail brings infor
mation of additional Posts -which will scud
large delegations, and the assemblage promises
to be tho largest, numerically, as well as tho
most important ever held under Grand Army
auspices. Following the liberal act of the mu
nicipality the citizens' subscription to tho
Hospitality Fund are flowing in rapidly, and
the funds -will bo found amide to defray all tho
, cost of entertaining the guests. There havo
been some slight changes in tho
PROGRAMME,
and it is prohablo that others may be made,
tho object, of course, being to afford ample
time for the transaction of business before tho
Convention, and yet to enable the delegates, as
well as other visitors, to participate in tho
excursions and other festivities that have been
so admirably planned. The grand parade will
form on Wednesday, June 21, at 9:30 a. m., in
tho eastern section of the city, on Broadway,
and, marching by a comparatively short route
past the Academy of Music, where it will bo
reviewed, to the Washington Monument, on
Mount Vernon Place, where tho various com
mands will he dismissed. At 2:30 p. m., on tho
same day, a monster Camp-iiro will be held
under the auspices of the Citizens' Hospitality
Committee, at the Scheutzen Park, a beautiful
suburban resort, reached by the street railways,
which will continue until 11 p. in. Tho fes
tivities at the Park will include dancing, fire
works, and a collation. On the same afternoon
an excursion will bo made down tho Chesa
peake Bay for tho special entertainment of
members of tho Convention, returning to tho
city by moonlight.
The second day's programme comprises an
excursion to Chesterwocd, a bay-side resort,
tinder the auspices of tho City's Hospitality
Committee, for delegates and visitors. Six
steamers have been chartered for this purpose,
and arrangements made for a handsome colla
tion. On tho return the steamers will anchor
tho inner harbor and tho visitors will bo
A WARM WELCOME.
Captain F. X. Ward seconded the motion, and
said it was very important that the visiting
organizations should be well received and
promptly provided for, as their first impressions
would be lasting, and their wclcomo to bo
effective should be of tho most agreeable char
acter. Tho Grand Army organization was
preparing for tho reception of its comrades,
and he had heard it stated that the Fifth Regi
ment would act as escort and receive one of tho
visiting commands. Thero will be ono or two
militia commands from New York and several
from the South, and he suggested that tho Ex
ecutive Committee detail two or moro members
from the Hospitality Committee to receive
them and report their arrival, headquarters
and entertainment to the Executive Commit
tee. General Agnus said that althongh ho was not
prepared to make a speech, ho would try and
tell the gentlemen present some of the reasons
why ho felt enthusiastic over the coming en
campment, and why ho felt convinced that it
would be a grand success in every respect. Wo
of the Grand Army cannot feel otherwise than
enthusiastic in this matter when wo read tho
letters that are daily received from all parts of
the country, full of good wishes for our success
in these efforts to make tho Encampment a great
national event. Take such a letter as that from
the Old Dominion Guard of Norfolk. In that
letter it was written, "We will como; we wcro
under Pickett at Gettysburg, and wo want to
meet some of tho Hancock Corps boys who
faced us." Such a sentiment as this sends a
thrill of pleasure through every patriotic heart,
and assures us that one of tho pleasantest fea
tures of the Encampment will be the visits from
our friends in the South. Applause. Besides
the Old Dominion Guard of Norfolk, wo havo
sent invitations to the Front Roj-al Infantry,
Richmond Blues, Norfolk Infantry, Alexandria
Ciy Guards, tho National Rifles, tho Wood
slock Light Infantry, and sovcral other organ
izations, North and South.
Gentlemen, we of the Grand Army return to
you our most hearty thanks for your efforts in
this matter, aud for your outspoken interest in
the success of the event.
PREPARATIONS IN NEW JERSEY.
Tho following circular was also received, and
is of interest, as showing the activo preparations
being made for tho celebration :
Hdqrs. Dept. New Jersey,
Trenton, May S, 18S2.
General Orders No. 5.
Tho following comrades having been duly
elected by a provisional Post, organized at
Newark on tho 3d instant to attend tho Na
tional Encampment at Baltimore in Juno next,
they aro hereby appointed to fill tho several
offices therefor as designated below: Com
mander, E. W. Davis, Post 11, Newark S. V.
Commander, John Mueller, Post 34, Newark ;
J. V. Commander, A. M. Matthews, Post 12,
Orange; Adjutant, Wm. H. Howard, Post 1,
Newark; Quartermaster, E. D. Prkhurst,
Post 4, Newark. Aaron Willies Post, No. 23, of
Trenton, and Wm. B. Hatch Post, No. 37, of
Camden, have decided to attend tho National
.ncanipincnt. E. L. Camprell,
Department Commandor.
A communication was also received from
Commander Wilson C. Fox, of Post 5S, of Phila
delphia, asking for information as to tho rates
of faro and accommodations.
m
delighted with a grand pyrotechnic display
from Federal Hill Park, which, during the war,
was garrisoned by United States troops, but
Tvhich has sinco been converted into a beautiful
public park, commanding an expansive view of
tho city, bay, and surrounding country. On
the same evening there will be a grand ball at
the Scheutzen Park, tho dancing beginning at
10 o'clock, p. m.
The third day's programme has not yet been
fully determined upon, but, as already an
nounced, it will probably include an excursion
to Washington and Mount Vernon. The
Academy of Music, where the Convention
meets, has been secured for three days. Ar
rangements have also been made to run the
various lines of street cars all night, so that
cheap and comfortable transit will be afforded
at all times for delegates and visitors. Tho
Union Veteran Corps, of Washington, D. C,
and Duryea's Zouaves have been specially de
tailed as guards at Headquarters.
THE PRESIDENT AND CAIJINET COMING.
On Wednesday a delegation comprising ex
Senator (now mayor) Wm. Pinkney Whytc and
ex-Mayor Latrobe, representing the Citizens'
Hospitality Committee, and Generals Ross and
Agnus, representing the Grand Army organi
zation, visited Washington for the purpose of
extending an invitation to President Arthur
and members of the Cabinet to visit Baltimore
during the Encampment and witness the grand
parade. The committee were received at the
White House; and, after a pleasant interchange
of greetings, forma! invitations Avcre extended
General Arthur by Mayor Whytc on the part of
the city, and General Ross on behalf of the
Grand Army. Ex-Senator Wliyto further re
quested the President to be his guest while in
the Monumental City. President Arthur ex
pressed his acknowledgments for the courtesy
extended, and said it would afford him great
pleasure to accept the invitation if it was possi
ble for him to do so. The impression is that
he will be present on the occasion of the grand
parade. After taking their leave of his Excel
lency the committee waited upon Secretaries
Lincoln and Chandler, and extended them an in
vitation to visit Baltimore, which was cordially
accepted. General Sherman was absent when
tho committee called, but it is expected that
he will review the parade. The invitations to
be extended to the remaining members of tho
Cabinet will it is thought also be accepted, .-is
well as many distinguished members of tho
Senate and House.
THE GENERAL HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE.
A meeting of the General Hospitality Com
mittee was held on Monday. The chairman
stated that Gen. Jas. R. Herbert, eormnandiu"
the Maryland militia, informed him he would
gladly serve upon the committee for tho recep
tion of visiting military organizations.
Chairman Latrobe said he heard only the
most favorable comment upon their purpose
from all sides, and indications promise the
most favorable results.
Mr. Newbold moved that the treasurer of the
committee request the chairman of the Yarious
Eub-committees to prcsont a report at the next
meeting of tho amount of subscriptions thev
have received from timo to time.
Mr. Horner said a great many details re
mained which would require constant atten
tion, and there was a great deal of business
which could not be transacted by the General
Committee without great inconvenience. Ho
moved tho appointment of an executive com
mittee of six, consisting of tho chairman of the
General Hospitality, the Finance, and Expend
itures Committees.
this is no business device
with us. nor aro we working for self-advantage.
We intend that this demonstration shall bo a
Reunion of hearts and hands, and a grand
festival of great enjoyment and warm fellow
ship. But while this will be tho main feature
of tho great gathering, at tho same timo tho
Encampment will bring with it great oppor
tunities for material advantages for the city.
We will havo hero among our guests in Juno
the great manufacturers of the North, and who
can tell how much this may redound to tho
advantage of Baltimore? They will see tho
great inducements Baltimore offers as a manu
facturing centre, and, seeing this, they may bo
induced, as good business men, to tako ad
vantage of it. Visits from such men as these,
in such large numbers, must jirovo of value to
our city. Then, purchasers will como from tho
South, and will examine tho stocks displayed
by our merchants, and will take advantage of
this visit to lay in supplies for their own trade.
The news that the great Encampment is boiug
held hero will bo telegraphed all over tho
country, published in every city and town and
village, and Baltimore's name, her business
facilities and her hospitality, will bespoken
of all over the land. It is impossible to estimato
the value of such a gathering. Then, for our
own pleasure and enjoyment, we will see tho
"Boys who wore tho Blue" aud tho "Boys
who wore tho Gray" walking down Baltimore
street together, arm-in-arm, and tho notes of
Dixie will be heard minded with' those of tho
national airs. To all these wclccmo euests. to
all who come, we propose to show tho warmest
hospitality, and wo propose-, if possiblo, to treat
them even better than tho Fifth Regiment was
treated when it made its trip to Boston. Ap
plause. Mr. Horner's motion was adopted. Tho
chairman said ho would defer the appointment
of tho committee until ho could confer with
some of the members, as very peculiar and
special qualifications were required, and a
great deal of time would necessarily bo de
manded of the committee.
A PUIILIC HOLIDAY.
Colonel S. M. Sparklin moved tho appoint
ment of a committee of five to request tho
Governor of the State and the "Mayor of the
city to issue proclamations requesting tho
people to observe the 21st of June as a public
holiday. Tho motion was adopted, the chair
man of the General Hospitality Committeo to
bo the chairman of this committee.
THE WASHINGTON EXCURSION.
At a meeting of the Executive Committeo of
the Grand Army of the Republic held at head
quarters, with Gen. Ross in the chair and John
A. Thompson, Jr., acting as secretary, all tho
Posts in the city were represented. Comrado
THE FIREWORKS AND EXCURSION.
The municipal committee on tho reception of
the delegates to tho G. A. R. Encampment met
in the Mayor's office. Mayor Whyto presided.
Thero was a full attendance, and the various
sub-committees reported progress. Tho fire
works committeo reported that $1,500 would bo
sufficient for their display, and accordingly
that amount was appropriated. Tho display
will be from Federal Hill, and will bo entirely
aericl, thero being no set pieces. Tho boat
committeo woro given $1,000, and havo en
gaged the steamers Macon L. Wecms, Pilot Boy,
Samuel J. Pcntz, and F. C. Latrobe. The com
mittee on entertniniiiMit. wnm mifhnrizcd to
make arrangements for the collation.
duryea's zouaves.
Henry G. Taylor, secretary of tho Fifth New
York Veterans, (Duryea's Zouaves,) visited
Baltimore to mako arrangements to bo quar
tered at tho Academy of Music, where they will
give exhibitions of tho old bayonet drill. There
will be fiff y men in the picturesque uniform of
fez, turban, jacket, and Turkish trousers. Tho
exhibition will bo tho same as given in compe
tition with Company I, of tho Ninth regiment
of the National Guard of Now York. They
will if- e on tho 19th of June, to participate
in the national Encampment. Thero aro 153
survivors of tho old regiment.
citizens havo been wisely asked to join with
tho military, and they will give tho "Boys in
Blue" such a welcome and entertainment as
has never been beforo accorded to any organi
zation. Wo want tho members of the Grand Army to
return to their homes confident that when they
would realize that their patriotic services aro
thoroughly appreciated, and when they desiro
a hearty manifestation of popular welcome,
they must como to Baltimore. Wo want them
to know that when they require a committee
to mako things pleasant for them, Agnus and
Ross and Sparklin and Creamer and Adrcon
and Haydcn and Dukeheart aro the men to be
selected; and we want to seoagrand rivalry
in tho future among American cities as to
which shall mako this Annual Assmnhlv tho
pleasantest and most worthy of the men who
composo it. For this reason we want Balti
more to do something that will not only eclipse
anything of tho kind heretofore provided for
Grand Army Encampments, but something that
will mako receptions by other cities hereafter
seem tamo and spiritless in comparison.
31. V. Bailey, from the Committee on Trans
portation, reported that the delegation from
Washington could be transported to and from
Baltimore for $1.63. Tho committees on ex
cursions to Mount Vernon and Bay Ridgo re
ported progress.
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS.
The committee from colored Posts reported
that they would provide for the entertainment
of all colored Posts and comrades that might
attend. The Committee on Hotels reported
that they had already assigned 1,910 comrades
to quarters. Comrade Graham Dukehart.
Grand Commander of tho Department of Mary
land, presented a design for a memorial badge
to bo worn during the celebration.
PROPOSED LEGAL HOLIDAY.
A letter was received from G. W. Putnam,
enclosing a grand Reunion song to be sung
during the Encampment. On motion of Col.
Samuel 31. Sparklin, a committee consisting of
Comrades Haydcn, Sparklin, and Agnus was
appointed to act with a similar committee from
the Citizens' Hospitality, in requesting tho
governor to make June 21st a legal holiday by
proclamation. The following communications
were then read, which explain themselves :
THE OLD DOMINION GUARD COMING.
Norfolk, Va., 3Iay 17, 1882.
Gen. W. E.. W. Ross,
Chairman Executive Committee, G. A. R.
Dear General: The invitution through
you from the Grand Army of tho Republic to
participate in their celebration of June 21st
was duly received at a meeting of the "Old
Dominion Guard." They voted to accept, and
hope to be with you on the above date.
As the "Old Dominion Guard ".was a part of
Pickett's Division, which made thechargoat
Gettysburg on Cemetery Ridge, we would bo
pleased to meet some of Hancock's Corps, which
resisted our attack.
Yours very truly, James II. Walker.
(Signed) Charlie A. Nolan,
First Lieut. Comdg. O. D. G.
vermont's representation.
Hdqrs. Dept. of Vermont,
Camhridge, 3Iay 9, 1682.
Dear Sir: We are making preparations to
visit Baltimore on tho 21st of June, 16d2, pro
viding the rates aro satisfactory. Our Post is
uniformed tho best of any in tho State, if not
in the United States, our uniforms being worth
$50 each. We propose to tako with us a good
band and drum corps if the terms are easy, and
this it is nccesbarjr for us to know at tho earliest
favorable moment. We shall start from Bur
lington, Vt. What would be the (jifferonco via
New Haven, &c., boats or all railroad?
Respectfully, W. jr. pAi'tKER,
Comdr. Post No. 10, G. A. R., Vt.
WORD FROM THK POSTS.
Thomas Johnson, chairman of Tyler Post,
No. 5, of Cumberland, 3Id., writes that his Post
will bo present with full ranks.
C F. Gramlich, of W. S. Newhall Post, No. 7,
of Philadelphia, accepts tho invitation. Their
Post will go into camp in tents upon tho grounds.
George K. 3Iceks, chairman of the committeo
of Anna 31. Ross Post, No. 91, of Indianapolis,
visited Baltimore yesterday, and arranged with
the Committeo of Accommodations at, Guy's
Hotel for 100 men.
Tho Executive Committeo of tho Grand
Army of the Republic havo sent invitations to
the Governors of all the States.
Commander Thomas 31. Durham, of Cross
Post, No. 75, Seneca Falls, Now York, writes :
"A large delegation will visit Baltimore on tho
occasion of the Encampment."
Department Commander W. H. H. Flick, of
nest Virginia, writes that that Department
will bo represented by a largo delegation.
William B. Hatch Post, No. 37, G. A. R., of
Camden, N. J., will attend tho National En
campment with 300 men, probably acting as an
escort to tho Department Commander and staff.
A provisional Post of the Department of New
Jersey, through E. W. Davis, commander, re
quests accommodations for ono hundred com
rades, to arrivo on Tuesday, Juno 20, and for
any additional number that may como up to
June 23. G. V. Rathmann, commander of Lin
coln Post, No. 1, of 3Iartinsburg, W. Va., was in
town making arrangements for the accommo
dation of fifty members of his command.
GENERAL PRYOR WILL RE HERE.
The following letter was received:
"71 and 7G Wall Street, New York,
"May 22, 1832.
"Exccutivo Committee, G. A. R.:
"In answer to your kind invitation, for
which you havo my candid thanks, I beg to
say that it will give mo great pleasure to par
ticipate in the ceremonies of tho National En
campment of tho Grand Army of tho He-public,
on the 21st-23d prox.
"Very Respectfully, Roger A. Pryor."
ROUND-TRIP TICKETS.
3Ir. 3f. N. Bailoj-, Chairman of the Transpor
tation Committee, received communications
from 3Iessrs. L. 31. Colo and Ed. S. Young, gen
eral ticket agents of tho Baltimore and Ohio
and Pennsylvania Railroads, stating that after
a conference thoyhad como to the conclusion
to extend the time of the round-trip tickets to
bo issued between Washington and Baltimore
to four days instead of two, provided thoy bo
used by uniformed members of the Grand Army
and Union Veteran Corps. TIioso issued to tho
general public are good only for two days.
SPIRIT OF THE LOCAL PREPS.
Tho local press, without regard to politics,
has voiced the real sentiments of the commun
ity in its references to tho celebration. The
editor of tho livening Kews, a staunch Demo
crat, says, editorially, of the " Coming Event" :
Everybody is alivo to tho importance of the
Grand Army reception now. The press have
unanimously taken it up, and tho business men
and people generally aro discussing tho pros
pects and enlisting for the service. This is a
desirable condition to work Baltimore up to.
From this time out wo may anticipate with
confidence tho full success and credit of tho
Encampment. The visitors will bo received as
no other city would receive them with a gen
uine heartiness, a cordial hospitality that would
make the simplest crust sweeter than the grand
est banquet oflcrcd by sullen or perfunctory
hand. Baltimore means it, means tho full
measure of her invitation and assurances. Her
people wolcomo tho Grand Army, and if they
did not cheerfully and unanimously do so
neither tho Council nor tho 3Iayor would have
responded as they did and increased the muni
cipal appropriation lor tho entertainment of our
guests.
To mako that entertainment something
worthy of Baltimore's fame and her visitors'
deserts, a liberal sum should be subscribed to
increase that contributed by the city. If need
be, let us postpone or dispcuso with our Oriole
demonstration this year, and let tho money
that would be spent in a few allegorical
tableaux bo invested in this imposing event.
Lot us advertise tho grander pageant of June
as we would the annual fete of October, and
mako the men of tho Grand Army carry away
an impression that will expand over wholo
neighborhoods and sections, that will last for
their natural lives, and that will becomo a
sweet legend to their posterity.
It should be no trouble to raiso a fund suffi
cient for this purpose among our business
houses, our corporations, our railroad aud hotel
managers. And the character of the commit
teo appointed guarantee that all tho funds
needed will bo raised. But to tho necessary
money is added the better prospect that those
who compose tho committees will mako tho
visitors feel that thep arc welcome and anion"
friends. The people havo entered heartily into
this hospitality. It no longer belongs exclu
sively to local Posts of tho G. A. R. to entertain
those who havo been invited; it no longer ia
the peculiar provinco of tho local militia to do
tho graceful thing by thosa who como, but the
DECORATION DAY IN MASSACHUSETTS
Special Correspondence National Tribune.
Boston, 3Iay 21. In his official order issued
recently General Gcorgo S. 3rcrrill, Commander-in-Chief
of the G. A. R., announces the ap
proach of 3Icmorial Day as follows:
In accordance with the provisions of rules
and regulations, Tuesday, tho 30th day of 3ray,
Trill bo observed as 3Icmorial Day.
It is hoped that the uprecedentcd growth of
tho Grand Army during the past year will bq
an incentive to prepare for such a universal
observance as belongs to this day of sweet
memories and tender service.
Scarcely do wo realize tho swiftness of the
flying years; that to a wholo ponomtinn tn-dnv
the story of the war against rebellion is but a
bit of history. YTcar by year we arc marching
with lessened tread to the growing circle of tho
patriot graves where sleep the silent forms of
old comrades in arms.
To the ever-lengthening roll of those already
passed trom our ranks to join the invisible host
beyond, tho past year has added tho conspicuous
names of our beloved comrades, Stephen A.
Hurlbut, the first, and Amoroso E. Eurnsidc,
third Commander-in-Chief of our organization ;
and our great Nation has watched through
weary weeks of anguish at tho bedsido and
wept besido tho tomb of its stricken soldier
President.
Upon tho bud and blossom, leaf and laurel,
wo ono year ago laid upon tho grass-grown
mounds has fallen the heat of summer and the
snow of winter, and their beauty and perfume
is gone forever; but as wo join in these sadly
sweet ceremonies tho story of valor and
patriotism wo will keep as fresh in our mem
ories and as fragrant to our hearts as when for
tho first timo wo camo to bedeck these shrines
with tho early offerings of an opening spring.
To country these fallen comrades offered the
service and sacrifico of thoir lives: let us rev
erently give ono day in loyal dovotion to their
memories ; search out every one of their known
resting places, so that in all our broad land,
wherever exists a Post of the Grand Army, not
a single gravo of a Union soldier or sailor shall
bo unvisitcd not ono which willing fingers
and grateful hearts do not unite to cover with
myrtlo aud evergreen, entwined with bright
blossoms upon which tho glad sunlight has
painted something of eternal beauty, tokens of
life's frailty, emblems of valor's immortality.
In anothor order, referring to tho approach
ing National Encampment at Baltimore, Gen.
3Icrrill says :
Tie officers of the Encampment and mem
beJof tho staff are desired, so far as prac
tf?e; to aPPear in uniform, blue coat and
(Wi buttons; blue pants, whito or bluo vests,
and army hat with gold cord. As there is to bo
a largo attendance of uniformed Posts of tho
Grand Army, a like uniformity in dress on the
paTt-of tho members of tho Encampment will
add greatly to tho apperanco of tho organization.
A now national countersign will be promul
gated at this Encampment.
Our Baltimore comrades are making generous
provision for tho entertainment of their guests,
and it is to bo hoped that every member of tho
Encampment who can possibly do so will at
tend, and mako this year of unprecedented
growth in tho Grand Army a memorablo year
in its representative gathering.
lho following appointments are announced:
Aids-de-Camp Comrades Edgar J. Sherman,
Lawrenco, Mass.; Albert S. Nones, Wilming
ton, Del.; H.'ciay Hall, Little Falls, N. Y.;
William H. Searlcs, Baltimore, 31d.; Charles
A. Thiol, New Orleans, La.; Orland Smith,
Columbus Ohio; W. B. Shockloy, Fort Scott,
Kans.; Louis C. Gossoa, Trenton, N. J.
Assistant Inspector General, Comrade J. W.
Steele, Wichita, Kans., in place of Comrade
John G. Wiggin, resigned.
am sure 3Iaino would havo sent at least two
hundred visiting comrades. But I don't mean
to criticize tho Baltimore comrades or their
committee, who are working like beavers as I
know from a late visit to their city to mako
things as pleasant and convenient as possible.
God bless the Baltimoreans ! Your correspond
ent can well say that, when he remembers how,
wounded and sick, ho was most tenderly cared
for by a resident of that city, who was never
theless a sympathizer with tho rebels ! He has
crossed the river which we must all cross, but
ho has a warm place in one man's heart.
The Bangor Whig announces that Col. I. S.
Bangs will be a candidate for the office of Jun
ior Vice Commander at tho Baltimore session.
Colonel Bangs was Department Commander of
3Iainc in 1SS0. His war record is clean, ho is
a cultured gentleman, and no man has more
the interest of tho Grand Army at heart than
he. He is all that any man can ask, and 3Iaine
has had no representation in the three senior
offices of tho National Encampment since it
was organized.
Past Department Commander W. G. Haskell
has received the elegant gold badge authorized
to be presented him by the Department of
3Iaine. It is a beautiful affair.
Wishing The Tribune tho success it de
serves, I am,
Yours, very cordially, Old 3Ian.
DECORATION DAY IN RHODE ISLAND.
Sprci.il Correspondence National Tribune.
Department Commander Henry F. Jenks has
issued the following:
I'aavtuckltt, R. L, 3ay 24. In accordance
with General Order No. 15, Headquarters Grand
Army of tho Republic, and the rules and regu
lations, Tuesday, the 30th day of May, will be
observed in this Department as 3Iemorial Day.
The Department Commander earnestly hopes
that each Post will take prompt action and do
all in their power to make the observance of
this, to us, sacred day, ono long to be remem
bered. In towns and villages were there aro no
Posts it is suggested that tho veteran soldiers
and citizens unite, and causo at Trash mm flower
7 ------ --- -
to be placed on the gravo of every soldier
buried in their midst.
The teachers and scholars of our schools aro
earnestly requested to again assist us in pro
curing flowers. Places of deposit, therefore,
will be published in future orders and the daily
papers.
It is suggested that, on this day of sacred
memories, devoted to the honoring of departed
heroes, general business bo suspended, at least
during the public ceremonies, and flags hoisted
at half-mast.
A FLOURISHING OHIO POST.
Special Correspondence National Tribune.
Wooster, Ohio, 3Iay 22. Given Post, No.
133, was organized at this place, September 12,
1S81, with about forty charter members, and
was named after Colonel Wm. Given, of tho
One Hundred and Second O. V. I. Its present
officers are:
J. N. Clark, P. C; D. C. Curry, S. V. C; L.R.
Jeffries, J. V. C; J. D. Robison, M. D., Surg.;
G. W. Brenizer, Chaplain ; Enos Picrson, Q. 31.;
J. R. Woodsworth, Adj't; C. 11. Hesler, O. D.;
A. A. Carr, O. G.; J. P. VanNest, P. P. C.
Recruits are mustered in most every meeting.
At the last meeting, 3Iay IS, sixteen recruits
wero mustered, and we have two more for next
meeting, 3Iay 2.". G iven Post is making prepa
rations for the proper olservance of Decoration
Day, and the occasion promises to be one that
will Reflect credit upon tho Post and its various
committees.
A HEW POST IN WISCONSIN.
Spccinl Correspondence National Tribune.
Jefferson, Wis., 3ray 22. A new Post in
Jefferson, Wisconsin, named John E. Holmes
Tost, No. 26, has been organized, with thirty
charter members. The officers were elected
and duly installed by Post Commander 31ajor
S. C. Cobb, of Jancsville Post. No. 20. He was
accompanied by a delegation from Jancsvillo
Post, comprising Captain E. G. Larlow, Pliney
Norcross, J. C. 31ctcalf, S. J. 3L Putnam, W. T.
Brayton, James Wray, B. 31. Brecklin, Charles
Fox, and Charles N. Riker. Tho officers
elected arc Commander, John E. Holmes ; S.
V. C, G. W. Bird ; J. V. C, N. Brewit; O. G.,
Ben Blodgctt; Q. 31., J. B. 3rcsscschmidt;
Surgeon, A. R. Bcchoud ; Chaplain, C. E. Bar
rett; O. D., Thomas Cannon; Adjutant, Robt.
W. Johnson; S. 3L, James Garrity: Q. M.S.,
R. Live.
A NEW POST IN IOWA.
Spccinl Correspondence National Tribune.
Osage, Ia., May 23 Tho Union ex-soldiers
here havo organized a new Post, to be known
as Frank A. Brush Post, G. A. R. We already
have forty-nine charter members, and an ex
cellent promise of a rapid increase of member
ship. The National Triijune is read and
appreciated by the " boys."
RAPID GROWTH IN PENNSYLVANIA.
Special Correspondence National Tribune.
Reynoldsville. Pa., 3Iay 23. We arc stead
ily on the increase as to members in our Post,
mustering new members at each stated meet
ing. The Post intends holding a fair and
festival for one week, commencing on the 23d
inst.
Tii ere was a new Post mustered on the 14th
nit. at Punxsutawney, Jefferson county, Pa., by
Past Post Commander T. C. Reynolds, of Post
192. who has been appointed inspector for .Tef
fersou and Clearfield counties for this year.
The new Post will be known as E. H. Littlo
Post, No. 237, John L. Beel, commander. Thero
-ill be a new Post mustered at Brookville, Jef
ferson county, Pa., by Past Post Commander
T. C. Reynolds within a few days. There is
also a new Post to be mustered soon at Drift
wood. The G. A. R. is growing very rapidly in
this section.
REUNION IN NEBRASKA.
Special Correspondence National Tribune.
Omaha, Ner., May 23. Comrade S. B. Jones,
superintendent of transportation of the G. A.
R., has issued the following circular:
The Grand Army of tho Republic, Depart
ment of Nebraska, will hold its fourth annual
Reunion, at Grand Island, Neb., during tho
23, and
August
THE ORDER IN MAINE.
To tho Editor National Tribune:
Of tho 73,000 3aino men who served in tho
army or navy during tho war for the preserva
tion of tho Union thero remain within the
State not far from 9,000. Tho promising fields
of the great West offered inducements to the
returning veterans, and it is quite noteworthy
that when ono visits a country place and in
quires after this or that old cemrado ho is al
most invariably told, not that ho is dead
though, alas! he hears that too often but,
"Oh, lie went West right away after tho war."
Probably not less than ten thousand men, vet
erans of tho war, left tho State before 1S70. At
the Reunion of 31aino veterans held at Portland
last August a battalion, two hundred strong,
came down from Boston alone.
But of tho 9,000 who remain, fully one-third
arc connected with Posts of tho Grand Army.
Thero arc fifty-four Posts in tho Department,
with a membership of about 3,300. The Order
took quite a start under the command of Col.
I. S. Bangs in 1SS0, and in 1SS1 with Depart
ment Commander W. G. Haskell at its head
the gain in both Posts aud membership was
above fifty per cent. Gen. A. B. Farnham, of
Bangor, is tho present Commander, and under
his administration four new Posts have been
formed. By comparison with sonio other De
partments these figures attract, no particular
attention. But the cx-soldicrs of 3Iaino aro
not grouped in towns and cities: they are scat
tered abroad, most of them being small farmers
and convenient centres for organization aro
few. Illustrative of this, a fact is noted which
is of interest. The. writer was at ono lime In
spector of tho Department. He traveled three
hundred miles by rail and ono hundred and
sixty-six by stage and carriago to visit and
inspect three Posts! At another visit for in
spection, though no notice had been sent, and
eomrldcs did not expect it, two comrades had
come eleven miles merely to attend au ordinary
Post meeting. In another case tho Commander
of a Post traveled over fifty miles on snow-shoes to
bo present at his meeting for inspection. In
another a comrade came twenty miles to a Post
meeting, with the mercury at 20 below zero,
and expecting nothing but an ordinary meet
ing. And that's tho kind of clothes-pins tho
3Iaino boys arc !
We don't altogether liko tho arrangements
mado for transportation to Baltimore. Wo all
want to bo there, but wo can't all afford tho ex
pense of railway faro and a uniform besides.
In all our Department wo havo but ono Post
Custer, No. 7, of Lowiston which is fully uni
formed. That Post will send about twenty
men to tho National gathering. But if a G. A.
Ii. badgo hod been tho aign for reduced rates I
week commencing 3ronday,
ending September 2, 1SS2.
The Department now numbers eighty-four
Posts and. has a membership of 2,500 veterans.
Each of these Posts will be represented in tho
Encampment.
Wo are provided" with all necessary camp
equipage for tho occasion1 and ample accommo
dations, both on the Encampment grounds and
in the city, for all old soldiers who desiro to bo
present. Tho Nebraska soldier boys arc enthu
siastic and cordial, and will heartily welcome
Comrades from other States. Every northern
State lias soldier representatives in Nebraska,
and many of the States have organizations
among tho members of tho Department. So
many regiments of Union soldiers have mem
bers here that a veteran hailing from any part
of the Union is almost certain to meet regi
mental and often company acquaintances at the
Reunion.
A most cordial invitation is extended to
yourself and fellow Comrades to meet with us
and kindle anew the Camp-fires, sing the old
time patriotic songs, and eat pork, beans, and
hard-tack once again before tho long-roll is
called at the Grand Reunion on tho other
shore.
Wo confidently expect the Commander-in-Chief
of tho United States Army and other
prominent old soldiers to be present, and wo
anticipate a grand and glorious old-fashioned
Army Reunion.
The various railroads leading to this Stato
and in the Stato will make reduced rates to
afford visitors the opportunity to attend.
CANDIDATE FOR GRAND COMMANDER,
Special Correspondence National Tribune.
Benton Hareor, 3Iay 19. Geo. II. Thomas
Post No. 14, G. A. R., Department of Michigan,
is the banner organization of this State, and
musters 172 members. Geo. R. Wright, Senior
Vice Department Commander of 3Iichigan, is
the commanding officer of the Post. Captain
W. H. 3Iiller, formerly of the Ninth Indiana,
and now retired from activo service iu tho
Regular Army, has consented to deliver tho
oration at Benton Harbor on Decoration Day.
He was also chosen by acclamation aa first
representative from that State to the National
Encampment ac Baltimore. F. 31. S.vift, of
Detroit, is the second representative ; Captain
Geo-,E.Jiuld, of Grand Rapids, another onc
anned' Regular iirmy officer, retired, is first
alternate, and Jas. S. Donohue, with but ono
leg, from South Haven, second alternate. Their
instructions are'to" carry on their banners the
name of that energetic officer, C. V. R. Pond,
of Quincy, 3Iich., at present Junior Grand Vice
Commander of the United States, for Grand
Commander.
A G. A. R. "BOOM" AT CARTHAGE, N.Y.
Special Correspondence National Tribune
Carthage, N. Y., May IS. A new Post of
the G. A. 11., called Steele Post, No. 26.9, was
organized and mustered here on the 21th inst.,
with twenty-one charter members, and it now
has applications for as many more. Tho Post
was mustered by Comrade L. W. Fiske, of
Booncville, N. Y. Following are the officers;
Commander, 3Iajor N. D.t Ferguson; S. V. C,"
Captain H. J. Welsh; J. V. C, Captain E. 31.
3Ierrill; Adjutant, C. D.Austin; Surgeon, W.
II. Cruiksiiank, 31. D.; Q. 31., J. II. Walsh; O.
D., Wm. O'Harc: O. G., R. Cummings; S. 31.,
D. W. Ash; Q. ?,. S.. F. H. Secknnr.
Wc are tho first in Jefferson county, N. Y..
and havo a large amount of good timber to
build from, and expect to number loO members
before the close of the year. Some of the com
rades take The National Tribune and aro
much attached to it. For my parti am greatly
pleased with it. and truly wish you the pros
perity you so much deserve. We aro glad that
ono paper in tho whole country stands for tho
men wno stood by tho Flag in its hour of
peril.
CATSKILL POST, NEW YORK.
Special Correspondence National Tribune.
Hunter, N. Y.. 3Iay 20. In accordance with
a vote of comrades previously assembled for
the purpose of organizing a Post of the G. A.
R. at Hunter, Comrade James H. Everett, of
Pratt Post, No. 127, of Kingston, N. Y., was
detailed by Department Commander as Muster
ing Officer, and was assisted by Comrades H.
D. Baldwin and G. W. Peck, of the same Post.
Twenty-two comrades wero present, and wero
mustered as charter members. The following
officers were elected and installed : Post Com
mander, John C. Keller; S. V. P. C, Charles
E. Lake ; J. V. P. C, Burton Tompkins ; Q. 3L,
George X. Grahain ; Chaplain, Reuben Palmer;
O. D., John W. Goodrich ; O. G.. Franklin h!
Vau Valkenburg; Adj't, A. S. Graham; Sergt.
3Iaj., Daniel H. Douglass; Q. 31. Sergt., James
31. Lake. Applications are coming in for mem
bership, and tho prospects aro good for a thriv
ing Post.
MEMORIAL DAY IN NEW JERSEY.
Special Correspondence National Tribune.
New Brunswick, N. J., 3Iay 23 Kearncy
Jancway Post, No. 15, Department of New Jor
sey, has nearly completed arrangements for
properly observing Memorial Day. Heretofore
the Grand Army, escorted by Company D,
Third regiment, N. G.. N. J., headed by Good
Will band, marched to each cemetery in tho
city eight and strewed flowers upon each
grave. This year the graves will be decorated
in tho forenoon of 3Iay 30, by detail, and in tho
afternoon there will be a short parade prior to
memorial services in Court House Park. Tho
exorcists will consist of an oration by Rev. T.
Chalmers Easton, 1). D reading of "Abraham
Lincoln's 3Iemoria! Address at the Dedication
of tho Battle-field of Gettj-slmrg.'' by Captain
T. II. Lee, interspersed with dirges by the band,
and singing "The Day of Our Lord,'" and "Tho
Soldier's Farewell," by the Aurora Veroin.
DECORATION DAY IN MARYLAND.
Dushanc Post, Grand Army of tho Republic,
tff Baltimore, will, by assignment of the Depart
ment Commander, on the 30th inst.. decorate
tho graves of the Federal soldiers in tho Cathe
dral and Western Cemeteries. The Post will
march from their hall to tho Western Ceme
tery. At 8 p. in. a service in commemoration
of their deceased comrades will bo held ac the
hali, when families and friends of deceased
comrades will be present. Dushano Post has
been notified by tho contractors that tho head
stones ordered by the Government fnv rb.
graves of Union soldiers in tho cemeteries
named have been shipped and will bo in Balti
more in a low days. Tho Posts hope to havo
the stones in position by Decoration Day.
There will be no formal ceremonies in connec
tion with decorating the graves at Loudon
Park Cemetery.
THE ORDER IN NEBRASKA.
Special Correspondence National Tribune.
Fort Omaha, Neis., 3Iay 20. Our Depart
ment is booming. Wo havo 105 Posts in good
standing, and a membership of nearly three
thousaud. Better, braver, or moro orderly
citizens aro not in the United States.
u
Veteran Post, No. 8-iy of Falls City, Neb.,
which was organized in Jauuary last, is rapidly
recruiting its membership.
MEMORIAL DAY IN DELAWARE,
The memorial committee of Smyth Post met
recently at Wilmington. Delaware, to arrange
for 3IemoriaI Day ceremonies, lion. A. Wilson
Norris, Past Department Commander of Penn
sylvania, has accepted an invitation to deliver
the oration. General MeNair has musi'iited to
deliver au ddress at the gravo of Gen. Thomas
A. Smyth, where the regular memorial services
of tho d. A. R., will be performed by Smvth.
Post. 3Iusic will be provided for the different
parts of the line. The Post will carry its new
colors for the first timo.
Sumner Posi is making activo nrenaratifm
to celebrate the day in a becoming manner.
Watson Post, of Now Castle, are negotiating
for a band and arrangements are being rapidly
complcted. Ivauhoi- Division No. 2. Uniform
Rank Knights of Pythias, has accepted thoir
invitation to participate with them, and other
societies aro expected to follow suit. General
3IcNair has been invited to deliver the oration
in tho Opera House at Now Castlo in the even
ing. William Jl. Favra, of Wilmington, who is a
member of Watson Posr, h:is been detailed to
procure suitable floral decorations for the gravo
of the late Captain Evan S. Watson, in the
Wilmington and Brandywine cemetery.
The Ladies' Auxiliary Corps of Smyth Post
has been invited to co-operate with the flower
committeo at the City 1IJ I on Memorial Day
and to meet with the committee a: the Post
headquarters to make arrangements. Tho
usual contribHtors and others arc requested to
send ilowers to the City Hall as early in tho
morning of 3Iay 30th as practicable.
For other Q. A. 2. newt see Gth page.
