Freeland tribune. (Freeland, Pa.) 1888-1921, 1891-07-09
ECHOES OF THE FOURTH.
How the Day Was Enjoyed at Freeland
Grier's Address ut HaZletOn.

On the mornings of the 9TH and 9th
the city papers were well filled with
accounts of murders, fights and rowdyism
from every part of the State on the
Fourth. In the face of such facts Free
land can feel proud of its record.
Situated as it is, the seat of a cosmo-
politan population not exceeded in
variety by any town in the State, some
disturbances might be expected, yet the
day passed without any of the demoraliz-
ing spectacles witnessed in other places.
Nearly every one celebrated and en-
joyed themselves according to the way
they felt, and it appeared to be the
unanimous verdict that all had pleasant
time.
Several began the celebration of the
day by attending the ball of the St. Pat
rick's Cornet Band, where they danced
till daylight appeared. The march was
led by Master of Ceremonies f. II. Nc
Groarty and his sister, Mary.
The parade and ceremonies in ami
versary of the tlag-raising at st. AIMS
Parochial Schools was carried out ac-
cording tothe programme. The exercises
afterwards, consisting of addresses and
vocal and instrumental music, were well
conducted. The remarks of the different
speakers were interrupted by applause
as often as some patriotic sentiment was
expressed. st. Patrick's Cornet Band
rendered several appropriate selections
in their usual good style, while the sing
ing of national airs by the school child
rem was highly appreciated. Dressed in
white, with tri-colored sashes, in the
shadow of the church and with faces
upturned to the starry banner floating
above them, stood over two hundred
little ones, giving mingled praise and
thanks to their God and country. No
small amount of credit is due to the
Sisters for their share in bringing about
the success of the celebration.
The remainder of the afternoon was
spent at the picnic nearby, where most
of those who attended the exercises
enjoyed themselves A handsome bed
room suite was CHANGED off and was won
by Roger O'Donnell, of Drifton.
In the evening the largest and most
successful picnic held this season at the
Firemen's Park was managed by the
Tigers Athletic Association. 1t was a
success in every sense of the word, and
the association feels grateful to the public
for the liberal patronage bestowed.
They also wish to return thanks to the
Drifton Association for favors granted
and to the st. Patrick's Cornet Band for
its attendance.
Many of those who attended the Haz-
Teton celebration were disappointed at
the display made there. 1t failed in
several ways to fulfill the expectations,
both in numbers and the manner in
which it was carried out The parade
contained less than 2300 men, while
over 1000 were looked for. 1t was con-
SIInrpI unnH what We Of ~ hut
dents and visitors had several times
seen more imposing demonstrations
gotten up with less noise and adver-
tising. The presentation address of f..
l.. Grier, of Pittsburg, was a subject of
much unfavorable comment with the
people of this side who heard his feeble
attempt to stir up religious prejudices.
His derogatory references to parochial
schools were considered as uncaled for,
especially in this part of the country,
where those institutions are standing
rebuke to his Know Nothing sentiments.
The teachings and spirit of American
principles are eXpounded to the pupils
of these schools and to love and guard
the stars and stripes is a part of their
studies. The orator was more severely
criticised by parties who are not interest
ed in parochial schools than by those
who uphold them, the latter knowing
that while this remains free country
people of any religious belief can educate
their children as they please, so long as
nothing detrimental to the established
government is taught them. His address
received little encouragement from those
who conducted the affair, as the people
in charge of the display are too liberal
minded and educated beyond desire to
foment unnecessary feelings between
the different denominations.