Virginia free press. (Charlestown, Va. [W. Va.]) 1832-1916, 1895-08-14
The Westminster Abbey Of the South.

@1S AcAA hAN0
Rouss submitted to the Confederate veterans
for the perpetuatiOn Of the memories of the
Lost Cause" and of the heroes who perish
ed in its defense, has been received with
such general favor and has been so univer-
sally endorsed that it has been found neces-
sary to enlarge the scope and increase the
proportions of the proposed institution. In
the original plan submitted BY Mr.. Rous',
participation in this memorial work was re-
stricted to the Confederate veterans, and the
estimate of expenditures was based upon
their numbers and ability to contribute
Many thousands who are not veterans, but
who sympathize strongly in the proposed
work are opposed t0the restriction that de-
bars them from participation. Particularly
is this the case with widows and children of
Confederate soldiers. These claim and will
be accorded the high and appreciated Privi-
lege of assisting "to %perpetuate the memo
ries of the glorious struggle of the South for
constitutional rights, to pay deserved tribute
to the heroic deeds of the dead. to furnish
an inspiring object lesson to their descend
ants, and to leave to posterity enduring
proofs of the courage, loyalty, and devotion
to duty of the Confederate soldier"
The noble women of the South are ever
foremost in all causes that appeal to our
higher sentiments and sense of duty. They
have this memorial work much at heart and
will bring to its prosecution all Of the intel
ligent agencies hat are promotive ofsucces'.
Already their loving hearts and busy brains
are evolving plans which, in the light of their
previous achievements, will certainly bear
fruitful harvest. In whatever they may I'M
dertske in pursuance of their purpose they
will find in Mr.. Rouss a stsunch and sym
pathetic ally. He recognizes their potent
agency and appreciates to what extent they
can contribute to the great work which he
has undertaken. As far as can be Judged
from present indications the women Of the
| South will act in concert in this memorial
matter.
The question of the location of the pro-
posed institution continues to occupy the
attention of those interested in its establish
ment. The advocates of different sites are
waxing warm in the presentation of their
respective claims.
While we have a strong preference for
New Orleans, based upon her possession OF
more than ordinary favorable advantages
and conditions we shall acquiesce cheerfully
in whatever decision the veterans may
reach. We believe that personal preference
should be subordinated to a determination
to make this grand work a success, be it To-
Gated where it may. With Il view to har-
mouizing local jealousies and upon the prin-
ciple that a shrine should be erected where
it would attract the most worshippers and
that a Mecca should be in the most %accessi-
BILE place. we are inclined to the opinion OF
many, New Orleans being eliminated from
consideration, that Washington city should
be the site of our temple. There it would
be seen by representatives of all the nations
of the earth. While it conveyed to them,
aud through them to the world, our rever-
euce and regret for the Lost Cause, it would
teach at the same time Il lesson Of incalcula-
BILE value. 1t would be a proofof the power,
greatness. and confidence Of the American
people. 1t would show that however great
was once the antagonism between the two
sections ofthe country and antagonism which
led to the bloodiest struggle that history re-
cords. the arbitrament Of arms VS. sccepted
in good faith that we are now n united
people dwelling in amity and peace that
the common purpose af all is to increase the
prestige, progress, aud power of the coun-
try, and that we all unite in houoring those,
irrespective of section, who sacrificed their
lives in defence of the faith that they con-
scientiously held.
A Confederate Memorial Institution at
Washington would be a most impressive
object-lesson to other nations and would ex-
ercise a wider influence in shaping our
future diplomatic CONTROVERSIES and rela-
tious than the most skilful policy that our
State department could pur,ue.-New Or
iens Sunday States.