Soldiers Re-Union

From the Valley Falls Register, September 2, 1887

The annual Re-Union of the ex-soldiers’ and sailors of Jefferson county was held in the city Park of this city on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. Though a little threatening in the morning, the weather proved desirable, and by noon a large crowd had arrived. Early in the morning flags and bunting were displayed profusely along the principal streets, and in various parts of the city — it was dressed in holiday attire and the visitors felt at home as soon as they beheld the cheering colors of the red, white and blue. The crowd grew and grew, reminding many of a 4th of [July] celebration. The city park had been put in order. A row of white tents, 600 feet in length, fringed two sides of the beautiful and umbrageous park, making a strikingly pleasing contrast with the heavy foliage of green. The tables 100 feet long were spread, an immense kettle, 40 gallons, of bacon and beans were cooking, and the prospect for a feast, and a patriotic flow of soul was pleasing. At noon the Parade was formed at the City Park headed by the Oskaloosa band in their fine new uniforms, and marched down Carolina street to Maple, thence up Broadway to the Park. About 60 old soldiers, the Nortonville band and Zouaves and a number of children were in line besides the Oskaloosa band.

 

U.S. flag, 1887

Capt. L.H. Gest was Commander of ceremonies and shortly after the parade sounded the “call” to order and entered upon the program.

Mayor Crosby delivered the address of welcome in a feeling manner and Dr. J.W. Balsley, of Oskaloosa happily responded. Then came dinner, and a royal feast of bacon, beans, hard tack and coffee was indulged in. Great squads of beans were attacked and some of the comrades had to be actively supported, being very nearly repulsed by overwhelming members. However, the old heroes came out victorious as usual, the beans all being taken prisoners. The exercises at the stand were then continued, and by speeches, music, social conversation, all had a general good time. Rev. Biggs, Hon. G.W. McCammon, Rev. Hill and Rev. Young and Mrs. Wood made short and interesting speeches. Adjourned to 8 p.m. A big crowd assembled to hear the Camp-fire exercised, and for two hours or more were variously entertained. About a dozen comrades talked, and told of their experiences in the army and were greeted by applause in every instance. Of those who responded we mention: Edwin Snyder, Dr. W.H. Lemon, Geo. Davis, W.C. Fowler, J.M. Puderbaugh, Col. Ritter, A.P. Reardon and Wm. Turner. The grand chorus sung several army and patriotic songs, and the Oak St. orchestra rendered some fine selections. At the conclusion of these exercises the officers for the ensuing year were elected as follows:

President, Dr. J.W. Balsley; Secretary, Geo. Davis, both of Oskaloosa.

At the session Thursday morning, the old soldier’s seats were well filled and Rev. Hurburt made an address, which was followed by several toasts and responses of an interesting character, and every thing passed off highly satisfactory.

RESOLUTION OF THANKS

Whereas, The Cornet bands of our neighboring cities, Oskaloosa and Nortonville, have favored us with their presence, valuable service and excellent music, during the County Re-Union, therefore be it 

Resolved, That Staffored Post No, 225 of Valley Falls, Kans., hereby tender its heartfelt thanks for the interest manifested and will long cherish their memory, and be it further, 

Resolved, That this resolution apply in full force to all who have assisted us in making this Re-union a success.

W. D. Fowler, G. W. McCammon, com.

At noon an adjournment was reached.

NOTES:

• It was a gala time.
• The bacon and beans were excellent.
• Many were disappointed in not hearing Capt. L.A. Myers speak.
• Everybody spoke in high complimentary terms of our fine city park.
• Dr. Lemon was inspired to make a big talk, after the singing of “Marching through Georgia,” which is a special theme of his.
• The Oskaloosa band, musical organization, of which the citizens of that town should be proud, was an especial feature of the Re-union, and they agreeably serenaded many places of business during their visit. The editor of the Register returns thanks for a serenade visit they paid his residence, where they rendered two fine selections from their large repertoire.
• Col. Ritter in sten’orian tones said he thought the soldiers should be better paid.
• Though a queenly, bright moon shown resplendent, electric lights would have added to the beauties of the park at the camp-fire. Some of the comrades spoke in obedience to orders, especially when the corporal brought ’em in.
  
• The singing of “Beans, Beans” to the tune of “Sweet Bye and Bye” brought out the camp-fire cheer.
• Stafford Post No. 225, G.A.R. did a flourishing business at the refreshment stand.
• Mr. Turner thought the boys and girls should be taught lessons of patriotism.
• Most of the speakers favored forgetting the dead issues of the war; but the sentiments of loyalty and patriotism, never.
• Mr. Snyder read a plaintive appeal from a veteran of N.Y., who has been poverty stricken for eight years.
• Rev. Young was too young to go to war, but gave the boys an amusing talk all the same.
• Most of the townships in the county were represented.

  

  "Der Zouave," Van Gogh

• The Nortonville “Zouaves” attracted much attention with their red toboggans.
• Over 100 old soldiers registered their names.
• A circle of about 20 ladies, of the G.A.R. was formed at the hall.
• Rev’s Geiger and Wade officiated in the openings by prayer.
• So many friends and visitors attended the Re-Union that we could not “list” them all in our paper.

This story appeared in “Yesteryears” in April 2012.