Evening Republican, Volume 16, Number 125, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 24 May 1912 — G. A. R. Encampment at South Bead Closed Thursday. [ARTICLE]

G. A. R. Encampment at South Bead Closed Thursday.

The annual G. A. R. encampment came to a close Thursday evening after three days of a big time, and visitors exceeding 2,000 in number have departed for their homes. A big parade was held yesterday afternoon in which 1800 veterans participated. 1,400 were on foot, while 400 rode in automobiles. They were escorted by a squad of city police, several companies of Notre Dame cadets, musicians hnd militiamen. The parade proved to be one of the biggest features of the encampment The encampment closed officially Thursday afternoon, but last night at the Oliver opera house and the First Christian church, Grand Ajflny campfires burned bright. The drum and fife and trumpeter were heard and tattoo was sounded. The campfire is the annual experience meeting of the G. A. R. when the comrades get together and recount their deeds of valor.