The true northerner. [volume] (Paw Paw, Mich.) 1855-1920, 1883-06-01

Il ne morning OF may ootn was uSneieN ~
by ominous and threatening clouds which
hung gloomily in the western horizon. At
an early hour comrades of the Grand Army
and citizens began to gather on our streets
and anxious glances were frequently cast
upward at the darkening clouds. At about
ten o'clock, after the committees which had
been detailed to decorate the soldiers graves
in the several cemeteries Of the township
had returned from the performance of their
duty, Brodhead Post formed in column in
front of its armory, and, preceded by the
cured tor the occasion, marched to Main
street, where they were Joined by con-
course of citizens, and proceeded thence TO
the beautiful Prospect Hill cemetery where,
after the solemn and impressive ceremonies
of the Order were had, detail of comrades
was made who strewed the grave of each SOL
der there buried with beautiful bouquets,
wreaths and garlands of flowers.
This sad but pleasing duty performed, the
Post was reformed and marched back TO its
arrnory, before reaching which the rain had
begun TO fall quite briskly, giving promise
of an all days storm, which promise was
fulflled TO the fullest extent, and which tend
ell somewhat TO mar the pleasure of the oc-
casion. At the ar1nory magnificent ban
quet had been prepared by the wives.
daughters. and lady friends of the old vet
Grams and TO which ample Justice was done
by large number OF Old soldiers and their
families and friends. Provisions were so
abundant that it is safe 10 say that more
than twelve baskets of fragments remained,
which were distributed 10 families IN town
who would appreciate the gift.
After the banquet the soldiers and their
families repaired to the opera house, which
was crowded to its utmost capacity, where
the exercises were held, which consisted of
excellent music by the band, the singing of
patriotic songs 10y double male quartette
who had kindly consented 10 assist in the ex-
ercises. and who performed their part in a
most satisfactory way, and one OF the most
finished, elegant, appropriate and scholarly
addresses ever pronounced on any similar
occasion, delivered by the Rev. A n. Alcott,
of Kalamazoo. This was followed by a short
address from commander Heckert and after
voting thanks to those who had so kindly
assisted in making the occasion memorable
one, not only by assistance kindly rendered
but by substantial help in a financial way,
the services for the day were closed. every
one present feeling that, notwithstanding the
stormy weather, the day had been grand
success.
TO the ladies of the village ard surround
ing country who so kindly furnished such
an overwhelming profusion of beautiful
flowers for the occasion, as well as to those
who prepared the elegant banquet the
thanks of all who participated are due and
freely rendered.
This beautiful custom of observing the
Both day of May as National Holiday, sa-
cred to the memory of the brave men who
stood like wall of adamant before the enc
MES Of our government, when they would
have overturned and destroyed OUT cherished
institutions, is rapidly growing in popular
favor, and in years to come it will, no doubt
be regarded as second 10 TO day in the en-
tire year. not excepting the birthday of our
nation. Memorial day belongs to all good
citizens alike. Il is no more the especial day
of cur veteran soldiers. than it is OF all our
PEOPLE. both young and old. As long as
patriotism and loyalty are regarded as car
diLal virtues. "a long as it shall be consider
eel honorable TO have died for ones country,
this Gay should be sacredly honored and
observed. While il may lie and is eminent
ly fitting that the veteran soldiers should
take the lead in honoring the memory of
dead comrades. and in decorating their last
resting placeswith natures floral jewels, never
tbe.ess every one should feel it duty and a
pleasure To assist in this mournful yet pleas
iDg work. Let us teach the rising generation
to cherish the memory of brave men and noble
deeds. Let us inculcate i'll their minds the
spirit of patriotism and loyalty so that when
we are gone they may safely he intrus;ed
with the responsibilities we have laid down.
The proper observance OF the beautiful GER
ernonies of Memorial Day will serve as
means TO this end and a good work is done
when we can be assured that upon the Gus
to1n Of annually doing honor to our fallen
heroes. there shall be indelibly impressed
The legend, Csty 9a0r'aa.