Independence Day
PLANS FOR FOURTH OF JULY - 1819
Source: Edwardsville Spectator, June 26, 1819
At a numerous meeting of the citizens of Edwardsville and its
vicinity, convened at the courthouse on June 25, agreeably to
previous notice, for the purpose of making arrangements for the
celebration of the ensuing anniversary of American Independence,
Colonel Benjamin Stephenson was chosen chairman, and George
Churchill, secretary.
Resolved,
That a committee of nine be appointed to make arrangements for the
anniversary of our national independence.
The following gentlemen were appointed that committee:
Colonel Benjamin Stephenson, James Watts, T. W. Smith, Daniel
Tolman, Chester Ashley, Edward Coles, Paris Mason, Nicholas Hansen,
and David Swett.
Resolved, That it is expedient to celebrate on Monday, July 5, the
43rd anniversary of our national independence.
Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting be published in the
Edwardsville Spectator.
Resolved, That this meeting stand adjourned until tomorrow evening,
in order to receive the report of the committee of arrangements.
Signed, Benjamin Stephenson, Chairman. George Churchill, Secretary.
ALTON TO CELEBRATE JULY 04, 1819
Source: Edwardsville Spectator, June 26, 1819
Saturday, July 03, will be celebrated at Alton, Madison County,
Illinois, in anticipation of the anniversary festival of the 4th of
July, which falls on Sunday. The citizens will assemble under the
colors of the United States at 10 o’clock a.m. on one of the public
squares, in order to form a procession. The inhabitants of the
country, and citizens of the neighboring villages, are respectfully
and cordially invited to attend.
Signed, Isaac Gillham, Erastus Brown, Robert Sinclair, Augustus
Langworthy, and John Costley, Committee of Arrangements. Alton, June
22, 1819.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 29, 1836
The procession will form at 11 o'clock a.m. on the angle of Second
[Broadway] and State Streets, the right on Second Street, opposite
the store of John Bugan & Co.'s., extending west on Second Street to
State Street, thence northwardly on State Street to the rear in the
following order:
1st, Artillery Companies and ordinance
2d, Uniform company's according to their respective grades
3d, The respective Merchants Societies with their mottos
4th, Citizens of Alton and vicinity
5th, Revolutionary Soldiers and Soldiers of the late war [Black Hawk
War, 1832]
6th, State officers and judges of the Supreme, Circuit and County
courts
7th, Members of the Bar
8th, Physicians of Alton and vicinity
9th, Band of Music
10th, Chaplains and other clergy
11th, Orator and Reader
12th, Committee of Arrangements
In the above order the procession will move in double file by the
right down Second to Market Street, down Market to Front, down Front
to Alton Street, thence up Alton to Second, thence up Second to the
Public Square, then across the square to Third Street, thence up
Third Street to the Presbyterian Church and hall, with the right
resting at the entrance of the church. The column will then face
toward in open order, when the rear of the procession will fill in
alternately and march up the center into the church. The same order
will be observed in returning from the church. The procession will
then march down Third Street to the Public Square, thence down the
square to Front Street, thence down Front Street to the Alton House,
where a dinner will be prepared, and then the procession dismissed.
The church will be open from 10 o'clock until the procession arrives
for the reception of ladies only, under the direction of officers
appointed for that purpose. Nathaniel Buckmaster, Marshal.
60TH ANNIVERSARY OF NATIONAL INDEPENDENCE
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 6, 1836
The sixtieth anniversary of our national independence was celebrated
by our citizens with unusual pomp and manifestations of patriotic
joy. At 11 o'clock, the citizens assembled in Second Street
[Broadway], and then fell into rank according to the order and
arrangement under the direction of Colonel Nathaniel Buckmaster
[warden of the Alton prison] and Colonel Botkins [proprietor of the
Mansion House in Alton], who officiated as marshals of the day.
Inspired by the event, they assembled to commemorate and by the
performance of an excellent of musicians brought expressly for the
occasion from St. Louis, the citizens marched through some of the
principal streets of the town to the Presbyterian Church. The
ceremony in the church was of the most interesting and inspiring
kind, calculated to awaken all the grateful and patriotic feelings
of our nature. It commenced with the thrilling notes of the band of
music, after which an appropriate and fervent prayer was offered up
to Heaven by the Rev. Mr. Graves. The Rev. Mr. Hogan, after some
excellent prefatory remarks, read the Declaration of Independence,
and Samuel G. Bailey, Esq., delivered an interesting oration.
Several beautiful national hymns were sung by the assembly, and
being at length dismissed by the invocation of a blessing by the
Rev. Mr. Graves, the assembly left the church and formed in
procession and proceeded to the "Alton House," where a sumptuous and
most plentiful repast was provided by Mr. Delaplain. J. A. Townsend,
Esq., was appointed President; William Martin, Esq., 1st Vice
President, and Dr. H. Beall, 2d Vice President. After the removal of
the cloth, the following toasts were drank:
1st, The day we celebrate - The birthday of constitutional freedom.
2d, The patriots of Revolutionary memory - Men who were as jealous
of their political rights as of their lives, their fortunes and
their sacred honor. May their descendants ever be as watchful.
3d, The President of the United States [Andrew Jackson] - As a
warrior dauntless, as a statesman able and dignified.
4th, The Constitution of the Federal Government - The cement of our
Union, the fountain of our power and prosperity, and the guarantee
of our liberty and independence.
5th, The memory of Washington and LaFayette - The former a name at
which monarchs tremble. The latter our country and freedoms friend.
6th, The memory of Adams, Jefferson, and Monroe - On the anniversary
of their glory and their death, may the remembrance of their
patriotism be thrice hallowed in every heart.
7th, The State of Illinois - Now in her infancy, when time shall
ripen her to mature years, her intelligence and power may not be
surpassed by either of the old thirteen, the thirteen since made, or
thirteen to come. And may she never change her birthright or descant
from the principles as dictated to her sons by Washington and
Jefferson.
8th, Internal Improvements - The veins and arteries of our system -
May our State encourage and extend its vigor to every portion of its
fertile plains and prairies.
9th, The early settlers of Illinois - Heroic examples of fortitude,
perseverance and personal bravery.
10th, The glorious tea party of November 16th, 1773 - When we first
determined that there was no road to our coffers but through our
affections.
11th,
To the memory of Robert Fulton - His genius co-equal in importance
to the commercial interests of the West, with that of Jefferson to
the political interest of our Union.
12th, Reserved rights - In all national improvements directly
involving the interests and welfare of our people, while we endeavor
to exercise our duties in harmony with the Federal Government, we
will never forget the rights reserved to us as a separate
sovereignty.
13th, The Fair - Their charms in raptures strike the eye, their
merits win the heart.
Volunteer Toasts:
By Judge Hawley, who from illness was obliged to resign the chair as
President of the day. An appropriate letter for the occasion was
received with the following toast: The Heroes of the Revolution -
They won their honors well, and many have won them long.
By Samuel G. Bailey, Esq., orator of the day: The spirit of Liberty
- We inhaled it at birth. We will cherish it through life, and
transmit it unimpaired to our posterity.
By the acting President of the day, J. A. Townsend: The Fathers of
New England - Men who knew their rights and dared to maintain and
defend them. May their sons prove worthy of such sires.
By J. B. Handley, Esq.: Alton - The abode of industry, hospitality
and enterprise. She is sure - she is right - and goes ahead!
By J. Huntington, Esq., after a few but animated remarks of the
character and liberal spirit of the queen of Spain in appropriating
her private fortunes in the outfit of Columbus, he offered as a
toast: The memory of Isabella, Queen of Spain - Whose exclusive
patronage enabled Christopher Columbus to discover America.
By William L. Harrison: Our National Council - May it ever be
mindful that virtue, intelligence and skilful industry are the
substantial pillars on which free republics rest.
By John Hogan, Esq., who by a most appropriate speech well suited
for the occasion of the birth day of liberty and our rights, offered
the following toast: Illinois - Great in her agricultural resources
- her mineral wealth - in the excellency of her commercial
advantages. May she also be great in the enterprise of her citizens,
the morality of her people, and in the councils of the republic.
By a volunteer: The Mechanics of the United States: May they
never be ashamed of their several professions or too proud to follow
them, but remember that their primeval ancestor who sewed fig leaves
together, though lord of the world, was a tailor.
By a Gentleman: If in the best days of the Roman Republic, it was
honorable to say, "We are Roman citizens," how much more pride and
glory in the exclamation, "We are Americans."
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN UPPER ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 12, 1837
The Fourth of July was celebrated in this town in a manner
creditable to our citizens. At half past ten o'clock, a respectable
number of the citizens assembled at the Presbyterian meeting house.
After appropriate music by the choir, and prayer by Rev. Mr. Loomis,
the Declaration of Independence was read by Professor Newman, and a
short oration delivered by A. Cowles, Esq. A procession was then
formed and proceeded a short distance, where a bountiful repast had
been provided by Mr. David Miller, in good style. The whole was
conducted on strict temperance principles, and formed a striking
contrast with the manner in which this anniversary is too often
observed. After sufficiently regaling themselves, the company
dispersed, conscious of having observed our national anniversary in
a manner worthy of a free and intelligent people. From the Western
Pioneer.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN EDWARDSVILLE
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 12, 1837
The Fourth of July was celebrated by the citizens of Edwardsville,
with appropriate exercises at the Baptist Church. Prayer was offered
by the Rev. Mr. Darrow of the Episcopal Church of Collinsville. John
Adams' letter of the 5th July, 1776, respecting the Declaration of
Independence, was read by Mr. Allard. W. E. Starr, Esq., read the
Declaration of Independence, and Hon. A. M. Jenkins pronounced an
Oration. When the exercises at the church were concluded, the
company repaired to a dinner prepared by Mr. C. Hasket in a grove
near the church.
JULY 4th CELEBRATION IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 11, 1838
The late anniversary of our National Independence was celebrated in
a handsome manner in this city. In conformity with previous
arrangements, the citizens began to assemble near the corner of
Second [Broadway] and State streets in considerable numbers at about
half past ten o'clock. But information having been received that a
number of the members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows were
coming up from St. Louis for the purpose of joining in the
ceremonies with their brethren of Alton, the procession was not
formed until after their arrival in the Eagle, with a number of
other gentlemen, a little before one o'clock. It then moved on with
the utmost regularity to the Baptist Church, where the exercises of
the day were performed in the order heretofore prescribed, and in a
style highly creditable to the talent and good taste of those who
participated therein. Of the Oration by George W. Olney, Esq., it is
necessary only to remark that it was worthy of the speaker and of
the great event which it was intended to commemorate. We hope to be
able to obtain a copy for publication in our next number. The music
- the reading of the Declaration of Independence - indeed, the whole
of the ceremonies - were performed in a manner calculated to afford
unmingled gratification to the immense crowd in attendance. Towards
the close of the exercises in the church, the beautiful steamboat
Burlington hove in sight, having onboard the St. Louis Grays,
accompanied by a fine band, and a number of ladies and gentlemen
from our sister city. The company landed amidst the cheers of the
citizens present, and proceeded at once to the church, where they
arrived in time to escort the Odd Fellows back to the Lodge Room. We
never have seen anywhere better looking men than the Grays. Their
fine military bearing, neat uniform, and gentlemanly deportment
excited universal admiration; and it was a source of general regret
that the shortness of their stay prevented them from accepting the
invitation given them to visit the Cave Spring, and with a number of
gentlemen of this city, partake of a dinner provided for the
occasion. The Odd Fellows, likewise, with their splendid trappings
and grave demeanor, excited much attention, and so far as our
knowledge extends, the whole day passed off without the occurrence
of anything calculated to mar its enjoyments or disturb the general
festivity.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATED
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 6, 1839
The citizens of this place [Alton] and those of Upper Alton united
on Thursday last in a joint celebration of the sixty-third
anniversary of the Declaration of our National Independence, in
conformity with previous arrangements. The day was ushered in by a
national salute of thirteen guns; and another of twenty-six guns at
nine o'clock. At eleven, a procession was formed in front of Mr.
Nutter's Hotel in Upper Alton, under the direction of Col. Hundley
as Marshal, aided by four assistants, and preceded by an elegant
military band from St. Louis, repaired to the Baptist church, where
the exercises of the day were commenced by a fervent and appropriate
address to the Throne of Grace from the Chaplain, the Rev. O.
Howard. The Declaration of Independence was then read by John M.
Krum, Esquire, after which a chaste and eloquent oration - which may
be expected in our next - was delivered by N. D. Strong, Esquire -
the whole interspersed with excellent music. The procession was then
again formed and proceeded to a handsome bower erected on the Public
Square, where the company, to the number of between three and four
hundred, including many ladies, sat down to a sumptuous dinner,
prepared for the occasion by Mr. J. P. Owens, at which the Hon. H.
Hawley presided, assisted by Elias Hibbard and Robert Smith, Esqrs.
After the dinner was over the gentlemen complimented their fair
guests with the following appropriate sentiment: "The Fair - We
shall ever be free while they countenance us with their presence and
smiles on this glorious anniversary." The ladies then retired, when
toasts were drank, accompanied with appropriate music and the
discharge of cannon; after which the company returned highly
gratified and in good order to their respective homes. The weather
was remarkably fine and pleasant; the different exercises and
ceremonies were performed in a style truly creditable to all
concerned; and nothing occurred to mar the festivities of the day or
disturb the enjoyment of those who participated therein.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATED
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 18, 1839
This is the day of a nation's birth. Pressed by the weight of a
despot's power, our fathers panted for liberty - and in General
Congress, on this day, 1776, dared to assert their independence and
pledged their lives, fortunes, and their sacred honor to maintain
it. Guided by Providence, they gained it, and have handed it to us.
Now an effort is making to concentrate in the hands of our own
Executive the very power which was wrested from a foreign King. Sons
of the sires who fought at Bunker Hill, at Brandywine, and at the
Cowpens - what say you? Will you surrender up the liberties your
fathers bled for? Freemen of Illinois, arouse! Your country calls
you. The ballot box is the guardian of our liberties. By it we call
back our servants to a recollection of the People's intelligence and
power. Wake up! By eternal vigilance only is liberty maintained.
"Power is always stealing from the many to the few." And what is the
Sub-Treasury but a concentration of power in the hands of the
President? Money united with the sword robbed Rome of liberty. As
soon as both centered in the hands of Caesar, the guardian angel of
Rome departed and left her an Emperor. It may be so with us; but as
'tis still in our own hands, let us shake ourselves from our
slumbers, and make one bold effort to maintain our liberties.
By the Sub-Treasury scheme, a great Government bank is to be
established, exclusively under the control of the President and
officers by him appointed. The public treasure may be used
cautiously at first. But when once in full operation, such will be
the power of the President, it will be but for him to give the word
to his "Receivers General," stationed at the most prominent parts,
and quick as thought the whole band are moved, then who can resist?
'Tis too late, liberty will have fled; and if the People would be
free again, there must be a revolution.
Freemen - stop it in the bud. Arouse now! Every man to the polls and
place the veto of intelligent freemen "on such an effort to enlarge
Executive power."
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN UPPER ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 10, 1841
The anniversary of our National Independence was appropriately
celebrated at Upper Alton on Saturday last, the 3d inst. The Rev.
Mr. Leverett officiated as Chaplain of the day; the Declaration of
Independence was read by George T. M. Davis, Esq.; and a most
excellent oration was delivered by George B. Arnold, Esq. After the
exercises were concluded, about 150 persons sat down to an excellent
dinner, spread under a bower erected upon the public square, at
which S. G. Bailey, Esq., presided, assisted by Dr. B. K. Hart and
A. Miller, Esq., as Vice-President. The most perfect good feeling
prevailed, and nothing, that came under our observation, transpired
to mar the festivities of the day. After the cloth was removed,
toasts were drunk, upon the announcement of each of which a gun was
fired and an appropriate air played by the band of music that was in
attendance.
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION THROUGHOUT MADISON COUNTY
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 9, 1842
Although the late anniversary of the Declaration of our National
Independence was not publicly celebrated in this city [Alton], the
day was nevertheless not suffered to pass unnoticed - many of our
fellow-citizens having joined with those of different places in this
vicinity for the purpose of commemorating it in an appropriate
manner. In some, if not all of these, the celebration was conducted
not only on strict Temperance principles, but in connection with,
and under the direction of the Washington Temperance Societies of
the respective neighborhoods. This was particularly the case with
the celebrations at Salem and Madison, which the writer had the
gratification of attending.
The first of these, which for reasons unnecessary to be stated here,
was held on Saturday, took place in a beautiful grove adjoining the
residence of Charles Gillham, Esq., about eight miles from this city
on the Edwardsville road, and was attended by a large and highly
respectable concourse of people of all ages, sexes, and conditions.
The table was most abundantly supplied with good things,
gratuitously provided by Mr. Gillham and his neighbors; several
Temperance addresses were delivered; many names were added to the
Salem Washington Temperance Society - which, we understand, already
includes nearly every individual in the settlement - and the company
separated at an early hour, highly pleased with the festivities of
the day, which were interrupted by no accident or disagreeable
occurrence of any description.
The Madison celebration, which was held in the lower part of the
settlement, on one of the finest and most suitable spots that could
have been selected for the purpose, equaled any in which we have
ever participated - whether the number in attendance, the
interesting nature of the exercises, or the excellent order and good
feeling which prevailed throughout, be taken into consideration. As
this celebration, like that at Mr. Gillham's, was conducted on pure
Temperance principles, no toasts were drank, nor was anything
stronger than good coffee provided for the occasion; but, apart from
intoxicating drinks - which, we trust, will never again be used to
desecrate a day that should be devoted to rational festivity, and
not to riotous dissipation - everything which the palate could
desire was most abundantly supplied by the liberality of the worthy
inhabitants, and all cordially invited to partake "without money and
without price." Here, as well as at Salem, sundry interesting
addresses - some political and some on the subject of Temperance -
were delivered; and perhaps in no part of the Union has the great
moral reformation now in progress made greater advances than in this
populous and highly respectable settlement.
The day was likewise celebrated in Middletown, Upper Alton, Marine,
and perhaps some other places in this county; and we understand that
in all of these, the exercises were highly interesting, and that the
day, which was very fine, passed off quite pleasantly and to the
entire satisfaction of those present. In the evening, a concert was
given in the Baptist church in this city [Alton], by the members of
Mr. Munson's Juvenile Class, which was numerously attended. The
performers, although very young, acquitted themselves extremely
well; and sang a number of pieces with a skill and good taste highly
creditable to their own proficiency, and the professional abilities
and attention of their worthy instructor.
INDIAN HUNTER WILL ADDRESS EDWARDSVILLE CITIZENS ON THE FOURTH OF
JULY
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 01, 1843
The ladies and gentlemen of Edwardsville and vicinity are
respectfully informed that "Old Jake," the great Indian hunter of
the West, will address them on the Fourth of July next, at the
courthouse in that place; when he will relate to them some of the
thrilling and trying scenes through which he has passed in his
solitary rambles through the Rocky Mountains and headwaters of the
Missouri. Also, the particulars of the fight between himself and the
great and fierce Chief of the Blackfoot tribe, whom he conquered
after a long and bloody conflict. He will also describe the country
with all of its advantages with which he is well acquainted. Ladies
and gents! Turn out and hear the old warrior, for he is both amusing
and interesting. Turn out and hear the old veteran.
FOURTH OF JULY "FIREMEN'S CELEBRATION"
Programme of the Order of Procession for July 4th, 1843
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 1, 1843
Escort: Lafayette Greens, under command of Capt. Brooks.
Procession:
First Division:
Edwardsville Band; Chief Marshal; and Two Aides.
Committee of Arrangements.
Orator and Reader of the Declaration of Independence.
Chaplain and the Revered Clergy.
Mayor and Common Council.
Musical Class, under Mr. Munson.
Sabbath Schools, under their respective teachers.
Second Division:
Neptune Fire Company, No. 3; Under Captain Starr.
Alton Fire Company, No. 2; Under Captain Hayden.
Hose Carriage and Company of No. 2
Pioneer Fire Company, No. 1; Under Captain Pitts
Hose Carriage and Company of No. 1
Third Division: (Citizens)
The several Companies are requested to choose their own Marshals.
The procession will form precisely at 10 o'clock a.m. The Companies
and other bodies will appear at the place of general rendezvous, in
readiness to fall into line of march at 10 o'clock precisely. The
general Rendezvous will be upon the State Street Square, by the hay
scales. The Marshals will appear in dark costs and white pants, with
a blue and white baton. The procession, when formed, will leave the
Square and march to the Baptist Church. After the services in the
church, the procession will reform under the direction of the
Marshal, and march to Middletown to partake of a collation.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT TROY
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 13, 1844
The 69th anniversary of the Independence of the United States was
celebrated in an appropriate and felicitous manner at Troy on
Thursday last. About 1,000 persons, including a large number of
ladies and several citizens from Edwardsville, Collinsville, and
other neighboring villages, partook of the festivities of the
occasion. At 11 o'clock a.m., a procession was formed under the
direction of Captain Gonterman, the marshal for the day, in the
following order: 1st, Clergyman, Reader of the Declaration, and
Orator. 2d, Music. 3d. The Committee of Arrangements. 4th, the
ladies. 5th, the gentlemen. 6th, the boys. The procession then
marched to the seats which had been provided for them in a pleasant
grove, adjacent to the Methodist Church, when after a few
appropriate remarks to the audience, the Throne of Grace was
addressed by the Rev. Jesse Renfro, The Declaration of Independence
was then read by Mr. Thomas McDowell; and an admirable
extemporaneous address pronounced by N. D. Strong, Esq., of Alton.
When it is stated that Mr. Strong received but a few hours' notice
of his appointment by the Committee of Arrangements, the public will
appreciate the ready talent and enviable act which enabled him to
give entire satisfaction to so large an audience, composed, as it
was, of members of all the different political parties. A brief
address was then delivered by Mr. W. A. W. Gault, the President of
the day.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT ABEL MOORE’S HOMESTEAD
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 12, 1845
Agreeably to previous arrangement, the citizens of Upper Alton and
Wood River celebrated the Fourth of July by suitable exercises and a
free barbecue in the beautiful grove of sugar trees near the
residence of Captain Abel Moore [near where the Alton State Hospital
was located on Rt. 140, east of Upper Alton]. A more lovely day
never dawned upon our country, and at an early hour, the roads
leading to the grove were thronged with the smiling faces of men and
women, lads and lasses, all wending their way to the scene of the
proposed festivities, for the word had gone forth that two of our
most talented citizens were to address the people that should there
assemble. Ample preparations had been made by the committee of
arrangements - Messrs. Abel Moore, William Gill, Isaac Cox, Hugh
Jones, D. M. Kittinger, Robert Harrison, David Miller, and M.
Williams - for their entertainment and refreshment.
At 12 o'clock, the exercises commenced by the reading of the 8th
chapter of Deuteronomy by the Rev. Ebenezer Rodgers, and a few
pertinent remarks, showing the applicability of the advice therein
given to us as a nation as well as to the Jews, and an address to
the throne of Grace, in behalf of our nation, in a fervent and very
appropriate spirit. The Declaration of American Independence was
then read in an impressive manner by George Smith, Esq., which
seemed to be listened to with uncommon interest. When he concluded,
the Hon. Cyrus Edwards delivered an address, which, for chasteness
of language, patriotic sentiment, and appropriateness, could not
well be surpassed. His description of the landing of the pilgrim
fathers from the Mayflower on Plymouth Rock, their toils,
privations, and hardships, with a savage foe to contend against, and
the comparison between their condition and that of the early
settlers of Illinois, describing particularly that Spartan band of
Rangers, so justly and universally celebrated for their patriotic
devotion to their country and their toils and hardships, in their
able and prompt defense of the same against a savage foe in the War
of 1812, and in the relation of the Indian massacres that took place
in this state, particularly describing the sad and melancholy
tragedy which happened in 1814 near the spot where we were then
assembled, and the loss of several of the friends and relatives, as
well as two of the children, of the venerable citizen under whose
shade of lofty elm and maple we were then assembled, by Indian
cruelty, was truly eloquent. A deep feeling pervaded the whole
assembly, while the tear of sympathy for our venerated friend and
neighbor glistened in many an eye.
A well written, patriotic, and appropriate address was then
delivered by E. C. West, Esq., which was listened to with marked
attention. The orator was most happy and felicitous in tracing the
history of our country, from the landing of a feeble band upon the
cold rock-bound coast of New England, up to the time when we were
able to throw off our allegiance to the mother country, and take our
stand and place as an independent nation, and thence down to the
present period, numbering as we now do, twenty millions of people,
our commerce extending through every clime, our sails whitening, and
flag floating on every sea. Still it is said of us by other nations
that we are a growing people, but when the descendants of that
feeble band of wise and good men, who disembarked from the Mayflower
and landed upon Plymouth Rock, in the early part of the seventeenth
century, shall have extended their improvements to, and settled the
Oregon, where the waters of the Pacific shall have their feet, then,
they may not only say that we are a growing people, but most
emphatically exclaim that "we have grown!"
After the delivery of the addresses, a procession was formed under
the direction of J. C. Young and Isaac Cox, Esqrs., and marched to
the beautiful lawn of Mr. Edwards and back, when the company sat
down to a sumptuous repast, got up in true western style. While the
procession was marching, a nation salute was fired under the
direction of Captain Briggs. Elias Hibbard, Esq., presided, assisted
by Colonel Solomon Pruitt. The Upper Alton band was upon the ground,
and the pleasures of the day were much heightened by their music
being interspersed through the exercises. After dinner, toasts were
given, commemorative of the day, in honor of Generals Washington,
Warren, Mario, Harrison, and Jackson; and also of our country,
Oregon, Texas, &c. &c., but being able to procure only a few of
them, it is thought best to omit all. The day closed as it
commenced, with a clear sky and joy and gladness depicted in every
countenance.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN MONTICELLO [GODFREY]
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 12, 1845
Our late celebration passed off so delightfully and afforded so much
gratification to those who participated in it, that some of our
worthy citizens have expressed a desire that a brief account of it
should be furnished for your paper, which I take the liberty
herewith to send you, with the respectful request that you will give
it a place in your columns.
The festival was projected and managed by the Sabbath School
Teachers and Temperance Societies of our precincts, united. At 10
o'clock a.m., the Sabbath Schools were assembled at the places
designated. The Godfrey school, preceded by a select band of
musicians, marched in procession to the district schoolhouse - three
young ladies bearing the beautiful banner, presented some fifteen
years ago by some S. S. teachers in New York to the Illinois S. S.
Union - where they were joined by the school from the prairie. The
united schools then marched back to the front of the Seminary, and
formed an escort for the young ladies, who took a place assigned
them in the procession. The whole procession then marched to the
grove, northeast of the Seminary, where spacious arbors had been
prepared. Everything being arranged, our venerable and worthy
friends, N. Scarritt and John Mason, Esqrs., were conducted to the
platform - the one as President, the other Vice-President, of the
day. The exercises consisted of an address to the throne of Grace,
by the Rev. George Pyle, chaplain to the Seminary; interesting
addresses, successively by Messrs. Corey, Pyle, Mason, and Scarritt,
interspersed by some half dozen songs - spiritual, patriotic, and
temperance - sung most sweetly by the children, led by Mrs. Pyle,
who had, with commendable zeal, and entire success, trained them for
the purpose, and with frequent interludes of music by the band.
The festive board, which was spread at length under an arbor,
expressly fitted for the purpose, almost groaned under the luxuries
and dainties, which had been so bountifully provided by the ladies,
all of whom seemed anxious to contribute their share to the
festivity. On the announcement of dinner, the whole assembly took
their places around the table - the Sabbath Schools occupying one
end and the citizens generally the other - and more perfect order,
as well as social enjoyment, we have seldom witnessed on any
occasion.
After the repast, all returned to their seats, where the exercises
continued till between two and three o'clock, when, after the
benediction had been pronounced, all adjourned to their homes in a
quiet and peaceable manner, reflecting, no doubt, with much pleasure
on the scenes and enjoyments of the day, and saying in their hearts,
"How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in
unity."
Our ladies provided so abundantly that, although between three and
four hundred had eaten and were filled, "many baskets were taken
up," and by direction of the committee of arrangements, and under
the supervision of some of our excellent ladies, were distributed
among those families in our vicinity who, though not rich in this
world's good, are rich in interesting children, whom they send to
our Sabbath Schools. We all feel that the day will have been
productive of much good - unmingled with any evil - in promoting
neighborly intercourse and social enjoyment, and will doubtless be
long remembered, especially by the children and youth who honored
the occasion by their presence.
Signed by "G" (Benjamin Godfrey?)
THE GLORIOUS FOURTH OF JULY
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 12, 1845
Pretty full accounts of the celebration of the late anniversary of
the Declaration of our National Independence in Alton, Monticello
[Godfrey], and Wood River - furnished by gentlemen officially
connected with the ceremonies - will be found in another column. To
these, we take the liberty of adding a few words, so far as regards
the proceedings in Alton, in which we had the honor of
participating, as one of the invited guests of our Fire Department.
The day, which was remarkably fine, was ushered in by a National
Salute from two pieces of ordnance stationed for the purpose on
Church Hill [Christian Hill]. Sometime before the arrival of our St.
Louis friends, the members of the Pioneer and Neptune Fire
Companies, and the Hook and Ladder Company, all in handsome
uniforms, assembled on the Landing, together with a large number of
citizens, to await their expected guests who were received with all
the warmth and cordiality becoming the parties and the occasion. The
different streets through which the procession passed, on their way
to the Baptist Church, as well as the windows, doors &c. of the
various dwelling houses and stores, were, in many places, tastefully
decorated with flags, wreaths of flowers, evergreens, and devices,
and crowded with delighted spectators. Of the exercises in the
church, we need only say that they were highly interesting. The
prayer by the jRev. Mr. Hackett was appropriate and fervent. The
music, both vocal and instrumental, very fine, the reading of the
Declaration by Mr. Barry, solemn and impressive, and the Oration by
Mr. Parsons chaste, eloquent, and well-delivered.
After the conclusion of the exercises, our St. Louis friends were
conducted through a shady and romantic road to Middle Alton, and
thence by way of Market and Front Streets to the place where dinner
had been provided. During the march, which was enlivened by
excellent music from the St. Louis and Edwardsville bands, wreaths
of flowers and evergreens, with suitable mottoes, were showered upon
the firemen as they passed along, and acknowledged by loud cheers
for the fair donors. Of the dinner we can say with truth that it was
most abundant in quantity and excellent in quality. The building in
which it was served was handsomely decorated, and seemed admirably
adapted to the purpose, for although about three hundred persons
were seated at the same time, there was ample room for the
accommodation of all, as well as for the necessary attendants, and
the company partook of the good things set before them with a
heartiness and relish no wise diminished by their long march, but
without the least disorder or confusion.
In the evening, a ball was given at the same place by our fire
department, to their St. Louis guests and others. Being somewhat
fatigued by the preceding exercises, and having moreover no
particular taste for this kind of amusement, we did not attend it.
Those present, however, inform us that the attendance was very
large, that the evening passed off very pleasantly, and that the
company seemed greatly to enjoy themselves until the lateness of the
hour warned them that it was time to separate. Upon the whole, we
have participated in between twenty and thirty Fourth of July
celebrations, and never have been present at one better conducted or
which appeared to give more universal satisfaction than that of
which we have been speaking. Notwithstanding the excitement
inseparable from such an occasion, everything connected with the
festival was "done decently and in order." Good feeling and harmony
prevailed throughout, and neither drunkenness, nor rioting, nor
accident of any kind occurred to mar the general enjoyment.
The St. Louis Company, composed principally of young men of the
first respectability, with their neat uniform and excellent band,
made a very handsome appearance, while their genteel and orderly
deportment commanded universal admiration. Several ladies and
gentlemen from our sister city accompanied them, and contributed by
their presence to the pleasures of the day. The fire department of
Alton also acquitted themselves very creditably, and presented a
goodly array, although one of the companies, composed principally of
elderly citizens who seldom turn out unless their services are
required to check the progress of the devouring element, did not
join in the procession. The Pioneer mustered very strong, and its
fine uniform so nearly resembled that of the St. Louis guests that
it was difficult to distinguish them. The Neptune, composed chiefly
of youths between the ages of 18 and 22, in their handsome and
striking uniform, also looked extremely well, and their deportment
showed that they were worthy of uniting with their elder brethren in
either putting out a fire or in the more pleasing duty of doing
honor to the occasion.
The Hook and Ladder Company, likewise, consisting of men with stout
hearts and active hands, fully prepared for any emergency, with
their appropriate costume, contributed not a little to the interest
of the scene, while the elegant and tasteful decorations of the
Apparatus, which accompanied the different companies in the
procession, added to the general beauty and richness of the
spectacle. In fact, the Fourth of July 1845 will be long remembered
for its gratifying incidents and pleasing associations, not only by
those who directly participated in the festivities, but also by the
people of Alton in general.
THE GLORIOUS FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 11, 1846
Although the late anniversary of our national birthday was not
celebrated here in the usual mode, it was far from being passed over
without notice. On the evening of Friday, the 3d instant, previously
substituted for Saturday in order to guard against the desecration
of the Sabbath, a Military and Citizens' Ball was given at the Alton
House, which is represented by those in attendance as much the most
splendid affair of the kind ever witnessed in this place on any
other occasion. On the morning of the glorious Fourth, at a very
early hour, the people from the neighborhood began to pour into the
city in carriages and wagons, on foot and on horseback, in vast
numbers, until every square, street, and avenue were literally
crammed with the countless multitude. Sometime in the forenoon, the
favorite steamers - the Lueller and the La Clede - lashed together,
came up from St. Louis, crowded with several hundred gaily dressed
ladies and gentlemen on a visit to this place, who together with the
four regiments of volunteers and the immense concourse of strangers
and citizens already on the ground, presented a scene as varied,
animated, and picturesque as can well be imagined. In a promiscuous
assemblage of this description, it is obvious that little method or
arrangement could be adopted or preserved, and so far as we know,
none was attempted. All were permitted to amuse and enjoy themselves
in their own way. Every hotel and house of entertainment, as well as
the steamboats at the wharf, of course, were fitted to overflowing,
while the different thoroughfares were at the same time so thronged
that it was no easy matter to proceed from one point to another. But
notwithstanding all this, although no police officers were on the
ground to enforce order, although men of all callings, parties and
modes of thinking were thus crowded together in a comparatively
small space, although much the greater number of those then
congregated here had never before met together and probably never
will see one another again, although the occasion, the excessive
heat of the weather, and the "pomp and circumstance" of war which
were everywhere visible, were all calculated to produce intense
excitement, yet, to the infinite credit of all assembled here be it
said, not the least disturbance whatever occurred. No drunkenness,
no quarreling was witnessed. Each one appeared willing that his
neighbor for the time being should enjoy himself as he thought best,
and all seemed cheerfully to labor to promote the general amusement,
as well as to avoid everything calculated to mar the festivities of
a day, which every true American honors.
CELEBRATION OF THE FOURTH OF JULY AT HIGHLAND
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 18, 1846
According to previous arrangements, the citizens of Highland and its
vicinity met at Mr. Durer's tavern, as a point to form a procession
at 11 o'clock a.m. The procession was formed in regular order,
composed of both sexes, all ages and various nations - presenting in
proper places splendid banners, and also a good band of instrumental
music, skillfully and delightfully employed to lead the people to
the new church for the purpose of hearing read the Declaration of
Independence and of listening to the expected address from William
Martin, Esq., of Alton city. Our number of people was great and
imposing, and (by the way) well calculated to bring the reflecting
____(?) imperceptibly to praise and adore that Divine Providence
which rules the destinies of men, and especially of our happy
nation. After the church was filled to overflowing, the Declaration
having been read, the people sat with perfect ______ and gladly
listened to the ________, and at the close, they expressed their
approbation of the sentiments and approval of the man. The address
throughout was of the plain common-sense kind, not bombastical in
the least, entirely original, well arranged, full of patriotism, and
presented to the audience so as to be intelligible to the most
ordinary capacity. I could but wish that the whole might be
published in pamphlet form for the sentiments contained, and for the
benefit of our young and rising generation.
After the usual preliminaries, the Judge took up first our
Republican form of government, and showed wherein it differs from
all others preceding it. Secondly, those events in the history of
the United Colonies that resulted in giving us this political and
religious existence. In this connection, the orator carried us back
to the period when we seemed to have little political rights,
according to the interpretation of the English Parliament, and
faithfully set before us those principles and circumstances which
tended most to bring about our happy confederation. After producing
the immortal Declaration drawn by our worthy patriotic fathers, and
giving the instrument an eloquent touch by way of dress, he
proceeded to exhibit the history of the Revolution, and the
triumphant success of Washington and his coadjutors; also, the
adoption of our great Constitution, and the safeguards thrown around
it. Just about this moment a sacred flame seemed to burn insensibly
in his bosom, which burst forth in extemporaneous strains of
eloquence, that fired up every auditor with the same spirit of
Liberty. Our minds were now invited to contemplate our country and
its advantages, natural, political, and religious. These United
States were surveyed in every respect, and the speaker caught the
spirit of prophecy, and he was enabled to say many glorious things
concerning her. The closing portion of the effort was splendid
indeed, was in proper place, and well timed, viz: the principal
instruments by which to perpetuate our happy Union, which were shown
to be virtue and intelligence; and I really suppose that no
expression ever dropped from his lips that contained more truth, as
he fully demonstrated to our satisfaction. At the close of the
address, we marched to the arbor and sat down to as grand a dinner
as heart could wish. Each individual seemed to enjoy himself to the
life, and no drunkenness nor profanity was found amongst us.
After dinner was over, an address was delivered to the Germans (as a
great portion were present) by S. Keepfly, Esq., which seemed to
interest them, as I imagined from their attention, for I was so
unfortunate as to listen to an unknown tongue (to me at least). Then
came another address in our own language, &c &c. After we had our
fill of speeches, music, and enjoyment, our attention was called to
several excellent toasts, and the people responded in the
old-fashioned way, hats off and bands up, crying, huzza!! Everything
was interesting, and Messrs. Editors, I do wish you had been present
so that you could have furnished the people, through your most
excellent paper, all about our excellent celebration. There was but
one sentiment manifested, i. e. "Our country, right or wrong."
Signed by Asa McMurtry, July 7, 1846.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 9, 1847
The celebration of the anniversary of our National Independence, on
Saturday last, by the Sons of Temperance, will long be remembered
among the proudest and most interesting events in the history of our
growing city. At ten o'clock in the forenoon, the Alton Division No.
4, and the Upper Alton Division No. 11, arrayed in their neat
badges, paraded on Front Street, under the direction of Edward
Keating, Esq., Chief Marshal, assisted by his Aides, Messrs. P.
Delaplaine, L. S. Metcalf, and M. Gorsuch; the whole presenting a
very handsome and striking appearance. The splendid banner of the
Alton Division, painted by Messrs. Blair and Riley of this place,
excited much attention - the appropriateness of the design, and the
excellence of the execution, conferring the highest credit upon the
artists. About eleven, the Washingtonian Division No. 3 of St.
Louis, who had been invited to unite in the celebration, came up on
the Luella [steamboat], with their beautiful banner and badges; and
on their arrival at the wharf, were welcomed by the Chief Marshal in
an exceedingly neat and impressive address, to which General Learned
returned a brief and appropriate reply. The Neptune Fire Company,
composed of the youth of Alton, were also on the ground in their
handsome uniforms, and together with a large crowd of citizens,
contributed to the interest and animation of the scene. Upon the
conclusion of the ceremonies at the landing, the three divisions,
accompanied by two excellent bands, proceeded to the Baptist Church,
in which a large number of ladies and gentlemen were already
assembled, and where a fervent prayer to the Father of Mercies was
offered by the Rev. George J. Barrett of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. Portions of the Holy Scriptures, suited to the occasion,
were then read by the Rev. A. T. Norton of the Presbyterian Church,
and the Temperance Declaration of Independence, by John R. Woods,
Esquire; after which a very eloquent address, admirably adapted to
the day and the occasion, was delivered by the Rev. A. Van Court of
St. Louis - the whole interspersed with choice music from the band,
and from the choir. At the close of the exercises in the church,
which were in the highest degree solemn and impressive, the
procession was again formed and marched up through some of the
principal streets to Middle Alton. Here, in a handsome grove, a
substantial dinner had been prepared in very good style of Messrs.
Dow and Roberts, of which the brethren and their guests, together
with a number of other persons, partook, and which was finished by
sundry neat and appropriate toasts, drank by the company with pure
cold water, to the evident satisfaction of all. At the conclusion of
the dinner, the procession was once more formed, and the Alton
Divisions escorted their St. Louis guests to the wharf, where the
Luella was in waiting to receive them; when, after a brief farewell
and exchanging sundry hearty cheers, our friends proceeded on their
way home, much gratified with their visit and the attentions paid to
them, followed by the respect and good wishes, not only of their
brethren of the order, but also of the citizens generally. The day,
although warm, was fair and pleasant - the ceremonies on the
landing, in the church, on the march, and at the dinner table were
conducted in perfect order and propriety - no accident, or
disagreeable occurrence of any kind intervened to mar the
festivities of the day - and all citizens and strangers seemed to
enjoy, unalloyed, all the pleasure which can flow from excellent
health, favorable weather, innocent recreation, a rich abundance of
all the necessaries of life, the glorious associations connected
with the day, and the consciousness that they were engaged in
promoting the cause of Temperance. The thanks of the community are
justly due to the committee of Arrangements, the Marshals, and the
other gentlemen, who superintended the celebration, for the very
able and satisfactory manner in which they respectively discharged
their arduous duties.
INDEPENDENCE DAY - 1852
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 9, 1852
Seventy-six years ago, the sun of civil liberty first rose above the
American horizon, and commenced its glorious march up the heavens.
Storm and cloud have swept over it since then, and at times it has
almost seemed ready to set in an eternal night, but it still shines
on, and its beams are shedding a bright and holy light over the
Earth’s broad face.
Seventy-six years ago, there were gathered in that upper room in
Philadelphia, fifty-six men, whose equals, as a body, the world has
yet to see. And there it was that they placed their hands to that
deathless instrument, which has since become the daystar of hope to
the
oppressed
of all nations, and the patent of nobility to every son and daughter
of America. True it is, that “Peace hath her victories, no less
renowned than war.” The name of those moral heroes are inscribed in
characters of living light upon the scroll of fame, and their brows
are encircled with wreaths of unfading glory, growing brighter with
the lapse of time.
It is a happy provision of Providence, that occasionally our
nation’s birthday comes upon the Sabbath, giving us as it does,
freed from the pomp and circumstance which usually invests the
anniversary, an opportunity of thinking uninterruptedly upon the
great chain of events, which has given to the 4th of July its simple
and majestic grandeur, as the resurrection day of an oppressed
world.
And there should go up tomorrow, from the heart of every true lover
of this country, a prayer of gratitude to that Being, who from the
seed which was sown in tears on the banks of the James and on the
sea-washed rock of Plymouth, has raised a tree whose branches
stretch over half a continent, and whose foliage dips in the waters
of two oceans! Underneath this tree of Liberty we live, and every
lip should say, God be thanked!
May we ever remain as now, united in bonds of the warmest fraternal
affection. May no suicidal hand sunder the tie, which makes us
today. “Distinct like the billows, but one like the sea,” and when,
a century hence, our descendants shall stand where we do now, to
announce the one hundred and seventy-sixth return of this day, may
they look forth on a gorgeous constellation, shining in the
political heavens, undimmed by a single cloud, unbereft of a single
star.
ALTON'S FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION - 1853
Source: Alton Weekly Courier, June 24, 1853
We are pleased to learn that the Hibernian Benevolent Society [an
Irish-Catholic fraternal organization] of Alton have determined to
celebrate the coming National Anniversary in a very appropriate
manner. They intend preparing an immense tent, or covering of
tarpaulins, upon the high bluffs of our city (probably the high
point above the Penitentiary), and will have a fine dinner. Good
speakers have been invited, and Gen. Shields and Hon. D. L. Gregg
are expected to be present. The Hibernian Societies of St. Louis
have been invited, and will be up, and a band of music has been
secured. This is a grand movement, and the Hibernians of our city
will do the affair up right. They by no means intend to confine the
celebration to themselves, but invite the other Benevolent
Societies, and the people generally, to meet with them. We hope the
Altonians will not be backward, but celebrate the Fourth in the
joyous, good old-fashioned way. Let the stores, shops and warehouses
be closed, and all determine to make it a holiday.
ALTON CELEBRATION OF THE FOURTH OF JULY
Source: Alton Weekly Courier, July 12, 1855
The National Anniversary passed of pleasantly and joyfully, and
without an accident of any kind in this city or neighborhood, to
detract from the festivities of the occasion. A more quiet and
orderly holiday we never saw in town, and in whatever direction our
citizens went, all agree in saying that the day was spent
pleasantly, and much more rationally in many cases, than heretofore.
There was little or no drunkenness, no fighting or quarrelling that
we heard of. Our citizens having some sad experience of the use of
cannon by inexperienced persons on like occasions, wisely refrained
from any such dangerous demonstrations, and the money thus
heretofore expended in a few discharges of artillery was spent in a
series of beautiful fireworks in the evenings, delighting the young
and gratifying the old, by the most brilliant display we have
witnessed for many years. Between 8 and 10 o'clock, a large number
of family parties could be seen wending their way to some cool and
shady grove a few miles off, previously selected, with well filled
baskets of "that which nourisheth," and as the day was cool and a
fine breeze sprung up in the morning, it seemed to us that no fitter
celebration could be had, and that there, while the father of the
family recounted to his children the history of the birth of our
nation, the trials and sufferings of our revolutionary fathers, and
contrasted the then problem with the present, the fruition of their
hopes, how the young heart must have swelled with gratitude to God
and fervent prayer ascended for the continuance of this glorious
union. The German Yagers, under the command of that excellent
officer, Capt. G. H. Weigler, had determined on a celebration and
picnic in the beautiful grove north of Cave Spring. They appeared on
Third street about 10 o'clock, in full dress, preceded by their
splendid Brass Band, and made an exceedingly handsome and
soldier-like appearance. During their march through the principal
streets, they performed some very difficult evolutions, showing them
to be in a high state of training, and reflecting great credit on
their officers. Shortly after 11 o'clock the company, preceded by
their pioneers, some thirty or forty German boys carrying flags, and
a large number of our citizens, proceeded to the grove, where they
were addressed by Capt. Weigler in a patriotic speech, and by
several others, after which the company sat down to a splendid
dinner, where speeches, song and sentiment abounded. After the
dinner, the dance commenced and continued with but little
intermission till near midnight, all appearing to enjoy themselves
in the greatest degree, and everywhere good order and peace
predominating. It was expected by many that the Mayflower would be
here and make a pleasure trip to the mouth of the Illinois, but she
did not arrive till 3 o'clock, and did not intend to proceed
further. In the evening there were beautiful and brilliant displays
of fireworks, one from near the residence of A. S. Barry, Esq., on
Semple's Hill, and the other near the residence of J. E. Starr, on
the Middletown Hill. It was intended, we understood, to represent
the bombardment of Sebastopol, and the way the white, red, blue and
green rockets rushed up in the air and across the valley, showed
great energy on the part of the Allies, and a very determined
resistance on the part of the Russians. Rockets were not the only
weapons used by the armies. Every few minutes some "infernal
machine" would be exhibited in a blaze, throwing its projectiles far
into the air, and descending into the valley in beautiful colored
globes of fire, which would be answered from the other hill with
some new and startling device. We ___ ___ ___ near enough to the
scene of conflict to ascertain what hill the Allies were in
possession of and what hill represented Sebastopol, but we judged
the Russians occupied Semple's hill, for the fire appeared to
slacken and grow fitful, while Middletown hill continued in a blaze,
and ever and anon came along the night air the sound as of victory.
We will only add that Pelissier Starr, Raglan Caldwell, and
Canrobert Kellenberger commanded the Allies, while Mentschikoff
Barry, Tombnoffstonekoff Beaumont and Gortschakoff Platt commanded
the Russians!! The trip to Hillsboro was a pleasant one in all
respects, but as our Assistant represented us there, we will let him
speak for himself.
CELEBRATION OF THE FOURTH OF JULY
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, July 6, 1853
The celebration of the Fourth of July by the Alton Hibernian Society
[Irish Catholic organization] was a most extensive affair, very
numerously attended by the citizens of Alton and vicinity, as well
as by a large number of invited guests from our neighboring city of
St. Louis. At an early hour of the morning, the members of the
Society, a fine-looking body of men, in uniforms and decked out with
banners, flags, and regalia, formed in procession on Piasa Street,
in front of their Hall, and preceded by the “Brooklyn Band,” marched
through the principal streets of the city, halting at last at the
foot of State Street, where standing in column they awaited the
arrival of their St. Louis guests.
About half pas ten o’clock, the peerless Altona hove in sight,
literally crowded with human beings, and effected her landing amidst
loud and protracted hurrahs, and the firing of cannon. Several bands
on board and on shire, meanwhile, enlivening the scene with their
music. The two Hibernian Societies of St. Louis were thence escorted
up State and down Third Street, to the Catholic Church, where a
beautiful address was delivered by Rev. Mr. Ryan of St. Louis.
Afterwards, the procession was again formed, and moved to the
delightful grove on the bluffs, west of State Street, where the
company sat down to a sumptuous repast. Upon the removal of the
cloth, the following regular toasts were read by Henry S. Baker,
Esq.
1. The day we celebrate – the birthday of the Republic.
2. The memory of George Washington (drank in silence).
3. The heroes of the Revolution.
4. The President of the United States.
6. The adopted citizens of the United States.
7. Our distinguished Senator, General Shields, a shining example of
what an adopted citizen can and will do on the battlefield, and in
the Senate, in defense of the house of his adopted country.
8. The great Prairie State – she is destined to be the Empire State
of the Confederacy.
9. The city of St. Louis and the Hibernians of St. Louis.
10. The city of Alton.
The Rev. Michael Carroll was then complimented in a neat speech by
Mr. Lindsay of St. Louis, and he replied to the compliment in his
most happy, benevolent and appropriate way.
A number of volunteer toasts were also proposed and responded to.
By John Moulady – the Catholic Church, with her doors ever open and
lamps never dying.
By a guest – The Hiberian Benevolent Society – May its benevolence
ever prove, as it has done, a bridge across the Atlantic, over which
the best of Ireland may cross to breathe the air of the free
institutions of America.
THE FOURTH OF JULY AT UPPER ALTON
Source: Alton Weekly Courier, July 9, 1857
The "glorious fourth" was appropriately celebrated by the Sabbath
Schools and friends of Temperance, in the beautiful grove near
Shurtleff College. At 9 a.m. a procession was formed of some three
hundred Sabbath School children and teachers, and proceeded to the
grove. The services were opened by singing the National Ode by the
children, followed by prayer by Rev. W. Barnes. The Declaration of
Independence was read by President Read. The Rev. W. H. Woodward of
St. Louis followed in a chaste and beautiful address in response to
the following sentiment. "The Youth of our Country, the patriot's
hope, the patriot's pride. Upon their proper moral and religious
training depend the future glory and welfare of our beloved
country." We have never listened to an address more happily adapted
to the occasion and the audience. President Read then delivered an
impressive address directed more particularly to the Sabbath
Schools, and in his happiest style. The audience then adjourned for
dinner, bounteously provided by the Ladies of Upper Alton. After
dinner, Judge Thompson of Indiana, and Mr. Woodward, spoke briefly
and pointedly on the subject of temperance. It was a subject of
common remarks that the singing by the children under the direction
of Prof. Castle had never been equaled on a similar occasion. The
good order manifested by the large audience present was also a
subject of gratifying remark. Taking it as a whole, it was a
delightful convocation, nothing having occurred to mar the harmony
and innocent hilarity, which seemed to animate every heart.
CELEBRATING INDEPENDENCE DAY
Source: Alton Weekly Courier, July 9, 1857
Although there was no concert of action or organized preparation
among our citizens for the festivities that are always expected to
occur on each return of the anniversary of our nation's natal day,
and consequently no noisy or showy demonstration in the way of a
celebration, we believe the day was very generally honored and
observed in a proper and becoming manner. Our citizens generally
seemed animated by a commendable feeling of patriotic gratitude,
which prompted them to do all possible honor to the memory of the
times to which, and the men to whom, we owe the civil and religious
liberties and the high degree of prosperity which we now enjoy.
Nearly all the business houses of the city were closed for the day,
and all our citizens abandoned themselves to some kind of recreation
or enjoyment.
Although, as we said before, there was no large central celebration,
the different organizations and societies of the city, together with
private parties, turned out in different directions and for
different exercises, but all for the purpose of celebrating and
enjoying "the Fourth." Every possible facility of transit was
afforded these parties by our railroads and packet line. Capt. Brown
kept his two fine steamers, "Reindeer" and "Baltimore," busily
plying between here and St. Louis all day - touching at the picnic
grounds at the mouth of Wood River, both going and coming. These
steamers were handsomely and gaily decorated with flags and
streamers and green boughs of trees, and on board of each was a fine
band of music with every appliance for making the excursion
pleasant. The railroad trains also were very prettily decorated with
flags and green boughs.
The day was mild and pleasant. A cloudless sky greeted the rays of
the morning sun, and for awhile we feared it would be disagreeably
warm towards noon; but during the most of the day after ten o'clock,
the clouds afforded an almost perfect protection from the rays of
the sun. The juveniles were out in full force, of course. Whoever
knew them to be absent when "the Fourth of July" came round, or to
be deficient in patriotism of their peculiar kind. Armed with
magazines of firecrackers and hand rockets, they could be seen in
swarms on every corner, whence they disseminated their artillery in
such a manner as to frighten the greatest possible number of horses
to the imminent risk of the necks and limbs of their riders and
drivers.
At an early hour we heard the inspiring notes of the martial fife
and drum just below our office, and on looking out we saw the "Alton
National Guards," fully uniformed and equipped, marching up State
street. With the name or sight of the National Guards at once arises
the good looking image of Capt. W. H. Turner, for he had much to do
with their organization and early history, and to him the company is
indebted for that course of systematic training which has won for it
the well-merited reputation of being one of the best drilled and
finest looking companies in Southern Illinois; but when we looked
for him at the head of the company, we discovered he was not there.
It will be remembered that he resigned his office of Captain just
one year ago, and having been re-elected only last week, his new
uniform is not yet ready, and he could not take his station. The
company was under command of Lieutenants Platt and Souther, who
seemed to thoroughly understand what they were about. The arms and
accoutrements of the company were in fine order, and as they paraded
through the streets preceded by a fine band of music, we thought
they looked very much like soldiers.
The Alton Jargurs - This well-drilled German Military Company, with
their usual promptness to acknowledge the importance of the
anniversary of the independence of the country they have adopted for
their own, appeared upon the street in front of their armory, at an
early hour, arrayed in their tasteful uniforms, ready for a day of
pleasure. At the word of command from Capt. Weigler, they moved up
Second street to State, up State to Third, where they were reviewed
by Maj. Stringrant, an officer in the late war with Mexico. Their
evolutions were accomplished with a rapidity, precision and grace,
which did them credit as a company, and must have been highly
gratifying to their officers as it was to the spectators who
thronged around them on both sides of the street. After their
review, at the "forward" from their Captain, they moved off to the
lively notes of their excellent band down Third street to Piasa,
down Piasa to Water, and down Water to Hunterstown. Returning, they
came up Second street to Piasa, up Piasa to Third, up Third to
Belle, and up Belle to the beautiful Grove above the cave spring,
where they were joined by a large number of their fellow citizens.
After the company had stacked their arms, and spent a short time in
social intercourse with their friends, the assembly was called to
order, and listened to appropriate speeches from several gentlemen
who were called out. With the usual profusion which is so
characteristic of the Germans in their festivities, a sumptuous
dinner was spread, to which, after the speaking, all who chose sat
down, and while listening to the rich tones of the band music as it
swept up amid the trees and was wafted over their waving tops upon
the wings of the gentle breeze that dallied sportively with their
pendant boughs, engaged themselves, for something fore than an hour,
in the very pleasant occupations of gratifying the cravings of the
physical man by consuming the varieties of good things on the
hospitable board, singing and entering generally into social
enjoyments with a merriment and zest that could only be born of
hearts and minds for the time being free from the cares and
vexations of business. After the repast, a large number of gentlemen
and ladies, engaged in dancing and various other social pastimes
upon the grace sward during the remainder of the afternoon and
evening until about 11 o'clock at night, when all retired to their
homes much pleased with those enjoyments in which they had taken so
much delight. Altogether, the day, as spent by the members of the
company and their numerous friends who were present, was one of the
pleasantest. Not a single occurrence transpired to mar the harmony
and good feeling that existed throughout the whole extent of the
merry re-union.
The Sucker Fire Company - At 1 1/2 o'clock p.m., this large and well
organized company, under command of Capt. J. P. Ash, and accompanied
by Murray's excellent brass band, proceeded from their engine house
with their machine, which was handsomely decorated with flowers and
evergreens, and paraded in their beautiful uniforms through Third,
up State street, to a picnic, where they were entertained for
something near an hour, after which they again returned along State
street to Third, from Third to Belle, up Belle to Ninth and up Ninth
to the Office of the Illinois Mutual Insurance Company, where they
were received by the Messrs. Atwood, who politely escorted them
through the different departments of the Insurance building, and
afterward to the private residence of Mr. M. G. Atwood, where they
were seated at a board laden with the choicest delicacies and viands
of the season, in rich profession, of which they partook freely,
frequently toasting their hospitable entertainers, who it appeared
were for the time being, endowed with ubiquity, being at each
member's elbow at the same time urging them to partake of some one
of the yet untasted fruits or delicacies, until their capacity
proving unequal to the occasion, they were compelled to leave the
bounteously laden board, not more than half lightened of its load,
and returning their thanks to their hospitable entertainers, in
three rousing cheers, started for their homes, proceeding down
Henry, up Second, and through Piasa and Third streets to their
engine house. The day was one long to be remembered by the Sucker
boys. Many a bright smile was bestowed upon them, and many a wreath
and garland was thrown into their ranks and upon their tastefully
decorated engine, from the bevys of ladies who came out to look at
their handsome faces, and well-knit limbs and manly forms, so well
displayed by their beautiful uniforms, as they passed along the
streets. At a meeting of the Sucker company, held yesterday evening,
the following short but expressive resolution was unanimously
adopted with vociferous cheers: Resolved, That we return to Messrs.
M. G. & J. Atwood, who extended to us such munificent hospitality on
the Fourth, our sincere and heartfelt thanks.
The School Convention - The convention of the public schools of the
city at 3 o'clock in the afternoon in the grove between Twelfth and
Thirteenth, and Langdon and Henry streets, we may say was well
attended when we consider the many adverse circumstances under which
it was held. Some three or four hundred people in all, assembled,
consisting of delegations from the several schools and the prominent
friends of education in the city, including the entire visiting
board, the chairman and the members of the executive board from the
Fourth Ward, and a majority of the teachers in the public schools.
The medals for proficiency and punctuality were conferred by the
chairman of the visiting board upon the pupils who had been
designated by the teachers of the several schools as entitled to
them, except in a few cases, and those were confined to one school,
where the absence of the pupils designated prevented. The medals
were silver, of half dollar size, very neatly executed and
appropriately inscribed. These medals were the gift of the City, by
vote of the City Council. Fifteen of the eighteen pupils designated
were present, and their looks of timid, grateful joy as they
received the "awards of merit," evinced the interest which the
pupils of the public schools feel in the notice which the City
Council have been pleased to extend to them. An elegant green satin
banner, the gift of the worthy Chairman of the Executive or Council
Board, Mr. Scarritt, was presented to the intermediate department of
School No. 3, taught by Miss Richmond, it having, in the judgment of
the Visiting Board, furnished the best evidence of punctuality
during the last six months. On one side of this Banner was inscribed
in golden letter, "Punctuality Wins the Prize," and on the reverse,
"Alton City School." We learn that this banner will be left in the
possession of the School for six months, at the expiration of which
time it will be again awarded to such school as shall merit it for
the same reason. The Declaration of Independence was read in a very
spirited and creditable manner by Masters James McMasters and David
Stanton, pupils in the public schools. "The Flag of our Union" was
well recited by Master William Catts. Several volunteer addresses
were made by intelligent gentlemen present. The Sucker Fire Company,
coming up during the exercises, halted while the medals were being
conferred, and their band discoursed very excellent music, adding
very much to the pleasure of the company. To those who did not know
the adverse circumstances attending this convention, it would appear
to be a failure. Had one-half the pupils of the public schools been
in attendance, they would have been equal in numbers to the entire
concourse there present. A serious mistake was made in the
appointment. While a laudable interest is manifested by our citizens
in the public schools, it would be unreasonable to suppose that the
boys and girls who attend them would leave the festivities and
numerous amusements and attractions of the great national holiday to
attend a gathering that would be equally appropriate on any other
day of the year, and was in its nature akin to and connected with
their everyday avocations. Again, it was very unfortunate that the
place appointed for the gathering by public notice in all the
schools was changed, and the notice of the change was insufficient.
It appears to us that change should have been announced from the
several pulpits of the city. Again, the time was in the midst of the
vacation, when a great proportion of the teachers were absent.
Again, there was no programme of exercises, and everything was
necessarily impromptu. Extemporaneous speeches on such occasions we
prefer, but various other arrangements were necessary which could
not well be made without conference between the teachers and the
committee. Contrast this demonstration with the Wood River "picnic,"
and the advantages of previous systematic arrangements will be
clearly seen. There, while the mayor presided, the earnest
cooperation of all the teachers was solicited and secured. It
appears to us that this convention need not have been a failure had
it been held on the last day of the term, and had a little more
forethought been given to the programme. The chairman of the council
board had made the arrangements devolving upon him and so performed
his part as to reflect credit upon his reputed good judgment. We
think that if a similar demonstration should be made next year, and
a proper time is fixed, and judicious arrangements are made, a
demonstration may be made that will call out the schools in their
full strength and will awaken a deep interest in the minds of the
friends of the public schools.
The [Alton Weekly] Courier Picnic - Closely confined within brick
walls day and night, six days out of every week, the member of our
establishment determined that for one day at least they would escape
from the heat and dust and noise and confined atmosphere of the
city, and have a ramble in the woods, roll upon the grass and fill
their lungs with the fresh pure air of heaven. Actuated by a common
motive, they made common cause of the enterprise and united together
from every department - old and young, great and small - in getting
up a Pic Nic Party for the mouth of Wood River. Provided with
everything necessary to secure the comfort and contribute to the
amusement of all concerned, and accompanied by their families and a
number of invited guests, our party, to the number of about one
hundred, took passage on the Reindeer [steamer], and in a few
minutes we were all safely landed at the beautiful grove selected as
the scene of our recreation. The National Guards, together with a
large number of other citizens, accompanied us to the ground, and
spent an hour or so in rambling over the fresh green award,
returning on the next boat, which brought a crowd of pleasure
seekers from St. Louis. Being provided with the necessary material,
we erected a table upon which the ladies of our party very soon
arranged the substantials and delicacies of our feast, while some of
the young men busied themselves in icing sundry pitchers of
Mississippi water and manufacturing a barrel of lemonade. Everything
being in readiness, we charged upon the edibles in solid phalanx,
and the entire squadron of roast chicken, boiled ham and tongue,
cakes, pies, pickles, nuts, candies, confectionaries, ice cream, &c,
&c. suffered a worse than Waterloo defeat; the destruction was
awful. The dinner was finally disposed of, and each one was
compelled to reluctantly acknowledge that he was physically
incapable of eating anymore; the gentlemen each smoked a cigar while
the ladies finished sipping their ice cream, after which everybody
"went in" for a general "free frolic." Several swings had been
erected, in which the ladies by turns indulged in airy flights
towards the tops of the trees. Sentimental young couples promenaded
around just far enough off to be out of hearing, while the more
lively ones ran foot-races in every direction, or rolled and tumbled
on the soft green grass. Shouts of laughter, with every other
possible demonstration of merriment and hilarity, resounded on all
sides. So passed the whole afternoon. About five o'clock, just as
the Reindeer, which was expected to call for us, hove in sight, a
smart shower of rain came up - just enough to drive the ladies under
the trees like a flock of frightened partridges, but not enough to
do any harm. By the time the boat reached the landing, the shower
ceased, we all got safe on board, and in a very short time reached
our levee and our homes, a great deal more than satisfied with our
day's festivities.
The Moonlight Excursion and Ball - In the evening, the Reindeer made
a moonlight excursion up the river, leaving our levee a little after
eight o'clock, with a party of some forty or fifty couples on board.
The evening was cool and pleasant, the moon shone brightly, and
everything conspired to render the excursion as pleasant as it could
possibly be. Scarce had the boat left the wharf ere the music struck
up, the dancing commenced and was continued with great animation
until she returned to our levee a few minutes before twelve.
Altogether, this Fourth passed off very much to the satisfaction of
all our citizens, so far as we could ascertain, and we think nearly
all will remember it with feelings of unalloyed pleasure.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 4, 1862
To the ladies of Alton – In order to complete the arrangements of
the committee for a general, successful and pleasant celebration of
our National Anniversary, we have been resigned the pleasant duty of
appealing to the ladies of Alton for a general supply of suitable
articles for a “basket picnic,” knowing how cheerfully they always
respond to such calls. Sandwich or biscuit or bread, cake, jumbler,
cookies, ginger snaps, fried cakes, &c. are the articles desired.
You will please send your baskets, plainly marked, either to the
grove or city hall, or to Hermann Roesch’s Drugstore, corner of
Henry and Second Streets [Broadway], on Friday morning, July 4th,
promptly at eight o’clock. The quantity may be limited only by your
convenience, as we desire to accumulate an abundant supply for all.
Will you also oblige us by soliciting the cooperation of your
neighbors. The ladies on State Street and in Sempletown can leave
their baskets and contributions at the store of Mr. C. Kuhn, next
door to the residence of Mr. Platt.
Respectfully your obedient servants, John L. Blair, Charles W.
Dimmock, and William B. Gilbert, Committee
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 11, 1862
For a number of years, for some reason, our citizens have had no
general celebration on the Fourth of July. Why this was the case we
shall not attempt to state. Yesterday we had a general celebration
which was participated in by a great majority of our citizens. About
sunrise, a salute of thirty-four guns was fired, awaking many from
sound slumbers, to view the bright sunshine of the eighty-sixth
anniversary of our national birthday.
The steamer, Runyan, clean and neat as a pin, with flags and
streamers flying, about nine pushed out from the levee for Portage,
with the excursion for the benefit of the Ursuline Convent, crowded
with both ladies and gentlemen, having with them all the necessary
items to make themselves comfortable, and insure a pleasant and
profitable trip.
The bells of the churches were rung some fifteen minutes, which
added much to the excitement in the city. The streets were crowded
with people, wagons, horses, &c., long before the hour appointed for
the procession to move, and many grew very impatient of the delay,
much of which was absolutely necessary, owing to the numberless
items of arrangement, which the managers had to attend to, and of
which the people and citizens generally are ignorant on such
occasions.
The procession was at length forced in the following order, as per
programme:
Martial Band
13th Regiment U. S. Infantry
Base and Tenor Drum
Lafayette Hook and Ladder Company
Washington Engine Company
Jerseyville Band
Carriage containing the Orator and others
Masons
Car containing 13 little girls
Odd Fellows
Car containing 34 young Misses
Citizens in carriages
Citizens on horseback
Citizens on foot
The military under command of Captain Washington made a very fine
appearance, being handsomely equipped. Brightly burnished muskets
and glittering bayonets in the hands of well-dressed and soldierly
men, always proved an attractive feature, and on this occasion, was
no exception to the general rule. We cannot but congratulate the
officers of this excellent regiment upon the state of discipline,
and the perfection of drill, to which they have brought the soldiers
under their _______. [unreadable]
The car containing thirteen little girls, representative of the
original thirteen colonies, was superior, led by Miss Ellen Foote;
and to her patience and care, as well as excellent taste added to
the success. Having several patriotic songs to sing, during the
exercises at the grove, the greater part of a week past was spent in
rehearsing and practicing the several pieces.
The car containing the goddess of Liberty, Miss Emma Webb, and
thirty-four young misses, representing the thirty-four States of the
Union, was superintended by M. J. Lee, Esq., in a highly creditable
manner, and was a very attractive feature of the procession. In
fact, the two cars were, aside from the military, the attractive
feature of the day.
We were sorry to see our Fire Department make such a poor display.
The Lafayette Hook and Ladder Company, and the Washington Engine
Company, being the only ones in the procession. The appearance of
the Lafayette was fine, being gaily trimmed with flags, etc. The
hose carriage of the Washington Company was also very neat and
pretty, trimmed with ribbons, flowers, etc.
The Jerseyville band added greatly to the pleasure and enjoyment of
the day, and the members are good musicians.
The Masons and Odd Fellows turned out quite strong, and made an
imposing appearance, dressed in the appropriate regalia of those
orders. The citizens in carriages comprised a large portion of the
procession, but the intense heat, the dust, and the long walk,
compelled most of those on foot to leave the procession and take the
shortcuts and by-ways; and the road was absolutely lined with people
from the country, people from the city, and people from St. Louis
and other places. From every direction came a perfect stream of
human beings.
On reading the grove, the programme was held. The Declaration of
Independence was read by Levi
Davis, Esq., in a clear, firm voice, and that glorious old document
seemed to contain many sentiments and truths, that forced themselves
with new favor upon the heart of every true American. The old fire
still lives in that Declaration, and the circumstances in which our
country is placed only stirs up the latent patriotism that has been
slumbering in the hearts of our people.
The oration by Rev. C. H. Taylor was a masterly effort, and was
received with shouts of applause and approval. As it is probable it
will be published, we will not attempt to make an extended notice of
it at this time.
The basket lunch was well conducted by the committee, and there were
but very few, if any, who went away empty. Baskets of bread,
sandwiches, cakes, pies, crackers, cheese, herring, ham, etc., were
ranged within ropes stretched to include a large space, and they
were passed to the immense crowd in attendance by the committee on
dinner, and each and all partook with a hearty good will. Great
credit is due to the managers of this portion of the exercises, for
the able and satisfactory manner in which their arduous duties were
performed.
The afternoon was spent in sauntering over the hills, loitering in
shady nooks, singing, etc., all making merry and enjoying themselves
as best suited each. At night, an immense crowd was in attendance on
“Church Hill,” to witness the fireworks. The first and largest,
unfortunately, caught fire and was consumed before it reached any
considerable height, but the ____, and all the rest, some four or
five, ascended beautifully. We do not think the committee could have
found a more central location, or better place for the display than
that selected.
The celebration was a perfect success in all its parts, and the
numerous crowd in attendance evinced, by their hearty applause, the
patriotic feeling which animates the breasts of the true men and
women of the North.
The stores, generally, were closed, as were the manufactories, and
the day passed off without any accident worthy of note, and there
was no disturbance of any kind during the day or evening. May we
have many returns of the glorious Fourth, and may we never see
another pass by without a proper celebration of the day by our
citizens. Some of our benevolent ladies, instead of participating in
the general celebration of the Fourth, remained at home and
furnished a dinner for the sick soldiers in the hospital. We
understand that everything was provided that the market afforded,
and that the ladies themselves waited upon the soldiers, and
administered the good things with their own hands. Such conduct as
these ladies displayed cannot be too highly commended, and will
never be forgotten by the poor sick who were so remembered in their
affliction.
There was a very pleasant picnic at the “old stone spring” [Rock
Spring Park] between Middletown and Upper Alton yesterday. There can
be found no more pleasant place in our vicinity, and we are informed
that the day was spent most pleasantly and delightfully in dancing,
strolling, singing, and other pastimes, by those so fortunate as to
be in attendance.
INDEPENDENCE DAY - 1865
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 07, 1865
In 1776, our people were thoroughly permeated with the great idea of
the right of all men to freedom and political equality – hence they
were perfectly united, and although they were weak, yet this unity
of purpose and of feeling, and the soul-inspiring influence of this
one grand and ennobling idea, rendered them strong and perfectly
invincible. But soon after that date, corruption and avarice began
to make inroads upon the purity of the people’s political opinions,
and very soon there were two classes in our country – one of which
would have resolved “that all men are created unequal and endowed by
their Creator with various and different rights according to their
color, among which are the right of the whites to own the blacks,
and the right of the blacks to have no rights which the white man is
bound to respect.” While there was still a few who manfully and
boldly contended that “all men are born free and equal,” and
although persecuted and denounced, still they adhered to this
fundamental truth upon which our government is based.
But now that our people have just received another baptism of blood
in the defense of these God-given rights, let the noble doctrine be
everywhere boldly proclaimed. Let every speaker “cry aloud and spare
not.” Every man who does not come up cheerfully and endorse in all
its length and breadth, and accept to the fullest extent, all the
results growing out of the principles of the Declaration of
Independence, is an enemy to the country, and all attempts to
harmonize our views with such persons is wrong and dangerous in the
extreme. What is wanted now, and the only thing which will give
permanent place, is to thoroughly indoctrinate the masses with the
principles of our Government, and avoid all attempts to amalgamate
truth and error.
When the American people are brought to thoroughly embrace and
heartily to cherish the principles of universal freedom, and so to
conquer their prejudices as to give the widest scope to the
principles of the Declaration of Independence to all classes of our
population, then there will be no necessity of saying one word about
peace and harmony, as those who think and feel alike will just as
naturally unite and mingle together as water incline to run
downhill.
Let us then everywhere hear on the coming Fourth, the clear and
ringing tones of the gospel of Liberty. The truths of the
Declaration of Independence are as vital and real now as they were
when first uttered. We have employed their vital force to overthrow
the system of slavery … [unreadable] … free institutions. And now,
that while much has been done towards bringing our Government back
to the principles of 1776, and while we are honestly and
patriotically proud of what has been accomplished, let us remember
that there is still more to be done. We should see to it, that
wherever intelligence and taxation is found, there the free ballot
should be granted. “Taxation and representation are inseparable.”
“All men are created equal.” These two truths should hereafter ever
be our watch-words.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATED IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 10, 1868
This anniversary was more generally observed on Saturday in Alton
than on any previous year. Everyone was decidedly patriotic in a
quiet way, and celebrated the day according to his own sweet will.
All business was suspended, with the exception of those
establishments where ice cream, soda water, and like cooling elixirs
were dispensed. The picnics and excursions were numerous, and as far
as we have been able to ascertain, all passed off pleasantly,
despite the excessive heat.
In the morning, a procession made up of deputations from Masonic
Societies, German Sharpshooters, members of the Grand Army of the
Republic, Hibernian Society, and others, paraded through the streets
accompanied by several bands of music, and displaying flags and
banners. The processions made a fine appearance, and considering
that it was almost impromptu, was extremely creditable. After
marching through the principal streets, the different societies
separated and repaired to their several picnic grounds.
The excursions on the Bell of Alton were well conducted by the
veteran officers of the boat, and were extremely pleasant in all
respects.
Middleton’s grove and vicinity were the scene of several picnics.
Among others the Grand Army of the Republic gathered there, and were
ably and eloquently addressed by Prof. Mitchell. The Declaration was
read by Rev. Dr. Wood of Upper Alton.
Two picnics of colored persons were also held at Rock Spring, which
were likewise addressed by Prof. Mitchell and Dr. Wood.
The young people’s picnic near Clifton was decidedly enjoyable, and
the end is probably not yet.
During the day, the usual amount of powder was burned by Young
America, and at night the display of pyrotechnics was very fine. The
display made by the good people of State Street was peculiarly
brilliant, and afforded a splendid exhibition for all. The day was
especially free from disturbances and rowdyisms. The utmost good
feeling and good order prevailed all over the city. The Germans were
especially noticeable for their patriotic demonstrations, and for
the tasteful decoration of many houses in Hunterstown.
MR. JONES’ FOURTH OF JULY EXPERIENCE
A Humorous Account of the Day
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 10, 1868
Our friend, Jones, celebrated the Fourth and was so thoughtful as to
keep a minute account of events as they occurred on that eventful
day. His diary has come into our possession, and we make the
following verbatim extract:
“I usually arise at five o’clock, but on this occasion demonstrated
my independence by sleeping till nine; rose much refreshed; found
the weather warm – recalled my engagement to take Araminta to the
picnic, and also that we were to start early. Sallied out to make
preparations, and found that all the teams at the livery stables had
been engaged six months beforehand.
Finally
succeeded in hiring a dog cart and a mule, loaded the cart with
seventeen bottles of refreshment, one hundred pounds of ice, and a
thermometer. Weather growing warmer; thermometer stood at 92 degrees
on the shady side of the ice. Drank a bottle of refreshment and
started round for Araminta – time, eleven o’clock. Found that the
dear girl had been dressed and waiting since three o’clock a.m.; was
sorry she did not like the style of the equipage – some folks are
hard to suit. There was no seat in the dog cart – we sat on the ice
– the mule was contrary and wouldn’t start. Lit a fire under him to
counteract the sun’s rays – experiment a success. The weather grew
warmer – fortified myself with another bottle of refreshment.
Thermometer 102 degrees. Araminta began to look cozy. Found the road
a little dusty. In fact, we couldn’t detect the road at all. Feared
the mule would miss the route, and got out to lead him, whereupon
he, thinking a change of occupation was to be inaugurated, tried to
get into the cart. Got his hind leg in and smashed six bottles of
refreshment. Fearing a repetition of the calamity, drank the
remaining bottles. Proceeded on our way. Thermometer 112 degrees.
Came to a grocery, stopped to have the empty bottles filled. Mule
started off on a run. I followed, carrying the bottles. Araminta
screamed, but held on. Mule ran a mile and a half, and stopped. When
I caught up, found the weather still hotter – thermometer 120
degrees. Araminta was seated on the bottom of the cart – the ice had
melted. Reorganized the expedition and proceeded.
At noon, sun very hot. Araminta’s parasol took fire and burned.
After that, she found the trip unpleasant, but made no complaint. At
half past twelve, the mule fainted. Thermometer 135 degrees. We were
then two miles from the picnic grounds, concluded to walk the rest
of the way. Dust knee deep. Heat increasing. At one o’clock, the
thermometer burst. Concluded we should have to take the weather as
it came. The new bottles of refreshment were heavy. Stopped under a
tree and drank them. Araminta belonged to the Good Templars, so I
only allowed her to smell the corks. I beguiled the tedium of the
way by singing “From Greenland’s Ice Mountains.” At half past two,
we arrived at the picnic grounds. Found them located at the bottom
of a lovely hollow, 700 yards deep. I felt a little dizzy, and
Araminta helped me down. About a million couples were there. They
looked warm. There wasn’t much breeze. Drove the mosquitoes out from
under a tree and ….. (here the manuscript became illegible. We fear
Mr. Jones was drunk).
P. S. Sunday morning, woke up with a headache. Thompson tells me I
was sun struck at a picnic, and was carried home on a shutter. Think
he must be mistaken. Shall ask Araminta.”
CELEBRATING THE FOURTH OF JULY – UPPER ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 12, 1872
The glorious Fourth was celebrated in this place in about the usual
manner. At an early hour, baseball lovers were attracted by the
match game between the Magnolia and Atlantic Clubs. Having noticed a
previous account in your paper, we forbear particulars.
In the afternoon, the beautiful grounds of Dr. James were thronged
with the sage and gay of the town, who had assembled for the purpose
of having a good time generally. Some were engaged in many sports,
such as croquet, tenpins, &c., while others were preparing a rich
feast, of which all partook about 6 p.m. in regular picnic fashion.
During the evening, there was a splendid display of fireworks, and
some patriotic music, which greatly enlivened the occasion, was
furnished by the college string band. All went away satisfied that
they had enjoyed themselves “hugely.”
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 11, 1873
The 97th anniversary of our national independence was more
celebrated in Alton than ever before in our remembrance. Business
was entirely suspended, and the whole population gave themselves up
to a fitting observance of the holiday. There were picnics and
parties almost without number. The streets were nearly deserted, the
people being engaged in celebrating in the woods, on the river, or
at their homes. Captain Bruner brought up a cannon from St. Louis on
the City of Alton (steamboat), and in the morning a national salute
was fired on the wharf. There was a liberal display of bunting on
the streets, and of course, the hills and hollows were resonant with
the discharge of firearms, firecrackers, torpedoes, etc. – the most
delightful music in the world to the ears of Young America, but
decidedly the opposite of musical to those of larger growth. The
universal good order and quietness which prevailed were matters of
congratulation. WE have yet to hear of a single disturbance of or
any accident in the city.
About eight o’clock in the morning, the Hibernian Society and the
Catholic Temperance Societies paraded through the streets with
banners flying. They made a splendid appearance in their tasteful
uniforms. At the close of the parade, they embarked on the ferry,
and proceeded to the picnic grounds over the river, where they
enjoyed themselves during the day. The ferry also conveyed several
other picnic parties to Hop Hollow and other favorite resorts.
Picnic parties were also held at Middleton’s Grove, Rock Spring,
Washington Gardens, and at the college grounds [Shurtleff College]
in Upper Alton, while family picnics and gatherings on private
grounds were numerous. The railroads carried passengers at excursion
rates, and many availed themselves of the trains to spend a day in
the country.
The most notable celebration of the day, however, was the grand
excursion on the celebrated steamer City of Alton, which had been
chartered for the day by Captain Bruner. His arrangements for the
comfort and pleasure of the excursionists were complete, while his
genial attentions and courteous treatment of his passengers will be
long remembered by all who participated. The Bluff City Band
furnished the martial and patriotic music, while a string band from
St. Louis entertained the dancers in the spacious cabin with dulcet
strains. There was a large crowd onboard, and all enjoyed the
delightful trip up the river, and the magnificent scenery along the
castellated bluffs. The boat stopped at Portage Des Sioux, Grafton,
and other points, returning to the city about six o’clock, and
leaving soon after for St. Louis with a still larger crowd of
excursionists onboard.
In the afternoon and evening, the German Turnverein had a pleasant
celebration at their grounds and hall, where music, speeches, and
dancing were the order of proceedings.
In Middletown, the great event of the anniversary was the grand
moonlight picnic, given by the ladies, in the beautiful grove on the
premises of Captain N. J. Eaton and Mr. Charles Phinney. The grounds
were illuminated with numerous colored transparencies, and presented
a most picturesque and beautiful appearance, worthy of a scene from
fairy land. The party was attended by the beauty, fashion, and
gallantry of the city, together with many from St. Louis and
elsewhere – one of the largest gatherings of the kind ever seen in
Alton. The dancing and other festivities proceeded merrily until
about half-past nine, when a heavy gale of wind came up, accompanied
by rain, and put a damper upon further outdoor enjoyment. A large
portion of the guests, however, adjourned to Captain Eaton’s
parlors, and continued the dancing for the remainder of the evening.
The celebration of the anniversary was as pleasant as it was
universal. The weather in the morning was delightful, but in the
afternoon and evening very sultry. All are, doubtless, the better
off for the recreation afforded by the day, and the patriotic
memories its celebration revived.
FOURTH OF JULY IN ALTON – 1874
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 9, 1874
That the Fourth of July is the hottest day of the year, no one,
after the experience of last Saturday, will feel inclined to
question. All day the sun poured down its fiercest rays in blinding
splendor. Not a cloud flecked the sky from sunrise to sunset. All
day the mercury reveled among the nineties, and about 3 o’clock,
touched 100 degrees in the shade. All day crowds of perspiring
patriots perambulated the streets or flocked around soda stands,
mopping their faces with their handkerchiefs and deluding themselves
with the impression that they were having a “gay old time.” All day
long, Young America kept up a continuous fusillade of crackers,
torpedoes, and other diabolical invention of the heathen Chinese. In
fact, they commenced the night before, in order to get a good start,
and never ceased their efforts until their supply of nickels gave
out.
The first thing on the program was the parade of the Turners, who
marched from their hall with music and banners at 5 a.m., and
paraded through the principal streets. As our reporter never sits up
till that time of night, he didn’t see this demonstration, but
understood that it was very creditable.
At about nine o’clock, the Hibernian Society and the Catholic
Temperance societies marched from their hall on Third Stree to
Biggins Grove, where they celebrated in the usual manner. They made
a splendid appearance on the march in their rich uniforms, while the
green and gold banners displayed made a fine contrast with the red,
white, and blue. The music by their bands was excellent.
The Turners and their friends repaired to Middleton’s Grove in the
morning, and enjoyed a gala day in that delightful resort. They had
a large attendance and a patriotic time. The Alton Silver Cornet
Band furnished the music.
The colored citizens celebrated by a brief excursion on the ferry
and a picnic over the river, where they were just as hot and happy
as if their spirits had been effervescing under the equator in the
torrid land of their forefathers.
About eight o’clock, the Spread Eagle left for St. Louis with an
immense crowd onboard, to take part in the demonstration in that
city. The Bluff City Band accompanied the excursion. The Rob Roy had
previously passed down with a crowd of 1,500 from points upriver.
The railroads offered excursion rates from everywhere to everywhere,
and almost everyone went somewhere. Some twenty or thirty coaches
passed through here in the morning on the Chicago & Alton Railroad
for St. Louis, all crowded with passengers, and many here joined the
throng.
In the afternoon, the Spread Eagle returned from St. Louis, and
departed again at 5 o’clock with another immense crowd to see the
fireworks on the great bridge. The Alice left at the same hour, with
the Upper Altonians, and the Andy Johnson at six o’clock with the
guests of the Social Club. Some twelve hundred persons in all went
down on three steamers, besides a large number by the evening
trains. The Andy Johnson returned at 1:15 a.m.; the Alice about
three; and the Spread Eagle and Savanna, lashed together, about
3:30. Captain Bruner had such an immense crowd of returning
excursionists that he had to engage the Savanna’s assistance.
Sunday morning dawned on a city full of played-out patriots, who
spent the day in recuperating, the majority postponing going to
church until next Sunday. The pyrotechnical display in several parts
of the city in the evening was excellent, more creditable, in fact,
than usual.
OBSERVANCE OF THE FOURTH OF JULY
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 12, 1877
The day was ushered in appropriately with the performance by the
Bluff City Band on the packet Spread Eagle. At 7:30, the boat, with
a large crowd of amusement seekers onboard, started for St. Louis.
Stoppages were made on the way at Madison and “Tight Man’s” landing.
At the latter place, T. M., who was very unruly, was disembarked
much against his will by some of the officers of the boat, but on
promising to behave, was permitted to return. At St. Louis, a very
large excursion party came onboard. About 9:45, the packet left for
Portage, and after a touch at the Alton levee, made the place of
destination in quick time. A large portion of the crowd landed at
Portage to attend the barbecue and dance at that place, while
another large party went with the boat about two miles above, where
a fine platform was erected on a “high water” island, and where the
greater part of the afternoon was spent in an enjoyable dance to
music furnished by the Metropolitan String Band. Before the dance,
however, about one hundred persons partook of a splendid dinner on
the boat, arranged in the best style by Mr. Henry Lyda, Steward, who
although not expecting such a large company, was equal to the
emergency. The music at the barbecue in McReynolds’ Grove at Portage
was furnished by a portion of Rutledge’s band of Alton. On the
downward trip, the packet reached Alton’s levee at 6 o’clock, and
went immediately to St. Louis, and returned here in a good season.
The excursionists expressed themselves well pleased with the trip,
as Captain Leyhe, Clerk Morehead, and the other officers of the
boat, vied with each other in contributing to the comfort and
enjoyment of the passengers.
About 9 o’clock, the Hibernians, the A.O.H., and the Catholic
Temperance Society formed in procession, headed by Kelly’s Martial
band, and marched to Biggins Grove, where the ladies of the
Cathedral had announced to hold a picnic. The crowd gathered during
the day until late in the afternoon, when a large number of people
were present, and seemed to have a pleasant time. Refreshments of
various kinds were disposed at a number of stands for the benefit of
the Sisters of Charity, and the pecuniary results, judging from the
rush, must have been very satisfactory.
Washington Gardens was the center of attraction for a large number
of our German fellow citizens. The best of order prevailed, and
everything passed off in a manner to reflect credit on the managers.
Refreshments suitable to the season were on sale, and Professor
Gossrau’s cornet band, by the performance of appropriate music,
added much to the pleasure of the occasion. The amusements were kept
up through the day.
At Kellenberger’s Grove, just west of the old Mutual Insurance
office in Middletown, one of the most pleasant places in the city,
the German Catholics and their friends passed the day in picnic
style. A nice grassy sward, a good shade, on rising ground, swept by
every passing breeze, made this a very agreeable resort, while an
abundance of ice-cold lemonade, soda water, and other cooling
beverages were offered to those in attendance.
In addition to the picnics mentioned, the German Methodists had one
at Rock Spring in Middletown, while there was a basket picnic at Hop
Hollow, and no doubt many small gatherings at other places.
About two o’clock, the great sensation of the day, A. and H. formed
in procession on Belle Street, and commenced their parade. In the
lead was a large wagon containing the gentlemen of the Simon comedy
Troupe, with an improvised string band, Colonel J. C. Brown, leader,
and a complete band of minstrels, which rendered music both vocal
and instrumental during the progress of the march. A team of donkeys
attracted a great deal of attention, one of the animals availed
himself of the license peculiar to the day, and occasionally kicked
around in quite a miscellaneous manner. Several of the costumes were
splendid, notably a young antique from a shoe store on Third Street.
One horrible was equipped with large wings, but flew low. A young,
uninitiated horse was so dazzled by the effulgence emanating from
King Nibbs and his Court, that he tried to run and broke a wheel on
one of the chariots, but the most of the gallant steeds behaved in a
manner worthy of the occasion. The general complaint was that the
procession traveled so fast that it appeared like glimpses of the
aurora borealis or a brilliant meteor.
After parading the streets, the A. & H.’s marched to Biggins Grove,
near where they were received by the Societies and the band and
escorted to the ground. They added greatly to the amusement and
pleasure of the crowd by the performance of vocal and instrumental
music. The parade was mostly closed at this point, and from thence
merry masquers wended their way home.
The day was closed by a performance before a large, well pleased
audience at Mercantile Hall by the Comedy Company. The dome of the
building was raised, causing this place of popular resort to be
unusually cool.
The Mutual Baseball Club had a hop at Crown’s Hall, which was well
attended, notwithstanding the heat and the attractions at other
places. Bailey’s bond furnished first rate music, and the dance
continued until near daylight. Taken altogether, it certainly was a
lively Fourth of July.
NATIONAL ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATED
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, June 29, 1880
The colored people of Alton, Upper Alton, Rocky Fork, Godfrey and
Jerseyville will celebrate the national anniversary, Monday, the 5th
of July, at Virden's Grove near Godfrey. Addresses will be delivered
by Hon. J. H. Yager, Col. J. J. Brenholt and others. The Declaration
of Independence will be ready by Mr. E. Howard, the Emancipation
Proclamation by Miss Alice Ellsworth. Prayer will be offered by Rev.
W. B. Hammond. Hunter's band will furnish music.
CELEBRATION OF INDEPENDENCE DAY – 1881
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 7, 1881
Owing to the reception of the terrible news of the attempted
assassination of President Garfield, the celebration of the 105th
anniversary of our independence was rather spiritless. A number of
flags were flung to the breeze, there were picnics and excursions,
but no general public observance. Business houses generally closed a
part of the day, lending to the streets something of a Sunday
aspect, although there were crowds on the sidewalks the most of the
time, all eager for news from Washington. In fact, anxiety as to the
state of the President swallowed up every other interest.
At Biggins Grove, the Temperance Club of North Alton held a picnic
with a large attendance. A platform had been erected, and dancing
was the principal order of the day, to music furnished by Rutledge’s
fine orchestra. Refreshments were on the ground, and everything
passed off to the satisfaction of those concerned. An immense crowd
was present, and over $400 was realized by the affair.
Gossrau’s band celebrated at Washington Gardens with a large
attendance. The music, of course, was first class, and in addition,
a number of amusing games and diversions added to the pleasure and
enjoyment of those present, and seasonable refreshments of every
variety were not wanting. Dancing also was indulged in,
notwithstanding the heat of the weather. Master Henry Brown took all
the “greased pole” prizes.
One of the most successful celebrations was that by the Turners’
Society at their beautiful garden on Ridge Street. The committees
having the matter in charge, had neglected nothing that would tend
to the general enjoyment. Early in the afternoon, crowds began to
assemble at the place, and in the evening so dense was the mass,
that standing room was at a premium. On the large platform, some
splendid gymnastic exercises took place, red lights adding to the
beauty of the scene. Dancing was not neglected, excellent music
being furnished by the Alton Orchestra. The best of feeling
prevailed, notwithstanding the crush and all present felt like
congratulating the society on their grand success.
The German Methodist Sunday School held a picnic at Morgan’s grove
in Middletown, and had an exceptionally pleasant time. In addition
to the usual amusements common to such gatherings, the pastor, Rev.
J. H. Hilmes, read the Declaration of American Independence, with a
few remarks appropriate to the day.
At Hon. J. H. Yager’s, a large number of ladies and gentlemen
congregated and had a very enjoyable time, it being a basket picnic.
Mr. Yager’s cannon was fired at intervals, and awakened the echoes
with the thunder of its reverberations. The spacious grounds were
decorated with numerous flags, and with the rich grassy sward [lawn
or meadow], presented a very attractive appearance. Vocal music of a
high order of excellence was not the least of the attractions, and
when the day drew to a close, the company dispersed, well pleased
with the day’s entertainment, and the courteous hospitality of the
host and hostess.
A gathering of relatives and friends took place on the beautiful
grounds of Mr. E. P. Wade on Henry Street, where the hours passed in
social converse and agreeable recreation.
The A.M.E. and Union Baptist Church of Alton held a picnic at
Garland’s Grove, Godfrey, Monday, with an immense crowd, large
numbers being present from Alton, Brighton, Jerseyville, and other
places. Owing to the sad news from Washington, there were no public
exercises, but the people enjoyed themselves to the fullest extent
in a quiet informal way on the grassy sward under the shade of the
trees. The affair was well managed by Elder William Beckley of the
A.M.E., and Elder Perryman of the Union Baptist Church. Hunter’s
Band furnished music that delighted the company.
The High Tea Cooking Club celebrated by a picnic in the evening on
Mr. J. Crowe’s fine grounds on State Street, where in social,
converse, songs, and piano music, they passed the time very
acceptably to all present. Mr. Floery, an Americanized Celestial
[Chinese] from St. Louis, was among the guests, and proved very
entertaining company. Choice refreshments were served during the
evening by members of the club, who are unexcelled in that
department.
THE FOURTH OF JULY IN ALTON
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, July 5, 1882
The day opened cloudy and unusually cold for the season, so much so
that overcoats were not uncomfortable in the morning. It soon became
more pleasant, the sun shone out, and the weather proved all that
could be desired, the air being pure, balmy, and bracing. At an
early hour, a fusillade of firecrackers, torpedoes, pistols, with
the occasional report of a cannon, commenced, and was kept up almost
without intermission until late at night. The day was generally
observed; business houses were closed, and in the afternoon the
streets presented a deserted appearance. The display of bunting was
lavish, the city literally bloomed in red, white, and blue. At ten
o’clock, Professor Gossrau’s band performed some music on the
principal streets, and then repaired to Turner Garden, where they
performed through the day and evening to the delight of thousands of
listeners.
Crowds began assembling at Turner Garden, at which the principal
public celebration took place, and the throng increased until after
dark, when the place, grounds, and hall was literally jammed.
Thirty-five hundred was the estimated number present. An
entertaining program was given. Two dozen boys of the Turner school,
under the direction of Mr. Albert Ernst, gave a fine gymnastic
exhibition displaying wonderful skill and strength for youths of
their age. An Irish panorama and speech by Mr. McFadden Mold and
“turn the Crank Jamsey,” caused great amusement, as did the
excellent ventriloquism of Mr. Mold and “Tommy.” The Alton
Maennerchor, under the direction of Professor Floss, rendered a
number of vocal selections in their usual finished style. Three
beautiful tableaux were given on the platform, which was decorated
for the occasion with the American, German, and Irish colors. The
Turners closed the entertainment by some wonderful posturing acts,
constructing living pyramids with such skill and celerity as to rank
them with professional acrobats. Fireworks were let off at
intervals, the finest display being about midnight. The hall was
densely crowded the greater part of the night by dancers, Miller’s
orchestra furnishing music that was highly appreciated. The whole
affair was simply immense, one of the largest of the kind ever seen
in Alton, and the way in which it was conducted reflected great
credit on Mr. Theo Fries, President of the Turners’ Society, as well
as the committees who managed the various details.
The members of the German Methodist Church had a picnic at
Kellenberger’s Grove in Middletown. One of the principal
celebrations was at Biggins’ Grove, where the North Alton Reform
Club gave an enjoyable picnic, one of the principal features being
dancing on a platform to fine music by Rutledge’s Orchestra. Games
and amusements of various kinds added to the enjoyment. Ice cream,
lemonade, and other refreshments were for sale on the grounds.
Dancing continued until 2 o’clock a.m. Ralph Dixon is President of
the Reform Club.
FOURTH OF JULY IN EDWARDSVILLE
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, July 5, 1882
Edwardsville, July 4 – The turners’ picnic in Fair Ground Park is
being visited this afternoon by a large number of people. The
procession, headed by the Edwardsville Brass Band, and including
Company F of Illinois National Guards, commanded by Captain
Fahnstock; Fire Company No. 1; and Edwardsville Turners, each
organization in uniform, was an orderly affair, and made a good
appearance as it marched through our principal streets this morning,
and thence to the park. Besides the Turners’ picnic, there are two
other picnics in this vicinity, composed principally of our
citizens. One at Wolf’s Reservoir Park, south of town, and the other
at old Fort Russell, north of town.
FOURTH OF JULY IN BETHALTO
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, July 6, 1882
A number of our business houses were beautifully decorated, and the
elaborate program, arranged by the committee, was carried out in a
manner pleasing to all. At the grove, Dr. E. W. Reid read the
Declaration of Independence. Hon. E. M. West of Edwardsville was
then introduced, who delivered a handsome oration, setting forth the
distinctive features and reviewing the groundwork of our liberties
with a clearness and force rarely heart. The exercises were
interspersed with excellent music, furnished by the Bethalto Cornet
Band and the Juvenile Band. The day’s festivities were wound up at
night by a grand display of fireworks and a splendid dance at
Neisler’s Hall.
HOW THE FOURTH OF JULY WAS OBSERVED – 1883
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 12, 1883
The Fourth of July opened bright and beautiful, with a temperature
sufficiently high to impel one to seek a shade in some vast
wilderness if possible. Business was generally suspended, and
American flags of all sizes were flying to the breeze on every hand.
Everything passed off quietly, and no accident or casualty of any
consequence occurred to mar the general pleasure and harmony that
prevailed.
At 10 o’clock, the “privates” of the Band of Hope Army, accompanied
by their officers, took the streetcars for Upper Alton, where they
picnicked on the Shurtleff College grounds in royal style. They were
a bright-eyed, cheerful-looking company, and many of them carried
small American flags as symbols appropriate to the day. They also
had well-filled baskets in abundance, one evidence that the main
essentials to a successful grove party were not forgotten. The day
passed enjoyably in amusements of various kinds – croquet, swings,
and Copenhagen not being neglected. A picnic with refreshments for
sale for the benefit of the Upper Alton Library Association took
place in the afternoon on the same grounds.
The North Alton Temperance Reform Club celebrated at Biggins’ Grove
in the northern suburbs, and a large company attended the festive
scene. Dancing on a platform was engaged in by the most of those
present, to fine music by Rutledge’s orchestra. Refreshments were
served.
The North Alton firemen gave a picnic and dance yesterday afternoon
and evening at the North Alton Park. The affair was well attended.
At 10 o’clock, Professor Gossrau’s Band awakened the echoes of the
bright July morning with the performance of some patriotic airs on
Third Street. A procession was then formed, consisting of the boys
of the Turners’ School, in neat uniforms and carrying small flags,
and headed by the band, with Mr. Chris Eden as color bearer. A march
was made to Turner Garden, which was nicely arranged and decorated
in honor of the important anniversary. The band performed many of
their best selections at intervals during the day, for the benefit
of the company of ladies and gentlemen present.
Late in the afternoon, six of the Turners, under the direction of
their teacher, Mr. George Muegge, took the platform and gave some
magnificent performances – exhibitions of skill, strength, and
dexterity, scarcely ever surpassed. Those taking part were Albert
Ernst, First Turnrad; Emil Borckmann, William Ulrich, C. Ulrich,
William Sachtleben, and A. Bousch. The Alton Maennerchor, under
Professor Floss, gave a few vocal selections to the delight of the
vast audience. A fine display of fireworks at night added greatly to
the attractions.
THE GLORIOUS FOURTH OF JULY
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 10, 1884
The weather on the National anniversary was all that could be
desired – bright, balmy, beautiful, the rain of the previous day
having laid the dust, purified the atmosphere, and rendered the
green of forest, grove, and grassy sward of a brilliant hue. The
heat was not oppressive through the day, as a pleasant breeze
modified the effect of the summer sun. Business was generally
suspended, and the National colors were flung to the breeze on every
hand, giving evidence that the people are still mindful of the
demands of patriotism. At 10 o’clock, Professor Gossrau’s band
paraded some of the streets, playing lively quicksteps, and then
repaired to Turner Garden, where they performed during the day and
evening.
In the afternoon, the principal attraction was the boat race, the
course being from the ferry dock down the river and return. This was
attended by an immense crowd of spectators on the shore, on the
ferry boat, in skiffs, and other craft. Prominent among them was Mr.
W. D. Sparks’ yacht, Mischief, gaily decorated with the flags of
various nations to the number of a dozen or more, with a party of
belles and beaux onboard. The oarsmen did remarkably well, the boys
all distinguishing themselves by the strength, skill, and staying
powers developed. Even those who came in behind made a record of
which many professional oarsmen might well feel proud. At 3 o’clock
the races commenced. The judges were Messrs. George R. Allen, Robert
Curdie, Dr. Davis; timekeeper was Mr. G. F. Crowe. These gentlemen
were stationed on a barge moored in the stream, so as to afford them
a good view of the course.
The German Methodist Sunday school and friends took advantage of the
holiday and picnicked at Kellenberger’s Grove in Middletown. They
had a very pleasant time, with refreshments in abundance, and games
and amusements for those inclined in that way. A very enjoyable
picnic, with a family reunion, took place in the pleasant grove on
Mr. E. P. Wade’s spacious grounds at his residence on Henry Street.
A party of about a dozen young ladies and gentlemen went in skiffs
to Hop Hollow, and spent the day in those classic shades, being
supplied with provisions, water being plentiful at the fine spring
in the valley.
The Spread Eagle took out an immense company from St. Louis
yesterday, making a trip to Grafton and intermediate ports. A fine
orchestra was onboard, and dancing was indulged in by the party. The
trains were also crowded with pleasure seekers, some bound for St.
Louis, others for the attractive suburban towns and villages in this
section.
In the evening, an immense throng assembled at Turner Garden, while
the hall was crowded with those inclined to terpsichorean
recreation, the music being furnished by an orchestra. Professor
Gossrau’s full band rendered a fine program at the pagoda in the
center of the garden, to the delight of the assemblage. The place
was nicely decorated with Chinese lanterns, and looked very
attractive. There was a splendid display of fireworks, but through
some accident, sparks fell into a box of the explosives and there
was a wholesale display for a time that looked rather alarming.
Roman candles, fire balls, rockets, pin wheels, etc., went off in
quick succession, and the fiery projectiles were hurled among the
dense crowd of men, women, and children, causing them to flee in
dismay in all directions. Fortunately, no one was injured.
The firemen of North Alton celebrated with a picnic and dance at the
park. They had a large attendance of those who “tripped the light
fantastic” to music by Pierce’s fine string band.
A fine, large company assembled at the grove at Melville, and spent
part of the afternoon and night dancing on a platform to fine music
by Bailey’s String Band. The general arrangements were under the
direction of Mr. George Schmidt.
Wann [East Alton] celebration the Fourth in old-fashioned style,
with a large crowd in attendance. Various amusements were indulged
in under the shade of the grove in the vicinity. The Bethalto Band
rendered sweet music for the occasion, and an orchestra played for
those who took part in the dance. The Brighton Band, on their return
from a celebration at Gillespie, stopped for a time in the evening,
and added to the general enjoyment with strains of music.
THE FOURTH OF JULY
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, July 05, 1887
A large crowd assembled in the evening at Turner Garden, and were
delighted with the excellent music by Professor Gossrau’s Band.
There was a fine display of fireworks, and the scene, with the
electric light, gas lamps, a fire balloon, and the full moon, was
one of dazzling radiance.
A barge was anchored in the river opposite the foot of Market
Street. An immense concourse gathered on the riverfront, on Market
Street, on the bluffs, and at every available point where an
unobstructed view of the river could be obtained. The fireworks
display was in charge of Mr. H. M. Schweppe, Captain Starr, and
Captain King, who with many able assistants, superintended the work.
The display commenced about 8:30, and for the next two hours the
barge was ablaze with many colored illuminations. Rockets rent the
air, Roman candles lighted up the sky and water with brilliant
colors. Spinning wheels kept up continuous pyrotechnic showers, fire
balloons soared and sailed towards the clouds, many of them dropping
various fanciful and scintillating devices as they drifted through
the air.
THE GLORIOUS FOURTH
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, July 05, 1888
The celebration of the National anniversary commenced Tuesday with
discharges of explosives, and the racket was kept up almost
continually for about 36 hours. There were liberal displays of
bunting throughout the city on public buildings, business houses,
and private residences. There was no general public celebration
here, and all had an opportunity to take choice of the place and
manner of spending the day.
The splendid steamer Spread Eagle, gaily and profusely decked with
flags and banners, pulled out at 7 a.m. for St. Louis, the Standard
Band making the air resonant with patriotic airs. At St. Louis, an
immense company boarded the boat, and when the return was made to
Alton at 11:30, a large addition was made to the number of
excursionists, the total being estimated at between three and four
hundred. All seemed to enjoy themselves to the fullest extent. A
good orchestra from St. Louis furnished music for those inclined to
dance. Landings were made at each point above, the boat extending
the trip to Thompson’s landing about 20 miles above Grafton. The
people at various towns were regaled with music by the Standard
Band, and large crowds flocked to the shore, attracted by the
gallant appearance of the boat and the harmonious strains. The
return was made to Alton at 5:30, after which the boat left again
for St. Louis, large additions being made to the passenger list for
the trip.
The picnic given at Washington Garden for the benefit of St.
Patrick’s Church was attended by a large company. The festivities
were carried on in a style worthy of the great holiday, and all were
interested and amused. Hon. A. W. Hope, the orator of the day,
delivered an address that was pronounced eloquent and entertaining
by those present. Music by the Alton orchestra was accentuated by
the movement of flying feet on a platform erected for the occasion.
A Scottish Highlander, with a bagpipe, furnished the weird music
peculiar to that instrument.
The societies of Christian Endeavor of Alton and Upper Alton, also a
party from Godfrey, picnicked at Hop Hollow, and enjoyed themselves
thoroughly in the classic shades of that sylvan retreat. Having
plenty of provisions along, they lacked nothing that served to make
the day pass pleasantly. The ferry boat, Altonian, was used by most
of the picnickers as a mode of transit to and from the grounds.
The Union Baptist Church celebrated the Fourth with a picnic of the
Missouri shore of the river, using Captain Starr’s ferry boat for
the trip. A pleasant time was experienced by all, in spite of the
fact that the music “failed to connect.” Refreshments were served in
a shady grove, games and amusements suitable to the occasion were
the principal attractions. In short, the affair was a complete
success, reflecting credit on the managers and those who had charge
of the work.
The celebration by the Turners was confined to the evening. At an
early hour, the Standard Band occupied the music stand in the
garden, and until 12 o’clock, rendered selections of music in
excellent style to the delight of an immense company. A sudden storm
came up about 8 o’clock, with strong wind, followed by heavy rain,
causing the people to desert the garden and repair to the hall. The
storm soon blew over, however, and the garden was again lighted and
occupied. The Alton Maennerchor, under the direction of Professor
Floss, sang a number of songs in a manner to avoke applause from
their hearers. The rain interfered with the gymnastic exhibitions,
otherwise the programme was carried out. Dancing was the order in
the hall, with fine music by Professor Gossrau’s orchestra. At one
time, when the hall was crowded, someone turned on a gas jet under a
coal oil lamp, and a blaze took place that caused quite a panic.
This was soon quieted, fortunately, and no one was injured.
Mr. George H. Eddy’s patriotism was at boiling heat yesterday and
the evening before. At his residence on Ninth Street, he had a
cannon of his own manufacture, made from a piece of water pipe about
6 inches in diameter and 3 ½ feet long, and charged with gun shells.
The firing apparatus was of a novel nature, and at least two
discharges a minute could be had, and as for noise, it was
certainly, in every point, all that could be expected of a 4th of
July cannon.
Mr. H. R. Wills had a beautiful display of fireworks at his
residence on Twelfth Street. Several of the pieces were very
elaborate, and delighted the spectators. Dr. Haskell and Mr. John N.
Drummond also treated their children and the neighbors to fine
displays of pyrotechnics at their respective residences.
THE GLORIOUS FOURTH
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 11, 1889
The weather Thursday was beautiful. A clear sky and balmy breezes
made one of the most enjoyable National anniversaries on record. The
people turned out by thousands, and the boats and railway trains
presented lively spectacles, occupied by throngs of pleasure
seekers. The city was ornamented with flags, bunting, and patriotic
emblems, and business was generally suspended. At an early hour, the
streets presented a lively scene as the people in holiday attire
made their way to the points they had selected for spending the day.
The German Methodist Sunday School and their friends picnicked at
Morris’ Grove in Middletown, and spent the day pleasantly in games,
amusements, recreations suitable to the occasion, and such as are
affected by the young people. It was one of the nicest ways
imaginable to pass the time, and all present thoroughly appreciated
the fact.
The Sempleton Mission Sunday School, Mr. C. A. Rowan,
Superintendent, picnicked at Clifton Heights, to the number of
seventy-five or more, and spent a delightful day.
Over 2,000 persons spent the day at Clifton [Terrace], enjoying the
picnic facilities provided by the Bluff Line in the shady groves,
and engaged in bathing, fishing, boating, dancing, and other
amusements. The Bluff Line brought back fourteen carloads of
excursionists before dark, and others came later.
The G. S. S. C. Club gave a fine dance at North Alton park, with
pleasing music by Mathie’s orchestra. The affair was a success,
thanks to those who acted as managers.
In Bethalto, a better day could not have been chosen for a national
celebration. The clear sky and balmy breezes delighted everyone. The
band met the trains, which brought many visitors in the morning, and
at eleven o’clock, Bethalto Post 509, G.A.R., and the citizens
genrally, formed a procession at the hall and marched to the grave,
a half mile north, the band discoursing music along the line of
march. The Hon. W. P. Bradshaw of Edwardsville was present, and
delivered an excellent oration, which was well received. A larger
crowd has seldom been seen here, and everything passed off in a most
pleasing manner. Nearly all the business houses were decorated, most
of which closed in the afternoon. There were visitors from Alton,
Upper Alton, Edwardsville, Bunker Hill, Moro, Fosterburg, Wann, and
other places, who were all loud in their praise of the splendid time
and good order preserved. Nothing transpired to mar the pleasure of
any, except two or three collisions and breakdowns that happened at
night, a few of which are never out of place on the Fourth of July.
Miller & Meyers String Orchestra furnished music for the hop, which
was kept up until three o’clock Friday morning. Our town has long
since gained an enviable reputation for giving fine entertainments,
and this was no exception to the rule. We are informed the Post and
band are arranging to give another like entertainment in a few
weeks.
In Moro, Mr. H. Kabel’s machine shed containing his separator,
stacker, clover huller, plows, harrows, and other farm implements
was burned with its contents, the fire being discovered by the
family on their return home after having been absent the greater
part of the day. The fire evidently originated in the separator, but
how it got there is a mystery. Characteristic of his energy and
push, Mr. Kabel went to Belleville on the 5th, purchased a new
separator, and expects to go to work this week.
In Edwardsville, the Fourth passed off to the satisfaction of its
citizens. The accidents were not numerous or serious. Mrs. F.
Seidenberg spent the day in Collinsville, and on returning home, the
neck yoke became detached from the pole, and Mrs. Seidenberg was
thrown out, her right arm broken above the elbow, and the bone above
the ankle on her right leg.
THE GLORIOUS FOURTH
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 10, 1890
Fourth of July has come and gone, but it is very seldom that such a
cool one has been experienced. After a week of sweltering weather,
the wind shifted around into the north, and the thermometer took a
tumble and registered a temperature that was perfectly delightful
during the day, which was rather too cool for much outdoor amusement
last evening. For the week past, the small boy has endeavored to
impress upon the minds of the elders that the 4th was near at hand,
but not until Thursday was there anything like a fusillade of
firecrackers.
Yesterday morning the streets and depots presented an animated
appearance, while the “basket accompaniment” was quite numerous.
Clifton had about 200 from Alton who enjoyed the day at that place,
while Hop Hollow boasted of as many more who did likewise. A party
from St. Louis spent the day on the island, and returned on the
evening train. The members of the Zuni Orchestra and their friends
went to Shield’s Branch, and passed the day in picnicking and
merry-making.
A band concert was given at turner Garden, and dancing was had in
the Hall. At the German M. E. Church, a lawn party was given and the
grounds were illuminated similar to the place previously mentioned.
About 2,500 people assembled to witness the third racing event at
the [horse] race track. Hundreds of buggies were lined around the
quarter stretch, and in the paddocks. The first event was a three
minute trotting race, for a purse of $150. There were five starters,
with Peekaboo a prime favorite at odds of 5 to 3.
Summary:
Peekaboo, r. h. Voorhees, 1, 1, 1.
Bonna Cordu, s. g., Summers, 2, 2, 3.
Parker Boy, Ch g, Pohlman, 5, 5, 2.
Mountain Pink, br m, Brown, 4, 3 4.
Pigeon, br. M, Mills, 3, 4, dis.
Time – 2.391, 2.43, 2.41.
Charles Voorhees then endeavored to have Belle Brown beat a record
of 2.30, but was unsuccessful. Two attempts were made, but the times
were 2.43 and 2.411.
A half mile running race was then given between Miller’s “Sleepy
Dan” and Cartwright’s “Bird,” which was won by the former.
The second race was a 2.40 trot for a purse of $150. There were
seven starters. In the second heat, Gimmy fouled Cory, and was set
back to seventh place. Gimmy was also fined $5 for failing to core
with the pole horse.
The fourth heat was a “dead heat” between Cashier Jr. and Lady
Belle. The race was not concluded last evening, although Oldham
insisted it should be, which had such been the case, Cashier would
have won easily, as he had the best staying qualities by far.
As a whole, it was a great day’s sport, and no doubt much enjoyment
is being had this afternoon by those present at the races. The
judges were: Messrs. C. A. Milnor of Alton; Spencer Wyckoff of
Delhi; and P. Dorsey of Bunker Hill. The timers were Messrs. A. F.
Gilbirds, Fuller Rodgers, and G. F. Crowe.
The starter was Mr. A. C. Hulse of Carlinville, and he did well
considering the trials he had to contend with in getting the jockeys
to score their horses properly.
At Morris’ Grove on the motor line, was a success in every way.
There was a very large attendance, and the best of order prevailed.
There were the various forms of amusements usually found at public
picnics. The grounds selected are as pleasant as can be found, with
plenty of shade, and refreshments in abundance were on hand. No
liquor was permitted.
THE GLORIOUS FOURTH IN MARINE
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 09, 1891
The Glorious Fourth has again come and gone. The day was celebrated
here in a general suspension of business, and the participating in
the grand procession in which most business houses were represented.
An accident in the early morning caused a gloom for a time. Mr.
Hettell, the tinner, had a wagon fitted up with tinware, to which
were attached a pair of horses that did not like the noise made by
the rattle of the tin. They started to run, which frightened Henry,
a son of Mr. Hettel who was on the wagon with the driver, and made
him jump out, striking his head in such a manner as to knock out his
upper teeth and injure his jaw. The procession was large and fine.
Every place in town was decorated with the National colors.
Fireworks in the evening were witnessed by immense crowds. They were
never better here.
FOURTH OF JULY IN BETHALTO
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 9, 1891
The day we celebrate was everything that could be desired. The
weather was clear and the mercury did not soar very high. Our folks
began to enthuse early in the day, and kept it up until, well, they
did let up in time to go to church the next day! The address by the
Hon. J. R. Miller of Caseyville, in the afternoon, was listened to
with much interest, and was well received by all. The Piasa Band
kept things as lively as possible until late in the afternoon, when
the Bunker Hill Orchestra arrived and the dancing began. The stands
did an excellent business selling out completely everything that was
purchased for the occasion, and then called on the home merchants,
who helped them out. A handsome sum was realized, and will
strengthen the treasuries of the G.A.R. Post and the Bethalto Cornet
Band.
FOURTH OF JULY IN EDWARDSVILLE
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 09, 1891
The celebration of the Fourth here by our bands was a success, both
as regards a large crowd and in a financial view. It is said that
there were at least 2,500 people in the grove at three o’clock, and
about 1,800 at seven o’clock in the evening. It is reported that the
bands will net between $500 and $600. There were about all the usual
games of chance; dancing was a principal feature. A number of people
came from surrounding towns, and the farmers from adjoining
townships were out in full force. There was quite a display of
fireworks in the evening.
About the only accident we heard of on the Fourth was that which
happened to a baker in the employ of the Uhl Bros. A boy who works
around the place placed some powder under a box, to which he
attached a lighted fuse. It appears that the powder did not go off
as soon as the patriotic watchers thought it should, when the elder
one raised the box and immediately the powder exploded, badly
burning the unfortunate man about the face.
Three games of baseball here on the Fourth and since that day. In
two games, the home club won. In the other, visitors were the
winner.
FOURTH OF JULY AT MELVILLE AND CLIFTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 09, 1891
The Fourth of July was celebrated at Clifton by a grand hop and
opening of the New Cassino, and also numerous other amusements such
as skiff racing, ball playing, and last but not least, unloading
“schooners.” The Standard Band of Alton furnished the music for the
occasion. At Melville Park, the folks enjoyed themselves by dancing
to the strains of the violin in the hands of Professors Lisle and
Lucas till an early hour.
FOURTH OF JULY RACES IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 09, 1891
The track was in prime order, and the day perfect. The record of
2:27 on that track, made by Sir Launcelot a year ago, was lowered a
second by Sunshine. Still, the former horse has the trotting record
inasmuch as Sunshine placed the mile in 2:26. The judges were
Messrs. J. W. Enos, C. W. Milnor, A. F. Rodgers. The timers were
Messrs. Samuel Scaling of St. Louis, Jett A. Kirby of Jerseyville,
and B. Libby of Roodhouse.
A half mile dash was run between Miller’s Sleepy Dan and Shelly’s
Baby Blanche. The former won in 54 seconds. The next race was a 2:26
trot, with four starters, for a purse of $200. Harry Lee was
distanced in the first heat because the driver (Sutton) whipped the
horse while he was running.
A mile running race was the last event. There were three starters,
Lamont, Captain Warren, and Sleepy Dan. Between the first two, it
was a splendid race, and neck and neck they made the circuit until
well down the home stretch, when Lamont pulled away from Warren, and
won by a length. Sleepy Dan was six lengths in the rear.
FOURTH OF JULY FESTIVITIES
Source: Alton Telegraph, July 06, 1893
Tuesday was a splendid day for outdoor celebrations, the sky being
cloudy and a refreshing breeze blowing nearly all day. The clouds,
however, had the effect of keeping a great many people at home, and
the rain in the evening put a complete stop to all outdoor
amusements. Hundreds of people left Alton by rail or water to
celebrate the day, but they fared no better than the stay-at-homes.
The church picnics, up and across the river, were well attended, and
but for Hicks and Pluvius, the pleasures of the day would have been
varied and prolonged. Taking everything into consideration, the day
was well and fittingly observed, and perhaps the rain was needed.
There is no place on earth that has more cause for thankfulness than
this Union, and there is no place in the Union where the overflow of
patriotism and pride ought to be greater than here, and as good
things are always sources of joy as well as thanksgiving, it is
right to meet together like home folks, eat, drink and be merry, and
to not let those brave, noble men who gave up their all that we,
their posterity, might be benefitted, be forgotten or their memory
blurred by time. Everybody looks forward with intense eagerness to
the 4th of July, and nearly everybody rejoices exceedingly when it
is over. It is such a limp, wet, moistening kind of day, that it
keeps one wondering why the Fourth of July couldn’t just as well
come in the Fall or Winter, when fly time is over and the sun has
quit trying to make a sprinkling cart out of the pores of one’s
skin.
It is a great day, however, not only as the real birthday
anniversary of this country, but as a day of opportunities. It gives
the Italian a chance to play on his hand organ these two national
hymns, “Yankee Doodle,” and “Buffalo Gals, Ain’t You Comin’ Out
Tonight.” It gives the Portugese a chance to tell that Columbus was
an uncle of his, and that Yankee Doodle himself once belonged to the
same church. It gives the Irish an opportunity of telling how St.
Patrick ran the snakes over here when this country was desecrated by
English domination, and how that now the principal snakes to be
found are in the boots of the man who drinks British ale.
At North Alton, the Arctics made extensive preparations for the
celebration at Molloy’s Park, and they succeeded fairly well in
furnishing enjoyment to the many gathered there until the rain came
to spoil everything. The young folks repaired to the hall over E. J.
Molloy’s saloon, and there proceeded to trip the “light fantastic”
until the wee small hours.
The Turners spent the day in their garden on Ridge Street. The
strains of a brass band enlivened those assembled in the grounds,
while in the hall a string band made music for the dancers. The
garden party was broken up by the rain in the evening, and all
adjourned to the hall.
The picnic at Riverside Park yesterday was a very enjoyable one in
all particulars, and only one mishap is to be charged up the day’s
doing. Captain LaMothe, while standing close to the water
superintending the letting of skiffs, was thrown into the lake by a
dog that dashed violently against him, but with the exception of a
thorough wetting, no harm was done.
JULY FOURTH IN ALTON AND VICINITY
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 05, 1895
While there was no formal celebration yesterday, the day was
observed by picnics, fishing parties, family reunions, and the like.
The Baptist Church and Sunday School picnic was held on the grounds
of Mr. George K. Hopkins. A large gathering was present, and a
delightful time was had. Hunter’s Cornet Band celebrated at Rock
Spring Park. There was athletic games of all kinds.
The German Methodist Sunday School picnic was held at Morris’ Grove
on the motor line, where the children and older people enjoyed
themselves fully. The Turners gave their usual Fourth of July picnic
and dance at Turner Hall, with a concert in the evening. There was a
large crowd present, and all enjoyed themselves.
The Pioneer Club went to Bunker Hill and took part in the
celebration there. Their neat and tasty uniforms and their perfect
drill and soldierly bearing attracted general attention and won the
boys fresh praise.
The Illini Yacht Club celebrated at their clubhouse near Clifton. A
large company, including invited guests and members, were present,
and enjoyed breezes from the river and the delightful rides in the
yachts.
Of course, young America and his inevitable cracker were on hand,
making all the noise possible and extracting such enjoyment as only
boys can from this amusement. The Fourth of July is “Fire Cracker
Day,” and never were more of them used. In the evening, fireworks
were very general. From the many hillsides, and from the numerous
valleys of Alton, there was a continuous stream of rockets, Roman
candles, fire pots, balloons, etc., into the air. The scene was most
beautiful, and was continued until a late hour.
JULY 4TH CELEBRATION AT ALTON
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 03, 1897
July 4th will be generally observed as Independence Day in
compliance with the rules, that whenever a legal holiday falls on
Sunday, the following day shall be the legal one to observe. On July
5 there will be scores of ways in which to have a pleasant time,
picnics and the family reunions about the city, and if the weather
favors us with a pleasant day, Alton will enjoy one of the most
generally observed national holidays.
The Turner Society will picnic at Turner Garden, afternoon, and
evening. The White Hussar Band will assist, and in the evening,
there will be fireworks and dancing. The A.O.U.W. lodges will have a
picnic at Rock Spring Park, and have made preparations for a grand
time. At Krug’s Botanical Garden, the celebration begins tonight,
and will last until Monday night at midnight. At Piasa Chautauqua,
there will be a grand Sunday school basket picnic, for which low
railroad rates have been made. The Pioneers will have a picnic at
Reck’s Garden, and will have a big time afternoon and evening.
Uncle Sam may be getting old when he reaches his one hundred and
twenty second birthday, but young America is always young, and the
day will be well celebrated. On Tuesday morning there will be a
diversified array of wounds and injuries that the younger generation
can show. Young America will be maimed and mangled in every degree,
with the giant firecracker and the toy cannon, the co-laborer of
green apples in destroying his life and happiness. Doctors will be
kept on the run to attend to the little boy who forgot to obey the
injunction printed on the big crackers, “Don’t Hold in the Hand
After Lighting,” and later on to see his brother, who got in the way
of a skyrocket or held it in his hand to fight it. But young America
must enjoy the day, and to do so to the full extent, he must at
bedtime at least have an eye tied up, an arm in a sling or splint,
and his hair and eyebrows burned off by powder. Great is the Fourth
of July, and greater is the patriotism of young America.
INCIDENTS AND ACCIDENTS OF THE FOURTH OF JULY
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 05, 1900
The Fourth of July, 1900, will be long remembered by many a person
who suffered the usual consequences of venting his enthusiasm in the
explosion of firecrackers and the flare of burning powder. The blank
cartridge was a new feature of the day, and did a considerable share
of damage during the day, many a person suffering from a wad being
fired into his skin or by being burned by the weapon, being the
flesh held in too close proximity for safety.
Gus Meyer, who boards at L. Lundahl's boarding house, was delivering
a parting salute to the day with a big cannon firecracker and forgot
to place the cracker on the ground. When the explosion occurred, his
right hand, in which he was holding the cracker, was shattered. Dr.
Moore was called and he amputated one finger. It is thought the
whole hand must be taken off. Joe Crivello was discharging fireworks
on Piasa Street, when a ball from a Roman candle struck him in the
face, and his glasses only saved his eyes. Peter Fuchs shot the
forefinger of his right hand with a revolver and severely injured
himself. Fred Nicolet fell while bowling at Turner Hall and
sustained a painful injury to his ankle. Dr. Bowman was called and
attended to him. A Miss Hatheway of St. Louis was a passenger on the
Bluff Line train that left Alton yesterday morning at 9:16 o'clock
for Clifton Terrace. While on the train, after leaving Alton,
someone placed a revolver near her face and discharged a blank
cartridge directly at her face. She was very badly injured and was
taken to her home in St. Louis. The man responsible said he didn't
intend to do it.
An interesting feature of the Fourth was the Chinese celebration on
State Street. Hundreds of people gathered to take lessons of Pang
Sue and his laundrymen in the art of making a perfect celebration.
Pang and his washermen stretched ropes of firecrackers containing
ten thousand of the little terrors manufactured in China and
imported for the exclusive Chinese trade. One end of the rope was
ignited and pandemonium broke loose, the noise filling many a boy's
heart with envy, for the crackers were undeniably the best ever
heard. As the firecrackers burned, a Chinese flag was slowly
displayed and made a pretty picture.
Hamilton Lane was painfully burned about the hands last night by the
explosion of a big cannon cracker. The cracker had been lighted, and
he, not seeing it, picked it up to light it again, and the explosion
occurred while he was picking it up. Floyd Dunn fired a wad into his
hand from a blank cartridge and sustained a severe flesh wound.
Elmer Gaukrodger also suffered from a blank cartridge being fired at
his hand.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION IN ALTON
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 05, 1900
The celebration of the 124th birthday anniversary of the nation was
very enthusiastically observed in Alton, and the old people who have
fallen into the habit of saying that the American people are
neglecting the Fourth of July had their arguments very effectually
disproved. At every place that was suited for a celebration there
were assemblies of people who spent the day under a cloudless sky,
and in a temperature that was truly typical of the Fourth of July.
One of the largest celebrations was that at Turner Garden, where the
jolly Turners, the Maennerchor and the White Hussars, with their
friends and families, celebrated the recent rejuvenation of Turner
Garden and the completion of the improvements there. A very large
number of people assembled there and spent both afternoon and
evening in various amusements. At the bowling alleys contests were
held and the amusement was one of the principal features of the day.
The band played and the chorus of 60 voices sang the old-time
pieces. Dancing was kept up until a late hour and everyone had a
delightful time.
The Odd Fellows picnic at Reck's Garden [on State Street in North
Alton] was a big success, and the attendance was large. All
afternoon the Odd Fellows and their friends filled the garden and
the dancing pavilion and the electric cars were kept busy all day
carrying the crowds until late in the morning. At Rock Spring Park,
private picnic parties had possession, and scattered over the hills
numerous parties spent the day and took dinner they had carried in
baskets. For the first time in the history of the park there was no
general celebration there. In the evening some of the picnic parties
gave a big display of fireworks and the evening was closed most
pleasantly. The people in the neighborhood of Seminary Square held a
big display of fireworks last evening on the Square, and hundreds of
people assembled to witness it. The fireworks were beautiful and
expensive, and were the cause of much pleasure to many who did not
have displays of their own.
CHINESE NATIVE PROVIDES FIREWORKS FOR CITY
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 05, 1901
Tong Hong, the Celestial laundryman, had the best and biggest
display of fireworks in the city Thursday. Tong's Americanism may be
measured by the cost of his purchases to celebrate the advent of the
anniversary of our national birthday, and he certainly did cover
himself with glory. His f
ireworks
cost over $400. Many new and beautiful pieces were imported from
China for the occasion by Tong Hong, and there was a large crowd to
see the display. The roar and flash were terrific. Tong had three
strings of firecrackers of 10,000 each, and each made a noise like a
cannon. In addition to the 30,000 distinct cannon crackers, there
were pretty American flags in fireworks, pretty mines and sky
rockets that kept the big crowd amused all evening. Tong Hong was
very proud of his display, and so excited he almost forgot to
express his delight in English but lapsed into his native Chinese
language. Tong Hong's and Pang Sue's fireworks will be a feature of
all Fourth of Julys hereafter.
NOTES:
Tong Hong and Pang Sue were Chinese immigrants who owned a laundry
business in downtown Alton. They were well-known and respected in
the community. According to the U.S. inflation calculator, $400 in
1901 would equal $14,311.86 in 2023.
FOURTH OF JULY CASUALTIES IN ALTON
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, July 05, 1902
Amid the deafening din of the cannon crackers, the explosions of the
terrible toy cannon, the deadly revolver and the dangerous blank
cartridge, carnage and destruction was waged in the path of the
National birthday celebrants. The most serious accident of the day
was the perhaps fatal injury of Arthur McDonald, who was shot by his
playmate, Willie Bertier, Friday morning, and sustained a wound in
the right breast. McDonald was showing a 32-calibre revolver to
Bertier for the purpose of trying to make a sale. Bertier pointed it
at McDonald's breast and snapped the trigger at a distance of two
feet from his playmate. The bullet entered McDonald's breast between
the first and second ribs, clipping the edge of the breastbone and
lodging deep in the body of the boy. Drs. Taphorn and Shaff attended
the wounded boy and pronounced his case so serious that probing for
the ball was inadvisable. Little hope of the boy's recovery was held
out to the parents. The Bertier boy was almost prostrated with grief
at what he had accidentally done. The boys were 14 years old.
McDonald is a son of former Fire Chief Andrew McDonald, and the
family home is on Liberty, near Union street. Surgeons did a rushing
business Friday caring for victims of toy cannons and the deadly
cannon cracker. John Nelson was a victim of a cannon at Third and
Walnut street. It blew up in his face and he will be disfigured for
life. Dr. Smith was called to attend James Harris of Semple street
who suffered a similar accident, and will be likewise disfigured by
powder burns for the remainder of his life. Dr. Taphorn was called
to attend James Brock, who while standing on a ladder at his home
tacking up flags to decorate his place, fell with the ladder when it
broke and plunged through a plate glass window. One of his arms was
almost severed by the broken glass. Mrs. E. Bishop, boarding at the
Coleman house, was struck on the face Friday at noon by a stray
bullet which caused a flesh wound. She could not tell where the
bullet came from. It was a 38 calibre ball, and it is considered she
had a narrow escape, the bullet being deflected from her head by
striking a bone.