The log cabin Democrat. [volume] (Conway, Ark.) 1901-1982, 1912-12-12
OLD STATFHOUSE
FOR DISPLAY HALL
JOHN II. PAGES PLANS
COMMISSIONER OF AGRICUL-
TURE TO BE CUSTODIAN
OF BUILDING.

Little Rock, Dec 9.-For several
years the disposal of the old state
house has been an open question at
each session of the legislature. Bills
for its preservation in perpetuity for
the benefit of the people of the state
have been introduced, and invariably
by representatives from counties 9th
er than Pulaski. While there have
been some advocated the sale Of the
building, it is unquestioned thar the
preponderance Of sentiment is IN IA
vor of retaining it to the state.
Senator W. c. Rodgers, who is this
week acting governor, is among the
most earnest advocates for the pres
ervation Of the historic relic, and he
declares that he will never vote in
favor of selling the building for COM
mercial purposes. "There is too much
of this commercial idea entering ev-
erything now. Let US give some at
tention to something else," says he.
One of the difficulties that have ex-
listed heretofore seems to have been
the best use to make of the building
and grounds. Several propositions
have been advanced. 1t has been
suggested that it be turned over 20
historic societies to be used as mu-
scum; that it be made state hospital
or that it be turned over to the uni
versity medical school, Some would
even retain the building, but remodel
it and rent it out as offices. None of
these plans seemed to meet with ap-
lproval, however, and the lawmakers
have never been able to get very close
together.
But now John II. Page, commits
sioner Of agriculture, comes forward
with suggestion that is meeting
with very general response, and
practically no opposition has so far
been developed to it. In word, he
proposes that the old state house and
grounds he turned over to the farm
ers of Arkansas He would make the
commissioner of mines, manufactures
and agriculture custodian of the
building and grounds, and responsible
for their care and maintenance.
This could be done without appro-
priating one dollar from the general
revenue. It would be self-sustaining
through the feed and fertilizer inspec-
ltion departments 1t is estimated
that the net receipts from inspection
for the year 1913 will be $4,000 1t
has been about $40, 900 this year. This
amount, if appropriated for this ex-
press purpose, would be sufficient to
repair, remodel and maintain the
building and grounds, pay foy' the col
lection of exhibits and provide a
1clealing house of information and tx
ample for the farmers Of the state,
which they have never had.
Under this plan, the commissioners
offices would be located in the build
ing, and quarters would ebe provided
for the U. S. agricultural agents, the
boys and girls corn and tomato
clubs, horticultural and agricultural
societies, a headquarters for the
Farmers Union and an assembly hall
for the meeting of these and kindred
organizations Not only this, but
buildings could be erected in the rear
for the display of improved farm ma
chinery and implements by manufac-
lturers, a permanent exhibit for the
benefit of all who come to the city.
Even system of cold storage for
perishable products might be worked
out, without in any way detracting
from the attractiveness of the build
ling. There are many things which
might be introduced for the benefit of
the farmer, and would give him a
sense of ownership in the property
that it is something specifically set
aside for his use.
By this method the people would be
relieved of all burden of expense in
connection with it. The revenue for
the purpose is already provided, in
the payment of fees for TIE inspection
of commercial feeds and fertilizers.
According to my plan," says Com
missioner Page, "the old hall of rep
resentatives can be fitted up as hall
for public meetings of farmers or
ganizations and similar societies. The
entire building can be used by the de-
partment to advantage and an exhibit
of the states resources can be made
that will be creditable in every way
land be worth thousands Of dollars
, more to the state, because it win be