The Democratic banner. (Mt. Vernon, Ohio) 1898-192?, 1911-12-26


entertainment, judging from the rous
ing three cheers, which they gave for
Mr.. Miller at the close of the perform
ance.
The children were then taken back
to the Elks' Home where most deli
cious turkey dinner, with all the trim.
mings" was in waiting. Wives and
sisters Of the Elks assisted in serving
the dinner. The plates were bounti.
fully supplied with good things to eat
and just as soon as a child had eaten
all from the plate each was given an
additional supply of turkey, potatoes
and bread and butter Last came the
ice cream and the homemade cake
and there was most generous supply
for all.
Just as the children had finished the
meal flash light picture was taken of
the assemblage.
Suddenly there was slight noise
in one corner of the room and Santa
Claus edward l.. Parker) appeared
on the scene and wished the children
Merry Christmas" Some of the
wee little folks had never seen Santa
before and commenced to cry, but they
soon quieted when the distribution of
presents commenced.
D,,;- 30 tn he nh
sang two songs with Mrs. Iva Sproule
Baker at the piano. A short prayer
was offered by the Rev Ira j..
Houston of the Congregational church,
the children maintaining the greatest
silence and reverence during this par
ton of the program.
While the children were enjoying
the meal the Elks' Orchestra of eight
pieces, under the direction of Mr..
Charles Mild, rendered number of
selections. Mr.. Ralph Headington sang
a song with orchestra accompaniment
and piano solos were rendered by Miss
Marian Forbing and Miss Martha
The committee had ascertained that
here were a large number of the, chill
iren in need OF shoes and accordingly
\ list had been prepared. Santa Claus
the names of these chill
lren and they were escorted into an
,ther room where a committee gave
)ut 101 pairs of shoes and stockings
where they were necessary.
Santa Claus took his position at the
rec, which was beautifully decorated,
md announced the name of each child.
As he did so they stepped forward and
eceived a fine knit toboggan cap, an
.rm-full of gifts, candy and fruit.
The toys were appropriate for both
,oys and girls and were the best kind
hat money could buy. There were
Iolls, that closed their eyes, for the
iris, fine drums for the. boys, games,
'doks and other things, too numerous
o mention. 4essar SIT Ass ra
Every precaution for the safety of
he little folks was provided by the |
ommittee. A member of the order |
vas stationed at each window in the
Ilks' Home and four men were sta
ionea at fire extinguishers all after
oon. Others were stationed at the
tairs so that in no possible way could
7, aonidaut raSult
One little boy came to the enter
ainment with his clothes badly in
ags. One of the members of the or
er took the little fellow to clothing
tore bought him Sc suit, new neck
lie and a handkerchief and put sc
ents in his trousers pocket. He was
he happiest boy in Mt. Vernon when
e went home in the afternoon.
1t was about dark when the delight
III afternoon came to close and on
ccount of the lateness of the hour
he smallest children were sent home
4 taxicabs by the committee.
The Elks received the heartiest
raise and congratulations from all
ides for their most charitable act on
christmas day.