Democratic Sentinel, Volume 5, Number 38, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 28 October 1881 — THE YORKTOWN CENTENNIAL. [ARTICLE]

THE YORKTOWN CENTENNIAL.

Ceremonies az the One Hundredth Anniversary of the Surrender of Yorktown. Yohktowm, Oct 19. Yesterday’s proceedings in the celebration now in progress may be briefly described as follows: At 10 o’clock salutes were fired from Gen. Haneock’s camp. The steamer Excelsior, with the Yorktown Congressional Commission on board, arrived, and was received with salutes from Gen. Hancock's camp and the war vessels in the h%rbor. Shortly after the Dispatch and Tallapoosa hove in sight, and were saluted by the camp and gunboats. President Arthur left the Dispatch at 11:30 and proceeded to Lafayette Hall, where he was received by the Governor of Virginia. The distinguished guests, including the descendants of Lafayette and Steuben, Governors of States and Congressmen, began to arrive at Lafayette Hall about 11 o’clock. Gen. Hancock arrived at noon and paid his respects to the Governor of Virginia. At about 12:30 President Arthur, accompanied by Secretaries Hunt, James and Lincoln, was driven to the entrance of Lafayette Hall, and was received by Master of Ceremonies Corbin. The President shook hands with the distinguished persons present. The line was then formed, and the party marched to the grand stand, where the ceremony of laying the corner stone of the monument was to take place, under the auspices of the Masonic fraternity. President Arthur was loudly cheered by the crowd during the march to the grand stand. When all had taken the places assigned them the ceremonies were opened with prayer by Bev. Robert Nelson, grandson art Gov. Nelson, who commanded the Virginia militia at Yorktown. He thanked God for 100 years of blessing vouchsafed this country, for Washington, for our allies and for our victory, and prayed that the people of the land might not pride themselves too much upon their own achievements and prosperity, but that they might thank and trust the Lord. He prayed for peace among all nations and for fraternal concord among the sections of our common country. He prayed for the rulers of the land, that they might be pure, and for the people that they might learn to love and serve the Lord. At the conclusion of the prayer the band played the “Star Spangled Manner” with artillery accompaniment. Gov. Holliday, of Virginia, then delivered the address of welcome. The Governor has a line presence, clear voice and earnest manner, and was frequently applauded, especially by the distinguished gentlemen.who sat around him. His allusions to the unity of sentiment, purpose and destiny of all sections of our common country wore greeted with enthusiastic applause. United States Senator J. W. ’ Johnston, of Virginia, Chairman of the Congressional Commission, then made a few appropriate remarks, in which he sketched the history of the surrender, read from original documents an account of the action of Congress at the time, exhibited the sword voted to the messenger who bore the news of the surrender, and alluded to the fact that W. W. Henry, grandson of Patrick Henry, and the Bev. Dr. Nelson, grandson of Gov. Nelson, were on the stand. In conclusion, ho said that the column, now to be erected, was to commemorate not only the victory of the colonics, but the part taken in that victory by France. Recognition and acknowledgment of aid given by France to this country in the hour of its need was a solem i duty left by the Continental Congress to its successors, and now, after the lapse of 100 years, the Congress of thirty-eight States and 5C,000,000 of people, the Congress of the nation which stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific, is fulfilling that duty. Three millions of people and thirteen cplonies accomplished the great work, and now 50,000,000 of people and thirtyeight States are celebrating it. Participatingin this celebration are the representatives of the French nation, here at the invitation of this Government. Again French soldiers tread American soil, and French vessels again ride York river. The model of the monument to be erected is here before us. Thirteen female figures representing the thirteen colonies seem to support on their shoulders a column inscribed with the names of thirtyeight States, and crowned with a figure of Liberty. This embodies the idea that from the thirteen colonies grew thirty-eight States, and sprung the truest and most thorough and genuine liberty ever enjoyed by any people. On four sides of the base, and carrying out the original design of the Continental Congress, are emblems of the alliance between the United States and his Most Christian Majesty, and a succinct narrative of the surrender of Earl Cornwallis ; and now, as an appropriate opening of our celebration, the corner-stone of the monument will be laid with all the grand and solemn ceremonies befitting so great an occasion by the order of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons, of which Washington himself was a chief member.

The workmen, under the direction of the Grand Master of Virginia, then laid the cornerstone according to the ancient and honorable rite. The chair occupied by the Grand Master on the occasion was one which Lord Boutetort, when loyal Governor of the Old Dominion, presented to the Grand Lodge of Virginia, and in which George Washington sat when Grand Master of Virginia Masons. The sash and apron worn by Grand Master Peyton 8. Coles, of Virginia, were worked by Mrs. Lafayette, and were presented to Washington in 1784 at Mt. Vernon. Afterward, in 1812, they were given to Washington Lodge, of Alexandria, Va., by Maj. Lawrence Lewis. The gavel was made from a portion of the quarter-deck of the United States frigate Lawrence, ther flagship of Commodore Perry at the battle and victory of Lake Erie, Sept. 10, 1813, and was presented to the Masonic Veterans’ Association by a venerable brother of the Rev. Marshall B. Smith, Junt 2, 1880. Judge B. R. Welford, of Virginia, Masonic orator, then made an eloquent address, at the conclusion of which the ceremonies ended. Immediately afterward President Arthur and party left for the steamer Dispatch. The steamer bearing the French Commission, Secretary Biaine, and others, was in the stream some two hours and a half before they were first discovered irom shore, and while the corner stone was being laid Secretary Blaine came to the Government dock and sent word to the authorities in charge ; but it was too late, as the ceremonies were completed, and the party returned to the Tallapoosa. The scene ou the river front was an inspiring one. Men-of-war, steamers, tugs, yachts, sailing vessels, all decked with flags and streamers; salutes to arriving dignitaries, gay uniforms, military, Knights’ Templar, etc.: the music of bands and drums and fifes as the troops landed and marched to quarters, and the crowds of people of all nationalities and conditions who gathered at the batteries or wandered over the grounds—all combined to make a scene of deep interest. There were the usual drills at the camps all day, and they were witnessed by thousands of spectators. The pyrotechnic display at night was a success. All the war-ships were brilliantly illuminated. presenting a beautiful sight. On the Franklin the lights were so arranged as to show the outlines of the ship and the rigging with a magnificent effect. There were also other designs, one being a schooner apparently under sai l . From the yachts in the harbor went forth a constant stream of rockets, etc. Troubles increased on Secretary Blaine’s shoulders as the day went by. It is reported that the French grew jealous of the attention paid the Germans, and the Germans refused to come on the same ship with the French after leaving Fortress Monroe. The Germans came on the Catskill, while the French came on their own vessel. Yomtown, Oct. 20. About 11 o’clock yesterday forenoon Secretary Blaine and the French and German delegations. in full uniform, arrived at Lafayette Hall. On entering, the Marine Band, of Washington, played an appropriate air, the military officers, Congressmen and other persons of distinction greeting .<Skem as they passed. At the end of the hall the President met the distinguished guests, and an informal interchange of courtesies took place. In a few moments the party started for the grand stand, President Arthur and Secretary Hunt leading. They were received with cheers as they appeared upon the platform. Next came Secretary Blaine, escorting the French Legation. Gen. Sherman, with his staff in uniform were next in line, Gen. Hancock and taff following. Gen. Hancock was given three cheers. After a general handshaking, the proceedings wore opened by prayer by Bishop Harris. Ho invoked divine blessing upon the United States and the Republic of France, and,, in conclusion, asked God’s blessing upon all the crowned heads of the world. The “Poindexter Centennial Hymn” wai

then fling by the choruses from Baltimore, Richmond and Washington. President Arthur was then introduced by Secretary Blaine, and delivered the following address: “Upon this soil, 100 years ago, our forefathers Drought to a successful issue theii heroic struggle for independence. Here and then was established, and, as we trust, made secure on this continent for ages yet to come, that principle of government which is the very fiber of our political system—the sovereignty of the people. The resentments which attended, ana, for the time, survived the clash of arms, have long since ceased to animate our hearts. It is with no feelings of exultation over a defeated foe that to-day we summon up a remembrance of those events which have made holy the ground whereon we tread. Surely no such unworthy sentiments could find harbor in our hearts, so profoundly thrilled wi(h the expression of sorrow and sympathy which our national bereavement has evolved from the people of England and their august sovereign, but it is altogether fitt ng that we should gather here to refresh our souls with the contemplation of the unfaltering patriotism, the sturdy zeal and the sublime faith which achieved the results we now commemorate; for so, if we learn aright the lesson of the hour, shall we be incited to transmit to the generation which shall follow the precious legacy which our fathers left to ui—the love of liberty, protected by law. Of the histone scene which we here celebrate, no feature is more prominent,, and none more touching, than tho participation of our gallant allies from across the sea. “It was the presence of the gallant allies from across the sea which gave fresh and vigorous impulse to the hopes of our countrymen, when well nigh disheartened by a long series of disasters. It was their noble and generous aid, extended in the darkest period of the struggle, which sped the coming of our triumph, and made the capitulation at Yorktown possible a oontuay ago. To their descendants and representatives, who are here present as honorary guests of the nation, it is my glad duty to offer cordial welcome. You have a right to share with us tho associations which cluster about the day when your fathers fought side by side with our fathers m'the cause’ which was here crowned with success, and none of the memories awakened by this anniversary are more grateful to us all than the reflection that the national friendships iiere so closely cemented have outlasted the mutations of a changeful century. God grant, my countrymen, that they may ever remain and that ever henceforth, with ourselWsand with all nations of the earth, we may be at peace.” Max Outrey, then, in behalf of the French delegation, was introduced by Secretary Blaine, and delivered an address. Mr. Outrey said the French Government has felt much touched by tho friendly sentiments which inspired the United States with the thought of asking France to participate in the celebration of the Yorktown Centennial, and heartily desires to respond in a manner worthy of both republics to the invitation sent by the President of the United States in behalf of the people of America. Manifestations of public sympathy following the initiative taken by the Congress of the United States bidding France to this national festival, have been looked upon by us not only as an act of the highest courtesy, but especially as a mark of affectionate regard, having the noble aim of cementing yet more closely the ties which unite the two republics. In commemoration of this day. which represents one of the gran4est events in the political existence of this country, the French Government has sent a mission, composed of special delegates from the different departments, and the President of the French republic, wishing to mark his personal spmpathy, has sent one <jt his owe aides-de-camp. They thus desire to show particularly their appreciation of the graceful compliment paid to our country, Each and all of us are proud of having been called to tho honor of representing Fi ance on this auspicious day. The monument which is here to be erected will not only recall a glorious victory; it will perpetuate the recollections of an ever-faithful alliance—faithful through the trials and vicissitudes of an eventful century ; and, as the President of the French republic has so truly said, it will consecrate the union sprung from generous and liberal aspirations, and which the institutions we can now boast of in common must necessarily strengthen and develop for the good of both countries. Ih coming to this Yorktown centennial we come to celebrate the day which ended that long and bitter struggle against a great nation, now our mutual ally ana friend, who here, as under all skies where her flag has floated, has left ineffaceable marks of her grand and civilizing spirit. We come to celebrate the glorious date when the heroes of independence were able to set their final seal to- the solemn proclamation of tho Fourth of July, 1876. We come also to salute tho dawn of that era of prosperity where, led by her great men, America permitted the intelligence of her people to soar and their energy to manifest itself, and thus the pow'er of the United States has strengthened and every year has added to the prestige which surrounds her star-snanerled banner.

When France brought from beyond the seas the co-operation of her army and navy to this valiant people engaged in the war for independence, when Lafayette, Roobambeau, DeGrasse, and many other scions of our illustrious families, came here, they yielded to a generous impulse, and came with disinterested courage to sustain the cause of liberty. A blessing went with their endeavors and gave success to their arms, for when 100 years ago, as to-day, French and Americans grasped each others’ hands at Yorktown, they realized they had helped to erect the corner-stone of a great edifice. But surely the most foresighted among those men would have started had he been able to look down the long vista of a century and see at the end this republic, then young and struggling with all the difficulties which surrounded her, now calm, radiant and beaming with the halo of prosperity. The great Washington himself, whose genius foresaw the destiny of this country, could not have predicted this. Truly the United States have made, especially in these latter years, gigantic strides along tho route to still greater progress, by showing the world what can be accomplished by an energetic and intelligent nation, always as respectful of its duties as jealous of its rights. America has given a great example, and has been the cause of rejoicing .to all true lovers of liberty. France is proud of having contributed to found this great republic and her wishes for your prosperity are deep and sincere. Mutual friendfounded on many affinities, tastes and aspirations, which time cannot destroy, and future generations, I trust, will assist again in this samo place at a spectacle unprecedented in the history of two great nations; renewing, from century to century, compact fraternal and imperishable affection. I will not close without thanking the Federal Government, the dish rentHtates of the Union of which the delegation have been the guests, also the people of America, for the sympathy and welcome extended to the representatives of France. Each of us will treasure the recollection of American hospitality andXriendly sentiments which have been manifested to us in every place and every sphei-e. Marquis de Rochainbeau made a graceful response in French. He said : “ Citizens of tho United States, yon have invited us to celebrate with you the great achievement of arms, and we have not hesitated to brave the terrors of the ocean to say to you that what our fathers did in 1781 we, their sons, would be willing to do to-day, and to attest our constant friendship, and further show that we cherish the same of onr fathers in those glorious days we celebrate. In the name of my companions, who represent here the men who fought, permit me to hope that the attachment formed in these days around this monument which is to be erected, will be renewed in 100 years and will again celebrate a victory which joined our fathers in comradeship and alliance.” Baron Steuben then responded in German, in an appropriate speech, which was loudly applauded. There were vociferous cheers for the distinguished guests of the nation. At the conclusion of the ceremonies at the monument there was a reception by President Arthur in Lafayette Hall, to which the general public was admitted. The following order was read by Secretary Blaine at the celebration to-day: “In recognition of the friendly relations so long and so happily subsisting between Great Britain and the United States, in the trust :.nd confidence of peace and good-will between the two countries for all centuries to come, and especially as the mark of the profound respect entertained by the American people for tbe illustrious sovereign and gracious lady who sits upon the British throhe, it is hereby ordered that at the close of these ceremonies, commemorative of the valor and fucoesf Of orx forefathers their patriotic

struggle for independence, the British flag shall be saluted by the forces of the army and navy of the United States now at Yorktown. Tho Secretary of War and the Secretary of the Naw will give orders accordingly. Chxstkb A. Abthub. By the President: Jaw— G. Blaenx, Secretary of State. Yobktown, Oct. 21. The great event of yesterday, the military review, was successfully carried out All the organizations presented a fine appearance and marched well The route was about four miles over broad fields. One hour and twenty minutes were consumed in passing a given point. When the procession reached the grand stand Gen. Hancock and staff rode at the head, but then fell out of line, and, with President Arthur, his Cabinet, foreign guests and other dignitaries, reviewed the troops from the stand. Gen. Hancock stated to the President there were 9,500 men in hne. The States represented by volunteers were Georgia, New Jersey, Delaware. Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York. North Carolina, Rhode Island, Vermont. Kentuckv. Michigan and Connecticut. The President was quite enthusiastic over the magnificence of the display. The only colored troops in line were two companies from Richnvuul, composing part es the First Virginia ngiment They were loudly cheered by the spectators from tho North. On the grand stand, to which admission was obtained only by ticket from Gen. Hancock’s quarters, beside the President of the United States and members of his Cabinet, Senators, Representatives, Governors of States, Gen. Sherman and staff, the French and German delegations, were a large number of other distinguished men as well as many ladies. The marching of the troops generally was very fine and excited great interest among military men, and elicited loud cheers from the multitude. Gen. Hancock and Gen. Fitzhugh Lee were both loudly cheered wherever they appeared, as a tribute to “ the Blue and the Gray,” and recognition of the fact that both are now marching under the common flag of a common country. The men of Kentucky and Michigan were loudly cheered, as were also the First Connecticut, the Georgia battalion, which has with them two of the guns captured from the British at Yorktown 100 yeirs ago, and the regulars that marched from their several stations North to Yorktown. The State troops vied with each other in drill and discipline, and the friends of each claim the palm. The regulars excited general admiration. Fully 10,000 troops were present during these exercises. In the afternoon Gen. Hancock gave a reception on board the steamer St. John. Among the guests were President Arthur, David Davis, President pro tern, of the Senate; the French ana German visitors, officers of the army and navy, Congressional Commission, Governors, and other officers of States. The commission cut off one day from the programme, and the much-looked-for naval engagement took place in the afternoon, and was witnessed by immense crowds from the bluffs. The large barges and steamboats crowded with people, the naval vessels covered with bunting, the yachts, tugs, sail and row boats with streamers, the music from the bands and the firing of the salutes combined to make the scene long to be remembered.