Baldwin County GaArchives History .....History of Baldwin County - D. A. R. History, Part 2 1925
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GERTRUDE HORNE HUTCHINSON
1920-1921-1922-1923
Superintendent, General Supplies of Baldwin County Red Cross Chapter,
1917-1918.
Chairman Woman's Committee of Baldwin County Red Cross Chapter, 1918-1919.
Treaurer Baldwin County Red Cross Chapter, 1920-1921.
Secretary Baldwin County Red Cross Chapter, 1921-1922.
State D. A. R. Chairman of Loan Fund for Girls of Revolutionary Ancestry,
1923-1924.
State Chairman Anti-Tuberculosis Seals, 1924-1925.
He has not served who gathers gold,
Nor has he served whose life is told
In selfish battles he has won,
Or deeds of skill that he has done.
But he has served who now and then,
Has helped along his fellow men.
—Edgar A. Guest.
During the world war and after it,the Nancy Hart Chapter, "proclaiming
service the test of worth," had occupied all its energies.
The regent, Mrs. Hutchinson, herself wearing a Red Cross badge for sixteen
hundred hours of service, announced that during her administration the Chapter
would go in a more leisurely manner, though no D. A. R. work should be slighted.
The Chapter's part in the Armistice Day celebration in 1921, was especially
beautiful. On that day, the Nancy Hart Chapter planted a Liberty Tree on the
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grounds of the old Capitol and Mrs. J. D. Howard was in charge. She had written
to the Governors ,of all the States and asked for soil from historic spots. She
received many beautiful and patriotic letters. The soil they sent mingles with
Georgia soil to nurture this tree. The cadets from the Georgia Military College
formed a guard of honor for the girls who represented the States of the Union,
and the scene was impressive and beautiful.
Following are some of the letters received by Mrs. Howard from Governors on
the Armistice Day Celebration.
Governor Thomas C. McRae—Arkansas
In answer to your kind letter of Oct. 3, I will say that I have directed my
secretary to forward to you a box of Arkansas soil to be placed at the roots of
your liberty tree on Armistice Day. The idea is certainly a beautiful one and I
want to commend your organization, the D. A. R. for the enterprise.
North Carolina
Governor Cameron Morrison requests me to send you soil from this state for
use in planting the liberty tree by your organization, the D. A. R. The earth
comes from the Capitol square. The following lines to be read on this occasion:
"Here's to the land of the long-leaf pine,
The Summer land where the sun doth shine;
Where the weak grow strong and the small grow great,
Here's to down home, the old North State."
Most cordially yours,
FRED A. OLDS,
Collector for Hall of History.
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Governor Gamiel D. Boyle—Nevada
It gives me pleasure to send you, separately, a small box of Nevada soil,
which, when mingled with the soil from other states, will, I hope form a
veritable union from which your liberty tree will find permanent anchorage and
rugged strength typical of our "Indestructible Union of Indestructible States."
Governor D. W. Davis—Idaho
I am having the Department of Agriculture forward you a sample of Idaho's
soil to be used in your Armistice Day Celebration.
I think the idea a very splendid one, and am glad to co-operate with you.
Idaho greets her sister, Georgia, and all the members of the sisterhood of
states represented on this great day, November eleventh. In many ways this is
the most significant day in history. Let us hope that a new era of peace and
love dawns with the meeting of the Disarmament Congress. Let us see in the
splendid banner of liberty which flows over us a new meaning. Let us live to
bring about a tomorrow of high ideals and happiness. Let us live so that we may
reflect more fully the perfection of the great cause.
Governor W. H. McMaster—South Dakota
Indeed, I am very glad to send you under another cover a sample of South
Dakota soil to assist in the ceremonies incident to the planting of the liberty
tree. I am very much interested in the complete fusion of every part of our
United States and I wish for you in your endeavors every success.
Governor Jos. M. Dixon—Montana
Among the many requests that come to the Governor's desk, I confess I was
rather attracted by your suggestion that the Nancy Hart Chapter, D. A. R.
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of Milledgeville, would on November eleventh plant a liberty tree whose roots
are to be nurtured by soil from every state in the Union. Under separate cover I
am mailing you a box of Montana soil. These little acts involving sentiment and
respect for the government under which we live carry with them a wider
significance than might casually be supposed.
Governor W. D. Denny—Delaware
I am glad to comply with your request and have forwarded soil from the State
House grounds at Dover to be used in the planting of the liberty tree on
Armistice Day.
This original State House was the meeting place of the General Assembly that
first ratified the Constitution of the United States.
I commend your D. A. E. chapter on this patriotic movement and you have my
best wishes for its success.
Com. of Agr. E. L. French—Washington
Under a separate cover I am sending you a small quantity of soil from the
scene of the Whitman Massacre with which one of the most thrilling episodes in
Western pioneer history is connected.
We thank you for your thoughtfulness in asking us to participate in your
celebration on Armistice Day, and assure you that we are very much interested in
the best possible feeling in the nation as a whole.
Executive Clerk—North Dakota
We are sending you under separate cover a bit of North Dakota soil to help
nurture the roots of your liberty tree.
We are certain this is emblematic of a spirit of unity that exists between
your state and ours, as also between all the states of our Union. We trust nothing
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shall ever break the bond of fellowship now so evident.
Very truly yours,
CLARA L. BLUMER,
Executive Clerk.
Governor Lee M. Russell—Mississippi
I am delighted to comply with your request just received wherein you desire
some of our soil to add to soil from other states in the planting of a Liberty
Tree. This is a beautiful idea.
I am requesting Hon. Elnathan Tarll, Superintendent of the Old Soldiers Home
(Beauvoir), the same being the old home of Jefferson Davis, President of the
Confederacy, and now used as a home for aged and infirm Confederate Veterans, to
supply you with some of the soil from this historic place.
Allow me to say that we trust this Liberty Tree, nourished by the soil of
all the States, may grow and live for many years as an emblem of a reunited
country.
We are proud of the part Mississippi has played both in times of peace and
war in the building of this nation. Its citizenship has taken rank among the
leaders of the world.
Our people at this time are laying special stress upon the following topics:
1. Taxation to the end that all property may bear an equal burden of
governmental expenses.
2. We are improving in a large way the common schools, high schools,
colleges and universities. Wonderful progress has been made in the last few
years in these lines of work.
3. We are endeavoring to give the growing children an opportunity to make
strong men and women by emphasizing good health.
4. We are trying to teach the youth of the land that prohibition is one of
the greatest laws ever enact-
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ed, and that obedience to all law is the salvation of enlightened people.
October 7, 1921.
Governor Ben W. Olcott—Oregon
I think it is a beautiful idea that your chapter of the D. A. R. has
envolved, to plant a liberty tree, the roots of which are to be nurtured by soil
from each section of the United States.
I want you to know that Oregon has deep in her heart a sincere attachment
for all her sister states. We have residents here descendants of childrn from
every state in the Union and our population grew out of sturdy pioneers who
battled across thousands of miles of wilderness to reach their haven on the
Pacific coast.
Oregon sends you her warmest greetings and adds her most heartfelt wish that
truly there is a union of states which none can sever.
Governor E. H. Edwards—New Jersey
No better day could be chosen and no conception of a monument more lasting
be selected than has been decided upon by the Nancy Hart Chapter, D. A. R. in
their desire to perpetuate the truism that we now have "A Union of States none
can sever."
On the eleventh of November, at twelve o'clock noon, Eastern standard time,
in response to a proclamation of the Honorable Warren G. Harding, President of
the United States of America, all America will pause to do honor to the Unknown
Hero whose body at that moment will be interred in the National Cemetery at
Arlington in lasting tribute to all our heroes, known and unknown, who gave and
were ready to give their all to make the world safe for Democracy.
At the same time, in our National Capital, will convene a conference on
which is focused the attention of the entire civilized world, its purpose being
to secure the limitation of armaments, that will secure for
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all time the victory won at such a terrible sacrifice, as is admitted by all, by
the entrance into the conflict of the American Expeditionary Forces.
It is with sincere gratification that New Jersey accepts the privilege
extended in your invitation of contributing her soil with that of her
forty-seven sister states, in such a fertile field as Georgia, in the nurturing
of the libetry tree, which bids fair to live in memory for all time, long after
what is planned for this day has been accomplished.
Governor E. F. Morgan—West Virginia
Under separate cover am sending a small box of soil taken from the base of
Stonewall Jackson's monument located on the Capitol grounds. I think this will
be very fittingly placed along with other of like nature coming from all over
these United States.
I am very glad indeed that West Virginia has the honor of participating in
your most impressive ceremony.
The Governor of the State of Colorado had soil sent from the base of the
three following trees: French Hawthorn, English Elm and Pine Oak. The last named
tree was planted by the American Legion, Leo Leyden Post, on May 12, 1921.
Mrs. W. E. Carpenter—West Virginia
I see a clipping in the Clarkesburg, W. Va. Telegram, where you request a
small amount of soil from every section of the United States to place at the
roots of a "Liberty Tree." I also note that the Governor of West Virginia has
forwarded a small box of soil taken from the foot of the Stonewall Jackson
monument on the Capitol lawn, but I am taking the privilege of sending to you
under separate cover by parcel post a small box of soil taken from the spot
where the big home
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of Stonewall Jackson stood. The house was destroyed by fire a few years ago, and
the Daughters of the Confederacy have erected a very nice monument on the spot
where the old home stood. I am sending you these few lines as I know Stonewall
Jackson was a great favorite with the Southern people. My husband is a direct
descendent of Stonewall and our home is situated 1 1-4 miles north of this
historic spot.
I am enclosing you a postcard, which contains the "Old Homestead and Mill."
The old home was destroyed by fire a few years ago, but the mill is in a very
good condition. This past July the State of West Virginia got control of the
homestead which contains five acres and with adjoining lands they are turning it
into a camp for the boys and girls of West Virginia and in a few years we expect
it to be the most historical and one of the show places in our state. I hope the
soil reaches you safely and that it may find a place at the roots of your
"Liberty Tree." and may God bless you all for your noble deed.
Mr. John T. Boifeuillet wrote of this event in the Macon News, as follows:
"Milledgeville has been the theatre of many important and stirring patriotic
events in the life of Georgia, and how appropriate then is it that the Daughters
of the American Revolution are signalizing the Armistice Day exercises in their
loyal city by planting a "Liberty Tree."
"They intend this tree to tell all beholders the blessed and living truth
that the people of this Republic still enjoy the liberty of free government
purchased by the blood and patriotism of their Revolutionary heroes, which was
fundamentally a fight for our country's freedom, as that which was so bloodily
fought and so gloriously won in the war of the Revolution.
"The tree means that forty eight sovereign states, each almost an epmire in
itself, with an aggregate population of 110,000,000 rejoice in the proudswelling
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happiness that, under the flag of their reunited country, all smiles in the
prosperity of peace, religion, culture, progress and wealth .
"The tree is a token of the unity and harmony of the people within the
boundaries of this vast domain, and of their joy that the evolutions of the
various triumps of intelligence, which are the best results of civilization, are
marvelously manifested in this fair land upon which nature has lavished her
choicest gifts.
"The tree proclaims the glad tidings that the patriots of the North and the
patriots of the South are loyally shouting in chorus:
'Sail on! O ship of State!
Sail on! O union strong and great!'
"The tree is an omen of a future with its bright anticipations, with its
glowing promises, with its enlivening civilities.
"The tree teaches that while we should rejoice in the greatness of this
Republic, so rich in memories and crowded with historic associations, we must
not, amid all the evidence of the granduer and glory of the nation, forget the
struggles and sufferings, the heroism and the sacrifice, the privation, danger
and death endured by the gallant boys of Georgia, and of this whole land, while
crowning their country with the laurels of conflict so gloriously won across the
seas."
A large and interesting old map of Millegdeville was given to the Chapter by
the Mayor of-the town, Mr. Miller S. Bell, during Mrs. Hutchinson's regency. The
letter, from Elmira, New York, dated Sept. 9, 1920, reads as follows:
To His Honor:
The Mayor of Milledgeville,
Dear Sir:
While examining the contents of an old box recently, I ran across a map of
your city made at an early
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213
date. Thinking that it might mean more to you or some residents than it does to
me, I am sending it to you under separate cover. I trust that it reaches you
safely.
Yours etc.,
J. G. MCDOWELL
The map is perfectly preserved—"pinxt" by La Tant, in 1788, according to the
inscription, and is very much like the Milledgeville of today.
Of particular interest to the Chapter, is the fact that the date on the map
antedates by a year, the celebrated Indian "talk" with McGillivray, and by
fifteen years the building of the first log house in Milledgeville "on Franklin
street, on Mr. Baxter's lot," according to Sherwood in his Gazetteer of Georgia.
As the ballot had come to women, Mrs. Hutchinson announced that they could
no longer drift on indifferent to the larger life of the community, of the
State, of the nation: and it was at her house on December 27, 1921, that the
members of the Nancy Hart Chapter registered in a body—it being the first
society in Milledgeville to register as a whole. Throughout that year, studies
in Citizenship were given at every meeting, with the result that the Chapter was
inspired with an optimistic and patriotic faith in our American institutions and
in the future of these institutions.
SARAH HEARN GARRARD
1923-1924-1925.
State Vice-Chairman for securing bonds for National D. A. R. Auditorium.
Great it is to believe the dream
When we stand in youth by the starry stream.
But a greater thing is to fight life through,
And say at the end "The dream is true."
—Edwin Markham.
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On Flag Day, June 14,1924, under Mrs. Garrard's regency, markers were
unveiled on the only two known graves of Baldwin County's Real Daughters.
Concerning these unveilings the Atlanta Constitution of June 22 read as
follows :
"On Flag Day the Nancy Hart Chapter unveiled two bronze markers on the
graves of Baldwin County's two Real Daughters—Mrs. Ann Maria Redding, born May
16, 1825, died May 26, 1910; and Mrs. Lucy Ann Gibson, born February 5, 1829,
died March 26, 1905. These two women were the youngest daughters of William
Anderson, who came to Georgia from Virginia shortly before the outbreak of the
Revolutionary War. He enlisted under Gen. Elijah Clarke and was in active
service throughout the conflict. The grave of Mrs. Gibson is in the City
Cemetery, and the grave of Mrs. Redding is in the Meriwether community.
"The setting for the program was a patriotic one. A large flag held by a G.
M. C. cadet waved proudly in the breeze. The following program was given:
Invocation—Dr. H. C. Emory.
Song—The Star Spangled Banner—Junior Music Clubs.
Flag Day—Its Significance—Mrs. J. I. Garrard.
Song—America—Junior Music Clubs.
Reading—"Your Flag and My Flag"—Miss Sanford.
Sketch of Real Daughters—Mrs. J. L. Beeson.
Unveiling of Tablets by Great Grand Daughter of Mrs. Gibson—Hazel Bivins.
Memorial Wreaths Placed by Grand-daughter of Mrs. Gibson—Mrs. Homer Bivins.
Quartette—"For All Saints Who From Their Labors Rest."
Taps—Mr. Moran.
Benediction—Dr. H. C. Emory."
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In April, 1925, Mrs. Garrard marked the grave of another Real Daughter; that
of Mrs. Mary Caroline Roberts Griffin, in Pickens County, She was the daughter
of George Roberts, a Revolutionary Soldier of North Carolina. She was born May
7, 1822, and died August 29, 1904.
Government markers have been ordered for the graves of Samuel Boykin,
Charles Abercrombie, and Captain Edward Beeson, Revolutionary Soldiers.
Congratulations are extended to Mrs. Garrard by every member of the Nancy
Hart Chapter.
Each regent, in turn, has longed to claim the glory of Mrs. Cook's History
for her administration. Each one can truly say of it:
"This is the book I long have sought,
And mourned because I found it not."
As for Mrs. Cook, she can say "Love bade me write," and the Nancy Hart
Chapter Here gives its mead of praise to her, who with her love and faith and
trust, has been a constant inspiration: to her who has held office almost
continuously during the twenty five years of the Chapter's existence.
The Chapter believes that the publishing of this history is the crowning
event of its existence; and its wish is, that this volume may win laurels for
itself throughout the length and breadth of the State of Georgia.
On March 28, 1925, this being the one hundredth anniversary of General
LaFayette's visit to Milledgeville, Mrs. Garrard presented a beautiful granite
boulder to the city, to commemorate this visit.
Dr. E. T. Holmes, president of Georgia Military College., acted as Master of
Ceremonies, and the program was opened with music by the band of the College,
which was followed with a prayer offered by Rev. F. H. Harding.
The members of the Glee Club of the Georgia State College for Women, sang
two patriotic songs.
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The Boulder was unveiled by Masters Emmett and Billy McCombs, great grand
sons of Mrs. Camilla Mc-Combs, who was a flower girl at the reception tendered
General LaFayette, when he visited Milledgeville in March, 1825.
The Boulder contains the following inscription:
"In Commemoration of Marquis DeLafayette, and his visit to Georgia's
capital, March 27-29, 1825. Monday, March 28, a ball and supper were given in
his honor in the State House, and a barbecue was served on these grounds.
Erected by Georgia D. A. R., and Nancy Hart Chapter, March 28th, 1925."
Mrs Howard McCall, of Atlanta in a few well chosen words, placed a wreath
upon the boulder.
Mrs. J. I. Garrard, Regent of the Nancy Hart Chapter, presented the Boulder
to the city in an appropriate talk.
Mayor J. H. Ennis, in accepting the Boulder for the city, expressed
appreciation of the noble sentiment thus expressed by the members of the Nancy
Hart Chapter in perpetuating those things which are of historic value to our
city. The City Council, had, at a meeting placed a record of the gift upon its
minutes. He referred to the fact that Milledgeville was the most historic city
in Georgia, and eloquently paid a tribute to its citizenship of the past and
present.
Col. Erwin Sibley delivered an address reviewing the heroism and sacrifice
that brought LaFayette to this country to give his services to the struggling
Colonists, and related the fact of his winning the love and esteem of Gen.
George Washington. The address was filled with patriotic sentiment.
Following the address, a beautiful luncheon was served to the members of the
Nancy Hart Chapter and their guests at the Baldwin Hotel, after the unveiling
exercises.
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Miss Katherine Scott was toast mistress and her wit contributed largely to
the success of the happy occasion.
The tables were decorated with vases of fleur delis and with French and
American flags.
The story of the Milledgeville celebration in honor of LaFayette, contained
in a few books long out of print, and in old newspapers and magazines,
inaccessible to the people, became after many years full of conflicting
statements. It has been the effort of the Nancy Hart Chapter to untangle them.
Two complete newspaper files have been discovered in the state and there may
be others. Of those found, the one is the oldest newspaper in Georgia, the other
the oldest newspaper of Milledgeville; which newspaper finally blossomed into
the Macon Telegraph, our esteemed contemporary.
LOOKING BACKWARD OVER A CENTURY
"Do you ever dream Carita, of a twilight long ago
When the stars rained silver splendor from the skies of Mexico?"
Over the entrance of the Taj Mahal, which gleams like a jewel in India's
sunshine, is carved in stone, words which mean "In memory of an immortal love."
It was "In memory of an immortal love" that the people of America
acknowledged their debt of gratitude to Marquis de LaFayette, in 1824-1825, when
accompanied by his son, George Washington LaFayette, his secretary, Monsieur
LeVasseur and one servant, he re-visited this country after an absence of nearly
half a century.
At the close of the Revolution, he left thirteen weak states: returning, he
found twenty-four states, some of which were a trackless wilderness when the
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Revolution was over. He visited each one of these twenty-four states, (1) and
all along his four thousand mile journey, he was greeted with military parades,
civic feasts, addresses of welcome, triumphal arches, magnificent balls, old
soldiers' tears of joy, and even enthusiastic Indian demonstrations (2).
When LaFayette reached New York, he received the following letter from
Georgia's Governor: (3)
Executive Department, Georgia.
Milledgeville, 1st. Sept, 1824.
Sir:
On the first annunciation of your arrival, I bid you in the name of the
people of Georgia, welcome to the United States. Making allowance for the claims
of our sister Republics upon your time, we invite you to spend a part of the
winter with us, under the sun of your Southern France. You will everywhere see a
people opening their arms to receive you, all equal, knowing no distinction but
that of public service; which in their estimate places you by the side of
Washington—a people who divided as they are about other men, unite in doing
homage to the virtues of LaFayette. And who sir, can better judge of those
virtues than they who in the darkest days of the Revolution emulated and are now
in the full enjoyment of the fruits of them.
Your fellow-citizen,
G. M. TROUP.
General LaFayette, New York.
________
(1) Lives of the Heroes of the American Revolution, p. 284, Phillips,
Sampson and Co.; Boston.
(2) The Savannah Georgian, April 11, 1825; The Savannah Georgian, May 4, 1825.
(3) The Journal, Milledgeville, Feb. 15, 1825.
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p. 219
The answer to this letter was (3):
Washington, Jan. 19, 1825.
Sir:
I am penetrated with the most lively feelings of gratitude for the kindness
with which the citizens of the State of Georgia, their Legislature,
Representatives and their Chief-Magistrate, have deigned to welcome my arrival
to the United States, and to invite me to a visit so very comfortable to my own
earnest wishes.
I beg your Excellency to be the organ of my respectful and affectionate
acknowledgements, and to receive my personal thanks for the kind manner in which
those testimonies of esteem have been transmitted and by yourself expressed.
Anxious as I am to visit the State of Georgia, I regret that the obligation
to be at Washington on the 22nd of February, and at Boston on the 17th of June,
in consequence of an early engagement to lay the corner stone of the monument on
Bunker Hill renders it necessary to travel with rapidity the four thousand miles
which must be passed between those two periods.
Our order of March is not yet solved, but a few days after my return from
Richmond and Harrisburg, I will have an understanding upon the subject with your
representative in Congress.
Happy I will be sir, to have it in my power to find myself on the soil of
the State of Georgia, and although my visit must be much shorter than I would
wish it, I shall be highly gratified to present to its citizens and to you ,sir,
the tribute of the graceful sentiments, and of the high respect, a cordial tho’
inadequate expression of which, I beg your Excellency will accept.
(Signed) LaFAYETTE.
His Excellency, Gov. Troup,
of the State of Georgia.
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p. 220
When LaFayette traveled South, and notified Governor Troup of Milledgeville,
Georgia, that he would arrive in Savannah about a certain date, the great old
Governor, whose passion was State's Rights replied, "When you have finished your
visit to our sister State, (South Carolina) I will send my aides to accompany
you to my State, and there I will bid you a warm welcome."
On Saturday, March 19, 1825, LaFayette reached Savannah. Governor Troup, and
his suite were there to meet him. At the Bluff, the Governor spoke the following
words: (1) "Welcome, LaFayette, General: 'Tis little more than ninety years
since the founder of this State set foot on the bank where you now stand. Now
four hundred thousand people open their arms to receive you. Thanks to a kind
Providence, it called you to a standard of Liberty in the helplessness of our
early revolution, it has preserved you, that in your latter days, the glory of a
great empire might be reflected back upon you, amid the acclamations of millions.
The scenes which are to come will be for you, comparatively tranquil and
placid—there will be no more dangers—no more frowns of tyrants.
0, sir, what a consolation for a man who has passed through such seas of
trouble, that the millions of bayonets which guard the blessings we enjoy, stand
between you and them.
But enough—welcome General! Welcome— thrice welcome to the State of Georgia."
Days before the expected arrival, all the gazettes of the State had carried
the following announcements:
"Milledgeville, March 2, 1825.
"The Governor invites the surviving soldiers of the Revolution to pay their
respects to Gen. LaFayette at
___________
(1) History of Savannah and South Georgia, William Harden.
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221
the place most convenient for them. They will find places provided for them.
By order of his Excellency,
The COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF.
J. W. Jackson, Aide de Camp."
"Milledgeville, Ga., Feb. 28, 1825.
«r
'The Volunteers of Georgia who wish to pay military honors to Gen.
LaFayette will assemble as best suits their convenience, at Savannah, Augusta or
Milledgeville and at an early hour of the morning of the day on which the
General will arrive at either place, of which due notice will be given—the
Commander-in Chief, wherever he may be present, will be happy to receive them.
ELISHA WOOD, Sec."
The itenerary (1) planned for Georgia was Savannah, Augusta, Warrenton,
Milledgeville, (5) Fort Hawkins; then on to Fort Mitchell, which was named for a
Georgia Governor, but was located on the Alabama side of the Chattachoochee.
LaFayette was Georgia's guest for eleven days, crossing into Alabama at Fort
Mitchell (2) on the morning of March 31st.
An old newspaper (3) of the day recorded the fact that "a note on the post
bill from Chattachouchie dated on the 31st says 'General LaFayette passed the
Chattachouchie on this day'."
Governor'Troup left nothing undone. In the Executive Minutes appears the
following, addressed to the Georgia Legislature:
"Headquarters,
Milledgeville, March 2, 1825.
Gentlemen: No time is to be lost in making arrange-
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222
ments (4) for the reception of General LaFayette. You will therefore immediately
on your assembly here, concert measures for carrying into execution the
following orders—1st. Make contracts with responsible persons, and on the best
terms for supplying horses for the conveyance of the General from Savannah to
Fort Mitchell or Cahawba by the route of Augusta with relays of four at the
distance of every twenty or thirty miles. The Horses to be strong, active,
gentle. Mr. Mangham of this place can supply them between Augusta and this
place. Make a contract with him. Pierce may contract for the route between
Savannah and Augusta—there will be most difficulty in finding a contractor for
the route between Milledgeville and Fort Mitchell or Cahawba. If necessary,
horses must be hired and secured at different points between the two places.
Trusty drivers will be engaged of course.
Mr. Knox, one of the State Proprietors, will drive between Augusta and
Milledgeville. Everything connected with conveyance must be secured against the
possibility of failure or disappointment. If the Governor of Alabama sends an
escort to receive the General at the dividing line, our escort and equipage will
return. A handsome carriage must be borrowed or hired at Augusta for his
accommodation to proceed to the line or to Cahawba.
2nd. Make arrangements for the reception of the volunteers as they arrive on
the morning of the day on which General LaFayette is expected. Designate the
ground they shall occupy and form them into Battalions for evolution, and as the
command of them will be given to some of you, decide among yourselves who shall
receive it. Arrange the order of the military
___________
(1) The Savannah Georgian, Feb. 25, 1825; The Savannah Georgian, April 1,1825.
(2) The Savannah Georgian, April 8, 1825.
(3) The Savannah Georgian, April 8, 1825.
(4) Executive Minutes, Georgia, 1822-1825.
(5) Memoirs of Georgia—The Southern Historical Society, p. 48.
-----------------
p. 223
reception to the General and the point (say of the river) at which it shall
first take place—it will be sufficient if the Aides specially charged with the
duty are in Milledgeville the evening before the arrival of the General.
There are two pieces of Ordnance in the Arsenal which can be served by
volunteer artillierists and the company commanded by Captain Bothwell of
Jefferson have been invited for this purpose. Mr. Bozeman will have ready and
supply the requisite number of cartridges both for artillery and musketry.
3rd. Engage quarters for the surviving soldiers of the Revolution at the
public expense, and according to the best conjectural estimate you can make of
the number who will probably attend—this must be done both at Augusta and
Miledgeville and on the best terms for the public you can secure.
4th. Make a contract on the best terms you can for a simple Fete to be given
at Milledgeville under Arbor to the Volunteers who may assemble there and for
this consult with the Committee of Citizens—the wine is already ordered—General
LaFayette and myself will be present at it, and the Revolutionary Soldiers will
be invited. You will prepare the toasts not exceeding thirteen. Same likewise at
Augusta, only, you will order a cheap and wholesome wine—say claret or Cicily
Maderia and General LaFayette and myself may not be present in consequence of
engagements with the citizens of Augusta.
5th. A review of the troops (if sufficiently numerous) will precede the
Fete, and you will arrange the order of this for Milledgeville yourselves, and
for Augusta in concert with General Montgomery and Col. William Gumming.
General LaFayette will be lodged at the Governor's House—arrangements have
been made for his accommodation there (1).
___________
(1) Executive Minutes, Georgia, 1822-1825; (1) Memoirs of Georgia, Vol. 1,
p. 48; (1) Life of Troup, Edward J. Harden.
-----------------
p. 224
A light Baggage Waggon of two Horses ought to be provided for the
transportation of supplies thro* the nation—those supplies of the most
comfortable kind, laid in on the best terms and distributed at certain stages on
the Eoad by ordering the Baggage Waggon in advance.
And having Concerted and Settled to your satisfaction these various plans
and arrangements, you can join me at any point, at any time you may think
proper. Meanwhile, however, apprize me by each mail of the progress you make in
the execution of the orders, and while so engaged, keep an estimate of your
expenses that they may be defrayed from the Public Treasury 4). In making the
above dispositions you will understand my object to be to give every opportunity
to our Citizens to see the General, and this can be best accomplished during his
short stay in either place by the Military Fete and Review.
G. M. TROUP."
While the Governor was making his plans, the (1) town of Milledgeville,
also, was making plans for the entertainment of the "Nation's Guest."
At a meeting called by Peter F. Jaillett, Intendant, with B. Hepburn and
Orrin Shaw, members of the Board of Corporation, "It was unanimously resolved
that Joel Crawford, Wm. Triplet, Samuel Boykin, Samuel Rockwell, David B.
Mitchell, John Clark, George R. Clayton, Farish Carter, Everhard Hamilton,
Tomlinson Fort, Zachariah Lamar, Thomas Mitchell and Chas. Williamson, Esq. be
appointed managers of a ball to be given in honor of General LaFayette," and at
the same meeting it was "unanimously resolved that the Intendant, through all
the gazettes, invite the citizens of the neighborhood and adjoining counties to
join in the festivities of the approaching occasion."
___________
(1) The Journal, Milledgeville, Mar. 8, 1825.
(4) Acts of State of Georgia, 1824, p 203.
-----------------
p. 225
The managers of the ball (2) directed the following extracts from their
proceedings to be published; "There will be a Public Ball and Supper in this
place on the evening succeeding the arrival of the "Nation's Guest," for which
purpose the Representative and Senate chambers of the State House will be fitted
up and decorated under the direction of a Committee of the Managers. * * * *
Tickets of admission to the Ball Supper may be had at the following places:—Post
Office, Bar of LaFayette Hall, Wiley and Baxter's; at which all persons of
respectable character can apply —Price $6.00."
"Cards of invitation (3) should be presented to every lady who is entitled
to receive them" and the managers sought "to be apprised of any omission in this
particular."
At a fuller meeting (1) where the Intendant and Orrin Shaw, Burton Hepburn,
John Bozeman and Samuel Buffington, members of the Corporation, were present,
the following names were added to the Committee of Arrangements: Thos. W.
Baxter, Arthur A. Morgan, Robert McCombs, M. D. Huson, John B. Gorman, John
Miller and William Rutherford, Esq."
The "Regulations" for the Ball were:
1. The time of drawing for numbers to be announced on the evening of the
Ball, after the company has assembled.
2. General LaFayette and suite accompanied by his Excellency the Governor
and suite will be received by the managers at the door of the State House and
conducted to the Representative chamber. On their entrance, the music in the
gallary will strike up a national air, and the whole company will rise.
3. The ladies, only, will draw numbers, and the calling of them will be
distinctly made; if the lady an-
__________
(1) The Journal, Milledgeville, Mar. 15, 1825.
(2) The Journal, Milledgeville, Mar. 15, 1825.
(3) The Journal, Milledgeville, Mar. 15. 1825.
-----------------
p. 226
swers not to her number the next number in order will be called.
4. No gentleman will be permitted to enter the State House without
presenting to the Door-Keeper a ticket of admission, and when he leaves the
house he will receive a check from the Door-Keeper, to avoid intrusion.
5. Each manager shall provide himself with a LaFayette badge and a white
rose, the former shall be worn on the left lappelle and the latter on the right
lappelle of the coat, during the evening.
6. The lady at the head of the set shall have the right to name the figure
and it shall not be changed during the set.
7. The introduction of the company to the General will be made by any one of
the managers during the evening.
8. The supper will be on the table at ten o'clock precisely, in the Senate
chamber, and will remain on the table until the managers shall direct its
removal. Each manager will select only two gentlemen to wait on the ladies
during the supper, who will be provided with tickets, and no other gentlemen
will be allowed to enter the supper room while the Ladies are at supper, except
the General and suite and Governor. The Band of Music will play National airs
during supper, under orders of the Managers.
9. One of the Committee Rooms will be exclusively appropriated for the use
of the Ladies.
10. The Managers will receive the Ladies at the door and conduct them to the
room.
11. The Company will enter the North door ofthe State House. *****
Published by order of the Managers.
JOEL CRAWFORD, Chairman.
Milledgeville, Mar. 20, 1825."
-----------------
p. 227
On March 19, the following order of arrangements and procession was agreed
upon (2):
1. A deputation of the Committee on Arrangements
2. General LaFayette and suite
3. Governor and staff
4. Revolutionary officers and soldiers
5. The Intendant and Corporation
6. Committee of Arrangements for Ball
7. State House Officers
8. Judges and Members of Congress
9. General and field officers
10. The Military
11. Citizens on horseback
12. Citizens on foot
13. Carriages.
"When the near approach of General LaFayette is announced the procession
will be formed for his reception in two lines, from the bank of the river in the
direction of Mrs. Jenkins* between which lines the General and suite and the
Governor and staff will pass; and after the military salute shall have been
given, will fall into the rear of the Governor and staff. Then proceeding up
Hancock to Wayne St., down Wayne to Greene St., and thence to the Government House.
"The General will be left to his repose in charge of the Committee of
Arrangement.
"A national salute will be fired upon his arrival at the opposite bank of
the river, and the State House and Market bells will then be rung. *****
"At an hour next morning convenient to the General and of which the public
shall be duly informed, a procession will be formed in the State House square,
and move to the Government House, when receiving the General, it will return to
the steps of the State House, when the Intendant and Corporation will be
introduced to the General; when an address will be de-
_________
(2) The Journal, Milledgeville, Mar. 22, 1825.
-----------------
p. 228
livered by the Intendant, and after the General's reply, he will be conducted to
a seat prepared for him where each of the citizens with their families, as would
then prefer to be introduced to him, will be presented by the Committee of
Introduction.
After these ceremonies, the General will partake of a military dinner (1)
prepared for the occasion, at the conclusion of which he will be re-conducted to
the Government House by the Committee of Arrangements, whence, at night,
attended by that, he will repair to the State House, whence a Ball will be
furnished in honor of his arrival and when the company generally will be
introduced to him.
"The Ball will close the festivities of the day.
"When the General shall wish to resume his journey, attended by such of the
citizens and others as may wish to escort him to the limits of the town, he will
take his departure under a national salute. Arrangements have been made with
Messrs. Carter and Crawford (1) for the passage at their ferry of the General
and suite.
"The following named gentlemen compose the Committee of Introduction in
behalf of the General Committee of Arrangements—Messrs. William Kuther-ford,
James Bozeman, Seaborn Jones, Hines Holt, Wm. P. Rogers, Peter F. Jaillett."
Capt. John S. Thomas (2) assisted by Capt. R. H. L. Buchanon (2) were
appointed to act as marshals of the day.
These were the plans formulated. How well they were carried out will be seen
from the following quotations: "General LaFayette and suite reached this place
(3) on Sunday, the 27 ult. at noon.
________
(1) The Journal, Milledgeville, Mar. 8, 1825;
(1) The Journal, Milledgeville, Mar. 15, 1825.
(1) The Journal, Milledgeville, Mar. 19, 1825.
(2) Bench and Bar of Georgia, Stephen F. Miller,—Ordered published each of
the gazettes of the State.
(3) The Journal, Milledgeville, Apr. 5, 1825; The Savannah Georgian, April
1, 1825; The Patriot, 1825.
-----------------
p. 229
"He was escorted from Sparta by Gen. Abercrombie and Staff, the Hancock
Calvalry commanded by Capt. Staples, a Committee of the Corporation of
Milledgeville and a number of citizens of Hancock county. He was met some miles
from the town by the Baldwin Cavalry, commanded by Capt. Scott.
"When the procession reached the opposite bank of the river, a national
salute was fired at the State House. When it had crossed, another was fired.
General LaFayette accompanied by the Governor, ascended a barouche, drawn by
four beautiful bay horses, and proceeded amid the acclamations of the citizens
who lined -the road, the peal of bells and the roar of cannon, to the lodgings
that had been prepared for him at the Government House (5). It was fitted up in
style of splendor unequalled before in this part of the country. The
arrangements there were such as to reflect the highest credit on the taste of
the ladies under whose superintendence they were made.
"Along the walk from the gate to the door stood a number of little girls,
elegantly dressed, who as the General passed strewed flowers before him."
Camilla Sanford and Sarah Ball (1) were two of these little girls. (2) The
Recorder reported that "they would scatter their flowers and say in unison
'Welcome LaFayette' and that he appeared grateful for the attention of these
children, speaking to them repeatedly with his usual benignity."
"As soon as he entered his lodgings (3) three cheers were given by the
military and the citizens. After he had taken some refreshment, a number of
Revolutionary soldiers were introduced to him. The interview between them was
deeply affecting. Many of those who witnessed the cordial embrace of these
war-worn veterans, shed tears of sympathy. We envy
_________
1. Letter of Mrs. Stephen Wilson, Brooksville, Fla.
2. Savannah Georgian, April 5, 1825.
3. The Journal, Milledgeville, March 29, 1825.
5. Life of George M. Troup, Edward J. Harden, p. 293.
-----------------
p. 230
not the man who could look on such a spectacle without emotion.
"At three o'clock the General and suite accompanied by the Governor attended
Divine Service at the Methodist Church (4). Long before his arrival, the church
was so crowded that a seat could not be procured. A multitude surrounded the
door outside, who, as the General approached, formed lines on each side of the
street leading to the door, and as he passed through remained uncovered. As he
entered the door all in the church rose and remained standing until he was
conducted to the seat that had been provided for him near the pulpit. After
service, he returned to his lodgings, accompanied as before mentioned, when he
received company from five until ten o'clock.
"It was truly a republican levee. All were introduced who wished to have an
introduction. The crowd of ladies and gentlemen who pressed forward to grasp the
hand of the companion of their fathers, was immense. All were cordially,
gracefully and affectionately received and returned highly gratified.
"At sunset a national salute was fired and during the evening a number of
rockets were let off in excellent style.
"Monday morning was ushered in by the discharge of artillery and musketry.
At an early hour the military were on duty, consisting of the Hancock and
Baldwin Cavalry—the Clinton Independent Blues— the Wilkinson and Twiggs
Volunteers and the Mil-ledgeville Lafayette Volunteers.
"About ten o'clock they formed in line and were received by General
LaFayette, who expressed himself highly pleased with their appearance.
"The Masonic Fraternity had made arrangements for his reception. A committee
consisiting of Messrs. Hansel, Calhoun, Davis, Ragland and Rockwell addressed
him as follows:
_____________
4. Niles' Register, Vol. 28, April 16, 1825. p. 112.
-----------------
p. 231
"General, in the name of the Fraternity of Free Masons in this place, duly
assembled, we, their committee, have the pleasure to greet you, a most Worthy
Brother of our ancient and honorable order. With extraordinary emotions we now
appear before one so eminently distinguished for his virtues, philanthropy and
patriotism, both in Europe and America; and know that at the same time we are
permitted to hail him Brother! We, in behalf of the Brethern solicit the favor
of our distinguished and Worthy Brother LaFayette, that he will honor our infant
institution with a visit, this day, at such time as to him, may be most
convenient."
To which the General replied: "I am most happy in having an opportunity of
visiting the Masonic Fraternity at this place, my stay being so short, I must
avail myself of their kind invitation between the hours of ten and eleven
oclock, this morning on my way to the State House."
"Accordingly at half-past ten o'clock, Mr. Rockwell in their behalf,
addressed him as follows:
"Worthy Brother—the Lodges of this place, anxious to offer you their
affectionate greetings, as a member of their fraternity, could not forego the
opportunity presented by your brief sojourn among us, of soliciting the honor of
your presence in their Hall for the purpose of paying a just, humble tribute to
the distinguished public and private virtues which adorn the character of our
illustrious Brother.
"As the compatriot of our beloved Washington, as the early defender of our
country, in our country's greatest peril, we offer you, as Masons and Americans,
a heart-warm welcome."
"Brother—There are situations in which human language becomes but a faint
representative of the feelings of the heart—I feel that this is such a
situation. Unable as I am to command language appropriate to my emotions, I can
only ask acceptance of the sincere homage of the warm hearts that survived you,
accompanied, with an ardent prayer to the Supreme Master
-----------------
p. 232
of Heaven, for your prosperity, peace and happiness." The General's reply:
"Right Worshipful and Brethren of this Lodge, at every one of my visits to
my brethren of the American Lodges, I am happy to have to acknowledge their
friendly welcome, their love—to acknowledge their friendly welcome, their kind
remembrances, and to join in their wishes for the cause of freedom and for those
sentiments of equality and philanthropy to which Masons are bound by their oath,
as well as by their own feelings; in this instance, most gratifying to me, I beg
you to accept my affectionate and fraternal thanks."
From the Masonic Hall he proceeded to the State House, attended by the
Military, the Masonic Fraternity with their insignia, the several committees and
the citizens in procession, where he was received by the Corporation, and
addressed as follows by the Intend-ant, Mr. P. F. Jaillett: "General LaFayette
on behalf of my fellow citizens, I tender you an affectionate welcome to the
Metropolis of Georgia.
"Language would but feebly express the emotions of my heart and I
confidently rely upon the goodness of yours duly to make all allowance for the
embarrassments under which I labor on this interesting occasion. It were
superfluous before this enlightened assembly to dwell upon the reasons which
move us to this public expression of gratitude to one, whose history is
identified with that of our country, and whose revered name and heroic exploits
are the theme of every conversation. Indeed, in merely adverting to the
circumstances under which you so gallantly became the champion of this Republic,
I am deeply sensible of my incompetency to do justice to this subject. I would
not speak in the language of adulation or flattery and unsuited to the occasion,
but in the simple and unadorned language of Gratitude and Truth. Who is there in
this large and highly respectable assembly,
-----------------
p. 233
but feels and gratefully acknowledges, your magnanimous and glorious exertions
in our country's cause? What heart in all this multitude, but throbs with
rapture at the spectacle presented to its view? The hundreds by whom you are
surrounded and to whose freedom and independence you^so generously contributed,
bear the most triumphant testimony to your virtues; and this spontaneous
offering at the shrine of valor and worth, proves most conclusively their
affection for you. Of you it may most emphatically be said that your 'history is
read in a nation's eyes'."
" 'Twas at the darkest and most fearful period of our country's history,
when the iron arm of despotism was raised to give the mortal blow to her
existence as a free and independent nation—when the portentous cloud of British
tyranny hovered over this fair and smiling land, threatening ruin and
desolation— when the wisest and bravest of our country's sons, were sinking
under the united effects of poverty, disease and traitorous combinations at
their own doors, that, as an Angel of Light you came to relieve; and with a
generosity and disinterestedness, for which the history of the world has no
parallel, you tender your talants, your infleunce, your fortune, your life.
Youth, wealth and rank—nay, the endowments and hallowed converse of the lovely
companion of your bosom, the ornament of her sex, were, with the purest purposes
that ever ennobled the acts of human nature, offered upon the alter of national
liberty.
"Your high example will be held forth to future generations as the strongest
incentive to virtue, as the most powerful stimulant to deeds of glory, and may
we not cherish the hope that our country is destined to produce other LaFayettes
who, profiting by your example and aided by the God of Battle, will give liberty
and independence to nations now groaning under the yoke of tyranny and oppression.
"Sir, I behold you, with mingled feelings of gratitude and awe the
illustrious compatriot, the
-----------------
p. 234
bosom friend of our immortal Washington, and if it be permitted to the spirits
of the blessed, oh! how transporting the thought, that with Hancock, Warren,
Hamilton, Montgomery, and the host of departed Heroes with whom you toiled and
bled—he is at this moment contemplating this sublime this glorious spectacle!
"Sir, in conclusion, permit me to express the sincere and fervent wish of my
heart, a wish re-echoed by ten millions of freemen, that the evening of your
eventful and useful life may be passed in the bosom of your adopted country,
soothed by the attentions and cheered by the affections of Columbia's sons and
daughters."
The General's reply: "From the moment when in the name of the people of
Georgia, I have been on the borders of this State, most affectionately welcomed
by its worthy Chief Magistrate, till the happy day when in this Seat of
Government, I received testimonies of esteem and friendship so kindly expressed
by you, Sir, I have been impressed with lively sentiments of pleasure and
gratitude.
"I congratulate myself on the opportunity I have enjoyed to witness the
advantageous position and fair prospects of this metropolis; to be presented to
the people of Milledgeville and surrounding country, to admire the Volunteers
now on this spot, to delight in the meeting of my Revolutionary companions and
to thank the numerous friends who have come from distant homes to give me the
gratification of taking them by the hand.
"Here, however, as everywhere else in this visit to all the states, I regret
the rapidity in my journey, which is necessitated by a calculation of time and
by duties not less positive. But in this, as every instance, I throw myself on
the kindness of the people, who, so partial to me in other respects, will have
on this occasion, but to do justice to my situation and to my feelings.
-----------------
p. 235
"I most cordially, Sir, join in your wishes for a successful progress in the
general emancipation of mankind, the era of which has happily begun with our
American revolution. Accept my affectionate acknowledgements for your friendly
remembrance of past events, for your affecting allusion to illustrious
characters and for the share you are pleased to allow me to our common
revolutionary exertions. I beg the citizens of Milledgeville and the kind
multitudes of friends who now surround us, to accept a tender of my most
grateful devotion and respect."
Here again all were introduced to him who sought to grasp his hand. As he
returned to his lodgings a salute was fired by"the artillery and &feu de joi by
the infantry.
"At three o'clock he sat down with the Governor, the Revolutionary Soldiers
(about _____ of whom were present) the military, the committee of arrangements
and the ball committee to a dinner served up in the State House yard(l). During
the repast a balloon was raised. The day being calm, the ascent was fine.
At the military festival, (2) "Two tables about one hundred yards long each,
with cross tables of fifty feet at the ends, were covered with barbecue, roast
beef, bread and other edibles for the military.
"At the upper end in the center, General LaFayette was placed, with Governor
Troup on one side, and his Aide, Col. Seaborn Jones (the master of ceremonies on
the other side of the 'Nation's Guest.' Governor Troup's staff included Col.
Henry G. Lamar, Col. Samuel A. Bailey, Col. Yelverton P. King, Col. John W. A.
Sanford, Col. Samuel T. Bailey and perhaps others, were arranged at the same end
of the table, all taking part in the administration of order, in the observance
_________
1. The Savannah Georgian, April 1, 1825; Nile's Register, Vol. 28, Apr. 16,
1825, p. 112; Memoirs of Georgia, Southern Historical Association, p. 48.
2. Bench and Bar of Georgia, Stephen F. Milleer.
-----------------
p. 236
of proper etiquette, and some of them reading the regular toasts prepared by the
committee of arrangements.
"The band of music was a few steps in the oblong square formed by tables. It
played whenever Col. Jones waved his hand as a signal.
"The author was some thirty paces from General LaFayette, but within good
seeing and hearing distance.
"George Washington LaFayette, the son of the General, was pointed out. His
bald head, and the wig of his father, gave the latter the advantage in youthful
appearance. Col. LeVasseur, the private secretary of the General, the author
could not identify.
"There was quite an array of public characters, of men known in the history
of Georgia—among them General John Clark, formerly Governor, and again a candidate.
"The appetite being satisfied with strong meat, next came the wine, bottles
of which, with wine glasses were distributed on the tables, so that every one
could have a share. The proclamation was made by Col. Jones: "Gentlemen, fill
your glasses for a toast from General LaFayette." Not a growl was heard, not a
frown was seen, at the command; like good soldiers every man did his duty. The
"Apostle of Liberty," the companion and bosom-friend of Washington rose to his
feet, and, in broken English, which all heard with delight, began "The Georgia
Volunteers, the worthy sons of my Revolutionary brethren." Cheer after cheer
resounded, the music struck "Hail to the Chief," the cannon uttered its loud
rejoicing, and soon all was again quiet. "Prepare for a toast from Governor
Troup," was the next order. With solemn and distinct enunciation, that Julius
Caesar, of a chief-magistrate gave forth "A union of all hearts to honor the
"Nation's Guest"—a union of all heads for our country's good." Again the air was
rent with cheers, the band executed a national march and the
-----------------
p. 237
cannon fairly jarred the square. The next order was to prepare for a toast from
General Clark. Until then the author had never seen this celebrated leader of a
party. A tall, bony man, with an open, honest face, rose at table, and with a
shrill voice, gave "Count Pulaski, the gallant Frenchman who fell at Savannah."
We all emptied our glasses in honor of Gen. Clark and his French count as though
history had not been contradicted by the sentiment. General LaFayette must have
esteemed it a special compliment to himself for such renown to be transferred to
his country in presence of such a multitude of witnesses. Whether the mistake
was accidental or otherwise, it did not detract in the smallest degree from the
valor or integrity of Gen. Clark. At most it only signified that his youth was
spent in fighting the battles of his country instead of being enervated within
the walls of a college."
After dinner the following toasts were drunk accompanied by the discharge of
artillery:
1. "The United States of America—When Liberty flew from the old world, she
erected her temple in the boundless forests of the New.
2. The memory of Gen. George Washington:
"That Star of the East
Which so often hath poured
Its beam on the battle, hath set,
But enough of its glory remains in each sword
To light us to victory yet."
3. General LaFayette—the youthful friend of the Father of his Country—The
ardent and devoted disciple of national liberty."
General LaFayette rose and declared himself highly happy at this meeting
with his Revolutionary companions, and after having expressed his thanks, gave
the following toast:
"The State of Georgia, its metropolis, its gallant veterans and the Georgia
Volunteers, the worthy sons of my revolutionary brothers!"
-----------------
p. 238
4. The departed Heroes of the Revolution:
"Like the dew on the mountain
Like the foam on the river
Like the bubble of the fountain
They are gone—and forever."
5. The Surviving Heroes of the Revolution—
They have passed through the wilderness—
But more favored than the prophets of old,
They have lived to enjoy the Land of Promise.
6. The Constitution of the United States—
Its preservation from pollution,
The best guarantee of our liberties.
7. De Kalb and Pulaski—Their bones are entombed in the kindred earth—their
memories are embalmed in the recollection of a grateful people.
8. Col. Huger and Doct. Bollman—They have identified their own fame with
that of LaFayette.
9. South America—The Sun of Liberty is now glowing with meridian splendor in
the west.
10. The oppressed of Europe—America opens her arms to them.
11. Greece—The fire of patriotism though smothered has not been extinguished.
12. The State of Georgia—The youngest of the sisters—she yields to none in
the cause of freedom.
13. The daughters of America—They are ever ready to buckle on her sons the
armor of defense.
VOLUNTEERS
By General LaFayette—The memory pf Gen. Greene.
By Gov. Troup—A union of all hearts to honor the Nation's Guest—A union of
all heads for our country's good.
By Col. S. Jones—The people of Georgia—Republicans in principle—They know
their rights, and if not deceived, will enforce them.
By Col. John Rutherford—America and France in union with her. As by the aid
and prowess of dis-
-----------------
p. 239
tinguished Frenchmen, American Liberty has been established—so may their
remaining patriots save and make permanent the liberties of their own nation.
By Gen. Clark—The memory of Pulaski.
By Peter F. Jaillett—America and France—the former has produced a
Washington, the latter a La-Fayette—kindred spirits on earth, may they be
reunited in Heaven.
The infantry after retiring from the table, again fired a fey de joi,which
was kept up with but little intermission, until night."
But Tragedy stalked hand-in-hand with Mirth at the close of the barbecue.
Major James Smith (1) of Clinton, a near-by town composed of wealthy
planters, swooned when he discovered that he had been robbed of his pocket-book
containing between four and five thousand dollars.
A gang of pickpockets had reaped their harvest both at Milledgeville and in
Savannah, and two of them speedily were paying for their crimes. Within a week,
they were apprehended in the Creek country, brought back to Milledgeville (2)
while the Superior Court was in session and were immediately convicted and
sentenced.
The leader of the gang was an Englishman named William Williams and he was
sentenced to four years' confinement in the Penitentiary (3).
A greater tragedy was enacted when the man (4) who loaded a cannon got his
shirt sleeve on fire. Not knowing this, he placed his hand in the box for
another round of cartridges, and a general explosion followed.
_____
1. Bench and Bar of Georgia, Stephen F. Miller; The Savannah Georgian, April
18, 1825; The Savannah Georgian, April 11, 1825.
2. The Savannah Georgian, April 12, 1825; The Macon Messenger, April 1825;
Bench and Bar of Georgia, Stephen F. Miller.
3. The Savannah Georgian, April 18, 1825.
4. The Macon Messenger, April 1825; The Savannah Georgian, April 12, 1825;
Bech and Bar of Georgia, Stephen F. Miller.
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p. 240
The man himself was blown several feet into the air and in a day or two died of
his wounds.
Two other men were severely injured, but in time, recovered.
"The Ball (1) in the State House on Monday night excelled by far anything of
the kind ever seen in Milledgeville. About three hundred ladies were present,
and formed an array of beauty, taste and fashion which we have never seen
surpassed .
"Between two hundred and two hundred and fifty gentlemen attended. The rooms
were fitted up in a most superb manner, under the direction of the ladies—and
here their peculiar talent for such matters was conspicuously displayed.
"The doors, the pillars which support the galleries themselves, the windows,
the chandeliers and the ceiling—all were tastefully decorated with evergreens
and a profusion of flowers. A number of muskets were handsomely arranged in the
galleries and adorned with evergreens. Ornaments formed by a fanciful
combination of swords were displayed against the walls. Amid wreaths of
evergreens and festoons of flowers, we observed in large characters "Welcome
LaFayette, Defender of our Country, Welcome."
"The whole, taken together, providing a brilliant effect, and the band
struck up "Hail to the Chief."
"He was conducted around the room and presented to the company by the
managers. Then, like ceremonies were observed when he entered the Senate chamber.
"The dancing then commenced in both rooms. He remained until ten o'clock,
receiving with his usual politeness and affability the affectionate gratulations
of the assembly, which continually pressed around him. He then returned, and the
dancing continued until three in the morning.
________
1. Nile's Register, Vol. 28, April 16, 1825, p. 112.
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p. 241
Mrs. Edward Napier possesses two dainty silk dresses which were worn at this
grand ball at the Capitol, by Miss Susan Johnston and her mother, Mrs. Elizabeth
Gordon Howard Johnston.
The dresses are of the Empire type, with very high and very slender waist
lines, with tiny sleeves dropping off the shoulders, and with narrow skirts. The
silk of which they are made is still perfectly preserved.
Mrs. Napier has also in her possesion an old scrap-book, in which is
preserved the original invitation of Miss Susan Johnston to the ball. On this
invitation the names of John Clark and Zachariah Lamar do not appear with the
list of the managers of the ball.
It was imperative that the General should reach Ft. Mitchell on Thursday, and
he was prevailed upon to remain at the ball, solely upon the condition that his
departure early Tuesday morning should be without ceremony, and that
arrangements should be made by which he could travel to Ft. Mitchell, one
hundred and twenty miles, in two days.
"The citizens (1) of Milledgeville furnished additional relays of horses, so
as to change every fifteen miles."
Accordingly, LaFayette left early on Tuesday (2) morning attended by the
Governor's aides—Cols. Randolph (3) and Blanks (3), and by Henry G. Lamar (4)
and Thaddeus G. Holt (4).
"It had been previously arranged by the Governor to furnish an escort of
Cavalry as far as the Alabama boundary. But the rapidity with which it became
necessary to travel, in order to reach that point by the time appointed,
rendered the execution of this arrangement impracticable."
________
1. The Historical Record of Macon, John C. Butler, pp 76-80.
2. The Savannah Georgian, April 4, 1825.
3. The Journal, Milledgeville, Aprl 5, 1825.
4. Historical Records of Macon, J. C. Butler, pp 76-80; History of Augusta,
C. C. Jones, pp 170-171.
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p. 242
Before General LaFayette left Milledgeville, he, on March 28, wrote to the
Committee of Citizens of Clinton, Ga., who had invited him to come by their
route to Macon. His letter (1) reads: "Gentlemen, I have been highly honored by
your kind invitation, and should have most cordially enjoyed the pleasure of a
visit to Clinton, but my engagements at this Seat of Government and the
obligations I am under to reach Ft. Mitchell in two and Montgomery in four days
time, precludes the possibility of my indulging the grateful wishes of my heart.
Be pleased to be the organ of my sentiments to the citizens of Clinton and
yourselves to receive my respectful acknowledgements.
LaFAYETTE."
Gov. Troup, in his letter (2) to the Committee of Citizens which was dated
March 31st, stated that LaFayette could not take the route by Clinton, because,
if he did so, he could not reach the Agency at the time he had planned.
On Tuesday the day of his departure, LaFayette dined in Macon, (1) and
reached the Creek Agency on the Flint river, sixty miles from Milledgeville,
that evening (2). On account of heavy rains he got "no further than Ross', forty
miles from the Agency" the next day. He arrived at Ft. Mitchell (3) at eleven A.
M. on March 31, 1825.
"He is gone—Health, peace and happiness attend him. The joy which his
presence diffused among us is saddened by but one reflection that we may never
again look upon that face which beams with a benevolence almost unearthly—that
we may never
________
1. The Journal, Tues. Apr. 26, 1825.
2. The Journal, Tues. Apr. 26, 1825.
1. The Savannah Georgian, April 4, 1825; Historical Record of Macon, J. C.
Butler.
2. The Savannah Georgian, April 8, 1825; The Savannah Georgian, April 11, 1825.
3. The Journal, Milledgeville, April 1825; The Savannah Georgian, April 9,
1825; The Savannah Georgia, April 11, 1825.
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p. 243
again grasp that hand which so disinterestedly and so successfully fought the
battles of our country and assisted in securing for us the inestimable
privileges of which we are now in the full fruition (4)."
This is the story. But there is one authority, Le Vasseur, LaFayette's
secretary, who, in his account of this visit to Milledgeville, makes statements
which upon first reading, seem not to correspond with the facts stated above.
Upon a closer study, I think all will agree that no real differences exist.
Le Vasseur, in his interesting history (1) says:
"On the 25th we left Augusta, which is well built and containing more than
four thousand inhabitants, to visit Milledgeville, passing through Warren-ton
and Sparta. The General was very affectionately received in each of these small
towns; but we found the roads everywhere in a very bad condition, and so much
broken up, that we were obliged to travel a part of the way on horseback.
Happily the carriage in which the General rode, resisted all accidents, but it
was near breaking down twenty times. The first day the jolts were so violent,
that they occasioned General LaFayette a vomiting which at first alarmed us, but
this entirely passed after a good night passed at Warrenton.
We arrived on the 2d of March (2), on the banks of little river Oconee near
to which Milledgeville, the capital of Georgia, is built. This town, which, from
the dispersion of its houses, and the multitude and extent of its beautiful
gardens, rather resembles a fine village than a city, containing a population of
two thousand five hundred souls, among whom General LaFayette was received as a
father and a friend. The citizens conducted by their magistrates, came to
receive him on the banks of the river-
1. Le Vasseur's, "LaFayette in America in 1824 and 1825" Vol. 2, Published
in Philadelphia, 1829.
2. Misprint for 27th of March.
4. The Journal, Milledgeville, April 5, 1825.
p. 244
and the aides-de-camp of the governor conducted him with pomp to the State
House, which claimed the honour of lodging him. The day was passed in the midst
of honours and pleasures of every kind. After the official presentation in the
state house, where the General was addressed by an American citizen of French
descent, Mr. Jaillet, mayor of Milledgeville: after the visit which we made to
the lodge of our masonic brethern, and the review of. all the militia of the
county, we dined with Governor Troup, who had assembled at his house all the
public officers and principal citizens, with whom we spent the evening at the
state house, where the Ladies of the place had prepared a ball for General
LaFayette; but at this ball there was neither possibility nor wish for any one
to to dance; each anxious to entertain or hear the nation's guest, kept near
him, and seized with avidity the occasion to testify gratitude and attachment.
Affected almost to tears with the kindness evinced towards him the General
completely forgot that Georgia was a new acquaintance. He also forgot, it
seemed, that to-morrow we were to depart in the morning, and that some hours of
repose would be necessary, as he passed a great part of the night in conversing
with his new friends."
The word "State House" for "Government House," where LaFayette was lodged,
is a small error. .Le Vasseur did not try to give Monday's events in their
proper sequence. The official presentation at the State House came after the
visit to the masonic lodge. The visit to the Masonic Lodge came after the review
of the troops.
If this historian wrote from notes, the dinner he mentions, may have been
the dinner at which Governor Troup entertained on Sunday evening, the day of
their arrival. If it took place on Monday, it was closely followed by the
barbecue or military fete at which all the distinguished men and the military
were present.
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p. 245
Continuing, Le Vasseur says:
"On the 29th of March, after taking leave of the citizens of Milledgeville,
and expressed our thanks to the committee of arrangements for the kindness with
which we had been loaded, we resumed our route with some aides-de-camp of
Governor Troupe, who, with a skillful foresight had previously arranged
everything, so that the General should experience the inconven-ices inevitable
to be encountered as little as possible, in a journey across a country without
roads, towns and almost without inhabitants."
ADDRESS DELIVERED BY MR. ERWIN S1BLEY AT THE La FAYETTE CENTENNIAL
March 28, 1925
Madam Regent, Members of the Nancy Hart Chapter of the Daughters of the
American Revolution, Ladies and Gentlemen:—
Today, as we contemplate the meaning of these ceremonies commemorating a
visit of a man not of our own Commonwealth—not of our Nation—nor yet of our
language, but one of foreign birth and of the Eastern hemisphere,—we are
confronted with the thought of the smallness of this world that we occupy.
Today, as we realize that our little city—situated as it is among the red
foothills of our State, like a gem against a velvet casement—was one of the few
cities visited by the man in whose name we have assembled, and hence one of the
few cities that may,—from a personal kinship, as it were—properly memorialize
his visit to our country,—we are impressed anew with the distinctiveness of our
Milledgeville, and once more feel justified in our pride of her history and
tradition.
And again, as we today observe these exercises so appropriately arranged by
the Ladies of the Nancy Hart Chapter, of the Daughters of the American
Revolution, we bow our heads in respectful gratitude for
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p. 246
this organization—for its affection, for tradition and vision of the future—and
for its preservation in this permanent, as well as attractive manner, to be read
and known by all who would learn, the early record of the birth of this, our
Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. And so, not inappropriately, may
these exercises also be considered as commemorating the fidelity, patriotism and
love of The Doughters of the American Revolution. And the speaker rejoices in
this opportunity of voicing his gratitude for the lesson being taught today,
hoping that his efforts expended in his part of the program—so excellently
executed to this number,—may not mar its plans.
And now, it might be asked—what meaneth these exercises marking the occasion
of a visit of a foreigner to our modest little city one hundred years ago ?
Born of respectable parents of long ancestry of historical and scholarly
nobility—in the province of Auvergne, in the central part of France—on September
6th, 1757, was a red headed boy—Marquis de La-Fayette. His name was much longer
than that, but that suffiiceth on this occasion for identification. His father,
a colonel in the army, had been killed in battle some few months prior to the
child's birth, and this delicate infant was left to the care, protection and
nurture of his widowed mother. For some time his frail physique lent little
promise of an extended existence, and it was principally thru his own
perseverance and the vigilance of his mother that finally resulted in the
development in him of a virile constitution.
At twelve years of age he went to college in Paris where he displayed a
mental development that distinguished him to be of scholarly traits. He was made
page to Queen Antionette and, at the age of fifteen, honored as a member of the
bodyguard to the King. Later he received a commissioned office in the army.
Although of aristocratic lineage and with an inheritance of considerable
fortune received at the
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247
deaths of his mother and his grandfather—as well as having married at the age of
seventeen a woman of wealth—still his love of freedom and antagonism to
oppression from his early days continued throughout his life. His boyhood dreams
and youthful days of hero-worship were filled with thoughts and ambitions of the
liberator. Anecdotes of freedom entertained and inspired him. And frequently he
would be found in his controversies and discussions on the side of the weak
against the strong.
And so it came to pass that while stationed at Metz in the memorable 1776,
as an officer in the French Army, he came in contact with a British subject who
rather boastfully detailed the great plans that our Mother country had of giving
her recreant offspring a "good thrashing" and re-subjugating the American
colonies to British domination. True to his nature, immediately was LaFayette
aflame in the cause of the Colonies and he resolved to offer his service to
America and embrace the opportunity to demonstrate in deeds of valor and glory
his impluses against tyranny. Resigning his office in the army, he tendered
himself to our agent in France, Mr. Silas Deane, for military service. He was
accepted. Finding his family, friends, and the King, himself, objecting to his
action and threatening the perfection of his plans, he, at his own expense,
purchased a vessel to convey him to our shore. On June 14th, 1777, he landed at
Charleston and made his way to the Congress to confirm his arrangements entered
into with Mr. Deane, and to be inducted into service. He was a man of nineteen
years of age, of medium build, red haired, hazel eyes, a mouth and chin of
refined strength, with a youthful attitude of fervor and vigor, who presented
himself to our Continental Congress.
His youthful appearance, as well as the disappointments that the Congress
had lately experienced in the enlistments of many foreign exploiters of the
cause of independence whose hearts were not in the
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sacred cause of liberty, contributed to the action of that body in rejecting
LaFayette and repudiating the engagement entered into by Mr. Deane. Whereupon,
to the surprize of those venerable statesmen, LaFayette finally demanded:
"After the sacrifices I have made, I have a right to exact two favors: one
is, to serve at my own expense—the other is to serve as a Volunteer."
And so, like Moses of old, whose sincerety was measured by his preference
for the sufferings of his peoples' cause over the ease of the court-life of an
Egyptian Pharaoh, LaFayette's sincerety thus signified, moved Congress to grant
him a commission of Major General. The office, at the time, however, was rather
perfunctory than of actual authority in the military forces.
So impressed was General Washington with this animated young man of courage
and serious intent and of generous impulse, that his respect may be inferred in
his tendering to him his headquarters at his home.
LaFayette's bravery was immediately demonstrated at the Battle of
Brandywihe, where from a wound received from the enemy, his blood, testified to
the geniuneness of his making the cause of the Colonies, that of his own. When
he recuperated sufficiently to re-enter active service, General Washington
placed him with General Greene in New Jersey. There, his prowess won the
recognition of the Congress and, at the instance of General Washington, ,his
commission was made meritorious.
Through the hardships of Valley Forge where the continental army was
wintering, he suffered in common with the others of the army. Not only was he
true and loyal himself, but his cheerful disposition encouraged the
soldiers—many of whom were dissatisfied, and desertions were frequent. Think of
it—my friends—this erstwhile stranger referred to as foreigner—misunderstood and
unappreciated by the
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p. 249
Congress—standing true to the cause of the revolution while many of our own
true-bloods, disheartened, had deserted! Certainly this was no common man for
whom we have gathered to pay tribute!
The secret of his fidelity to the Colonies may be inferred in a letter to
his father-in-law. In explaining his zeal he wrote:
"because it is the cause of justice; because it honors humanity; because it is
important to my country, and because my American friends and myself are deeply
engaged in it."
Many portentous words are contained in that short extract of confidence to a
relative. And when we consider that his wealth and station in France were
inviting him to ease and indifference, and the fact that this statement was not
made for public show but privately, and when we realize the distressed and
discouraged condition that our forefathers were in at the time it was penned—it
would seem that of them all, "friends—my American friends" are most reflec* tive
of the grand and noble nature—elevating and uplifting—of the LaFayette that we
honor today! If necessity be the criterion of friendship, was he not truly a
friend indeed?
In May 1778, he wrote his faithful wife on the occasion of the death of
their daughter-—an occasion when only thoughts of the soul and deep conviction
may be expected—he said:
“have always been perfectly convinced that by serving the cause of humanity
and that of America, I serve also the interest of France.’
May I pause to direct your attention to these prophetic words of service to
his own country as reflective of his efforts for the Colonies to observe that,
as he was over here in 1777, we were later "over there" in 1917! And in that he
contributed to deliver us from
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unjust demands of England in 1777, we contributed to deliver him—his
country—from the unjust demands of the Germans one hundred and forty years later!
It was largely through his influence as expressed in such letters as those
quoted and in reports made to his friends and others interested in France, that
on the 6th day of February 1778, France recognized the independence of the
American Colonies. This encouraging news reached America at a critical time for
the cause of independence. Cornwallis was in possession of Philadelphia. The
Canadian expedition had been a failure. The hard winter had added to the
instability of the continental army, imperilling its morale and forecasting
mutinies. Untiringly LaFayette continued his efforts in France and we are not
surprised to learn that it was largely through his solicitation that the
expedition under d'Estaing, arrived in July 1778 with twelve ships and six
frigates, to assist in the colonial cause. From an historical and military
aspect, perhaps it was unfortunate that there arose the confusion and
misunderstanding between General Sullivan and this French count so that the
latter did not co-operate as expected, yet from the biographer the incident
serves well to illustrate another trait of character to be admired in LaFayette.
The count, somewhat, "miffed" —as is said in common parlance—had retired to
Boston and refused to respond to overtures made inviting his assistance.
Finally, LaFayette, in the role of peacemaker, interceeded was successful in
getting the count's co-operation. Hastening back to Newport, LaFayette found
that in his absence, Sir Henry Clinton had re-inforced Newport and the American
Army was in rapid and disordered retreat and about to be cut off. Entering the
thickest of the fighting, he rallied the routed troops, restored order and
retreated without serious loss. For this signal service, President Laurens of
the Congress in a communication commended him.
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p. 251
Leave being granted him to return to France in October 1778, he lent his
energies in obtaining a closer co-operation between that Nation and the
Colonies,-going to the extent of offering his own fortune to engage the services
of the French ships for one year. He wrote President Laurens:
"The affairs of America, I shall ever look upon as my first business while I
am in Europe."
As a result of this visit to France, six ships of the line and 6000 men were
promised by the King.
Returning to America, his services were utilized in quelling the Morristown
mutiny. It was about this time that Benedict Arnold betrayed himself to the
enemy, and was projecting his unsuccessful plans to deliver the American army to
the British. LeFayette was placed by General Washington in command of the
Southern expedition against Cornwallis and, in order to supply his soldiers with
the necessary provision, he borrowed on his own personal credit, $10,000.
In a letter written July 20th by LaFayette suggesting the purpose of the
British of focussing their forces at New York, and the retirement to that point
from which he intended to embark for England, he attracted the attention of
General Washington to the plan of cutting Cornwallis off. In execution of this
design, General Washington made preparations as if he would make battle against
Sir Henry Clinton, stationed at New York. General Washington's activities kept
Sir Henry in such concern over this ostensible project as to completely disguise
his purpose of joining LaFayette in Virginia, and to surround Cornwallis before
there could be a juncture of his and Sir Henry*s forces in New York. Great
secrecy was preserved. Even LaFayette could not be apprised fully of the plan.
The danger of interception by the enemy was too great. Doubtless it took all the
patience of the proverbial
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Job for this Frenchman—and red-headed, too—to await complete intelligence. Fake
communications were purposely released which fell into the hands of the enemy
and every ruse was practiced that military genius could invent to keep the real
purpose hid. An old negro servant played an interesting part in the enterprise.
On August 19th, the American forces were put in motion and, crossing the
Hudson, began their march in Virginia. Washington urged the utmost care on the
part of LaFayette, upon whose patient and skillful cooperation the success of
preventing the escape of the enemy before his arrival, depended. On the 30th of
August, Count de Grasse, with 28 ships of the ilne and convoys and frigates
arrived at the Chesapeake. He blocked York river. A juncture of forces was
formed at Williamsburg on September 5th. Co-operation was had with General Wayne
on the South side of the James River. Cornwallis seeing his danger, urged
assistance from New York. But too late! The die was cast! Washington arrived at
Williamsburg on the 14th of September and movement was directed toward Hampton
for the Yorktown siege. Washington found everything in entire accord with his
plans and he openly commended LaFayette—big men are not sparing in their praise
of virtue! About this critical time, an obstacle arosje tending to serious
consequences! Count de Grasse, hearing of the expected arrival of British naval
re-inforcements, desired to retire some distance to open sea for the engagment.
This presented a precarious situation to the success of the colonial forces. It
would furnish an outlet for the escape of the enemy. Again LaFayette, the
peacemaker, had to be invoked and Washington dispatched him to the Admiral to
urge the necessity of his retaining his strategic position. LaFayette was
successful and the Admiral re-remained. By the 25th of September the troops
began to arrive and on the 28th the movement toward York-town halted in two
miles thereof, and that historic
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seige commenced. Desperate fighting followed; until on October 17th., Cornwallis
offered to capitulate and on the 19th day of October 1781, the British were
taken prisoners. The combined geniuses of these great men had prevailed. Ever
afterward, the names of Washington and LaFayette were associated together.
LaFayette returned to France, his purpose being to have Spain and France
attack the British West Indies and to further the American cause. So formidable
were his efforts that negotiations for peace soon commenced, and on January
20th, 1783, peace was finally concluded.
Upon recognition of the independence of the Colonies, and the establishment
of peace, LaFayette immediately directed his energies to the creation of
commercial relations of the Colonies with France and Spain. Later as the guest
of General Washington in America, he displayed his pacific powers in assisting
in the negotiation of peace with the Indians. Suggestive of the gratitude felt
by the American people for him, are the actions of Virginia and Maryland in
bestowing upon him and his male heirs full citizenship in their respective
jurisdictions.
And now, my friends, when we consider the nobility of their characters and
the many traits common to both, the respect and admiration that Washington and
LaFayette each entertained for the other is natural and logical. Bravery and
military skill were common to both. LaFayette, demonstrated these traits at
Brandywine and in his successful harassment of Cornwallis in his retirement from
Philadelphia, where his own losses were greatly minimized against the vast
superior and well equipped force of the enemy.
We have noted his regard for his soldiers in sharing with them the hardships
of the army and taking the lead in danger, and in borrowing money for their
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provision and comfort. His pride in them is observed in the following statement:
"The Virginia batallions are the best troops that ever took the field * * *
they are far superior to any British troops and none will ever venture to meet
them in equal numbers.
Among the records of Louis 16th., there is an anecdote illustrative of this
relationship between him and his soldiers. While reconnoitering among the
British lines, a party of continental soldiers was fired upon by the enemy. One
fell wounded, the others save one, fled! The officer, unmindful of the danger,
leaned over the fallen one to assist him. Observing the wound to be mortal, and
that nothing could be done, with a show of emotion, he retired. In deference to
this act, the British ceased firing. This officer was La-Fayette! Little wonder
that his soldiers loved him— he first loved them!
And also is it little wonder that the Father of our country found
congeniality and companionship in the association with this great man! The
speaker recalls that as a school boy, possibly in the third reader, in yonder
historic old capitol building—now the Georgia Military College—he read an
account of similar regard and sympathy being shown by General Washington for his
troops. A small squad of soldiers, struggling over the removal of a field piece
bogged in, the mire, at the cursing dictations of a petty officer, was
approached by General Washington. Seeing the difficulty—so the story goes—the
General suggested to the officer that he, too, lend his assistance in the
enterprise. Whereupon the officer called the attention of the General—who was
unknown to him—of his official position. General Washington dismounted from his
horse and, himself, assisted to the success of the project. Remounting, he
commanded the little man to
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salute the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army!
We have noted LaFayette's diplomacy and success in peace as well as in war:
in his interceding between the Continental forces and the French; in pacifying
the American Indians; and in leading in the movement to establish commercial
relationship with the world.
And now, my friends, after these observations, may we not say: first in war
and first in peace and first in the hearts of those over whom it fell his lot to
control, we find these two men—Washington and LaFayette— akin.
Like Damon and Pythias—yea Jonathan and David—was their friendship.
LaFayette named his son; George Washington.
I shall eliminate an interesting portion of the biography of our hero, which
I have designated as: LaFayette the Frenchman—the Peoples' Friend. To this time
we have addressed ourselves to LaFayette the American, and now I hasten to the
division of my remarks designated by me as : LaFayette the Citizen of
Milledgeville. I regret that we cannot study the virtues of this man in his own
country and marvel at the similarity between him and our General Washington.
Also that we may not observe upon the fact that a South Carolina boy was a party
to the enterprise of an effort to deliver him from the Austrian prison. But I
must pass on.
For the reason that he would not support the tyranies of Louis, LaFayette
was charged with treason. Altho acquitted, it cost him his position of deputy at
the next election. At this time upon an invitation from President Monroe, he
visited America, arriving in New York on the 15th day of August, 1824,
accompanied by his son, George Washington LaFayette, and his secretary, a Mr.
Levasseur.
His visit was twelve months of festivities and entertainments. Guns saluted,
bells rang, and officials and revolutionary comrads mingled alike together to
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pay him tribute. Congress presented him with $200,000, and a township out of
respect for his services to this country. And it was on this visit—when the
entire nation did him homage—that he made memoriable—our historic city and this
campus on which we have assembled, paying it a visit on March 27th, and 28th.,
and 29th, 1825—one hundred years ago.
I have here in commemoration of the grand ball, a beautiful poem written by
Mrs. B. W. Hunt, of the nearby city of Eatonton, dedicated to two little
slippers that graced the minuet at that LaFayette ball.
The fact that this poem has been selected by the editors of the Library of
Southern Literature as being worthy of a permanent place among the best that
Southern writers have ever produced, is a compliment to the author, as well as
indicative of its value. The poem is entitled "Grandma's Slippers," and is as
follows:
Grandma's Slippers
Ah, little shoes, with huge rosette,
And heel, "La Marie Antionette,"
So you have danced the minuet With Courtly Marquis La Fayette.
A hundred years you've lain so still
(The thought comes with a sudden thrill,)
I wonder if you could forget
Again to dance the minuet.
For I to-night, in old brocade
And petticoat with silver braid,
With patches, power and pomade,
Shall wear you to the masquerade,
My grandma's slippers! And I muse
When you last danced, oh, dainty shoes
T'was with bright sword and epaulet,
Your partner, Marquis LaFayette.
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A hundred years! What interlude
Since that far time! And I intrude
Upon your garret solitude,
That you may dance with modern dude!
No! Back within your ancient case
With by-gone gowns and yellow lace,
I reverently lay each little shoe,
No modern man shall dance with you.
Small slippers you shall not disgrace
The memory of that time and place,
When last, with flashing jewels set,
You led the reel with La Fayette!
When this gala event was concluded, on the following day, with his son and
secretary, our hear left for Alabama by way of Macon. And the honors of that
occasion are still echoed in these exercises and are perpetuated in the monument
unveiled today by the patriotic ladies of the Nancy Hart Chapter. It is pleasing
to note that upon his return to France, he was elected to the Chamber of Deputies.
And now as we pause to contemplate the La-Fayette of the Eastern hemisphere
and the Washington of the Western hemisphere, there comes to our memories the
sentiment of the poet that there is no East and there is no West, when two
strong men meet, when Washington faces LaFayette. And whereas in his day,
LaFayette was called the "Man of Two Worlds," it is not amiss to say of him,
that he now stands a man of one united world, and his name in East and West
alike is an emblem of honor, loyalty, altruism and love.
And let us resolve that upon these principles we shall magnify the kinship
of Nations and of all peoples everywhere, so that peace, that perfect peace that
thrives in the brotherhood of man, may be the fruit of a world-wide Christian
civilization. When the Prince of Peace returns, the appropriate environment and
atmosphere for his reception and coronation may then
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p. 258
be found, when he may be recognized as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords; and
service, and not being served, shall be the motto of us all.
Additional Comments:
From:
Part IV - History of the D. A. R.
HISTORY of BALDWIN COUNTY GEORGIA
BY MRS. ANNA MARIA GREEN COOK
ILLUSTRATED
ANDERSON. S. C.
Keys-Hearn Printing Co.
-1925—
File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/ga/baldwin/history/other/gms250historyo.txt
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