Jasper County Democrat, Volume 21, Number 73, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 11 December 1918 — LITERARY CLUB OBSERVES 41ST ANNIVERSARY [ARTICLE]

LITERARY CLUB OBSERVES 41ST ANNIVERSARY

The forty-first anniversary of the Ladies’ Literary club was observed in an interesting and entertaining manner in the spacious and beautiful home of Mrs. Oren Parker. In observance of the occasion Mrs. J. Medicus, a charter member of the club, read an original poem of one of the founders of the organization, the late Mrs. Mary E. Thompson, which had been composed on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of the club, and to which the reader had added a stanza suited to the present occasion. The musical numbers were two vocal numbers —(a) Allah Be With Us, by Charles Lowne; (b) Oh Heart of Mine, by James Whitcomb Riley. Both were given in a pleasing manner by Mrs. J. A. Dunlap. Several Victrola lumbers were furnished by the hostess.

The talk on Constructive Patriotism, by Mrs. A. R. Hopkins, was given in her usual excellent way. After reviewing the growth of the ideal of liberty in this, our favored land, as well a sin the nations of Europe, she drew the conclusions that four things are necessary to the growth of this ideal. First —A land. Second—A people. Third —Institutions. And fourth —A superior type of womanhood. No country can rise higher than the intellectual and moral ideals of its women; therefore, a democracy, if it would continue to exist, must give its women an equal chance for development. Mrs. J. D. Allman gave a most interesting and comprehensive report of the State Federation meeting at Indianapolis, which she attended last month. On account of the “flu” epidemic the attendance was but one hundred and twenty-seven, and these abiding by the rules of the health authorities and wearing masks at every session were so uncomfortable and ill at east that they could hardly enjoy the small part of the program that could be given; so much of what had been planned being impossible. Mrs. Allman stated that from the humorous remarks of the various speakers she felt sure they must have presented a very grotesque picture as they sat with masked countenances through the various sessions. The program was concluded by a historical account of the custom of singing Christmas carols. Two new members were accepted, Mrs. Kratli and Mrs. W. E. Parkinson. -

—Contributed.