liiiiiiSiiiiiw * •'^^. --v^w^:° .■«■■ -^^ ^f ?y"r V** .•kSfe-. %.<,^* .-ate- \.,** .•>^^*- "*- '* 0^ 6 • • • . '*b A* • " • . '^^ ^6 ^oy ^-'^y \ ••"/."-•'-."•' .<<"^ 'W^'. %. o V .■« o^'^iia-- ^„^v ^/m^^\ -f^rH o'^^ms'- <»bv^ --^sm^^r > 'bV" V . • 1 *^- '<^.^ J.0* . .l^'» '^^ *^ //.i^^'.V >°/i^^'>- _,^''\^;.:^^\ /.i^^'>o * -.0 'bv • *»! 'oV- ♦ «o T« A '^^ .>* »*«S1^'- U ^^ »*^ .-ICJ .»♦<*< ."I" l»i .1 ^ /|-]FtlM'i^4t'iI^-with:-thE. CDmpliments ol-.tie SommitteE in charge oi the Calilornia pilgrimage ol Boston Commandery, ][. T, ^/?^J?^xry^/ r< T II E A ^;&-rrwv^Ob'>v(MA-M ■ CALIFORNIA PILGRIMAGE BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS, August 4 -September 4, 1883. By Sir the Rev. OLIVER AVER ROBERTS, Prelate of thk PiLr-RiMAGE. PUBLISHED BY THE COMMITTEE IN CHARGE OF THE PILGRIMAGE. BOSTON: ALFRED MUDGE & SON, PRINTERS. 1884. RESPECTFULLY ^^ %(?HTs m ^^' WHO CONSTITUTED THE CALIFORNIA PILGRIMAGE!^ OP IN MEMORY OF H journtg faitbout an accitrtnt, ^ pUaautc taitbout a sorrob, gi Iriumiib fDitbout a btftaf sS-^ 0^ COMt^^^ KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. ^ OffidG 6f i^Q Red6fetef , 734 Main Street, Cambridge, Sept. 21, 1883. Rev. Oliver Ayer Roberts : My dear Sir Knight, — It is with pleasure that I officially inform you that the committee on the California pilgrimage, recognizing your courtesy and ability, at their meeting held Tuesday, the i8th inst.. Voted, That Sir the Rev. Oliver Ayer Roberts be invited to edit a liistory of tlie pilgrimage of Boston Commandery, the same to be published in book form. Courteously yours, Sec. of Com. Salisbury, Mass., Sept. 22, 1883. Z. H. Thomas, Esq., Secretary of Committee: My dear Brother and Sir Knight, — Yours of yesterday, informing me of the invi- tation of the committee on the California pilgrimage to edit a history of the pilgrimage of Boston Commandery Knights Templars, the same to be published in book form, is received. Please convey to the committee my appreciation of the honor of the invi- tation, and that I accept the duty of editing. At the earliest possible moment I will place the manuscript of the story from the Atlantic to the Pacific and return in tiie hands of the committee for their examination. With knightly regard, I am yours truly, OLIVER A. ROBERTS, Prelate of the California Pilgrimage of Boston Commandery. SIGN 01 PREFACE. " Attempt the end, and never stand to doubt ; Nothing 's so hard but search will find it out." Unaware, until subsequent to the return of the "pilgrims" to Boston, Sept. 4, 1883, that a compilation of the history of the pilgrimage would devolve upon me, I was unprepared for an immediate discharge of the duty with which the committee in charge of the California pilgrimage honored me. The work, however, was cheerfully undertaken. A vigorous gleaning from sources public and private has resulted in this volume, which, it is hoped, will prove a fitting memorial of an unprecedented pilgrimage. No thought or expense has been omitted that a volume cordially accept- able to the pilgrims might be produced. The correspondence of " Ayer," published in the Boston yoiinial, was utilized as a beginning, from which this history has resulted. The search for the published experiences of different members of the party has been patient and diligent, and such correspondence has been freely woven into the story of the pilgrimage. The author would acknowledge his obligations to Geo. A. Crofutts, Esq., for aid received from his excellent overland guide in regard to distances, elevations, etc. ; to Sir Charles E. Pierce, Captain General of St. Omer Commandery, for valued favors ; to Messrs. Cummings^ viii ruEFACE. Bean, Manning, Stephenson, and Dennis, general passenger agents of the railroads over which the pilgrimage was made, for kindnesses received, especially in [irocuring illustrations desired ; to the San Francisco Cliroiiicle, Bulletin, and Call, for copies of public addresses delivered during the Conclave, and for extracts, most of which are acknowledged in the body of the work ; to Sir Tristani Burges, Grand Senior Warden of the Grand Commandery Knights Templars of California, for valuable assistance ; and to W. VV. Clapp, Elsq., of the Boston ycuinal, for permission to utilize its correspondence relating to the pilgrimage. The author has attempted only a compilation of the prominent facts connected with the pilgrimage, with such comments and explanations as seemed proper, and he hopes that the result of his labors will meet the approbation of the pilgrims. Fraternally, OLIVKR AYKR ROBERTS, Prelate of the California I'ilgriinage of Ilos/oii Commandery. Jui.v 4, 1884. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. Introduction PAGE I CHAPTER II. Suggestion of a Pilgrimage. Ai'I'OINTment of Committees. Report of Committee. Pilgrimage decided upon. Grand Templar Ball. Itinerary CHAPTER III. Preliminary Order. Preparation for Departure. Commandery of Knights Templars opened. Reception of Grand Master. Collation. March TO Depot. Ladies received. Roster of the Commandery for the Pilgrimage 39 CHAPTER IV. Departure from Boston. Night Ride through Vermont. Montreal and Fredericksburg, Canada. Port Huron, Battle Creek, Mich. Thorn- ton, Ind. Chicago and Quincy, III. Kansas City, Mo 53 X CONTENTS. CHAI'TKK V. Dkpakture from Kansas City. Lawkknck, Toi'Eka, and Kinsley, Kansas. Colorado. La Junta. Raton Pass. Dick Wootton. .\i:w Mexico. Raton. Las Vegas Hot Springs. A Day's Tarry. Roster of the Pilgrims iiy Cars 65 CHAPTER VL Las Vegas. Starvation Peak. Gloriktta Pass. Rio Pkcos. Santa Fi5. "The Tertio." Extracts from the "New iMexicana." Wallace. In- dian Dances. Eagle. Rincon. (ioou hy 91 CHAPTER VIL Deming. Rowie. Tucson. Great American Desert. Yuma. Southern California. Colton. Los Angeles. Reception', Visit, and Departure. Extracts from Los Angeles Papers. Merced. Oakland. .Vuuival at San Francisco. Reception. Palace Hotel. Dismissal . . . . 109 CHAPTER VHL California's Greeting. 1'alace Hotel. Headquarters and theik Decora- tions. Welcome of Grand Master. Serenades 133 CHAPTER IX. Grand Conclave Ball. Description of the Pavilion. Sir Sol Smith Rus- sell AT Bush Street Theatre. Chinatown. Chinese Theatre, etc. . 146 CHAPTER .\. Triennial Committee. Ladies' Triennial Union. Decorations. Masonic Temi'le. Arches. Hospitalities 164 CONTENTS. xi CHAPTER XI. 1'i«0(;ramme for Conclave Week. Sunday Services at the Pavilion. Sermon of V. E. Sir the Rev. Clinton Locke, D. D., Grand Prelate. 173 CHAPTER XII. Grand Parade. Tenth Division. Streets and the Procession. Grand Master's Reception at the Pavilion. Addresses. Conclusion . . 194 CHAPTER XIII. Boston Commanderv escorts the Grand Master to Masonic Temple. Open- ing OF the Conclave. Extracts from Address of Grand Master. Election of Officers. Order of Thanks 221 CHAPTER XIV. Excursions: Napa Valley, Menlo Park, Harbor, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, etc. Grand Banquet. Breakfast given hy Marysville Commandery. Grand Reception given by Boston Commandery 22S CHAPTER XV. Laying Corner-Stone of Garfield Monument. Pageant. Competitive Drill, and awarding Prizes. Farewell Address to the Templars. Preparations of Boston Commandery for leaving. Its Final Visit. Departure from San Francisco 261 CHAPTER XVI. Homeward. Crossing the Mountains. Cape Horn Snow-Sheds. Donner Lake. Truckee. Reno. Nevada Desert. Ogden. Salt Lake City . 275 CHAPTER XVII. Salt Lake City. Sight-Seeing. Impressions. Visit to Garfield. BATHiNfi. Extracts from Newspapers of Salt Lake City 291 xii CONTENTS. CIIAI'TKR Win. DepakiukI'; ikom ()(;i)i;.n. (;ki;i;n Ri\i;k. Rawxinos. Lakamii:. Siikk.man. NOKTH PlATTU. GuANI) IsLANI) AM) COUNCIL ISLUI-I-S. liLRLIXiJTON. Chicago. Battlk Cukek. I'ori IIuuon. Toronto and Montreal . 305 CHAl'TER .\I.\". Sunday-Evening Service at Windsok Hiukl, Montkeai.. .Sekmon r,v Rev. Oliver Aver Roi-.ert.s 323 CHAl'TER \X. Montreal. Extkact.s i-kom Montreal Tai'Ers. Laciiinp; Kai"id.s. Depart- ure. Keene. Arrival in IJoston. Reception. Ui; Moi.w Commanderv. Banquet. Addresses. Conclave closed 336 CHAPTER XXI. The Oi-itcers of the Pilgkima(;e, their Duties and Efficiencv . . . 351 CHAPTER XXII. Conclave of Boston Commanderv, .Sept. 12, 1S83. Corkkspondeni e and Tes- timonials 357 CHAPTER XXI II. Reception at the Vendome. Addresses, Presentations, etc. . 377 ILLUSTRATIONS. rAc.E 1. POKTRAIT OF SiR JOHN L. STEVENSON, P.-. E.-. COMMANDER . FrptltispicCC. 2. Windsor Hotel, Montreal 55 3. Map of the Chicago, Burlington and Ouincy Railroad .... 61 4. Map of the Atchison, Toi-kka and Santa Fe Railroad .... 64 S- Dogs on Guard 65 6. Topeka, Kansas 66 7. A Frontier Town 68 8. Arkansas Valley. — Hutchinson in the Distance 70 9. The New Settlement 72 10. Wealth on Foot 73 11. Stampede 74 12. DOGTOWN 75 13. The Old Way 76 14. Dick Wootton at Home 77 15. Raton Tunnel 78 16. Raton Mountains 80 17. Montezuma Hotel, Las Vegas Hot .Springs, N. M 82 iS. Starvation Peak 91 19. Seal of New Mexico 92 20. Santa F£, from rear of Palace Hotel 54 21. San Miguel Church and College 96 22. The Plaza, Santa Fii 98 XIV ILL USTKA TIONS. 23. The Palacf., Santa Vt . 24. The Pkiest of Santa Fi'; 25. Shii" of the Desekt at Anchor 26. Primitive AfiRicuLTURE 27. Tucson, Arizona 28. Indigenous to the Soil 29. Indian Oven 30. Adobe Fireplace 31. Los Angeles, Cal. 32. An Avenue at Los Angeles . 33. Bird's-eye View of the Loop . 34. Crossing the Loop 35. Old Jesuit Church, California 36. Palace Hotel, San Francisco, Cal 37. Cable Road and Cars 38. Arch of Welcome, San Francisco 39. Portrait of Past Grand Master Dean 40. Cliff House and Seal Rocks 41. Seal Rocks, from the Hotel 42. Map of the Central Pacific and I'niox 43. Looking up at Cape Horn 44. American River Canon 45. Mountain Summits 46. Snow-Sheds . 47. Interior of Snow-Shed 48. Truckee River . 49. Palisades of the Humboldt River 50. Ogden, Utah 51. Salt Lake City . 52. Tabernacle and River Jordan 53. Young's late Residence, Salt Lake City 54. Devil's Slide, Weiier Canon, Utah Railroads ILL USTRA TIONS. XV PAGE 55. Green River City and Castle Rocks 306 56. Pulpit Rock, Echo Canon, Utah 308 57. Finger Rock, Weber Canon, Utah 309 58. Hanging Rock, Echo Canon, Utah 310 59. A DuG-OuT 3" 60. Approaching Council Bluffs, Iowa 312 61. Missouri River Bridge, Omaha 313 62. View near Stanton, Iowa 314 63. View near Chillicothe, Iowa 315 64. View near Ottumwa, Iowa 316 65. Pulpit Rock 318 66. Devil's Slide, from Union Pacific Railroad 320 67. The charging Bison 338 68. Victoria Bridge, Montreal 340 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. California Pilgrimage, 1883. CHAPTER I, Pilgrimages are of ancient origin and of almost universal adoption. The first Christian pilgrims of note were Constantine the Great and his mother, Helena. When the latter was seventy- nine years old, A. D. 326, they journeyed from Rome to Jerusalem, and on the authenticated sites of the nativity and crucifixion caused splendid churches to be erected, parts of which still remain. It was an easy and natural transition, when these world-thrilling events became localized, for Christian converts who had been Jews, and had made Jewish pilgrimages to the Temple yearly, or who had been pagans and had made pagan pilgrimages to Olympus, Delos, Delphi, etc., having given up their sacred spots, to revere and visit those places made sacred by the life and death of Jesus the Christ. Thus Christian pilgrimages began, and among the first was that occasioned by the dedication of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, when an immense concourse of people, including ecclesiastics of every grade, assembled in Jerusalem from all parts of the Christian world. To Christians all Palestine became sacred soil ; pilgrimages 2 BOSTON COMMANDER y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. and pilgrims multiplied. For centuries they increased in frequency and numbers, until the swelling tide became a flood, and vehement devotion gave way to general superstition. A temporary halt of the swarming multitudes was made when Jerusalem was captured by the Persians in A. I). 6i i. Peace having been effected by the pilgrims with the Persians, and subsequently on severe terms with Caliph Omar, the jjilgrim tide began again to flow. Three centuries of cruelty and kindness, alternately exercised by the Mohammedan caliphs, followed, when (A. I). 1076) the Seljukian Turks conquered Palestine and maintained a violent per- secution against the Christian pilgrims. Peter the Hermit was one of the unfortunate pilgrims. The sufferings which he saw and experienced so burned within him that, returning to Europe, he fired it with the spirit of the First Crusade. The Seljukian invaders assigned Christian churches to profanation, Christian youths and maidens to shameful slavery, and ninety thousand Christians to slaughter. Lawful toll on pilgrims became highway robbery, and insults were heaped alike on priests and people. The pilgrims still went forth by thousands and returned by tens, the multitudes having been reduced by the wanton cruelties of barbaric "infidels." Nine Crusades were organized from A. I). 1096 to A. D. 1291. The Crusaders wended their toilsome way to the disputed field, alternately met victory and despair until A. D. 1291, when the period closed with the loss of Acre, the death of the Master of the Templars, and the reddening of the sea with the blood of the Crusaders. Christian pilgrimages, unwarlike in character, have again risen, and annually thousands of pilgrims from all parts of the world gather on Easter day in the holy places of Palestine — notably the Church of the Holy Se]iulchre — and descend to the swift FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 3 Jordan for baptism. Christian pilgrims penetrate Egypt seeking a Christian shrine. Multitudes visit Rome,, with its St. Peter's and Tombs of the Apostles ; others Loreto, the site of Mary's house. The -churches at Treves, Cologne, Prague, Compostela, and scores of others have been considered sacred places whither repeated pil- grimages have been made. England, Scotland, and Ireland have their pilgrim shrines; so has America, — one south near Mexico, one north near Quebec. Mohammedans yearly make pilgrimages to Mecca and Medina, and in Hindostan, pilgrims resort to Juggernaut and Benares. The almond-eyed pilgrims visit Isje, and the Japanese Buddhists have as their Sinai the volcano of Fusiyama, near Yeddo. That these pilgrimages are founded on superstition and maintained through ignorance is probably true. The "Black-Stone" of Mecca, or the Rock of the Noble Sanctuary in Jerusalem, is not more sacred than the cliffs of the Golden Gate ; " Santa Casa," the sacred house, than the Palace Hotel ; Benares or Rome than San Francisco. " Righteousness is not in the East nor mercy in the West." The end sought by Mohammedan, Buddhist, Japanese, or Christian pilgrims may as readily be reached and enjoyed at their own hearth-stones as in circling the Caaba, climbing Sinai, visiting Isje, or grasping heaven's fire in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre from the hand of the Greek patriarch. The early Christian pilgrims set out on their perilous pilgrimage after religious solemnities had been observed. Each pilgrim was presented with a scrip and staff and with a coarse woollen gown which bore the sign of the cross. He took with him neither money nor arms. His passport from his sovereign and letter from his bishop were his vouchers as a Christian pilgrim, and they' obtained for him hospitality and protection. There were dangers on the way, however, especially when traversing Turkish dominions. Hospitals 4 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. and monasteries were erected, where the wayfarers found comfort and safety, and a guard of poor Fellow-soldiers of Jesus Christ patrolled between Jojjpa and Jerusalem, also between Jerusalem and the Jordan. When the arm of power was lifted by the Turks against these defenceless pilgrims, military organizations sprang into existence which were for centuries the right arm of the Church. Chiefest of these was the brotherhood of Knights Templars. Originally it was composed of nine distinguished knights, "who bound themselves by a solemn compact to protect pious pilgrims exposed to plunder and death, to aid one another in clearing the highways of infidels and robbers, and to guard the pilgrims through the passes and defiles of the mountains to the Holy City." Subsequently they added to their jirofession that of defending Jerusalem and the Eastern Church against the infidels. The order was speedily es- tablished in Europe. A dress was jjrescribed for it by St. Bernard. Pope Eugenius, some years after, added a red cross as a symbol of martyrdom. Knights journeyed from Europe and took the ])laces of those fallen in the strife, or were added to the valiant brotherhood. The fearlessness, persistence, and valor of the (^rcler, as displayed in the field, are beyond question. For nearly two centuries the conflict was waged. The Crusades, begun for the protection of poor and weary pilgrims travelling from afar, who desired to offer up their devotions at the shrine of their departed Lord, developed into a Holy War, whose aim was the rescue of the Holy .Sepulchre from the hands of infidels. The war was sanctified by the Church, and the knights were initiated by rites which the Church made sacred. Wjth a zeal, sacrifice, and valor which have been the admiration of the world, the unequal contest was carried on. The Knights Templars, driven from city FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 5 to city, and, finally, from Palestine, settled on the island of Cyprus, which the Order purchased for thirty-five thousand marks. For one hundred and eighty years afterwards they continued to increase in power, fame, and wealth. In the early part of the fourteenth century Philip the Fair, an avaricious, vindictive prince, through his hatred, avarice, and jealousy, concerted with Pope Clement V. to destroy the Order and appropriate their wealth. Therefore Jacques de Molay, Grand Master, was summoned from Cyprus to Paris to consult on important matters. On arrival, he was immediately imprisoned, and soon after every Knight Templar in France was by the king's orders arrested on the charge of idolatry. " False witness, tortures, hunger, thirst, darkness, filth, and disease in sunless duna:eons, were all used ... to subdue the warriors who on the field never quailed." In 1310 fifty-four of the knights were, after a mock trial, publicly burnt, and in 13 14 De Molay and the three principal officers of the Order suffered the same fate. The Order was suppressed, but its pilgrimage was not ended. It was not annihilated. In anticipation of his fate, De Molay appointed his successor, and from that time (A. D. 131 3-14) to the present there has been a regular and uninterrupted succession of Grand Masters. The Encampment of Baldwin was established at Ih-istol, England, by the Templars who returned with Richard I. from Palestine, and it still continues to hold its regular meetings. One Encampment at Bath, and another at York, with Baldwin Encampment, constitute the three original Encampments of England. From these have emanated the existing Commanderies in the United States, which thus directly stand related to the Knights Templars of the Crusades. The Order of Knights Templars in the United States, as throughout the world, retains much of its ancient character. It 6 BOSTON COMMANDER y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. has also changed in its character as our form of government and this peaceful era have demanded. It still profess'es "to protect the defenceless, feed the Iiungry, clotlie the naked, bind up the wounds of the afflicted," to be loyal to their country, and to defend the Christian faith. It cultivates charity, social brotherhood, and hds- pitality. Its mission is peace and good-will among all men. The pilgrimages of modern Knights Templars result from this .social and brotherly sentiment. More or fewer Commanderics in the country celebrate every return of St. John's Day (June 24) by pilgrimages to neighboring fratrcs, and some have extended their trips into different States or made a pilgrimage across the ocean to greet the Knights of Baldwin and York. Boston Commandery has in recent years made pilgrimages to Philadelphia, New York City, thence home by Hudson River and Hoosac Tunnel, Isles of Shoals, White Mountains, N. \\.\ but its most extended pilgrimage, and the most successful of the times, was that of which this book pretends to give but little more than the outline. It was undertaken to escort Sir Bcvijamin Dean, Grand Master, to San Francisco, to attend the Twenty-second Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment, Knights Templars of the United States, and to bear the banner of the oldest Commandery in this country from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and to bring it back untarnished and honored. It was undertaken for pleasure, profit, and fellowship, — the ])leasure of seeing our vast domain, its plains, rivers, and mountains, of realizing its diversity of climate and productions, and of beholding what the hand of man hath wrought in a century. It was undertaken for profit in new vigor of the body, new food for the mind, and new and enlarged fellowship. It was undertaken to evince the loyalty of Boston Commandery to the Order, and its cordial brotherhood towards all FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIEIC. 7 the fratrcs wlierever scattered tliroughout the Union. It was begun, carried forward, and completed with a spirit of permissible pride that Boston Commandery might accomplish this unprecedented pilgrimage, bringing no reproach upon her banner, upon the Order, nor upon the city w^hose name it bears, but winning the respect of the brotherhood, and the good opinion of the people. It is not too much to say that all this was done ; the true ends of the pilgrimage were successfully attained, and the fondest expec- tations more than realized. ■iilliiitlli::.,. (> ..r^, ^r ^^ -^^ CHAPTER II. For some years prior to 1880, there was a desire on the part of many members of Boston Commanclery that the body should make an extended pilgrimage. Both place and time were not generally considered of such moment as the pilgrimage itself. In the fall of 1877, a number of Sir Knights belonging to Boston Commandery were conversing in regard thereto, when Sir Abijah Thompson, observing the unanimity of the party " to go some- where," asked, "Well, where shall we go .^ '" Sir Knight John L. Stevenson, with his usual decision and directness, replied, " To San Francisco, California. Let us make a pilgrimage that will be a credit to the Commandery and worthy of being called a pilgrimage." On his return from the Conclave held at Chicago, 1880, his mind was made up that Boston Commandery ought to be present in San I'rancisco, at the Conclave of 1S83. The above, so far as is now known, was the first suggestion of the grand pilgrimage of Boston Commandery in August, 1883. The suggestion was developed by proper action at the beginning of 1881. At the regular Conclave of Boston Commandery, held Wednesday, Jan. ig, iSSi, Sir John L. Stevenson, Generalissimo, offered the followiiiLT motion: — FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. g That a committee of five be appointed to report, at the next regular Conclave, a plan to create a sinking fund for the purpose of defraying the expenses in part or entirely of such Sir Knights as may subscribe thereto, and are desirous of visiting San Francisco, Cal, in August, 1883, on the occasion of the Twenty-second Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encamp- ment of the United States. The motion was unanimously passed, and the Sovereign Master appointed as the committee, Sir John L. Stevenson, Eminent Sir Samuel C. Lawrence, Sir Albert T. Whiting, Sir Albert A. Folsom, and Sir Charles J. Hayden. Feb. 24, 18S1, the committee met at Masonic Temple and organized. Sir John L. Stevenson was elected chairman, Sir Samuel C. Lawrence treasurer, and Sir Z. H. Thomas secretary. The subject of a pilgrimage to San Francisco having been thoroughly considered by the committee, in order to give. direction to its efforts, the following paper was prepared, unanimously adopted, and issued for general information : — Knights Templars. -^-^"^^i^^^i^T^^- The committee charged with the duty of organizing an excursion of Sir Knights of this Commandery, with such other Sir Knights as may desire to join them, to visit San Francisco, Cal, on the occasion of the Twenty-second Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templars of the lO BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. United Stales, whieh oecurs on the third Tuesilay in August, i8iS3, have adopted the following rules, and now solicit your subscription thereto: — RULES. SUBSCRIPTIONS. Subscriptions will be received from Sir Knights in sums of five dollars, or more, payable monthly (or any multiple of the sum subscribed may be paid in advance, if preferred), and the total amount of each individual subscription shall be a[)plied toward defraying the expenses of the subscriber on the pilgrimage. DEPOSITS. Deposits may be withdrawn prior to June i, 1883, less ten per cent for general expenses, by giving thirty days' notice thereof. After that date no moneys can be withdrawn without the unanimous consent of the committee. In case of the death of a subscriber, however, the sum paid in shall be refunded to the legal representative of the subscribing Sir Knight on demand and without any abatement. SIR KNIGHTS NOT MEMRERS. Sir Knights not members of Boston Commandery, desirous of partici- pating in the jiilgrimage, can do so by presenting their names to the com- mittee, and if accepted, by subscribing to the fund, and conforming to the rules and regulations governing the excursion. Sir Knights : An excursion of the magnitude projected requires time to perfect the details, money to pay the expenses, and numbers commensurate with the dignity of the occasion. Many Sir Knights will require nearly all the time now intervening to arrange for an absence of thirty or forty days from their business and prbfessional engagements at the time specified ; hence it is not premature to take the preliminary steps in this matter, and it is very desirable that the Knights should at once decide whether they will subscribe to the roll of pilgrims and thus give an impetus to the excursion which will insure its undoubted success. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PAC/E/C. I i The method adopted of paying money monthly toward defraying the expenses of an excursion is one that has been tried many times by Com- manderies in other jurisdictions with success, and several Commanderies have already resorted to the same plan in furtherance of their contemplated trip to San Francisco. While it is an undoubted fact that the greater number of our members could at any time pay the sum necessary for the trip without inconvenience, yet upon the whole it is believed that an advantage will be gained by monthly payments, for thereby a greater interest will be created and maintained in the proposed trip, and under this method some Knights will find it more easily practicable to provide means for themselves and their wives to participate in a grand excursion which it is expected will prove one of the most interesting and enjoyable ever made by a Com- mandery of Knights Templars. The rapidly increasing facilities for travelling great distances with speed, comfort, and safety fully warrant us in assuming that any number which may participate in this trip can be well accommodated on the road, and the palatial hotels of San Francisco will provide every comfort and con- venience enjoyed at home. Then let the banner of old Boston Commandery be borne from the Atlantic to the Pacific, supported by such a retinue of Knights in black regalia as shall win applause from our sister Commanderies, reflect honor upon the Order, and command respect wherever it appears. If you intend to participate, let us urge you to sign the roll without DELAY, as by so doing you will encourage others to do likewise, and mate- rially lessen the labors of the committee. The cost of the excursion can only be estimated at present, for many changes in fares and hotel rates are liable to occur within two years ; but an approximate estimate based upon information obtained by the committee is from two hundred and fifty to three hundred dollars, including all necessary expenses. It is desirable that the Commandery should not be limited to the shortest possible time in which the visit to San Francisco can be accomplished, but that arrangements should be made whereby courtesies en route may be received, and points of interest away from the direct line of travel be visited. Sir Knights, we have here given you an outline of the plans. As time 12 BOSTON COMMANDEKY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. passes wc shall have other informatiijn to communicate, and sui;^cstions to make in regard to matters in which we may require your support and assistance, — all looking toward the successful accomplishment of the pil- grimage at the minimum of expense and with the maximum of enjoyment. Subscriptions can be paid to either of the committee or the recorder, who as secretary of the committee will give a receipt for all moneys ])aid in, and promptly turn the same over to the treasurer for investment and safe keeping. Courteously yours, JOHN L. STEVENSON, Chairman, 2 and 4 Eaneuil Hall Square. SAMUEL C. LAWRENCE, Treasukkk, 127 Broad Street. ALBERT A. EOLSOM, Providence R. R. Depot. ALBERT T. WHITING, 35 Devonshire Street. CHARLES J. HAYDKN, 39 Court Street. Committee. Recorder.^ and Secretary of the Committee. At the regular Conclave of Bo.ston Commaiidcry, held at its asylum, Wednesday evening, Nov. 15, 18S2, tlie -Sovereign Master, chairman of the committee on California ])ilgriniage, reported the progress that had been made by the committee since its organ- ization in February, iSSi. The rules adopted by the committee, Feb. 24, 1881, were read by him, and he continued his report, saying, " More than thirty Sir Kniiihts have sub.scribed to these rules or articles, and if the nil- FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 1 3 grimage is positively decided upon, there are others vvlio are ready to subscribe. The estimated cost of the trip, including railroad fare, hotel bills, transfers, etc., is three hundred dollars, and when the distance, accommodations, and the plan of the pilgrimage are considered, it must be thought a very low price. The committee has reviewed this subject of a pilgrimage to California in every phase possible, and unanimously concludes it is not only feasible, but desirable. It is their opinion that as the time for departure draws nigh, the requisite number will be obtained, and that the pilgrimage will not only be beneficial to those Sir Knights who participate, but also beneficial to the Commandery as a body of Knights Templars." The report was accepted, and, On motion of Sir John H. North, it was Voted, That the report be accepted, and that Boston Commandery visit San Francisco, Cal., at the time fixed for holding the Twenty-second Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templars of the United States, which is Aug 21, 1883, and that the committee appointed at the February Conclave in 1881, to organize an excursion to San Francisco, be con- stituted a committee of arrangements for the pilgrimage, with the same powers as then delegated them by the Commandery, no part of the expense of said pilgrimage to be drawn from the treasury, excepting by special vote of the Commandery to that effect. At the same Conclave, on motion of Sir Thomas F. Temple, it was Voted, That the Council and seven other Sir Knights, to be appointed by the Eminent Commander, be a committee to devise "ways and means" to provide a fund to be applied towards defraying the expenses of the California pilgrimage in August, 1883, and that said committee be authorized to take such action as they may deem advisable in the name of the Commandery, excepting that no money shall be drawn from the treasury on their account. 14 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. The commiltcc, consisting of tiic Council and seven otlier Sir Knights, "to devise ways and means," authorized by the motion offered by Sir Thomas F. Temple, was announced by the Sovereign Master to be as follows: — Em.-. Siu JuiiN L. Stevenson, Sir Edwin Wright, \- Coinicil. Sir Eugene H. Ru hards, ) Sir Thoma.s F. Temple. Sir William P. 'J'vler. Sir Daniel W. Lawrence. Sir James P. Phinnev. Sir Edward T. Nichols. Sir Jonas G. Shillabkk. Sir Albert A. Folsom. The first meeting of the committee was held at Masonic Temple, Thursday evening, Nov. 23, 1882. Eminent Sir John L. Stevenson was chairman, and Sir Albert A. Folsom was elected treasurer, and Sir Z. H. Thomas secretary of the committee. After a general consultation as to the best way to devise means for the purposes of the pilgrimage, the committee adjourned to Nov. 27, when the chairman recommended giving a Knight Templar ball on a scale of magnificence hitherto unattempted in New England, and the following motion was passed : — J^oted, That the Einhicnt Commander be authorized to engage the Charitable Mechanic Building for the purpose of a grand Templar ball, to be given by Boston Commandery, Feb. 22, 1883, to establish a fund towards defraying the expenses of the California pilgrimage in August, 1883. This motion was subsequently changed on account of the fire- men's ball, Feb. 21, in the Mechanic Building, and the 31st of January was substituted for the 2 2d of Februar}^ Frequent meet- ins:s of this committee wire held durintr the months of December and January. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 15 The following prospectus and announcement of Sir Ivnight managers was issued by the committee: — •!|-GRAND'i'RECEPTION*AND«i«BALL-l!- -^!- IN i-^ MaMaa?iaiiet11i^ (Bfta7lta6Pe Meefiariic Siiuifcjlng, HUNTINGTON AVENUE, ■^7^ed.rLesd.a-3r ETrening-, Ta-n- 31, 1883. All Knights Templars will be cordially welcomed to a full participation in this grand social event, to which the entire Masonic P'raternity are invited. The entire building, having been engaged, on this occasion will be brilliantly lighted with electric lights, and appropriately decorated. The immense space at our disposal will enable us to provide properly for the comfort and convenience of all who may honor us with their presence. The Most Eminent Grand Master of the United States, and all the Right Eminent Grand Commanders of New England have permitted the use of their names in aid of this grand gathering of Knights Templars, and the Masonic Fraternity, on a scale of magnificence hitherto unequalled. Gen. Samuel C. Lawrence, Past Eminent Commander of Boston Com- mandery, and the present Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts, will be Earl Marshal at the reception. Sir Knight the Hon. James A. Fox, Mayor of Cambridge, is chairman of the reception committee. Several Commanderies will attend in a body, with banners and jewels. ,6 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMTLARS. Nothing will be left undone by the management to make this reception and ball the event of the season, not only in Masonic circles, but, as a society affair, the equal of any ever given in this city. Invitations to attend the reception and ball have been extended to His Excellency the Governor of Massachusetts and his staff, the President of the Massachusetts Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, His Honor the Mayor of Boston, and other distinguished civilians. The music will be furnished by Carter's Orchestra of fifty pieces, T. M. Carter, conductor, and Baldwin's Boston Cadet Band of forty pieces, J. Thomas Baldwin, conductor. At eight o'clock concert music will be given by the consolidated bands, ninety pieces. At half past eight Boston Commandery will enter the hall in full regalia, and there receive visiting Commanderies and distinguished guests. At ten o'clock the grand march of Knights Templars with their ladies will begin. No one not in full regalia will partici- pate in this march. At the conclusion of the march dancing will commence, in which all may join. Jewels of the several Masonic degrees will be worn. First-class catering. Price, one dollar per plate. Tickets, admitting a gentleman and ladies, five dollars. This ticket provides the usual ball-room accommodations free. Reserved seats in the balcony can be obtained by those holding ball tickets, at White, Smith & Co.'s, 516 Washington Street, as follows: First and second rows, $2 each; the remainder, $1 each. Ball tickets may be obtained of either of the board of managers, who will cheer- fully furnish any information desired. EXECUTIVE. Eminf.nt .Sii: JOHN L. STKVKNSON, Chaiiman. SiK F.nWIN WRICHT. .Su; JONA.S C. SIIIIJ.AI'.KR. " KUOliiNK II. KICII.\Rn.S. " JAMKS V. I'lllNNEV. •• TIIUMA.S V. TEMPI,!;. " WII.IIA.M 1'. TYLER. " DANIEL W. LAWRENCE. " ALI!I;RT A. EOLSOM, Tnnsiirn: " EDWARD I'. MCIKH.S. " Z. II. TIIOMA.S, /vVro/v/.?-, Sccrclory of l/ii luiiid of Miinai^ers FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. n sir jAMiis M. Gleason. " John H. North. " Fred. T. Comee. " Eugene A. Holton. " Edward Coggins. " Charle's J. Hayden. " Ale.x. K. Bryer. " Charles O. Burrill. " Otis Eddy. " Charles D. White. " Benjamin M. Wedger. " JosiAH T. Dyer. " John B. Rhodes. " .\lbert L. Richardson. " Henry' N. S.awver. " John G. Stewart, Jr. " William C. Ulman. " Fred S. Risteen. " Charles E. Phipps. " Oscar A. Jones. Sir James A. Fox, " William A. Bunton, " E. Burt Phillips, " Edgar F. Hunt, " George W. Bunton, " Horace P. Blackman, " Benjamin Howe, ", Leonard M. Averell, " Joseph Willi.\ms, " William H. Dow, " J. Charles Smith, " Peter Lane, " Francis H. Johnson, " John "J. Cilley', " Emery D. Leighton, " Charles H. Day', " Charles B. Fessenden, " George W. Storer, " A. Bartlett Hill, " George R. Hooper, GENERAL. BOSTON. Sir Edward C. Neal. " Charles W. Parker. " Thomas J. Oly's. " Isaac Harris. " Thomas Merrill. " George A. Gillette. " Benjamin S. Eastwood. " Lyman R. Mace. " J. George Cooper. " John Blackie. " Charles H. Barnes. " Richard A. Atwood. " Chauncev Coon. " John H. Lakin. " Lyman S. Hapgood. . " William H. St.\cy. " Charles A. F.mrb.'^nks. " Ira Herbert Odell. " Wm. H. LaPointe. " Samuel I. Co\'. Sir Henry W. Mansur. " August P. Lighthill. " Luther Adams. " John F. Ham. " J. Harrison Ashton. " John C. Chapman. " Sidney M. Hedges. " J. Alba Davis. " Martin A. Munroe. " Fred. Alford. " Henry Arnett. " George W. Blish. " John D. Gale. " Otis S. Neale. " George E. Hall. " Daniel Gregory'. " Harry W. Cumner. " Walter W. Boyden. " Henry G. Fay. " J. Arthur Jacobs. Cambridge. Sir George P. Brown, " " Abijah Thompson, " " George G. Stratton, " " George F. Hewett, " " Charles F. Atwood, " " Samuel F. Trull, " " Charlie A. Jones, " " Charles E. Brown, " " Edgar O. Dewey, " " -Augustus Towne, " " Alfred M. Smith, " " Francis Doane, " " William B. Lawrence, East Bo.stoii. " RoSEVVELL B. Lawrence, " " George H. Mansfield, " " William H. Burrows, Arlington. " William Dan Lamb, " " William A. Hodges, " " Charles H. Porter, Somerville. " Augustus F. Bussell, Winchester. Worcester. Everett. Woburn. Concord. Reading. Hamilton. Dedham. Norwood. Medford. Canton. Maiden. Southbridgc. Qiiincy. The concise yet full reports made by the secretary, Sir Thomas, not only indicate the general plans adopted, but reveal an immense 1 8 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. amount of details, due attention to which augmented the success of this grand Templar ball. Elaborate arrangements for the ball were made, and the event proved a most brilliant success. The day and evening were cool, but the ardor of the Sir Knights was not abated. The following Sir Knights constituted the committees of reception, etc.: — &atl' 91U•.:-^f.af: EMINENT SIR SAMUEL C. LAWRENCE, Past Eminent Commander of Bo-^ttMi Commandcry, K. T., and Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts. dti>> to ^icitl' glCat^l'taf: Km.-. Sir WVZEMAN MAKSilALL, Em.-. Sir CHARLES CHASE DAME, Em.-. Sir CHARLES EDWARD POWERS, Em.-. Sir SAMUEL MASON, Jr. Em.-. Sir JAMES H. UPHAM, Em.-. Sir J. FRANCIS LOTT.S, Past Eminent Commanders of Boston Commandery, K. T. RECEPTION COMMITTEES. (THE GUESTS.) Sir Ja.mf.s A. Fox. Sir Albert L. Richardson. Sir Fredk. S. Risteex. Sir Henry G. F'ay. Sir Chauncev Coo.\. Sir Martin A. Munroe. Sir J. Alba Davi.s. Sir Augustus Tovvne. Sir Henry N. Sawyer. Sir Charles H. Barne.s. Sir Edgar O. Dewey. Sir W. a. Hodges. Sir Peter Lane. Sir E. Hurt Phillips. Sir L. M. Averell. (the ladies.) Sir AiiijAH Thompson. Sir Sidney M. HEutiEs. Sir Lyman S. Hapgood. Sir A. I'. LuiHTHiLL. Sir Geo. W. Blish. Sir Fred. Alford. Sir Francis Doane. Sir Geo. G. Stratton. Sir Richard A. Atwood. Sir Charles E. Brown. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. Music for the Ball was furnished by CARTER'S ORCHESTRA, (Fifty Pieces,) T. M. CARTER ---... CONDUCTOR. And for the Promenade and Concert by BALDWIN'S BOSTON CADET, BAND, (Forty Pieces,) J. THOMAS BALDWIN ----- MUSICAL DIRECTOR. 19 goinntittcc en ^Jluotc CONSISTED OP Sir John B. Rhodes. Sir W. H. Dow. Sir I. Herbert Odell. Sir A. K. Bryer. Sir Joseph Williams. Sir Luther Adams. The following-named Sir Knights were directors, aids, and marshals of the ball : — Director general. Eminent Sir JOHN L STEVENSON, Assistant Directors General. SIR EDWIN WRIGHT. SIR EUGENE H. RICHARDS. HONORARY STAFF. Em.-. Sir JOHN O. SHAW, Maine. Em.-. Sir ANDREW BUNTON, N. H. Em.-. Sir ALFRED A. HALL, Vx. Em.-. Sir S. O. DANIELS, Mass. Em.-. Sir ALBERT C. EDDY, R. I. Em.-. Sir E. C. BIRDSEY, Conn. 20 BOSTON COMMANDER y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. AIDS TO DIRECTOR GENERAL. Sir Daniel W. La\vr?;nce. Sir James M. Gleason. Sir William C. Ulmak. Sir Thomas F. Temple. .Sir Geor(;k .A. C.illetjk. Sir Albert A. Folsom. Sir Edward Cogcins. Sir Edward T. Nichols. Sir Fred. T. Comee. Sir Z. H. Thomas. Sir Emery D. Leightox. Sir George F. Hewitt. Sir James P. Phinney. Sir Eugene A. Holton. Sir John H. Norim. Sir William P. T\xer. Sir Jonas G. Shillaber. Sir Otis Eddy. Sir Benjamin M. Wed(;er. Sir John G. Stewart, Jk. Sir George W. Storer. Sir William Dan Lamb. Sir William H. LaPointe. Sir Charles A. Fairbanks. Sir John Blackie. Sir William A. Bunton. Sir John H. Lakin. Sir Horace P. Hlackman. Sir Charles O. Bi-rrill Sir Charles F. Atwood. SIR KNIGHT MARSHALS. Sir Charles J. Havden. Sir Charles D. White. Sir Josiah T. Dyer. Sir Charles E, Phiits. Sir Oscar A. Jones. Sir Edward C. Neal. Sir Charles W. Parker. Sir Tho.mas J. Olys. Sir Isaac Harris. Sir Thomas Merrill Sir Benjamin S. Eastwood. Sir Lyman R. Mace. Sir J. George Cooper. Sir William H. Stacy. Sir Samuel I. Coy. Sir Henry W. Mansur. Sir John F. Ham. Sir J. Harrison Ashton. Sir John C. Chapman. Sir William B. Law Sir Henry Arnett. Sir John D. Gale. Sir Otis S. Neale. Sir George E. Hall. Sir Daniel Gregory Sir Harry W. Cumner. Sir Walter W. Boydex. . Sir J. Arthur Jacobs. Sir Edgar F. Hunt. Sir George W. Bunton. Sir Benjajiin Howe. Sir J. Charles Smith. Sir Francis H. Johnson. Sir John J. Cilley. Sir Charles H. Day. Sir Charles B. Fessenden. Sir \. Bartlett Hill. Sir George R. Hooper. Sir Fred. Alford. Sir Sidney M. Hedges. Sir George P. Brown. Sir Samuel F. Trull. Sir Charlie A. Jones. Sir Alfred AL Smith. KENCE. Sir Rosewell B. Lawrence Sir George H. Mansfield. Sir William H. Burrows. Sir Charles H. Porter. Sir Augustus H. Bussell. Sir Luther Adams. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIEJC. 21 Th(j following account of the grand ball is from the Boston Journal oi Feb. i, 1883: — THE GRAND BALL GIVEN LAST NIGHT BY BOSTON COMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. A Brilliant Scene at the Mechanic Exhibition Building. poui^TLY JW.EN, Reautiful Women, and Elegant Toilets. In the front rank of Knights Templars Commanderies of America, in standing and enterprise no less than age, is the Boston Commandery, whose ball at the Mechanic Building last night was fully in keeping with its well- known reputation, and bespoke in a worthy style something of the taste and resources of the Fraternity. A more brilliant event, not merely in variety and radiance of color and costume, but in social aspects, has rarely been witnessed in Boston. The spectator saw on every side convincing proofs of the united effort, the tact and spirit of organization which run through the brotherhood, and nothing was spared to render the affair one for admi- ration and pleasure, and altogether consonant with tlie dignity and repute of the body under whose auspices it was carried out. THE ARRIVALS. Although the first ceremonies were announced for half past eight o'clock, it was long before that hour when the first carriages began to arrive, and soon they came in legions. Under the skilful guidance of Supt. Marsh all confusion was avoided, although some delay was necessarily incident, while the long line of carriages in waiting was constantly increased until it reached a considerable distance away on either side of the main entrance. The same system of checks was used which Capt. Marsh so successfully introduced early this season, and thereby was avoided much trouble and vexation at the departure of the participants in the festivities within. A long awning completely sheltered the approach to the doors, which would 22 BOSTON COMMANDER Y A' NIGHTS TEMPLARS. have sufficed had a torrent descended, but fortunately clear skies prevailed and there was not even wind enough to make the shelter welcome. Within doors were all conveniences for the disjiosal of outer wraps, and these incumbrances laid aside, the eye of the spectator was first attracted to the brilliant appearance of the hall. THE DECORAl'IONS. The grand hall never presented a more imposing appearance than last night, all the devices of taste and the decorative art seeming to be lavished on every part. The stage and its surrounding embellishments naturally furnished the most striking group of decorations. Just in front of the great organ, forming a sort of central figure, was a large painting in heroic style of the warrior who, in the days of early knighthood, clove through the Saracens — Richard the Lion-hearted. He was mounted on a charger, anil in the background was an army of on-coming Crusaders on the field of Palestine. Above this was a trophy of arms and banners, consisting of a shield with a red cross emblazoned upon it, surmounted by a helmet, while on each side were groups of black banners, and below these were the gaunt- lets and crossed swords of Templars. Around the painting was a background of drapery bordered with old-gold velvet. Above this was an array of red, green, and white, in imitation of a pavilion, typical of the regal tents of the Crusaders. The banners were of the shape of the ancient French oriflamme, and on each was the ever-conspicuous red cross. A striking object on each side of the stage was a Roman altar of bronze and designed as a tripod. From each of these were emitted flames to represent the rising of incense. The banner of the Grand Commandery of the United States was erected above the altar on the right of the stage, and on the other side the banner of the Boston Commandery. The boxes and balconies were adorned in keeping with the wealth of ornament and suggestions on the stage. The central box was occupied by Earl Marshal, Eminent Sir Samuel C. Lawrence, and guests. The canopy was of red and white, with a border of red at the front figured with gold. The outer portion of the box was draped with a rich, gold-figured border. The front of the lower balcony FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 23 was also beautifully decorated. Opposite the stage was a painting repre- senting the seal of the Commandery, consisting of a cross and crown, with the words "Boston Commandery of Knights Templars," and above this there was a floral crown, around which were garlands of flowers festooned upon a white background. The entire front of the balcony was heavily hung with green, white, and red stripes upon a white background, the whole being caught up at intervals with rosettes of divers colors. Altogether the decorations, both in design and detail, were of rare beauty, for their massing of strong effects without overshadowing the many and minor beauties, and served not only to set off every outline of the interior, but to supplement and enrich it. THE ladies' reception-room. One of the most charming features of the occasion was the room which had been equipped for the accommodation of the lady guests, serving as it did as a commodious and tasteful boudoir. Draperies of Spanish silks, Turkish stripes, Swiss laces, and tapestries of peculiar richness were to be seen on every hand, as also furniture of amaranth, ebony, and black- walnut, upholstered in lavish style. Turkish rugs, mirrors, and ornamental woods enhanced the effect, so that in spite of its great size the room was in every sense a cosey and tempting one. THE promenade CONCERT. At eight o'clock, the promenades being even then well filled, the first notes of the opening concert were heard. The programme was as follows: — No. I. Overture, " Leichte Cavallerie " . ........ Suppe. Orchestra, under the direction of .Sir T. M. Carter. No. 2. Concert medley, " Popular "......... Braham. Baldwin's Boston Cadet Band, J. Thomas Baldwin, musical director. No. 3. .Selection, " Martha" Flotow. Orchestra. No. 4. Overture, " Oberon " ........... Weber. Baldwin's Boston Cadet Band. /iOS'W.V COMMA S'DRRY KNIGHTS TKMJ'J.ARS. Tlic programme announced the following: — AT 8.30 O'CLOCK. Or)lrar)cc ol jooslor) CoiT)rr)ar)clery. and Reception by them of other Commandcries and Distinguished Guests. MUSIC, Bv BALDWIN'S BOSTON CADET BAND. l\eceplior) o| ine ItJosI Lirr)ir)C9l Braqa I'lyaslcr o| ir)c Clpllea Stales. -^^BENJAMIN DEAN,^3-^ I!y ail the Commandcries. MUSIC — " Hah. TO Till! Cmni-," - - - by llie CONSOLIDATliD BANDS. Uiuicr the Direclion of J. Thomas B,ildwin. arciija ■*['^crr)plar r\c^ie\A?, ' Hy the M.-. K.-. Grand Master. MUSIC — " Commander .Stbvbnson's March," - - by CON.SOI.ID.ATKI) U.ANDS Under the Direclion of J. Tliomab lialdwin. AT ID O'CLOCK. 0/1 (drarja Y^rrjpmp ^'iarcn, uCiln iiadies. MUSIC — CON.SOLIDATED BANDS, under the direction of Sir T. M. Cartbk, playing the ■ San- Francisco March,'* dedicated to Boston Commandery. Written for this occasion by .Sir Carter. THE KNIdHTLY PAGEANT. At nearly 9 p. m. Boston Commandery appeared, with one hundred and seventy-five Sir Knights in line, seventy-five others being engaged in various capacities about the building. The officers were I'jii. Sir John L. Stevenson, Commander, Sir Edwin Wright, Generalissimo, and Sir Eugene H. Richards, Captain General. The Commandery presented a fine picture as it marched in to the music of the band, halting at the head of the hall, and forming two sides of a hollow square, the lines being two deep. A few minutes later FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 25 Worcester County Commandery, of Worcester, marched in, with thirty Sir Knights in the ranks, under Sir George E. Boyden, acting Commander. They were received with presented swords, and marching around the hall, halted opposite Boston Commandery. Joseph Warren Commandery, of Boston, was the next to enter, numbering forty Sir Knights, and having as officers Em. Sir D. W. Jones, Commander, Sir John Carr, Generalissimo, and Sir F. H. Spring, Captain General ; then followed St. Omer Commandery, of South Boston, forty Sir Knights, with Em. Sir Jerome Smith, Commander, Sir Frederick Felton, acting Generalissimo, and Sir Charles E. Pierce, Captain General ; William Parkman Commandery, of East Boston, twenty-five Sir Knights, with Em. Sir Albert C. Smith, Commander, and Sir Thomas Kel- lough, Generalissimo ; Natick Commandery, of Natick, twenty-five Sir Knights, with Em. Sir E. F. Perry, Commander, Sir G. F. Babcock, Generalissimo, and Sir C. H. Childs, Captain General ; South Shore Commandery, of Weymouth, twenty Sir Knights, with Em. Sir E. W. H. Bass, Commander, and Sir William Fearing, Captain General. Each of these Commanderies carried an elegant banner, and the Sir Knights were all clothed in the striking regalia of the Order, many of them wearing also the brilliant insignia of the various degrees and offices peculiar to the Masonic Fraternity. Hugh de Payens Commandery, of Melrose, and Coeur de Lion Commandery, of Charlestown, were represented by about twenty Sir Knights, who entered the hall as an organization, headed by Em. Sir N. J. Simonds, Commander of Hugh de Payens, and Em. Sir Joseph W. Hill, Commander of Coeur de- Lion. Each of the Commanderies, after being received, halted on the left of the preceding command, and when all had entered, a hollow square was formed, Em. Commander Stevenson taking command of the consolidated bodies. RECEPTION OF GUESTS. The formation being complete, the band and orchestra combined struck up "Hail to the Chief," and Past Em. Commander Samuel C. Lawrence, Earl Marshal, entered the hall, escorting Hon. Benjamin Dean, Most Eminent Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of the United States, who was accompanied by Right Em. Sir Caleb Saunders, Grand Commander of 26 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and several other officers of the Grand Commandery. Most Em. Grand Master Dean and his companions, having been duly received, were escorted to seats on the platform, and then Gov. Butler entered, accompanied by the members of his staff, with Mayor Palmer, of Boston, and Lieuts. Learee and Lissak, of the Fourth Artillery, U. S. A. The Governor, who was in full evening dress, received a round of applause on entering, and was accorded the usual honors by the Sir Knights. The dis- tinguished party were given seats on the platform, and then the several Commanderies passed in review before Most Em. Grand Master Dean, the band and orchestra playing "Commander Stevenson's March," and the military portion of the affair was over. The scene throughout was a brilliant one, the Sir Knights marching with a good degree of steadiness over the smooth floor, their regalia, jewels, and swords glistening in the flood of light that ftlled the great hall, while in the balconies bright faces watched the ]iicturc ; these, with the many colors of the ladies' costumes, making, in turn, a picture that was very beautiful, as seen from the floor. SOME OF THE GUESTS. In addition to the distinguished guests mentioned in the foregoing, there were present during these ceremonies, Hon. Geo. G. Crocker, President of the State Senate; R. E. Grand Commander M. A. Taylor, of New Hampshire, and the officers of the Grand Commandery of that State; V. E. D. Grand Commander V.. C. Birdsey, of Connecticut ; R. IC. Grand Commander Edward P. Burnham, of Maine, and many others, including representatives of nearly all if not all the Commanderies in Boston and vicinity. THE GRAND MARCH. Ten o'clock was the time fi.xed for the grand march. Considering the size of the gathering, it is something to be commented on with favor that this event occurred but twenty minutes after the time fi.xed. At that hour the consolidated bands, under the direction of Sir T M. Carter, struck up a spirited composition entitled the "San Francisco March," comj^osed by Sir Knight Carter, and dedicated to Boston Commandery. Commander Stevenson and FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 27 daughter led the column, followed by Grand Master Dean and Mrs. Dean and a very long procession of Sir Knights and ladies. The march was an imposing one, not less than four hundred couples taking part in it. THE SCENE FROM THE BALCONY. The scene when the dancing was fairly opened, and the immense ball-room floor became, as if at the beck of an enchanter, alive with moving beauty and intermingling color, was such as it would be difficult to picture to the fancy. The diversity and richness of the uniforms worn by the Templars found their adequate complement in the interminable variety and manifold attractions dis- played by the ladies and their toilets. The scene from the gallery afforded opportunity to note the entirety of effect, and as the mellow and varied tones of the music pervaded all, sound and motion and color seemed to be blended in a unity of result that the spectator can hardly explain. A gay waltz fol- lowed the opening quadrille, and there was a peculiar fascination which is not to be appreciated in ordinary halls in watching the rhythmic and graceful motions of the dancers. Everything on the floor seemed to become vibratile in response to the vibratory numbers of the dance, and even the on-lookers that lined the gallery felt the impulse. Next came the lancers, a galop, and Portland Fancy, each of which evoked new phases of beauty. A noticeable feature of this ball was the readiness with which the full resources of the floor for dancing were availed of, and the heartiness with which the participants entered into enjoyment. Hour after hour the moving picture maintained its charm and novelty, the hues of uniforms and oriflammes gleamed beneath the electric lights, and the scandent sights and sounds that rose over all combined to leave their impress alike on fancy and memory. WHAT THE LADIES WORE. Delicate and beautiful as the raiment conjured up for Cinderella were many of the toilets worn. Laces, flowers, and iridescent beads were so mingled with dainty textiles as to cause one to wonder if their fascinating wearers had not a fairy godmother to lend her magical aid on the festive occasion. Nearly all colors, with their graduating shades, were represented, from the glowing hues of Cleopatra's wardrobe to the cool tints in which 2S nOS'JON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMJ'LAKS. Hypatia looked so grandly beautiful. There was the usual preponderance of white costumes, many of which would have enhanced the beauty of Venus herself. One of the most beautiful of this class was of cream-white Ottoman silk, with skirt front of embossed velvet, outlined by a thick silk ruche, which also outlined the long train. Another had the skirt elaborately trimmed with ])earl passementerie, while a network of fine pearl beads overlaid the white satin bodice. One of the handsomest pink toilets seen was worn by the lady who, with Em. Sir JoJm L. Stevenson, led the grand march. It was of silk in a light shade and was made cii train. The front and sides were trimmed with deep flounces of the silk, edged with white lace. Another of pink had the crenellations of the basque and the edge of the front drapery studded with pink pompons. A very elaborate dress of gaslight green was garnished with velvet of a deeper hue and white Spanish lace. In keeping with this age of nssthetic culture was a pink cashmere robe worn by a young huly. It was made in regular Greenaway style, the body of the dress being attached to a yoke and hanging loosely, without shirring or other device to define the waist line. The yoke and sleeves of this costume were composed of alternate stripes of pink satin ribbon and Valenciennes insertions. Another striking dress was of old-gold satin, which made its wearer look, as- several spectators averred, like a picture of one hundred years ago. A superb toilet of pearl-colored satin de Lyon and ruby plush was productive in its method of arrangement of a very graceful and novel effect. A robe conspicuous for its richness was of dark blue velvet made in princesse style, with long train. The front of the skirt was of blue satin and the sleeves were slashed to show puffings of white lace. Exceedingly elegant were other toilets in blue, pink, heliotrope, crushed strawberry, c^-cru, and various other shades, white and black. Flowers seemed an indispensable adjunct of every toilet, being displayed as rivers, corsage bouquets, or clusters to keep draperies in place. The rose, that queen of flowers, was the favorite. The gloves were long, and when not matching the costumes worn, were in the fashionable tan shades. The jewelry was noticeable for quality rather than quantity, and seemed confined to lace pins and ear-rings. Fans matched the costumes in color, many of them being dainty confections of flowers and lace. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 29 THE MANAGEMENT. The grand success of last evening was entirely due to the indefatigable efforts of the various committees, who are to be heartily congratulated on the result of their labors. FRIENDLY GREETINGS. During the evening these two telegrams were received from localities far apart, showing the fraternity of feeling all over the world: — Sax Franxisco, Cal., Jan. 31, 1883. To John L. Stevenson : From the Pacific to the Atlantic, greeting. A continent lies between us, but we are with you in spirit to-night. (Signed) R.-. E.-, Sir CHARLES F. LOTT, Grand Commander of California. R.-. E.-. .Sir CHARLES H. CASWELL, Grand Recorder. R.-. E.-. Sir WH.LIAM O. GOULD, Past Grand Connnander. Em.-. Sir TRLSTAM BURGE.S, Commander of Golden Gate Commandery. Sir SAMUEL HAND, Boston Commandery, Academy of Music, New York, Jan. 31, 10 p. m. To Boston Commandery : Warm and knightly greetings to Boston Commandery and her guests this evening. May Boston always prosper, and Christian knighthood flourish through the world. Our reception is a grand success. (Signed) THOMAS B. RAND, Eminent Commander, Palestine Commandery, New York. CARD PROGRAMMES. The order of dances, or, as they might more properly be called, the programmes of the evening's entertainment, since they contained all the information desired, were really works of art. The title-page was a fine steel engraving, representing a Sir Knight mounted upon a charger, both clothed in armor, and the Sir Knight carrying a lance and shield. Above are a trumpet, banner, shield, and sword, emblems of the Order. The back of the cover contained the following in print: "Grand Reception 30 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. and ]5all by Uostoii Comniaiulery, Knights Templars Charitable Mechanic Building (Huntington Avenue), Wednesday evening, Jan. 31, 1883." The details of the programme were printed upon twelve jiages. Mr. George M. Ardoene, of Providence, R. I., was the caterer, antl the following is the menu of the repast he provided for the crowds of hungry dancers who flocked to his board : — Salmon, with Mayonese. Boned Turkey, jellied. Pickled Oysters, Chicken Patties. Oyster Patties. Champagne Ham. Leg of Mutton, Caper Sauce. Chicken Salad. Lobster Salad. French Rolls. English Pickles. Olives. Plain and Fancy Cake. Charlotte Russe. Vanilla. Coffee. Lemon. Chocolate. Strawberry Ice Cream. Biscuit Glace. Roman Punch. Orange, Lemon Ice. Coffee. Tea. Lemonade. Bouillon. Seats were provided for eighteen hundred persons in the galleries over the large exhibition hall. Toward midnight Gov. Butler and party were entertained, and afterward the room was liberally patronized by the dancers. It is sufficient to say that everything was of the best, and that every one was completely satisfied. The table service included over eleven thousand pieces. The waiters, all of whom were colored, wore numbered badges, and were one hundred and ten in number. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIEIC. 31 Great credit is due to Em. Sir John L. Stevenson, director general, and the Sir Knights associated with him in this grand Templar demonstration, for their untiring efforts and unqualified success. At 2 a. m. there were evidences of the "breaking up," but some continued the dance long after. As the weary and pleased revellers retired, the expression was oft repeated, and congratulations were mutually extended, that the affair was a great undertaking, yet a thorough success. , The committee to devise ways and means held six meetings subsequent to the ball, at which all matters pertaining to the ball were settled, votes of thanks were passed to the Em. Commander, Sir John L. Stevenson, chairman, to Sir A. A. Folsom, treasurer, to Sir Charles H. Barnes, who furnished the ladies' reception-room in elegant style at his own expense ; and on motion, the treasurer paid over for the benefit of the California pilgrimage the balance in his hands, amounting, as per auditors' reports, to $3,104.34. July 24, 1SS3, at its eighteenth and final meeting, after a report upon the doings of the committee, in accordance with the above, had been prepared for submission to Boston Commandery, the committee was dissolved. Feb. I, 1883, the following self-explanatory letter was received by the Eminent Commander : — Grand Encampment of K. T. of the United States of America. jfc Office of the Grand Master, Boston, Feb. i, 1883. John L. Stevenson, Esq. : Eminent and dear Sir Knight, — Allow me hereby to congratulate you upon the wonderfully complete arrangements for, and successful management of your Templar ball and reception last evening. I also thank you for your many kind attentions to me personally. You will oblige me by making known to 32 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Boston Commandeiy my commendation of their gallant and knightly bearing, and my appreciation of the review, so kindly tendered and well executed. 1 have the honor to be, yours in the Bonds of Knighthood, ) Grand Master. The committee on California pil<4rima;4e, which suspended its meetings from Nov. 22, 1S82, to Feb. 7, 1S.S3, while the project of the grand Templar ball was being carried out by the committee on ways and means, reassembled at the latter date, when general remarks were made in regard to the pilgrimage. Previous to Aug. 4, 1883 — tlie time of the departure of the Commandery on the pilgrimage — this committee held twenty-seven meetings. Subse- quently six meetings additional were held, the last being Sept. 27, 1 883. The original committee, appointed Jan. 19, 1881. consisted of Sn« John L. .Stkven.son, Cliainium. Km.-. .Sir .Samuel C. Lawrenxe, Treasurer. Snj Aliii:kt T. WiirrixG. Sir Ai.hkrt .\. Folsom. Sir Charles J. Havden. Sir '/.. 11. Thomas was elected secretary of the committee. Subsequently the following Sir Knights were added to the committee : — SiK Edwin Wricjht. Sir MutiicNK II. Richards. Sir James M. Gleason. Sir William A. l!r\Tox. Sir AiiijAH Thomi'son. Sir ICduari) T. Nichols. Sir George F. Hewitt. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. y The above-named Sir Knights, twelve in number, constituted the committee on California pilgrimage on and after April 24, 1883. The above committee or members thereof conceived, planned, accompanied, and completed the pilgrimage. The Eminent Com- mander alone of the original committee of five, and of the subsequent committee of twelve, was present at every one of the thirty-three meetings. No synopsis of the business which came before this committee could so clearly show what the committee did as a perusal of these pages, which contain the results of their faithful labors. Every arrangement and detail of the pilgrimage, covering the thirty-one days; also the inception and development of the plans through months of earnest thought, together with the completion of the whole by a reception at the Vendome, Oct. 24, were all successful through the fidelity and zeal of the committee on the California pilgrimage and of the faithful secretary of the committee. In June, 1883, the committee issued the following outline of the pilgrimage for the information of those interested, which was subjected in the grand itinerary to such changes only as the ofificial time-tables of the several railroads required or the convenience and comfort of the Commandery rendered necessary : — (BasTcr, CorrLraandery Knighis Tsraplars. CALIFORNIA PILGRIMAGE, 1883. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. SATURDAY, AUGUST 4, 1883. The Commandery will assemble in their asylum, Masonic Temple, at an hour to be here- after designated, and, in full Templar regalia, march to the Fitchburg Depot, wliere the ladies going on the pilgrimage will have preceded them. Embarking on the most elegant train of 3 34 JWS'IVN COMMANDER y KNIGHTS TEMJ'LARS. I'ullnian cars ever run out of this city (and the only one ever engaged to run si'Kcial from Boston to San !■ lancisco, and return without change of cars), the party will leave the depot at 6.30 I'. M. 'Ihc route will be over tlie Fitchlnng Railroad to Kitcliburg; the Cheshire Railroad to Hellows Falls ; the Central Vermont Railroad to St. John's, P. (2- ; thence by the Grand Trunk Railroad to Montreal, passing through the celebrated Victoria Bridge, one mile and one fourth long. SUNDAY, AUGUST 5 6 a. iM.: Arrive in Montreal. — Breakfast at the Windsor Hotel. S a. .m. : Leave Mon- treal t'/Vj (irand Trunk Railroad. — Luncli on dining cars. 6 i'. m. : Arrive at Toronto, Ont. — One hour and thirty minutes for dinner at the (Hieen's Hotel. MONDAY, AUGUST 6. C to 7 A. .M. : Breakfast at Battle Creek, Mich, i i'. m. : Arrive in Chicago. — Dinner at Grand Pacific Hotel. 5 i'. m. : Leave Chicago via Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad. — Supper on dining cars. TUESDAY, AUGUST 7. 7 A. M. : Breakfast at Cameron, 111. 12 m.: Arrive at Kansas City, Mo., by the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroad. — Two hours for dinner, and leave by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad. 5.30 p. m. : Arrive at Topeka, Kan. — Supper at Depot Hotel. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 8. 8 A. i^r. : Arrive at Coolidge, Kan. — Breakfast at Depot Hotel. 12 Ji. : Arrive at La Junta, Col. — Dinner at Depot Hotel. 8 P. M. ; Arrive at Raton, N. M., for supper. — The Raton Pass, where the railroad crosses, is 7,6>'on-load after wagon-load was promptly transferred to the Fitchburg Depot, and snugly packed for its transcontinental journey. The ladies who accompanied the Commandery on the pilgrimage assembled at the waiting-rooms of the Fitchburg Depot at 5 p. m., where a committee of Sir Knights were in attendance, who escorted them to a collation provided in the dining-room of the depot by Sir Lyman R. Mace. \\. 3 1'. M. the "pilgi'ims" in full Templar regalia assembled in Gothic Hall, and a Commandery of Knights Templars was duly opened for the purpose of escorting the Grand Master of Knights Templars of the United States, M. E. Sir Benjamin Dean, to the Twenty-second Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment of the United States, to be held in San Francisco. The Commandery of Knights Templars then opened remained so until the return of FJWM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. ax the Commandery, Sept. 4, when it was closed in due form. This conclave or session was therefore the longest known, as it covered thirty-one days. Appreciating the great distance to be travelled, and the dangers to which they would be exposed, aware of the magnitude of the undertaking, — unparalleled in modern times, — yet thoroughly hopeful of a successful pilgrimage, the opening services were very impressive. The Eminent Commander made a timely and liopeful address, and the Prelate invoked the divine blessing upon the pil- grims, committing them, their safety, their interests, their welfare, into the hands of Him "who doeth all things well." Thus the pilgrimage was auspiciously begun, with devout trust for its happy conclusion. The Commandery then repaired to Boylston Hall, where the organ- ization was perfected for parade, and the badges were distributed to the Sir Knights. Returning to Masonic Temple, the lines being formed, M. E. Grand Master Benjamin Dean was received with appropriate ceremony and honor ; after which the Commandery repaired to the banquet hall, where a collation was served. A pleas- ant hour was spent at the tables in partaking of the collation, forming new acquaintances, and talking over anticipated pleasures. At 5.20 p. M. the Commandery took up its line of march, with the M. E. Grand Master under escort, for the Fitchburg Depot, being led by Carter's band. Sir T. M. Carter, leader, through Tremont, School, Washing- ton, and Court Streets to Bowdoin Square, through Green, Leverett, and Causeway Streets, to the depot. The sidewalks along the route were lined with spectators, who frequently manifested their interest by applause, and at the depot hundreds of friends assembled to " see us off," wishing the party a pleasant pilgrimage and a safe return. The train consisted of one baggage car, six new Pullman cars, forwarded from Chicago expressly for the conveyance of this party to the Golden Gate and return, and a special car. No. 99, belonging to 44 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. the Chicago, Hurlington and Quincy Raih-oad, the use of which was kindly tendered to Sir John 1,. Ste\enson, Eminent Commander of Boston Commandery, for the transportation of himself and his distinguished guest, M. E. Sir Benjamin Dean, Grand Master of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templars of the United States of America. Car No. 99, thus provided and occupied, was the rear car of the train. It was furnished, supplied, and equipped at the private expense of tlie Eminent Commander, by whom hospitalities were freely dispensed to Sir Knights who called upon the Grand Master and Eminent Commander at various places en route. The special car was likewise used as the headquarters of Boston Commandery while in transit. At 6.20 p. M. the Commandery, joined by the sixty-three ladies who were to accompany it, boarded the train and were quickly located in the respective sections assigned them. The train was in charge of the veteran conductor Kingsbury, and was drawn by the powerful engine No. 99, run by Engineer William Phelan. Mr. M. D. Birmingham, an attache of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, had charge of the baggage car and its contents, and accompanied the party to San Francisco and return. He performed his duties with precision and despatch, and reccixcd the cordial thanks of all. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 45 BOSTEI. JOHN L. STEVENSON, Eminent Commander. Eugene H. Richards, Generalissimo. Ezra J. Trull, Captain General. Rev. Oliver A. Roberts, Prelate. James M. Gleason, Senior Warden. William A. Bunton, Junior Warden. J^^WSGRI/Iacf, 'iS\ OF rBjo JuNAS G. SlIILLAIlEK, Treasurer. Zeph. H. Thomas, Recorder. ■'''^^^co, eal., ^ug. 4 ^0 ^^-^ ,^. t^' George A. Gillette, Standard Bearer. Edgar F. Hunt, Sword Bearer. Charles F. At wood, Warder. George G. Stratton, Abijah Thompson, John Blackie, Sidney M. Hedges, Charles L. Russell, Leonard M. Averell, Guards. David S. Simpson, Armorer. Caleb Bowker, Sentinel. Past Em. Sir Silas Alden, Past Grand Captain General and pro.xy for the Grand Cap- tain General of Maine; Past Em. Sir Marvin S. Fellows, of Connecticut Valley Com- mandery; Past Em. .Sir Wm. y. Ellis, of William Parkman Commandery ; together with the 46 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. MEDICAL STAFF. Siu Wm. Dan. Lamh. M. U., Director. SiK llAUKISON A. TlHKF.K. M. D. K.M. SIR WlLLIAM S. SKVKK ANCli. M. I). Km. Sin CiiAiu.Ks K. Si;vi;kanck, M. D., suppleniented tlie Staff of the Kniinent Conimancler. SIR KNIGHTS. Atwood, Charles F., Boston. Bunton, William A., Cambridge. AvKKELL, Leonard M., Boston. Bailey, Amasa W., Bo.ston. Alden, Silas, Bangor, Me. Blackie, John, Boston. Adams, Charles E., Lowell. Bliss, James F., Boston. AiiiioTT, Frank A., Fislierville, N. H. Brkiham, A. W., Boston. BowKER, Caleu, Boston. Bkainerd, Le Roy, Bortland. Conn. Batcheldf.r, Henry L., Boston. 1'rooks, E. F., Brattlcboro", \'t. Brown, Samuel F., Fislierville, N. H. Cain, Stephen, East Weymouth. Bailey, Jacoh L., East Cambridge. Call, Tho.mas E., Portsmouth, N. H. Barnard, Edwin, North Adams. Cook, Randall W., South Abington. Bliss, A. L., Taunton. Cook, R. O., Woonsocket, K. I. DEAN, BENJAMIN, BOSTON. Devereau.x, Charles J., Boston. Furrer. Samuel \., Wolfboro', N. H. Dewell, James D., New Haven, Ct. Field, Charles W., Jr.. Clinton. Ellis, William J., East Boston. Fellows, Marvin S., (ireenlicld. Fairhanks, Charles A., Boston. Free.man, G. R., Bridgewater. Gleason, James M., Boston. Gari-ield, Silas, Worcester. Gale, John D., Boston. Gibus, William H., Clinton. Gillette, Georc;e A., Boston. Gosling, George, Central Falls, R. 1. (Freely, Leander, Cambridgeport. Goss, G. Walton. Clinton. Hapgood, Lyman S., Boston. Hooper, (Ieorge R, Somerville. Hedges, Sidney M., Boston. Hurd, Webster, Boston. Hewett, George F., Worcester. Hunt, Edgar F., Cambridgeport. Houston, James, Boston. Haskins, C. R., Myrick's. Ingersoll, Howard F., Gloucester. Lamh. W.m. Dan., Southbridge. Johnson, Francis H., Cambridgeport. Lauriat, Charles P., Medford. JENKS, Albert A., Pawtucket, R. 1. Lawton, Charles, East Stoughton. Kakas, Edward, Boston. Mace, Ly.man R., Boston. Morrill, Alfred, Cambridgeport. .Miller, Wilbur F., Ludlow. MuNROE, Martin A., Boston. Nichols, Edward T., Cambridgeport. Mont(;omi:rv, Alex., Boston. Parker, George F., Winchester. Matiiicws, George W., Worcester. Phillips, I. B., Woonsocket, R. I. Richards, Eugene H , Boston. Reed, Harry D., North Abington. Russell, Charles L., Cambridgeport. Rust, Samuel, South Hadley Falls. Russell, Walter, Arlington. Staples, Herbert M., Taunton. Roberts, Rev. Oliver Aver, Salisbury. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 47 STEVENSON, JOHN L, BOSTON. Shillabrr, Jonas G., Boston. Simpson, D. S., Newtonville. Smith, Alfred M., Dedham. Smith, Benjamin F., Boston. Smith, W. H. L., Boston. Shaffer, Stillman L., Worcester. . Sherman, Zacheus, Taunton. Smith, George M., Springfield Tarbell, Everett E., East Pepperell. Tuck, W. L., Boston. Weston, C. D., Boston. Walker, John P., Providence, Wheeler, Lyman W., Boston. Whittaker, John, Fisherville, N. H. Whitcomb, Frank H., Keene, N. Whiting, William S., Boston. Wood, Baylies Shattuck, Ralph W., Arlington. Stratton, George G., Winchester. Severance, Chas. E., Shelburne Falls. Severance, William S., Greenfield. Thompson Abijah, Winchester. Thomas, Zeph. H., Camhridgeport. Trull, Ezra J., Boston. Tucker, H. A., Brooklyn, N. Y. Walker, Samuel H., Taunton. Walker, William E., Taunton. Walker, William L., Taunton. R. I. Washburn, P. T., Taunton. WiLBER, William B., South Boston. Williams, Geo. W., Providence, R I. H. WiNSOR, Edwin, Providence, R. I. Wood, Frank C., East Boston. , South Abington. W-VLKER, Mr. W. A., Reporter of the Boston Herald. LADIES. Abbott, Mrs. Frank A., Fisherville, N. H. Adams, Mrs. Charles E., Lowell. Atwood, Mrs. Charles F., Boston. Averell, Mrs. Leonard M., Boston. Batchelder, Mrs. Henry L., Boston. Blackie, Mrs. John, Boston. Bliss, Mrs. A. L., Taunton. Brown, Mrs. Samuel F., Fisherville, N. H. Bunton, Mrs. William A., Camhridgeport. Call, Miss Mary E., Portsmouth, N. H. Dean, Mrs. Benjamin, Boston. Dean, Miss Mary, Boston. Devereaux, Mrs. Charles J., Boston. Dewell, Mrs. Ja.mes D., New Haven, Conn. Dewell, Miss Jessie K., New Haven, Conn. Earle, Mrs. Belle S., Providence, R. I. Ellis, Mrs. William J., East Boston. Fairbanks, Mrs. Charles A., Boston. Gale, Mrs. John D., Boston. Gates, Miss A. Gertrude, West Roxbury. Gillette, Mrs. George A., Boston. Hewett, Mrs. George F., Worcester. Hewett, Miss Mabel E., Worcester. Hughes, Miss Mary L., Somerville. HuRD, Mrs. Webster, Boston. Huse, Mrs. Eleanor, Winchester. Johnson, Mrs. Francis H., Cambriilgcport. Kakas, Mrs. Edward, Boston. Lauriat, Miss Annie G., Medford. Mace, Mrs. Lyman R., Boston. Miller, Miss E. M., Ludlow. MUNROE, Mrs. Martin A., Boston. Nichols, Mrs. Edward T., Cambridgeport. Parker, Mrs. George F., Winchester. Parker, Miss M. L., Winchester. Parker, Miss Susie E., Winchester. Peck, Mrs. R. C, New Haven, Conn. Phipps, Miss Eliza A., Bangor, Me. Russell, Mrs. Charles L., Cambridgeport. Richards, Mrs. Eugene H., Boston. Sanborn, Mrs. Mary S., Winchester. Severance, Mrs. Wm. S., Greenfield. 48 nOSlOX COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. SiiKK.MAN, Mrs. /.A( iiKUS. Taunton. Tuckkk, Airs. II. .\., ISrooklyn, N. V. .SiiiLLAitKR, Miss Katiiakink li.. Boston. 'liCKEU, Miss N. D., Brooklyn, N. Y. Si.Mi'.soN, Mrs. IJ. S., Newtonville. Walkkr, Miss Bkktha F., 'raunton. Smith, Mrs. W. H. L., Boston. VValkkk. Mrs. John P., Providence, K. I. Staples, Mrs. Herbert M., Taunton. Walker, Miss Marv E., Taunton. Stevenson, Miss (Jrace A., Boston. Walker Mrs. Sa.m'l H., Taunton. Stevenson, Mrs. John L.. Boston. Walker, Mrs. W.m. E., Taunton. Stone, Mrs. E. M., Springlield. Walker, Mrs. W.m. L., Taunton. Tmomi'Son, Mrs. AmjAH, Winchester. Williams, Mrs. Geo. W., Providence, R. I. Trull, Mrs. Ezra J., Boston. Winsor, Mrs. Edwin, Providence, K. 1. Wood, .Mrs. Frank C, East Boston. Tlic followint^ committees were appointed for tlie pilgrimage: executive. John L. Stevicnson, Kuckne H. Rk hards, Jami;s M. (Ileason, WiLLiA.M A. Bunton, c;eorge F. Hewett. MEDICAL STAFF. W.M. Dan. Lamb, Director. Harrison .\. Tucker, M. D., William S. Severance, M. I)., Charles E. Severance, M. D. LADIES. ' Amj.Mi Thompson, W. H. L. Smith, John D. (^ale. transportation. Edward T. Nichols, Alfred M. Smith, Amasa W. ISailev. The Pullman cars were in charge of the following named Sir Knights, who were responsible for the safety and comfort of their occupants as far as possible : — Car "Almeria" Sir James M. (Ji.eason. Car "Modena" -------- Sir Georoe F. Hewett. Car "Odessa" Sir Edward T. Nichols. Car "Albania" Sir William A. Buxton. Car "Echo" Sir Ahijah Thompson. Car 'i Como " Sir Eugene H. Richards. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 49 Boston Commandery of Knights Templars, Boston, May 2, 1883. Hon. Caleb Saunders, Grand Coininander of the Giand Coiiniiaiidrry K.\ T.\ of lilassacJiiist'tls and Rhode Island : Rigid Eminent Sir, — Boston Commandery having made arrangements to attend the Twenty-second Triennial Conclave, to be held in San Francisco, Cal., in August next, as the escort of M. E. Sir Benjamin Dean, Grand Master of the Grand Encampment K. T. of the United States of America, I have the honor, in accordance with Tem[)lar regulations, to apply in behalf of the Commandery for a dispensation to parade on Saturday, Aug. 4, for the above-mentioned purpose, proceeding to San Francisco, and returning on or about Sept. 4, 18S3. I also ask permission, through you, of the Grand Commanders of those jurisdictions through which we pass, that Boston Commander)' may be permitted to parade in full Templar costume within their respective dominions. Courteously yours. t4-iy^/ G7Uy2^^^_Jarj^ Eminent Comtnaniier Boston Conimaudcry I\.\ T: 50 BOSTON COMMANDJ.RV KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Office of the Grand Commandkk, Lawrence, July 17, 1883. Em.-. Sir John L. Stevenson: Dear Sir Kiiiglit, — I herewith send disijensation asked for in yours of May 2. Immediately on receiving your letter, I wrote to the Grand Com- manders of California, and of the several States through which you must pass, asking permission for you to appear in full regalia at such points as you might desire. Several of the Grand Commanders have expressed the wish to extend official courtesies to your command cii route, and wish to know the time of your arri\'al within their jurisdiction. I enclose the address of each of them. Moping that your pilgrimage may be entirely successful, and of great pleasure ami profit to you and all the Sir Knights and ladies who accompany you, I am, yours in Knightly bonds, CALEB SAUNDERS, Grand Commamler. Grand Commandery of Knights Templars and Appendant Orders of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Office of the Grand Commander, Lawrence, Mass, July 17, 1883. John L. Stevenson, Eminent Commander Boston Commandery : Eminent Sir, — A dispensation is hereby granted to Boston Commandery to parade in full Templar costume, and with banners and music, on Saturday, Aug. 4, for the purpose of jiroceeding from Boston to San Francisco, Gal., to be present at the Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment, U. S. A., as escort to the Most Eminent Grand Master. Said Commandery has jjcr- mission to be absent during such j^eriod as may best suit their convenience, not exceeding two months, and may parade at such places en route and at San Francisco as they may desire, special permission having been received by me from the several Grand Commanders of the jurisdictions through which said Commandery must pass going, remaining, and returning. CALEB SAUNDERS, Grand Commander. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 51 The following is a list of the Grand Commanders whose per- mission was obtained, and also of their jurisdictions: — F. J. Tygard, Butler, Wo. Henry M. Waters, Independence, Kan. M. H. Fitch, Pueblo, Col. Geo. C. Perkins, San Francisco, Cal. Wm. R. Bowen, Grand Recorder, Omalia, Neb. Henry W. Rothert, Keokuk, Iowa. M. A. Taylor, Nashua, N. H. Alfred A. Hall, St. Albans, Vt. \V. J. B. McLeod Moore, St. John's, Prov. O., Canada J. E. Saxton, Detroit, Mich. The following correspondence is self-explanatory: — Boston CoMMANDERV of Knights Tfmflars, Boston, Mass., Feb. 26, 1883. M.'. E ■. Ben;. Dean, Grand Master. At the regular Conclave of Boston Coni- mandery, held on the 21st instant, it was unanimously Voted, "That the services of Boston Commandery K. T. be tendered to the M. E Grand Master of Knights Templars of the United States of America, as his escort to, from, and dining the session of the Tiveiity-seeond Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment of the United States of America, to be held in San Francisco, Cal, commencing Aug. 21, 1883." It gives us great pleasure to forward this vote, and, presenting our com- pliments, beg the favor of an early and favorable reply. Courteously yours, Attest 072/ Eminent Cominandci 52 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. John L. Stkvknson, Esq., Eminent Conuiiandcr, Bustoii CoDiviandcry K. '. T. \ Dear Sir Knigitt, — I am in receipt of your letter of Feb. 26, in \vhicli you tell mc that lioston Commandery has kindly tendered to the Grand Master its services as an escort to the Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment of the United States, to be held in San Francisco, in August next. I accept the tender of escort of Boston Commandery with pleasule and with ))ride. Its services in the preservation of the Ritual and Work of the Order, and of the unity in Massachusetts and Rhode Island of the Templars during the dark days of anti-Masonry, its long-continued career of prosperity, more manifest than ever under your wise and energetic administration, should endear the name of Boston Commandery to every lover of our institution. I have informed the triennial committee at San Francisco of your courtesy to the Grand Master and loyalty to the Grand Encampment, and have no doubt you will meet with a cordial and honorable reception. Yours in the bonds of Knighthood, ^ Grand Master. CHAPTER IV. At half past six o'clock precisely, on the evening of Aug. 4, the starting bell rang, the engine began to move, and amid cheers, applause, waving of handkerchiefs, and the music of Carter's band, the special train carrying its knightly freight drew slowly out of the depot, and the pilgrimage from Boston to the Golden Gate began. Soon the familiar "landmarks" of the city faded from sight, and hills and fields welcomed us. An evening paper of Aug. 4 recorded that "as the train disap- peared in the distance, the last person that could be discerned was Eminent Commander John L. Stevenson, waving a farewell to the friends left behind." First, each passenger was made the possessor of a ticket book, five and one half inches long, two and one half inches wide, and three quarters of an inch thick, elegantly bound in turkey morocco, and bearing the inscription in gold, on the front cover, " Boston Commandery, Knights Templars, California Pilgrimage, 1883." It contained ninety-five tickets for railroad fares, hotel accommodations, transfers, etc., sufficient for a month's tour from ocean to ocean and return. An itinerary of the pilgrimage, covering each day during the trip, was given each member of the party. This itinerary of twenty-six pages, each bearing a large Maltese cross in red, compiled 54 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. and presented to the Commandery, with the compliments of the raih-oad companies over whose roads the pilgrimage was made, was a model of the engraver's art, and contained much \alual)le infor- mation. Under each dav, with the hours of arrival and dejjarture at the \arious stopjiing places, it noted the various points of special interest, and gave descriptive and historical notices of value. In addition, a very handsome souvenir, bearing Templar emblems, and containing a comjilete list of the pilgrims, was distributed among them. The early evening hours were spent by the pilgrims in getting .settled on the train, and in exchanging congratulations on the happy beginning of the pilgrimage. We find the party composed of ministers, doctors, lawyers, merchants, railroad conductors, hotel proprietors, bankers, brokers, jewellers, "bond- holders," manufacturers, and others ; and in this party of respectable people, with his usual tact for crowding himself into good company, we find the ever- present "Sewing Machine Man" Yes, it's a fact, but tniivi is the word, and if he conducts himself like a gentleman it will be well, but should he attempt to ply any one of the tricks of the profession on this train we will "cut his thread off below the eye," and leave the "head" on some Western prairie for repairs. — Sir S. L. S., in Sewing Macliine News, December, 1883. Multitudes greeted us at Fitchburg, Keene, and other towns. The run during the night over the Fitchburg, Cheshire, Connec- ticut and Central Vermont Railroads was accomplished as ])er programme. Sir S. W. Cimimings, general passenger agent of the latter road, having the direction of affairs, accompanied us to Montreal. Notwithstanding the grand scenery by which we were s])eeding, "the deep fertile valleys, gently sloping uplands, verdant hillsides, and cloud-capped summits " of Vermont, the sleep of the FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 55 pilgrims, tired by the excitement and duty of the day, was undis- turbed. Bright and early, we wakened and caught a glim[)se of the beauty of Vermont in gazing into and across the deep, wide valley on whose farther side Lake Champlain glistened under the morning sun, when Canada with its broad fields and custom-house ofificers appeared. Twenty-seven miles over the Grand Trunk were quickly run, Victoria Bridge was reached and safely passed, and we stopped in Montreal. Carriages were in waiting, by which the party was transferred to the Windsor Hotel, where breakfast was provided. Windsor Hotel, whose exter- nal appearance immediately prej- udices one in its favor, occupies a;^iMfW^^*tf l^t WINDSOR HOTEL, MONTREAL. a commandino- site on Domin- ion Square, near Mount Royal Park. Our short tarry convinced us of its generous management and the homelike comfort of its ofuests.. It was a delicjhtful season we spent at the Windsor, and our lengthened stay on the homeward trip was looked forward to with pleasure. The souvenir niciui cards prepared for the occa- sion were quite unic^ue and remarkably appropriate. When unfolded they were in the shape of a Maltese cross, and when gathered together formed prettily draped tents, folding neatly together for carriage. The reverse of the card was printed in light tints, two of the arms of the cross representing fine engravings of the Windsor and the city of Montreal from the river, while the other two contained respectively the cross and crown monogram of the Order and the inscription. 56 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. riic quiet (if Montrcars Sunday Iiours was not disturbed by the " i6S," who appreciated tlicir sunshine and peace. The recep- tion of the i)arty at this fine hotel was cordial and princely, and the two iiours passed pleasantly. At 10.45 -^^ ^'- ^'''"-' '''P over the Grand Trunk Railroad, from Montreal to Port Huron, began, and ended Monday at 6.45 \. m. The special schedule time of the Templar train was made very fast, — too fast for the ]K)wer applied. This, with broken-down freight trains and hot boxes, occasioned a loss of several hours. The delay was patiently endured and a general desire was manifest to make the best of it. Sunday afternoon we rode along the north bank of the St. Lawrence River, getting glimpses now and then of the great stream, with its rapids and islands. The prairie-like fields, reaching for miles, were not what we expected to see in Canada. Quietness reigned in town and country, on the line of the road. A carriage was seldom seen, and loungers about the stations were the exception. The day was a])propriatclv observed. Several praise meetings were held on the train. At F"redericksburg, 5.30 r. m., being delayed by a hot box, an open-air concert was given on the platform of the depot. Gospel hymn-books having been provided by a friend of the Commandery. Sir Knight W. I*". Miller, of Springfield, acted as precentor very acceptably. It was not a weary Sunday, but one full of song and gratitude. The dinner and supper of Sunday were provided on two dining-cars, which added much to the weight of our train and increased our lost time. The meals were abundant and well served. At 9 i'. m. we were one hundred and nine miles east of Toronto, where two engines were attached, and we were hurried along. It was, however, 1.40 a. m. when we left Toronto, the hot box of the "Odessa" refusing to "keep cool." FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACTFIC. 57 Crossing the St. Clair at Port Huron, at 6.45 a. m., Monday, on a colossal, three-tracked ferry-boat, we proceeded over the Chicago and Grand Trunk Railroad. This transfer across the St. Clair brought us again on Yankee soil, where Yankees cared for the road-bed and a Yankee's arm pulled the engine's lever. It was all observable by the lively manner in which our train liurried up, flying through forest, over plain, and by the neat houses and loaded strain-fields of Michitjan. F"ailing to reach Battle Creek for breakfast at 7 a. m., the hour appointed, coffee, tea, crackers, and other refreshments were freely served in the morning, on the special car, No. 99, by Commander Stevenson. Our rate of speed being increased, and confidence in the railroad management having been restored, " all went merry as a marriage bell." At 10.40 A. M. Lansing, the capital of Michigan, was passed, and at 12 m. the Commandery lunched at Battle Creek. The forty-six miles between Lansing and Battle Creek were covered by the train in sixty-eight minutes. At Battle Creek engine No. 66, called Jumbo, was attached to draw the train to Chicago. By the kind thoughtful ness of friends, the locomotive was decorated with red, white, and blue streamers and festoons, with knightly spears as standards for United States flags, and on either side, over the cylinder, was placed a Maltese cross of black, bearing the letters " L H. S. V." in white. The engine was driven by Sir Knight George Jones, of Battle Creek Commandery, and the con- ductor was Sir Knight Jacob A. Henry of the same Commandery, both of whom were decorated by the Eminent Commander with badges of Boston Commandery. The yo^inial of Aug. 6, Battle Creek, Mich., thus referred to the arrival, etc., of Boston Com- mandery at that place : — 5S BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. I'm-: Sir Knichis. — A SpKcfAi, Train escoriinc iiik Mosi- Kminent Grand Masikr io riiii San 1''ra\ci.scu Conci.avk. — Honors extended uv the CiiiCAc.o AND Grand Trunk Raii.wav Companv. A special Iniin of Pullman palace dining, sleeping, and rcclining-chair coaches, consisting of eight cars and a baggage van, passed through this city at 11.30 A. iM. today, having on hoard one hundred and seventy-five Sir Knights of the 15oston Commsndcry, under Eminent Commander John L. Stevenson, accompanied by many lady friends of the Sir Knights. The Commandery was escorting tlie Most Eminent Grand Master of the United States, Benjamin Dean, of South Boston, cu iviilc to San Francisco. The [)ilgrimage commenced Saturday evening at 6.30 in the same coaches, which will go through to the Pacific slope with them without change, the .Sir Knights being furnished transportation and all expenses during their absence for $300 each by contract. P'rom Grand Trunk Junction to this city the run was made in four hours and twenty minutes, making u[) nearly an hour of the time lost last night, caused by hot journals on one of the sleepers. The train to this city was under control of Conductor N. D. Austin, while the engine, No. 61, was run by Harry Ryan, and judging from the hand-shaking these gentlemen received as they left the train at this end of the division, they had made themselves popular with the Knights during their short acquaintance. At this station engine No. 66, with Sir Knight George Jones, engineer, was despatched to carry the train into Chicago, where they e.xpect to arrive at 5.30 this evening. The train was jilaced in charge of Sir Knight Jacob A. Henry as conductor, Supt. W. H. Pettibone having taken especial pains to select employes belonging to the Order. Tuigine 66 was gayly decorated with banners, emblems, ribbons, and flags, prominent among which were the large Maltese crosses on either side, bearing the letters I. H. S. V. — "In hoc sigiio vinccs." A green flag, showing that the train was a special and was running regardless of all other trains, was also displayed. At this station the train stopped twenty minutes for dinner, the meal FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. jg being furnished by Mr. John Wilson, who has charge of the eating-house and dining-cars of the company. He was assisted by Geo. N. Potter, who manipulated the waiters and assisted the proprietor in various ways. The tables were spread especially for the Sir Knights, and were loaded with all the delicacies of the season. Each plate had an elaborately designed bill of fare, and the napkins enfolded a button-hole bouquet, which the happy feasters displayed conspicuously on the lappels of their coats after eating. The pilgrims expressed themselves as satisfied with their usage since coming on to the Chicago and Grand Trunk road, but said some very uncom- plimentary things of the railways to the east of us. They compose one of the largest as well as oldest Commanderies in the United States, and are generally men of wealth and refinement, so that it was not a very surprising thing that they took exception to some things which might perhaps have been unavoidable. A bugle call assembled the Sir Knights on board the cars after the dinner, and the train pulled out for Chicago with the well-satisfied party. Supt, W. H. Pettibone and Eminent Commander Wm. Andrus, of this city, accompanied the excursion to Chicago. At Thornton, Ind., twenty-si.\ miles east of Chicago, the train was l^oarded by a detachment of Sir Knights from Chicago, forty in number, who came to pay their respects to the M. E. Grand Master, Benjamin Dean, and to Boston Commandery, and welcome them to their city. The delegation was courteously received and hospitably enter- tained by Eminent Commander John L. Stevenson, in the head- quarters of Boston Commandery. Subsequently, the Chicago Sir Knights scattered themselves through the train, were cordially received by the pilgrims, and were safely landed in Chicago at 6 p. M. The pilgrims were immediately transferred by carriages to the Grand Pacific Hotel, where an excellent dinner was thoroughly enjoyed. 6o BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. On our ivtuni to tlie station, the drill corps of St. iJeniard Commandcry drew up in line near the train and extended knightly courtesies. Grand Master Dean responded by addressing the bat- talion, and Imminent Coniniander Stevenson, in behalf of his com- mand, acknowledged the honor. At 9 r. m. the train started on its western way, the St. Bernards, the ]3eople, and the Bostons cheering one another. The Evening Nevjs of Aug. 7, Chicago, 111., notices the arrival and appearance of the Boston .Sir Knights in the fol- lowing flattering terms: — Travelling Knights. — Thk Boston C'ommamierv en route to the Triennial Conclave at San Francisco. The Boston Commandery Knights Templars arrived in the city last evening, by special train over the Grand Trunk Railroad. The party was received by representatives of St. Bernard Commandery. The pilgrims number one hundred and sixty-eight, including sixty ladies, wives and daughters of the Knights. Attired in their single-breasted frock coats, buttoned to the chin, and lappels and bosoms covered with the glittering insignia of rank, the Knights made a fine appearance. At the Grand Pacific they scattered through the buikling, supping by twos and fours, everybody taking care of himself and, mayhap, his wife. There were a few dude Knights among them who had thrown aside the regulation uniform and were attired in white flannel blouses and tight pants, with monumental collars and crushed raspberry toothpick shoes. The special train carrying the party left last night over the Chicago, Burlington and Ouincy Railroad for Kansas City. Our route westward was across Illinois, over the Chicago, Bur- lington and Quincy, and across Missouri over the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroads. Monday night we crossed Illinois, 263 miles, passing Aurora, Mendota, Galesburg, Bushnell, and other thriving FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE FA CHIC. 6l towns, and at 7 a. m. arrived at Ouincy, where we went tlirougli witli tlie usual breakfast motions. Proceedinc:, we crossed the Mississippi on one of the finest iron bridges in the world and entered Missouri, by whose empty slave cabins and through whose fields and woods we hastened towards Kansas Cit)'. hfldon ^ ^agtln CyN Emmeltflbuti,^ t/Lf3Iarf„, 'A^ M/I S S Q_TT The ride of this day was greatly enjoyed by the command. A rain during the night before prevented dust, the breeze was cool and fragrant, and lost time was being regained. The fields of Missouri were very beautiful, the soil appeared fertile, and the gathered harvest seemed abundant. Sir Knight Smith and his drum corps deserve special mention for their une.xpected contri- bution to the pleasures of the day. His purchase of toy drums and tin whistles at Ouincy was thoughtful, and the natural efficiency of his performers in executing familiar airs was remarkable. There was no dearth of song and laughter on the train, for all joined in 62 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. inventing; proper episodes to relieve the monotony of railroad riding. W'e dined at Cameron in the station dining-room, said to be the room wliere Jesse James, the notorious highwayman, was Laid out after his tragic death. At 4.30 r. M. we crossed the muddy Missouri and entered Kansas City, where a multitude of people awaited Boston Commandery. Sir John H. Brown, Past (irand Master of Kansas and Recorder of Grand Commandery Knights Templars of Kansas, and Sir Henry M. Waters, Eminent Grand Commander Knights Templars of Kansas, paid their respects to Most Em. Grand Master Dean and Eminent Commander Stevenson. Sir Knight Daggett, formerly of Boston, boarded the train and was warmly received, having travelled a hundred miles to meet Boston Commandery. At Kansas City we were detained some time by the recurrence of a familiar complaint — "hot box" — and the additional weakness of a broken journal. The Russian "Odessa" is cold. For two months each year navigation sleeps — the harbor is completely frozen over. The Pullman "Odessa" could not be kept cold or cool, but its hot bo.\ was a constant annoyance. The train was stopped at the "yards," just outside the city; "Odessa" was switched out and "Mohave" was switched in. Mo-have or Mo-ha-ve .'' What does it mean.'' Mohave — a county in Arizona, named from the Mohave Indians. The county is in the vicinity of " Dry Lakes," " Death Vallev," and Yuma, — hot Yuma, — where overcoats are not needed. Mohave is very suggestive of heat. Will we be further annoyed by a hot box of the Mohave, name of ill-omen ? We felt somewhat relieved when we left "Odessa" at Kansas City, and, drawn by a powerful locomotive, proceeded over a superb road-bed with a clear track. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 63 The Journal of Kansas City, Mo., Aug. 8, 1883, mentions the arrival of pilgrim Knights bound westward : — Pilgrim Knights. — Three large excursions of Knights Templars passed through the city yesterday on their pilgrimage to the Triennial Conclave at San Francisco. The first to arrive was a Philadelphia Commandery, con- sisting of about seventy-five Sir Knights and forty ladies. De Molay Commandery, of Reading, Pa., came in via a special sleeper on the Wabash during the forenoon, consisting of twenty Sir Knights. The largest excursion was that of Boston Commandery, of Boston, Mass. It came in via a special train, composed of six Pullman sleepers, on the Chicago, Burlington and Ouincy from Chicago, in charge of General Agent J. A. S. Reed and Conductor J. S. Stephens, arriving at 4.30 p. m., and departing almost immediately via the Santa Fe. The party consisted of one hundred and five Sir Knights and sixty-three ladies, and it may be truthfully said that no finer body of gallant Knights and lovely ladies will be in attendance at the Conclave. The excursion left Boston last Saturday evening and came directly through without change of cars, making brief stops at Montreal and Toronto, Canada, and Chicago From here they go by the Southern route, touching at La Junta, Col, Las Vegas, Santa Fe, Tucson, and Los Angeles, arriving in San Francisco on the evening of the 14th inst. Among the prominent members of the party was Hon. Benjamin Dean of Boston, Most Eminent Grand Master of the United States, who in a brief conversation with a yonrnal reporter expressed himself as perfectly delighted with the trip thus far, and, further, that the coming Conclave would be the most successful of any yet held. Mr. Dean was under the escort of this Commandery, which, together with the fact of its seniority, entitles the Bostons to the post of honor in the grand Templar procession. The party would not have been complete without a reporter, who was present in the person of W. A. Walker, Esq., the brilliant and versatile correspondent of the Boston Herald. 'P^^^^SSlf' i ^Ki CHAPTER V. Our departure from Kansas City was by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Raih^oad, which extends its iron arm 1,149 rniles west- ward. It was dusk when we souo;ht a view of Lawrence, with its DOGS ON Cr\RI1 " Massachusetts " Street and New England people. We desired to see Lawrence, not alone because it is situated in the richest and S O FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 67 most fertile section of Kansas, nor because it is the most beautiful city in the State, but also because it bears the name and perpetuates the memory of one who truly " devoted the remaining years of life (1S31-1852) to acts of exalted usefulness and pure benefi- cence," and because it was the headquarters of freemen in the Kansas struggle, — city of freedom, martyrdom, and victory. Topeka, the capital of Kansas, was reached at S.45 p. m. Topeka Commandery Knights Templars, No. 5, Bryce McMurtrie, Eminent Commander, in full regalia and accompanied by the Capital City Cornet Band, was in waiting, and tendered knightly courtesies to the Grand Master and Boston Commandery. After an extended interview, Topeka Commandery returned to. its asylum for work, where the Grand Master and Eminent Commander would have returned the call had time permitted. The courteous intentions of the Sir Knights of Topeka appeared in the Commonwealth of Tuesday morning, Aug. 7, which said : — Knights Templars Reception. — A special communication of Topeka Commandery, No. 5, was held last evening to perfect arrangements for the reception of Grand Master Benjamin Dean and his escort, the Boston Com- mandery, who will arrive ina Santa Fe road at noon to-day, en route for San Francisco. The Sir Knights of Topeka Commandery will assemble at 12 M., and at i p. m. will march in full uniform to the depot, accompanied by the Capital City Cornet Band, and extend the courtesies and knightly honors due the distinguished visitors. Arrangements were also made for the reception to be tendered the Galesburg Commandery, which is to arrive from Atchison on the loth inst. The party will arrive at noon, and remain until the departure of the mid- night train for the West. The reception committee consists of Sir Knights T. J. Anderson, J. B. Hibben, W. W. Manspeaker, J. V. Moffitt, G. B. Palmer, Furman Baker, H. C. Miner, J. P. Rodgers, John Elliott, O T. Welch, W. C Chaffee, Louie Dutcher, and M. R. Oswald. These gentle- 68 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. men will take the visitors in charge, and show them over the city. Return- ing to their train, they will make j^reparations to attend the banquet which will be given at 9 p. m., to which they will be escorted by the Topeka Commandery, accompanied by the Capital City Cornet Band. The com- mittee on arrangements consists of J. B. Hibben, J. V. Moffitt, Furman Baker, C. M. Atwood, and T. V. Codington. Supper was taken at Topeka in the manimotli station dining- hall, owned and managed by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, and would have been a creditable meal in any first- class hotel. It was here that we first met Mr. Schemerhorn, wlio has supreme charge of the dining-rooms on this route. He accom- A FRONTIER TOWN. panied us one thousand one hundred and forty-nine miles, and placed the command under obligations for his efficiency and relia- bility. Nothing was wanting in quantity, quality, service, or price at these depot hotels. Though at some stations on the j^lains provisions are necessarily brf)ught from a great distance, yet they FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 69 were fresh and good, and all the meals were first class. The Commonwealth of Wednesday morning, Aug. 8, thus alluded to the arrival of the Bostons : — The Journeying Sir Knights. — M.'. P2.'. Grand Ma.ster Dean and the Boston COMMANDERV KNIGHTS TeMPLARS ON THEIR PlLGRIM.\GE. The programme regarding the informal reception in honor of Grand Master Benjamin Dean, en route for San Francisco, escorted by tlie lioston Commandery, was varied little from that announced yesterday, except as to time. Owing to slight delays at different points the special train did not arrive at this place until last evening at 7.30. The short delay on the Santa Fe was caused by the bursting of a journal of one of the sleepers between Kansas City and Argentine, and a new car was quickly switched in. Most of the time was lost east of Chicago. At the depot they were met by Topeka Commandery, about fifty strong, in full uniform, the Capital City Cornet Band, and a very large number of our citizens, but no formal reception was held. The travellers took supper, remaining only about an hour in all, and left for the West. There were in the party one hundred and nine Sir Knights, and si.\ty- two ladies, and all report a very pleasant journey thus far, and express hopes for the balance, which will doubtless be realized. The officers of the escorting Commandery are : John L. Stevenson, Eminent Commander, in charge; Eugene H. Richards, Generalissimo; Ezra J. Trull, Captain General; Oliver A. Roberts, Prelate; James M. Gleason, Senior Warden ; William A. Bunton, Junior Warden ; Jonas G. Shillaber, Treasurer ; Zeph. H. Thomas, Recorder ; George A. Gillette, Standard Bearer ; Edgar F. Hunt, Sword Bearer ; Chas. F. Atwood, Warder ; George G. Stratton, Abijah Thompson, John Blackie, Sidney M. Hedges, Charles L. Russell, Leonard M. Averell, Guards; David S. Simpson, Armorer; Caleb Bowker, Sentinel. Commander Dean is a jolly, smooth-shaven, red-faced, heavy-set man, some fifty years old, who evidently enjoys life and lives well. He wore no 70 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. u u < I z o z D X I > ►J Bi < FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. yi uniform or emblem of any description, was dressed in a $2.50 linen suit, and looked much more happy and comfortable than many a bearded knight, bedecked in his showy uniform. The train, consisting of eight sleepers, a coach and baggage car, will run as a special the entire trip. They left Boston Saturday evening, came via Montreal, Detroit, Chicago, and thence by the Burlington route, and are to arrive in San Francisco on the 14th, stopping on the way a day at Las Vegas, one at Santa Fe, and one day at Los Angeles. Charles F. Parsons, Colorado passenger agent of the Santa Fe, will have charge of the party as far as Deming, and there they will be turned over to Mr. S. M. Miller, of the Southern Pacific. During the thirteen houns from Tuesday, 6 p. m., to Wednesday, 7 A. M., we ran three hundred and sixteen miles, from Kansas City, Mo., to Kinsley, Kan. At the latter place we had an excellent breakfast. Afterward a few began to sing, and soon a large party gathered upon the station platform and sang familiar hymns, which constituted a suitable prelude to the pleasures of the day. The three hundred and sixteen miles were all in Kansas, first in the valley of the " Kaw " or Kansas River, and then in the valley of the Arkansas. This broad, shallow, yellow river, — the Arkansas, — rising amid the snows of the Rocky Mountains, and pursuing its windings between the treeless banks, is of untold value to Kansas. The "garden" of our country stretches on both sides of the river, fifty miles from north to south, and two hundred miles east to west, at an elevation of two thousand five hundred feet. In climate it is superior, in fertility unexcelled. Our picture of the Arkansas Valley near Hutchinson gives a good view of ..." the gardens of the desert, these The unshorn fields, boundless and beautiful. And fresh as the young earth ere man had sinned. 72 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. " Lo ! they stretch In airy undulations far away, As if the ocean in his gentlest swell Stood still, with all his rounded billows lixed And motionless forever." At Hutchinson \vc first came in sight of the Arkansas River, and followed the stream for two hinulred and fifty miles, through the "Garden of the West." Hutchinson is in Reno County, has a population of two thousand five hundred, and is an important shipping point. We left the Arkansas when we turned south at La Junta. I'hough the broad valleys and rolling, unfenced prairies of Southwestern Kansas were covered with night's darkness, we could trace oin^ way uj^on the map, and imagine the vast plains which surrounded us. Our attention was called to the names of the counties and towns along our route, evincing the loyalty of the first settlers. Among the former are, Lyon, Chase, Reno, McPherson, Gray, Kearney, Stanton, Grant, and to the north or south appear the names of Presidents, generals, statesmen, the latter including Sumner, Wilson, and Lane. Just prior to our arrival at Kinsley, we passed Garfield, a new- town, named in honor of the late President — himself a Knight Tem- plar — by its first set- tlers, who came from his congressional dis- J^lt ♦' ,-.Si«^^_Ai ■nn: xtw .sl.TTI,I■;^^:;^T. trict in Ohio. Kinslev, where we tarried for two hours, was named in honor of a well- known citizen of Boston. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 73 Around Kinsley the country is a gentle, undulating prairie, watered by Coon Creek and the Arkansas River. The fertility is largely due to irrigation. The ditches extend fifty miles, and irrigate seventy-five thousand acres. Garden City, as luxuriant as prosperous, owes its importance to successful irrigation. We tarried there only a few minutes. Ditches are being constructed so as to flood the whole valley of the Arkansas, at a cost to the owner of the land of one dollar an acre per annum. The mountain streams, laden with vegetable matter, deposit it on the fields irrigated by their waters, and thus fertility constantly in- creases. The average WEALTH ON FOOT. crops grown on these lands — like Kansas it- self — are wonderful. Coolidge was reached, our fiery horse fed and watered, and we took our last view of Kansas. Two miles west of this town we crossed the line which separates the " Sunflower " from the " Centennial " State. " Colorado, rare Colorado ! yonder she rests ; her head of gold pillowed on the Rocky Mountains, her breast a shield of silver, her feet in the brown grass, the boundless plains for a play-ground," says Joaquin Miller. The country from Coolidge to La Junta is the same as Western Kansas, a plain, well adapted for grazing, as the cow-boys and shepherds with their herds and flocks abundantly prove. Every prominent station has its cattle-pen and arrangements for load- ing cattle into cars. Here, also, successful agriculture depends upon 74 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. artificial irrigation, except along the river bottoms. It was 6 p. m. when we arrived at La junta, having ascended from 2,207 '^^^^ *-'^^" vation at Kinsley to 4,117 feet elevation at La Junta, a distance of two hundred and thirty-eight miles. La Junta is the junction of the Colorado and New Mexico lines of the .Atchison, Topeka and Santa I'"e Railroad. Here we had a late dinner, and received a tiny iiuiiH, ornamented witli a pink bow, inter.ded as "a souvenir STAMPEDK. to the Boston Commandery Knights Templars on the occasion of their passage through La Junta, Colorado, en rojitc to San Franci.sco, Wednesday, Aug. 8, 1883," from S. Leipziger, manager La Junta Depot Hotel. We can never forget the green grass plot, made from Kansas soil, on which we sat and frolicked while we of section No. 2, hungry and thirsty, waited for the hungry and thirsty section No. I to appease their hunger. " We very much prefer to be in the first section every time," so all of us would say, if it were not for FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 75 the cruelty to those who would have to be in the second section " every time." Had Boston Commandery proceeded north from La Junta instead of south, it would have reached Denver, " the Queen City ]|(1C, TOWN. of the Plains." Its appointed route, however, lay southward, and the pleasure of visiting that " municipal miracle " and the grand scenery adjacent was unexperienced. We think it was, but the Rocky Mountain News, Denver, Col., Aug. lo, 1883, thought otherwise. That paper contained the following: — Boston Sir Knights. — A Large Party of Massachusetts Knights Templars EN route for .San Francisco. The Boston Commandery of Knights Templars arrived in Denver yesterday morning and partook of an excellent breakfast at Major Parsons's dinifig-rooms in the Union Depot. They came West by the Burlington, and will remain in the State some time, visiting various points of interest. 76 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Then followed the names of all composing the Boston party. This was a clear case of mistaken identity. Proceeding southward we ran nearly parallel with the great chain of the Rocky Mountains. The twin Spanish peaks (one 13,718 feet high) and Pike's Peak were plainly visible. We hastened across the southeast corner of Colorado, a rolling prairie, "carpeted with THE OLD WAY. nutritious buffalo-grass and many-colored cacti." Around us the once-famous buffalo grounds were spread, over which prairie-dogs now hold undisputed sway. Scores were seen sitting on their cone- shaped dwellings, unscared by the hissing steam and rattling cars. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 77 Here we observed for the first Eighty-two miles from La Junta we reached Trinidad, the last town of importance in Colorado. It is an old town, and was memorable in the days of the "old Santa Fe trail." time the adobe houses, and realized we were ap- proaching the country of the Aztec and burro. The wagon road — the "old Santa Fe trail," which attracted our atten- tion in Kansas — contin- ues to run close to the railroad track. Occasion- ally we saw the " ships of the desert " making slow headway over the plains, or resting at anchor for " refreshment and sleep." But things have changed, and the tedious overland journey of a few \'ears since has become a most pleasurable excursion. Trinidad, Col., lies at the foot of the Raton Spur. Two engines hauled us up the sharp grade of one hundred and eighty-five feet to the mile. The fires of the coke ovens we passed appeared in the distance like the torchlights of a halted procession. An intelligent brakeman consumed the evening relating many tragic traditions of the Santa Fe trail, — the orreat overland road to Santa Fe from the East. Unwritten are the stories of this pass over the mountains. IllLk UUUlluX Al llDMl,. 78 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. W'c noticed Dick Wootton's great square house and ponderous j;at(.' where llie traveller must halt. Years ago, this mountaineer received from the American and Mexican governments a charter to maintain a highwav through these mountains. He was surrounded by his "serfs," like a feudal lord, and held the pass, exacting toll from all who passed that way. Before the railroad was built, his business was very prosperous, producing, it is said, some days five hundred dollars, from tolls received at his " money-or-your-life " toll-gate. It is also said that he was in league with the Indians, and that many a dark and bloody chapter of mountain history, credited to the Indians, had Dick Wootton as its author. He is still li\ing, and exacts tribute, Init has a more moderate tariff than formerly. The Devil's Canon, where many an overland coach was halted, their occupants robbed, perhaps murdered, may be easily seen from the train. A trough in the trail is bordered by clefts which are level with the top of a coach pass- ing across the trough. These clefts, smooth faced, level on toj) with the ground, stand about twelve feet apart, one on each side. In this strategic place, a few could dictate to the RATON TUNNF.I,. many. The brakeman concluded by saying that not a great dis- tance froiu this trap is the graveyard of the Devil's Caiion, where rest the bones of scores who met their death in this treacherous trough. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 79 Five miles farther the puffing, groaning engines climbed and reached an elevation of 7,688 feet,' when the train jjlunged into a tunnel nearly a half-mile long, running under the crest of the Raton Spur. At the north end of the tunnel, we were in Colorado; at the south end, in New Mexico. They appeared alike, both being robed in darkness. Just before emerging from the tunnel, at the highest point of the pass, the bcauscaut of Boston Commandery was unfurled by Eminent Commander John L. Stevenson and bathed in the midnight breeze 7,688 feet above the level of the sea. We entered New Mexico, — the newest and the oldest portion of our land, — prize of Cabeza de Vaca; home of the Zunis, and territory of ruins and mystery. In an hour, flying as if on the wings of the wind, we descended a thousand feet and stopped at Raton, a railroad town having large repair shops. The descent from Raton was made "with one engine, and for such a long and heavy train as ours, was made with danger. I sat up to view the wonders of creation in this famous pass, and when one is an eye-witness to the effect of the brakes in lighting up the whole train as with a continuous fire, and this for many miles, and knows that the railroad-men on the same train are frightened, it would seem that the raih-oad company should make no more experiments, but take down less cars at a time." — Sn< J. D. D., Cor. youriial and Courier, New Haven, Conn. Raton is also a coal-mining town, capable of producing a thousand car-loads per day. "The hour of arrival at Raton was 2 A. m., yet the Sir Knights of Raton were at the station in their 'Knight clothes,' accompanied by a band of music. They could converse with us through open windows, and a young BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. H Z D O FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 8 1 Sir Knight (?) just under mine said thiat ' wlien liis fatlier died lie left his regalia to him, and he had been waiting for three months with anticipations of the greatest pleasure for the coming of this special train '" — Sir F. H. W., in address delivered at Keeiie, N. H. At 7.15 A. M. we arrived at Las Vegas, one of the principal cities of New Mexico. Las Vegas has all the improvements, industries, churches, schools, and newspapers incident to a thriving and wide-awake city. Leaving the main line at this place by a branch road six miles in length, we rode to Las Vegas Hot Springs, where we had an excellent breakfast, and tarried until after dinner. The train stopped at the pretty depot, and by an elevated plank walk which crosses the Rio Gallinas we proceeded to the hotel. The Commandery was delighted with its reception at this beautiful resort. The Montezuma, designed by a Boston archi- tect, is a fine building, and owned, like the Hot Springs, by the railroad company. Among the foot-hills of the Spanish range of mountains lies a plateau, comprising about thirty acres. Around it, the rocky cliffs tower several hundred feet, except where the river Rio Gallinas makes its entrance to and exit from the plateau. Upon the bank of the river, where it enters this amphitheatre, the Hot Springs, about forty in number, bubble forth. The temperature of the different springs varies from seventy-five to one hundred and thirty-six degrees. It is said that the native population resorted thither with their lame and sick for centuries, venerating the springs for remarkable cures. So precious did the Lidians consider these waters that they guarded them day and night, that hostiles miglit not destroy o z in s Id > O X H z o FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 83 or injure them. The Hot Springs were visited, and the baths well patronized. The loath-house, two hundred feet long by forty-two feet wide, is at the right of the hotel, on the opposite side of the river. These buildings are connected by a substantial bridge. Bathing experi- ence can be best told by a bather. Sir F. H. Whitcomb said in his address at Keene, N. H.: — The waters at Las Vegas Hot Springs are said to contain fourteen per cent of sodium sulphate, twenty-seven per cent sodium chloride, and a small per cent of soda, calcium, and magnesia, with strong traces of iodine and bromide. Benefit for" cutaneous diseases is claimed for these waters, and the list of diseases cured by them is too long to enumerate. Bathers are cautioned against taking a bath without first paying a doctor one dollar for telling them it won't hurt them any. The doctors tell us we are only about seven pounds of animal matter, wet thoroughly with six or seven pails of water, and request us to exhibit faith in the water cure. In the medicated bath the patient is first brought to a profuse perspiration, in a vapor box, to extract the moisture from the body and open the pores. He is rubbed dry and cooled off in a cooling-room. Then he is put into a box, his head protruding, of course, and chloride of mercury, sulphuret of potassium, or whatever drug his case may require, is burned in the box. In case of catarrh, his head is also put in. Our party took the bath simply for cleanliness, at ninety-eight degrees. The hot bath, followed by the blanket sweat and shampoo, is given at from one hundred to one hundred and ten degrees. The temperature of the vapor bath is one hundred and fifteen degrees. Many sick people improve here, and the climate is very favorable. The winter season is short, although ice can be cut twenty-seven inches thick, and is very cheap. A novel and peculiar feature of this place is the mud bath. The bath mud is confined in holes in the ground, which are surrounded above ground by wooden fences. The fine mud paste 84 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. makes the interior look like a first-class pig pen, without the odor. It is said that this fine mud paste, through which the spring water has trickled for ages, contains powerful medicinal properties. Into some of this primeval mud, dished up into a bath-tub, the patient is put up to his neck, the head alone being visible above the black mass. This mud is heated to any temperature by means of steam conducted through ])ipes from a boiler. It is a ridiculous bath and a funny sight, but patients extol its virtues. Our party were busily engaged, taking baths, visiting the bear grounds, museums of Indian relics, and collections of geological specimens, procuring photographs and souvenirs, while a few, who had plenty of time at their disposal, not being in any haste to get around, indulged in horseback exercise. The plaza in front of the hotel is prettily laid out and adorned with flowers and shrubs. The buildings, hotels, bath-house, dwell- ings, and stores are all tasty and neat in architecture, which give the place an inviting appearance. The dinner bill of fare was uni(|ue. It consisted of six pages. On the first page were Templar emblems, on the last was a picture of the hotel and grounds. The second page contained the ineint ; the third, the names of "the guests of the Montezuma,* Aug. 9, Boston Commandery of Knights Templars and ladies"; the fourth gave the names and residences of the guests not of our party, one hundred and two in number. The portion of the menu which was of personal interest was as follows : — *A $300,000 Hotel Burned. — Denver, Col., Jan. 17, 18S4. The Grand Montezuma Hotel at Las Vegas was burned this afternoon. The fire originated in the basement, it is supposed from a gasoline machine. In thirty minutes the hotel was in ruins. The guests, numbering one hundred, lost everything, barely escai)ing with their lives. Frozen fire-plugs rendered the fire department powerless. The hotel was owned by the -Vtchison, Topeka and Santa Fc Railroad Company, and was one of the finest structures in the West. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. Cream of Celery, h la Stevenson. Consomme Vermicelli, !i In Richards. Salmon Braise, h la Trull. Pommes, h la Gleason. Cucumbers. Olives. Tomatoes. 85 Boiled Leg of Mountain Sheep, j '''''' Oliver A. Rober' " J Miss Mary Dean. " " | Sir Z. H. Thomas. .State Room. Sir Harrison A. Tucker. Mrs. Harrison .\. Tucker. Miss Nellie D. Tucker. PRIVATE CAR. Eminent .Sir John L. Stevenson, Eminent Commander. Mrs. John L. Stevenson. M.-. E.-. Benjamin Dean, Grand Master of Templars of the United States. Mrs. Benjamin Dean. COMMITTEES. EXECUTIVE. JOHN L. STEVENSON. EUGENE H. RICHARDS. JAMES M. GLEASON. WILLIAM A. UUNTON. GEORGE F. HEVVETT. LADIES. ABIJAH THOMPSON. W. H. L. SMITH. JOHN D. GALE. TRANSPORTATION. EDWARD T. NICHOLS. ALFRED M. SMITH. AMASA W. BAILEY. MEDICAL STAFF. WM. DAN LAMB, M. D., Dirrctor. HARRISON A. TUCKER. M. D. WM. S. SEVERANCE, M. D. CHARLES E. SEVERANCE, M. D. CHAPTER VI. Returning to Las Vegas at 1.30 p. m., we continued our journey towards Santa Fe, our next stopping place. Twenty miles beyond Las Vegas we sighted Starvation Peak, and for some hours it was prominently in view, during which time we made the famous Horse- shoe Bend. In order to surmount difficulties of grade, the novel sight is seen of the engine ap- parently going in a direc- tion almost opposite to that pursued by the rear of the train. Often the engine could be seen from the windows of the rear cars without effort to look forward. The Peak stands iso- lated upon the plain, with apparently steep, sloping SlAKVAllU.N Pt.XK. BOSTON COMMANDER V KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. sides, surmounted by a crown of lcdy;c which seems insurmountable. The light-coh)red summit of rocl: is in sharp contrast with the dark- colored cone on which the former rests. The story is, that a com- pany of Spaniards were driven to the summit of this peak by the Indians and held there until thev starved to death, with their own fair fields in view. Some of the crosses erected there could be clearly seen from the cars. Twenty-five miles farther, as the train began to climl) (ilorietta Mountain, we looked out upon the Rio I'ecos X'alley, which contains the ruins of the old Pecos pueblo or town and church. The ruins of the church could be distinctly seen, and also there were evidences in its vicinity of fallen walls. Once a populous and busy citv stood there, but now ruined and desolate like Bethel or Jericho. It is claimed that the church was erected by the Spaniards in 1529, and the adjacent ruins are of that pre-historic city, Cicuya, one of the mysterious "seven cities of Cibola." Tradition says that where the church stands there was once an Aztec temple, built on the place where Montezuma, the culture god, was born. Thence, upon an eagle's back, he proceeded southward ; wherever the eagle stopped at night, Montezuma located a pueblo or town. The sign of the arrival at the site for a great citv, which Monte- zuma was to found, was to be " the alighting of the eagle on a cactus-bush and devouring a serpent." This event is said to have taken place on arrival at the site of the present city of Mexico. SEAL OF NEW MEXICO. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACTFIC. g^ This tradition furnishes the subject for the territorial seal of New Mexico. The ruins have been carefully examined. The original church was in the form of a Roman cross, one hundred and fifty feet long and forty feet wide, the transept being sixty feet. Its walls were six feet thick, built of adobe bricks. The walls now standing give no clew to their original height. There are ruins of stone and earth enclosures. For twelve hundred feet along the ridge there are evidences of fallen houses or walls. "This spot is the traditional birthplace of Montezuma, the culture god. It was here the sacred fire was kept burning at his command until the present century. When Montezuma disappeared centuries ago, on an eagle's back, he enjoined the people of Cicuye to keep in life the sacred spark, telling them that when he returned he would descend through the flame and smoke. Warriors watched the fire in turn. Montezuma came not. Still the faithful watchers remained true to their trust. Warfare, old age, and disease deci- mated their ranks, but still the watch was kept, day and night. The city crumbled into ruins, and the band was reduced to so small a number that it was foreseen that the sacred fire must soon die with the faithful watchers. Then it was that the three warriors, the last of their race, took the fire into the mountains, where Montezuma is said to have appeared and received it from their hands." To these arid plains and rich mountain-sides, the culture god has indeed come, perhaps returned, in the new civil- ization, whose voice is heard, whose power is felt, whose strides are seen on every hand. At 4.30 p. M. the summit of Glorietta Pass, 7,537 feet elevation, was reached, and a rapid descent was made through the Apache Caiion. Lamy, the junction of the Santa Fe branch and main 94 nOSTOX COMMANDER y KX/GI/TS TEMPLARS. ^jUI -jj FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. or line, was soon passed, and a run of eighteen miles on the branch road brought us to Santa Fe, reputed to be the oldest city in the United States. On our arrival, 8 v. m., it rained very hard. Some, willing to brave the storm, sought rooms at the hotels, but the greater number remained on board the train. Next morning, Friday, Aug. lo, the remainder were transferred to the Palace Hotel, a modern and stately house, whose proprietor received his guests as well as possible. One would naturally suppose that our party, having been exposed in the rain and swollen creek of Santa Fe, would have been wet, and the proprietor in his Palace Hotel would have been dry, but the truth is, our party was dry and he was wet. After breakfast, the entire command, each as he jDleased, pro- ceeded " to do " Santa Fe. Carriaa^es were in oreat demand. Santa Fe claims an existence in 1325 A. D. How old the place then was even tradition cannot tell. The Spaniards occu- pied it in 15S3, and the tertio-millennial celebration was in progress during our visit. If one can judge of the age of Santa P"e by its streets and adobes, as one judges a horse's age by his teeth, probably the earlier date is correct. Its lay-out is mediaeval ; its style of houses, one-story and flat-roofed, is Syrian ; its covered side- walks Bernese ; its mode of brick-making Egyptian ; and its general appearance Oriental. From a distance the city looks like the plain on which it stands. The houses, built of sun-dried bricks, are mud-cov- ered and flat-roofed. The streets are narrow, — a carriage and two horses, standing crosswise, would block up a whole thoroughfare. The carriage driver in Santa Fe clears the wood-laden burros and their Mexican drivers out of the way by yelling, as the driver in Cairo clears his way of the donkeys and Arab boys. There are, however, points of real interest in the city. San Miguel Church, built in 1640, 96 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMI'LARS. o O o z < FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 07 destroyed in 16S0, and rebuilt in 1710, liaving mouldering walls with- out and faded pictures within, had many visitors that day. The palace, which some one has likened to a rope-walk, is, historically, the most notable building in the city. It occupies one side of a square, is one-story high, flat-roofed, and has a porch in front its entire length. It was first occupied by Indians, then by the Spaniards, next by the Mexicans, but now is the palace of the territorial governor, Lionel A. Sheldon, upon whom many Sir Knights and ladies called and paid their respects. This building has been used as fort, prison, palace, court-room, and capitol. The Exposition Buildings were visited, and the specimens of metals, minerals, and colossal petrefactions, together with the prod- ucts of New Mexico, were examined. Spinning and weaving after the native style were shown. The venerable weaver was made rich that day. There were on sale varieties of Mexican jewelry, precious stones, and native laces. There were pianos, organs, farming tools and implements, together constituting a very creditable exposition. In an adjacent building relics of various kinds were gathered: Kit Carson's original rifle ; a small arsenal of ancient weapons, — knives, pistols, guns, swords ; a wooden plough ; paintings on skins of ani- mals ; oil paintings, dimmed by passing centuries. There must have been in this country, in some past century, something better than Indian barbarism and Mexican indolence. A public procession, a feature of the celebration, composed of Americans, Mexicans, and Indians, civilians, scouts, and soldiei's, with battery and wagon train, was very interesting. The long-haired cava- liers recalled pictures of Spain's mounted nobility; the scouts ajapeared to have experienced hard service; the company of United States cav- alry, just returned from Crook's campaign, revived the memories of Custer and Sheridan. As the procession passed the hotel, Boston 7 g8 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Commandery gathered informally in front, and applauded the various companies; but the heartiest "hurrah" was reserved for the cavalry and the colors they carried. * The cathedral of stone, in process of erection, around and over THE PLAZA, SANTA Vl£.. the old San FrancisQO chapel, — "the oldest house in America," said to have been built in 1542, — the college, and the most ancient part of the town, together with the jewelry and curiosity stores, were visited. All classes of citizens seemed to exert themselves to give FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 99 our party a pleasant reception. It was a day of great opportunities, and they were well used. Charlie Morris thought he was doing a nice thing when trying to deceive the Yankees from the Hub. He was known not to be a scout. He would not dare to lose sight of the adobes of Santa Fe ; but in our desire to see the fun go on, we called him "Scout," — we played he was "scout." What Charlie thought is thus set forth in the Neti) Mexican : — Charlie Morris "did up" the visiting Bostonians in great shape to-day. He robed himself in a full suit of beaded buckskin, and, calling at the Palace, became an object of much curiosity and attention. The men plied him with all sorts of questions concerning border scouts, their modes of life and their trials and hardships, and the ladies shook hands with him again and again. The half-dozen citizens who stood by and witnessed the scene have n't got through laughing yet. Charlie talked to them for a good hour, explaining all the mysteries of scout-land, and informed them that little was doing in his line at present, as the border was quiet, but expressed the belief that he and all his subordinate scouts would have plenty to do before the snow? came again. They called him "Calamity Charlie." The Nciv Mexican, Santa Fe, N. M., Aug. 9, has the following concerning our day in that ancient city: — Taking in the Tertio. — Three Hundred Years of History crowded into A Single Forenoon. — The Tableaux. — City full of Visitors. — To-day AT THE Grounds. — The Ball. To-day may justly be counted one of the most successful the Tertio- Millennial Exposition has experienced since its opening, just one month and ten days ago. Notwithstanding the unsettled condition of travel, the heavy rains, and the irregularity and unreliability of trains, visitors from far and near have left their homes, braved the difficulties, and poured into lOO BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMTLARS. 'J FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE FACIFIC. iqi the ancient city by the hundreds to get a peep at our exposition, a good report from which has long since reached every quarter of the globe. The influx of travel has been greater in the past three days than during any similar period in the modern history of the city. The remarkable success of the street pageants and historic tableaux presented last month, and a desire to see them reproduced, are responsible for the gathering of visitors we have here to-day. Every available nook and corner in the city was occupied last night. Many were unable to secure accommodations at all until nearly midnight, and then not till some kindly new-made acquaintance had stirred about and found them. The stores and shops were crowded with purchasers all the afternoon and evening, and to-day the trains have all brought full loads of sight-seers, and with the Boston Knights Templars and half a dozen minor excursion parties, the streets and public places have presented a scene of life and activity that was hardly expected a week ago, when it was first announced that the exposition would continue open till the 15th inst. The Boston excursion party arrived at eight o'clock last evening on a special train of seven palace cars. They took vehicles at the depot immediately upon arrival, and had supper at the Palace, returning to their sleepers about ten oclock, after making a brief survey of the city by gas- light. Only a limited number visited the exposition grounds and witnessed the magnificent historic tableaux. In this they missed a great treat, — such a one as is seen in a lifetime, — but they were all no doubt very much fatigued, and then, too, they desired to get a refreshing rest in order that to-day's scenes might prove all the more enjoyable. All appear to have spent an agreeable day. They had some difficulty in securing breakfast ; the Palace being unable to accommodate them, many had to be content with the Grand Central and Exchange for breakfast and dinner, but they took in the situation good-naturedly and made the best of it. The party is en route to San Francisco to attend the Triennial Conclave. They left Boston on Saturday night last and report having had an agreeable journey throughout. They departed for the West late this afternoon, and expect to reach home about Sept. i. I02 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. THE EXPOSITION. The Sim came out brij^ht and beautiful and continued so til! eleven o'clock. A large crowd of visitors e.xamined the exhibits up to nearly that hour, when they repaired to the plaza, and, with numbers largely increased, watched and waited for the historic pageant. The various sections were somewhat behind time in forming, but shortly after eleven, martial music sounded from the lower end of San Francisco Street, and the procession soon made its appearance at the plaza, led by Hon. W. T. Thornton, gorgeously robed as a Spanish knight, and a \ery proper leader by reason of his office as [^resident of the Knights of Coronado. The pa- geant proved very cred- itable. The various characters represented the history of New Mexico from 1550 to the present, beginning with the aborigines and running up the line of advancement and progress with the Spanish occupation, and the coming of Coronado and his plumed knights ; the reconquest by Diego de Vargas ; the American occupation ; Santa Fe trail and its prairie schooners ; the coming of the telegraph and steam engine, the Goddess of Liberty and Uncle Sam mounted on the latter ; indeed, to the student of progressive history the pageant was full THE PRIKSr III SAXIA I JO. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 103 of novelty and unique interest. It was not characterized by as many strikingly novel features as was the first one, because of the absence of the Indians who played such a prominent part on that occasion, but this could not be helped, as all the Indians are now too busy with their crops to leave their homes under any circumstances. The attendance at the grounds was not large during the afternoon, owing to the regular daily storm, which came up about noon and which stampeded the spectators just after the pageant had passed. This evening, however, fair weather or foul, the crowd in attendance at the ball will be all the hall can accommodate. A great many tickets have been sold, and the evening promises much enjoyment, notwithstanding the inclement weather at this writing. In the early afternoon of Friday, Aug. 10, we forded Santa Fe Creek for the last time, and, embarking on our train, proceeded westward via Lamy, and arrived at Wallace, N. M., at 6 p. m. Here we tarried "for supper only," as we supposed. The manager of the depot hotel is Signor Victor Vezetta. This gentleman conceived the idea of treating the Sir Knights to the sight of an Indian dance. He sent messengers the day before to the Indian city and invited the principal Indians to come to Wallace and dance, promising them a collection and a supper if they would. The Indians accepted and were present to the number of two hundred, of all ages, sexes, dress, and decorations. They belong to the San Domingo Pueblo tribe, and live in San Domingo City, four miles from Wallace. The tribe numbers one thousand persons, and are agriculturists, but manufacture some pottery. Many speci- mens were procured by our party. These Indians are nominally Roman Catholics. They are not quarrelsome or immoral. The penalty with tliem for immorality is flaying. San Domingo is regularly laid out. The streets are narrow but very hard. The I04 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. houses aix' adobe, with mud floors, hard as cement and scrupulously neat within. They consist of twelve large buildings, communal dwellings. There are also two council chambers, which are also used for dances. The depot at Wallace has, on the west side, a yard fifty feet square, surrounded on two sides (south and west) with a very high board fence, on one side (north) with a picket fence, and the hotel bounds the fourth side. After our supper the Indian procession was formed, east of the station, and proceeded to this yard, being led by Indians clad in all their finery, on horseback. Next came their ilag of animals' skins, Indian tanned, the ancient banner of the tribe. The dancing Indians, fifty in number, came next by twos, the se.xes alternating, that is, first came two men, then two women, and so on. These were followed by a crowd of seventy-five Indians, who proved to be the singers on "this interesting occasion." On their arrival at the gate every available place for seeing was occupied by our party and the people from the surrounding country, even the top of the board fence and the roofs of the adjacent buildings. The principal Indian characters were the governor and the chief. The governor is the head of the tribe, and specially directs agricultural matters, ordering the details of men weekly for agricultural and pastoral work. The chief is the secretary of war, under whose direction the military organization is kept up, but without weapons, etc. The male dancers were bare above the waist. Their breasts, backs, and faces were gaudily painted. Their long, black hair hung down in a knot. They wore strings of beads around their necks, to which were attached crosses of tin, wood, sea-shell, etc. Below the clout their limbs were bare and painted, except they wore moccasins. In their right hands they carried a shaker, a dried gourd containing seeds, to FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACITIC. 105 which was attached a wooden handle. This they shook to the time of the drum-beating. In their left they carried sprigs of tureen. The female dancers wore a lontr woollen o;arment belted about their waist, exposing the left shoulder only. Their hair was long and flowing, and both men and women had their hair banged. Hence the modern custom is said to have been derived. They likewise wore beads and decorations, and were barefooted. In their hands they carried sj^rigs of green. Their faces were painted a bright red. In stature they were all small ; the faces "**■ "i-tJi-i-.- A SHIP OF THE DESERT AT ANCHOR. of the men were angular and hard, but the women had pleasant expressions on their round faces. The singers were dressed in costumes civilized and barbarous. They were led by the drummer, who vigorously pounded with one stick on a drum, two and one half feet long, cylindrical in form, the heads being covered with sheepskins. On entering the yard the drum was beaten and the dancers began to dance very slowly around the yard, retaining I06 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. their niarchintr order. It was a dance in creneral fitrures. The second formation was like that in the Virginia reel. Immediately they came into sets, and proceeded with tlie same shuffling step as before, keeping time to the beating of the drum and to the mournful chanting of the choir. Their movements were frequently greeted with applause by the Sir Knights. The governor expressed to Signor Vezetta a desire to meet the " Ca])itan." Eminent Commander Stevenson was introduced to him, and the former bestowed upon the chief a new silver dollar, whereupon numerous aboriginal hands were instantly extended for a similar recognition. Subsequently the Eminent Commander decorated the Indian gov- ernor with a badge of Boston Commandery. The crowd applauded and the recipient appeared very much ])leased. He was also presented with a pocket compass, which at first he hardly dared touch and seemed puzzled, but after an explanation he was profusely thankful. It was an interesting hour, some expressing the feeling that the sight was worth a ride from Boston. As we were leaving Wallace, Signor Vezetta presented Boston Commandery with a live American eagle which was captured near Wallace. This memo- randum was attached to his cage : — " Upward ! " This bird of emblem to our pilgrim brethren of Boston Commandery, Aug. 10, 1883, at Wallace, N. M. VICTOR VEZETTA, Manager Depot Hotel. The eagle was accepted by Eminent Commander Stevenson in behalf of the Commandery, with thanks, expressing the hope that the prestige of the bird might attend "the Bostons" in their pilgrimage, and that this " pilgrim " eagle might become famous with the Templar host as "Old Abe" was with the soldiers. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PAC/F/C. 107 Henceforth the eagle became a " pilgrim " and shared our pilgrimage with us. A large cage was substituted for his narrow box, and in the former, upon a pole attachment, the eagle took in the whole of the Templar parade in San Francisco, and was carried in the procession of Sept. 4, 1883, in Boston, to Masonic Temple, where the pilgrimage of Boston Commandery ended.* " The Rio Grande River," says Sir S. L. S., " which from childhood we had erroneously regarded as a river of great impor- tance and magnitude, pro\'ed, then at least, to be a river without water, save here and there a little brook for a short distance, and then again disappeared into the earth, though tlie torn banks and deep galleys plainly indicated it to be a furious torrent when fed by the fierce mountain streams during the rainy season." We reached the Rio Grande at Wallace, and our night's ride of two hundred and sixty-eight miles followed that river. Agri- culture is carried on by the Indians and Mexicans in the most primitive methods. Wooden ploughs are still in use, and their carts have solid wheels of wood. * The pilgrims will regret to learn of the demise of the pilgrim eagle. It was thus announced in the Boston Herald: "A Pilgrim at rest. — During the pilgrimage of Boston Commandery Knights Templars to California, and while stopping at Wallace, N. M., the Commandery was presented with a fine specimen of the American eagle, which was duly christened ' Pilgrim.' The liird was taken to 'Frisco,' and played a prominent part in the grand parade. It w.is brought thence to Boston, and has since been kept in Mr. Stevenson's store, at No. 4 Faneuil Hall Square. The bird was fast assuming large proportions, but high living and close confinement finally overcame his eagleship, and on Friday he passed to the realms reserved for Masonic eagles." PRIMITIVE AGRICULTURE. I08 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. At 5 A. M. \vc lialtcd at Rincon, a town of one thousand population, the junction of the I'll Paso hranclT raihoad. We should have passed the iuiiclion without noticing it, had it not Ijeen for an unwelcome .separation. Bro. Edward K. Stevenson, son of the Eminent Com- mander, who had made tlie journey from Boston with us, and ])roved himself a kind-spirited, genial travelling companion, left us at Rincon. We called him sometimes the "cow-boy." He had had experience on the plains, and was now to go south by El Paso to Abilene on the prairie, there mount, ride, herd, and watch, leading the lonely life incident to cattle raising on the })lains. We wished him the best fortune, said farewell, and, proceeding, the breakfast hour found us at Deming, the terminus of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad. In leaving the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, called "a child of Boston," we have none but good words for it. Good time was made over the entire road, the scenery was grand, the entertainment at all the depot dining-rooms was equal to the best we received anywhere on the pilgrimage, and the officers of the road who accompanied us were painstaking and courteous. CHAPTER VII. We arrived at Deming at 7.30 a. m., had one hour for breakfast, and departed at 6.45 a. m. (one road runs by Eastern time, the other by San Erancisco time). At Deming we were obliged to part with our friends Sir Knight Schemerhorn and Mr. Charles T. Parsons. Both as officers and gentlemen they filled the measures to the brim. The entire party felt under obligations to them for favors shown. On no road were the meals better- served or more abundant; nowhere were the ofificers of the railroad more painstaking, or the Commandery more kindly treated. Soon we entered Arizona and dined at Bowie. Proceeding, we observed the marked change in scenery and awaited the coming deserts w^ith resignation. During the afternoon Benson was reached, where passengers for the celebrated Tombstone district change cars. The history of this remarkable name is, that the discoverer of mineral, when he first arrived, said he thought he could find mineral in the hills south of Benson. " You will find your tombstone," remarked a cattle drover, sneeringly. The prospecter persevered, and when he did " strike it rich " and was requested to name the district, he said, " Oh, it has been named before. I was told I should find my tombstone." And so to this day the place is called Tombstone. The scenery along the I lO BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Southern Pacific continued less and less attractive. The grand, tall mountains gave way to barren hills and the grazing plains became sage-fields, then sand wastes. The alkali plains are indeed desolate, l)ut neither from dust nor heat did we suffer. At 4.30 p. M., drawn by two engines, we arrived at Tucson, the second oldest town in the Ihiited States and the lars^est in Arizona. TLXSUN, ARl/e)NA. Supper was served at the Porter Hotel. The menu consisted of a four-page card, the first page containing in the centre a Masonic emblem ; above it, the words " To the Conclave," while below was the appropriate couplet : — "Across the desert on their way, Come valiant Knights in grand array." FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. HI The Commandery was greeted with knightly courtesies. Carriages were provided and many Sir Knights viewed witli pleasure the lively city of Tucson. As a party was riding near the centre of the town a dense cloud of smoke arose in front of them and an alarm of fire was quickly given. Soon a large wooden building was wrapt in flames. As the rafters began to fall a hose company with its carriage arrived. First it ran by the hydrant, then returned, attached the hose and began to reel it off. Quite unfortunately the pipe had been left at the engine house, whither a horseman was sent post haste. The building — occupied for the manufacture of ice — was entirely consumed, with its contents. It was the largest manufacturing interest in Tucson, and its product absolutely essential to the comfort of its people. Tucson is a pretty place, clean and busy. The people were social and painstaking. The streets are regularly laid out; the buildings are constructed of adobe, one story, but have an appearance of neatness and comfort within. The value of the metals shipped from this station during the year ending July i, 18S3, was fourteen million dollars. We had an Indian dance at Wallace, a great fire at Tucson, and are promised an earthquake in California. It was with rcerct that we were oblia^ed so soon to leave Tucson. Bro. L. C. Hughes supplied the party with the Arizona Slar, an illustrated annual, setting forth the glories of Arizona in general, but Tucson in particular. The Arizona Daily S/ar, of Saturday, Aug. II, anticipated the arrival of Boston Commandery, saying: — All Hail to the "Pilgrim Warriors." — The Boston Knights will be welcomed to our ancient and honorable pueblo in their jDilgrimage across the continent, and if they will stop off a few days we will show them both silver and gold in the mountains of this weird-like land, but if they must pass on we will give them such as we have, — a warm welcome and some- thins; better than cold water and hard-tack. I 12 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Starting at 7 i'. m., \vc dared the Great American Desert. The ride across was somewhat dusty. The desert is a waste of sand, level for a few miles on both sides of the railroad, beyond which are high-rifted sand-hills. The next morning, Sunday, we halted INDIGENOUS TO THE SOIL. — VUMA. ill the desert at Yuma for breakfast, anxious to reach the Hower- land of the angels. "You ma'" be assured we saw nothing like Yuma except Yuma. Thermometer 95°. Yuma is the place where a man died, and it is said for crimes which he had done, was FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 113 consigned to the " hot place," but that fiery region was so much cooler than Yuma that the very next day, it is said, he sent a message back for his overcoat. The principal object of attraction and distraction at Yuma is the Indians. They are numerous and easily distinguished by the scantiness of their wardrobe, generally consisting of hair on the head, shirt about the waist, and moccasins on the feet. One of them had his quiver (.?) of arrows slung over his shoulder and his bow in hand. He was tempted at the sight of coin to try his skill at a knightly card on a stick stuck OVEN. ADOBE FIREPLACE. in the ground. The distance was sixty or seventy feet. He placed the arrow, drew his bow, and won the coin by his skill, for the card fell nearly every time. Such nude noodles were pitiable and repulsive. We crossed the Colorado River immediately after leaving Yuma, passing from Arizona into California. Thence the road crosses the great Colorado Desert, that vast ocean-bed of past ages, at its lowest point two hundred and si.\ty-six feet below sea level. Occa- 114 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. sionally there were patches of niesc|uite, sage, and greasewood shrubs, hut principally there was a dreary, ashen desert. As we glided by station after station, we rose above the sea level at Seven Palms, and signs of fertility appeared. Suddenly we emerged from the desert, and the foot-hills, with their scant herbage, were succeeded by green fields. We tarried a few moments at Colton, where a citizen, formerly of New England, extolled the neighboring site and thrift of Riverside — "the poor man's paradise." Here our train was boarded by Sir Knights R. R. Brown, E. I"". Spence, T. J. Caystile, and F. A. Gibson, from Los Angeles, who came thus far to meet us. Thev brouy-ht (^onerous donations of native productions from citizens of Los Angeles to refresh the weary pilgrims travelling from afar. Forty-eight miles farther, past pretty villages with foreign names, is San Gabriel, the place of the old San Gabriel Mission, founded in 1 77 1. Its orange orchard was the first planted in California. On arrival here Messrs. Weeks and Titus supplied the travellers with delicious oranges. From Colton to Los Angeles, though somewhat fatigued from the heat and dust of the desert, the party enjoyed the products of the country and conversed with their new- companions. Eleven miles more, through orchards, vineyards, and beauty, and we entered the Land of Flowers, — Pueblo de la Reina de los Angeles. It was the middle of a beautiful Sunday afternoon when the train reached Los Angeles. There was an immense and orderly crowd gathered at the station to welcome us. Cceur de Lion Commandery, No. 9, of Los Angeles, accompanied by the Union Band, was drawn up in line upon the platform and received the Grand Master and his escort. The usual knightly courtesies were interchanged, and "the freedom of the city" offered was accepted by the visitors. Some of our party repaired to the hotels to rest FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. I 15 and refresh themselves, though to many the Pullmans seemed most homelike, so attached had we become in eight days. In the same building with the passenger waiting-rooms there is a finely kept hotel, of which Sir H. A. Clawson is proprietor. This building, within and without, was profusely decorated with Templar symbols and banners. Nearly the entire command had their meals at this hotel, and nowhere on the route were the Sir Knights more hos- pitably entertained or better pleased. Our arrival on Sunday evening gave us a sight not homelike, but rather European. Theatres, saloons, and stores were open, and upon the hill where Gen. Fremont planted his guns and bombarded the town, the liafhts of a lag-er-beer crarden a:listened like stars, while the music therefrom rolled over the town. Sunday evening, a religious service, conducted by the Prelate of Boston Commandery, was held in the dining-room of the hotel. Mr. Nadcau had nearly completed a fine block on the principal street, in which Nadeau Hotel was to be located. A suite of rooms on the second floor was finished by his order, and the use of it generously given to Coeur de Lion Commandery, No. 9, as a head- quarters during the visits of Eastern Sir Knights to and from the Conclave. The rooms were elegantly furnished, and were tastily decorated with fruits and flowers. Sir Knights and ladies of Los Angeles were in constant attendance to welcome the pilgrims and dispense hospitality. Monday morning came bright and beautiful, bringing great antici- pations, which were more than realized. Carriages were freely provided for drives around Los Angeles and into the country. The orchards, vineyards, wine vaults, and villas were visited, some parties going as far as Sierra Madre Villa and San Gabriel Mission. Il6 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. "Did you ever visit an orange grove when the rich, yellow fruit sur- rounded you on every side? Oranges behind and in front of you ; oranges on the right and on the left above you ; and the ground yellow with oranges at your feet, perfuming the air with their delicious fragrance ? We did, at Los Angeles, and while we were busy testing the capacity of our stomachs, our host was testing the holding capacity of our carriages after having stuffed our pockets with choice specimens until we resembled walking fruit stores." — Sik S. L. S., Sewing MacJiine News, Dec, 1883. The different species of cacti (of which it is said there are a hundred different kinds in Arizona) increased in quantity, size, and variety as we proceeded westward. Vast quantities were seen on the route ; sometimes a few scattered ones on dark soil, and again soHd acres where the soil was poorest. They varied in size from a running stem to a trunk thirty feet high. The specimens cultivated at some of the stations where we tarried were wondrous in shape, but without comeliness. The principal streets of Los Angeles are level, wide, and shady, the shade trees being the pepper-tree and eucalyptus. The lawns and gardens seemed semi- tropical indeed with century plants, pomegranates, palms, and brilliant flowers. Climbing vines festooned the fronts of houses ; geraniums were twelve feet high, and heliotrope grown from the ground looked down upon us from the eaves of a porch. It was fragrant, luxuriant, and seemed as if we were in a dream. Mrs. Charles A. Fairbanks, in her published correspondence, described Los Angeles as a lovely town, with orange and banana trees weighed down with luscious fruit, ready to be plucked. Flowers bloomed on every side, and white, tempting grapes hung iu rich clusters within reach. She expressed delight and amazement at the profusion of double scarlet geraniums which are in bloom the year round, growing to the height of twelve feet, and at the mag- FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 117 nificent heliotrope, which covers one whole side of houses. She confessed her inability to adequately describe the grandeur of the scenery, or the magnificent cordiality universally manifested, and gratefully mentioned the attentions everywhere shown to the ladies of the party. The experience of Sir A. H. Hurlburt, as jjublished in the Masonic yotirnal, was similar to that of Boston Sir Knights who made the tour of San Gabriel, Sierra Madre, and the vineyards. He thus relates his experience in the vicinity of Los Angeles: — LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA. The city of Los Angeles is located in the most fertile part of Southern California, and contains sixteen thousand inhabitants. Its banks, business houses, wholesale and retail, railroad shops, factories, and hotels bespeak the enterprise and wealth of its citizens. Its streets are fine, its public Il8 BOSTON COMMANDER Y K NIGHTS TEMPLARS. buildings imposing, its blocks and factories extensive. It is situated on the river of the same name, about thirty miles from the sea, and is the railroad centre for all that part of the State. It sustains a public library and an organized fire department. It is supplied with water and gas, and has a well-developed system of street railroads. The climate is charming all the year round, and its soil produces all the semi-tropical fruits and flowers, with abundant garden fruits and vegetables. Our sojourn in this delightful spot was enjoyable in the extreme, and the courtesy extended to us will never be forgotten. In our tour about the city, we visited the St. Gabriel Church at Pasadena, and endeavored, as far as in us lies, to obey the injunction which we saw conspicuously posted on the door, ''Take off your Iiats ami bcliavc yourselves." Not far from this church we were shown a dwelling whose history can be traced back to 1647. We paid a visit to the Stem and Rose vineyard of San Gabriel. This is said to be the largest winery in the world. Its location on a hill is a most pleasant one. The buildings are of brick, and the principal wine cellar is two stories in height (or depth), with an area 226 x 146 feet and a capacity of a million and a half gallons. There is machinery for crushing two hundred and fifty tons of grapes in a day. The arrangement of the various buildings on the hillside is such that the grapes are passed through the different processes of manufacture without being handled from the time they are emptied from the boxes which received them at the vines until the wine is prejiared for shipment. There are nineteen hundred acres in Sunny slope, the greater part of which is under pretty high state of culti- vation,' six hundred and forty acres of which are devoted to grapes and one hundred and thirty to oranges, one hundred and fifty to other fruits, such as English walnuts, figs, pomegranates, olives, pears, peaches, apricots, etc. Last year there were manufactured five hundred and sixty thousand gallons of wine and one hundred and thirteen thousand of brandy. At Pasadena, near I.os Angeles, we made a tour of the farm of Mr. Ezra Carr, where we learned the following facts : There were forty-two acres under cultivation, upon which were growing eighty-seven varieties of grapes, three hundred prune-trees, seven hundred peach-trees, six hundred FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. ug orange-trees, three hundred apricot-trees, one hundred Mexican limes, and seventy-five fig-trees. There were thirteen thousand grape-vines, from which the owner sold thirty tons of grapes in the season of 1881-82, and also seven hundred boxes of raisins. Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and mulberries also grow in abundance. An enormous rose-bush three years old covers one side of the barn. We saw a pine-tree forty feet tall that had grown from the seed planted seven years ago. Here were a mayberry-tree, hawthorn, acacia, cedar of Lebanon, and camphor trees. The cost of the land seven years ago was seventy-five dollars per acre. Last April one acre was sold for three thousand five hundred dollars, — a larger price than was originally paid for the entire farm. A pleasant visit to the Sierra Madre Villa, kept by Mr. William H. Rhoades, where we were served to an excellent dinner, was an occasion of pleasing remembrance. This is one of the most beautifully located hotels for the resort of invalids which it has ever been our fortune to visit. Too much cannot be said in praise of the soil and climate of this part of Cali- fornia. They seemed to be all that can be desired for the health, pleasure, and prosperity of man. In the afternoon the headquarters at Nadeau Hotel were filled with the visitors, the Grand Master and Eminent Commander being present. The principal attraction was the carving and disposing of two watermelons, one weighing eighty-seven and the other eighty-eight pounds. The former was carved by our Medical Director and sundry volunteer assistants, and the latter by Grand Master Dean. To the sweetness of this pair of giants all present could testify. Los Angeles was generous in its welcome, and the Bostons were begged to extend their visit another day. It was a royal reception, and expressions of the gratitude of the visitors were heard on every side. Sir H. A. Clawson continued his kindly offices to the last moment of our stay, then bestowing upon the Sir I20 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Knights many banners and Templar designs with which the hotel had been decorated. These decorations were transferred to the train, and as car decorations were constant reminders of our happy hours in Los Angeles. As the time for our departure drew near AN AVENUE AT LOS ANGELES. thousands of people assembled at the station. The Sir Knights and ladies of Coeur de Lion and Boston Commanderies formed a circle upon the depot platform, and, joining hands, sang familiar songs. Repeated cheers were given, and the Bostons, boarding the train, proceeded towards " Frisco," 482 miles distant. " O Queen ! I bow down before ihee, Allegiance unfailing to prove ; 'Midst the mortals and saints who adore thee, I ofTer inv tribute of love." FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. I2i The Los Angeles (Cal.) Daily Herald, Tuesday morning, Aug. 14, noticed the reception as follows: — Knights Templars. — The Reception of the Boston Commandery and Grand Master Benjamin Dean. About three o'clock on Sunday afternoon a special train of eight cars, including one special and six handsome Pullman sleepers, arrived in the city and were met at the new depot by Coeur de Lion Commandery, No. 9, of Los Angeles, who received them with all the honors of the Order in such cases. After an introduction and hand-shaking all round, the visitors were escorted to the dining-room of the Los Angeles Hotel, where a sumptuous repast was provided by Mr. Clawson in his elegant dining-room, which was elaborately decorated with the banners of the Sir Knights. The Cceur de Lion Commandery then marched back to their headquarters and were dismissed. In their march and parade they were led by the Los Angeles Union Band, in their new and elegant uniforms. The meeting and greeting was most cordial, enthusiastic, and gratifying to all concerned. The large crowd of citizens who met the visitors at the depot showed the respect which they entertained for this fine delega- tion of representative men, who had crossed the continent at unlimited expense, to meet and greet their brethren of the same mystic tie on the Pacific Coast, and to renew their friendly relations and inquire into their prosperity and welfare. The Boston Commandery are a fine body of gen- tlemen, of ample fortune and genteel accomplishments, and largely accompanied by the wives and other lady members of their families. The ladies and gentlemen appeared much pleased with the sunny skies and the orange groves and vineyards of Los Angeles, and one lady remarked to a Herald reporter that it was " a very pleasant day," but on being informed that the day was three months long, she looked incredulous and amused. After doing justice to the well-spread dinner, the Sir Knights distributed themselves about the city. Some rode around town, some went to head- quarters in the Nadeau block, others went to church in the evening. The party divided up for the night, part of them going to the Pico House and 122 BOSTON COMMANDEKY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. the Cosmopolitan, while some remained on board of their elegant cars at the depot. Yesterday all the available carriages in the city were put into service to carry the tlistinguished guests about the city and over to the San Gabriel valley, taking in Pasadena, Sierra Madre Villa, and the venerable Mission San Gabriel and the great wineries They are individuals who appreciate attention and admire the beautiful, and were free to express their admiration of what they saw, ate, and drank. Many expressed their surprise and delight at the bountiful hospitality which they met from the people of Los Angeles, and declared that there was in this world but "one California and one Los Angeles." The names of the Grand Master, officers of Boston Com- niandery for the California jjilgrimage, Sir Knights, and ladies were appended to tlie above. The following is from the Los Angeles (Cal.) Evening Express, of Aug. 13: — KnIOHTS Tli.MI'LARS. A Sul'ERIi BoDV OF NKARI.Y Two HUNDRED MeN Wmi Si.xiY Ladies — Their Dkliciit with Los 'Angeles. Sir Knights R. R. Brown, E. F. Spence, T. J. Caystile, and F. A. Gibson went out yesterday to Colton to meet a special train conveying Right Eiminent Grand Commander of the Order of Knights Templars in United States, Sir Benjamin F. Dean, of Boston, and his escort of one hundred and seventy-five swords, accompanied by si.xty ladies, travelling in a special train of seven palace Pullman cars at route to the Triennial. Con- clave, to convene on the 17th instant, Friday next, at San Francisco, to welcome the pilgrims to the Southern California metropolis, and escort ■ them to this city. They took out with them generous donations of wines and fruits from citizens of Los Angeles to refresh the weary travellers. At San Gabriel Mr. Weeks boarded the train with a liberal supply of fine oranges, and on the way in at San Gabriel Mr. L. II. Titus met them with an immense supply of the same delicious fruit. Two engines brought the pilgrim train into Colton, and from there to the city the travellers, fatigued FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 12-7 from the heat and dust of the desert, enjoyed the products of the country, and conversed with their new companions. Arrived at the depot some fifty swords of the Cceur de Lion Commandery of this city met the train, and, drawn up in line, received the Grand Commander and his escort. There was a large crowd of our citizens, of all ages and sexes, around the train. By the good sense of the people and the efforts of the police the most admirable order was maintained. It is seldom that so many people assemble anywhere and observe as good, perfect decorum as ruled round the depot The space near the cars was not encroached upon, and plenty of room was left for the evolutions of the Knights. The new chief of police, Mr. T. J. Cuddy, manifested the rarest good judgment in the admirable manner in which all was ordered. The Los Angeles Knights were in full uniform and presented a fine appearance. The Boston men wore fatigue caps, as to dress in full uniform would have been rather troublesome. They are a fine body of men, of truly knightly bearing, and made the most pleasing impres- sion on all who saw or conversed with them. From the depot the pilgrims visited the headquarters. Many of them dispersed through the city. Some met old friends here. Parties drove through the city in all directions until late in the evening. Frequent and sincere were the expressions of admiration from many lips, as one beautiful — and to them novel — sight after another came in view. The electric lights and the general diffusion of the illumination were particularly admired. Something over fifty of the strangers registered at the Pico House. Most of them remain with the train and take their meals at the new depot hotel, which is profusely decorated with the beautiful flags and emblems of the Order. At the headquarters most of the pilgrims are registered. It is regretted that the crowded condition of these columns precludes giving all the names. The day is spent in enjoying the lovely weather on the verandas of the hotels, in visiting friends and companions in arms (it does not take long to become acquainted by the aid of the mystic ties), or in driving round the country. At seven o'clock this evening the train pulls out after the regular passenger train and proceeds to San Francisco. The Knights have been eight days cii route here from Boston. The first few days they were 124 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. behind lime, owing to hot boxes and ditched freight trains, but on getting farther west they were able to make better progress They are here on schedule time, and will doubtless arrive so in San I""rancisco. Los Angeles people tender the gallant Knights and their fair companions a bon voyage. The jewels of the Order worn by the Boston Knights are remarkably handsome. The ladies also make a brilliant display of jewels and diamonds. From the Evening Express, of Aug. 14: — The ]5oston Knights got off in good form last evening at seven o'clock in their splendid special train. They carry with them warm memories of Los Angeles' sunny skies, and the as bright hospitality of their companions in this city. I-'roni the Times, of Aug. 14: — Bon Vovage. — At seven o'clock last evening the lioston Conimandery bade adieu to Los Angeles and started on their way to San Francisco. They expressed themselves as being delighted with all they had seen during their short stay here. The many improvements now being made in this city filled them with admiration of the enterprise of the people, and encouraged them to believe that the time is not far distant when Los Angeles will be a formidable commercial rival to cities which make greater pretensions. The products of the county as exhibited in our markets were inspected by them, and which inspired their wonder at the variety and extent of our horticultural and agricultural resources. The Knights were entertained in a royal manner by the citizens of this city, and they expressed their gratification in many kind thanks and wishes. The Grand Commander of the Order in the United States impressed the people here very favorably by his gentlemanly conduct and refined manner. In tlie great Conclave at San Francisco there will assuredly not be a Conimandery which can boast of a more knightly bearing than that which hails from Boston. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 125 " Know'st thou the land where the lemon-trees bloom, Where the gold orange grows in the deep thicket's gloom, Where a wind ever soft from the blue heaven blows. And the groves are of laurel and myrtle and rose ? " Such is Los Angeles, from which we so reluctantly parted. Having passed through the valleys of the Los Angeles and San Fernando, we crossed the San Fernando range of mountains by means of a tunnel 6,967 feet in length. We proceeded sixty miles BIRD'S-EYE VIEW OF THE LOOP, TEHACHAPI PASS. farther and reached the Mojave Desert, whose dust we left on apiDroaching Tehachapi summit, 3,964 feet elevation. Descending rapidly, we approached one of the most remarkable feats of railroad engineering skill ever achieved in any part of the world. A group of mountain peaks and spurs belonging to the southwestern spur 126 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. of tlic Sierra Nevada range disputed tlie advance of the iron liorse, hut l)v a series of comjjlex curves, and, finally, hy what is called "the looji," /. <•., hy actually crossing its own line, a jiathway was effected to the |)lains of Tulare and I'^resno. The length of the loop i.s 3,795 feet, and the difference of elevation of the two tracks where they cross is se\'enty-cight feet. ( KOSMNC. THK I.()(.H', IKll AL ilAl'I PASS. Through tunnels and gorges, winding around rocky points, twisting and turning in our descent, we hastened, and, having passed Fresno, entered the San Joaquin Valley. This valley of si.\ million acres in fertility and fruitfulness is in itself an empire. We stopped for breakfast at Merced. Here the Grand Master and his escort were welcomed to the Pacific slope by the officers FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 1 27 of the Grand Commandery of California and the Committee on Reception. The delegation was composed of Sir William Center, chairman, and Sir William W. Morrow, vice-chairman of the Reception Committee, and Sir Knights Simpson, Dean, Dougherty, and Searles of the committee. Ex-Governor George C. Perkins, Grand Commander of California, was escorted by the following members of the Grand Commandery: Sir William M. Petrie, De]iuty Grand Commander; Sir Reuben H. Lloyd, Grand Captain-General; Sir Tristam Burges, Grand Senior Warden ; Sir James McDonald, Grand Treasurer; Sir T. H. Caswell, Grand Recorder; Sir O. C. Wheeler, Grand Prelate; Sir S. H. Wagener, Grand Sword-Bearer; Sir George A. Johnson, Grand Warder; Sir J. H. Burns, Grand Standard-Bearer ; Sir Samuel D. Mayer, Grand Organist; Sir E. R. Hedges, Past Grand Commander; Sir W. A. Davies, Past Grand Commander; and Bro. M. D. Boruck, Journalist of the Triennial Committee. As the train drew slowly up to the station. Grand Commaiuler Perkins and the other ofificers of the Commandery, with the com- mittee, dressed in full uniform, were drawn up in line upon the platform, supported and flanked by an immense concourse of people. When the train had stopped, these officers marched to the rear car, the headquarters of Grand Master Dean and Eminent Commander Stevenson, where the formal presentation was made. Grand Com- mander Perkins performing that ceremony in a short address, to which the Grand Master happily responded. Knightly sociability immediately held supreme sway, — the beginning of a fellowship we were reluctant to sever. After breakfast, the special car of the San-P^-anciscans was attached to the rear of the Boston train and the hours passed pleasantly. Lunch was had at Lathrop about noon. Along the line crowds of spectators were gathered, anxious. 128 BOS7VN COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. perhaps, to see the train or its occupants; but to the pilgrims their presence indicated the popular interest in this unprecedented pil- grimage. OLD JESUIT CHURCH, CALIFORNIA. At 4 P. M. the train reached Oakland, the terminus of the road. CJn disembarking, the Grand Master and Boston Commandery formed, and, preceded by the Grand Commandery of California, marched past the Oakland Commandery, the latter saluting, and embarked on the ferry-boat. The ladies of the Boston party had been meanwhile escorted to the same boat by the Reception Com- FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. I2g mittee. The great El Capitan bore us all safely across tlic bay and brought us that much nearer to the realization of our hope. Upon the clock the Golden Gate and California Commanderies, each two hundred strong, were formed in double ranks. The Oak- lands, Bostons, Grand Master, and Grand Commandery disembarked, and marched between the saluting lines, preceded by the First Artillery Band, playing " Hail to the Chief." Subsequently, the San Francisco Commanderies having passed to the front, the order of march was as follows : — Platoon of Police ; First Artillery Band ; California Commandery ; Golden Gate Commandery; Grand Commandery of California; Boston Commandery; Carriage, drawn by four horses, containing Most Eminent Sir Benjamin Dean, Grand Master ; Right Eminent Sir George C. Perkins, Grand Commander of California ; Eminent Sir Reuben H. Lloyd, Grand Captain General, and Eminent and Reverend Sir Osgood C. Wheeler, Grand Prelate. Extensive decorations had been made on the high buildings and across the. street. Nearly every window was filled with spec- tators, and the wide street was crowded with people. " The pro- cession presented a magnificent appearance ; the handsome uniforms of the Sir Knights, their gorgeous banners, and their fine marching were all alike attractive," the Chronicle said. When the ferry-boat reached her dock at the foot of Market Street, the flag of the Grand Encampment of the United States was displayed from the staff surmounting the Palace Hotel. On the arrival of the column at the hotel, the escorting Commanderies formed an avenue and the visitors marched between the lines and entered the court-yard of the hotel, where an open square was formed. As the Grand Master stepped from the carriage, his escort saluted, which he gracefully acknowledged. The Eminent 9 I30 BOSTON COMMANDhRY KA'JGHTS TEMPLARS. Coiiunaiuk'r of IJoston Conimanclcr)', in accordance with tlic follow- ing' general order No. 4, received by him at I,os Angeles when I'll route for San I'^rancisco, reported to Most Eminent Sir lienja- min Dean, ("irand Master of Knights 'l"eni])lars of the United States : — General Order No. 4. Grand Commandery of Knights Templars of the State of California. Headquarters ok the (Jrand t'oMMAXOKRV, San Francisco, Aug. 10, 1883. To the Eiiiiiiciit Commander of Boston Coniviatuteiy K'm\i/its Templars : Your Commaiulcry is hereby detailed as the special escort of the Grand Master of Templars, at the Twenty-second Triennial Conclave of the Grand I'^ncampnient of the United States. You will therefore report to Most Eminent Sir Benjamin Dean, Grand Master of Knights Templars of the United States, at his headquarters, Palace Hotel, for orders, immediately upon his arrival in San p-rancisco. J CKO. C. PERKINS, Gra)ul Covnnaiider. Attest : Tiios. H. Caswell, Grand Recorder. The Grand Master then excused the Comnianderv until further orders, and, accompanied by the Grand Commandery of Cahfornia, retired to the rooms assigned for headquarters. Before the Grand Commandery of California departed, Grand Master Dean feelingly requested Ex-Governor T'erkins to extend to each Sir Knight of the Grand Commandery, who had done him so much distinguished honor, his heartfelt appreciation of their fraternal and jK'rsonal regard. In the mean time carriages were arriving with the ladies of the Boston jiarty, who entered the FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 131 ground-floor parlor from the entrance leading from the porte-cocliere, where they were politely received by a delegation of ladies of the Executive Committee of the Triennial Union. Boston Commandery was immediately dismissed after the Grand Master retired, and the rooms assigned the Sir Knights and ladies were speedily occupied. The system adopted by the management, which was the assignment of rooms at the Palace by an attache of the hotel on the train, simplified matters and avoided all confusion at the hotel. The following interviews were reported in the San Francisco Biillctiii of the 15th inst. : — A Bulletin reporter boarded the train at the latter point (Port Costa). Grand Master Dean's headquarters were in the last of the six Pullman cars, and here he was found with M. D. Boruck, the journalist of the Triennial Committee. On the walls, on tables and seats were samples of California's products, — oranges, grapes, peaches, corn-stalks, etc., — pre- sented by the Knights at Colton. The cars were as conveniently arranged and comfortable as movable palaces could be. All the visitors expressed delight at their reception. The fact of the Welcoming Committee travelling one hundred and fifty miles to meet them was a great surprise. All said the ten days' trip had been a most pleasant one. Grand Master Dean complained of the deserts, but said it was a good illustration of the magni- tude of the country when you could get up in a desert, travel all day in a desert, and see desert still when you went to bed. Subsequently the Grand Master and Eminent Commander were interviewed at the Palace, with the following results : — Having been rested and refreshed, the Grand Master talked freely with a Bullclin reporter. He said that everything which he had observed so far met with his approval. He had every reason to expect that the sessions of the Grand Commandery will be well attended. He is a very business-like ,32 BOSTON COMMANDKRY KNIGITTS TEMPLARS. appearing gentlcnian, but withal ol jjlcasant address. He desires to have tlic business of the Grand Commandery pushed ahead as rapidly as possible, and says that it depends a great deal on the various committees. So far as he has been able he has taken measures to prepare all the business he could in advance for early action. The Commandery will consider his triennial address ; other business will be the acceptance of triennial reports, tlie triennial election and customary legislation for the benefit of the Order. The trip of the ]?oston Commandery was, throughout, pleasant. The story as told by Eminent Commander John L. Stevenson to a Bulletin reporter is as follows: "We were ten days out, leaving lioston Aug. 4, in si.x twelve-section Pullman cars. We came through Montreal to Chicago, and over the Southern route. We had a ]icrfect ovation all the way, of an informal nature. At Wallace, about two hundred Pueblo Indians treated us to a war-dance and other dances, and the Commander there presented us with a young live American eagle, which we carry with us during our journey. At Colton we were met by Coeur de Lion Commandery, who loaded us with flowers and wines and fruit. We stayed at Los Angeles twenty-four hours. The run across the Yuma desert was better than we expected ; better than the run through the San Joaquin country. We lost eight hours on the Grand Trunk Railroad, but made it up by running over the Raton Mountains by night, and at Las Vegas we caught up with our itinerary. We shall leave here Aug. 25, going back by the Central and Union Pacific roads. We cannot stay longer, for the dates are fi.xed for our special train. We came earlier so as not to lose any of the session of the Conclave, and arrived ahead of time. We have one hundred and five swords and si.xty-three ladies." CHAPTER VIII. CALIFORNIA'S GREETING. We bid you welcome, brothers, to our homes beside the sea, Where rivers run o'er golden sands, and hills are f.air to see; Where the mountains lift their snow-caps far up the ether blue, And the giant redwoods murmur their solemn Sa/-7Y too. Where valleys smile with vineyards and the orange groves with bloom, And summer's sun through all the year dispels cold winter's gloom ; Where Pacific waves are roaring with never silent calls. And Nevada's snows send answer, with thund'ring waterfalls. To all these glories of our State, and to our hearts as well. We bid you welcome with such cheer, no words have power to tell. A little space abide with us, and when you homeward go, With kindly thoughts of us and ours, may mem'ry ever glow. No more we move, a warrior band, the Templars of to-day, No Paynim spear nor Syrian war incites our bravery; Our battles are with Ji'(^ alone; the Higher Law we plead — Our pilgrim's pass, Golgotha, unto purer life doth lead. Let us then make glad together, and strengthen heart and hand ; Pacific to Atlantic calls, across the wide-spread land; So let mountain answer mountain, and sea reply to sea, And thus shall live forever our knightly chivalry! — Pacific Coast Gtiidc. J. B. H. Palace Hotel is a remarkable building, colossal and majestic, and one of the wonders of San Francisco. It comprises an entire block, two hundred and fifty by two hundred and seventy-five feet, and covers 96,250 feet. Its style of architecture is modern, showing solidity, strength, and symmetry. The main entrance or double 134 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 135 roadway into the court, with its walk on either side, is fifty feet wide. The distance around its outer wall is one quarter of a mile, and there is a promenade on the roof of one third of a mile. The grand central court is a noble enclosure one hundred and fifty-two by eighty-four feet, seven stories high, roofed with glass at the top of the building, and is surrounded on all sides and stories with arcaded galleries or balconies. The pavement is of black and white marble tiling, and the windows of plate glass. The lower story has a height of over twenty-seven feet, and the topmost of sixteen. Around the ground promenade are grouped the office, reception-rooms, breakfast and dining rooms, telegraph ofifice, etc., with spacious hallways. The cost of the structure is said to have been more than six million dollars. It contains one thousand and eighteen rooms; ten thousand burners light the building; ventilation and precautions against fire are perfect. The basement contains the bakery and confectionery departments, the storeroom, butcher shop, laundry, manufactories of gas and ice, and various offices. The provisions supplied at the tables, in quality and quantity, are in keeping with the beautiful structure. It is not only the largest hotel in the world, but one of the very best. The rooms of the Grand Master and of his escort were assigned on the .second floor, corner of New Montgomery and Jessie Streets. There were not more pleasant and convenient rooms in the hotel, and when the party became settled, satisfaction reigned. The headquarters of the Grand Master, which were also the headquarters of Boston Commandery, were on the second floor, Nos. 160 and 161, corner of New Montgomery and Jessie Streets. This suite of rooms is beautifully frescoed, has heavy lambrequins over the windows, Brussels carpets on the floors, and the furniture is oak, chairs and sofas having red plush backs and seats. They 136 BOSTON COMMANDRRY KNIGHTS TEMTLAKS. were elegantly decorated for the reception of the Grand Master, by the Ladies' Executive Committee of the Triennial Union. The committee consisted of Sir Geo. C. Bromley, Mrs. J. W. Burnhani, Mrs. W. O. Gould, Mrs. O. C. Wheeler, Mrs. P. T. Barclay, Mrs. H. T. Graves, Mrs. W. B. May, and Mrs. J. F. Merrill, representing Golden Gate, California, and Oakland Commanderies. In the front parlor, over the alcove formed by a bay-window, was the word " WEixoalE," made of red, white, and purple flowers, with smilax festooned across the curtains, and also hanging to the iloor. Underneath, upon a table, there was a large bank of flowers, three feet square, bearing the words and figures : — : i AUGUST 14TH. \ :i f 1 1824. 1883. i) f! (LILY.) (CROSS.) i j B. D. i; Under "1S24" a little boy was represented as reposing in a large Japanese lily, and under "1883" there was a triple cross, the emblem of the ofifice of the Grand Master. At the bottom of the bank were the letters " B. D." The groundwork of the bank was composed principally of white flowers of various kinds, the letters and figures being made of double scarlet geraniums. Around the bank was a border of lilies, roses, heliotrope, ferns, and besfonias. The table on which it rests was covered with smilax. This piece, interpreted, signified that Most Eminent Sir Knight Benjamin Dean was born Aug. 14, 1S24, and is Grand Master of Knights Templars of the United States, Aug. 14, 1883. This unique floral piece was devised by Sir W. O. Gould. Upon a chiffonnier there was a Maltese cross of pinks, geraniums, pansies, FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. * , -,, and other Bowers, surmounted by elegant bouquets. From tlie arch of a second alcove a cross of flowers was suspended, and ujion a table under it rested a basket of flowers. The marble mantel-pieces in both parlors supported banks of flowers of various colors, taste- fully arranged. The foundations were composed of sprays of the pepper-tree, which hung gracefully from the mantels. On a centre- table in the back parlor there was an arch or gateway three feet high and two feet wide. Upon one side of the arch was the word "Welcome" in double scarlet geraniums, and underneath it the words " To Our," while a gate made of flowers of a golden hue was easily opened and closed. The whole signified " Welcome to our Golden Gate," and was presented by Mrs. J. M. Peck, of San Francisco. There were fans made of flowers, of elegant design and great beauty ; large horseshoes of rare combinations of flowers ; also bouquets, wreaths, baskets, and smilax in profusion. When the Grand Master was first conducted to these apartments he found them in possession of the ladies, who had just finished the decorations. On entering, he was greeted by Sir George T. Bromley, chairman of the Ladies' Executive Committee, who, having been selected to introduce the Grand Master to the ladies, prefaced the ceremony with the following explanatory address: — Most Eminent Grand Master: — Three years ago, upon the return of the Sir Knights from the Chicago pilgrimage, the ladies of the Sir Knights, deeming it the proper thing to do, organized an association to be known as the Triennial Union, having for its object makiijg such perfect acquaintance with each other that the ladies from the East attending the Conclave of 1883 would be received into one united, harmonious, warm-hearted family ; and we fondly hope the object will have been accomplished at the close of this Conclave. The Executive Committee of that body, having learned I c-S BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. o that your arrival here would be on the anniversary of your birthday, desired to commemorate the event by decorating these, your private parlors, vvitii floral emblems, suggestive of the occasion. Prominent, as you will observe, are two floral designs, significant of the two great events of your lifetime. This represents your arrival on the shores of time, and tliis commemorates your arrival on the shores of the Pacific as our Most Eminent Grand Master. The only similarity between the first event and the present is the very large proportion of ladies who take part, antl the very small number of gentlemen. My being chairman of the committee will account for my being present. And now. Most Eminent, however much we may wish to impress you with the great things of our State, we do not wish to impress you with our great speeches ; consequently I will close this one of mine by tendering to you, Most Eminent, and to your wife, in the name and behalf of the ladies of the Executive Committee of the Triennial Union and of the whole Pacific coast, a warm, hearty, and right royal welcome. Subsequently the banner of Boston Commandery and several banneret.s of the Order were displayed in tlie back parlor. A very pretty incident occurred at headquarters on Wednesday evening. The inscription on the "Golden Gate" device was simply "Welcome to Our," and below this was a gate of golden-colored flowers which opens on hinges. The gate was fastened invisibly. Several Boston ladies, the gate being closed, were trying to study out of the arrangement of the golden- colored flowers some cabalistic meaning to complete the inscription given above. Some jar started the "gate," which swung suddenly wide open of itself as if to extend welcome. This called forth clapping of hands, and warm expressions of delight from the ladies, who saw at once the answer. They found it difficult to find words to express their admiration fully for California flowers, and especially for the designs in Grand Master Dean's parlors. — Saii Francisco Bulletin. The Commandery was at first somewliat crowded in the Palace, FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 139 but its obliging host allotted additional rooms, and then the accommodations were pronounced " ample and faultless." The Chronicle of Wednesday contained the following in regard to the accommodations of the Bostons : — The Boston Commaiidery of Knights on Wednesday extended their quarters in the Palace Hotel, and their accommodations were then pro- nounced by them ample and faultless. On their arrival, tired and dusty, and with much baggage, some of the Knights thought that the room allowed them was not so great as they had been led to expect. Eminent Com- mander Stevenson said that there was no fault to be attached to any one. It had been agreed that in some rooms there should be eight and in some ten beds, but he had thought that these rooms were larger. There being room in the hotel, there was a readjustment this forenoon of rooms without any difficulty. The Boston Knights, and indeed all others, expressed themselves in admiration of the city, and say that they are enjoying them- selves finely. The flowers used in decorating Grand Master Dean's parlors in the Palace Hotel were arranged and photographed in two groups to retain their memory. Fresh and beautiful bouquets of flowers and set pieces were at various times sent to the headquarters, complimentary to the Grand Master and Boston Commandery. Among them a set piece from Sir William Harney, of San Francisco, and another from Sir Henry A. Clawson, of Los Angeles. The flowers formed \'ery attractive and fragrant ornaments to the marble-topped centre-table in the Grand Master's reception-room at the Palace. Tuesday evening, the baggage having arrived promptly and in good order, the tired and dusty Knights being rejoiced at their safe arrival, with an excellent prospect of a royal visit, Boston Com- mandery entered at once upon the pleasures of the occasion. I40 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. holdini; themselves ready to answer the bugle-call to duty. Early in the evening;-, the court and corridors of the Palace were filled with an orclerl\- multitude, — an event which occurred every evening during the Conclave. The Ciatling Cornet Hand occupied the court and gave a concert complimentary to the Grand Master, whose arrival had been anxiously looked for, whose coming was an enthusiastic welcome. The human tide moved decorous and irresistible along the corridors until the approach of midnight, h'rom the hour of their arrival until the Sunday following — when the regular plan of Conclave week began, designating the duties and pleasures — the Boston Sir Knights made good use of their time, visiting places of interest, doing San Francisco, and enjoying the hospitality of all California. The first thing to be done was to register at the headquarters of the California Committee of the Triennial Conclave, on Montgomery Street. Having registered, each Sir Kni'ght received a certificate which entitled him to half fare by railroads and steamboats, and also free admission to all complimentary entertainments given under the auspices of the Grand Commandery of California. On Wednesday evening fully three thousand people were conijresfated in the court of the Palace Hotel, or overlooked the court from the tiers of corridors surrounding it. They assembled to listen to the Royal Hawaiian Band, who gave a serenade complimentary to the Grand Master. The edges or railings of the corridors from the bottom to the seventh floor were lined with spectators, and in the court there was barely room to move. Every one of the six hundred gas jets was lighted, presenting a scene of extraordinary brilliancy. The Knights Templars in their undress suits formed a conspicuous feature, and the evening dresses of the ladies added a tinge of color to the marked contrasts of FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 14, black and white. Grand Master Dean occupied a prominent place on the second story and heartily joined in the applause which greeted the various numbers. The first piece was " Kalakaua's Quickstep," the second " Grand Entree March Knights Templars." The band numbered thirty musicians. Prof. Berger, the leader, is the only member of the band not a native Hawaiian. The continuous applause of their audience kept them busy in responding to demanded encores until 10.30 o'clock. As a variation, a quartet in the band sang several choruses, which were still more vocifer- ously applauded. The second number on the programme, " Grand Entree March Knights Templars," was a new piece, composed by Sir Knight Henry Marsh, of San Francisco, and dedicated to Most Eminent Sir Benjamin Dean, Grand Master. Previous to the Grand Master's arrival, this march was published under the sanction of the music committee of the Triennial Conclave. The cover is handsomely lithographed, bearing a portrait of Grand Master Dean, a scene from the Crusades, a picture of Fort Point, and various Templar emblems. The back of the cover has handsome lithographs of Yosemite, Mt. Shasta, San Francisco, the Geysers, Cliff House, and other places of interest. A lithographed copy of this piece, enclosed in a roll of scarlet plush, with a solid silver handle, was presented Grand Master Dean by the composer. The crowd, music, and enlivening scenes of Wednesday evening at the Palace were the same as were there experienced every evening during the Conclave. It was the centre towards which the thousands ch'ifted. It had 2,500 guests, a crowd in itself, and, for the first time since it was opened to the jsublic, every room was occupied. Though there were many attractions in the pavilion and at various halls in the city, yet every evening the card 142 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. exchant^ers and badge " fiends " ca])tured and held possession of tlie large office room and adjoining halls, and formed intimate and lasting friendships. The corridors of the court were occupied by promcnaders, both Californians and visitors, who enjoyed the best ojjportunities of watching the moving multitude below, of appreciating the beautiful picture of the mammoth court illu- minated by hundreds of gas jets and electric globes, and of listening to the music of various bands. The headquarters of several State and subordinate Commanderies, also of the Ancient and Accepted Rite, were at the Palace, and the hospitalities there dispensed caused not only the five elevators to be full of people, but also the broad stairways. From the evening of the arrival of Boston Commandery until that of its departure, the Palace each evening was honored with an immense crowd, music filled the air, good-fellowship reigned, and the same shifting, dazzling scenes recurred. A book was kept at headquarters of Boston Commandery, wherein were registered the names of all visitors. They repre- sented every State and Territory in the Union and the Sandwich Islands, every official grade in Masonry, and every profession of active life. Among the many prominent Masons who called at the headquarters of Boston Commandery was Past Grand Master J. 1). Stevenson, the oldest living P"reemason in California. He was present at the organization of California Lodge, No. i. Free and Accepted Masons, in 1849, in a loft in San Francisco, so low that a man five feet six inches in height could not stand erect ten feet from the centre of the room. There were ten members. The rent of the loft was five hundred dollars jier year. The chief work of the Order in those early days was the care of the sick and suffering. Hospitals were not then cstab- FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE rACIFIC. ,„-, lished. The Lodge contributed frequently and largely to relieve distress. The hat was placed upon the altar in those days, and vokmtary contributions were poured into it. Sometimes one thousand dollars were collected in an evening. Masonry in Cali- fornia was nursed by charity, and gave a notable example for the imitation of its childi^en. Were not the overflowing generosity, the cheerful hospitality, the royal reception manifested by the Masons of California towards their visiting brothers the direct outgrowth of that charity and self-sacrifice which stood as sponsors at the birth and baptism of "California, No. i," the mother Lodge of the Masonic bodies in the Golden State ? May the lustre of Masonic hospitality and charity, as evinced in 1849 and 1883, be never dimmed. A full description of San Francisco does not come within the scope of this book. It should, however, be said that this cosmo- politan city is situated on a hundred hills, and is the heir of two villages dating from 1776 and 1837. The city is only thirty-four years old, but contains over a quarter of a million of peojDle. It is well laid out, the public buildings are fine, and private residences compare favorably with those of Eastern cities. The city contains one hundred and thirteen church organizations, nineteen places of art, one hundred and ten halls, twenty-four parks and public gardens, forty-nine hotels, thirty-three literary and reading rooms, forty military organizations, sixty-nine clubs and secret societies, one hundred and sixty-eight newspapers, twelve lines of street cars, including five cable roads. Among the public buildings visited by the Bostons were the new City Hall, Mechanics' Pavilion, Post- Office, Merchants' Exchange, Stock Exchange, Masonic Temple, Free Library and the branch United States mint. This branch is twice the size of the Philadelphia mint and larger than any 144 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. mint on the Continent of Europe. The process of niintint;- is of great interest, as is also a cabinet in the reception-room. In this there is an unbroken line of American dollars from 1779 to 1877. The coin of 1S04 cost fourteen hundred dollars. There were shekels and double shekels. The shekels were cast in a mould, and were the kind of which Abraham paid four hundred for a burial place, and which were the common coins 2000 B. C. A pair of gold spoons, said to have been stolen from the Temple at Jerusalem, cost six hundred dollars. San Francisco is a grand, wondrous city. The appearance of its streets, buildings, parks, gardens, is in keeping with the gen- erous hospitality of its people. A city paper thus described the condition of things in San Francisco when the Conclave was at its height : — It was imagined a few clays ago that the city was full of visitors and sight-seers, but those who held that opinion then have considerably modified it. San Francisco might then have been comfortably filled ; it is rammed, jammed, crowded, crushed now. Then a man could sit down comfortably ; now there is standing room only. It takes five minutes to walk a block on any of the three great principal streets during the daytime, while at night they are scarcely passable even to the hardiest user of elbows and shoulders. All one can do is to get into the midst of the throng, suffer himself to be wedged into the solid mass, and tlien drift along with the sluggish current. The cross-bedecked caps arc to be seen at every step, and the rosy cheeks of the Californian lass and the paler face of the visitor from over the mountains are now in about equal numbers. Every one wears holiday attire, the streets are gay as they never before have been since San Fran- cisco was a city, and there is so much fluttering cambric and bunting that Market, Kearny, and Montgomery Streets appear to be actually roofed in with streamers. The city appears to be holding fair, and holding it with a spontaneity that carries everybody away with its crisp and sparkle. FROM THE ATLANTIC TO THE PACIFIC. 145 One of the principal points of attraction at night is the Palace Hotel. Last evening the great court-yard was actually packed with a dense mass of humanity, listening to the music of the different bands and gazing up at the hundreds of gas jets and the electric globes which lit up the place like day. All the upper corridors were crowded with richly dressed people, and the reception-rooms of the various Commanderies which have their headquarters there were filled with a constantly flowing stream of guests and Knights. Some idea of the crowd at the Palace may be gathered from the fact that for the first time since its construction every room in the vast caravansary is occupied. The Btilledn, iti speaking of the elegant banners of the various Commanderies which were displayed on the corridors of the court at the Palace Hotel, said : — The Philadelphians have four banners displayed. They stand in a row along the first gallery and nearly fill the spaces between the gallery columns as seen from below. The Philadelphians represent much capital, but probably not more than do the Boston Commandery. The latter also represents a fair share of Boston literary and musical culture. But apart from their fine personal appearance, there is little at the Palace to indicate their presence there. Extreme simplicity in decorating their quarters and making known their whereabouts is the rule. Neither will they show any particularly elegant banners in the parade. From the second gallery depends a flag bearing a monogram of the letters " B. C," which is as plain as it can be. " We do not care much for banners," said Eminent Com- mander Stevenson to a Bulletin reporter, " and our finest one was made light and for travelling." This banner is very tasty. The upper half is black and the lower white. Above a Maltese cross are the words, " Boston Commandery K. T," and the motto, "In hoc signo vmces." On the cross are the letters, "I — N — R — I." The lower part of the banner has the inscription, " Non nobis, Doniine, non nobis sed nomine iiio da gloriam." The trimmings of the banner are of gilt, and handsome gilt cord and tassels depend. The cross and scroll containing the longer motto are in blue and red. 9 C H A P r E R IX. On riuirsday evening the festivities of the Conclave were opened by a grand ball in the Mechanics' Pavilion. This immense structure had been finely decorated for the Conclave. It was open every evening, free to all .Sir Knights and ladies. The decorations were too profuse for satisfactory description. As one entered the door, the view was impressive, the native barrenness of the structure being entirely hidden by tasteful arrangements of bunting, evergreens, and flags. The first point that struck the visitor was the appearance of perspective, heightened by the arrangement at the farther end of the hall, where, through panelled archways, was obtained a view of California scenery, and above blue netting was so arranged as to give the appearance of an azure sky. The roof within was entirely concealed by decorations. A large Maltese cross supported a number of lines from which drooped flags bearing Masonic emblems from the lowest to the highest degree. Tliey were interspersed with strips of many-colored calico, forming one huge rosette. In the centre of this was placed, on the night of the ball, Tojetti's painting of the " Babe of Bethlehem," repre- senting the infant Jesus. The pillars supporting the gallery and roof were entwined with colored stuffs and evergreens, and the galleries were resplendent with bunting displaying the flags of AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 147 all nations, among which the Stars and Stripes reigned supreme. Depending from the railing of the gallery were numerous banners of the Commanderies which participated in the Conclave, while at the back of the galleries, on the sides of the building, were displayed in evergreens the various symbols of the Order. Add to the above description numberless flags, pennants, banners, and bannerets inscribed with Masonic mottoes, or bearing Templar emblems ; add also the electric light, exotic flowers, sparkling fountains, and the ever-flowing tides of melody, and a scene is produced worthy of the cause for which it was created, and one calculated to impress the minds of all visitors with the depth and warmth of the welcome and hospitality which San Francisco and California desired to tender to them. At the extreme east end of the Pavilion was a notable piece of decorative work. Above the gallery floor on the east end, raised seats extended half-way up to the roof. Above the top seats was stretched a canvas one hundred feet long and thirty feet high, painted by Voegtlin, the subject being the entrance of the Knights into Jerusalem. The drawing was spirited and effective, the fore- ground figures beins of heroic size, which made the distant hanging of the great canvas no disadvantage, even when viewed from the main floor, from which it was distinctly seen. Above the canvas the building was draped so as to make a frame for it. Looking west, the stage was seen to extend out on the main floor some distance past the gallery line, with raised seats running nearly up to the gallery line. Over the stage, in the centre of the west gallery rail, was the banner of the Grand Commandery of California, supported by a cross of evergreens and draped with national colors. Just above that, the eye was attracted by a very important, as well as handsomely built and decorated department, the Garden of 148 BOSTON COMMANDER y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Welcome, on llic line of the west promenade gallery and facing the main tloor. I<"n)m the front the garden was seen through three great arches, a glimpse of California scenery and evidences of California hospitality being had through the arches. Over the centre arch was the coat-of-arms of the tirand Commandery of California, over the one to the right those of the California Com- mandery, No. i, and over the left Golden Gate Commandery, No. 16. The entrances to the inviting interior were to the right and left of these arches, the archways themselves being fenced across with a low wire fence completely woven in with ivy. CJnce inside the Garden of Welcome, it was found to be all that the name indicates. The back or west end of the garden was formed of two great can- vases, on which were painted California scenes, one being a Yosemite view, and the other picturing the heart of the Sierras. These views were as large as the " tiats "" used in theatres, and formed the entire rear partition. The north wall of the garden was likewise formed of painted canvas, the centre and largest one repre- senting the grand avenue approaching a well-known California country home, whose bountiful hospitalities have made it familiar, by name at least, to nearly every one of the Knights who entered the garden last evening. The trees of the avenue, represented as lighted at night, formed a vista, at the end of which is the home itself. This large central piece was flanked by appropriate wood and tropical views. In the centre of this handsome garden there was a cooling fountain with its base hidden in banks of flowers. The purpose of the garden, which was built, decorated, and managed by the ladies of the executive committee of the Triennial Union, was as a place to serve refreshing iced punches of California wines to the guests of the Conclave committee. The garden was a most enjoyable feature, the warm dancers gladly accepting the graciously AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. i_^g extended hospitalities of the ladies of the committee. To the north of the garden, on the gallery floor, was the booth of the ladies of the executive committee, draped with flags and furnished in straw furniture. To the south, partitioned off by canvas hangings, were the dressing-rooms, where every convenience for such a place had been prepared. The main dancing floor was bounded by the pillars supporting the galleries, and was two hundred and twenty- five feet long by one hundred feet wide, its boundary lines, the pillars, being twined with yellow, green, pink, purple, orange, turkey-red, and blue bunting, and each also with evergreens, making a bright and effective contrast with the white canvas of the floor which they bordered. The doors opened at half past eight, and from that time a steady stream of Sir Knights and ladies passed into the great hall and completed a scene of magnificence. The ladies, on arriving at the Pavilion, were hospitably received by the reception committee of the Triennial Union, who had charge of their dressing-rooms in the east end of the Pavilion. On repair- ing to the main floor with their escorts, they either promenaded up and down the canvased area or else took seats reserved for their special benefit. During the interval before the concert the Hawaiian band contributed some of their choicest music, which was heartily appreciated. The Second Artillery Regiment band then rendered as the preliminary concert some of their finest selections, includ- ing Wagner's "Tannhauser March," Verdi's "Nebuchadnezzar," Nitz's " Americus Polka," and Conradi's "Musical Tour of Europe." While the concert was in progress the gay throng of cavaliers and their fair partners upon the floor was constantly being augmented by Sir Knights in their showy uniforms, and their fair ladies, whose rich and elegant toilets, of every conceivable hue and of fashionable design, lent a picturesque attractiveness to the scene, outrivalling ISO BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMTLAKS. ihe gaudy decorations of the Pavilion. The reserved seats about the sides of the main lloor and the galleries above were well filled with Knights and their ladies in elegant toilets. Before lo i'. m. the immense concourse was busy viewing the decorations, listening to the music, admiring the various and elegant costumes of the ladies, and receiving introductions. At that hour, Sir Reuben H. Lloyd, Captain General of the Grand Commandery of California and floor manager in chief, made his way to the committee rooms and succeeded in gathering together the reception and floor committees and formed for the grand march. The Second Regiment band was stationed at the head, and the above-mentioned committees formed two abreast in two lines in rear of the band. Then came the ladies of the recep- tion committee, followed by Grand Commander Perkins and lady and Past Commander Tristam Burges, of Golden Gate Command- ery, with Mrs. W. A. Bunton. The members of the California Commandery, who attracted much attention from their peculiarly shaped cloaks, which were heavily embroidered with silver, and bore on the left shoulder a Maltese cross of the same metal, took their station next on the right line. The Knights of Golden Gate Commandery took their station on the left line. Following these, the guests of the evening by couples formed, preceded by the Grand Officers of California. It was estimated that there were two thousand ladies and gentlemen in the lines. The Sir Knights of Boston Commandery and their ladies wxM-e well represented on the floor and seemed as happy and earnest as any. When the lines had formed, the manager in chief gave the command, the band struck up the "Grand Encampment March," and the column advanced, marching twice around the spacious floor. From the gallery the spectacle was a gorgeous scene, the beautiful toilets, attractive AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. irj regalias, and rhythmic movement, intensified by the profuse decora- tions above and around, all o-Htterina: under the brieht eas and electric liglvts, were dazzling. Ofiicers of the United States Army and National Guard were in the procession, and added to its variety and beauty by their regulation uniforms. When the column returned the second time to its starting place, the Captain General and his efficient aids, by a movement unknown to military, broke up the interminable lines and formed platoons extending across the hall. The first platoons, not grasping the idea, followed the band, hesitating and ill-formed, but subsequently the platoons were readily formed and marched well, keeping a good line. The liostons were principally in the centre and rear platoons. The platoons marched to the west end of the hall, a halt was made, and from the rear the platoons were marched to their proper places and distances, beginning at the east end. Then the first dance was called and the floor was covered by almost innumerable sets ready to commence the dizzying whirl. The supper-room was in the western end of the building, in what is known as Machinery Hall. The walls were, with their snowy background, handsomely decorated and embellished with American flags, patrfotic colors and designs, and emblems of the Order, while a tastefully looped crimson cloth extending around the large compartment lent a charming and harmonious effect. A score or more long tables, extending the width of the building, furnished a seating capacity for between six and seven hundred, whose wants were attended to by more than forty colored waiters. The tables were very neatly arranged and ornamented with Cal- ifornia flowers and evergreens, and upon the opening of the doors of the supper-room, at twelve o'clock, the seats were rapidly filled, and the guests were profuse in their praise of Pacific Coast fruits, 152 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. while not a few were heard to comment upon tlic reasonable charges. Overhead were the ice-cream rooms, equally beautiful in decorations. Shortly before ten o'clock a deputation of the reception committee waited upon Most Imminent Grand Master Dean, who was escorted to the Pavilion, where his reception was rather informal. Instead of participating in the mazy dance, he took a seat as a spectator, enjoying the entertainment. During the interxals between the dances he held an informal levee, when a great many were presented to him. The programme of music for dancing contributed by the Second Artillery band was an excellent one, which was well rendered. The march to the supper-room took place at exactly twelve o'clock, the procession being headed by Most Eminent Grand Master Dean. The supper-room was soon filled and the excellent fare furnished was fully appreciated by the w^eary dancers. For supper no wines but those of this State were furnished. Supper over, the dancers sought the canvased iloor once more and the band struck up. The snowy space' was soon occupied by the tireless whirling figures. After each dance ladies and gentlemen commenced to leave in small parties, so that the floor looked bare towards two o'clock in the mornins:, and bv three the last of the tired revellers had left the building in its dreary gloom. Sir Knight Sol Smith Russell tendered an invitation to the Sir Knights of Boston Commandery and their ladies to visit Bush Street Theatre, where he was playing, upon some evening agreeable to them. The invitation was accepted by the committee on the California pilgrimage in behalf of Boston Commandery, and Friday evening, Aug. 17, was designated as the time for the visit. The Commanderv was well represented at the entertainment. AT THE CONCLA VE IN SAN FRANCISCO. •53 — one hundred and fifty seats besides the boxes being occupied, — and all enjoyed a pleasant evening with the "original and only Sol Smith Russell." " Edgeworth Folks " was presented, which afforded a good field for the employment of Mr. Russell's droll and original acting. He was repeatedly encored, and as the play progressed the enthusiasm became intense. Gratitude to Sir CAULL RUAU AND CARS, SAN FRANCISCO. 154 BOSTON COMMAND F.RY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Knight Russell was cordially expressed for the invitation and pIcaMnv (if the evening. Not the least of the anti-Conclave attractions was a perform- ance given h'riday evening, ^Aug. 1 7, at the Grand Chinese Theatre on Washington Street, for the benefit of the Triennial I'und. The Mongolian performers, instead of playing to a house half full of Chinese, had an audience of Caucasians occupying the whole auditorium. Knights were there from different Commanderies wearing Templar jewels and badges, and ladies from various States wearing opera hats and diamonds. When the bo.x office was opened the Chinese were on hand, but only to be disappointed. The unobstructed entrance of "white folks" and their ladies enraged the Chinese theatre-goers, whose violence called the police. /Vbout eight o'clock the performance began. The upper gallery at the left was partly filled with Chinese women; the other galleries, boxes, and body of the house were reserved for Americans, who nearly filled it. It was all strange, unintelligible, and queer to this audi- ence, which laughed and applauded, whether the laugh or the applause canie in right or not. This must have disconcerted the actors, for they seemed surprised at something. The theatre had been fixed up for the occasion and the performers appeared in their most gorgeous robes. The newspapers of the next day called the i^erformance an "olio," short for olla podrida, — selected repre- sentations from Chinese dramas. The music was sometimes soft, but usually terrific. The nearer one gets the worse the pain. The .spectators persisted in going behind the scenes, to which the performers objected. To enjoy a free examination in the anteroom and survey the order and variety of their wardrobes, etc., it was necessary to come in at the rear entrance, through the kitchen and sleeping-dens. The first acts were from military dramas. Strong AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. irr men are the heroes of such plays, and a Chinese audience is at once informed who the strong men are by their whirling rapidly upon the stage. He who whirls the longest advertises himself as the strongest. A Chinaman knows which hero will kill his opponent in the pending battle by the duration and speed of his whirling. Although each hero is accompanied to the battle-field by an army of four or five " supes," yet whole armies never fight. The opposing generals do the fighting, and the army of the defeated hero runs off the stage with a heroic bound. This indicates that they are dead. Each soldier in the defeated army is killed — he bounds. The first scene was that of a marriage between a king and a princess and their enthusiastic reception by the populace. Suddenly the grand joss appeared upon the scene, and, as usual, the most indiscriminate warfare beean. Next the President of the United States, decked out more fantastically than ever chief of any of the various tribes of redskins in war paint, partook of a supper with the Emperor of China, this scene, too, ending up with fire and bloodshed. One of the attractions of the eveninoj was a stasfe ficrht between two warriors, whose method of attack was to jump up in the air, strike the adversary on the chest with the bottoms of both feet, and then fall back full length on the stage, striking on their backs with terrific force. It was a style of tumbling evidently new to most of the spectators, who applauded vigorously. Another style of gymnastics was much admired. The performer would stand on a chair, which was the apex of a pyramid of tables and chairs, turn a somersault in the air, and land on another chair similarly elevated, with his legs crossed in under him as tailors are represented as sitting. This feat was done repeatedly by two performers dressed in a bewildering multitude of baggy trousers. 156 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. skirts, jackets, and cloaks. With the ordinary dress of an allilete, the feat is calculated to break both legs of the i)erforniers, but dressed as they were it was an astonishini;' exhibition. The tom-toms and tin-tins with the olio were not of sufficient simplicity to engage the attention of the audience, which wearied with noise, and, confused in mind, retired before the clatter and confusion ceased. CHINATOWN. The Sir Knights of Boston Commandery, with their ladies, \isited Chinatown during those pleasant days, and brought from the Chinese stores very many souvenirs of the pilgrimage. Sir Knights made evening explorations, and threaded the narrow alleys where Chinamen bin-row and court that sleep which opium smoking produces. The Chinese anticipated the advent of the Templars and received them kindly. At a meeting held by the Chinese merchants at the Chinese Merchants' Exchange on the Saturday evening before the Commanderies arrived, the following resolutions were passed : — Whereas, It being the wish and desire of the resident subjects here of his Imperial Majesty the Emperor of China to do honor to the Knights Templars visting California to hold their Triennial Conclave, it is Resolved, That all business be suspended by us on Aug. 20 and 24, and that all Chinese residents show their good-will and respect to the visiting strangers by decorating their dwellings and places of business for one week, and that this Exchange and the rooms of the Chinese Benevolent Societies, 728 Commercial Street, be kept open to Knights and their families. The Si.x Companies, absolute monarchs on a free soil, caused to be placarded, in all ])rominent j^laces in Chinatown, notices urging all the subjects of the I^mperor to clean their houses and AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 157 rooms, to burn their rubbish, and if possible apply paint and paper where needed. As a result, wall paper was in demand, paints and oil had a rise, and a general cleansing of the Mongolian quarter took place. The general appearance of the streets and alleys was much better than we expected. Chinatown covers eight squares, four by two, from Sacramento Street north to Pacific, and from Stockton Street east to Kearny, or less than a half-mile square. It is said that this district contains a Chinese population of thirty thousand. It is estimated that there are in San Francisco fifteen thousand Chinese laborers and operatives, six thousand house servants, three thousand laundrymen, and the remainder nierchants, storekeepers, pedlers, etc. The female population is about two thousand. The densely populated part is on Dupont Street, bounded by Jackson and Pacific Streets. Here one finds himself in a labyrinth of passages, where the need of a guide to thread the subterranean chambers and narrow alleys is absolute. The main artery, Sullivan's Alley, is connected with other alleys by passages only two feet wide, on either side of which and all around, above and below, the Mongolians are packed in the sty-like dens, like herrings in a box. One evening Sir Tristam Burges, a notable guide in China- town, invited some Boston Sir Knights to accompany him to this " Celestial " quarter of San Francisco. It was a fete day of the Chinese, and in the evening the view was picturesque. Along the curbstones and in the gutters there were rows of punks, which threw off a pungent odor and lighted up the scenes of barbaric peculiarity. Again the dark-visaged pagan was seen bending over a fire upon which he threw sheets of cheap paper, bearing a square of gilt. These were golden prayers. At his feet were dishes of fruit, grapes, figs, rice, and a small pitcher with Chinese whiskey. I5S BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. The contents of tlic plates and pitcher were thrown and poured u])on the fire with some pagan intent, either as a sacrifice to placate deity, or to furnish provision for the departed. In those damp courts, where the walls rose I)lack and threatening, while the swaying fire threw its flashes around, and in its llickering light Mongolian forms, like weird spectres, hastened to and fro, a gloomy scene was presented. In every apartment, large or small, good or ill, images, altars, candles, incense, prayers were seen. The altars, tinv things, were sometimes on the tloor, behind the outer door, or sometimes the paraphernalia of a cathedral could be seen properly arranged in a candle-box fastened on the wall. On entering a house a devil-fearing soul hastily passed a lighted lamp along the cracks of the doors and windows to keep the devil awav. The method of packing themselves away for rest at night almost exceeds belief. Rooms filled with berths from floor to ceiling, leaving not more than enough floor space for six or eight persons to stand when crowded together, were visited. In the same proportion. Masonic Temple in Boston, in its several stories, would accommodate from five to eight thousand Celestials. The correspondent of the Boston Journal thus recounts a part of his experience in Chinatown : — We visited the Chinese Theatre. Being in a narrow alley, we took advantage of the rear entrance. Entering, we were under the stage in rooms nearly subterraneous. First the kitchen, where one hundred and forty persons, all attac/its of the theatre, liavc their food provided. All the actors are men ; female characters are represented by males. Ascend- ing two flights of stairs, we reach the dressing-rooms. Extreme order prevails. The shelves and hooks contain the wardrobes and paraphernalia of the actors. Some, dressing, looked like princes in satin, silk, and gold. Several have painted faces and others are smoking. With wonderful skill AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. I^g a large man painted his face, witli a little mirror in one hand and a camel's- hair brush in the other A white band of paint across the head, enclosing the eyes, from which lines of black were traced down his cheeks, did not add to his personal beauty. We entered upon the stage. There were forty actors, including a terri- ble band, upon it. The band was in the centre and rear, the principal actors seated in centre and front, while on either side they were flanked by gaudily dressed Celestials, who now and then in chorus had " big talk," that is, very loud. In glancing up over the audience, parquet and galler- ies were a sea of faces, — si.xteen hundred to eighteen hundred Chinamen The theatre will hold twenty-five hundred. The play was an historical one, founded on events in the life of the last Emperor. It commenced at 5 v. m. and was continued till 12 m. Saturdays and Sundays the play begins at twelve at noon and continues until twelve at night. Plays are continued night after night until an end of the historical character is reached. The orchestra was terrible. A seat ne.xt to the fellow who pounded a large iron kettle, which was fastened bottom up on a tripod, was ne.xt to the rumbling of Vesuvius. During the progress of the play, a supernumerary made himself useful in arranging tables, seats, candles, etc., this noisy work not seeming to annoy the actors. Women occupied one gallery only, — that at the left of the stage. There are no " flies " on the stage, but a partition, with a door at each end of the stage, separates the latter from the dressing- room. One party of a dozen, royally dressed, came upon the stage and talked. They retired, and another set equally gaudy entered by the opposite door and talked awhile, then retired, when both parties returned and had a bedlam for a half -hour, the band thundering so that the plot was entirely lost to us. Having become satisfied with our experience here, we descended the two flights of stairs to the sleeping-apartments of the " one hundred and forty." It is a chamber seventy feet long, eight feet wide, and about eight feet high, having two tiers of bunks. Along the side of the chamber was an alley-way two feet wide, the only mode of entrance to their sleeping- dens. In this chamber were several places of worship, — idols, candles, punks, everywhere. The circuitous passages under the theatre, narrow and l6o BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. gloomy, were very similar to catacombs ; the latter preferable, however, on account of the opiate fumes of the former. A general provision store — a type of all of its kind — was interesting. Everything in it came from China. Dried oysters, prepared white beans (tney were boiled, dried, ground, and made into cakes in China), dried mushrooms, ducks, chickens, pork, fish, potatoes (eighteen inches long), were noticed. A dried duck was nearly transparent and thin as pasteboard. Ducks' eggs, cooked in China and preserved by being covered with clay and sand to [protect them from the air, are a staple article of commerce and diet. We visited the restaurant of Chinatown. It had carved ceilings and beautiful furniture The internal decorations are said to have cost twenty thousand dollars. The image and altar near the door, with burning punk and lighted candles, first attracted our notice. The proprietor. Bun Sun Low, is an affable, English-speaking Chinaman, who was very courteous to gentlemen from Boston. Near by, a cheap restaurant — Quong Loy Gony, proprietor — showed how the poorer lived. In this place were potatoes in the original earthen jars. These jars, containing about a bushel, are sealed up in China. In this restaurant everything is imported. Eels are brought over alive ; so are catfish, ducks, etc. Live quails are brought over in small coops. One den, twelve by nine feet, contained bunks, e.xcept near the door, where eight could stand by crowding. The bunks — in two tiers — will accommodate twenty-one Chinamen. These bunks arc not as long as the human form divine, because Chinamen never lie at full length. In an "overall" factory we saw fifty-five sewing machines which Chinamen use. They commence work at 8 a. m and quit at lo v. m. They sleep on boards supported by their machines, and eat in the kitchen of the factory. Another clothing factory employs one hundred and fifty men. Six thousand sewing machines are in use in Chinatown. Nine thousand Chinese make cigars, seven thousand work on boots and shoes. They make all the brooms, tinware, etc., control the pork market of the city, and as they are pushing into other squares adjoining Chinatown, so they are entering upon every trade and business possible. The aristocratic joss-house contains two rooms, the front one for men, the rear for women. AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. ,6i In the rear room (fifteen by thirty) great altars with idols occupy the ends. One idol represents a woman who lived four thousand years ago, idolized for returning good for ill. At the opposite altar there is an image of a man, worshipped for his bravery. He slew a tiger, thereby saving the lives of endangered children. There are two priests and two physicians connected with this joss house. The priest is attired similar to an ordinary Greek monk. There are no canonical hours of service. Masses are special, costing from five to forty dollars. The cross, however, never appears. When a great Chinaman dies there are hired female mourners, as in Mohammedan countries. The Chinese mourners dress in white, Moham- medans in black. By the side of the brave man there is an altar and image of the devil, the good devil, before whom punk and candles are kept constantly burning. In the men's aj^artment there are images of their worship, a representation of a benevolent man, also of a great healer, who is chiefly worshipped. Their prayer service is short. The worshipper burns paper before the idol, also punk and candles, bows low, utters a few words, then goes to the luck table and shakes sticks or throws the luck blocks. In this apartment there is a fine specimen of wood carving. It represents a theatrical play in very heavy relief. The piece is ten feet long, three feet high, having two rows of figures, and is the result of the work of ten carvers during two years. During service a man beats a drum and strikes a bell near the door. The clatter of the Tan game was peculiar and the game childish, very much like "How many fingers do I hold up.'" exxept both hold up their hands simultaneously, answer with rapidity, the fingers being quickly changed. A wrong answer enjoins a sip of Canton whiskey. The Chinese gambling places cannot be visited during the play, because the police raid them. These dens are protected now by a series of thick doors, plated with boiler iron. Lotteries are more generally harmful. Tlie Chinese gamble only among themselves, but their lottery tickets are on sale by all Chinamen. By this means si.\ thousand to eight thousand dollars some days are gathered, which are used to advance the power of the Chinese. A pawn-shop kept by Pin Sho was a marvel of neatness and order In this ,62 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. liusinoss lie has made money enough to buy what was once the property of the I'irst Baptist Church, at a cost of thirty thousand dollars. The buikiing is one hundred and thirty-seven by seventy feet. He has altered it into a tenement house, wherein a thousand Chinese Ii\'c, and Pin Sho receives five hundred dollars per month rent. The society of Chee Kung Tong has eight thousand or nine tlmusand members. This society is for self-protection. They are blackmailers, "high- binders," and exercise an authority as fatal and secret as the Council of Ten in ancient Venice. There are five hundred opium places in Chinatown. The proprietors furnish lamp, pipe, and opium for ten cents a smoke. The smoker crawls into a bunk, .and with contracted limbs, his head resting upon a stone or wood pillow, he seeks the repose of unconsciousness. After the smoker retires the proprietor cleans the pipes, and the opium gathered is sold to second-class places or to consumers too poor to afford the best. These leavings will make a Chinaman rich. Just before the new tariff law (July i) there was over three million dollars' worth of opium in "Frisco," most of which is now held by the banks as collateral. These people seem harmless, many of them intelligent, atul all are patriotic, having great love of their country. But they are treacherous. One can here very easily understand why the people of San Francisco felt and said "that the Chinamen must go." The Call of the 17th of August tlius spoke of Boston Comniandery, its history, and tri]5 westward: — The Boston Comniandery claims to be the oldest of any Commandery of Knights Templars in the country, on the ground that they can show the oldest continuous record, which dates back to March 12, 1802. The history of the first meetrtig has quite a "Revolutionary" period sound, the meeting having been held at the "Green Dragon Tavern," and meetings were held there until 1805, when the headquarters were transferred to Sir Henry Fowle's residence. The Knights of the Red Cross, who preceded Boston Commandery, numbered among its members Gen. Joseph Warren, of AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 163 Bunker Hill Revolutionary fame. The Commandery has the exceptionally large membership of six hundred and one. The Bostonians on their way out displayed much jollity. Four Knights, dressed in women's clothes, gave a minstrel show on the cars as the "colored quartet." All of these were prominent business men, but they cracked original jokes and made the excursionists roar. The Bostonians also had sheet and pillow-case parties while running along at the rate of a mile in three minutes. Every Sunday morning the Boston musical talent was exercised at praise services, the services being held with Puritan adaptability on the cars or at stations, accordint)ston Commandery thus had an excellent opportunity to observe the column, and view, as it did with pleasure, the unique movements and knightly appearance of the various Commanderics. All banners, in passing, saluted the Grand Master, which he recognized by removing his chapeau and bowing gracefully. After the review the j^arade was continued by a countermarch, the wide street giving ample room to the glittering host for vari- ous evolutions while marching. Having followed the prescribed route and passed under the Montgomery Street arch, the column. 198 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLAKS. composed of five thousand Sir Knights, witli their banners, Hags, and bands, proceeded up Marlcet Street to the Pavilion. The crowd of people everywhere along the route was immense. All the conveyances by land and water into the city came filled with people. In fact tlie ferry-boats were unable to bring the crowds from Oakland in season for the grand parade. The good order was as prevalent as the people. The army of Sir Knights was divided into ten divisions. The first division was composed of California Commandery, No. 1, escorting the Grand Commandery of California, followed b)- Marysville, No. 7. The second division was composed entirely of California Knights, nine Commanderies ; also the third division was composed of five California Commanderies. The fourth divis- ion was headed by Golden Gate Commandery of San Francisco, as escort, which was followed by Santa Rosa Commandery of Califor- nia, and the Grand Commanderies of Maine, New Hampshire, Ver- mont, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and Connecticut. The fifth division was led by Oakland Commandery of California, escorting Grand Commanderies and Sir Knights of the Middle States, New York, New Jersey, followed by Bodie Commandery of California, escorting Grand Commandery of Ohio, battalion of Sir Knights of Ohio, Grand Commandery of Michigan, and battalion of Knights of Michigan. The sixth division was led by xMary Commandery of Philadelphia, followed by the Grand Commanderies and Sir Knights of Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Virginia, North Carolina. South Carolina, Georgia, West Virginia, and Florida, escorted by Mount Olivet Commandery, Petaluma, Cal. The seventh division was led by St. Bernard Commandery of Chicago, as escort of the Grand Commandery of Illinois, followed by the Illinois battalion, Raper Commandery of AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. igg Indianapolis, escorting' the Grand Cumniandcry and Sir Knights of Indiana, and the Cirand Cominanderics and Sir Knights of Wisconsin and Minnesota. The eighth division was led by hanhoe Commandery of St. Louis, mounted, as special escort to the Southern division, which consisted of Grand Commandcries and .Sir Knights of Missouri, Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Texas. The ninth division was com- posed of Oregon and Walla Walla Commanderies, escorting the Northwestern division. Grand Commandery and Sir Knights of Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Montana. The above divisions were heartily greeted, and each in turn received high compliments from the press and people. The tenth division was led by Boston Commandery as escort of the Grand Encampment of the United States, followed by DeWitt Clinton Commandery, No. i, of Ne\'ada, as a guard of honor. The Chronicle of the 21st inst. referred to the tenth division in the following words: — The Past Grand Commander of California, Sir William A. Knox, led the head of this colum'n, and was ably assisted by Sirs W. W. Morrow, Frederick V. Bechtel, H. D. Ranlett, Thomas C Grant, and Abraham Powell. These Knights presented an imposing appearance as they rode in procession, with the insignia of their respective ranks, and mounted on black steeds that seemed to be aware of the importance of the occasion for which they were, for the time being, called upon to do duty. The Boston Commandery acted as special escort to the IVIost Eminent Grand Master. Its members wore the black uniform which distinguishes the Knights Templars from other military organizations, but they showed peculiar characteristics by their hats being ornamented with black plumes as contrasted with the white which are worn by the majority of the Knights Templars. The uniform is an exceedingly tasteful one, the Maltese cross ornamenting the breast, and the star in the centre of the cross belt forming 200 BOSTON COMMANDEKY KNIGHTS TEMTLARS. ail additional cniljollishment of the attire. The swords embroidered on the upper part of the Knights' aprons are indicative of the calling of the members of the Order. They are emblematic of the fact that hard-fought battles must be gone through with if we wish to conquer. The lower part of the apron is still more significant, because it represents the fate which all are called upon to encounter who engage in a feud with their enemies. The skull and cross-bones show forcibly the importance of the struggle which may h.ive to be encountered, and are emblematic of the difficulties which mankind has to contend with. The Boston Commandery excelled in their military move- ments and evolutions, and did great credit to themselves and to their leaders by the able way in which they acquitted themselves of their task as a military body. Among the distinguished personages who graced that part of the procession were his Excellency George Stoneman, governor of California, and his Honor Washington Bartlett, mayor of San Francisco. There were also a number of members of the Grand Encampment and Sir Knights of note in carriages, forming a part of the tenth division. DeWitt Clinton Commandery, No. i, of Virginia, Nevada, acted as grand guard of honor. Another of the leading features of the tenth division of the procession was the Royal Hawaiian Band, composed of a body of able and intelligent natives of the Sandwich Islands. They are under the leadership of Mr. Berger, who is the only member of the corps who was not born in that part of the globe. He is a native of Germany, and owing to his untiring efforts he has succeeded in raising his subordinates to such a degree of perfection in their vocation that the dusky sons of the distant islands bid fair to outdo their competitors on this coast in regard to skill and merit as musicians. They are a fine body of men and earned well-deserved applause all along the line of march. The selection of the pieces which they played was a very felicitous one and well adapted to the occasion. While the tenth divison was at the foot of the column when it first formed into line, they took the lead when the members of the procession entered the Pavilion in the afternoon. It is safe to say that this division is deserving fully as much credit for the part which they took in the display as any of the other organizations composing the grand ]5rocession. AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 20 1 Too imich praise cannot be bestowed on the members of the Boston Commandery, who Iiave given an example well worth imitating to their brothers of this coast in regard to discipline as well as in regard to the admirable way in which they acquitted themselves of their task as a well- drilled organization. And of the review as follows : — It was noon before the caracoling of aids, and the easy and brilliant disorder of Sir Knights, from high official to humblest soldier in the ranks, showed signs of coming to an end Meanwhile the crowd had exhibited a more than Christian patience. The long white line that trailed down the cast side of the avenue, flecked here and there with red, blazing at intervals with gold dotted with green, displaying little patches of blue enriched with purple and varied at intervals by bands in uniforms sometimes gaudy, often brilliant, and always showy, lost something of its listlessness. There was a sudden movement in the neighborhood of the Grand Master. Then came a shrill bugle call, and from battalion to battalion down the long avenue passed the word of command. There was a sudden change. The bright-hued group about the Grand Master's beautiful white horse gathered closer around the standard of the cross. The escort behind them stiffened into rigid lines, the glory of the Boston Commandery showing in long yellow lines against the dark mass of their uniforms. The silver-clad Knights of Nevada brought their horses into solid phalan.K beyond them. Down the long avenue flags and banners that had drooped upon their leaning staves rose quickly to an erect position, drum majors assumed statuesque attitudes, bands straightened themselves for duty, the whole waving line of white at once became rigid and straight as an arrow from end to end, and all was ready for the review. THE SALUTE. At the same moment the Grand Master, attended by his suite, galloped leisurely along the ranks, banners being dipjied and Sir Knights presenting swords in one continuous line of steel as the cavalcade swept past them. 202 BOSTON COMMANDER Y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. Mis escort followed, preceded by the Hawaiian band, takini; the west sitle of the a\enue. rroniineiil in the escort was the Prelate, in black silk robes, which, filled by the sea breeze, swelled to majestic jiroportions. The carriages containing the high dignitaries of the Order came next. Then began the marching and countermarching, the California Commandery following the carriages, the other Commanderies marching north to Clay on the east side and turning tlown on the west. The two lines of Knights passing in opposite directions left little room for evolutions, antl little was attempted except occasional changes of from three to si.x abreast. But the double column which filled the broad and handsome street with a maze of changing movement and rich and shifting color, in which were seen grandly dressed Knights, gayly caparisoned horses, and flags, banners, arms, in.stru- ments of music, and all that can contribute to pictorial effect, made the scene the most remarkable in the day's demonstration. A .spectator on the top of the Palace Hotel thu.s described the scene : — The view was a grand one. In all directions and from every house floated the bright emblems of the Crusaders. The air was filled with fluttering ban- ners and waving flags. In the street, no matter where the eye was turned, an endless mass of humanity was slowly moving. To the eastward lay Oakland, with its pretty cottages plainly discernible through the clear atmosphere ; to the westward the hills arose like huge sentinels guarding a priceless treasure; to the southward stretched out the Potrero, with its boundary^of water, and before the eye towered Telegraph and Russian Hills, between which were the rippling waters of the bay ; the frowning eminences that arise abruptly from the Marin County shore touched the horizon, completing the panorama of enchanting beauty. The countless vessels in the harbor were decked in holi- day attire, and seemingly from every mast was flung an array of bunting in honor of the Knights. The church spires grew and lengthened out in rivalry, as though they were endowed with reason, and knew that the descendants of the heroes who fought for the Cross were passing in review. As the Grand Captain General and his mounted aids approached the arch on Montgomery AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 203 Street, their coal-black horses prancing" fretfully to the swelling music and their polished swords flashing in the sunlight, tlic scene transjiorted the spectators back to centuries ago, when the flower of Christendom rallied under tlie banner of Peter the Hermit, and with the lion-hearted Richard as their leader assaulted the gates of Acre, and with their battle-axes hewed down the infidel. Denser grew the crowds on the line of march as the pageant moved through the second arch. At various points on the route the Commanderies e.xecuted military evo- lutions with the precision of trained warriors. In all, the picture was a stirring one, which will never be forgotten. The Bidktiii thus spoke of the streets and the processif)n : — One of the most imposing spectacular demonstrations ever witnessed in this city was that which occurred yesterday. Probably fifty thousand people from the near and remote towns of California were on the streets as early as ten o'clock this morning. These for the most part waited three hours to get a view of the procession. The streets for miles have been literally blocked with people. Business for the most part has been suspended, and the whole city has been given up to a holiday demonstration. There have been many military displays in this city, but nothing in the way of armed men which has been equal to the march of the Knights Templars through the streets of San Francisco yesterday. The march was well ordered throughout. The police arrangements were all that could be desired. The vast throng on both sides of the street applauded when anything especially struck their fancy. The unity of our people was never more fully exhibited. There was no perceptible difference between the men of the different States. They were all apparently cast in the same mould, — strong, stalwart, and intelligent. The graybeards appeared to predominate. The representatives of Chicago were younger men than the others. The South was not so strong relatively as the North ; but the solitary Templar who car- ried the banner of Georgia received an ovation. The Louisiana Commandery enlivened their march with songs. No military display in richness of color can equal the march of the Knights Templars. The uniforms of those mounted were not only gorgeous but antique. 204 BOSTON COMMANJIERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. The gciiLial opinion of San-I-'ianciscans in regard to tlic Templar parade was tluis expressed by tlie C/iroiiic/c : — There arc two or tlirce observations that may be made concerning the procession. In the first place, no one could help conceding that it was a grand success. In numl)crs it certainly was, for at tlie lowest computation there could not have been less than five thousand Knights in line. It was a success in point of attendance which it drew, for the most moderate count would place the spectators at a quarter of a million. Every city on the coast sent its quota ; some of the more neighboring towns fairly emptied themselves. It was a success in point of arrangements, for barring a few delays inseparable to such an occasion, the vast body was moved on schedule time, and the features of the parade were carried on without a hitch. It was a success with regard to the material of the procession, for on all hands was heard the unqualified remark that the Knights were the finest set of men it would be possible to imagine. Many of them were models of physical grace and strength, while it took no physiognomist to reatl intellectual [irominence in the faces of all. It was a success as far as the music was concerned, for never before has this city listened to such a collection of bunds or heard such good military music. It was a success as far as San Francisco was concerned, for she welcomed the Knights like a royal city, decked their path in the brightest way she knew how, and made their progress like that of a triunijihal army. It was a success as far as its objects were concerned, for it [)reachcd a great proselyting sermon for the Order, and it showed that there is an organization e.xtant in this country which can bring together men of every State in the broad Union, bring their hands together in a fraternal grasp, no matter how they once might have been lifted, and bring their hearts together in an accord of courteousness and charity. THE GRAND MASTI'IR'S RECEPTION IN THE PAVILION. The followino- is the ])rograninie : — 1. Grand March, " Knights 'I'einplars " (Marsh) — I'.y the orchestra, tlie Royal Hawaiian Band of Honolulu. AT THE CONCLA VE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 205 2. Prayer — Ilj- the Rev. and Kiiiincnt Sir Osgood C. Wheeler, Grand I'relate of the Grand Commandery of California. 3. Templar Ode — By a select choir of twenty-four male voices. 4. Introduction — By Eminent Sir Reuben H. Lloyd, Grand Captain General of the Grand Commandery of California. 5. Address of Welcome — Right Eminent Sir George C. I'erkins, Grand Com- mander of the Grand Commandery of California. 6. Chorus, " Tannhauser " (Wagner) — By the orchestra. 7. Address of Welcome — By his Honor Washington ]3artlett, mayor of the city of San Francisco. ns snnnncr resort of the coast. 'I'lie world-renowned hotel Del Monte. Complimentary to the Grand M.a.ster and olticers of the (Irand Encampment of the United States. . . . This e.xcursion will be under the .sole control of .Sir J. A. Kill more. Sir II. \i. SMiril, |k., C/niiriiniii Exclusion Conimi//ef, 116 Montgomery Street. AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 229 One of the chief attractions near San Francisco is the Cliff House and Seal Rocks. It was one of the first places visited by the Sir Knights. The Cliff House is situated on the Pacific shore, at Point Lobos, near the entrance of the Golden Gate. The hotel is built on a cliff at the ocean edge and about one hundred feet above sea level. The hotel on the water side has a wide CLIFF HOUSE AND SEAL ROCKS. veranda from which there is a fine sea view. About eiglit hundred feet from the cliff there rise out of the ocean seven rocky islets, and these, at least on the sides toward the hotel, were covered with sea-lions, crawling, barking, rolling, and tumbling. They can be distinctly seen and often heard by persons on the veranda. As 230 BOSTON COMMANDER y K NIGHTS TEMPLARS. they come iq) out of the water they appear "black, sleek, and slip- pery," but when dry they look dirty and yellow. The sea-lions are strictly seals, very large, awkward and clumsy on the ledges, but very nimble in the water. They rolled around in the strong current, they climbed up the rocks, they clung upon the shelves in ^I',A L \\y}\_ K> !■ iM iHK north. the almost i)erpendicular sides of the rock islands; some ascended to the' very summit, seventy-five or one hundred feet above the water, and basked in the sunshine. Far beyond extends the restless Pacific, and at the right is the famous Golden Gate. It is a pleasant drive to the Cliff House, by way of Golden Gate AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 2"! Park, which is beautifully laid out. One is well repaid for visiting " La Punta de los Lobos Marines," the Point of the Sea-Lions. We visited the Geysers and rush down to Monterey and Santa Cruz. A carriage ride of six miles brings us to the famous redwood-trees. In the base of one, the " Fremont," the proprietor wisely informed us that the " Path- finder" passed all one winter when on an exploring tour. This is the story, and we tack our card on to the general, as thousands have done before, and hastily return to the station over a dusty but romantic pike, having time to ride over to the cliff and see the sea waves. To reach that section we pass through Santa Clara Valley, a garden in fact. Wheat in some sections here grows one hundred bushels to the acre. I don't believe it, but a Methodist tlivine stationed at Waterville says it is true. — Sir J. D. D., Cor. Jonnial and Courier, Nciv Haven, Com/. Some of the Boston party visited the Geysers. They are situated in Sonoma County, about one hundred miles from San I'rancisco. The route is from San Francisco to Oakland, thence to Calistoga by rail, passing through Napa Valley, with its stretches of vineyards, orchards, and beautiful scenery, with Napa and Sonoma Mountains on either hand. From Calistoga to the Geysers, twenty- five miles, the trip is made by stage. Leaving the hotel and pass- inLT through the rate " To the Geysers," one first comes to the Iron Spring. Crossing the little Pluton River (seventeen hun- dred feet above sea level), the traveller enters the Devil's Canon, trembling, boiling, steaming, with a hundred springs of all sizes, depths, colors, and temperatures. The most important of these have received suggestive names, as Eyewater Spring, Devil's Ink- stand, Devil's Pepperbox, Devil's Kitchen, Devil's Machine-shop, — the entire gorge seems to be given up to devils' names. " The Witches' Caldron," seven feet in diameter, by its black, boiling waters, holds a temperature of 195° Fahr. There are hot 2 32 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. alufii and sulphur springs, and springs containing ammonia, upsom salts, magnesia, soda, etc. The Devil's Inkstand flows with incarnate lluid. The Lemonade Spring is bad to drink. The Temperance Spi-ing, within a few feet of the boiling sulphur springs, tlows with clear cold water. These springs are of various temperatures, hot and cold being in some places adjacent. The Steamboat Geyser sounds like a locomoti\e blowing off steam, so heated as to be invisible si.\ feet from the mouth. The Geysers are a great natural wonder, and the Sir Knights expressed themselves as perfectly delighted with the trip. The excursion to Naj)a Valley took place Tuesday, Aug. 21, as per i)rogramme, under the charge of Sir Abraham Powell, of Golden Gate Commandery. Na])a Valley, the garden spot of Napa County, is about thirty-five miles in length and from one to five in width. The great product of the valley is wine. The natural beauties of the landscape in peaks, vales, creeks, hillsides, and fields are rich and inspiring. At 8 \. m. about a thousand -Sir Knights and ladies, the IJostonians being well represented, embarked on the steamer "Amador" at Market Street Wharf, for Vallejo. Music was furnished by the Stockton band of sixteen pieces. At Vallejo (10.40 \. M.) the party was transferred to two special trains, one of nine cars and the other of twelve. At 11. 15 .'\. m. the first train arrived at Napa station, where the excursionists were heartily welcomed. Business was suspended, schools dismissed, and the peo]jle from miles around gathered at Napa. An excursionist described the trii) in the followiiv'- lanafuatje : — The reception committee ushered the knights into the dci)ot, wliere a fine collation of fruits was spread, which rapidly chsappeared from before the hungry Knights. In the midst of the general rejoicing, Morris M. Estee was introduced, and in the name of the residents of Napa Valley extended AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 233 a welcome to all the excursionists. A response to the greeting was made by Gen. C. H. Grosvenor, Past Eminent Commander of Athens Com- mandery, of Ohio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives of that State. He returned thanks in the name of the Knights for the hearty welcome tendered by the residents of Napa, and stated that since he reached California he had not drunk coUl water nor tasted dry bread. Among the fruits furnished were the following varieties : Apples, Hoover and Gravenstein ; figs, California and Turkey black ; peaches. Straw- berry, Snow, Chinese Cling ; plums, Washington, Early Crawford, Green Gage, B'-adshaw, and French ; pears, Bartlett, Madeline, Clairgeau, and Beurrc ; grapes, Muscat, Sweetwater, Zinfandel, and Hamburg. Water- melons, muskmelons, and almonds were also furnished in profusion. The second train arrived, and the occupant.s were .subjected to similar treatment, but the first train liad proceeded to Yountville, where the e.xcursionists were the recipients of the really splendid hospitality of one man, G. Gra'zinger. This gentleman's large wine vaults and distillery are situated directly opposite the Yount- ville station. The Knights and ladies were bade welcome, and after a wondering, hasty stroll through the cool vaults, where over half a million gallons of wine are stored, ascended to the second floor of the winery, where wine actually flowed like water. Pails filled with iced wines were on all hands, and hundreds of bottles of the red and white vintage of the valley were opened and served by the employes of the generous host. Luncheon was also laid on long tables, and around this the guests ate and drank enjoyably, while the host, from a raised platform, formally welcomed them. All the wine served had been in casks for over five years, and the guests expressed themselves as greatly pleased with it. At Yountville a committee from St. Helena met the e.xcur- 2 34 BOSTON COMMANDKRY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. siunist, and one of them, W'm. II. [ordan, in a happy speech, welcomed the guests and urged tlieni to reserve a little of their capacities for the hospitalities of the St. Ilelenaites. The latter ])lace was reached at two o'clock, and there another large crowd of citizens, with committee-men and a hand, met the train, and conducted the excursionists to I hmt's (irovc, a little distance from the station. An evergreen arch of welcome was pas>ed on the way thither, and within the grove a scene of what the visitors must have considered peculiarlv California hospitality greeted them. Beneath a madrone strove were lonsr tables loaded with materials for a substantial rejiast. Near that was a long booth, stocked with a score of casks of red and white wine, all tapped and )ielding their rich contents in streams at the bidding of the guests. A committee of ladies and gentlemen served the excursionists to the contents of the Ixioth and table in a generous manner. This inspiration of hosi)italitv was thus inscribed on an arch over the wine booth: "To weary ])ilgrims travelling from afar: Greeting from the wine growers of St. Helena district." After hunger aiul thirst had been satisfied, there were music and speeches, and lounging under the madrone-trees for half an hour, when the trip was continued over to Calistoga. .\t the latter place, and at Krug's, cu rojitt\ the same generous welcome to the strangers was given. The da\- and circumstances attending the trip were both calculated to impress the beauty and fertility of the valley, and the generosity of the \alley residents, upon the excursionists. The second train ])assed through the same ordeal, when the return trip began. Hospitalities were again extended to all. /\t Vallejo a crowd of Napa Valley citizens gathered to bid farewell to the Sir Knights and ladies. As the boat left the pier, cheer after AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 235 cheer was given by the happy citizens and the happy Templars. Soon after their departure, tlie Knights were called together in the cabin of the "Amador," an organization was effected, and a committee appointed to draw up resolutions, thanking the residents of Napa Valley for their hosj^itality. Each State and Territory was represented on the committee by one Sir Knight. Sir C. E. Severance, M. D., of the medical staff of Boston Commandery, represented Massachusetts. Addresses were made, cheers were given for Napa Valley, California, etc., which were brought to an end only by the report of the committee and adoption of a series of very complimentary resolutions. The excursion was marred by no accident or unpleasant incident, and all the members of the party were loud in their praises of the beauty of Napa Valley and the generous hospitality (if its people. On Wednesday, 22d inst.. Sir Knight William Harney, of Cali- fornia Commandery, No. i, earned the lasting gratitude of a hundred ladies and Sir Knights of Boston Commandery, by a most generous and graceful act. He chartered a special train of two passenger coaches, to which was attached a commissary car, laden with all the delicacies of the season in bountiful supply, and invited the party to Menlo Park for the day. Menlo Park is about thirty-five miles from San F"rancisco, and contains the beautiful country residences of many of the wealthiest citizens of California. Arriving at the station, lunch was served on board the train; after which, the twenty-five or thirty spanking teams in waiting at the depot conveyed the sight-seers to Palo Alto, the stock ranch of Leland Stanford. Palo Alto, Spanish for tall timber, suggested by a redwood-tree on the bank of the creek, is the name of the rural home of Mr. Stanford. Here Mr. Stanford has set apart fourteen 236 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. luiiulivd acres for tlic brccdint;- and training; of horses, of whicli lie has scNX'ii himdri'd of the best th(ir()iiL;'hI)red and trotter blood. Two ol liis horses cost him Iwenty-fue tliousand doUars each, lie employs seventy-five men to take care of his horses. I'^or the ])leasure of the \isitors several of the horses were speeded around the Iraik, while others were paraded for their inspection. .Among these horses were the well-known Klectioneer, Piedmont, and (ien. Henton. The Temi^lars and their ladies then proceeded to the residence of Col. Harney, and throuLih the grounds of several maunificent estates. The residences are in the midst of spacious grounds, which are jjlanted with a large variety of ornamental trees, and are intersected by extensive drives. The royal house of |. C. Mood was thrown open to the visitors, who entered and were shown through the stately halls and magnificent i)arlors of that noted residence. The party returned to the train loaded with the choicest flowers contrilnited by many citizens of Menlo Park, and, after a really happy day, with hearty cheers for their generous host, the train was taken for the return to .San I'rancisco. The greeting extended to the seventy-five guests who visited Menlo on Wednesday was a surprise to the Eastern tourists. Gentlemen owing hand- some turnouts drove to tlie depot, e.xchanging cards with those who filled their carriages, anil e.\i)laincd the peculiarities and tievelopment of tlie country to the tourists. Charles Felton handled the ribbons of his four-in- hand, and four teams from Gov. Stanford's place, and the carriages of James I'^lood and William J. Adams awaited them. The guests alighted at the residence of Mr. Sjireckels, and were received by the ladies of the house, and the four young ladies visiting there. An improniplu luncheon was served from the veranda tables, consisting of champagne, cake, and fruit. The ladies were presented, as souvenirs, with the badges of the different AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 2 7,'] Commamlerics, the hostess receiving a golden medal. Those indebted for the use of private carriages thoughtfully left their cards at the different residences. The Bostonians particularly expressed their astonishment at the beauty and extent of the private grounds through which they drove. — T/ie Call, of Monday, Aug. 27. Wednesday was set apart by the Triennial excursion committee for e.xctu'sions down the bay, and thousands improved the oppor- tunity to make the trip, view the harbor and fortifications, take a look through the Golden Gate, and try the placid Pacific. The steamer "Newark" left lier berth with about fifteen hundred ladies and Sir Knights and the I-'ifth Infantry band. The steamer "Sausalito" had five hundred guests, with the Eighth Infantry band. The steamer " Mary Garrett " had on board the Stockton Commandery and their friends, with the Stockton band. The steamer " Ancon " ploughed the bay with a party of two thousand guests and the Hawaiian band. A number of j'achts, each carrying from fifteen to seventy-five excursionists, were taken in tow by steam yacht "Thetis" and the Pacific Steamship Company's tug- boat, by which they were towed to the ocean. Steamers, yachts, and harbor shipping were all profusely decorated. The crowd on the docks cheered, the guns on the )'achts were fired, and the bands played their loudest if not their best as the Templar fleet headed for the Golden Gate. Having reached the Heads, the rocky posts of the Golden Gate, the yachts were cast off, sails were set, and the crafts bowled back into the bay, with a fair wind, to the place of starting, in less than an hour. The yacht " Lurline " had a pleasant party of ladies and gentlemen aboard. The commander. Sir William Center, directed that the main brace should be spliced every half-hour, beginning at 10 A. M., but as some of the watches indicated Boston time, 238 BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. anotlKT l'iU^bur<;- tiniu, and several San I'"rancisc() time, tlic splicing had to he done with a little more rajMclity than the skipper expected. Among the guests on board were ex-Congressman A. R. Gotten and wife, of Iowa, cx-Congrcssman Hopkins, of Pennsylvania, i'ast Grand Commander of the I'nited States, and Sir Knights A. L. Richardson, Boston, and John Haigh, Somcrville, Mass. The steamers ])rocceded farther out, passing beyond the Gate. Whin near the Seal Rocks, off the ClifY House, the "Ancon's" can- non was fired to frighten the seals, which made a grand scramble for the water, much to the delight of the excursionists. .A return salute of twenty-one guns was fired from the Cliff House bluif, which was answered with music and cheers. Refreshments were sup])lied in great abundance, and everybody returned perfectly delighted. Mass meetings were held on the steamers, speeches were made (some verbose passengers received permission to have theirs printed without delivery), thanks were expressed, and the hinges of the Golden Gate were sufficiently oiled to last until some other Triennial Conclave meets in San I'rancisco. Thursday, the 23d of iVugust, was barbecue day at Santa Cruz. Two trains, one of seventeen cars and one of ten, occupied by eighteen hundred .Sir Knights and ladies, left ,\lmeda Point for Santa Cruz. The ride of three and a half hours was through long tunnels and amid picturesque scener)-. Santa Cruz was once the fashionable seaside resort of California. Grace Greenwood called it "a beautiful, smiling town, seated on the knees of pleasant terraces, with her feet in the sea." Mountains, gardens, bay, and town unite Italian and .Swiss beauty, Naples and the Alps. When .Santa Cruz was reached it was evident that the event of the visit of the Knightly party was considered a jubilee occasion. AT TIIK CONCLAVE IN. SAN FRANCISCO. 239 Nearly two thousand people, many from the country around, swarmed in the depot and streets, and on the High-School bluff overlooking the depot. It was nearly one o'clock, and the excursionists were hungry, therefore the notable absence of speech-making or formal reception at the depot was favorably commented upon. Without any delay, every one fell in behind the Santa Cruz brass band, and marched the half-block to the barbecue grounds. Here was a scene calculated to bring great jaeace and joy to the minds of the eighteen hundred tired, hungry, and thirsty invaders. A large vacant lot had been walled in with tall branches of evergreens. A canopy of evergreens, supported on decorated poles, prettily shaded and cooled the entire space. In the centre was a great- standard of flowers, surmounted by an immense passion cross of crimson flowers. But best of all were the thirty-one long tables, each with seating capacity for forty, and each loaded with fruits and flowers, and many evidences that something more substantial was quickly coming. About the tables stood fifty Santa Cruz ladies, many of them with aprons made of Knight Templar flags, and all looking cheerful, willintj to be"in their service of waitresses without delay. The Knights and ladies filed into the grounds with many expressions of delight with the pretty and hospitable picture, took seats at the tables, as many of them as could, and fastened on the dainty boufoiiui'ercs laid on each plate. There were 1,240 plates, and before each plate a hungry guest, and behind each hungry guest another hungry guest waiting. The arrange- ments for one of the biggest barbecues ever given on the coast, except that it was simply impossible in the space to seat every one at once, were simply perfect. Unlike such affairs usually, the work of barbecuing the meats was entirely separated from the tables, and the result will surely make that plan of serving barbecues 240 BOSTON COMMANDER y KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. piipuhir, as there were no sc|ueainish a])iietitcs destroyed, as is lre(|ueiill\- tlu' case, !)}• ihe siu;Iit of tlie cooking' carcasses. In an adjoiiiiiiL;' lot, over tlie usual lont;- earth ditch, were roasted sixteen shec]) and four Ix'eves. The harhecue had l)een well timed, for the dozen carvers found the meat just ready for their knives and axes as tlie u,uests sat down, and in a very short s])ace there was delicious barbecue meat steaming hot. with goblets of wine, fruit, loaves of French bread, and coffee before e\X'ry plate. Luscious fruits of all kinds, delicious pastries, meats of all kinds, coffee, tea, and wines, com])osed the bill of fare, and to give some idea of the execution done it is only necessary to state tliat the fol- lowing is a partial list of the good things partaken of: Three thousand pounds of beef and mutton, done to a turn; eight hun- dred loaves of bread, one hundred boxes of peaches, twenty crates of watermelons, forty gallons of milk, five hundred gallons of wine, etc. \w open-air concert was given by the band, which occupied a handsomely decorated platform. After the barbecue the guests strolled about town or proceeded to the beach. Many availed themselves of the opportunity for a plunge in the surf. The weather was delightful, business was suspended, and a holiday was enjoyed by all. vAs the time for departure drew nigh, the excur- sionists held an informal meeting at the depot, and appointed a conmiittee, which presented resolutions of thanks to the Lodge, Chapter, and Commander)', to railroad, excursion committee, citizens, and ladies of .Santa Cruz. The resolutions were adopted with deafeninu; cheers. It was 10 r. m. before the excursionists arrixed at the city. The excursion to Santa Rosa was not so largely attended as others, but the hospitality was no less. Three hundred Sir Knights AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 241 and ladies, accompanied by tlie Royal Hawaiian Band, took passage on the steamer "Sausalito," which was gayly decorated. An hour by water brought the party to San Rafael, where the train was taken for Santa Rosa. On arrival there were gathered at the depot fully one thousand persons, including Santa Rosa Com- mandery, No. 14. Members of the Commandery received the visitors, when the line was formed on Fourth Street, the principal thoroughfare, in the following order: Parks 's Santa Rosa Band of fifteen pieces ; Santa Rosa Commandery ; the Royal Hawaiian Band ; visiting Sir Knights ; citizens in carriages. The business streets of the city were handsomely decorated, and from the depot to the local Commandery asylum — the line of march taken by the column — the thoroughfare was lined with people from all parts of the county. There were at Santa Rosa several thousand non-residents brought together by the holding of the Sonoma County Agricul- tural Fair, and these, with the persons assembled to witness the Templar ceremonies, made the little city present an animated appear- ance. The Knights marched along Fourth Street to the Plaza, when they came to a halt in front of the rostrum. Past Eminent Com- mander G. A. Johnson, of Santa Rosa Commandery, No. 14, then mounted the rostrum and delivered a brief address, in the course of which he said : — Ladies atid Sir Knights : In behalf of our citizens and Santa Rosa Com- mandery, I bid you a cordial welcome to our city, whose residents are a cosmopolitan, contented, and happy people, and to a country of wonderful natural resources and climate. Om- county is fifty miles long and twenty miles wide, larger than the State of Rhode Island. It is a country of beautiful landscapes and blooming vineyards. It is close to such natural wonders as the Geysers and Sulphur Springs and the far-famed redwoods, which are only some twenty miles east of here. It is told in a legend of 16 24- BOSTON COMMANDERY KNIGHTS TEMPLARS. our State tliat away back in 1833 or 1S34, whc'ii the iiosscssioii of this country was a topic of dispute between the Russians and the Mexicans, that Friar Amorosa, after having established a mission at San Jose, met, half a mile east of town, on the banks of Santa Rosa Creek, with an unsophisticated but beautiful Indian maiden, whom he baptized, and that she, then becoming frightened, fled to Rincon Hill, nine miles to the south- east, and there lay down underneath a tree, the two lower limbs of which, in connection with the trunk, form a perfect passion cross, one of the mystic emblems of knighthood. The friar, when he bajitized the maiden, named her St. Rose or Santa Rosa, and it is from this source that our city derived the name which it now bears. The visiting Knights were next escorted lay the Santa Rosa Comniandery, led by Eminent Commander T. P. Baxter, to the Masonic Temple, at the corner of Hinton Avenue and Foin-th Street. Refreshments of fruit and wine were served in the asyhmi, and the freedom of the city was then courteously extended to the excursionists. The party visited the fair, and beheld with wonder the resources and products of Sonoma County. The visitors were enthusiastic in their j^raises of the people of Santa Rosa for their hospitality, and expressed warm thanks for the kind treatment received. A special train brought tlic excursionists back to the city, leaving Santa Rosa at six o'clock, connecting with the boat at San Rafael, which arrived at San I'rancisco at g.30 r. m. At an informal assembly of Sir Knights in the steamer's cabin the usual resolutions of thanks were adopted. The excursion to Monterey occurred on Monday, the second day after the departure of Boston Commandery for home; but as refer- ence to it seems necessary to complete the excursions, the following account is taken from the San Francisco Chronicle: — AT THE CONCLAVE IN SAN FRANCISCO. 243 The excursion to Monterey, in compliment to the Grand Encampment of the United States, was ta]