People's Pilot, Volume 4, Number 19, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 26 October 1894 — A Joint Debate. [ARTICLE]

A Joint Debate.

Last Wednesday evening was the occassion of a joint debate between our fellow townsmen, A. McCoy and David Shields, Mr. McCoy representing the Republictn party and Mr. Shields the Democracy. The affair took place in Simon Thompson’s large hay barn at Parr. Mr. McCoy is a very enthusiastic politician and chartered three passenger coaches and paid the expenses of all who wished to take advantage of a free excursion. “Mac” had duly advertised it and when train time came, a large crowd had collected. At about 3 o’clock the procession started for the depot, headed by “Mac,” the Rensselaer band and a Martial band. The crowd at the speaking was estimated at from 500 to 800 people, 250 being from Rensselaer. While waiting for the speaking, the crowd was entertained by music and songs. Supper was served by “Mac,” on the grounds. At 7 o’clock the crowd repaired to the hay barn and the speakers were introduced by J. F. Warren. Each was allowed five minutes at a time for debate. One feature of the evening was » comic campaign song by John Alter. The debate lasted for about two hours. The excursion was brought home by the night train and every one seemed to think that they had been repaid for going. James Boyd, of Lafayette, is working in the Pilot office.