San Joaquin

County History

History of San Joaquin County, California with Biographical Sketches - Historic Record Company, Los Angeles, CA - 1923

CHAPTER XVIII

THE MILITIA AND THE PATRIOT

        IN THE RUSH of immigration to California "in the days of '49" there were thousands of persons who had been officers and privates in the Mexican War. Generally speaking, in Stockton every other man, especially a Southerner, was either a colonel or a captain. It was regarded as a special mark of honor to address a man with one of his titles although he had never seen a day's service in the Mexican War. Many of these men enjoyed military social life and it is not surprising that a military company was organized in Stockton as early as 1851, and commanded by Major R. P. Hammond, and known as the San Joaquin Guard. The first lieutenant was George Kerr, the owner of the Democratic paper, the Republican. Hammond was proud of his command until a report came that the Indians in Arizona were murdering the settlers, and Governor Burnett called upon the citizens to volunteer. Captain Hammond immediately got out handbills calling upon his company to assemble at the Corinthian Building to discuss the question of volunteering. Only six of the guard answered the call, and this so disgusted the doughty little fighter that he resigned and the organization went to pieces. The guards were not looking for Indians. Like Cortez of old, they came to get gold and nothing more was said about military affairs until 1855, when a cavalry company known as the Anniversary Guard was organized. The captain was P. Edward Conner, than whom there was no better military man in California, as was later shown, and the first lieutenant was Stephen Burgen, later a prominent fireman. It was organized shortly before Washington's Birthday and anybody could enroll by paying three dollars. On February 22 the Guards made their first appearance. They were mounted on fine horses and marching through the streets preceded by a band of musicians, drawn by six noble grays, kindly loaned by Lee & Marshall's circus, they rode to Oak Grove cottage, now the Mrs. Moore home place. It was then a new house just erected by Andrew Kitchen on the Sacramento Road two miles from town. Mr. Kitchen had invited the company to be his guest and enjoy with him an old-fashioned Southern barbecue. After the feast an oration was pronounced on Washington by A. C. Bradford.

First July 4th Celebration

        At the present time the celebration of the National holiday is a tame affair as the opinion is fast growing in the minds of the citizens that pomp and show and noise are no indication of patriotism or love of country, and like religion, patriotism, must have its birth in the heart and be taught to the child in early youth. Hence the old time firecrackers, the boy's delight, have been prohibited in many cities, the national fire chiefs in convention recommend that fireworks be excluded from all celebrations, the roar of cannon is now almost a thing of the past. Our forefathers believed that the firing of cannon, the ringing of bells, processions, orations and a general good time was the way to show our patriotism and joy that we lived in a country where the people ruled, and every man was a king and every woman a queen, and so when Stockton was scarcely a year of age the citizens began celebrating the day. On the morning of July 4, 1850, the citizens assembled on Center Street and led by Foley's Band riding in their circus chariot, the procession marched to the Presbyterian Church, where the Fourth of July exercises were held under the trees. The program opened by the reading of the Declaration of Independence by D. Fair, and an oration which was published in full by the Stockton Times was delivered by Thomas Van Buren. In his remarks he expressed some pretty strong secession sentiments because of the action of Congress in refusing for a time to admit California into the Union. At the close of the oration the band played and the audience gave three cheers for the Union, three cheers for the oration, and three for California. At sunrise Captain Weber fired a national salute from the small cannon presented to him by Captain Sutter. This cannon had been used in frightening away the Indians. In the afternoon a dinner was given at the Stockton House and toasts were responded to by the citizens, including A. C. Bradford, Judge Dent and Judge Charles M. Creanor. In the evening the public buildings and homes were illuminated.

Death of Henry Clay

        Henry Clay, the leader of the National Whig party, was honored alike by the San Joaquin Whigs and Democrats for his splendid work in having California admitted to the Union, and his death was deeply mourned. He died June 29, 1852, but the news was not known in Stockton until August 4. The New York Times was then received and the local papers published his obituary. That evening Mayor Baker called a special meeting of the common council to take action in regard to his memory. They resolved that the officers of the city, "as a mark of respect wear the usual badge of mourning for ninety days, and that a committee of three be appointed to confer with a like committee from the various associations for the purpose of making arrangements to commemorate the memory of the lustrious dead" and they appropriated $500 for that purpose. The memorial service was held August 12, and the procession which comprised the city, the county officials, the clergymen, Whig and Democratic county committees, the Masonic fraternity, in full regalia, the Odd Fellows, with their secret emblems, the Hebrew Benevolent Association, and the draymen on horseback, assembled at the Corinthian Building on the Peninsula. The funeral cortege then marched across the Stockton bridge to Levee Street, then to the enclosure of Mr. Woods' church beneath some large oaks. The procession "was five hundred yards in length." At the church there was singing by the choir, and Henry A. Crabb delivered the eulogy.

The Stockton Blues

        This crack military company, composed of Stockton's best citizens, was so named because of their uniform, which consisted of dark blue frock coat and light blue trousers with white trimmings. The company was organized December 27, 1856, and elected the following officers: Captain, Samuel A. Booker; first lieutenant, P. E. Conner; second lieutenant, H. C. Patrick, a Democratic newspaper man; orderly sergeant, John H. Webster; drummer, John Taufer; fifer, J. C. Daniels. Its members comprised judges, lawyers, merchants, among them John B. Hall, Samuel A. Booker, Otis Bridges, Charles F. Whale, big Jack Keeler, Phillip S. Shoaff, Andrew Lester, William H. Lyons, Henry T. Compton, B. F. Sanborn, O. H. Perry, John Gross, George A. Shurtleff, Dr. Samuel A. Langdon, R. K. Reid, Thomas Marshall, R. B. Lane, Elisha Lyons, Andrew Simpson, Dave Safferhill, and other leading citizens of the town in every walk of life. The members were obliged to pay all their own expenses, receiving nothing from the state except muskets, equipment and ammunition for target practice. They paraded upon every possible occasion, such as Andrew Jackson's day, Washington's birthday, and the Fourth of July, frequently acting as escort to various societies and public school children and attending in full uniform with a brass band theatrical performances of favorite actors or actresses. Washington's birthday and the anniversary of the battle of New Orleans they always celebrated, the former day with a parade and ball. The parade closed by visiting the saloons owned by certain members of the company, where all had free drinks. One of their favorite resorts was "The Shades" on the Levee, kept by little Jack Keeler, and after visiting several of these saloons some of the soldiers would become very weary from long marching and scarcely be able to reach the armory in the rear of the San Joaquin Republican office. The most high-toned ball ever given by the Blues was that of September 26, 1860, in the pavilion of the Agricultural Society at the close of the first fair. The pavilion, a wooden structure, had been built on the west side of the Court House Square. For this occasion the Blues engaged the Third Artillery Band of San Francisco, sixteen pieces, and on the following evening the band gave a concert to help pay expenses. The company contained quite a number of crack shots, several of them being members of the Pigeon Shooting Club, and at the Sacramento State Fair of 1859 the Stockton Blues won the company a gold medal. The non-commissioned officers of the company offered a gold medal as a prize for the best yearly shot, and at their annual target excursion in 1861 Private E. M. Howison won the first prize, a silver goblet; Private Frank Stewart, the second prize, the state encampment gold medal, and James Sharrott, the company gold medal.

        The Blues were a corps of gentlemen, many of them of Southern birth, sociable and generous, and always ready for a lark. In the company, also, were many of Northern birth, but all were Democrats, firm and trusted friends. But soon came rumors of war, and the friendship of pioneer days began to cool. Then the Pacific Republic plot began to ripen, and to assist the cause the members in sympathy with the South planned at a certain time to seize the arms of the Blues and use them against the Government. The members who stood by the Union learned of this plot and determined to block it. Peacefully to accomplish this, there was but one way—to disband the company. The company was then composed of forty-eight members, and a meeting was called July 25, at which by a vote of 13 to 10, it was decided to disband. About half of the members were not notified of this meeting, and when they learned the result they appealed to Governor Downey. The Governor decided the proceedings legal, and thus ended the organization that had been the pride of Stockton.

        The disorganization of the Blues left the city without any military protection. The air was filled with rumors of war, the young men were enthusiastic and patriotic, and a call was immediately circulated for the organization of a new company. The following pledge was taken: "We, the undersigned, hereby agree to unite in forming a military company in Stockton—every member to take an oath to support the Union, the Constitution and the laws." County Judge J. K. Shafer appointed William H. Lyons, father of Bert Lyons, as the enrolling officer, and August 12, 1861, 140 persons signed the roll. Over seventy persons afterwards signed the army oath, for that was the number prescribed by the law. The members adopted as their name Stockton Union Guard, and the first elected officers were: Captain, P. E. Conner ; first lieutenant, C. J. Newcomb; second lieutenant, Sol Pearsall; junior second lieutenant, William S. Coombs, uncle of Railroad Commissioner Henderson; secretary, Eugene Robinson; treasurer, W. P. Hazelton. Conner at this time was a state officer, Brigadier-General of this district, and he stated that he would accept the office only as an honorary position provided the men observed strictly their duties. He declared that he had served his country in both camp and field, having been a captain in the Mexican war, and under the old flag he felt perfectly willing again to enroll his name, and he would be the first if a call were made on California by the Federal Government. His speech was greeted with deafening applause. In the following month he resigned as captain, having accepted the appointment as colonel of the Third Regiment, California Volunteers. Henry O. Mathews was then elected captain. Mathews was well up in English tactics, for he had been a member of the Queen's Grenadiers, but of the Kibbie or Hardie tactics he had no knowledge. Consequently, the company was drilled in all kinds of tactics.

        One evening at drill F. W. West, who had been in the army in the East, sat an interested spectator. Finally, one of the members approaching Mr. West, said: "West, won't you drill us ?" "Well, yes," he answered, "I will drill you in Hardie, but I don't know anything else." "Well, that's what we want, but we haven't got our arms yet." "Oh, you don't want any arms for some time to come." "Oh, yes, we do," quickly replied the ambitious young soldier. Mr. West drilled the company in sharp work for an hour, and then gave the order to "break ranks, march." The awkward squad by that time was well satisfied that the muskets were unnecessary. The company eager to become proficient in the manual of arms, soon after this engaged Lieut. F. W. Todd to drill them, he having been one of the famous light infantry, the Boston Grays. Todd was afterwards a music teacher in the public schools. The member of the company paid him for his services from their private funds. Sergeant-Major Moegon of the regular army also drilled the company several months. Night after night the Guards drilled both in company and squad work until they had no equal among the state volunteers.

        The Guards, like their predecessors, frequently gave parties and balls, and the ball most prominent was that of November 7, 1861, for at that time they were presented by the ladies of Stockton with a beautiful silk flag costing $150. The presentation speech was made by Mary Loring, and the flag was received by George W. Tyler, in a soul-stirring address. The ball was given in Agricultural Hall, the Guards' armory at that time, and there were over 200 couples present. At one time 130 couples were on the floor. The Guards wore for the first time their new uniforms, each member paying for his uniform, and conspicuous among the dancers were two officers, the one dressed in the New York Zouave uniform, the other in that of the New York Light Guards.

        Two days after the presentation of the flag the Guards had their first and only experience in the "glory of war." A party of squatters had jumped a piece of land some two miles east of the Waterloo, and the courts had decided in favor of Comstock, the claimant. The squatters refused to vacate, and Sheriff Hook called on the Union Guards to place Comstock in possession of the land. The squatters were a body of brave men, all well-known secessionists. Having intrenched themselves within the foundation walls of a brick barn on the place, they made portholes in the walls and declared that they would shoot any body of men that attempted to drive them out. The Guards were assembled in their Armory November 9, 1861. Each man was given three rounds of ammunition, and was instructed to fire no blank charge, but if the order was given to fire they were to shoot to kill. The company all were exceedingly nervous for they expected a small sized war, and about 9 o'clock, in command of Captain Pearsall, they began their march for the field of carnage. In the meantime a squad of six rode forth in a carriage under the command of Lieutenant Elisha Lyons to reconnoiter. Near Waterloo the squad halted and loaded their muskets. Near the scene a messenger met them and reported that the enemy had "retreated in good order," but, not believing this, Lyons drove on. The report was correct, and the squad returned and so informed the marchers on the dusty road. The company was not pleased at the result, for the men were sullen, and upon the least provocation blood would have been shed.

Colonel E. D. Baker

        The Guards at this time were in a fighting mood because of the Bull Run defeat of the Union army, August 21st, and the death of Col. E. D. Baker, October 21st, at the battle of Ball's Bluff. Baker was the idol of the Republicans, although they refused to gratify his heart's desire by making him California's United States senator. Taking up his residence in Oregon, Baker was sent to the Senate, and, stopping over in San Francisco,on his way to Washington, he made in Platt's Hall the most brilliant speech ever heard on the coast. Baker was a naturalized citizen of English birth, and on his arrival at New York he accepted the colonelcy of a New York regiment.  Entering the Senate chamber in uniform one day he heard John C. Breckinridge severely scoring the Administration. When Breckinridge finished his speech, Baker arose to reply, and, on that occasion, says James B. Blaine, Baker made the most masterly and eloquent speech ever heard in Senate. It was the crowning glory of his forensic work in liberty's cause, for he went forth to die. His body was shipped to the state of his choice, and arrived at San Francisco December 5. The funeral was held December 11, Thomas Starr King pronouncing the eulogy, and over 100 citizens of Stockton were in attendance. The Union Guard unanimously resolved to attend his funeral, and, under the command of Lieutenant Todd and accompanied by citizens and firemen, they took the evening boat. On arriving at San Francisco about 2 o'clock in the morning, the guardsmen marched up to the National Guards' armory and aroused the inmates, for their arrival was unexpected. The visitors were made as comfortable as possible, and that morning the Stocktonians were given the place of honor in the procession. In the evening they were tendered a banquet at the Cafe de Rohne, and the following day were escorted to the steamer.

        Grand Army men will remember that President Lincoln, believing that the war would close in three months, issued a call for 75,000 men for three months' service. At the expiration of that period the war had scarcely begun, and on July 1st President Lincoln called for 300,000 more troops. This call suggested the stirring melody first heard in Stockton in the fall of 1862. "We are coming, Father Abraham, Our Union to restore. From every hill and valley. Three hundred thousand more." Among the number who responded to this call were the Union Guards; the first military company in California to offer its service to the Federal government. July 2, 1862, by a unanimous vote, the Guards resolved to go wherever called. Elisha Lyons was then the captain of the company, holding that position continuously from April 1, 1862, until the company disbanded, 1886. The Union Guard was declared by competent judges to be the best drilled company in the National Guard of California, but in 1866 it disbanded because of an economical streak of the legislature. The lawmakers of that year cut down the military appropriation almost one-half for the sole purpose of reducing the militia. and the Stockton guardsmen, feeling deeply the insult, after they had spent time and money to bring the company up to the highest standard, resolved to quit the service of the state.

Captain Weber the Patriot

        "Old Glory", thrown to the breeze in 1861 gave to Banner Island its present name, and behind it lies a bit of local history of considerable importance. Captain Weber was by nature a leader of men, not only in business and society, but in patriotism. Early in the Mexican war, although a naturalized citizen of German birth, he advised the Mexican citizens to submit quietly to the military officers of the United States and again in 1861 he took the lead in defense of the Union. He found that the Union men were wavering, and undecided, and some were even afraid to declare their principles. A leader was wanted, one who would definitely proclaim himself as "bound to go to the aid of the Union, right or wrong," Charles M. Weber was that man and, sending to Oregon, he there purchased a 120-foot pole, and upon Banner Island it was planted. On every patriot occasion it held to the wind a beautiful flag of immense size, together with a ninety-foot streamer. Many miles distant that flag could be seen. The place was then entirely surrounded by water, and to keep off intruders he placed there a large dog. On the 30th of September, the dog lay at the foot of the staff, poisoned, and overhead flew a small rebel flag. Early in the morning the captain arose, as was his custom, and observing that flag, his anger was uncontrollable. Hastily rowing to the island he pulled down the Confederate emblem, raised the old flag, and then ramming the new banner into the little cannon at the foot of the pole, he blew it into pieces. Then followed a salute of thirty-five guns for the Union. That morning at 6 o'clock, as the Sonora stage was leaving the office, one of the passengers, waving a secession flag out of the coach window, dared any person to take it from him at the same time shouting: "There are plenty of these flags flying this morning." As he was thought crazy no attention was paid to his words. The effect produced by the floating of the Banner island flag was surprising for soon afterwards flags were seen upon housetops, fences and mills. Stockton was even then a city of windmills, and over 300 might be counted from the courthouse, each bearing from one to five flags. Teamsters drove their mule teams from this city, each mule having a flag in his head-stall. Citizens erected flag poles, among them William P. Miller, who erected a seventy-five-foot pole in front of his shop, and for the first time, July 4, 1861, a flag flew from a public school building, that of Center Street.

Third Regiment Calls Volunteers

        The history of the Third Regiment belongs to this county, as its first headquarters were here, its colonel, P. Edward Conner was a citizen of Stockton, and the first company, Company A, Captain Thomas E. Ketcham, was here recruited and mustered into the United States service. Among other Stocktonians who joined the regiment was John Gilmore of the Union Guards, Sol Pearsall foreman of the Eureka, Richard Condy, leader of the regimental band, and Rev. John. A. Anderson, regimental chaplain. At this time the war was on and August 18, 1861, this notice was pasted on the city billboards, "I, John Downey, Governor of California, do hereby call for volunteers, a regiment of infantry and five companies of cavalry to guard the overland mail route." In the meantime Captain Conner had been tendered, and accepted, the position of colonel of the Third Regiment, and October 2 this notice was posted: "Recruits Wanted--An office is now open for the enlistment of all men wishing to connect themselves with the Third Regiment of California Volunteers under the command of P. Edward Conner. A recruiting officer will be in attendance at Agricultural Hall."

        Recruiting offices were opened in the mining camps, and the entire command of Captain Akey, the Tuolumne Rangers, 105 men enrolled their names. On their way to Benicia they entered Stockton in stages and wagons, their flags flying and the men cheering. The company were entertained at the Weber House, and then, under an escort of 100 citizens, they marched to Agricultural Hall to pay their respects to Colonel Conner. As the hour of 4 o'clock drew near, with flags flying and drums beating, they marched to the steamer Cornelia and sailed away, the crowd upon the wharf loudly cheering the first recruits of the war.

        As fast as possible men were enrolled at the recruiting station, the Government furnishing them lodging, meals and clothing. An old cook stove was set up in the basement of the hall, and there the soldiers ate their rations of bread, meat, rice, pork and beans from tin plates and drank their coffee from tin cups. Each recruit selected the company in which he desired to serve his country, and in a short time Captains Ketcham, Moore, Potts and Urmy had a total of fifty-nine volunteers, nearly one-half of the number choosing Company A, Captain Ketcham. The men were becoming too numerous for their hall quarters, and a camp was selected. It was described as "in a beautiful grove some two miles from town, near the residence of Mr. Hamilton." It was the site of the present mineral baths, and at noon, October 2, in command of Major Pollock, the new recruits, 100 men, that day increased in number by fifty men from Mokelumne Hill, took up their line of march for Camp McDougall. It was a thrilling scene, the march of those soldiers who had taken the oath of allegiance to fight and die if necessary in defense of the Union, and loudly the crowd cheered them, their fifer playing continuously, "The Girl I Left Behind Me." Fourteen bell-shaped tents were set, and in the drilling of the men, the sweet-toned bugle calls, the sunrise and sunset guns, and the dress parades, Stockton had her first sight of war. Scarcely a day passed that new recruits could not be seen tramping over the dusty road to camp, and it was soon announced that Company A had its full quota, eighty-five men. The company had the privilege of electing their captain, and October 9, Major Pollock informed the men that Colonel Conner had designated the following day as the time for the election of captain, the same to be viva voce. The company voted unanimously for Capt. T. E. Ketcham; it was a high honor, and Company A and its captain brave won splendid victories in Humboldt County as Indian fighters.

        Three days after this election the first Sunday camp service was held, and the chaplain, John A. Anderson, preached the sermon. Madame Grundy says a disappointment in a love affair made of him a soldier. True or untrue, he was a valiant soldier, and faithfully performed his duty. Sunday was a gala day for Stocktonians, and hundreds visited the camp. A large crowd was present October 27 to see the dress parade and listen to a sermon by Father Joseph P. Gallagher, the priest in charge at St. Mary's Church. At half past two the bugle rang out on the still air, and Companies A, B, C and D, falling into line, some 300 men, marched to the place of service. A male quartet, assisted by the band, furnished the music, and Father Gallagher, preaching an eloquent sermon, declared that "the loyal citizen will not hesitate even at the risk of his life to render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's. It is glorious to die for one's country, but it is more glorious to be prepared for death." Father Gallagher was a true and loyal priest, and upon a patriotic occasion he sat in the Presbyterian pulpit with Pastor Anderson.

        Company A now went on its way, sailing up the coast, bound for Eel River. By telegraph it received orders for the men to march and packing their tents in the camp wagons, through a mile of dust on the French Camp road they tramped to town. At the Center Street bridge, in waiting to escort them to the steamer, stood the Union Guard, Captain Matthews. They were in citizens' dress, for Charley Christian had not yet finished their twenty-six dollar suits. Company A was a sight to behold, for they were completely covered with dust, but nevertheless the people lustily cheered as along Center Street they marched, the Stockton band playing lively music, for they were soldiers bound for the war. November 5 Camp McDougall was deserted, Companies B. C, and D that day starting for the north in company of Colonel Conner. That day none were prouder than the Colonel, as in full uniform, he rode the celebrated running horse Sam Patch, horse, saddle, bridle and equipment being a present to Conner from the citizens, at a cost of $375.

        Circumstances and conditions change the action of men. July Fourth last many young men would not turn out in the parade because of the heat. There was no incentive for action. Far different was the celebration February 22, 1862. Then the rain poured in torrents throughout the day yet the Union Guard with band, their patriotism not dampened the least by the rain, marched the streets, escorting the Third regiment's officers to Agricultural Hall, where patriotic exercises were held, Mayor Holden presiding. Prayer was offered by Rev. D. A. Dryden, pastor of the Methodist Church; national hymns were rendered by the band; Washington's farewell address was read, and an oration was delivered by Chaplain Anderson. The event of the day was the presentation of a beautiful silk flag to the officers of the Third Regiment, who came from Benicia especially to receive it. The flag was presented by H. B. Underhill, and received on behalf of the regiment by Adjutant Stillman, speaking for Colonel Conner who was a fighter, not a talker. While the flag was being presented a national salute was fired and the "Catholic bells rang out merrily." The flag was taken to Benicia, where the regiment was stationed, but again we saw it flying in the breeze May 25, as the regiment marched up Main Street on its way to Camp Halleck, within the race-track. The regiment; 600 men, arrived that morning on the steamer Helen Hensley, bound for Salt Lake. The steamer was crowded with men, and as she sailed near salutes were fired from Billy Wall's cannon near the El Dorado Street bridge, and from Banner Island. Captain Weber ordered a salute fired of thirty-four guns. The last discharge was premature, resulting disastrously, for two gunners were injured, one, John Nelson, losing his hand. Regretting deeply the accident, Captain Weber then sold the cannon, refusing to run any more risk of crippling men. For John Nelson, in some respects, it was a lucky accident. The citizens then had seen no cripples or wounded soldier, and Nelson was regarded as a hero, maimed in his country's cause. Large donations of money were given him, Weber heading the list. An entertainment was given for his benefit, and he obtained money, sufficient to return to Sweden and start a bank.

        The regiment remained in camp six weeks, and one day there was a sad event, the funeral of Michael Dolan. "Soldier rest, thy warfare o'er. Sleep the sleep that knows no waking." The body, placed in an ambulance drawn by four mules, was preceded by an escort of eight soldiers, the firing party, with arms reversed. Following them came the regimental band playing a dirge. Pall-bearers were upon either side of the ambulance, behind them 400 soldiers, without arms, then the regimental officers, the Colonel in the rear. To the Catholic church they marched, where services were held, then back over the same route to the Catholic consecrated grounds. There the body was buried with military honors.

        Those were merry days in Stockton, yet they were days of terrible suspense, for what was in the future? Amidst the clashing arms of the East, none could tell. Fortunate were Stocktonians, for they saw none of the evils of war, and now they were about to lose sight of those enrolled for the war. July 12 the regiment started on its long march for Salt Lake, with the fifers playing "The Girl I Left Behind Me."

        Today we are a city of over 60,000 people but in 1862, then we were less than 6,000, and yet no celebration in its procession has ever been larger, nor will the people ever again be as enthusiastic as on July 4th of that year. Now in harmony and peace we sing, "The union of hearts, the union of hands, The union of States none can sever. And the flag of our Union forever." Then the song was a dream, not a reality. Hence it was necessary that all Union men should show their principles and their colors. None, however, showed their love for the Union at so much risk of life as he who, in the silent hours, climbed the court house dome and covered it with flags. The next morning the rising sun beheld a city of flags. Noticeable among the banners were the string of flags across Weber Avenue from Dr. Grattan's building to the South Methodist Church, where the previous year a fight took place because the bell was rung. At sunrise a salute was fired by a detachment of artillery from Benicia. The procession, consisting of the Fire Department, the Guards, the Turnverein and many citizens in carriages, was increased by the Third Regiment, California Volunteers. Colonel Conner was in command of 800 men, and there were fifty-four camp wagons, each drawn by six mules, two pieces of artillery, with caissons, and two mules each carrying strapped upon his back a mountain howitzer. As the regiment band moved up Main Street the soldiers took up the refrain. "John Brown's body lies a-moldering in the grave," and as each company marched past a given point they were singing that song. Agricultural Hall, where the exercises were held, was crowded to suffocation. The two bands discoursed patriotic airs, and Thomas Starr King delivered the oration. The regiment was tendered a dinner in the Washington gardens by the ladies, the regimental officers being the guests of the Guards at the Jenny Lind restaurant. There were no fireworks, but Starr King delivered a lecture in the Presbyterian Church in the evening on "The Confederacy, Old and New." In Agricultural Hall a patriotic entertainment was given by the women of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, some fifty children taking part under the direction of A. N. Blake. That night about 12 o'clock a beautiful scene took place upon the channel. The steamer Helen Hensley moved to a position near Weber Point, and suddenly she was in a blaze of light from the rockets, blue lights and Roman candles fired from her deck. Thus ended the Fourth of July, 1862, the most enthusiastic in Stockton's history.

        Although tens of thousands of patriots volunteered to fight in defense of their country, the terrible slaughter of troops, in the battle of Bull Run, Antietam, Corinth, Vicksburg and Gettysburg greatly depleted the Union ranks, and Congress was compelled to pass a conscription or draft law. California was not exempt from the provisions of the law, and when the news was received it created considerable alarm among some weak-hearted men and some good wives. There was no intention on the part of the Government to draft any men from California, considering the condition of affairs here, yet the authorities wanted to know the fighting force of the state, and the county assessors were instructed to prepare war lists of all the able-bodied men in their respective counties between eighteen and sixty years of age. In San Joaquin the list was prepared by Joseph M. Long, for twenty years under-sheriff, and the county was divided into three districts. It was found that the county had 3430 men subject to military duty, 900 of them being in Stockton, and 1522 in the second district, this including Liberty and Woodbridge. The draft was enforced in the East September 6, 1863. In California the Federal officers were simply instructed to have all things ready for its enforcment.

        The men in the Civil War numbered over a million. The money expended amounted to over a billion dollars. So the call was for more money than men and California responded bountifully with her gold and silver. Her gold mines alone were then yielding over $30,000,000 a year, and it has been said that without her gold the war could not have been so successfully waged. The first to pour ducats into the war fund was the Union Guard, which cleared $109 from a Thanksgiving ball, November 27, 1862. The news September 1, 1863, that 30,000 Confederates had surrendered seems to have loosened the purse-strings of the Union men, and mass-meetings were held to aid the soldiers. The president of the first meeting was B. W. Owens, a grocer, and he was introduced as a native of South Carolina. George W. Tyler, in a speech in which he declared the object of the assembly, said: "Let us show the world that Stockton is Union not only in name but reality. This rebellion must be crushed." At the meeting the asylum employees handed in $533, Andrew Wolf, $100; Simpson & Gray, $100; L. U Shippee, $50, and so on. Some pledged themselves to give monthly a certain amount until the close of the war. Collectors were sent out in both city and county, and in Elkhorn township John Perrot, A. L. Levinsky (father of the well known attorney) and Dr. H. Bently gathered in $242. P. G. Sharp, of French Camp, making a personal canvass, collected $422, and then added $50 to it. Other money came in rapidly, and within a month $5,503 in gold coin had been collected, together with $656 in greenbacks. The money was sent to Henry W. Bellows, New York. by Wells Fargo & Company's express.

The Sanitary Commission Fair

        The Fourth of July, 1863, was a thanksgiving day for the benefit of the sanitary fund, and the citizens and patriotic ladies had made every preparation for the event. The usual procession was seen and the exercises were held in Sanitary grove, a group of small oak trees near the corner of Park and Sutter Streets. The grove was enclosed and as a starter to make every cent in sight for the fund every person was obliged to pay $1 for admission. Even the orator of the day, Joseph M. Cavis, and Grand Marshall George H. Sanderson had to put up. In the grove hundreds of articles were for sale, having been given by patriotic people for the benefit of the fund. It was worse than a Donnybrook fair, for the list included cows, calves, pigs and sheep. One of the articles to be sold was a cake sent from Sacramento, it already having realized $400 in that city. Another cake was presented by the employees and the officers of the steamer Cornelia. It was of immense size and was surmounted with a model in silver of the beautiful steamer. Within the cake were three gold rings, and the cake, cut in slices, sold for twenty-five cents a slice. General Connor, by telegraph through P. L. Shoaff, presented two lots on the corner of Weber Avenue and American Street, and Mrs. F. A. M. Baldwin presented a Wheeler & Wilson sewing machine, valued at $130, it being inclosed in a black walnut case, inlaid with pearl. One patriotic citizen, H. P. Robbins, who had nothing else to give, made a beer keg, thinking that perchance it might sell for five dollars. It was sold again and again and realized $137.50. Mrs. E. F. Hutchinson, now Mrs. Fred West, sent in a beautiful quilt made of silk, the material alone costing over $100. Interwoven were the flags of all nations—in the center the Stars and Stripes. Mrs. West purposed having the quilt sold and resold until $1,000 had been realized for each of the funds—the Sanitary, Christian and Freedmen's fund—and then it was to be sent to President Lincoln as a present from the loyal people of California. Before the quilt reached Washington, Lincoln was dead. In the selling of the various articles, H. S. Sargent, father of Dr. Sargent, was the auctioneer, and a person scarcely dared to wink, as it would be taken as a bid. From the sale of articles, a lecture and the entire proceeds of a ball given that night by the Union Guard $9,903 was the result. Many citizens and over 100 patriotic ladies worked hard to make the fair a success. Among the number were Ada Parker, Maggie McClellan, Nellie Meader, Addie Fisher, Maria Debnam, Maggie Clayes, Barbara Cadien, Tillie Brown, Mrs. H. Hewlett, Mrs. E. S. Holden, Mrs. Sidney Newell and Belle Tilden.

The Stockton Dragoons

        The Stockton Dragoons, organized June 17, 1862, were famous more for the amusement they caused the bystanders than for proficiency in drill. Many of the members had never before ridden horseback, and to see them drilling their horses upon the trot or gallop and their swords dangling at their sides, was very funny. The leaders in the movement were Oscar M. Brawn and R. S. Johnson. Johnson had been a member of the Guards, but he preferred riding to walking, and started out to form a cavalry company, and obtained forty-one signatures. The signers, assembling in the Eureka engine-house, were enrolled by John C. Byers, who was appointed as the enrolling officer by Judge Tyler. The following officers were elected: captain. O. M. Brown; first lieutenant, Phillip L. Shoaff; orderly sergeant, R. C. Johnson; second sergeant, I. V. Leffler; third sergeant, F. W. West; fourth sergeant, H. F. Horn; fifth sergeant, Edward Pennington; surgeon, Dr. Christopher Grattan; farrier, John Schreck. Their first appearance was July 12th, they on that occasion acting as escort to the Third Regiment of California volunteers on their way to Salt Lake. Again in October they acted as escort to Company A, Captain Ketcham, bound for Humboldt County. The Dragoons were then in full uniform, and rode in saddles designed by Thomas Cunningham. They were without a flag until October 8, at which time they were presented with a beautiful silk banner by the Stockton ladies. Mrs. Caroline E. Dunbar presented the flag, Captain O. M. Brown responding in a neat speech. He resigned in February, 1863, and so did R. S. Johnson, the former being commissioned as colonel of a regiment of cavalry, the latter as captain of Company K in the same regiment. Captain Johnson immediately opened a recruiting office and called for 100 volunteers. Captain Johnson served through the war, doing good work in Arizona among the Apaches.     Captain T. K. Hook was Brown's successor, and, being displeased with the military law signed by Governor Haight, July 13, 1866, the Dragoons disbanded.

        One of the most imposing impromptu celebrations of the Civil War was that of July 11, 1863, in honor of the victories of General U. S. Grant at Vicksburg, July 4th, and that of General Meade at Gettysburg a few days later. "The firing of cannon, the illumination of the public streets and the public buildings and many private residences, the waving of flags in every part of the city, and the music of the band combined to make it a scene unparalleled in brilliancy and seldom ever equalled in the enthusiasm it created." A procession was formed in front of Agricultural Hall comprising the Stockton Light Dragoons and citizens and led by the band of thirteen pieces, and citizens whooped and yelled. Every man carried an oil-burning torch and many carried transparencies. The procession after marching through the streets halted in front of the Weber House where a speakers' stand had been erected. The streets and balconies were literally packed as the meeting was called to order, and Charles H. Chamberlain selected as president and B. W. Owens. Charles T. Meader, Austin Sperry, Charles Grunsky, William Kierski, and Dr. Asa Clark, vice-presidents. The speakers were Rev. Charles R. Hendrickson of the Baptist Church, Thomas B. Shannon and Cornelius Cole, the latter still living and now past 100 years of age. The glee club was on hand and amid cheers sung the "Red, White and Blue," "John Brown" and the "Star Spangled Banner." From the stand a dispatch was read stating that the steamer Cornelia would arrive at 1 o'clock, decorated in honor of the great victories, and with fireworks. Soon after midnight the meeting adjourned and many hundreds then marched to the wharf, singing "John Brown" and "Marching Through Georgia," preceded by the band, there to await the steamer's arrival. Occasionally the band played a patriotic air, as the tired crowd anxiously gazed down the river for the approaching steamer. At last from the throng there came a shout, as a streak of fire was seen to shoot from earth to sky. This was answered from the wharf with rocket and shell, and the old gun on the bridge. These signals were given and repeated at intervals of perhaps ten minutes, until the steamer's arrival at Rough and Ready. As she came up the channel, excepting the danger signals only, not a light was seen, and soon the dark shadows of the steamer's outline came in sight. In the still, quiet night, the crowd almost held their breath in excited anticipation, and upon the water, smooth as a mill pond, the paddle-wheels were distinctly heard as they struck the water.             Opposite Banner Island the bell was heard to strike, the wheels stopped, and as if by magic touch all around us was as bright as day. The steamer was in a blaze of light from bow to stern. Rockets went whizzing into air; the stars from the Roman candles fell like rain upon deck and water; the blue, red, white and green lights filled the air with smoke, and a deck hand dressed in navy costume, standing upon the pilot-house of the steamer, grasping in his right hand our country's flag, the living, breathing, central figure which completed the tableau, the most beautiful of any ever seen in California. Upon the wharf the excitement was intense. Rockets were fast sent into the air, the band played loud and strong, the cannon was rapidly fired, and the people shouted until they could shout no more. The display has never been reproduced and many were the congratulations of citizens to Captain Conkling and his officers for their patriotic work.

Stockton's Light Artillery Company

        The largest and most expensive military company was the Stockton Light Artillery. It numbered about 120 of Stockton's best men, and when on parade they attracted much admiration. Their parades were few and far between because of the heavy expense, for it took thirty-two horses to draw the eight six-pound cannon and caissons, and each time the company has to pay for horse hire. The company was organized through the efforts of M. G. Cobb, a lawyer, who had formerly been in command of the Boston Light Artillery. The company was enrolled September 10, 1864, with Moses G. Cobb, as captain; S. W. Sperry, first lieutenant; E. B. Bateman, second . lieutenant; H. S. Sargent, third lieutenant, and George E. Weller, fourth lieutenant. The Adjutant General gave them the use of the four six-pound field guns and caissons then stored at Sacramento, and the cannon arrived October 6 of that year. They were placed in the George Natt Building, still

standing on the north side of the court house. The second story was used as the Union Guards Armory. The company were on parade only occasionally, because of the heavy expense. They turned out every July 4th and held also an annual parade. During the four years of their existence they had target practice on May 8, 1866. The company assembled at their armory that day and accompanied by the band marched to the Castle ranch on the Lower Sacramento Road. A target was set up in the tules a mile distant and each detachment of the company tried to hit the bull's eye. Lunch was then in order, followed by a sham battle in which each detachment loaded and fired at an imaginary enemy. The scene was very exciting and the hundreds of visitors obtained a slight idea of the horrors of war. The artillery company was disbanded under very peculiar circumstances. Upon receiving the news in Stockton of the nomination of General U. S. Grant for President the company fired a salute of 100 guns. This honor to the General who had defeated the rebels angered greatly the secession sympathisers then in power at Sacramento, and the company received orders to have all state property ready for inspection June 16, 1868. At that time the company assembled in full uniform and on the arrival of General Allen he was received by a salute of eleven guns. He later reviewed the company and insulted them by appearing in an undress uniform. The cannon, caissons and equipments were then turned over to him according to military tactics, and immediately some one yelled out "Three cheers for Grant and Colfax." There were given with a vim that made the hall echo.

Organization of the Stockton Guards

        In the fall of 1871, just after the election of Newton Booth as governor, there was a call published for all Stocktonians in favor of forming an infantry company to assemble in Hickman's Hall, sign the roll and then participate in the jollification of the Booth and Pacheco club over the victory of the preceding Wednesday. At that time Adjutant-General Tom Cazneau granted permission to form a company in Stockton, and Maj. E. S. Pillsbury was chosen to preside over the meeting called to organize and elect officers. It was held December 12, 1871, and the company organized was named the Stockton Zouaves. Why they adopted this name I know not, for their uniforms were of dark blue, cut in the usual military style, although several years later they adopted a uniform of gray trimmed with black and gold. However, they soon came to be called commonly the Stockton Guards. In January, 1872, the company had sixty-nine men enrolled, and the following officers were elected: Captain, J. E. Lyon; first lieutenant, E. Scott; second lieutenant, Jonas P. Stockwell; sergeants, Ed. Delano, W. F. Fletcher, H. J. Todd, and J. Murray; corporals, J. C. Sullivan, J. A. Muldowney, John D. McDougall and C. E. Eurie; drummer, Phil Biven.

        Many of the members had formerly tramped with the Union and City Guards, while some had been members of the Old Columbia Guards. The membership included not only the leading business and professional men of the city, but also its leading society men. It was, in fact, a military social club, and all its excursions, picnics and balls were recherche affairs. The shadow of battle ne'er crossed its pathway save once. "On with the dance; let joy be unconfined!" was its motto, and its record was marked with many a merry time.

        It was a common custom to have the high dignitaries of the state as guests of the company. At its first annual ball, December 12, 1872, Governor Booth and staff, Brigadier-General Davies and staff, and Adjutant-General L. H. Foote were present, all in full uniform. After the monthly inspection, the zouaves or guards were drawn up in two-column ranks and Kate Davies, stepping to the front, presented the company with a beautiful parade flag. In a short speech the Adjutant-General received the flag in behalf of the company. Six years later Governor Irwin and staff were the guests of the Stockton Guard. During the afternoon the Governor visited the race-track to see Rarus trot a mile in 2:14 ½, the fastest mile of the Pacific Coast up to that time. In the evening at the anniversary ball, in behalf of the Stockton ladies, the Governor presented the company with a beautiful standard. Private Joe C. Campbell, later senior counsel for Mayor Schmitz of San Francisco, received the flag in a ringing speech. At midnight the visitors were escorted to the Yosemite hotel, and, after being welcomed by Mayor Belding, enjoyed one of McBean's famous suppers.

        In the military circles of San Joaquin County the men who stood prominently in the front rank were Col. P. Edward Conner, later made a brigadier-general, Capt. L. E. Lyons, and Col. John J. Nunan. It was the misfortune of the Stockton Guards in 1876 to lose Capt. Lyons as he went to San Francisco to reside. A man "born to command," he held the captaincy of the Union Guards from April 1, 1862, until disbanded. Just before he left the city the Stockton Guards, assembling in full uniform, presented him with a gold watch and chain and a Masonic emblem. Maj. William Gibson made the presentation speech, and Maj. J. D. Peters answered for the ever-modest Captain. The officers in command at this time were: Captain, Eugene Lehe; first lieutenant and secretary, J. J. Nunan; second lieutenant, J. W. Payne; orderly sergeant, William Trivett; quartermaster sergeant, George C. Turner; sergeants, Tom E. Hersey, H. Baker, J. B. Douglass and W. B. Hanlon; corporals, John D. Gall, Charles Merrill, J. H. Condon, P. P. Garvey, S. C. Dorr, Ben. C. Kerr, W. R. Stone and G. Arrivev.

The Guards Honored by General Grant

        The great event of 1879 was the visit of Ex-President Grant to California on his famous tour around the world. Extensive preparations has been made by the citizens of San Francisco to receive the military hero, and a big procession was planned. But the steamer Tokio, bringing the General from the Orient, arrived unexpectedly on the afternoon of September 20. The Stockton Guards had voted to attend the reception and unaware of the Tokio's arrival they took steamer passage for the Bay City the same afternoon, accompanied by the city officials and a large number of citizens, including D. J. Oullahan, a brother-in-law of Mrs. Grant. On reaching San Francisco they were much surprised and disappointed to find that the parade had hastily taken place. The metropolitans had a good laugh at the expense of the Stocktonians, but soon the laugh was on the other side. Mr. Oullahan, sending up his card to the General, was at once admitted, although strict orders had been given that no one would be seen. Mr. Oullahan explained the conditions of affairs, and Grant immediately gave orders to usher in Mayor G. C. Hyatt, the Councilmen, and Captain Lehe. The following morning at 9 o'clock he received the Stockton Guards in the Palace Hotel court, and the military of San Francisco felt like thirty cents, for the Guards were the only militiamen thus honored.

        The Guards, numbering sixty-nine men, under the command of Captain Lehe and Lieutenant Nunan, left Stockton early on the morning of January 8, 1880, and on arriving at the Capital were received by the Sacramento Hussars, the City Guard, the Light Artillery, the Chico Guard, the Mexican Veterans, the Pioneers and the Rifle Cadets. Along the line of marching the Stockton company was the special feature of the parade. The Sacramento Bee said of Stockton's representatives: "The handsome gray uniforms faced with red and gilt braid made this company a conspicuous feature, and its excellent marching and the fine soldierly bearing of the members were the subject of much favorable comment." During the afternoon the officers of the visiting companies were tendered a reception at the Golden Eagle Hotel, and the rank and file were given a collation at the Western Hotel by Lieutenant-Colonel Creed Haymond. The company returned to Stockton on a special train at midnight.

The Stockton Rifle Cadets

        It is difficult to realize the fact that many of Stockton's most active business men were but yesterday boy soldiers, the pride of the city, but such is the case. Forty-six years ago last February, as an auxiliary to the Stockton Guard, a company of boys known as the Stockton Rifle Cadets were organized under the direction of Capt. Eugene Lehe. The boys' parents entered heartily into the project and Captain Lehe sent for sixty navy musketoons at a cost of $3.50 each, and a committee consisting of George Wilhoit, Louis Hickman and Fred Stockwell was appointed to secure funds for uniforms and the balance due on the musketoons. The boys adopted as their uniform the handsome and dashing Zouave style —loose red trousers with white leggings, blue jackets trimmed with red, sky blue vests and caps of the same color with red tops. The mothers put many loving stitches in the uniforms of the boys. In May, 1877, the cadets elected the following officers: Captain, Louis Hickman; first lieutenant, Nat Moseley; senior second lieutenant, Everett Ruggles; junior second lieutenant, Will R. Thresher; orderly sergeant, George Wilhoit; quartermaster sergeant, Harry Lester; second sergeant, Harry Fanning; third sergeant, Ed Gnekow; fourth sergeant, Fred Stockwell; fifth sergeant, Eugene Grunsky; corporals, Fred Rowe, Edward Bond, Charles McKenzie, George Sellman, Bert Lyons, Louis Wagner, George Buck and Russell Melone. Among the privates were C. H. Ralph, George Rosech, Walter Henderson, Hy Barber, Henry Baker, George Lissenden, John Gross, Frank Witherley, George Goodell, Frank Cramblett, Jo Hale, Walter Haines, Al Tinkham, and several more. The cadets immediately settled down to business and, under their well-qualified instructor, Captain Lehe, who kept them constantly stimulated to action by comparing them with the Stockton Guards, they soon became well drilled and marched and handled their musketoons like veterans. It was a proud day when they made their first appearance, in May, 1877. As guests of the Guards, the Rifle Cadets and the St. Aloysius Cadets attended the Guards' picnic. In June the cadets gave an exhibition drill in Mozart Hall in the presence of their delighted parents and friends. After the drill the company was drawn up in line in the north part of the hall, and "Pet" Peters, escorted by her father, the late Maj. J. D. Peters, stepped to the front and presented them with a beautiful silk flag, a gift from her father. The flag, which cost $100, was bordered with heavy gold fringe, and an eagle surmounted the staff, from which hung gold cord and tassels.

        The Cadets had been drilling faithfully, expecting to march in Stockton behind their flag in their first Fourth of July parade, but on that day they were in Sacramento. The Fourth of July committee of that city invited the cadets to parade and, as in the last week of June there were no indications of a celebration in Stockton, Captain Lehe accepted the invitation. In the meantime, just five days before the Fourth, the foremen of the Fire Department met and resolved to have a celebration. The following evening there was a mass meeting of citizens, and they made a special request to the Stockton Guards, the Rifle Cadets, and the St. Aloysius Cadets to remain in this city July 4th. Now there was trouble. The procrastination of the citizens had caused the band to accept an engagement to Modesto, and Lehe had promised to visit Sacramento. Most of the cadets were anxious to go to the Capital, and their parents saw no reason why they should not go. Considerable feeling was aroused, and the committee tried to persuade Lehe to remain in Stockton, but he said: "No, siree. You fellows have been dangling along here for the last two weeks and now since you're going to have a celebration you want me to go back on my word. Not much." A few of the cadets, probably at the request of their parents, remained at home and were in the parade with Captain Hickman in command. On the morning of the Fourth in a special train, accompanied by a detachment of the Guards, the cadets, fifty-eight strong, in command of Lieutenant Mosely, went to Sacramento with their well drilled drum corps, consisting of Albert Parker, John Yardley, Robert Bond, George Cornwall, E. Lissenden, Ed. Brown, and Sam Elliott. On arrival they were received by the Sacramento military companies and Rifle Cadets and escorted to the Golden Eagle Hotel. The Stockton boys were the feature of the procession. During the afternoon they passed in review before Generals Heran and Walsh and Major Clunie and staff. That night in the hotel they raised the old Nick. Imagining themselves upon the field of battle, the pillows flew, and not satisfied with that, they cut slits in the pillow cases, and then the feathers flew. When the landlord came with an array of servants to quell the riot, oh, what a sight ! The boys had a fine time, however, and on reaching home the following day they were escorted to their armory by the St. Aloysius Cadets.

The Emmet Guard

        This company was organized in 1879 and was named after the Irish patriot. It was an independent company, receiving no money from the state. In order to purchase arms and uniforms it gave social parties, the first of these being given in the Turnverein hall. J. J. Nunan, first lieutenant of the Stockton Guards, was elected captain of the new company, which eventually become Company B of the National Guards. Captain Nunan found the Irish boys full of life and bubbling over at times with native wit and action, but he soon succeeded in disciplining the Emmets and perfecting them in the manual of arms.  In token of their esteem in May, 1885, they presented him with a costly sword and belt, Congressman James H. Budd making the presentation speech. A few years later they gave him a beautiful watch. In September of that year the company held its first public dress parade on the grounds in front of the new asylum. Preceded by a band, the soldiers marched to the grounds and, pitching their tents, named it Camp Hadley after Brigadier-General Hadley. After inspection drill and parade, they returned to the armory, where Father O'Connor, in a nicely worded speech, presented them with free tickets to an entertainment held that evening in the hall by the Catholic ladies.

The St. Aloysius Cadets

        These cadets were a company of boys from ten to fifteen years of age, organized under the direction of Father Riordan, of St. Mary's Church. The lads were provided with light blue uniforms trimmed with red and white, and musketoons (real guns that would shoot). They were drilled by Lieutenant Nunan, and on their first appearance in public, St. Patrick's Day, 1887, they were the most conspicuous feature of the procession.. Between the St. Aloysius Cadets, who were mostly students of the Catholic school, and the Rifle Cadets there was much friendly rivalry, and in September, 1878, a feature of the San Joaquin Valley Fair was a drill contest between the two companies. The association offered two prizes, a gold and a silver medal for the best and second best drilled cadet company. The Rifle Cadets took position first and went through the Upton tactics with precision and handled their musketoons and marched like veterans. The St. Aloysius Cadets, who averaged younger than the others, then appeared and went through the same drill. Captain Nunan, drillmaster of the St. Aloysius Cadets, was especially proud of their proficiency in the bayonet drill, but it had been agreed before the contest that it should not count because the Rifle Cadets had not been trained in it. Merely as an exhibition, however, the younger boys were allowed to give the bayonet drill, and it captured the crowd which repeatedly cheered the performance of the various exercises which even adults find difficult to perform correctly. The judges then held a consultation and awarded the first prize to the St. Aloysius Cadets. A prize of $100 had been subscribed by the citizens, and this was divided between the two companies.

The Moquelemos Grant War

        The affair between Sheriff Cunningham and the settlers on the Moquelemos grant was somewhat similar to the "squatter" affairs of early day. There was a dispute regarding a certain piece of land as to its ownership. It had been on trial in the court, and the decision had been against the settlers. There was a stand of wheat upon the land in dispute, and the settlers wanted to thresh the grain and also haul away some 250 sacks already threshed. The sheriff, so ordered by the Court, was anxious to perform the same job. Finally two men named Lynch and Hurlburt, who were the leaders of the settlers, informed the sheriff that on the morrow, June 9, 1884, 156 men would go to the Murray field and proceed to cut and thresh the grain. It was the most critical period in the history of San Joaquin County, for this band of well-armed men had defied the sheriff to carry out the Court's orders, and he alone was unable to cope with such a large body of men. Accordingly he called upon Brigadier-General Shepherd to assist him. The General held a consultation with Adjutant-Major William Gibson, and the result was that near the midnight hour Captains Lehe and Nunan were ordered to report to Sheriff Cunningham with their commands, the Stockton and Emmet Guards, supplied with the necessary camp equipage and each man with forty rounds of ammunition. Sergeants were sent hurrying over town to notify the men to appear at their armories at 8 o'clock. An hour later the companies in wagons started for the field of dispute. Sheriff Cunningham rode on in advance of the militia, and on his arrival Deputy Sheriff Crandell and Atwood reported that everything was quiet, though many settlers had assembled. The sheriff, approaching the men, read to them the Riot Act. A few minutes later the militia appeared, and one of the settlers, an old Grand Army man, exclaimed: "Boys, it won't do to fire upon the flag. We must give up." The settlers thereupon quietly dispersed. The two companies camped upon the ground and there remained until June 17 and during that time all of the grain was threshed and hauled away under the sheriff's direction.

The Centennial Celebration, 1876

        Never again will the pioneers see such a magnificent Fourth of July celebration as that of 1876. It was the largest in numbers and the longest continued (three days). In early May the citizens began making arrangements, and J. D. Peters, the financial secretary of the previous year, reported $273 on hand. The council and the supervisors each appropriated $1,000, the citizens subscribed $2,000, Peters gave $500 and about the same amount was derived from entertainments given by the Choral Society and the Dramatic Club. On July 2, which was Sunday, there were patriotic services in all of the churches, those of the Methodists being the most interesting. The following day the merchants handsomely decorated their places of business, a triumphal arch, erected over Main Street at a cost of $280, was completed, and the band during the afternoon gave a concert upon the square. In the evening there was a torchlight procession, the Oakland brass band furnishing the music for it. The Stockton Guard and Grand Marshal Peters marched to the train to meet the band and escort the orator, Thomas Fitch, to the hotel. For the occasion Daniel O'Connell, the California Irish poet, wrote a poem, the last stanza being as follows: "Then rally, rally everyone; Be out at dawn to see the fun; And shame on any mother's son, That shirks the great Centennial !" On the morning of the Fourth every bell in the city shouted for joy, and early the cannon's roar awoke the populace. The crowds from the mountains and the country assembled early upon the streets, and at 9 o'clock the aides of the Grand Marshall, sixty in number, rode to his residence and surprised him by presenting him with a beautiful Philadelphia sash, bordered with sold lace and having upon it a handsomely designed shield worked in the silk with gold thread. The presentation speech was made by Van R. Paterson, and Grand Marshal Peters made a brief reply. The procession, which was three and one-half miles in length, was already forming, the first division being in command of John D. McDougall as Marshal, with S. S. Burge and J. A. McDougald as aides. In this division was the Stockton Cornet Band, followed by the Guards, Mexican Veterans bearing the American and Mexican flags, the Pioneers, and William Gelebert, a marine on the Savannah, carrying the flag of the old warship, and the judiciary in carriages. W. L. Overhiser, with Putnam Visher and George W. Bressler, led the second division. It was composed of Grangers and their wives and daughters. The third division was in charge of Fingal Hinds, John Kafitz and A. F. Naher, with a drum corps in which two Continentals played the fife and drum. The Odd Fellows were with this division. Then came the San Joaquin Silver Band, Jabez Harris leader, playing the quickstep of the Fire Department, with Chief Thomas Cunningham as marshal and J. L. Boucher and Charles Whitkopf, aides. The German and the Jewish societies formed the fifth division, under the command of William Kierski, with Louis M. Barney and Fred Hahn, aides. In this division there was a wagon bearing plaster of Paris busts of the immortal patriots, Washington, Jefferson, Franklin and Paine, together with a Goddess of Liberty. These busts were later presented to the Turnverein Society by William Freeman on behalf of the Free Thought Society. The Oakland band in the sixth division was preceded by Marshal S. V. Tredway and Frank Davis and John Perrott. Following the band, a triumphal car was seen drawn by twelve white horses. Upon the car sat a large number of beautiful young ladies dressed in white and wearing sashes of red, white and blue, each lady representing a goddess or a State. The Goddess of Liberty in a beautiful costume of costly texture was impersonated by Abbie Gray, and around her sat as goddesses Lila Moore, Nettie Van Vlear, Ada Moore and Susie Benton. Emma Debnam represented agriculture, and Eva Van Vlear, art, while Will Hickman and William Westbay represented the army and navy. The states were represented in part by Estell Simpson, Ruth Clifford, Emma Hansel, Hannah Kierski, Nellie Debnam, Emma Sperry, Maud Southworth, Maggie Cunningham, Emma Wagner, Nellie Blossom and Maggie Clayes. In a carriage following the car rode "Pet" Peters and Mary Hickman, the one representing a lady dressed in fashion of 1776 and the other in the fashionable dress of the time. The exercises of the day were held in a warehouse on Mormon Channel and the united bands furnished the instrumental music. The Choral Society was present, and 1,000 public school children under the direction of H. J. Todd and accompanied by five organs and the bands sang a hymn composed for the day by Dudley Buck, the great composer. Louis Noble read the Declaration, Mary Woodbridge recited a poem, and Thomas Fitch delivered the oration. During the afternoon there were boat and foot-races and Grand Marshal Peters tendered his aides a banquet in Mozart Hall. About $1,000 was spent for the fireworks of the evening, and complaint was made that they were not equal to the display of 1875, which cost only $750. On the third day there was a trapeze performance on the square. A balloon ascension had been advertised, but it was a failure because of the

density in those days of the lighting gas. The balloon would not carry the weight of the man and his sandbags. Finally, not to disappoint the crowd, he took out the sandbags and cut loose the balloon, thus risking a loss of several hundred dollars. His only thanks were the jeers of the people, the most of whom had never seen a balloon ascension. There were also in the afternoon an exhibition drill of the Fire Department. The Weber engine ran into the side of a house before it was fairly started and snapped a singletree. The Babcock was on time, and the Eureka, running three and one-half blocks, set and was forcing water through the hose in one and one-half minutes. In the evening the "Invincibles" burlesqued every feature of the procession and exercises of the morning.

Ex-President Grant Visits Stockton

        Two years after the Centennial celebration the citizens had the honor of welcoming the nation's ex-president and its greatest General, U. S. Grant. He was then on his way to Washington. having arrived at San Francisco, from China, September 19, 1879, thus completing his tour of the world. His arrival in Stockton on the afternoon of September 30 was greeted by thousands of citizens, and cheer after cheer rent the air as he and his party stepped from the train. A committee of citizens had met him at Lathrop and escorted him to the city. The town had been beautifully decorated in his honor and said an eyewitness: "Looking from the Southern Pacific depot down Main Street the air seemed literally full of flags the entire length of the streets." After the ex-president had been introduced to Mayor G. C. Hyatt and other citizens by D. J. Oullahan, Grant and his party were escorted to carriages and the procession, led by the Grand Marshal Robert S. Johnson and his aides. Doctors A. T. Hudson, Asa Clark, Robert K. Reid and Otis Perrine, began moving down Main Street. In the line of march was the Stockton Cornet Band, the Stockton and Emmet Guards, St. Aloysius Cadets, Stockton Rifle Cadets, Mexican War and Civil War veterans, city and county officials, Harris Silver Band and Fire Department. On the Hunter Street plaza the public school children, 3,000 in number, had been lined up in three ranks, and the procession arriving at the plaza it halted and Grant stepping from the carriage walked slowly along the line of children, each child waving a small flag. The ex-president was then escorted to the Yosemite House where the proprietor, James Cole, had prepared a fine collation. At the head of the table on a raised platform sat Mayor Hyatt and on his right hand Ex-President Grant, Dr. George A. Shurtleff, Mrs. D. J. Oullahan, a sister-in-law of Mrs. Grant, General John F. Miller, California's Congressional Senator, Miss Julia Weber, and J. Russell Young, Grant's biographical writer. Toasts were numerous and Grant said in his few remarks, "I was never West of the Rocky Mountains, except as a soldier in the Mexican War until 1852. I was in Knights Ferry three times, once in '52, once in '53. I think I never remained there at one time longer than a week." Knights Ferry was the home of his brothers-in-law, George W. Lewis, and John Dent. It was the intention of the Stockton Guard to tender the city's guest a reception and ball in Mozart Hall but Grant was obliged to leave that evening for Sacramento. The ball was given, but hundreds of persons were disappointed as they anticipated seeing an Ex-President.

Off For the War

        The members of the Stockton and Emmet Guard together with other companies in Central California had been anxious for a long time to form a battalion. At the encampment at Santa Cruz in July, 1885, this was effected and the companies were then officially known as Company A and Company B, Sixth Regiment, National Guard of California. Up to this time they had been independent companies paying their own expenses, but as a part of the National Guard the state paid all necessary expenses. In 1898 came the war with Spain, Congress declaring war on April 19, after the blowing up of the battleship Maine, January 5, in Havana harbor and drowning 250 seamen. The victory of George Dewey at Manila took place May 1, and shortly after this preparations were made to send troops to the Philippine Islands. The California militia was anxious to go to the seat of war, and Companies A and B began recruiting until the former had enlisted 100 and Company B, 103 men. The companies were later cut down by physical examination to 85 men. The two commands, Company A, Captain Charles Dasher, and Company B, Captain William Bruch, were ordered to report at their armory on Weber Avenue at 8 o'clock, Sunday, May 8, there to await the arrival by train from the south of Company C of Fresno, Capt. George O. Duncan; Company E, Visalia, Capt. George W. Stuart, and Company H from Merced, Capt. Art. S. Guthrie. While Companies A and B were in waiting, Frank Cutting, in behalf of his father, Louis M. Cutting, presented them a handsome regimental flag, manufactured from the first silk made into cloth in California. Between three and four o'clock thousands of citizens began assembling on the Hunter Street square to bid farewell to the militia. It was quite late when the train arrived from the south and began their march to the steamer landing. As the companies under the command of Col. Will R. Johnson boarded the steamer there were cheers and some tears, for many wives, mothers and sweethearts thought that perhaps never again would they see their loved ones. The men were sent to the barracks at the Presidio, San Francisco, expecting to be sent to the Philippine Islands. But the war was of such short duration—August, 1898—that Johnson's command did not ever smell war powder, and they returned to Stockton, in September, a very disappointed body of soldiers. In this war in which the United States Navy played so important a part, the flight of the battleship Oregon, from San Francisco to Santiago harbor was one of the most remarkable events of naval history. MacMasters, the historian, says it was "the swiftest, longest voyage ever made by a battleship." A pupil of the eighth grade of the public school, Lester Gnekow, several years later, reading of the wonderful event, wrote the following descriptive rhyme.

    As she steamed on through the Golden Gate,

    She courtesied to the swell,

    And the Californians said "Good-by"

    To the ship they loved so well.

    Her prow to the southward she turned,

    When she reached the ocean blue,

    How fiercely her fires burned,

    As on and on she flew.

    She raced along o'er the ocean's breast,

    A battleship sailing alone,

    For her famous deed we love her best,

    The brave old dauntless Oregon.

    The waters parted as she flew through,

    Often clouds obscured the sun,

    But in sunshine or storm the brave ship

    Stayed on the world's famous run.

    A hostile fleet might heave into sight,

    But did she falter? Nay!

    On, on, she went both day and night,

    Like a phanton ship in her coat of gray.

    "On! On!" was the cry of the brave crew,

    Northward now the ship sails.

    "We must be there where shells fall like hail!"

    "We must be there when the battle is fought!"

    The story is now upon all lips,

    Yet, since then many years have gone.

    But undying fame our nation won,

    By that matchless race of the Oregon.

President McKinley's Visit

        We who live in California are greatly handicapped in one respect, namely, that of hearing the great vocalists, operas, lecturers and brainiest men of the nation, occasionally only, because of our great distance from the centers of population. In the East and Middle West it is no uncommon sight to see the President of the United States, but in Stockton we have seen but one President during his term of office, William McKinley. President McKinley came to California principally on account of his wife's health. They left Washington April 29, 1901, and arrived at Los Angeles over the southern route May 8. He arrived at San Francisco May 14 and was the guest of Henry Scott. Along his entire route he received a splendid but quiet ovation, for orders had been given that there be no noisy demonstration or firing of cannon. The life of his wife went up and down like the flickering of a candle and finally his physicians told him to hasten back home as soon as possible. He had then been in the state sixteen days and great preparations had been made in Stockton to receive him. The Presidential coaches were routed for Washington by the way of Stockton, and May 25 word was received that the train bearing the President and party would arrive at 1:35 p. m. and depart at 2:05. Excursion trains had been run by the Southern Pacific from all parts of the surrounding country and long before the hour named there were probably 10,000 people at the depot. A small platform had been erected by the side of the track, from which it was expected that the President would briefly address the people. By some mistake or mismanagement this plan failed. As the train slowly moved into the depot, the immense crowd were undecided what to do; whether to loudly cheer the President or remain silent because of the severe illness of Mrs. McKinley, and a suppressed cheer was given. Before the train had ceased to move the President and his secretary, George B. Cortelyou, appeared upon the rear platform. Immediately Rev. W. C. Evans, one of the reception committee, and who knew the President in his home town, Canton, Ohio, pushed his way through the press and ascending the platform welcomed McKinley. He asked the President to speak a few words to the multitude there to welcome him. He consented, then hesitated, and as the tears filled his eyes he replied, "I cannot do it," for perhaps his wife lay dying within the sound of his voice. Cortelyou then stepped forward and said in a commanding voice, "The President will not speak." In the meantime Mayor Harrison, Frank D. Nichol and Fred M. West, also of the reception committee, had succeeded in reaching the platform, and they were introduced to the President by the Rev. W. C. Evans. Before the introduction was concluded the train began slowly moving over the rails, much to the astonishment of the people, and before many of them realized it the train was speeding onward. There was a great disappointment for thousands had never seen the President. Many of them had come many miles and they failed to get even a glimpse of him because of the crowd. They were packed in solid for 300 feet around the rear platform.

        Less than four months later the citizens of Stockton were startled on the morning of September 6, 1901, by the associated dispatch that the President' was shot by a Polish anarchist and dangerously wounded while, holding a reception at the Pan-American Exposition at Buffalo. Thousands of citizens were in line shaking hands with the President and as he extended his hand to the assassin he drew a revolver from his left hand pocket and shot the President in the abdomen. The President died September 14 and his last words were, "Good-by. It is God's way. His will be done." Services were held the following Sunday in the Baptist and Christian Churches in memoriam, the auditoriums being draped in crepe. On the morning of the funeral a special mass celebration was held in the Catholic Church and memorial services in the Jewish Synagogue, and the German Lutheran Church. It was decided by the patriots of California to hold the memorial services at the same date as the funeral services in Canton, Ohio, September 16. On that day thirteen guns were fired at sunrise, a Presidential salute of thirty-one guns at noon, and a national salute of forty-five guns at sunset. Guns were also fired every half hour during the day. "With flags folded and wreathed in crepe, to the music of muffled drum, and the wailing of dirges and whilst the bells tolled a mournful requiem a procession such as Stockton never saw before moved in solemn mien, and measured steps through the streets of the city." The memorial exercises were held in the pavillion, which was decorated in the colors of mourning. A large chorus were present, under the direction of Miss Gertrude Elliott. The program opened with Chopin's funeral march by A. Clarke Blossom's orchestra; scripture reading, Rev. J. W. Lundy; prayer, Rev. R. H. Sink; chorus, America; address, E. I. Jones, McKinley, the Citizen and Lawyer; address, Frank D. Nichol, McKinley, the Soldier and Statesman; chorus, "Nearer My God to Thee," the President's favorite hymn. The words were chanted to him just previous to his death. Address, Rev. W. C. Evans, "McKinley, the Christian"; Rev. Thomas A. Boyer, benediction, bugle signal, Lights Out, by Sergeant Burk of Rawlins Post, G. A. R.

Torpedo Boats Visit Stockton

        One of the most extraordinary events in the state occurred July 3, 1909, when four of "Uncle Sam's" fighting craft anchored in Stockton Channel. It was the first time that vessels of that class had ever ran up the inland waters, and it proved conclusively that ocean-going craft—the Lawrence drew fourteen feet of water—could reach this city. The Chamber of Commerce got in touch with the commandant at Mare Island and succeeded in having the flotilla ordered to Stockton. A general committee was appointed to make arrangements for the events and Frank Guernsey and George S. Melone were appointed as a reception committee to go to Sausalito and escort the fleet to this city. The four boats under the command of Lieutenant H. E. Howe and Ben Jarvis as pilot left Antioch on the morning of July 3 and arrived at 4 o'clock P. M. The steamer McDonald, with a band of music on board and a large number of citizens, steamed down the river, and met the flotilla at Wakefield's landing. As she passed each boat the steamer dipped her flag, the band playing and the fleet responded by dipping their flags. At the mouth of Stockton Channel, the gateway to the city, as it was called, the McDonald blew a long blast on her whistle. All the whistles in the city began tooting and the bells ringing, and immediately an immense crowd began hurrying to the wharf. As the four boats moved up the channel, the flagship Lawrence leading, and the Farragut, Goldsborough and Davis trailing at a distance of 400 yards apart, it was a thrilling sight. The crowd cheered and cheered until they were hoarse, and even after the boats were tied to the wharf they continued cheering. The flotilla remained here until July 10 and visitors were permitted on board every day. Over 20,000 persons, men and women and children visited the boats, from the boiler room to the pilot house, and everything was explained to them by the jackies. During their visit 160 of the number were given shore leave at the same time and were tendered a banquet at Oak Park, free rides on the street cars and free swimming at the Mineral Baths, now just purchased by the city. A dance was also tendered them in Masonic Hall. The officers were entertained at the Yosemite House by the general committee. The entire command were in line in the parade of July 4 and in their line formation they moved as one man. On the morning of July 10 the order was given to cast off and in less than two minutes every boat was in the middle of the stream on the way to Antioch. The Davis, the smallest boat, in command of Lieutenant John W. Lewis, shot away like an arrow at a thirty mile an hour speed. The other boats were in charge of three pilots from the California Navigation and Improvement Company, as the Lawrence grounded on a sand bar in rounding one of the points, and lost one of her propeller blades. There was a delightful sequel to this visit of

the torpedo boats for in the following year, on May 12, Lieutenant Lewis of the Davis was married to Lenora Musto, a daughter of the pioneer merchant, Peter Musto.

The Liberty Bell

        One of the precious relics of the Revolutionary War, the old Liberty Bell, now resting in the state house at Philadelphia. This bell rang out the thrilling news on the afternoon of July 4, 1776, that Congress had signed the immortal document, the Declaration of Independence. On this bell are inscribed the words, "Proclaim liberty through all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof." The Philadelphians cherish this bell with an almost sacred devotion, and although tens of thousands of persons have visited it, they would not permit the bell to be taken from its first surroundings until the Panama Exposition at San Francisco in 1915. At that time a Pennsylvania building was erected upon the grounds, and the guardians of the bell permitted its transportation across the continent to San Francisco. The bell was badly cracked and to prevent any further injury, from the vibration of the train, a special gondola car was built for its transportation. The train of six coaches containing all of the officials of Philadelphia was routed to the Exposition over the Southern Pacific by the way of Stockton, but although arrangements had been made for the detention of the special train, all along the route no arrangements had been made for its detention here. Finally some citizens and the Chamber of Commerce got busy and the time schedule was changed for the stopping here of the train for one-half hour. The train arrived July 16 at 5:50 o'clock P. M., one hour late because of the immense crowd at Sacramento. Long before that hour the track at the depot was jammed with a crowd of at least 20,000 people, and the late comers could not get within a half a block of the car. The Stockton and Moose bands were on hand to salute the bell and a reception committee comprising Mayor Richard P. Reibenstein, Mrs. Herman C. Meyers from the Philomathean club, Charles K. Tower from the Rotary club, Mrs. J. D. Young from the Daughters of the American Revolution, and Raymond Miller from the Merchants' Association to receive and entertain the party but there was no time for receptions. As soon as the train stopped Miss Loraine Klack, the president of the Native Daughters, stepped aboard the open car and placed a wreath of laurel on the bell, she making a few appropriate remarks. There was no further ceremony, and at the expiration of the allotted time the special sped on to the Exposition grounds.

        Readers, did you note the inscription on the Liberty Bell, "Proclaim liberty through all the land ?" Two years later the "Sons of Liberty" were fighting on French soil that powerful nation, a Bismarkian United Germany, for the freedom of the world. In that terrible time San Joaquin County lost ninety-one of her loyal sons, two in airplane accidents, twelve from wounds, twenty-two from disease, twenty-five from various causes and twenty-five in action. Westley Allen Stone was the first San Joaquin boy to fall in action and his body was brought home to rest in his native soil, and he was buried with the honors of a loyal soldier. Where he fell thousands died and by the poem of Lieut.-Col. John McCrae we hear them say:

    In Flanders' fields the poppies grow

    Between the crosses, row on row,

    That mark our place, and in the sky

    The larks, still bravely singing, fly,

    Scarce heard amid the guns below.

    We are the dead. Short days ago

    We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

    Loved and were loved, and now we lie

    In Flanders' fields.

        Early in November, 1918, the Germans, to save their capital from destruction for the allied troops, with the Americans in the lead, were fast closing on Berlin, raised the white flag and armistice was declared. This indicated the end of the war and as soon as the news was received in Stockton, "Pandemonium broke forth, and the people went wild." The news spread like wildfire and in a few minutes all of the whistles of the factories and steamboats were blowing and the bells of the city ringing out the good news. The foremen of factories gave their men a half holiday and in their working clothes they came upon the streets to learn as quickly as possible the full particulars. At 11:30 the fire department was on the streets parading and until 1:30 the entire force of the Holt Manufacturing Company were marching the streets in their working outfits, the women carrying flags and the men setting off firecrackers and firing revolvers. An hour later there was a citizen impromptu procession, and led by the Sampson Factory band, the Home Guards, High School Cadets and hundreds of citizens passed through the streets cheering and dancing. It was a parade aimless in its character, but it served to relieve the high tension of the people's nerves during the previous two years.

The Home Welcoming

        Weep as we may for the heroes slain, yet we rejoice that so many were spared to return to their loved ones and friends, and Governor Stephens proclaimed November 11, 1919, as an "Armistice Day," a time to welcome home the boys. To celebrate the day in a becoming manner $3,000 was raised by subscriptions, the money to be used in paying for parade expenses, a barbecue for the ex-soldiers and sailors, fireworks and dancing. The parade was formed on Hunter Street with Frank Boggs as grand marshal and Dr. S. W. Hopkins, E. W. Drury, J. P. Watkins and M. P. Shaughnessy as aids. It was very appropriate that these men, as members of the city and county exemption board, had sent the boys to war, and now they led the procession and welcome them home. The parade comprised the Home Guards, Rawlins Post, G. A. R., the Woman's Relief Corps, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Union Band, Spanish War Veterans, Marine Band, Boy Scouts, Red Cross service nurses, Gold Star float, soldiers of the Army and Navy. The exercises were held in the T. & D. theater, Col. Charles E. Stanton of General Pershing's staff making the principal address. Upon the stage with him were the members of Rawlins Post, the Women's Relief Corps, and Mayor Alexander Oullahan, who made the opening address. At twelve o'clock the soldiers and marines were given a barbecue picnic at Oak Park, and over 1,600 were fed. During the afternoon, in behalf of the Woman's Relief Corps, Mrs. Celia Klack, the president, presented a beautiful American flag to Karl Ross Post, American

Legion. Warren Atherton received it for the Post.

Transcribed by Kathy Sedler