Speeches, songs, poems, prayers, concerts, dances, lights, pushes, shoves and much more! – (PIP #99)

– Louise Peloquin

      Celebrations have changed but the message is still Happy Birthday Lowell!

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 L’Etoile – Front page March 2, 1926

LOWELL CELEBRATES ITS CENTENNIAL IN SPLENDID STYLE

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WITH WIDESPREAD AND INDESCRIBABLE ENTHUSIASM A FEW THOUSAND PEOPLE CELEBRATED YESTERDAY THE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDATION OF LOWELL – MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM WAS CRAMMED AT THE MORNING AND AFTERNOON CEREMONIES AND THE GRAND EVENING BALL

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FETE FOR THE SCHOOLCHILDREN

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Former Lowellian Frederick Roy Martin and Miss Amy Baker spoke to 6000 schoolchildren at the High School Auditorium and hall.

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Songs and Music

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     Approximately 6000 boys and girls from Lowell High School and public and parochial schools participated yesterday morning in the ceremonies marking the opening of Lowell’s centennial celebration. There were two large gatherings – one at Memorial Auditorium and the other at the High School Cyrus W. Irish Auditorium.

      At two locations, the same program included Frederick Roy Martin’s speech and Miss Amy Baker’s recitations. The High School band, directed by John J. Giblia, performed at the Auditorium while the High School orchestra, directed by Frederick O. Blunt, played at the High School.

     Principal Henry H. Harris served as master of ceremonies at the Auditorium and Moody Street School principal William H. Green was master of ceremonies at the High School. Among the guests of honor, we noted Mayor John J. Donovan, Superintendent of schools Hugh Molloy, Mr. George M. Harrigan, John A. Hunnewell, Charles L. Marren and Joseph A. Gagnon, Centennial Committee directors. They all attended the Auditorium ceremony then went to the High School. Other honored guests were Brother Francis S.M., director of St. Joseph High School, Brother Clarence, O.F.X. of St. Patrick school and members of the morning organization committee.

     Lowell High School graduate and Carney Medal recipient Frederick Roy Martin, was principal speaker. He was also major of the High School military battalion. Since that time, he has served as president of Associated Press and is now general manager of Appleton and Co.

     In his speech, Mr. Martin praised New England’s education system and the teachers who devote themselves daily for the good of the youth.

     Miss Amy Baker is a graduate of the Barnum School and of Lowell High School. She enjoys nationwide recognition for the quality of her recitations.

     At the end of the program, the children sang the national anthem.

     Besides these two events, special programs took place in all public and parochial schools. After the ceremonies, the students were dismissed for the day.

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AFTERNOON CEREMONY

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Governor Fuller, Mayor Donovan, president Stearns and Mr. Molloy retrace the past, the present and look to the future.

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     A Most Beautiful Program

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     Yesterday, Lowell and friends celebrated one century of development and progress. With its distinguished guests and participants from neighboring cities and villages, the afternoon program at Memorial Auditorium was most attractive. The building was packed and a crowd of people were not able to enter. It was not a celebration for self-congratulations. Far from it. Although congratulations were addressed, the speakers insisted on the importance of preparing the second centennial. During the celebration, Lowell looked back on its sons and daughters who created this flourishing manufacturing city and also remembered those who reached honorable positions and contributed to Lowell’s fame in the United States and in the world.

THE GOVERNOR GIVES A WARNING

     Governor Alvan T. Fuller reminded Lowell of its responsibilities by stating that nowadays “certain famished Praetorian Guards” insist on having special concessions just as Cesar did before the fall of the Rome.

     “From all sides and in violation of sacred principles, civil servants from villages, cities and States are begged and directed to grant favors and special concessions to individuals and groups.

     Conventional individuals will say that the people have good intentions. That is true. I believe that most people have good intentions. However, you will remember that a certain place is paved with good intentions. As Roosevelt said, ‘A good number of people have good intentions but their good intentions are weak.’ “

SPEAKER OF THE DAY HUGH J. MOLLOY

     Special guest speaker Hugh J. Molloy spoke at length about Lowell’s development. He explained how many ethnic groups contributed to bringing the city to its present state of prosperity and continuing success. He treated the subject in an academic manner and spoke elegantly. His mastery of the topic reflected extensive research into archives and quotations from famous historical figures. He paid hommage to individuals and groups who actively played a part in developing this country and this city.

     Master of ceremonies Frank P. Stearns, president of the Centennial Committee, enthusiastically pleaded in favor of adopting a civic vision. Mr. Stearns was especially at ease as master of ceremonies and he pleased the afternoon audience by presenting the Lowell-born participants.

HE DIRECTED HIS COMPOSITIONS

     Renown composer George W. Chadwick conducted two of his own compositions: “The Anniversary Overture”, performed by a group of 45 Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians  and “The Pilgrims”, a ballad sung by the choir accompanied by the orchestra. Mr. Chadwick received warm, well-deserved applause.

     Centennial poet Mr. Ralph H. Shaw, son of Benjamin F. Shaw, inventor of the Shaw machine to make socks, read his poetry with a great deal of emotion and passion.

     His Eminence Cardinal O’Connell, one of Lowell’s most distinguished sons, could not be present for the festivities but sent a moving message expressing his devotion for his hometown. In his message, he also denounced those who have ungratefully exploited Lowell.

     PART OF HIS EMINENCE’S MESSAGE

     Here are several paragraphs of Cardinal O’Connell’s message:

     “The memory of my hometown has always been dear to me. Nonetheless, I regret having seen Lowell badly recompensed by those who have extracted the most substantial advantages from its industries and prospects.

     If those who owe something to Lowell want to take advantage of the centennial celebration in order to give back, materially, a portion of the profits obtained from its hard-working industrialists, the city would only receive what it justly deserves.”

     The message was read by President Stearns who said that the Cardinal had given the centennial directors an interview of more than an hour expressing his deepest regrets for not attending the celebration.

     YESTERDAY THE MAYOR SPOKE OUT

     Mayor John J. Donovan was the first speaker. In his words, he contemplated the city’s rapid growth and expressed gratitude for its sons and daughters who have made Lowell the queen city it is today. He also cast a glimpse on the future and called attention to the cooperation required for success.

     Shortly after 2:00, the program began. City servants, members of the Legislature and guests of honor took their seats on the platform built for the occasion at the foot of the stage. The orchestra and the choir were placed at the top of the platform.

     THE PRAYER

     After an orchestra piece, Rev. Appleton Grannis, Saint Ann Church pastor, pronounced the prayer. Here it is in part:

     “God, our Father, we render you great hommage and heartfelt thanks for having inspired the hearts of your servants the founders of this city for establishing here the great industries which have so greatly helped alleviate our burdens and multiply our goods. We thank you for the faith, the courage and the boldness of the pioneers of a difficult enterprise…

     We thank you because our dependence upon your goodness and your favors has been so fully recognized in places of worship dedicated to your honor and your glory…

     We thank you for these devoted individuals who were promoters of our public school system knowing very well that democracy must be built on the knowledge that religion without education degenerates into superstition and also that education without religion is useless…

     We also remember those who serve their city and their State today by generously giving of their time and their talents.

     We also remember those who, responding to the call of their country, sacrificed their lives to right ancient wrongs…

     We ask for your blessing upon those to whom you have given the power to govern this city and State in order that their work may be done with honesty, integrity and with total regard for the well-being of all. In the years to come, we pray to discover individuals of character and ability among us who will accomplish their duty without fear and without bias, for your honor and your glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

THE ORCHESTRA PROGRAM

     The Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by A. Jacchia, played the prelude to the 3rd act of Wagner’s “Lohengrin”, the finale of Tchaikovsky’s 4th symphony and the finale of Herbert’s “American Fantasy”. The orchestra also accompanied the choir directed by Eusebius G. Hood, another Lowell son.

     The choral sang Handel’s “Hallelujah chorus”, Faust’s “Soldiers’ chorus” and George W. Chadwick’s “The Pilgrims.” The Masonic Choir sang Kreutzer’s “Shepherd’s Sunday Song” and Geibel’s “Home Sweet Home.”

     At the end of the last orchestra piece, the choir and the audience sang “The Star Spangled Banner.” Rev. John J. McGarry, D.L.C. gave the blessing.

SALUTATIONS FROM LAWRENCE

     One of the afternoon’s pleasant episodes was Lawrence Mayor Walter T. Rochefort reading a message expressing congratulations and wishes for a prosperous future from the people of Lawrence, further to a Lawrence City Council vote.

     We noticed the following on the platform during the ceremonies:

     Ralph H. Shaw, centennial poet; Hugh J. Molloy, speaker of the day; representative Edith Nourse Rogers; Mayor John J. Donovan; Rev. Appleton Grannis; Rev. John J. McGarry, D.L.C.; Honorable James B. Casey; Honorable Dennis J. Murphy; Honorable Perry D. Thompson; president Frank K. Stearns; George W. Chadwick; and governor Alvan T. Fuller and his suite.

A FESTIVE ATMOSPHERE IN THE CITY

     The whole city took on a festive atmosphere for the day. American Legion flags decorated the principal streets. Schools and many businesses closed their doors for the afternoon.

     Lowell High School regiment officers ushered those who came to the Auditorium and Boy Scouts distributed programs.

     Major Percy J. Wilson, master of ceremonies, was assisted by captains Donald R. McIntyre, James F. Conway, Joseph Reilly and George Walsh as well as commander Robert Ginivan from Legion Post 87.

     Here is the list of guests of honor:

GUESTS

     Governor Alvan T. Fuller and his staff.

     Mrs. John Jacob Rogers, representative.

     The State Legislation delegation: representatives Victor F. Jewett; Henri Achin, Jr.; Charles H. Slowey; Cornelius J. O’Neill; Daniel F. Moriarty; Patrick Nestor; senator Walter Perham; senator Wells; president and senator Cregg.

     Mayors of neighboring cities: Malcolm E. Nichols, Boston; Ralph H. Bauer, Lynn; Thomas M. Duffy, Woburn; Edwin R. Hathaway, New Bedford; Walter T. Rochefort, Lawrence; Winfield Temple, Marlboro.

     Selectmen of suburb villages: Ralph H. Adams, Chelmsford; R.W. Darris and Mrs. Darris, Chelmsford; B.R. Currier, Tyngsboro; John E. Ford, Dracut; Irving F. French, Tewksbury; William H. Kelley, Tewksbury; Frank L. Furbush, Westford; Burton D. Griffith, Westford; William R. Taylor, Westford; Thomas F. Sheridan, Billerica; George N. Rigby, Chelmsford.

     Organization heads: Francis J. Good, Massachusetts American Legion department; Charles A. Flanagan Massachusetts Spanish-American War department; H.N. Comey, Massachusetts G.A.R. department; Asa Stickney Lowell Sons of Veterans.

     Individuals: Col. J.F.J. Herbert, Worcester; William J. Blake, Veterans bureau regional director; Postmaster X.A. Delisle; Holder Abbott; Charles F. Ayer; Nellie G. Barry; Kirk Boott; Ralph Saw; George W. Chadwick; Rev. McGarry; Rev, Appleton Grannis; Fannie A. Thompson; Dr. Pillsbury; Miss Adelaide Baker; Amy Baker; Virginia Tanner; Alice Rowell; Mrs. Ralph Shaw; Dr. Huntress; Mrs. Edward Tierney; Mrs. Waterhouse; Adelbert Huntoon; Lucius Fairchild; Rev. Stephen G. Murray; Mrs. G.W. Chadwick; Mr. & Mrs. J.A.Nesmith.

     Former mayors: John F. Meehan, James E. O’Donnell, Perry D. Thomson, Frederick W. Farnham, Denis J. Murphy, James B. Casey, George H. Brown, and John J. Pickman.

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JOSTLING AT THE GALA BALL

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More than 12,000 people came and at least 5000 were disappointed. – Jostling rather than dancing. – Tickets perfectly useless.

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7 WOMEN FAINTED

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     Last night, in a furious scramble, unprecedented in the history of Lowell, 12,000 people were crushed against the doors and walls of the Auditorium while attempting to attend the grand ball commemorating the hundredth anniversary of the incorporation of the “town” of Lowell.

     Despite the efforts of the organizers, the Auditorium director, 32 police officers and 20 firefighters to maintain order, the thrust was so violent that seven women fainted and had to be reanimated by a doctor called in emergency. Many other people suffered bruises and nervous excitement.

     AN ENORMOUS CROWD GATHERS

     The crowd from every social category and ethnic group began to gather at the Auditorium doors as soon as 7 in the morning. When these opened, a frantic scramble ensued. Some people had tickets but most did not. The shove was so strong that police officers could not distinguish the ticket holders from the others.  Those who arrived at the door entered and the others remained outside whether they had tickets or not. Many people who had had tickets for more than a week did not even get to see inside.

     The organizers, seeing the immense crowd pressing against the main entrance, feared that serious accidents and even fatalities could occur as the doors opened. They gave the order to close the doors for the entire evening. The crowd entered at East Merrimack Street and several side doors. After the banquet at veterans hall for the guests invited by the executive committee, a door had been left open on the Immaculate Conception Church side of Brown Street in order to allow the caterers to clear off the tables. Some people found out, broke the lock of the door separating veterans hall and the Auditorium, penetrated inside and mingled with the crowd. When the police realized what had happened, they placed guards at the doors.

     CLOSING THE DOORS

     As soon as chief organizer Charles H. Holden judged that the hall was full to capacity, he ordered the doors closed. It was only 8:00 at that time. Believing their tickets would allow admission from 8:15 to 8:45, many were disappointed. After the doors were closed, a vast crowd remained for hours, shouting, gesticulating and begging the police officers to open them. As some exited, the police allowed others in, therefore keeping the hall full to capacity.

     The entire squad of  traffic agents, with their white belts crossed over their chests, stood guard. Conservator Colin H. MacKenzie estimated that during the evening, at least 7000 people passed through the Auditorium. 5000 were never able to enter and returned home out of desperation. Some patiently waited for several hours at the door, their feet humid in the muddy snow. Thousands lingered before leaving. Until after 10:00, the Square was full of disappointed people waiting for tramways to take them home.

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SEVEN WOMEN FAINT

     Dr. Harry B. Plunkett reanimated the seven women who fainted from suffocation in the crowd. Mr. McKenzie had them taken home by taxi. The authorities were so busy that they failed to take the women’s names and addresses. Only one gave her name: Mrs. Parker F. Murphy, wife of the Professional Trade Council secretary.

     At about 11:00, the crowd started to depart and, when the ball ended at 1 in the morning, the police allowed anyone to enter into the Auditorium because new arrivals were no longer dangerous.

     Because of the vast crowd, ball president Alvah H. Weaver had to cancel many special numbers included in the program. He pointed out that the committee had prepared a ball. However, since almost all of the distributed tickets had been useless, the event had turned into a popular dance.

EARLY DEMONSTRATIONS

     At the beginning of the ball Mr. Weaver ordered all of the dance demonstrations prepared for later in the evening to take place at beginning in order to allow for general dancing. The modern and traditional dance demonstrations scheduled at 10:30 and the light show and shower of confetti, planned for midnight, were held at 9:00.

     At the beginning of the evening, the Lowell centennial orchestra, composed of 35 musicians conducted by Charles P. Miner, gave an excellent concert and then splendidly performed the dance numbers. The 35 musicians had been chosen among the city’s best dance orchestras.

     The program continued with a demonstration of traditional dances performed by the Joyce Ballet of Boston. The dancers then presented quadrilles, waltzes and Virginia reels. The spectators applauded warmly. Charleston, tango and modern waltzes followed and then, the numbers 1826-1926 were projected on the walls. The effect was remarkable.

LIBERTY HALL

     After the special demonstrations, attendees sang “The Star Spangled Banner” and began to dance. In Liberty Hall, a special program of traditional dances took place with music by Joseph H. Hibbard’s orchestra.

     The Auditorium and Liberty Hall were so crowded during the entire evening that it was almost impossible for the public to dance. It was a scramble much more than a ball. It was even worse in Liberty Hall because this room can only accommodate 720 and the number of people who wanted to dance was double or triple that figure. At 1:00 the crowd, still dense, swarmed towards the Square where special tramways were waiting to transport passengers to the different city neighborhoods.

     The concert program for the beginning of the evening was:

• Sousa’s “Ancient and Honorable Artillery March.”
• Intermission
• Chaminade’s “Scarf Dance.”
• Selections from Tierney’s “Kid Boots.”
• Selections from Gounod’s “Faust.”
• Lampe’s Grand Fantasia”, “Scotland”, “Nussbaum”, “Tone Picture”, “Songs of the Sunny South.”
• Selections form Harms’s Musical comedy “Sunny.” a)”Who”, b) “Sunny”
• March Finale – “The National Game.”

THE BALL COMMITTEE

     The Centennial Ball Committee which prepared last night’s program was composed as follows:

President Alvah H. Weaver. vice-president James C. Reilly, Joseph A. Légaré, Hammond Barnes, Edward T. Bailey, Arthur Bernier, George Boucher, Roland J. Boudreau, Raymond P. Bourgeois, Butler D. Burrage, Donald F. Cameron, William Cantor, Joseph A.N. Chrétien, James F. Conway, Charles E. Delorme, Joseph A. Desrosiers, Royal K. Dexter Jr., Joseph M. Dinneen, Allan M. Dumas, Arthur L. Eno, John Rogers Flather, Charles G. Forrest, Dr. A.J. Gagnon, Dr. Raymond Gendreau, Frank Goldman, Francis J. Haggerty, Thomas B. Higgins, John J. Hogan, Frank J. Hubin, James F. Kane, Dr. Joseph P. Kearney, Charles  J. Keyes, Gardner M. McCartney, Dr. Francis R. Mahoney, J.C. Manseau, Warren Mansur, Frank P. McCartin, John J. McPadden, Hutchins H. Parker, Dr. Harry B. Plunkett, Arthur G. Pollard Jr., Richard F. Preston, William C. Purcell, George H. Runels, John F. Sawyer, Joseph A. Schiller, Stephen H. Scribner, Ames Stevens, Robert R. Thomas, John Kendrick Butler, Barrett Fiser and Carl B. Wengiman.

     Ball director: Julian B. Keyes, assistant director: Joseph P. Donahue. (1)

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1) Translations by Louise Peloquin.