The New York Herald Newspaper, February 23, 1879, Page 6

WASHMGTUNS BIRTHDAY, How It Was Celebrated in New York and Other Cities. BOOM OF CANNON, a WELCOMED WITH Flowers of Speech Profusely Scattered by Enthusiastic Orators. The 17th anniversary of the birthday of the “Father of His Country” was yesterday celebrated in a very humdrum, quiet fashion. ‘Phere was no military parade and but little street desoration, and it cannot even be said that there were any extra theatrical amusements, as the matinées ‘are to be credited more to its being Saturday than anational festival, Indeed, the day was not at all propitious for any ovtdoor jubilations, The gray, leaden sky and sharp, cold wind, with slush and mud-frozen | iuto icy particles overnight, and the old fashioned suow storm, which set in early in the forenoon, did not tend to make the celebration a brilliant one. As a matter of fact, however, but scant preparation had been made occasion, and the day was chiefly notable for the weleome rest which it afforded to hundreds of business men and clerks and for the relief trom the daily routine of work. HOW THE CITY LOOKED. ‘The Custom House, the Post Oflice and other fed- | oral oftices were only open for an hour in the morn- ing, while the City Hall oflices and the departments of the municipal government generally were entirely closed, Nevertheless a good many of the haunts of downtown business men, like the Astor House ro- tunda, for instance, were open as usnal, though patron- ized by a comparatively small number <f people. The flags on the City Hall, as well ax on the more prominent Broadway buildings, were generally. dis- played, and some of our more thoughtful admirers of Washington had reverently invested their private residences with a little gay bunting, The shipping in the harbor was also largely decorated. At a large Duilding in East Ninth street there was a jovial flag- raising, after which the party adjoumed to |. a festive breakfast at the Sinclair House. ‘The horses on some of the horse car lines and on occasional trucks end wagons also carried little flags. In spite of all these fragmentary attempts to impart a festive air to the day, however, the great, marked quietude on the streets made 1t appear more like some still Sabbath than one of national jubilation. TRADITIONAL OBSERVANCES. While the Veterans of 1812 were deterred by the inclement weather from venturing upon their usual annual parade the customary formalities were all observed. At sunrise the booming of cannon from the forts in the harbor gave the first evidence (to the few who heard it) that this was a national holiday, and David Van Arsdale hoisted the Stars and Stripes at the Battery, while Adjutant J. Gould Warner ran up the colors above the old picturesque fort in the Park. At noon the merry chimes were rung from Trinity, Grace and St. Thomas’ churches. The following was the programme performed at Trinity by Beliringer W. J. Thurwalli— mn of the Ocean." 1d of the Regiment.” Special ices were held in but few of the churches in honor of the day. In the public insti- tutions Washington's Birthday afforded, at least, a gleum of pleasure to their many unfortunate in- ri free use of the passages »eridors in the Tombs and other prisona. In Workhouse the customary labor was suspended, ‘ew York Teachers’ Association had their ‘usnal concert at Steinway Hall in the afternoon, and Washington Chapter, No. 2, of the Order ot United Americans gave their annual dinner at Frascati’s. In the evening the New York Post Office Temperance Association also held their annual reunion in com- Memoration of the natal day of the first and greatest President, as well as one of t vost consistent tem- perance observers of this country, ‘THE COOPER UNION STUDENTS, The students of the Cooper Union for the Advance- ment of Science and Art commemorated the anni- versary last evening in the great hall of the Cooper Instittite, which was filled to its utmost capacity wiih an intelligent assemblage of both sexes, Three large Americau fags ornamented the plattorm,a buat of the Father of his Country occupying a conspicn- pus place in front. Dr. Veter Cooper presided, and his entrance short!y before eight o'cloek was the sig- ual for loud and continued applause on the part of the audience Among those seated on the platform were e=-Governor Hoffman, Mr. Wilson G. Hunt and Pro- lessor J.C. Zachos. A band of music varied the en- tertain} ut by discoursing patriotic airs, The vast andience was ently in full sympathy with the Object of the occasion, as each time the name of Washington was mentioned by the youthful speakers the hearty applause which it elicited seemed to be us and universal. ryiny out the programme, Cornelius Don In ¢ ovan read extracts Washington's ‘Farewell Address, we delivered an oration on “The Patrio he held that the st way in whi and future gen- erations can © owe to th the country debt of — gratitude men who fought to British oppression was ‘ation of our institutions in strength and beauty, and thus id that the government of the people, is nota onrage,” wax given by who, while illustrating his subject, ngtou, Andrew Jackson, ell and other great men d the nnsel- ral Washing- Minds on the rises. The #tudents acquitted themselves in a bighty creditable duanner, AT MANHATTAN COLLNGE. At Manhattan Coliege the day was marked by a ‘PFaid combination entertainment, in which all the Aiiiferent yocietics ot the house took part. In the past each socivty has had its special holiday to ce brate, aud never betore has the whole literary enith of the college been mustered to do bonor to ccaxion. The idea of having such an en- nt as was given yesterday nad long been dby Brother Anthony, and Washington's Y Was selected as a proper time for putting nto prac Among the interested listeners at ent was ex-Governor Alvord, present Assembly. ‘The programme was a I the following clubs were represented :— sile Club, by Hughes’ Lite- Union, by’ » Jusper Debuting by six members; St Joseph’s Dramatic Club, embers; Mercantile Association, by three and the Blue Bells Ringing Club, by four Speaker of th long om Del luembers, ‘The featnre of the entertainment was the appearance among the “big boys” on the stage of four little chaps—Masters Donnelly, Keunedy, O'Shea and Quinlan, who gave ations that were as warinly received as the more thoughtful efforts of their seniors, Mr. Griffith and Mr, Boerum gave side-splitting humorous readings, and Mr. FF. MeMannis guve u recitation entitled “Bichelieu,’ which was marked by great strength and dramatic force, An original discourse on “Socialist” oceu- pied the attention of Mr. Daniel ©. Cunnion. Mr. E, A. O'Brien discoursed ou “The Day We Celebrate.” Messrs. Hanuigau, Flynn, Gallagher and Tillman gave a humorous sek jterati Seekin Patronage.” Ch was recited with thrilling Grenet, and a selec from “Chatal V's M b: MeMahon and Quinn con College bund and giee cind enlivened the entertain ment With musiv UNITED AMERICAN MRCHANI ‘The Order of United American Mechanics celebrated the day by a largely attended ug, which took ph fi at hall of Jnstituy 2 hall was pr : and t wanization other © of Washington was of the platiorm with a patriot This was follow ime wus filled up with songs and he lev. W. C. Steele introdnced the second e entertainment by delivering a patri i the pre been disposed of t the performance of some set works of Verdi, Flotow and others, CHNISTIAN TEMPERANCE BROTHERIOOD, Tho Christian Tempe Brotherhood had re unions at noou, four oclock P.M. and eight at night fn (he lecture room ot the Young Men’s Christian Association, Tweuty-third etreat, Mr, O, W, Sawyer | ized by skaters—men, wor was at the head of the meetings, which had for their object that of pushing the miterests of the tem- perance movement and propagating feelings of Christian trieudship among the members, as well a6 celebrating the day, IN BROOKLYN, Washington's Birthday was celebrated in the quiet- est manner possibie in Brooklyn, there being 20 parade or public display of any kind to comme! rate the great event. The only attempt at public observance of the occasion—which in former years was generally observed—was the aecoration of the City Hall and County Court House with bunting of every hue, The city, State and federal courts and offices remaiaed closed, and the storekeepers put up their shuttess in the afternoon. Many people went out of town im rleighs and enjoyed the ures of the snow-chid road. The lake at Prospect Park and the Capitolme Pond, Nostrand a muatinge and evening performances at ‘Theatre, the Court Square Theatre and the Academy of Music were weil attended. The national colors were displayed from stem to stern on the Colorado and Minnesota at the Navy Yard, and a salute was fired in honor of the day trout the receiving ship. A salute was also fired from Fort Greene at the expense of the city. In the evening several entertainments and balls were given in the public halls, THE DAY IN WILLIAMSBURG, At noom a salute of 100 guns was fired at the head of Stagg street, Williamsburg, by battery C, National Guard, under command of Major John Timmes. Flags were raised generally throughout the distiict, thongh but few if any establishments closed either for part or the entire day. IN NEW JERSEY. The day was generally observed throughout New Jersey. In Trenton there wasa military display, and asalnte wns fired at the State Arsenal. At Prince- ton and Rutgers colleges the usual college exercises were held, At Woodbury the vet erans of the Twelfth regiment of volunteers had =a reunion, which was well attended, In New Brunswick but littte attention was paid to the event. In Elizabeth the city wore its holiday attire; there was a military parade. In Newark the militia paraded and a large number of stores were closed. 'm Paterson the factories were closed and there was a fine display of bunting. There was a grand celebration in the Tabernacle, Jersey City, last night, under the auspices of the Order of United American Mechanics and Daughters of Liberty, AT THE NEW YORK STATE WAPITAL. Aumany, Feb. 22, 1879, The anniversary of Washington's Birthday was celebrated here to-day by military parades and the closing of all public offices, banks and the Board of “Trade, IN BUFFALO. Burrato, N, ¥., Feb, 22, 1879. ‘The only observances of the day were the closing ofthe banks and government offices and the display of flags from public and private buildings. Business houses were open as usual and the military parades were dispensed with, AT THE HUB. Boston, Mass., Feb. 22, 1879. ‘The obmervance of Washifigton’s Birthday has been quite general throughout the city and vicinity, and the pleasant weather has made the streets assume a holiday appearance. The closing of places of busines was the rnle, especially in streets devoted to wholesale trade. A large number of visitors trom the suburbs attended the various places of entertaininent. The observance by the city has been confined to the closing of public buildings, ringing of bells and the display of flags from prominent points. The ship- ping in the harbor was also decorated in honor of the day. A STATUE UNVEILED. Newsuryvort, Mass., Feb, 22, 1379, Ward's bronze statue of Washington, presented to this city by Daniel J. Tenney, of New York, and costing $20,000, was unyelled to-day at the City Hall in the.pmesence of an immense audience. There was a largedisplay of military, and a general demonstra- tion was made in honor of the occasion, Mayor Currier presided over the ceremouies, which included prayer and vocal and instrumental music. A series of resoluzions adopted by the sons of Newburyport in New York and an address by Rev. Stephen H. Tyng were presented. A poem by George Lunt on “Washi ** was read by Rev. George D. Wildes, which was followed by an oration by Bishop Clark, of Rhode Island. ‘The Bishop's address was warmly received, and embodied, besides many local reminis- cences, a tribute to the character of Washington aud a sticring appeal tothe patriotic sentiments of the ‘ople. her the @elivery of an oration by Bishop Clarke, at the City Hall, the chorus sang ‘Freedom, God und Right,” by Barnaby. A procession was formed and moved throug several streets to the location of the atatue, when the ceremony of presentation took place, Mr. Tenney wus represented by Mr. Edward F. Coffin, who, ina shart speech, tendered the statue to the city. Mayer Currier responded in appropriate terms, accepting the gift. The ceremonies closed with » collation toxthe military. VETER«NS OF 1812 OBSERVE THE DAY. PHILADELPHIA, Feb, 22, 1879, To-day was # legal holiday. The courts, municipal offices, the bamkks, the various exchanges and whoie- sale business houses were all closed, and @ number of civic and military organizations held appropriate observances. According to custom, the veterans of the war of 1412.met to celebrate the day, with the venerable Peter“Hay in the chair. There wore but seven of the veterans present, some of them deaf and infirm fromsold age. HOW THE DAY WAS OBSERVED IN WASHINGTON AND ALEXANDRIA, VA. Wasuinetoy, Feb. 22, 1879, Washington's Birthday was generally observed here as a holiday, The government departments and district offices were closed, and flags wero flying from all prominent points. Salutes were fired at suprise and sunset. The Fire Department paraded and were reviewed by the President and Cabinet and the District Commissioners, ‘The oldest inhabitants and veterans of the War of 1812 held ® meeting at Wiilard Ha'l, and were addressed by Major Ben Perley Poore. ‘At Alexandria, Va., the day was celebrated by a military. and firemen’s parade, and the city was thronged with visitors, THE DAY AT ANNAPOLIS, (BY TELEGRAPH TO THE HERALD.] Asnaports, Md., Feb. 22, 1879, The 22d was not observed to the usual extent here to-day, from its occurrence upon Saturday, when people are generally too busily employed to take @ holiday. No banking business was carried on, however, and the State offices were closed generally. The cadets ut the Naval Academy were given a holt: day and excused from drills and recitations. All quarantine was removed, save for those cadets under special punishment, The national colors were dis- played irom the dome of tne State House, from ship- ping in the harbor, from various public places in the town and on the wis at the Naval Academy. noon the Santee fired a salnte. At A QUIET CELEBRATION AT NORFOLK. (8¥ TeELEoRAPH TO THE HERALD.) Nonroux, Va., Feb. 22, 1879, ‘There were no military or other demonstrations to- day, as in previous years, ‘The shipping in thefha bor, the various public and many private build- ings in the city exbibited a handsome display of national bunting. ‘The different banks, Post Oflice, Custom House and Cotton Exchange were closed, but there was no suspension of private business, A xalute was fired from the receiving ship Franklin, and a squad of the Norfolk Light Artillery Blues fired asalnte, THE DAY AT MILWAUKEE. Mi.wavKer, Feb, 22, 1879, Business was pretty geveraliy suspended to-day, The Old Settlers’ Club held their annual banquet at Newhall House this afternoon, and to-night the mem- bers of the Twenty-fourth Wisconsin regiment are holding @ reunion at the Plankiyton House, General Sheridan and a portion of bis stad are present as the principal guests. IN TERRE HAUTE, {BY TELEGRAPH To THE HERALD.) ‘Trnne Haute, Ind, Feb, 22, 1879. Washington’s Birthday was observed with due solemnity to-day. The day opened inauspiciously, a drizzing rain and sleet, with mud three inches deep, prevailing during the earlier portion. of the most prominent basiness houses were decorated with flays, ev » At three @ procession was forn heuded by a dr and bund and followed by the two amilitary com- panies of this city, the Light Guard and the Go tenors Guards and xoveral lodges and civic noote' Very large crowds were in the city during the and everything presented @ holiday appearance. IN THE CRESCENT CITY. New Onskans, Feb, 22, 1879, ‘The day has been celebrated by a military display, in which United States troops, State militia and in- dependent military otasuiaations participated. The street« along the line of march wore Billed with spec tutors, ‘The carnival preparations continue and the hotels ave rapidly Alling with strangers, day, MUSICAL AND DRAMATIC NOTES. Miss Genevieve Ward played in Rhode Island towns during the last week. ‘fhe Criterion Company during the last week have played with much success in Chicago. Miss Mary Anderson, according to newspaper ad- vices, has drawn full houses during her recent tour. The Midgets, at Masonic Hall, have attracted a largo number of ladies and children during the past week, The Carri Brothers, Ferdinand and Hermann, give another soirée musicale at Steinway Hall on Tuesdey evening. Mr. Boucicault played Conn, the Shaughraun, on Washington's Birthday, at the Boston Theatre, to an immense house. To-morrow night marks*the opening of the Maple- son Opera Company at the Academy of Music. Gerster will sing Lucia. Reményi, 8. B. Mills, Miss Gertrude Pranklin and Mr. Dulcken will give a concert at Association Hall, Harlem, to-morrow evening. Mr. J. J. Holland will make his metropolitan début in “Spellbound,” the new play that is to be produced at Wallack’s toanorrow night. “Nannette Labarre,” at the Globe Theatre, has drawn very fuir houses during the past week, and is a play well worth witnessing. When one tries to find aconvenient seat at the Standard Theatre nowadays it is a matter of two or three days work, ‘fhe place is packed. Fechter has evidently recovered from his recent indisposition. He played Hamiet, on Friday night, at the Holliday Stmect Theatre in Baltimore. At the Theatre Comique it is impossible to pur- chase reserved seats twenty-four Lours in advance. ‘he Mulligan Guards Ball” fills the house. Mr, George Vandenhoff proposes to give a series of six “Diekens’ Mornings’ at the Union League Theatre, commencing March 8, at three P. M. At the Lyceum Theatre Mr. Frederick Paulding, who has been playing Bertuccio in ‘The Fool's Re. venge” during the past week, will appear in ‘‘Ham- let” on Tuesday. Nearly all of the city theatres yesterday were over- wholmed by amusement seeking crowds, and almost without exception the managers just now are in the best of good humor. ‘The Fifth Avenue company are rehearsing Gilbert and Sullivan's opera, ‘Trial by Jury.” It is said to be full of fun and music and has been performed for many nights in London. Mr. 8. Leibling will give a concert to-morrow even- ing at Steinway Hall, assisted by Miss Laura Schirmer, Mr. Alfred Pease, Signor Marcato, Mr. R. Arnold aud Mr, Keineccius, “H. M.S. Pinafore’ yesterday filled the Fifth Ave- nue Theatre, but the management have made ar- rangements for presenting “Thro’ the Dark” next Monday. The picce is in active rehearsal. Mule. de Murska, assisted by Mlle. Selvi, the lady tenor; Signors Tagliapietra, Susini and Mile. Henn etta Markstein, will give a concert this evening at the Grond Opera House, under the management of M. de Vivo. “Little Red Riding Hood,” :t the Aquarium, is one among the papular attractions especially for chil, dren. Au afternoon or evening cannot be more ugree- ably occupied than in seeing this well arranged per- formance. "The variety performances at Tony Pastor’s Theatro have been brightened during the past week by several new features, The entertainment furnishes an ex- cellent antidote to the blues. The burlesque on “Pinafore” is one of the best. “The Banker's Daughter” at the Union Square is running so well that there is no suggestion concern- ing the time of its termination. Hundreds of people have repeatedly witnessed the performance, and the public verdict is most favorable. At the Park Theatre the success of “Engaged’’ must be marked down as one of the greatest of the season. Miss Agnes Booth, Mr. James Lewis and Miss Sidney Cowell create the most amusing effects, and well account for overflowing audiences. It is naid that the receipts of Mapleson's Italian Opera Company in Baltimore during the last four nights will aggregate $20,000. The performances are described as having been enthusiastically received, especially on the “Gerster” nights. The amusement afforded by the San Francisco Minstrels is thoroughly characteristic of this well known troupe of performers. They always will repay an evening's sitting, especially since they havo adopted their burlesque on “Pinafore.” Unusual preparations are being made at Niblo’s Garden for the production of the “Black Crook.” It is said that $20,000 or $30,000 are being expended by the management in new dresses and scenery. The date of its production is not yet aunounced, Wallack's Theatre, after a very snecessful run of “Ours,” will be opened to-morrow night with “Spell- bound,” one of Boucicauit’s new conceptions, The play is said to be rich in dramatic effect, and calls for some of the best acting and the best artists of the company. Mme. Yon Stamwitz will appear to-morrow even- ing at the Grand Opera House in the well known im- personation of Leah, the Forsaken, supported by Mr. J. B. Studley. The part is one that affords an accomplished artiste an admirable opportunity for professional effect. “The Sorcerer” will be presented at the Broadway Theatre until further notice, but a change in the cast will probably be made aud new artists be introduced during the coming weck. The management are anxious to present the operetta as perfectly as it was performed in the English theatres. Miss Ada Cavendish is annonuced to appear at the Broadway Theatre at an early day, Her success dur- ing her tour through the country is one that might have been expected from an admirable actress. She appears this week at the Brooklyn New Park Theatre in the ‘New Magdal nd ‘Jane Shore."* The concert of Mr, P. 8. Gilmore’s Band this even- ing, at Gilmore's Garden, is one of the musical ovents of the season. A good programme is announced, and the pleasure of promenading will add largely to the attractiveness of the entertainment. The splendid scenery of the Arion ball has not been removed. The Misses Conroy, two young ladies who have already made an agreeable impression by reason of their artistic excellence, announce a concert at Chickering Hall, on Wednesday, March 5. Mr. 3. B. Mills will preside st the piano and a number of other well known artists will join in making the enter- teinment attractive. The next (fifth) public rehearsal and concert of the Philharmonic Society will take place on Friday after. noon, March 7, and Saturday evening, March 8, The programme for the occasion is:—1. Jupiter Sym- phony, by Mozart. 2, Fire Charm, from the “Wal kre,” by Wagner. 3. Serenade for string orchestra, by Fuchs, 4, “Lasso” symphonic poem, by Liszt, Mr. F. Ruhiman announces that he will begin a season of comic opera at the Lyceum Theatre on Monday, March 10, with Gilbert & Sullivan's operetta, “The Sorcerer.” The artists named in connection with the performance are Miss Violetta Colville, Mins E. Havard, Miss Louisa Leighton, Miss Nellie Mor- timer, Mr. R, Dunker, Mr, Bernard, Mr. Humphries, Mr. Gaston. A testimonial concert to Mme. Ashforth, the con- tralto of Rey. Dr. Chapin's Church, is announced for Thursday evening, February 27, at the church, on the corner of Forty-iifth street and Fifth avenae, She will be assisted by Miss Isabella McCulloch, Mr, Kdouerd Reményi, Mrs, Louise Oliver, Mr. William Courtney, Signor Pietro Ferranti, Signor C. Moderati, Mr, F, Dulcken aud the Trinity Glee Club, Mies Katic Putnam has been re-engaged for another week at Niblo’s Garden in consequence of her suc cessful impersonation of Little Nell and the Mar- chioness and the impression it made upon the patrons of this house. The piece chosen for to- morrow night is the “Little Detective.” In it Miss Putnam will have ample opportunity to display her peculiar talents, She assumes five different echarac- te ‘The St. Cecilia Society announce a concert at the Academy of Music on Tuesday evening, the 25th inet. ‘The programme will embrace the forty-second psalm ; “As the Hart Pants,” by Mendelssohn (slo parts by Mme. Clementine Lasar and a male quartet); “spring's Message,” by Gade; also selections of unac- companied glees and part songs, inctnding Abt’ “Ave Maria,” for tenor solo and chorus of male voie Mme, Evelina Hartz will give @ vocal and instru- mental concert at Chickering Hall to-morrow even- ing, and be aided by the following artists:—DMiss Jennie Dickerson, contralto; Mr. Charles Fritsch, tenor; Mr. Carlos Florentine, baritone; Mr. W. F. Mills, piano; Mr. Richard Arnold, violin; Sefior Car- los Roehl, piano; Mr. Charles Werner, violoncello; Mr. Joseph Lewenberg, violin; Signor Moderati, musical conductor. A charity concert under the patronage of a number of well known socicty people will be given at Steinway Hall on Monday evening, March 3. The following named artists will participate :—Mos, Imogene Brown, soprano; Mrs. Florence Rice-Knox, contralto; Mr. Ch, Fritsch, tenor; Mr. Franz Remmertz, bass; Mr, Carlos Florentine, baritone; Mr, A. H. Pease, piano; Mr, Walter R. Johnston, organ, and Mr. ©. E, Pratt, accompanist. It is not improbable that a series of Sunday con- certs will be begun next Sunday at the Standard ‘Theatre, in which a new and thoroughly popular feature will be introduced—to wit, the performance by well known artists of old familiar airs that twenty years ago might have been heard on every lip. Severely, classical music is to be tabooed, and only ear catching melodies sung and played. The prices of ad mission, it is alleged, will also correspond with the old times. The past week at the Germania was full of interest, and its performances drew excellent houses, ‘Die Maschinenbauer,” a favorite play, proved to be the main attraction, “Die Relegirten Studenten,” a sparkling comedy by Bendix, will be performed at this theatre to-morrow and Tuesday evenings. On Wednesday evening Mr. M. Wolkenstein, a favorite of this establishment, takes his annual benefit. On this occasion, as well as on every succeeding night for the week, Bornateins’ five act comedy, “Ein Maed- chen vom Ballet,” will be presented. Mr. Henry E. Abbey, the proprietor of the Park Theatre, of this city, having leased what is known as the Beethoven Hall estate, opposite the Globe The- atre, Boston, is now engaged in constructing a new theatre on the premises which will be known as the “Boston Park.” It will bave a seating capacity for about twelve hundred persons. The stage will be forty feet deep. Architects have been busy here and elsewhere in perfecting plans, and the Bostonians will probably soon realize that they have another place of amusement that will favorably compare with their best. Particular care has been bestowed on the acoustic qualities of the theatre, the methods of in- gress and egress and all the features that combine to make a first class theatre. The opening will take place about the 14th of April. The Union League Theatre looked bright and pretty last evening, the occasion being an amateur performance in aid of the enlarge- ment of Miss Leggett’s Home for Busine: Women, It seems that this venture has met with larger patronage than the present building can accommodate, and Miss Loggett is anxious to enlarge her borders and proposes to give a series of onter- tainments for that purpose. The one given last evening was the second, the former being a concert by the Reményi company. The piece chosen was “A Lesson in Love,” a comedy in three acts, by Charles Smith Cheltnam. The performers were all amateurs and were six in number. They dressed prettily and acted with spirit. ‘The stage was tasto- fully set for each scene. The entire performance was satisfactory and the audience large and appre- ciative. THE “MIDGETS.” The extreme diminutive size of the “Midgets,” now on exhibition at Masonic Hall. seems to have given rise to considerable professional curiosity among gentlemen of the medical fraternity in this city. Accordingly, at the written request of a prom- inent physician, the parents of the little people and the management having them in charge consented that a scientific examination of the physical con- struction of the “Midgets” should be held privately at Masonic Hall at two o'clock yesterday afternoon, At the appointed hour several physicians were present to participate in the examination, among them being Drs. Sayre, Taylor, Webber, Lin- coln and Bates, Owing to the storm, however, the arrival of the Mites was unexpectedly delayed, and the medical gentlemen, having waited for nearly an hour, lett for the scenes of their professional labors, having first agreed that the examination snould take place next Wednesday, CHILDREN'S CARNIVAL. A grand matinée festival and testimonial benefit to Professor Carl Marwfg was given yesterday in the Academy of Music by the repetition of the Children’s Carnival, as played on Wednesday last. The opening scene was the “Grand Tableau of George and Martha Washington,” surrounded by 300 children, in cos- tumes of different nations. The remainder of the programme was the b autiful tableaux already de- seribed in the Hrnatp. The auditorium was well filled by @ very fashionable audience. PRAYING FOR LIBERTY. HUMBLE AND PATHETIC APPEAL OF MEMBERS OF THE RUSSIAN PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLIES TO THE CZAR—‘‘HOW CAN WE HELP TO SUBDUK SOCIALISM UNLESS WE ARE PERMITTED 10 DISCUSS PUBLIC QUESTIONS?” (From the Vienna Tagblatt.] The following is the text of the petition of the Zemstovs, or members of provincial assemblies, to the Emperor of Russia:— sok His Masesty THE CZAR, EMPEROR OF ALL THR USSTAS :— The great and noble Russian Empire, notwith- standing the brilliant victories of our armies in the Balkan Peninsula, has been recently alarmed by formidable explosions of internal agitations. The symptoms clearly indicate an unnatural state of things, and an ailment from which the whole of sv- ciety suffers, we might say the whole of Russia, Sub- versive elements, beg’ 3 advantage of this ab- normal situation, use it for the accomplisiment of their own designs, and they have so compltely succeeded that the imperial government has been compelled to make an appeal to the Russian people, to arouse its well known patriotism to aid them in the contest. The growing influence of socialism has become a danger tor the social order of the country and menaces every interest of i. erty, of family and religion. But how can ¢ uasion ple respond to this appeal of the government if it is con- demned to play 9 passive rdle? Willthis brave and disinterested people ever be admitted to participate in the direction of national affairs Will it only be perniitted to offer great and bloody sacrifices upon the altar of the common weal, and ought it thus to remain in the hands of the authorities a dumb in- strument which is forbidden to reason ¢ NO HOPE FOR LIBKETY. Doubtless it should be 1n the power of the elected representatives of the people to rush to the assist- au social order when menaced, and of the coun- But can we do so? No, that is ip nas the necessary facilities, Though the provincial chamber may be animated with the best intentions, under present circum: stances they feel themselves enurely powerless either to remedy the evil or even to reply in any man- in danger. le; we donot ner to the government's |. Our — repre- sentative ics, like ali the other in- stitutions of the country, are formally de- prived of the right to iuterfere, even in the most indirect manner, im any important question, espe- cially in a political matter. ‘Tho sphere of action of the zomstoy is restricted to agricuitural questions, aod by mg of Draconian severity interdicts their going beyond the limite assigned them. It is not even permitied to them to discuss qnostions of local interest, nach less to examine government measures applicable to the whole country. This is why they ong and are lacking im nerve, use they are for ‘he most part composed of intimidated aud silenced men who, despite the best intentions, are utter! debarred from doing anything for the public g obliged as they are to restrain their action to matters of an insignificant import. Since we are =denuded all private initiative, since we are forbidden to intervene in any public question, since we are always ordered to remaiu en- tirely passive, since we are not even accorded the exercise of our natural te to express our senti- ments touching Our wellbeing or our sufferings or discuss questions on which our future and our ex- istence depend, we are unhappily brought to this conclusion that no Russian, no member of the zem- stov is judged capable of uttering an intelligent opinion upon political or economic questions, or even, beyond his own district, upon agriculturel questions. This state of things is evidently abnor- mal, We form in this respect a lainentable exception to the reat of eons and doubly deplorabie in this, that the Kussians always shown themeclyes capable of civilization and progress. As we liberate others why are not we ourselves freed from the trammels of detective legislation? A BRETER CONNEITUTION NEEDED. Most Serene gow grant to your own subjects the innate right to dispose of their future; give them in your generosity that which you have given to the Bnigarians, and you will soon realize to what @ degree of power, prosperity and wealth Russia will attain, God has Aine upon your territory and pon you all kinds of blessings; there is still a ssing needed, and it is that for which we now iimn- plore you. Give us a more liberal constitution; sunder the bands which now bind us and prevent the exercise of our natural aud civil rights, Your Majesty deigns to listen to our prayer and accords that which we now ask him to give, we shall then be, infact and by right, capable of lending him our support to annihilate the party of disorder and to save the country from the social peril by which it is meuaced, NEW YORK -HERALD, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1879.—QUADRUPLE SHEET—WITH SUPPLEMENT. PUTNAMS RIDE. Centennial Celebration of the Hero’s Feat at Horse Neck, Greenwich. AN IMMENSE TURNOUT. Speeches, Songs, Poetry, Cannonading, Feast- ing and a Procession, Terael Putnam’s famous ride down the rocky bluff on the outskirts of the village of Greenwich, Conn., in escaping from a party of British dragoons, had its centennial celebration yesterday on the ground made memorable by that occurrence. The project of the celebration was broached only three weeks ago, but it took the fancy of the people so completely that every effort was made in tho short time left before the advent of the centenary to render the affuir a success, The true date of the centennial anniversary is February 26; but as that happens to be Ash Wednesday, and yester- day happened to be Washington's Birthday, it was thought the better plan to hold the celebration on the natal day of the Father of His Country. The greater part of the citizens of Green- wich township gave their sympathy and exertions to the enterprise, and only a very few stood aloof and sneered at the affair. The reason they sneered was that they believed “Old Put” never did the feat attributed to him, and that if he did it was in the act of running away from instead of running to meet the enemy. But these sceptical and irreverent ones were, “like angels visits, few and far between,” and the overwhelming sentiment of the commun ty was in fayor of commemorating the dashing intre- pidity of a revolutionary hero. AN ENTHUSIASTIC GATHERING. From an early hour in the morning people kept pouring into the village, uutil the streets were full and the hotels overflowed. Almost every private residence made a display of bunting, and the old Tracey house, where many mementoes of the Revo- Intion are sacredly treasured, was literally smothered in flags. Most of the leading Connecticut towns sent delegations, but the great throng was from the surrounding neighborhood. Several hundred persons went from this city. and the Now York press and that of the State of Connec- ticut was fully represented. Women were also in strong force, and wore their brightest colors. Every household was agog, and faces peered from every window. The proceedings wore inaugurated at sun- rise by the firing of an artillery salute and the ring- ing of church bells, ORDER OF THE PROCESSION, At eleven o’clock the procession formedin Putnam avenue, near Colonel Thomas Mead’s, and moved for- ward to the scene of Putnam's daring deed in the following order:— Sheriff and Deputies, Wheeler & Wilson’s Band. Grand Marshal and Aids, Veterans of the Mexican War, Veterans of the War of the Rebeliton. Greenwich Light Guard, Company F, Fourth Regi- ment, C.N.G. Putnam Phalanx of Hartford. President of the Day, with the Orator, Poet and ‘istorian. Distinguished Invited Guests in Carriages, Assistant Marshal. Chief Engineer J. W. Finley and Assistants. Putnam Hose Company of Port Chester, N,Y . Officers of the Town of Greenwich, Officers of the Borough of Greenwich. Committee of Arrangements. Citizens on Horseback. Citizens in Carriages, Citizens on Foot, Battery. The procession, accompanied by a long, dense stream of pedestrians on either hand, passed through Putnam avenue to Putnam Hill, making a circuit of the hill by the old road, and coming in full view of the precipitous bluff down which Israel urged his charger. It certainly looked a most dangerous place for an equestrian venture; in fact,a man without any horse to care for would find quite a trying time in making a descent of this abrupt declivity. The view from the summit over the wide spreading plains across which Putnam dashed on his way to Stamford, after he had left the British on the blut gazing after him in stupid wonder, was most pice turesque and interesting. THE RETURN. ‘The procession returned without delay to the Sec- ond Congregational Church, where the public exer- cises were designed to be held. The handsome edifice was filled to its utmost capacity, the Putnam Phalanx, of Hartford, representing an impressive collection of heads, being conspicuous in their Con- tinental uniforms in tl centre of the church. A portrait of Putnam, by H. J. Thompson, hung from the rai! of the gallery, and the platform was decorated with plants and flowers, consisting of palms, begonias, violets, cineraias, camelias and roses. Among those sds were General Joseph R. Haw- ley, William H. Putnam, grandson of the General; J, P. Merritt, from St. Catherines, Canada, grandson of the man who came nearest to capturing Putnam on bis famous runaway ride; ex-Postinaster General Jewell, Gideon H. Hollister, Protessor N. G. Peck, of Columbia College; Colonel 8. B. Sumner, A. Foster Higgins, Theodore W. Mason, L. P. Hubbard, John Voorhis, William J. Mead, Professor J. H. Van Amaring», Oliver Hoyt, Colonel Vincent Colyer aud others. The band struck up “My Country, "Tis of Thee,” and ail present joined in @ vocal accompaniment, Mr. F. Shepard presided and made a few remarks appropri- ate to the occasion. He then introduced Colonel i. W. BR. Hoyt, who delivered the historical address, the salient features of which are here given. PUENAM AND HIx RIDE In 1778 Generai Putnam had been relieved from duty in the Highlaads and was afterward assigned to the command of the forces in Connecticut. He had the two brigades of the Connecticut line, one brigade of New Hampsbire troops, one additional regiment of infantry and one of the four regiments of cavalry. His headquarters were at Reading, about six miles south of Danbury, From this point he super- vised the military operations in tho State and main- tained counection with the Continental forces on the Hudson. Detachments were stationed at advan- tageous pointe, and one of his most important out- posts was located in the vicinity of Greenwich. The territory from Kingsbridge to Greenwich was known. as the Debatable Ground, and lor the people within its limite there was nothing but anxicty and danger. It was a winter of unusual severity. With but few exceptions the people were weighed down with poy- erty, hunger and coid. ‘A GREAT CHANGE IN THE VILLAGE. ‘The stately mansions that now adorn the street along which Putnam rode in 1779 were then repre- sented by quaint dwellings, with gable ends und long, low, slanting roots. Just beyond the foot of the precipice now known as # Hill” stood the residence of General Eber Mead, who was @ prominent member of the Committee of Safety, and 4 soldier in the Continental service. On the summit of the bill, north of the old Episcopal Church, was tho reside of Jabez Fitch, The chureh itself wasa pinin frame building, and the rear of it stood a few feet from the brow of the hill, The maim county road led from the village to 4 point neer the edge of the precipice, and then ran northerly from the rear of the church. A fence ran easterly down the hill near the margin of the old road. Between the road and fence rough and wn- trimmed stones had been piaced from time to time, forming an irregular stairway up the hill, and the face of the precipice was covered with a growth of bushes, THN TORIRS IN PURSUIT, On Thursday evening, February 25, 1779, a maraud- ing expedition started from Kingsbridge. It w. commanded by Major General Tryon, the tory Go ernor of New York. His force consisted of about fifteen hundred men, composed of British and Hes sian troops and one regiment of tories. At New Rochelle they were mot by a small body of Conti- nental skirmishers, commanded by Captain Titus Wat- son, This company at once retreated, but at Milton, in the town of Rye, was overtaken a1 ttacked. A portion of the company concealed itself in the swainps and the remainder made their escape alon; the highway to the Byrom River. Over the hills o full gallop rode Captain Watson and his companions to give warnit to the few troops then in Green- wich, Colonel Holdridge, of Hartford county, was in command of the outpost. General’ Put- nam had arrived but a ‘few days — pro- viously to obtain information as to the mili situation, and wae still in the village, The small body of Americans was posted across the road on the eminence south of Xhe Congregational Church. ‘They had but three small cannon, and were without horses or drag ropes. In the van of ‘Tryon’s fore: rode Deiancey’s corps, composed of ‘tories from Westchester county, who had enrolled themselves beneath the royal bauner, and who were the most bitter and revengeful enemies of the patriots. At the approach of this body on a gallop the few con. testants withdrew from the fleld and Putnam started on his horse for Stamford to obtain reinforcements. Along the highway then known as the main county road rang the steel-shod hoofs of the Continental charger, and thundering on behind in hot parsuit rode the enemy's dragoons, A NARWOW ESCAPE. ‘The coveted prize is almont Nearer and nearer to the old hero ce thin their grasp. his pursvers, the captor service, the mort ardent in the pursuit, Only & moment more A the mad chase will be ended and the American General be a prisoner in the hands of his enemies. But the brow of the hill is reached, and the bold rider, to whom fear is unknown, spurs his horse right down the face of the precipice and. amid afvolley of bullets from the disappointed troops, leaps into history. The precise spot at which Put- nam and bis horse went over the precipice is involved in doubt. One story is that he turned slightly to the right, and passing by the northeast corucr of the church, rode directly down the steps, The other account Places the precise point less than a hundred feet above the chureh and gives him a southeast course and makes him strike the steps about on¢ third of the way up the hill. But whichever may have been his starting point, it is certain he per. formed a deed which the rough riders who followed him dared not imitate. The British force then scat- tered through the town and spent the time in under and debauchery, A detachment went to the iami River and destroyed the salt works, a schooner and a sloop. At nightfall the order to retire was given. Rein- forcements had arrived and the Americans followed the retreating enemy, blazing away at their flanks ped rons, taking prisoners, Fecaptitring the under stolen and turn: ur a fiture into ultimate victory.” “mBOFSFY SiscoM POETRY ON PUTNAM. Colonel Samuel B. Sumner, of Bridgeport, delivered with great unction a poem of his own writing on Putuam's ride, Several verses were hl; relished by the audience, particularly the followin; But tonethe measure unto themes the moments here com: mand, And note the memories that surround the spot whereon we stand The vory spot, where school books tell a century to-day, Old Puinam did hie bravest deed—and bravely ran away! You understand the paradox; I soem to see him now Array his little phalanx thoro, on Horseneck’s elifty brow, Theer she saucy caunonade>—"Now to the swamp!” erics 1o— “Where hoof of horseman cannot come. Leave what bo- to me! His men in safety, thore ho sits, bis faithful steed astrido, Provoker of a hundred deaths; Valor personified! The man of threo score earnest years, outlined on Horser neek’s brow— i A living statue for all time—ab, yés; I seo him now! On, in the flush of victory, dash forward Tryon's van, With fifteon hundred stout dragoons, to capture one brave man! The hero wheels; one thought, one plunge sheer to the vale 3 ¥ Xainly pierce tho old cocked hat, but spare the tough old head ; Sure footed steod; brave hearted man; together safo at ell dono, tremendous deed! thank God! theerisis hour is past! A supereilions John: ‘A visit paid to He He turned upon h He didn’t seo that y Bull—the stor: ek HN, the y. Land said, “For ali that he ospiody nitn's leap” was such a daring ride.” A Yankee heard the cool remark, and with »¥: To always have # ready wo 0 answer an af i. Inquired, “When Giu'ral Putnam rid doown into that ere holler, Of all y folier?” pos—one day rffteen hundred men, why didn’t some one AN ORATION ON THE HERO. An oration on the life and character of Putnam, by Gideon H. Hollister, of Litchteld, followed. The speaker deserived the rugged virtues of the hero, his modesty and simplicity and his weakness for language more protons than polije, His effort was, on the whole, a discriminating eulogy on the traiw of one of the most singular products of the Revolu- tion. More singing followed and the services in the church closed with the benediction. The great crowd again filled the streets, and the procession, despite the fast falling snow, carried out its pro- gramme faithfully. About three hundred men, in- cluding all of the Putnam phalanx, sat down to a col- lation in the Lenox House, oyer which Mr. A. F. Hig- gins presided. Many toasts were offered and responded to, 4 GENERAL HAWLEY’S BOAST. General Hawley replied to the toast of “The Day We Celebrate’ by saying that he believed no State in the world could show such a record for 200 years pastas Connecticut, In all that time it had been a steady, conservative, progressive State, its people continually growing in love of liberty and education, and in a broad and encircling humanity, He honored Massachusetts; but it had nothing, except in population, to boast of over Connecticut, and he could claim for his State, over many others, that it allowed uo such barbarism as a child growing up uneducated. Washington was not born on its soil, but they had Putnam, Trumbull, Knowlton, Wooster, Talmadge, Nathan Hale and other good men and true. ‘Lhe: call us Yankees,” said he, “and speak of our fond-, ness for the dollar; but there is as much devotion to right sentiment and chivalrous principle smong the men of Connecticut as among t! of any 8! or country in the world,” ENTHUSIASM OF MARSHALL JEWELL. Marshall Jewell responded to the toast of the State of Connecticut, and said that there was somethin, about the State to make the people proud of it, ani added a good «deal more in an enthusiastic strain about his native heath. He thought that wherever the sons and daughters of the Commonwealth are found they are giving a good account of themselves, and Connecticut will over be ready to respond in the great work of carrying out the problem of selt- government. OTHER TOASTS. ‘The other toasts offered and replied to were:— ‘Greenwich in the Revolution,” by Colonel Thomas Mead; ‘New England,” by L, P. Hubbard, secretary of the New England Society of New York; “Tho ’ by Rev. Mr. Treat; “The Twenty-second ry,”” by Rev. Mr. Taylor; du- . B, ‘Beardsley; Legis- y Vincent Colyer; Timo Foes, Long Time Friends,” by J. P. Merritt, of St. Catharines Canada. Mr. Merritt said that he was glad that his grandfather failed to shoot or cap- ture Putnam, wh caused a great roar of merri- ment. “Our Guests” was responded to William D. Bishop, and ‘The Women of the Revolution” by Samuel Fessenden. Letters of regret were read from President Hayes, Vice President Wheeler, Governor Andrews and pengening and after nightfall tho proceedings came te an end GENERAL HOOKERS “OLD GUARD.’ The Fighth New Jersey Veteran Volunteer Assoei- ation—an organization made up of old members of the New Jersey regiment which bore a conspicuous part in the battle of Williamsburg, Va., and which has ever borne toward General Joo Hooker, their commander on that day, tho most affectionate feclings—yerterday paid a visit to the General at his residence in Garden City, L. I, The “Yets,” all residents of Newark, left that city in the forenoon and reached Garden City at: noon. They wore received at the depot in carriages | and driven to the General's house, After an inter-/ change of civilities Captsin Charies F. Bowers, president of the Veteran Associ tion, presented to the General on beha! ot himself and comrades a spleniidly engrossed and framed set of resolution: mpreanave ot the associa- tion’s “high esteem and aifectionate regard for their gallant commander at Williamsburgg’ In respouso to the Captain’s happy speech General Hooker repli in feeling and eloquent terms. Aiter enjoying the General's hospltatity speeches were made by Captain Bowers, Colonel Charles D. Courtois, Captain James Gillin, Serceant Natlor, Dre! Hil, of the United States Navy, and others, RAILROADING ON ICE, HOW THE FIRST NORTHERN PACIFIC LOCOMOTIVE CROSSED THE MISSOURI RIVER ON ICE. {From the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Feb. 19.) Bismanck, D, T., Feb. 15, 1879. ‘The passage of the first locomotive over the Mis souri yesterday was an event in the history of the Northern Pacific. General Rosser’s palace car was crowded with gentlemen who had the pleasure of seeing the affair from as many standpoints as tho weather would permit. The first experiment was with a locomotive and two flat cars loaded with iron, The cart went before the horse and glided over smoothly and safely, The triumphant switch en- gine, when he reached the sand bar, blew his whistle ‘as if he had accomplished something. It was too cold for cheers. We were willing to let the locomotive do the hurrahing. Returning, the engine was coupled to the car occupied by the invited guests and with three “flats” loaded with iron, leisurely ran over the river. The channel ie not now more than one-third the width of the stream in the spring or summer, The distance from bank to bank is 3,300 feet. The west side is now a buge sand bar. ‘Out on this bar the tracklayers were at work, with Chief Knginoor Koxser standing in their midst, clad in fur overcoat and cap. All hands were bundled up. Frost-decorated whis- kers were plonty. ¥ lips looked like tho icicled cornice over your lady's bower, General Rosser was so interested in the work that he ro- mained in immediate commend until sundown, freezing his nose and cheeks. As tar as can be ascertained this is the first railroad track that bas ever been built upon the ice, General Rosser was advived against the experiment. Thero was no precedent for it, and all the railroad men wid, “Don’t do it,” ‘Thero was nothing in the books to copy after or be guided by, The crushing strength of a cubic toot of ice was no pointer, lee differs in uality as much as butter—good, bad and indifferent. Generat Rosser tried an experiment. He piled firty tons of earth upon an area twenty feet square. The next morning When he returned to the river the dirt was gone, ‘The ice under the earth had dropped out like & piece of glass botore a rifle ball, It was thirty. two inches thick, The hole was the exact shape of the base of the dirt pile. There was no bend to that joe, When it could no longer sustain the weight it snapped and went under, It was a clean cut job, and no ragged edges. The experiment was satisfactory, General Rosser pat down ties twelve feet in leagih and twelve inches in width, three feet centers, and on these he placed rails thirty fect in length, with no two seginents terminating upon the same tie, As no locomotive or train Will be stopped upon the ica there will no opportunity given for settling. Besides, # moving train will pass over somewhat upon tho principle o: a skater, Ico will stand a moving body that would quickly go through when stationary. The chief engineer is entitled to a long credit mark, 1 think he has mad liseovery and proved himself a Progrostive engin Nature is helping him, The ive to-day in some places is forty-two inches thiat.