The Russellville Democrat., 1881-07-21
Re-Union of stirman's Brigade


 On Friday tho 18th picnic reunion of the survivors of Stirman's brigade took place at Potts Station in this county brought about by the indefati~ gable and praiseworthy efforts and sxerrions of Mir. A. B. Williamson, one of the old members thereof, by which were assembled not less than 500 or 1900 of our citizens.
 The assemblage being called to order by Capt. F. W. Parker, marshal of the day, he thereupon introduced to tho audience Rev. Monroe Oates, who of fered up an excellent and appropriate prayer upon the occasion, which was followed by speeches from Judge Caleb Davis, K. E. Wilson and Capt. F. w. Parker. The speeches were interesting and listened to attentivsly. Judge Davis, whose age exceeded three score and ten, and whose head was silvercd o'er with gray locks added to which was his very long residence in Pope county, having been called upon in the absence of other speakers who failed from indisposition to put in an appear ance, arose and in m impromptu ad- dress of thirty minutes gave vent to the warm emotions of noble, gener- erous and Christian heart full of sym pEthy for his fellow man and old cons rades, thereby eliciting more than ordinary attention from the entire aus disnce, composed of the beauty and chivalry of the land. Judge Wilson in few brief remarks acquitted himself well. Capt. P. w. Parker said that ho was no speaker but he rejoiced in this reunion of his old comrades; that his heart was too full to give expression to the emotions that filled it brimful of pleasure on tho occasion and that he extended to all present, ladies, gentle men, old comrades, citizens and friends who come to swell the number there assembled, a cordial and kind welcome and that he hoped the day would prove ono of happiness, enjoyment and social intercourse.
 After the speeches came music and ths light fantastic tee upon a nicely laid plank floor neatly encircled with railing with seats therein for the ladies who participated in this truly fascie hating and delightful exercise in which the polka, waltz, aotillion and country dances were made to contribute to the pleasures and enjoyments of the hour. Bright, smiling and happy faces beam ed all around from the hundreds of lovely girls whose presence contributed to gladden. and make merry the day. Several stands being prepared and con- ducted by Messrs. Elgin, Weimer, Boggis, Collins and others dispensed cold ice lemonade, cider, fruits and candies to satisfy the thirst and appease the appetite of the old and young. Three or more very handsome awnings in variegated colors of red, white and blue, under which were constructed innumerable seats upon which in close proximity were reclining handsome couples, ladies and gentlemen quietly riding around the circle lndulging doubtless in many instances in soft whispers of love in anticipation of the happy hour in the future when palpi- tatipg hearts then severed should be made one. contemplating perhaps with exquisite delight bridal tour and the full realization of all the joys of the honey moon said always to follow upon the consummation of this epoch of con- nubial existence in the production and enjoyment of unalloyed happiness and felicity.
 Altogether the day was most pleas> ant one, perfect harmony and good will prevailing the entire assemblage. We had the pleasure of taking by the hand many an old and cherished friend of "auld land syne."
 We heartily congratulate our friends and tho people upon the bright and cheering prospects which meet the eye and sense upon every han1. Tho rapid advancement and growth in education> al facilities, immigration, agriculture and general development of the whole country is truly fattering and greatly encouraging. The prospect of an abun- dant crop with most excellent health all over tho country with anticipations of remunerative wages for the years labor we arc pleased to say is as prom ising as we have had for years, and we sincerely nope the public spirit of our people will keep pace with the times and by their indomitable energy and industry build up and foster every en- terprise and pleasure conducting to the interests, prosperity and happiness of our common country and her citizens. We therefore commend county picnics, at accessible points, as frequently as circumstances and inclination may suggest aS being conducive to forming more general acquaintance among the people as well as of cementing more closely the bonds of friendship, unity and LOVE among our citizens, and more especially among that class who contemplate dealing with cupid g dart and falling victims at Hymen's s altar. A young gentleman at our el- bow thanks us for the suggestion and is willing to contribute to that "fund'' if ''shs be willing"