Daily Ohio statesman. [volume] (Columbus, Ohio) 1855-1870, 1865-01-10

The opening of the Fair for the benefit
of the Sisters Of st. Francis Hospital took
place last evening. 1t was a memorable
event in the annals of benevolence as well
as of womanly devotion to great and no.
BILE object. <ttrE
The preparations for the Fair entitle the
ladies engaged in making them to high
praise. No room ever presented q more
chaste and beautiful appearance than does
Naughton HALL 1t is an emblem of puri-
ty and grace. Wrcatlis and festoons ofev-
ergreen remind one of the joyous hope of
immortality that lies at the foundation of
true Christian charity. Above the entrance
into the Hall and in front Of the gallery, q
large evergreen wreath reaches across the
of the Hall, is arched over the platform,
and at the highest point Of the arch is seen
an. elegant portrait of the "Father of his
Country" Beautiful statuary on the walls
give the room quite an artistic appearance,
and contrast elegantly with the other Or
naments. Numerous American flags
those emblems of Liberty and Union-are
seen floating wherever the eye is directed.
AS you enter the Hall, at the right is a
handsome Oyster stand, where delicious
bivalves, prepared by fairy hands, await a
word or sign. On the left of the entrance,
is a fine Lunch stand, where flying feet and
nj xtiI
the further end of the Hall, just in front of
the platform, is the elegant Ice Cream stand,
where this luxurious delicacy, in all its
varieties, is dealt out by charming walters.
On the platform may be seen that splendid
Nainabe Piano, from which some artist oc-
casionally educes entrancing notes; thatde-
sirable companion for ladies-a choice Sew
ing Machine, ana two elegant Parlor Stoves.
These articles are to be drawn for, lis vol as
other rich and beautiful things on the Fancy
Sale Tables on the sides of the Hall. OF
these tables there are six-three on each
side. They are all neatly and tastefully ar
ranged, each differing from, and contrasting
beautifully with the rest. They are filled
with articles of taste, amusement, ornament
and use, in an almost endless variety. And
the fair proprietors of these tables are ex-
tremely obliging and grateful to all Gus
toners, especially to those who are liberal
in their purchases.
When the Hall was lighted up at the
opening last night, it appeared like one of
those enchanted palaces we read of in fairy
land. The assembly was large considering
the inclement state of the weather, and the
wet and icy condition of the streets and
sidewalks. But though it was rainy and
disagreeable without all was cheerfulness,
sunshine and harmony within this Hall of
enchantment. Major Skiles had kindly sent
the band from Tod Barracks, who, at inter-
walls, enlivcned the scene by playing, with
fiuc skill and effect, some excellent pieces
of music. We understand that the band is
expected to be present on each evening of
the Fair. If so, this will of itself more
than compensate for the price ofadmiss ion.
Besides, the keys of the Knabe Piano are
often made to give forth their delicious
sounds. BY the way, we learn that the
tickets for this great Piano prize, which
are only two dollars each, are going off
rapidly, and will soon all be disposed Of
Those, therefore, who desire an opportuni-
ty to invest, should be on the alert.
We are desired to request those who have
made donations which have not been sent
in, to have them sent to the Hall as soon as
possible, as there is likely to be quick and
ready sale for every thing on hand or that
can be obtained.
The Hall will be opened at noon or each
day for lunch, and continue open for visi-
tors till five o'clock. 1t will be opened
again at half past six o'clock for the even
ing.
From the beginning made last evening,
we augur well for the future of the Fair.
Our citizens and visitors to our city, when
they know the object of the Fair is to aid
the self-sacrifcing Sisters Of the Poor of st.
Francis in relieving the orphan, the desti-
tute, the sick and the suffering, cannot but
feel that it commends itself to every noble
andgenerous soul.