The unfurling of the stars and stripes
was the signal for cheers from the vet
erans and pupils after which all gave the
military salute and doing so repeated in
concert: “I pledge allegiance to my flag
and the republic for which it stands—
one nation indivisible, with liberty and
justice for all.”
At the word flag thp right hands were
extended toward the flag and so re
mained till the end of the pledge when
“America” was sung.
Rev. J. F. Ricker offered a prayer which
was followed bv a “Song of Columbus
Day. ’ ’
Ming Lillie Schulte read. “The Mean
ing of the Four Centuries.” a special ad
dress prepared for the occision by the
Yonth s Compan ion.
“Columbia’s Banner.” an appropriate
ode was read by Miss Cora Towslee, after
which Judge Carroll recited in splendid
form an original poem, part of which is
appended.
This day historic e’er shall be—
Eventful lor a union guard,
Forward In the name of liberty,
That'vorner stone of this fair land.
For here the past and future meet,
Clasp hands beneath the stripe and star;
The one our covering anchor sheet.
The other from victorious war.
One of the verses referring to the
Grand Army is as follows:
And hero as when ’mid carnage strife
They bravely bore the battles brunt,
And for the Union proffered life
On many a tierce and fiery front.
Still beat their hearts, yet true as steel,
As when they faced the foe and death,
▲ nd mindful of their country’s weal
“The Old Flag" still their shibboleth.
♦ ♦♦**»*
The following verse, as well as others
not quoted, has special reference to the
teachers and schools.
