Yourself and friends are cordially invited to attend the Military and Civic Celebration to be held in the City of Austin from May 14th to 19th in honor of the dedication of the New Capitol of Texas.
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Yourself and friends are cordially invited to attend the Military and Civic Celebration to be held in the City of Austin from May 14th to 19th in honor of the dedication of the New Capitol of Texas.

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It will be Long in the History of Austin before its Parallel will be Witnessed - Farewell
18 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
ATTRACTIONS FOR SATURDAY. A Wonderful Sham Battle and Magnificent Fire Works.
Saturday, the closing day of the great dedication week, will be the grandest of the week. Look in another column for the programme of the wonderful fireworks exhibit that will take place that night, and then consider those additional attractions. On that day the judges make known the lucky winners of all the military and band prizes. Then in open view the companies and bands will receive the cash prizes and medals and banners they have won. This is a most interesting event. In addition to this there will be the most stupendous event of the week, the
GREAT SHAM BATTLE.
which will be participated in by all the militia and the United States troopsâ2,000 soldiers in battle; when since the war was such a scene ever known? There have been provided 40,000 blank cartridges and besides this the United States batteries will be constantly booming. Such a scene was never witnessed in Austin or in any city in the south. This sham battle will take place Saturday afternoon at the close of the prize distributionsâwho can miss seeing it?
GILMOREâS FAREWELL TO NIGHT
The last appearance of the great impresario, P. S. Gilmore, and his wonderful band, will take place to-night at the drill grounds, and be accompanied by several new and sensational features. The magnificent Mexican band will grace the programme with two or three of their distinguishing selections, after which Gilmore and his band will take the stand and play a programme of brilliant selections, in which one of the charming sopranos of his troupe. Madame Annie Louise Tanner, will sing the brilliant echo song, âLo, Hear the Gentle Lark,â with flute obbligato by Mr. Fred Lax. The whole will conclude with the popular Boulanger march, played by the whole consolidated aggregation on the field, consisting of Gilmoreâs, the Mexican band and all visiting bands, consisting altogether of over three hundred musicians, the whole to be accompanied by the anvils and Gilmoreâs battery of six cannons.
This great programme will be preceded at 7:45, by a contest of some of the visiting bands for one of the prizes of the tournament. Not a word need be said of the attractions of this remarkable event. It will be long in the history of Austin before its parallel will be witnessed.
Capitol Dedication Ceremony
17 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
THE DEDICATION. Magnificent and Imposing Military Pageant.
A Brilliant and Ever to be Remembered Spectacle, Witnessed by Thousands.
Doings on the Grounds Yesterday, and Programme for TodayâDrill Notes and Important Pointers for Various Committees.
Yesterday was a day of jubilation and rejoicing.
Never in the history of the city, never in the history of the state, was there another such a day.
The city was crowded with visitors. From center to circumference it was literally jammed.
It was Dedication Day. It was a day of jubilee, and people from all parts of the state, people from other states, and from the sister republic were here to participate in and do honor to the occasion.
The programme for the day was announced to commence at 8:30 in the morning, and long before that hour men and women and children began to appear on the streets in scattered groups and strolling parties tending toward the new capitol building.
At 7 oâclock there was a very material increase in the number, and at 8 oâclock there was a steady stream of people pouring into the Avenue from all directions.
Whence they came nobody knew. They were there and they were there bent on seeing and enjoying all that was to be seen and to be enjoyed.
At the new capitol people crowded into the spacious structure, and every window on the south side was soon surrounded by eager sight-seers. Men climbed out of the windows and perched themselves on the projection which extends around the second story of the building. All the available space inside of the building, from which a glimpse could be had of the grounds was quickly occupied.
Immediately in front of the capitol a vast crowd assembled, while the hillsides vast and west of the grounds were thronged with vehicles of every conceivable size and shape, and all were filled with people eager to witness the brilliant and imposing military pageant and the consecration of the new capitol.
In the main entrance, and under the beautiful and towering triumphal arch which spans it, seats were arranged for the governor and distinguished military and their guests, while immediately in front of the vestibule a large platform was erected, on which the Grand Lodge of Masons were to perform their ceremonies. From the main entrance of the capitol, looking south down the broad Avenue, the scene beggared description. Hundreds, yea, verily, thousands of flags and streamers hoisted in the air, and beneath them, as far as the eye could reach, was a surging mass of humanity. There was a solid phalanx of moving [âŚ] opening looking out upon the Avenue was filled with people.
They were everywhere. They were as thick as hops or blackbirds in spring time. Gracious! whence did they come? As said they were from everywhere. Old men and young men. Old women and young women to the manor born, were in the Capital City for the first time, and they were from every nook and corner of the state.
HOW MANY?
Bless you, who knows? There were scores of estimates and none fell under 8,000, on the grounds, in the capitol building and on the hillsides.
Mind you, the estimates did not include the vast aggregated conglomeration on the Avenue and in the buildings facing on it.
All in all, experts and knowing ones positively assert that 20,000 pairs of eyes at one and the same time were gazing at the soldiers and the new capitol.
THE STATESMAN believes the estimate about correct.
At about 9 oâclock the military left the drill grounds and marched up First street to the Avenue in the following order:
Mounted police under command of Marshal Lucy.
Col. C. H. Smith, commanding Nineteenth U.S. Infantry.
Nineteenth Infantry Band.
Three companies Nineteenth United States Infantry.
Battery of U. S. Artillery under command of Major Burbanks.
Four companies Third United States cavalry, under Major Young.
Pettyâs Galveston Band.
Adjutant-General King and staff.
Waco Light Infantry.
Pass City Cadets.
Brigadier-General Stoddard, commander of the encampment, and staff.
Orange Band.
Mineola Guards.
Lee Guards.
First Regiment Band.
Dallas Rifles.
Dallas Light Guards.
Fort Worth Fencibles.
Fayette Light Guards.
Gaston Zouaves.
Johnston Guards.
Washington Guards.
Standforth Rifles.
Navasota Guards.
Colorado Guards.
Stoddard Zouaves.
Montgomery (Ala.) True Blues.
Brenham Light Guards.
Austin Greys.
Denver Cadets.
Jacksonville (Ill.) Juvenile Band.
Longview Rifles.
Maxey Rifles.
Terreil Guards.
San Antonio Rifles.
Fayette Light Guards.
Pierson Guards.
Luling Greys.
Ireland Rifles.
Victoria Rifles.
Walsh Zouaves.
Austin Cavalry.
Houston Band.
Houston Light Guards.
At Seventh street the Masonic Grand Commandery and the Grand Lodge of Masons of Texas filed into the Avenue, escorted by Colorado Commandery No. 4, of Austin, and proceeded up the Avenue, followed by the military procession.
As the procession moved up the Avenue under the thousands of waving banners the scene was magnificent and one never to be forgotten. It was grand, and every heart thrilled with joy as the gorgeous pageant with bands of music, flourish of trumpets, beat of drum and blast of bugle marched by.
At the entrance of the capitol grounds Governor Ross, Gen. D. S. Stanley, United States army commander of the military department of Texas, and General Henrico Mexia a distinguished military officer of the army of Mexico, reviewed the procession, and made a circuit of the capitol grounds.
At the entrance to the grounds the Masonâ left the procession and proceeded to the stand prepared for them in front of the main entrance to the building.
On the platform and in the vestibule of the capitol the Texas Veteran association occupied seats. Many of them showed evidences of being profoundly impressed with what was transpiring around them. In the long ago when struggling for liberty they never dreamed of witnessing such a scene. What stupendous changes have occurred within the memory of the old veterans, and yesterday as the brilliant pageant and the throngs of happy, prosperous people moved before them, what memories were recalledâwhat a contrast between now and the days when they were suffering and enduring to establish the independence of the states. The old veterans felt it. They also felt, as they gazed out upon the beautiful daughters of Texas and the vigorous, gallant citizen soldiers and the intelligent manhood of the state, that they had left the fruits of their labor in good hands, and that the liberties of the people will be preserved forever.
The glorious scene witnessed in this city yesterday can be witnessed in no other country on earth.
The regular soldiers of the great republic, representative of its mighty power, the citizen soldiers and the citizens mingling together on a grand, peaceful, festal occasion, is not seen outside of free America.
The military display was inspiring, and impressed upon the hearts of all that the United States, while mighty in peace, can be mighty and powerful in war. We hear a great deal of the military power of other governments, but we rarely stop to think that, if Uncle Sam gets his back up, he can marshal as great if not greater army of the best soldiers in the world, within sixty days, as any of them.
At 11 oâclock Governor Ross and his distinguished guests drew up to the main entrance of the capitol. Hon. T. S. Maxey, Hon. John Hancock, Dr. R. M. Swearingen, Major Geo. W. Littlefield, Ike T. Pryor, esq., Gen. W. R. Hamby and Hon. A. P. Wooldridge met them and escorted them to their seats.
On the right of the governor sat Hon. O. M. Roberts, Senator, Temple Houston and the judges of the supreme court. On his left were General Mexis, General Stanley and Hon. A. W. Terrell.
In addition to them, the following distinguished gentlemen occupied seats of honor; General Santos Benavides, representing the governor of Nuevo Leon, Mexico; Hon. Frank Gonzales, Mexican consul at Galveston; Doctor Ornales, Mexican consul at San Antonio; Colonel Richardo Villaneuva, of the Engineer corps; Lieutenant-colonel Emiliano Corolla, special staff officer, and Major Manuel Rivera, of the Engineer corps, all distinguished officers of the Mexican army.
After all were seated Governor Ross rose and opened the ceremonies by saying: âWhen I see such a vast concourse of people around me called together for the noble purpose of dedicating this mighty and beautiful structure, my heart swells with pride and I feel like turning and offering my profound gratitude to the author of all good. It is meet and proper to do so, and I take pleasure in introducing to you this grand old Texas patriot, Rev. J. C. Wootan, chaplain of the Texas Veteran association, who will offer prayer.
Dr. Wootan then offered an impressive prayer.
HON. A. W. TERRELL.
Hon. A. W. Terrell. Was then introduced by Governor Ross and he spoke as following:
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We rejoice that we are permitted this day in midst of peace to dedicate the capitol of a free people. You who belong to Texas as need no welcome here, for this capitol is yours; but to you who have [âŚ] beyond our borders. I say in the name of Texas, welcome! thrice welcome to the capitol! The ground on which you stand is historic. More than fifty years ago Mirabeau B. Lamar, weary from chasing the buffalo, drew his bridle rein on this hill, and looked westward to the mountains of the Colorado, and then to that stream which here breaks from its mountain gorge and glides through fruitful valleys to the gulf. His prophetic ear heard the hum of a triumphant civilization that would soon people all the land, and he then proclaimed to his ranger escort that this should be the seat of empire. One year afterward, as president of the republic, he appointed commissioners to select a permanent seat of government and advised its establishment here.
It was a strange destiny that directed hither the footsteps of the soldier pioneer. Around him, far as vision could extend, nature reposed in beauty, and invited by her charms the men who claimed dominion. Here they came and erected a rude statehouse for the republic. Through a stormy revolution its walls echoed to the eloquence of Houston and of Rusk, of Van Zandt, of Mayfield and of Potter, and from its front door on Februaryâ 19, 1816, was proclaimed the treaty of annexation. Old men still remember the joyous throng, who, on that bright morning, listened to the proclamation of the marriage bans. Never in all the march of time did the sun shine on bolder men than those who gave Texas to freedom and civilization. They numbered but twenty-five thousandâtheir enemies were eight millions, and no ocean rolled between. Yet, with one hand they crushed the pride of Mexico at San Jacinto, and, while beating back the savage foe with the other, they established here their capitol on the hunting grounds of the Comanche.
Whenever a people cease to reverence the names of those who gave them both land and freedom, they become unworthy of both. If the achievements of Washington and his comrades are remembered at each recurrence of a federal jubilee, surely the names of Houston and of Rusk, of Austin, and Burleson, of Antonio Navarro, and their companions should not be forgotten when Texas dedicates a capitol in the midst of a land made illustrious by their valor, and preserved by their statesmanship. Let the bickerings which often separated them in life fade from memory above their graves. It was my good fortune to know most of them, and look where you may their like will not again be found. They left the abodes of plenty, where greatness was already being measured by cash, and sought in the wilderness and on the plains for room in which to establish the boundaries of a new empire. Laying deep the foundation of their laws in the great principles of Magna Carta, they yet knew that parchment bands, alone could not preserve the freedom of a state, and so they engrafted a Magna Charta, another right under which patriotism becomes the outgrowth of home. When they shielded the homestead by protecting lass against the world they knew that freedom could not long survive the peonage of poverty, and that the citizen never moves with alacrity to repel an invader unless he owns some interest in the invaded land. How wisely they built is now manifest unto all men. The homestead laws which Texas contributed to the civilization of the century now protect the helpless in every state. The greed for financial power in the great marts of trade, where capitalized credit and trust combinations dwarf individualism, finds here a guard over two hundred thousand men, who own the homes in which they dwell, and who protect civil liberty by enforcing equal laws.
Whatever you now behold that is admirable in the policy of this favored state, had its origin in the wisdom of the men who created Texas. With them our system of public education began, and the refusal of Mexico to educate was given prominence in their declaration of independence as one of the causes for revolution. No exclusive patronage of common schools dwarfed their love for man. They knew that could only be preserved by statesmanship; that statesmanship reposed as knowledge, and so they demanded the establishment of a free university, in which the born thinkers of every age, whether rich or poor, could be equipped for leadership. On yonder hill stands the University which they demanded.
The grand leaders of the Texas revolution were all from the old south. Nurtured on her bosom, from her they drew the inspiration that made them great.
âA king once said of palace struck down,
âTailor he looks in death;â
The words that he spoke are as true as then,
For âits after death that we measure men.â
Sam Houston learned both of peace and war from the lips of Andrew Jackson. From the hour when Houstonâthen almost a beardless boyâled the volunteers under Jacksonâs eye over the Indian breastworks at the battle of Horse Shoe, they were bosom friends. Rusk was educated by John O. Calhoun, and Lamar was the protege of General Troupe, of Georgia. From the old south they learned not only their lessons of self-reliance, but a lofty faith that the American white man was born to tread this continent without a poor. During ten years of war they defended the cause of the republic, refusing the protectorate of both England and France, and when they had won recognition as a sovereign people, they voluntarily added their star to the federal galaxy. Not as a victim of conquest, but from choice, Texas became a part of the old south. That old south is still dear to her, and no son of Texas, to the manner born, whose heart does not beat faster when he remembers the grandeur of her men and the virtue of her women. Let others bow with blind adoration before the physical achievements of this ânew south,â we reverence the memory, and will teach our children the untold virtues of the âold.â
But this new south is ours, for we ourselves have made it, even from the depths of territorial vassalage into which we were remanded by defeat. This new south is ours, and we know its value; but we know also the unsolved problems that threaten it. How they will all be solved we know not, but this much we do know, that the broken chain that fell from the limbs of the African slave, will not be riveted either by anarchy or by the combinations of corporate power on the necks of American white men here in the new south, until Texas shall have received, if need be, the baptism of another San Jacinto. This stately edifice typifies in its strength and fair proportions the unity of a mighty state. On its lofty dome you behold the statue of liberty holding up in her hand a single star to blaze amid its sister constellations, fit emblem of the aspirations, the grandeur and unity of Texas. It rose above the massacre at Goliad to typify redemption. Its luster is for all the land from Red River to the Rio Grande, and from New Mexico to the gulf, and for a people who will preserve this state one and indivisible forever. The faith of the federal government is solemnly pledged by treaty never to carve from the body of Texas a single state without her consent; and let parties and politicians scheme and barter as they may, that consent will never be given. If I could now utter one word of admonition to every man in Texas it would be this: Watch the disappointed office-seeker, whose only hope for preferment is in the division of Texas, for the unity of this state will be of more value to you and your posterity than can be the success of any federal party now or hereafter.
The mighty chieftains of the old republic are no more, but we rejoice that we can bow to-day before the aged remnant of the heroic band who followed them to victory. Here are those who, at the storming of Bexar, at the Grass fight at Plumb creek and at San Jacinto, drove back the invader, and who, with Jack Hayee and Bell Ban McCulloch and Walker, made the name of Texas Ranger renowned. You once stood as conquerors on the broad land, and it was yours to parcel out among yourselves as William did England among his barons at Hastings, but you reserved it for homeless men and the education of children, and rejoiced in your ability to give. Not the Black Prince at Crecy, nor Dick Dowling at Sabine Pass, conquered over greater odds than you. The heart bows with reverence before this battle now remnant of a race that is almost gone, and rejoices that you are here.
Around you are the survivors of another revolution who have heard from your lips how you delivered Santa Anna still red from the massacre of the Alamo, at the feet of Houston, who with princely magnanimity restored him to a hostile republic. Thus, taught by you, the uses both of victory and defeat, we know how to respect men on both sides who died for their convictions, and we now look down with lofty scorn on the camp following vultures, who, after twentyâthree years of peace, are still preaching over the graves of our dead the religion of sectional hate.
Let it be proclaimed this day from the capitol which we dedicate to Liberty, regulated by law, that nowhere in all this world are the true man who wore the blue more welcome than here.
See them come with implements of husbandry, and self-sustaining manhood, and they will find thousands of their comrades already here, who will tell them of a hospitable welcome; that rejoice in a restored union, in its teeming population and its marvelous progress, and are ashamed only when it bestows its blessings with partial hand, or prostitutes its power to deepen the chasm between wealth and poverty. Locked arm in arm, the true men of the north and south stand here to-day, listening to the music of a restored union, and are disloyal only to those who forget that a written constitution is its only covenant. But this temple, which we dedicate to the freedom of man and the majesty of law, stands in full view of the graves of Ben McCulloch, Bill Scurry and of Albert Sidney Johnston. Never did crusader, battling for the sepulcher of Christ, fall with purer faith in the justness of his cause than they, and when Texas loyalty can be shown only by apologizing for its convictions, it will not be worth the price, for loyalty will have lost its virtue.
We bid you welcome, thrice welcome, to this imposing capitol of our state. Whenever, in all time, a son of Texas shall behold its vast proportions, pride will come around him like a mantle and crystalize devotion to his state. He will remember that he also is a Texan, and will be proud of his state, proud of her heroic past, her vast domain, her great resources, her fruitful fields, as a glorious promise of a prosperous future.
We envy no state. We hate no people. No matter from whence you hail, if you but maintain the dignity of man, we clasp you in the arms of a universal brotherhood, and bid you welcome.
Colonel Abner Taylor was then introduced and presented the building to the state in the following neat and appropriate address:
COLONEL ABNER TAYLOR.
When I received notice that I was expected to say something on this occasion it was with an intimation that if I desired I could select some one to speak for me.
After assuming the responsibility of building this magnificent edifice, and now that it is complete (so far as to be accepted by the state), I desire to say that I have selected a proper representative for me, and that representative is the one to whom I shall leave my speech.
This one I have selected with great confidence, and he will do me and my associates justice. I have listened to my distinguished friend from Travis with great pleasure, and expect to listen with equal pleasure to my friend from the great and far northwest portion of the state. The one who speaks for me to-day will live and be remembered long after their voices are [âŚ] and   I am forgotten. He will speak when you and I have passed away to be known among men no more forever. When year after year, when generation upon generation and century after century have rolled by and been forgotten, the one who speaks for me to-day will still be remembered. He needs no introduction. There stands my friend and orator (pointing to the building, which caused great and prolonged cheers.) That magnificent and grand building must and does speak for me. Nothing I can say can add to that monument, as everlasting as the hills themselves, which speaks for itself.
It is not only in keeping with the prestige of this grand state, whose destiny has been entrusted to your care, and whose freedom was planted with the richest blood that ever flowed from patriots veins.
No one will dare to prophesy what the future of this great state will be. [Applausse.]
I desire in this public manner to express my thanks and the thanks of my associates to the state officials who have been connected with the erection of this magnificent building, for the kindness and courtesy extended to me and my associates. There are always difficulties incident to great enterprises, but all have been fortunately adjusted to the satisfaction of all parties concerned. They have been adjusted in this case satisfactory, and I believe in every instance the state always got the advantage. [Laughter.] But I donât complain, for we have acquired a large interest in the state on the other side. Now the time has come when this magnificent structure must pass from my handsâthis building with which I have been so closely associated for the past six years, I now turn over to you, governor, for the people of the whole state of Texas. But, in a curing this connection, most sacred one, I am glad to know we have obtained, and shall retain, a larger interest in it than you or any association of the same number of members, and we expect to contribute, and will gladly contribute still more, to have it properly taken care. [Great applause.]
In the name of my associates and myself, I desire to tender to you, governor, and the other officers of the state, this magnificent building, and I ask you to accept it and care for it as its merits demand, and may you and I see that it stands as a monument of pride to the people of this grand state. [Applause.]
Governor Ross then introduced Hon. Temple Houston, who delivered the following brilliant address, receiving the new capitol.
SPEECH OF HON. TEMPLE HOUSTON.
The greatest of states commissions me to say that she accepts this building, and henceforth it shall be the habitation of her government. When the title to the noblest edifice upon this hemisphere thus passes from the builder to Texas, reason ordains a brief reference to the deeds and times that eventuate in this occasion. Texas has changed the site of her government oftener than any other state in this union, or any nation on this side of the globe. Prior to the transfer to this building the site of government of Texas has been changed eleven times; to-wit: San Felipe, Washington, Harrisburg, Galveston, Velasco, Columbia, Houston, Austin, Washington a second time, Houston a second time, and Austin again, having been the successive seats of government of Texas. The state which to-day enters this building, stands:
FIRST IN AREA,
sixth in population, and seventh in taxable wealth among the sisterhood of states that comprise the American Union. And when the tribes are numbered in 1890, she will stand third in population and fourth in wealth, and sit peerless even amid the proudest. She has a history all her own, wild, romantic, heroic. Minstrelâs lay never told of deeds more daring than her sous have wrought, nor over in castle hall hath harp of bard hymned praise of purer faith than that her legends bear. Child of storms, the nursing of revolutions, the twilight of her history made her soil the battlefield of freedom, her children the crusaders of liberty. Situated at a remote angle of the gulf, midway between the Aztec empire and the valley of the Mississippi, she for a while felt neither that spirit of Spanish conquest which laid in the dust at a blow the throne of Montezuma and the empire of the Incas nor that gentle spirit of colonization which marked the footsteps of France and Britain upon this continent. But this
REPOSE WAS BRIEF.
In 1522, shortly after the conquest of Mexico, the royal standard of Spain was unfurled upon Texas soil. DeNarvez and his glittering cavalry swept from the Rio Grande to Mobile. He paused not in his path. In vain might fairest valley smile or noblest landscape woo him but to stay; gold alone was deemed worth the Spaniardâs while, and in this fierce quest he pillaged all the isles of the ocean and the two continents from California to the Patagonia. However, if the occupancy of the Pueblo of Isleta by Coronada in 1540 may be regarded as permanent, Texas was the first state of the American union to be settled, and within her borders began that process of change that has transformed our country form a wilderness into an empire. But Spanish ascendancy remained inactive until excited by jealousy of French encroachments. On January 1, 1685, Le Sieor Robert Cavaleir De La Salle, under commission from Louis XIV, landed upon Matagorda bay. The object of the French was to establish colonies at the month of the Mississippi. The piercing mind of La Salle saw that from the great lakes the trend of the watershed indicated the presence of
A GREAT VALLEY
in the center of this continent, drained by the mightiest of rivers, and he knew that this valley was the seat of empire. He knew that the measureless current on whose clam grandeur De Soto gazed, was the same which Marquette saw, and De Soto, like Columbus, died in pathetic ignorance of the extent of his discovery. How sad that so knightly an one should sink to sleep in the bosom of that great stream which he had perished to find, and know not whence came nor whither went the dark waters that over him rolled.
Winds and currents swept LaSalle westward and he saw Texas where the gulf in vexed magnificence breaks upon Matagorda peninsula. The Frenchmanâs colonial scheme was futile.  Dissensions among his followers, want of support from the home government, hostile and intractable Indians [âŚ] fate he did not quail. Upon the banks of that great and mysterious river be would find the faithful De Tonti, and from him he would get the aid which the ocean failed to bear him and which he had lighted might not expire. Toward the upper Mississippi and the great lakes, he therefore bent his steps. He crossed the Lavaca, the Colorado, the Bernard, Brazos, San Jacinto, Trinity and Neches. In the bottoms of the later stream the cavalier was assassinated by his own followers. With him fell the last hope of French dominion in Texas. He, like the cavalier that he was, gave his life to his king and his God. Never crusaderâs cross blazed on a braver breast, and in knightliest tourney there rode no nobler spirit. In all the chivalry that shone around the throne of Louis, there flashed no fairer soul than him whose murdered form sleeps in the unknown wilds of the Neches forests, but his life and efforts were not without their results.
THE FRENCH ATTEMPT
At colonization roused the activity and jealousy of Spain. Grasping and ruthless as she was, Spain ever set religionâs seal upon her conquests, and as soon as she had quenched the last spark of French settlement within the borders of Texas, she began the establishment of missions, resulting in the erection of about twenty Institutions, dotting the valleys of the San Antonio, the Neuces and the Guadalupe, also, at Nacogdoches and on the San Saba. The noble order of the church, the Franciscan Fathers, reared their missions. Those fathers, half priest, half knight, and all courage lend a mingled air of piety and romance to the annals of Castilian conquest. In those missions showed both the censer and the sword, the mitre and the helm, for those pious fathers in the spread of their masterâs faith, dared the wilderness, but whosoever opposed their path felt the thrust of lance or the stroke of sword.
THEY CAME AS CONQUERORS.
Nor did their name or deeds belle the martial name of their loveliest missionsâSan Juan de Espals. Within the portals of those missions might dwell saintliest abbot and holiest nun, but from their walls frowned Hisponiaâs artillery, and at matins and vespers floated the melody of her bugles.
For more than 100 years, from the destruction of LaSalle colony until the stars and stripes rose above the Crescent city, upon the purchase of Louisiana, these missions were the seats of Spanish power and the centers around which settlement clustered. Standing desolate, yet beautiful, grand even in ruins, these old missions appeal to us with an eloquence beyond all words. They are the landmarks of a vanishing era, the boundary stones of a receding empire. They are the monuments of the mistaken zeal of a powerful and pious order.
The extension of the limits of United States to the Sabine river caused the concentration of Spanish military forces upon that stream.
THE INTERVAL BETWEEN THE PURCHASE
of Louisiana and the settlement of Texas by Stephen F. Austin is filled with turbulent events, but not sufficiently important in results to admit of extended mention here.
The same year which witnessed the final liberation of Mexico from her 300 years of Spanish rule, beheld the inception of the plan which resulted in the freedom of Texas, the colonization by Stephen F. Austin. The interval of fifteen years between the arrival of Austin and the independence of Texas is filled with events to which such brilliant and exhaustive reference has been made by that scholarly jurist, orator and statesman, who has preceded me, that any allusion from me would but mar the delightful memory that must linger of words that fell like pearls from lips so sage. But I will avert to one feature of that period. On March 1, 1836, the convention of the then province of Texas assembled at Washington on the Brazos. On the second day of its existence, that convention formulated a âDeclaration of Texas Independence,â which in literary merit challenges comparison with the finest productions of our language. That same body of men in fourteen days prepared the constitution of the Republic of Texas which remained for nine years, without a suggested amendment, the organic law of Texas.
IT SHOULD NOT BE FORGOTTEN
that this constitution was framed amid an overwhelming invasion, that participation in the proceedings of that convention was threatened death, and that those who drafted that constitution laid down their pens to grasp the sword; that it was indeed born amid the clash of arms and rocked in the cradle of war. The beneficence and perfection of its provisions, the rapidity with which it was prepared and the reverence with which it was obeyed, make the constitution of 1836 one of the evidences that the Anglo-Saxon race is capable of self-government. The men who devised that constitution were the apostles from Runnymede, they were the disciples of Jefferson, they were the evangelists of liberty, for, wherever that race breathes, on land or sea, oppression ceases instantly.
The principles which they proclaimed at Washington on the 2d of March, 1836, they, fifty days later, at San Jacinto sealed with their blood.
IT WAS THE OLD CONFLICT
between the Latin and the Teuton. It had been fought between the armies of Arminius and Varus. It had been battled when the Almada was dispersed, and at Trafalgar and Waterloo, and fate had decreed that the Anglo-Saxon should triumph, for wheresoever on the face of the earth this knight errant of liberty plants his foot victory has greeted him and Christianity has been his companion. [Great applause.] When the last hour pealed, its sounds rang from a spot where the Republic of Texas died, where the state of Texas was born. On yonder hill where that clock chimes each fleeting hour, once stood and historic buildingâwhich now only lives in the memory of a venerated few. In a log building on that hill, the pioneer legislators framed the constitution of 1845, under which Texas was admitted into the union. When the seat of government was located here in 1839, this point was beyond the extreme outposts of the frontier. But the sublimity of the scenery, the majestic beauty of the spot, marked it as the place ordained by fate as the capital of Texas, and such shall it ever remain. [Applause.]
THE PEOPLE OF TEXAS
are indebted to United States Senator Charles B. Parwall and his brother, John V. Parwell  of  [âŚ] of Chicago, and Colonel Abner Taylor for not only for best state house in the United States but  especially [âŚ] notice, by agreeing to build the house for the 3,000,000 acres set aside for that purpose. It will be recollected that these lands were offered for sale at 50 cents an acre, without attracting purchasers, while the building has cost nearly three times 50 cents an acre, and is really worth more than five times that amount, if we are to measure its value by the cash cost of similar buildings in other states.
The state and the Farwell syndicate are to be congratulated on such a result as demonstrating, beyond the power of successful criticism, the wisdom of a contract which made it possible. The state, because she has realized for these lands much more than she could have done under her land laws for their sale and got them under tax, and at the same time secured the use of this noble building for all time, which probably would never have been built in any other way. The syndicate, because they have obtained 3,000,000 acres of the best land in Texas, and will in due time cover them with prosperous farmers and increase their wealth of the state by hundreds of millions of dollars, instead of leaving them for the free use of foreign cattle companies whose earnings would not have remained in the state.
EVERY TRUE AND HONEST TEXAN
must rejoice that the Farwells have found a way to turn over previously useless land into such a state monument as we are this day dedicating, and that they must from self-interestâif from no other motiveâcover these lands with farmers as soon as railroads have opened them up. From every point of view, therefore, I say emphatically, as a true friend of Texas, whatever may have been thought by critics, that we have but did better than any of us thought, and the Farwells are justly entitled to our thanks, and this celebration by this vast concourse of our citizens is the best expression of our feeling toward the men who have made it possible. This magnificent building will speak for their skill thousands of years after we have ceased to speak. And when the state, in its citizens, shall realize a value in these lands, improved and settled up, of $10 to $75 per acre, no one will say that the Farwells were not entitled to every dollar they will make as a just reward for benefits received by the state.
In 1852, by the sale of her title to New Mexico, Texas occupied the capitol which was destroyed by fire in 1881.
LET US NOT PASS LIGHTLY
by that old structure. Its halls knew so much of the grief and glory of Texas, so much of her splendor and her sorrow, and so often saw her destinies alternately flit between triumph and ruin. Within the walls of that old capitol, whose buried foundations rest yonder, the government of Texas was administered for twenty-eight years. Beneath its roof were assembled thirteen legislatures and four constitutional conventions. There were framed the constitutions of 1861, of 1866, of 1869 and of 1886, the organic law under which we now live, and containing the provision for the erection of the capitol in exchange for 3,000,000 acres of the public domain. Within those walls, since wasted by fire, passed much over which the historian of Texas must ponder. It was there that the fair fruits of annexation withered beneath the simoon breath of war. Here, too, in frantic haste was consummated the act which shattered the golden links welded by sixteen years of union, and hurled Texas into the vortex of secession. And after
SOUTHERN VALOR
had wrecked itself against the might of the union, that same old capitol on whose ruins many of this multitude stand, saw reconstruction plait its crown of thorns around the weary brow of Texas and press the sponge of bitterness to her lips. Yet that same old building saw the departed acepture return to Judah when the Fourteenth legislature calmly grasped the reins of power and submitted the constitution under which we live. In the adoption of that constitution, you, the people, decreed the erection of the building which you to-day accept and dedicate to your use. It decrees the eternal union of Texas. Hereafter let no man seek to put asunder that which the fathers united. Let the fiends who wait upon the lost hiss their hate and shriek their curses in the ear of him who would plot the dismemberment of Texas. To day is an era in our history. The survivors of the early struggles who view this building realize that all which they did was not in vain. Texas stands
PEERLESS AMID THE MIGHTY,
and her brow is crowned with bewildering magnificence! This building fires the heart and excites reflections in the minds of all. It stands alone the haughtiest type of modern civilization.
In other lands the hand of man hath reared walls as stately as these and pierced the sky in prouder heights. The architecture of a civilization is its most enduring feature, and by this structure shall Texas transmit herself to posterity, for here science has done her utmost. The quarry has given its granite and marble, and the mines have yielded their brass and iron, and an empire has been passed as an equivalent for this house. All that enlightenment and art could do has been done. Were I to repress the reflections that occur to me now, I would be untrue to my convictions and to this occasion. It would seem that here glitters a structure that shall stand as
A SENTINEL OF ETERNITY,
to gaze upon passing ages, and, surviving, shall mourn as each separate star expires. Were we to feel thus, precedent would justify us. Those who builded the Pyramids thought Egyptian empire eternal; those who reared the Coliseum boasted that it was a pledge that Rome was everlasting. More solemn lessons are taught at our own doors. Great races have swept oâer this continent like waves oâer the bosom of the deep, and left traces almost as faint. Who reared the Pyramids of Uxmal, the palaces of Palenque, the mausoleums of Malta? The splendors of towered Tuloom. What is the date, the origin, the fate, of those mysterious civilizations that have vanished forever in the forests of Mexico and Central America, and that flee from the searcher like those illusive lights that flash and fade above the silent tomb? They were our predecessors. Shall oblivion fling her darkening pall over us? Ah! we are but one of that vast procession of races which it was decreed should pass across his hemisphere. We have no right to say that our own is the first or the last of those civilizations whose [âŚ] perpetuity it differs from any of its predecessors. If the lessons of the past have not been taught in vain, they tell us that the future holds in hand an hour when the carious antiquarian shall wander through
THE ROOFLESS CHAMBERS,
amid the shattered arches and fallen columns of all this imperial magnificence, and ask when were these walls rearedâwas this edifice, palace or prison, tomb or temple? Does it seem impossible? Balbecâs marble columns are as proud as these, yet who chiseled them? Who carved the hieroglyphics that plead for interpretation from the sculptured walls of Palenque? The past hath a fearful lesson of the instability of earthly greatness. Men dwelt upon the earth thousands of years are they ascertained its shape. They shed seas of blood before they learned that a drop of it circulated. They proudly claim an existence of 6,000 years, yet their annals do not include half of it. They cannot explain their diversity in language or the secret of their existence. The destruction of public virtue caused the decline of other civilizations, but does our civilization carry with it the means of its perpetration? Under certain conditions it may. It possesses characteristics that mark none of its predecessors and particularly can this be said of the State of Texas.
THE CIVILIZATION OF TEXAS,
of which this proud capitol is one of the voices that shall speak to after ages, is beneficent. The form of our government is the creation of an expressed wish of the people whom it affects. The officers are elected and are the servants not rulers of the people. We have no obligatory form of worship, our rights of free speech have no limitation; before our laws all men are equal; our government is a subject of criticism, not of hideous dread. Our armies and fleets are for the protection, not oppression, of the people. Our institutions enjoin an education of the masses, and assume that the government is not the heritage of one man, but the property of the people. Texas says to whomsoever casts his home within her benignant realms, she tenders his off-spring an education without money and without price. This education is given to whatever child that abides within her border.
NO MATTER WHAT RACE
may shame its origin, or what reproach clouds its birth. Texas pledges 35,000,000 fair acres and 12½ per cent of her taxable values, amounting to millions, that every child that asks it at her generous hands shall receive a free education. The first government of the earth to enact the homestead exemption in favor of the family, she stands pre-eminent in her beneficence to the helpless. Within sight of this structure are the grand charities which Texas bestows upon the blind, the deaf and dumb and the insane; she also has remembered the orphan, and her statutes provide for the indigent. All these would indicate a perpetuity of public virtue. This noble edifice is a fit seat for such a government. It and the features of our civilization are all we can leave our posterity, and, even should they prove unworthy of our bequest, we can at least pass from lifeâs stage with the proud reflection that we leave behind us a purer civilization and a nobler edifice than has been bequeathed to us by preceding ages.
DEDICATION CEREMONY.
The Grand Lodge of Masons, with Grand Master Anson Rainey presiding, then dedicated the building according to the ancient rites of Masonry. The following are the grand officers who assisted: T. U. Lubbock, grand commander; Dr. N. J. Thomson, eminent commander of the Brenham Commandery No. 15; J. P. Rucker, eminent commander of the Colorado Commandery.
This closed the ceremonies, which passed off smoothly, pleasantly and satisfactorily to all.
The following is a description of the building, and visitors should take a copy of it home with them:
THE NEW CAPITOL.
For the past few years much has been written both in the local press and the press of the country in regard to the state house of Texas, the plans, specifications and perspective drawing for which were the creation of an able designing architect, combined with the intelligent co-operation of public servants of practical sagacity, and the construction of which requires on the part of the builders and supervisors special technical knowledge of a high order. It is somewhat difficult to present such a full description of this colossal structure as will be readily under stood by the general reader, for, the truth is, it is well worth a trip to Austin, even from a distance, to visit and examine this granite house of state. In order, however, that the stranger may have some conception of its grandeur and magnitude, an outline is here submitted.
In coming up Congress avenue from the Union depot, the stranger will notice, directly at the head of this broad and stately street, some eight squares distant, situated on a beautiful hill, originally selected for the capitol of the Republic of Texas, a monumental red granite building, running at right angles with Congress avenue, its third floor line being 115 feet above the Union depot, and the center of its main front entrance facing south, being on a line with the center of Congress avenue, which runs north and south. A short walk up Congress avenue, which is to Austin exactly what Pennsylvania avenue is to Washington city, brings the stranger upon Capitol Hill, where he can view the largest red granite building in the world, examine its magnificent proportions, and see the wondrous beauty of its interior finish.
To erect this magnificent structure required the services of over 1,000 men daily for over four years, and a great part of this time work progressed night and day. The granite used in the construction of the building was a gift to the state from Hon. W. H. Westfall and Sam Lacy, of Burnet, and Col. A. L. Norton, of Austin, owners of the Burnet granite quarry. There are 4,000 carloads of granite in the building. In addition to this there are 11,000 carloads of limestone, iron and other material, making 15,000 carloads of material used in the construction of the building.
The building cost the contractor within a few thousand dollars of $4,000,000, and had the granite been purchased, and had not some 400 or 500 convicts been used at a nominal hire, its construction would have cost over $7,000,000. The contractors and experts say it cannot be duplicated anywhere in the United States for less than from $7,000,000 to $10,000,000, Texas [âŚ] on the Doric, or, as it has been termed, a new Greek style of architecture. In form it approximates the Greek cross, with projecting center and flanks, having a rotunda and dome at the intersection of the main corridors. From east to west it is 562 feet long; from north to south 287 feet broad, and the height to the apex of the dome is 311 feet. The area of the building covers two and one-fourth acres.
The granite of the exterior of the first story is in large blocks, lying lengthwise with the large window jams standing up-right, all being rough rock face work, showing the native richness of the material, while all the margins, including the window sills and their bases, are smoothly dressed, and the cornices are an imposing variety of smoothly dressed and rock face work. The exterior of the second, third and fourth stories have also considerable rock face work appropriately distributed, including the bases of the pilasters, the imposts, mullions and window jams, but the stately feature of these upper stories is the numerous tall, clear cut and smoothly dressed granite pilasters that extend the full length of these stories, there being 176 of them around the building.
The basement is 11 feet 6 inches in height, the first story 22 feet 1½ inches, the second story 20 feet 10½ inches, third story 20 feet, and fourth story 19 feet in height.
The height to the first colonnade, or promenade, around the exterior of the dome, above the roof is 126 feet; to the second colonnade above is 162 feet, and to the colonnade around the lantern of the dome is 217 feet, while the base of the bronze statue of the Goddess of Liberty, that surmounts the lantern is 285 feet, the height of the status being 19 feet, and to the
TOP OF THE LARGE SILVER STAR
emblematic of the Lone Star of Texas, which is secured above the statue, is 311 feet above the earth line of the building, which, including the elevation of Capitol hill above the city, places this star at a height of 376 feet, when viewed from the business portion of Congress avenue.
In the basement there are sixty-three rooms, to be nicely finished, and which will be used for storage of records and other purposes. The first floor is set apart for all the executive offices of the state government; the second floor for the legislative, and the third for the judicial departments; while in the fourth or central story there are a large number of handsomely finished rooms not set aside for any special purpose.
The entire building is lighted by gas and electricity and heated throughout by steam from a boiler house, erected a short distance to the east of the capitol grounds and connected by a tunnel with the main building, through which the steam pipes pass. Passenger and freight elevators of the most approved style are provided for in the building, and every improved appliance and convenience used in any other complete modern public structure will be found in the new state house of Texas.
The distinctive feature of the main front entrance, facing south, is the triumphal arch that spans this entrance at a height of seventy-two feet, underneath which, in the vestibule of the first floor, supporting a granite balcony, stand two magnificent columns, their bases and shafts being of polished granite, with bands and caps of polished black and white marble. In striking contrast with this ornate entrance is the massive granite portico that dignifies the entrance on the opposite or north side of the building, facing University hill. The supports of the first story of this portico are large, rough blocks of granite lying lengthwise, while the columns of the second and third stories above are smoothly dressed. At the east and west ends of the building are open balconies with granite balustrades. In the four pediments of the building there will be large glass stars, with appropriate carvings in the granite around them, which, together with the star on the dome of the building, are arranged to be illuminated by electricity.
All the broad and stately corridors throughout the building are laid in encaustic tiling of various appropriate colors and attractive designs. Each of the offices on the first floor has a large, fire-proof vault for records, and the state treasurerâs office also has
A TREMENDOUS CHROME STEEL MONEY VAULT.
The two grand stairways are situated on both sides of the rotunda, near its east and west entrances to the long corridors that run the full length of the first floor; and these grand stairways ascend to the second floor near the entrances to the vestibules leading into the senate chamber in the east flank, and the house of representatives in the west flank of the building, while the entire north projection on the second floor is occupied by the state library, and a large portion of the south projection is taken in by the governorâs public reception room. These are the four grand state apartments on the second floor, and adjoining this last named room is the postoffice of the house and senate. West of the house of representatives, and also east of the senate chamber, in the two end pavilions of the building, are numerous rooms for the officers, clerks and committees of the legislature, and opening into the state library is a portrait gallery.
The house of representatives is ninety-four by ninety-six feet, and the senate chamber ninety-four by seventy-nine feet. Both these legislative halls are open to the ceiling of the third floor, with galleries on the third floor line completely encircling their interior, the ceilings above being heavy, polished, cut stained plate glass, embossed and flashed, of superb design and color, and directly above these ceilings are the immense skylights on the roof of the building, while opening into the house and senate from the north and south are a double tier of windows. It will thus be seen that these two legislative halls receive an abundant supply of natural light, which will render them the most desirable assembly rooms that could possibly be constructed. The state library is sixty-eight by one hundred and twenty-four feet, and is also arranged like the house and senate for procuring an ample supply of natural light. Immediately above the state library, on the third floor, are the supreme and appellate court rooms, law library, attorneysâ rooms and clerksâ offices, and in the front projection of the building, on the same floor, are the judgesâ consultation rooms. In the fourth or central story are twenty-three rooms not designed for any special use. There are in the entire building 256 apartments. Connected with the second, third and fourth floors of the building is a balcony five feet in depth encircling the interior of the rotunda, sixty feet in diameter. The center of this rotunda, on the first floor is of heavy plated glass, to give light into that portion of the basement directly underneath. There are also additional balconies in the interior of the rotunda, above the fourth floor of the [âŚ] and is the interior crown of the dome there is a canopy or [âŚ] circular in form, to be prepared  [âŚ] the reception thereon of allegorical [âŚ] paintings. There is flight of stairs leading from the fourth story [âŚ] exterior of the dome, and from [âŚ] altitude the variety of picturesque scenery in and around Austin will be interesting for the visitor to contemplate.
The dome of the Texas state house is the tallest of any capitol building in America, and the national capitol at Washington and the New York state capitol at Albany are the only two capitol buildings that can stand a comparison with the Texas state house, either in point of grandeur or magnitude.
Dedicated with a Splendor that was Befitting the Glory of Texas
17 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
TEXAS DEDICATES HER CAPITOL.
The great and magnificent state capitol building was yesterday dedicated with a splendor that was befitting the glory of Texas and the grandeur of that building. Representative men from all over the Union were present; our sister republic of Mexico, by specially commissioned representatives, paid tribute to the occasion; the flower of the finest militia in the land marched in the procession; the United States government had five hundred troops in line; five thousand masons were entrusted with the rite of dedication; the beauty, chivalry and manhood of Texas was at hand, represented by tens of thousands of people. It was a memorable, a glorious day. A day to be inscribed in the history of a great commonwealth. A day when the heart of every Texan swelled with feelings of exultation and pride. For Austin it was the most memorable day that will ever dawn. In the name of the state she welcomed the people of the state, she acknowledged with rejoicing the pride she took in that perfect capitol building; with exultant joy she bowed to the state the appreciation she so keenly felt at the glory of being charged with the distinction of being the capitol city of such an empire state. All Texas was wrapt up in the ceremonies of yesterday; and as the vast throng of people and the dignitaries of this and other states with the representatives of Mexico, joined in the ceremonies that crowned that state temple with the halo of a shrine consecrated to liberty, this state and nation with the nations of the earth paused to turn their eyes towards us, and Texas was tendered another chaplet of glory. One page, at least, in the history of Texas will be perpetually set apart to commemorate the events of the 16th day of May, 1888.
Committee on Public Comfort
16 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
TO VISITORS.
Visitors who have not secured accommodations are invited to call at the headquarters of the committee on public comfort, on the east side of Congress avenue, where all information in regard to hotels and private houses, that will entertain guests, will be cheerfully given. They can take care, comfortably, of twenty thousand people, and at moderate prices.

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A Source of Never Ending Astonishment
16 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
LOCAL SHORT STOPS. Crisp Mention of the Less Important Local Items.
Twenty thousand visitors in town, and still they pour in.
There is room for thousands of visitors at reasonable prices.
Austin and Houston championship game at 3:30 oâclock.
The soda water men are kept busy cooling off the multitude.
Distinguished visitors from Mexico will reach the city to-day.
Thousands upon thousands of flags and banners float in the breeze.
The population can now breathe freely, the legislature having adjourned.
The grand stands at the drill grounds were crowded with visitors yesterday.
The hack drivers ought to be stopped from driving fast along crowded streets.
All the military will march from the drill grounds to the new capitol this morning.
The crowds will pour into the city again to-day. Let âem-come, they can be cared for.
The military are all the attraction just now, and every fellow in town is just dying to have a uniform.
Look out for fakirs and pickpockets. There are a few of them in town, and visitors cannot be too careful.
Return checks will hereafter be given to parties entering the base ball park from drill grounds without extra charge.
The new capitol, with its magnificently finished interior, is a source of never ending astonishment and heartfelt admiration.
The East Pecan street merchants have nearly all signed a petition to close their place of business and participate in the dedication of the new capitol to-day.
The Master Masons will give an entertainment in the Masonic temple from 9 a. m. to 8 p. m. to-day to all Master Masons in the city. Committees will be on band to welcome the guests.
The organ recital at St. Davidâs church will take place on Thursday morning at 11 oâclock so as not to conflict with other musical entertainments at night. Programme will appear to-morrow.
The Knights Templar, of Colorado commandery, will extend knightly courtesies to all Sir Knights immediately after the dedication ceremonies, at the McDonald building, opposite Masonic temple.
All parties taking part in the choruses at the drill grounds on Thursday night must meet at Musical Union hall on Thursday morning at 10:30 a. m., and receive their badges. Visiting music teachers will also please attend.
Plenty of Room
16 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
THE TRUTH. Flimflams Knocked Higher Than a KiteâLow Rates.
Hundreds of rumors are abroad in the state that high prices are being charged in the city for lodging and meats. There is not a word of truth in the reports. Rates at the hotels are about the same as they always were, but the proprietors reserve the right to put as many in one room as can be accommodated.
The rate at the Driskill, one of the finest hotels in the south, is only $3.50 a day.
There is plenty of room in private boarding houses at the usual rates, and at many comfortable temporary quarters board and lodging can be had at from $1 to $1.50 a day.
As to the charge for single meals a STATESMAN reporter made diligent inquiry yesterday, and found that meals could be had at from 25 cents to 50 cents. At one place, Mrs. Lewisâ, on the Avenue near Hillâs photograph gallery, the reporter, a stranger to all present, went in and took dinner, and it was well cooked and first-class in every respect. He expected to pay 75 cents for it, and was surprised to find that the charge was only 50 cents. This house and others the reporter could mention are highly spoken of. People all along the railroads people everywhereâare informed that there is plenty of room in Austin at very low rates.
Let everybody come and see the greatest drill contest ever witnessed in America.
The Finest Concert Ever Given in the South
16 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
THE GREAT CONCERT. Thousands of People Listen to Gilmoreâs Band.
At night the drill grounds were packed with people. There were fully 12,000 persons on the grounds, and with one accord the verdict was pronounced, that it was the finest concert ever given in the south. The programme was as follows:
1 Overture, âTanhauserâŚâŚâŚ.Wagner Gilmoreâs band.
2 Euphonium Solo, âVariations on a Popular German Air âŚâŚ.Hartmann. Signer Raffayolo.
3 Romanzs, âLoveâs First Heart Throbsâ âŚâŚGilmoreâs band.  Ellenberg.
4 Quartette for French Horns, âCome Where My Love Lies DreamingââŚâŚFoster Messrs. Weston, Caso, Kulmer and Zilm.
5 Morceeaux de Saint  âValse spriceâ⌠Rubenstein Gilmoreâs band.
6 Cornet Solo. â Reminiscences of Switzerland,â Signor Liberetl
7 Ithapsodie Hon. Roise No. 2âŚ.  Liezt Gilmoreâs band.
8 Quartette for Trombones, Soldiersâ Chorus from FanstâŚ..Gounod Messrs. Wison, Schubert, Krueger and Raffayolo.
9 Echoes from the South, or âPay Day on the Old PlantationââŚâŚâŚ.Puerner Gilmoreâs band.
10 Solo for Petit Clarinet, âFantaisie on the Carnival de Veniceâ  âŚâŚ.Paganini Ilerr Matue.
11 Quadrille of All NationâŚâŚâŚJulien
GILMOREâS BAND.
In five numbers, as follows;
1 Introduction and Russian Hymn.
2 March, Battle Scene, and Marsel laise Hymn.
3 Theme, with variatione for Pierolo (Signor De Carlo, Ob e, Signor De Chiarril, and Clarionet Corps in unison.
4 Aris, with variations for Clarionets, (Messrs. Liberail and Austin): ending with all the brass playing the melody in unison.
5 Grand Finale, introducing the airs of several nations, including âThe Har  that once through Tarsâs Halle,â  âWatch on the Rhine,â etc., the whose concluding with the anthem known in Great Britain as âGod S. vs the Queen,â in Germany as âGod Save the Emperor,â and in this country as âAmerica.â
12 Scenes from Il Travaters, introducing Anvil Chorus with cannon and anvil accompanimentâŚ..Verdi
Each selection was rendered with that precision and that refined and perfect skill that has always characterized Mr. Gilmore, and everything he touches. The vast throng were thoroughly enthusiastic, and in unmistakable terms demanded frequent encores, all of which were responded to most graciously. The famous band covered it elf all over with glory and completely satisfied every one who heard its perfect music last night.
Crowds Should be Compelled to be Orderly
16 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
A SLICK TRICK. And one That Should be Promptly and Emphatically Squelched.
Monday night, after the close of the festivities at the drill grounds, there was a rush for the street cars, around each of which there was soon a surging mass of men, women and children.
All were roughly handled, and women and children were mercilessly jerked and jostled about.
Those ignorant of the ways that are dark and tricks that are vain the scene was new and inexplicable.
To the knowing ones, however, the hurry and crowding and jaming was understood, and all such kept their hands on their pocket-book.
The extraordinary and energetic âseroughingâ and pushing and running over and trampling under foot was caused by a gang of professional pickpockets who relieved more than one pocket during the excitement.
During the crush around one of the cars a lady was knocked down and undoubtedly would have been seriously injured if not killed had not her husband by almost superhuman efforts kept the crowd back and placed her on her feet.
As it was his pockets were picked.
The drill ground police should arrange to keep all outsiders from the vicinity of the cars and hacks, and the crowds from the drill grounds should be compelled to move out orderly, and each person made to keep in line until his or her turn comes.
This can and should be done, and the drill management should see that it is carried out.
Dedication Exercises
15 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
DEDICATION. Order of Exercises to be Observed To-Morrow. Grand Military Parade, Masonic Ceremonies and Dedication Speeches at the Capitol.
The following is the order of exercises for dedicating the new capitol to-morrow, from 9 a. m. until 12 noon:
The committee appointed by the senate will meet in the senate chamber, and the committee appointed by the house will meet in the hall of representatives at 8:30 to-morrow morning.
From there they will proceed to the state library hall, where they will be met by Governor Ross, Hon. John Ireland, Hon. O. M. Roberts and the special committee on reception.
The committee is as follows:
FROM THE SENATE.
Senators J. L. Camp, jr., E. G. Douglass, J. H. Calhoun, W. H. Woodward and E. J. Simkins.
FROM THE HOUSE.
Representatives Guy M. Bryan, J. N. Browning, E. W. Smith, R. E. Steele, J. M. Strong, Geo. W. Baylor and W. T. Hudgins.
The following gentlemen will also meet with the committee: Rev. J. C. Woolan, chaplain of the Texas Veteran association, who will deliver the dedication prayer; Hon. A. W. Terrell, who will deliver the address of welcome, Hon. J. V. Farwell, of the capitol building syndicate, and Mr. Gus Wilke, the builder of the state, house and Col. Abner Taylor, capitol contractor, who will present the capitol building to the people of Texas; and Hon. Temple Houston, who will accept the building on behalf of the people of Texas.
The following officials are also requested to report at this meeting in the library hall promptly at 8:30 a. m. Wednesday morning, May 18th. Hon. Wm. J. Swain, Hon. J.H. McLeary, Hon. J.D. Templeton, Hon. W.C. Walsh, Hon. W. M. Brown, Hon. F. R. Lubbock, Hon. John D. McCall, Hon. R. M. Hall, Hon. J. S. Hogg, former and present members of the capitol board, Capitol Building Commissioners Joseph Lee and M. H. McLaurin, and General R. S. Walker, superintendent of construction, the judges of the supreme court, court of appeals and commissioners of appeals, the president of the senate and the speaker of the house and Texas veterans who are in the city and such distinguished guests, including the commission from the republic.
REPUBLIC OF MEXICO
and others as the governor of Texas may invite.
A select committee of seven from the Dedication associations general reception committee to be appointed by the chairman of said committee to include the said chairman.
The committee of the House and Senate, together with the above reception committee, will then escort the above mentioned assemblage to the front portico of the capitol building, where seats will have been provided for them.
His Excellency, Governor L. S. Ross, will preside over the ceremonies.
The Masonic Grand Lodge of Texas will take a position immediately in front of said portico on a platform prepared for the Masons, including their orators and officers. The Masons are requested to make their procession and take their position in front of the building not later than 9 a. m.
At 8:30 a. m. the great military procession, escorted by not less than fifteen bands of music, including the famous Mexican band and the renowned Gilmore band, will move from the encampment grounds up First street to Congress avenue, up Congress avenue to the left of the capitol grounds, to the west gate, thence to the right, coming by the front of the capitol building and passing in review of his excellency, the governor and his distinguished guests. The military procession will continue past the building, encircling it and return down Congress avenue and Pecan street to the encampment grounds.
After the review of the troops the following will be the order of the dedication exercises.
Prayer by Rev. J. C. Woolam, chaplain Texas Veteran association.
Address of welcome by Hon. A. W. Terrell.
Presentation of the capitol building to the people of Texas by Colonel Abner Taylor, capitol contractor.
Address of Hon. Temple Houston, accepting the building on behalf of the people of Texas.
The building will then be dedicated by the Masonic grand lodge of the state of Texas, with appropriate ceremonies, when the exercises will then be concluded.

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Applause Hearty and the Enthusiasm Unbounded
15 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
THE FIRST DAY. Splendid Drilling for State Prizes by State Companies. The Grandest Display of Fire Works Ever Seen in the South.
The drill week opened inauspiciously yesterday morning. Clouds were thickly strewn around the horizon and covered the heavens. Some rain fell, and discomfiture was endured for a while. But the storm was soon over, the sun came out, and while some mud on the drill grounds rendered walking unpleasant, yet the day closed gloriously and was by all pronounced a grand success. The great number of military companies entered for the different prizes made it necessary to commence the competitive drilling at the very early hour of 8:30. Three companies drilled in the morning and three in the afternoon. In the morning the companies were the Victoria Rifles, the Sealy Rifles and the Fort Worth Fencibles. In the afternoon the three were the Austin Greys, the Washington Rifles and the Dallas Rifles. All of these companies contested for the state infantry prizes and all of them put up excellent drills, the honors, perhaps, being in favor of the Sealy Rifles, Dallas Rifles and the Austin Greys. The judges were kept constantly at work and proved to be experts in that line. All three of them are courteous, elegant gentlemen, and have won the hearts of all who have met them and are connected with the management of the drill.
At 5 oâclock the call sounded for dress parade and the five regiments soon came marching on the grounds. It was a grandâan imposing sight. The troops, by regiments, came into position with clockwork precision. Every movement was quickly and perfectly executed. The United States band took part in the parade, but the United States troops did not participate last evening. This was through some misunderstanding of orders and not intentionally done. Hereafter the United States troops will always take part in the evening dress parades that will begin at 5 oâclock and close at 6:30. But without these troops yesterday fully 1.500 soldiers of our state militia took part in the parade. General Stoddard was, of course, in charge, and Adjutant-General King received the review. To-day and from this on there will be over 2.000 troops in the dress parade, and this will include 200 of Uncle Samâs cavalry. Never in the history of Texas have there been such splendid and magnificent parades as will be seen on the encampment grounds for the rest of this week. It will be worth double the price of admission simply to see these reviews without counting the excellent competitive drilling that is constantly going on. All the companies that have been drilled either in the competitive drills or in short exhibitions show remarkable improvement upon all previous work done by them. The state militia for members and excellence in military proflency to-day ranks far ahead of the militia of any state in the Union.
After the dress parade several companies gave practice exhibitions, and notable among these were the famous Houston Light Guard and the San Antonio Rifles.
THE FIRE WORKS.
Fully eight thousand people were on the grounds last night to witness the wonderful fire works exhibition, given by that great artist, James Pain, of London. To say that all were delighted with the exhibition is to but poorly describe the enthusiasm of the immense throng of people. From the time the monster balloon went skyward with its changing pendant light until the closing scene of a flight of two hundred interlacing rockets, the applause was hearty and the enthusiasm unbounded. Rockets were shot in midair and bursting threw a flood of different colored balls of fire that streamed the heavens, serpents hissed, parachutes of Lilliputian size hovered in the air and the set devices of strange and grotesque design held the audience spell bound. Â The Texas seal and the state capitol building shone out resplendent and were indeed wonderful pieces of mechanism. Taken as a whole the exhibition was the most marvelous display of fireworks ever witnessed in the south, and lucky will those be who having missed it last night avail themselves Saturday night of the opportunity of seeing the second exhibition given by this skilled London expert. New devices have been chosen for that night, and the display will be even grander than it was last night.
DRILL NOTES.
The rain soaked the drill grounds yesterday morning, but during the afternoon it was in due condition.
Uncle Samâs officers are a courteous, gentlemanly set of soldiers.
General Stoddard and staff are carrying out things well and are very popular.
The Sealy Rifles put up a splendid drill yesterday.
The Montgomery True Blues, of Montgomery, Ala. arrived here yesterday afternoon. The boys, though somewhat weary from their long ride, were in fine trim. They express themselves perfectly satisfied with their quarters, and thank the management for their convenient location. Of course some few little things remained to be done, which the men, like old veterans, immediately set about, and are now, at this writing, comfortably, ready for visitors and business.
A Delightful Evening - Flag Presented - Mexican Band - Greatest Shot in the Country
15 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
To the Light Guards.
The beautiful sponsor of the Houston Light Guards, Miss Sallie Searight, tendered them an elegant reception last evening at her residence on Capitol Hill. There was a large company present, consisting of many ladies from other cities, principally Houston, and a large number of Austinâs loveliest. The gentlemen were about equally divided between military and civilian, and all enjoyed a delightful evening.
The Nalle Rifles Flag.
The Nalle Rifles received their flag yesterday. It was shipped by express from Cincinnati more than a week ago, but was delayed on account of washouts on the railroads. The flag was presented to the Rifles by Miss Louise Hamby, the daughter of the company.
The Mexican Band.
The great Mexican band, according to the latest advises, will arrive in Austin on Wednesday morning early, and in time to take part in the procession on Dedication day.
The Champion.
Every visitor to Austin should see the exhibition shooting of Master Fred Petmecky, the greatest young rifle shot in the country, at the base ball grounds every day this week.
Coaches Crowded - Thousands of Splinters - A Splendid Showing
13 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
They Are Coming.
The south-bound last night came in with six coaches crowded to their fullest capacity. In addition to regular trains to-day several extra ones are expected and will be crowded.
The Arch Tumbled.
Yesterday morning about 7:30 oâclock a little breeze came up and blew the arch down in front of the First National bank, breaking it into thousands of splinters No one was hurt, however.
To be Rebuilt.
It is said that the grand triumphal arch which was blown down yesterday will be rebuilt, but not in the same place and manner. It is to be placed in or near the entrance to the capitol grounds.
Policemen Happy.
The police force yesterday donned their new uniforms received a day or two ago. They are very handsome and the police are delighted. They consist of navy blue coat, vest and trousers, with bright brass buttons, and the hat is a black Alpine with a gold cord and tassels. The police force will make a splendid showing this week.
Appointing Committees
12 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
Committee on Reception.
The reception committee of the drill and dedication ceremonies had a meeting yesterday, Col. J. T. Brackenridge, the chairman, presiding.
A resolution by Colonel Gaines, directing the chairman to appoint a committee of five to confer with the drill board and committee of public comfort regarding the housing of prominent guests and report to the full committee, was adopted.
The chairman appointed on said committee Messrs. W. P. Gaines, R. L. Walker, A. P. Wooldridge, Johan Orr and G. W. Littlefield.
On motion the committee adjourned to meet at 5 p. m.
The committee met pursuant to adjournment. The special committee of five reported the following resolutions, which were adopted:
It is understood and resolved:
The chairman of the reception committee is authorized and requested to appoint sub-committees or daily details of say ten members of this committee for each day of next week, whose duties shall be as follows:
FirstâSuch sub-committee for each day shall be at the depot upon the arrival of the several trains, and shall courteously receive and direct to the headquarters of public comfort all visitors, and to distinguished guests shall show especial attention in directing them to their assigned places and seeing them comfortably established thereat; and showing them, together with our other guests thereafter, the hospitalities of the city in every way in their power.
SecondâSuch sub-committees shall assist the governor and other heads of departments as they may be requestedâas a reception committee in receiving and introducing the cityâs guests, and help in any other way acceptable to the governor.
ThirdâSuch sub-committees shall also be on duty at the drill grounds for the days they are assigned to help in any way they can, subordinate, however, and under the discipline of the drill ground officers and authorities.
It is understood and resolved that the reception committee will wear their badges, which will admit them at all times and to all places under the general management and control of the Drill association. Distinguished guests will be furnished, it is understood, with complimentary tickets.
It is understood and resolved that the entire reception committee will be on duty at the capitol on the night of the dedication ball.
It is understood that the committee for public comfort will provide information as to suitable quarters for visitors to the city, which information will be at all times at the disposal of the reception committee, but upon this reception committee it does not in any sense devolve to provide or see to the quarters or accommodations of guests. They are merely asked and expected to advise visitors according to their means and testes as to the most suitable accommodations to be had.
It is understood and agreed by the committee of public comfort that it will provide especial accommodations and quarters for distinguished visitors, who said drill board hereby agree shall be courteously entertained at the cost of the board. By such distinguished guests as above is meant solely the Mexican mission, and such governors and their immediate attaches as may be in attendance, and for the entertainment of these special guests it is understood and resolved a special committee will be appointed by the chairman of this committee. The governor of the state of Texas can, in his discretion, increase the list of distinguished guests as above defined.
Colonel J. T. Brackenridge here informed the committee that, on account of business engagements, he would be unable to attend to the duties of chairman.
Upon motion of Hon. John Hancock, Hon. A. P. Wooldridge was elected chairman of the committed.
Upon motion of the chairman he was requested to appoint a committee to devise such manner of entertainment as might seem most appropriate to the committee, and report to-morrow to the general committee.
The following committee was appointed: Major Littlefield, General Walker, Major Zimpleman and Doctor Samostz.
Upon motion Colonel George B. Zimpleman and Doctor Nat. Erwin were added to the committee on reception, which action was confirmed by the board of directors of the drill board.
Mr. Hill offered the following resolution, which was adopted:
That the chairman be authorized to appoint and direct all such general or sub-committees as he may deem proper, in addition to the committees as are directed and defined by the resolution adopted. Carried.
Upon motion the committee adjourned till 5 p. m. to-morrow.
A. P. WOOLDRIDGE, Chairman.
J. C. DEGRESS, Secretary.
Austin Prepared for the Crowds
12 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
AUSTIN HAS PREPARED FOR THE CROWD OF VISITORS.
There is reprinted elsewhere this morning an editorial from the Fort Worth Gazette, which is received in the same spirit in which it was written. Austin is, and has for many months, been keenly conscious of what a grave responsibility will rest upon her next week in the entertainment of the thousands of strangers that will be visiting the city. Realizing this, the drill board, that throughout the preparations for this memorable event has done everything that mortal ingenuity could devise to make it in every respect an assured success, appointed, months ago, a board on public comfort, whose business it was made to look after the housing and the comfort of the vast crowd of people expected. This board of public comfort have made two thorough and complete canvasses of the city and every available place of rest has been put into requisition. This board now knows exactly how many strangers each home in Austin will accommodate. A full list of such quarters has been made out, and a thorough and systematic plan has been perfected for properly caring for and storing away every visitor to Austin next week. Hotels and boarding houses have not been taken into this estimate. It is expected, though much regretted, that these hotels and boarding houses will put up their prices considerably, but the drill board and the citizens of Austin will do everything in their power to discountenance anything and everything in the nature of gouging. Our citizens realize that Austinâs reputation is at stake, and the better class of our people, if others were not so disposed, would see to it that our visitors are treated courteously and honorably. Austin is prepared for the coming crowds. They will be well taken care of, and will leave Austin, we hope satisfied with the entertainment furnished them.

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Greater Memory than Any Man Yet Born on Earth
12 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
Greatest Wonder of the World.
H. P. N. Gammel, the Old Book Man of Austin, will exhibit the greatest wonder of the worldâa child but 2 years old with greater memory than any man yet born on the earth. Think of it, he repeats his multiplication table like one who has made itâs study; names all the presidents, their ages, when they were born and when died, and hundreds of questionsâin short, anything he has once heard he will never forget.
At the earnest request of many citizens I have consented to place the little boy on exhibition on the Drill ground, where he will be exhibited every day in the week from the opening to the close of the drill. It is hoped that all will avail themselves of this opportunity to see him, as
IT MAY BE YEARS
before he will appear here again. The day is not far distant when Austin will have the honor of having brought before the civilized world the greatest of all human prodigies.
After this week I intend to take a trip with him to Europe, and also through the United States. To see him now will cost you only 25 cents. It is a treat which is
WORTH REALLY $5.
The St. Louis Globe-Democrat, New Orleans Picayune, New York World, Herald, Clipper, Waco Day and Examiner, Dallas News, Fort Worth Gazette and the AUSTIN STATSMAN pronounce him a marvelous wonder. The boy is blind and is born of poor parents, colored race, and is the greatest wonder in the world.
H. P. N. GAMMEL.
Go to Gammelâs Old Book Store for books. The largest in Texas. Old and new books bought, sold and exchanged.
An Historical Day
10 MAY 1888. Austin Daily Statesman.
THE STATE TAKES POSSESSION OF ITS CAPITOL.
The capitol building has been received. The governor, with the rest of the capitol board and the contractor, yesterday signed the contract for the transfer of the capitol building from the keeping of the contractor to that of the state. The legislature, together with the different departments, will, it is thought, at once move into the new building. This event marks an historical day in the history of Texas. For five years the state has been constructing the finest capitol building in the southâindeed, the grandest in the union, barring only the national capitol at Washington and the New York state house. The building, as demonstrated by THE STATESMAN some week or so ago, has virtually cost the state nothing. Three million acres of unproductive state lands were transferred to a syndicate of northern capitalists, in consideration of which this mammoth granite structure to-day crowns Capitol hill. This land was worth almost nothing to the state. She had miles and leagues of land that brought her in not a cent of revenue, and trading off three millions acres of such land, worth about 50 cents an acre, for a four-million-dollar capitol, was the best trade the state ever made. These lands are now paying taxes upon the valuation of one dollar an acre, and a million dollars of new property values, because of this trade, have been imported into the state. The incidental benefits to the state because of the increase of all values of lands surrounding these improved capitol lands can not be estimated. In addition to this, the state has secured the most monumental structure, the most perfectly arranged, commodious, imposing and costly capitol building in the union, only excepting the two mentioned above.
Colonel Abner Taylor has kept his faith with the state. He has complied with the letter and essence of his contract. He has constructed a building of which he can feel justly proud and in which the state will glory for centuries to come. Mr. Wilke, the sub-contractor, and the gentleman who has personally superintended the building of the entire structure, is a man of remarkable proficiency in his profession. The work has been done quietly, quickly and well. There has been no shoddy work, nothing put up to be torn down, nothing but the best workmanship. The building has sprung into the air with the same precision and perfection in which it was planned on paper. The state has been peculiarly fortunate in having to deal with such an elegant and honorable gentleman for contractor as Colonel Taylor, and such a skilled and accomplished builder as Mr. Wilke for sub-contractor. And now that the building has been received by the state it is in order to felicitate both the state and those who have constructed that capitol building upon the eminently satisfactory issue of the work. The structure speaks for itself, and is a monument to its architects and builders; a monument to the glory and pride of the state.
The Capitol Received.
The full board met the capitol contractor yesterday afternoon, and all the details incident to the reception of the capitol in its incomplete but almost and virtually finished condition, were discussed and settled. The contractor and the capital board then signed the document of transfer of the building to the charge of the state, and Texas is in charge of the finest state capitol building in the union.
The state reserves 300,000 acres of land, it being 10 per cent of the capitol lands, which are to be held back until the entire completion of the building under the terms of the original contract. The state also retains 10,000 acres of land on account of the unfinished stairs and blinds, and the contractorâs bond of $250,000 is held as a guarantee of the building. On the other hand, the contractor gets a certificate for 150,000 acres of land, the amount earned up to date, and he is also relieved from all responsibility on account of the building. The state can now use and occupy her capitol.