The age-herald., 1898-08-12
HAD AN IMPOSING PARADE
They Never Do Things By Halves, and
 Flag Raising Was No Exception.
TROOP D FIRED THE SALUTE
Patriotic Ceremonies Were Followed by Banquet, in Which Burning Words of Eloquence Tenn
 pered by Rare Wine,

The jolly Elks never do things by halves, whether it be in introducing a stranger into the mysteries of the order or in entertaining their friends at social ses- sion. The same spirit of fraternity and good fellowship is manifest, and the flag raising of Birmingham Lodge No. 79 yes- terday afternoon was no exception to the general rule It of the most aus pcious fiag-raisings that has taken place in Birmingham. Patriotism at high pitch. and enthusiasm rampant.
 Previous to the ceremonies which took place in front of the headquarters corner Fourth avenue and Twentieth street, the Elks and other orders which had been in- vited to participate paraded through the principal streets of the city. Colonel Er- win Schilinger, of the governors staff. acted as grand marshal. He wore his full regalia and mounted on black charger. Several members of the Uniform Rank, Knights of Pythias, also mounted acted as his staff. Following the grand marshal and his aid, came Memolfs band. Next in line came the Elks, headed by Exalted Ruler Rip Beasley, who acted as a body guard to Gus Schillinger, who was dressed to represent Uncle Sam just re- turned from Cuba.
 Then Came the Flag
 Six members of the order bore the beauti- ful flag which was to be raised over the building. Following the Elks, came the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Next came Masons, Rough Riders-Troop D, dismount- ed, and last came Camp Hardee, United Confederate Veterans. The veterans made r.i iott ip hai uniforms.
 The parade moved through the principal streets of the city and halted in front of the Elks headquarters, corner of Twentieth street and Third avenue, where speakers stand had been erected tastefully draped with the national colors.
 The street was literally damned with people, and when 1tssir..nand struck up 1acrss,., the air -was rent with lusty cheers. 5Waxcross Ser Beasley stated the purpose of the gathering and introduced "Dncle Sam to the crowd. The band then played ..The Star-Spangled Banner" after which General Fred S. Ferguson was introduced and in burning words of eloquence paid a high tribute to the spirit of the occasion and to the stars and stripes.
 Flag Raised by TroopD
 Exalted Ruler Beasley then stated that he thought it proper that the flag should be raised by Troop D. which had been pre- vented against the will of it's members from raising the stars and stripes over Cuba and he called upon them to do so. A squad was detailed and while they were attac ching the flag to the ropes to be run LID to the staff above the building, Colonel I. I. Altman was introduced and delivered a natriotic and enthusiastic speech.
 At the conclusion of Colonel Altman's address the flag was slowly raised to the top of the building A salute of twenty one yolleys was fired by Troop D, the firing being done by squads As the last volley was fired the band struck up patriotic medley, playing My Country 'Tis of Thee.' .Yankee Doodle" and "Dixie,' while the crowd yelled itself hoarse.
 w. M. Stanley and Captain W. c. Ward delivered short but patriotic addresses and at the conclusion of the ceremonies the invited guests of which there were large number repaired to the large hall on the third floor of the building where eata- bles and drinkables were lon tap in un- limited quantities.
 McCrossin Bade Them Welcome
  refreshments on behalf of Exalted Ruler Beasley and the lodge, W. P. McCrossin extended hearty welcome to all and in- augurated an impromptu social session by introducing Dan A. Greene, who delivered a stirring address fitting to the occasion.
 Speeches were also delivered by Presf- dent Hugh McGeever, of the Ancient Or der of Hibernans: Lieut.. Ed J. McCrossin, of Troop D, and Judge William Grady, of Pratt City.
 Master of Ceremonies McCrossin then announced that Acting Mayor Pearce had just received cablegram from the queen regent of Spain announcing that she had signed the agreements of peace, and had issued proclamation that every man who was not feeling jolly after o'clock would be locked up in the city prison
 This announcement created great con- sternation, and there was rush for the refreshment counter, where an effort was made to drown the fear occasioned by it.
 MT. McClain was introduced as the Singing Elk, and rendered beautiful se- lection.
 The celebration was brought to a close by the entire assembly singing "Auld Lang Syne."
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