Jasper County Democrat, Volume 19, Number 16, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 24 May 1916 — An Imposture. [ARTICLE]

An Imposture.

Tim Indiana historical commission cal is at tent ibn of the; cit izens of the stale to what appears to he a palpable fraud that-is being attempted in connection with the centennial observance. A so-called “Pioneer Society of Indiana,” claiming headon arters at I mlianapolis. is sending letters to towns over the state offering to put on a day’s centennial celebration, "not for a profit but for humanity's sake.’-’ It claims to 'have arranged to have the state officers such as governor, secretary of state, treasurer, auditor and professors of Purdue university to make addresses." It also claims in the same paragraph to put. on in connection, balloon ascensions, aerial flights, etc. - This thing should stand self eonvited on its face. It is a gross misrepresentation. no such arrangements having been made with the si ate officers. they never having heard of any such organization. It. is a cheap blundering effort to play upon the credulity of (lie people of Indiana, and make a travesty of their loyalty and patriotism in this centennial year! The commission respectfully asked the manager of the concern to appear and explain Ijgs plans and purposes. His failure to do so. is further evidence of a lack of good faith. It is hardly conceivable that intelligent people will allow themselves to be imposed upon in this crude manner, but the lee’s it incumbent upon itself to issue inis warning note. —Indiana Historical Commission.