<< COLORED ARTISTS>> . - Among the Daguerreotypists of Hartford,
Conn., is Augustus Washington, a colored man, who takes good likenesses and
enjoys a very liberal patronage from the white citizens. This fact shows that
the prejudice of color is not so strong as is generally supposed. Miss Greenfield,
as black as midnight, has been singing through the Free states, and has been
rapturously applauded by crowded audiences - of whites. And if a new Raphael
or Murillo or Canova should be developed among the Afric-Americans of our day,
who doubts that his genius would be generally recognized and heartily honored?
The Blacks of this country should neglect to opportunity at acquirement in Agriculture,
Science, Art, but especially in the Mechanic Arts. Let each youth among them
be trained a carpenter, blacksmith, wheelwright, cabinet-maker, or to some other
trade if possible; than let each proficient take as many colored apprentices
as he can instruct and employ. Let the whole Race give a preference to each
other's workmanship so far as possible, and so stimulate the tendency to mechanical
pursuits. The tools to him who can use them: Skill and industry are sure of
ultimate triumph. - N.Y. Tribune.
May 16, 1850
THE NORTH STAR
Rochester, New York
THE NORTH STAR FAIR.
I have occupied a considerable portion of my time, during the present week,
in attendance upon this Exhibition which is now in the full tide of successful
experiment. It is held in a very neat, though rather contracted Hall, on Grand
Street, four doors from Broadway - (quite a favorable location.) The collection
of articles for sale is much larger than we had expected to see, and it embraces
a very great variety. The New York ladies have displayed excellent taste and
judgment in the arrangement of the Hall, making the most of the narrow limits
in which they are placed. They have received valuable contributions from the
Ladies' Association of Philadelphia, and from the Western New York Anti-Slavery
Society. In addition to these, a large box of goods has been received from our
English friends, in reference to which more will be said hereafter, and due
acknowledgements be made by the N.Y. Association. We have only time to say that
the ladies of this city have done themselves marked credit by their industry
and perseverance in this effort. They have contributed largely in bead and worsted
fabrications, all of which are of a chaste and elegant description. We must
not omit to mention that a young << colored artist>> has presented
to the Association several finely executed pictures, which are tastefully exhibited,
and add much to the decoration of the room. Each evening of the Fair has been
enlivened by music, vocal and instrumental. Miss Greenfield of Philadelphia,
has charmed the assembled throngs with her sweet voice, accompanied by the piano,
while Professor Jackson fairly electrified the lovers of music by his wonderful
performances on the violin. I have never heard a violinist whose skill so nearly
resembled that of the great Norwegian master of that instrument.
I deeply regret to state that much gloom was cast over the early part of the Fair, by the sudden demise of Mrs. Crummell, a lady who had evinced from the first the liveliest interest in arrangements for the proposed Fair, and who had exerted herself beyond her strength to render the occasion successful. Her loss is keenly felt by the Association, and her example in good works will not soon be forgotten.
October 26, 1867
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Miss Edmonia Lewis, a young colored girl, was, through the assistance of Boston anti Slavery people, sent to Rome two years ago to pursue the study of sculpture. Before going abroad she had executed many beautiful things in clay, a bust of Colonel Shaw being perhaps the most remarkable of her works. She has just sent to American's marble bust of Dr. Dio Lewis, which is on exhibition at Messrs. Childs & Jeneks' gallery in Boston. It is not only an accurate likeness, but she has given the attitude and expression of the physical education most happily. This is the first work of the kind sent from Europe to America from the hands of a << colored artist>> .
May 18, 1867
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
REV. STEPHEN SMITH.
On the occasion of the presentation, by Bishop Payne, on behalf of the colored
citizens of Baltimore, of the portrait of the late Hon. Henry Winter Davis,
(which was the work of an eminent << colored artist>> ,) to the
widow of the distinguished statesman, Rev. Stephen Smith, of our city, was chosen
President, while among the Vice Presidents were some of the wealthiest white
citizens of the State. Mr. Smith has been visiting Baltimore for forty years,
and is almost claimed as a distinguished fellow-townsman, by the people of that
city.
July 28, 1866
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
PERSONAL ITEMS.
Mrs. Emily Rodney, a female missionary who has been laboring in Virginia, is now in this city soliciting aid to build a Church, (A.M.E.,) at Stanton, Va. The congregation has purchased a lot for two hundred and fifty dollars, and have laid the corner-stone of the church. Sister Howard is recommended by Rev. W.D. Harris, Elder of the Third St. A.M.E. Church, Richmond, Va., and Rev. John M. Brown, Cor. Sec., P.H. & F.M. Society. We trust that our friends will favorably consider the cause she presents.
Rev. William Moore of Trenton spent a few days in our city this week.
Rev. W.D.W. Schureman passed through our city last week.
The General Book Steward is on a visit to the West, he will attend the Convention
at Louisville and also the Conferences.
Rev. W.H. Hopkins (Baltimore Conference) was in this city last week accompanied by his lady. Bro. Hopkins had been on a visit to his mother-in-law in New Jersey.
Mr. W.B. Scott of The Colored Tennessean, is at present a welcome visitor in
our city, and is at the residence of our good friend Still.
Mrs. Frances E.W. Harper is in our city. She has been invited by Rev. R.H. Cain to go to Charleston and deliver a course of lectures.
The Colored Citizen. We learn from a gentleman recently from the West, that Mr. J.P. Sampson of the Colored Citizen, is about to sever his connection with that journal, and that he will make a tour in Europe exhibiting a panorama, painted by an eminent << colored artist>> . The panorama is said to be one of the finest in the country, and most accurately describes the great civil war in America.
Mr. George Ruby, of Portland, Me., a colored teacher of Freedmen's schools in Louisiana, and we think at one time a Superintendent a New Orleans, has been terribly whipped and otherwise maltreated by lawless whites in that State. The Military have arrested the desperadoes, and we trust that simple justice will be dealt out. For Mr. Ruby we wish a speedy recovery, as his services in the cause of education in Louisiana are invaluable.
August 12, 1865
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
LETTER FROM CLEVELAND.
NO. II.
Our city has lately been enlivened by several excellent concerts, given by a
troupe of << Colored artists>> .
The troupe consists of two young ladies and two gentlemen. Miss Alice Sherman,
the "Prima Donna" and the chief attraction, has a rich, melodious
voice, of peculiar sweetness and delicacy. Her singing has elicited the warmest
applause from her admiring and appreciative audiences - who have bestowed upon
her the sobriquet of "The Nightingale."
Mr. W. Russell is the "tenor," and Mr. Geo. Burris "basso."
Both of these gentlemen have excellent and cultivated voices and harmonize admirably
with the Nightingale.
The troupe is accompanied by Rev. J.A. Warren, pastor of the A.M.E. Church in this city, who lends additional interest to the concerts by his pithy and entertaining addresses.
The party, with the exception of Burris, contemplate making a tour through the West, giving entertainments in the principal towns and cities.
We bespeak for them a cordial reception by all the lovers of good music, and all who are interested in the elevation and improvement of our race.
R. HARRIS.
November 18, 1847
THE NATIONAL ERA
Washington, D.C., Vol. I No. 46 p. 3
J.B. WHEATON, Wholesale and Retail Druggist, keeps constantly on hand a well-selected
assortment of drugs and medicines, chemicals, paints, oils, dye stuffs, window
glass and putty, large glass for pictures, artists' prepared << colored>>
, << artists'>> brushes, pencils, crayons, water colors, &c.
Also, a few choice Groceries.
Corner of Broad and High streets, Columbus, Ohio.
December 7, 1882
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Personal.
-The Pittsburg Colored Citizen has severed its connection with R.C.O. Benjamin.
-Mr. Robert Church, of Memphis, Tennessee is said to be the richest colored man in the State.
-The editor of the Cairo Gazette, Mr. J.J. Bird, has relinquished his connection with that paper.
-Professor Virchow has in his laboratory at Berlin a collection of 6,000 skulls, representing all races and times.
-Rev. J.W. Asbury came within 180 votes of defeating Mr. Blackburn, the silver tongued orator, for congress.
-Rev. W.H. Brooks, has recently been installed pastor of the Nineteenth street Baptist Church at Washington, D.C.
-Messrs. W.H. Anderson and R.T. Hill, formerly of New York, have gone into business as booksellers and stationers at Richmond, Va.
-Messrs R.B. and E.R. Ragby, of the able Indianapolis Leader, have returned to Washington, D.C., not exactly pleased with the way things went in Indiana.
-The speeches of the Hon. Jno. M. Langton, Minister to Hayti, will soon be published, with an introductory by Rev. J.E. Rankin, D.D., of Washington, D.C.
-As pastor of Emanuel Church and Mt. Zion also, both of Charleston, S.C., the Rev. N.B. Sterrett has more souls to look after than the whole of the New England Conference.
-Rev. Wm. Lewis, pastor of the Southside A.M.E. Church, of Norfolk, Va., died on the 17th instant, leaving an estate of $10,000. He was a well known and respected citizen.
-A crayon picture entitled, “Charge of the Scott's Grave,” on exhibition at American Institute, New York, is the center of attraction and is the work of a << colored artist>> , Mr. S.T. Bostick.
-Geo. C. Sample, Esq., has been elected to the lower House of the Colorado Legislature by a handsome majority, though he was scratched by a good many of the old colored citizens.
-It is reported that Colonel Robert G. Ingersoll has received an offer of $1,000 and expenses for a series of twenty five lectures to be delivered in Australia, but has declined the proposition.
-With Rev. Richard Ricketts in West Kansas and Rev. Jno. Turner in East Kansas City, we expect to see a great interest manifested in the church circles this winter.-Kansas City Enterprise.
-The Rev. Joseph Cook arrived in Boston last week. His time until late in April will be devoted to filling lecture engagements. The Monday lectures will not probably be resumed until next fall.
-Madam Selika, when last heard from, was pleasing the Scotch. Both her voice and that of Mr. Sampson Williams, her husband, are said to be improving wonderfully. The Madam is studying the opera of Aida.
-Rev. J.W. Braxton returned from Cheyenne last Monday evening, where he had
been to hold quarterly meeting, it being the only change over which he is to
preside this year. The five churches in Colorado in the A.M.E. connection have
become within the last year self-sustaining, and four have pastors who are elders.
There value of their church property is $25,000, and they raised for all purposes
last year $7,000. This certainly speaks well for our people in Colorado.-Denver
Weekly Star.
September 9, 1880
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
“LIFT UP THE STANDARD.”
This is the cry of the prophet Isaiah. He speaks of lifting up a standard; but that that was in his mind was pre-eminently the standard. But the standard in our mind has no reference to the standard of the prophet, be it a or the. We are referring to the absolute necessity of lifting up the standard of the colored ministry. At present it is altogether too low; if indeed it be not too often seen trailing in the very dust. We have no especial reference to the ministry of our church, whose standard is quite as high as is the standard of any of our neighbors. But the necessity is general for a lift up of the standard of the colored ministry all along the line. The standard of the average colored preacher, be he Methodist or Baptist, be he Presbyterian or Episcopalian, though these two last are so few in number when compared to the others, that it were not to be wondered if the standard among them the intellectual, the moral and the religious standard be not decidedly higher – the standard of the average colored preacher, we say, is altogether too low. It must be lifted up. Paul tells Titus: “Let no man despise thee.” The colored ministry of today is altogether too greatly despised, and the reason is the standard is too low. The colored school etcher is respected; as is also the colored lawyer, the colored physician, the << colored artists>> , the colored professional man in general. But come you to the colored ministry and the moment it is known but a man is a “colored preacher,” that moment he falls fifty percent in the estimation of the thoughtful, sensible public. Wherefore? Plainly because the standard of the ministry is too low. Any Tome, Dick and Harry can enter, if only he says he is “called,” just as though He who made the ear did not see, and He who made the intellect did not think. Surely the time has come to lift up the standard educationally, morally and religiously. Brother ministers, we need more of an esprit de corps. It is high time for us to get tired seeing the badge of our calling trailing not only in the dust, but too often in the mire and in the filth. What say you?
July 18, 1878
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
A << COLORED ARTIST>> .
-----
We had the pleasure this week of meeting Mr. J.F. McGraw, a young man of more than ordinary ability as an artist. His home is in Milwaukee, whose he has been at study for one year. He has several portraits in oil and one in crayon. They give evidence of decided talent. The oil paintings are well finished. One of himself is in every respect an artistic piece of work. The crayon sketch is equal to any exhibited by our city artists in our last Exposition. When we consider the gentleman has been a student only one year and that be is not yet 17 years old, we feel warranted in predicting a successful future for him. He secured an order from Mr. Harvey, the lawyer. After finishing it, he will call upon our citizens. We are glad to attest of his merits, and hope they will receive their mood of appreciation. -The Conservator.
December 13, 1877
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, PA
OWING to the straightened circumstances of our Publication Department and the
immediate want of funds to meet the obligation us now pressing upon it, the
employees of the Department are preparing to give one of the finest musical
entertainments ever given in this city by << colored artists>> .
No pains are being spared in its get up, and eminent musical talent of this
and other cities has been engaged. New, original and novel music will be given.
Will our city ministers popularize it in their congregations, as the object is a worthy one. IT WILL BE GRAND.
March 18, 1875
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
THREE << COLORED ARTISTS>> .
Mr. C.L. Bernays, a well known German-American gentleman, at present sojourning
in Germany, writing to the Anzeiger des Westens, gives some account of three
remarkable musicians with whom he became acquainted at Leipzig. The director
of the conservatorium in that city, Herr Schleinitz, introduced them to Mr.
Bernays as among the best scholars of the institution in which they had received
their musical education. These musicians are Senior Jimenez and his two sons,
Jose Julian and Nicasio Jimenez. They are pure negroes, of the distinctively
negro type. Jimenez, the father, was formerly a slave in Trinidad de Cuba. How
he was first taken to Europe we are not told, but he learned the violin in Leipzig
Conservatory under Mendelssohn's direction, and then returned to Cuba, where,
by giving concerts and playing at balls, he earned money enough to enable him,
four years ago, to take his two sons to the institution in which he had himself
been taught. All three are now good musicians, says Herr Bernays: all three
really great musical artists - Nicasio and his father, the violoncellist and
the violinist, being the more elegant, feeling performers. The younger of the
sons, Jose Julian, is a pianist. Though he plays with astonishing facility,
there is apparent, it seems, a certain coarseness or inefficiency in the execution
of strong passages, betraying manifest lack of genuine sensibility. The two
former accompany their instruments with the voice with wonderful effect, and
when these colored men play trios together the listener is enraptured. Mr. Bernays
is unmistakably a connoisseur in music, and does not express admiration without
reason. He states that these negro musicians are received just like white people
in Leipzig society.
March 10, 1887
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, PA
Personal.
- Rev. George Hunter, of the North Carolina Conference, has been very sick recently.
-----
- Alexander, one of the colored cadets at West Point, will graduate this year,
if they will let him do so.
-----
- Mr. Powhattan Beatty has been appointed Superintendent of the Young Men's
Blaine Club of Cincinnati, Ohio.
-----
- Prof. P.H. Clark is a candidate for the position of Superintendent of Mail
Carriers in the Cincinnati post office. - Ex.
-----
- Madame Marie Selika, the renowned vocalist, will shortly remove from Boston,
Mass., to reside in Columbus, Ohio.
-----
- Mr. H.L. Livingston, colored, of Mississippi, has been promoted to a $1,40-
clerkship in the Pension Office, at Washington, D.C.
-----
- Miss Fannie Richards, a colored teacher in the mixed schools of Detroit, Mich.,
has been promoted, for merit, from the third to fifth grade.
-----
- Strangers going to Boston will do well to call on Brother Trim Lee, at his
dining room, 234 Pleasant street, near Boston & Providence Depot.
-----
- Mr. C.O. Jacko, a << colored artist>> of Little Rock, Ark., made
a crayon of Gen. Grant, which adorns the walls of the House of Representatives
in that city.
-----
- Bishop Turner has appointed Rev. Daniel W. Culp, D.D., to Harrodsburg, Ky.
Dr. Culp is a graduate of Princeton College and ranks as one of the finest linguists
in the land.
-----
- Samuel H. Holland, colored, formerly of Cincinnati, has held the office of
sheriff and tax collector of Chicot county, Ark., for twelve years. He owns
a fine plantation of 500 acres.
-----
- In Augusta, Ky., Henry Dodson, a white man, charged with vagrancy and being
considered a nuisance, was, by order of court, ordered sold to the highest bidder
for a term of seventy days.
-----
- The coincidences in two appointments made by two of our Bishops last year
are striking. Bishop Cain appointed Rev. J.M. Cargile to Newport, R.I.; Bishop
Ward appointed Rev. E.M. Argyle to Newport, Ark.
-----
- Miss L.C. Fleming, of Florida, late of the Florida Templar, who has been attending
a course of lectures in the Women's Medical College in Philadelphia, leaves
next week for the Congo Valley to remain three years.
-----
- A sketch of the life of President I.M. Burgan appears on our first page. This
gives but a single instance of what it costs to develop educational work among
our people. Brethren reading it may apply it to our educators generally.
-----
- A letter from Hon. John M. Langston was published in the Herald of February
25th, in which he gives his opinion that if the democrats want the colored vote,
nothing short of a cabinet position will obtain it. It is thought by many that
Langston would not object to being a cabinet officer. - Ex.
-----
- The Rev. Horace Talbert, of Owego, N.Y., has been mentioned very favorably
for the Liberian mission. Brother Talbert is an able, upright, scholarly gentleman,
whose representation of the United States on the African continent would be
entirely satisfactory and gratifying to a great number of colored Americans.
-----
- Mr. Arnett's bill requiring that the effects of alcoholic drinks upon the
human system shall be taught in all public schools, also requires officers in
control of schools to see that the law is enforced, or if they do not that they
be removed; also that after Jan. 1st, 1888, applicants for certificates to teach
shall pass satisfactory examination in regard to effects of alcoholic drinks
upon the human system. - Xenia Gazette.
-----
- Miss Helen D. Handy has been appointed to a copyist's position in the office
of Recorder of Deeds. This is one of the very best appointments ever made in
that office, and whatever we may have said with respect to the appropriateness
of the appointment or confirmation of Mr. Matthews, there can be no question
as to the representative character of the appointment of Miss Handy. - People's
Advocate.
December 27, 1883
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, PA
Personal.
-----
- Rev. W.B. Derrick has become a member of Thaddeus Stevens Post.
-----
- Frank F. Barnes, born in Georgia, now in New York City, is a << colored
artist>> of much ability.
-----
- Fred. D. Anderson has been appointed to a clerkship by Cincinnati's Republican
Comptroller, Mr. E.O. Eshelby.
-----
- Bishop Dickerson presided over the recent conference of the A.M.E. Church
at Forsythe, Ga. We hear that the assemblage was one of the most intelligent
that has been held in Georgia for years. - Augusta People's Defense.
-----
- Fourteen colored men are elected to the Mississippi House of Representatives.
Adams furnishes one, Warren one, Madison two, Hinds three, Panola one, Coahoma
one, Bolivar one, Sharkey one, Issaquena one, and Washington two. G.W. Gayles,
of Bolivar, will be the only colored man in the Senate.
-----
- The owner of the farm at Lindenville, O., upon which John Brown established
an arsenal preparatory to his raid at Harper's Ferry, is still living. His name
is E.O. Forbes, and he is a man of superior intelligence, highly esteemed by
his neighbors. He retains a vivid recollection of Old Ossawatomie and of the
circumstances under which the ammunition and arms were stored.
-----
- Monsignor Savarese, doctor of civil and canon law, and until recently the
Pope's domestic prelate, has left the Roman Catholic Church. December 9th he
was received into the communion of the Episcopal Church by Dr. Nevin, in St.
Paul's American Church, on his confession of the Nicene Creed and his abjuration
of t he dogmas of the immaculate conception and Papal infallibility. He asks
for the guidance and protection of the Anglican episcopate against the usurpations
of the Bishop of Rome.
-----
- Anna Dickinson said to a Chicago Herald reporter last week: “I think
I was born to live in a warm climate, read novels, and only talk when I feel
like it - I mean to make some speeches before long. But this is to be no personal
controversy with Monsignor Capel. He, a foreigner, comes to this country, and,
after laying a platform of declarations, asks certain questions. I think I would
like to try to answer them. Of necessity I cross the track Monsignor Capel has
laid down. But there will not be any Capel-Dickinson controversy, for I am going
to make a good-natured speech - if I can --- Since slavery no subject has stirred
me as does this.”
-----
- The Rev. George Washington Nolley, who died last week at Ashland, Va., age
eighty years, had performed fifty-eight years' active service in the Methodist
ministry. He it was who led a charge of the Confederate troops in the battle
at Brook Church, near Richmond. In the midst of the fight, as the story is told
on “Soldier Life in the Army of Northern Virginia,” a voice was
heard, shouting, “Where's my boy? I'm looking for my boy!” Soon
the owner of the voice appeared - tall, slim, aged, with silvery-gray hair,
dressed in a full suit of broadcloth. A tall silk hat and a clerical collar
and cravat completed his attire. His voice familiar to the people of Virginia,
was deep and powerful. As he continued to shout the men replied, “Go back,
old gentleman, you'll get hurt here; go back, go back!” “No, no,”
said he; “I can go anywhere my boy has to go, and the Lord is here. I
want to see my boy, and I will see him!” Then the order “Forward!”
was given, and the men, made once more for the enemy. The old gentleman, his
beaver in one hand, a big stick in the other, his long hair flying, shouting,
“Come on, boys!” disappeared in the depths of the woods, well in
front.
October 9, 1851
FREDERICK DOUGLASS PAPER
Rochester, New York
HELP FOR THE PEOPLE OF COLOR.
-------
We extract the annexed letter from the Independent, and we commend it especially
to the attention of all the sincere friends of the colored people:
I see in a late number of your journal an article calling attention to the free
people of color; urging that their professed friends do something to counterbalance
the influence exerted by the Colonization Society, to prevent their elevation
here, and to relieve them from their present almost exclusively menial employments.
You will please permit one of those referred to, a hearing through your columns.
Whilst our improvement mainly depends upon our own efforts, yet there is much
that our friends can do for us besides expressing their abhorrence of slavery
and disapprobation of prejudice. They possess the capital and natural resources
of the country. Their forefathers possessed the lands and streams, when ours
did not possess the product of their own toil, but were themselves added to
the possessions of our white fellow-countrymen. And thus having the start in
the race cure their advantage. They hold possession of the agricultural, mechanical,
mercantile and professional interest of the country, from which we have been
almost entirely excluded. It is by opening these to us that we can be advanced.
Your correspondent speaks of this as an end, without detailing the means by
which it is to be arrived at. I shall endeavor briefly to define how capital
may be employed in opening these various pursuits to us.
Passing over the educational branch of his argument, to which the colored people
are bestowing considerable attention, and which they will fully attend to when
placed in favorable circumstances, we arrive at the other branch - the entering
into more desirable employments.
First, as to agriculture. Funds might be employed in assisting worthy, industrious
but poor colored men, desirous of becoming farmers, in purchasing stock and
implements to be paid for by them when their success would enable them; or in
the purchase of tracts of land to be cultivated under the direction of an association,
where colored men should be employed as laborers, and be allowed to purchase
by their industry parcels of land and implements of husbandry for individual
enterprise.
Second - mechanical branches. Shops and factories might be opened, if not exclusively
for colored operatives, yet open to them where those having trades can get employment,
and youth be skilled in the various arts. This would afford employment to both
sexes, and add much to the respectability as well as comfort of the colored
population.
Third - mercantile pursuits. Establishments might be opened with the view of
the employment of colored young men as clerks, and qualifying them as merchants,
and when they have exhibited the necessary traits of enterprise, frugality,
tact and attention to business, to afford them such assistance in enterprises
for themselves, as are now meted out to white young men who exhibit like qualities.
Fourth - the learned professions. When the colored people are secured a respectable
means of living, they will themselves provide their sons with the means of obtaining
these. All that is required of friends in the various professions, is to afford
them the same facilities that are extended to others.
These various objects can be carried out by the organization of an association
upon the plan suggested by "Philanthropos," viz.: comprehensive, like
the American Colonization Society, with auxiliaries in the states and cities,
where such can be organized - an association for the improvement of the condition
of the free people of color in the United States, for the collection of funds,
and their employment in the various enterprises hastily suggested above, with
a board of boards of directors to superintend their operation. - Indeed, funds
need not be given as charity, but subscribed as stock, and I will hazard the
opinion that it would pay in the course of ten years as well as any railroad
or canal stock in the States. I do not ask charity for the colored people, but
that they be afforded the means of employing their talents, skill and industry.
Capitalists can render us comfortable and themselves rich. I don't see why a
hundred barrels of flour or bushels of potatoes, produced by colored hands,
would not bring as much in the market as the same produced by others - or why
a thousand hats, or cases of boots, or a hundred pieces of domestic cotton cloth,
would not sell for as much when made by << colored artizans>> ,
as if made by others.
The experiment of colored clerks and bookkeepers, in a house established for
that purpose, would, I think, prove equally successful. I think the majority
of purchasers, either wholesale or retail, would have no more objection to colored
clerks than they have to colored porters, whom they so often meet in New York
and other commercial cities. Perhaps the novelty of the thing would attract
as many as colorphobia would repel. - If this is worthy of space in your columns,
I will resume the subject.
Yours, respectfully,
JOSEPH C. HOLLY.
BURLINGTON, Vt., Aug. 25, 1851.
July 31, 1869
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
PERSONAL.
-----
-The Editor of the Church Union pays the following compliment to the one armed
hero of the war. Howsoever glowing this tribute is to Gen. Howard, yet indeed
may we say of him, “the half has not been told.” When the glory
even of a Grant shall have died away, as will all military glory in the “good
time coming,” the glory of Howard will stand imperishable.
-'Our poet Whittier, in 'HOWARD AT ATLANTA,' has already crowned one of our
bravest generals with that tender glory which does not rise from victory in
war, but from the love of God and good-will to men. Seldom it is (and also it
is so seldom) that such a halo encircles the brow of a famous soldier. Is it
because the cross and the sword are not natural allies in the same hands? Howard
has made his name, which was already noble, nobler than ever, in the annals
of Christian philanthropy. Goodness, which is the very essence of immortality,
is the best preservative of fame. Here is an example for the young men of the
Republic! Ah, when will we learn that the true chivalry, the knighthood of the
Cross, respects manhood in whatever guise, believes in human progress, pities
and helps the weak, sees in the suffering of whatever race, color, or clime,
Him whose 'visage was so marred more than any man,' and hears always that heavenly
voice, 'Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, ye have
done it unto Me?' The chivalry which rises over the helpless to break a lance
for a fair lady or a breath of applause, is cowardly, as well as devilish at
the bottom.”
-“The Christian Statesman” calls Pres. Grant to account for appointing
Gen. Sickles minister to Spain. It says: The President cannot be ignorant of
what Gen. Sickles was in both public and private life from early manhood till
the breaking out of the rebellion. Whatever his services in behalf of the country
since then might have been, and whatever his sacrifices and sufferings, the
old records of those former years of crime and infamy can never be effaced.
-Prof. Wm. Howard Day is lecturing throughout Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware.
His address is 824 French Street, Wilmington, Del.
-A number of Hicksite Quakers have joined the Unitarian church in Wilmington,
presided over by Rev. Fields Israel.
-Miss Sallie Daffin, after another year's arduous labor in the South, is at
home on a visit.
-Hon. J. Willis Menard through the columns of his Radical Standard thus pronounces:
We have entered the field with a quart bottle, well charged with good ink, and
we intend to empty it in praises for those who do right, and in short words,
for those who are tired of the negro and wish to sell him out.
-Gen. Howard is to read a paper before the National Convention of Educators
next month in Trenton. Theme: “Education in the South, with reference
to the colored population.”
-President Grant, Gen. Sherman, ex-Sec. Seward and Mrs. Lincoln have been the
recipient of valuable presents in the shape of silver sets for the part each
took in the abolition of slavery.
-Horace Greeley returns $20,800 income for 1868.
-John bull, a Kroo African, has just got a bronze medal from the British Humane
Society, for saving two lives within six months.
-Jas. Simmons, corporal, and Robert, Roberts, private, members of Co. K., 25th
Reg. U.S. Infantry, were lately arrested and lodged in jail because they wouldn't
go on the deck of a Mississippi steamboat at the bidding of the rebel captain.
Where is the Commanding General of the District?
-Miss Edmonia Lewis, now on a short visit to the United States, has recently
executed a colossal bust in plaster, of our great poet, Henry W. Longfellow.
The model is at her studio in Rome, and is considered by all Americans, who
have seen it, to be a fine specimen of art, as well as a most excellent and
truthful likeness of her subject. She proposes to execute the bust in marble.
It is one, which should find a place in Harvard University, and the friends
of our renowned scholar will do well to obtain this work of art from Miss Lewis
for that purpose. The cost of the bust in marble will be about seven hundred
dollars. Professor Childs says: “I have seen the photograph of Miss Lewis's
bust of Professor Longfellow, and should consider a copy in marble a very desirable
acquisition for Harvard College. The college at present possesses no portrait,
of any sort, of Professor Longfellow.”
A subscription has been started to raise the required sum. This is headed by
some of our well-known citizens prominent in good works.
Our readers perhaps, need not be told that Miss Lewis is a << colored
artist>> , and has been studying for five years in Rome to perfect herself
in art. She also proposes that if any society will raise a hundred dollars towards
this object, and will send the sum to Fields, Osgood & Co., she will give
them, for a present to their pastor, a copy of the bust in terra cotta.
-Senators Pinchback and Antoine, of the Louisiana Senate, and Alex Barbour,
Harbor Master of N.O., all colored, were lately in Louisville, and made some
telling speeches to the unreconstructed Kentuckians.
-Kamehameha V. of the Sandwich Islands, is a model farmer and a good judge of
horses and sheep.
-George B. Vashon, colored, was admitted to practice as a lawyer in the Criminal
Court at Washington on Saturday.
-O! Dr. Whedon, why did you tell our Southern Methodist brethren to drop the
new phrase, “church stealing,” from their vocabulary, and in the
very next sentence charge it upon them? That was cruel.
-Mrs. Jane Miller, a colored woman well known at Blandford, VT, as “Aunt
Jeaney,” died on Sunday, aged ninety-one years. She was the oldest person
in town, and had lived in the same neighborhood for seventy years. Her funeral
was attended, at North Blandford, on Tuesday by a large concourse. She was a
native of Norwich, Conn.
-Wm. Whipper, Esq., has been elected a Trustee of Howard University.
-Gen. Howard has called Dr. Torsey, of Kent. Hill, to the Presidency of Howard
University at Washington.
June 2, 1866
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
EDITORIAL ITEMS.
SCHOOLS IN GEORGIA.- We learn from the official report of Superintendent Eberhart, that there are for the colored people in Georgia, at the present time, 71 schools, 104 teachers, with 6,991 pupils. 45 of the teachers are colored. 28 of the schools are sustained entirely by the freedmen themselves, and 76 by northern societies.
A << COLORED ARTIST>> .- MR. LOGUEN.- The following acknowledgment
of the artistic skill of a young colored man is made by the Syracuse Daily Standard,
which has the following:
“One of the most elegant pen-portraits we have ever seen, has just been
finished by a young colored man, son of Rev. J.W. Loguen, of this city. The
picture is a life-like portrait of that noble man and eminent philanthropist,
Gerrit Smith, and is intended to be presented to him by the artist, as a token
of gratitude for the interest which Mr. Smith has always exhibited in the advancement
of the colored race. The picture is copied from a well-executed photograph,
and is a perfect copy of the original, on a larger scale. The flowing beard
and benevolent countenance of the venerable gentleman are very lifelike, and
wonderful specimens of artistic skill and graceful penmanship. The portrait
is surrounded by a floral wreath, with birds of several varieties perched among
the branches, and an occasional bird's nest half-hidden by the leaves- all executed
with the most consummate skill and the most exquisite beauty. Underneath the
portrait is inscribed the following quotation from Gerrit Smith:- “When
I see my fellow-man reduced to a slave, I demand his deliverance simply because
he is a man.” And on a scroll at the foundation of the wreath is the presentation
address, as follows:- 'Executed with a Pen, and presented to Hon. Gerrit Smith,
by Gerrit S. Loguen, with his profound respect.' The whole is inclosed in a
plain, but handsome frame, and forms one of the most appropriate and elegant
tributes that could be offered by a colored man to the eloquent and noble champion
of his race.
“Young Mr. Loguen, the author of this splendid Pen-Picture, is a pupil
of Ames Commercial College, and this specimen speaks well for the teachings
of that institution.”
COLORED PEOPLE AND THE BALTIMORE CITY RAILROAD CO.- A.A. Bradley, Esq., of Boston, recently made an unsuccessful effort to test the right of the Baltimore City Railroad Company to exclude colored person from their passenger cars. An agitation of the matter has thus commenced, and we believe it will end in securing colored persons the right to ride in the street cars unmolested.
REV. JAMES A. SHORTER of the A.M.E. Church and agent for Wilberforce University
called on President Johnson, about two weeks since, and solicited of him a contribution
for the rebuilding of Wilberforce University.
The President kindly received him, and promised to do something in the future.
JUDGE FIELDS of the U.S. District Court addressed the Philadelphia Annual Conference
of the African M.E. Church at Princeton, N.J. on last Monday morning.
He commenced by expressing his high appreciation of the remarks of the Rev.
John M. Brown, who had just closed an able address in regard to our southern
work of evangelization and education. The Judge said he rejoiced that the members
of the Conference were citizens of the same country as himself- that he and
they had a common destiny. That powerful influences were at work to bring about
the development and acknowledgment of our manhood, victory was certain.
THE action of the “Reconstructed” ones in impeding the colored people of Augusta, Ga., in honoring the graves of Union soldiers buried in that city, has excited much indignation at the North. No newspaper justifies or excuses it, except those that were jubilant when Robert E. Lee led his army to the environs of the capitol of Pennsylvania.
THE STEWARD OF PRESIDENT Johnson's house is a colored man.
THE COLORED BAPTISTS of the North and South are moving on successfully, and in harmony with each other to an extent that commands our highest admiration. Associations are being formed, societies organized, and ministers educated. Their oneness of feeling and purposes is a good example for many to follow.
GEN. O.S. FERRY, who is said to be a Radical Republican, has been elected to the U.S. Senate from Connecticut, and will succeed Senator Foster. This State is certainly making progress.
PETER H. CLARK, the able instructor of colored youths, and principal of one of the colored public schools in Cincinnati, Ohio, is calling attention to “their faults and the remedies,” by a series of strongly written articles, full of common sense, which are published in one of the journals of that city. We hope some one will confer a similar benefit on us here in Philadelphia. There is room for improvement in our common school system.
JUSTICE AND GENEROSITY.- The publication of a note from a distinguished gentleman
with this heading, over the nom de plume of “Traveller,” in the
Christian Recorder about three weeks since, seems to have so charged our Baltimore
cotemporary with excitement, that he required a two column communicator, in
the shape of a “leader,” to work it off. Well, the excitement is
communicated! to whom, we know not, but trust that the receiver will survive.
The real name of “Traveller” will be given to our Baltimore cotemporary
whenever he desires it.
October 12, 1882
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Delighted weather.
Comet still in view.
For the week ending October 7th, there were 332 deaths in Philadelphia, as compared
with 343 for the previous week and 367 for the corresponding week of last year.
The main causes were: Cholera infantum, 12; consumption of the lungs 51; convulsions,
17; croup 16; diphtheria, 24, heart disease, 13; [ ] , 15 and old age, 17.
The night schools, opened last Monday evening in all parts of the city, ought
to prove of great advantage to ambitions young man and women. Including the
artisans school, there will be forty-four schools provided, and these should
afford ample accommodations for all who are likely to attend. Remember those
schools are not “colored” and “white” as formerly. On
the contrary they are public schools. Let there of our readers who wish to attend
drop into the one connected with their word.
The Nellie Brown Mitchell Concert was financial failure. Nor did the singers
do as well as we can very readily believe they would had not so many seats been
vacant. There is no enthusiasm in empty seats, even though they be finely cushioned.
As it was, however, the honors of the affair were largely given to Mrs. Mitchell,
the “star.” Mrs. S.E.M. Lewis, however, sang with her usual acceptability.
The German Quartette seemed to be disgusted at the show of benches. It is to
be regretted that the public do not more generally appreciate the efforts of
Manager Baxter. His aim is a most laudable one.
The second exhibition of << colored artists>> under the auspices
of the Workingmen's Club, is soon to open. In some quarters there is a tendency
to criticize the expediency of such exhibitions. If colored men have really
the artistic skill, why not push ahead and exhibit where recognized art is displayed.
What the good of showing in a corner; especially as art draws no color line.
We ourselves are the first to cry out against such line, and yet it is jus possible
that no portion of the American people is doing so much to perpetuate it. Would
it not be well to transfer the exhibition from Eleventh Street to Broad?
Allen Chapel, Sunday, Oct. 8th, Rev. C.T. Shaffer, pastor. Third quarterly meeting,
Rev. B.T. Tanner preached in the morning from Heb. Xi: 6. “But without
faith it is impossible to please him,” &c. In the afternoon Rev. Wm.
H. Yeocum spoke from the words: “Father, I will that they also, whom thou
hast given me, he with me where I am,” St. John, xvii: 2d, after which
the sacrament was administered. The Elder preached in the evening. Subject,
“God as revealed to us in the Scriptures.” He took for a basis,
St. John xvii: 1-3, also Jeremiah x: 10. The attendance of the congregation
was excellent all day. Collection during the day amounted to $73.
Quarterly meeting at Zion Mission on Sunday last was all that could be desired.
The morning was taken up with love feast and all who were in attendance call
truly the Lord in with us. At 2 PM, the Sabbath school was quite large and the
lesson interesting. At 3:15 Rev. J.S. Thompson, of Bethel preach a soul inspiring
sermon from Phil. 1:6. “Being confident of this very thing,” &c.
The sacrament was administered with much joy on the part of the communicate
and pastor. A prayer was offered for one who demanded it. At 7 ½, Rev.
J.W. Bechett preached from Phil. Iix. 19. “My God shall supply all young
needs,” &c. When the day closed the expression of the people was,
“Truly the Lord visited his temple to day.” The pastor, Rev. Combach,
certainly has need to be proud of his people. Collection during the day, $22.67.
September 14, 1882
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, PA
Local News.
-----
Fall is here.
-----
Leaves are falling.
-----
Green grass departing.
-----
The pastors are all at their posts.
-----
The city is settling down for the winter.
-----
It is not too much to expect some thoroughly vigorous preaching after such a
pleasant vacation.
-----
The Sunday schools are all filling up. Church members often miss it by not stopping
in. The Sunday school of today is not what it was a quarter of a century ago.
-----
The Almshouse stealings still the talk. The crime of Major Phipps appropriating
to himself what was intended for the poor, in more frequent than many might
suppose. On a much smaller scale, of course, it is quite a common offence. At
last we are inclined to think so.
-----
The Sunday school of the Cherry street Baptist Church, Rev. T.D. Miller, pastor,
has reconvened after a month's vacation. The school is in charge of Mr. J.R.
Smith. The church was kept open during the warm weather and the pulpit, in the
absence of the pastor, supplied by different clergymen.
-----
In the death of Mrs. Douglass, Philadelphia loses one of its worthiest women.
For years she taught in the High School for Colored Youth, and when the weight
of years caused her to resign that position, unwilling to rust out, she gave
lectures on hygiene to a class of young ladies. She was buried last Monday in
Lebanon, Dr. Reeve officiating.
-----
A free Kindergarten, for the instruction of the poor children too young to attend
public school, has been organized at No. 2848 Jefferson street, in the Twenty-ninth
Ward. An appeal for assistance is made to the citizens of the Ward. If called
upon, contribute, and if you have a wee one, send it. Let there be no more holding
back by our people.
-----
One of the largest excursions that ever left this city was that of the Knights
Templar and [ ] over the West Jersey Railroad to Atlantic City, which took place
last Thursday. Fifty-nine cars were used to carry the excurtionists, who numbered,
it is estimated, about 4800. [?] Returning in the evening, a great number of
excursionists formed in line, and headed by a band of music, marched through
several streets.
-----
The Grand Concert to be given by Mrs. Nellie Brown-Mitchell, of Boston, [ ]
by Mrs. C.A. Wevill, Mrs. [ ] Lewis, Mr. H. Albert [ ] and other eminent talent,
promises to be of unusual interest. Manager Baxter is sparing no pains to make
it worthy the patronage of all. The mixing in of white and << colored
artists>> is worthy of commendation. It is to take place Oct. 5, 1882,
at Association Hall.
-----
There is to be held in Association Hall on Monday, September 18, at 3 P.M.,
a convention of all who favor the cause of temperance. Each church and society
favoring the ...
-----
The pastor at Union A.M.E. Church, Rev. J.W. Baskett, occupied the pulpit last
Sabbath for the first time since his summer vacation. The Elder spoke of 10:30
o'clock from 1 Psalms, 3. At 3 o'clock the Rev. S.P. Smith, of Washington, D.C.,
spoke to a very large audience from Isaiah xxxix., 31. “They that wait
on the Lord shall renew their strength.” After the sermon the sacrament
was administered, and from the expressions uttered by the pastor and people,
the spiritual strength of believers was renewed. At 8 o'clock Bishop J.P. Campbell
preached from 107th Psalm, 8, “Oh that men,” &c. The Bishop
was in one of his happy moods and gave the audience something upon which to
mediate for many days. The attendance throughout the day was quite large. Six
persons were received in church on probation.
-----
Our Continent is making itself very much at home in Philadelphia. It has just
purchased Potter's American Monthly, a magazine which has had a long and prosperous
existence in this city, thus merging in the youngest of our illustrated weeklies
one of the oldest and best known of Philadelphia publications. The most attractive
features of Potter's Monthly will be perpetuated and added to those of Judge
Tourgee's enterprising to those of Judge Tourgee's enterprising weekly. Out-of-town
magazines have recently turned their attention to “Picturesque Philadelphia,”
but full justice has never been done to the subject. In the current number of
our Continent, however, an extensive series of handsomely illustrated articles
oin the Quaker City is begun, including its early history, with portraits of
its founders; its churches, libraries, schools, charities and other public institutions;
homes, shop windows, means of locomotion, old wills and endowments, shipping
interests; its artists, literary celebrities, and other topics of special interest
to Philadelphians. The opening article, “A QUAKER SOLDIER,” tells
of William Penn, and is illustrated with numerous fine engravings, including
a copy of the portrait of Penn in armor, the property of the Philadelphia Historical
Society. During its comparatively brief career. Our Continent has won for itself
a place among the foremost of illustrated publications, and the promise made
by the new management at the beginning of the current volume has been amply
fulfilled. Its pages are, and will continue to be, a medium for the publication
of what is best in all the varied departments of literature and art.
July 27, 1882
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
-----
Personal.
-----
-Theo Gould, Jr. is to enter the University the coming Fall.
-The continued illness of Rev. C.C. Felts is the occasion of very great regret.
-Eben. Bassett, son of Prof. Bassett Haytien Council at New York, has sailed
for Germany.
-Veteran African missionary, Dr. Robt. Moffet, is still in good health, though
in his eighty sixth year.
-Prof, J.M. Naxwell has recently been appointed principal of the Louisville
Colored High School. An appointment fitly made.
-Mr. D.W. Bowley, agent of the Know Academy, is North collecting means. We take
pleasure in commending the effort he is making.
-Rev. W.J. Gaines, of Georgia, the entire church will be glad to know, has entirely
recovered, and is once more leading on the ranks of African Methodism in the
empire State of the South.
-Mrs. Lucy Cooper, formerly Miss Lucy Stevenson, of Wilberforce, has been in
our city for the last few days, and has zealously been using her powers of persuading
men to be reconverted to God.
-Bishop Ward and Rev. T.W. Henderson were at Alton and preached on Sunday of
July 16. Verily the martyr Lovejoy, slain three years ago, must have rejoiced.
They came to raise $600 and got $400 of it.
-The celebrated French Protestant Divine, Edward de Pressense, will deliver
a series of lectures at London. The Duke of Argyle will preside; the Archbishop
of Canterbury and the French Ambassador at London will be present.
-Cardinal de Lavigerie, the newest member of the Sacred College, is going to
Malta where he owns a large palace, there to establish an ecclesiastical seminary
for the training and [] of young priests destined to become missionaries in
Africa.
-Henry O. Tanner, the talented << colored artist>> of Philadelphia,
has sold four fine black and white crayons. They are to be used in illustrating
Our Continent. We call to mind no other << colored artist>> whose
work has found so high and valued a recognition. –Chicago Conservator.
-Cetywayo will arrive in London August 18th, but will return to Africa in September,
as it is thought that later in the year the climate of England would be injurious
to his health. During his stay in England the Queen will probably grant him
an audience at Osborne.
-The presentation of John Bright in commemoration of his twenty five years of
service as Representative of Birmingham, will consist of a portrait of himself
and a work of Birmingham art. The former will be painted by Mr. Holl, A.R.A.,
and the latter will be a silver desert service, enriched with gliding and enamel.
-To the Rev. Dr. J.T. Jenifer we are indebted for a pamphlet copy of the very
able paper he read at the Bishop Payne tri centennial Episcopal celebration.
Thoughtfully and intelligently prepared it is one of those productions that
will resist the tooth of time. To anyone wishing to know of “African Methodism
in Arkansas and the Indian Territory,” let them read “Jenifer's
First Decade.”
-The late Bishop Scott early in life learned the carpenter's and wheel wright's
trades, and, owing to poverty, was obliged to keep steadily at work, to the
neglect of his education. At the age of twenty he was converted as a prayer
meeting. He was then scarcely able to read and write, but immediately began
to study diligently, fixing his text book upon a bracket over his work bench.
Three years later he was ordained to preach, and when at the age of thirty eight,
he was made principal of the Dickerson College Preparatory School he was considered
to be the best Greek scholar in his denomination.
-The death of Joseph P. Scarlett in Philadelphia, Saturday, July 15th, recalls
an exciting episode of the days of slavery. Mr. Scarlett was, from his youth
up, an ardent friend to fugitive slaves, and did not hesitate at personal danger
in assisting them. In September, 1851, Edward, Joshua and Dickerson Gorach and
Dr. Thomas Pierce, of Baltimore County, Md., arrived in the neighborhood of
Christiana, Penn., in search of certain fugitive slaves. Their arrival was followed
by a riot, in which Edward Gorach was killed and the rest were wounded by colored
men. For hiding these colored men and giving them aid and comfort Mr. Scarlett,
two other white citizens of Christiana, Elijah Lewis and Castner Hanway by name,
and several Negroes were arrested on a charge of treason and committed to the
Philadelphia jail. The trial lasted several days, but the jury was out only
ten minutes, and then brought in a verdict of not guilty in the case of Hanway,
which was taken up first. The suits against the rest were then abandoned.
February 21, 1884
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
GRAND COMMEMORATION OF
BISHOP ALLEN'S BIRTHDAY
A SERIES OF BRILLIANT
ENTERTAINMENT'S HELD IN
BOSTON, MASS.
-----
(FROM OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT)
BOSTON, MASS., Feb 16, 1884.
The colored citizens of Boston generally, and the A.M.E. connection particularly,
are fortunate in having as able and energetic a clergyman as Rev. Dr. J.T. Jenifer,
pastor of Charles street. Since the commencement of his pastorate of this church
he has demonstrated that Christian zeal, fidelity and progressiveness that has
won for him the universal esteem and co-operation of the white and colored citizens,
regardless of church creed, which augurs well for the future of his church and
its speedy freedom from debt.
With a view of decreasing his church indebtedness Dr. Jenifer, sometime ago,
conceived the idea of giving a series of entertainment's at the Temple, which
for quality (of merit) and grandeur (in proportions) should exceed anything
ever held in this city by the colored people. The object was, 1st, To commemorate
the birth of Richard Allen. 2nd. To offer the citizens of Boston a series of
first class varied entertainments. 3d, To raise one thousand dollars to meet
the pressing demands.
Pursuant to arrangements, the series opened on Sunday, Feb. 10th, by a sunrise
union love feast, under the charge of Rev. T.S. Dana and Elder A.S. Butler.
At 10:30 AM, Rev. W.H. Hunter, of New Bedford, Mass., preached, as he also did
at 7:30 in the evening. The Sunday school services were held as usual in the
vestry, at 1.15 PM, and were followed at 3 o'clock by a very interesting and
instructive sermon by Dr. Jenifer, his subject being, “Who was Richard
Allen? What did he do?” At 6 PM, a young people's prayer and praise meeting
was held.
MONDAY EVENING, FEB. 11TH.
Was devoted to a Christian re-union and sociable of all the members and congregations,
together with those of the sister churches. “Old Uncle Bob's Choir”
rendered appropriate music.
TUESDAY EVENING, FEB. 12th.
Was the “young people's night. Mother Columbia and her 38 daughters and
10 sons (representing the respective States and Territories in the Union) with
Uncle Sam and Brother Jonathan as special guests, held a very enjoyable tea
party. To demonstrate to the world the literary and musical ability of her colored
proteges, Mother Columbia introduced to her constituency, Mr. Andrew Chamberlain,
the accomplished elocutionist, and Misses Cecilia Washington and Mary Batoms,
contralto soloists of this city.
WEDNESDAY EVENING, FEB. 13TH.
Was the banner night, and for this occasion Dr. Jenifer secured many of Boston's
most distinguished << colored artistes>> , which included Madame
Nellie-Brown Mitchell, the distinguished cantatrice, Mr. Frank S. Bland, tenor,
Prof. J.S. Roberts, musical director of the church, Mr. Louis A. Fisher, the
well-known baritone, Prof. S.W. Jamison, whose rendition of “Swanee River”
in answer to an encore, was particularly fine, Prof. G.W. Sharper, cornet soloist,
Mr. T.C. Scottron, the colored tragedian, Miss Addie G. Smith, Mrs. G.C. Harris
and the Walker Quintette, all of whom acquitted themselves in a highly artistic
a manner. Over 600 persons were in the audience. Prof. F.P. White ably presided
at the organ.
THURSDAY EVENING, FEB. 14TH.
Was Richard Allen's birthday, and it was justly appropriate that Dr. B.T. Tanner,
Editor of the CHRISTIAN RECORDER, should pay tribute to the Nestor of the A.M.E.
Connection. Dr. Tanner's “Richard Allen, and His place in History,”
was an eloquent dissertation on the qualities of the great Commoner, and portrayed
in faithful pen pictures the noble deeds and sacrifices of the father of African
Methodism. During the evening music was rendered by Madame Mitchell and the
Rex Quartette. The “Sons and Daughters of Allen” were present in
a body.
FRIDAY EVENING, FEB. 15TH.
A unique juvenile entertainment, consisting of tableaux, readings, recitations,
solos and choruses was held on the above evening, and the
“Jug-Gang” and “Card Crew” were present with banners.
The returns from the jugs were very gratifying, financially.
SUNDAY, FEB. 17TH.
A large congregation assembled during the entire day, as the eloquent and distinguished pulpit orators Revs. W.B. Derrick and B.T. Tanner, D.D., preached the former clergyman at 10:30 AM, and 7:30 PM and the latter at 3 o'clock. During the work the aggregate attendance at the Temple has been at least four thousand, and it looks probable that Dr. Jenifer will realize nearly, if not all, of the desired $1,000, besides having so ably managed the grandest series of entertainment's ever held among the colored people of Boston.
HOWARD.
September 8, 1887
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, PA
PROGRAMME OF THE GREAT CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF THE A.M.E. CHURCH TO BE HELD
IN ALL THE CHURCHES IN THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER, 1887.
-----
1. In all the cities where there are two or more A.M.E. Churches; as in Philadelphia,
Baltimore, Washington, Wilmington, Charleston, Nashville, Savannah, Atlanta,
Chicago, St. Louis, Memphis, etc., etc., we earnestly recommend a grand union
opening meeting on Wednesday night, November 9th, or on the night of the 16th,
uniting all the choirs of the city in one grand sacred concert. Local committees
will see to it that the exercises are made lively and effective - a real time
of gladness, choirs and officers be all thoroughly alive to the occasion.
2. On Thursday or Friday night a public oration or several addresses on the
independence and successful work of our Church. We urge that this meeting be
made free of charge, and that tickets therefore be given to all respectable
persons who will attend.
3. On Friday, or on the same night of addresses, prepare a “Centennial
Banquet.” Make it a season of congratulation and pleasure for al.
4. On Sunday morning a Centennial prayer-meeting from 5 to 7 A.M. At 10 o'clock
a sermon on the rise and progress of the Church. Text, Acts 13, 41: “Behold,
ye dispisers and wonder, (and perish), for I work a work in your days, a work
which ye will in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.” (Collect
your envelopes)
5. At 2 P.M. Sunday school concert with short addresses. (Collect your envelopes).
6. At night, a eulogy on the life and influence of Richard Allen. Collect your
envelopes. Conclude with the prayer of thanksgiving. (See evening prayer, Ritual
of the A.M.E. Church, page - ), and then repeat the Creed and sing: “From
all that dwell below the sky,” etc., ending with the doxology, “Praise
God from whom all blessings flow,” and benediction.
II PART.
Programme of the grand concluding celebration to be held in Philadelphia, commencing
on Wednesday, November 23d.
1. Wednesday night, Union Sacred Concert, at ---- hall, ---- street, Philadelphia.
2. Thursday night (Thanksgiving Day) Centennial Banquet at each of the churches,
or such other exercises as each pastor and his committee may decide to have.
3. Friday night, Grand Literary Meeting, with speaking by the following named
gentlemen, at ----- hall, ---- street.
Speakers: Prof. T. McCants Stewart, of N.Y.
2. Rev. ---- -----, of Fla.
3. Rev. C.S. Smith, of Tenn.
4. Rev. William J. Laws, of the Iowa Conference.
5. Portrait of Bishop Allen, life size, executed by the << colored artist>>
---- to be presented to the connection by Rev. C.T. Shaffer, through Bishop
Payne. Address and reply.
III PART.
1. On Sunday morning, a centennial prayer meeting at 5 o'clock.
2. At 10.30 A.M., centennial sermon on the rise and progress of the Church -
text, Acts 13, 41. Collection of envelopes.
3. At 2 P.M. Union Sunday School concert, with short addresses, by chosen persons.
Collect envelopes. Philadelphia Sunday schools to be united as follows: Bethel,
Zion Mission and Murray Chapel Sunday schools together at Bethel; Allen Chapel
and Mt. Pisgah Sunday schools together at Allen; Union Church and Morris Brown,
at Union.
4. At night, hymn, O, God our help, etc. 701, Ritual 16. A eulogy on the life
and influence of Richard Allen. Conclude with the prayer for the clergy and
people. Ritual of the A.M.E. Church, page 160. The prayer for all men, and the
general thanksgiving, page 162. Sing the hymn 862, Ritual No. 12, and doxology,
“Praise God,” etc., Ritual No. 26. Collect envelopes, and report
the amount. The creed and benediction.
November 24, 1887
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
PROGRAM OF THE GREAT
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
OF THE A.M.E. CHURCH TO
BE HELD IN ALL THE CHURCHES
IN THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 1887.
-----
1. In all the cities where there are two or more A.M.E. Churches, as in Philadelphia,
Baltimore, Washington, Wilmington, Charleston, Nashville, Savannah, Atlanta,
Chicago, St. Louis, Memphis, etc., etc., we earnestly recommend a grand union
opening meeting on Wednesday night, November 9th, or on the night of the 16th,
uniting all the choirs of the city in one grand sacred concert. Local committees
will see to it that the exercises are made lively and effective-a real time
of gladness, thanksgiving and praise. Let pastors, choirs and officers be all
thoroughly alive to the occasion.
2. On Thursday or Friday night a public oration or several addresses on the
independence and successful work of our Church. We urge that this meeting be
made free of charge, and that tickets therefore be given to all respectable
persons who will attend.
3. On Friday, or on the same night of addresses, prepare a “Centennial
Banquet.” Make it a season of congratulation and pleasure for all.
4. On Sunday morning a Centennial prayer meeting from 5 to 7 AM. At 10 o'clock
a sermon on the rise and progress of the Church. Text, Acts 13, 41: “Behold,
ye dispisers and wonder, (and perish), for I work a work in your days, a work
which ye will in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.” (Collect
your envelopes).
5. At 2 PM Sunday school concert with short addresses. (Collect your envelopes).
6. At night, a eulogy on the life and influence of Richard Allen. Collect your
envelopes. Conclude with the prayer of thanksgiving. (See evening prayer, Ritual
of the A.M.E. Church, page-), and then repeat the Creed and sing: “From
all that dwell below the sky,” etc., ending with the doxology, “Praise
God from whom all blessings flow,” and benediction.
II PART.
Program of the grand concluding celebration to be held in Philadelphia, commencing
on Wednesday, November 23d.
1. Wednesday night, Union Sacred Concert, at ----- hall, ----- street, Philadelphia.
2. Thursday night (Thanksgiving Day) Centennial Banquet at each of the churches,
or such other exercises as each pastor and his committee may decide to have.
3. Friday night, Grand Literary Meeting, with speaking by the following named
gentlemen, at ----- hall, ----- street.
Speakers Prof. T. McCants Stewart, of NY.
2. Rev. ----- -----, of Fla.
3. Rev. C.S. Smith, of Tenn.
4. Rev. William J. Laws, of the Iowa Conference.
5. Portrait of Bishop Allen, life size, executed by the << colored artist>>
----- to be presented to the connection by Rev. C.T. Shaffer, through Bishop
Payne. Address and reply.
III PART.
1. On Sunday morning, a centennial prayer meeting at 5 o'clock.
2. At 10:30 AM, centennial sermon on the rise and progress of the Church-text,
Acts 13, 41. Collection of envelopes.
3. At 2 PM Union Sunday School concert, with short addresses, by chosen persons.
Collect envelopes. Philadelphia Sunday schools to be united as follows: Bethel,
Zion Mission and Murray Chapel Sunday schools together at Bethel; Allen Chapel
and Mt. Pisgah Sunday schools together at Allen; Union Church and Morris Brown,
at Union.
4. At night, hymn, O, God our help, etc. 701, Ritual 16. A eulogy on the life
and influence of Richard Allen. Conclude with the prayer for the clergy and
people. Ritual of the A.M.E. Church, page 160. The payer for all men, and the
general thanksgiving, page 162. Sing the hymn 862, Ritual No. 12, and doxology,
“Praise God,” etc. Ritual No. 26. Collect envelopes, and report
and the amount. The creed and benediction.
November 17, 1887
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
PROGRAM OF THE GREAT CENTENNIAL
CELEBRATION OF THE A.M.E. CHURCH TO
BE HELD IN ALL THE CHURCHES IN THE
MONTH OF NOVEMBER 1887.
-----
1. In all the cities where there are two or more A.M.E. Churches; as in Philadelphia,
Baltimore, Washington, Wilmington, Charleston, Nashville, Savannah, Atlanta,
Chicago, St. Louis, Memphis, etc., etc., we earnestly recommend a grand union
opening meeting on Wednesday night, November 9th, or on the night of the 16th,
uniting all the choirs of the city in one grand sacred concert. Local committees
will see to it that the exercises are made lively and effective-a real time
of gladness, thanksgiving and praise. Let pastors choirs and officers be all
thoroughly alive to the occasion.
2. On Thursday or Friday night a public oration or several addresses on the
independence and successful work of our Church. We urge that this meeting be
made free of charge, and that tickets therefor be given to all respectable persons
who will attend.
3. On Friday, or on the same night of addresses, prepare a “Centennial
Banquet.” Make it a season of congratulation and pleasure for all.
4. On Sunday morning a Centennial prayer meeting from 5 to 7 AM. At 10 o'clock
a sermon on the rise and progress of the Church. Text, Acts 13, 41: “Behold,
ye dispisers and wonder, (and perish), for I work a work in your days, a work
which ye will in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.” (Collect
your envelopes)
5. At 2 PM Sunday school concert with short addresses. (Collect your envelopes).
6. At night, a eulogy on the life and influence of Richard Allen. Collect your
envelopes. Conclude with the prayer of thanksgiving. (See evening prayer, Ritual
of the A.M.E. Church, page-), and then repeat the Creed and sing: “From
all that dwell below the sky,” etc., ending with the doxology. “Praise
God from whom all blessings flow,” and benediction.
II PART.
Program of the grand concluding celebration to be held in Philadelphia, commencing
on Wednesday, November 23d.
1. Wednesday night, Union Sacred Concert, at ----- hall, ----- street, Philadelphia.
2. Thursday night (Thanksgiving Day) Centennial Banquet at each of the churches,
or such other exercises as each pastor and his committee may decide to have.
3. Friday night, Grand Literary Meeting, with speaking by the following named
gentlemen, at ----- hall, ----- street.
Speakers: Prof. T. McCants Stewart, of NY.
2. Rev. ----- -----, of Fla.
3. Rev. C.S. Smith, of Tenn.
4. Rev. William J. Laws, of the Iowa Conference.
5. Portrait of Bishop Allen, life size, executed by the << colored artist>>
----- to be presented to the connection by Rev. C.T. Shaffer, through Bishop
Payne. Address and reply.
III PART.
1. On Sunday morning, a centennial prayer meet at 5 o'clock.
2. At 10:30 AM, centennial sermon on the rise and progress of the Church-text,
Acts 13, 41. Collection of envelopes.
3. At 2 PM Union Sunday School concert, with short addresses, by chosen persons.
Collect envelopes. Philadelphia Sunday schools to be united as follows: Bethel,
Zion Mission and Murray Chapel Sunday schools together at Bethel; Allen Chapel
and Mt. Pisgah Sunday schools together at Allen; Union Church and Morris Brown,
at Union.
4. At night, hymn, O, God our help, etc, 701, Ritual 16. A eulogy on the life
and influence of Richard Allen. Conclude with the prayer for the clergy and
people. Ritual of the A.M.E. church, page 160. The prayer for all men, and the
general thanksgiving, page 162. Sing the hymn 862, Ritual No. 12, and doxology,
“Praise God,” etc., Ritual No. 26. Collect envelopes, and report
the amount. The creed and benediction.
December 28, 1882
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, PA
Local News.
-----
The Fair of Zion Mission A.M.E. Church is progressing grandly.
-----
The Young People's Concert, given at Musical Fund Hall, on Tuesday evening,
26th, was a decided success.
-----
A grand New Year Entertainment at Wesley Zion M.E. Church, Lombard street below
Sixth, Thursday, January 4th, 1883.
-----
March 22, 1883
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Personal.
-----
-Bishop James A. Shorter was in the city this week. –Springfield, O.,
Weekly Review.
-To the Rev. H.H. Lucas we are indebted for a copy of the Leadville, (Col.)
Herald.
-Daniel Seales, of California, rather of Cleveland, passed through the city
and called.
-Two of the principal jewelers of Augusta, Ga., are colored –Messrs.
E.J. Crane and R. Lowe.
-Mr. W.A. Ridley stands at the head of Augusta tailors. Besides him, there are
a half dozen others.
-Bishop J.M. Brown is at home resting, having given his entire district quite
a general supervision.
-Rev. A.L. Stanford has been elected a judge in Liberia. We should not be surprised
if he made an intelligent judge.
-Revs. Lewis and Simpson, of Cincinnati, with their congregations, sent help
to the Rev. J.A. Jordan and his congregation, sufferers by the flood.
-Prof. H.T. Kealing, in charge of Paul Quinn College, Waco, Texas, writes: “The
spirit of the Lord is working mightily among the students.”
-President Gardener, of Liberia, is ill. The little Republic has lost so many
prominent men of late that really its future has become cloudy thereby.
-Wm. Anderson, a graduate of the Detroit High School, has in seven years risen
from a porter to a cashier in the great business house of Newcombe, Endicotte
& Co., Detroit, Mich.
-Rev. E. Winston Taylor, of the Princeton charge, N.J., has had a year of rare
success. Under his management African Methodism may be said to lead off in the
college city.
-Alfred Trouman is the name if the colored gentleman appointed by the Governor
of Tennessee one of the School Commissioners of the State. He is said to be
gentlemanly and well educated.
-The Rev. Benj. W. Arnett (or young man eloquent) preached to a large congregation
at Brown Chapel last Sunday. Subject, “Be strong in the Lord and in the
power of his might.” –Weekly Review.
-Bishop Turner preached at Big Bethel last Sunday night, and the church room
was not sufficient to seat the audience. Better have open meetings, brother
Gaines, when he comes –The Vindicator.
-The Recording Clerk of the Ohio Senate is Walter S. Thomas, a position he has
reached through dint of great energy, and which he is said to fill to the perfect
satisfaction of that august body of legislators.
-R.E. Primus is superintendent of the Texas Commercial and Mercantile Joint
Stock Company, an organization on Mexia, Texas, that gives promise of donating
a great work in the training of our people for business.
-Bishop H.M. Turner is in Washington city. The suddenness with which the Bishop
has become gray is the surprise of all. We are of the mind that scoring the
great South-east as he does, is calculated to make almost any one gray.
-Rev. G.M. Elliot, Principal of Know Academy, Selma, Ala., writes of his school:
“Our school is very large. We have students from various parts of the
State and they continue to come in every week. We have now enrolled four hundred
and fifty.”
-Mr. T.F. Cassells, of Memphis, recently appointed by President Arthur as Surveyor
of Customs, was educated at Oberlin, Ohio, taught school at Trenton, practiced
law at Memphis, was Assistant Attorney General of the Criminal Court, was a
member of the Legislature, elected in 1880.
-The South Louisiana Annual Conference of the A.M.E. Church met in Franklin
yesterday morning, with Rev. Bishop Cain in the chair. The St. Mary Herald says
that the Bishop has been invited by the pastor, Rev. F.K. Faunt Leroy, and is
expected to preach at the Methodist Church, South, in Franklin, next Sunday.
–Southwestern.
-The Countess de Bardi, a neice of the Compte de Chambord, recently urged her
uncle to re-enter Paris on horseback, surrounded by Legitimist cavaliers, and
wearing the white plume of Henry IV. “My niece,” he said, “you
speak like a heroine; but it would never do for the king of France to be arrested
by a policeman and taken to the lock-up.
-We clip the following from a recent issue of The Bulletin, Louisville, Ky.:
“Rev. J.W. Early, pastor of St. John's Church was pounded last evening
by quite a number of friends. The gifts were quite numerous. The reverend seemed
highly delighted.” Many brethren, and in many sections of the church,
will rejoice to hear that this venerable father still lives in the hearts of
the people.
-President Gardner, of Liberia, had been compelled to resign his office, owing
to extreme ill health and disability from paralysis. The Legislature granted
him $1,000 and the expenses of removal to his home, in Grand Bassa County. Vice
President Russell was sworn in as President on Jan. 20th. Steps are being taken
for the removal of the Liberian College to the banks of the St. Paul's River.
-Miss Edmonia Lewis has completed at her studio in Rome a fine bas-relief in
white marble for a white church in Baltimore. It is pronounced to be one of
the very best of her productions. It represents the three kings from the East
adoring the infant Jesus, and of the three the African is given greater prominence
than either the Caucasian or Asiatic. Miss Lewis recently found a patron in
the famed Marquis of Bute, the Lothair of D'Israeli's novel of that name. She
sent him from her studio a statue of the Virgin Mary. No other men, hold a position
in the world of art equal to this << colored artist>> .
-The coronation of the King of the Sandwich Islands overshadowed an event of
greater importance which occurred about the same time. This was the unveiling
of a fine bronze statue of Kamehameha I., the Conqueror, who unite the Sandwich
Islands under one sway. The statue is intended as a memorial of the centennial
anniversary of the discovery of the Islands by Captain Cook in 1776. The sculptor
was T.R. Gould, of Boston, who states that it does not pretend to be a portrait,
as materials for such a work were wanting; nevertheless, the face and hand correspond
very well with the portrait of the great chief, taken in his old age, which
hangs in the Government buildings here. He is depicted as he may be supposed
to have stood on the bluff at [], when drilling and reviewing his warriors in
their canoes before his last invasion of Maul. One hand grasps the [] which
is at rest, the other is [], and the whole figure bends slightly forward upon…
June 16, 1848
THE NORTH STAR
Rochester, New York
CINCINNATI, June 4, 1848.
DEAR DOUGLASS: - I send you my last epistle from this city for the present. Since I last wrote you, I have held several meetings, all of which, like the preceding, were full of interest, by the presence of numerous anxious listeners - the ladies, as usual, forming the largest part of the assembly.
I have also been to Ripley, 50 miles above Cincinnati, in Brown country, where I held one meeting in the church of the famous Dr. John Rankin, long and favorably known to the friends of humanity in this country as a firm friend of the panting fugitive. His house has been made the resting place for the way-worn and weary for years, to the great chagrin of the slaveocrats of his neighborhood, and the slaveholders of Kentucky. - One friend informs me, and it certainly appears like an over-estimate, that he has known as many as forty to be there at a time! "packed away" in the underground depot. - This depot, as a matter of course, is not in the house of Dr. Rankin, but situated in a cavern about two miles south, of the whereabouts of which none but abolitionists are aware. This accounts for the great mistake on the part of the soul-seekers, who frequently, or at least have at different times, by brute force, entered the house of this aged gentleman, when they knew him to be unprotected - his eldest son being absent, and none but children and females at home - in search of their victims, but without success. 'Twas well it was the house of Rev. John Rankin they dared enter, and not some I wot of - yea, very well!
In Ripley, though a small village, there reside several colored families, all of whom are industrious and well-doing, one of whom is an undertaker, one had a rope-walk, another a brick-yard, in which many hands are employed; several carpenters, stone-masons, and brick-layers, all of whom are industriously employed at their several vocations. They are nearly all freeholders, and have, or are in the act of building neat and comfortable little cottages, which do them much credit. - With the assistance of an excellent and talented young gentleman of literary qualifications, who recently left Cincinnati and has taken up his residence there, much good may and will be done among the faithful few of Ripley. They have a church and a literary society there, and colored and white children go to the same schools.
Our professed anti-slavery friends at Ripley are not prepared to hear the "declaration of the whole counsel," and the "truth spoken as it should be in God;" and I am much inclined to think, with perhaps but one or two exceptions, their anti-slavery finds currency at par, on the credit of Rev. Mr. Rankin, whose solvency in that particular I believe to be beyond a controversy; and the old gentleman faithful, being absent at the time, may reasonably account for the detection on my part of the fictitious article, which only required his presence to give it credit. I called at his house, and saw his sons and daughters - frank, familiar and intelligent, though plain and unpretending. I should have been pleased to see and shake hands with the old gentleman faithful.
I return again to speak of Cincinnati, in which place I find many things of interest. - There are more, many more, mechanics in this city than I was aware of; and it requires time to find out the facts. Indeed, there are many of the most intelligent citizens of both classes who are not aware of it, and the reality is only known when an interested stranger or public man comes into the city, whose business it is to make such investigations.
In addition to other mechanical and professional enterprises named in my last, there are some colored men engaged in chemical establishments - one in particular, in which the principal chemist in the establishment is a colored man. There is also an extensive blacksmithing establishment carried on by an aged colored gentleman in Walnut street, who has a number of hands, white and colored, working for him, he standing at one "fire," who has contracts on hand with the first responsible men of the city, of from one to six hundred dollars. Occupations such as these bring men into intercourse with the first business men of the place, and establish an acquaintance and secure a confidence that nothing else will. It gives men a credit for both money and means, or articles of trade and business commodities. Men of business, merchants and others, will seek an acquaintance with men of this description, because, according to business policy, and the laws of commercial economy, an interchange of trade being necessary for the sustenance of the system, it is their interest to do so, as well as duty.
There is also, I learn, about to be established a large and fashionable staple and fancy shoe store, by a large capitalist and very active gentleman of business tact and habits, associating with him a competent mechanic, and one of the best workmen in the city - both colored of course. All this to me is news the most cheering. It is that which will raise the colored class in this country, as by enchantment, from degradation to entire manhood and actual equality with those who now dispute their susceptibility for the higher attainments.
The young women of Cincinnati, of the colored class, are far in advance of those of any other place that I have visited. - Nearly the whole of them have trades, and have continually as much employment as they can attend to. Those who are not employed by others, and do not employ, take business into their own houses, and thus gain a respectable livelihood, with all the advantages of domestic comfort and social happiness. - There is scarcely such a class to be found as colored servant girls in Cincinnati, from the fact that nearly all have trades. The white girls, such as those of "oriental" extraction, are the complete monopolists of female menialism in this city. Nor do the young women find any difficulty in getting employment in establishments controlled and owned by white persons. There is one establishment, in particular, perhaps the largest and finest in the city, for the manufacture of linen and corsets, and all kinds of linens and muslin gowns, where there are some twelve or eighteen young colored women, constantly and profitably employed. How many places may be expected to follow the praiseworthy example of the young colored ladies of Cincinnati? Cannot every place measurably come up to this standard? Determination and self-resolution only are necessary - determination to do - to "act, act, in living presence act."
To an already elevated, and refined, and enlightened people, there might appear, in this notice and encomium upon mechanics, tradesmen, and the course of the young colored women, scarcely aught to applaud or merit notice in an editorial correspondence; but when it is borne in mind that we are but in a primitive State - a people, as it were, who, like the ancient Greeks and Romans, when visited by the literati and philosophers of Africa, are just beginning to receive the germs of enlightened civilization; then the appropriateness of the course will readily be acknowledged. A practical precept of one sentence is worth a page of unintelligible jargon. The elevation of our race in general, and class in particular, is the ultimatum of our aim, and whatever respectfully and honorably contributes to this end, is among the means to be used for its accomplishment. I cannot agree with some writers, that great matters, or in other words, great things, expressed by great words, are alone worthy of great minds, or the notice of great persons. We are a small people - occupy a small sphere - constituting a small number compared with those by whom we are surrounded; also, the greater part of whom, at present, have but a small conception of things. Now, to my mind, the greatest effort that can be made is, to suitably adapt ourselves to their understanding, imparting to them a correct knowledge of things, though the language may appear homely and void of refinement, but proper. You know I care little for precedent, and therefore discard the frivolous rules of formality, conforming always to principles, suggested by conscience, and guided by the light of reason.
The Cincinnatians, I mean the colored, are a highly susceptible and very interesting people. They have been misrepresented in many particulars, and it requires an actual acquaintance with them before their true character can be known.
They have themselves a wrong conception of the people in many other places, especially their Pittsburgh neighbors, all for the want of an actual acquaintance. There are some of the noblest and best spirits to be found among our people in this city, and they only want the encouragement and approbation of the leading minds and master spirits of other places, to give them an impulse, which, like the ushering of bodies into space, shall continue forever in motion. I believe and expect much good will be accomplished among the colored citizens of Cincinnati, and they are fully determined that nothing on their part shall be wanting. They are willing and ready to bear the expenses of competent persons to come and counsel with them. Indeed, I found myself much disappointed. Instead of that spirit of selfishness and bigotry with which the Cincinnatians have been charged, I found, to the contrary, that they are kind, hospitable, sociable and unassuming in the extreme, always ready and willing to give merit its due, and, indeed, they extend their courtesies to the utmost extent of the desires of the most insatiable for such favors. Perhaps from the kindness of their hearts, they sometimes extend it where it is not due - at least, where it may not be merited. They are indeed a very grateful people, and this I conceive to be saying much. I opine, and that not without the best of reasons for saying so, that if the North Star continues to be conducted as I know it will, as a useful and instructive organ, that its conductors will always meet with a most hearty welcome from the citizens of the "Queen."
The whites, in the main, of this place are kind and courteous, and the principal reason of the distance between them and the colored citizens, is, as expressed by an intelligent colored gentleman, because the colored people themselves have never taken advantage of the opportunities they have of being sociable with them. This I believe mainly to be true, and is an eggregrious error on the part of the colored citizens. They must come forward, confront opposition, and manfully, though prudently it may be, maintain their rights in every particular. This being done, the Cincinnatians must become among the greatest and foremost in our country. The miserable influence of those Kentuckians across the river, is fast losing effect among the Cincinnatians.
One word more to the young men. I mentioned in my last that they were not doing their part. It is true that there re some - yes, an honorable few - who are found at the cabinet, in the carpenter's shop, at the shoemaker's bench, the anvil, and so on; and these I respect as honorable exceptions; but by far the greater part content themselves with inferior situations to these. Many of them have steamboating as a principal occupation, and after having worked studiously for several months, they come off the river with money sufficient to keep them respectably until they could qualify themselves in penmanship and arithmetic, sufficient for counting-house purposes, or sufficient to purchase themselves a hundred and fifty acres of good land, in Michigan or elsewhere, or to set them up in a respectable small trading business of some kind, or support them comfortably for two years at Oberlin; but instead of this, the most they appear to think about is dress and pleasure - almost discarding the young industrious mechanic of coarse clothes and plain habits; while they do nothing but buggy-ride day after day, until their capital is exhausted, and probably before their business season returns; and thus they get into debt for boarding and washing, and out of credit with everybody.
The sequel of the matter is, that they in all probability put five hundred dollars into the hands of an oppressor, who is rendered that much stronger, and consequently enabled to use an influence against them or their class; and sneeringly rebukes them by giving utterance to the fact, that a "Fool and his money soon part."
Great efforts are being made in behalf of the colored Orphan Asylum. A fair for the purpose is to commence on Monday, in a large hall in the city. The ladies and gentlemen are all very active, and determined to do their duty.
A musical soiree was held on last Friday evening by the musical band of young << colored artists>> , of but three months' standing. They did great credit to themselves, and manifest great taste and susceptibility for the "fine art" of music. On this occasion they had a fine audience, the spacious hall being well filled. The young men are very generous, tendering their services without charge on all benevolent occasions. May they grow great and good, as they most certainly will efficient and skilful in their profession!
I leave on Monday for Drayton.
Yours for God and humanity,
M.R.D.
August 22, 1863
THE CHRISTIAN RECORDER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
ANNIVERSARY
OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE RELIEF OF CONTRABANDS
IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
Last evening the first anniversary of the Relief Association for the contrabands
of the District was held at the Fifteenth street Presbyterian church, and the
proceedings were of an unusually interesting character. The church was densely
filled with ladies and gentlemen, and the large number of white citizens present
indicated the interest taken in the commendable object of relieving the wants
of a class who have heretofore been regarded as degraded beings. One of the
principal features of the evening was the presentation of an elegant and expensive
regimental flag to the First colored regiment of U.S. Infantry, under the auspices
of the ladies of the Association. The proceedings were enlivened with most eloquent
music by the ladies and gentlemen composing the choir of the church.
The exercises were opened with prayer by Rev. Mr. Tanner, colored, after which
the President of the Association, Mrs. Keckley, made a few remarks, giving an
account of the operations of the Association, the substance of which is embodied
in the subjoined reports of the Treasurer and Secretary of the Association.-
It will be perceived that the flag was not purchased from the proceeds of the
treasury of the Association, but from means collected separately by the ladies
from various sources.
FIRST ANNUAL REPORT OF THE CONTRABAND RELIEF ASSOCIATION.
This Association had its origin in sympathy with destitute and suffering freedmen.
One year has passed away since the ladies of Washington, being deeply impressed
with their deplorable condition, which was made known to us by their appeals
to our sympathies, at the suggestion of our President, met at the house of a
friend on the evening of the 9th of August, 1862, to devise some plan to ameliorate
their condition. It was then agreed to form themselves into an association.
Officers were elected, consisting of a president, two vice presidents, two secretaries,
a treasurer, a board of directors, and a visiting committee.
The address of the constitution adopted briefly sets forth its objects in the
following words:
As the fluctuations incident to human life subject all to changes in their conditions,
so the present state of affairs existing in this country having caused many
of the hitherto oppressed people of a portion of God's race to be cast among
us in a most deplorable condition, our hearts have been made to sympathize with
them, and we have pledged ourselves to do all we can to alleviate their sufferings.
We propose to visit them to inquire into their wants, and relieve them as far
as we are able to advise with and counsel them, feeling it to be our duty to
assist them toward a higher plane of civilization.
We meet on this the anniversary of our association to lay before those who have
kindly sustained us in our labour of love and mercy and the manner in which
we have disposed of the various contributions placed in our hands, adding that
we have not by any extraordinary method solicited donations, yet every appeal
made by us to a generous and human public has been responded to. We have, also,
by our own exertions greatly added to our treasury, and we are happy to say
that every effort made by us to obtain funds to alleviate in any way the distresses
of our afflicted brethren has been crowned with success, and a widely-extended
sympathy has been manifested toward us by our friends at home and abroad, resulting
in donations of money and clothing from the following quarters:
From Freedmen's Relief Association of District of Columbia, $5; Baptist Church
of Boston, $24, Fugitive Aid Society of Boston, $25; Presbyterian Church, Brooklyn,
$24; Waiters of Metropolitan Hotel, New York, $23; Young Misses of Baltimore,
$23; Union Progressive Association of Boston, $65; Mrs. President Lincoln, $200;
Concerts given by the Association in Presbyterian Church, $249; Festivals given,
$108.64; monthly contributions from members and individual donations, $6. Total,
$885.64.
Of this amount we have expended for clothing, fuel, freight on donations of
clothing received from the North, for bed clothes, nourishment for the sick,
&c., $663; leaving a balance of $172.
In addition to the clothing purchased by us, we have received from friends at
the North, and from individuals the following:
Received of Mrs. President Lincoln, 15 boxes of clothing and $10 worth of groceries;
Fugitive Aid Society of Boston, 13 barrels of clothing; Rev. Mr. Grimes' church,
of Boston, 12 barrels of clothing; Ladies' Relief Association of Boston, 9 barrels
and one box of clothing; Israel Church, of Washington, 2 boxes of clothing;
Mr. Seedham, of Washington, 1 box of goods; Mr. Breman, of New Haven, 6 barrels
of clothing; Mr. J. Bowers of Philadelphia, 1 box of clothing; American Freedmen's
Society, of New York, 1 barrel of clothing besides very many articles from individuals
of this city, all of which have been faithfully distributed by the visiting
committee, Mrs. Sands, President, who has been untiring in her efforts to do
her utmost for the welfare of this people, and who had rendered to the Association
most faithful and efficient service. We have not accomplished as much during
the last year as we had desired, yet there is satisfaction in knowing that,
as we have fed the hungry, clothed the naked, and ministered to the wants of
the suffering, we have been instrumental in doing some good.
Thus far our work, owing to our limited means, has been chiefly relieving their
more immediate wants, and which, of course, claimed our first attention. Next
year we hope to accomplish much more, and trust that our friends at home and
abroad, who have so generously reposed confidence in us and in our plans, during
the past year, will continue to assist us, thus enabling us to carry on the
good work in which we are engaged, and aid us in extending the field of our
labours for the benefit of all who shall come within our reach.
At a meeting of the Contraband Relief Association, held Monday, June 3, the
president suggested the propriety of raising a flag for the First District regiment
colored volunteers.- All were willing to do what they could. We wished to inspire
with zeal and courage those who were to go forth and battle with the enemy,
that they might distinguish themselves, not as cowards, but as men, as valiant
and brave as any who marched to the field during this dreadful struggle. We
felt it to be our duty to do something, and were glad that an opportunity had
presented itself. If these men are to go forth in defence of Union and liberty,
surely it is the least we can do to sympathize with, encourage and assist them,
however feeble our efforts may be, and insignificant they man seem. A festival
was proposed, which was agreed to; also, subscription papers for the purpose
of raising the necessary money for the purchase of this flag, the result of
which was $218.51.
Arrangements were entered into with Mr. D.B. Bowser, a << colored artist>>
of Philadelphia.- The design and appropriate motto were sent; the flag is before
you to-night at a cost of one hundred and twenty-five dollars. Its workmanship
cannot fail to attract attention. On one side is the representation of the American
eagle; on the other side is depicted a scene that must enliven the latent spark
of patriotism, and thus inspire the hearts of this [ ] race of mankind. The
Goddess of Liberty, with her foot on the serpent's head, is represented in the
act of handing a musket to a colored man.- Her very eyes seem to flash with
patriotism; the lips, though dumb, seem to speak the motto above her, "God
and Liberty." Do we not hear the echo from East, West, North, and even
from the South, "God and Liberty?" God, the Giver of every good and
perfect gift, among which is liberty to all men. The fetters of slavery are
already broken and lie at His feet; the cloud of oppression grows brighter,
though not yet entirely passed away. He grasps the musket, and with a look of
deep earnestness on his manly face, he seems to say, "God bless you."
The sum of money raised being more than enough to pay for the flag, it was proposed
to use the surplus money for the benefit of the families of our colored soldiers.
We have also received through Mr. S----," from several gentlemen in the
Treasury Department the sum of $81.94, which, added to the money left from the
flag, makes $205.45.
After the reading of the above reports, Mr. J.F. Cooke presented the flag on
behalf of the donors. He said:
If the doctrine of the equality of man was announced by the American people
in 1776, its adoption has been left for 1863. 1776 and 1863 in glory, in moral
significance, in practical effects upon Christianity, civilization and humanity
must ever grace the pages of history, ever illume and adorn the annals of America,
and stand forth prominent among the world's most favored years. How grand, how
noble the scene when we scan the long succession of years between these periods.
How during this long time America has been deriving so large a source of wealth,
so much of her greatness from unrequited toil, and has been building the fabric
of so vast and powerful an empire upon and at the expense of human misery. Yet
these, the very victims of constant injustice, spontaneously offered her their
lives, their all, when peril first presented itself at her doors, and she refused.
But now, rebuffs forgotten, the past buried, with patriotism never to be eclipsed,
with ardor, devotion, and courage, they promptly throw their all upon her altar
and swear "for her to live, with her to die." A people subjected for
centuries to the most abject bondage, with all its terrible, cruel concomitants.
Soldiers, in this strife from the existing state of things, your must be the
part of true exalted heroism. To you is assigned as noble a part to play as
history has recorded. Upon you are centered the eyes of friends and foe- of
friends that you may, by the nobleness, the magnanimity of your action, by the
valor of your arms, claim and gain for yourselves the respect and admiration
of the world, and gain from your foes the position of true freemen. Bravely
and patriotically go forth to the strife. Others, America's favored sons, have
gone there with full consciousness that their deeds, their memories will be
cherished by a grateful people, and that those dear to them they leave behind
will be the cherished objects of a country's care. You, America's outcasts,
go forth to do battle for your country, with but little positive reliance that
your deeds will receive even their just reward. And while you do battle for
the noble cause of country, remember that you fight for the still nobler cause,
"God and Liberty." There is much controversy respecting your present
and future. Soldiers, let not this stanch your ardor and enthusiasm, affect
your bravery and patriotism. You go forth to make your fortune. From your patience,
constancy, and perseverance in the hardships and trials of military life, in
the stern necessities of war, from the nobleness and manliness of your bearing,
from the prowess of your arms, from your laurels of victory over the haughty
traitorous hordes of oppression, from the full assertion and vindication of
your manhood upon the bloody field of strife shall come forth your glorious
future. For the present give to the winds the wrongs, the unrequited services
of 1776. Dwell not upon the faithlessness of 1812, but build your hopes, your
faith upon the nature of the present strife. Draw your conclusions from the
real cause of this bloody scene, from the most reasonable and probable ultimate
consequence. The conflict is not between the North and South, it is of nobler
aspect, of transcendently higher nature. It is of freedom the equality, and
of slavery, the oppression of man. A strife between civilization and barbarism,
truth and error, right and wrong. Upon our side are arrayed the conquering hosts
of universal human freedom; upon the other the insolent God-defying hordes of
human oppression.
To-day we are making our own history- history that will bid defiance to prejudice
and partiality- history of such imperishable material as Kansas and Florida,
as Milliken's Bend and Indian Territory, as Port Hudson and Battery Wagner.
Deeds that crush prejudice, defy oblivion, and chronicle themselves. Ask you
for examples? Need we rake the far past for a Hannibal? the nearer for the soldier
and statesman of San Domingo, Toussaint L'Overture; for the sable martyrs of
1776 and 1812; for the intrepid Turcos of the Austrian-Italian struggle? Shall
we come to the eventful days of the great American rebellion and point you to
the bleaching remains of the swarthy braves before Port Hudson, denied by a
merciless, inglorious foe even the right of sepulture; to the bold dashes and
brilliant charges in Kansas and in the land of the red man; to the brave, soldierly,
and heroic victims of rebel torture, disfigurement, massacre, and slavery in
the Palmetto State?
And now, soldiers, I have accepted the honor, but I can assure you with no small
sense of unworthiness, of presenting in behalf of the ladies of the Contraband
Relief Association, through you, to the First District Columbia Volunteers,
this battle flag. With it, accept their highest consideration for your welfare
and happiness, expressions of their greatest admiration for your prompt response
to your country's call, your ready acquiescence in the behests of liberty, your
ardor and determination to assert your own manhood, the manhood of 4,000,000
of your oppressed countrymen, and for the great blow you go forth to strike
of the equality and fraternity of man, the cause of universal liberty, with
the wish that the same patience, the same forbearance, characteristic of you
in oppression may attend you in the possibly prolonged struggle for the existence
of your country and for liberty, and with their incessant prayers for your safe,
but victorious return to the bosoms of your relatives and friends and the extended
arms of a grateful country.
Accept this, and let its future be blended with that of the stars and stripes,
the nation's emblem. By the side of it let it be borne in triumph over every
foe. Let it by its association nerve you with firmer purpose, fire you with
greater ardor for that emblem, in whose vindication, for whose defence you go
forth with stalwart frames to lay bare your manly bosoms to the storm of battle,
to pour out your life's fount until every field of strife be crimsoned with
its blood, if necessary, even to its last drop.
The flag was received on behalf of the regiment, a detachment of which was present,
by Captain James J. Ferree, of Pennsylvania. He said, as the officer temporarily
in charge of the colored soldiers, he would accept the flag, and promised that
they would carry it to the field of battle, and they would remember when there
that the scroll in the head of the goddess of liberty was the "Proclamation
of emancipation, January 1st, 1863." (Applause.) Though the bullets of
the rebate might riddle that picture rebel cannon and rebel forces should never
cause the withdrawal of that proclamation. Before that should be done every
drop of their blood would mingle with the waters that percolate the earth, and
they would live only in memory. (Applause.) The colored and white races are
now fighting in the same cause- the cause of human liberty. The despised, degraded,
outraged the African race have patiently endured their wrongs for two hundred
years; but now, in the providence of God, the time has come to strike a blow
for their freedom, and they have sprung at the first call. They know that if
taken in warfare, slavery or immediate death in cold blood shall be their fate;
yet they gladly give their lives, for they know they are fighting for all humanity
and for liberty for all the races. (Applause.) Never since the world began has
there been manifested a spirit so perfectly, so sublimely triumphant over all
human prejudice, over all indignities, over all wrongs.
Men have often wondered why the colored people have borne their wrongs for two
hundred years. But the hour has at last arrived. They go forth in their strength,
and shall feel yet stronger when they carry that beautiful flag and rush to
the "imminent deadly breach," beneath its folds. We expect to die,
but our example shall enrich history, and shall be a heritage to all humanity.
(Applause.)
Ladies of the Contraband Relief Association, we thank you; and permit me to
say that the colored brother represented on the beautiful flag you have given
us, with a musket in his hands, is the emblem of the salvation of the white
race.
The efficiency of colored regiments has been tested at Port Hudson, Milliken's
Bend, and yet more recently and more gloriously at Fort Wagner, and the speaker
felt assured that the regiment of soldiers which he now represented, would cover
itself with glory.
Mr. Ferree's speech was loudly and rapturously applauded. At this conclusion
loud cries were made for Colonel Forney, who was observed in the audience. Colonel
Forney made a few remarks in response. He said he had not expected to be called
on to make a speech, and trembling as he was under the excitement produced by
the speech of Captain Ferree, he was scarcely able to utter the thoughts that
were swelling in his bosom. He was there to return thanks. He had been one of
those who, during nearly twenty years, had been swayed by political prejudice
against the colored race, and yet since the opening of this grand drama, so
significant to us and to our people, so decisive of the destinies of all the
human race, he had come to the conclusion that if liberty is to be secured to
us, permanent and practical liberty, it must be by the aid of the colored races
upon this continent. When the gentleman who spoke last, and who, he was glad
to know, bore a name very dear to him, and was a native of the old State of
Pennsylvania, he felt glad that a representative of that Commonwealth, and a
descendant of a great family there, had spoken the glorious truths which had
fallen from his lips. He could only say that all the powers left to him, whether
of voice or pen, were dedicated to this great struggle for our Union. It was
extraordinary to look at the disenchantments of the last two years.
But nothing marks the change more than this demonstration. Who would have believed
three years ago that such a radical and progressive speech as that of Captain
Ferree could have been made in the District of Columbia- in the very hot bed
of slavery- here, where for fifty years slavery has dominated? We have heard
a white man daring to say things which three years ago would have consigned
for him to a common prison. These are marvellous changes, but God has determined
that there are to be still more marvellous changes.
God has determined that the great question of human freedom must be decided
in this contest, and the greatest to happen in this, that any of the seceded
states hereafter to be readmitted into the Union, must furnish such guarantees
as will prevent any further rebellion, and any further secession. Colonel Forney,
after again thanking the audience for their attention, retired.
The choir sang another beautiful piece, after which the meeting adjourned.
January 19, 1855
FREDERICK DOUGLASS' PAPER
Rochester, New York
JAS. M'CUNE SMITH VS. THE STANDARD.
We are requested by Dr. Smith, to copy into Frederick Douglass' Paper, the following
article from the Anti-Slavery Standard:
In Frederick Douglass' Paper of Dec. 29th our answer to the mendacious assault
of Dr. James McCune Smith (publisher) in the Standard of Dec. 23 rd, is followed
by a rejoinder form the Doctor, as follows:
(See Communipaw's reply in our paper of Dec. 29th.)
To the personal abuse so liberally bestowed upon us, in this new chapter of
blunders, falsehoods and groveling innuendoes, we offer no reply. Dr. Smith
is welcome to all the laurels he may win in that sort of warfare. We must consult
our taste, if not our self-respect, and decline a contest in which victory would
be even more disgraceful than defeat. If the reputation we have won by our connection
with the anti-slavery cause, from its first organization till the present hour,
is not proof against assaults of such a character, from such a source, it surely
is not worth our while to defend it. So far are we from being disturbed by this
personal vituperation, that we regard it as the best testimony to our fidelity
to the cause that could emanate from such a quarter. It is, moreover, a virtual,
though ungracious, confession of judgement, on the part of Dr. Smith, in respect
to every essential point at issue. It is only when a party to a controversy
is smarting under conscious defeat, and knows that his cause has no footing
either in truth of justice, that he substitutes abuse for argument, and low
insinuations for manly blows. It is not pleasant to be sure, to have your garment
bespattered with filth by a baffled assailant; but in a just cause, one may
endure the infliction with a good degree of patience.
Whatever doubts an unenlightened charity may have been able to suggest in respect to the animus of Dr. Smith's first attack, his present tirade reveals his unscrupulous malignity to Old Organization too plainly to leave any room for question, thus fully justifying the tone of our former article. The malinger having essentially unmasked himself, nothing remains for us but to speak, as briefly as we may, on a few points, in respect to which silence on our part might, in some quarters, subject the cause to injury and ourselves to misinterpretation.
1. Dr. Smith asserts, with impudent positiveness, that “Mr. Gay's salary
is $1,200 per annum.” We cannot see that it is any of Dr. Smith's business
who has never contributed a penny to the funds of our Society whether the salary
in question is large or a small one. But a falsehood is none the less a falsehood
for being well struck to; an it is due to truth to say that Mr. Gay's salary
is, and always has been, much short of the sum named.
2. The talk about “single women” having to pay $3 to attend the
Anti-Slavery Lectures, or “degrade themselves by hiring some man to go
with them"”(!!! is little better than ribaldry.) Of course, women
in a city like this, do not often go to lectures unattended by a male friend,
though such cases do sometimes occur. And if often happens that two women wish
to go with the same man. To accommodate both these classes half tickets have
been furnished at half price. The first application for such a ticket was declined
only for the moment, to consul the committee, the chairman of which immediately
afterwards ordered a message to be sent to the applicant that the desired half-ticket
would be furnished. If Dr. Smith had not been seeking occasion for fault-finding,
and utterly reckless of truth, he would never have made any complaint in regard
to this matter. One would suppose that a colored man, writing to a colored man's
newspaper, might find something to commend in a Course of Anti-Slavery Lectures
like that which the Old Organizationists have instituted in this city; but Dr.
Smith had non word of commendation in his heart. With a ticket, bought at half
price, in his pocket, he could only abuse the managers of the lectures, accusing
them of being governed by complexional prejudice, because they did not invite
a betrayer of their cause and a bitter personal enemy to their platform, instead
of a trusted fried. Mr. Brown's complexion does not suit Dr. Smith. His epidermis
has no stain of treachery!
3. In regard to the payment of lecturers last year, let us silence cavil by
stating the exact truth. With two exceptions (Messrs. Hale and Beecher) the
lecturers were all engaged with the understanding that they should receive $25.
Mr. Hale, having delivered the opening lecture, was, according to the general
custom, paid a larger sum, while Mr. Beecher was not asked to lecture for less
than his usual price. Mr. Garrison was asked to write out his lecture for publication
as a tract, and was paid accordingly, the committee choosing to compensate him
for that labor rather than a reporter. The ten other lecturers were all offered
the equal compensation agreed upon; some of them accepted the amount and others
gave a part or the whole as a free-will offering to the treasury of the Society.
Among those who very properly took the fee was Horace Greeley, who, “Communipaw”
says, took nothing; while Wendell Phillips, whose general rule it is to receive
no compensation, to even his expenses, for an anti-slavery lecture, was, on
this occasion, among those who accepted his expenses. Do Dr. Smith's “whispers”
need further notice?
4. Dr. Smith sneers at the intimation that tickets to the Anti-Slavery Lecturers
are given to the poor. On this point we will simply say, that form seventy-five
to one hundred season tickets have been given to persons unable to purchase
them, while many tickets for single admissions are thus distributed every week,
the managers taking pains to seek out proper objects for such attention. In
other cases, as in that of the Doctor himself, tickets have been sold at less
than the regular price. It not the meanness of the Dr.'s sneer sufficiently
apparent.
5. Dr. Smith having first declared that Douglass, Pennington and others were
“excluded from the platform of lectures” “because they are
colored,” now seeks to change the issue, pretending that he was speaking
only of invitations to colored men out of the ranks of the Old Organization!
The language of the first assault utterly defies this interpretation, which
comes as an after thought, to enable him to escape from a dilemma. His declaration
was, that “there is no room for black men” not Old Organized black
men, but black men “on the Old Organized platform.” He remembers
to forget, moreover, that Mr. Langston, who is not a member of the Old Organization,
was invited to lecture in the New York course. The real point which he attempts
to befog is just this: that the American Anti-Slavery Society, in its dealings
with black men as well as whites, discriminates between its friends and its
enemies between those who only differ from it in opinion on some question of
fact or of policy, and those who have betrayed the cause and proved treacherous
to its friends. When Dr. Smith finds us inviting to our “platform of lectures”
any of those false-hearted white men who have been libeling the American Anti-Slavery
Society and its managers for years past, declaring us to be infidels and disorganizers,
we will give him leave to insist that we should treat colored men of the same
sort in the same way. At present, however, we are not quite so poorly furnished
with colored associates as to be under the necessity of seeking for them among
our enemies.
6. We come now to the “real charge” of Dr. Smith, “that American Abolitionsist do not, as organizations, treat black men as men, and therefore do not regard them as such.” Observe, the charge is not against individual Abolitionists, but against anti-slavery organizations. We shall not be expected to speak for any other organizations than those with which we are immediately identified; and in respect to those we repel the charge as without any foundation in truth, as the suggestion of a morbid jealousy, or the offspring of an invidious and hostile spirit. Dr. Smith says, “that of the half-million of free colored persons in the United States, there are not two hundred men who can be named as adhering to Old Organization.” This, of course, like almost every other statement of the Doctor, is untrue. But we have a right to hold him to his own estimate, and we affirm that, according to it, the Old Organization has employed as agents, or otherwise, far more than an equal proportion of properly qualified colored men, in comparison with the whole number of that class who cooperate therewith. The Anti-Slavery Society was formed, not to afford employment to any body, black or white, but to aid, by the best means within its reach, in abolishing slavery. If, in the selection of agents, the question of complexion has had influence at all, that influence has invariably operated in favor of the colored man. The Old Organization has ever been prompt to recognize and employ colored men of ability, as we might show by various examples. Fidelity to the cause and capacity to serve it is all that the Society ahs demanded. It has asked no more than this of black men no less than this of white men. The salaries of colored agents, moreover, have been adjusted upon considerations wholly independent of their complexion considerations identical with those which have determined the compensation of white men. For the truth of this statement, we are content to appeal to honorable minded colored men themselves. An Anti-Slavery Society, of course, can employ for agents those only who embrace its principles and heartily cooperate with it in carrying them out. The American Society, for example, cannot be expected to prefer its colored enemies to its white friends to dismiss its Fosters, its Burleighs, its Pillsburys and its Mays, who have ever been true to the cause, to make places for Dr. Pennington, a minister of a slaveholding Church, and such malingers as Dr. Smith and Frederick Douglass, who are doing all in their power to blast the reputations of those who guide its affairs.
We need non better evidence that Dr. Smith and Mr. Douglass do not themselves believe their charge to be true, than is furnished in the character of the only evidence they offer in support of it. They affect to see in the tone of our former article, and in the general bearing of the Standard toward colored people, indications that we “do no, at the core, recognize the manhood of the black man.” This, to call things by their right names, is the adroit appeal (ad captandum vulgus) of baffled demagogues, who, after neither argument nor truth on which to stand, hope to excite an unfounded jealousy against their antagonists among those less intelligent than themselves.
The Doctor pretends to believe that the difference between our treatment of Gerrit Smith and that awarded to himself is to be accounted for on the score of color! It might have occurred to him, were modesty one of his weaknesses, that Gerrit Smith, perhaps, has earned a place in our reverence and regard, to which his namesake” has not yet proved his title. But the two cases were wholly unlike. Gerrit Smith was simply mistaken in his recollection of what the Standard had said of him personally. The Doctor, of whom the Standard had said not a word, stood before us in the character of a gratuitous libeler. His language, the whole character and manner of his assault, proclaimed him, not an honestly mistaken friend, but an unscrupulous enemy. The difference was one, not of complexion, but of character of the heart, not of the skin. After assailing us in the most shameless manner, without the slightest provocation and getting therefore the castigation he deserved, Dr. Smith now whimpers about being a “colored man,” as if we were bound on that account, to handle him tenderly! For us to call him a “colored man” is an offence and yet in the same breath he asserts a claim to our compassion on the ground that he is one! Is this manly in one who wears the honors of a University, and seeks to confound his unlearned antagonist by an ostentatious display of Latin?
Another evidence of our non recognition of the manhood of those whose complexion is darker than our own is discovered in our speaking of them as “colored men.” Nothing “can raise them above the term of colored men in the columns of the Standard,” says the Doctor, affecting an air of despairing grief. But the only answer he has to the charge that the course of lectures, got up by himself and others, was inaugurated by a pro-slavery Doctor of Divinity, is Oh! He got a colored man to draw some maps for him, and is always careful to state the fact? And against such a fact the pro-slavery course of his whole life goes for nothing! When Dr. Baird, a Colonizationists and a supporter of slavery, exhibits the maps of Patrick H. Reason, it is all right for him to “name and describe the artist and his complexion” to say, “Behold this evidence of the genius of a “colored man;” but for the Standard to say of the intellectual and oratorical efforts of the “wealthy and scholarly Lanston,” the “polished Remond” and the “finely cultured Wells Brown” (we presume these gentlemen will know how to appreciate these honied compliments from such a source!) “See! Here is the evidence of what 'colored men' can do; when, in short for the purpose of shaming the spirit of caste, we are careful to give “colored men” credit for every honorable achievement, it is set down as an evidence that,” at the core,” we “do not recognize the manhood of the black man!!” Are these maligners ashamed of their complexion that any reference thereto, with however friendly intent, is deemed an offence? A colored man certainly is a colored man, and we confess that the idea, that the “term” is one of reproach among Abolitionists is new to us. On the Old Organization platform, however, it may be else, where, a man is none the less a MAN for being a “colored man.” There is, therefore, no need that such should be “raised above the term” which truthfully describe them, since none are higher than they.
The statement that Mr. Garrison “insulted the manhood of Mr. Purvis,” and that Mr. Furness “outraged his feelings,” is both ridiculous and false. The words which Dr. Smith puts into the mouth of the latter were never uttered by him. The quotation is simply a fraud, invented to serve a dishonest purpose. MR. Purvis will be duly grateful non doubt, for the aid of Dr. Smith in defending his “manhood” from “insult” and “outrage” by William Lloyd Garrison and Wm. H. Furness!
Dr. Smith attributes the alleged “significant fact,” that a comparatively
small proportion of the colored people adhere to the Old Organization, to an
instinctive perception on their part that that organization does not recognize
their manhood! He might as nationally affirm that the reason why so few white
people unite with us is that their manhood is disregarded by us. The truth is,
that colored people are kept out of Anti-Slavery Societies by the same influences
which keep out those whose skins are of a different complexion from theirs.
It is not that their perception teaches them that those Societies do not recognize
their manhood, for they know the contrary to be the fat; but it is that many
of them are either pro-slavery in feeling, or indifferent to the wrongs of the
slave. To a great extent they are wedded to sectarianism, or misguided by priestcraft,
or swayed by the fear of public opinion. Sometimes they are influenced by an
apprehension that an active participation in anti-slavery efforts, especially
in connection with a Society which their priest tell them is an “infidel”
association, would destroy the profits of their business. For these, and similar
reasons, the great mass of the colored people have always stood aloof form the
anti-slavery cause. They have acted, in this respect, very much like the great
mass of white people. Oftentimes their churches have been shut against anti-slavery
meetings. This, if we are not mistaken, is the fat at present in respect to
more than one temple of worship, belonging to colored people, in this city.
Dr. Smith himself was for years, if he is not now, a member (or worshipper)
of St. Phillips's Episcopal Church in this city a Church of colored people,
which consents to employ a white pro-slavery minister a supporter of the Fugitive
Slave Law and which for years degraded itself by seeking the privilege of being
represented in the pro-slavery Diocesan Convention of New York! Dr. Smith says
the instincts of the colored people “are true to liberty,” and that
“they know who do and who do not regard them as men.” It is a pity
that so many of them turn their instincts to such poor account. If the instinct
of the members of St. Philip's church were true to liberty, then were they false
to those instincts in seeking an alliance with their white oppressors, while
they turned away, for the most part, form the anti-slavery cause. And this is
but one illustration of a hundred that might be offered. That “their instincts
are true to liberty” is no more true of the colored than of white people.
In a sense, it is true of both classes, but the difficulty with both alike is
that they are so often false to their instincts.
The indifference to the anti-slavery cause of the great mass of the colored
people in this city was illustrated last year in the fact, that although the
Anti-Slavery Lectures were advertised in many of their churches, and tickets
offered to them at half-price, the number who attended was exceedingly small.
And this year the attendance is not much better. We mention this, not by way
of complaint, but to rebut the implied assumption that the colored people, as
such, are Abolitionists. In this city there are a few faithful colored friends
of the cause, whose faces are both familiar and welcome at the Anti-Slavery
Office, and by whose hearty cooperation we are constantly cheered. We wish the
number of such were far greater than it is. But if, as Dr. Smith asserts, the
colored people are repelled from the Old Organization by a conviction that their
manhood is not recognized therein, will he explain why it is that so few of
them can be induced to cooperate earnestly and actively with other associations,
in respect to which, according to him, there is no ground for any such feeling?
Will he tell us how it came to pass that, notwithstanding that ardent and devoted
friends of the colored people, his favorite, the pro-slavery Dr. Baird, had
been puffed from any number of colored pulpits, less than twenty colored people
attended his lecture? If they have turned away from Mr. Garrison and his friends
only in sorrow that they are not regarded as men on the anti-slavery platform
(!!) surely we might expect them to flock in crowds to testify their regard
for a Doctor of Divinity, who, notwithstanding his advocacy, Colonization and
the Fugitive Slave law, had, by employing a << colored artist>>
and puffing his work, satisfied their keen and jealous “instincts”
that he, unlike the naughty Garrison Abolitionists, believed that the colored
man was indeed a MAN! And yet that ardent lover of the colored people (preferred
before Garrison by Dr. Smith, as the Jews preferred Barrabbas to Jesus) had
hardly more than a dozen colored hearers. How shall we account for such ingratitude?
Has it not been well said that “'instinct' is a great matter?”
And now, a word to Mr. Douglass. It is certainly cool in him to talk of us as
seeking to reopen an old controversy with him, when our allusions to him were
only such as became necessary in repelling the gratuitous attack of Dr. Smith
an attack which his own attitude toward the American Society and its friends,
and his relations with the Doctor alike invited. Dr. Smith, no doubt, knows
what sort of wares are wanted in the Rochester market, and how he may best please
his employer.
Mr. Douglass finds evidence of the bad animus of the Standard towards colored
people in the fat that we spoke of him as “the fugitive form Maryland.”
His imagination pictures us as penning these words with “nose turned up:
and “lips curled with contempt.” Well, that is strange! We had thought
that Mr. Douglass was proud of being a “fugitive from Maryland”
that he gloried in the chapter of his history which that title commemorates,
as the proudest in his whole life. Now that we know he has become ashamed of
that title, we shall be careful not to offend his dignity by repeating it. Will
he like it better if we call him “the fugitive form Old Organization?”
For ourselves, we think the escape from Maryland, whether considered in reference
to the object of the feat or the manner in which it was accomplished, was by
far the most creditable of the two. Both wee by the underground way, but the
one was an honorable escape from slavery, the other a sinuous departure form
the true friends of liberty; the one a step forward and upward, the other a
fall backward and downward!
Mr. Douglass compares us to “a cab horse working for his oats.”
Now we like that. It is a rare compliment. The good horse is a pattern of industry,
patience, fidelity, sagacity and nobleness; and these qualities are exactly
those which make a good anti-slavery editor. A patient, hard-working, faithful
horse earns his “oats,” and need not be ashamed to be seen eating
them. There are, however, horses, of another sort, frisky, treacherous, balky
backing when they should go forward vexing and worrying those that work at their
side gormandizes of “oats,” but often kicking those who feed them
and who built the cribs form which they eat fancying, meanwhile, that their
agility is equal to going both sides of the sapling at the same time! Mr. Douglass
has not said that we are a horse of that color? We love our provender, to be
sure, and to have plenty of it as what horse does not? But we never “feel
our oats” so as to run away with the load, or injure those who, trusting
to our honor, give us a “loose rein.” Thank you, Mr. Douglass! We
owe you one!
Some of our readers, perhaps, may think that we waste our breath in replying
to such assaults as these of Dr. Smith. But they should reflect that we, who
stand at the central pint of observation, may see good reasons, not so apparent
to others, for undertaking this disagreeable task. The truth is, that this attack
of Dr. Smith is part of a systematic effort of unscrupulous and designing men
to alienate the colored people form the American Anti-Slavery Society and its
auxiliaries, to excite among them a spirit of jealousy and hostility toward
their white friends, and to organize them into a separate clan for the aggrandizement
of those who aspire to be their leaders. The recent attacks of certain colored
men upon Mrs. Stowe she having declined to place at their disposal certain funds
entrusted to her by friends of the anti-slavery cause in Great Britain are part
and parcel of this scheme. Clear-sighted and honorable colored men are fully
aware of the movements of these mischief-makers, and are doing all in their
power to defeat them. They will thank us for vindication the Old Organization
from such assaults, and for unmasking the designs of those who make them. This
agitation of the elements will give us a clearer atmosphere, in which we may
the better discriminate between those colored people who are Abolitionists at
heart, and those who would make their skins a cover for meanness, treachery
and self-seeking. A score of colored people (among the most intelligent and
worthy of their class) have already assured us of their approbation of our course.
We prize such testimonials, spontaneously offered, from those who, though they
are of the same complexion with our assailants, are like them in no other aspects,
and who are under no necessity of pleading the color of their skins instead
of the complexion of their lives in proof of their fidelity to the anti-slavery
cause. The following letter is from one of the most intelligent colored men
in the city whence it comes. His name is in our possession, and we suppress
it only because we are not sure that we are authorized to make it public. It
is an honored as well as honorable name.
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 17, 1854.
DEAR SIR: As one of the oppressed, for whose benefit you have been toiling,
I thank you for the prompt, truthful and withering reply to the corespondent
of Douglass' Paper, “Communipaw.” When our Anti-Slavery Editors
and other lean that they must deal with black slanderers as they do with “white”
libelers, they will confer a double good upon our cause. They will show their
absence form all favoritism on the score of complexion, and prove to the colored
man that he cannot maliciously misrepresent the conduct of the friends of the
slave with impunity.
Yours for the right, B.
The following will speak for itself. The writer needs no recommendation to the
confidence of our readers.
BYBERRY, Pa., Dec. 25, 1854.
MY DEAR FRIEND: I cannot repress the feeling to say that I thank you most heartily
and earnestly for the well-timed castigation of McCune Smith. He deserved it,
and I like the manner in which you have laid on the lash. The mistake of our
friends, in dealing with 'colored” pro-slavery men, has always been, that
they have shown a daintiness and scrupulosity most sickening to me. Intensely
selfish, ungrateful and mean as has been the course of many of these “educated
gentlemen,” (?) it is well that they should be fairly dealt with and in
the case of this Smith, I again thank you, and add, “well done.”
Yours, very truly,
ROBERT PURVIS.
May 18, 1855
FREDERICK DOUGLASS' PAPER
Rochester, New York
SELECTIONS.
From the New York Tribune.
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF THE COLORED PEOPLE.
FIRST DAY MORNING MEETING.
The Third Semi-Annual Meeting of this body was held at noon yesterday in Dr. Pennington's Church.
The Council was called to order by Dr J. McCUNE SMITH, the President. Mr. GEORGE
T. DOWNING of Rhode Island was appointed Secretary.
Mr. SMITH then read the following:
ADDRESS.
GENTLEMEN: You are assembled to fulfil the duties imposed on you buy a Convention of the colored people, assembled at Rochester in July, 1853, by which Convention you were duly appointed, “for the purpose of improving the character, developing the intelligence, maintaining the rights, and organizing a Union of the colored people of the free States.” The hundred and seventy thousand souls who compose the free colored people of the free States occupy a position in regard to human progress, of greater importance and responsibility than any like number of individuals on the face of the globe. The great question of human brotherhood is brought to a direct test in our persons and position; the practicality of democratic institutions, their ability to overcome the last vestige of tyranny I the human heart, the visibility of caste by Christianity, the power of the gospel, the disenthrallment of three millions of bleeding and crushed slaves; all these issues lend their weight and rest their decision very greatly if not entirely on the free colored people of the free States. This weight of responsibility is enough to make men shrink their form; but we cannot avoid it if we would. The influence of our land and its institutions reaches to the uttermost part of the earth; and go where we may, we will find American prejudice, or at least the odor of it, to contend against. It is easiest, as well as manliest, to meet and contend with it here at the fountain head; nor can we cease affecting there great issues by inactivity; the case is going on, whether we labor or not; and our inactivity will only hope deciding it against us and these, and true principles, which it would seem the Providence of God that we are set apart to uphold. Although we may not readily see it, our position is not a hopeless one; it is full of promise. It sometimes happens in great moral, as in great physical battles, that certain division of men, by simply maintaining a fixed position, even without striking an active blow, will conduce to the victory; in like manner by simply maintaining our numbers, and our senses, and our Christianity under the waves of oppression and practical infidelity that have vainly beaten against us, we have done our appointed service in the land where we dwell. But the hour has come for us to take a direct and forward movement. We feel and know it. Just as in 1817 there was a spontaneous movement among our brethren of that generation, with one voice to oppose the Colonization movement, so in this year 1855, throughout the length of the land, do we feel roused to take an active and energetic part in the great question of Liberty or Slavery. We are awakened, as never before, to the fact that if Slavery and caste are to be removed from the land we must remove them, and remove them ourselves; others may aid and assist if they will, but the moving power rests with us. Gentlemen, the direction of this newly-awakened power rests greatly with you. Untrammeled by any of the influences that curb or straighten other benevolent or deliberative organizations, you may bring forward, discuss and adopt such plan of movement as may seem best. One or two primary considerations are all I will venture. First, it is important that you thoroughly organize all the colored people; we cannot spare the aid of a single man, or woman, or minor capable of thinking. Then you should adopt means to lay our plans of organization or cooperation before every individual among our people. This can be done by the agency of lecturers and of the Press. We must distinctly keep before the people the fact that our labors consist in something beside the declaration of sentiments. We must act up to what we declare. And so closely does oppression encompass us that we can act constantly in behalf of our cause of simply maintaining for ourselves the rights which the laws of the land guarantee to us in common with all citizens. From the mere act of riding in public conveyances, up to the immediate and entire abolition of Slavery in the slave States the laws of the land and the Constitution of the country are clearly on our side. And that man is a traitor to liberty and a foe to our Humanity who maintains or even admits that we or any other human beings may be held in slavery on account of the color of skin, or for any reason short of the committing of crime. And for the mere act of riding in public conveyances, up to the liberation of every slave in the land do our duty extend embracing a fuel and equal participation, political and socially, in all the rights and immunities of American citizens. If these our duties are weighty, we have the means to perform them. Our cause is inseparably wrapped up with every genial reform moving over the land.
Freedom, hand in hand with labor,
Walketh strong and brave;
On the forehead of his neighbor
No man writeth slave!
The States which have legislated in behalf of the Temperance reform have also
made movements toward recognizing our rights as citizens thereof. But efforts
on our own part have helped toward this good result; in Massachusetts, mainly
by efforts of some colored citizens, one a member of this Council, the last
vestige of caste in Public Schools has been abolished. In Connecticut, on the
petition of her colored citizens, led by a member of this Council, both Houses
of the Legislature have done their share toward granting us equal suffrage,
and the Governor has recently strongly recommend the same. In New York, through
the efforts of a member of this Council and the President of our State Council,
aided by the moving eloquence of another member of our Council, the Legislature
passed a vote of equal suffrage a vote for which the past twenty years we have
petitioned and struggled n vain. In Pennsylvania a strong and able effort has
been made to obtain the franchise by our colored brethren, and not without some
signs of success. Even Illinois, hitherto covered with deeper infamy in caste
than any other State, there are signs that the labors of there intelligent and
energetic colored citizens have not been in vain. Gentlemen, these cheering
and grand results have followed the almost isolated labors of less than a hundred
colored men; I had almost said of vie. What may we not do if we secure the hearty,
earnest and steady cooperation of ten thousand such men? If a hundred colored
men have struck these blows under which Slaveocracy reels and staggers, who
easily will ten thousand overthrow that atrocious system. We have the men and
the spirit, and a favorable public sentiment; let us address ourselves to the
work of organization. The time is come when our people must assume the rank
of a first-rate power in the battle against caste and Slavery; it is emphatically
our battle; no one else can fighting it for us, and with God's help we must
fight it o9urselves. Our relations to the Anti-Slavery movement must be and
are changed. Instead of depending upon it we must lead it. We must maintain
our citizenship and manhood in every relation civil, religious and social throughout
the land. The recognition of our manhood throughout this land is the Abolition
of Slavery throughout the land. One of the mans of elevation left is in your
care by the Rochester Convention is an Industrial School; and a plan by which
our rising youths may forsake menial employments for mechanical and mercantile
occupations. The accomplishment of both these objects is within our ability.
Among the wants which we labor under as a class, there is not the want of money.
We do not even in half our proportionate numbers occupy the Atlas houses in
the Free States. During the profound distress which existed during the past
winter we were not in any degree the distressed or starving class. And statistics
will be presented so this Council, showing that as a mass, in the free States,
we occupy a middle position between the rich and the poor. Not only could the
hundred thousands free colored people of Pennsylvania and New York, easily establish
and richly endow an Industrial School; but I could name ten men among us who
could do it without sensible loss to their abundance of means. This Industrial
School should, like the rest of what we do, be our own movement, down by our
own means. We will make both character and reputation in establishing it. We
have therefore, gentlemen a cause, and the men and the means to carry it on;
may you be endowed with true wisdom for the accomplishment of the great purposes
for which you are now met together.
Mr. STEPHEN MEYERS of Albany, stated that many members of the Councils of other
States, ad of the State Councils of other States, and of the State Council,
were present and moved that they be invited to take seats in the Council and
participate in the debate.
Mr. BELL seconded the motion, and suggested that the fact that a colored man
had been elected Clerk in one of the Counties of Ohio, be embodied in the address.
Carried.
The roll was called, when the following members were announced as preset:
New York Frederick Douglass, Dr. Pennington, Phillips A. Bell, Ed. V. Clark,
Jas. E. Brown, John N. Still, Stephen Meyers, Jas. McCune Smith. Rhode Island
Geo. T. Downing. Illinois John D. Bonner. Pennsylvania Stephen Smith, Franklin
Turner. Honorary Members Wm. H. Topp, Jas. W. Duffin, N.Y.
The CHAIRMAN, in accordance with the vote of the Convention, nominated a Business
Committee consisting of Frederick Douglass of New York, Franklin Turner of Pennsylvania,
and Jas. D. Bonner of Illinois.
The committee retired to consider the business laid before them, and during
their absence the Constitution of the Council was read.
In answer to an interrogatory form STEPHEN MEYERS, the PRESDIENT said that New
York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Rhode Island, and Michigan
had organized State Councils.
Mr. MEYERS thought that the National Council should appoint agents to travel trough the Free States, and if possible through the Slave States too, to stir up the colored people to organize State Council to cooperate with the National Council
Mr. FREDERICK DOUGLASS said: The Business Committee report that not having
any business to perfect, they cannot at this session offer any proposition for
the consideration of the Council. They would wish to hear a report from the
Manual Labor Committee.
Mr. BONNER, on behalf of the manual Labor School Committee, presented the following
report:
The Committee on Manual Labor School appointed at he first Meeting of the National
Council, held in the City of New York in November, 1853, beg to make the following
Report: Owing to a combination of circumstances wholly unavoidable and unexpected
by us we have been prevented from making any successful efforts toward establish
the contemplated school, but we are not without hope that a well devised and
vigorously presented plan of operation for the future may be crowned with success,
one that we may yet be enabled to establish on a firm basis an institution where
the colored youth of our country may acquire not only a thorough education,
but a the same time receive such mechanical instruction as will fit them for
useful members of society and enable them to pave their way to the most honorable
and independent position known to American citizens. Among the many causes which
have retarded our success in this noble and cherished enterprise, the inability
of our appointed agent, Frederick Douglass, Esq., to travel and solicit donations
and dispose of stock in a said School, has been one of a serious and hurtful
character; but the greatest obstacle in the way of our success has been the
extraordinary stringency in money matters, which ahs prevailed throughout the
country for the last twelve months. Any attempt to collect money during the
above period for purposes of benevolence would, in our humble opinions, have
been fruitless. When we look around we find we are not alone in backwardness
in raising funds with which to start our proposed Institution. We find that
the People's College of New York, which was proposed some time before our own
and upon principles similar to ours, is also languishing for the want of means
to carry it forward. At the present time the prospects seem more auspicious,
and we confidently believe that something may yet be done by proper and well-directed
efforts towards the consummation of our wishes. It requires no labored arguments
to convince our friends of the great necessity of an institution like this;
they must already be satisfied on this point. We want an institution that will
be looked up to with feelings of pride and satisfaction by our own people; and
looked at and inspected by the world. In conclusion we recommend to the Council
the appointment of three agents who shall be fully empowered to travel and solicit
aid one for the Eastern, and one for the Western states; and one for the Continent
of Europe. All of which is most respectfully submitted.
JAMES MCCUNE SMITH, J.D. BONNER,
JOHN PECK, A.G. BEMAN,
JOHN JONES, FREDERICK DOUGLASS.
Mr. DOUGLASS said this project, of all others started at Rochester, he believed
was the best that could be devised for the advancement of his race. He was not
dismayed by the few faces he saw around him, nor by the numerous opponents besetting
them on all hands. Among their own people, those whom they most looked up to
for help in this work, they had met with opposition; but if it only aroused
the colored people at large to better their condition to raise themselves from
the condition of menial laborers to skilled mechanics and artisans he should
be satisfied. But he feared that their opposition arose from indifference or
apathy. He hoped, the report would be adopted, but not before it had been fully
discussed among themselves.
Dr. PENNINGTON believed that the party or church in this country that shall
present to the public the best plan for the education of the masses will be
the dominant party for the next fifty years. He went for the education, not
only of the colored but of the white people also, whether separate or together
it mattered not, so long as the essential end the education of the whole people
was arrived at. If it be necessary that a separate institution should be established
for the education of colored children, why, let it be started and upheld. Family
schools, infant schools, grammar schools and universities were needed for the
colored people, and he hoped they would be established; they would be, and if
the colored people would only be united it would be accomplished. He hoped the
principles of the report would be carried out.
Mr. TOPP inquired if any conclusion had been arrived at about the cost of establishing
such a school.
Dr. SMITH The requisite foundation fund would be $30,000.
Mr. TOPP was not opposed to this project; but he said he had to answer a great
many questions about its practicability, and would like to know what prospect
of success the Committee had before them.
EDWARD B. CLARK of New York differed from Mr. Douglass in regard to the cause
of the opposition manifested by the colored people to the proposed school. The
Manual Labor School never could develop any degree of perfection in mechanical
or agricultural education among its pupils. At Oberlin, Oneida, and elsewhere
this fact had long since become a parent. And if they established it, what white
man would teach colored children a trade? How could such an institution be self-sustaining?
What would the $30,000 not the first cent of which had been collected amount
to? He would suggest that social comminutes of colored people be established
so that the mechanic arts could be nurtured within their limits.
Mr. MEYERS said if this Council should see fit to fix upon some spot from the
location of the proposed school, the colored people need not go to the white
man's door for mechanical, artistically or literary labor; for within themselves
they possessed all the elements necessary to successfully carry on a community
of every department of labor, science and art.
Mr. DOUGLASS was glad to hear anything in the shape of objection to the proposed
college; that was what he wanted to get at. The true idea of this school had
not been fully stated; it was not to be a strictly educational school, such
as at Oneida, Oberlin, or elsewhere. The idea is not so much to educated the
heads as the hands; to facilitate the mechanical advancement of the colored
people. The question is, have we at this time in this country the necessary
facilities for the mechanical education of the children of dusky hue? If there
are doors open, or if there be any better means than the establishment of a
mechanical school, let us know it. He had seen it stated, in a paper in this
City that was once indorsed by the colored people of this country, that in this
City there were ample facilities for training colored mechanics. If this be
true, why, here such a school is not needed. But in his own locality no such
facility was in existence. He knew that even in his own office he had great
difficulty in introducing a colored boy to work at the side of white men. If
this school should prove exclusive it would, as he understood it, be the fault
of the whites and not of the colored people. The question “I s this really
a practicable plan?” depends upon the amount of will which the colored
people bring to the work. Of the money, he did to for a moment doubt that a
sum ample enough for all purposes could be raised; $5,000, he believed, would
be enough to start this school. With this they might not be able to teach every
branch of mechanic art in the start; at first they might have basket-makers,
coopers, and such simple crafts; they only wanted a beginning. Oberline did
not fail because they blended the classics with physical labor, but because
they allowed the student to study without labor if he pleased, which produced
aristocracy, that looked down upon the poor boy who toiled at the work-bench
as well as studied the classics. He continued: Our object is to make labor honorable;
and if we enter upon the work with a determination to succeed, succeed we shall.
The process of making a bedstead or a bureau in such a school is the same as
in the work-shops of the city, and the boy might learn as much, and he thought
more, where both his mind and muscle were educated, than where only his muscles
were educated, than where only his muscles wee brought into play.
Mr. DUFFIN had supposed that $50,000 or $100,000 would be required to establish
such a school; but if, as Mr. Douglass had said, $5,000 would start such an
Institution, he would advise the several State Councils to establish one in
each State, at an outlay of $5,000 or $10,000 for each. He thought such a plan
would be better than to start one colossal college at vast expense, with the
almost certain prospect of failure.
Mr. AMOS G. BEMAN of Connecticut took his seat.
Mr. TOPP of Albany was of opinion that taking this State through, and the States
of Ohio and Massachusetts as a whole, the colored children could not get an
opportunity to learn mechanical trades, and if they could learn, they could
get no opportunity to labor, on account of the antipathy of the white journeyman.
In his own shop the white journeymen tailors who worked for him struck against
his employing colored men. Mr. Topp believed that here is a grave necessity
for the establishment of such a school. The fact is, the most opposition is
met with from the so-called friends of the colored people, who say, why, you
who are so strongly opposed to caste schools, and caste distinctions, are about
to start such a school yourselves. To meet this, we inform them that the caste
distinction, if any, is on the part of the whites; our Council have resolved
that no such distinctions shall exist among us.
Mr. GEO T. DOWNING was not able to see clearly the practicality of this plan.
There is, and the truth must be spoken, too much apathy on our part. We might,
if we pleased find plenty of opportunities of learning trades and working at
them afterward. He enumerated many instances in proof of his potion. The only
argument that could be advanced in favor of this school was that it might tend
to induce colored people to feel the necessity of education of their children
to trades. The natural tendency of proscriptive measures is depressive. An instance
of this kind is shown by the schools of Worcester, where, at the wish of the
colored citizens, a separate school was started, and failed. Such, he thought,
would be the fate of the Manual Labor School.
Mr. STEPEHN SMITH of Philadelphia said that most of the colored mechanics in
Philadelphia had received their education in the South; and he knew that the
colored people of the City of Philadelphia could not obtain opportunity to learn
mechanic trades. But wherever a colored man understood a trade, he was sustained
in Philadelphia; and Mr. Smith hoped that Report would be adopted.
Dr. PENNINGTON thought that the colored people ought to do their part in educating
men with the whites; the white people established schools for black and white
why should not the colored people start schools and work shops for white and
black?
Mr. J.E. BROWN of Elmira instanced several colored work-shops and workmen in
Elmira, where white and colored were employed; in many cases colored mechanics
were unable to get colored boys to learn their trades. He believed that colored
mechanics could always find employment.
Pending the debate the Council adjourned to 7 1/2 P.M.
EVENING SESSION.
The PRESIDENT (Dr. Smith) called the Council to order. He said he had just
received a telegraphic dispatch from Mr. Peck, at Pittsburgh, stating that just
as he was about to set out for New York he was detained by sickness, and asking
the Council to hold its next meeting in Pittsburgh ordered on file.
Mr. FREDERICK DOUGLASS presented the following resolutions from the Business
Committee:
Whereas, Long years of oppression and slavery have debarred colored youth for
gaining a practical knowledge of mechanical science, and have doomed them to
menial avocations for a livelihood; and whereas, a bitter and persecuting prejudice
against colored people (peculiar to our Republican community) stands as with
drawn sword ready to strike down the aspiring colored youth the moment he advances
toward the work-shop, with a view to attain a respectable trade; and whereas,
the only escape from degradation for our people is to be found in a renunciation
of the position of a servile class, and in turning our attention to education,
productive industry, and a practical knowledge of mechanical sciences; therefore,
Resolved, that it is the first business of this Council, charged with the duty
of looking after and promotion the well-being of the colored people to establish
some means whereby our youth may no longer be deprived of useful, honorable
and lucrative trades.
Resolved, That is one means to this important end the Council reaffirm, and
that they do hereby, the plan for an Institutional College which has been reported
by the proper Committee, and which has during a period of twelve months or more
been regularly published in Frederick Douglass' Paper, and that they in furtherance
of the same object adopt the second report submitted to them by the Committee
on Institutional College.
Mr. BONNER of Illinois thought the colored people had too long been dependent
upon what might be done for them by the whites. It was time that they did something
for themselves. He, hoped this Report would be adopted, for he did not believe
that the colored youth could otherwise find channels through which to elevate
themselves to a position of independence and respectability.
Mr. DOUGLASS fully concurred with the last speaker in the propriety of adopting
the Report; but he deemed the Industrial College of so much moment that he hoped
it would be more fully discussed. He believed that if an agent had been appointed
at the time the plan was first proposed it would now be placed in a position
of success beyond all doubt. This scheme had been pronounced by the first periodical
in the world to be the greatest and most comprehensive for elevating the colored
race in this country yet proposed. That is the opinion of the New York Tribune.
He was aware that some of the Abolition papers had opposed the plan, but if
the colored people would ever arrive at a respectable place in society they
must do their own thinking. The colored people are now the sick man of America;
those who pretend to be their friends measure their place and gauge their ideas
and pat them on the back, but is they step beyond that narrow place these friends
become villifiers and enemies. He wanted the colored men to feel that they possess
the power to overcome the prejudice against their color. He did not see why
colored men's enterprises should be stigmatized by their color. When white men
start a school for their children no one stigmatizes it as proscriptive; why
then do they charge the colored man with proscriptiveness when the seeks to
overcome the disabilities attendant upon his potion? The prescription is there
is not his. It had been asserted then on the one hand that colored children
could easily learn trades, and on the other hand that after they had learned
them they could not get employment at them. Was that not an argument for the
colored man to help himself? But he would admit that this school is not needed
when the work-shop and the studio, and every other branch of business, shall
be open to the sons and daughters of color on equal terms with, or at least
some show of kindness, from the white. Until then he must feel that this plan
is the best yet offered for elevating the people of his hue.
Mr. DOWNING reiterated his views in opposition to the establishment of this
school. He held that the fault of their menial position lay with the apathy
and indolence of the colored people themselves. He had in this mind with the
person in every branch of business who would be willing to take colored youths
and teach them trades, if they could only get them to come to learn. It would
take from $50,000 to $100,000 to start the enterprise contemplated, and then
without a hope of its succeeding.
Mr. MEYERS held that the great difficulty was in the want of unanimity among the colored people. It was not the fact that colored children could learn any trade they wished. Abolitionists and “friends of the colored man,” wen they wanted to employ a boy or a man, did not offer no consent to the employment of colored persons. If the colored people of the State or the nation wished to establish this school, they could do so and maintain it successfully. Since 1826 down to now, those who professed to be the strongest Abolitionists have refused to render the colored people anything else but sympathy; when an occasion offered and they might render them some practical service they shrunk back from the opportunity they might employ a colored boy as a porter or packer, but would as soon put a hod-carrier to the clerks' desk as a colored boy, ever so well educated though he be.
Mr. DUFFIN felt that the Council were not prepared to adopt this Report, and he hoped it would be laid over. A great deal had been said about the impossibility of getting colored youth into respectable work-shops, but not a word had been said about their firmness to fill such positions, and he doubted if they were really qualified. He lived in Ontario County, the hot-bed of Silver Grayism, and he would guarantee that in the village in which he lived he could get from one to twenty colored boys a chance to learn trades from blacksmithing up to an education in Hobart Free College. He moved that the Report be laid on the table.
Mr. WM. WILSON of Brooklyn said it had been argued that the children of the
colored race are not prepared for such a movement as is contemplated; it is
then obvious that they must be prepared, and how is this to be done? Such a
school as the one in question would be a nucleus around which colored children
could gather and be indoctrinated with such a spirit of enterprise as they never
before felt, and as would enable them to achieve independence. The majority
of the colored people themselves speak contemptuously of all enterprises wet
on foot by colored men, and lend their hearty cooperation and favor to all movement
in which white men are concerned. He felt, and he wished his fellow-colored
men could adopt the same views, that if they would rise to a position of respect
they must act for and respect themselves.
Mr. SMITH of Philadelphia spoke in favor of the report, and offered examples
of the difficulty attending the efforts of colored children to obtain trades.
Mr. JOHN N. STILL thought that from the present position of the discussion it
would not be advisable to adopt the report. He did not see how the <<
colored artisan>> could get work after he had learned a trade.
Mr. BONNER said it would appear from the remarks of Mr. Downing and others that
no prejudice at all existed in this county against color; such a view was absurd
in the extreme. He cited instances to the contrary, showing that even among
the most radical Abolitionist in the city of his residence, Chicago, he than
whom no colored an there stood a better chance or had more influence had been
unable to get a colored boy, his own nephew, a situation, the white workmen
in the shops refusing to work beside him.
Mr. BONNER took the Chair.
Dr. SMITH said nearly every gentleman who advocated this industrial school had
been or was a mechanic, and those who opposed it had never been engaged in any
mechanical avocation. In his youth he worked for four years as a blacksmith,
and could speak of the good effects of mechanical training. This plan did not
merely contemplate the teaching of a mechanical trade, but other things would
be taught scientific agriculture for instance. If they could only throw into
the resources of the country in five years five hundred scientific and practical
agriculturists they might soon take into their own hands the agricultural interests.
The Legislatures of all of the States are mostly composed of farmers not the
best-educated may of them. Well, if the Colored School could furnish well-educated
farmers, they could furnish the legislators too. Without such a stimulus as
this school you may say our people have had the opportunity to learn trades,
and they have not embraced it; why not try out plan why not see what this stimulator
will effect? He continued: There is not use further holding these Councils and
passing first-rate resolutions, unless we do something tangible and show our
people what may be accomplished. It is said this plan is impracticable. The
colored man must do impracticable things before he is admitted to a place in
society. He must speak like a Douglass, write like a Dumas, and sing like the
Black Swan before he could be recognized as a human being. We must start this
school and make it work. In illustration of how easy it is for a colored man
to learn a trade I will give you an instance: There is a colored boy at work
in the foundry of Mr. Norris, in Philadelphia, who, with a common jack-knife,
cut a perfect model of a steamboat, and painted its name upon the side without
being able to read it afterward. Some gentlemen in Baltimore interested themselves
in the young genius, and I went around to every foundry in this City to get
him a chance to learn the trade, but could not, and he as about to be sent to
Manchester, England, to learn the trade, when his case attracted the notice
of Mr. Norris, of Philadelphia, who, despite the opposition of the men in his
employ, gave him a place in his foundry, and the lad, notwithstanding that the
men refused to show him how to do anything, is rapidly becoming a skillful workman.
The case of Mr. Meakin, another colored man, who learnt his trade at the South,
and is now in the Novelty Works, is another argument on that point. He only
obtained the situation by sheer accident, and the white men struck as soon as
he was introduced into the workshop, and refused to work with him. Only the
firmness of Mr. Allen, who discharged them one and all, overcame the prejudice.
This is a sample of the case with which colored mechanics can get ahead in this
country. He concluded by exhorting the council to adopt the Report.
Mr. DOWNING, after citing numerous instances of the indolence of the colored
people when opportunities for advancement were presented to them, asked, would
the people whom the delegates represented back them in supporting this college?
How many of the delegates present would have their expenses paid by those they
pretended to represent? (The Chair called the speaker to order.) Mr. Downing
continued: We are a set of paupers, relying upon charity and any menial occupation
that may be thrown in our way; the fault is entirely with ourselves. We must
educate ourselves from birth up before we root out this revile spirit of dependence.
Mr. BELL opposed the establishment of the Manual Labor College, contending that
the whole plan was impracticable, and had been proved to be so at Oberlin, Oneida,
and Central College, and everywhere else. Even in Prussia, where Labor Colleges
are largely endowed by the Government, they have not been self-supporting. The
colored people had frequently made efforts to establish educational institutions
and always failed, and they would not succeed in this.
Mr. MEYERS hoped the questions would be put.
Mr. DOUGLASS hoped that if they voted down this proposition the Council would remember that they decided that it was proscriptive for the colored people to make any effort to elevate themselves; that they were incompetent to do anything to help themselves; the fiat had gone forth from the central organ at Boston that all efforts to elevate the free colored people white Slavery existed in America are useless. He expected to see the school voted won, and should say no more.
CHAS. L. REMOND, of Mass., held that what the colored race most wanted in this country was equal rights in the community, a fair field and no favor. This he believed the Anti-Slavery party would afford him. And with such afield he did not need any such school as the one-proposed. The great want was a public sentiment recognizing the colored man as an American citizens. Whatever position the colored race had attained to in this country was due to the efforts of the Abolitionist, and whatever, they had to hope for would be through their assistance, and he was not prepared to turn his back upon them.
The PRESIDENT, in putting the question on the report and resolutions, said
if the report was voted down the project would still be open for consideration
by the Council. The vote was then taken as follows:
AYES Frederick Douglass, S. Meyers, Franklin Turner, S. Smith, J.N. Still, Jas.
D. Bonner, J. McCune Smith 7.
NAYS George T. Downing, P.A. Bell, James E. Brown, Edward V. Clark, W.C. Bell
5.
The Chair decided that the report and resolutions were adopted.
The Council then adjourned to 3 1/2 Wednesday P.M.
SECOND DAY.
At 3 1/2 o'clock, yesterday afternoon the Council re-assembled at the Rev. Dr. Pennington's Church, and were called to order by Dr. SMITH, President.
Mr. GEO. T. DOWENING, Secretary, read the minutes of the last meeting, which
were approved.
Mr. BELL moved that a Committee of three be appointed on Finance adopted, and
Messrs. J. WILSON, WM. C. NELL and STEPHEN SMITH appointed to that Committee.
Mr. JOHN W. LEWIS, of VT., entered the Council and took his seat.
A letter was read form Mr. John C. BOWERS of Philadelphia, excusing his absence.
Mr. DOUGLASS from the Business Committee reported the following:
Whereas, A period of two years has elapsed since the last General or National Convention of Colored American was summoned to convene in the City of Rochester in the States of New York, and Whereas, the results of said Convention have proved highly beneficial in laying the foundation of a plan of union and cooperation among the oppressed for their mutual improvement and elevation, and Whereas, it is very desirable that this Council should be brought often in contact with and under the influenced of its constituents, and Whereas, it is believed that such a revision of the present Constitution on the Council can be made as will remove all hindrance to its general adoption by our people and render it more efficient as an instrumentality in our elevation and improvement, and Whereas, the duty of calling National Conventions of our people devolves upon the National Council, therefore.
Resolved, That a Committee of ----- be now appointed to draw up a call for
a National Convention of colored people to be held in the city of -----, State
of -----, on the ----- day of October, 1855.
Resolved, That the moral improvement and social elevation of the free colored
people. Of the North is an efficient means of promoting the emancipation of
the slaves of the South, and that this Council finds it impossible to repose
confidence in the genuineness of that Abolitionism which, while it denounces
Slavery at the South, scouts as delusive and hurtful all schemes for the moral,
and social elevation of the free colored people at the North.
Mr. SMITH moved to fill up the blank with Philadelphia.
Mr. DOWNING thought New York City would be the best locality for holding the
National Convention, as the Reportorial advantages were much better than in
Philadelphia.
Mr. DOUGLASS favored Philadelphia.
The question was put and carried.
The discussion on the resolutions followed. Mr. DOUGLASS advocated the necessity for a National Convention.
Mr. BELL was constrained to rise in opposition to the proposed Convention; he did not see any need of it if the State Councils only did their duty.
Mr. LANGSTON of Ohio was by a vote of the council invited to take his seat
as an honorary member.
The question was taken o the resolutions 8 and 5 against. Carried.
Mr. BELL moved that the blank be filled up with the third Tuesday in October.
Stephen Smith of Philadelphia, W.J. Wilson of N.Y., and J.W. Lewis, of VT, were appointed a Committee on the National Convention.
Mr. NELL asked to be excused form acting on the Finance Committee from conscientious scruples. A lively discussion ensued, some demanding a more explicit reason, others contending that he was justified in refraining from giving a more explicit reason.
Mr. Bell moved that he be excused.
A more extended debated ensued, during which it appeared that Mr. Nell's reasons was a conscientious doubt as to the legality of the action of this Convention.
On the vote 8 opposed the motion to excuse and 3 voted for it. Lost.
Mr. BONNER moved that John Jones of Chicago, IL., he appointed agent for the West to collect funds for and dispose of stock in the Manual Labor School. Adopted.
Mr. DOUGLASS was nominated to a like position for the East, but he asked to
be excused; his paper occupied all of his time. He was excused.
Mr. JOHN W. LEWIS was next nominated. He wished to be excused.
The Chair suggested that the residue of the agents to be appointed be left to
the Committee on Manual Labor Schools to nominate. Adopted.
The Finance Committee reported a resolution to tax all of the State, and National
delegates $1 each toward defraying the expenses of the Convention. Adopted.
Mr. BONNER took the Chair.
The PRESDIENT offered a resolution that the National Council recognize in Frederick Douglass' Paper a true, earnest and thorough-going advocate of the cause of the colored people; also, thanking Miss Julia Griffiths, the literary editor of the same paper, who for five years past had given her entire services gratuitously to that department. The resolutions were adopted.
Dr. SMITH presented a statistical report on the movements of the colored people from 799 to 1849. He moved that it be referred to a Committee of three to publish. Adopted. Adjourned to 10 o'clock this A.M.
THIRD DAY.
At 10 o'clock yesterday morning the Council was called to order by the President, J. McCUNE SMITH.
Secretary DOWNING read the minutes, which were approved.
On motion of Mr. MEYERS the thanks of the council were tendered to the Pastor
and Trustees of the Church for throwing it open to the use of the Council.
Mr. DOWNING presented the following, which were adopted:
Whereas, It has been shown in the discussions before this Council that there
are a number of colored youth who seek employment and instruction as mechanics;
that there ware also in various sections of the country employers and mechanics
willing to receive colored youth as apprentices or workmen, and
Whereas, It is most desirable that these two classes should have a medium of
communication; therefore,
Resolved, That the members of this Council, constitute themselves a Committee
on Trades and Employments, whose duty it shall be to receive and instigate the
wants of those seeking apprenticeships and employments, and of those willing
to employ or instruct colored youth.
Resolved, That all such information be sent for insertion in a column of Frederick Douglass' Paper to be entitled the Trades column of the National Council.
Resolved, That for the printing and publishing of said column in his newspaper, for the term of one years, the sum of one hundred and fifty dollars be collected and paid to Mr. Douglass by the members of the Council aforesaid, in the proportion of twelve dollars each.
Mr. MEYERS presented the following, which were adopted:
Whereas, Sermons and collections in various churches throughout the land have
been the means of building up the American Colonization Society and promotion
the expatriation of the colored people; and
Whereas, An influence so long used to our detriment may be turned to our benefit
and advancement; therefore,
Resolved, That we respectfully request the Pastors of colored churches and of all churches friendly to the advancement of the colored people in the United States, to deliver one sermon, and take up one collection for the benefit of the Industrial School, all such collections to be forwarded to STEPHEN SMITH, Treasurers of the National Council, Philadelphia, PA, or JAMES D. BONNER, Treasurer of the Industrial School, Chicago, IL, JOHN D. JONES, Chicago, IL, and to J.W. LEWIS, St. Albans, VT, who will duly announce the receipts in the column of the National Council, in Frederick Douglass' Paper.
Mr. DOUGLASS, for the business Committee, offered the following suggestions
for reports to be presented to the National Conventions:
I. Report on the Educational Privileges of the Colored People; the number attending
schools; and the character of Schools in each State; by Professor C.L. Reason.
II. Report on Mechanical Trades of the Colored people; the number of employers
journeymen and apprentices, and of what trades, in each State; by E.V. Clark.
III. Report on Religious Societies of the Colored people; the number of Churches,
their denominations, and number of congregation or worshippers to each, in each
State; by C.B. Ray, Dr. Pennington, J.J.G. Bias, and Stephen Smith.
IV. Report on Colored Benevolent Societies, including the Orders of Odd. Fellows
and Masons, their number of members, amount expended in their objects amount
of capital and names; by W.J. Wilson.
V. Report on History and importance of a Press for Colored People; by Messrs.
Meyers, J. Topp, and J.M. Langston.
VI. A Report on Colored Conventions in the United States; by Mr. Beman.
The whole of the above was adopted.
It was resolved by the Council to instruct every delegate to the coming National
Convention to obtain form this constituents a draft of the amendment which they
would desire to make to the Constitution; and further that the election of delegates
to said Convention take place in every State of the Union on the 13th of September
next.
After the customary compliments to their officers the Council adjourned sine die.
Building. The colored people of the city gave their support to the celebration nobly, and the result was a crowd which packed every nook and cranny of the gallery in which the exhibit of the gallery in which the exhibit of this people is placed, and comfortably filled the grand Music Hall in the Main Building. The delegation began to arrive early in the day, and while waiting for the public exercises to begin occupied the time in an inspection of
THE EXHIBITS.
This department will prove a revelation to many who have not observed the prodigious
progress made by this race in the last twenty years. From end to end the lengthy
gallery is filled with a magnificent exhibit of the work and skill of the colored
men and women. All branches of industry, agricultural, mechanical and inventive,
are fully represented. The department covers 34,220 square feet and comprises
over 16,000 distinct exhibits. All the States in the Union save Maine and Oregon,
and all the Territories except Dakota and Arizona, are represented, and each
presents some distinctive features. Thus Virginia attracts notice by a collection
of 250 photographs taken by a << colored artist>> , while Mississippi
takes the foremost place in the display of cotton. Virginia also has on exhibition
a large number of relics of George Washington. In etching, embroidery, crayon
drawings, and general fine art work the District of Columbia is entitled to
pre-eminence.
Two working models of machinery show the aptitude of some members of the colored
race for the mechanical arts; of these one is a working model of a locomotive
in the Arkansas exhibit, and the second a model steamboat in the Massachusetts
exhibit. The latter model was tried in the lake a few days since and attained
a speed of five or six miles an hour. Utah also contributes a fine bit of constructive
work in the shape of a complete quartz mill of improved pattern, invented by
a colored man of that Territory. Alabama is entitled to prominence as occupying
the greatest amount of space, while Louisiana's exhibit shows the greatest diversity
of articles. Georgia boasts her exhibit of the art of carriage building, and
New Jersey may well be proud of the exhibit of manufactured goods made by her
colored representatives here. In the display of woman's work New York takes
the land; in paintings and the graphic arts the New England States collectively
send a fine collection, aggregating about 226 paintings. Tennessee is great
in cereals, and Pennsylvania shows some industrial and art work in wire that
deserves careful attention.
It would be possible to go through all the exhibits in the Colored Department
thus, pointing out the special excellence of each, but no idea can be obtained
of the grand appearance of the whole display save by personal examination.
THE CEREMONIES.
At about 1 o'clock a procession of students from the various colored schools
of the city entered the Government Building at the Prytania street entrance
and moved through the building to the Colored Department. The procession was
composed of delegations from the following institutions of learning; Southern
University, Straight University, Leland University and the Fisk School. It is
estimated that about 600 were in line, and the progress of the procession through
the building drew quite a crowd. Earlier in the day the Larendon Rifles, preceded
by the Excelsior Band, had marched through the Exposition grounds and buildings,
their soldierly bearing and accurate drill eliciting expressions of admiration
from the throng drawn by the sound of drum and fife.
On arriving at the central point in the colored exhibit, in the gallery directly
over the St. Charles street entrance of the Government Building, the troops
cleared a space around which were grouped a number of commissioners from other
departments, including the Woman's Department, the school children and distinguished
guests, while the crowd in the outskirts extended far down the gallery in either
direction. Prominent among the distinguished representatives of the colored
race present were Prof. A. M. Green, Dr. J. T. Newman, Hon. Pierre Landry, Dr.
J. H. Coker, Hon. A. Dejoie, New Orleans City Commissioner; Mr. J. Barbadoes,
commissioner for Massachusetts; Mr. J. Brooks, commissioner for Ohio; Hon, Philip
Joseph, commissioner for Alabama; Rev. J. P. Brown, the Rev. John Marks, Geo.
W. Walker, A. P. Albert, of the Christian Advocate; Hon. E. B. Randolph, commissioner
for Virginia; Jas. D. Kennedy, Col. Jas. Lewis, commissioner for Louisiana;
R. H. Herbert, commissioner for New Jersey; Dr. C. H. Thompsoon, Prof. Hissock,
of Straight University; W. Gibbs, commissioner for Arkansas; Hon. M. M. McCloud,
and many others, including the speakers of the day. Of the commissioners of
Woman's Work for the Colored Department, there were present Mrs. Paul Dejoie,
Mrs. J. B. Gaudet, Mrs. William Allison and Mrs. Donan.
After several prefatory musical selections, beautifully rendered by the Excelsior
Cornet Band, Senator Demas, of Louisiana, stepped forward and introduced Mr.
J. J. Spelman, the superintendent of the Colored Department, who turned over
the exhibit to the Board of Management in the following address:
Mr. Commissioner General- In the absence of the Hon. B. K. Brice, chief of the
Department of Colored Exhibits, the duty of formally presenting to you and the
Board of Management the evidence of the skill, genius and energy of the colored
people of the United States devolves upon me. The task is pleasant and agreeable,
and I enter upon the duty with an appreciation which words of mine will fail
to express. This occasion to-day marks a new feature in the history of our people,
and our grateful thanks are extended to your Board of Management for the invitation
so kindly extended to participate in this Exposition. We have presented here
our educational and industrial progress and advancement from every State in
this Union except two- Maine and Oregon- and from all the Territories excepting
Dakota and Arizona. Very many circumstances transpired to retard and discourage
our efforts, but we were enabled to surmount them sufficiently to present this
department replete with industrial educational, scientific, agricultural and
art exhibits, which we ask you to critically examine, and accord us the judgment
our labors have produced.
This is the first time that we have participated in a World's Fair, and it seems
appropriate that the opening of a new era in our existence should have its commencement
in our own Southern clime, where the greater part of us are identified with
the development and progress of its great natural resources. And in expressing
our sense of gratefulness for this grandest of all our opportunities, I am reminded
of the fact that under favorable circumstances, with a fair field, the colored
people will demonstrate a capacity for all branches of industry that will dispel
all sentiment and interest as to their future.
Historians and men of various classes of literary pursuits may unite their theories
and the world may unite their theories and the world may enjoy a critical discussion
of them, but for a practical idea of our possibilities visit our farms and work-shops,
our institutions of learning and our galleries of art; pass judgment on what
we have accomplished, and then predict our future.
Mr. Commissioner General, it is with great pleasure I ask you to declare this
department formally opened.
At the close of this address Commissioner General Morehead received the exhibit
on behalf of the management, in a brief address in which expressed his pleasure
in being able to receive this grand exhibit of the fruits of the labor and skill
of the colored race. The exhibit compares favorable with that of any department
in the Exposition. The difficulties under which the colored people had to labor
in making this exhibit compares favorable with that of any department in the
Exposition. The difficulties under which the colored people had to labor in
making this exhibit were increased by the fact that the whites had so thoroughly
utilized for exhibition purposes the minerals and other natural resources of
the States that the Colored Department must needs show chiefly manufactured
goods and objects of art. Our pleasure in the success of this exhibit is the
pleasure of all who appreciate that in the success of the colored people is
concerned the future success of the South.
After the conclusion of Mr. Morehead's remarks the audience proceeded to the
Main Building, where the public exercises were held.
IN THE MUSIC HALL.
Arrived in the Music Hall the several choirs, musicians and distinguished colored
citizens from various parts of the country arranged themselves on the platform,
and an audience, including not less than five or six thousand colored citizens
and visitors, assembled in the body of the immense hall.
Rev. C. H. Thompson, the only Episcopal colored clergyman in New Orleans, opened
the proceedings with prayer, after which the choir sang a selection in a manner
that reflects much credit on the leaders and trainers.
State Senator Demas then introduced to the audience Prof. A. M. Green, of New
Orleans, who delivered the opening address. He spoke substantially as follows:
One cannot contemplate the object for which we are gathered together today in
this gorgeous temple of industry without indulging in fervent gratitude and
thanksgiving to God, the great author of all good, for that beneficence and
divine goodness which has crowned the history of the past and present of this
glorious republic, and which gives encouraging promise of an attitude in human
development never attained before any nation of the earth. As I look around
me and see the wonders on every side, and behold the men and women of my race
on this occasion, as in contrast with their condition of less than a quarter
of a century ago, I am impressed with the truth of those prophetic proclamations
of the Psalms of David: “Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto
God.”
We are in the most emphatic sense “a nation born unto God in a day.”
The colored people of these United States, through all the period of their history,
whether in slavery or in freedom, have proven themselves to be true to the spirit
of the sentiment uttered by an illustrious representative of their race, “I
am a man, and nothing that relates to man is foreign to my feelings.”
The speaker referred at length and in eulogistic terms to the wonders of the
Exposition surrounding them, concluding with the remark: “And, as if to
cap the climax, here is the Ethiopian in the midst, viewing with the rest for
honor and distinction in this race of life. Have we not reason, my friends,
to rejoice in thankfulness and gratitude to God? Time forbids my dwelling upon
the reasons we have for thankfulness, but let me impress upon our people to
take courage from what we see here as an evidence of the capacity and industry
of our race. Small as it is, it is encouraging, and in view of all the surrounding
circumstances of trial and difficulty under which we have labored ever since
our emancipation, it speaks volumes for those who have contributed these specimens
of our industry which adorn the Department of Colored Exhibits. This Exposition
and the progress of our race as developed through this channel, ought to go
a good way towards the settlement of one very important question that has proved
detrimental to our prosperity during these late years of our freedom. It is
the question of our ability to rise. Even here, upon the soil of the sunny South,
we have suffered from a belief in the impossibility of our winning our way to
affluence or comfortable homes and security of life and property, except in
a very limited sense, south of Mason & Dixon's line. The time for indulging
such opinions is past. Projects of immigration, and more especially of immigration,
and more especially of emigration, at this most important period of our history,
should be regarded with the utmost caution and incredulity by all our people.
TO settle down permanently with a firm resolve to fill our place in the common,
as well as in the more exalted pursuits of life, is one of the great necessities
of the present hour among our people. We want to prove ourselves to be as competent
and worthy of the new responsibilities that are now opening to the devolving
upon us, as we were once acknowledged to be in the humbler positions we were
compelled to occupy. All honor to the noble men, women and children who have
made their contributions, however humble, to the Department of Colored Exhibits
of this World's Industrial Exposition. Before another centennial of our national
independence and before another cotton centennial exposition shall have by lapse
of time rolled on, we shall know no North, no South, no East, no West, no white,
no black.”
The speaker was cheered most enthusiastically at every reference to the rapid
progress of the colored race, and his closing sentences brought him a perfect
ovation.
The master of the ceremonies next introduced Hon. D. A. Straker, of South Carolina.
He stepped forward amid a burst of applause, and as he commenced his speech,
in loud, clear and measured tones, with the words, “Mr. Chairman and Fellow
American Citizens,” cheer after cheer rent the air. He proceeded:
To-day be regarded as commencement day of the colored American citizen. Two
hundred and fifty years in the school-house of bondage, and but twenty odd years
in the arena of freedom. To recount our days in that school of bondage, whose
teacher was the slave owner's lash, and in which the lessons taught were servile
obedience, mental degradation, intellectual stagnation and moral inanition,
were too tedious, and in a measure unprofitable save to show by comparison the
depths from which we have come and the height to which we have attained. In
the school-house of slavery there were no windows through which the light of
civilization could enter and shed its benign influence upon the pupil; all was
darkness. A midnight pall rested upon every occupant, socially, intellectually
and morally, and yet notwithstanding and morally, and yet notwithstanding all
this, the bars were even in these times frequently broken, and the negro would
prove to be more than the mere automaton of his master's will and pleasure,
and would give evidence of mental improvement, intellectual development and
industrial capacity; but these evidences when discovered would only serve as
reasons why the chains of bondage should be forged more strongly, the fetters
more tightly riveted, until in God's own time he broke them asunder. We all
know the history of the past, and upon its wrongs, and its failures we will
not linger, for it is the present with which we have to deal, and to let the
dead past bury its dead in the oblivious of forgetfulness. The problem of the
negro's capacity for intellectual, social and industrial development, as proof
of our capacity to reach a standard of civilization, if not equal to, at least
in just proportion to our Anglo-Saxon brethren, has been in the crucible test
for only twenty years. Against our capacity has been raised the plea of ethnological
differences, in skin and complexion, in physiology and shape, and instead of
a fair and open contest, having like and equal opportunity, we have received
in every department of social life opposition, discrimination and distinction
in regard to our rights and privileges; so that whatsoever progress we have
made is not so much the result of opportunity is not so much the result of opportunity
given us, but opportunity made by us. From the log cabin we have emerged and
entered the comfortable dwelling house; from the auction block we now sit in
the school-house, the college, the academy and the university of learning; from
the mere laborer on the farm we have risen to the dignity of the farmer; from
the mechanic we have grown to the size of the inventor; form the pupil to the
teacher; from the thing sold to be the buyer; from the subject written of to
be the writer; from being the employed to become, in a large measure, the employer;
from an entire servile class to a standard of manhood, citizenship, and the
constitutional possessor of equal rights with all men under the law. In all
this have we not chiefly been our own architects? Not entirely so, but chiefly;
so that, looking down the age of the past and up to the present time, where
we fine ourselves to-day, we must exclaim in the language of the psalmist, “Oh,
Lord, how wonderful are thy works!” It must be a source of gratification
to-day, not only to ourselves, but to all well-wishers of the human race, to
find ourselves, as citizens and free men and women, alongside the other civilized
races of the earth in this Centennial Cotton Exposition, bringing our industries
and evidences of social, moral and intellectual advancement under the same roof,
protected by the same laws of a “common country, with those of other races
and other people in this land of composite races, in which the problem is fast
being solved how, out of many people to be but one in interest, in laws, in
rights, in privileges and in opportunity. This problem is not yet fully solved,
and nothing heretofore, and I doubt hereafter, will aid in this solution more
effectively than the work we have assembled here at this hour to perform, The
Colored Department is now ready to be inspected by all. The industry and capacity
of our men and women and of our children are before the gaze of a critical eye.
We ask no unfounded encomiums nor unjust censure- we only ask simple justice.
In this department is to be found like industries with those of our white fellow
citizens, not in number nor in bulk, but in a large measure in quality. During
the past twenty years we have done all that you see here, and more than is here.
It is said we are only an imitative race of people. I affirm, without fear of
successful contradiction, that the negro in his condition of a free man in America,
in all that he has done in art, in science and in industry, only revives the
lost arts of his ancestors, from which he was moved away centuries ago migration
and the chase of the white piratic slave-trader. He is no imitator- he is but
a revivalist. To whom does history ascribe the origin of the science of astronomy,
from which arose the laws governing navigation, the source of the civilization
of the world? Is it to the Celtic or Hamatic race? Lucien says to the latter.
But enough; we are not here to boast, but only to claim and prove our right
to a place in the march of civilization. Are we entitled to it, fellow-citizens
of the great Republic of America, the mother of the sovereignty of the people,
whose government is of the people, by the people and for the people, and who
knows no other king nor potentate stranger and alien without midst- behold our
evidence and our proof; render your verdict. Ascend these stairs and see us
in the school-house and on the farm, in the workshop and in the studio, in mechanism
and in invention, in poetry and in song, in agriculture and in commerce, in
literature and in art, all done in but a moment of the lifetime of a race. Should
you ask whence these stories, whence these facts and evidences, I should tell
you from a race of oppressed people, tell you from a race of oppressed people,
from the slave, from the human fiction chattel, from a God of truth and justice.
“Ye who have faith in God and nature
Who believe that in all ages
Every human heart is human,
That in even savage bosoms
There are longings, yearnings, strivings,
For the good they comprehend not;
That the feeble hands and helpless,
Groping blindly in the darkness,
Touch God's right hand in that darkness,
And are lifted up and strengthened.”
doubt not what you see here of the progress of the negro race in America and
of his still greater capacity for greater advancement. * * * Now, but what are
the lessons to be taught by these exhibits of the colored race in America? Is
it a mere display? Shall we benefit ourselves from the work we have thus far
done, and shall our white fellow-citizens derive any benefit to themselves therefrom?
Do these exhibits indicate that the American negro is here to stay, or will
he die out, or be annihilated by the white race? I rather think they show that
we are here to stay and to become a factor in American progress and civilization.
We have thus far proven our fitness and our capacity. It remains for our white
fellow-citizens, who have started in the race before us, to give us unrestrained
opportunity to develop our capacity, and to remove form their statute book all
laws which discriminate against us as citizens of a common country. Open wide
the avenues to a broader and higher education for the colored citizen, pull
down your barriers against his industrial progress, and from henceforth let
us work together for a common cause- the upbuilding of America by American citizens.
There is work to be done here in the South by all of us, white and black alike.
What are the impediments thereto? First and greatest of them is the illiteracy
of large portion of the population of the South, comprising both black and white
citizens. Education must be the iconoclast of American prejudice against the
negro and aristocratic indifference to the elevation of our poor whites, Prof.
Huxley has truly said: “No system of public education is worth the name
unless it creates a great educational ladder, with one end in the gutter and
the other in the university.” The hue and cry among some people is that
if you educate the negro, what will become of our planting interests? This is
not only a lamentable prejudice, but a superb piece of folly. Educated labor
is more productive than ignorant labor. This is seen in the increase of produce
in the South during freedom as compared with the same during slavery. It is
seen in Germany, where the farme4r is educated, the soldier is educated, the
poor is educated as well as the rich, so that when William of Prussia met the
Austrian army, with his 213 per cent of illiterates against 17 per cent of illiterates,
there was no doubt about the victory of Sadowa. We need an education of the
American sentiment toward the negro which will burn up to ashes the prejudice
of the hour, such as compelled me and my wife, in coming to New Orleans, to
be ejected from a first-class car in Birmingham., Ala., and be compelled to
ride in a smoking car from there to New Orleans. We need such an education which
will teach us to “bid harbors open, public ways extend; bid temples worthier
of God ascend.” We need an education of hearts, of brains and of hands.
The last of these is what we call industry. The tendencies of industry are to
improve the human faculties, but most of all to improve the condition of mankind.
Industry is the safeguard against poverty. The man of industry is not a slave
in creation, but a lord; he directs, rather than performs, therefore, let us,
colored fellow-citizens, continue this work of industry, in which you have to-day,
in these exhibits, shown much marvelous progress amidst deprivations and obstructions.
Industry lifts the poor out of the mire and sets him upon the hilltop. It suffers
not the head to droop upon the bosom it allows not the eye to be downcast; hands
that are under its influence never hang down. Industry is health. Industry is
strength. Industry is wealth. If we would command our rights we must be industrious
American citizens. But you say we have not the opportunity. Let me tell you
the American negro will soon have this opportunity or he will make it himself.
Let us trust that like the Pentecostal fire of old, the new era in the South,
commenced here at this Exposition, in the State of Louisiana, where the slave
and master once stood in hostile relation, but where now stand fellow-citizens
of a common country in friendly feeling, may fuse us into one common people,
where Parathions and Medes, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, Cretes and Arabians,
Jews and Gentiles, black and white may dwell together in love, peace and unity,
under equal laws, exact justice and common privileges, so that the antagonisms
of race, the hatred of creeds and parties, the prejudice of caste and the denial
of equal rights may disappear from among us forever, and that there may arise,
not only in Louisiana, but throughout the length and breadth of this country,
cables which may be strong enough to bind us together as one common people.
Mr. Straker's remarks were very warmly received. At this conclusion the master
of the ceremonies introduced Hon P. B. S. Pinchback, who spoke extemporaneously
and briefly. He remarked that when first he heard of the intentions of the Board
of Management of the Exposition to have a Colored Department in the Government
Building, he had been opposed to it. Ever since he had been enfranchised he
had been opposed to colored schools and colored colleges and colored churches;
but now, after having seen what kind of a representation the colored people
have been able to make for themselves, he had changed his ideas and felt glad
that there had been such a department. If there had been a longer time for preparation
the exhibit made by the colored race would have been larger and more varied
than it is; but, notwithstanding the adverse circumstances under which they
had labored, they still showed the immense advance that had been made by the
colored people since their emancipation from slavery.
Rt. Rev. Bishop Turner, of Georgia, followed. He said: I am quite unprepared
to speak to you on this occasion, but as I stand here to-day, surrounded by
the result of 6000 years of human effort and experience by every variety of
manufacture, by sculptures and paintings, and every department of science; as
I stand here and recognize the fact that the colored race has been invited,
for the first time, to contribute its little share, no matter how meager it
might be, to the great Exposition, I would be an ingrate before God and man
were I not to feel some gratification, to feel like uttering some words of pleasure.
When the colored people were first invited to take part in the Exposition I
can scarcely believe that I understood aright knowing how we have been cold-shouldered
in the past and knowing how the Supreme Court had turned us over to the roughs
on the public highways by virtue of the decision in the Civil Rights case. I
could not believe that in Louisiana, in New Orleans, in the Crescent City, there
was a man known as Director General Burke, and that there were other men associated
with him on the Board of Management who would rebuke this unjust decision of
the Supreme Court and would advocate the recognition of our manhood and of our
citizenship in the manner in which they have. The name of Director General Burke
will be enshrined in the gratitude of the negro for all time to come. (Loud
applause.) I could draw a picture of the status of the colored people of this
country. I know it as well as any man that breathes the breath of life; I know
that we have been made hewers of wood and drawers of water; that we have been
precluded from all positions of honor and merit; that we have been permitted
to do nothing but wait at table and perform other menial services, and to plow
and hoe in the fields. I do not depreciate the occupation of a farmer or of
those who labor under him; I think the cultivation of the fruits of the earth
is the grandest and noblest of all occupations. But the theory has been heretofore
held up before the world that the negro lacked the ability that would entitle
him and qualify him to fill the rank of a skilled laborer in the scale of society.
But the people of the South, the very people whom the Supreme Court had in view
when they issued that Heaven-daring decision, are now saying to the South in
this Exposition: “Come, let us see what you have done during these twenty
years; come and join hands with us.” (Applause,) I thank God that the
very heart of the South has rebuked that decision of the Supreme Court. I am
proud of that exhibition of industry and of art that I saw upstairs in the Government
Building. (Applause.)
But do not let it be taken as a fair sample of what the negro has done, and
of what he is doing. Remember that as I presume,, we were not thought of in
the first programme, and that, when the invitation came it was so unexpected,
so marvelous, so Utopian, that we could scarcely believe it was true. (Applause.)
Had we had longer time to prepare, or had the invitation not been so unexpected,
we would have had an exposition here that would have been a fair representation
of what the negro could do.
I have preached and I have written that there is no future in this country for
the colored man; but I must say that if the white people of this country, instead
of maligning and misrepresenting us from day to day as they have hitherto very
generally done, would fling open the doors of their institutions, would admit
us into the great arena of human effort and activity and genius instead of judging
us before they examine us- why, I don't know after all but what I might somewhat
modify my radical ideas. (Applause.)
The American nation understands how to let the negro die in defence of her government,
but it does not understand how to preserve to the negro his rights of citizenship
in traveling on the common highway. But Director General Burke and the gentlemen
connected with this Exposition have rebuked the Supreme Court for its decision,
have stretched out their hands to us, and have said: “Come and join us;
we will treat you right.” And they have kept their word. I have not been
snubbed since coming here. I cannot believe that I am in New Orleans. (Applause.)
I am inclined to think it must be all a dream. All honor, I say, to Director
General Burke. All honor to the managers of this Exposition. All honor to New
Orleans. (Applause.)
All honor to the South for the consideration they have shown for the colored
race, for their answer to the abominable proclamation of the Supreme Court.
The Bishop concluded by urging his hearers, men and women alike, to profit by
the opportunity offered them in the Exposition for study and improvement in
all the arts and industries of the world.
Bishop Turner's address was loudly and frequently applauded, and was an extremely
eloquent effort. The ceremonies concluded with the rendering of the national
anthem by the Excelsior Band.
The selections “Marseilles” and “Restless Sea” were
rendered respectively by the Straight University choir, under the leadership
of Miss Platt, and by the choir of Fisk School, led by Miss A. P. Williams.
All the other selections were sung together by the choirs of the various educational
institutions named above. Southern University choir was under the leadership
of Mrs. McNeil, and Prof. Traver led the vocalists for Leland University. The
director of the vocal music was Mr. Geo. H. Fairweather. The whole programme
was exceedingly well rendered, and showed remarkably good training and cultivation.
Mr. A. P. Williams presided at the grand organ, which was kindly loaned for
the occasion by Messrs. Pilcher, and gave some appropriate and excellently rendered
selections thereon.
During the whole of the proceedings State Senator Henry Demas acted as master
of ceremonies, and performed with ability the duties falling to his share. Mr.
A. Dejoie, city commissioner to the Exposition for the Colored Department, as
chairman of the executive committee, performed his functions with equal ability,
and nothing that would conduce to the success of the day was left undone by
him.
The result of the united efforts of all parties was that the day was a brilliant
success.