SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS]
April 2, 1859 - February 8, 1860
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], April 2, 1859, p. 1
Masthead: "Hew to the Line,
Let the Chips Fall Where They Will"
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], April 2, 1859, p. 1, c. 4-5
Laws of Divorce in Different States.
More than thirty causes of divorce are recognized by the statues [sic] of
the different States. In South
Carolina not one has ever been obtained. In
Virginia there are three causes, viz: natural
and incurable impotency at the time of the marriage, idiocy and bigamy.
In Alabama, adultery, or two years' abandonment.
In Rhode Island, impotency, adultery, extreme cruelty, wilful [sic]
desertion for the space of five years, continued drunkenness, neglect of the
husband to provide necessaries for the subsistence of the wife, gross
misbehaviour and wickedness repugnant to the marriage contract.
In New Jersey a divorce is granted for prior existing marriage, adultery,
and wilful [sic] absence for five years. In
Vermont for nonage, mental incapacity, impotency, force and fraud, adultery,
confinement in the State prison for three years or more, intolerable severity,
wilful [sic] desertion for three years, absence for seven years unheard of, and
where the husband being of ability, gross and wantonly neglects to provide for
his wife. In Maine for adultery,
impotency, desertion for five years, joining the Shakers for five years,
confinement in the State Prison of any of the U. States for five years, fraud in
obtaining the consent of the other party, habitual drunkenness for three years,
a marriage with an Indian or mulatto is void; and imprisonment for felony in the
State, works a divorce without any judicial proceeding.
In Kentucky for habitual drunkenness, condemnation for felony, cruelty of
the husband, and for several other causes which we forbear to mention.
In Illinois, for impotency, adultery, wilful [sic] desertion for two
years, extreme cruelty, habitual drunkenness for two years. In Missouri, for adultery, wilful [sic] desertion for two
years, conviction of an infamous crime, habitual drunkenness for two years,
cruel treatment endangering life, intolerably indignities, vagrancy of the
husband. In Iowa the same causes
exist as in Missouri, to which is superaded [sic], "when the parties cannot
live in peace and happiness, and their welfare requires a separation."
The law of Arkansas is the same as in Missouri, except that one year's
absence is sufficient to free the abandoned party from the bonds of marriage.
In Tennessee and Mississippi the law is nearly similar; while in Florida,
to like enactments are added habitual indulgence of violence and ungovernable
temper for one year, or drunkenness or desertion for one year.
In North Carolina, impotency, adultery, abandonment, turning the wife out
of doors, cruelty or indignity on part of the husband, or any other just cause.
In Texas, impotency, excess, or cruel treatment or outrages, or desertion
for three years; the husband may have a divorce for the adultery of the wife,
and the wife when the husband abandons her and lives in adultery.
In New York adultery is the only cause for a divorce.
In Maryland the law is the same as New York except that abandonment and
three years' absence from the State is a cause of divorce.
In Georgia, the old English ecclesiastical law governs. In New Hampshire and Ohio similar laws to those [in] Vermont
prevail. Extreme cruelty and
absence for three years are cause for divorce in Delaware, to which Pennsylvania
has added intolerable indignities. Congress
has never conferred the power to grant divorce upon the courts in the Districts
of Columbia.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], April 2, 1859, p. 1, c. 5
The North and the South.
What wild misapprehensions prevails at the North respecting the ways and
character of the Southern people! Not
less ill-informed are Southerners with regard to the state of things at the
North. And as a considerable number
of those who have access to the public ear have an interest in keeping the two
sections of the Union in ignorance of one another, it seems to be the duty of
every one who has opportunities of knowing the truth, to do what in him likes to
correct the current errors, and diminish the mutual ignorance.
If a
hundred thousand Southernerns [sic], selected from all parts of the Southern
States, were compelled to live a year a the North, and the same number of the
Northerners were obliged to spend a year in the South, and every man, on
returning home, were required to give the people of his county an account of
what eh had experienced and observed, and those accounts were for the part
faithful and full, it would do more to re-unite the two sections in feeling, and
prepare the way for a real national and fraternal union, than any other measure
that could be devised. Neither
party might change its opinion on the subject; but how surprising and delighted
all would be to discover that the two portions of the Union, like estranged and
long-seperated [sic] brothers, love one another infinitely more than they hate;
the ill feelings being a thing of yesterday, but the love dating far back,
beyond the recollection of either. A
state of feelings might then be expected to arise which would make it possible
for the brothers to confer frankly and friendly upon the points of difference
between them.
We
should be glad to see the tour of Europe going out of fashion.
We venture to declare that a New Yorker or a New Englander, intelligent
enough to get any good from travel, would see more novelty, have more curious
adventures, experience a greater rush of new ideas, and come back with more food
for reflection and more material for conversation, from a three month's tour in
the South, than he would from six months' travel in Europe.
To a Southerner, who has passed his life on a plantation, far from any
large town, every object in the North is novel and interesting.
The Northern man who goes South makes a journey into the Past.
The southern man who comes North beholds the living, realized Future.
Go five hundred miles South, and then ten miles from the railroad, and
you have arrived at Fifty Years Ago. The
old-fashioned cast of character, simple, innocent, cordial, healthy, are before
you; for the entire south is rural and agricultural, and the manner of the
people, their feelings and character, are those of men who derive their all from
the soil, and who pass half of their lives out of doors.
Brethren
of the North and of the South, visit one another.
Do not believe those who tell you that either is unprepared or unwilling
to give the other a cordial welcome. The
Northern man thinks, the Southern man feels.
And that is precisely the reason why, when the two meet in proper and
congenial circumstances, they are so pleasing and beneficial to one another.
There is a difference between them, we admit.
But is there any man foolish enough to believe that the removal of that
difference is hastened by vituperation, by bad blood, by the hatred that is
engendered by ignorance of one another's real opinions, desires, and
character.—N. Y. Ledger.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], April 2, 1859, p. 3, c. 4
West Point
Barber Saloon,
Charles Beasly,
Respectfully informs his friends and customers that he continues to perform all the duties of a barber, at his stand adjoining the Post Office where
Shaving, Hair Dressing &c.,
is done in the neatest Style.
He
solicits a continuance of that liberal patronage heretofore extended to him.
His motto is:
Walk in gentlemen, you are in time,
I will shave you neatly for a dime
And if you will with me barter—
I will shampoo you for a quarter.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], April 9, 1859, p. 2, c. 1
Pikes Peak Gold Diggins.
The great rush is now for Pike's Peak—the Eldorado of the West. The fever is raging to an almost alarming extent,--thousands
upon thousands from all parts of the Union are flocking thither.
The St. Louis papers estimates the number that has passed through that
city at one hundred thousand, some 6,000 passed through Cincinnati via the
river.
The
Nashville Patriot of the 22nd ult says:
["]
A large number of persons, mostly from Georgia, passed through our city
yesterday en route for Pike's Peak. The
gold mania in North Carolina and Georgia is greatly on the increase, several
parties from those States having previously gone forward within two or three
weeks past. They left yesterday
morning on the steamer Reliance for Smithland, thence by steamer they proceed to
St. Louis. We learn that a party of
about twenty young gentlemen will leave Eddyville, Ky., in a few days, for the
gold regions.["]
A
company is now organizing in our city. Some
ten or twelve are making their arrangements to leave the 20th of this
month. Perhaps it would be of
interest to some to know where it is. It
is situated in the extreme western part of Kansas; some of the mines extending
into New Mexico on the west and Nebraska on the North.
The country is well watered, with an abundance of game.
Gold is found in large quantities—the miners having made from five to
ten Dollars a day during the winter where they had to work under disadvantages.
There
is no question of there being gold there—the only thing to fear is that the
country and mines will be overstocked. A
person before going should weigh well the cost.
The
whole trip can be made by public conveyance going via New Orleans to St. Louis,
thence by Hannibal to St. Joe by Rail road, there stage it to the mines at a
cost of $150 Dollars from here, or via West Port Missouri, with mining and
camping utensils, with provisions for sic months at a cost of $180.
The
prospects are encouraging and all you that have the fever had better start soon,
and get there by the time the spring work begins.
Our prayers will attend you.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], April 9, 1859, p. 2,
c. 2
For the Broad-Axe.
Stuck up Folks.
"I don't like those people, they are so dreadfully stuck up,"
was the remark we heard the other day. What
are "stuck up" people, thought we, and we have been looking about to
see if we could find any. Do you
see that young man over yonder, leaning against a post of the hotel piazza,
twirling a showdow [sic?] walking stick, now and then coaxing the hair on his
upper lip, and watching every lady that passes, not that he cares to see them,
but is anxious to know whether they observe him, he belongs to the "stuck
up folks."
What
is the occasion? Well, he happened
to have a rich father, and a foolish vain mother, who have taught him that he
isn't "Commonfolks," and that poverty is almost the same as vulgarity
and meanness, and so he has become "stuck up;" he doesn't take pains
to learn any thing, for he doesn't feel the need of knowing any more; he does
not work, for he has never required it, and he is so extensively "stuck
up" he hasn't the least idea that he will ever come down—he doesn't know,
however. There goes a young
woman—lady, she calls herself—with the most condescending air to nobody in
particular, and on all-pervading consciousness "all creation and the rest
of mankind" are looking at and admiring her; she has never earned her salt
she eats, knows a little, very little, of a good many things, and nothing
thoroughly on any thing; is most anxious lest she be troubled to make a
selection out of fifty young men, all of whom are dying for her, she supposes.
She is one of the "Stuck up folks," and that is about all she
is. That old gentleman, over the
way, barricaded with half a yard of shirt collar, guarded by a gold headed cane,
with a pompous patronizing air—do you see him?
Well he is one of the "Stuck up" too.
He has
been so about ten years, since he got off his leathern apron, and began to
speculate successfully in real estate.
There
are other fools of this class, some "stuck up" by having at some time
or other been Constables, justices of the peace, and aldermen, and in various
other ways, they get "stuck up" notions. They are not proud people, for they do not rise to the
dignity of price; they are not distinguished folks, for they have not the
ability or character enough to make them so—they are just what they appear to
be, "stuck up."—let them stick.
A.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], April 9, 1859, p. 2,
c. 2-3
Cedar Hill, April 2nd '59.
Ed. Locomotive:
Dear
Mr. Editor:--Pray congratulate me on my safe return to Cedar Hill, and my escape
from what I consider—enchanted land. There
is surely some wondrous fascination about the "queen island," which
inclines one to linger among its beautiful bowers and rich parterres forever.
And who would not risk the dangers of the treacherous gulf, for one
glimpse of the green isle as it rises to view above the waste of waters.
I feel
as if I had been wandering in fairy regions—Life in Cuba is but a delicious
reverie, a succession of pleasant emotions, a happy dream.
There are no external sights or sounds to destroy the harmony of the
soul. Nothing is heard but the
sweet music of birds, the soft sighing of the breeze, or the fall of distant
cascades, while Flora has decked this lovely spot with all that can charm the
eye.
But I
forget to whom I am writing—such enthusiasm will only excite a smile from one
who deals solely in such dry matters as politics, and statistical facts.
You would rather know in what time I made the trip, at what port I
landed, the present price of sugar, how the coffee plantations are flourishing,
or what is the last political movements.
Well,
I cant [sic] inform you on these important points but would advise you, if you
wish to forget all the ills and disagreeables of life to make a jaunt to the
"jem [sic] of the Antilles"—It is better than a draught of the
famous water of Lethe.
I have
returned home though, a jealous advocate of annexation.
We need such a land as this, with its flowers, to poetry, and its romance
to often [soften?] our prosaic natures—to remind us that life was not meant
merely for the accumulation of sordid dollars and cents, but for just and
refined enjoyment. That a few
moments should be claimed from business for innocent pleasure—a few hours
devoted to love and friendship. If Brother Jonathan would listen to my advice he would not
await the slow progress of "manifest destiny in this matter" but would
make such a prize his own by a sudden coup de main, and do his talking
afterwards as, we must all confess, he is a wordy gentleman, who cant [sic] take
a pinch of snuff even, without discussing the expediency of the thing with all
his friends.
But
what have you, and your contributors been saying and doing in my absence.
Have you commented as usual upon the follies of my sex, or have you yet
made the astounding discovery that your own err occasionally?
Have you chronicled all the dreadful duel's [sic] that have ended in
smoke or inserted any more of J. M's Philippies?
And last, but not least, what is become of my good friend W. J? I expected to find several members of the Locomotive awaiting
me when I returned to Cedar Hill, but not one met my anxious eye.
Have you entirely forgotten that I am one of your subscribers?
Do
assure W. J. for me that I am not at all intimidated by his Scriptural
quotations. In truth I do not apply
those words of St. Paul to myself, as I am yet "fancy free," and he
was evidently addressing that honorable class who have chosen lords, and masters
for their guide. Perhaps these
appointed guides were more sapient then, than now, for I think they would very
often prove "blind leaders of the blind" in the present age.
But doubtless such texts are very much to the taste of all his
progmatical [sic] sex. In their
superior wisdom they have assigned woman her proper place in the scale of
existence with as much nonchalance as Naturalists classify stones, shells, or
animals, and they are somewhat surprised, and intensely indignant that she will
not remain there forsooth! Strange! is it not? That
this specimen of animated nature should possess something like human volition,
and with a vivacity and will almost equal to noble man's, claim the right of
having a voice in the disposal of self! There
is something unfeminine in this independence of thought.
Woman was placed in this world to prepare her liege-lord a good dinner,
keep his wardrobe in nice order, coax away his ill-humor or weekly endure its
storm when events in the great world have conspired to ruffle his equanimity.
To stay at home and study his interest while he is up town discussing
politics, on taking social glasses to oblige his friends;--or off on a pleasure
trip which takes the high-sounding name of urgent business.
Oh!
yes; let woman be taught by her husband at home.
Did she not vow at the altar to take him for better and worse.
And that of course meant a renunciation of all such heresies as free
will; thoughts, feelings, and opinions of her own.
His belief must henceforth be hers.
If needs be the noonday sun must seem the "pale inconstant
moon." It is her mission to
take charge of the goose but let her beware of "using the quill extracted
from its wing." And my waning light reminds me that I must lay aside mine for
the present, but do, my dear Mr. Editor let me hear from you soon.
Yours truly,
Kate.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], April 27, 1859, p. 2,
c. 3
For the Broad-Axe.
Shall We Travel?
The response to this interogation [sic] depends greatly upon the object
had in view, or ends to be accomplished.
I am
aware, Mr. Editor, that there are many who think that a tour to some Northern or
Atlantic city—or popular watering place, is something not to be missed;
although they often go for no other object than display, (or as they would call
it enjoyment) and often at an expense too great for even those more pecuniarily
blest. Now sir, it is not my design
to complain too heavily at this practice, so much admired, and indulged in, by
the more favors [favored?] of fortune's children, in this fair land of ours, for
the reason that much of their hoarded treasure is thus drawn out into the hands
of the poor hackmen, Inn and hotel keepers; and is thereby put into circulation,
and so finds its way into the hovel of the neglected poor in exchange for a
dozen eggs, a few chickens—pounds of butter &c., while they would not
bestow a mite from the bounty which the great giver of gifts has so lavishingly
bestowed upon them, to feed the hungry, educate the orphan, or dry the sorrowing
tear of disconsolate widowhood; and only by hard persuasion can they be induced
to reluctantly give a few dollars towards building a house of worship, provided
it be for the use of some denomination with which they can fraternize.
But
sir, you will have the generosity to permit me to urge some objections to what
appears prodigality. While I admit
the privilege in one instance, I most emphatically condemn the practice
in another. Is it not strange that
young persons who labor and toil for money, being favored with limited means,
will lavish it so wantonly in the pursuit of habits and enjoyments, which
promise to prove fatal to their future welfare and happiness? I doubt not it is often the case, that they borrow from a
friend to make an excursion off, when the very raiment which adorns their
persons is unpaid for. Now Mr.
Editor, I hope you will not consider it untimely to make a suggestion here.
If the wealthy would spend more money in building up home instutions
[sic], home comforts, home manufactories; and make an occasional visit to the
cottage of the poor, there with words of love and deeds of kindness to bind up
wounded hearts and soothe dropping spirits—and instead of setting extravagant
examples for the less fortune-favored, condemn every appearance of customs which
leave a fatal sting behind them, would they not be doing a better and more
charitable part for their fellow beings? For
had we the time, the money and the inclinations to visit all cities and watering
places of importance in all this land of ours, to launch our bark and [in?] the
billowy ocean, and unfurling to the breezes our snowy sails, be wafted over the
restless tide to the land of our fathers, and traverse its groves and glens made
sacred by patriotic recollections and poetic associations; had we a view of all
Europe, or of the entire world—then, so far from having obtained our desire,
we could but do as Alexander did, sigh that there was no more to accomplish and
conclude as Solomon did that "all was vanity."
Maggie.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], April 27, 1859, p. 2, c. 4-5
A Word to Young Ladies.
We wish to say a word to you, young ladies, about your influence over
young men. Did you ever think of
it. Did you ever realize that you
could have any influence at all over them?
We believe that a young lady, by her constant, consistent, Christian
example, may exert an untold power. You
do not know the respect, the almost worship, which young men, no matter how
wicked they may be themselves, pay to a consistent Christian lady, be she young
or old. A gentleman once said to a
lady who boarded in the same house with him, that her life was a constant proof
of the truth of the Christian religion. Often
the simple request of a lady will keep a young man from doing wrong.
We have known this to be the case very frequently; and young men have
been kept from breaking the Sabbath, from drinking, from chewing, just because a
lady whom they respected, and for whom they had an affection, requested it.
A tract given, an invitation to go to church, a request that your friend
would read the Bible daily, will often be regarded, when more powerful appeals
from other sources will fall unheeded upon his heart.
Many of the gentlemen whom you meet in society are away from their own
homes—away from the influence of parents and sisters—and they will respond
to any interest taken in their welfare. We
all speak of a young man's danger from evil associates, and the very bad
influence which his dissipated gentleman companions have over him.
We believe it is just as true, that a gentleman's character is formed, to
a very great extent, by the ladies he associates with, before he become[s] a
complete man of the world. We
think, in other words, that a young man is pretty much what his sisters and
young lady friends choose to make him. We
knew a family where the sisters encouraged their younger brother to smoke,
thinking it was manly, and to mingle with gay, dissipated fellows, because they
thought it "smart;" and he did mingle with them, until he became just
like them, body and soul, and abused the same sisters shamefully.
The influence began farther back than with his gentlemen companions.
It began with his sisters; and was carried on through the forming years
of his character. On the other
hand, if sisters are watchful and affectionate, they may, by various ways—by
entering into any little plan with interest, by introducing their brothers into
good ladies society—lead them along, until their character is formed, and then
a high-toned respect for ladies, and a manly self-respect, will keep him from
mingling with low society. If a
young man sees that the religion which in youth he was taught to venerate, is
lightly thought of, and perhaps sneered at by the young ladies with whom he
associates, we can hardly expect him to think that it is the thing for him.
Let none say that they have no influence at all.
This is not possible. You
cannot live without having some sort of influence, any more than you can live
without breathing. One is just as
unavoidable as the other. Beware,
then, what kind of influence it is that you are constantly exerting.
An invitation to drink a glass of wine, or to play a game of cards, may
kindle the fires of intemperance or gambling, that may burn forever.
A jest given at the expense of religion, a light, trifling manner in the
house of God, or any of the numerous ways in which you may show your disregard
for the souls of others, may be the means of ruining many for time and
eternity.—[Ex.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 4, 1859, p. 1, c.
1
To
Water-Proof Fabrics.—Take a pound of glue, one pound of tallow bar soap and
dissolve them in five gallons of water. Now
bring the water to the boiling point, and add carefully and slowly one and a
half pounds of alum. When this is
all dissolved, cool down the liquid to about 130 deg. Fah. and plunge the
articles to be prepared into it, then hang them up to dry.
When they have become quite dry, they should be washed in soft water and
dried a second time. Such articles should not be used for wearing apparel,
excepting for loose tunics to be put on in rainy weather. Any person may thus prepare at little expense a coarse cloth
water-proof fabric.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 4, 1859, p. 1, c.
5
Farmer's
Home.—Nothing shows the refinement of the farmer more than the adorning of his
home. It shows his good taste, and
that he is desirous of making all around him pleasant and comfortable.
Beautiful and attractive homes tend to increase all the good qualities of
the occupants, and remove the bad. Beauty
and loveliness in nature tend to all that is lovely in thought and deed and make
mankind better, both as concerns their own happiness and that of others.
Having shown why
farmers should adorn their homes, we will tell the way to do it the easiest.
If your house is
poor and plain, it makes no difference if you cannot afford to build a new one,
adorn the surroundings of the old one. In
cold spells build a new yard—it cost almost nothing; set out some pretty trees
in front, and surround the house with them if possible. Fill the yard with flowers; they will cost nothing but the
getting, unless rare varieties are procured, and your wife and children will
tend to the cultivation.—never fear that.
Build a wood house, if you have not ready.
Don't deface your yard with wood piles, rails, sleds, cartwheels, and
other rubbish; remove the hog pen from its conspicuous position near the
roadside, and build a neat frame structure—'twilt pay for itself in a few
years. Have neat fences, they look
well, and are much better. Build a
nice barn and sheds, if not already built; they will pay for themselves and look
better than the unsightly. Have
good yards around your farm buildings. And
above all, have the best books of the day, where yourself and family can gain
instruction in their leisure hours, and take at least one good agricultural
paper.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 4, 1859, p. 1, c.
6
The Knoxville Whig
says:--"There is a regular day-school taught in the old part of our
city by a Free Negro, and the little darkies travel to and from it daily,
with their little baskets and buckets. This
is, of course, with the approbation of the City Authorities.
It is a thing well enough, as it will enable them to learn the arts of poisoning,
writing free papers, and burning down towns scientifically!"
We were born in
Tennessee, and we are proud of it. But
it was the other end of the State and we are prouder of that.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 4, 1859, p. 2, c.
1
Sabbath
School.—It was truly gratifying to see the interest manifested by all, in the
meeting at Church Hill on the 1st inst. A large number of our citizens in town and country gave in
their names in support of the cause. It
speaks well for the morals of West Point to see so many, indeed almost all, of
her young gentlemen engaging in a Sabbath School. The prospects are flattering and now is the time to
thoroughly organize. Come out next
Sabbath, 9 o'clock A. M.
There
is considerable complaint at the inconvenience of getting out there, and if we
only had a suitable building in town, doubtless a much greater interest would be
taken in it.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 4, 1859, p. 2, c. 2
That Church.
We will venture to assert that you may search the whole United States
from the Lakes to the Gulf and you will not find another town of the size or
doing one-half of the business of West Point, without at least two or three
churches in it. Then why can not we
have a church or two? It surely
cannot be penuriousness on the part of the citizens!
Does no one agitate the matter? There
are several spoken of and subscription enough to build one or two liking [sic] a
few hundred dollars. In the name of
common humanity can we not awaken enthusiasm sufficient to complete the sum?
Do let us see them, or at least one, under contract during the
course of the spring.
Good
Schools and Churches will add to the convenience of our citizens—and
especially to the interest of our town, and be an inducement to others to cast
their lots among us. "A hint
to the wise is sufficient."
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 4, 1859, p. 2, c.
5
Some
of our exchanges continue directing our papers to the "Locomotive."
We wish them to clearly understand that we are a different
institution and in no way connected with that unfortunate enterprise. The "Locomotive" run off the track about
Christmas, possibly in consequence of having too much steam "on," but
we were not Engineer. Please
direct to the "Southern Broad-Axe."
The "Locomotive" is no more.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 4, 1859, p. 3, c. 1
The Soiree.
We had the pleasure of attending Prof. Spigener's Soiree last
Friday evening, and were gratified to meet so respectable at [an] assemblage of
the Youth and Beauty of West Point, and some of the neighboring towns on the
Rail Road. No plans were spared to
make the festivities of the occasion as agreeable as possible and to render the
situation of every one pleasant. The
utmost gayety and good feeling pervaded the whole assembly.
Participants and spectators all joined in the potent, soul enchanting
spell, which wrapt the senses, while
"Soft eyes looked love to eyes which spake again,
And all went merry as a marriage bell."
Prof.
Spigener's present session closes next Friday evening, when those wishing to
enter for next session will have an opportunity of doing so.
He needs no further recommendation than to see his classes perform.
We refer you to his card in another column.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 4, 1859, p. 4, c.
1
For the Broad Axe.
La Cigarrette. [sic]
With blow gun, and with bat in hand,
Thro' various streets he wends his way,
His little poodle, at command,
Around the lad does play;
With martial step he onward hies,
(This papa's joy, and mamma's pet)
Till some confectioner's he spies,
With hastened pace along he flies,
To buy his cigarrette.
In the back room the fire does blaze,
The little gent as bold as brass,
Sensible men, with much amaze,
Make way to let him pass.
He kicks the billets, turns him round,
Each eye on him intently set,
Springs to the fire with a bound
And lights his cigarrette.
He next espies an armed chair,
Which close unto the mantel stood,
Places himself, cross-legged, there
And with a stare so rude,
He scans each countenance by turns,
(This papa's joy, and mamma's pet)
The fumes ascend while slowly burns,
His Cuba Cigarrette.
In comes an old gray-headed man,
To warm his hands—the day was cold—
A country gent, who wish'd to show
Politeness to the old,
Resigned his seat, while stately sat
(This papa's joy, and mamma's pet,)
Nor mov'd an inch, but whiffed the last,
Of his sweet cigarrette.
Such airs are, in the youth, or man,
Ridiculous; and when a child
You should restrain them, while you can,
By counsels wise and mild.
Show to your darling, while he's young,
The snares which every day beset
The paths of manhood, which have sprung
From smoking (Tho' I may be wrong)
A Cuba cigarrette.
Whetstone.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 11, 1859, p. 1, c. 3
Jo Suggs at the
Candy Stew,
by Forky Dee.
Boys, did I ever tell you about Jo's adventure at Molly Dobs' candy stew
down on Huggins Creek?
Well,
if I never did, here goes. Jo you
know, was a round chunk of a fellow, wore tight pants and a bobtail coat and was
monstrous afraid of the gals.
The
gals, though, warn't afraid of Jo, if he did own land and niggers—for sich
like have no terrors for them. Well,
not being afraid of Jo, of course they didn't fear the other fellows, who were
minus all these. Well, then Jo was
axed along with a number of them to come down to Molly Dobs' mammy's to a candy
stew, and down Jo went, with all his fat and bashfulness, and when he got there
the house was full of galls and fellows, and the candy had been poured out to
cool, and was setting all about the room on chairs and tables. So soon as he entered all eyes were on him—I mean the
galls,, for Jo was considered a great catch, and Jo blushed; but old Mrs. Dobs
and Molly rushed to him, seized him by the hand and literally overpowered him
with kind greetings; he became confused, his legs got weak, and he looked about
for a place to sit down. Molly and her mammy kept crowding him. They were right after Jo's tracks, and he was straight after
a chair, and as he cast his eye back he thought he saw a soft cushioned one, and
he took a squat at it, and as he touched it, you never heard such a yell in your
life; he lifted himself out of it clear into the very middle of the floor,
clapped his hands on his breeches and wiggled like a worm in hot embers, while
the smoking candy trickled down his legs. The
galls all screamed, Molly fainted. I
seized a bucket of water, Mrs. Dobs the dish tub, and right at Jo we both dashed
as he rushed out of the room. But
luckily he stumbled and fell and Mrs. Dobs came right on top of him, tub and
all. To make things sure I chugged
him with the bucket of water about the seat of agony.
He roared, I tell you, and when we lifted him up his hands were stuck
fast behind him. The cold water had
done the work, and there was no loosening them without fire and hot water.
He begged us not to take him back among the gals, but it was no
use—there was no where else to take him—and we pulled him right among them,
and stood him with his back to the fire, and poured hot water about where his
hands were stuck, while all the galls blushed, covered up their faces and
wondered if he was much hurt. "Powerfully
damaged," says I. At this
Molly screamed and swooned again, and Jo gave his hands a sudden wrench bolted
out of the house, and took down the road like forty devils were after him, and
about one minute after another fellow followed him, and a woman close on to him
with a broom stick. That, boys, was
me and old Mrs. Dobs, but she got no nearer me than I did Jo.
I tell you the running was powerful, and I can't to this day decide which
is the most stimulating—a dish of hot candy, as Jo took it, or the sight of a
broomstick in the hands of an angry woman. But boys, if you want to have fun, jus say "lasses
candy" to Jo; it will do you good to see him clasp his hands and grin.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 11, 1859, p. 1, c.
6
Rather
Too Good to be Lost.—Thursday night a countryman from the county of Franklin,
wandered to the Gaiety Theatre to witness the tragedy of Othello.
Mr. Crisp personated the "Moor" on the occasion, and we must
say, looked the character in great perfection.
The delegate from Franklin appeared highly satisfied until the scene in
the Duke's palace, where Othello is arraigned for marrying the fair and
beautiful Desdemona. Here he knit
his brows and looked daggers at the sooty general; but when Desdemona herself
entered and joined in the defence of her husband, and he turned and threw his
arm gently about her waist, the delegate went off in a towering passion,
swearing it was "a d----e Black Republican play," not to be tolerated
by the Southern people, and stalked out of the house.—Nash. Pat.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 11, 1859, p. 1, c.
6
A
cupid smitten swain once found himself, fortunately (?) in possession of his Dulcinea's
album, on a blank leaf of which he gave vent to his pent up soul in the
following pathetic strain:
"Soft is the down on the butterfly's wing,
Soft is the whisper when lover's [sic] speak,
Soft is the light which the moonbeams fling,
But softer far is my lady love's cheek."
"Phancy
his phelinks" the next morning when he found upon his table a delicate
little card, which had some how strayed there, upon which a feminine hand had
traced the following tender response:
"Soft am 'taters all smashed up—
And mush am soft as mush can be—
But softer far is the silly pap
Vat writ that varse to me.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 11, 1859, p. 2, c.
2
For the Broad-Axe.
Only a Teacher.
How many a noble, pure-minded and true-hearted girl, from choice, as well
as necessity, have left the comforts of an affluent home, with its thousand
associations, through a warm devotion to the most useful of all professions
accessible to woman, a profession which has for its special object and aim, the
elevation and refinement of her sex, to meet in a strange place and among
strangers only the cold, prying look of curiosity, and to hear the whispered
words from one to another, "she is only a teacher!"
It is true the most sacred and responsible of all duties is her's
[sic]—the development of immortal minds.
But what of that? the door
of fashionable society must be slammed in her face, for she is "only a
teacher," and must not expect to be admitted within the charmed circle.
She
may be eminently qualified to mould the plastic mind of a dear daughter, capable
of imparting even her own gentle manners and queenly graces to a dear sister,
but with the parent this shall profit her nothing, for she is "only a
teacher."
She
may be possessed of wit, beauty, intelligence, but even these shall not relieve
her from the odium which a false and hollow-hearted circle would heap upon her,
for alas she is "only a teacher."
The
dashing belle, with a heart as unnatural as her false curls, will turn up her
nose as she passes and simper "only a teacher;" the brainless dandy,
the joint work of the hatter, tailor, and boot-maker, even while expressing his
admiration, by his rude and insolent gaze, will append to this note of
admiration his pity, that she is "only a teacher."
Sordid
papa's [sic] and fortune hunting mamma's [sic] will guard the self important,
lymphatic "hope of the family," by whispering in his ear, "she is
only a teacher."
But,
thank heaven, there are many without that self-styled, fashionable circle,
composed of hollow-hearted belles, brainless dandies, sordid pappas,
fortune-hunting mammas, and self-important "hopes of the family."
Yes,
there is a world of generous spirits outside of this exclusive circle, full of
noble generosity, with intellect and exalted merit, ready to pay its tribute to
the worthy wherever they are found.
Wit,
wisdom, and beauty command the fealty of those loyal hearts, even when
"only a teacher" is the embodiment.
They have the discrimination to see, and the feelings to appreciate the
noble spirit which impels the gifted teacher, instead of the flattering, gay
butterfly of an hour, amid the allurements and dissipations of the hall of
fashion, to go forth in the world and leave her impress upon the tablet of the
immortal mind.
Ah!
who is it that is to fashion the future lives of our little sisters and
daughters? "Only the
teacher." Who is to impress
the opening minds of the future generation?
Who is to endeavor, not only by example, but by precept, to sow the seeds
of virtue, honesty, and truth in the minds of the gay, young and thoughtless,
while perhaps their fashionable mammas are spending their time at some gay
dinner or evening party, theatre, or some other place of amusement?
"Only the teacher." Who
is debarred from the select circle, whose presence is looked upon as an
intrusion, and if by chance, she happens to be present on one of these
occasions, she is with, but not one of them, while she only waits to steal
unobserved to some quite [sic] corner, some secret nook, and there pour out the
tears that well up from her heart of hearts?
for as the mimosa too rudely touched, folds up its leaves, so if you
approach a sensitive nature in rough and heartless manner it closes the avenue
to its affections and shrinks tremblingly from your contact.
Stranger
teachers we often meet from the North, the South, the East, and the West, who
perhaps, like some of you, reader, of the elite, the bon ton, and the
aristocracy, have once reveled in all the comforts and luxuries that wealth can
afford. Until by some freak of
fortune adversity came and compelled them to go forth in the world—many of the
far away from the loved ones at home—and for what purpose? to teach your children; to instruct and guide them up the
rugged steeps of knowledge, without even an encouraging word, friendly call, a
passing interest in your hearts and homes, or a look of kindness and sympathy to
cheer them in their toils. Ah!
no! says one for "she is only a teacher," and cannot be
admitted into our circle.
She is
agreeable and looks well enough, but teachers must be made to feel their
position and keep their place.
The
streams of small pleasures fill the lake of happiness; the kind word, the soft
and gentle tone, even the friendly glance of the eye, may sweep with trembling
felicity the cords of many a sorrowing stranger's heart, and you, kind readers
and patrons of the elite, the bon ton, &c., would feel all the happier for
having done a good action, for benevolent impulses enact many a scene of
beautiful wonder amid plaudits of Angels; and it is a duty that we owe to those
less fortunate than ourselves, not merely to sympathize with them, but let our
sympathy lead to acts of charity and kindness.
Some
good writer has said, that a virtuous person struggling with misfortunes and
rising above them, is an object on which the Gods themselves look down with
delight, and also, that we never yet found pride in a noble nature, nor humility
in the unworthy mind.
Of all
trees we obscure that God has chosen the vine—a low plant that creeps upon the
wall; of all beasts the soft, patient lamb; of all birds the mild and gentle
dove.
When
God appeared to Moses, it was not in a lofty cedar, nor the spreading palm, but
a bush—a humble, slender, abject bush.
As if he would by these selections, check the conceited arrogance of man.
Nothing
produceth love like humility; nothing hate like pride.
And we feel gratified that there are still many noble and true hearts
ready and willing to extend the hand of sympathy and encouragement, who are
above all such vanities and frivolities, and who are not ashamed to be seen in
any circle, conversing and even associating with "Only a teacher."
A.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 11, 1859, p. 2, c. 3-4
A Woman's Wit.
A little romance was enacted in this city a short time ago, the details
of which we were so fortunate as to obtain.
A gentleman who resides on Prospect street has a wife who, for some
months past has gradually become imbued with the idea that her lord is recreant
to his vows.—A note which she intercepted confirmed her in her suspicions, and
his movements were watched with a secrecy and cunning known only to jealous
wives. She ascertained where the
frail one lived who had estranged her husband's love from its lawful object, and
succeeded in renting a room in a house directly opposite, representing herself
to be a dress maker. From this
point of observation, she saw enough to convince her that her faithless spouse
was a constant and welcome visitor at the house across the way, whose reputation
was not at all questionable.—By the promise of a liberal reward, she induced a
daguerrean artist to remove his apparatus to her room, and to follow her
directions without asking questions. Wondering
what deed of horror he might be called upon to daguerotype, the artist prepared
to obey her commands. She ordered
him to place his instrument so as to command the front door of the house
opposite, and to be prepared to take an impression at a moment's notice. He did as he was requested, and for many long hours, two
anxious faces might have been seen peering from the window, and the artist's
camera pointing grimly and relentlessly at the door of the opposite house.
The
next day when the naughty husband entered his own house, his wife advanced
towards him, looking unusually sweet and cheerful (in fact, he thought he had
never observed her looking so charming before) and presented him with a
daguerreotype, saying she had been at considerable pains to obtain it,
regretting that it did not do the subject entire justice, and ending by begging
its acceptance with one of her sweetest smiles. Thinking his dear little wife had been getting her miniature
for him, and recalling his disloyalty with an ugly spasm of the heart he
proceeded to unclasp the case which contained, as he supposed, the featured of
the loving and confiding creature before him.
The first glance disclosed a house which looked astonishingly familiar;
the second revealed to his petrified gaze the form of himself, standing on the
steps with his hand upon the door knob; and gazing sheepishly around as if
fearful of detection. His head
swam, the infernal miniature danced before his eyes, and falling upon his knees,
the wretch frantically besought her forgiveness.
'Tis said the room presented a fearful scene. There were reproaches, entreaties, threats of separation,
supplications, mingled with a considerable quantity of hysterics and tearing of
hair. We are informed that the
affair was at length adjusted, and that he has become an exceedingly meek,
attentive and obedient husband.—Cleveland Democrat.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 11, 1859, p. 2, c.
4
Camels
in Dallas County.—We have been informed that it is the intention of Capt. J.
A. Machodo who has been engaged for several years in importing camels to the
United States, to send a short time, some three or four camels to our
countryman, B. M. Woolsey, who has consented to take them, and ascertain
practically, if the camel is really adapted to the wants of our section of the
country. Mr. Woolsey, we learn,
will receive these animals in the course of ten or fifteen days, and will make
such experiments with them as will prove their adaptation to our farming
pursuits.
There
are quite a number of gentlemen in our vicinity, who have been anxious to test
the uses of the camel, and that this may be done, Capt. Machodo, has consented
that Mr. Woolsey may make the test, so in case they prove to be what they are
represented, he can furnish any number to our planting friends.
We shall endeavor, at any any [sic], to keep our readers posted, as to
the result of the experiment.—Selma Sentinel.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 11, 1859, p. 4, c.
1
Every
family ought to keep a kitten to amuse the children. They should also keep children to amuse the kitten.
It is
proposed to establish an institution for the education of young ladies in which
the science of weaveology, spinology and cookology will form a part.
After obtaining these accomplishments they may receive the degree of F.
F. W.—Fit for Wives.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 18, 1859, p. 1, c. 1
Fifty-Two.
I'm fifty-two to-day, tom,
I'm
fifty-two to-day;
My limbs are growing weaker,
My
hairs are turning gray—
Yet it does not seem so long, Tim,
Since
I was as young as you;
And scarcely can I realize,
That I
am fifty-two.
I've witnessed many changes,
I have
seen bright hopes decay,
And all the dreams of early life
Like
shadows pass away.
I've drank of sorrow's bitter cup,
Now
scarce know what to do;
Yet, still I hope for better days,
Although
I'm fifty-two.
I've been deceived and flattered, Tom,
Defrauded
of my right;
Still do I trust in Him above,
It
can't be always night,
A day of brightness yet will dawn,
The
right I will pursue,
And trust in God's good Providence,
Although
I'm fifty-two.
Good lessons I've learned in life,
Among
them I have found,
Tho' friends are very few indeed,
Acquaintances
abound.
I'll trust my own exertions, Tom,
An
upright course pursue,
And keep a bright and trusting heart,
Though
I am fifty-two.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 18, 1859, p. 1, c. 1
Freedom of the Press.
Around her waist I put my arm—
It
felt as soft as cake,
"Oh, dear," said she, "what liberty
You
printer boys do take!"
"Why yes, my Mol, my charming gal,
(I
squeezed her some I guess,)
Can you say aught my chick, against
The
freedom of the press?"
I kissed her some—I did by gem—
She
colored like a beet,
Upon my living soul she looked
Almost
too good to eat;
I gave her another buss and then,
Says
she, "I do confess,
I rather kinder, sorter like
The
freedom of the press!"
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], May 18, 1859, p. 1, c.
6
A lady
called on a witty friend who was not at home, and finding the piano dusty, wrote
upon it Slattern. The next day they
met, and the lady said, "I called on you yesterday."
"Yes; I saw your card on the piano."
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], June 1, 1859, p. 3, c.
1
Pic
Nic.—We had the pleasure of attending an exceedingly pleasant Pic Nic Party at
the bridge near Dr. Ellis' three miles West of this place, last Saturday.
We had a beautiful day, a pleasant crowd and everything needful to make
time pass merrily away. One very important item in the arrangements being a most
superb dinner for the whole crowd, spread out on the grass under a good shade.
We enjoyed that superlatively. It
was preceded, and succeeded by a succession of quadrilles on the verdant bosom
of old terra firma.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], June 8, 1859, p. 2, c.
3
. . .
Will any sensible man say that it is not to the interest of the South to adopt a
measure which will reduce the price of slaves until poor men, as well as rich
men, can avail themselves of the benefits of the institution?
Do you
realize the fact that, of the citizens of the slave holding states, only one
man in twenty eight is a slave owner? Such
is the case, and such must be the case, until something is done to increase the
supply, and reduce the price of slaves, so that all may be able to own them.
The
poor man, who has to plow his own corn, gather his own cotton, feed his own
stock, make his own fires, and black his own boots, cannot imagine, long at a
time, that his rich neighbor's owning several hundred slaves, is a matter of
much concern with him—especially when he reflects on the impossibility of his
ever amassing $2000, to purchase a slave to assist him. Then when crowded out of the states into the territories,
will they be able to purchase slaves to carry with them? No! we will have
to again, leave it, in the language of our correspondent, for "a few poor
young men to do all the work and fighting, and support themselves, when not one
in a hundred of them has any interest in slavery further than mere principle is
concerned."
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], June 22, 1859, p. 3, c. 1
The Pic Nic.
"An hour like this is worth a thousand years pass'd
In Pomp or ease—'tis present to the last!
Years glide away untold—'tis still the same;
As fresh, as fair as on the day it came."
We had
the pleasure of attending a Pic Nic Party at the lake 3 miles south of West
Point on Saturday last, and, though it has been our good fortune to be present
at many a similar affair, we may safely say that we never attended one where the
cups of joy was filled higher, or drained deeper, than on that occasion.
There were over two hundred present, from West Point and vicinity, with a
fair representation from Starkeville, Siloam, Aberdeen, and other places.
Extensive and commodious arrangements had been made for the accommodation
of all by the hospitable citizens of the neighborhood, and much credit is due to
the gentlemanly managers, who, with unparalleled success spared no exertion to
make enjoyment universal. The grounds were in a beautiful grove in the borders of a
bright clear lake, whose very waves trembled with sparkling ripples as if to
emulate the happy smiles of beautiful faces and sparkling eyes along its cool
shady shores.
Had a
bevy of mocking birds been reveling in the leafy retreat, its dark green aisles
could not have been enlivened with merrier peals of wild sweet music than come
from the laughing lips of that joyous throng.
At times small parties would stroll far up the green banks of the silvery
lake, and forming themselves into a miniature choir, strains of enchanting music
floated down over the placid bosom of the waters, and mingling with the merry
laugh of gay dancers, did away in sweetness.
Ever and anon would small groups of fond swains and fair damsels steal
quietly away from the main crowd to stray along the grassy paths—or linger in
some shady nook, while oftentimes would a tell-tale blush confess a plea in
Cupid's court. All was light hearted joyousness and merry gaiety, and the
lengthening shades of evening bade us quiet the welcome trysting place e'er we
any notice took of how the hours had flown.
The
dinner was in perfect keeping with the rest of the entertainment, and in such
profusion as to leave ample supplies on the tables when all had satiated
appetites none the less keen from having been whetted by free exercise, and pure
morning air. All together it was an
occasion to be remembered.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], June 29, 1859, p. 2,
c. 4
A
traveller was refused shelter at an inn unless he would agree to sleep, and
without a light, decorously, in a room occupied by a lady. He promised, and just before day a thundering uproar was
heard in the room, and the traveller came rolling down stairs exclaiming:
"Oh,
Lord, that woman's dead!"
"I
know that," replied the host, "but how did you find it out?"
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], July 6, 1859, p. 2, c. 2-3
The Starksville Celebration.
It was our good fortune to be present at the Celebration at Starkville
yesterday. There was a large
assemblage of the citizens of Oktibbeha, and neighboring counties there and
although the most of them were strangers to us, it required but half an eye to
see that every countenance was lighted up with enthusiasm—and every eye
sparkled with the fire of patriotism which warms the American heart at the
return of our Independence Jubilee. A
band of skillful performers enliven the spirits of the vast concourse of
chivalry and beauty with lively, stirring strains of music—and the old
"Star Spangled Banner," so dear to the eye and the soul of the
freeman, spread out its proud folds on the morning breeze.
At 11
A. M. the Exercises began with reading of the Declaration of Independence by Mr.
Wm. Lockhart. Mr. L. first paid a
beautiful tribute to the band in attendance after which he read the Declaration
in a clear distinct voice audible to the whole crowd, and took his seat amid
rounds of applause. After a
thrilling performance by the band the young orator of the Day—H. L. Muldrow
Esq., was introduced and entertained us for perhaps an hour with an elaborate
discussion of the topics so naturally presented to one occupying his responsible
position. We know not which to most
admire in the oration—the Feast of Reason—the flow of soul—the seasoning
of happy expression or the bouquet of elevated thought and beautiful language so
appropriately addressed to the Ladies, which came in as a welcome dessert
and was highly appreciated, and loudly applauded as the speaker resumed his
seat.
Some
gentleman then read to the audience the patriotic "Appeal to
Mississippians" in behalf of the Mount Vernon Association from the gifted
pen of Mrs. Col. I. N. Davis. There
is a noble sentiment of lofty public spirit in every line of that truly
beautiful poem which does honor to Mrs. D. as a friend of patriotism, as a
devoter of chaste poetic literature, and in the sublime capacity of an American
woman.
A
procession was then formed and we all marched to the table in a neighboring
grove, where a sumptuous dinner was prepared for all. The Agricultural Society was addressed at the Court House, by
Col. I. N. Davis in the evening, and the whole crowd stayed to hear him.
His remarks were to Southern farmers—they were forcible and to the
point—made up of happy conceptions and appropriate delivery.
His reasoning was so clear and logical that any mind comprehending
"2 and 2 make 4," must aknowledge [sic] the justness of his
conclusions. The people of the South must see the truth of Col. D.'s
position on questions of vital importance to her interests now, or regret in
later years that they were so short-sighted.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], July 6, 1859, p. 2, c.
3
We
take great pleasure in giving place to the following communication, from a
particular friend of ours who is spending a few weeks at that modern Eldorado:
Lauderdale Springs, Miss.,}
June 30, 1859.}
Mr.
Editor—Dear Sir: I have been a
visitor at this place about ten days, as an invalid; and say, without fear of
contradiction by those who will come and see for themselves, that it is one of
the most pleasant and best kept establishments, either for the invalid or
pleasure-seeker, in the south. Indeed
I know of no Hotel either North or South, where a more magnificent table is
spread, and where everything is conducted with more taste and order.
The gentlemanly proprietor and his excellent lady are exceptions to all
Inn-keepers I ever knew for their untiring efforts to please their guests, and
make their stay comfortable. I am
well prepared to use a cant phrase, and say "run here, everybody."
Yours respectfully,
J. M. E.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], July 6, 1859, p. 3, c. 1-2
Our Celebration.
A bright, pleasant sun ushered in our great political Sabbath day, when
the sturdy sons of the soil, laying aside "the shovel and the hoe,"
and donning their best, along with their honest housewives and bonny daughters;
the honest mechanic forgetting his useful avocation the lean and expectant
disciple of Galen, unmindful of "the thousand ills flesh is heir to;
"the enterprizing merchant sans knife and scissors, and in fine spirits of
every hue, might be seen wending their way in every conceivable kind of vehicle
to Moses Jordan's fine grove, near the village, the spot selected for the
celebration.
At 11
o'clock, the exercises commenced with an appropriate prayer from the Rev. Mr.
Harris. After which, Dr. Hibbler
read the Declaration of Independence in a clear, sonorious voice, evincing a
fine knowledge of elocution. As it
is the generally received opinion that "self praise is half scandal,"
we omit to say anything of the regular Oration.
At the request of the Committee of Arrangements, Col. I. N. Davis, of
Panola addressed the large auditory in a speech of some 45 minutes, interspersed
with humorous anecdotes, interesting incidents, and bold, happy and appropriate
arguments in favor of the African Slave Trade.
Lest he may be misconstrued, in justice to the Col. we would say his
remarks had no taint of a partizan nature.
He simply spoke of it as a duty, the North, no less than the South, owed
to themselves to repeal the unjust and oppressive enactments on this subject, as
one of the important means of perpetuating our once glorious Union.
We are happy to learn, that the Col. will soon become a citizen of
Oktibbeha county.
It is
estimated there were nearly two thousand persons present, composed of the beauty
and chivalry of large portions of this and adjoining counties.
Large, efficient and energetic committees were appointed, and every
precaution used to insure peace and good order.
A very earnest appeal was also made from the stand to the assemblage, to
secure so desirable an end. An
unfortunate incident occurred, that suspended for a few minutes the exercises,
and marred the otherwise pleasant incidents of the day.
Occurring, as it did, in and near the public road, some distance off, it
soon passed off. Messrs. M. P. Cash
and W. W. Robinson, two of our Marshals, and in strict compliance with their
orders, were attacked by two ruffians and outlaws, Roberts and Gibbs, both of
whom were stabbed by the latter man, but not dangerously, however, we are glad
to say. Mr. Pope, the other
Marshal, was also attacked by Roberts, but fortunately escaped a sweeping pass
of his Bowie knife. Had either of
those gentlemen been killed, their lives would have been the prompt sacrifice.
We speak as the exponent of the feelings of a justly outraged community.
We speak in some sort as a guardian of the public morals, upon which
measurably rest the security of life and property.
We speak most emphatically as the organ of an intelligent, law-abiding
community, whose name and fair fame have, for years, suffered on account of such
lawless men. The pathway is clear;
let us do our duty as becomes men.—As to the evidence, we do not feel
authorized to comment. Suffice it
to say they were tried before Justices Baptiste and Ellis, required to give bail
in the sums of $2500 and $1500, and in default of which they were carried off to
Columbus to jail in irons.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], July 6, 1859, p. 3, c.
2
Spaulding
& Rogers' New Orleans Circus.—This excellent Circus Company, from the New
Orleans Amphitheatre, will exhibit in this place on Tuesday, July 19th.—This
great forty horse team will be driven by one man, with Gaul's Brass Band, on the
morning of arrival.
Come
and see the Show, and our word for it, you will be well paid for your time and
trouble.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], July 6, 1859, p. 3, c. 3
Make Up Your
Parties!
Look Out for the Forty Horse Team,
and the only
Circus Company
In existence that
Perform all they Advertise!
Spalding & Rogers'
New Orleans Circus,
From their New Orleans Amphitheater, consolidating their Three Circuses, the North American, Floating Palace, and Railroad Circus, into one monster establishment, will be heralded through the principal streets, about 10 A. M., on the morning of arrival, positively, without fail, rain or shine, by the Gaul Excelsior Band, driven by
Forty Horses!
Four abreast,
Driven by One Man!
In this unprecedented collection of native and foreign, male and female
performers are the following stars:--
Miss Kate Ormond,
Frank Barry,
Mrs. F. Ormond,
Mons. Francois Siegrist,
Miss Mary Wells,
Mons. Auguste Siegrist,
C. J. Rogers,
Senor Antonio,
Charles Walters,
Charles Fish,
Hiram Day,
Dare Reed,
And numerous Auxiliaries, and the celebrated Trick Horses and Ponies
Hiram
Aristook,
Wildfire,
May Drop,
and
the Trick Mule, Spot Beauty.
Admission,
$50 Cents; Children under ten and Servants, 25 Cents.
Will
Exhibit at West Point, Tuesday, July 19;
Columbus,
Wednesday, July 20.
J. E. Warner, Agent.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], July 13, 1859, p. 2, c. 2-3
Lauderdale Springs.
We have been spending a few days at this delightful watering place, with
a party of friends, and unhesitatingly declare it the most pleasant place we
have ever visited in summer. Mr.
Smith the genteel and affable proprietor has fitted up rooms for the
accommodation of near 500 persons, and made extensive preparations for the
entertainment of his guests. He
offers every inducement to those who seek either health or pleasure—and all
feel delighted with their stay and regret the coming of their day of departure. No one can complain at the fare for it is in quantity and
quality to suit every one—the rooms are large, well ventilated and well
furnished, with no lack of attentive servants.
A splendid band enliven the spirits of all with stirring music from time
to time, during the day and at night a large and elegant ball room, fitted up
with special taste for the purpose, is made alive by their inspiring notes which
mingle with the lively mirth and gay laugh of those who "float through the
mazes of the merry dance"—Taken altogether it is a place not to be
forgotten soon. We take occasion to
return the sincere thanks of ourself and friends to the gentlemanly proprietor
his excellent lady and pleasant family for various courtesies and kind favors
extended to us during our stay, and hope that Fortune will favor us with an
opportunity of paying a more protracted visit to that place of
hospitalities—ere long.
We had
the pleasure of meeting with col. Shields of the Republic while
there—We found the Col. a very clever gentleman.
Col.
Galding of the News was there but we did not have the pleasure of forming
his acquaintance.
Our
old friend Col. Evans has improved so much that we scarcely knew him.
His stay is profitable as well as pleasant.
Con
Rea Esq., of Marion was on hand and in one of his merriest moods.
His vivacity sheding [sic] sunshine wherever he went.
There
were also a great many other pleasant visitors from various sections of
creation—and pretty girls enough to—to—insure another visit as soon as
circumstances will allow us to leave home.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], July 13, 1859, p. 2,
c. 3
For the Broad-Axe.]
Independence Day at West Point.
Mr. Editor:--Being incidentally in the neighborhood, and desiring to
mingle with the worshippers on the 4th, I found myself with fifteen
hundred or two thousand ladies and gentlemen, in a beautiful and thick grove in
front of Mr. Moses Jordan's house, where the stand was erected, and seats
prepared. From the little urchin to
the venerable grandsire, and from the boarding school Miss to the octogenarian
matron, all were robed in their most tasteful and elegant apparel, presenting
smiling faces and cheerful looks.
At 11
o'clock, Mr. Brame, chairman of the committee of arrangements announced the
order of the day.
Dr.
Hibbler, a very fine and intellectual looking gentleman, read the Declaration of
Independence, after which Mr. W. Ivie Westbrook, the Orator of the day,
entertained the audience for thirty minutes with one of the most patriotic, neat
and eloquent orations we have ever heard. Mr.
W. is a graduate of Unica
University located at Murfreesboro, Tenn.; is 21 years of age, and is now the
Editor of the "Broad-Axe." The
writer of this article was struck with his manly and noble bearing, his easy and
graceful oratory, and his familiarity with the historical facts and incidents
connected with the causes which lead to the Revolution.
He displayed a rich and exuberant fancy; culling the most beautiful and
rare flowers, and weaving them into garlands to deck his speech.
He showed, also, a familiarity with the classics rarely to be found in
one so young.—Although a stranger to the orator, we felt pride and pleasure in
the manner in which he acquitted himself. With
industry and perseverance, and a rigid adherence to his present good habits, a
bright future awaits him.
He
will pardon the liberty we take in writing thus about himself, in his own paper.
We hope he will imagine he is not present when he reads it.
Col.
I. N. Davis was then called on and spoke for one hour; after which all repaired
to the dinner table, literally groaning under the substantial viands and good
things for man's personal comfort.
The
whole celebration went off well.
Visitor.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], July 20, 1859, p. 1,
c. 2
For the Broad-Axe.
Dancing.
Dancing has been practiced among all heathens from time immemorial down
to the present.
Among
the ancient Greeks their first dancing was performed in honor to Bacchus, the
stench God of drunkenness and the great donor of wine.
Annually four festivals were given to Bacchus, at which time all kinds of
intemperance and the most shameful debauchery was committed.
The
abominable practice of offering human sacrafices [sic] at these festivals was
said to be carried on without any remorse of conscience.
It is said at the great battle of Saramis, that three fine blooded
Persians were sacrificed by Themistocles in honor of Bacchus.
Livy
the great Roman historian, speaking of these wicked and ungodly orgies, when
thoraughly [sic] established at Rome, says, "All modesty was set aside, and
every kind of vice found here its full satisfaction."
The
crime and sin of these dances became so alarming to the interests of Rome,
finally the Senate had to pass a law prohibiting them on the pain of death and
imprisonment.
As in
ancient, so in modern times, dancing is more prevalent where religion and
Christianity is least cared for. France
stands out as a fearful warning upon this point. "In the year 1681, on the 21st January, in
the corrupt court of Louis XIII, was the first time female dancers were added to
the performers of the other sex." From
that time down to the French revolution, no people ever made more rapid strides
from God than they did.
France
became the sink-hole and cage of every unclean bird—a moral irreligious
prostitute.
It is
crowded from Dan to Beersheeba with atheism and infidelity—cursed of God and
devoured by the devil; and I unhesitatingly say to-day, that the French
extraction and society are doing more to corrupt the American people than any
nation on earth.
Dancing
masters were more numerous than the fabled b[illegible] of Madagascar or the
locusts of Egypt, come rolling over the Ocean, yearly to our happy country,
fresh from the dust, vapour fumes of the ball-rooms in Paris, for the purpose of
giving manners and accomplishments to the sons and daughters of unpolished
Americans. A Berth on the deck of a
steamboat, or the place of a railroad mud-digger, would suit such men much
better. Such positions would be
more in keeping with their origin, than raising manners and morals.
Where there is much dancing, there can be little or no piety.
God will be ostracised [sic] from the mind, ordinances abused, Church
neglected, and divine worship contemned, France deciding upon this point. The origin and circumstances that have always attended
dancing, should be a sufficient check, a paladium strong enough to keep all
reflecting people from the ball room.
I
shall bring this article to a close by giving you the words of the great and
pious Dr. Adam Clark:
"I
learned to dance—I grew passionately fond of it, would scarcely walk but in
measured time, and was constantly tripping, moving and shuffling in all times
and places.
I grew
impatient of control—was fond of company, and wished to mingle more than I had
ever done with young people.
I also
got a passion for better clothing than that which fell to my lot in life, and
was discontented when I found a neighbor's son dressed better than myself.
I lost the spirit of subordination, did not love work—imbibed the
spirit of idleness, and in short, drank in all the brain sickening affluvia
[sic] of pleasure.
The
authority of my parents was feared, indeed, but not respected; and few serious
impressions could prevail in a mind imbued now with frivolity.
I in no case, ever kept any improper company; nevertheless, dancing to me
was a perverting influence—an unmixed moral evil.
It
drowned the voice of a well-instructed conscience, and was the first cause of
impelling me to seek my happiness in this life.
And I can testify that as far as my own (experience or) observations have
extended—and they have had a pretty wide range—I have known it to produce
the same evils in others that it produced in me.
I
consider it, therefore, as a branch of that worldly education which leads from
Heaven to earth, from things spiritual to things sensual, and from God to Satan.
Let them plead for it who will, I know it to be evil and that only.
They
who bring up their children in this way, or send them to these schools where
dancing is taught, are consecrating them to the service of Moloch.
"No man in his senses will dance," said Cicero, a heathen.
Shame on those Christians who advocate a course by which many sons have
become profligate and many daughters have been ruined." (Life Vol. I, 37).
G.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], July 20, 1859, p. 2,
c. 5
A New
Filibustering Expedition.—The New York Tribune gives an account of what
is styled a new fililbustering expedition, now organizing, and to be called the
"Knights of the Golden Circle." It
consists of two legions—one in the United States, and one in Cuba.
The Tribune, which contains its information from a printed
circular, says:
Each
legion is to consist of ten thousand men and their officers, besides commissary,
surgical and conveyance departments. The
American legion is to include a regiment of cavalry, a regiment of mounted
riflemen, a regiment of artillery, five regiments of infantry, and a reserved
guard. The headquarters of this
recent military organization appears to be the city of Baltimore, and the
central authority seems to be bested in a war board, composed of a commander in
chief and of brigadier generals, appointed or to be appointed one for each of
the ten regiments. From this board
emanates the selection of colonels. The
colonels select their own inferior officers, who must, however, be approved by
the colonels. The colonel is also
to select for himself a lieutenant-colonel and two majors, and the four together
are to agree upon some suitable person for a brigadier-general, to be
commissioned and placed on the general staff.
The chief business of the colonels and their inferior officers appears to
be, at present, the enlistment of men and the raising of funds.
The
members are each to pay one dollar initiation fee, and also a weekly tax of ten
cents. A fund for the purchase of
arms, ammunition and general outfit is to be raised by the sale of scrip, in
which all the subordinate officers are to be employed. This scrip is issued in sums of five, ten, twenty, fifty, or
one hundred, or one thousand dollars, and is to be paid for either in cash, in
powder, lead, iron, cotton cloth, red or blue flannel, tobacco, train oil,
shoes, blankets, spades, etc., or partly in promissory notes of short dates.
The soldiers who may enlist in this expedition, are promised each a grant
of six thousand four hundred acres of land, also seven dollars a month in specie
and seven in scrip; arms, ammunition, uniforms, etc., to be furnished by the
board of war before leaving American soil.
The men, it is stated, can pursue their ordinary business till November.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], August 3, 1859, p. 2,
c. 3-4
Fort he Broad-Axe.
Dancing.
Permit us to enquire Mr. Editor who it is that is attempting through the
medium of your paper to make such unmerciful havoc on the innocent amusement of
dancing. We doubt not that it is
one of the branches of the ecclesiastical tree that is to overshadow the whole
earth, and if so permit us to remind the Divine of the fact that most persons
prefer living in the shade and especially so when dancing in hot weather, and
that we are exceedingly fortunate in this sultry week in dog days to be
sheltered by such towering branches as those that overhang us on the present
occasion. The learned Divine says
"that dancing has been practiced among all heathens from time immemorial
down to the present." Permit
us to inquire of the branch of Levie [sic] if it has not been practiced by all
civlized and enlightened ages from the days of the Patriarchal farthers [sic] up
to the present time. Did not David
the man after God's own heart dance with all his might when his heart was glad,
and was not a grevious [sic] visited on Michael [sic] h is wife as the result of
an evil thought in reference to that act—she was made barren and we are of the
opinion that the same sin will be visited on the author of dancing for
his intermedling [sic] with matters that should not concern him—Does not the
wise man solomon [sic] tell us that there is a time for all things, a time to
weep, and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance?—Then in the
face of such high authority is it not presumption ini this Pharasee to thus
array himself against such sacred and high authority, by saying "that I
consider it therefore as a branch of that worldly education which leads from
heaven to earth, from things spiritual to things sensual, and From God to Satan,
let them plead for it who will, I know it to be evil and that only"—Mr.
G. Permit us to enquire who created
you Vice gerent [sic] from heaven and authorized you to level such grand
denunciation against young America, are you the forerunner of the Angel Gabriel
who is to warn the world of the day of judgment, if so we would caution you to
look out, for if you do not exhibit more intellect and shrewdness than you have
in getting up the article under consideration your Trumpet will be
appropriated towards paying the Fiddler at our next dance.
But Mr. G. we would judge from your presumptive language that you must be
the man mentioned in the Bible who "loved the uppermost seates [sic] in the
markets" or are you the man spoken of in the Bible that has "zeal
without knowledge" and if you are either we are clearly of the opinion that
you are not competent to teach us either in morals or religion—this is only a
random shot look out in our next.
Jeremiah.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], August 3, 1859, p. 2,
c. 7
Not
Old Enough.—A young gentleman of our town (and, by the way, a particular
friend of ours) applied the other day to Charley Betts for a "pair" of
licenses to marry the "gal" of his choosing.
Charley refused to let him have them, telling the young gentleman that he
wasn't quite old enough yet—to wait awhile.—charley, do let
him have them.—Macon Star.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], August 24, 1859, p. 2,
c. 3
Violation
of the Sabbath. We have
occasionally reverted to this important subject for the benefit of some of our
friends, all of which we have a perfect right to do.
"We claim the right of thought,
And what we think assert"
be the subject or the occasion what it may, but for the benefit of those
interested and the gratification of others we quote the statute of Mississippi
Revised code, page 610 Sec. XLVIII. Art. 229.
"If any person shall be found hunting with a gun, on the Sabbath, he
shall, on conviction thereof, be fined not less than five, nor more than twenty
dollars."
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], September 7, 1859, p.
3, c. 2
The
President A. D. 1900—The boy is now living, who will be President of the
United States in 1900. He is about
ten or twelve years of age. His
parents are in humble circumstances, but of sterling traits of character, and
their son is not one of those dirty noisy boys that spend their days, evenings,
and Sabbaths in idleness and rowdyism. On
the contrary he is of a serious cast, is very studious, and withal is well
behaved. Teacher, weigh well your
responsibility! The future
President may be in that grammar class that you think scarcely worthy of a
respectfully attention. What boy of
all our readers will lay claim to this distinction?
Recollect the future President is not found among the Sabbath breakers,
the every day idlers, the evening rowdies, the blasphemous, the vulgar, or among
those that love and make a lie. He
is not one of those who pride themselves as being Young America, and despise the
authority of a father, or break away from the gentle restraint of a good mother.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], October 19, 1859, p.
2, c. 4
A
Colored Church in Mobile.—A correspondent of the New York Observer, dated
August 20th, says: I
wish to state a fact which may be interesting to some of our readers.
there is a colored congregation in Mobile of the Methodist denomination,
that pay their pastor an annual salary of $1,200, besides giving liberally to
charitable purposes, as was shown by a collection taken recently for Domestic
Missions, which amounted to $120. A
parting gift of as handsome a suit of clothes as could be purchased was
presented to the last pastor, when sent by Conference to another field of labor.
There are several other Churches of the same stamp, but this is rather
the largest. It is called the 'colored charge,' and is located on State
street, Mobile.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], October 26, 1859, p. 2, c. 1
A Word About Depots.
A few yards in front of our office is the West Point Depot, on the Mobile
and Ohio R. R. A platform of
sufficient size to protect 800 or 1000 bales of cotton has been erected, and is
generally crowded with cotton, and frequently from 500 to 800 bales are left
upon the bare ground for want of room. This
no one can reasonably complain at, as no injury is done the cotton in dry
weather from that cause. But there
is no protection to this cotton from the many cows which daily come, in droves,
to make ruinous and destructive attacks upon the outer tiers of it. Judging from the holes left in the bales, our planters not
unfrequently sustain a loss of from four to ten pounds of cotton to the bale by
having it pulled out and destroyed by cattle.
This may look like a small item to be complained of, in a fine cotton
country, of a good crop year, but estimate that a drove of from ten to thirty
cattle eat off of the crop at every depot on the road, during the season, and in
a year they will destroy cotton enough for the building of a good lot, with
large gates for ingress and egress of wagons, around the depot, and have a
surplus left sufficient to purchase one hundred head of cattle.
Now add to this that the cotton is no advantage to the cow destroying it,
and no one can doubt but that the matter will receive the careful consideration
of the managers of the road. Our
planters are proverbial for grumbling a little.
They will grumble when the crop fails, because they make but little; they
grumble when it "hits" because they are not able to gather it; they
grumble at low prices considerably, because their labor goes for nothing; they
grumble still worse at high prices, because they have no more to sell than what
they do; they will even sometimes grumble if a poor devil of an editor wants
them to take his paper and pay for it; and we have had some of them to complain
at our not dunning them for our money so they could grumble at us for it.
But, in all honesty, they could not be blamed for it, if they were to
complain at having their cotton wantonly destroyed, about the depots, before it
can be shipped. We hope our
cotemporaries along the line of the road will have an eye to this matter.
A very slight expense to the Company might remedy it.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], October 26, 1859, p.
2, c. 4
For the "Southern Broad-Axe."
The Nashville Fair.
Dear "Broad-Axe." This
great Annual Fair is now in session.—The Fair Grounds are situated on a small
creek about a mile east of the city, and surrounded by a high plank fence,
enclosing something over a quarter section of land, in the centre of which is
situated the grand arena of exhibition.—The buildings around the ring are
arranged in such a manner as to afford the greatest facilities to spectators,
and at the same time the greatest convenience.
The circle of exhibition is about 100 yards in diameter, around which
seats are arranged, one above another, capable of accommodating more than ten
thousand spectators. Above the
seats is a large open walk, extending around the entire buildings, affording a
splendid promenade for the "belles dames et les hommes gallants,"
who aspire to the distinction of "observed of all observers."
A splendid Brass Band enlivens the scene with gay strains of martial
music, and the circle of seats is filled with Tennessee's fairest and loveliest
daughters.
Woman,
always enlivening the scenes of festivity and amusement by her sweet smile and
winning ways, can nowhere make a more beautiful display of her attractive
loveliness than in this vast amphitheatre, which, while lighted with her sunny
smile, and enlivened by her gentle voice, can never be otherwise than a
desirable and favorite resort for young gentlemen of refinement and taste.
The
stock on exhibition would compare favorably with that of any State in the Union.
The horse, here, seems to be carried to the highest perfection, and to be
excelled by none except that sacred old specimen of the olden time, the "Onager,"
which, by his sturdy looks and voice of thunder, carried off the highest prize.
There was a hog four and a half years old, that weighs 1372 pounds, and
is, I would suppose, the largest "porker" in the world.
He is now seemingly poor, and when fat is said to weigh 1,600
pounds—many other fine specimens, alike remarkable, were on exhibition, but I
cannot particularize.
As for
showing off fine looking young ladies, Tennessee yields not to combined
creation, in point of beauty, intelligence and refinement.
Beautiful, bright-eyed, rosy-cheeked, cherry-lipped, curly-haired nymphs
of song and joy, is it to be wondered that the staid and manly yeomanry of our
gallant old State are proud to present them as the richest gems of this great
Republic?
Leaving
the exhibition circle I went to the Ladies' Department. Now, Mr. Broad-Axe, imagine yourself along there!
Description entire is beyond my limited space and humble ability.
You remember in ancient times there was "a garden planted eastward
in Eden." We walk in.
The fairest products of a fair land are presented on every side.
Ranged near the walls in the basement are the cereal esculatory products
of the soil—a large circular walk surrounding the whole.
The centre is filled with the varied rare specimens of floral,
horticultural, and ornamental plants of the sunny South.
In the centre of all, spouting high in the air, is a crystal fount of
pure water, enclosed in a funnel shaped gauze work of wire, in which plays a
brass ball upon the jet of water, throwing it in sparkling gems to the circular
basin below.
Are
you growing tired of real beauties? Then
ascend the circular stairs (or perhaps you had better imbibe some "good
ould cider" before starting.) Ah,
we are up! The court of the muses,
the home of the Peris was never decked in more fairy-like and tasteful style.
Displayed on every side are the nicest works that can be fashioned by
fairy hands. Works of art are ranged in such beautiful combinations as to
awake the delighted admiration of every one.
Elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen gaily promenading, and chatting
lively, render it a delightful place to spend an hour.
The
Agricultural Bureau is well represented, and there seems to be a laudable
ambition among the people to render the Fair beneficial.
Agenor.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], October 26, 1859, p.
2, c. 5
The
Blue in the Flag.—Alfred B. Street, Esq., of Albany, read recently a sketch of
the battle of Saratoga before the New York Historical Society.
We quote a part of the conclusion introduced by the Rev. Dr. Smith, of
this city, in his Fourth of July discourse:
["]
The stars of the new flag represented THE NEW CONSTELLATION of 'States' rising in
the West. THE IDEA was taken
from 'the constellation of Lyra,' which in the hands of 'Orpheus' signified 'harmonty.'
The blue of the field was taken from the edges of 'the Covenanter's
banner in Scotland,' significant also of 'the league and covenant of the United
Colonies against oppression, incidentally involving the virtues of 'vigilance,'
'perseverance,' and 'justice.' The
stars were disposed in 'a circle,' symbolizing the perpetuity of 'the Union;'
'the ring like the circling serpent of the Egyptians,' signifying eternity.
The thirteen stripes showed, with 'the stars,' the number of the United
States Colonies, and denoted the subordination of 'the States' to the Union, as
well as 'equality' among themselves. The
whole was 'the blending' of the various flags previous to the Union flags viz:
the red flag of 'the army' and the white ones of the floating batteries.
The red color, which in Roman days was the signal of 'defiance,' denotes
daring; and the white, 'purity.'
What
eloquence do 'the stars' breathe when their full significance is known.
A new constellation! Union!
Perpetuity! Justice,
equality, subordination, courage and purity!["]
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], November 2, 1859, p.
2, c. 4
["]
The Military College.—We note as a matter of public interest in our vicinity
that the "Kentucky Military Institute" has now an hundred and twenty
cadets—a greater number, we are informed, than at this period of any former
session since its establishment twenty years ago.["]
We
copy the foregoing from the Frankfort Yeoman.
The people of Kentucky seem to be proud of this military Institution.
It appears to be a State College.
The degrees are conferred by diplomas with the grand seal of the State,
delivered by the Governor. We learn
that it is conducted on the principal of U. S. school at West Point.
With its corps of competent instructors it cannot fail to succeed.
The South wants military schools within her own limits free of access to
all.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], November 16, 1859, p.
2, c. 2
Squirrels
Emigrating.—Many of our Northern Exchanges notice large droves of these lively
little animals coming southward, as if in anticipation of an unusually cold
winter in northern latitudes. We
have often heard prognostics of seasons from the same evidence but do not know
how strictly reliable the authority is. We
have no objection to their coming into our woods as they furnish fine hunting in
winter.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], November 16, 1859, p. 2, c. 5
Madame Le Vert.
It was our peculiar good fortune to form the acquaintance of this
distinguished lady, while in Mobile last week, and we left her parlor forcibly
impressed with the idea that she is the most accomplished and pleasant lady that
we have ever met. All the graces of
the suaviter in modo seem peculiarly her own, and a rather protracted
visit was the result of what we had designed to make only a formal call.
She is one of the brightest stars in the gallaxy [sic] of female
loveliness.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], November 16, 1859, p. 2, c. 4
Thanks Giving Day.
His Excellency, Gov. Wm. McWillie, has set apart Thursday, the 24th
day of this month as a day for general thanksgiving for the State of
Mississippi. We hope that our
citizens in all sections of the Commonwealth will observe it in a becoming
manner. We do protest this no
sense, no soul, policy of some places which allows such occasions to pass
unnoticed, and the people almost boastingly simper out, "Oh!
I never thought of it till it was past." The Most High has been pleased to favor us with a year of
unusual prosperity and happiness, and we ought to be thankful for it.
Remember, the 24th.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], November 16, 1859, p.
3, c. 1
Our
Church.—As the "gall" said by her false "lovyers," we do
have the "worstest luck and the mostest of it" with that Church, that
ever any body saw. After getting
the whole frame of it up, on Saturday evening last it all tumbled down, and
shivered its timbers into splinters—yes, smashed them into
"smithereens." Now, who
is to blame—the All-directing Providence, or the clumsy, careless workmanship?
We do not know, and only regret the accident's having occurred.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], November 23, 1859, p.
1, c. 5
Westward,
Ho!—Among other passengers on board the Maria Denning, which passed up
yesterday, were three hundred and fifty Germans, en route for the rich
lands of the Northwest, where they will find homes. They were clad in the same vestments in which they left
Fatherland—wooden sabots and all—and excited the astonishment of various
little niggers and the Sunday loungers about the levee.
[Avalanche.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], November 30, 1859, p. 1, c. 3-4
Beulah
Is the title of a novel issued from the press of Derby and Jackson, New
York, written by Miss Augusta J. Evans, of Mobile. We
are not sufficiently acquainted with her antecedents as a writer to say whether
it is her first advent into the world of letters or not.
There is one thing, however, we do know, and it is that, like some
brilliant meteor streaming up into the gloom of the midnight heavens, her
present work has suddenly placed her much higher on the pedestal of fame than
any American novelist, living or dead, has attained.
It as far transcends the periodical debris of yellow-backed literature
that threatens to superimpose and destroy our more solid and wholesome kind, as
the towering mountain does the contemptible mole hill.
Beulah, the heroine of the work, who is a poor, but proud, earnest,
self-reliant, gifted woman, is drawn with the master hand of an artist.
Early placed in an Orphan Asylum with the beautiful Lillian, a younger
sister, afterwards removed and filling the servile situation of a nurse in a
wealthy family, rescued from thence by Dr. Hartwell, an aristocratic
misanthrope, who gives her the means of obtaining an education, and whom she
finally marries.—She is always self-poised, observant and full of resources,
and her comment upon the fashionable vices and follies of our country, are
singularly truthful and correct.—Take for instance, as a too truthful type of
too many of the young men of our country, the following extract, descriptive of
the young men, Vincent and Maxwell:
"Good
looking, vain, impudent, heartless, frivolous, and dissipated; adepts at the
gaming table and pistol gallery, ciphers in an intelligent, refined assembly.
They smoked the choicest cigars, drank the most costly wines, drove the
fastest horses, and were indispensable at champagne and oyster suppers.
They danced and swore, visited and drank, with reckless indifference to
every purer and nobler aim. Notwithstanding
manners of incorrigible effrontery, which characterized their clique, the ladies
always received them with marked expressions of pleasure, and the entree of the
"first circle" was certainly theirs."
Take
another extract, alluding to the fact of the wealthy Mrs.Grayson taking her
sister from her:
"Had Mrs. G. been arraigned for cruelty before a tribunal of her
equals, (fashionable friends,) the charge would have been scornfully repelled,
and unanimous would have been her acquittal.
Who could expect her to suffer her pampered, inert darling (Lillian) to
meet and acknowledge as an equal, the far less daintily fed, and elegantly clad
sister, whom God called to labor
for her frugal meals? Ah, this fine
ladyism, this ignoring of labor, to which, in accordance with the divine decree,
all should be subjected; this false effrontery, and miserable affectation of
refinement, which characterizes the age, is the unyielding lock on the wheels
of social reform and advancement."
Speaking
of the haughty Mrs. Chilton, a sister of Dr. Hartwell both of whom lived with
him, Beulah says:
"What
freezing eyes she has, and what a disagreeable look there is about her mouth
whenever she sees me. She wishes me
to remember all the time that I am poor, and that she is the mistress of this
elegant house."
One
more extract and we close for this week. Describing
the wealthy Mrs. Asbury and her amiable daughters, who detested everything like
flunkeyism and "parvenue aristocracy":
"In
their intercourse with the young teacher (Beulah Benton), there was an ultra
absence of that contemptible, supercillious condescension which always
characterizes an ignorant and parvenu aristocracy."
We may
give more copious extracts hereafter. Married
people, and single, old and young, should own a copy, and what is more read it
carefully, and if we err in our judgment of the work it must be attributed to
the fascinating Beulah. In this
connection, we would like for some of our cotemporaries who are acquainted with
the fair authoress, to give a personal description of her.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], November 30, 1859, p.
2, c. 1
Entertainment—Tablaux
[sic].—The young ladies of West Point and vicinity are making preparations to
have an entertainment at the West Point Academy on the evenings of the 7th,
9t6h and 12th of December, in the way of Tablaux [sic], the proceeds
thereof to be appropriated to the benefit of Churches at West Point.
Admittance 50 cts. children half price.
It is such a laudable enterprise, and then in such hands as it is, that
we think everybody will go. It is
well worth twice the money just to see the girls.
If they look as well as they usually do, we cannot see how the young
gentlemen are to be kept away. We
know of one who can't, by any manner of possibility.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], November 30, 1859, p.
2, c. 1
Shade
Trees.—We are sorry to see our streets and corners still bald and naked, with
no prospect for shade next summer. The
time has come for trees to be transplanted, and we do hope that it will be
promptly attended to. Let every man
plant them about his house, and do it immediately.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], December 14, 1859, p. 2, c. 1
Les Tableaux.
West Point has been rendered unusually lively for the last week by a
repetition of the entertainments by some of the ladies and young gentlemen of
the town and vicinity, in a series (or continuation) of melo-dramatical,
tragical, musical and phantasmagorical pantomine—tastefully interspersed with
some of the most touchingly beautifully [sic] scenes in Tableaux, that we have
seen in many a day. Although the
weather has been intensely cold during most of the time, still a crowded house,
with round after round of applause and cheering, showed a display of taste and
skill in the performers, and an appreciation in the public.
It was rich, racy and spicy all the way through, and possessed a peculiar
charm for every one. We cannot
particularize, but would do ourself and the subject injustice to omit the quaint
Aunt Sylla Bedott; the flashing beauty of the Queen of Night; the
rosy loveliness of the Star of Dawn and Aurora fitly chosen child of
Morning—no less than the pensive beauty of the modest Perl at the Gold
Gates of Paradise; the magnanimity of Pocahontus, and the queenly beauty
and charming graces of Miss McRae, in the tragic scenes of that horrid massacre.
I want a Beau, met with such applause, and cheering as called the
fascinating little Miss and her handsome gallant again and again upon the
boards. Our young gentlemen acquitted themselves finely.
Especial applause greeted the scene in the West Point Cotton Market,
on the last night, and many a heart laugh was elicited by the Evening Toast,
as likewise the "Tattler's" take off.
The Perl at the Gate of Paradise, we are creditably informed, was
repeated for our benefit by some of the ladies who supposed that it would be the
last peep he would ever get. (If
the angels will only be as kind to us as the ladies are now.)
We were pleased to see everything go off so beautifully, and such general
interest and complete satisfaction manifested by the entire audience.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], December 14, 1859, p.
2, c. 1
Thespean
[sic] Club.—Town Hall. Our town
needs a Hall for the purpose of holding Concerts, Balls, Exhibitions, Political
Meetings, and other assemblages of the citizens of West Point and vicinity.
Cannot the young gentlemen of our town and vicinity get up a Thespean
Club to afford amusement to our citizens and make up a little fund to be
appropriated to the purpose of building a suitable Hall.
The young gentlemen may thus contribute much to the amusement and good
feelings of the citizens, and then, the people will be making a pleasing and
profitable investment of their money. Let
us all have a talk about it soon, and know if anything can be accomplished.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], December 21, 1859, p.
1, c. 5
Not
Fond of Freedom.—Some four months ago, seventeen negroes who had been slaves
in Mississippi were brought to this State by their owner, for the purpose of
emancipating them, which was accordingly done.
So far from enjoying the freedom with which they had been presented they
have been discontented and anxious to return [to] Mississippi.
They were informed that they would be allowed to live there in a state of
emancipation, but expressed their preference to live as slaves at home than to
be free here. The only one who has
been able to raise sufficient means to return is a woman named Rebecca Bracy who
will go by the steamer to-day with her two children.
She will probably be followed by the others as soon as they are
able.—San Francisco Herald.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], December 21, 1859, p.
1, c. 7
Fashion
is said to be the race of the rich to get away from the poor, but who follow as
they can.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], January 4, 1860, p. 2,
c. 1
Monday
last, the annual hiring day of Negroes, showed conclusively, that slave-holders
and hirers have no feelings of uneasiness and insecurity about the loyalty and
fidelity of slaves.
Negro
women brought prices ranging from $100a$190, and men from $235 to $275 varying
according to age, &c. Who will
now say there is no necessity for the introduction of more lave labor in
Mississippi, at reduced prices?
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], January 4, 1860, p. 2, c. 1
Public Meeting.
We have been requested by a large number of our citizens to state that a
Public Meeting will be held in this place on Saturday next, the 7th,
for the purpose of appointing a vigilance committee to look after vagrants,
suspicious itinerants, &c., who seem to infest our place in greater numbers
than we have ever before known. The
whole surrounding country are invited to be present and co-operate in its
proceedings.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], January 4, 1860, p. 2,
c. 1
We are
requested by the Treasuarer [sic] of the Building Committee, to return their
thanks to Miss Eugenia C. Westbrook for a contribution of $11 25 towards the
building of the Baptist Church in this place.
We understand the balance of the proceeds from the Tableaux—some
$55—will be contributed to the building of a Methodist Church.
We hope our Methodist friends will bestir themselves and have them up a
fine Church early the coming spring. What
say the ladies of the neighborhood to getting up a Supper and a Fair, soon for
the benefit of churches?
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], January 4, 1860, p. 2,
c. 4
Miss
Augusta Evans.—We took occasion a few weeks ago to make some hurried comments
on Miss Evans' Beulah, promising at the same time to give our readers a more
extended notice of it.—Since then the copy so kindly furnished us by a friend,
has passed out of our hands, and we cannot at present comply with our promise.
We shall send on in a few days for a copy.
While on this subject we take the liberty of suggesting to Miss Evans a
theme that we are pursuaded [sic] her gifted pen could throw a flood of light
upon, and which would be particularly appropros at this time.
It is a delineation of the workings of the patriarchal or slave labor of
the South contrasted with hireling labor of the North, where, as in all free
States, labor and capital are ever waging a perpetual warfare.
Two heroes, or a hero and a heroine from each section (we presume) would
have to play in roll. We We [sic] make the suggestion on the assumption, that she
is familiar with the outlines of Northern character and institutions.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], January 11, 1860, p.
1, c. 4
Poem—"Lines Written in my Album While at College"—by friend
"Claude" in Nacogdoches, Texas.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], January 11, 1860, p. 2, c. 2
Our Christmas.
We, like the rest of the world, had a small respite from our accustomed
toil and trouble during the Christmas hollidays [sic], but business calling us
away, we visited Mobile and New Orleans, shipping up from the latter place, a
lot of material for enlarging our paper. Our
locum tenens and foreman concluded that the material would not do, so
issued our last old size, (you must make due allowance for Christmas times and
excuse them.) Upon our return,
however, we find "all right," so give our readers an enlarged sheet
this week.
Our
trip was not of sufficient importance to deserve description, as nothing
happened noteworthy beyond a collision between our boat, the Alabama, and a
brigantine which was standing in for the port of Mobile.
A dense fog hung over the Bay, so we did not see her until too late, no
particular damage was done her, only her bulwarks driven in on one side, and her
crew badly scared. The Captain
mounted a pile of salt sacks, and squalled out lustily for our boat to
"keep off of him." A
confused din of exclamations as "oh, Lordy!
Laws a massy, I wish I was'nt on board," mixed up with a scaping of
steam, ringing of bells, and rattling of tiller ropes, seasoned with a few
sailor [illegible], a dull thump, a crash, and all was over.
Our
vessel careened a little, glided past her, and the brisk strokes of her paddles
soon left the brigantine "alone in her glory," and the fog as we went
gliding down the Bay. Coming back
we had a fair run—with rain, lightning, thunder and wind enough to make our
vessel rock a little. Our young
friend Maj. Richardson of the Prairie News, getting sea-sick, we wrapped him up
in our shawl, and put him to sleep on the cabin floor, then walked the deck all
night, for the want of a place to sleep. Our
companion du voyage, Mr. Pickford, succeeded in accidentally knocking
down a chandelier, about four o'clock next morning, which falling with a noisy
crash on a marble covered table, waked every body up, and scared some of them
almost into fits, serving to show how foolish people are about such little
things while on the "vasty deep," and furnishing us a little amusement
to keep us awake until day. We
spent a pleasant "New Year" in Mobile, seeing a good share of the
beauty and loveliness of the city.—We had several little favors done us before
leaving West Point, by some of our particular young friends.
To F.
S. Pate, Esq., of Starksville we are indebted for a pair of beautiful gloves.
To your young friend Lieut. T. B. Franks, we return our thanks for a neat
and beautiful new hat. Mr. J. A. Cox, of Saloam, will please excuse us, for contrary
to promise, returning him our thanks for the new shawl with which he presented
us.—These favors we appreciate all the more highly, as they came from some of
our young friends whose devotion has not been of the kind to ebb and flow with
our prospects for success, but, increased as shadows fell most darkly around us.
To Mrs. Harrington, for a nice Egg-Nog, and to a whole bevy of pretty
girls, for the sunny light of their smiling countenances, in the dull, sombre
confines of our office on Christmas Eve.
We
hope, (if it is not vain to hope such a thing,) to see them around again during
the present year. We trust all our
friends had their share of fun and enjoyment during the time, that the
"little ones" found their heelles [sic] and toeless stocking filled
with toys and dainties, that the boys saw their dulcienas, that the young
ladies, (well, we don't know what is best calculated to please them,) that all
had a "merry Christmass" and that our friends and the public
generally, are now prepared to subscribe to the Broad-Axe.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], January 11, 1860, p.
2, c. 6
Our
Military Company.—We have succeeded in getting sixty names on our list now,
and need only four more. Will not
some of our young friends in the country come in and let us organize at once?
Our word for it, you will never regret it.
Let us get under drill immediately.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], January 18, 1860, p. 2, c. 2
Military Company.
On Friday the 20th instant, the Military Company recently
gotten up under the appropriate name of the West Point Grays, assembled
according to previous announcement at Dunlap's old store house, in West Point.
At an early hour a large and full meeting was in attendance, whereupon B.
F. Robertson, Esq., was called to the chair, and B. M. Howorth, Esq., appointed
Secretary. . . .
Upon
motion, a committee of five was appointed to draft a suitable constitution and
necessary by-laws to be submitted at the next meeting.
Also to propose a becoming style of uniform, to be adopted by the
company. . .
On motion of Dr. J. W. Crump, it was
Resolved,
That the uniform to be adopted by the company, shall be made of either Southern
or English manufactured goods. . . .
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], January 18, 1860, p. 2, c. 6
Arresting Runaways.
I take this method of informing the citizens of Lowsdes, Oktibbeha,
Monroe, and the surrounding counties, that I am located one mile South of
Artesia, on the M. & O. R. R., for the purpose of catching negroes, where I
shall always be in readiness to serve those who may require my service. I flatter myself that I have as good a pack of negro dogs as
can be found in the State. My terms
are $25.00 for catching. When I do
not catch, five dollars per day for hunting—and when I arrive in eight hours
after the track is made and do not catch, no pay.
James M. Sandifer.
Artesia.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], February 1, 1860, p.
1, c. 3
Southern
Shoe Manufactory.—The Holly Springs Miss. Herald, tells us of a Shoe
Manufactory in that beautiful little town, which now employs hands enough to
turn out four hundred brogans per week. It
is in its infancy, and with capital to go ahead, will enlarge soon.
Negroes do the work. Shoes
sell at the same price as Northern made, and are far superior to them.
We would be proud to see a Lynn made of Holly Springs—for shoes.
SOUTHERN BROAD-AXE [WEST POINT, MS], February 8, 1860, p. 1, c. 4
Texan Patriotism.
A friend of ours writing from Nacogdoches, Texas, says:
"Texas avails herself of every opportunity of showing her
patriotism, her respect for the constitution, the South and the blood of her
ancient heroes, by elevating the humanitarian emissaries of the Seward and Brown
stripe, sent down here by these 'grande gringoes' (big Yankees) on a piece of
timber about four inches in diameter and ten feet long, in common parlance
called a rail—and marching them around for a 'spell' on the brawny
shoulders of about four sable gents, while the general cry is, 'hang him!
hang him!' he don't care for that, he was raised on such gymnastics.'
Even the Mexicans seem to have caught the inspiration and cry out amid
the excited crowd, "Carraho el grongoe, ferro del inferno, no bueno
hombre, Viva la Texas! Of
course Northern humanitarians will say this kind of patriotism bears the impress
of savage, more than civilized people. But
Texas says that she and her sister Slave States have made compromise after
compromise, until nothing is left to be given up except their liberty—and
these emissaries are sent to steal away that.
It is for this that they are so roughly handled, and not through malice.
So Mr. Emissary had better tread lightly on the soil of gallant Texas,
for some of them have already learned the 'failing' of Texans, when their rights
or liberties are invaded. If such
cattle look to their future welfare, they will stay in their own congenial
clime, nor again pollute our soil with their slimy tread.
Our
merchants and planters have said that they will do all their shipping and
trading at Southern cities in future."