Hickory cut loose with a celebration yesterday afternoon and last night that was worthy of the municipal building. From the time Rev. W.R. Bradshaw, pastor of the First Baptist Chruch, in a fervent prayer asked God’s richest blessings on the auditorium, its builders and the city, until the curtain was rung down after the last movie had been exhibited, there was plenty of action. There were notable incidents in the day’s program, but the public probably got the most enjoyment out of the entertainment by the Oasis Band, which, with the Oasis patrol and Good Fellows Club, came to Hickory as a mark of honor to Mayor J.D. Elliott, a member of the Oasis temple.
It ought to have been a day of happiness for Mayor Elliott, members of the council and the city auditorium; it ought to have compensated them for the days of anxious study and painstaking care they have devoted to the construction of the magnificent structure, which as speakers declared, will stand as a monument not only to them, but to the progressive citizens of this community.
The Southern’s special train in charge of General Manager R.E. Simpson and Division Passenger Agent R.H. Graham and other Southern officials, brought about 75 persons from Charlotte, including the Oasis band and patrol and the Good Fellows, a large organization of the Queen City. The train arrived at 3:12, a few minutes after the program had got underway.
Hardly any less notable than any number in the auditorium was the dinner served by the Rotary and Kiwanis clubs in Legion hall to at least 400 guests. The dinner was prepared by the Community Club, which received a hearty vote of thanks, and was all that could have been desired. Roy Abernethy, president of the Kiwanis Club, presided, and Rev. Loy D. Thompson asked the blessing. Gus Self presented speakers when necessary, but joy was not confined and home folks and gusts made the dinner a festive occasion. “The Chicago Orchestra” was a clever bit of buffoonery that too with the large company. The dinner will be discussed in more detail elsewhere.
Hickory commandery also arose to the occasion and with Secretary W.L. Boatright on the job from noon until midnight was host to the visitors. Sandwiches, cold drinks and cigars were served at all hours and a steady stream of Masons and visitors attested to the appreciation of all in the generosity of the knights.
But Hickory was wide open for the event of the day. Hickory men wore badges of “Welcome--Ask Me” and a united effort was made to show that welcome was sincere.
The afternoon crowds flocked to the auditorium, filled with large hall comfortably—crowded it in fact when the band and patrol put on their entertainment. At the night performance more than a thousand people, seeing the futility of trying to effect an entrance, either returned home or filled the picture houses to capacity. The streets too were thronged with persons and it looked like a carnival night outside. The Oasis patrol and band put on a few stunts on the streets and there was much fun outside as could be demanded. Inside the Goodfellows were making good their name and giving an entertainment that delighted those who were able to squeeze into the big auditorium.
Celebration Starts
It was shortly after 2:30 when Rev. W.R. Bradshaw asked for the divine blessing. The curtain then rose on over 200 school children, who under the direction of Mrs. Brown sang Carolina, America the Beautiful and Hickory. It was the first glimpse many in the audience had of the large stage, and it was the first time that many children had been able to stand on one platform. In front of the children sat members of council, mayors from other cities and towns and other invited guests. The children sang beautifully, their strong young voices carrying well to all parts of the building. No finer spectacle could be desired than these young children, future citizens of Hickory, lifting up their voices in song in praise of their city, state and country.
Council Presented
Having promised not to make any speech, Mayor Elliott then referred to the erection of the auditorium, the saving that had been made by the city’s doing the work itself, and declared that the people of this city were of one mind when its interests were to be advanced. He congratulated the citizens on the board of aldermen and then presented each member—E. Lyerly, manufacturer; N.W. Clark, orator of the board; Fred A. Abernethy, lover of school children; R.G. Henry, the most efficient city manager in the country; D.J. Sox, who superintended the construction of the building. All made bows amid applause. A former member of the board, J.L. Cilley, was given credit for standing by and helping to initiate the building.
Mayors Presented
Mayors of neighboring towns and cities were presented and handed keys that unlocked the heart of Hickory. The pleasure of presenting visiting mayors was given to Marshall H. Yount, a former mayor of Hickory, who did the honor in clever style. One improvement, Mr. Yount said, always means another. Hickory needs greater hotel facilities, he said, and the motto of yesterday, “Hickory Does Things,” must be changed to conform to its progressiveness.
From the lips of guests came words of whole-hearted praise of the spirit behind a city that could put up such a building. Luther F. Long of Newton, representing Mayor J. Sid Smyre, was first called upon declared that the auditorium brought to pass a long-cherished dream of the good citizens of Hickory, which he declared second to none in the state for its size, and in behalf of Newton, a sister town, he extended congratulations.
Conover Next
It was Mayor Bob Brady’s turn to say something nice and he did it in good taste. He said Conover was the closest town to Hickory, which everybody in the county feels will be a great city in the near future, and he referred with pleasure to its good citizenship and its wise leadership of which any community would be proud. Turning to Mayor Elliott, Mr. Brady declared that he admired him, and gave thanks for his courage and vision. If you find a community slacker here or a knocker, said Conover’s mayor amid applause, lasso him and drown him in the Catwaba River.
Mayor D.M. Cline of Granite Falls expressed his pride in this building in the best city in the state, declaring that in a few years a hard surface road would make Hickory a suburb of Granite Falls.
Mayor A.C. Avery of Morganton, not having intended to speak, asserted after seeing the handsome building that Hickory’s boast of doing things was no idle boast. Mayor J.O. Walker of Charlotte likewise expressed similar feelings and at this stage of the proceedings city Manager Henry presented Mayor Elliott with a mammoth key to the city. “In behalf of these little ones, who will be the citizens of tomorrow, I accept this key and will guard it in the future,” responded the mayor simply.
Special Guests
W.A. Self, in his witty style, proceeded to the introduction of the special guests of the city on this occasion, taking occasion to refer to the fact that he has been exceedingly proud of Hickory. Henry F. Elliott of Catawba, a former citizen, was first presented and Mr. Elliott responded with a bow and thanks.
R.E. Simpson, general manager of the Southern who is soon to build here, declared feelingly that he was honored in being a special guest, and declared he had come to pay tribute to a man who is really responsible for this building, whose matured judgment and public spiritedness had caused the big Charlotte delegation to come to Hickory for the occasion. Mr. Simpson declared that he was glad to return here to live in the future. He said Hickory was a good town, of good people, and he was proud of it.
A.V. Harrell, vice-president of the Southern Public Utilities Company, called upon unexpectedly, replied that he looked on Hickory as one of his home towns. It has done wonderful things, Mr. Harrell said, and he was exceedingly glad to be present.
Mr. Self then called upon Solicitor J.J. Hayes of this judicial district who paid a fine compliment to the growth of the city by contrasting the present with seven years ago, when he first visited Hickory. Yesterday afternoon he drove over town with Sheriff Mauser and was amazed at its growth. Mr. Hayes said he would like to catch the progressive spirit and take it away with him.
Judge Thos. B. Finley, who adjourned court in honor of the occasion, told of his pride in Hickory, which he expected to become one of the very finest cities in this splendid state.
S.H. Farabee of the Record introduced the representatives of newspapers present, and Editor Mebane of the Newton News-Enterprise referred with pleasure to former occasions in Hickory, one of these occasions being when the first graded school was established here; another when school tax was voted; and declared that Newton and Hickory show a spirit of co-operation for the good of the whole county. Miss Beatrice Cobb, editor of the Morganton News-Herald, made a pretty bow and said that she felt much at home here since she had taught school here and loved so many Hickory people.
Mr. E.B. Hunter, staff correspondent of the Greensboro News, was present to report the proceedings but did not care to speak.
Mr. Whitener Speaks
Jos. L. Murphy, city attorney, presented A.A. Whitener, a former mayor of Hickory, who made the principal speech of the afternoon and did himself and the occasion proud. He was at his best. When one sees this splendid edifice and miles of fine streets, Mr. Whitener said humorously one is ready to forget that the tax rate is $1.35 and he for one was glad to pay his taxes. That brought loud applause. He paid tribute to the children, to the schools, churches and preachers and handed the mayor a bouquet, the audience rising at his insistence and giving the mayor and board a vote of thanks for the municipal building.
Dr. J.H. Shuford, a major in the expeditionary forces, was presented by Thos. P. Pruitt, city recorder, who declared that this occasion would not be complete without a few words from ex-soldiers. Dr. Shuford referred to the placing of tablets in the lobby at a later date in honor of those who fell for their country, and called attention to the American Legion play here next week. Maj. Wade V. Bowman, commander of the cavalry battalion, made his bow, and Capt. Walter c. Taylor, commander of the Hickory Black Horse cavalry, told of his record, that of Major Bowman and of the organization here of battalion headquarters. The local cavalry, with a fine record, expects to make it ever better in the next year, Captain Taylor said.
Patrol and Band
The spectacular part of the afternoon program came with the Oasis patrol and band. While “Bob” Kistler’s great band played the Star Spangled Banner, the patrol, after marching around the front of the platform, raised a huge American flag. Every patrolman stood at attention during this beautiful ceremony. Following this the band rendered several martial numbers, all of which brought down the house. It was fine music by a splendid bunch of men.
Mr. Whitener at the request of Mr. Kestler told the large audience during an interlude that he was requested to make public announcement of the fact that the patrol and band came to Hickory in complement to Mayor Elliott, member of the Shrine. Mr. Elliott can be found fighting the battles of Hickory, Mr. Whitener said, and rejoiced in the honor that had been paid him. Turning to the band, Mr. Whitener handed it a bouquet by declaring that it afforded him as much pleasure as the bands presided over by Creatore, Sousa or the famous Marine Band. The audience cheered and applauded.
Another pleasing feature of the afternoon was the presentation of a gold-headed cane by the Oasis band and patrol to Mayor Elliott, the presentation being made by Mayor J.O. Walter of Charlotte. The cane had engraved on it “To Uncle Joe Elliott from Oasis Band and Patrol.” Mr. Elliott, who was touched again by this mark of love and appreciation, made his bow.
Evening Concert
The auditorium overflowed again last night when the Charlotte Good Fellows’ Club had charge of the program. The crowds packed into the aisles and doorways and a number were turned away unable to find standing room.
The program was divided into three parts—a concert by the Good Fellows’ orchestra-octet, three brief addresses by leading Charlotte men, and a concluding concert. When the curtain had rung down the last time, dancing began and continued until a late hour. The Oasis Patrol band gave continuous concerts and exercises on the streets during the evening.
Mayor Elliott introduced Claude Cochran, secretary of the Good Fellow’s Club who introduced the first speaker on the program, Rev. L.D. Thompson, who explained what the club is. This was the first trip the club had made away from home to appear in concert, and their appearance last night was one of hte best musical treats Hickory has had the privilege of hearing.
“Several years ago in Charlotte there was begun an altruistic movement known as the young men’s benevolent association, which spread out and now includes over 600 members and is known as the Good Fellows’ Club.” The speaker asserted it was hard to give a conception of what the club really was but it represents thought, an altruistic philanthropic heart beat for others. To serve and od charity with a smile.
The next speaker was Paul C. Whitlock, who explained the heat of the matter. Mr. Whitlock, as did the other speakers, expressed his appreciation of the fine hospitality of the Hickory people and was loud in his praise of the new municipal building and the men behind it who made it possible for Hickory to have the privilege of enjoying such a handsome edifice.
The organization represents an idealism, an altruistic idea, and this idea was what the club had to offer Hickory, the idea of how to serve the community best in a philanthropic way and the speaker went on to explain the workings of this great organization. The club meets once every two weeks and dues are $2 per month. One half is paid for a monthly luncheon and the other half goes to charity. The club seeks to educate its members in the duty of charity. It supports two whole time nurses, furnishes them with automobiles, gasoline, medicine and supplies. They go daily about the city administering relief and seeking others to serve. Contributions are made to tubercular cases and individual cases are locked into by a board of directors and members seek out cases needing attention. At each meeting three minutes are denoted to the telling of cases which have been found and prizes are offered for the best story. In addition to this the club makes contributions. He held u to his audience the beauty of service which is the watchword of the organization which he represented and commended it to every city.
The last speaker on the program, David C. Ovens, president of the club, was introduced by T.P. Pruitt., who praised the entertainers and welcomed them into our midst. Mr. Ovens was introduced as a prince of Goodfellow, a regular all around man.
Mr. Ovens made a decided hit with the audience with his bright sallies which punctuated his speech and he was liberally applauded. “Getting Along” was the burden of his talk, which he briefly made. His illustrations were apt and tended to emphasize the point he was making.
“The great auditorium is a monument to Mr. Elliott and when we want anything done we elect Mr. Elliott Mayor,” declared the speaker. But in erecting this structure, it was not without work but nothing is got in this world without working for it. Knowledge is a great thing but it is not power. Power is applied knowledge. We must take our rules out of copy books and sermons and put them to actual life for service of the world and he concluded his remarks with an appeal for the people to brag on the Old North State and give three cheers for her. She is the best state in the union with her climate, minerals under the earth, water powers and playgrounds in the mountains and down by the sea. Mr. Ovens was presented with a large bouquet of yellow chrysanthemums by Master Howard Whitener at the close of his speech.
The orchestra and octet appeared in a second concert and the numbers were all fully appreciated by the vast audience. The solo work by Mr. Fudger, Miss Gower and Mr. Anschutz was fine and each performer was called back for a second number. Mr. Truesdale, violinist, played Spanish Dances (No. 8) by Sarasate and his skill and technique was wonderful as was his power of expression. He was roundly applauded and encored with the “Rosary” playing in double stopping. It was beautifully executed. Dixie by the orchestra and octet brought the program to a close. Each of the four ladies belonging to the octet was given an armful of giant chrysanthemums, which they carried in their last number.
The evening was concluded with a dance in which about 100 couples participated. Dancing began at 10 o’clock and continued until 1. the chaperones were Mrs. W.B. Councill, Mrs. R.A. Grimes, Mrs. A.A. Shuford, Mrs. R.E. Martin and Mrs. F.A. Henderson. The committee in charge of the dancing were Messrs. R.E. Martin, O.H. Hester, A.C. Henderson, W.H. Barkley, Geo. Bailey and H.C. Lutz.
Taking a part in the program was the Hickory Concert Band, which took up the pleasant task of entertaining the crowd at the conclusion of the concert by the Oasis band. The Hickory musicians occupied the orchestra pit and played while pictures of Hickory were being shown.
Former mayors of Hickory, who had been charged with entertaining visiting mayors, came up to their parts. Besides Marshall Yount and A.A. Whitener, who spoke, Jones W. Shuford and Shuford L. Whitener, ex-mayors, lent a willing hand.
From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Nov. 4, 1921. The name of the club was spelled various ways in the newspaper article—Goodfellows, Good Fellow’s, Good Fellows’, Good Fellows. I don’t know which is correct.
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