The Portland daily press., 1868-08-13

EXCURSION OF THE PORTLAND MECHANIC
BLUEs-The Portland Mechanic ues made
an excursion to Gorham yesterday, and a very
pleasant time was enjoyed by all those who
had the pleasure of participating in the fes-
Invites OF the occasion.
The company looked remarkably handsome
under command of Captain Parker. After a
fine ride under the care of conductor Cousins,
who is so we'll known for his courteous man
ners to all, the party arrived safe at the pace 4
of destination, and were cordially received by
the, citizens. Judge Waterman proposed
three cheers for the Blues and friends from
the city The Blues were escorted by the Re-
lief Engine Company No. 1, of Gorham, com
manded by Captain Summerside, to the
charming little Grove called Rusts.
The ladies' turned out in full force, and the
windows were peopled by bright and happy
faces. Flags were also displayed from the
private and public buildings, and the residen-
ces wore the appearance of gala day.
At half past nine o'clock the company
marched through the leading streets of this
beautiful village to the Soldiers Monument,
where cluster around so many precious mem
cries and solemn associations.
inent position The services were exceed.
ingly impressive and interesting. Mr.. r. s.
Harding presided, and introduced the Rev
Mr.. Perkins, who offered an appropriate pray
err after which Hon. John A. Waterman made
some fine remarks, and spoke in substance as
follows: sNsats 1&1.lA ssNts'F
Soldiers and friends: In behalf of those
whom I represent, permit me to extend to
you hearty welcome He then said as we
stand around this monument, the old associa-
tions are revived, and it is well that they should
be; for it gives US purer emotions and aspira-'
tions. Let us trust that the lessons which are
here taught may be profitable u.s. He then adj
dressed the Blues and said many Of them rem
dered yeoman service in the cause of liberty
and he also alluded to the soldiers who had
fallen, but had left their example for those be-.
hind, and said we may thank you in behalf of
those whose lips are forever closed, and it only
remains for your records to be as bright as
theirs, ,,-... .z,-rs,rs ..-F ...
Capt. Parker next followed, and gave, in a
few words a brief history of the monument,
and said it was presented by Hon. Toppan
Robie and observed that upon it was inscribed
the names of the sons of Gorham who had
laid their lives upon the altar of their country,
among whom was his own dearly beloved
brother, who fell at Port Hudson.
The Company stood at parade rest with un-
covered heads, while the Band played dirge
in memory of the sleeping brave. The exer-
cises closed by the firing Of three vclleys Of
musketry over the monument. While around
the monument photograph likeness was
tolr a. ofta nh oh oil onoirad
to the grove, and the hours glided swiftly on
in the enjoyment of dancing and other other
rational amusements. The Portland Band
discoursed some choice music dnring the day.
At noon all sat down to a grand picnic din
The ladies OF Gorham and of this city fur
nished liberal SUPPLY of refreshments, and
Lieut. Alex. Bell, Qdartermaster of the Port
land Light Inf.nUry, attended to his appropri-
ate duties in his usual generous STYLE.
At the close of the day the Blues went
through dress parade in the square, acquit-
ing themselves well in their various evolu
tons. Much credit is due the committee of
arrange ments for the politeness they extended
to US. The Blues were escorted to the depot
by the Fire Company in a military manner,
and mutual farewell cheers were paid to each.
company and the band by invitation, left the
cars and repaired to the residence of 1t. q. S.
Bckford, escorted by the citizens under COM
mand of Capt. Isaac F. Quimby. Lit Bick ford
welcomed the company and Capt. Parker
Piled in neat speech. The company entered
the house and for an hour and a half enjoyed
the hospitality of the host while the band were
engaged at the flag raising.
At91 o'clock p M. the train reached home
and thus ended the day SO pleasurable to all
who participated in its enjoyments.
There was an immense gathering of the p.o
pie of Gorham and the neighboring townsto
welcome the Blues aud unite with the lestivi-
ties 1t is estimated that more than 5000 persons
were present on the occasion, and all went
away satisfied and happy. Our Gorhm
friends know how to do up such matters