Evening Republican, Volume 20, Number 125, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 25 May 1916 — Monticello Citizens Show Interest In Retaining Company. [ARTICLE]

Monticello Citizens Show Interest In Retaining Company.

Mdnticello businessmen took steps at an enthusiastic meeting held in the armory Wednesday evening to save the militia company of that city from being mustered out. AdjutantGeneral Frank L. Bridges came from Indianapolis and stated that federal support for the company ceased on May 16th but that he would recommend to the war department that the company be given until June 6th to secure the needed men to bring the strenght up to 65 and that a special inspection be made in about 60 days. An organization of associate members was started and a committee of five appointed by S. W. Thompson, chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, to make a canvass for associate members, each associate member to try to secure an active member for the company. Curtis D. Meeker was one of the first to sign the associate membership roll and his interest is such that he has proposed a plan for a new armory with adequate facilities for the care of property and a large floor for instruction in military subjects. Ed Lougfhry, Dr. Coffin, Everett Gadner, William Bunnell, Mayor Carr, Postmaster Simons, Vol Clyne number of others expressed deep interest in the retention of the company and pledged to have things well under way by next Monday evening, when a bean supper it to be held in the armory and when recruiting is to become active. Capt. A. B. Cray, who has command of the company, has been doing a great deal of work and has the men well drilled but the strength is somewhat below the minimum requirement. If the plans as adapted by the business men do not deveolp the company will be mustered out.