St. Patrick’s Day, 1891

Footprints Of Fayette

Fayette County is one of the most historic counties in Texas. In this weekly feature from the County Historical Commission, a rotating group of writers looks back at local history.

This article from the La Grange Journal, March 19, 1891, and titled “Grand Demonstration” was transcribed and contributed by Gary E. McKee.

St. Patrick’s Day was celebrated here in grand style by our Irish citizens and those in sympathy with the Irish Cause. At 10 o’clock, a.m. a procession was formed on the public square, headed by Foerster’s Brass Band of Blackjack Springs, followed by the Fayette Light Guard, under command of Captain Willrich. Following the Guard came the Irishmen, wearing green badges and carrying small Irish flags, making up a procession consisting of about one hundred persons. Captain John L. Smith, elaborately decked in green, mounted on a white charger, acted as marshal of the day, and was frequently complimented for his military bearing and the admirable manner in which he discharged his duties.

The procession marched through the principal streets of the city, finally bringing up at the public square, where they dispersed, to assemble at 8:30 p.m., at the La Grange Opera House.

At that hour, the house was densely packed with human beings, eager to hear the address of Hon. L.W. Moore. After everything became comparatively quiet, Mr. A. J. Rosenthal, who had been selected to preside, introduced Mrs. J.M. Trousdale, who sang with splendid effect, and in a charming manner, “The Wearing of the Green,” while her daughter, Miss Mamie, played the accompaniment. At the conclusion, the applause was deafening and continued un-til she reappeared and sang “Pat Malloy” which was also received with great applause.

Mr. Rosenthal then introduced Judge Moore, who delivered one of the grandest addresses of his life. Everybody seems to agree in saying that it was the best they ever heard him deliver. Foerster’s band then played “Dixie” in good style, after which the large audience dispersed, some going home, while others repaired to the ball room where in a short time dancing begun and was kept until between 3 and 4 o’clock a.m., Foerster’s Band furnishing the music.

At 11:30 p.m., supper, which had been prepared by Mr. Charles Lindert, proprietor of the Colorado Hotel, was announced and a sumptuous one it was. There was an abundance for all and some to spare.

Taken altogether, the celebration was a grand success and an honor to those who arranged it. The event will long be remembered by the citizens of La Grange as one of great pleasure.