Jasper County Democrat, Volume 19, Number 22, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 14 June 1916 — Why Bogus and Buncombe in 1916? [ARTICLE]

Why Bogus and Buncombe in 1916?

The year IP 16 in IndiansP-’is not only one of patriotic opportunity \- ?t is also a test of Hoosier citizenship. Centennial celebrations are being held and anticipated in every county in the state. The Indiana historical commission is doing its utmost to see that these are educational, historical and patriotic; that they are above the cheap and ordinary—worthy of the dignity of the inonwealth and of the intelligence of its citizens. It is with some misgivings therefore that reports are occasionally received, announcing the securing of ‘’high class attractions,” such as hippodrome artists, aerial performers, latest improved merry-go-rounds, expert diving girls, etc., etc., to “help” the centennial observance. It is not a question of the centennial celebrations being made “high brow” and solemnly serious. That is not the desire. They should be made exultant and joyful—the element of play and festivity should be prominent. But in the name of 1916, what do the barking spielers and their gaudy wares, which operate under the polite name of “concessions,” have to do with a proper observance of our state’s anniversary? They* are bound to detract from the very things that should be emphasized, and compromise those responsible for the celebration. Crowds thus attracted are gathered at too great a cost. It Is to be hoped that the citizenship of Indiana will rise above this plane of entertainment in this anniversary year of progress and patriotism.