The daily Gate City and constitution-Democrat. (Keokuk, Iowa) 1916-1922, 1916-08-19

cate this bridge and as we do this
with the thought Of its great useful
ness and the convenience which it
provides. Is it not most fitting that
here, above the bosom of earth's
mightiest river, upon which might
float the commerce of the world; in
the shadow of the great power monu-
ment to industry; with our native
cities looking down upon us from
these everlasting hills with the sis
ter states of Illinois and Iowa here
clasping hands; we shall also renew
and rededicate the mutual hopes, the
lasting friendship and the common
welfare of our respective communi-
ties. To this purpose also let US
dedicate this magnificent bridge.
In this spirit Keokuk bids you a
welcome which shall always greet you
as you pass along this highway to
our shores; welcome that comes
from Keokuk's great heart of gold, a
welcome which shall outlast even
this enduring work upon which we
stand and shall still be heartfelt and
sincere when the waters beneath us
shall have ceased to fow."
Mr.. Orr's Address.
The response for Hancock county
and Hamilton was made by Warren H.
Orr. Mr.. Orr, who was introduced by
Mayor Daugherty, spoke as follows:
"Mr. Chairman, Ladies' and Gentle
men:
THE people of Hamilton have al
ways considered Superintendent Cole,
of the Bridge company, an able and
resourceful man, but not until today
did we realize that he had the power
or desire to usurp one Of the highest
powers Of congress, and by his proc
lamation carry into effect a temper
airy amendment to the constitution of
the United States. The constitution
provides that congress alone has pow
er to regulate Interstate commerce,
and vet it is self-evident from the
crowds of Hancock county people
present here this afternoon that Bro
Their Cole has become somewhat OF a
regulator" himself.
at is needless for me to say much
concerning the magnificent steel struc-
ture which is formally dedicated here
this afternoon. 1t speaks for itself
in more commendable terms than any
which could use. That 1t was con-
ceived is evidence of greater econ
omic demand: that it was constructed
Is evidence of our greater prosperity;
that it is now completed and in use
is a lasting tribute to those respon-
sible for it, and comes as a fulfillnent
Of a long-cherished dream. Its build
ing brings about new and greater op-
portunities for the two cities which
it connects, and, as commercial as
set alone. it is worth as much to both
communities as any single industry
which either city now has or may
hereafter secure. It's completion
marks distinct epoch in the CONNER
cial and social relations of the people
of Lee and Hancock counties It's
opening gives new impetus to the
good road building efforts OF our peo-
ple. 1t serves as fitting terminus
to one OF the principal Illinois cross
state highways, and will, of its own
beauty and strength. attract much adj
ditionaI travel and business to Hamil-
ton and Keokuk. The overhead We
hicle way will save, over the old ar
rangement, an average of five minutes
to every vehicle that hereafter may
cross the river, besides eliminating
the danger of accidents and reducing
the grade Of hills. To the Hancock
county farmer carting his produce to
market, it means the saving OF his
horse. the saving Of his Wagon the