The Ely miner. [volume] (Ely, Minn.) 1895-1986, 1925-02-20

(By Edwin L. Lindell, Department
Commander The American Legion)
George Washington lived at. the
beginning of things American---the
Genesis of new era in world his
tory, that marked the advent of
government for, of and by the
people, as nearly as that ideal ever
has been attained. Other countries
had experimental with Republican
systems of self-rule, centuries be-
fore Washington's time For the,
most part they futtered a brief
space of existence like a moth in
the candle light, and like a moth
crumpled and died, burned in the
flames of an inspiration that glow
ed too brilliantly for attainment in
their day and age.
Then new land was discovered.
From the old world focked pilgrims
inspired by determination to enjoy
religious liberty, traders bent on
risking their lives to wrest fortunes
from the wilderness some of them
moved by desire to attain concrete
detectives, others by that age-old
wanderlust that through centuries
has sent men seeking something
lost behind the ranges.
Whatever their motives, they
fought a common enemy, the ele-
mental mystery. They waged wa1
on a common foe. the aboriginal
indian. They braved the perils of
an unknown land and survived, and
finally cut the Gordian knot of
worn-out tradition and established
for themselves a state of their own,
founded on the principle that ali
men are born free and equal and
that everyone should have his voice
in determining the conditions of his
existence.
The evolution from feudalism,
tyranny, oppression and caste, to
the era of George Washington,
demonstrated that America in those
days truly was melting pot-a
melting pot from which emerged
sturdy race of capable men ana
women, confident in their own
proven strength and reliant upon
God alone for guidance. At this
period of American history it sud-
denly developed that a leader of
men was needed, to take the helm
of new ship of state and guide
it safely past the shoals of war
with the mother country and dis
sension within its own ranks.
George Washington was that lead
er. All America will join in cele-
brating the birthday of the Father
of His Country. Without George
Washington we would have no
United States for which to fight in
the World War, and no Star Spang-
led Banner to defend in times of
peace. Remembering George Wash
ington, and those who so staunchly
stood by him in times of stress, let
the American Legion continue to
build on those principles which he
established.
Essay Contest.
As has been the case in preceding
years the American Legion will
stage national essay contest in
1925, it is announced by National
Headquarters at Indianapolis. Fiji
teen hundred dollars are to be
awarded the three winners, there be-
ing a first prize of $3.50, second
$500, and third $3.50.
In this years essays the compel
itors will answer the question "Why
has the American Legion, an or
ganization of veterans of the World
War, dedicated itself first of all, TO
uphold and defend the Constitution
of the United States of American "
Prizes will be awarded in each
state, silver medal going to the
winner of first place, a bronze
medal to the second prize winner,
and certificate of merit from Ma
tional Headquarters going to the
winner of third prize.
All girls and boys between the
ages of IL and 10, inclusive, are
eligible to enter the contest. Only
one essay may be submitted by a
contestant, and the essays shall not
be more than 500 words in length.
Only one side of the paper is to be
used, the rules provide, and mar
gin of one inch must be allowed on
either edge.
After the essay is completed the
manuscript should be neatly folded,
not rolled. Spelling, penmanship
and neatness will be considered in
judging the winner, and age will be
a factor.
County superintendent of schools
are being asked by Michael B. Hur-
ley of Pine City, Minnesota Legion
Americanism Chairman, to cooper
ate in interesting school children in
the contest. Essays must be receiv-
ed at a place designated by the
superintendent not later than mid