Today marks the eighty-fifth anniversary of the creation of the nation. It has been stated that this holiday is “about the only act of veneration for past memories that the North and South can perform in common.” The prevalent sense, however, is that we can not celebrate this holiday in the usual style. War has stripped us of the luxury of a great many of our traditions. The fight of the founding fathers does seem to be of particularly significance in light of the present situation. Both the North and the South lay claims that they are upholding the ideals of those long-ago men; The North through the preservation of the nation which they worked so laboriously to create, the South by asserting that the value of independence trumps all others.
As the focus in the North is on the preservation of the Union, it is understandable that many efforts are being made to facilitate the most traditional celebrations possible. A regimental size, silk national flag has been prepared by the citizens of Baltimore. It is meant to be presented to the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment today. Also, in observance of the holiday, there will be no issue of the New York Times tomorrow morning. The Press will not have its customary break in service for the holiday, due to the meeting of Congress, the movements of the army and other exciting events. This paper addresses the difficulties of celebration:
Our national anniversary occurs at a time when we are surrounded by difficulties of an unprecedented character, and when domestic foes of our institutions have dared to make a treasonable assault upon our liberal and beneficent Government, which was never anticipated by the Fathers of the Republic. Although the exigencies of the conflict may prevent many from celebrating the day in their usual manner, the outburst of practical patriotism which it has evoked in this period of trial and danger is the most acceptable and conclusive evidence that could be given of the perpetuation of the spirit of ’76.
In addition to condemning the assembly of the Federal Congress in Washington, the Richmond Daily Dispatch voices the opinions of many in the South when it says, “It is a sufficient tribute to it that we are engaged in the maintenance of the principles of human rights and the liberty it announced, and that we are ready to sacrifice our lives and all we have in the effort.” In this vein the day will be met with whatever merriment each individual deems fitting. We do, however, support the following caution: “Let no one indulge too freely in “bumpers,” even though they be drank to the memory of the Departed Union.” There have been too many accidents in recent weeks as a result of such activity.
Though we may speculate, we shall never know what those who came before us would say about our current predicament, any more than we can claim to predict how the future will remember us. For now, both sides can be content only in their belief that they are doing what is right for the present.
In the News:
- The Richmond Daily Dispatch reports the seizure of a peace petition in New York.
- The Press details yesterday’s New York Markets.
- The New York Times discusses the expected movement of troops towards Manassas Junction.
- The American Presbyterian focuses on news of the struggle.
- The Philadelphia Inquirer conveys updates from Fortress Monroe.
Commentary:
- The Richmond Daily Dispatch prints Bishop Davis’ thoughts on the war.
- The New York Times looks at the Unites States export of cotton.
- The Press discusses the opinions of newspapers regarding the rebellion.
- The Philadelphia Inquirer details how the city shall celebrate the holiday.
Arts and Culture:
- The Press announces a Grand Union Fireworks display on the corner of Arch and Twenty-First Sts. tonight.
- The American Presbyterian publishes a poem entitled, “A Song for the Time.”
Military Notices:
- Henrico Liberty Guard: “Any persons wishing to join an organized company, that proposer to enter the service of the State as soon as the ranks are full, will meet with the Henrico Liberty Guard, at Company “G’s” Hall, Church Hill, on Friday evening next, at 8A ½ o’clock. Uniforms free.”
- Richmond City Guard: “Attend a drill of your company, at Military Hall, on Friday afternoon, at 6A½ o’clock, in full uniform. Every member is expected to be present.”
Obituaries:
- Patrick Smith, residing in Newark, N.J., died on Saturday from hydrophobia, the result of a dog bite two months past.
