USA > New York > Wyoming County > Warsaw > History of the centennial celebration : Warsaw, Wyoming County, New York, June 28-July 2, 1903 : 1803-1903 > Part 15
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the great issne, important to all the world, whether man has sufficient intelligence to create a thoroughly repre- sentative government and sufficient virtue to defend and maintain it.
This summary of the character and importance of the principles exposed to the hazard of conflict is by no means extravagant. Not alone was there at stake the dismem- berment of the nation with consequent loss of prestige, population, wealth, and means of protection against foreign aggression, with the certainty of future dire contentions between its divided parts; but also what was of greater consequence, the rule which preseribes submission to the will of majorities exercised within conceded limitations, which is the basis of representative government, of organ- ized society living under it, and of every law upon which our political and civil institutions rest.
The permanency of our representative government de- pends on the will of the people and the strength of their determination to uphold it. They may safely modify it or invent new expedients to attain results if vital agen- cies remain properly adjusted, but the mandates it pro- claims must be obeyed until recalled by the authority which issued them. Created and inspired by the peo- ple, it acts on the individual. Animated by the most advanced intelligence and the highest moral convictions to which man has attained, controlled by the best impulses of humanity, moving apace with the evolution of society to a constantly progressive standard of excellence, it de- mands implicit obedience from the person, and, while safeguarding his liberties, gives tendency to his aims and aspirations. It cannot be destroyed except through in- difference, or by the hand of its creator.
During a series of years factions, rebelling against its salutary restraints, assailed it with invective and specious argument. Representatives of the press, the pulpit and the political forum, swayed by party strife or unholy ambition, sought to dethrone it by assaulting the prinei- ples which give it life and energy. Captious criticism and sophistry, silent as to the blessings it confers but magnifying its annoyances, resorted to deceptive theories and misapplied aphorisms to debauch public opinion re-
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garding its significance. "The tyranny of majorities," "legitimate resistance of an oppressed minority," "the right of revolution," the rights of communities to arrest the operation of law considered by them injurious to their interests, the power of the State to determine the validity of United States legislation, and other like expressions and forms of casuistry denote the cant and character of the logic then employed. The result of these efforts was, as all know, a people divided in opinion-one portion deny- ing and the other asserting the sovereignty of the nation in matters entrusted to its keeping. Those denying alle- giance and obligation could not plead oppression, nor the violation of any of their constitutional rights or privileges. Their excuse, if one can be discovered, is found in their apprehension that, possibly, new legal provisions might in- terfere with or destroy institutions which were uncongenial with the tendency of modern sentiment.
This apprehension, however, was not the exciting cause of the division. The question whether the black man should remain bond or become free was not at that time of sufficient import to arouse the bitter antagonisms which were then displayed, although society had reached that stage of progress and had so extended its appreciation of justice as to acknowledge " that tyranny was not the birth- right of any particular type of the human race, that slavery was not the eternal law of nature." But the real mov- ing impulse was the advocacy of an asserted absolute po- litical right apparently intimately connected with exist- ing affairs. The claim was, the right of a portion of our citizens to withdraw at will their support from a govern- ment set up, quickened and empowered by all to exact obedience from all. This assertion by one section of country and its positive denial by another, really occa- sioned the intemperate excitement which fanned the spark of discontent into a flame of revolt too violent for argu- ment or entreaty to subdue. It was the ever living erav- ing for absolute freedom of action and thought in the in- flexible, uncompromising nature of the descendant of the Saxon, now sadly unmindful of the necessary restraints which the best perfected system of laws must impose, which forced dissension into open rebellion. Nothing but a firm conviction in the justness of denied demands, with
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a courage to sustain them at every cost, conld mass the inhabitants of one part of the United States against those of another part in order to try conclusions on the field of battle; and whatever the impressions and intentions of political leaders, that mass was honest and incited by what it conceived to be the spirit of liberty and patriotism.
Shall these misguided citizens of several of the States of the Union be allowed to withdraw in peace ? Shall they be permitted to arrest the rightful application of the laws and defy the majesty of a common government which all had covenanted to uphold and respect ? Shall they be permitted to destroy a government which embodied the highest conceptions of justice, mercy and the elements of civil liberty as yet vouchsafed to man, which secured our past and encouraged our future,-our only hope for protection against social and political chaos? The re- sponse was immediate and unequivocal. That great pop- ular uprising to assert the supremacy of law was the greatest moral lesson ever presented to the world.
Considering, therefore, the character and temperament of the men who composed the armies contending on either side of that bloody controversy, the war in so far as all armies were concerned may be said to have been one of high resolve and strong conviction, marked by superior individual courage and mighty determination. No wonder it was protracted and sanguinary. Being of such a nature it was not possible to bring it to a con- clusion until one of the two opposing forces was ex- hausted. Contemplating its cost, reflecting upon its sacrifices, sufferings and sorrows-sacrifices rendered and sufferings sustained by those actively participating ; sac- rifices, sufferings and sorrows endured by relatives and devoted friends who were compelled to bear the bur- dens of wasting anxiety, of great privations and grief without the recompense in excitement, occupation and consequent temporary self-forgetfulness which active war bestows-and thereupon estimating the results obtain- ed by such vast expenditures, the thought already ad- vanced recurs; that the substantial benefits enjoyed by man in his relation to society and government have been
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gained through superlative endeavor and bitter experi- ences. Although the war was pitifully ernel, the har- vest has been abundant; and one of the pleasing reflec- tions regarding the war is due to the fact that all con- corned, both friend and former foe, have cheerfully ac- copted results. None wish that the issues had been dif- ferently decided. We speak of a restored Union, of a re-united people, of the advantages of profound peace and the permitted rapid development of a country, rich in material resources, of magnificent geographical extent. For all these blessings we should be devoutly thankful; but they are of minor importance compared to the gracious boon conferred on our people, and humanity in general, by the glorious triumphs of law, order and civili- zation.
We knew when the war terminated that the integrity of the nation had been preserved; that the false logic which had sought to prove its infirmity could no longer become a source of danger; that the people possessed the strength, inclination and determination to defend their public institutions and government, and what was of even more consequence, that they had abundantly manifested the courage and civic virtue to maintain the supremacy of established law by every means at their command. We did not then know the marvelous vitality of the re- public which had been preserved, and the amazing progress it was destined to make in the short period of a little more than one-third of a century toward social, moral, commercial and political ascendency among nations. llence we can appreciate at present better than ever be- fore the prominence of the principles which the war permanently settled and the value of the services of the men who assisted to win the great victory.
To what nobler cause or more deserving class of men could you give this enduring proof of your regard and affection? Those whose deeds we here to-day commemo- rate-those who made the sacrifice of health and manly strength that truth might prevail; those who surrendered life, soon at least to be demanded by nature, as a debt dne to their country, performed a memorable duty and fulfilled a glorious destiny. They need not your pity nor
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any manifestations of sorrow, but deserve your praise and esteem. Could they speak to you they would com- mend your action in erecting this monument and say that it is what they most desired; for by it you not only show the highest appreciation of their services, but you appeal directly to the manhood, patriotism and sense of duty of the men of coming generations to sustain the principles for which they contended. And herein is wit- nessed its two-fold significance: it lovingly perpetuates the memory of those to whom it is ascribed, and shall be to future citizens for many years a lesson in the sanctity of law, and an inspiration to make personal sacrifices for its support.
In closing permit me to refer to that other class of citizens-those who labored so constantly for the publie welfare and deserve the lasting gratitude of their country- men. Although prevented by controlling circumstances from taking an active part in the contests of the bat- tlefield, they contributed materially, and as much if not more than all others, of the means which make success possible. By their efforts to arouse and intensify a public, patriotic spirit, by their vigorous support of the meas- ures adopted for the overthrow of rebellion, by their en- couragement and support of those who went forth to battle, and the sympathy and aid they gave to those left to the care and protection of neighbors and friends ; indeed by the spontaneous manifestations of the highest impulses of be- nevolence, philanthropy and patriotism, they nobly sus- tained thie arm of government throughout that entire period of passionate contention.
And here as a further proof of the sentiments which prompted their action, they have builded with their own hands, as it were, this enduring tribute to the memory of the martyrs who died for country, that the knowledge of their services might be preserved, that the importance of the principles for which they gave life may be fittingly exalted, and that the patriotic instruction which the lessons of the War conveys may be perpetuated.
To them be all honor and praise and may they be everlastingly remembered by a grateful people.
As we look upon this monument which they have con-
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structed, so suggestive of the divine truths on which all the hopes of humanity depend, it assumes infinite pro- portions. It reaches to Heaven and the smiles of God shall forever illumine it.
ADDRESS BY COMMANDER ZERA L. TANNER, U. S. N.
Comrades, Ladies and Gentlemen :-
I deem it an honor as well as a pleasure, to be per- mitted to participate in the dedication of yonder monu- ment to the men who fought the fight which preserved our national union; the men who left their peaceful avo- cations, their homes, their families, everything that man loves in this life, and took up arms for the defense of their country. These men had the courage of their con- victions, they believed they were right, and they had confidence in their ability to win the fight. This confi- dence was voiced by President Lincoln in a singularly prophetic speech at the very outset of the war when he said, "The lingering chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield to every loving heart all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union when touched, as they surely will be, by the gentler angels of our nature."
Mr. President, we appreciate the beauties of yonder monument and we revere the sentiment which prompted its erection by the survivors of the Civil War and their friends and neighbors in this community. We all love its graceful lines and its imposing appearance, for it is our loving memorial to the men whom we delight to honor. Under its shadow the veteran stands face to face with the events that led up to the war; in his mind's eye he sees visions of many weary days and nights of ceaseless action and of anxious watchfulness on land and sea. From his vantage ground he views in retrospect the progress of the war and is thrilled again with the patriotic emotions which forced him, I might say, to take up arms and to fall into the ranks at his country's call. There were dark and gloomy times during those four long years of strife, but finally the cause of the Union prevailed, and we came out of the fires of rebellion with renewed na-
COMMANDER ZERA L. TANNER. (' S. A
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tional life and vigor, which have gained for us a lead- ing position among the great world powers; and the United States stands today an evidence of advanced civilization and an advocate for justice and fair dealing among the nations of the earth.
Comrades, we honor ourselves in paying homage to those brave men who fought the good fight, and it be- hooves us also to make grateful acknowledgement for the service rendered to the Union cause by the American women. It has been said, and truthfully said, that their influence in the great struggle was second only to that of the forces in the field.
Comrades, this beautiful monument should be a per- petual monitor to the actors in the Civil War, inspiring us to use our best endeavors to instill into the hearts of our youth the noble attributes of honor, virtue and patriotism, in that they may be the better prepared to take our places as we pass over to the Great Majority. Mr. President, I am a believer in our American youth. It is my firm belief that the rising generation will be worthy successors of the men of '61, and I know of no greater honor to which they could aspire. I believe also that the sacred memories kept green in the minds of our youth by asso- ciation with yonder monument, dedicated today to their sires, will, as the ages roll by, exert a beneficent influ- ence over the lives of untold generations of American manhood.
ADDRESS BY GENERAL JOHN S. KOSTER, DEPARTMENT COMMANDER G. A. R.
[In introducing General Koster, Hon. I. Sam Johnson said: "Comrades; General Koster, or what there is left of liim, comes here to respond on behalf of the Grand Army of the Republic. He is not all here-that good right arm was left at Cold Harbor, but we elected him Department Commander because he was a fighting man. Before I introduce him I want to say that Gibbs Post thanks you, Comrades, for coming here today to assist ns and you have done nobly to come in such large numbers as representatives of the Grand Army. That monument is yours-it is not a Warsaw monument. I take great pleasure in introducing to you our fighting Commander, General Koster, Department Commander of the State of New York.]
Comrades, Ladies and Gentlemen :
Standing here to unite with you in the dedicatory services of this beautiful monument to the memory of the brave and patriotic soldiers and sailors of the County of Wyoming, who served in the Union army and navy in the Civil War of 1861-1865, permit me as Commander of the great Department of New York to thank you for your courteous invitation to participate in the ceremonies of this notable occasion.
It signalizes the happy completion of the labors and efforts of your Monument Association, in the erection and dedication of this splendid tribute from the County of Wyoming, to the noble valor and loyalty of her sons in that mighty struggle for the preservation and perpe- tuity of our great republic.
I regret that the Commander-in-Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic is not here to greet you, and re- alize that in me you will find a poor substitute. It was at the request of Comrade Johnson that I came here to
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join in these interesting ceremonies. As Department Commander let me commend and honor your patriotic work and congratulate yon upon its completion.
Your gallant soklier and sailor boys, who fought for the flag in the awful battles of that Civil War, in the Fifth and Ninth Cavalry, in the One Hundred and Fourth and the One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Regiments, Co. K, 17th N. Y., the First New York Dragoons, the Fourth and Eighth Heavy Artillery, the Twenty-first New York, the Fiftieth Engineers and many other fighting regiments, were and are worthy of this beautiful testimonial to their glorious deeds and patriotic fidelity to duty.
The Grand Army of the Republic speaks for itself in almost every town, village and hamlet, from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans, and its noble deeds of charity and fraternity are known to all. Its members fought for the honor of our flag and the integrity of our country, and they cherish the memory of their departed comrades with fidelity and lasting love. Well do I recall the scenes at Fredericksburg in December, 1862, when my regiment charged the Confederate troops on those blazing and ter- rible heights. Our colors fell time after time, but never halted in the charge, until Sergeant Plunkett, with both arms shot off, fell to the ground, his blood staining its torn folds.
Comrades, we are rapidly passing away, and scon the parting volleys and the call of the bugles sounding "Taps; Lights Out " will be heard over the graves of the sur. viving veterans of that great confliet and nothing will be left but the history of your matchless heroism and valiant deeds in the cause of liberty and humanity. But, thank God, you saved our country from disunion, and placed our flag in the fore-front of all the ensigns of the world, and will bequeath to our posterity the grandest gift which men ean give to their sons and daughters.
This is what the Grand Army and their comrades will leave to this nation, and in honor and confiding faith they believe the coming generations will defend the flag and our country with the same strong arms and hearts as did their sires in the years now flown.
Fellow-citizens of a younger generation! To you we
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look to defend and preserve our beloved country, and to instruct your children in these lessons of loyalty and duty to the flag. Will you keep this sacred trust? I believe you will, and may God bless you and yours in this re_ spect.
Stand by the flag, the flag of freedom's pride,
Stand by the flag your fathers fought to save, Stand by the flag for which those heroes died, Stand by the flag, that it may forever wave.
REMARKS BY FRANK COFFEE, JR., (17 Years of Age)
Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen :
I represent today my father, Mr. Frank Coffee of Syd- ney, Australia. He would have given much to have been here with you to-day in person at this Centennial, for Warsaw is dear to my father. It is associated with that memory which is dear to any man-the memory of his boyhood and old time friends. But business knows no master and so he cabled me to represent him.
I am a stranger to you and to Warsaw. Some of the older citizens here no doubt, remember my grandfather, Mr. Charles Coffee, or, as he was more familiarly called, " Charlie" Coffee.
In 1862 he enlisted in Company E, 136th New York Volunteers. September 3d, of the same year, he was mustered into service. May 27th, 1863, he was honora- bly discharged, afflicted with chronic rheumatism con- tracted on the field. It was from this complaint that he gave up his life in 1870. And a noble life it was, too! IIe won the respect and admiration of all who knew him.
Col. A. B. Lawrence informs me that my grandfather's name is on the roll of those who went from Wyoming County, and, who by their deeds proved that Warsaw and Wyoming County had men who were ready, not only to talk, but to do and die, if necessary, to preserve the unity of the States of America.
My father was born here in Warsaw in 1852, April 12th. He has told me of picking berries and sliding down the hill on which now stands the B., R. & P. Ry. depot, of the raps he got across his back in the old school- room. And he has told me of being a "printer's devil ", in the office of The Western New-Yorker. He remembers Mr. Owen and many others quite well. He has had pictures taken of different views in and around Warsaw by Mr. Salisbury, your photographer. But there is one which
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he prizes above all others. It is a large one and a fine one-of the monument erected to the memory of those heroes of '61-'65. It is the Soldiers' Monument yonder.
My father has been in Australia for 26 years, but he has not forgotten his native land. No citizen of Warsaw ever has, for that matter. He has not forgotten Warsaw -as he sends me here to represent him today. And he will always remember with pride those who have answered the roll call of the Great First Sergeant, up there.
G A R VETERANS
THE NATION'S TRIBUTE BY BESSIE CHANDLER PARKER
The blue skies bend today o'er fields of plenty,
The stars look down on homes of love and peace, The air is full of sounds and scents of summer, The harvest waits, the flocks and herds increase. We listen, but there is no sound of battle, We hark, no roll of drums, no bugle call, We watch, and see no smoke of campfire burning, And all our swords hang idle on the wall. Only in city park and country village, All through the land these graven shafts arise, Telling the story of our grief and glory, Pointing, like marble fingers to the skies. Telling the story of those men who left us, To walk with death, where battle raged and burned, Telling the story of our loved and loving,
Who went, so many, and so few returned. How must our thought go out in love and pity, To those fair southern fields, where all alone, Deep in their nameless graves, our dead are lying, Swept to the end, down paths and ways unknown. And yet today, above us, unsullied,
Flies the same flag for which they gave their all, The flag they followed through the smoke of battle, Their glory living, after that, their pall.
Thongh links of iron have firmly bound our country, Though magic wires her distances have spanned, Still that dear blood, shed for her preservation, Is the true bond which holds our land. We stand today in loving contemplation, Of those who freedom's stony pathway trod, Feeling our pulses, the heart beat of the nation,
Having one flag, one country and one God!
ADDRESS BY GEN. S. F. MCAULIFF, INSPECTOR GENERAL
Comrades :
I did not expect until a few minutes ago to say any- thing to you. I will not come before you with the old story which you have heard many and many a time, that I had a speech prepared and that somebody stole it from my pockets, for that would be a lie, and you never knew a soldier to tell a lie.
What greater inspiration does a man need than to stand in the presence of representatives of more than twenty-two hundred of the greatest battles that have ever been recorded in ancient or modern times. Here stand before me men who have climbed the heights of Lookout Mountain unbidden and carried the battle flag of the Union up to the very gates of Heaven. Here stand before me men who threaded the mazes of the Wilderness; who stood in the burning woods at Laurel Ilill; at Spottsylvania Court House, where for twenty long hours the sound of cannon never ceased; who fought at Cold Harbor, at Petersburg, at Five Forks, and carried Old Glory in triumph at Appomattox; raised it to the highest and loftiest pinnacle of fame, a beacon light to all the world that here is a land of liberty.
You who live in the present time know but little of the sacrifices, of the toils, the suffering that these men endured that you might to-day enjoy prosperity and peace. To them you owe much. The debt can never be paid. Honor them not only on the days when you have your celebrations, but honor them three hundred and sixty-five days in the year. Young man, when you meet a man with a bronze button upon his breast, doff your hat to him, for he left you a legacy such as the world never saw before and never will hear of again in any other nation except here in the United States of America.
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We who have followed that old flag amidst shot and shell, who followed it even up to the cannon's month, learned to love and revere it. The greatest enlogy that I ever heard in reference to that flag was uttered by Bishop Simpson at Chicago, when he said: "Nail it up there high on the mast, just a little below the banner of the Cross; hunt the world over, the flag of every nation on carth, where can you find another flag fit to take the same place that that would take?"
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