The morning call. [volume], November 23, 1892, Page 12, Image 12

About The morning call. [volume] (San Francisco [Calif.]) 1878-1895

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12
WHAT A CHINESE GIRL DID.
An Expert Photographer and Telegrapher.
Whea I was told tho other day that some
where up in the neighborhood of Washing
ton and Stockton streets there lived a ung
Chinese woman who devoted most of her
spare lime to photography I was consider
ably surprised, and felt
prone to believe that my
luformaut was telling
me a fairy tale.
He Insisted, however,
that such was tbe fact,
and lf 1 did not believe
it I could go and see for
myself.
He further told me
that her husband was
in business on the cor
ner of Dupont and
Stockton streets and
that his name was Joseph Tapo.
I was still incredulous, but went up to
see the bead ol the family aud found him in
the place designated.
On being asked if the story was true that
nis wife understood photography, he an
swered with a laugh and said in as good
English as I ever beard in my life: "Yes,
•sir, and a good many other things, ton."
1 asked him if I could meet his wife and
see some of her work, and he answered :
"Well, I don't know, but you wait here
for ft moment and I will telegraph acd ask
her."
The thought struck me as he started up
the street that, being in a business that
necessitated a good many calls, he probably
hnd a telephone iv his house and* intended
to ask his wife over that if she cared to re
ceive a visitor.
I found this out afterward tobe a mistake
and that he really did mean to telegraph
her, but as this is only oue of the many
surprises I received during the day, it can
better be told later on.
Tape returned in a few minutes and said:
"All right; we can go up."
After the shock of hearing a Chinaman
say he would telegraph to his wife, I was
prepared to see and hear almost anything
on reaching the house, but my surprise was
"Which Hand Do You Choogi?"
[Photographed by Mrs. T.pe.]
even greater than I expected when I did get
there, and the surprises came so thick and
fast that I haven't recovered from them yet.
The house is situated at 927 Washington
street. in the rear, and is approached by a
long, narrow covered passageway, which
leads into a small garden.
In the center is the hcuse, an unpreten
tious two-story cottage, in good repair, the
steps and porch being enlivened with
plants cf various kinds in pots and boxes.
When we entered I was ushered into a
cozy little parlor furnished iv the best of
taete, with nice, easy, comfortable chairs to
rest in. On the wails hung a number of I
pretty photographs and one cr two oil paint
ings, while here and there wedged iv be- ■
tween the pictures were various knick
knacks and ornaments.
After being offered a chair my guide
left me, saying he would call his wife.
I then had a chanc-* to look around me,
and found that everything In the room
bure the unmistakable signs of refine
ment and had nothing to make any one be
lieve it the home of a Chinese family.
Against the wall at the back part of the
room stood an upright piano, on the top of
which rested a French horn and a zither,
while by the side of theae a large pile of
music and photographs was to be seen.
Next to the piano stood • combination
library and specimen case in wh eh on the
lower shelves was a goodly array of books,
while the upper part was devoted to some
beautiful specimens of California birds,
which I found out afterward bad ail been
shot by the master of the bouse, as be is a
great lover of field sport.
Before 1 had quite finished my review the
soft rustle of skirts reached my ears, and
Mr. Tape presented me to his wife and the
rest of the family who came in to see what
' a reporter looked like.
Mrs. Tape received me In the most charm
ing way and bade me welcome to her house. i
"We do not wish to get any newspaper
fame." she said, "but if you think it will be
of interest to your readers to hear about my
studieslin photography I shall only be to
bappy to tell you all about it, and also about
myself and how I came to take It up."
This was all said in the best of English,
and with a refined accent, showing that
Mr«. Tape must have devoted the greater
part of her life to study, and as we talked
on fuither 1 found that not only was she
extremely well versed in the ordinary lines
of the English language, but was also well
posted on the current events of the day.
After we were seated I took a look at my
new-made friends and found that, although
they had the features and forms of the
Chinese race, everything else about them
was thoroughly American.
Mrs. Tape, whom I took to! bs about 35
years old, was dressed in a gown of soft
eiinging silk or some Indian stuff which set
off her figure to good effect. Her halr was
arranged in the latest American fashion
•nd was as black and glossy as ever graced
tbe head of Andalusian beauty.
Her face was comely, one might even say
pretty, because it bad so much intelligence
and was set off by a fine month, behind
wbich were a set of pearly teeth that
showed whenever she laughed.
The children were a fine healthy lot and
all of them good-looking, taking after the r
motber in most respects. .... ■< V V
There were tour of them— one boy and
tbree girls— the eldest, named Mamie, the
second Frank, and the third Emily, while
the youngest was a baby three years old,
whose name I have forgotten, but remem
ber it was a very pretty one.
After they had been presented in order
•nd bad answered my salutations in charm
ing language, I turned to Mrs. Tape and
asked ber how it was that her children
■poke such good Euellsb.
"No doubt you are surprised," was her
reply, "but you will not be so when you
bear a short history of my life.
"I was born in the northern part of China,
pear Shanghai, from which place few
Chinese ever come to this country. .
"I arrived here when 11 years of age, and
have not much recollection of the first few
months of my residence hire, except that I
lived somewhere in Chinatown*
."This only lasted five months, and then 1
was taken up by the Ladies' Relief Society,
cut on Franklin street, and it was there
coder their care that I first learned to speak
the English language and acquire American
maimers.
"I staid with them five years or more and
then met my husband, and we were married
after a six months" courtship." Looking
op with a happy smile she continued: '•* "We
bave never had cause to regret our first
meeting, eiiher, as our lives havo been very
bopiry. : ;
"Since that time we have always lived as
Americans,' and our. children have been
brought up to consider themselves as such.
"Their education in the.coinraon branches
bas ;* been gained at " the Chinese '•• public
achool on day street and their other ac
complishments*^ oriyate tuo:*. Each of
them , baa some " accomplishment and i. my
eldest daughter Mamie is quite proficient on
the piano."
I expressed a desire to hear the young
lady play and imagine my surprise when
without any of the backwardness and diffi
dence of American girls of the same age
she took her seat at the piauo and began to
finger the keys.
The first few pieces I did not know by
name, but she soon b-gan to play the
"Mocking-bird" and brought out Its notes
as well as I have ever heard them brought
out by an American girl. Her execution
was good and ber style graceful.
I was more surprised wheu her mother
informed rue that sbe had only been study
ing four years.
Before hearing Miss Tape play I had the
idea that the Chinese as a rule were about
as musical as a basedrum, but then my
opinions bad been formed through bearing
tbeir performances In the Chinese theaters
or at some public funeral.
She Is only sixteen and gives promise of
being an excellent physician, as her playing
showed that she was in sympathy with her
music and did not play merely in a mechan
ical way.
The second daughter. Emily, is also study
ing music, but bad not advanced far enough
to give any public performance.
, She had adopted one American custom,
though, which showed ber patriotism, and
that was dancing.
I wanted to ask her to show hew far she
had advanced in the art, but she felt some
what constrained before an utter stranger.
Her brother, however, assured ma that
she was well up in all American dances,
•nd could trip • measure as well as any
other girl.
Frank, the only boy, plays the French
horn, and is a member of one of the boys'
brigades in the city.
He did not have a chance to let me hear
him piay.but I think be wanted to, for when
I left I heard the sweet strains of the
horn coming from the back part of the house.
The baby has not as yet begun her musi
cal education, but I nave no doubt when
she reaches an age suitable to such work
she will be as accomplished as her brothers
and sisters.
Now that I had heard the children 6how
me how accomplished they were In their
various pursuits, it struck me that the
object I bad come for mainly had escaped
my memory, and that was to see some of
Mrs. Tape's work in photography.
Nobody could blame me, however, for
forgetting this subject when cue takes into
consideration the unique surprises that had
been sprung upon me.
1 had only come to see some photographs
and talk -with the lady that took them, and
here I was sitting In a room with a family
of full-blooded Chinese listening to a
Chinese girl playing an old-time favorite en
an American piano and talking to me with
as much esprit as any girl of my own race.
This fact struck me at first as exceed
ingly ludicrou«. as I had always been accus
tomed to view the Chinese in en entirely .
different light; but when I saw around me
the father and mother and their accom
plished children I changed my opinion in
regard to the race In general and saw that
with proper instruction before they bad
become imbued with national traits they
were as susceptible of civilization as any
nation in the world.
The more I saw of the Tapes in their
home circle the more this fact became ap
parent
I was still far from getting to the subject
of photography, for at this point Mr. Tape
wished to show me his library and speci
men-case, which stood at the back of the
room.
Here was a full complement of the Ency
clopedia Britannic*, a copy of Shakespeare
and various other volumes of useful litera
ture, while on the shelves above were some
i beautiful specimens of the taxidermist's
art, In truth, almost every songster that
makes his home in California.
Besides all this there were specimens of
gold, silver, galena, etc., from every por
tion of the State and a beautiful collection
of sea shells, ail gathered by Mr. and Mrs.
Tape while traveling about the countTy.
Everything pertaining to the bookcase
showed that the owners had good taste and
"Sister and I."
(Photo.rapbea by Mrs. Tape.]
knew what was artistic and what was not.
I had seen so much now that 1 was ready
to believe anything they told me. and was
fully prepared to see some exquisite work
in photography. My expectations were
more than realized, for Mrs. Tape, when
we came around to this subject, showed me
some of her work, which was fully equal to
any amateur in the State, and I might say
would bear comparison with many profes
sionals.
In a great pile of pictures were scenes
from almost every place in California
landscapes, still life and portraits till you
couldn't rest, and all don* by a native-born
Chinese woman.
I expressed my usual surprise that she
had been able to conquer the difficult art of
photography, and she only laughed, saying:
"Oh, these are nothing to some of the work
I have done. My friends usually beg every
thing good and leave me the rest. But
here, look at these," and she produced a
pile of lantern slides, "these are soma that
I take pride In." And they were fully
wortii It, as some of the reproductions with
tbis article will prove.
"I not only take my own pictures but pre
pare my own plates and make my own
prints," said the Chinese woman. "You
will no doubt wonder how I came to under
stand so much about the business, and lean
tell you ; that everything I know baa come
from reading different authorities on the
subjects and then studying the methods to
see which was the best.
"Every summer my husband and I go
somewhere in tho country, and I- always
make a success of the majorltyof my pic
tures.":-: -fff-f;. ',f-' : ~.i . -ff --f'-l ''ffi
V Mrs. Tape here went into a full explana
tion of her own particular way of getting
good . negatives, and. her ' busband at the
same time showed me several diplomas she
bad received from the Mechanics' Institute,
■'.--• "■ " '. ''■'■?'■' ;'"■'■' '-'.'■■■-.. J-f...-f. ■■ -"y'.ff-f-y-yA
THE MORNING CALL, SAN FRANCISCO, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1892- TWELVE PAGES.
which gave her the highest award for ama
teur photography.
No one seeine her pictures could doubt
that tbey deserved a reward, as they were
fully up to any work done by Americans
here in San Francisco, and wero far beyond
the usual work of amateurs in any country.
The specimens we give witb this article
are not some of her best efforts, but were
picked out because tbey were family sub
jects, the figures being those of ber chil
dren, taken at various times.
Besides being a first-class photographer
Mrs. Taps has another accomplishment,
wbich probably no other Chinese woman in
the world possesses, and that is the art of
telegraphy.
She can send and receive as well as the
best operators, and keeps In constaut prac
tice by daily use of the instrument, con
nected with a line running from the house
THE TAPE FAMILY.
to some point near her husband's place of
business.
"You may think It strange," she said.
"that I should be able to use the Morse sys
tem, and to tell the truth I have never made
any practical use of my knowledge. The
way my husband and 1 learned the use of
th instrument was through tbe kindness
of a friend, who had a short line to practice
on and wished to have somebody at the
other end.
"We took it tin more to accommodate him
than anything else, and both of us soon be
came proficient In its use.
"Since then we have found It"So useful to
communicate with each other during busi
ness hours wben my husband Is away frora
home that we have a private line between
here and his office that we use whenever
necessary."
The telegraph Instrument is on • table in
the dining-room and Its least click can be
heard in any part of the bouse. Both of the
operators handled it in my presence and
were as expert as old-time operators.
I thought that Mrs. Tape had about
reached the end of her accomplishments,
but her husband pointed to • landscape
painting on the wall over the piano and in
formed me that his wife was the artist, and
Ttie Isargmt Redtcood Tree in Marin County
[Photographed by Mrs. Tape. J
then to finish my surprise produced anjex
ccllent -still-life painting of fruit which
made my mouth water; also some plates
Land-painted and tinted which were works
of art flf : '
I then asked her If she could sing and
play and she even admitted tbat; but said
she would leave her children to show off the
musical attainments of the family.
The second girl, Emily, is studying the
violin, she also Informed me, and was pro
gressing rapidly in its use.
Joseph Taps, the father of this most in
teresting family, is the interpreter to the
Imperial Consulate of China in this city,
and also engaged in tbe express business,
having a monopoly of transporting tbe Chi
nese who come here in bond, besides hand
ling large contracts for wholesale mer
chants in Chinatown.
He came to this country thirty years ago,
and has acquired the English language so
as to speak it most fluently.
Although he bas adopted the United
States as his home be cannot become ft
voter. This fact be regrets very much, but
says he has a boy who will make ft good
citizen, and will be able to vote when he
comes of age.
Tape is one of the best wing shots on the
coast and can give some of our local nlra
rods cords and spades. ~
He Is a thorough sportsman and gives all
of his spare time to hunting pursuits, end
In every way possible la thoroughly Ameri
can.
I asked him and his wife If they ever ex
pected to go back to China again, and Mrs.
Tare answered for both:
"We may some day if we feel that we can
afford the trip, but it will only be as tourists
visiting a foreign country. California Is
our home. Ail of our best and happiest
moments have been passed here, and here
we shall live and die." .
1 bade them good-by, and as 1 passed out
of the door I felt that I bad passed one of
tbe most interesting hours of my life.
__ Lei.axd Gamble.
BITS OF YOSEMITE.
The Father of the Valley Tells of Its
Wonders.
The fourth of the "six canvas volumes"
of art, history and travel was submitted to a
large audience at the First Congregational
Church, Post and Mason streets, last night.
The subject was "The Y osemlt* Valley,"
by J, M. Hatchings, well known as "The
Father of the Valley."
Mr. Hutching* earned the title by being
the first to disclose the now celebrated
chasm to the world. He haa lived in the
valley twenty years, aud what be does not
know ol its beauties is not worth telling.
The lantern slides by which th* lecture
was illustrated were triumphs of the pho
tographer's art, and by means of a calcium
lantern were projected on the canvas in a
way to give a good idea of the proportions
of the granite walls of the far-famed valley.
Tbe first two or three views representing
the start from San Francisco were keenly
appreciated. Market street looked as nat
ural as possible, and wben - Father Elphick
stood forth, a mere phantasmal portraiture,
it is true, bul life-sized and as natural as
life, there was a loud burst of applause.
Then came the departing ferry-boat, a moon
light glimpse of th* hay and Oakland mole.
The journey to the big trees of Calaveras
was accomplished in a moment of time, and,
after views of the big trees had been exhib
ited and described, the lecturer conducted
; his audience Into the valley. The beau'v
and fidelity of the illustrative views of El
Capltan, the Three Ife other*. Bridal Veil
Falls, the Sentinel, inspiration Point and
other prominent points could only be ex
ceeded by the originals. Sublimity was a
characteristic of all the views, and Mr.
Hutching- showed himself fully in harmony
with the subject and the occasion. -
Visored helmets were worn by the heavy
Roman cavalry. ;
OAKLAND'S CRY
For a Non = Partisan
Movement.
A NEW DAY BREAKING.
The Citizens Want to Be
Free From Rings.
PREPARING FOR THE ELECTION
"The Call " Feels the Pulse of the
People- All in Favor of Honest
Politics.
A now day is dawning in Oakland poli
tics. Good government within tb* city
limits la seen to b* based not upon na
tional bat local Issues. The lines which
divide the national parties ar* discerned
tobe too. vague and too wide to touch
vital civic Issues. Therefor* Oakland Is
crying aloud f.ir a non-partisan gov
ernment that shall be honest. intelligent
and conducted on business principles.
"Th* Call" has felt the popular pals* and
finds all classes of earnest thinkers In the
fair sister-city across the bay In favor of
municipal reform on non-p«rti.* n lines.
Although the culmination of this desire
blazes up suddenly before the unreflect
log this Is no flash-In.the-pan. Like all
wide-spreading, deeply rooted movements
Itia a growth of years. The unwarrant
able assumption of monopolistic ruler,
that Oakland la asleep and can be guided
aa the subject of * lis punt trance bas
fostered Its growth. Is Oakland to be Im
prisoned by a railroad ring? I. she to
have h*r commerce restricted by tools
employed by unsrnpulons hands? In m
word, Is her future to be Imperiled by
party machine government?
The new day Is breaking and Oakland is
already looking toward the Ides of March.
There have been a number of political
storms in Alameda County of late, but the
fiercest of all is brewing for the March
elections in the city of Oakland.
It will be a non-partisan uprising similar
to the one in San Fraucisco, but moie
sweeping still, perhaps. In its effects.
The Call to-day prints a large number
of Interviews with prominent citizens, com
prising Democrats and Republicans alike,
all of whom express themselves in favor of
the movement.
The Interviews cover all the questions in
volved and will give the reader a clear
insight into the condition of things across
the bay.
There is a universal sentiment in favor of
a change for the better in the city govern
ment.
The city has suffered much from un
scrupulous legislation in the Interests of
"rings" and corporations, and the discon
tent which lias been felt for a long time
Is assuming definite shape in favor of a
citizens' movement, as tbe interviews will
sbow.
The water front question will cut a great
figure in it.
It will undoubtedly be made a strong
Issue and the platform of the Citizens'
party, supported by honest citizens, will
speak in no uncertain terras about It.
But aside from this paramount issue there
are other questions regarded by many as of
equal importance.
Both Republicans and Democrats realize
that the people must have something to say
in the face of high-banded measures tbat
have been taken regardless of their wishes.
Legislation in tLe interest of poolrooms,
boulevards and Southern Pacitic dominance
by petty, sneering demagogues in spite of
everything has had its effect, and men are
not stow in expressing themselves concern
ing it.
Reasonable water and gas rates are
wanted, the streets must be opened to the
water's edge and the figurative iron wall
that Incloses the water front removed.
These are some of the issues tbat the citi
zens will make prominent.
The People's party, which developed con
siderable strength during th* recent cam
paign and polled upward of 3000 votes for
certain candidates, came out boldly in Its
platform for tbe recovery of the water
front. The party proposes to force this
Issue to the front in the municipal cam
paign. While many of th*? influential mem
bers of the party have declared their wil
lingness to co-operate with a non-partisan
movement, there are some so radical that
they have proposed to run J. L. Davie, the
chief contestant In the water-front litiga
tion, for Mayor. It is probable, however,
that this talk is for the purpose of giving
emphasis to the water-front issue. If a
non-partisan ticket is nominated with
declarations that are in no wise equivocal
upon the proposition of extending all streets
to tidewater and suit by the city to regain
its rlchts. the Populists will probably co
operate with the Non-Partisans.
The trades union element is strong In
Oakland and exerts no small political in
fluence. It was largely to this vote that the
defeat of the park and boulevard scheme
was due. Th* attempt of the present Coun
cil to do by Indirect means and special ap
propriations what tbe voters disapproved
by an overwhelming majority at the polls
has Intensified the opposition of the wage
earners to the present ring misrule, and
they have already publicly denounced the
Council. They stand ready to uulte in sup
port of a non-partisan ticket pledged to
respect the expressed wish of the majority
of th* voters of the city, The taxes for
streetwork and sidewalks and the expenses
of the city government, owing to the ex
travagance of the present Council, have
fallen most heavily upon the small house
holders. __
A NON-PARTISAN PULSE.
The City of Oakland Is Ripe for
Municipal Reform.
"I am hardly prepared to be formally
interviewed on this subject," said Guy C.
Earl, Senator-elect for the Twenty-seventh
Senatorial District.
"1 am giving the matter my careful judg
ment and consideration.
•There Is not the slightest doubt in my
mind that the pulse of the respectable
majority of Oakiaud is beating strongly in
favor of a thoroughly honest municipal gov
ernment of a non-partisan nature.
"Now, while I am theoretically in sym
pathy with any movement of that nature 1
consider that great wisdom and forethought
should be brought to bear upon such ques
tions of organization. Non-trained poli
ticians organizing In bodies are liable to be,
no matter how worthy their Intentions dis
membered by skillful outside machine
working.
"A non-partisan movement can only bope
for success by being sot on foot by the very
best elements of a community.
•Tt is ray Intention, therefore, to carefully
watch this movement and study the prime
movers before I commit myself to anything
mor* definite than a broad statement of my
sympathy with any movement toward th*
general improvement of municipal bodies.
Later on I shall be prepared to talk more to
the point."
."Yes, I am strongly in favor of the Non
partisan movement," said H. A. Luttrell,
attorney-at-law and Democratic ex- Justice
of the Peace and a prominent Democratic
attorney of Oakland.
"We Democrat* are too much In th*
minority here to put up a ticket of our own, ''
and in view of tbe manner In which local :
municipal matters have been conducted in
the pist lam strongly In favor of a Non
partisan government.
"Our city Is throttled ;. by th* Southern
Pacific Railroad/
i "It was only tb* other day that C. p.*
Dodge, lately elected to the Legislature for
the Fifty-first Assembly District, remarked
to me:
" 'No candidate In Alameda County has
hitherto dared accept nomination without
previous consultation with the Southern
P«cifi<*- Railroad powers.*
■"It is in the power of the Legislature to
direct the City Attorney to bring suit
against the railroad for delinquent taxea
three years repudiated. But as yet it has
never been done. ' iff- ff.
"We want our streets opened down to the
water front and the city thrown open to the
busy prosperity te which we have every
right
"Both the Republican and Democratic
parties have failed to fight for our municipal
interests, and now we will try conclusions
with a mixed ticket, as you have so success
fully done across the bay.
"The agitation has commenced in earnest,
and the ball will rapidly develop as It rolls
along."
Warren Olney, attorney "When the Non
partisan movement was started in San
Francisco it was common to hear such ex
pressions as 'that's just what we want in
Oakland,' and 'if it is a success we'll try
it here.'
"It succeeded, and I believe that the best
citizens of Oakland, the property-owners
and taxpayers and every one, Democratic
as well as Republican, who desires good
government, will support such a movement
iv the coming municipal campaign.
"There is no reason why party politics
should be considered any more in municipal
matters than in private affairs."
David S. Hirshberg, grand Recorder of the
Ancient Order of United Workmen : "I am
for non-partisan action in municipal affairs
every time.
"The cleanest municipal administration we
have had for yean was that under John R.
Glascock as Mayor, and it was the result of
a non-partisan movement
"I believe that parly politics should have
no place in municipal elections."
Thomas Agnew, capitalist: "I know of
no reason why the affairs of the city should
not bo conducted by the same practical
methods as any business corporation.
"I am in full accord with the Non-
Partisan movement
"I think that we can run the city without
regard to the politicians.
"I will do my part toward the success of
the non-partisan movement"
Captain J. W. Smitb. builder of tbe Cali
fornia and Nevada railroad: "I believe in
the principle of non-partisan municipal
government
"Tne success of the movement la a matt
of detail.
"I nsed to tell the people at Denver that
I would take a contract to run the city and
give them as good a government as they
had lor from 50 to 60 per cent of what It
cost them, and I guess I would be safe in
making a like proposition to Oakland."
Captain W. R. Thorna?, mining and real
estate man: "I Indorse the sentiment
that the only way to secure a clean, com
petent city administration is by selecting
men of known integrity and standing with
out regard to party.
THEY INDORSE THE nOVEHENT.
Opinions of Leading Citizens Vigor
ously Expressed.
C. T. Johns. ex-City Attorney and an
eighteen years' resident of Oakland, ex
pressed himself very strongly in favor of
the non-partisan movement.
"I am not going to admit that Republicans
are to blame in the matter of sluggish mu
nicipal government," said Mr. Johns, de
cisively.
"The Democrats have had their turn and
done no better as regards city matters.
They had a majority of one in our last Coun
cil for instance. Personally, I ara in favor
of a good municipal government Irrespective
of party.
"1 have been a Republican all roy life, but
I would rather see an honest Democrat in
power than a dishonest Republican.
"I hardly think ours is a question of Demo
crats or Republicans. There is the magic
boss element equally at work behind the
lines of either party in power.
"Now, in watching the movements of a
third party one has to be careful that the
bosses are not somewhere in the back
ground.
"There Is no resisting the action of
machine-trained politicians in these mat
ters.
"The people may elect a ticket of well
ktiown citizens with blameless records as
such In private life. When they assume
official roles, however, there is no guarantee
that they will not lapse iuto mere dummies
under the trained attack of the bosses.
"Whatever movement takes place In this
matter of a non-partisan ticket should com
mence at once in preparation for tbe spring
elections. Every moment is precious in the
preparation and training of such an organi
zation so as to enable them to compete
with the skilled legions of the bosses."
Henry P. Merritt. capitalist— "As a gen
eral prjposition I think that a non-partisan
movement will secure the best results in
municipal government I have not given
the matter much thought, though, as yet."
Chatles Bobb, tailor: "I believe tbat
politics should cut no figure in tbe selection
of municipal officers. What we want is the
best men, and they should be selected irre
spective of politics from all parties."
Major J. L. Bromley, capitalist: "I be
lieve that a ticket composed of representa
tive men, pledged to a definite policy, nomi
nated by the co-operation of citizens,
irrespective of party, would command
general support I have not given much
thought to what Issues should be nude, but
all measures which will advance the pros
perity and add to tho good nameot Oakland
should be indorsed."
J. W. Ward, attorney: "I believe that the
good results of the Nou-Partlsan campaign
In San Francisco, in which Tue Call did
such good work, should encourage the
citizens of Oakland to fall into lino in the
same kind of a movement"
George Burbeck, bank clerk: "I am for it
red hot."
11. S. Allen, student: "I have given con
siderable thought to reform in municipal
government, and I believe tbat it Is gener
ally conceded # that the best results follow
the separation* of municipal politics from
national issues.
"I think that the young men will unite in
the support of such a movement as that
which is proposed."
John A. Beckwitb, insurance agent— l
believe that business methods should prevail
In municipal management
"I think that the best results would fol
low from the selection of ft practical busi
ness man for Mayor, to be supported by
men of character and reference in the
Council.
"I nave always been ft black Republican,
but henceforth in city elections 1 shall vote'
for men not for partisans."
J. J. Warner, railroad agent for the
Santa Fe company: "I am like Hunting
ton—out of politics, but I wou'd like to see
the affairs of the city conducted on a busi
ness basis outside of political lines. lam
in favor of any movement that will secure
this result."
Fred A. Toor: "I regard a Non- Partisan
movement as not only the best but the most
expedient way of redeeming this city from
the ring politicians.
, "I am in favor of making the opening of
all streets to the water front an issue and
of pledging the Council to employ salt
water in sprinkling the streets."
Henry Scbelhaas •furniture-dealer: "I
will stand in with any movement that will
secure an bo nest and able administration
of the city government
"It seems to me tbat a non-partisan move
ment would best secure this result."
A. M. Benham: "1 have advocated a non
partisan movement for two years, and I be
lieve that it Is the only method by which
we can get good government
"I can't see any possible connection be
tween national politics and tbe election of
a City Council. '
"You can't put me too strong In my In
dorsement of the non-partisan movement."
George A. Kuk, builder: "Give us any
thing that will get us good men into offlce.
"I don't see what difference it makes
whether they are Republicans or Demo
crats if they are capable and honest
"We want to get the best men there are
In the city Into office, and' if 'a non-partisan
movement will- secure this result I am
for It" "V * ' >
V Christian Schrnlber. furniture-dealer: "1
believe that such a movement would secure
a great Improvement iv our municipal gov-'
ernment
"X am ready to co-operate in any uiove
ment to bring about a better condition of
things.
"I believe that all citizens. irrespective' of
party, are ready to join bands for this pur
pose."^
THE "MACHINE" CONDEHNED.
Rising Indignation Against Ring
;-Y* Misrule.
A prominent citizen of Oakland, who was
interviewed in this city yesterday, said he
was in favor of a clean new political deal in
Oakland.
"The movement in favor of a citizens'
non-partisan ticket has a strong backing
and comes just in the nick of time.
"There is too much of the 'job' sticking
out in all of Oakland's municipal affairs to
meet with the favor of the people.
"The old political hacks who have dic
tated things in that city to their own ben
efit and to everybody's detriment must go.
"Now, take as an instance the Free Pub
lic Library. Tbat institution has been con
ducted in an admirable manner by Miss Ina
D. Coolbreth. Y*-;Y
"But these machine men cannot let well
enough alone. A desire to shine as Mayor
prompted one of the library trustees to con
vert tbo library into a machine to aid him
in his aspirations.
"Miss Coolbrith.of course, being a woman,
is not able to handle primaries and the like,
so it was decided to 'let her out,' as the say
ing goes.
"Then there is the School Department-
It has been an open charge, to tlio disgrace
of the community, that positions were
bartered for money.
"The Fire Department has been nothing
else than a political machine, and an effort
is being made to convert the Police Depart
ment iuto the same kind of an Institution.
"Of course the Republicans are away in
the majority in Oakland, but they are not of
the kind that tamely submit to 'boss rule.'
"Things have not got to such a pass yet
as they have been in San Francisco, but tliey
are drawing that way very fast and it is
time to stop them.
"You wait and see how indignant voters
will smash the machine in Oakland next
April." 'YYx
B. C. Dick, insurance adjuster: "I ara
decidedly in favorof the non-partisan move
ment, especially if it will help Oakland to
win back her water front. ' -fff
"I am like the Irishman who came to the
country, and, after his experience with Eng
land, was asked bow he was going to vote.
He replied, T ara agin the Government'
"So I am 'agin' the railroad, and for any
thing that will liberate Oakland from tbe
corporation grasp."
W. J. Reed, grocer; "1 think that there is
a chance for a great Improvement. I am
ready to work tooth and toenail for any
thing that will give us a change. You can
put me down for tbe non-partisan movement
strong." ff'f-f:
E. P. Vandercook, street-railroad di
rector: I believe tbat a non-partisan move
ment would have to proceed with great care,
butthat if properly managed it would be a
success."
Marcus Jonas, merchant: "If we can get
the good Democrats and good Republican
and the People's party all to join and lay
aside politics I think it would be agood
thing. -iff
"What do we care about protection or free
trade or the force bili'now? They have
got nothing to do with our city government.
"What we want is to get the best men of
whatever party to manage the business of
the city for the good of the citizens."
J. West Martin, ex-Mayor of Oakland,
hss taken a very decided stand in favor of
a ci.iz'u.' movement
"It is the only method and the easiest one
of cleaning our Augean stables.
"I believe that a good and well-directed
effort at reform as suggested by a purely
non-partisan movement will win.
"It will advance the interests of the city
fully leu years If successful. lam strongly
in favor of such a movement and will aid it
to the best of my ability.
"This Is a bad year for those who manip
ulate politics fur personal gain, and they
ought to be burled in oblivion.
"A municipal government can be con
ducted on business principles and sbould
be. lt is the duty of every citizen to see that
it be so done."
RELIEF FROH TAXATION.
Representative Property Owners Grasp
the Opportunity.
Colonel John P. Irish, on being Inter
viewed at his home In Oakland, expressed
himself with calm but emphatic delibera
tion.
"This city has been a nest of corrupt and
vicious municipal legislation.
"1 have no hesitation In saying that cer
tain newspaper proprietors should he pick
ing oakum behind the bars of San Quentin.
"I speak now as a property-owner, largely
interested in the welfare of my city, and
with a full and intimate knowledge of facts
which warrant my making so plain a state
ment of my views.
"Two Oakland journals have hitherto had
full control over our municipal councils.
"The Enquirer is held to be a journal of
good standing and repute among the re
spectable section of our taxpayers and
property-owners. YY.Y
"If, as I am given to understand, there is
about to be inaugurated a new departure in
this city for the improvement of our muni
cipal morals, then I am satisfied that there
will be a. successful movement among us
for reorganization with a non-partisan
party.
"Wllh such a party I would throw In my
active support and powers, such as they
may be. - *-;
"I am a busy man and merely glance at
the daily papers. I was not aware that any
thing definite had been actively started in
connection with municipal reform in Oak
land, but from now on I will take an active
interest in the matter and will do all in my
power to overthrow the baleful influence of
the terrorizing organs in tbis city."
W. H. Mackinnon, real-estate dealer
(Republican): "I am in favor of a citizens'
movement. V Y-i
•Tf the citizens will put up a ticket com
posed of well-known business men wliosn
reputation is a guarantee that they wlll
conduct the city's business with the same
care and judgment that they bring to the
management of their own affairs, Oakland
will be assured the best aud cleanest admin
istration she ever had.
"And this movement should not be con
fined to the selection of a good Mayor and
council, It should be made to supply to
every city official. Including those of the
Health Department, where a change for the
better Is certainly demanded."
Albert Brown, undertaker, (Republican):
"If a citizens' movement wlll result in the
putting up of a clean ticket I am for it every
time.
"Dr. Pardee would make a good head for
such a ticket; so would Auditor Snow,
though be would be attacked by those
whose attempted raids in the city treasury
have been checked by him.
"A change for the better in the admiulr*
tration of the city's affairs would certainly
be appreciated by the decent element
throughout the city."
D. C. Hinsdele, Deputy Auditor (Repub-*
lean): "In a citizens' movement Is the only
political salvation of the city.
"It will not do for the citizens to make up
a ticket selected from tbe nominees of the
regular parties. They must make a careful,
selection of the best men, without regard to
their political affiliations.
"It would be well, however, for the citi
zens to defer making their nominations un
til the other tickets are named. It might be
that one of the old parties might adopt the
citizens' candidate for the bead of the
ticket and then use the prestige of his name
to pull the ragtag through."
R. W. Snow, City Auditor (Republican):
The best interests ot the city demand a
Highest of all in Leavening Power.— Latest U. S. Gov't Report
____._■ tt? ww ___m -mS Ld^^.___W T^Cm T^i Bl ■^^^■k_-^^*"^K^
18-W,-_^-l-r MLJV -C.B _P *1 W s^__jjtr\ ill l^ft^ |B Jj9| jr4 *TtV^3t^
AB_SCM_UTI!_y PURS
change, and I believe that the decent ele
ment Is looking to a movement of the best
citizens— irrespective of party— to furnish
the needed relief.
Personi honesty, not political fealty,
should be the test to entitle a man to a
place on the ticket, and, if this test is ad
hered to, the citizens and taxpapers will
have no reason to complain of a repetition
of the present maladministration of the city's
affairs in so far as a majority of the city'a
officers are concerned."
J. W. Nelson, superintendent of the Oak
land Pressmen's Company and member of
the minority in the City Council (Republi
can): "The present maladministration of
the city's affairs offers the best argument
for a citizens' ticker. V..V.
"It is an argument that is unanswerable,
for it appeals to the sense of every decent
citizen. A citizens' ticket, composed of cit
izens whose integrity is unimpeachable,
could not be defeated by any combination
that the party bosses might contrive.
"It would sweep all before it, and taxpay
ers would soon find relief from the onerous
burdens under which they are now com
pelled to stagger."
A FORHATIVE PERIOD.
Business Men Will Combine Against
Official Jobs.
William F. Boardman, civil engineer: "I
think the time is ripe for a reform In our
municipal government.
"The growth of this city has been re
tarded too long by reason of the character
of the men we have had in office and the
lack of confidence in our city officials.
"It was this that beat the boulevard im
provement. The plans for the work only
contemplated an outlay of $300,000, and yet
they wanted to vote bonds for 8400,000.
There was £00,000 for boodle.
"I never made any estimate upon the
West Oakland Park project because I never
thought that was the place for a park, but it
was the same with that, there was a S100,"
000 steal in It. But the people were too
smart; they saw through the little scheme
and It was defeated.
"The people, however, want Improve
ments, but they want men to carry them out
that they have confidence in, and they will
never get that kind of men in office so long
as party bosses and boodlers dictate the
nominations.
"This city is in a formative period and
would make splendid strides with men of
Integrity and capacity in office.
"If the best citizens will combine they
can elect that kind of men to office, aud it
can be done in a non-partisan movement.
1 am heartily in favor of it."
George .Samuels, boot and shoe merchant
(Republican): "I have not given the sub
ject much attention as yet, but any move
ment calculated to give the city a clean
administration ought to and would receive
the support of the decent element, which 1
believe to be in the great majority in this
city."
T. L. Barker, capitalist and ex-member of
the City Council: "In view of the recent
defeat I should not like to see the Repub
lican party disintegrated, but we must have
good men in office. If the Republican
party don't nominate that kind why we will
have to have them anyhow.
"Men are more than party. I don't be
lieve that it will be safe to scatter too much.
If the People's party put up a ticket and
the Republicans and the Non-Partisans the
Democrats might slip in, and I don't want
to see that. But if satisfactory nomina
tions are not made by the Republicans there
will be a period of ten days after the nomi
nations are made and recorded with the
clerk under the election law, in which, If it
is necessary, non - partisan nominations
could be made."
Professor It B. Snell, educator: "I think
It Is time to let the politicians go and for the
whole body of citizens to have something to
say about the management of office.
"If there ever was a time when this city
needed to be redeemed from ring rule lt is
at present. We must havo men in office
who can command confidence; clean, up
right men who may be trusted when im
portant issues are at stake.
"I believe that the people of Oakland are
aroused axd ready and only need to be or
ganized to sweep the city for a noii-parti
san ticket with clean meu."
Ex-Councilman J. H. Smith, who is an
attorney-at-law, receutly expressed the
opinion that the city ought to intervene in
the litigation pending in regard to the
water Iront and let the present proceeding
determine the city's rights in tbe matter.
Daniel Crowley, plumber, is pronounced
In favor of a non-partisan movement
Fred M. Caranbell, ex-State Superinten
dent of Schools .Republican): "If a citizens'
movement were started it would Improve
the personnel of the city's government.
"There is one thing, however, to be
looked out for, and that is that a politician
is always a politician, no matter whether
he calls himself a Republican, a Democrat
a Populist or a citizen."
J. C. Boatman (Republican): "There
will be a citizens' ticket, and it will bo a
winner." ifff
W. T. Gibbs, news agent: "The only
thing 1 fear about the non-partisan move
ment is that it will be so popular that all
the old political hacks will want to get in
and run it."
Al Wood, painter: "I think that we need
a change. If the non-partisan move will
give us better men in office, 1 am in for lt"
R. E. Hewitt, attorney: "I think that
the people will indorse any movement that
will bring the best men to the front, irre
spective of party." . V- -'■
PURITY IN POLITICS.
The Clergy Heartily in Sympathy
With the Movement.
A canvass among the leading clergymen
of Oakland, who have tho welfare of the
community at heart, results in It being
shown that they are of the same disposition
as their San Francisco brethren.
"Of course, it Is too early yet to coma out
openly," said a leading clergyman yesterday.
"But I tell you what it is, there are very
few of the clergy in this city who will sup
port the old party method of contriving a
ticket.
"The privilege extended to the pool
rooms after they have been shutout of San
Francisco was a disgrace to the city.
"The clergy will always be found on the
side of pure politics.
"I have heard of abuses in the School De
partment that cry to heaven for vengeance.
"The removal of Miss Coolbrith from the
library was one of the most contemptible
things that was ever done in this city.
"In a pure movement of the kind suggested,
I believe .hat a clergyman is advancing the
cause of religion by advocating it
"All religion asks is good government,
and that is what we are far from receiving
here in Oakland."
TAKES PRACTICAL HOLD.
The Municipal League Formally In
dorses the Movement.
The Municipal League, at a meeting
Monday evening. Indorsed the citizens'
movement. It was decided to call to its
aid a large number of influential citizens to
take steps to bring about a radical change
for the better in the city's legislation. The
matter will be more fully discussed at next
Monday night's meeting.
MH:
A Pleasant Entertainment.
Mrs. Leiand Stanford Division No. 106 of
the Ladies' Auxiliary to the Brotherhood of
Locomotive Engineers gave a concert, fol
lowed by a dance, In Pioneer Hall last even
ing. There was a larce attendance. The
concert was under the management of D.
B. Bowley, and was very heartily appre
ciated, as shown by the frequent encores
demanded. A male chorus of eighteen sang
"fhe Young Lover" and a lullaby. Mr. A
Solomon played a solo on the violin. Mr.
R. 1. Mould, the tenor, sang with much
feeling "Moaa." The president of the
auxiliary sang "The Ship on Fire," a de
scriptive song. "The Three Chafsrs" was
given with spirit by the male chorus. Pro
fessor Fred Bell thrilled bis railroad audi
ence with a splendid recitation of "At tha
Signal," and for an encore sang "Blue
Beard" in seventeen different airs. Miss
Susie Hert the clever soprano, sang two
selections. Mr. Charles L. Parent, the
basso, sang Roeckel's "Storm Fiend." The
concert closed with a humorous musical
recitation by Sam Booth's Glee singers,
entitled "Reminiscences of the Election."
Then the floor was cleared for dancing.
The engineers, their wives and sweethearts
remained and passed a most enjoyable even
ing.
James Williamson Buried.
The late ex-Supervisor James William
son was buried from the Church of the
Sacred Heart yesterday morning. At 10
o'clock a large number of friends gathered
at the family residence at 28 Webster street
whence after a short service the remains
were borne to the church.
The pallbearers were: Sheriff C. 5. Lau
meister, Dr. William F. Egan, R. Valentine,
A. H. Herriek, Benjamin Hobart, James
Frazer and William Larkins. The mourners
included Mrs. Williamson, her son William
and her three daughters, the Missos Minnie.
Edna and Kittle Williamson.
Many beautiful flowers were sent by
friends and relative. -, and the casket which
was of red cedar, was decorated at the head
with a crown of white chrysanthemuir-
Requiem high mass was said by Rev. Fa*'.
Lagan, and the Misses Bravo and Mobio
saug solos. The body was interred at
Mount Calvary Cemetery.
Nelson's Property.
Nelson H. Tower, who slept off his alco
holic potations in the Seventeenth-street
police station last night, will be able this
morning. upon regaining hia sobriety, to
testify to the vigilance of the police service
in the suburbs. lie will also doubtless feel
thankful that bis diamond riug and gold
hunting-watch are still in his possession
After dark last night Tower dropped off an
electric-car and staggered up the Mission
road. A man of dubious aspect was ob
served by Officers E. E. Byrnes and Black
man to be following him. They concluded
to run him In as well as Tower. . The man's
name was John Williams, an ex-convict,
and upon bis person was found a revolver.
A charge of carrying a concealed weapon
was entered against him and Tower was
charged with being drunk.
Waited a Long Time.
J. J. Slyter, a painter, waa severely as
saulted by an enemy about a year ago.
His .assailant was arrested, and at the trial
in the Police Court J. Lh-ffiueister, a builder
and contractor of Berkeley, appeared as a
witness for the accused. Ever since that
event Slyter has been determined to retali
ate on Hoffmeisler. On Sunday he met him
and beat him viciously about the head with
some blunt weapon. lioffmeister at first
was considered seriously Injured, but the
doctors succeeded in patching him up so as
to make it possible to remove film to hia
home In Berkeley. A warrant was sworn
out against Slyter for battery and threats
against life, and Officer H. McMurray ar
rested him late last evening and he was
locked up in the Seventeenth-street police
station.
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PRiVIJLECES.
Mechanics' Fair and Preliminary World's Fair
.-- Exhibit of California.
.„„ tn ?2 ?1, . NS JANUAKY 10, 1893. §M
«..i«?k 8 '''I'owlnsr exclusive privileges will _>•
k L by ,. ,l > 3 ' committee until T«««'t-iy. De- '
cember 6. at br. M * : To publish » d.illy Diper and "■■_•
advertise Jn the pavilion: to keep a restaurant: tt» i
sell icecream, no-la-water. lemonade, elder, candy:.!
popcorn, perfumery, cane* and whips. f
fcpeciacatlotis may be seen or any desired Infor- 1
mation obtained at the omce. 31 Post st. Trusteea I •
reserve the right to reject any ur all bids. J
8. J. HKNI-Y. I
;,;;.-': ANDREW wilkie; . I" ,
,_ „ H. T. HUSH. ' ••; I
nol9 «* Committee on I'rlvllegeg; ■ •
« AFTER 8 YEARS' TRIAL
1 Is -drill's Patei-.t C>k.!-o|l Bonier-'
( C? ) still the leader over nil eomnell- '
J^Q&\l tor-« In litrhtine power and saraty Wei
mtm _irr '■■■'■'•'■' reduced the price to -_■>>!*•> w*m*
(jJWwST)'' 0 - 1 * to use them. Our smallest alia)**
burner fits regular si__ lamps. 20 wick
f-grMJa store lamps; better a.d cheaper U-aa v
gww. A. GRAFF, •»-(-»
jm A. CRAFF,
WB f47 SECOND ST_.EET, S. F. .
ocft W.sa3ino *• •.
J