Rensselaer Union, Volume 7, Number 17, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 14 January 1875 — GOV. HENDRICKS’ MESSAGE. [ARTICLE]

GOV. HENDRICKS’ MESSAGE.

Gentlkmkx or the’ Senate and Hocsk or RKrnEsEVTATivzs: During the two years since the last meeting of the Legislature the people of . Indiana have been blessed in a special degree with general health and bountiful harvests, and ! again invoke the continuance of a kind Providence over them. REVENUES AND APPROPRIATIONS. The assessed value of the taxable property of the State in 1874 was which was an increase of more than three hundred million dollars since 1872. That increase in the assessment was attributable in part to the increase of values in the State, hut it was largely caused by the Operation of the Revenue act passed at the special session of the lust Legislature. That act reouired that taxable property should he assessed at its value “ estimated at the fair price it would bring at a fair, voluntary sale.’’ Prior laws had reouired assessments to be made upon cash values,Tint long administrative construction and usage had allowed a much lower valuation. By the exercise of a diligent supervision the Auditor of State w as able to advance the valuations in (he spirit as well as in accordance with the. letter of the law. The appraisement at the fair value fixes a plain rule, which is easily understood and which excludes all discretion, defeats favoritism and partialitv. and promotes equality and justice toward all. The law also constituted the Governor, 1 -Lieu tenant Governor, Secretary of State. Auditor of State, and Treasurer of State a Board of Equalization, with power to assess the property and stock of corporations, including railroad companies. With care and great labor the Board sought to make the valuations so that the assessments should be just to the people ana lair toward the railroads. The action of the Board increased the assessment of railroad property in the State from about $11,000,000 in 1872 to nearly $10,000,000 in 7874. There are 285,0* 0 persons in the State who are subject to a personal or poll tax of 50 cents each. The assessments of property, amounting to nearly $955,000,000. and the personal or poll tax constitute our Important sources of revenue. In estimating what may be realized at any proposed rate of levy, experience has toown that a deduc • tion must he made of 20™cr cent, for delinquencies. When you shall have decided what appropriations of the public moneys you will niakeforeachdfthetwoyearsitwill.be of easy calcnlation what tax levy mustbqmade to supply the State Treasury. A low levy must he preceded by economy in the appropriations. This I urge respectfully, but very earnestly-. The appropriations must be sufficient to enable each department of the State Government to exercise its functions without hindrance or delay. Thus far there is no question of discretion. So. also, the cgmmon schools, the benevolent institutions and the public safety must be sufficiently provided for. But the expenditures for these purposes should be made with ririd economy and with a view to substantial and permanent benefits. Will vou allow me to suggest that it would be appreciated by the people should vour reforms commence with a reduction in legislative expenditures 1 It would be an assurance to them which would promote public confidence and give your proceedings an additional moral weight. At the session of 1871 the miscellaneous expenditures exceeded the pay of the members; and at the last special and regnlar sessions that class of expenditures was still greater, being about s96ft per day. though it did not exceed the pay of the members, which had been increased for the regnlar session. I suggest the propriety of a revision of the act of Dec. 2.1, 1872, which prescribes the number and classification of your employes, with a view to a further reducttoa, • • • RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES. There was in the Treasury March 1. 1873 $169,633 92 From that day until the close of the year ending-Oct. 31.1873. there was received for State purposes from all sources 438,191 14 During the year ending Oct. 31,1874, there was received for State pur- «» poses . .t. . 893,091 97 During the last session of the Legislature it became apparent that the revenue would be inadequate to meet the ordinary expenses of the State. Provision had also to be made for 191 old bonds, as required by the act of Dec. 12, 1872. In that condition of the finances, the act of March 10, 1873, was passed, authorizing the Governor, Auditor and Treasurer of State to make temporary loans to meet the appropriations. Pursuant to that act, temporary loans were made as follows: At 8 per cent., dne March 12, 1875.... $200,000 00 At 7 per cent., dne April 15. 1876 510,000 00 At 8 per cent., dne Dec. 1, 1876 200,000 00 Total revenue for State purposes received during the two years ending Oct. 31, 1874. including temporary loans and the amount in the Treasury March 1, 1873 2,410,917 01 During the same period there was received on account of benevolent institutions J 68.584 69. This sum was realized front the labor of the inmates and from individuals and counties pursuant to law. „ At the close of the year ending Oct. 31, 1874, there was in the Treasury $244,203 78 The pavments from the treasury during the two years ending Oct. 31.1874, for revenue refunded, for ordinary expenditures and for the benevolent institutions, amounted to $1,544,316.43. ■' By the act of Dec. 12,1872. the Governor. At-torney-General. Secretary of State, and Treasurer of State were authorized to “ take up and redeem 191 old bonds issued by authority of the State prior to the year 1841. which had not been surrendered under the adjustment made by the State with her creditors. Pursuant to that act ninetyseven ofthe bonds, with theircoupons. have been surrendered and paid, amounting to $495,487.30. Ninetv-four are vet outstanding, a part not having become due. and the residue not having been presented for payment. For a more particular description of the bonds and coupons which have been paid, I refer you to the detailed lists thereof which accompany the report* of the Auditor of State for the years 1873 and 1874. For a statement of the receipts and expenditures on aocount of the college, saline, bank tax. surplus revenue and miscellaneous funds I refer you to the same reports. STATE DEBT. The State is indebted as follows: Five percent, certificate. State stock. $26,469 99 Two and one-half per cent, certificates, State stock 3,285 13 War loan bonds, 6 pef cent., dne 1881 139.000 00 Temporary loan made under act of March 10. 1873. which I have before mentioned more in detail 910,000 00 Ninety-four old bonds required to be paid by the act of Dec. 12.1872 94.000 00 Total . $1,172,755 13 The accumulated interest upon tlie ninety four old bonds should be added, but 1 have no means of ascertaining the amount, bat the same will not be large. The indebtedness of the State to the school fund is evidenced by five noti-negotiable bonds at 6 per cent., and amonntsko $3,904,783.22. That is known as the domestic debt. COMMON SCHOOLS. The permanent school fund of the State is guarded' by the provision of the Constitution, which declares that it shall be perpetnal—that' it may be increased but shall never be diminished —and that the income thereof shall be inviolably appropriated to the,support of common schools and to no other purpose whatever. The fund is made up as follows: Ist. The amonht which the State owes it. and which is evidenced bv her nou-neeotiable bonds bearing interest at the rate of 6 per cent... $3,904,783 30 Additions from fines and other sources 68.197 25 Athonnt hdld in the counties, and loaned by the Auditors on mortgage security at 8 percent., and for the preservation of which the Constitution makes the counties liable 2,841.367 10 2d. Congressional township fund, be- r ing the proceeds of the sales df the school sections 2.295.773 64 Estimated value of 18.453 acres of unsold school 1and5........... 102.2T3 00 Total permanent fund $8,711,319 69 The interest realized npon, the general fund above mentioned is annually apportioned among tke counties according to the enniheratiou of J school children: but the interest upon the Congreesional township fnnd is uot so apportioned. It belongs to the Congressional townships because the grant of that sixteenth section in each township was made hr the act of Congress pro Tiding for the organization of the State government co the “inhabitants ofthe township for the use of schools.” , —v*Duringzhe year 1873 the fund was increased, including tke proceeds of a portion of the lands.

bat not including the portion of the sinking fund which was distributed. $64,946.96, and during the rear 1874 it was increased from Ihc tame sources Tfirertme rddizvd daring' theyrurrendlnf" Nov. 15. 1*74. to I>e used in tin- suppoet ofichopla was as follows: Interest on permanent fund. * 437,839 17 Derived from school tax... ... ... 1.018,463 t 4 Unclaimed-witness fee* and other sources. 72.304 96 j T0ta1........... $1,193.597 57 To this sum i* to be added the interest on the Congressional township fund..., 1?2,299,82 And the amount received from local taxation 551.785 72 Six thousand two hundred and sixtv-ftve dollars aad-fonr cents was not distributed, but remains in the Treasury. There has been received And distributed during the year for the support of sehool*. $2,211,328.13. The enumeration of 1874 of children between the age* of six and twenty-one years shows the number of 654,364: the number enrolled in the schools is 489,044; and the average attendance upon the schools has been 311.272. Twelve thousand six hundred and flftv-five teachers have been employed: - The reports of the County Superintendents show a general and rapid improvement in almost every respect affecting the efficiency of the schools. The houses and grounds, fixtures and apparatus are being improved and made more attractive and convenient, and greater skill and success in the art of teaching and governing the children are being promoted. The township and county institutes are increasing the efficiency of our school system. Improvement is the natural result of professional association in the institutes. The opinions, practice, and experience of the teachers are brought under examination, aud into comparison. The art of teaching is improved and the profession ofthe teacher, as t should be. is ennobled and dignified. I ask your attention to the carefully-prepared report of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. You will find the view#* expressed and the information given important for your careful consideration in your relation to the schools ofthe State— — There is no subject to which I could call vour attention in respect to whicli your responsibility i* greater than any measure materially affecting the success and influence of the schools. Your responsibility and mine are too great to allow any important action upon hastily-formed or indigested opinions. The guiding sentiment should be economy in expenditure and efficiency in the system. Neither should be sacrificed to the other. The school fund is sacred to a cause of the highest importance, and its waste or extravagant use would be a crime against society. All extra compensation and discretionary allowances should be prohibited. If .upon careful consideration and the test of experience you find that the distinguished man who was the late Superintendent of Public Instruction, and whose recent death the country monrns, made a mistake in respect to the machinery of our system, you will correct the mistake, but in your examination you will find the great weight of his opinion in the scales. He was an economist, a friend of the people, and ah able champion of common-school education. As representatives of the people we have occasion to be proud of the high character which our educational svstem maintains, and the people will approve the sentiment if yon give it expression in legislation, that, in respect to the cause of common-school ed ucation, we will take no Step backward. THE STATE NORMAL SCHOOL. By the act of March 5, 1873, $15,000 per annum of tlie school revenue was permanently set apart as the Normal-School fund and appropriated to the support of the Normal School. The Board of Trustees have contracted an obligation 0f*513,290 to provide for suitably heating the huilding. They ask that you will appropriate funds for its payment. The improvement was important to the institution, and I recommend that the appropriation be made. I think the school has been under good management, and that its success has been eqnal to the expectation that induced its establishment. In entering the institution the students assume an obligation to make a return for the advantages which they enjoy by teaching in the common schools. They have thus far been faithful to that duty. The object of the school is to cultivate teachers in the art and science of their profession. The beneficial results are already being felt over the State. The trained teachers influence and improve others with whom they come in contact in the schools and in the teachers' institutes. That influence will he gradually increasing as the graduating classes grow larger. As an important auxiliary to our common schools it merits your fostering care. Your attention is called to the report of the Board of Trustees and oj the President of the faculty, which give a clear and full statement of the condition and management of the institution, the condition of its finances, and the reason for the recommendations made by the Board. THE STATE UNIVERSITY. During the collegiate years from Jnne 28. 1872, to June 28, 1874, the State University has received the following revenues: Endowment fund $13,560 00 Under the act of March 8, 1867 16,000 00 Appropriated Feb. 6, 1873 22,500 00 Appropriated March 10, 1873.. 24,000 00 Appropriated March 10, 1873, for buildfag 20.600 00 Appropriated Dec. 14,1872, deficiency. 8,000 00 From counties, interest on lands sold.. 2,120 09 From other sources ......... "3,457 62 Amount m treasury June 28, 1872 222 75 Total $109,800 46 Of this sum $90,500 was appropriated and paid from the State Treasury.— During the same period the expenditures were $108,613.21, of which $40,473.46 was for the addition to the college buildings; aud $7,541.16 was for the Owen and Ward cabinets, and $4,800 on the expenses of the medical department ; and $4,780 in payment upon loans; and $1,665 for additions to the library, making $58,806, and leaving $49,807, the expense of the institution for two years, independent of the medical department, or $24,903 per annum. The number of students in attendance in 1874 was 371. Of these 108 were connected with the medical department in thin city, whichteost the university nothing beyond the $4,800 which I halve mentioned. The entire number of students in the literary and law departments, including 12 1 in the preparatory schools and select course, is 266. The expense of mantainfng the institution is at the rate of $93.62 for each student. The coaree of study has been so arranged as to promote the convenience and success of students Fassing from the high schools into the university. t is an improvement which will make tixe university of much greater advantage to the common and high schools of the State. For a description ofthe new college building and a statement of its uses, and for a statement of the mode in which tjie institution is conducted, I refer you-4p the President’s report. THE UNIVERSITY. By the act of Congress of July 2, 1862, the State of Indiana became entitled to land scrip equal to 30.000 acres for each of her Senators and Representatives lh Congress, for the support and maintenance of a college, the leading object of which should be the teaching, of such ” branches of learning as are related to agriculture and the mechanic arts.” The college was located in Tippecanoe County, near the city of Lafayette, and on the west bank of the Wabash. In consideration of a large donation made to the college by John Purdue, Esq., the Legislature gave it the name and style of “The Purdue Universitr.” The land scrip was sold and the proceeds invested by the Treasurer of the university in United States 6 per cent, bonds. He has also invested the accumulating interest. He now holds 300 bonds and $4,690.42 in currency. The Treasurer’s report shows that in 1867 the fund was of the value in currency of $212,238.50. and that it is row of the value of $356.502.92, showing an increase of $144,264,42. That constitutes the permanent fund, the proceeds of which only can be used in support of the university, and the State is liable for its loss or diminution. By Hie act of March 6. 1865, the Treasurer is chosen fly the Board of Trustees, and is required to give bond in a sum not less than s2oo.ootk with sureties to be approved by the Board. Because of the State's guaranty of the fund the Treasurer's bond should be required iu a sum equal to the fund, including its accumulations, and subject also to the approval of the Governor. For a statement of the improvements and expenditures that have been made I refer you to the Treasurer's report. The buildings are substantial and the improvement of the grounds and the farm have been tastefully aud economically made. A.. C. Shortridge, Esq., a man’of ability and good acquirements aud for many years Superintendent of the schools of Indianapolis, was chosen President. The professors aud teachers were chosen after careful investigation of their qualifications for their respective positions. The university was opened for the reception of students on the 16th of last September. Forty-six students were admitted. Some were rejected because they lacked preparatorv education. _ ' For a full statement of the course of study, and , the proposed management of the university, I refer vou to the President’s report. I have taken much interest in this institution, and have ffiveij) to its management alt the attention I could bestow. Good faith and policy reqnire that it.be made successful, aud to accomplish the beneficent purpose of the grant. In {he langnauc ofthe grant it is intended to ” promote theliberal aud practical education of the industrial classes in the several pursuits and professions of life.” It is the people's university, and I commend it to your watchful and fostering care.SECRETARY OF STATE. ' The executive service of the State properly connected with toe office of the Secretary of State has been -administered with fidelity and

ability by that officer. Inf, the discharge of my duties I have received valuable .■is-Istauce fruni him. His report* git-c a full and interest ing, statfitnentof tgt transactions sis his SBice. THE ATTORNEY-OENEHAL’S I.'FTICE. The Attorney-General’s renort gives a statement ofthe transactions of his office apd Of the sums collected bv him during the two years ending Nov. 6, 1874. and payments made into the State Treasury and into the treasuries of the counties. He adjusted claims against the United States amounting to $182,736.78. Of that snm $52,869.44 wag retained in the United States Treasury for prior overpavments. His entire •lUections wero $299,884.70. ’ THE SOLDIERS’ ORPHANS’ HOME. The Soldiers’ Home was located in Rush County, near the town of Knightstown. and for several vears was the home for the disabled soldiers of Indiana. When the United States had made ample provision for them it was converted into an for the orphan children of deceased soldiers, and became known as the Soldiers’ Orphans Home. The children are provided l'ar and educated, and on the 31st day of October, 18:4, they numbered 290. The expenditure fro lll !. treasury during the venr ending Oct. 31.18i3, was $33,977.98, and for the year ending Oct. 31. 1874. was $35,308.36. , Til B INSTITUTE FOR THE BLIN D. The.lnsUtuteforthe Blind is “an educatisnal cshill(*nt, having for it?* object the moral, intellectual aud physical training of tile blind of b«th sexes.’ Pnpils are received between the age* of nine and twenty-one years, who are of sound mind and good moral character. Their boarding and instruction are without charge, but if clothing is furnished to the indigent the institute is reimbursed by the counties. Durin" the year ending Oct. 31, 1874, 113 pupils word in attendance. and during the year the expenditures were $38,235.55, and during the year previous $33,674.29. For a full statement of the management and condition of the institute I refer you to the care-fully-prepared reports of the Board of Trustees and of the Superintendent and the detailed state-np-nt ofthe expenditures. Y’our attention is also called to their estimates, and the reasons given for increased appropriations for repairs, improvements and enlarging the building. THE INSTITUTE FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB. The institute for educating the deaf and dumb is located at Indianapolis, its object is to educate persons of that class between the ages of ten and twenty-one years, and to make them proficient in some useful occupation or trade, so as to enable them to provide for their own support. The number of pupils in' attendance during the year 1874 was 354. The expenditure for the year ending Oct. 31, 1873. was $70,584.57, and for the year following $68,960.88. The report of the Superintendent calls your attention to the important fact that the increase of deaf mutes in the State is in a ratio exceeding that of the increase of the population. His statement of the causes and his array of facts in support thereof are of special interest; Yon will find it important to consider with care his suggestions for adequate provision for the large number who cannot now be provided for at the institute. Considerations of policy, as well as of humanity and the requirement of the Constitution demand that they be so educated and instructed iu useful employments as to render them self-supporting. Society thereby, in a large degree, will be relieved of their maintenance, and they will be made happy in the consciousness of honorable independence. THE HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE. The—Hospital- for -the Insane is-located two miles west of Indianapolis, npon a tract of land of 160 acres. Its object is the treatment of theinsane with a view to their restoration, and none are received who are supposed to be incurable. On the 31st, day of October, 187.3, there were iq the hospital 474 patients, and during the follow* ing year 373 were admitted and 365 were discharged. Of those dischar ;ed 194 were considered cured. 45 improved, and 2 unimproved and incurable. The expenditures for the year ending Oct. 31, 1873, were $209,339.47, and for the year ending Oct. 31,1874, $195,702.52. Substantial and valuable improvements and repairs have been made during the last two ; years. I ask your careful attention to the reports of the Trustees and of the Superintendent. They show the gratifying fact that the per cerft. of recoveries has been unusually large during the last year, and the general' health of the inmates improved. This result gives assurance that the ■expenditures for improvements suggested by experience have been wisely made. Pure water, fresh and pure air, careful attention, and eminent skill give the result, of more than 50 per cent, of cures. Bnt a large portion of this most unfortunate class remain unprovided for. They cannot be properly taken care of in the poor-houses. In hundreds of instances they are a terrible burthen npon families—the objects of ceaseless anxiety. It seems there is no place for them in private life. They become hopeless objects of commiseration, and sometimes of disgust. Without toe capacity in many instances to preserve decency, they bring shame and humiliation to friends and neighbors. They cannot speak to you. The do not know you, nor do they know that you, the people’s representatives, aretlieir guardian. They cannot read the constitutional provision in their behalf, but vou and I can. The honor of the State and the humanity of the people will not allow these poor unfortunates to be longer neglected. I believe Indiana is to-day the most prosperous State of the Union. Her people are liberal and generous in a cause like that for which I plead. Everybody else has a home. These poor, starless, hopeless wrecks’ of humanity must also have a home. They must be cared for, that they may live, and die, and be buried, like our brothers and sister*. The grounds upon which the present institution stands are sufficient for another, entirely separate, and of equal or greater capacity, f concur in the recommendation of the Superintendent, to which I call your special attention, that the new hospital be located thereon. His suggestion of the economy aud advantage of one general management is very important. I recommend a special tax for the work, to be known as the tax for the insane. A small levy will provide for its commencement and its prosecution from year to year until completed. When completed it will be your beet and most enduring monumeat. THE STATE PRISON NORTH. On the 15th day of December, 1874, there were 455 convicts in the northern prison, which was an increase of eighty-seven during the year. The government of the prisoners has been rigid but just; their food has been abundant and wholesonic, and their clothing comfortable. There has been but little sickness in the prison, and but four deaths during the last two years. During the two years ending Dec. 15,1874, there was received from the income of the prison $123,200.40, aud expended for current and ordinary expenses $104,034.26. No part of the appropriation of $20,000 made March 10,1873, for the current expenses of the _ prison has been required or used. There has been expended during the two years for permanent improvements $14,060.96, and a small sum upon the library. The improvements incinde an abundant supply of water, a new shop and a new roof upon the cell-house. The old roof was destroyed by fire. The defect which probably caused the loss and the manner in which it has been remedied are stated in the report of the Board of Directors. The labor of the prisoners used in making-the improvements is not included in the estimate of the cost. / Additional shop-room is required for the advantageous employment of the convicts and an additional cell-house should be built. There are but 385 cells in the prison, whilst there are 455 prisoners to be provided for and the number is rapidly increasing. It is hurtful to health aud discipline to confine more than one prisoner iu a single cell. The favorable financial conditiorf of the prison is attributable to the promptness and fidelity of the contractors as well as to the diligence and efficiency of the Warden and hiß assistants. I have not been able to execute the act of March 10,1873, authorizing the exchange of certain ofthe prison lands for other lands owned by Peter Donnelly, for the reason that there are er rors of description in the act. It is important that the exchange be made. The proposed acquisition is necessary for proper drainage. I recommend that the act be amended so as to. properly describe the.lands. THE STATE PRISON SOOTH. During the year 1873 the average number of convicts in the’ prison south was 3u.\ and on the 15th day of December. 1874, the number was 417. Much and severe sickness prevailed daring the two years. It became almost epidemic. There were thirty-six deaths. The report of the Directors for IW3 showed repairs amounting to $17,802.05. They stated that the work done had pat the prison in good repair. But the report of 1874 shows an expenditure for additional repairs of $21,577.21, making in the tw o rears $39,379.26. No new structures appear to have been erected. The description 'of the, work done, requiring so large an ex peuditure. is not sufficiently fall to enable you or the Executive tojudge of its extent and propriety. I understand that some of the prisoners were employed npon improvements about the prison, and that their labor was charged at sixty cents per day to the repairs, aud thereby the expenses upon that account appear larger than they really were. The Warden's reports show tha ordinary expenses for the two years to have Doen $119.743.2 . and the proceeds oi prison labor $136,314.73. btit in this statement is Included an expenditure for repairs, and also a portion of the $19,000 received from the State Treasury, and also the labor of a portion of the convicts employed upon prison work. „ There are constantly insane convicts in both prions. They should not be kept with the other prisoners. I concur in the recommendation of the Wardens that provisions should he made for their separate' cqhtinement. During the last three years the greater portion of the convicts in the southern prison have been emploved bv the Southwestern Car Company. Pior to that use of the prison labor the Ohio Falls Car and Locomotive Company had erccted.exten

«*ive and vai n able works in the city of .Tef-!-r-.-t.\u!e. anti were employing a larae number of meclfarniert aiid laborers la the constrnctton of railroad cars. During the last eighteen months the competition has interfered with the business of the outside works; and it is claimed that it hits seriously disturbed the employment of free labor. It lias caused much dissatisfaction and discontent in that locality. I think it is a hardship that should be remedied, if possible. The Fails Company had expended a large sum of monev in the construction of their works, and had attained successful operation, and large numbers of mechanics and laborers, amounting to several hundred, had removed to the city and obtained reliable employment, as thev supposed, when the new ear company was organized for the use of the prison labor in direct competition. The Constitution, as well as humanity, requires that the treatment of the convicts shall have reference to their reformation. Reformation, by confinement, without labor is-—impossible. Considerations of policy also require their employment at such useful labor as will support the institution. But I think this labor should not be brought in such direct and destructive competition with free labor, especially in a case where the. free labor had first established its own reliable employment. The existing contracts will continue in force for about two years. During that time no complete remedy can be found, but after the expiration of the contracts the prisoners should he otherwise employed. In the meantime, should you authorize the commencement of the Asylum for the Insane, perhaps you can provide for the employment of a, portion of the prisoners upon that work. Other States have, found such use of the labor convenient and expedient. THE REFORMATORY INSTITUTION FOR WOMEN AND OIRLS. By the appropriation made at the last Legislature the indebtedness on account of the Reformatory was paid and the building completed. Mrs. Sarah J. Smith was appointed Superintendent, and in every respect has been a most faithful and efficient officer. In September, 1873, the institution was opened, and soon thereafter the female prisoners, eighteen in number. were removed to it from the State Prison south. There are now thirty in the penal departs ment, and ninety-three girls in the reformatory. For a detailed statement of the expenditures in completing the building and maintaining the inmates I refer you to the reports of 1873 and 1874. Some additional improvements must, he made. The institution should be so inclosed as to allow the prisoners out-door exercise and prevent escapes. I recommend that the law regulating admission to the reformatory department be so amended as to admit girls within the age of sixteen years. Experience has shown the wisdom of providing a separate prison for female convicts. The probability of reformation is greatly increased. The building in its present condition is not safe from fire, it has been on fire on two occasions. Upon one occasion it was probably the work of a prisoner. I recommend that the Board of Managers be authorized to make such improvements as will make it more secure. The institution lost a devoted and valuable officer by the resignation of S. A. Fletcher, Jr., Esq., the President of the Board of Managers. I appointed J. H. Kappes, Esq., to fill the vacancy. THE ROUSE OF REFUGE. The House of Refuge, at Plainfield, Hendricks County, was established pursuant to a—requirement of the State Constitution. It is upon a tract of land of 225 acres. There are now 205 inmates. The expenditures of the last year amounted to $57,002.58, of which $15,582.35 was for improvements and buildings, leaving $41,420.23, the expense of the institution. Of the entire expenditures $14,075.71 was received from the counties. Two large builditgs have been erected during the year, one for a shop and the other for a family "house. The family house will provide for fifty boys. The entire improvements made during the year are of the estimated value of more than $25,000. Ten thousand dollars of that was for the labor of the boys. They made the brick and did all the other "work not requiring skilled labor. The inmates of the institution are vicious boys and juvenile offenders, and their reformation is its object and purpose. 'The reports show' the reformation of 60 per cent, and the improvement of others. As far as, possible they are brought under the influence of moral sentiments. They are taught in tlie schools and are required to do useful labor. These are the reforming infiuences. Out-door and farm labor is found to tie. most, useful.—ln his report the Superintendent gays: “Clive the boys plenty of out-door work, and the labor of their reformation is infinitely lightened.” I concur in his recommendation that additional farm lands he purchased. It is necessary to give employment to the bovs and to provide supplies lor the institution. I ask your attention to the reports of the Board and the Superintendent. THE STATE-HOUSE AND LIBRARY'. For the management of the State Library and the caretakeu of the State-House and adjoining grounds I refer you to the carefully prepared and very full report of the State Librarian. The library has been put in excellent order, many missing volumes supplied aud useful additions made, aud the rooms have been refitted and made inviting to visitors. Repairs and improvements have been made in the State-House which had become almost indispensable to its occupancy. They were made with the approval of myself and the State officers, and executed with cultivated taste and rigid economy. A NEW STATE-nOUSE. On the 10th day of March, 1873, a concurrent resolution was adopted by the General Assembly declaring that a necessity existed for the building (if a new State Capitol and awarding the sum of $2,000 as a premium for the best plans, specifications atld estimates for the same. By the resolution it was also provided that a joint committee representing the two houses be appointed, whose duty it would be to receive the plans, specifications and estimates. That committee has given careful attention to the matter so referred. In their printed regulations they required the plans to he lor a structure to cost not exceeding $2,000,000. They have received many plans and specifications, with detailed estimates, and have with great diligence examined and compared their respective merits. They will, no doubt, make to you a full report of their proceedings, with their recommendations. The work thus innugurated bythe last Legistature comes before you for consideration and actionlt can hardly be questioned that a new State House should be built. This house is neither suitable nor safe for the transaction of the pnblic business. It does not correspond with the greatness of the State. It is not creditable. No other State in the Northwest has such a These halls are not lit for your sessions. Yonr constituents when they visit the city can neither see nor hear your proceedings. They are much better provided for in your Courts Houses. You have no suitable committee-rooms. You are dependent upon rented rooms over the city. You are thereby hindered in that personal consultation among yourselves which is so important in legislation. The people do not desire this. But they will expect you to avoid that prevalent fault in public buildings, of extravagant ornaments. The building should be plain, tasteful, substantial and permanent, adapted to its purposes, and sufficient for the growing demands of the public service. Several years will* he required in its construction, aud a small special tax, annually, will be sufficient. THE STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE."^ A fall account of the proceedings of the State Board of Agriculture, and a statement of its financial affairs during the years 1873 and 1874, will be'found in the reports of those years. The most important move of the Board during that , period has been the erection upon the State fairgrounds of a beautiful and spacious structure lor a-State exposition. To induce the Board to enter upon that work. 420 of the business men of the city of Indianapolis gave their guaranty in the sum of SIOO,OOO against loss. The guarantors have paid a large sum upon the cost of construction. The exposition has added greatly to the importance and attractiveness of the Statu lair. Together they constitute an atttaetive and useful institution, dedicated to the. exhibition, promotion and improvement of the agricultural, mechanical, mineral, and productive industries of the State. The management, however skillful and impartial, of such an institution must necessarily encounter dissatisfaction and criticism. The members of this Board and its officers have not escaped. In inaugurating and j executing so important a work as the union of i an exposition with the fair it could not be otherwise. But the reports and inv own observation ' justify me in saying that during these two years they have been faithful, aud in a high degree successful. Tnc Department of Geology and Natural Science, established by the act of March 5, 1869, was plated in connection with and under the controi of the State Board of Agriculture. Under the active and efficient management of Prof. Cox, the State Geologist, that department has greatly promoted the interests of the people of this State. The surveys have developed valuable minerals in large qnantiiies. That you may fully appreciate the extent and importance of the work which lias been accomplished, I call yonr attention to the annual reports. I recommend that yon continue the necessary appropriations, and that von place the service upon a more permanent basis. THE VIENNA EXPOSITION. Bythe act of March 4, 1873, provision was made for the proper representation of this State and of her interests at the Vienna Exposition. By direction of that act I commissioned the State Geologist as Commissioner of this State. He has made a detailed report to me of his proceedings and of his expenditures, which l com- - mnnicate herewith. There remains an unexpended balance of the appropriation of $682.42," which has been returned to the Treasury. horticultural society. TT>e financial reports of the Indiana Horticultural Society show that its receipts for the Year 1874 were $1,125.21. of which SI,OOO was by appropriation from the State Treasnrv. and that its expenditures amounted to ss2l.Bl,'leaving in its treasury $603.40. I have received no further re-

i port of its proceedings since that of the January | meeting.-Itdi. -I understand the society is grou- | ing in strength and interest. battle-ground inclosure. : As required by the act of Dec. 18, 1872. the GovI ernor. Secretary of State. Auditor of State aud I Treasurer of Stat e caused a beautiful and permanent iron fence to be built around the Tippecanoe i battle-ground I recommend the enactment of a ! law in accordance with the requirement of the I Constitution for the protection and preservation i of the grounds aud improvements, with penalties ! for trespassing. At the request of the State offij cers and myself, the Commissioners of Tippecaj uoe County have assumed the charge aud care i thereof, and will provide for any expenditure j necessary to keep the same in repair. ; The entire cost of the fence was $17,854.17. leavj ing of the appropriation unexpended $6,245.83. I I suggest the propriety of using that unexpended ; balance in the construction of a suitable monn- ! meat to the officers and soldiers who l'eil upon I that field. If invited to do so, 1 suppose Ohio I and Kentucky would join this State in the con- ! st ruction of the monument, thus making it what, j it should be. the work of the three States in | honor of their soldiers who fought aud fell to- | gether. THE PUBLIC PRINTING. ■ The legislative printing has been done under the supervision of the Secretary of State, in accordance with the joint resolutions of Jan. 28 j and 31, ,1873. y—--1 have caused the executive documents tb be printed under contracts at prices fixed bv competing bids. The rates have been as low as could De obtained, aud as low as the work could be done without actual loss. The Auditor's reports show the amounts paid. PRESERVING THE PEACE. Upon two occasions 1 have been called upon to furnish arms and ammunition to Sheriff's to prevent threatened pnblic disturbance; and upon three occasions I have called out the militia to support the civil officers in maintaining the peace and enforcing the law. The expenses attending these proceedings amounted to $4,299.45. One of these occasions was in the enforcement of legal process in a controversy between two railroad companies. As the "military force was required to enable the Sheriff’ to execute a civil process when hindered by a large body of men, I thought it proper that the expenses should be borne by the plaintiff', and Iso required. The sum was promptly paid by the company, amounting to $2,495. With the concurrence and approval of the State officers I directed the payment of the residue of the $4,299.45 to be made out of the civil contingent fund under my control. It was not clear to the State officers nor to myself that such a use of the appropriation was coutemplatedby the Legislature, but the duty to “take care that the laws be faithfully executed,” and to preserve the public peace, was so clearly imposed by the Constitution that we could not hesitate. The public safety and the supremacy of the law should not be dependent upon any uncertain construction of an act of appropriation. I recommend that you appropriate a sum sufficient to meet such exigencies, and that the same be under the control of the Governor. I ask your attention to the reports of the Ad-jutant-General and (Quartermaster-General. The militia is almost entirely unorganized. There are but a few companies in the State in a condition to respond to any call that may be made upon them. I ask your consideration of the propriety ofso amending the law to organize the militia as to make it more efficient; and to the propriety of the State giving some aid in properly equipping some companies. The State is sufficiently supplied with arms. In addition to the former supply I have made requisitions upon the United States Ordnance Office for, and received, 500 breech-loading Springfield rifles, 150 Spencer rifles and six Gat ling guns and suitable ammunition. The greater part of the arms are stored in the United States arsenal near the city of Indianapolis. THE CENTENNIAL. On the 3d day of March, 1871, an act of Congress was adopted, declaring that “it behooves the people of the United States to celebrate, by appropriate ceremonies, the centennial anniversary” of the signing and promulgation of the Declaration of Independence of the United States; and that it is appropriate to eomtnemorate the completion of the first century of onr national existence by an exhibition of the natural resources of the. country and of our progress in those arts which benefit mankind, in comparison with older nations; and declaring, also, that “ the exhibition should be a national celebration in which the people of the whole country should participate.” and that “it-should have the sanction of the Congress of the United States.” In accordance with that • declaration the act of Congress provided: “ That an exhibition of American and foreign arts, products and manufactures shall be heid under the auspices of the Government of the United States in the city of Philadelphia in the year 1876.” Provision was also made for a commission to execute the will of Congress so declared. The organization has oqen completed and the State of f’eunsylvn itia and the city of Philadelphia have appropri-ated^dargG-sums-of money to aid the enterprise. The vyork of preparation has been commenced and is rapidly advancing. The designs contemplate an exhibition suitable for the great occasion. The act of Congress has committed our country and the people to the celebration. A failure would cause us national humiliation. Success will gratify our national pride and at the same time promote our prosperity by attracting the people and wealth of other countries. I recommend that you make such provision as will seeurc to the people of Indiana, and their interests, a full and advantageous representation. TEMPERANCE. The act of Feb. 27,1873, regulating the sale of intoxicating liquors lias not accomplished the good that was expected by its advocates. It lias not been sufficiently in accord with public opinion to be efficient or useful. It has been the cause of. irritation without remedying the evils it was intended to suppress. The duty rests upon you to revise and reform that legislation. In the discharge of that duty you will assume that there are evils to society and to individuals connected with the traffic in intoxicating liquors which it is the province of law to restrain, and prevent. Sales should not be made to bovs; and drunkenness should be punished ns well as selling to the intoxicated; anil the minor who misrepresents or conceals his age to obtain liquor should be punished as well as the person who knowingly sells to him. Sales should be forbidden when the public peace or safety requires it. Like other pursuits, it should he suspended after a reasonable hour in the night, so as to avoid'the disturbances incident to "the traffic at that time. It should be made unlawful to buy whenever it is unlawful to sell, and the punishment should be inflicted on the purchaser as well as the seller. I recommend that a reasonable tax or license fee be imposed. It should be higher than heretofore and subject to forfeiture of the license for disregard of law. That policy w ill bring a large revenue into the school fund, if so directed, and at the same time identify the interests of the party selling with that-of society in preserving order and good conduct at his place of business. I suggest, for your consideration, whether it is not practicable to make a difference of regulation in respect to the sale of vinous and malt liquors and The stronger and more intoxicating drinks. There is a great difference in the evils that result from their use. FEES AND SALARIES. The effort at reform in the civil service of the State should not stop until the compensation of every officer shall be so accurately defined as to exclude all.constructive fees and charges, and until it shall he so adjusted as to produce greater equality and in many cases a large reduction. As fur as practicable fixed salaries should he established and all other compensation.prohibited. The compensation tflicmld be sufficient to command for the pnblic efficient and reliable service, but no greater. The act regulating fees, etc., of Marcli 8, 1873, is perhaps an improvement upon the old law. bnt it leaves much yet to be done. This subject should receive vour attention. APPORTIONMENT. The Constitution requires that the number of Senators, and Representatives shall be apportioned among the several counties according to the number of white male inhabitants above twenty-one years of age in each. The apportionment made by the act of Dec. 27, 1872. is not in accordance with that requirement. The inequality among many counties is obvious and gross. Laws fixing representation should not he frequently changed, nor upon unimportant considerations. Stability is a quality important to their value. Bnt no reason for amending the law could be stronger than that found in the fact of Its gross inequality. The question is not free from doubt in my mind whether the apportionment cad be changed prior to the next enumeration under the Constitution. But should you be satisfied that the law may lie amended tlien the reasons.in its favor are conclusive. In making the amendment of the law no consideration* whatever should be regarded but the constitutional requirement, of equality and justice. RAILROAD FREIGHTS. Complaints are made that the railroad companies discriminate against way freight both by exorbitant charges and by inadequate provision for shipment. Many of the roads of this State constitute parts, of through lines from the West to the East, and any discrimination against the way business in the manner complained of would occasion heavy Joss to the people. I suppose there is somo’inconvenieuce and delay in transacting way business that must be compensated. hut it should not be made the pretext to take advantage of the ahsence of competition, and to make the charges unreasonable. I recommend that yon inquire into the causes of the complaints and that you provide a remedy that will be safe to the people and juet to the railroads. The independent freight lines that are interposed between the stockholder.- and the people, to the hurt <>f both, should be brought more jflirecTiy under the control of onr laws, both for the pnrpose of regulation and taxation. THE SWAMP-LAND RECORDS. By virtue of the joint resolution of 1865 I ap-

| pointed O. M. Eddy, Esq., Swamp Land Clerk, j and assigned him to the duty of revising and corI recting the files and records relating to the { swamp lands of the State. They were ru a \;ery defective condition. With cart 1 and diligence he I applied himself to the work and hi* report shows | satisfactory progress toward its completion. The ; records and files relating to so large a quantity of i land are important, and should be accurate and l reliable. So far as The revision lias been coin- ! pleted, I think they will he found reliable. THE EXECUTIVE RECORD. I have caused a full record to be keptol' all the transactions of my office. I found no complete record of the correspondence of my predecessors, and lmt defective records of other official acts. It has often beeu difficult, and sometimes impossible, for me to ascertain their opinions aud decisions npon questions again presented. APPRAISEMENT OF REAL ESTATE. I concur in the recommendation of the Auditor of the State that the Revenue law of December, 1872, be so amended as to provide for the appraisement of the real estate every fifth year instead of every second year. LOCAL TAXATION. • I call your special attention to the suggestions of the Auditor of State in relation to the necessity of a limit to he imposed upon the power of taxation by counties and townships and by cities, in special casesr I also submit for your consideration whether the dirtic.ulties and probable losses in the collection of the taxes, occasioned by the postnonemeHt of the collection of one-half thereof for six months, is compensated by any adequate advantage to the people. Experience shows that the provision which allows the postponement occasions both inconvenience and loss. THE EXECUTIVE CLEMENCY. As required by the Constitution, I herewith report all cases of reprieve, commutation and pardon which I have granted, and all cases of fines and forfeitures which I have remitted, with a statement of the several amounts, and the names of persons relieved, and the facts and considerations which have governed me in each case. —SPECIAL MESSAGES. At an early period of your session I will make a communication to you in relation to the lands known as the bed of Beaver Lake; and also in relation to the condition of the Wabash & Erie Canal, and the legal proceedings touching the same pending in the Circuit Court of the United States. STATE OFFICERS. It gives me pleasure to say that the State officers with whom I have been associated in the execution of the laws have been faithful, intelligent and efficient in the discharge of their official duties. In regard to every public matter requiring our concurrent action I have given them my entire confidence. For them I entertain sentiments of personal respect and esteem. It is my painful duty to inform you of the death of Hon. Milton B". Hopkins, Superintendent of Public Instruction, which occurred on the 16th [day of August last. He was a faithful and able public officer, and in his death the cause of education in the State has sustained a great loss. I appointed his son, Alexander C. Hopkins, his successor for the residue of the official term. I trust that your proceedings will be harmonious and result'in the promotion of the interests of the State and people. THE LOUISIANA TROUBLE. I had intended to restrict this communication to subjects that are of special interest to the State of Indiana, and had written all I intended to say, Yvhen it became known to the country that free representative government had been broken down in the State of Louisiana by military violence. It is a fundamental right and essential to free institutions that a legislative body shall be the judge of the qualifications, elections and returns of its own members. It is declared in our Constitution and in the Constitution of the United States and in the Constitution of Louisiana. It is exclusive, and no power, not evun the judiciary, can interfere with or question it. It is a prerogative of the State, because without it no free State can exist. Without any pretext of domestic violence that right has been taken away from the popular branch of the Legislature of Louisana, and members recognized by the body have been driven from -the hall by "armed soldiers under the command of United States military officers, and others not recognized by the body as members have been seated as such. The cause of the House of Representatives of Louisiana and of its constituency is your cause aud will be the cause of the people you" represent so long as constitutional and independent legislation shall be cherished by them as a right. Shall the privilege of the people to make their own State laws by their chosen representatives rest upon right, or only upon permission ? The voice of the people .should be so expressed as to restore the right. I ask you to protest against and denounce the usurpation as a crime to be detested, and not a precedent to be respected. TnoMAS A. Hendricks, Governor of Indiana. Executive Dei-aSi'Ment, Jan. 7,1875.