Evening star., 1895-10-31

To the Editor of The Evening. Star:
In your issue Of Monday. the a1st was a
communication signed "Geofra," in which
the question is asked, "In the line of cele-
brations and exhibitions is it too early to
suggest national greeting to the twentieth
century and Washington city as the place
where it should he hefd?''
Since then another writer has indorsed
the proposition, and suggests another rea-
son for fit celebration.
viii you allow still another reader to in
dorse the idea of holding an exposition here
which shall he an honor to the capital of
our grea. and growing nation, and which
shall show to the world what republican
form of government. with pluck. perse-
yerance, inventive genius and industry of
it's citizens has accomplished in the CEN
tury that has covered nearly the whole of
our national life?
Americans cannot see too much or too
often the resources of the various sections
of their country; therefore, each state
should be induced to erect here building
III which can he held Il permanent eXhihi-
ton showing to the world and her sister
states her productions and the genius and
skill of her people.
And why not have national building, in
which may be stored permanently a gov
ernment exhibit open to the inspection of
the public at all times.
it needs no argument to prove the educa-
tonal advantages to the people of such
exhibitions the worlds fair or the cotton
states exposition. They show the re-
sources and capabilities of our vast coun-
try They bring the citizens of the differ
ent states together, make them better ac-
utiainteu. allay all sectonalism, arouse a
spirit of pride and patriotism. and strength
en- cur faith in the republican form of gov
erlment, under which we have become so
great nation.
1t is rather unfortunate that an inter-
rational exhibition is to be held in Paris
of he, m DrOnOSpu
But as ours is to be an object lesson,
showing what our people have accom-
plished in the past century, In land OF
liberty. under republican institutions, we
need not stand back for that. Foreigners
can be invited, and every courtesy shown
them, but let it he our show.
Washington city is an ideal spot for such
an exhibition. Its grand government build
ings, broad, well-paved streets, magnificent
| parks, scientific institutions. museums and
art galleries are we'll worth visit from
any citizen of the country. Then there is
Arlington and Mount Vernon within easy
reach. The Episcopal Cathedral, Catholic
| University and the American University
| will all be well under way or complete dur
| ing this century, as will in all probability q
| memorial bridge. Mount Vernon avenue, 6
| boulevard to the Geological Park, and g
great park on the reclaimed fats of the
| Potomac.
| Washington has shown her ability te
| handle great crowds. notably at inaugura
| tons, and the meeting Of the Grand Army
! of the Republic
| The details of such an exposition, ant
how to make it pay expenses. are matter.
| for the consideration of the capitalists anC
| business men of our nations capital. They
| have never yet made failure when the,
| have gone to work In earnest for the &C
compishment of any great purpose.
| Who will start the ball in motion? Wha
| says the board of trade? Could not Con
| gress be induced to help? Would not th'
| railroad and steamboat companles who's
| lines center here take an interest? Tn
| hotel men, merchants, restaurants, board
ing house keepers and all of the communit,
| would be benefited.
Will not The Star which is always read
to advance the public good, and has pro
| ncunced the subject worthy of discussion
| keep it before the people, and help t
arouse an enthusiasm which will bring us
creditable exposition? STRATTON.