MISCELLANY PRINTED MATTER Women's Era, 1895 P. 14- Era started March 1894- The Woman's Era. VOL. 1. NO. 11. BOSTON, MASS., FEB., 1895 PRICE 10 CENTS. THE WOMAN'S ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA, the organ of the Woman's Era Club, and devoted to the interests of the Women's Clubs, Leagues and Societies throughout the country. Published monthly, in Boston, by JOSEPHINE ST. P RUFFIN, FLORIDA R. RIDLEY, MARIA L. BALDWIN. 103 Charles Street. SUBSCRIPTIONS Per Annum, ----- $1.00 Single Copies, ----- .10 Club Rates, one hundred copies, - - 7.00 Subscriptions Payable in Advance. NEW DEPARTMENTS. Conducted by Mrs. W. E. Matthews, New York; Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, Washington; Mrs. Fannie Barrier Williams, Chicago; Mrs. J. Silone Yates, Kansas City; Elizabeth P. Ensley, Denver; Alice Ruth Moore, New Orleans; Rose D. Bowser, Richmond, Va.; Alice Woodby McKane, Savannah, Ga. Digest. GEORGIA (new department) --- Woman's work in Savannah: Mrs. Ellis' Temperance Society, Mother Matilda's Orphanage, The Student's Association of McKane Institute. NEW YORK --- The work of the Brooklyn Literary Union, latest news from Woman's Loyal Union. ILLINOIS --- Suggested thoughts on how to obtain independence and equality. WASHINGTON --- Fresh and timely comments, news items. MISSOURI --- News items, a paper on discipline. VIRGINIA --- "The Power of Words," an interesting debate. COLORADO --- The Work of the Equal Suffragists in Colorado. PENNSYLVANIA --- Some modes of charitable work at St. Thomas Church (Philadelphia), social events, timely comments. Social and Local NOts. EDITORIALS --- The Smallwood Matters. The Resolutions of the Anti-Lynching Society of England. NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS. Every subscriber receives two copies of the ERA this month. We ask each to forward the extra copy to some progressive woman who is likely to be interested in the ERA. We know that our paper has only to be seen to be appreciated (our large number of unsought subscribers testify to this) and we take this method of advertising our paper. You are interested in the advancement of the race and want to do something to help on the work? Then pass the paper along and urge your friends to subscribe. You can not do better work than this. Any one sending a two-cent stamp will receive a sample copy of the ERA. Subscribers beginning with the March (anniversary) number will on request be supplied with all back numbers of the ERA as long as they hold out. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Look through our digest. You cannot fail to find something to interest you. We again call attention to the fact that we will send the ERA to clubs at the rate of seven (7) dollars a hundred. Any enterprising club can thus make three dollars a hundred on the paper. Less than a hundred at regular rates. We will send back numbers to new subscribers as long as the papers hold out. The Woman's Era New York. Victoria Earle, Editor. The Venus of Milo. By H. Cordelia Ray, O peerless marble marvel ! what of grace, Or matchless symmetry is not enshrined In thy rare contours ! Could we hope to find The regal dignity of that fair face In aught less beautiful ? We would retrace, At sight of thee, our willing steps where wind The paths great Homer trod, within whose mind - Wast thou a dream, O goddess? Nearer pace Brave Hector, reckless Paris, as we gaze ; Then stately temples, fluted colonnades Rise in their sculptured beauty. Yes ! 'tis Greece, With all the splendor of her lordliest days, That comes to haunt us ; ere the glory fades Let fancy bid the rapture never cease. The Brooklyn Literary Union, T.McCants Stewart, President, enters upon its ninth year with not only a splendid program for the ensuing session, with such orators and scholars as Hon. John M. Langston, Prof. R. T. Greener and Prof. John Gallagher, Ph.D., as special features, but has introduced an entirely new idea (if not new in thought, new in practical application). A reading room has been secured, the files supplied with some of the leading newspapers and periodicals of the day - the ERA is included - and eighteen reading circles, each with an independent director, to conduct discussions on given nights. Our women are very fully represented, as will be seen by the following, clipped from a neatly printed calendar for the session : Circle on English Literature, Miss M. R. Lyons director. The French Revolution, Mrs. H. D. Downing. Afro - American Literature, Miss S. E. Frazier. Biography, Miss Selina C. Lake. Ancient History, Rev. Rufus L. Perry, D.D. Domestic Science, Mrs. Victoria Matthews. Physiology and Hygiene, Dr. Susan S. McKinney. Political Science, T.T. Fortune. Electricity, Mr. L. H. Latimer. Sociology, Dr. Macon Webster. Public Questions, Chas. H. Langing, Jr. French Literature, J.B. Peterson. Music, Dr. Geo. S. Phillips. American Literature, Miss Annie C. Hawley. Children's Literature, Mrs. Alice M. Stewart. Physical Culture, Miss G. E. Johnson. Business Co-operation, Mr. Fred R. Moore. Such an innovation has many advantages ; it will not only concentrate the efforts of progressive minds, but bring them into more immediate touch with the people, and thereby develop much that is latent among us, besides giving impetus to intellectual activity. The B.L.U. aims to support a yearly scholarship at Tuskegee Institute, they having a student now there, for which the union certainly deserves the most generous sympathy and support of the public. Brooklyn is to be congratulated on the character of the public service rendered this influential union through the energy, tact, and general wide-awake progressiveness of prof. T. McCants Stewart. This, his latest venture, should, and there is every reason to believe it will, meet with most enthusiastic support from progressive people everywhere and particularly in this vicinity. Mr. Stewart is to be congratulated for the splendid array of talent, suggested by the names of the chosen directors of the reading circles, to say the least. Many of them have, heretofore, refused positively to take part in public functions of almost any kind. There's a magical mineral, native to the Emerald Isle, that we are inclined to believe has found lodgment here, or with the brilliant counsellor, rather. Hon. Henry W. Blair, in a recent communication says, "all petitions for the enactment of the Joint Resolution may now be sent to me as fast as they are received." We therefore beg all persons having copies of the petitions to further the work already done to send them in at once, in order that a record may be kept. It is desirable that they be sent to No. 9 Murray St., New York City, after which they will be forwarded to Washington. A plan for the establishment of a training school for nurses in connection with the Colored Home and Hospital of New York City, is on topic before the Woman's Loyal Union. The sympathies of the union have for sometime been centered in the home and assumed a most practical shape on Jan. 9th, at the usual holiday festivities, when a beautiful Mason and Hamlin organ for chapel use was given by them to the home, to the great delight of both the managers and inmates. SOCIAL NEWS. New York. As was expected the long talked of Lansing - White nuptials in St. Philip P.E. Church, Christmas Day, was in every way a lovely affair. The bride, Miss Katie White, made a beautiful picture as she stood, clad in a perfectly fitting snowy satin robe, made en train, with a filmy bridal veil falling from her soft raven locks, over her face to the tiny satin slippers, and backward over the entire length of the train, with the great profusion of Christmas greens, holly predominating, as a background. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 3 She was escorted up the aisle by that charming but shy bachelor, Dr. Charles Rogers. He never looked more sportive ; like all; old bachelors, a wedding is his delight. They were met at the altar by the distinguished looking groom and his best man, Warren Kissam ; the crappies felt bad, because they expected to see "Lord Chesterfield." The sweet little maid of honor, Mistress Kittie Washington (a god-child of the bride) carried a mammoth bouquet of hyacinths and smilax. The bridesmaids were Miss Julia Alston, a daughter of a former rector of St. Philips, now teaching in Washington, D.C., and Miss Daisy Matthews, whose dainty hand and tender heart are longingly coveted by the gallant Roselle Alston. They were robed in white and carried bouquets of holly; sprigs of the same were worn by the ushers, "Our Rob," Fred Lansing, brother of the groom, Jerome B. Peterson and Charlie Moore. While waiting for the bridal party, Mr. Kinney, the regular organist, furnished lovely selections, among which was "Then You'll Remember Me." Gallant Wilbecan was not there to hear, though. Wonderful eyes he has. Good thing - he's one of the lords of creation ! Soft music continued throughout the service. Rev. Bishop was attended by two handsome little scarlet robed acolytes, one of which was Master Francis Jennings Carmand, nephew of our Rob. Most people expected he would be a page. The supper was a model, ordered by "Prince Hal," brother - in - law of the bride. He was the "Recording Angel" of the "Innocents." What's become of them? I wonder if Saturday nights are celebrated as of yore? Where is the "Cherub?" After the supper, the happy couple left for Richmond, though at the time it was a profound secret. On their return, Ma and Pa Lansing were given two weeks vacation. The presents were rich, elegant and beautiful, too numerous to mention, one entire room being filled with the newest designs in bric - a brac. Mesdames Minnie O' Fake, Attwell, Dellie Potter, Green and gallant Frank Downing's bride wore their wedding finery. The rest of the costumes were exceedingly elegant. WASHINGTON. MARY CHURCH TERRELL, EDITOR. What a flood of strangers poured in upon us during the holidays, and how we enjoyed having them! Although no imposing social function in their honor stirred the city from center to circumference, yet there were the still small voices, so to speak, like informal teas, dinners and dances, which are, after all, the most enjoyable, and proclaim most eloquently the sincerity of our greetings. Terpsichore must have looked down and smiled upon her devotees composing the assemblies, as they brought her such splendid offerings of grace, one evening during the holidays. The gay goddess herself would have tried in vain to handle her little feet more nimbly than did some of the maids and matrons who graced that festive occasion. The strangers were happy, and the home folks were still happier, because the strangers were happy. Among the guests of the evening were Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Asbury of Norfolk, Va., Misses Emma Thomas and Kate Smith of New York, Mrs. P.J. Downing, Misses Mean Downing and Annie Hawley of Brooklyn, Miss Elizabeth Smith of Boston, Misses Campton of Philadelphia, Miss Georgine Kelley of Baltimore, and Mssrs. B.F. Pelham of Detroit, and Frank Waring of Chicago. "What wouldn't I give to be a fine converser!" said a young woman of my acquaintance, not long since. "My thoughts are sometimes worth giving to the world, if I myself do say it, and yet I just seal my lips and keep them to myself. It seems a shame to spoil a good thought with bad diction." A friend who sat near suggested that good converters are said to prepare themselves well on certain subjects which they skillfully introduce in company, where they appear to discourse extemporaneously, and thus gain the reputation of being fine conversers. "Prepared fluency, which is palmed off as extemporaneous, is not what I want. I might learn a great many fine things by rote, thanks to a good memory. What I fairly pine for is an extensive vocabulary, which will save me from faltering and halting for words to express an idea that may suddenly occur in any ordinary conversation. Choice diction, you 4 THE WOMAN'S ERA. know, just the right word in the right place, is to me more precious than rubies. The way I feel blindly and grope helplessly in the dark for suitable words to express a thought is really pathetic. Some people never stumble through sentences, but march triumphantly over every linguistic barrier that confronts them." "That is because these conversational prodigies have few thoughts and few words in which to express themselves, together with perfect self-confidence," said the little woman, reputed to be something of a book worm. "This thought is not original with me, though, I remember reading somewhere in Dean Swift's works a passage which will corroborate the statement, if you will allow me to quote it." "Do give it to us, by all means," urged the young woman who had been bemoaning her poverty of speech. "I want to hear some- thing which will remove the feeling that my inability to express myself well is due to ignorance or stupidity. I study constantly, and am half the time unable to state intelligently what I have just read, however thoroughly I mat comprehend the meaning." "If my memory serves me right, the quotation runs like this," quoth the book worm; "'The common fluency of speech in many men and most women is due to a scarcity of matter and a scarcity of words; for whoever is a master of languages and hath his mind full of ideas, will be apt in speaking to hesitate upon the choice of both; whereas common speakers have only one set of ideas, and one set of words to clothe them in, and these are already at the mouth. So people come faster out of church when it is almost empty than when a crowd is at the door.'" "That is very encouraging." said the young seeker of words, "but I shall never cease to envy those endowed with the gift of gab, whether they are not accused of scarcity of words and matter or not. I vote for fluency." ILLINOIS. Fannie Barrier Williams, Editor. CHICAGO, ILL. In a recent issue of her Washington paper, Kate Field comments in her usual brisk and incisive way upon the organization of the "Personal Liberty Association" of Chicago. After showing that the object of the association is to promote the cause of personal liberty; and suggesting the extraordinary fact that after one hundred and nineteen years of national independence of men feel it necessary to organize for self preservation from the dangers of too much government, she exclaims: "It is futile to fly in the face of the Almighty and build a fence around humanity which vision may not range. Freedom in thought and deed, independence of character, are the bulwarks of a republic. Without such freedom, without individuality, a government for the people, for the people, by the people is a fraud. Son of Man, stand on thy feet." I wonder if all this does not have a peculiar application to the colored race, and especially to women. We have been studying lessons of dependence for so long, and we have become so enervated by the mere sentiment of protection against wrongs, that the value of our personal liberty has been lost sight of. A worthy sense of the value and inspiration of personal liberty ought to beget some degree of pride, independence of character and ambition to realize all the possibilities of freedom in a land of liberty. Too much of the sorrowing of Rachel and too little of hope and self respect weakens us in every cause requiring the higher virtues of womanhood. I firmly believe that a favorable turn in the tide of our affairs will speedily come when out men and women begin to feel that out personal liberty to be all that lies within the range of our capabilities is worth more to us than any law that a pitying government may pass defining our rights and wrongs. It is a significant fact that nearly every law passed during the past thirty years for the greater protection of our men and women has signally failed to yield either protection or any kind of helpfulness. On the other hand, wherever we have been forced to the point of self reliance, splendid individuality THE WOMAN'S ERA. 5 character and all kinds of successes have resulted. Speed the word along then that there will be no more protection! "Stand on thy feet!" is the demand of the hour. Self reliance, independence of spirit and a general breaking away from the old traditions of servility, fear, suspicion and hopelessness must have a larger part in our teachings and conduct if we are to redeem the pledges of liberty made in our behalf by the best men and women of the century. The bracing sentiment of personal liberty and appeal for a greater degree of self reliance has taken a much stronger hold upon me after a week of happy and interesting experiences in the city of Memphis. There is something so hearty and genuine in the hospitality of the southern people that those who have happily experienced it feel an impelling desire to speak gratefully of that and nothing else. In the excess of our gratitude for loving attentions and generous welcome, we are apt to give the impression that hospitality is the most important thing in the life of our people in the south. Such an estimate of southern people is a serious blunder. Back of this warm-hardheartedness that welcomes every stranger that comes with good purposes, there is easily seen much that encourages the feeling of confidence in the ability of our friends to work out their own salvation. Even in Memphis, this city of an evil name, the evidences of thorough progress are plentiful, certain and inspiring. What property rights! When and how did these people learn the passion to acquire and hold so much of the earth in a great commercial city? Well, wonderful as it is, they have the lands and the buildings thereon, and every day witnesses an increase of their valuable holdings. From the colored man or woman who owns but a cabin and the little patch of ground on which it stands, to the colored man whose holdings are worth a quarter of a million there seems to be a strong sense of confidence that another generation will properly estimate a people whose tax list is so large a part of the bone and sinew of the Commonwealth. Then again the educational interests are of a high order. There is no lack of appreciation of the fact that intelligence and property getting must go hand in hand, if the importance of the race is to be increased in its relationships to the other race. The home life of these good people is a happy surprise to all who go south for the first time. All the modern comforts and refining elegancies that bespeak culture and ample income are found in these Memphis homes. This is not said in any patronizing spirit, but rather from a sense of pride and joy that in spite of so many depressing things our women are living a higher life that many of us have any idea of. The women of Memphis are fast catching the spirit of the times, that calls for activities outside of conventional lines. The "Coterie Migratory Assembly" is an organization exceptionally strong in the elements of social force, intelligence and independence. Such an organization of such women ought to mean much to the regenerating forces that are at work to reclaim the fair fame of Memphis, and it ought to mean much in its efforts to elevate the standard of the life of the colored people of the south. What these good women most need is not intelligence, nor money, nor moral sense, nor even ambition, for all these they seem to have in large measure. They need most of all the sympathetic co-operation of our best women in the north, and in respectful contact with the best and most progressive white women of the south. We of the north know too little of the peculiar needs of our women of the south. If our best women could more frequently visit the south with messages of helpfulness much good might result. The eagerness of our southern women to catch any suggestion of larger usefulness 6 THE WOMAN'S ERA was manifested in a most gratifying manner by the enthusiasm awakened even by my feeble words of courage and congratulation. In quick response to my word of hopefulness, flattering assurance came, that a new sense of self-respect and self-reliance was the thing most needed. Then again the bright and progressive women of our race in the south need some contact with and a better relationship to the bright and progressive white women of the south. This may seem an impracticable suggestion, yet we may safely believe that the time will soon come when the best women on both sides of the color line will come together and unite their forces in such a way that both may be able to preserve their self-respect. This contact is especially needed by our women in order to give them a proper sense of the larger relationships they bear to the best interests of our times. What our southern sisters need and what we all need, is to seek more earnestly by all the agencies of enlightenment about us to broaden our views of life as to make us see and feel the forces that are making for better conditions; and that what we complain of is but transitory, and what we devoutly wish for is surely coming by every high way of civilization. Indeed our advantages and opportunities are all large and a part of the very constitution of things. We are women yearning, aspiring and claiming for rights at a time when women's winsome voice of supplication or stern command is heard above all the din and clamor of the times. PENNSYLVANIA Dora J. Cole, Editor. It gives one a distinct feeling of gratitude to read the cheering optimism displayed by Dr. Hale in his article "If Jesus Came to Boston." Living in a city like Philadelphia, which is honeycombed with helps of every sort for the poor and suffering, it is easy to realize the real brotherhood that encircles the world, and the intense sympathy and human interest to which such free expression is given. The identification of women with philanthropic and charitable movements has been a potent factor in this leaven of love. Women as prison and factory inspectors, school directors, ward visitors, with their quick sense of the fitness of things, their distaste for unsanitary surroundings, and their aspirations for "sweetness and light" have been efficient helpers in the work of regeneration, which does go on, despite the Ibsen-like gloom which has affected the minds of Editor Stead et al in depicting the deterioration of the present century. On Christmas day the 300 scholars of the Octavius V. Catto School were asked to lend a hand in assisting a Sick Diet Kitchen in their neighborhood. The children were asked to bring only "one" potato, one apple, orange or other fruit or vegetable. Some took the invitation literally, but others brought pounds of sugar, rice, flour, baskets of fruits and vegetables, until the joint collection was a goodly offering. The children were enthusiastic and glowed with the joy of giving. And so a seed was dropped in those little minds to make the good work of help to the needy go on. Many of our schools make a similar offering an annual custom. Our Ward McAllister has given me notice of the production, at an early date, of a drama by the Mask and Wig Club. This organization is composed of our gilded youth, and the entertainment will be productive of much interest, as the club intends to rely entirely on its own resources, and impersonate female characters in a thorough style. We warn them that there will be a "chiel amang them, takin' notes." Since the recent Conference of Colored Workers held in this city a revived interest has been felt in mission work. St. Thomas Church formed a branch of the Woman's Auxiliary to the Board of Missions, and the ladies have been zealous in working. The Auxiliary gives scope to diverse tastes, as it calls for interest in home and foreign missions, in work for the negro and the Indian, for the education of the THE WOMAN'S ERA. 7 children of missionaries, for hospital visitations and various other channels. The St. Thomas branch sent a large box at Christmas to a worthy mission in the south. A lively interest was taken in the preparation of this box, which contained seasonable clothing, millinery and sacred and secular literature. This Auxiliary has been brought into touch with other branches, and the mutual knowledge and interest evoked has been very helpful. On Friday evening, January 18, the first of a series of three entertainments was held, at St. George's Hall. It was a most brilliant event. Much satisfaction was felt in the fact that the above named exclusive and very handsome hall had been secured and that the music was furnished by that most competent musician, Mr. Oliver. The hall is owned by the Sons of St. George, an English society in our city. The spacious and noble room is graced by a full length portrait of Queen Victoria in her coronation robes ascending the throne. On the first floor are parlors and reception rooms, while a spacious marble corridor, lined with sculptured beauty, affords a charming promenade. There were present many debutantes, which gave great charm to a very delightful evening. The two subsequent assemblies, as they are called, will be held on the evening of Washington's Birthday and Easter Monday. On the morning of that same Friday many sorrowing people had attended the funeral of an old and highly esteemed citizen of Philadelphia, Mr. James Dover, the father of Miss Mary Dover, so well and favorably known to friends in Boston. And so life goes, from grave to gay, from lively to severe. "A little work, a little play, To keep us going, and so - good day! A little warmth, a little light Of love's bestowing, and so - good night! A little fun to match the sorrow Of each day's growing, and so - good morrow! A little trust that when we die We reap our sowing, and so - good by!" GEORGIA. ALICE WOODBY MCKANE, M. D., EDITOR. On Christmas Eve Savannah's youthful temperance workers exchanged greetings of good will, and laid aside their work until the first Monday afternoon in January, 1895. Savannah owes Mrs. Helen Ellis, wife of the Reverend Alexander Ellis, of Beth Eden Baptist Church, lasting thanks for the existence of this society. It was organized four years ago by Mrs. Ellis for the purpose of reclaiming men and women who had fallen victims to the alcoholic habit. For a little while it flourished; then, one by one, many forgot their pledges, and examples that were not desirable were set before the few youthful members that had joined the organization. At length all of the adult members abandoned the society. Mrs. Ellis struggled on alone with two or three children, striving from time to time in her quiet way to get others interested in her temperance work, but without avail; there appeared to exist a sentiment that intemperance was a necessary evil, rather than a vice to be shunned. Finally, however, the leader of this little band put forth one more effort, this time among those of tender years. How well she has succeeded is shown by the present membership of about fifty, all apparently true to their trust despite the jeering criticisms, oftentimes of parents and friends. An interesting and instructive feature of this society is the meeting on Monday afternoons. Here the little girls are taught to sew, and talks on morals as well as temperance are given. Surely a harvest of good in the future will be reaped from such seed sown. Friendless and homeless, Nothing to eat, With rags as a garment And bare her bronzed feet, Wanders the orphan girl, Sad and alone, Weeping for parents, for friends And for home. Blind are the eyes Of the crowds passing by; Deaf are their ears To the child's pleading cry. One, one alone In the great busy street Answers her cry And protects her bared feet. That one in the city of Savannah is Mother Matilda of St. Francis Home for orphan girls of the negro race. A more heroic woman never lived than Mother Matilda 8 The Woman's Era. tilda. Several years ago two priests of the Roman Catholic Church were sent to found an orphanage for negro children. One died before anything was accomplished and the other gave up the work. Then two sisters from France were sent to do the work, but their sympathies went out more for the children of the white race and the colored children were forsaken. Then came two more sisters, this time from New York. They, too, grew weary of their little black charges and went over to work for the children of their own race. There was no one now to care for our children, and no one looked out for their interests; they were forgotten by all save Mother Matilda. She is a woman of negro blood and her love and interest went out in behalf of the children. Her education, however, was not sufficient to enable her to carry on such a work alone. She concluded to go to England and prepare herself for the work. Accordingly she became a novitiate there. She was pressed to remain permanently; but no, her heart was in Savannah, and when her time was out, back she came. Unaided and alone, she rented a house and started an orphanage for negro girls. Through many trials and struggles which neither time nor space will allow us to recount, the little orphanage thus started several years ago still exists. Friends gave temporarily grounds for that purpose, so long as Mother Matilda shall live, and from the money begged from door to door and place to place, a crude, rough building was erected for the work. About forty orphan girls, whose ages range from two and one-half years up to about fifteen, are given a shelter, a common school education, and trained in ordinary housework. A novel feature of the orphanage is the laundry. This is run by the larger girls Family washings are taken in for certain sums, and the money thus made is spent for food and fuel. The good mother has never lagged in her work. She desired to erect a permanent home in which the work could be carried on after her death. She has succeeded in begging funds sufficient to purchase the land for the purpose, and is now striving to erect a building upon it. The colored people, strange to say, have not taken the interest in this good work that they should, considering that it is the only orphanage in the city for our children. Let us all do what we can to aid in this good cause. The Students' Association of McKane's Training School for nurses meets once a month to discuss the sciences allied to their profession. To these meetings they invite the public. Under their auspices, monthly talks are also given by a physician to mothers and young girls upon such medical subjects as will enable them to care for themselves physically as well as morally. During the coming year they also propose to carry on a work among negro newsboys of the city. All Georgia is alive with interest over the colored department of the Atlanta Exposition. It is to be hoped that our women of talent and art in the city of Savannah will add their quota to this exhibit. Mrs. C. Bryant Waley, Miss Alice Ellis and Miss Gretrude Artson could make as fine an exhibit of fancy needlework and small hand painting as could be desired, and one that would reflect credit on any race or people. Come, ladies, think this matter over. A certain young man who was not one hundred miles away from the west side of town on New Year's Day, may be heard to exclaim with pride most any day since then, "Ain't my handkerchief case a beauty? She made it all, herself. Yes, she even painted the flowers!" Not long since a little bird was taking its flight over the housetops of Grubdlaw street when sweet strains of music were wafted to its ears. It descended just in time to hear him sing: "Then, my bonny black-eyed lass, If my love proves true till then, I promise to return to you The Woman's Era. 9 When the robins nest again." Commencement will be over, and he will then be a full fledged --- There is a charming little widow towards the east of whom 'tis said the weeds of many, many years are laid aside for a new orange blossom wreath. All wonder if 'tis true. Cornet and piano duets are not quite as fashionable as they "used to was." I wonder why. On the 28th day of January, Savannah for the first time will welcome Flora Batson Bergen, the sweetest ballad singer of the race. The young folks are all astir over the affair. VIRGINIA Rosa D. Bowser, Editor. The Power of Words. "Words are the soul's embassador's, who go Abroad upon her errands to and fro. They are the sole expounders of the mind, And correspondence keep 'twixt all man- kind." As we sat and listened to three able ministers, on the night of December 15, we could but allow our thoughts to ponder upon the powerful influence which a single word may exert over the impulses and actions of the hearers. Though by silence we may evince admiration or contempt for that with which we come in contact, yet this medium of expression is insignificant in comparison with the potent word which falls from the mouth of one who is revered, or who is looked upon with abhorrence. Words bind communities and organizations together, or bring about a severance of friendly relationship. "What you keep by you, you may change and mend; But words once spoken can never be re- called." This knowledge should often deter us in communicating our thoughts, so that we may have fewer of life's ills to endure, by not having to grieve over words indiscreetly uttered. The influence of words depends not only upon the manner in which they are conveyed, but upon the sensibility of the hearer. You may tell one person ten times that he owes you ten dollars, but he may appear to forget it as often as he is told. Then again, you may remind another person in a friendly manner, of a similar obligation, and his sensitive disposition and keen perception of duty will impel him forthwith to avoid a second hint on the subject, by paying the indebtedness. Words spoken in the proper manner and time, have through all ages carried great weight and wrought untold good. Multitudes thronged around Christ to hear the wonderful words which He spake unto them. Many may have come simply out of curiosity. Many came through their devotion and eagerness to hear their Lord and Savior, and doubtless many came because of abject hatred, to catch some word in order to strengthen their condemnation of the Prince of Peace. Even in this day, thousands rush to hear noted preachers for the purpose of feeding their minds from the verbal utterances of the great thinkers of the age. The writings of such persons are also sought after and read by generation after generation. How necessary that in their winged flight they fly forth and carry joy and comfort to some souls that feel the need, and are slowly dying to hear soothing, gentle words which may bring sunshine into their hearts! Untimely words, unfittingly spoken, bring untold remorse as often to the speaker as to the hearer. A simple word or expression may cause the strongest, friendly tie, or may produce deadly enmity. Words are things, and a small drop of ink falling like dew upon a thought, produces 10 THE WOMAN'S ERA. That which makes thousands, perhaps millions think. The most sensational literary event of the season culminated at the Ebenezer Baptist Church of Richmond, on the night of the 15th of December. Announcements had been made that a debate--"Resolved, That the Devil was once in Heaven," would be argued pro and con by Rev. Z. D. Lewis and Rev. W. F. Graham. The subject was no greater drawing card than the appearance of two very popular pastors, leaders respectively of the Second Baptist and the Fifth Street Baptist Churches. The gathering was highly entertained, and both gentlemen wrapped about themselves the attention of a very large and appreciative audience. The five judges were visiting minsters from other cities. The decision stood two and a half for the affirmative, and two and a half for the negative -- one taking a middle ground. Rev. J. W. Kirby of Portsmouth, read a very able paper on Religious Newspapers. The musical part of the programme was furnished by home talent, assisted by the Satellite Quartette of male voices, from the Theological Seminary. MISSOURI. JOSEPHINE SILONE YATES, EDITOR. NOTES AND COMMENTS. Governor Stone, in accordance with the liberal spirit which Missouri has always manifested toward Lincoln Institute, advocates, in his biennial message, that the legislature now in session in Jefferson City, appropriate $30,000 for the erection of suitable buildings for that institution. For the first time in the history of the Missouri Legislature, a gentleman of color, Giles Bell of Fulton, has been elected one of the officers in the House of Representatives. Mrs. Albert Battles, of Denver, visited Kansas City during the holiday season, the honored guest of Miss Nellie Banks, one of our most worthy teachers. Mrs. Battles was the recipient of much social attention during her stay in the city, and the reception given by the Ladies' XX Whist Club, under the management of Miss Banks, was a very brilliant affair. Miss Ida B. Wells, our race heroine, spent a few days in Kansas City en route to the Pacific Coast. Prof. J. D. Bowser read a highly interesting paper before the Interstate Literary Association recently in session at Atchison, Kansas. We would be pleased to have those who are engaged in the work of the W. C. T. U. give some statistics and other facts concerning the work with our own race in the columns of the ERA. The tenth annual session of the Missouri State Teachers' Association was held at Sedalia, Dec. 26, 27, and 28. While there were not so many teachers present as usual on such occasions, those who did attend were earnest and alive to their work. One noticeable feature was a decided improvement in the character of the papers read. There were very few lofty flights in words, which a great many persons accept for intellectual ability. The ideas advanced were abreast of the times and plainly show that the colored teacher is fast learning what the educational world expects of him. He knows how that education means more than merely storing the mind with a multiplicity of correlated facts. He sees that there is a wide difference between filling up the mind of a child and drawing out and strengthening his natural powers. Dr. Ira F. Bronson, President of the Board of Education of Sedalia, in his welcome address complimented the race upon its wonderful advancement. He said, there is much yet for the teacher to do by way of giving particular help. He strongly urged THE WOMAN'S ERA. 11 them to explain to their pupils the necessity of letting in fresh air and sunshine to their homes and the use of water as a promoter of health. After all, is it not this kind of teaching that will benefit the rank and file of our people most? When those who hire help are barring out the colored girl because of her inability to do well the work she is hired to do, is it not time for some steps to be taken? Washington City is not the only place that is calling for white servants. G. V. Buchanan, superintendent of the schools of Sedalia, addressed the teachers. He said that after all there is no race problem. All there is for the colored teacher to do is to make a fight on ignorance and petty crime. In so doing he will ultimately solve the so-called race problem. He thought it the duty of the teacher to lend his influence in a social way. He should be a leading force in the Sunday school, he should direct the entertainments and amusements of the people in his community, and thereby elevate the moral tone of those about him. Mr. Buchanan certainly cannot know how great a task he has set for the poor teacher. It is a well-known fact that the teacher is welcome everywhere just so long as he falls in line with those about him. But just let him undertake to raise the standard in anything outside of the schoolroom! He will soon find that all sorts of schemes set on foot to oust him from the social and the festival too. Will some interested body tell us how the teacher can be a true moral force in outside matters? LOUISIANA. ALICE RUTH MOORE, EDITOR. When all the world has grown full cold to thee, And man -- pigmy -- shrugs all scornfully, And bitter, blinding tears flow gushing forth, Because of thine own sorrows and poor plight, Then turn thee swift to Nature's mighty page, And read there passions unmeasureably far Greater than thine own in all their littleness; For Nature has her sorrows and her joys, As all the piled up mountains and vales Will silently attest. And hang thy head In dire confusion for having dared To moan at thine own miseries when God and Nature suffered silently. The Sisters of the Holy Family and the Orphan Asylum have had just cause to be proud, for the final culmination of the great work done by the League of the Sacred Heart was reached when Archbishop Janssens dedicated the new chapel with most impressive and beautiful ceremonies. About four years ago Mrs. S. F. Williams organized the League of the Sacred Heart, with about twenty-five ladies, old and young, in the parlors of the Holy Family Convent. In a very short while the membership increased to several hundred and the work done was most satisfactory. At the monthly meetings on Sunday afternoons, the business meeting was preceded by benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in the small chapel, and a choir of younger members of the League assisted. The first work down was a concert which netted several hundred dollars. Shortly after this the corner-stone of the new asylum was laid next door to the convent on Orleans and Bourbon streets, and in a few months a magnificent structure was completed. Until this time the colored orphans' home had been a rickety old building, good enough in its time, but much the worse for wear now. The building erected through the efforts of the League was perfect in every detail which pertains to modern improvements and solid beauty. It was no sooner completed than a two weeks fair was held in its empty rooms, and so successful was the enterprise that the building was soon furnished and the poor little folks were moved into their new comfortable quarters. The League has since then repeatedly given entertainments, fairs, etc., and paid the debt of the building, besides keeping it in running order. Last winter when the famous negro violinist, Prof. Edmond Dedi, was here on a visit, after forty years' absence in France from his native city, his services, so kindly tendered, at a concert, brought out quite a number of dollars from the proverbial New Orleans music lovers. An unexpected and mighty aid came in the bequest of the colored philanthropist, Thomy Lafon, who left the Asylum $10,000. Immediately the new chapel went up, and was dedicated with magnificent ceremonies not long since. It was a sight not soon to be forgotten. The pretty little chapel, all flower decked, with its brilliantly lighted white and gold altar, the Archbishop and numerous priests, altar-boys and acolytes, the tiny orphans, with white garments and flower-crowned heads, as they walked up the aisle, singing in their pure young voices, strewing flowers in the path of 12 THE WOMAN'S ERA. the Blessed Sacrament as it came from the old chapel into the new. The choir was composed of some of the best talent in the city. Prof. Williams presided at the organ and Prof. Nickerson at the violin. The duet "O Salutaris," between Miss Isabelle and Miss Vignes, was beautiful enough to attract considerable attention in the next morning's papers. And the Archbishop's sermon was quiet, practical, helpful and commendatory. Thomy Lafon is remembered by a handsome marble tablet inserted in the wall to the left of the altar. When it is remembered that all this work, with the exception of Mr. Lafon's bequest, is done entirely by the colored women of the city, we have just cause to be proud. Mrs. Williams, who has labored and still labors unceasingly for the success and maintenance of her scheme, deserves great credit. On the day of the dedication she was very ill, and had not been at her school for several days; but rather than absent herself from the chapel, she was carried, carefully wrapped and tenderly cared for, to and fro in a closed carriage, at a great risk to her health. I see Mrs. Mossell mentions this work in her new book, but the facts are meagre, and Mrs. Williams' initials are incorrect. The Phyllis Wheatley Club has increased considerably in membership. The last two meetings were eminently successful in themselves. At the November meeting the temperance committee, under the leadership of Miss Emma Rose Williams, gave an interesting report of the work done. At the December meeting, Miss Adele Townsend of the hospital committee reported upon the condition of the colored patients in the Charity Hospital, which made quite an interesting talk. England's Attitude. Resolution of the Anti-Lynching Committee on the failure of the Memphis jury to convict. LONDON, ENG., Jan. 5, 1895. Editor, Woman's Era, Dear Madam: -- The following resolution was carried by the Anti-Lynching committee yesterday. On their behalf I respectfully beg its insertion and any editorial comment which may help forward our protest in favor of justice. Yours faithfully, FLORENCE BALGARNIE. THE RESOLUTION. That the Anti-Lynching executive committee having heard from undoubted sources of information in Memphis, New York and Boston, that a jury in Memphis, composed exclusively of white men, have refused to convict those of whose "guilty complicity," according to the Memphis Commercial, "there was no moral doubt whatever in the ghastly, cowardly and brutal massacre" of six helpless negroes near Millington, Tenn. ; and having further learned from Mr. William Lloyd Garrison, of Boston, that it is impossible to find a jury which will convict a white man for lynching a colored man in the south, this committee desires to express to the six widows of the murdered negroes, and to all colored people suffering under oppression, their warmest sympathy and earnest hope that the spirit of justice, irrespective of race, may yet be kindled throughout the United States of America. The committee have also read with deep satisfaction the powerful denunciation of lynching delivered by Mr. Malcomb R. Patterson, attorney general, on behalf of the prosecution. The Woman's Era Club celebrated its second anniversary by a reception to the members and friends at Berkeley Hall, Friday evening, Jan. 25th. A short musical programme was rendered. Solos by Mrs. Gilbert Harris and Mrs. Ariana Sparrow , Miss Florence Johnson accompanist, followed by a short address by the president. After bidding a cordial welcome to the club's guests to what she called an anniversary meeting with a social attachment, the president, speaking of the reasons for women's clubs, said, in part, that the only difference between the women in the past times, who had been just as anxious to help make the world better, and the so-called new woman is that the latter has come to realize how much more potent for good she is when she combines with other like-minded women and they utilize the endowments of each for the benefit of all. Among all the 726 women's clubs of Massachusetts there are probably no two formed for exactly the same line of work, the requirements of each being different. Certainly our needs are in some respects peculiar to us. But the time is fast coming when individual and class needs may all be safely merged into the broader interests of our common humanity, and a spirit of mutual respect and confidence between women of all classes and races be quickened thereby. The especial aim of this club is to promote and foster a spirit of unity and helpfulness in every needed direction among its members, to discover and uncover hidden capacities. The club paper has done much in this way, bringing to the light talent among our women which had only to be discovered to reflect credit on any people ; in a word, our aim is to foster an ambition for broader mental and spiritual culture and for throwing our united influence on "the eternal side of right," so that now, while the very atmosphere seems charged with inspiration to high thoughts and progressive deeds, we cannot, even is we would, THE WOMAN'S ERA. 13 choose but be a factor in developing the possibilities and enlarging the opportunities of all women. The recording secretary then read a summary of the year's doings, prominent among which was the giving of fifty dollars to Atlanta University for a scholarship to a youth who has, by his persistent effort to gain an education, proved himself worthy. A carnival was held which, in despite of unfavorable weather, netted a neat sum. The birth of the WOMAN'S ERA, organ of the club, edited by the president and the corresponding secretary, was the most important event of the year. The career of Miss Ida B. Wells in England met with hearty support from the club and all attempts to retard her influence were quickly resented, as shown in the letters of protest sent to Mrs. Chant, and to the leading papers of New York and Boston. Twenty-five petitions for the forwarding of the Blair Joint Resolution are in the hands of as many persons, and are being returned with the signatures of the highest officials in the state and prominent citizens. The committees are doing good work, and are now forming classes in English literature, choral music and civil government. But amid all the whirl of doing and the anxiety displayed to fill every moment, the dear old mothers in the Myrtle Street Home are remembered. Aunt Charity Green, who has been an inmate of the home 18 years, celebrates her 103rd birthday on Wednesday, Jan. 30th, by a reception, at which time she wished to present to the home the sum of one hundred dollars, and calls on friends to help her. The Club responded by giving ten dollars. The Woman's Era Club is now enrolled in the Massachusetts Federation of Women's Clubs, and is steadily climbing up and on, aiming to do all that other women are doing, and to be all that other women can be. The Club recalls with sadness the death of two members, Mrs. S. A. Rogers of Chelsea and Mrs. Louisa Wilson of Cambridge. The Club finds itself quite healthy financially, despite hard times and frequent drains on its treasury, the treasurer reporting seventy-five dollars in the bank and seventeen dollars in hand. The report of the corresponding secretary was read, and showed an increase of correspondence that has been and will be most helpful to the club life. Election of officers took place the first Thursday in January, and resulted in officers being chosen to serve for the year 1895 : President, Mrs. J. St. P. Ruffin ; first vice president, Mrs. Richardson ; second vice president, Mrs. M. S. Ransom ; corresponding secretary, Mrs. N. A. Ridley ; assistant corresponding secretary, Mrs. Ariana Sparrow ; recording secretary, Mrs. Hannah Smith ; assistant recording secretary, Miss Lizzie Stewart ; treasurer, Mrs. Thomas Taylor; executive committee, Miss M. L. Baldwin, Mrs. Agnes Adams, Mrs. Hattie Ruffin, Mrs. Eugene Chapelle ; banking committee, Mrs. M. T. Richards, Mrs. Ophelia Hall, Mrs. Stokeley Johnson. Miss M. L. Baldwin, chairman of the executive committee, reported, giving a synopsis of the work to be carried out, detailed accounts of which will appear from time to time. Mr. Butler A. Wilson then responded to his name with one of his usual bright, pithy speeches. This part of the program being over, the committee, consisting of Miss M. L. Baldwin, Mrs. Octavia Armstead, Mrs. Anthony Smith, Mrs. Hannah Smith and Mrs. Eugene Chapelle, assisted by Mrs. Alice Casneau, Mrs. Louisa Pope and Mrs. Havard presided over the refreshment tables, while the guests were served by the young ladies of the club, who looked charming in their gay evening waists. Fred P. White's orchestra made music for the dancers until 12 o'clock. SOCIAL NOTES. It is fitting that the old home of the late Lewis and Harriet Hayden should be owned and inhabited by a family whose head is so loyal to the memory of the anti-slavery leaders that he has sought to perpetuate that memory, and it is kept very much alive by the vigorous young namesakes of William Lloyd Garrison, John Brown, Theodore Parker, Wendell Phillips, Charles Sumner and three weeks old Lucy Stone -- all surnamed Smith. Mrs. Fannie Barrier Williams will take part in the discussions at the Triennial Council which meets in Washington in February. The friends of Miss Maud Cuney will regret to learn of the continued frail state of her mother's health. After a very short stay in her Galveston home, Mrs. Cuney has again been compelled to seek the more salubrious climate of Mexico, where she will remain until spring. Miss Cuney expects to return to the N.E. Conservatory to resume her studies when her mother's health improves. 14 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Editorial Our Anniversary. In march the ERA rounds up first year; in spite of mournful prognostications, in spite of great hindrances and obstacles, the paper has lived and has grown; it has made a place for itself, and if the women of our race prove faithful, will keep that place. We want to make our anniversary number a memorable one, and to that end, we propose introducing some new features. Among them, is the publishing of the cuts of our editors. The group of women connected with this paper is representative; each is strong in her own individuality, and their combined strength gives our paper strength, tone and color. All of our readers will be interested in seeing the faces of these women, who are not only "strong-minded," but charming, womanly women. The Ant-Lynching Committee of England have expressed in a set of strong resolutions their denunciation of the jury in the recent Memphis trial who refused to convict the men of whose complicity in the murder of six negroes there was not moral doubt. The resolution also convey a message of sympathy to the colored people of America and a wish that this country may yet give to this class of its citizens perfect justice. This expression of English solicitude is directly the result of Miss Well's portrayal of the actual horrors of southern lawlessness and is one of the many services that she has rendered. Audience after audience have found her simple, forceful presentation of facts convincing and her eloquence irresistible. A few weeks ago a great congregation in the church of Dr. Lyman Abbot listened to her story, and the result of that meeting has been to bring to the cause one of the ablest and most influential papers of the day. The outlook, edited by Dr. Lyman Abbot, presents each week in its editorial columns, all authentic reports of lynching with trenchant comment. In the issue of December 29th, speaking of the Blair Resolution, it says, "If anything is settled by the history of civilization, is that every man accused of crime is entitled to be tried before an unprejudiced tribunal, to be heard in his own defense, and to be confronted with and to cross-examine the witness against him. To deny any accused this right is to deny the fundamental and axiomatic principles of justice. Again, January 12th, it says, "It is time that the American people awoke to a consciousness of the national disgrace of these multiplied acts of lawlessness. it is time that the press, north and south, east and west, democratic and republic, united in an endeavor to create a public opinion which shall secure for every man accused of crime a fair trial." January 19th, after reciting the story of five lynchings, it quotes that part of the constitution which provides that an accused person shall have the right to trial, and then declares ringingly, "We indict the states of Kansas, North Carolina, West Virginia, Mississippi and Georgia for allowing this plain provision of justice . . . to be disregarded, without any apparent effort on the part of the governors of those states to bring the murderers to justice. This is the sturdy character of the latest support Miss Wells's efforts have secured. Their Position is Unassailable In another column appears a communication from J.C. Asbury, the Virginia attorney now in Boston in the interest of his client, J. J. Smallwood, of Claremont, Va. Now while we very willingly give space to any well-authenticated statement that relieves the case of any part of the stigma attached to it, we have as yet been shown no reason why Era Club should recede from its published position on the matter. Boston, Jan 28, 1895. Editor Woman's Era: I am in a position to state and in THE WOMAN'S ERA. 15 possession of facts which show that the article which appeared recently in the Boston and Maine papers concerning the financial transaction of John J. Smallwood, of Claremont, VA., is not true. This article appears to have been inspired by the Rev. Ira G. Ross, of South Portland, Maine. I have his letters, which show he has for years being preying upon Mr. Smallwood and begging him for money (for his own private use_ which has been contributed by others for the benefit of the school at Claremont, and that when Smallwood declined to make further advances this publication was made through spite. J. C. Asbury, Att'y. The Woman's Mutual Improvement Club. Knoxville, Tenn., Jan 25, 1895. The idea of organizing a social club, a literary club, a religious club, or some such club, by which we might diversify the ceasless monotony o'erhanging us, has been, for a long time, agitating the minds of a few ladies in this city; but not until the meeting of the Woman's Congress, a few weeks since, did we fully realize the importance of such a move. Consequently, two or three of us held a consultation regarding the matter and decided to invite a few other ladies to meet in conference with us. On the day appointed for meeting seven or eight ladies joined us, and we readily agreed to take upon us the responsibility of a club--not a social club, fir in that we could not help better the world; it meant, in substance, for a few of us to meet, have a pleasant time and utterly ignore the rest of our sec who would like to join us. Not a literary club, for then, so to speak, there would be one woman out of every ten capable of sustaining or entering into the requirements of such an undertaking. Not a professional nor yet a denominational club, but a woman's club. The idea met with general approval, and with those, though few in number, we organized the Woman's Mutual Improvement Club. We have a broad field in which to work, a field ripe, ready, waiting for harvesters. Too long have we as God-fearing, evil-seeing women stood by with that same selfishness which characterized Cain of old, disdaining to be "our brother's keeper"; too long have we slept; too long have we turned a deaf ear, a blind eye, to the direct and indirect appeals of humanity. But never more shall it be thus. We have put our hands to the plow and shall not turn back; with united aims, united hopes and united prayers we join the never-ending warfare of good against evil. DISCIPLINE BY MRS. LUELLA WILLIAMS. In dealing with this subject, I shall not attempt to produce anything new. My aim simply is to collect a few useful hints, a few direct suggestions and a few well-established facts, and so weave them together as to get something definite and practical to apply to the schoolroom. It will not be necessary to picture the home life of the majority of the children who come under our care. Time and time again has a certain class of homes been held up to us--homes where there is no order, no discipline, because the parents do not know how to secure good government, or else are too weak to enforce what they do know. The children who come to us from these lodging places are impertinent, noisy, stubborn and revengeful. Something has made them so. Want and neglect warp the heart and check the good impulses of human being. The child from the squalid parts of the town (unconsciously to himself, perhaps) feels a sense of resentment when the comes in contact with a child well clad and happy. The outward signs of superiority anger him. If he is naturally mean, he will vent his spite upon the (to him) grievious offender. The very gentleness and sweetness of a child 16 The Woman's Era. brought up in a good home will create envy in the breast of the neglected child. Sometimes even the common politeness of the teacher is styled "puttin' on airs," and is met by a lofty indifference on part of child and parents too. There is cause for this too. The unfortunate little urchin sees there is a difference, but does not understand just where that difference lies. He feels that he has been cheated, his feelings must have vent, and the wrong nature has done him must be avenged. So he persecutes the gentle child; he scorns his courtesy and ridicules his good manners, upon the general principle that it is natural for us to have little faith in things unfamiliar to us and it is easy for us to laugh at that we do not understand. The vital question with us is, "What is the teacher to do when she finds herself in a community where good manners are at a discount and sunniness of disposition way down below par? Where the gentlest rebuke on her part provokes the loudest and coarsest laughter? Must she not grapple with the situation? Must she not deal with the condition? Theories are of use to her only so far as they help her to search out causes. All recognize the fact that good order must be obtained before good work can be done. To quell the confusion that often meets the young teacher when she first enters upon her duties is, indeed, a formidable task. Quite frequently the old teacher finds herself at her wit's end to devise means to secure, now and again, a lull in the storm, much less constant quiet and repose for a period of thirty minutes. A great many say no definite hint that will be of much service can be given. Each teacher must work out a plan for herself. There must be some information that will serve as a foundation for the said plan that is to be worked out and fitted to the peculiarities of a certain people. A writer in the Journal of Education says: "Discipline is nothing more than nourishing and directing the gentleness which is in every child's nature. It is the right care of the bud which, in a few years, is to unfold into manliness or womanliness, or be blasted into selfishness and boorishness." There few words contain very much more than appears upon the surface. Our text books upon discipline recommend moral suasion as the best means to nourish gentleness and bring out the best there is in a child. Will this apply to our schools and to our children? I am aware that I am on dangerous ground. I know that there is no surer way to give offence to some of our teachers than to hint that our schools are inferior to any in the land. There seems to be something defective about their memories, for they will look you straight in the eye and say, "My pupils never are saucy to me;" "I never have a case of insubordination;" "my word is law in this community. No parent dares come after me. Then, too, my children always have perfect lessons." There is an element of weakness somewhere. Who can become strong unless he finds out where to begin to strengthen? While we should guard against doing aught to discourage we certainly should seek out the weak spots. No man can make his building strong by having the weak places whitewashed. There must be a gentle breaking up and tearing out of the rotten timber and a substitution of sound material. If it were asked in what particular ways do the teachers of our schools have most trouble? where do the difficulties lie? the honest teacher would reply, "Our children are noisier, less inclined to obey, and less inclined to concentrate their energies upon anything until it is mastered." The causes we can trace to the home, where the child is neither governed nor directed in work or play. (To be continued.) Written for the Era. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 17 FREE! Another Splendid Premium Offer! The first premium offered last March having been won the publishers of the Era take pleasure in announcing another which, if possible, surpasses the first. READ! FIRST PREMIUM. For the boy or girl, man or woman who in the next 3 months brings in the largest number of paid up subscribers (over one hundred in number) we will give a course in Mr. Eastman's School of Carving and Modelling. N.B. -- This course taken at its full value is worth two hundred dollars; it extends over a term of nine months, and at the end of that time pupils are prepared to become teachers of the art. No more valuable premium could be offered; in return for a little energy a splendid trade is given and a position to teach almost assured, or if teaching is not preferred and the premium winner prefers actual work, good and paying positions are assured. SECOND PREMIUM To the one bringing in the next largest number of subscribers, half a term at the above school will be given. THIRD PREMIUM To the one bringing in the third highest number of subscribers a New World Typewriter will be given. FOURTH PREMIUM To the four boys or girls (beginners in music) bringing in each ten subscribers in the next three moths, a year's course in the Boston Training School of Music will be given. Do not pass this over lightly. The Woman's Era makes a specialty of preparing openings for young colored people; it realizes the difficulties they encounter in obtaining such openings and is prepared to do well by ambitious, earnest and determined young people. Don't complain of lack of changes if you let such as these pass you by. All contestants not receiving premiums will be allowed twenty-five per cent on all paid in yearly subscriptions received. The time allowed is short, but people who are in earnest act at once. For further particulars, address THE WOMAN'S ERA 103 Charles Street, Boston. School of Modelling and Carving. TEACHERS AND CRAFTSMEN TRAINED IN THE FOLLOWING INDUSTRIAL ARTS. MODELLING for Stone and Plaster. MODELLING for Metals, etc. CASTING for Stucco and Metals. FIGURE CUTTING in Piece and Mould. STONE CARVING, Buildings, Monuments and Ecclesiastical Works. WOOD CARVING, for Metals, Internal and External Decoration. PUPILS PREPARED to teach the above in one term of nine months. CRAFTSMEN PUSHED in special branches and situations secured upon completion of term; or work secured while studying. For terms apply to CLAVENGER A. EASTMAN, St. Augustine's Trade Schools, Corner Cambridge and Grove Sts., Boston. GEORGE L. RUFFIN, VOCAL CULTURE, Lamperti Method. 103 Charles Street, - - Boston, Mass. At the third Wage Earner's Concert of the season, Wednesday evening, March 27, 1895, will be given the GERMAN REQUIEM BY BRAHMS AND FROM ACT I, OF WAGNER'S "PARSIFAL," all of the processional music, the entire scene under the dome, including the music from both the "middle heights" and the "extreme heights," and the wonderful finale of the act. N.B. Many applicants for tickets were disappointed at the last concern, because of not ordering tickets one week before. Money must accompany application. Help in Choosing a School. The publishers of the Woman's Era will, on application of any of its subscribers, send catalogues and all informations easily obtainable, concerning any academy, college, normal, music, or art school in New England, on receipt of stamped and directed envelope. Address, Woman's Era, 103 Charles St. 18 THE WOMAN'S ERA. TRY A PERFECT ICING FOR YOUR CAKES, &c. Will not spoil or foment in heat or cold, covered or exposed to the air. PERFECT ICING never dries out or crumbles, all other Icings draw the moisture from the cake and dry it up. A PERFECT ICING will keep your cake from drying out. PERFECT ICING should be put on in a very thin coating, like a varnish; it will give your cakes a beautiful gloss as well as flavor. Can be cut soon as put on by dipping your knife in cold water. A 25c Jar of PERFECT ICING will go further than 25 cents in Egg and Sugar Icing as you use it, is more healthful, and gives a superior flavor. PERFECT ICINGS are put up in Screw Top Jars, also in Mason quarts, and in wooden pails of 25 lbs. each. DIRECTIONS. Remove the top, set the Jar in a moderate oven or warm place, until the contents are thin enough to spread. Take your knife, stir it up and spread on a cold cake, just as thin as possible. Set your jar away to use again. Ask Your Grocer for PERFECT ICING. Almond, Coffee, Wild Grape, Orange, Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate, Pistash. PREPARED ONLY BY A. H. PELOUBET & CO., New York. See our Trade Mark A. H. P. is on every Label. PERFECT ICINGS used in making Sherbets or Water Ices, Ice Creams, Sauces, Home Confections, &c. Will give their rich flavors and save work. B. P. RAY, Agent, 2 Chatham Row, BOSTON, MASS. THE CELEBRATED Witch-Hazel Velvet Cream Does not contain corrosive sublimate, lead, arsenic, mercury, or any poison. As a toilet article for tan, sunburn, moth, freckles, etc., its excellence cannot be too well recommended. Put up in 60c. and $1.00 Sizes, sent postpaid on receipt of Price. AGENTS WANTED EVERYWHERE. For Sale by Druggists and Dealers in Toilet Supplies. All corespondence should be addressed to the New England Agents, W. F. & J. S. KINGSBERY, RANDOLPH, - - MASS. The Kranich & Bach Pianos Again took only Gold Medal at last Mechanics' Fair for their unequalled patent Upright and Grands. Also Silver medal on Mehlin & Sons, and Stuitz & Bauer Pianos. Also slightly used Steinway Grand for $400, SteinwaySquare $250, H. F. Miller $250, McPhall $190, nearly new Haynes Bros. Upright $325, new Ivers & Pond $225, H. F. Miller Parlor Grand $400, and fifty Square Pianos from $50 to $200. Organs from $30 to $100. TERMS EASY. H. W. BERRY, 646 Washington Street, - BOSTON. Over Pray & Sons' Carpet Store. Material furnished and a Stylish Walking or Visiting Dress made to order for $23.00, warranted to fit perfectly and finished in the best manner. Ladies can select material from any of the large dry goods houses, I will buy and be responsible for a handsome gown, at this extremely low figure. MRS. A. A. CASNEAU, Near Hammond St. 9 Greenwich St.. Boston. ATTENTION LADIES. Our Dress and Garment making is perfect; Prices reasonable; Fit, Style and Finish unsurpassed. Millinery: Hats and Bonnets made and Trimmed, 50c. to $1.00. Our Millinery and Dress Cutting Schools are the best in the world Young Ladies should come at once and learn. HARVEY, 29 Temple Place, Boston. E. A. LIBBY, New goods received by steamer every week. We never have an opening. Always ready to show goods. - MILLINERY - The old reliable house retains the same stand, 19 Temple Place, - - Boston. H. B. McDERMOTT & CO. Dealers in and Manufacturers of ALL KINDS OF WHALEBONE. Dress and Corset Bone constantly on hand or Made to order. Bone by the Ounce a Specialty. 673 Washington St., Boston. Opposite Beach Street. THE NEW WORLD TYPEWRITER. [Graphic] Price, $15.00. A useful and elegant present for ladies and gentlemen. Over 100,000 in use. Perfectly simple, practical and durable. No $100 machine can do better work. Writes 77 characters. Capitals and small letters. Never gets out of order. Perfect alignment always. No instruction required. SEND FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE. The Typewriter Improvement Co. 4 K Post Office Square, - BOSTON, Mass. Agents Wanted. EDGAR P. BENJAMIN, Attorney and Counsellor-at-Law Room 22, 34 SCHOOL STREET, BOSTON. MADAM CLOUD, BUSINESS AND HEALTH MEDIUM, No. 7 Charles St., near Beacon, Boston, Mass. Office hours 9 to 11 a.m., 3 to 10 p. m. [*Illegible handwriting*] The Woman's Era 19 [Graphic] ATLANTA UNIVERSITY, ATLANTA, GA. REV. HORACE BUMSTEAD, D. D. President. THIS Institution trains and sends out a superior class of teachers and leaders for work among the Freedom of the South. It solicits the attendance of intelligen and earnest young men and women, and contributions from those who are willing to help towards their education. Write to the President. BOSTON TRAINING SCHOOL OF MUSIC (INCORPORATED.) Vocal and Instrumental Music, Harmony, Theory and Composition. Pupils thoroughly Prepared for Teaching and Public Performance. Central Location. CATALOGUE FREE. GEORGE H. HOWARD, A. M., Director, Music Hall Building, - - Boston, Mass. A.G. McKENZIE OPTICIAN 156 CHARLES ST., BOSTON. ARTIFICIAL EYES A SPECIALTY THREE DOORS FROM EYE INFIRMARY. TELEPHONE, 219-3 TREMONT. BOSTON Condensed Milk Co's Plain condensed (unsweetened) Milk is the best known food for infants. Best article in the world for a cup of coffee. Sold in jars at the office, 2 1/2 Park Sq., Boston Delivered three times per week. ENDORSEMENT. I have used the plain condensed milk and found it worked like a mircale in transforming my weak, puny baby into a strong, plump one, after all other foods had failed. MRS. McGILL, 10 Lindall Place, Boston. 500 AGENTS Wanted To Sell Our New Race Book FROM THE VIRGINIA PLANTATION TO THE NATIONAL CAPITOL By Hon. J.M. Langston (Ex U. S. Representative from Va.) THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY of the Silver Tongued Colored Orator and polished Scholar. Superbly Illustrated. Teaches that Self reliance is the Secret of Success. No Race library complete without it SURE TO SELL. A great chance to make money. Don't miss it. For Circulars and Terms to Agents, write to the American Publishing Co., Hartford. Conn., Cincinnati, or Boston. Mention this Paper. PRIVATE BOARD. MRS. ELIZABETH E. COOLEY will accommodate a few select boarders. Transient or permanent, AT 62 PHILLIPS ST., BOSTON. THE AMERICAN WRINGER CO. BRANCH STORE, 13 & 15 BROADWAY EXTENSION, Boston, Mass. Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers. All kinds of Wringers and Sweepers repaired. Orders by mail promptly attended to. LESSONS BY MAIL. Instructions in English Composition, Grammar, Use of Capitals, Punctuation, Formation of Sentences, etc. Address, Miss M. W. GOULD, Box 165. Readville, Mass. What is this A. P. A. ? What its Plans? Who its Candidates? What its Principles? Where can we join? For full information, send 2-ct. stamp for --or ask your newsdealer for--or send 50 cts. for 3 mos. trial subscription of--the paper which advocates straight A. P. A. principles--THE AMERICAN CITIZEN, 7 Bromfield St., Boston. 20 THE WOMAN'S ERA. "The best of all Medicines is -- none." The Natural Method OF Curing Obesity. Dr. Albert Reeder's Institute of Curative Movements Franklin Savings Bank Building, 5 Park Square, Boston. Office in charge of lady assistants. Hours 10 to 12 a. m., 2 to 4 p. m. HOUSEKEEPERS SHOULD SEE THE NEW Fibre Carpet. A Soft, Pliable, Odorless Matting, Warm in Winter, Cool in Summer. An Ideal Sanitary Chamber Carpet FOR ALL THE YEAR ROUND. Sews together and turns under. Does not break or require binding. No odors or germs of disease. Insects do not trouble it. Heavy furniture does not break it. Double faced -- double wear. Artistic colors -- stylish designs. We cordially invite inspection. HODGES FIBRE CARPET CO. Manufacturers and Patentees, 50 Essex St. (cor. Chauncy) Boston, Mass. Why Not Advertise in the Weekly Journal of the Lodge? With a circulation of 4,000 Write for terms and space. Address JOURNAL OF THE LODGE, NEW ORLEANS, La., Box 105. INCORPORATED UNDER THE LAWS OF MASSACHUSETTS. EASTERN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, OF BOSTON, Street Railway Builders and Contractors for Public Works. ESTIMATES MADE FOR A COMPLETE UNDERGROUND SYSTEM. GEO. S. BARNES, President. STANLEY RUFFIN, Sec'y and Treas. 34 School Street, Boston. BUTLER R. WILSON, ATTORNEY and COUNSELLOR AT LAW NOTARY PUBLIC, 34 School Street, (Room 33,) BOSTON. Robert L. Carter, M D. PHYSICIAN & SURGEON, No. 722 Kempton Street, NEW BEDFORD. Diseases of Women a Specialty. Telephone 329-4. Frank S. Murphy Grocer. 61 Charles Street cor. Mr. Vernon St. BOSTON, MASS. [*Written when I was expecting [?] baby which lost the following September (29) My dear little [?] March 1895*] THE WOMAN'S ERA. WASHINGTON. Mary Church Terrell, Editor At the last annual meeting of the Colored Woman's League officers for the ensuing year were chosen. Mrs. Helen A. Cook was re-elected President, as were Mrs. B. K. Bruce and Mrs. Emily Lee, Vice Presidents; Mrs. A. J. Cooper, Cor. Sec.; Mrs. Charlotte Fortin Grimke, Rec. Sec. ; Mrs. Evelyn D. Shaw, Treas.; Mrs. Belle M. Howard, Miss Maria Jordan, Miss C. L. Franklin and Mrs. M. C. Terrell members of the Executive Committee, upon which Mrs. Henry E. Baker was also chosen to serve. The president's annual report set forth several phases of the work which are encouraging, but it impressed upon the members the necessity of arousing a deeper interest in the aims and purposes of the league among women who are competent to lend the assistance essential to its progress. The need of owning a building in which to hold classes already formed is urgent. Mrs. B. K. Bruce, Chairman of the Industrial Committee, reported that the sewing school established by her committee was reaching a class of girls who need instruction not only in sewing but in manners and morals as well. A powerful influence for good is doubtless exerted upon the girls who come in direct contact with the women who have this work in charge. The corresponding secretary announced that several associations of women in different sections of the country had allied themselves to the league. The treasurer's report showed that the gold reserve had not been entirely depleted, but that an increase in revenue was greatly to be desired. Mrs. Belle M. Howard reported that the mending bureau is in a flourishing condition. The success of this enterprise is principally due to Mrs. Howard, who deserves credit for the skilful management which makes it a blessing to the community. As chairman of the educational committee, Mary Church Terrell stated that two classes had been formed, one in German, taught by Miss Elizabeth A. Cook, instructor of French and German in Howard University, and one in the history of European civilization, taught by Miss Ella L. Smith, A. M., also instructor in Howard University. Both of these ladies donate their services to the league, which takes this opportunity of expressing heartfelt gratitude to them for the sacrifice of their time and strength which the work entails. Through the courtesy of the Young Men's Christian Association the classes are held in their building every Thursday evening from 6 till 8. The aim of the educational committee is to whet the appetite for knowledge among the young women; in a word, to inaugurate a renaissance in our midst which will reach old and young alike. Mrs. Helen A. Cook extended the greetings of the league to the Woman's National Council which convened here from Feb. 17 to March 2, inclusive. A concourse of such representative women as compose the council is an education in itself and an inspiration to all who come under the enchantment of the logic and eloquence by which their treatment of the various subjects discussed is distinguished. It is a great temptation to refer to several papers of exceptional interest and power, but limited space forbids. The Hon. Frederick Douglass is with us no more. The fact seems too sad to chronicle and too heart-rending to believe. No one can yet realize what his death means to his race, to which he devoted himself so conscientiously and constantly during his whole life. The world at large will know Mr. Douglass as a great orator and statesman, but he will be cherished by many whom he honored with his friendship as a genial, kind and helpful friend. Great though he was, no one could unbend himself more delightfully and graciously than did the Sage of Anacostia. His uniform courtesy and delicate refinement of manner were remarked by all who came in contact with him. Whenever his majestic form appeared there was sure to be a smile of welcome for a friend, a pleasant salute for an acquaintance, and a gracious bearing toward all, whatever their rank or station in life. Mr. Douglass' modesty, his gentleness, his extreme simplicity impressed me personally as much as the other qualities which will cause his name to be enrolled among the great of earth. His heart was always young and he enjoyed himself thoroughly in the company of young people. He was much more gallant and chivalrous to women than are the majority of the young men of the present generation. Coming home one evening last summer from a day's outing on the Chesapeake, where he had been the life of the 4 THE WOMAN'S ERA. company, he called attention to two young men who had remained silent all the way on the train, while he himself had been entertaining some ladies, remarking that he felt sorry for those old gentlemen who were too weary to enjoy themselves with the charming ladies aboard. Nothing please Mr. Douglass more than to see young women taking an interest in the reforms inaugurated for the amelioration of the condition of their sex. Greeting a lady cordially at the Woman's Council, he took occasion to express his pleasure at seeing her attend the meetings, and deprecated the lack of interest in such gatherings among many of our best women. Mr. Douglass' life was attuned to the true, the good and the beautiful in life. Music he loved passionately. He delighted in singing himself, and no one who ever heard his rich, sonorous voice can ever forget the impression it made upon him. It was my privilege to be in his company a short while on the day of his death. Before leaving the Woman's Council, whose president and members had tendered him an ovation of which any American might be proud, he beckoned to me from the platform to wait for him. As he and Miss Anthony came down the aisle together I heard him say, "But I am getting old now." The tone in which he said this seemed to me unusually sad. "you are just as young as you ever were, Mr. Douglass," said I. "When Mr. Douglass claims to feel old, its an imposition upon the public, Miss Anthony," I continued. "That's so," said Miss Anthony, "but I know Frederick." After leaving this meeting Mr. Douglass invited me to lunch with him, which I, unfortunately for myself, was unable to do. Had I known that I should see his dear face no more, nothing could have prevented me from lingering near him, so as to drink in his words of wisdom and encouragement, which he delighted so to give, and thrill at the inspiration which I always felt in his presence. ILLINOIS. FANNIE BARRIER WILLIAMS, EDITOR Three reformers visited Chicago during the past month and left a whole- some impress upon the city by what they said, suggested and stood for. Dr. Parkhurst came and sent a shiver of guilty fear through the ranks of the spoilsmen and a bracing inspiration to duty among the timid reformers of municipal ills. Men and women feel decidedly stronger in their good purposes for municipal reform by the influence of the "fighting parson" from New York. Scarcely had we finished listening to the message from Dr. Parkhurst, when the salutary influence of Mrs. Ballington Booth was felt by all who are capable of being affected by any efforts to rescue women from their unspeakable degradation. This little white-souled woman has plead with such tender earnestness and force of logic for a wider application of christian charity in behalf of fallen women that everybody hearing her seemed to feel a sense of responsibility for much that is so shameful in the sight of church, schools, and academies of refinement. To the credit of our wicked city, Mrs. Booth was at once recognized as an angelic visitation, and her pleading call to duty was eagerly responded to with a generosity never before accorded to a woman visitor. As I saw and felt the intensity of that little woman's earnestness in what she believed to be a high duty, I could but wish for some such manifestation of zeal among our own women for rescue work so easily within their reach. Mrs. Booth's message is strongly suggestive to our women for the need of doing something for the thousands of young and promising girls whose homes are sadly lacking in the elements of moral restraint and protection. How rare it is, when talking about reformers or of men and women who command attention by the force of their talents, we can bring a colored man or woman into comparison! It is, therefore, gratifying that one of these messengers of good to Chicago, as mentioned above, was Booker T. Washington of Tuskegee, Alabama. This was Mr. Washington's first visit to Chicago, and no colored man of the country, outside of Mr. Douglass, has been so royally welcomed to this city. He, too, had the press of the city to speed his words along to those who could not be within reach of his voice. Some of the largest churches of the city gave up their pulpits to Mr. Washington, and the wealthy and aristocratic people of the city heard such sound and inspiring talk in behalf of negro education and in behalf of the rights and wrongs of the race as they have never before heard. IT is delightful to come in contact with a colored man who is so sane, so sincere and so direct in the stronger virtues of manliness as Booker T. Washington. In spite of his unqualified achievements in the highest depart- THE WOMAN'S ERA. 3 you think he will come? Oh no, he says, each and everyone of them had to see a man on business at the club, and they are there, telling with unholy glee how they dodged their wives and their sweethearts, their sisters and their cousins. Why, this must be the great Mogul himself, and all of these Afro-Americans are casting tribute at his feet! Oh no; that is only our colored brethren paying their money for the hire of halls for their entertainments. And why do they not co-operate and have buildings of their own? Because what this race need is confidence in each other and in their leading men. And this picture -- Petite, do you mean to sleep all day? Asleep! Is it possible? And it was only a dream after all! PETITE REINE May 1895 WASHINGTON MARY CHURCH TERRELL, EDITOR Early in April, Mrs. Mary Church Terrell was appointed on the Board of School Trustees for the District of Columbia. The placing of women on the board is an innovation for the District and the applicants were many and persistent. This being so, and Mrs. Terrell being one of the two appointed, (and of course the only one of color she, as well as the WOMAN'S ERA, may justly feel honored. The large number of applicants made the matter of choosing difficult and critical, and the fortunate appointees have the satisfaction of knowing that they have distanced all competitors in fitness and capability and stand as the best obtainable for their positions. It is possible that some of our readers are unacquainted with the career of Mrs. Terrell; for their satisfaction we quote from the Washington Post, only adding that Mrs. Terrell has attracted much attention everywhere by her work in the ERA, extracts from her contributions being often copied in the leading papers of the country. "Mrs. Terrell, who will serve on the board with Mrs. Stowell, is recognized as one of the brainiest women of her race. Her husband is a Harvard graduate, and they live at 1936 4th street, Le Droit Park. Mrs. Terrell is an alumna of Oberlin College, graduating from the classical department with high distinction in 1884. She afterward taught Latin and Greek at Wilberforce University, Xenia Ohio. She was two years in Europe studying the modern languages, attending school at Lausanne, Berlin, Florence and Paris. She was for several years employed as a teacher in the Colored High School of the District, is chairman of the educational committee of the Colored Women's League of the city, and has been president of the Bethel Literary Society, being the only woman to occupy that position. She was appointed to registrar of Oberlin College and professor of Greek there, but did not accept the appointment. She was the first colored woman to whom such an appointment was tendered." Mrs. Terrell has recently been interviewed on educational matters by the Washington Star. Her remarks make most interesting reading, and an extract is subjoined for the benefit of our readers. "Mrs. Terrell, whose connection with educational work, especially among the colored people, qualifies her to speak with some authority on the subject, talked interestingly on what she hoped might be accomplished in the future in educational methods. In the course of her conversation she laid special stress upon the need of kindergartens everywhere for all children. Especially in this need felt in the case of the colored children of the District. "As to my views on industrial work, I have only to say that I should give some kind of a trade to each and every young woman who graduates from our public schools. There are at present about three hundred girls in the High School; of this number it is possible for a hundred, perhaps, to receive appointments as teachers. What is to become of the other two hundred, with so many avenues of industry closed against them on account of their color? To be sure, it is possible for them to learn the dressmaker's trade, but they cannot all make a living at dressmaking. "I venture to state that it would be impossible to find a first-class millinery establishment to which a colored girl would be admitted as an apprentice. So I might go on multiplying examples of the disabilities under which our young women labor. "The conclusion of the whole matter is imply this; Let the public schools equip our young women with trades, which they can acquire nowhere else. Let our girls be instructed in all the occupations in which women may engage. The dignity of labor I should preach in season and out, making it a cardinal principle of my ideal system. All young women who have not a pronounced leaning toward teaching should be urged to learn a trade at the beginning of the High School course. One study in the curriculum should be dropped in order to allow the pupil to devote more time to the chosen trade. A certificate or diploma should be given to the pupil when the prescribed course in the industrial department has been completed. The day is not far distant, I hope, when the public schools of the District shall afford our young women the 4 THE WOMAN'S ERA. opportunity of becoming first-class milliners, dressmakers, scientific cooks and proficient artisans in whatever industry they may select." ILLINOIS FANNIE BARRIER WILLIAMS, EDITOR. NEED OF CO-OPERATION OF MEN AND WOMEN IN CORRECTIONAL WORK. Emerson says "That you may proceed in the faith that whatever the woman's heart is prompted to desire, the man's heart is simultaneously prompted to accomplish." The need of co-operation of men and women in correctional work appears so evidently reasonable and axiomatic that the form of the subject might well be changed so as to read, Who says nay to the need of co-operation of men and women in correctional work? But I take it that women simply propose to bring to the work a larger heartedness than is now exercised in its behalf. What our humanity needs and what our religion and finer sentiments ought to suggest is that the very best agencies of our civilization ought to reach and lift up toward the most perfect citizenship all whom fortune and nature have illy favored. Are there so many dependent, homeless and undisciplined children that institutions must be built to house, sustain, and protect them through their minority? Then send them as instructors not or women, but men and women of the best hearts and the finest minds and accomplishments. Women believe that the best that humanity has is none too good to be used in making good men and women out of what are called bad children. The best that woman can offer stands ready to be joined with the best that man can offer in lifting all correctional institutions of the country to a position of greater usefulness in developing character on the ethical side. Our correctional institutions are not what they ought to be, largely because man alone has been the stern master. Correctional work has been a matter of business, a policy of hard necessity, of punishment, of discipline, of appropriations and of salaries. The management of all our institutions growing out of philanthropic impulses has cultivated a delightful aptness in the invention of cheerful names for such institutions. What a joy in such an array of names as Home for the Friendless, Home for Dependent Children, Home for the Incurables, Old People's Home, Erring Woman's Refuge, Old Men's Home, Orphan's Asylum, etc. What a vocabulary of misery! Such names cheapen the quality of mercy and make organized philanthrophy but an expression of patronizing almsgiving. But we need not resort to criticism in order to justify woman's desire to share in the responsibility of making a proper use of the humane forces that would rather save than condemn the waifs of society. We must be ready to recognize that men or women working apart in any reformatory work cannot show perfect results. The supreme need of our correctional institutions is a larger baptism of the home spirit in the management, and women, we believe, can bring this needed influence. She would justify her request for co-operation by making these institutions less of a prison. It should be the mission of woman, with her warmer heart and finer instincts for home training, to make the great body of society absorb into its home life every dependent child susceptible to tender influences. I have faith enough in human kindness to believe that there is somewhere a home for every homeless child. It is possible to make every incorrigible child corrigible by a parental spirit of discipline. Give woman a chance and the great warm heart of human society will beat close to every human being capable of rescue from the blight of the vices. Women would come to this work with a heart and conscience, and ask to have a stronger emphasis placed on every influence that would tend to develop the home instinct of every child appealing to the state for protection and training. Women come to the study of these new responsibilities, not with selfish motives for honors and office and salaries, but rather with a burning desire to make better the world by helping to make better and sweeter the lives of the children of men. We would seek to give a new importance and honor to a department of human responsibility which society has learned to regard in the spirit of almsgiving. We would seek to quicken the responsibility in the breast of every man or woman for every child sent to a reformatory institution. We would establish a direct line of interest be- The Woman's Era VOL. II. NO. 2. BOSTON, MASS., MAY, 1895 PRICE 10 CENTS NOTES AND COMMENTS. The April literary meeting of the Woman's Era Club was in charge of the Race Committee, Mrs. Mary Howard, chairman. Two thoughtful papers on "Our Opportunities" were prepared and eloquently presented by Mrs. Lottie Sampson and Miss Eva Lewis, calling out much discussion by members present. Owing to small attendance, it is proposed to have the papers read again, that a larger number may be heard in the discussion of this important subject. The joyous Easter season was made gladder and the ERA office fragrant by tulips and hyacinths sent in by Doogue, the florist, and sweet mayflowers, straight from Plymouth hillsides, brought by Miss Etta Toliver. The ERA returns thanks to both donors for their thoughtful kindness. The last of the public meetings of the Massachusetts State Federation of Women's Clubs for this season was held on Thursday, April 11, in the Second Church in Dorchester, all the arrangements for the entertainment of the many club members being made by the Dorchester Women's Club. So agreeable have been found these migratory visits of the state federation that Lynn has spoken for the first one of next year, and Roxbury for the second. The annual meeting, to be held in June, will take place on the first Tuesday of that leafy month, when the Social Science Club of Newton will be the entertainers. At the meeting of the 11th ult, Mrs. Jennie K. Adams of Woburn presided in the unavoidable absence of Mrs. Howe. Mrs. Micah Dyer, chairman of the committee of arrangements, Miss Florence Everett, state secretary, and Mrs. Ednah D. Cheney, occupied seats with Mrs. Adams upon the flower-decked platform. The principal addresses of the day were made by Rev. William H. Savage of Newton, who described "Charity of the Olden Times," and Mr. Frank Sanborn, who spoke upon "The Nerves' Centers of Charity," which he affirmed were pity and constraint. Mrs. Ednah Cheney spoke briefly, complimenting Mr. Sanborn on his paper and the clubs on their progress. "Charity to Dumb Animals" found and advocate in Mrs. John Richie, Jr., of Boston, who read "Simon Grubb's Dream." Mrs. Micah Dyer read letters of regret from Superintendent Anagnos of the School for the Blind, and from Rev. Rufus Tobey of the Berkeley Temple. Mrs. Ruffin, president of the Woman's Era Club, gave an interesting report of the good work of St. Monica's Home, conducted by the Sisters of St. Margaret. "The Newspaper and Philanthropy" was the topic discussed by Mrs. Elizabeth M. Gosse. Mrs. Alice N. Lincoln was the last speaker, and she read a paper on "Charity in Public Institutions." The annual meeting of Federated Clubs will be held at Newton early in June. Telegrams of sympathy were sent to Mrs. Howe and Mrs. Livermore. NEW YORK. VICTORIA EARLE, EDITOR Mr. Fortune's recent discussion of the race problem, which has raised such a furore, is widely discussed here; and while some are disposed to condemn the expression of the class of ideas (truths--unsavory, but truths nevertheless) that he advanced, others applaud his courage in naming boldly the actual condition of the Afro-Americans as a whole, and laying bare the various causes that are slowly settling upon the masses, barring progress and enlightenment. When the emotional and sensitive character of our people is taken into consideration, his courage is obvious. No man is in a better position to speak on this subject than Mr. 2 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Fortune, and the fact of his having given this subject his closest attention during long years entitles him at least to fair and unbiassed judgment. Thus far no facts have been produced in contradiction of his premises. The history of all nations proves beyond a doubt that people often need a plain, matter-of-fact expose of ruinous customs and nobility-destroying tendencies, as well as the individual; and that man whose mind is given to the advancement of his face is untrue to himself, his people, and the rational demands of the age in which he lives, if fear of condemnation prevents his calling attention to a condition which, if allowed to develop, is liable to be productive of a national disease. There is but one way, according to our way of thinking, to disprove the obnoxious statement; and that is, as Dr. John M. Henderson says, for the workers as well as the thinkers of the race to put themselves in harmony with the forces of progress. If plain truth and honest criticism will be productive of self examination as a people, by all means let us have such; for when a people begin to think, light and its attendant blessings and benefits follow. ----- AN EXPERIMENT WITH KINETOSCOPE AND A PHONOGRAPH. A man and a woman in a plainly furnished room. He says, Cherie, knowing how lonely your life is, I have bought and arranged this kinetoscope with views of the happenings of today among our people in Gotham, also a phonograph, so that you may know the talk of the day. If you will place yourself at the kinetoscope, I will shift the scenes and explain, according to my ideas, what they mean. Ah! this picture, she says, is the Silent Shore, Sharon, a boat, and across that river the beautiful beyond, and in that halo of light a glimpse of some that have fought the good fight and received their crown, Douglass, Garnet, Peterson, Price, Ray, and the shadow of an innumerable throng; and here, leading down to the river, is a Hill. Yes, he says, that is the Hill of life, and here are a few of the many who have reached the heights and are laurel-crowned, Cromwell, Coffin, Harper, and a goodly number of young men and women filling up the ranks with genius, talent and education and full of energy and aspiration, all striving to reach that goal — success. And this ladder, that the topmost rounds seem golden and are lost in the clouds above, that is the ladder of fame; but why, says she, do they look with envy and try to jostle and push each other aside? Surely the rounds of the ladder are broad and wide enough for all. Because, he ways, they are very human, and the unwritten law of humanity is self preservation. And is this the legislature? Here are some of our prominent women; they seem to be making a petition. No, they are before the school board. Take the phonograph and you will find they are simply asking that justice be done, and that some of our well-equipped teachers be placed in the mixed schools; they also desire that one of our women be put on the school board to further the interest of the Afro-American. Meanwhile, if some of our women who are born diplomatists will make friends with the power behind the throne, Mrs. Granis, etc., they will eventually succeed. You know Gen. Grant gained some of his victories through strategy. And this large gathering of women, do you notice how much of refinement and intelligence there is among them? That is the W. L. U.; their purpose is the uplifting and betterment of their race and to give practical encouragement to all branches of industry and talent; they are doing a great and good work, because the leaders of the movement have the element of success within them and their influence is wide and far-reaching. And this large crowd? Ah! they look so sad and anxious. Yes, he says they are the great unemployed working class. Colored people as servants have gone out of fashion. "It isn't English, you know," to employ them, and yet in some instances it is our own fault. People now require the best service, and we don't keep up with the times, but do things in a slip-shot sort of way. If the advanced woman would start a training school for domestics she might evolve competent help that would be in demand irrespective of race, color of previous condition. What a bright, pretty picture this is, she says. Yes, that is a function given by the smart set. What a lot of lovely well-gowned girls and charming young matrons; but it seems to be er—er— rather away from the haunts of men. There are a very few misguided, unhappy-looking youths who have doubtless done their duty nobly dancing, and they are now wildly but vainly trying to make their escape, and those pretty girls have a pensive, far-away, expectant look in their eyes, as if they were waiting with that hope that rises eternal of creation will put in an appearance. Do THE WOMAN'S ERA. 3 you think he will come? Oh no, he says, each and everyone of them had to see a man on business at the club, and they are there, telling with unholy glee how they dodged their wives and their sweethearts, their sisters and their cousins. Why, this must be the great Mogul himself, an all of these Afro-Americans are casting tribute at his feet! Oh no; that is only our colored brethren paying their money for the hire of halls for their entertainments. And why do they not co-operate and have buildings of their own? Because what this race need is confidence in each other and in their leading men. And this picture— Petite, do you mean to sleep all day? Asleep! Is it possible? And it was only a dream after all! Petite Reine. WASHINGTON MARY CHURCH TERRELL, EDITOR. ----- Early in April, Mrs. Mary Church Terrell was appointed on the Board of School Trustees for the District of Columbia. The placing of women on the board is an innovation for the District, and the applicants were many and persistent. This being so, and Mrs. Terrell being one of two appointed, (and of course the only one of color) she, as well as the Woman's Era, may justly feel honored. The large number of applicants made the matter of choosing difficult and critical, and the fortunate appointees have the satisfaction of knowing that they have distanced all competitors in fitness and capability and stand as the best obtainable for their positions. It is possible that some of our readers are unacquainted with the career of Mrs. Terrell; for their satisfaction we quote from the Washington Post, only adding that Mrs. Terrell has attracted much attention everywhere by her work in the Era, extracts from her contributions being often copied in the leading papers of the country. "Mrs. Terrell, who will serve on the board with Mrs. Stowell, is recognized as one of the brainiest women of her race. Her husband is a Harvard graduate, and they live at 1936 4th street, Le Droit Park. Mrs. Terrell is an alumna of Oberlin College, graduating from the classical department with high distinction in 1884. She afterward taught Latin and Greek at Wilberforce University, Xenia Ohio. She was two years in Europe studying the modern languages, attending school at Lausanne, Berlin, Florence and Paris. She was for several years employed as a teacher in the Colored High School of the District, is chairman of the educational committee of the Colored Women's League of the city, and has been president of the Bethel Literary Society, being the only woman to occupy that position. She was appointed registrar of Oberlin College and professor of Greek there, but did not accept the appointment. She was the first colored woman to whom such an appointment was tendered." Mrs. Terrell has recently been interviewed on educational matters by the Washington Star. Her remarks make most interesting reading, and an extract is subjoined for the benefit of our readers. "Mrs. Terrell, whose connection with educational work, especially among the colored people, qualifies her to speak with some authority on the subject, talked interestingly on what she hoped might be accomplished in the future in educational methods. In the course of her conversation she laid special stress upon the need of kindergartens everywhere for all children. Especially is this need felt in the case of the colored children of the District. "As to my views on industrial work, I have only to say that I should give some kind of a trade to each and every young woman who graduates from our public schools. There are at present about three hundred girls in the High School; of this number it is possible for a hundred, perhaps, to receive appointments as teachers. What is to become of the other two hundred, with so many avenues of industry closed against them on account of their color? To be sure, it is possible for them to learn the dressmaker's trade, but they cannot all make a living at dressmaking. "I venture to state that it would be impossible to find a first-class millinery establishment to which a colored girl would be admitted as an apprentice. So I might go on multiplying examples of the disabilities under which our young women labor. "The conclusion of the whole matter is simply this: Let the public schools equip our young women with trades, which they can acquire nowhere else. Let our girls be instructed in all the occupations in which women may engage. The dignity of labor I should preach in season and out, making it a cardinal principle of my ideal system. All young women who have not a pronounced leaning toward teaching should be urged to learn a trade a the beginning of the High School course. One study in the curriculum should be dropped in order to allow the pupil to devote more time to the chosen trade. A certificate or diploma should be given to the pupil when the prescribed course in the industrial department has been completed. The day is not far distant, I hope, when the public schools of the District shall afford our young women the 4 THE WOMAN'S ERA. opportunity of becoming first-class milliners, dressmakers, scientific cooks and proficient artisans in whatever industry they may select." ILLINOIS. FANNIE BARRIER WILLIAMS, EDITOR. NEED OF CO-OPERATION OF MEN AND WOMEN IN CORRECTIONAL WORK. [Photo] Emerson says "That you may proceed in the faith that whatever the woman's heart is prompted to desire, the man's heart is simultaneously prompted to accomplish." The need of co-operation of men and women in correctional work appears so evidently reasonable and axiomatic that the form of the subject might well be changed so as to read, Who says nay to the need of co-operation of men and women in correctional work? But I take it that women simply propose to bring to the work a larger heartedness than is now exercised in its behalf. What our humanity needs and what our religion and finer sentiments ought to suggest is that the very best agencies of our civilization ought to reach and lift up toward the most perfect citizenship all whom fortune and nature have illy favored. Are there so many dependent, homeless and undisciplined children that institutions must be built to house, sustain and protect them through their minority? Then send to them as instructors not men or women, but men and women of the best hearts and the finest minds and accomplishments. Women believe that the best that humanity has is none too good to be used in making good men and women out of what are called bad children. The best that woman can offer stands ready to be joined with the best that man can offer in lifting all correctional institutions of the country to a position of greater usefulness in developing character on the ethical side. Our correctional institutions are not what they ought to be, largely because man alone has been the stern master. Correctional work has been a matter of business, a policy of hard necessity, of punishment, of discipline, of appropriations and of salaries. The management of all our institutions growing out of philanthropic impulses has cultivated a delightful aptness in the invention of cheerful names for such institutions. What a joy in such an array of names as Home for the Friendless, Home for Dependent Children, Home for the Incurables, Old People's Home, Erring Woman's Refuge, Old Men's Home, Orphan's Asylum, etc. What a vocabulary of misery! Such names cheapen the quality of mercy and make organized philanthropy but an expression of patronizing almsgiving. But we need not resort to criticism in order to justify woman's desire to share in the responsibility of making a proper use of the humane forces that would rather save than condemn the waifs of society. We must be ready to recognize that men or women working apart in any reformatory work cannot show perfect results. The supreme need of our correctional institutions is a larger baptism of the home spirit in the management, and women, we believe, can bring this needed influence. She would justify her request for co-operation by making these institutions less of a prison. It should be the mission of woman, with her warmer heart and finer instincts for home training, to make the great body of society absorb into its home life every dependent child susceptible to tender influences. I have faith enough in human kindness to believe that there is somewhere a home for every homeless child. It is possible to make every incorrigible child corrigible by a parental spirit of discipline. Give woman a chance and the great warm heart of human society will beat close to every human being capable of rescue from the blight of the vices. Women would come to this work with a heart and conscience, and ask to have a stronger emphasis placed on every influence that would tend to develop the home instinct of every child appealing to the state for protection and training. Women come to the study of these new responsibilities, not with selfish motives for honors and office and salaries, but rather with a burning desire to make better the world by helping to make better and sweeter the lives of the children of men. We would seek to give a new importance and honor to a department of human responsibility which society has learned to regard in the spirit of almsgiving. We would seek to quicken the responsibility in the breast of every man or woman for every child sent to a reformatory institution. We would establish a direct line of interest between THE WOMAN'S ERA. 7 every child of misfortune and the heart of every home in the land. We would increase the importance of every child and diminish the institutional features of every reformatory. This is not saying too much or hoping too much for what woman can and will do when prejudice shall give way to the entrance of her love and aptitude for all things that concern the deeper and tenderer side of human life. PENNSYLVANIA. DORA J. COLE, EDITOR. [Photo] On Easter Monday evening the citizens of Philadelphia held a memorial meeting for Frederick Douglass at the Academy of Music. It was an impressive occasion. Many distinguished speakers dwelt on different phases of his many - sided life, tributes were paid to his unblemished integrity, his gracious personality , his strong mentality and magnetic eloquence, but it was reserved for a woman to electrify and enthuse the audience. Mrs. Fanny Jackson Coppin spoke of what Douglass' life meant to the young, each to work out in his own way the good work so nobly carried on by our spokesman who is now silent, he who in his life seemed to be a witness for the capability of the negro if only afforded the opportunity. Mrs. Coppin spoke of his belief in woman , of her ability to acquire knowledge and of her rights in the body politic. I would be happy if I could even faintly give you an idea of her eloquence as she contrasted the condition of the negro in 1843, twenty years later and now. Her audience was charmed and thrilled, and responded to her thoughts that breathe and words that burn with such deafening applause that she gathered their commendation as a weapon against them and charged all who applauded her sentiments to be responsible for carrying them out. It was a grand object lesson for the detractors of woman's ability and an inspiration for every woman who heard her, so capable, so powerful, so modest. less children to see hundreds of beautiful little things that hitherto have lain in their way unnoticed. But is this discipline? If discipline be the nourishing and directing of the gentleness that is in a child, this is discipline, and that of the highest order. APPLE BLOSSOMS. Dainty April flowers, in your lovely little robes Of shaded pink and white, Ever changing, always giving promises divine Of happy harvest time, Lessons noble, true and holy teaching age and youth. Your fragrance sweetly woos careless youth With tales of fame and bliss secure; Again the aged hold Treasures deeply buried in the grave of long ago. Today you gaily smile, Turning dreary winter from our lives and from Speaking of school work reminds me of an exhibition held in our city of Works of Art suggested for Schoolroom Decoration. The exhibition was held in Drexel Institute, itself a work of art, with its marble court and magnificent stairway leading to the upper galleries and rooms. If some of the old wielders of the hickory switch in the white-washed, wooden-benched schoolrooms of the past could have wandered through these halls and seen the models proposed for the decoration of our schools he would have thought that times were changed indeed. A new era is opening in American school life. The kindergarten was the entering wedge. It showed the possibilities of childish observation and perception. Trained in the habit of seeing beauty , surrounded by examples of what is pure and beautiful, classical and great, it is hoped that it will lead the children to hate ugliness in the home, in the street and in their lives. The exhibition consisted of models, casts, prints and engravings of what is the highest and best in the world of art, the immortal marbles of Grecian and Roman masters, all the famous conceptions of the Madonna and child, the noted cathedrals of every country, historical and allegorical subjects, poets, statesmen, inventors, philosophers, triumphal arches, the Sphynx and Pyramids. It was an instructive and interesting array , and if the City Fathers in their wisdom see their way clear to appropriate the funds necessary for the [PICTURE] are alarmed when their children are sent home from school. They seem to feel it keenly as a great disgrace. Their first impulse is to go after the teacher. Even should they come with sleeves rolled up and sparks flying from their eyes, let them find the teacher polite and just. They will, in the end, conclude that it is better to have that boy managed by the teacher than to have him expelled and at home on their hands. The probability is that before they leave, they will be more severe on the child than was the teacher. There is no question about it. When there is open rebellion, something must be done -- not said. Some natures can be acted upon only in this way. It is a heritage that has come down from those cruel days. All humanity is akin, but each people has its peculiarities, and we have ours. We are loath and very loath, to give credit, by word or action, where it is due. If one does a thing well, we seem to think a little praise will detract from our ability, and we begin at once to find fault and to tell of greater things we have seen and heard. This spirit reveals itself in many different ways. I once saw a young mother cast glances of the deepest affection upon her eighteen-months-old babe, as it sat upon the floor. But when the little one looked back at her, prattled and smiled she reached out and slapped it in the face. It AN'S ERA. seemed to me that she feared to let it see how much she loved it. I have seen a large-sized girl trying hard to step upon a higher plane. I have watched the signs of the terrible conflict that was going on within her breast, between gentleness and habit- ual roughness. I have seen her stop and try to greet her teacher or schoolmates politely, and then (as though an evil spirit had turned her right about) toss her head up and stalk by. How pitiable to see the kindness struggling in the toils of habit! Right here comes another oppor- tunity for the teacher. She can help gentleness to gain the mastery. In the heart of every child there is a spirit of kindliness. With some, the heart is full and running over. With others, the spirit is asleep deep down in some dark and hidden recess. There must be an awakening, before its presence can be felt ; but when once it is aroused, the teacher does not appeal to the higher nature in vain. Refinement that springs from within, shows itself in the movements, as well as in the acts of a person. Many teachers spend valuable time in working on the wrong side. Begin within and work outward. It is in the school-room that a child gets a great part of the training that is to fit him for the stern realities of life. He learns to respect the rights of others. He learns to curb his temper, to be manly enough to acknowledge his wrongs; to expect hardships, and to have courage to fight against them and down them. There are teachers whose greatest force is flattery and fulsome praise. They give the child an exalted opinion of himself, making him be- lieve that he is the teacher's sole support, and without his presence and assistance all would go wrong. The bad boy may be kept within bounds in this way. But what is the result when he gets out into the world? Who pets and flatters him then, just to keep him in good humor? Who jokes with him to take away the sting of a de- served rebuke? Who thinks that he always should have the right of way? He will find life a hard and cruel thing. He will condemn his false teacher and hate her for her treachery. Let us do good, honest work, so that the boys and girls we send out may be honest men and women. In no case should we let an act of dis- honesty, by word or look, go uncensured. [*?Our aim should be to have the heart right the*] THE WOMAN'S ERA. 7 Not long ago, a junior class was reading. I called attention to the quotation marks that inclosed a sentence. "Do you notice those marks?" asked I. A tall lad of fifteen thrust his hands into his pockets, stretched out his legs their full length under the desk, and with one eye directed toward me, said, "Huh! I knew them long time ago." " What are they?" " Quotation marks !" was the lofty answer. " What are quotation marks?" The correct definition was given with a most triumphant air, and the other eye was turned round to note the effect. "If I were to ask you to compose a sentence and place these marks where they belong, could you do it? " He hung his head and had to admit that he could not. "Of what use to us is the knowledge of quota- tion marks? To enable us to stand up and recite, or to fit us to use them in written work?" He saw my point, and was manly enough not to murmur, as he usually did when I gave his class written work to do. A few months ago, Rev. Dr. Hamlin of Wash- ington, D. C., addressed the Y. M. C. A. upon the subject "Knowing and Doing." He referred to his recent visit to Yale University and spoke of the practical work of the students there as one of the greatest examples in this age, of the necessity of both knowing and doing, "Knowledge," he said, " is useless unless it is put into practice." If a boy can spell well, there is no reason why he should not be able to let it be seen in his let- ters to his friends and in all other compositions beside his spelling exercise. Writing should be something more than another form of drawing. Well formed letters and neatly arranged words should adorn every page of every written exer- cise, not the copy-book alone. Can the teacher do more? Yes. She can do a great deal to brighten the poorest homes. She can explain to her little charges how homes can be made brighter by loving hearts and willing hands. She can make it clear that dimes spent for candy and pickles can be saved and put to a better use. She can impress upon infant minds that respect for old age is pleasing in the sight of God. She can broaden their sympathies and widen their sense of honor. She can bring care- less children to see hundreds of beautiful little things that hitherto have lain in their way unno- ticed. But is this discipline? If discipline be the nourishing and directing of the gentleness that is in a child, this is discipline, and that of the high- est order. APPLE BLOSSOMS. Dainty April flowers, in your lovely little robes Of shaded pink and white, Ever changing, always giving promises divine Of happy harvest time, Lessons noble, true and holy teaching age and youth. Your fragrance sweetly woos careless youth With tales of fame and bliss secure; Again the aged hold Treasures deeply buried in the grave of long ago. Today you gaily smile, Turning dreary winter from our lives and from the land; Tomorrow on the earth Low you'll lie, yet not destroyed, although to mem'ry lost, For what ye could ye've done. At the annual election of the Colored Woman's League the following officers were elected for the ensuing year: Mrs. Mary Handy, president ; Miss Anna H. Jones, Mrs. McDowell, vice pres- idents ; Mrs. Cora W. Griffin, recording secre- tary : Mrs. Mallory, assistant secretary ; Mrs. J. S. Yates, corresponding secretary ; Mrs. Callie Edwards, treasurer. A reception was tendered Miss Ida B. Wells by the League on the occasion of the last meeting of the year 1894-95, and after highly interesting remarks by Miss Wells, the following resolutions were adopted. Whereas, the Colored Woman's League, an incorporated body, was organized for the purpose of lending aid in any possible way to all members of the race, and especially to the amelioration of the condition of our women and girls; therefore be it Resolved, That this organization recognizes in the personal character of Miss Ida B. Wells, and in the untiring, self-sacrificing efforts she is put- ting forth toward arousing public sentiment, a potent force in the work of calling attention to the wrongs perpetrated upon individual members fo the race ; of bringing about better methods for 8 THE WOMAN'S ERA. the adjustment of the differences arising between the races; and of securing for the accused an impartial hearing, a fair trial and absolute justice before the courts of law. Among other resolutions passed as a result of the series of meetings conducted by Miss Wells during her stay in Kansas City, the following, adopted at the close of her address before the W. T.C.U., in view of recent discussions, are especially worthy of note. "Whereas the barbarous and atrocious custom of lynching is growing rapidly in all parts of the United States without regard for sex, and too often on mere suspicion, as witness the wanton murder of a white woman in Nebraska and a colored woman in Tennessee; therefore, we, the women of the Central Women's Christian Temperance Union, of Kansas City, Mo., condemn the brutalizing and degrading effects of such revolting spectacles, express our hearty sympathy with Miss Ida B. Wells in her crusade against lynching, and pledge ourselves to use our influence toward arousing public sentiment to the crying need of a full and complete protection by the law until the fair and impartial trial guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States shall have established the guilt or innocence of the accused." COLORADO. ELIZABETH PIPER ENSLEY, EDITOR CLUB LAND. [Photo] With the rapid growth of country, city and town, old conditions have changed, new ones are brought forth. During the past decade, woman's organizations have sprung up, apparently with mushroom growth; yet many have stood the test of years, proving them to be important factors in educational life. Denver is a city of women's clubs. The oldest organizations of this kind are the Fortnightly and Monday Literacy clubs, both having been formed about 1881. The Fortnightly has rather the highest social standing, but it is a question whether it does any deeper or better work than the Monday, the standard of both being high, progressive and scholarly. The membership of each of these clubs is limited to twenty-four. The papers cover a range of subjects relating to literature, art and the home. The Clio Club is of a similar nature. It has made thorough study of historical periods, covering the literary, artistic and social growth of each epoch. Perhaps its program for the past season will be interesting. "The invasion of Europe by the Barbarians and its results;" "The Crusades and their effects upon European civilization;" "The Sieges of Paris;" "The mythical and romantic element in early English History." The Round Table Club pursues historical studies, this year continuing its attention to the historical plays of Shakespeare. The Friday Morning Club, which meets in the beautiful art studio of one of its members each week, has studied the art of various epochs, beginning with the Egyptian and coming down to modern times. The history, life manners, etc., of each country being studied in connection with the art. The Woman's Club, organized one year ago, is patterned after the Chicago Woman's Club. It already has several hundred members, representing mainly the wealth and fashion of Denver, but has among its members women physicians, teachers, newspaper women, etc. There are six departments, Home, Education, Philanthropy, Art and Literature, Science and Philosophy and Reform. All members must enter one of these departments. Each department holds a monthly meeting of its own, and there is also a monthly meeting of the entire club. Outside of the programs both of the general club work and the department work, much practical work is done, as opening industrial rooms for women, a cooking school, etc. The Woman's Educational Club is a new club which is doing excellent work in the study of political economy, so necessary to the new voters, and perhaps old ones as well. There are a host of lesser clubs in Denver, including the political clubs of the women of the various parties, and dozens of study and reading clubs all over the city. It will be of special interest to the readers of the ERA to know that among the last formed, but by no means least, in its scope of work, is the Woman's League of Denver. This organization was formed, primarily, to co-operate with the THE WOMAN'S ERA. 9 Colored Woman's League of Washington, D.C., whose principal object is to gather and compile facts showing the progress of the race in all departments of life, to encourage unity of purpose, and to devise ways and means for promoting the best interests of the colored people of the United States. The special work of the Denver League is suggested by its local needs. It was apparent that the time and effort spent in such an organization must be directed along such lines as would prove beneficial and remunerative. The work is divided into two principal departments, educational and industrial. In order that the women may become educated in thought, an original paper is prepared and read by some member each week. A discussion follows. There is a parliamentary drill and the current events are given. Classes are formed as the members desire to take up a particular study. Private instruction is furnished on easy terms. The industrial department provides instruction in different kinds of handiwork. At the end of each quarter there is a public sale of foods and other articles, thus encouraging woman's industries, competition leading them to be satisfied only with the highest standards. A Woman's Exchange will be conducted by the League as soon as suitable quarters can be obtained. It is the aim of the Woman's League to become to women, however circumstanced, a means of aid, protection, elevation, and development, according as each may need. Old and young, all creeds, unite on the common ground of womanhood. Nothing so stimulates and creates enthusiasm as the contact and friction with other minds. To learn to work harmoniously is education of a high order. So if we are patiently persistent in working toward our ideal through the medium of the League, we shall gain that broad judgment, keen discrimination and charitableness which are productive of a well-rounded character. The officers of the Woman's League for 1895 are president, Mrs. Lizzie M. Olden; first vice president, Mrs. Elizabeth Wallace, second vice president, Ms. Julia Hubbard; corresponding secretary, Mrs. Ida De Priest; recording secretary, Mrs. E. Azalia Hackley; treasurer, Mrs. Marcellina M. Beatty; board of directors, Mrs. Louis Allison, Mrs. Eva Johnson, Mrs. H.W. Wade, Mrs. F.D. Cooper and Mrs. E.P. Ensley. The Woman's League is enrolled in the State Federation of Women's Clubs. Miss Ida B. Wells lectured in Denver in March. The League edited the Easter edition of the Statesman Exponent. A RARE OPPORTUNITY. The best known preventive to consumption is climate, and it is generally conceded that Colorado has the best anti-consumption climate in America. Hundreds come every year to Denver, hoping to prolong life or regain health; many of them do so who would otherwise meet early death. The climate of Denver, dry, pure, and sunny, with its elevation of one mile above sea level, effectually cures all incipient lung diseases. Therefore parents having children predisposed to lung trouble are advised to send them to Denver to pursue their studies. The fine public schools and the Denver University afford unsurpassed educational facilities. Mrs. Ensley will take into her home a limited number of girls and young ladies desiring to get the benefit of the climate while attending school. She will give special attention to home training and physical culture, particularly to chest expansion, diet and healthful dressing, while superintending their course at the public schools. When private instruction is preferred the best teachers will be secured. For further information address MRS. E.P. ENSLEY, 1755 Ogden St., Denver, Col. Refers by permission to Mr. Nathaniel T. Allen of West Newton English and Classical School. WANTS. To supply any of these Wants apply at office of WOMEN'S ERA. Private family will receive music student to board and lodge. Reasonable terms. Pleasant home. Kranich & Bach piano to practice on. Easy access to the musical life and institutions of Boston. References given and required. Miss M.W. Gould will give lessons by mail in English composition, grammar, use of capitals, punctuation, formation of sentences, etc. A woman of business experience and ability will act as confidential agent in taking care of or settling up the estates of women and children. Advice free. A safe and pleasant home for a young girl desirous of preparing herself to become a trained nurse, in return for services in house-work. 10 THE WOMAN'S ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA, the organ of the Woman's Era Club, and devoted to the interests of the Women's Clubs, Leagues and Societies throughout the country, Published monthly, in Boston, by JOSEPHINE ST.P. RUFFIN, FLORIDA R. RIDLEY, 103 Charles Street. MARIA L. BALDWIN. SUBSCRIPTIONS. Per Annum, - - - - - - $1.00 Single Copies, - - - - - .10 Club Rates, one hundred copies 7.00 Subscriptions Payable in Advance. EDITORIAL While the schools have made of woman a good deal of a scientist and a good deal of a philosopher, her genius of teaching the human heart its best lessons of home and its sanctities has lost none of its potency. But I do not wish to seem too flattering in urging the qualifications of women which should entitle her to co-operate with men in all work that makes for the public weal. I perhaps ought to admit that we ourselves are open to some criticism in our tendency to organize all our plans and schemes for the public good on sex lines. We ourselves help to discourage co-operation by too many organizations of ourselves, by ourselves and for ourselves. If women wish to advance any worthy cause by organization that cause would be better advanced by the co-operation of men and women than by their separation. For the purpose of social pleasure co-operation is admittedly proper, but for the advancement of humane and other high interests women are deemed incapable for association. For this mean discrimination we are not altogether blameless. The best organizations on both sides of the sex lines would be strengthened in their good purpose by co-operation. If the letter M could in some way be added to W.C.T.U. the saloon interests could not only be regarded as one of the greatest indecencies of our civilization, but the blessed cause of temperance would be more widely triumphant in practical ways. I cannot refrain from adding that for peculiar reasons we, as colored women, should most devoutly wish for a larger and more rapid growth of this spirit of co-operation of men and women in all good works. The need of the heart and mind of every woman to help in the solution of the many problems of sociology, suggest the further need of the heart and mind of every good man and woman, of whatever color or race, for the same good purposes. The co-operation that women now seek for is the levelling spirit of democracy emancipating itself from the thrall of prejudice and looking toward the ethical equalities of life. In this agitation all progressive women are helping to bring our nation to the deep philosophy of Herbert Spencer, that "no one can be perfectly free until all are free, and no one can be perfectly happy until all are happy." A gentle brave man is the hardest kind of a combatant to meet, and it is probable that Miss Katherine P. Loring has come to this conclusion in her endeavor to excuse the people of Camden for their treatment of Mr. Richard P. Hallowell. Mr. Hallowell is the quietest kind of a gentleman and probably a revelation to southerners, who seldom recognize courage unless accompanied by bluster and foolhardiness. Mr. Hallowell, so far from ignoring Miss Loring's letter to the Boston Herald, brands it as utterly false, and calls upon the lady who has made herself "a too willing dupe of her friends in Camden" for a public retraction. Nothing has yet been heard from Miss Loring, who has probably not recovered from having her southern friends shown up as they are and not as they make themselves appear so often to weak-minded northerners. This is not the first of such occurrences in the south by any means. Probably all of us have personal knowledge of similar affairs. But in making a target of Mr. Hallowell, Camden certainly waked up the wrong passenger, for here is a man to whom loyalty is as the breath of life; who is loyal to himself, his convictions, to his sense of justice and right; who is not to be deceived by specious arguments. Miss Loring has evidently retired, silenced by convincing truth, but as Mr. Hallowell "does not propose to release her from the responsibility she has taken upon herself," we have probably not heard the end of the matter yet. Mrs. Silas Dickerson, of Newport, and her daughter, Miss Kinloch, spent Easter week in Boston. Their many friends were more than delighted at the opportunity to entertain them, and the consequence was a delightful time all around. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 11 CALIFORNIA. S. WILLIE LAYTON, EDITOR. A GLIMPSE AT CALIFORNIA MISSIONS. (Concluded.) [Photo] Give your imagination full play, and picture these mission villages, located on some slight eminence o'erlooking a bonito rio, or verdant valley variegated with "baby blue eyes" and yellow poppies, valleys affording bountiful pasturage and feed for the cattle and live stock; or on some bold bluff where could be seen the beautiful blue sea. In either location, about a court of about a half acre, the buildings; the prozolera or dining hall; a wing containing the friars' cells, these small, poorly ventilated, with scarcely any furniture in many of them, ofttimes only a couch of hides stretched over a stout wooden frame, the friars only luxury. There were shelters for the live stock, and store houses for grain and provisions, dwellings, and the monjerio, a low stone structure, with a square court in the middle. The monjerio was the nunnery; here dwelt the mission maidens, presided over by a trusty old Indian woman, who kept vigilant watch over her charges. In the court sat the Indian maidens, working, weaving, spinning, chatting and casting coy eyes at the opposite sex, whom cupid would designingly decoy that way. All the cloth, towels, church embroideries, etc., used about the missions was the work of these maidens. Life here was simple and regular. At daylight all were astir, and proceeded to mass, after which breakfast, of the unvarying menu, atole (a preparation of barley) was served. Dinner consisted of atole cooked in various ways, with mutton as an entree; occasionally spinach frijoles were served. "At six o'clock P.M." supper was served of pinole, this a preparation of the ever present atole. To this the neophytes could add nuts and wild berries, which they gathered and stored in large quantities. Every morning from the commissary department, the mavera issued to each individual his daily bread. The benedicts carried their allowance home to be shared with their families; the unmarried males carried their allowance to the prozolera where it was prepared and served at one common table. At sundown, the "Angelus," when the laborers, neophytes, and padres assembled in the chapel for prayers; the litany sung, the blessing invoked, the day ended, all returned to rest. The licentious and brutal conduct of the soldiers toward the Indian women caused numerous outbreaks and "Indian uprisings" so that the presidios were moved from the church settlements, and the padres discountenanced mixed marriages. To induce marriage among the natives, the padres would march all the male neophytes in the chapel, then repair to the mojerio and say, "Which of you, my daughters, wish to marry?" This would cause blushing and questioning glances from maiden to maiden, when they would all spring to their feet and follow the padre into the chapel, where stood in tow the anxious and prospective bridegrooms, each hoping to attract the choice of his ideal, the prettiest and youngest of the maidens, who had the sole right of choosing. Sometimes the fastidious maidens, after coquettishly eyeing the row, would not find one to her liking, thereby deferring her choice and disappointing and blasting the hope of aspiring candidates. Some of these romantic marriages were affairs of the heart and very happy unions resulted. These unions were rarely prolific, attributed by historians to the new and sudden modes of life forced upon the neophytes. Remarkably strange, the prolificness of the mixed marriages; it was not uncommon to see from fifteen to twenty-five children in a family. Punishment to maintain order was in various forms. Capital crimes were turned over to the soldiers; not infrequently refractory bucks were laid across the knees of the "fat, greasy" friars, and received physical emphasis of his admonition, with salutatory effect, There yet remains, despite the vandalism of the relic hunter, specimens of the workmanship of the neophytes. They were instructed in all the arts and mechanics, etc., of that time. In that time of successful communism, there was no display of greed of gain, no lust for money or selfish aggrandizement -- the time of peaceful Eutopian villages; there was, to mar the serenity of the pious padres, however, outbreak from savage and unfriendly tribes; then came the great troubles of 1812, which destroyed many buildings and lives; last came secularization. In little more than a century thirty thousand Indians had been taken from barbarism, and taught to cultivate the soil and utilize its products, to manufacture and wear clothes, to build and live in house, and 12 THE WOMAN'S ERA. above all to know and worship the true God. Cattle and stock were thriving and increasing each year, vineyards and orchards flourishing and yielding abundant productions, all basking in the sunlight of prosperity, spiritual and temporal, but the storm of secularization was approaching, to soon burst with devastating fury. The empowered Comision idos, armed with the proclamations of secularization, seized all lands and stock ; the cowled monks were to cease walking and praying in the beautiful mission gardens ; disintegration of property followed ; the Indians had their possessions wrested from them. Removed from the restraining influences of the padres, a mighty struggle ensued between their few years of civilization, and hundreds of years of barbarism, "and it is not surprising that the weaker foe was vanquished." The mission ruins, beside whose walls lie sleeping those who played a conspicuous part in the history of their existence, are the links that connect our civilization with the romantic mission period. May they be preserved monuments to the padres who silently sleep, watched by the willows that o'er them weep. OHIO. SADA J. ANDERSON, EDITOR. [Photo] Toledo has enjoyed quite a treat within the past few days. The second State Convention of the King's Daughters and Sons was held here. It has been a great pleasure to sit under the sound of the voices of such noble women as Mrs. Margaret Bottome of New York, President of the International Order, Mrs. Mary Lowe Dickinson and Mrs. I.C. Davis, both of New York ; the former editor of the Silver Cross, the magazine of the order, and the latter the business manager. All three of these ladies are but to be seen to be loved. We all, no doubt, are acquainted with Mrs. Bottome through her "Heart to Heart" talks to the daughters in the Ladies' Home Journal. We feel that Toledo has been blest, and much good has been done here through these noble women. Perhaps there is no organization on the globe, save the church, covering so large a scope of usefulness as does this order. Over 350,000 wear the little silver cross in His name; wee tots, whose little lips can scarce lisp the name of the King, wear it ; hard laboring girls, on the mercies of a cruel world, wear it ; women whose lives are one of toil, care and undeserved censure, feel the pang caused by the cruel thrusts of an unjust world no longer when the heart is hidden under the silver cross ; silver-haired mothers become mothers indeed when they are all glorious within. Such is the characteristic of the King's daughter. It was wonderful to hear what these dear daughters of Ohio have accomplished within the past year. Splendid, yes, marvelous reports were brought in from all parts of the state, of glorious results for the King. One very dear report to me was from the university circle of the Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. These girls are saving enough money out of their own to pay half the expenses of an African girl in a college in Ashville, N.C., her lady principal bearing the other half. I spoke to the young ladies concerning the noble act, and one said, "Yes, sometimes we have scarce enough money to bear our own expenses, but in His name waesacrifice our own pleasures for this dear girl in Ashville, for we all have learned to love her." Thus the good work goes on. Would that the hearts of all womankind could beat under the little silver cross and be pure and holy within. The work does not stop with philanthropic results alone, but these dear ones go on developing in spirituality and stimulating christian activities, thereby making the world better by their having been in it. Quite a good number joined the International Order, one of the number being your representative. If nothing prevents, your representative will address the Y. W. C. A. at their parlors the second Sunday, in the afternoon. This organization offers the same opportunities to the colored woman as it does to the white. We feel perfectly at home there, and although the first woman of color to ever stand before them in such a position, we can not appreciate the honor too highly. The Dickens Club was very highly entertained by Mrs. Hattie Cannon. It was our misfortune to be unable to be with them, thereby losing quite a literary treat, as they rendered a very fine program. This club has a membership of fourteen very studious women, whose aim is to become wiser in every respect. They have made vast improvements since their organization. The ERA is at home in this club, and its appearance every month is anxiously awaited. An editorial in last month's issue concerning the Ladies' Home Journal forces me to say that the ERA has caused it (the Journal) to become quite jealous, as those who have been taking the Journal have given it up for the ERA. Last week a white gentleman friend of ours, a retired missionary, called in to solicit subscriptions for some periodicals in which he is very much interested. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 13 I told him that I could not find the time to give to his papers after reading our own publications. He was surprised, and said, "Why, you don't mean to tell me that your race has produced authors and editors, and can you show me some of the publications?" I hastily placed before him every paper, pamphlet, journal and book in the library the productions of our race. "Well, well," says he, "you are taking me by storm. I did not know that your people aspired to such. Why, this is simply marvelous." So it is with the whites. They endeavor to get their literature into our homes, never once dreaming or perhaps wanting to know that our own sable sons and daughters are daily feeding us from the fruits of their own fertile brain. We are misjudged by many of the opposite race. You know that the rotundity of the earth seems impossible to us because we see so little of it at once, yet we believe that it is round. So it is with the white man. He cannot believe that the negro race is making advancements for he sees such a small portion of us at once. There are exceptions, of course, for there are some who know and believe that we are fast coming to the front. Bishop Penick said to my husband not long since, "I never hear of any books or periodicals written by your people." This divine has charge of the work for the negro in his church. If seeing would convince him he was convinced, for my husband placed at his disposal the productions that would make him wiser if he will but read. The Oak and Ivy Club of Springfield, Ohio, is now in China. The principal object of this club is to improve its members in musical taste and skill and travel prospectively. The Lovers of Wisdom are striving to raise the moral, mental, physical, social and religious standards for themselves. This club is composed of young ladies. The White Rose Club is composed of twenty-four devoted Christian women who have three special objects in view. First, to create a greater love for church and more devotion to the teachings of Christianity ; second, to improve their minds so that they will be more useful in the community ; and third, to entertain worthy strangers who may visit the city. [I wonder if these White Roses do not wear the silver cross?] All of the pastors' wives belong to this club. All the above clubs are of Springfield. The ERA is at work there and we bespeak good results. TENNESSEE. SYLVIA MANN MAPLES, EDITOR. The Statesman Exponent in a recent editorial says : "We must stop drawing the color line in every conceivable and foolish way, if we would have the color line abolished. There is neither sense nor race patriotism in it." The foregoing remark so fitly tells us of our own participation in the same sinistrous line that we can not but borrow them to preface what follows. Once upon a time, and that not a hundred years since, two colored churches of this city jim-crowed (if I may so phrase it) their respective audiences; or in other words, provided separate pews for the white and colored people assembled. The fashion, modeled after our own designing, was very soon adopted by an educational institution hard by, which, under white management, has done much for the elevation of colored youth in the south. To think of such an outrage, as it is called, causes lip to pale and hands to go up in holy horror. But why object? We discriminate against ourselves, and should not, with a modicum of consistency, complain when others do likewise. The recent admittance of Mrs. Fannie Barrier Williams of Chicago to the Women's Club of that place has brought to light the fact that two eastern clubs have each a colored member. As the General Federation of Women's Clubs has been invited to come to Atlanta this fall, the question naturally arises as to how the negro contingent shall be disposed of. Embarrassing question this. The Woman's Press Club of Atlanta has become so aggrieved over the matter that it has withdrawn from the federation. Other southern clubs have followed en suite. The Ossoli Circle of Knoxville disfavors the withdrawal of one or more southern clubs from the General Federation of Women's Clubs, for the aforesaid reasons, and deems it best to take no action until after the next biennial meeting in May, 1896. Miss Hattie Macafee is the agent at this point for Miss Wells' "Red Record." It tells of many men -- negroes, of course -- who have been hanged to the highest limb of the nearest tree for (in most cases) uncommitted crimes. It is, indeed, a red record ; yea, even more -- a blood-dyed death roll of the south. With Mrs. Ella Hamilton as hostess, the meeting of the Women's Mutual Improvement Club occurred on Wednesday afternoon, April 24, at 3 o'clock. Mrs. Harriet Black read a paper entitled "The Dignity of Labor." A man formerly of Massachusetts, but now a resident of E. Tennessee, has this to say about the southern negro : "In the south there is no use for an educated negro, and the more educated 14 THE WOMAN'S ERA. he gets, the more useless he becomes. The white man will continue to be master in this country unless he becomes extinct, or until the millennium arrives, and the black man will continue to be his servant; therefore the wisest thing the black man's friends can do is to qualify him for that duty." It goes without saying that no such prophetic powers have been known since the days of old. The Easter edition of the Statesman Exponent, edited and managed by the Woman's League of Denver, adds another feather to the crown of the race. During the next two months hundreds of light-hearted, daintily-gowned girls will commence in reality to live. The anxiety of examination over, flowers and applause given, farewells said, school days past, and then the first act in life's great drama closes. You, dear girls, will feel, upon that auspicious day, a strange thrill of pleasure, a high sense of pride, an indescribable exhilarating something that perhaps during all your life may never be yours again. You have a happy anticipation of the future; so did we when we were in your place. The past is not so far away that we can not remember it all -- the old chapel filled to its utmost capacity, the music, the lights, the flowers; our girlhood friends, our parents, our teachers, smiling, waving their hands and wishing us a smooth journey upon life's opening sea. No detail is forgotten. It is a vivid picture, indelibly stamped upon memory's wall ; and when you, sweet girl graduates, shall have grown older, wiser, and perhaps humbler, you will look back with pleasure, and may be a tinge of sadness upon the commencement day of your life's work. The reception and banquet, Monday evening, April 22, given in honor of Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, who is visiting her parents in Memphis, Tenn., was very complimentary both to the lady so highly honored and to the ladies and gentlemen who showed their appreciation of one, born in their city, and who by her rare accomplishments has been so highly honored in Washington, D. C. Among those attending were Mr. and Mrs. Robert Church, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Williamson, Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Hooks, Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Settles, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Ridley, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Harvey, Prof. E. L. Honesty, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Cooper, Prof. Hamilton and wife, Rev. Honesty and wife, Prof. B. K. Sampson, Misses Katie Davis, Lottie Dickerson, Carrie Hamilton, Mamie Mosley, Mr. Chas. Williamson, Dr. Terrell, Prof. C. A. Thompson, Prof. John A. Ruffin and Mr. D. W. Washington. After a brilliant piano solo by Mrs. Julia A. Hooks, Prof. Thompson made the address of welcome to Mrs. Terrell, to which that lady responded in her happiest vein. And to those who had never had the pleasure of hearing their townswoman speak in public before, it was a revelation that charmed and delighted her hearers. Alter a solo by Mr. D. W. Washington, those assembled passed into the banquet hall, where an elegant repast was served. The toasts at the table were happily delivered and received much applause. The toast, "Our Guest," was responded to by Professor Ruffin, "Glimpses of the past," by Professor Sampson. "What of the future" was responded to by the eloquent J. T. Settles. Professor Hamilton caused much laughter by his "Democratic Dog." Prof. W. J. Harvey responded to the toast, "Our Progressive Woman," as follows : Our Progressive Women. "Had this subject been assigned as a toast a few years ago, it would have been simply "Our Women," and the responder would have thought it sufficient response to say, "Our Women ! God bless them !" But in this age, which the ladies delight to call the "New Woman's era," the subject of this toast is "Our Progressive Women." The advancement of women in the professions and in other avocations heretofore considered as belonging exclusively to the men, has been most wonderful. We men, once called the "lords of creation," laughed at the idea of women getting out of their proper sphere, but the laughter has died upon our lips and in its place are looks of wonder and admiration. Our noble women have torn down barrier after barrier that hindered their progress, and leaping over the ramparts of selfish ridicule, they are swarming into every profession. Fitted by nature to care for the young, it is admitted generally that the women are our best teachers. The school master is fast giving way to the school marm. And although I was once a school teacher myself, I hope the ladies will pardon the admission, yet I confess this is a pleasing change, for the school marms rule with sweet smiles and kind words, but our school masters ruled with a frown and a bunch of hickories. In the profession of law our women are slowly but surely making their way. As dry as Blackstone's Digests are, the women are eating and digesting them thoroughly, so I warn you not to be startled when you look up and see an office sign reading "Miss or Mrs. Blank, Counsellor at Law." Belva Lockwood, the ex-presidential candidate, as a lawyer has quite a large and paying practice and so have other female members of the bar in this country. And so, ye lawyers, beware of the day when you meet a woman in battle array. You may be able to measure swords with a man, but who can measure tongues with a woman ! But it is in the medical profession, that our progressive women are meeting with the greatest THE WOMAN'S ERA. 15 success; the tender hand that was wont to calm the sufferer with its soothing touch has been trained to use the surgeon's lance and its fair owner now prescribes for the sufferer's disease. Aside from the wide field of practice among those of their own sex, it is said that they are the best children doctors in the world, and what a field is here afforded them ! But leaving the professions, what of their progress in political affairs? Again, I answer, wonderful is their progress. That noble-hearted old Christian lady, Susan B. Anthony, used to be the laughing stock of American politicians, but she has lived to see some of her fondest hopes realized, and in Kansas, several ladies are mayors of cities, in Wyoming and Washington they vote just as any other citizen. In Colorado, they not only vote but three of them are members of the Legislature. Truly then, our women are progressing and our nation's capital is honored in having upon its Board of Education the talented lady who is the guest of this occasion. Gentlemen, think not that the ladies are simply our imitators, because they wear our hats, coats, shirtfronts, and bloomers ; they are our competitors as well as our imitators. So this is to our Progressive Women, hoping that whatever their successes may be in art, science, or literature, they will still be loving sisters, good wives and dear mothers." D. E. HARVEY. VIRGINIA. ROSA D. BOWSER, EDITOR. [Photo] Wedding bells in the air! The latest announcement being the approaching marriage of the president of a seminary well known in Virginia, to Miss ---, a student at H. M. College. Long life and happiness to them. Rev. Graham of the 5th St. Church has been laboring earnestly in the revival meetings at his church for about two weeks. May success crown his efforts. Miss Clara Alexander, the sweet singer of Lynchburg, and Miss H. V. Pankey, teachers in the public schools of L., were in Richmond during the holidays with a company under the supervision of Prof. Patterson of the Virginia Seminary. The company presented the beautiful drama, "The Belle of Saratoga," with Mrs. Dr. Jackson, of Lynchburg, pianist. We are of the opinion that no better entertainment has been presented to the people of Richmond at the Reformer's Hall. The proceeds were for the benefit of Virginia Seminary. The fifth Sunday in March was Seminary day in Virginia. Many of the churches and Sunday schools held special services. Some of the churches collected nice little sums for the cause. Beautiful lilies adorned the rostrum of the First Baptist Church on Easter morning. An interesting and instructive sermon was delivered by Rev. Crosby of the Theological Seminary. The choir from Lynchburg, under the direction of Prof. U. S. G. Patterson, relieved the church choir by the rendition of two selections appropriate to the occasion. We think it has been difficult for the past three weeks to meet a child or adult who did not carry one or more envelopes for the benefit of the Y. M. C. A. The pastor's entertainment for the same cause was given on the evening of April 15 at the First Church. This was the great rally night for the Y. M. C. A. Sharon Church has called a pastor to succeed Rev. Troy. Mrs. Octavia Ferguson has left the city to visit friends in two or three northern cities. Hard times had no effect on festivities. When this issue of the ERA reaches its readers the glorious Eastertide will be a thing of the past. Many were the preparations for the event. The exercises of the various churches and Sunday Schools were grand. The singing was of a very high order, and nothing remains as a reminder but the glorious thought : "He is not here, but is risen." The Ladies' Auxiliary of the Y. M. C. A. have elected for its president for the ensuing year Miss G. V. Freeman, a very efficient young woman of our city. Meetings are held twice a month for the purpose of gaining young women to do active work for the Association. The second meeting in the month is always a "literary" one. These are well attended, and we have reason to believe that this too is one of the agencies of promoting Christ's kingdom on the earth. Samaritan Hall was the scene of a very brilliant affair on Thursday night, April 11, the occasion being a "Banquet" tendered the M. W. G. M. A. F. M., B. A. Graves of Richmond, Va. The 16 THE WOMAN'S ERA hall was tastefully decorated with bunting, ferns and rare hot house plants. The handsome costumes worn by the ladies, and the gallantry shown by the gentleman to all their guests, made the party the most enjoyable social event of the season. After a general introduction, the Campbell Lodge of Norfolk, under whose auspices this affair was given, formed in line with the guests and to the strains of a march by the Excelsior Band of this city, wended their way to the floor below where a table laden with all the delicacies of the season awaited them. This over, P.W.M., J.C. Asbury began the toasts, welcoming the visitors in a most gracious manner to the "City by the Sea" and all its hospitalities. Then followed the toasts of the evening and the responses thereto, which brought out a veritable flow of wit and wisdom. GEORGIA. Alice Woodby McKane, M. D., Editor. The people of Augusta mourn the loss of one of their most talented young ladies, Miss Addie Williams, a teacher in the Mandge Street School. Death, cruel death, has ruthlessly crushed the half-blown bud of hope and promise within his icy hands. Those who knew her best loved her most. But there is one consolation. All are not taken! There are left behind Living beloveds, tender looks to bring, And make the daylight still a happy thing, And tender voices to make soft the wind. We learn that the Phyllis Wheatley Club of Augusta is progressing finely. The young men are anxious to now what subjects are discussed by the young ladies. This the members keep strictly to themselves. In the near future, however, I think that something pleasing to all will be reported. The Woman's Era should be read by all the members. What say you, Miss President? Why not advice all to subscribe? THE VALUE OF A TRAINED NURSE. by Lulu W. Johnson. [Concluded.] The contagious diseases that interest us more than any of the others are the ones found most frequently in our own city ; for instance, scarlet and yellow fever. The former being found more often, we will take it as an example and see of what use a trained nurse is in this disease. The good and bad qualities of a nurse are now shown up in every respect. The patient is to be isolated, the highest room in the house being selected for this purpose; all coverings from the floor removed, curtains, pictures and hangings of all kinds taken down. A single iron bedstead with a straw mattress, a small wash-stand, with not more than one drawer, a old small table, an old rocking or reclining chair, an ordinary wooden chair and a clean starch or soap box, with a hinged cover, to take the place of a bureau drawer, are the only pieces of furniture necessary. White curtains of cheap material are the best for the windows because they can be destroyed. Two cheap rugs or pieces of carpet may be laced on the floor, one by the side of the bed and one for the use of the nurse. Our open fireplaces are the best ventilators, so they should not be closed; one window should also be kept partly open, with a triple fold of cheesecloth tacked across to prevent draught and let in the fresh air needed. The ordinary china chamber set should be kept and a bed-pan and tin set added. Old cotton pillow cases and sheets are the best for the bed, and the same is true of the gowns, towels and other things used for the patient. I forgot to say that the floor should be scrubbed and windows washed after the walls have been thoroughly swept. An old sheet should be next be wet in a solution of Platt's Chloride, bichloride of mercury or of strong lime water, and hung upon the door in some other part of the room. There should be a set of dishes kept to themselves for the use of the patient. If it is in the winter, keep the room at an even temperature as a doctor advises. The urine should be examined once a day, by means of boiling and then adding one drop of nitric acid, to see if there is any albumen present. Baths and sponges, if ordered, should always be given under cover, and the most nourishing and digestible food administrated. Observe with care all directions concerning the medicines; watch the pulse and temperature. In giving the oil baths, let us remember that too much oil does harm and that they should not be given oftener than the doctor directs. One more thought. Let us not forget that the patient is alone with the nurse for the greater part of the time. The physician sees her only for a few moments and then he is gone. Now the long, weary hours of the day and night drag on. Her friends cannot see her; no sounds from without greet her ears save the songs of some sweet birds or the rusting of THE WOMAN'S ERA. 17 the gentle breezes wafting sweet perfume from the flowers in the garden below. Now the nurse must do all that she can to comfort and enliven the patient. Sometimes all is done that can be, and yet the end comes on. The doctor has written his last prescription ; the nurse has given the last does of medicine. In the still hours of the night the patient realizes her condition. She turns to the nurse for a ray of hope or comfort, and the last look on earth from some loving wife, mother or child is given to the faithful, patient nurse. SOCIAL NOTES. BOSTON. Who is "Anno Domini" Settled. (Scene -- W-d-l-d P-k Hotel.) Mrs. D.: "I wish I were sure of Anno Domini's identity." Mrs. ----: "Why, don't you know? You surely can guess. It's very evident who she is ; there's but one person in New York who can serve things up in that chic style, and she lives in Brooklyn." Mrs. D.: "Who, the dashing young widow -----? Oh, it's not a she at all, but I, like you, feel sure that Anno Domini has his, her or its observatory on the planet 'Mars.' Are we hot?" (turning to one who knew.) O. W. K. : "You are getting warm." Mrs. ----: "Well, let us average up and charge it to 'Lord H.' since we are agreed that 'Anno Domini' may be settled somewhere on 'Mars.'" And so it was settled to their satisfaction, but "Anno Domini" is as elusive as ever. Like everything else the "Vaudeville" improves with time and experience. The members of the club may well feel pleased with the number of excellent entertainments given by them this winter, none of which was any better than the last given by Miss Gertrude Peake at the home of Mrs. J. H. Lewis. One of the features was a comedietta, "The Boston Dip," in which the now old favorites, Misses Lillian Lewis, Louisa Lewis and Gertrude Peake, Messrs. Marsh, Lewis, Hemmings and Gilbert took the characters ; other features were a piano solo by Miss Glover--excellently done, of course ; a recitation by W. H. Lewis and one by Miss Peake, in which much grace and training were displayed ; Messrs. Hare and Harry Lewis gave pleasure with a banjo duet ; but it was left to Miss Mary Lewis to make the hit of the evening ; the young lady not only surprised her friends by the beauty of her voice in a vocal solo, but also delighted every one by her poses in Greek costume. Miss Lewis has decided natural advantages for such an exhibition ; to these were added a good arrangement of lights and draperies, the whole making a most charming combination. The afternoon tea and sale held in St. Andrews Hall for the benefit of St. Monica's Home Wednesday afternoon and evening, the 24th inst, was a financial and social success. The leading spirits in the fair were Sister Catherine and Miss M. C. Dean. The tea table was presided over by Mrs. Sparrow and Miss Andrews. But where were Miss Marion RIdley and Miss Lillian Lewis, who were to have assisted in making money for this most needy charity? the first named at the flower booth, and the latter booked to lead the "Vaudevilles" in an entertainment, and also to dispense "toothsome candies" to make sweet charity sweeter. Mr. J. Rosemond Johnson gave his second annual piano forte and vocal recital at Steinert Hall Wednesday evening, April 24, assisted by Miss Maud L. Reese, lyric soprano, Mr. Edward S. Glover, violinist, Mr. Arthur Payne, 'celloist, and Madame Dietrich Strong, accompanist. The beneficiary, Mr. Johnson, was heard nine times in vocal and three in instrumental selections, the latter showing both taste and finish in the execution, which cannot with truth be said of the vocal efforts, strength being the quality most in evidence there. The singing of Miss Reese gave the most exquisite pleasure and satisfaction. De Beriot's Seventh Concerto for piano and violin was rendered by Mr. and Miss Glover in a manner to call forth the most enthusiastic applause and an encore. The concert was in every way creditable, and as an evidence of the esteem in which Mr. Johnson is held among the best of Boston's music lovers, a noteworthy success. Our congratulations to Mrs. Terrell, who is well worthy of the honors bestowed upon her, we speak not only for ourselves, but for the many friends of herself and husband in Boston. The "Harvard Boys," Messrs. Trotter, Royal and Williams, gave a tea at the College House last week to which the "buds" turned out in force and beauty. Mrs. Trotter matronized the affair and everything was delightful. 18 THE WOMAN'S ERA. A beautiful girl baby made its appearance at 13 Rutland Square, the home of Mr. and Mrs. B.R. Wilson on the 13th of the month. Miss Ray's poem, "In Memoriam," was one of the especial features which made the April ERA a conspicuously fine number. Miss Ray is one of our few real poets, and the many words of pleasure in her poem that have come to us from our readers show that she is widely appreciated. SOCIAL NOTES. New York. The event of the season, the Bachelor's Ball, as was expected, proved a splendid success from every point of view, from the selection of the most beautiful hall in Brooklyn to the natty arrangement of the carnation hyacinth boutonniere on each bachelor's lapel, with the club colors, maroon and white satin, worn aslant each spotless shirt front. The decorations and brilliant illumination to a certain extent acted as a quietus. Before supper Anno Domini feared as to the enjoyment, and occupied the time looking for Les Miserables. One of the gay bachelors lost his laundry slip evidently. The same stood, just before "Home, Sweet Home" broke upon the charmed air, and said to a bevy of girls, "Say, boys, ain't this out of sight?" The patent leather market is evidently short. The Trilby of the occasion was the gallant president. He danced and - But Miss Edie B -, like a dear, little Quakeress, so quiet, yet so sympathetic, looked up in his handsome face in a way that would make a fellow forget an angel parent, much less his - steps. Midnight settled on. One ought to have been gay Lothario when from a corner he darkly gazed upon his winsome lady in the mazy dance. The fair Evangeline was radiant. Beau Brummel was as usual exquisite. We all envy his kinship with Sweet --e, the loveliest debutante of the season. The prettiest set in the room was that off in the little corner. In it was Our Rob, his chum, the Prince of Wales, Irvie Charlton, and a natty little fellow who wore a white vest. This is no discount on the one led by "our own Miles Standish." He's not as bashful as I first thought. Ern is all of the Revolutionary Captain of prim old Plymouth Rock - as handsome, if not as stern. The only time he seemed unsettled was when a pair of brand new patent leathers came into the set, mistakes and all. Who is the belle? That depends, you know, on who answers. A chorus cries, "Why, the peerless leader of Brooklyn society's inner circle, Miss Katie Smith!" Robed in Cupid's own glow, a beautiful red. In daintiest blue appeared the next popular belle, Miss Julia West. The in regular order followed a perfect galaxy - in fact, the Muses. Miss Bessie Mitchel in Spanish gold; then Miss Alice Greenly in a queenly robe of white silk; Miss Annie Hawly - and oh, so many more! Miss Evangeline Walker, whose bright eyes and peachy cheeks with their distracting dimples more than ever reminded one of early apple blossoms, robed as she was in snowy white, robed as she was in a snowy white, cut decollete. So many girls were in white, all so pretty! Anno Domini drank in the music of a soft southern voice. All else seemed artificial for the time. Miss Sallie Meyers is a pretty as her voice is sweet and thrilling. Such an accent! You talk of young shoulders and old heads. Well, that's the feeling that assails you when talking with a certain little New Bedford girl. Her name belongs to the firmament. The disappointment of the evening for A.D. was the non-appearance of the most magnificent-looking matron in Gotham, she whose every costume is a delight to true artists. The scene needed her glowing South American beauty. The devotees at the Sons must have increased the score to a hundred. Selfish institution! They caused a shadow to fall aslant my otherwise perfect evening. Bright-eyed Annie D -- and her tall fiance came not. The same is true of some of the patronesses. Why? One, a queenly mother of three princely sons; the other, an aristocrat in every sense of the word, an authority on good form; and her chum; and some of Gotham's schoolma'ams; but thereby hangs a tale! The young matrons were resplendent in their wedding gowns. Mrs. Charles Lansing, Jr., and her tall husband - the boys insist on his being called Depew - were one of the most distinguished looking couples present. She was delightfully gracious. Lord Chesterfield seemed unhappy, though he escorted a beautiful Norwalk belle, Miss Taylor. Deferential Charles Day was fortunate and to be envied, in succeeding where Brooklyn's favorite tenor singer failed. Miss Mena Downing was radiant. Mrs. Elizabeth D. White was in every way a patrician in a regal costume of gray, her bright black eyes and lovely silver-colored tresses making her look like a daughter of the Revolution. Mrs. Daniel Brooks was, as Mrs. Brooks always is, her own matchless self. Some say in describing her influence upon society, she is the Mrs. Paran Stevens. Mr. and Mrs. Tome Francis contributed largely to a chosen circle. He went around looking for THE WOMAN'S ERA. 19 a novelty that night -- a plain looking girl. Everybody was so handsome that he didn't report success He was simply submerged. Our Rob laughed without smiling. His heart was in foreign lands--Jersey, I think. But his brother -- the most envied as well as most gallant bachelor in the gathering -- he escorted Miss Katie Smith, who consequently had to whisper "nay" to four disconsolates. All the favors did not fall to the bachelors, however, for the other fellows, those to whom success never plays shy -- they are a success whether or no -- the altogether too numerous and too interesting widowers. On this occasion the handsomest was from Albany. The most popular -- dare his name be called -- the most lately bereaved, came alone. Mrs. Harry Mars, with her proud spouse, was everywhere envied as the "little mother." By the way, the "little cherub's" auntie, the sweetest and prettiest of Dr. White's daughters, Mrs. Jerome Peterson, told me there would be another ball (bawl) soon -- the christening. The great bazaar for the Sons is still on as we are obliged to go to press. "Everybody will be there tomorrow night," Mrs. Harry Kemp said at the ball. But she reckoned without the bachelor's now famous supper and sparkling liquidities. Ah! Some of the yawning beauties did reach St. Philip's Guild organ recital the following night, but I don't know about the bazaar. Though the night was fine in Brooklyn, it must have been foggy on the Jersey coast, for the "Goddess of Liberty" was conspicuous by her absence at the ball. Everybody pitied Our Rob but ANNO DOMINI. THE OPEN COURT Mrs. N. F. Mossell, Editor. [photograph] UNIVERSITY EXTENSION WORK AND ITS MISSION. In the course of an interesting lecture delivered at Association Hall, Phila., upon The University Idea in Modern Life, Dr. William Pepper, L.L. D., made the following statement : "The great University movement will not be fully organized until in every part of the country there is felt the same sympathy and interest and obligation now concentrated in a few university towns." In this sentence the keynote of the true mission of this movement has been struck and it is becoming evident that this belief is slowly developing in the minds of many living at widely different points. Paul Quin Monthly, the organ of Paul Quin College, Waco, Texas, announces the opening of a Theological School of Correspondence. We can but feel that this movement is significant of many things. First, at this point there has been sown the seed of University Extension in its deepest sense, its truest meaning. Second, a keener sense of the duty of the university to those who are debarred from attendance at it ; and lastly, a fostering of the spirit of helpfulness that remains latent in the breast of all. The University Extension Magazine for January 31 contains a paper from the pen of Prof. Wm. L. Bulkley of Chaflin College, Orangeburg, S. C., entitled University Extension in a Southern Town. We give below in his own words a statement of the plan of work now being carried on under his supervision. And can only add that the plan is meeting with the success desired The class we have organized may serve as a model for others. 1. The teachers offer their services gratuitously. 2. The cost to each member is reduced to a minimum, the charge being only for light, fuel and janitor work. If any charge were asked, even fifty cents a month, the very object we have in mind would be defeated, for the class we would reach are absolutely poor, and such is the almost universal rule throughout the South, where wages are small and work is so uncertain. Each member of the class pays one cent a night. And, again, the cost of books is but little, as most of the instruction is given orally, with blackboard helps. As the class meets in one of the school-rooms, there is no charge for rent. Finally, the object in starting this class was not only to help the two or three scores who may become members, but also, and chiefly, to set an example to the hundreds of students who come to this school every year from every corner of this state and from adjoining states. They can, they ought, they will do a little work where they go. The lesson is one of helpfulness. It is easy ; it is practical ; it is Christian. Should such a movement receive encouragement in all the colleges of the South, be they state or church institutions, a decade hence would witness a tremendous improvement in those brawny toilers, whose brain and ambition are vastly larger than their opportunities. Then could we step into a higher plane of University Extension in re and join hands with our brethren of the North in offering to the workingman treasures from 20 THE WOMAN'S ERA. the coffers of philosophical, sociological and classical lore. WILLIAM L. BUCKLEY, Professor of Latin and German, Claflin College, Orangeburg, S.C. We hope that the example set by these two progressive universities may continue to spread in all directions. Such courses cannot be other than of vast service to a developing race like our own. Some of our magazines might also inaugurate a correspondence course in English literature and history. It would give practice and experience to the teacher of the department and would help to solve the problem among many of our girls as to what they shall read, and what course of study or reading would be most helpful toward supplying them with subjects for thought and hence for conversation. Mrs. F.E.W. Harper, the noted author and temperance worker, read two papers at the Women's National Council held in Washington a few days ago. Her subjects were Woman as a Business Factor, and Is Physical Force the Basis of Government? Both subjects were ably handled. The WOMAN'S ERA has awakened a great interest in club life among Afro-American women. Many are the inquiries sent us as to club work in Philadelphia, but apparently so far we have not developed the fervent club spirit that might have been expected in a City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. Quite a number of our progressive women in the city are, however, working with the Civic Club. This club holds to Philadelphia the same relation as the Woman's Club, of which Mrs. Fannie Barrier Williams lately became a member, holds to the city of Chicago. A bill to revive the whipping post in New York state recently passed one legislative body and came within about four votes of passing the other. As originally phrased, the bill provided that a male person convicted of felony consisting in or accompanied by the infliction of physical pain or suffering upon another might have flogging added to the punishment already provided. The Senate Judiciary at a later date inserted a provision exempting wife beaters from liability to flogging and limited the penalty to persons guilty of assaulting a female or a child of either sex under the age of sixteen years. Now we do not propose to argue the advisability of the revival of the whipping post, but simply to claim that if revived in behalf of any class of criminals that class should be wife beaters, instead of making them exempt. But it would seem that we are to assume from the action of the learned Senate Judiciary committee that reaching the age of sixteen or becoming a wife places one out of the pale of humanity. One may cause the arrest of a brute who assaults a dumb animal, but if it be his wife or a person above the age of sixteen, we must stand by and witness such action without protest. It seems that this clause was put in to uphold the authority of the head of the house. Now, it is often said by men that women do not need the suffrage to form laws to ameliorate their own condition because the laws are continually being amended by male legislators against the interests of men solely for the protection of women. Now this may be so in some cases, but does any sane person believe that women legislators would have exempted wife beaters from flogging in the case before us? We hope if the bill comes up again that the Women's Loyal Union with other associations will look after the interests of wife beaters carefully and with tears. Very many suggestions have been made in the various Women's Departments of the journalistic world pointing a way toward the desired result of putting off the hours of the first quarrel between the lately wedded benedict and his charming bride; counting up to one hundred, holding water or beans in one's mouth, and many other bright suggestions have appeared, but I have just come across "the best yet" and give it at once for the benefit of my readers, many of whom are young and all sweet, who may lapse into matrimony at any time. Quarrel tomorrow ; now tomorrow never comes, hence a quarrel can never come. N.H. Junior, in the Evangelist, acts as sponsor for this new method of avoiding a quarrel and vouches for its success. Let some of The Open Court readers try it and report progress at some future day. Let me correct a wrong impression concerning a certain matter of recent experience. I chanced to speak to a friend of a conversation concerning the entrance of our women writers into the columns of the Ladies' Home Journal to which many of them subscribe; this conversation was noted in a race journal, but feeling that the whole circumstance was not clearly stated I wrote a comment for a prominent journal. The article was cut considerably and from other recent comments I fear that the matter is misunderstood. The policy of Mr. Edward Bok, editor of the Home Journal, is to accept such articles as have been deemed worthy, yet emanating from the pen of our women, but in two cases at least they have drawn out protests from the subscribers of the dominant race. Now the matter is of great interest to us as a race for the reason that we have long wondered why we could not secure space for good work in white journals, nor yet able replies to attacks on our THE WOMAN'S ERA. 21 race published in the great monthlies of the country. I wish the matter to be thoroughly understood and that the editor may not feel misrepresented. The point for us to take to heart is to inquire in other quarters whether protests are being made against the admission of our writers into the higher grade journals, and find out the remedy, if there be any, to offset this system of oppression, and if none, let us at least see the necessity of keeping our dollars at home and continue to build up our journals until they can compete with these from which we are being excluded. GEORGE L. RUFFIN, VOCAL CULTURE, Lamperti Method. 103 Charles Street Boston, Mass. ATLANTA UNIVERSITY, ATLANTA, GA. REV HORACE BUMSTEAD, D.D. President. This Institution trains and sends out a superior class of teachers and leaders for work among the Freedom of the South. It solicits the attendance of intelligen and earnest young men and women, and contributions from those who are willing to help towards their education. Write to the President. A.G. McKENZIE Optician 156 Charles St., Boston ARTIFICIAL EYES A SPECIALTY THREE DOORS FROM EYE INFIRMARY. TELEPHONE, 219-3 TREMONT. Mrs. J.F.A. GARDINER, 128 Alder St., Pittsfield, Mass. Will accommodate a few private boarders during the summer months. Five minutes walk from maple woods. Terms reasonable. F.A. GREENLEAF, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in PAPER HANGINGS, 51 Court Street, Near Scollay Square, Boston. MRS. H.L. KEMP, Artistic Dressmaking and Millinery, 179 Franklin Avenue, Near Myrtle, BROOKLYN, N.Y. Imported styles always on hand. Suits completed 24 hours. Competent dressmakers always in attendance. BOSTON Condensed Milk Co's Palin condensed (unsweetened) Milk is the best known food for infants. Best article in the world for a cup of coffee. Sold in jars at the office, 2 1/2 Park Sq., Boston Delivered three times per week. ENDORSEMENT I have used the plain condensed milk and found it worked like a miracle in transforming my weak, puny baby into a strong, plump one, after all other foods had failed. MRS. McGILL, 10 Lindall Place, Boston THE AMERICAN WRINGER CO. BRANCH STORE, 13 & 15 BROADWAY EXTENSION, Boston, Mass. Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers. All kinds of Wringers and Sweepers repaired. Orders by mail promptly attended to. What is this A.P.A.? What its Plans? Who its Candidates? Where can we join? For full information, send 2-ct. stamp for —or ask your newsdealer for—or send 50 cts. for 3 mos. trial subscription of—the paper , which advocates straight A.P.A. principles—The AMERICAN CITIZEN, 7 Bromfield St., Boston. 22 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Homes for the People! IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, THE ITALY OF AMERICA. LANDS WITHIN REACH OF POOR MEN'S MEANS. The Fruitland Colony Company, of Los Angeles, California, Have placed upon the market 20,000 Acres 20,000 Of the finest land on earth, which they intend to colonize with colored people, and at prices with reach of men of small means. In order to induce investment in these lands we offer 2,000 acres to the first settlers at $20 per acre and guarantee to deliver water to each 20 acres sold, sufficient for irrigation. These lands lie 60 miles north from Los Angeles and 7 miles from the Southern Pacific R. R., and consist of a rich friable loam, being of sedimentary formation mingled with decomposed granite. The soil is from 4 to 50 feet deep, and is capable of producing everything on earth that grows in this land of wonderful production. It lies at an altitude of 2,500 feet above sea level and is peculiarly the land of the olive and almond. SMALL FARMS are the rule in Southern California and more profit can be realized from 20 acres here than on 160 acres in the East. AFTER 2,000 ACRES HAVE BEEN SOLD the price will be $35.00 per acre. It is not an unusual thing for trees in bearing to yield From $100 to $1000 per Acre. These lands have perfect title and will be sold for one-third cash, balance one, two and three years, with interest at 6 per cent per annum. Full information will be given by applying to H.A. PIERCE, President, or T.M. GIBSON, Secretary, Room 37, Bryson Block, Los Angeles, California THE WOMAN'S ERA. 23 TRY A PERFECT ICING FOR YOUR CAKES, &c. Will not spoil or foment in heat or cold, covered or exposed to the air. PERFECT ICING never dries out or crumbles, all other Icings draw the moisture from the cake and dry it up. A PERFECT ICING will keep your cake from drying out. PERFECT ICING should be put on in a very thin coating, like a varnish; it will give your cakes a beautiful gloss as well as flavor. Can be cut soon as put on by dipping your knife in cold water. A 25c Jar of PERFECT ICING will go further than 25 cents in Egg and Sugar Icing as you use it, is more healthful, and gives a superior flavor. PERFECT ICINGS are put up in Screw Top Jars, also in Mason quarts, and in wooden pails of 25 lbs. each. DIRECTIONS. Remove the top, set the Jar in a moderate oven or warm place, until the contents are thin enough to spread. Take your knife, stir it up and spread on a cold cake, just as thin as possible. Set your jar away to use again. Ask Your Grocer for PERFECT ICING. Almond, Coffee, Wild Grape, Orange, Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate, Pistash. PREPARED ONLY BY A. H. PELOUBET & CO., New York. See our Trade Mark A. H. P. is on every Label. PERFECT ICINGS used in making Sherbets or Water Ices, Ice Creams, Sauces. Home Confections, &c. Will give their rich flavors and save work. B.P. RAY, Agent, 2 Chatham Row, BOSTON, MASS. School of Modeling and Carving. TEACHERS AND CRAFTSMEN TRAINED IN THE FOLLOWING INDUSTRIAL ARTS. MODELLING for Stone and Plaster. MODELLING for Metals, etc. CASTING for Stucco and Metals. FIGURE CUTTING in Piece and Mould. STONE CARVING, Buildings, Monuments and Ecclesiastical Works. WOOD CARVING, for Metals, Internal and External Decoration, PUPILS PREPARED to teach the above in one term of nine months. CRAFTSMEN PUSHED in special branches and situations secured upon completion of term; or work secured while studying. For terms apply to CLAVENGER A. EASTMAN, St. Augustine's Trade Schools, Corner Cambridge and Grove Sts., Boston. ATTENTION LADIES. Our Dress and Garment making is perfect; Prices reasonable; Fit, Style and Finish unsurpassed. Millinery: Hats and Bonnets made and Trimmed, 50c. to $1.00. Our Millinery and Dress Cutting Schools are the best in the world Young Ladies should come at once and learn. HARVEY, 29 Temple Place, Boston. E. A. LIBBY, New goods received by steamer every week. We never have an opening. Always ready to show goods, MILLINERY The old reliable house retains the same stand, 19 Temple Place Boston. The NEW WORLD TYPEWRITER. Price, $15.00. A useful and elegant present for ladies and gentlemen. Over 100,000 in use. Perfectly simple, practical and durable. No $100 machine can do better work. Writes 77 characters. Capitals and small letters. Never gets out of order. Perfect alignment always. No instruction required. SEND FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE. The Typewriter Improvement Co. 4 K Post Office Square, BOSTON, Mass. Agents Wanted. EDGAR P. BENJAMIN, Attorney and Counsellor-at-Law Room 22, 34 SCHOOL STREET, BOSTON. THE CELEBRATED Witch-Hazel Velvet Cream Does not contain corrosive sublimate, lead, arsenic, mercury, or any poison. As a toilet article for tan, sunburn, moth, freckles, etc., its excellence cannot be too well recommended. Put up in 60c. and $1.00 Sizes, sent postpaid on receipt of Price. AGENTS WANTED EVERYWHERE. For Sale by Druggists and Dealers in Toilet Supplies. All correspondence should be addressed to the New England Agents, W. F. & J. S. KINGSBERY, RANDOLPH, - - MASS. NOTICE! THE WOMAN'S ERA is on sale and can be obtained of MR. LEWIS SMITH, PROSPECT HOUSE, CAMBRIDGE. 24 THE WOMAN'S ERA THE SUCCESS OF THE SEASON MRS. N. F. MOSSELL'S BOOK, THE WORK OF THE AFRO-AMERICAN WOMAN The First Edition has been nearly exhausted. An edition of 5,000 is to be issued March 1st. "Above all, let the negro know that the elevation of his race can come only and will come surely through the elevation of its women."-Senator Geo. F. Hoar. -------------------------------------- Miss Emma K. White, one of Chester's most successful teachers, says: "The volume entitled The Work of the Afro-American Women is a great success at this point." Miss Julia Songow, Germantown, Pa.: "I have sold seventy-five copies of the Work of the Afro-American Woman within two weeks." Mrs. Jennie Euola Johnson of Camden, N. J.: "I have been very successful in my canvass of the The Work of the Afro-American Woman." Agents Wanted. Liberal Inducements Offered. Let students at colleges, teachers who desire to canvass during the summer, apply at once. Very many agents in these two fields of effort have already done well. Price, Bed or Brown Cloth, 75 cents, White and Gold, $1. Apply to Mrs. N. F. Mossell, 1432 Lombard Street, Philadelphia, Pa. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Housekeepers should see the new Fibre Carpet. A Soft, Pliable, Odorless Matting. Warm in Winter, Cool in Summer An Ideal Sanitary Chamber Carpet For all the year round. Sews together and turns under. Does not break or require binding. No odors or germs of disease. Insects do not trouble it. Heavy furniture does not break it. Double faced - double wear Artistic colors - stylish designs We cordially invite inspection HODGES FIBRE CARPET CO. Manufacturers and Patentees, 50 Essex St. (cor Chauncy) Boston, Mass. Kate Field's Washington Eleventh volume began with the issue of January 2nd. "Better than ever," is the verdict we intend to win from our friends in 1895. Send your subscription to Kate Field's Washington, 39 Corcoran Building, Washington, D. C. Subscription $2 per year BUTLER R. WILSON, ATTORNEY and COUNSELLOR AT LAW, Notary Public, 34 School Street, (Room 33,) Boston Why Not Advertise in the Weekly Journal of the Lodge With a circulation of 4,000 Write for terms and space. Address Journal of the Lodge, New Orleans, La., Box 105. Robert L. Carter, M. D PHYSICIAN & SURGEON, No. 722 Kempton Street, New Bedford. Diseases of Women a Specialty. Telephone 329-4 Call for National Conference Sent out by Woman's Era Club. Correction Page 8 Editorial on Jack Pg THE WOMAN'S ERA. ----------------------------------------------------------- VOL. II. NO. 3. BOSTON MASS., JUNE 1895 PRICE 10 CENTS. MRS. WHITSEL. AN ICE MERCHANT. ------------------------ "The Business Woman" is now a recognized factor in the world of woman's endeavor. Nevertheless the really successful and business like women are exceptions and command attention. This is only natural, as women are new in the field and are not yet too familiar with the paths. In this field, as in all others, examples may be found of women of all races and colors. Among those who are making names and reputations for business capacity there is probably no woman in the country who is a more striking example of plush and intelligent perseverance than Mrs. Georgianna Whetsel, whose portrait appears with this article. Doubtless many of our readers have heard of Mrs. Whetsel as the only known woman ice merchant. She conducts the largest ice business in Nova Scotia. She is a young woman and a widow. Her husband carried on the business during his life with the aid of three partners, three wagons and four horses. A year after his death she took matters into her own hands and has managed so well that she now owns the entire business and has increased her working force by doubling the number of horses and wagons. Every year has seen an increase in the number of men in her employ, the number of ice houses, carts, machines and ponds owned and controlled by her. Illustrated accounts of the harvesting of ice from her ponds have appeared from time to time in leading papers, which we hope, at some time to reproduce in the ERA, for in Mrs. Whetsel the race has one of its most brilliant examples of business capacity. NOTES AND COMMENTS. ----------------------------------------------------- The Wendell Phillips Club held its quarterly meeting at the Bellevue Cafe Wednesday evening, May 22. The life and service of Frederick Douglass was discussed in conjunction with an appetizing menu spread by caterer Dixon. Mr. Charles Alexander seems to have made the most impressive of the after dinner speeches. West Stockbridge, Lenox and Pittsfield will be the objective point of many of the vivacious school marms from the South and West this summer. In the beautiful hill country of western Massachusetts was discovered, last summer, two or three boarding places, made so attractive by grand scenery, mountain air, and delicious cooking that the word has been passed along, and the result promises to be a large and jolly party of congenial friends gathered together among the Berkshire Hills. Of course everybody will be in Boston during the Christian Endeavor Convention, thence to scatter all over New England. Newport will probably see the usual coterie of old friends gathered together at the Smith and Dickerson homesteads. And even North Raynham, the antipodes of Newport, is threatened with an invasion of the fashionables. The active and festive Domestic Science Committee of the Woman's Era Club are working hard for the success of the picnic to be given by them for the benefit of St. Monica's Home. Let us all go, and so help raise the amount necessary to keep this, the only home for sick of a particular class, open through the dull summer season. The board of management for the Home for Aged Women on Myrtle St. have at last decided to build, or buy, a more commodious and convenient house to accommodate the ever increasing demands of needy applicants. A committee of the W. E. C. will aid in this good work also. The little fund now held by the president of the club, with that raised last winter by Miss Stewart and ladies of her committee, will be used as a nucleus of the building, or buying, fund. Mrs. Smith, the aged and beloved matron of the home, is slowly recovering from her recent illness. 2 THE WOMAN'S ERA. NEW YORK. VICTORIA EARLE, EDITOR. At the annual Exposition of the Brooklyn Literary Union, Mrs. C.A. Attwell, a most successful trained nurse, conducted a hospital department. Beside the natural interest attached to such a movement, there are a few points deserving of more than a passing mention. As a part of the program, a number of our physicians and nurses were invited to be present and otherwise assist in demonstrating to the public the great progress made by this class of our professional men and women. Lectures were arranged for each evening, to be demonstrated by practical work on the part of the nurses, etc. Among the physicians and nurses taking part were Doctors Miller, Lively and W.H. Johnson, and Dr. Hill in company with two nurses from the Freedmen's Hospital of Washington, D.C., Mrs. Fleetwood and Hawley, the ladies wearing the uniform of the Freedmen's Hospital, blue seersucker dresses, large white aprons, with the regulation shoulder straps and white mob caps. Mrs. Anna Rich was to have assisted, nut was unavoidably detained at her post of duty at the Brooklyn Home for Aged Colored Persons. The point to be emphasized is the skilful and progressive manner in which Mrs. Attwell called the attention of the public to the work being done by our own medical fraternity. Mrs. Attwell might have secured some of the most famous white physicians in either of these two cities, her position and reputation among successful specialists being such as to sustain this supposition; consequently the endorsement which her act implies should be appreciated from a purely professional basis. The same applies to the nurses. It is beyond question that white nurses, graduates from famous schools in this city, would gladly have assisted her, just for the asking, if for no other reason than to attest appreciation for Mrs. Attwell's professional ability. Notwithstanding this, the ladies in Washington were invited to assist, and to their credit be it said, they not only came, saw, but - conquered. The little incident teaches that when our people will prepare themselves to compete with any other progressive people, they leave no loophole for adverse comparison. There is no question but that those of our own who have, by dint of hard work and innumerable sacrifices, succeeded in making places for themselves, will gladly welcome intelligent candidates in the front ranks. When merit - cold-blooded merit - is the requisite, and not clique sentimentality, there will be less talk of colored people not supporting the enterprises of colored people. The fact that we have paid little attention to the matter of encouraging our girls to enter the profession was painfully evident. Mrs. Attwell is the authority for the statement that, notwithstanding charges to the contrary, a colored girl, capable of filling the requirements (age, education, etc.) will not be refused as a candidate in the training schools of New York; yet there seems to be no disposition on the part of our young women to avail themselves of the privileges thus offered. If they were wise, they would apply before a school has been established "for colored." Separate institutions should never be countenanced unless it can be authoritatively proven that they are a necessity. Mrs. Attwell's department forcibly opened these questions before our people in a madder which will certainly make those who desire to progress think and, we hope, act. A mots unique exhibition was held during the early part of May, in one of the beautiful salons of the palatial Waldorf. It will be remembered that the Duke de Veirgua was entertained at this hotel during his stay while in this city. The affair in question was an exhibition of the industrial progress made by the various schools, having industrial departments. The exhibit ranged over a wide class of work, from plain sewing, patching, darning, button-hole making, to the most artistic accomplishments of modern dressmaking, millinery, tailoring and the most beautiful embroidery, lace making, knitting and crocheting. There was a most creditable exhibit from Washington, D.C., in charge of Miss Siphax, the only one from a distinctively colored school, and in every essential it was on a par with any shown, excepting, of course, the French work, and nothing exhibited was comparable to this in artistic finish. In showing us the beauties of the latter, Miss Siphax volunteered the information that in France children are given lessons in needlework as soon as they can handle safely a needle, and by the time they are nine or twelve THE WOMAN'S ERA. 3 years old they are accomplished in some of the most difficult grades. This accounted for the beautiful symmetry and delicate finish of the French exhibit, which contained many samples executed by children seven, nine, ten and eleven years of age. Miss Siphax further explained that this was largely true of Egypt, where fine linen was combined in a most wonderful manner with what they term metal embroidery. A sample of this work was pointed out to us that would other- wise have escaped out attention. In appearance it was like a drawn lace pattern outlined by gold threads ; on close examination it was found to be very beautiful. When explaining her own meth- ods in instructing the beginners under her charge, miss Siphax was surrounded by many interested ladies at all times. The work brought on by her received many favorable comments, and deserv- edly, for in general arrangement, neatness, scope and artistic effect it was second to none in kind at the exhibition. It is to be regretted that a larger percentage of out women did not attend, as the affair in every particular was managed by true women, in what means all that could possible be inferred by the term " real ladies." Among the visitors was Mrs. Octavio Furguson of Richmond, Va. TENNESSEE SYLVIA MASON MAPLES, EDITOR It is surprising to note the number of intelli- gent persons of both races who persist in writing the work Negro with a little n, while at the same time they honor every other race, Jew, Greek, Gentile and what-not, with a capital. Quite a number of race journals are assuming, with an avidity, the newly-coined appellation, Afro- American, which has nothing but its euphony to commend it to the use of its followers. Of the two words Negro and Afro- American, the one, etymologically speaking, expresses as much toward designating us as a race as the other ; but it is a late hour in the day to discard the former, in which there is nothing dishonorable, and sub- mit to the ludicrous christening of the latter, which is at best a cowardly and ineffective dodge of a time-honored name. It bears repetition, so far as we are cognizant no dishonor attaches itself to the work, and until a better one can be found for us to answer to, the only manly and womanly thing to do is to " acknowledge the corn," and by out deeds make it " worthy its hire." At its last meeting the Woman's Mutual Im- provement Club heartily indorsed the action of the Woman's Era Club in its condemnation of the too prevalent custom of ticket selling by girls and young women, and its members seeing the evil done in their own midst by the same greed of gain, have without permission of their worthy exemplars in the far away Hub, adopted the same resolution. Mrs. A. S. Jones is a chairman of a committee of three to enlist the co-operation of the different ministers in the city of Knoxville in trying to abolish the pernicious practice. On May 10 Booker T. Washington lectured to a small though appreciative audience at Knoxville College. His subject, " Mind and Matter," is said to have been ably handled. Rev. G V. Clark of Memphis, Chief Commissioner of Tennessee for the Cotton States and International Exposition, Was in the city on April 30, on official business. Mr. William H. Manson, a Knoxville boy, graduated on the 27th ult. from the Department of Music of Fisk University. Mr. John C. Dodson, also of Knoxville, assisted in his public piano forte recital. Mrs. Hester Ford, an energetic little woman of Ashville, N. C., is said to have sold in our city five hundred or more of the handsome steel engravings of the late Frederick Douglass. When shown a copy of the ERA, she did not wait for your correspondent to solicit her subscription, but forthwith ordered it, with "spot cash," to be sent her one year. The proverbial unexpected, a cold wave, came last week and changed very materially the aspect of the season. Without, though cold enough for winter wraps, vegetation was exuberant in growth, and the flower-laden fields were loudly odorous ; withing, the busy housewife wore a forlorn look because grates had to be replaced and fires made to thaw out baby's benumbed toes, thus necessitating a sad disarrangement of her spring-cleaned house. OUR GEORGIA EDITOR. Our Georgia department is left out this month owing to the unexpected departure from Savannah of Dr. C. McKane and Dr. Alice W.. his wife, for New York, from which port they sail June 5, for Liberia, West Africa. The doctors go to Liberia to start a hospital and to do general medical missionary work. They carry with them the regards of those who will miss their efficient services, and the best wishes of all who know their worth. Readers of the ERA may look forward to reliable accounts of affairs in the far-away country in letters from Dr. McKane, which will be published from time to time. 4 THE WOMAN'S ERA. ILLINOIS. FANNIE BARRIER WILLIAMS, EDITOR. The summer ending of school days is upon us and there are few households that are not more or less effected by the preparations for the eager young graduate. The people's interest in their institutions of learning has never been so strong as now. The press and magazines have done so much to cultivate public interest in the educational work of our institutions of learning that commencement day is fast becoming the most popular event in the year's calendar of great occurrences. Aside from being a day of inspiration to student, relief to teacher, and of growing interest to the thousands who put themselves in touch with the festive spirit of graduating times, commencement day has come to mean a day of annual recounting of our gains in the forces of intelligence and culture. The men and women who now deliver commencement addresses are selected with the view of being able to utter something of interest to people outside the college walls. We now eagerly look forward to the commencement oration as having a meaning to all men and women who are eager to know and to do their full duty as citizens. On no other occasion in the year does the American orator have so large and appreciative an audience as on the day of university commencements. The people are in a receptive mood for reading and thinking, and the man who can say something interesting, instructive and inspiring on this occasion enjoys a rare opportunity for doing good. We women have a special and growing interest in these commencement occasions, because they mean such a helpful reinforcement to the intelligence of our working forces. With a due appreciation of the thousands of educated and capable women who have done so much to advance our peculiar interests, we are yet lacking in women whose mental training has given them a sanity and balance of judgement and steadiness of conviction in affairs of large importance. Women who have daughters capable of culture can do nothing better for womankind, as well as for the daughters, than to give them the advantage of a college training, or an education that will have an equivalent value in the quality of their intelligence. The mental discipline and culture that are the most important furnishings of a university education will save us from many humiliating mistakes in our public efforts, and will tend to lesson the small jealousies, petty envies and the general unkindness of woman for womankind. Oh, for some kind of culture or talisman that will save us women from being consumed by each other in our ambitions to be useful in this world of ours! While talking about women's peculiar interest in commencement week, it is perhaps offensively irrelevant to suggest a subject so dreary and irritating as that of moving and house-cleaning. But oh my, it is such a season of misery for all of us that the thought of it, intrudes itself in spite of ourselves. This is the season of the year when all of our weaknesses seem to be on trial. By the general consent of all womankind and the amiable tolerance of our "lords and masters," we lay aside our sweetness, our lovableness and charms and put in evidence all our hatefulness and biting impatience against every body and every thing. Womankind seems to take a savage delight in this season of cleaning, renovating and reordering of her household. It it be true that in the spring the young man's fancy turns to wooing and home making, it is equally true that the married man's realities tempt him to stray as far as possible from the disturbances of his own roof tree. I think we would all be frightened it it could be made clear to us how much of domestic unhappiness and family disintegration are traceable to these spring time outbreaks of woman's peevishness. What poor creatures we are, and how slowly we emancipate ourselves from many of our self-imposed afflictions! Fretfulness over house-cleaning, like tight lacing and balloon sleeves, seem to be some of our cherished miseries. Perhaps the college bred woman will, by and by, show us how to meet and treat philosophically these many disagreeable necessities. Then again, we have some hope in those useful inventions that year by year are diminishing the drudgery of home keeping. It really looks as if steam and gas and electricity, in various ways, are soon to make all kinds of housekeeping so delightfully easy that woman's only cause for ill-temper will THE WOMAN'S ERA. 5 be too much leisure. In the meantime, it is to be fervently hoped that we will become strong enough in the command of our better selves to endure more gracefully the trials of our little responsibilities. Woman will make a sorry figure in the contentions of politics and business, and in the larger questions of public concern if she fail to cultivate the patience, the good judgement and good sense that she now so often lacks in the domestic sphere. LOUISIANA. ALICE RUTH MOORE, EDITOR. Owing to a temporary blindness, entailing great suffering and much inconvenience, the writer of this column was unable to get any matter ready for the May issue. One of the most interesting things just about now is the decision of the Phyllis Wheatley Woman's Club to not only countenance the negro building at the Atlanta exposition, which opens in September, but to send an exhibit. This decision was arrived at, though not without some discussion on the part of the members and a little bitterness. It was argued that the linre drawn in the South was drawn enough by the "other side," without our attempting to do anything of that sort ourselves. But, as one of the members expressed it, the exposition would certainly go on, and whether we countenanced it or not the Negro Department would be a success. Phyllis Wheatley Club to the contrary. The only way to convince our friends on the other side that we could do anything was to show them, and here was an excellent chance to show as individuals and members of a race popularly supposed to be unable to do anything but subsist upon the charity of others. There is no doubt but that this exposition, like the one in Chicago, i not representing the negroes would be censured for it by them, and when a disposition is shown by the commissioners to grant space, the usual kick is made. The upshot of it all was that the club gave its decision not only to countenance the negro building but to make an exhibit there. Another series of violent discussions which have been lasting some months were recently closed by the dedication of the new St. Catherine;'s church in Tulane Ave. St. Catherine's occupies the site of the old St. Joseph, now one of the larges churches in America. When Mother Catherine Drexel some while ago sent Archbishop Janssens a handsome sum of money used in a manner that would do most good to the colored people of New Orleans, a clamor for a new church, a Catholic church exclusively for the colored people, where they might be be ensured from discrimination of any sort, where there could be colored altar boys, a colored choir, and, if necessary, a colored priest. So preparations were made to embellish and repair the old church and it was announced that all would be ready in a short while. A storm of opposition was raised at once, newspapers and editors waxed furious; the archbishop was also kept busy receiving delegations of objectors who besieged him with reasons why this thing could not be. But the preparations for the new church went right on. As a matter of fact, it is unfortunate that the colored people of new Orleans should be instrumental in separating themselves from the rest of the Catholics in the city. The Catholic religion is the one broad common plane where all might meet and for the nonce forget the petty prejudices of birth or race. Within the average Catholic church prince or peasant, maid and mistress, man and master may kneel side by side and receive alike impartially the bread of the communion table. The separation of the colored people by themselves from the rest of the city is destroying the most beautiful portion of the Catholic creed. True the archbishop has made it most plain that this church does not, of a necessity, compel all colored people of the Catholic persuasion to attend it. That it is for one parish alone and only for those who desire to attend, and that the doors and pews and confessionals of the other Catholic churches are open as widely ever to the colored people. but it is plain to see that it won't be long before such gentle means as a quiet discrimination all along the parishes will force the colored worshippers into the "Jim Crow" church. It is indeed quite an unfortunate move. The Teachers' League has been busy for the 6 THE WOMAN'S ERA. past month. Our kindergartens and kindergarteners are, or rather were, non est So the league secured the services of Miss Elizabeth K. Mathews from Des Moines, Ia., to come her for a month and hold classes of the members of the league. The classes were held every afternoon from three to five, special permission having been obtained from the superintendent, Mr. Easton, to dismiss those teachers who were interested a half hour earlier than usual. The work done was very interesting and a great deal was accomplished in a month's time. The result of Miss Mathew's labor was visible in an increased interest in the school work and in the introduction of more manual training in the schools. While here she visited and worked with pupils and teachers in the different schools, attended and addressed a meeting of not only the Teacher's League but the Phyllis Wheatley Club also. Miss Matthews also gave a lecture, "A Trip to Yellowstone Park," for the benefit of the Phyllis Wheatley Club. The air is full of Commencement. Out of the four large universities here, three, Leland, Straight and New Orleans, have closed, leaving only Southern and the public schools to drag through the long hot month of June. Straight University fairly outdid itself in the matter of Commencement Week. It always has an entire week given over to festivities of a general nature, but this year the festivities were unusually interesting. The class of '95 is the largest one since the year of 1888. Two new things crowned the year's work. First, the alumni did away with their annual reception, and second, the school granted its first musical certificate. Heretofore the immense reception given by Straight University Alumni has always been looked forward to with no little interest by the friends and patrons of the school. The evening before Commencement was spent by the alumnae in a banquet tendered by the school from five to seven, of which members only were allowed to partake. This was followed by a reception from seven to ten, to which each member had issued invitations, and as the body numbers some two hundred or more it was necessarily large. There was always a musical and literary programme, refreshments and a jollification. But this year all was changed; there was only the banquet, the annual address, which was delivered by Dr. A.J. Lopez, some music, and that was all. The sum usually expended for the reception was placed to the account of the school. The other event of peculiar importance was the completion of the musical course by Miss Beatrice F. Rochin. It is the first time in the history of the university that any pupil has stuck to the right years' study requisite for a completion of piano course. Miss Rochin of '95 celebrated her victory the Thursday before Commencement by a recital, assisted by her sister, Miss Anita, '95, and Mr. Wendell McNeal, '96, on the violin, Mr. Lockhard, '95, with a vocal solo, and a number of young ladies of the Normal department in Delsarte tableaux. Miss Rochin had a very trying ordeal to pass through in playing solo after solo before an intensely critical and rather incredulous audience, but she acquitted herself magnificently and won applause and flowers by the load. PENNSYLVANIA. DORA J. COLE, EDITOR. In the April number of the ERA perhaps it will be remembered that in this column were pressed the claims of women to greater recognition in the government of the churches. The Vestry of St. Thomas' P.E. Church early in April passed a resolution allowing women in good financial standing to vote at the Easter election for officers for the ensuing year. It was very fitting that the initiative should be taken by the vestry of one of the oldest churches in the United States, which keeps up the high standard and courageous resolution of their forefathers, who founded this church in the infancy of the republic. This extension of the franchise was accepted by the women in a very serene and matter-of-fact way. There was no unseemly haste; less than one-third of the eligible women voted. Those who expected strife and a complete reorganization of the church offers, found to their surprise the old vestry re-elected, with one exception, a faithful and efficient vestryman who desired to be excused from serving this year. Let the good work go on. We hope that soon in every church the women will be shown common justice. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 7 In the Diocesan Convention held early in May in our city, the question of admitting women as delegates was warmly discussed. Many clergymen supported the proposition, but one prominent and venerable laymen delivered a passionate speech in which he fervently hoped that he should never live to see the day when one of these "new women" were seated in the convention. He spoke at length on the subject and declared that she is "a horrid creature." The motion was not disposed of finally, but was left an open question for the time. One is tempted to sympathize with this view of the new woman. That term and the phrase fin de siecle have surely earned a long rest. It is a question with me whether there really is any "Mrs. Harris," in the words of Betsey Prigg. It is the same old woman, the eternal feminine, only the outward visible sign has changed somewhat. The higher education, the attention to athletic sports, the greater knowledge of hygiene and proper food, the thick-soled shoes, the warm winter flannels, have all made her what Emerson says it is everybody's first duty to be, "a good animal." With this grateful sense of physical well-being has come that joyous expansion, that exuberance that all happy, healthy people feel. it has become a necessity for her to find an outlet for all this energy, hence her interest in church and state, in all that is on the earth or in the waters under the earth. Look in the home, is she not a more intelligent companion, a wiser, more judicious mother, a more stimulating and sympathetic friend? Surely the vast majority of the women of today are like the picture I have drawn, and may it be a continually decreasing number who may be described in the words of the Rabbi Voorsanger of Los Angeles, who says, "The new woman is a rampant and rebellious woman, who gathers in conventions and talks too much; a reformer who seeks to lay bare the rotten foundations of society; an evoked species of Roman matron with a tongue like a lash and a rod of chastisement in her fair fist." Not many years ago some of us can remember that southern alarmists created a wave of interest that rolled all over the country, by reporting the alarming rate of increase in the negro population. It was predicted that the back man and brother would cover the face of the earth, as did the locusts in Pharaoh's time, and devour every green thing in the shape of a white man. Tables were compiled, and truly alarming progressions were worked out. Now the latest, according to Dr. Saussure of South Carolina, is that the "negro is dying out." In a paper read before the South Carolina Medical Society he showed the alarming rate for mortality for the past fourteen years, and stated that three deaths occur among the blacks for every two births. In short, giving the impression that the race compromises one-third of the population and has two-thirds of the deaths. There deaths he attributes mainly to consumption and diseases resultant from immorality. Dr. Furman J. Shadd's contribution to the New York Age of May 16, in refutation of the idea that we will shortly be eliminated from the problem, is timely and reassuring. Having the wide experience that he has among the 87,000 negroes of the District of Columbia, He is able to Speak with authority, and shows that even if the state of South Carolina is losing her black population, there has been in the District since 1876 a steady decrease in mortality and a regular increase in population, showing that the negro is one fourth more productive than the white race. Dr. Shadd is hopeful of a greater improvement every year in the sanitary condition of the poor and the consequent lessened death rate. What would become of the country if there was no negro problem? All of us who are teachers know too well of the causes that lead to this alarming death rate. The insufficient clothing, the lowered vitality from improper and irregularly taken food, and the frightful ravages of that scourge consumption, brought on by night after night, during weeks in the depths of winter, attending revivals. With nerves stretched tense and bodies reeking with perspiration they come out of the icy air. some modern Paul must write an Epistle to the Ministers of these people. That is the surest way to reach the majority. The minister is their literature, their book, their paper, their only way of coming into touch with anything that helps them to grow towards the light NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS You are interested in the advancement of the race and want to do something to help on the work? Then pass the paper along and urge your friends to subscribe. You can not do better work than this. Any one sending a two-cent stamp will receive a sample copy of the ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 8 THE WOMAN'S ERA. The Woman's Era, the organ of the Woman's Era Club, and devoted to the Interests of the Women's Clubs, Leagues and Societies throughout the country. Published monthly, in Boston, by Josephine St. P. Ruffin, Florida R. Ridley, 103 Charles Street. SUBSCRIPTIONS. Per Annum, - - - - - $1.00 Single Copies, - - - - - .10 Club Rates, one hundred copies, - - 7.00 Subscriptions Payable in Advance. Editorial There are two sides to almost every question. There is nothing very new or original in this remark, but it is suggested anew by the proposed Atlanta Exposition. There are good reasons why the colored people should be represented there and take advantage of this new and large opportunity of vindicating themselves, their enterprise and intelligence. Now that our people have entered upon the project, it is hoped that it will be a great success. Nevertheless we cannot wholly endorse the movement; such exhibitions never do and never can do justice to the colored people. It is as impossible to separate the work of the whites and the blacks as it is to separate the work of those who have Irish or German blood. The result is inevitably meager, inadequate and mortifying. Besides this, the Atlanta Exposition will carry with it the most humiliating conditions for all colored visitors. The commissioner general declares that [*we shall have all the rights we desire!*] But in the lights of the past estimate put upon us and our desires, this is not reassuring. Doubtless the commissioners will add largely to their finances by including an exhibition from our colored people, but it is doubtful if one jot or title of the merciless discrimination carried on in the south will be abated on the fair grounds at this time. We are open to conviction, but it seems to us that the only gain made will come to the managers, and that the "colored department" will be left entirely to the colored people, with the result that we shall not have grown over rich in dignity or worth in the eyes of the other race, and at the same time we shall be probably financial losers. However we shall watch and wait and hope for the best. LET US CONFER TOGETHER. The coming of our women from all over the country for consultation, for conference, for the personal exchange of greeting, which means so much in the way of encouragement and inspiration, has been a burning desire in the breasts of the colored women in every section of the United States. The matter has been discussed and re-discussed. Of some things all are convinced--the need of such a conference is great, the benefit to be derived inevitable and inestimable. In view of this, we, the women of the Woman's Era Club of Boston, send forth a call to our sisters all over the country, members of all clubs, societies, associations, or circles to meet with us in conference in this city of Boston. And we urge upon all clubs, societies, associations and circles to take immediate action, looking towards the sending of delegates to this convention. Boston has been selected as a meeting place because it has seemed to be the general opinion that here, and here only, can be found the atmosphere which would best interpret and represent us, our position, our needs and our aims. One of the pressing needs of our cause is the education of the public to a just appreciation of us, and only here can we gain the attention upon which so much depends. It is designed to hold the convention three days, the first of which will be given up to business, the second and third to the consideration of vital questions concerning our moral, mental, physical and financial growth and well-being, these to be presented through addresses by representative women. Although this matter of a convention has been talked over for some time, the subject has been precipitated by a letter to England, written by a southern editor, and reflecting upon the moral character of all colored women; this letter is too indecent for publication, but a copy of it is sent with this call to all the women's bodies throughout the country. Read this document carefully and use discriminatingly and decide if it be not time for us to stand before the world and declare ourselves and our principles. The time is short, but everything is ripe; and remember, earnest women can do anything. A circular letter will be sent you in the meantime. Let us hear at once from you. CORRECTIONS. In the May issue of this paper, the Era's comments on Mrs. Terrell were unfortunately placed in the department edited by that lady. Probably every reader understood the situation; nevertheless it is a matter of annoyance to the editors that there should be the chance or the likelihood of any readers believing that THE WOMAN'S ERA. 9 Mrs. Terrell was indulging in self-praise. By the same mischance, the fine article contributed by Mrs. Fannie B. Williams on "The Need of Co-operation of Men and Women in Correctional Work" was divided and the continuity of thought broken by placing the last portion on the editorial page. We know that many of our readers are unacquainted with Colonel Dargan of Sumter, South Carolina; we therefore take pleasure in introducing him and his paper, the "Free Speech," to our readers. Colonel Dargan is indeed a rare avis -- a secessionist, a confederate officer, with every interest in the south, he is now a fearless champion of justice and free speech. Considering the sentiment upon which he has been reared, his comments upon which he has been reared, his comments upon the approaching constitutional convention and the iniquity of the attempt to disenfranchise the black race are remarkable for their fearlessness. The south is very boastful of the bravery of its sons. Here is an example of genuine bravery. That is so conspicuous shows the rarity of the true article in that portion of the country. Let the good work go on in the meantime. We can all take hope and read the Sumter "Free Speech." One good man can work wonders. A CHARGE TO BE REFUNDED The editors of the Woman's Era are in receipt of a letter from Miss Florence Belgarnic, Honorable Secretary of the Anti-Lynching Society of England, in which she encloses a letter from Mr. James W. Jack, president of the Missouri Press Association. The letter of Mr. Jack to Miss Belgarnic is a denouncement of the morality of the colored women of America, and also a criticism of the peculiar ideas of virtue and morality held by everybody but the people of the south and west. Miss Belgarnie forwards the letter for publication in the Era, with an expression of sympathy and indignation for the slurs we, as colored women, are subjected to. As the charges in this letter are so sweeping and so base, we have decided not to act hastily upon it, but to be very careful in our method of bringing it before the public. Our line of action has already begun; the letter will be printed and forwarded to leading men and women and heads of educational institutions, particularly in the south, people of reputation and standing, whose words carry weight; and in the next issue it is hoped to print the charge, with these signed replies. The matter is a solemn one, and one upon which we shall call all our women all over the country to act. In the meantime we wish to move with discretion, and so not to defeat the ultimate aim, which is the confusion of Jack and that host of traducers who are so free in bringing the charge of immorality upon all colored women. Virginia. Rosa D. Bowser, Editor. Since I am requested to furnish news notes I hope you will allow me space for a few thoughts along the line of the most engrossing topic at this time in Virginia as well as elsewhere, viz., Commencement. Not a more applicable title could be suggested for the time of completion of the college curriculum than Commencement, for those leaving its walls have been trained to gather discreetly by the grains of knowledge, and they are therefore sent out to engage in the great army in defence of truth and right. They go with the problem yet to be solved--education the unknown quantity, works of great educators, perseverance and diligence represent the known quantities. The solution of this problem is not accomplished in a lifetime. Those who give a proper estimate to the value of an education, will rather rejoice that the end of learning to them is very much the same as the end of the rainbow to a little child, the longer he tries to find it the farther it seems to be from him. The effect of the research may be disappointment and discouragement for the child, while the true student is enthused by the knowledge that the more the obstacles he conquers in his onward march the higher he places himself on the ladder which reaches perfection. Hence his determination should be not to stand still, but to go on and on. "The heights by great men reached and kept, Were not attained by sudden flight." Each life carries with it an influence of elevation or degradation. What a weight of responsibility rests upon each individual. The greater the advantages the greater the responsibility. From many schools and colleges hundreds of students have been licensed to toil unaided in the great field of labor, to gather in and store the mind with great truths that will serve as food for the mental powers and as seed falling in good ground, yielding, some thirty, some sixty and some an hundred fold. Great truths that men of wonderful mental faculties have pondered over 10 THE WOMAN'S ERA. and developed, must be searched and weighed, reserving such as cause the mind to expand and reach out for other facts, in order to strengthen and build strong intellects. Students should endeavor to grow strong intellectually, so as not to be cast about by every attempt on the part of opposers to revolutionize well-founded theories, but by careful study so fortify themselves on the subjects as to become stronger advocates of the right. Diligence is the price of success, so no student needs be lacking in material by which to acquire knowledge. One important point should be borne in mind, viz., the acquirement of an education, in the limited sense of the term, does not depend upon the number of books read nor the variety of literature, but upon the thorough study and digestion of the most important subjects by authors of worth and literary standing. The discontinuance of attendance in a school, after having completed the prescribed course of study in that institution, does not signify that the mental powers have become thoroughly developed and the education completed. Oh, no ! it means the commencement. The Virginia Baptist State Convention met in Suffolk, Va., May 9th, 1895, and continued during that week. The ministerial shepherds are with their flocks again. The presidency of the Virginia Seminary seemed to have been the main topic for discussion. From all accounts we hear of the convention this matter consumed by far the greater portion of the session. Pres. G. W. Hayes was re-elected. "The following Board of Trustees were elected for the Seminary : "May 31, 1898 -- Rev. W.F. Graham, Mr. John Mitchell, Jr., Rev. R. H. Bolling. May 31, 1896 -- Revs. A. Binga, Jr., A. Gordon, John W. Kirby. May 31, 1897 -- Revs. J. M. Armistead, P. F. Morris, D. W. Vassar." -- Planet . The Grand Lodge Knights of Pythias convened on Newport News, Va., May 15, 1895. The gathering was very enthusiastic and much business for the order was transacted. The address of Grand Chancellor John Mitchell, Jr., was received with much applause and a vote of thanks tendered him for the noble sentiments which it contained. Miss Annestine Snyder of Charleston, West Va., passed through Richmond May 17, from Shaw University, N. C., en route to her home. While in R. she was the guest of Mrs. Bowser. MISSOURI. JOSEPHONE SILONE YATES. EDITOR. [[image: profile of a woman]] No utterance of the year have come nearer to striking the keynote of race progress in America than those of Prof. Booker T. Washington in his address before the students of Fisk University; and even at the risk of being considered an echo, we must repeat that industrial training through its resultant - skilled labor - has been for every race, and will be for the Negro race, the most potent force in its development. It has required years for the "industrial idea" in education to stamp itself upon the educational system of America, and we question whether the impress is yet sufficiently deep; but financial crisis, the continuous influx of foreign skilled labor, and the losses sustained by the American laborer, if he is not equally skillful, are creating forceful demonstrations of the necessity for practical training in this direction. Afro-American labor is not foreign labor in the sense usually implied by this term; and in past decades it was a mainspring in developing the resources of a new country. In those years, the artisans of the South, the skilled laborers, as matters then stood, were colored men, and the inventive genius then exemplified by individual members of the race, even under those exceedingly unfavorable environments, furnish proof of our inherent creative capacity; and when at last the doors of school and college were opened to the descendants of these mechanics, had the industrial idea been as firmly engrafted upon the American system of education as at present, the future prospect of these comparatively young people would be brighter than it now is, for the trained hand must keep pace with the trained mind in order to be able to express the conceptions of the mind in material form. Says Dr. Coffin, in an editorial appearing in the April A.M.E. Church Review, "We are not fully aware ourselves, not are the people among whom we live aware of what we have really accomplished since the war. The advancement in material wealth, and in education, including the professions, has indeed been marvelous. THE WOMAN'S ERA. Our advancement in mechanical skill has not yet been equal to the progress made in literary pursuits. . . . But attention is now being turned and we think wisely, too, toward the workshop." We are indebted to inventive genius for all the means of rapid transit, expeditious communication, the product of remote sections, the comforts in home, hotel and shop, the means of social and intellectual gratification which render life in the nineteenth century so far above all preceding centuries. In this march of progress, a few important inventions have originated in the brain of a Negro, but we must work more strenuously to stimulate the creative faculty, if we would maintain a permanent hold upon civilization in America or elsewhere. We must seize with avidity upon the industrial factors of education. Especially do our little ones need the industrial features of the kindergarten; and when parents and teachers fully realize this fact, then, from its earliest years the child will be taught to contrast and to invent articles according to scientific principles. We do not, indeed, need a smaller number of scholarly men and women, but a much larger quota of those who to their literary which is a necessity to the masses. We need not less intellectual training in the field of higher education, but more practical education. The young colored man who graduated from Lawrence University, Kansas, and then went to his farm and settled down to solid work with the remark, "If the white race need scientific farmers, surely my race does," has solved the "race problem" for himself, and has furnished an example which may individuals can afford to emulate. With pride from year to year we read that the "Potato King" of the Missouri Valley is a colored man; a man who by reducing the production of the tuber to a scientific process is bringing forth from his acres both fame and fortune-capital, that commodity which added to a better knowledge of investing it, is so great a necessity in the present stage of our development. The Afro-American of the United States is for various reasons behind his brother in the more advanced of the South American states in the acquisition of wealth, and therefore in the development of those enterprises which require the outlay of large amounts of capitol. We are no particularly interested in trust companies, mining plants and grinding monopolies, although, from the force of habit, we read of and discuss them; but we have little capital invested in those lines. In the South, as an agricultural laborer, the Negro is a great industrial factor; but not until he owns the cotton and rice fields, the turpentine orchards and cane plantations in which he now labors, can he be considered in any sense a controlling factor of the South; nor can we hope to take front rank in any department of civilized life until we are part and parcel of large industries. Thus far in our career we may justly be accused of a quality which George Eliot styles "other worldliness." We need more of an eye to the main chance; or as Carnegie is said to have put it while looking at a young man's collection of coins, "A very good thing to have in its way, a very good thing; but I tell you, young man, the coin to look out for is the American dollar." Every Negro inventor of high rank, every scientific farmer, artisan, or tradesman, takes a long step ahead for his race, since the world is clamoring for proofs of our capacity, originality, and culture; hence the industrial schools should be intensely practical and filled to overflowing with our young people; for it matters not whether the Negro decides to remain here, or migrate elsewhere, always and everywhere he will find this problem of scientific industrial training confronting him, and unless he learns to solve it under all of its conditions, possible and probable, will find himself a negative quality. The South needs skilled laborers to develop her valuable resources, Mexico, South America and Africa the same; and the brainy men of each section, or country, will diligently seek until they and the laborer best qualified for the work; obviously then, the colored man need not run from the conditions which he finds in the United States, and unless he possesses superior industrial training may as well take his chances here, as elsewhere. A recent writer from Africa to the "New York Age" states that those Afro-Americans who come to colonize in Africa should be civil engineers, mechanics, practical farmers, etc., and should bring capital with them. In other words, they should be of the order of colonists that brought about the most satisfactory results in the colonization of America, Australia, India, and the Islands of the Sea. The simple act of departing for "Africa, the home of our fathers," is not sufficient to secure even a foothold in a country already largely under the control of the English, French, Belgians, Germans, Italians, Portuguese, and Turks, each 12 THE WOMAN'S ERA. pressing to the utmost the development of the immense riches to which they have laid claim ; each desirous of building up colonies toward which they desire to attract the surplus of their population ; and looking the facts squarely in the face, it seems highly probable that the African in Africa, like the Indian in America, will soon be dispossessed of his own soil. Is there not a possible remedy for the ills which confront us here, there and everywhere, in practical industrial training? Good words for the ERA. -- I received the copies of the ERA, and like it more and more. Please find one dollar enclosed for my subscription. I will do all I can to increase it circulation. MRS. LIBBLE C. ANTHONY, Superintendent of Department of Colored Work of W.C.T.U., Jefferson City, Mo. COLORADO, ELIZABETH PIPER ENSLEY, EDITOR. [[Image of a woman]] Everything in the outer world is suggestive of growth. White blossoms and hopeful green greets us on all sides. The whole landscape is rich in floral splendor. Nature also speaks to us joyously, tenderly, in the songs of birds. When we consider that only a few months since, the plant was in embryo, we are filled with amazement at the mysterious and wonderful change. The necessary outward influences - warmth, air, light and moisture - have caused it to grow harmoniously. The question arises as to whether the growth and expansion of the "Woman Suffrage Plant" is commensurate with that in the natural world. That three women were sent to act as legislators is in advance of the old regime. These women representatives have shown a progressive spirit in the measures they have advocated. Mrs. Holly introduced eleven bills, Mrs. Klock, three, and Mrs. Cressingham, four. Two of Mrs. Cressingham's bills are designed to promote the sugar beet industry. "She believes in the possibilities of the sugar beet. Can cite facts and figures to show that she has studied the subject and is sure that in the cultivation of this saccharine vegetable there is a remedy for the wretched condition of the people where there is a small rainfall and nor large streams from which to irrigate." Mrs. Cressingham's third bill amends a section of the school law. In some of the southern counties of the state, Spanish was the language used in the schools. Her bill provides that English shall be the language in all public schools. Her last bill was for the creation of a "state board for the arbitration of controversies arising between employer and employe." The Hon. Frances Klock, also of Arapahoe, presented "House joint memorial No. 6," asking Congress "to grant the military reservation known as For Lyon to the state of Colorado for the purpose of establishing a soldiers' home at that place," the present home at Monte Vista being very undesirable. Her second bill provides for the support of the state home and industrial school for girls. Her last bill deals with the same matter, but states in detail how the home is to be managed. All the officers and assistants shall be women excepting one member of the board. Representative Holly of Pueblo, has the honor of being the first woman to introduce a bill in the house -- " the age of consent bill." One bill is a constitutional amendment, and amends a certain section of an article which now permits a foreigner to vote upon declaring his intention to become a citizen. The proposed amendment enfranchises every person (instead of every male person) over the age of twenty-one years, provided, first, that "he or she shall be a citizen of the United States." And second, that "he or she shall be able to read the constitution in the English language." A third bill also deals with the election laws. A fourth, refers to school matters. A fifth, affects the property of unmarried men who die without wills. Their possessions did revert to the father ; this bill asks that such property be evenly divided between the parents of the deceased. A sixth asked that cases concerning the validity of wills and testaments be placed at the head of the docket. Two other bills provide for the punishment of persons guilty of enticing boys or girls under twenty-one years into places of ill repute. A ninth bill provides for a truant officer. The tenth, concerns divorce and alimony. "You will laugh at my last bill, for it is kind THE WOMAN'S ERA. 13 of queer; it is a bill to give women all the rights that men have," said Mrs. Holly. Passing over the city election which was not satisfactory to the majority of thinking women, we come to the school election, the result of which was to put another broad-minded, progressive woman on the school board. Women's work in politics must be like that of the chambered nautilus, the spiral animal, which after completing one house or shell proceeds to make another and so is constantly advancing. There are several civic leagues in process of formation which organize to work for better municipal government. On the 9th of May, the women of Denver had the inestimable privilege of greeting and listening to those grand, rare women, Miss Susan B. Anthony and Rev. Anna Shaw. Their visit here was brief, as they hastened on to congratulate Utah on adding the suffrage plank to the constitution. THE OPEN COURT. MRS. N. F. MOSSELL, EDITOR [[image of a woman]] It gives us great pleasure to state the fact that with this month's issue of the WOMAN'S ERA the Open Court has passed the limit of its fiftieth subscription. We feel especially grateful to Mrs. J. H. Armstrong, wife of the Financial Secretary of the A.M.E. Church, Miss Emma K. White, a teacher in the public schools of Chester, Miss Lillian Spencer of Wilmington public schools, and Miss Lillian Thompson of Bridgeton, daughter of Rev. Joseph Thompson, D.D., pastor at that point. These ladies have shown their interest in the work in various substantial forms. Mrs. Armstrong sends us for May five subscriptions and such an encouraging, helpful letter. Through the kindness and perseverance of of Miss Emma K. White the sum of fifteen dollars has been secured in aid of a worthy student. Miss Spencer and Miss Thompson are each assisting in the enlargement of our subscription list. As contributors to the literary work of the Open Court we have secured the services of Miss Lillian V. Thompson, whose able paper on "Frederick Douglass compared with England's great Commoner," appeared in the memorial issue of the Christian Recorder, and of Miss Sarah E. Tanner, principal of the Bordentown Industrial School, N.J., and Miss Emma K. White of Chester High School. The last two mentioned ladies will entertain and instruct the readers of the Open Court, Miss Tanner in this month's issue of the ERA, and Miss White in the July number. June, with its beautiful of roses and sunshine, its "perfect days," is with us once more. Let us cast behind us the clouds and storms of the past and enjoy the heritage of joyfulness that comes with this purest and sweetest of all the summer months. Let us strive to give the world a message of love from hearts overflowing with the blessedness of having received good gifts. READING BY SARAH E. TANNER "They are never alone," said Sir Philip Sidney, "that are accompanied by noble thoughts," and we say it is quite possible for the humblest to gain these "noble thoughts" if they will but be discreet in the selection of books they read. The moment we enter the world of books that moment a great personal responsibility rests upon us. It is as necessary that we choose as wisely the companionship of books as we do the companionship of friends. there is an old proverb, "A man may usually be known by the company he keeps'" but he cam just as truly be known by the books he reads. No kinder or wiser friend can one have than a good book, for a book which is worthy for us to take as a companion is the embodiment of the noblest thoughts of which that life was capable. 14 THE WOMAN'S ERA. "You get into society in the widest sense," said Dr. Geikie, "in a great library, with the huge advantage of needing no introductions and not dreading repulses. From that great crowd you can choose what companions you please, for in these silent levees of the immortals there is no pride, but the highest is at the service of the lowest with a great humility. You may speak freely with any without a thought of your inferiority, for books are perfectly well-bred and hurts no one's feelings by any discriminations." Great care should be taken in cultivating the habit of reading, for without reading it is impossible to ever be the "full man" of whom Lord Bacon tells us. It is no more reasonable to suppose we will have bright ideas and noble thoughts without reading "than to suppose that the Mississippi might roll on its flood of waters to the ocean and it were replenished only by occasional drops from the clouds." We are told that the elder Pliny seldom sat down to eat a meal without insisting upon some one reading to him, and that so close and constant was Petrarch's application to his books that his friends became anxious about his health, and through love to him refused to allow him to enter his study for ten days, and by the morning he was ill with fever ; his keys were at once restored to him, and with them came his usual health and bright spirits. Not only is it necessary to acquire the habit of reading, but also the habit of selecting carefully what we read, and this in itself will greatly develop our intellectual tendency, and then we will learn to appreciate the good and beautiful. Read with a purpose. No better advise can be given a young person than to "read much, not many books." Milton says, "Who reads Incessantly, and to his reading brings not A spirit and genius equal or superior, Uncertain and unsettled still remains, Deep versed in books and shallow in himself." Now just a word as to what we should read. To gather information read histories, biographies and travels. Read the best novels and romances, authors like Sir Walter Scott, George Eliot, Thackeray, Dickens and Hawthorne. Do not read about authors and imagine you have read the authors themselves, but with great care study the masters of the art of literature, authors like Milton, Dante, Shakespeare, Bacon, Goethe, Cervantes, Schiller, and others. We could not be expected to exhaust a subject so interminable as this. The thoughtful reader will have at once perceived that we have scarcely done more than given intimations. Our pleasure is that intimations only are necessary to a class to whom this article comes, and we therefore briefly hand it over to them with the hope that they will find it profitable to the extent we have gone. SOCIAL NOTES. BOSTON. Nothing more elaborate has been given in Boston society for a long time than the reception tendered the members of the popular Vaudeville Club by the equally popular Cracker-Jacks. Mr. Edward S. Glover's well appointed residence was the scene of the festivities. The young ladies, attired in handsome evening costumes, from the depths of luxurious chairs and under mellow lights, witnessed the one-act play and the burlesque dancing that followed, a noteworthy feature of which was the pas seul of Mr. Edward Glover, who, by the way, is especially good in theatrical imitations. Mr. Sam Marsh, fresh from the stage, having appeared in the performance of Leah at the Hollis Street Theater a day or two before, also made some clever hits in his acting. Appo Johnson appeared as Trilby, and some topical songs, in costume, ended the program. An elaborate banquet followed. The table decorations were in green, and the effect was enhanced by the reflection from the pale green shades that dimmed the light of the numerous small candles. Toasts were drank and souvenir stick pins were presented to the ladies. The presentation speech was responded to by Miss Lillian Lewis, in behalf of the Vaudeville Club. The tea given to the members of the Vaudeville Club, at which Misses Libbie Watson and Carrie Patterson were the hostesses, wound up the brilliant series of entertainments that have given so much pleasure to society folk, young and old, the past season. Miss Watson's pretty home in Dorchester was thrown open for the occasion, and the evening was spent in a delightfully informal manner, the tea being the special feature. The cosy dining room was tastefully decorated and the repast included a long menu of tempting and dainty viands. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 15 Hon. George T. Downing of Newport and his daughter, Mrs. Washington, have been making a visit to Mr. and Mrs. Mark de Mortie. A large contingent of Washington people are expected to pass the summer in Boston, among them Miss Wormley, Miss Nita Turner, Miss Clare Smythe, who will take a summer course at Harvard, and the Misses Gertrude and Cora Smith, who will be guests of relatives in Jamaica Plain. Mr. Frank Rudolph Stuart of Harvard was one of the contestants for the Boylston prize this year. The exercises were held in Sanders' Theater, and among the well wishers of Mr. Stuart, who were present, were Misses Louisa Lewis, Mabel Grant and Dosia Marsh. Miss Geraldine Pindell, whose protracted illness of four months has deprived the young people of her presence at so many of the social functions the past season, is out and about again, and in spite of her impaired strength, is cheerful and gay as ever. Miss Marion Ridley is at home again after a three week's sojourn at Faneuil, where she lingered for a much needed rest. SOCIAL NOTES. New York. So Boston has settled the identity of Anno Domini, eh? The "he, she or it" in last issue is good--Pickwickian. Seriously, though, the astronomical guesses ought to read, as a penance, dying Brutus' words, "Et tu Brute." It's hard, but--the Hub is not famous in the line of guessing. And I suspect the gallant Philadelphian has kyar'd de news to--somebody. But the guess is an iceberg all the same. The Young Men's Guild, connected with St. Philip's Church, is accomplishing wonders in these dancing days. They will soon take possession of the newly erected Guild House, a handsome structure costing over $13,000. The Guild's membership is now beyond the 100 line, and represents the truly ambitious business class of young men generally in this city. Bethel, like a great beehive, is but a few doors distant from St. Philip's. Rumors are flying as to great things to be done there in the coming fall. It is said that Rev.Henderson (who, by the way, is from the enterprising west) is desirous of becoming an epoch-maker. Should his conference, which meets in Albany, return here, he will visit Boston and there begin a well-defined campaign of intellectual agitation under the cry of "Not prejudice, but brains to the front!" St.Mark's will in a short time move into a spacious edifice, in close proximity to Mount Olivet, Rev. Wisher's, and it is confidently predicted that the M. E.'s will push the progressiveness of the great Baptist citadel with as much vigor as will characterize the M. E. ambitious restlessness as neighbors of St. Philip's splendid Guild. By next fall the members of the Guild will be barons indeed, dwelling 'neath their own vine and fig tree. That's the lead! For classic beauty, Carnegie Music Hall is second to none in this great town. As Frank Chambers was to graduate from the School of Pharmacy on the evening of May 9, that wretch, A.D., in "best bib and tucker" was seated directly opposite box No. 5. So the whimful beauty or beauties--for vieing with Miss Kate Smith's captivating mirthfulness was Miss Bessie Decline's foreign vivacity. They are both pretty girls. There's an unconscious tenderness in Miss Kate's voice and tout ensemble that reduces to a minimum the resistance of adamant; much less the tender susceptibilities of our own Miles Standish, who also graced No. 5. Fanny Rice, while performing some time ago in "Nadgy," I think, made her best hit in a denouement in which she cried aloud, "I was flamagasted, I was!" Well, that was Beau Brummel's plight. (He was in No. 5, too.) Under the fires of Miss Bessie's beautiful Italian eyes--ah! Our Rob stood calmly by, not de trop, though later the young graduate, Dr. Chambers, joined the party, and they repaired to one of the finest hotels in town where the affair was brought to a most memorable end.The ladies were gowned in a most fetching style, while the gentlemen were in faultless evening attire. That's the way, boys! Bravo! Now--who's Anno Domini? Dr. Chambers has gone to North Carolina to rest awhile, in company with a popular dentist, Dr. Reid. Mrs. Ferguson, a gentle lady from Richmond, has been the recipient of considerable social attention among Mrs. F. H. Carmand's coterie of friends. Several dinners, luncheons, and infor- 16 THE WOMAN'S ERA. mal evenings were given in her honor. She was Mrs. Carmand's guest. A merry party drove through Prospect Park recently. Charley Day and Miss Stella King would not tell who the others were. 'Twas a handsome couple. A certain Brooklyn gallant will have to borrow Romeo's ladder, I fear, judging by the attention paid Miss Edie B----- by a handsome South American, now in town. In some things Americans are slow. The cause which evolved the new woman, possibly. By the way, there are three "new women" in town. Lord Harry's daughter, a tiny maid in the home of Dr. J. Frank Smith, and a daughter of the house of Stewart. The always popular counsellor, in detailing the wondrous charms of Mistress Anna to an admiring company lately, brought the house down by telling a story of the late Philips Brooks, who, in his public capacity, was continually called upon to admire early editions of future great men and women. "This, you will observe," quoth Mr. Stewart, "impoverished his store of suitable descriptive terms, so in a moment of inspiration, a way out of his difficulties flashed upon him. After that, on every occasion, armed with the easily acquired but necessary smile and manner, he would simply remark, 'My dear madam, this is a baby!' See the point? Good, isn't it?" A notable feature of the exposition held by the Brooklyn Literary Union was "County Fair," with our Rob, the Prince of Wales and the natty little district attorney, minus white vest, in charge. Ah, boys, you know a thing or two about --- a race track! And the dear girls showed a knowledge of how to buy chances --- ah, just so! All in life, and that a hurried dream at best. Among the prize winners was Miss Mena Downing, who won a beautiful desk. I know a score of fellows today who are hoping for notes written on that desk. Rob Willis got the wheel. Constant practice on such things has been known to lessen straight lengths into curves. Cummings won the cane, J. E. Garner the umbrella, and W. E. Gross the gavel. The supper, under Mrs. Gross; supervision, was remarkable. Absolutely no highway exchange policy. Good food for common sense prices. I am serious in this, for, as a rule, at such entertainments, the refreshment committee tries to get square with the fellows who refuse to buy; everything dangled before them, you know. But in this instance Mrs. Gross positively inaugurated a real reform. Hereafter, the boys will pay careful attention to the refreshment committee before attending an entertainment. Just a word to A. D.'s friends --- those to whom the column is dear; those who look forward to its monthly appearance; those who read without thinking of how a subscription now and then would make it impossible to be curtailed as to space, etc. For such reasons the lovely costumes worn at the famous Bachelor's ball by Mesdames Fisher, Braxton, Gale, Thomas, Garner and many others, were cut. I've a secret to tell you all; and that is, for this cause a good-bye is soon to be said --- a fact --- and silently said by that aggravating, uninteresting ANNO DOMINI. CALIFORNIA. S. WILLIE LAYTON, EDITOR. LA FIESTA DE LOS ANGELES. The Lenten days are indeed past, and for one week this fair city of the South has become the realm of La Reina de La Fiesta. The city government is overthrown, and the reign of the Sovereign of Flowers and Fun is ushered in with blares of tin trumpets, janging bells and shrill whistles. Decorations are gorgeous --- the city color mad --- from electric light poles and wires lazily flap the tri-colored flags of gold, scarlet, and olive, (emblematic of the orange, wine and olive productions of our state). Children scamper along the streets, like tropical birds, in their frocks of blended gold, scarlet and olive; carriages and tallyhos, tandem and cart are bright and gay with garlands and ribbons. From windows and steeples flutter the La Fiesta colors; streets cars breaking into gay bunting become fanciful things of locomotion; horses prance proudly in their gay trimmings; and forlorn indeed is the dog that sports neither tri-colored collar or bow. The streets are thronged with merrymakers; every woman out in her new and fetching Easter bonnet and gown, so THE WOMAN'S ERA. 17 absorbed in the spirit of La Fiesta, that she is not aware of the "mash" her big sleeve is making with the dirty car greaser who selfishly crowds her to get a peep at the queen's retainers; the pale face, without the least fear of the scalping knife, stands beside the Indian brave gaudily arrayed in feathers and paint; in the crowd sociably hurries the fat grey-gowned friar, beside the very red and horned devil; sweet Margarite's sensitive nostrils do not consider obtrusive the musty scented Chinamen just crawled from the opium den; the "new woman," as usual, carricatured by her jealous brother, is present in gorgeous tri-colored blouse and bloomers; the fraternity of street fakirs, yelling "La Fiesta badges," is patronized by the sailors and country cousins who have "come to take in Fiesta"; dominoes of all colors and designs mingle with the fashionable and ordinarily dressed Angelenos. The pageants of the first two days represented the ancient history and religion of the Pacific coast, then followed floats depicting early California history, typical Spanish life made quite real by the presence of genuine senoritas and a company of typical and gallant caballeros on prancing steeds; next followed grand displays of commercial and mercantile interests, which could but feebly portray the enterprise, recourses and productions of southern California. The third day the school children paid to La Reina (and proud was Los Angeles as column after column of bright faced boys and girls swept through the streets;) such a spectacle of comeliness and intelligent prophecy no city can outrival. We sighed again in vain, "Oh for the fount of youth." Other cities can display their soldiers, their expert horsemen, their fire apparatus, even their Chinamen, but the locality that can produce so complete an array of excellence in all these lines as displayed on Military day, would be hard to find. The Chinese portion was brilliant and picturesque, and will go down into history as the most striking success of La Fiesta, '95. Their barbaric splendor was imposing because it was genuine --- a great moving living picture of historical events from the land of Confucius, dating back 2000 years, with real accessories from the Asiatic birth place, depicted by the people therefrom. There were glittering banners and helmets wrought in fantastic shapes, baggy silk trousers of sky blue, terminating in stockings of sea green, pink and white; heralding this were the diabolic strains of the Chinese orchestra, tom toms, and clanking of forty tin kettles and the shrieking rasp of the Chinese fiddles. Not a thread of cheap gaudy tinsel marred their glittering display. The exquisite embroidery and bullion fringe would have stood examination severe, it was every thread solid hold and silver metal; the gay silken garments and banners were of the richest texture and material. Their high officials deigned not to handle a bridle, but rode horses led by white men, so richly attired were they it made the eye ache to look upon them; their garments were a mass of golden embroidery. This page of Oriental splendor had dropped bodily down into the busy bustling western world. The coolie exclaims, "Hip fine allee same melican show no good." The concluding function of La Fiesta was the floral display, a fragrant and beautiful success. The show a fairy dream. The triumphal progress of the perfumed pageant left in its wake a coating of crushed roses and carnations on the street pavements. Pretty! ah yes, it was something more than pretty, our plain language is too poor to express it --- simply an outward and visibly token of the inward and spiritual grace. Among the most interesting events of the past month was the meeting of the Southern California branch of the Woman's Press Association in Los Angeles. Papers on different subjects were read and discussed. Rose Hartwick Thorn, author of "Curfew Shall Not Ring To-night," was present much to the delight of the admirers of her crowning effort. TEXAS CORA L. SMITH, EDITOR. And what is so rare as a day in June? Then, if ever, come perfect days; Then heaven tries the earth if it be in tune, And over it softly her warm ear lays. ---James Russell Lowell. From the many colleges all over our broad land the sweet girl graduate will soon return home, laden with honors and armed with that convincing proof of her intelligence and culture, the diploma. Truly, commencement is upon us, but, my dear girls, have you ever thought out what is to be your commencement? All cannot be teachers, and, indeed, many do not wish to assume the arduous task of training the young. Then, what shall you do? With so many avenues of labor closed against 18 THE WOMAN'S ERA. us, it is by no means an easy task to decide which of the employments still available it is best to choose. It is much to be regretted that all can not learn some trade while at school ; but since that is, at present, impracticable, the best thing to do is to go to work at once to supply the deficiency. A girl who is skilled in the dressmaker's trade, and is an adept in the art of designing a costume, can afford to be independent and demand her own terms. But there are dressmakers and dressmakers, just as there are teachers and teachers, and those who have not mastered all the intricacies of their trade will be forced to the wall. Learn a trade, but by all means learn it well ; be an expert in your chosen profession, and patronage will be thrust upon you from all quarters. I see that some of the cities have already appointed their committees and gone to work to get up an exhibit for the Cotton States Exposition, which will be a credit to the Lone Star State. This is a move in the right direction. Those who do not wish to take part should not try to hinder or disparage the efforts of the committees. Of course things are not exactly as we would like - there are some objectionable features ; but we shall accomplish no good by standing aloof complaining , when there has been offered to us such a glorious opportunity to show to the world that we can do something. People pay no attention to a man who says, "I can invent a machine ;" but let him step forward bearing his invention in his hands, and say, "I invented this," he at once attracts their attention, and if it is really worth anything, their respect also. Our is the age in which work and not talk accomplishes the most good. The Caucasian sees so little of us, and very often that little our worst side , that he is amazed at the idea of one of us accomplishing anything worthy of his notice. We have some brains in Texas ; now let us utilize them in getting together such an exhibit as shall make the Texas Department of the Negro Building at Atlanta the cynosure for all visitors. If we can demonstrate the fact that we can invent anything, mould a piece of statuary or write a book as well as anyone, then we shall do more to solve the negro problem than all preaching and complaining can do? Can we not do this? Mrs. Carlisle, our state superintendent, has consented to establish a summer normal of high grade for colored teachers this year. It is something of which all true teachers have felt the need, and we should show our appreciation by attending in large numbers. Mr. Kealings' name has been proposed as a conductor, and if he is appointed, we are all quite convinced that, with his ability and experience, he cannot fail to make it a success. As the Teacher's Association meets in Austin just at that time, the superintendent would do well to locate the normal there, as it would save teachers who wished to attend the expense of another railroad fare. Let us urge that city for the normal. The citizens of Austin are making strenuous efforts to give the teachers who attend the Teacher's Convention a hearty welcome. It is to be hoped that all who can possibly attend will do so. We are very anxious to have the meeting a success, but when more than half of the great army of our teachers never attend, it certainly gives others a bad impression of us. We should be more interested in our own association. Make a few sacrifices if need be. Three of our educational institutes closed their doors last month - Hearne Academy, Wiley and Paul Quinn. All have very interesting programs. Prairie View Normal will close on the 7th of June. Bishop Lee will deliver the address to graduates and Rev. L.L. Campbell will preach the baccalaureate sermon. LITERATURE DEPARTMENT MEDORA W. GOULD. There has been little published lately that is interesting and entertaining, or, in other words, popular ; which is a good thing. For if we are continually deluged with so much current literature, that it is really worth one's while to read, when are we to find time for our old favorite authors? For those books that, however old, never cease to be new? That can be read and read again, and in each reading we can discover new beauties and learn new lessons for life? THE WOMAN'S ERA. 19 By the way, did anyone ever consider what a dangerous thing it was to recommend a book, a thing we do so often and so carelessly? "Tell me something good to read," and you name the first interesting book that comes in your mind, not considering to what sort of a person you are speaking. Every book we read leaves an impression on the mind of some sort, but does not often impress two people in the same way. Often the book tht may strengthen the weak places in the character of one, may have an opposite effect in that of another. Any book that is fascinating, or indeed, at all interesting must appeal directly to some trait, taste, symathy, or experience of the reader. Therefore it is well to consider the apparent characteristics of the friend to whom we commend a book; and we should be careful, also, lest we leave an erroneous impression of our own character by our tastes. This has been called the reign of the paper-bound book. Time was when it was considered the spurious article, but nowadays everything comes in paper from Ruskin, Huxley and Drummond to "the Dark and Daring Deeds of Dick Deadeye," et cetera. So "you pays your money and you takes your choice." Now if you send to John B. Allen, publisher, 10 and 12 Underwater Street, New York, for his catalogue you will get a list of books quoted at prices ranging from two cents upwards. These are remarkably well printed on good firm paper. The list consists of the world's best books and embraces biography, history, science and poetry, as well as the standard novels. Here in Boston we have had Trilby indeed. Not only have we had the play, the original drawings for that most famous book, and every article of wearing apparel designated as "Trilby," but an enterprising baker advertises Trilby pies. NOTES FROM THE TUSKEGEE NORMAL AND INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTE. Commencement occurred Thursday, May 30. During commencement week a number of exercises were held here, representative of the work done at the institution. The commencement sermon will be preached by Rev. E. Winchester Donald, D. D., of Trinity Church, Boston. Our fruit and vegetable crop this year promises to be very large. Most of the vegetables used by the school are raised on its farms. The Seniors' Model Home, now in process of erection, is to be used exclusively for the young women of the senior class. One of the ends sought in the erection of this building is to give the seniors an idea of a model home. The class of '95 contains teachers, farmers, scientists, carpenters, printers, one preacher, laundresses, dressmakers, cooks, nurses, and in fact almost every kind of craftsmen. Every girl graduate this year wore a dress made by her own hands. "Make a way" is the motto of the class of '95. Mr. S. Laing Williams, Chicago's most noted colored lawyer, deliver the annual address. A fish pond is being made here. Fish will be sent to it by the Fish Commission at Washington. A RARE OPPORTUNITY The best known preventive to consumption if climate, and it is generally conceded that Colorado has the best anti-consumption climate in America. Hundreds come every year to Denver, hoping to prolong life or regain health;p many of them do so who would otherwise meet early death. The climate of Denver, dry, pure and sunny, with its elevation of one mile above sea level, effectually cures all incipient lung diseases. Therefore parents having children predisposed to lung trouble are advised to send them to Denver to pursue their studies. The fine public schools and the Denver University afford unsurpassed educational facilities. Mrs. Ensley will take into her home a limited number of girls and young ladies desiring to get the benefit of the climate while attending school. She will give special attention to home training and physical culture, particularly to chest expansion diet and healthful dressing, while superintending their course at the public schools. When private instruction is preferred the best teachers will be secured. For further information address Mrs. E. P. Ensley, 1755 Ogden St., Denver, Col. Refers by permission to Mr. Nathaniel T. Allen of West Newton English and Classical School. 20 The Woman's Era. Wants. ---------- To supply any of these Wants apply at the office of Women's Era. Private family will receive music student to board and lodge. Reasonable terms. Pleasant home. Kranich and Bach piano to practice on. Easy access to the musical life and institutions of Boston. References given and required. Miss M. W. Gould will give lessons by mail in English composition, grammar, use of capitals, punctuation, formation of sentences, etc. A woman of business experience and ability will act as confidential agent in taking care of or settling up the estates of women and children. Advice free. A safe and pleasant home for a young girl desirous of preparing herself to become a trained nurse, in return for services in house-work. --------------------------------------------------------------- ATLANTA UNIVERSITY, ATLANTA, GA. Rev. Horace Bumstead, D. D. President. This Institution trains and sends out a superior class of teachers and leaders for work among the Freedom of the South. It solicits the attendance of intelligent and earnest young men and women, and contributions from those who are willing to help towards their education. Write to the President. ---------------------------------------------------------------- A. G. McKenzie Optician. 156 Charles St. Boston Artificial Eyes a Specialty Three Doors from the Eye Infirmary. Telephone, 219-3 Tremont. Mrs. J. F. A. Gardiner, 128 Alder St., Pittsfield, Mass. Will accommodate a few private boarders during the summer months. Five minutes walk from maple woods. Terms reasonable. ------------------------------------------------------------------ F. A. Greenleaf, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in PAPER HANGINGS, 51 Court Street, Near Scollay Square, Boston. ------------------------------------------------------------------ MRS. H. L. KEMP, Artistic Dressmaking and Millinery, 179 Franklin Avenue, Near Myrtle, Brooklyn, N. Y. Imported styles always on hand. Suits completed 24 hours. Competent dressmakers always in attendance. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Boston Condensed Milk Co's Plain condensed (unsweetened) Milk is the best known food for infants. Best article in the world for a cup of coffee. Sold in jars at the office, 2 1/2 Park Sq., Boston Delivered three times per week. Endorsement. I have used the plain condensed milk and found it worked like a mircale in transforming my weak, puny baby into a strong, plump one, after all other foods had failed. Mrs. McGill. 10 Lindall Place, Boston. --------------------------------------------------------- THE AMERICAN WRINGER CO. Branch Store. 13 & 15 Broadway Extension, Boston, Mass. Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers. All kinds of wringers and sweepers repaired. Orders by mail promptly attended to. --------------------------------------------------------- What is this A. P. A.? What its Plans? Who its Candidates? What its Principles? Where can we join? For full information, send 2-ct stamp for - or ask your newsdealer for - or send 50 cts. for 3 mos. trial subscription of - the paper which advocates straight A. P. A. principles - THE AMERICAN CITIZEN, 7 Bromfield St., Boston. THE WOMAN'S ERA 21 ---TRY---- A PERFECT ICING FOR YOUR CAKES, &c, Will not spoil or foment in heat or cold, covered or exposed to the air. PERFECT ICING never dries out or crumbles, all other Icings draw the moisture from the cake and dry it up. A PERFECT ICING will keep your cake from drying out. PERFECT ICING would be put on in a very thin coating, like a varnish; it will give your cakes a beautiful gloss as well as flavor. Can be cut soon as put on by dipping your knife in cold water. At 25c Jar of PERFECT ICING will go further than 25 cents in Egg and Sugar icing as you use it, is more healthful, and gives a superior flavor. PERFECT ICINGS are put up in Screw Top Jars, also in Mason quarts, and in wooden pails of 25 lbs. each. DIRECTIONS. Remove the top, set the Jar in a moderate oven or warm place, until the contents are thin enough to spread. Take your knife, stir it up and spread on cold cake, just as thin as possible. Set your jar away to use again. ------------- Ask Your Grocer for PERFECT ICING. Almond, Coffee, Wild Grape, Orange, Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate, Pistash. ----------- Prepared Only by A. H. PELOUBET & CO., New York. See our Trade Mark A. H. P is on very Label. ------------- PERFECT ICINGS used in making Sherbets or Water Ices, Ice Creams, Sauces, home Confections, &c. Will give their rich flavors and save work. B. P. Ray, Agent, 2 Chatham Row, BOSTON, MASS. ---------------------------------------------- BOARD AND ROOMS. ---------------------------------------------- PRIVATE BOARD. MRS. ELIZABETH E. COOLEY will accommodate a few select boarders. Transient or permanent, At 62 PHILLIPS STREET, BOSTON. ---------------------------------------------- TO LET! Four rooms, convenient for housekeeping, to a married couple, without children, who will give meals to other occupants of house, three in number. A good chance for right party. Apply at 103 CHARLES ST., before 10 o'clock A. M. ---------------------------------------------- POINT PLEASANT Will be opened June 1 to accommodate a few select boarders. For terms address Mrs. E. E. Crispell, West Stockbridge, Mass. Box 45 ATTENTION LADIES. Our Dress and Garment making is perfect; Prices reasonable; Style and Finish unsurpassed. Millinery: Hats And Bonnets made and Trimmed, 50c to $1.00. Our Millinery and Dress Cutting Schools are the best in the world Young Ladies should come at once and learn. HARVEY, 29 Temple Place, Boston ---------------------------------------------------- E. A. LIBBY, New goods received by steamer every week. We never have an opening. Always ready to show goods. - MILLINERY - The old reliable house retains the same stand, 19 Temple Place, - - Boston. ------------------------------------------------------ ----THE----- NEW WORLD TYPEWRITER. Price, $15.00. A useful and elegant present for ladies and gentlemen. Over 100,000 in use. Perfectly simple, practical and durable. No $100 machine can do better work. Writes 77 characters. Capital and small letters. Never gets out of order. Perfect alignment always. No instruction required. SEND FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE. THE TYPEWRITER IMPROVEMENT CO. 4 K Post Office Square, - BOSTON, Mass. Agents Wanted. --------------------------------------------------------- EDGAR P. BENJAMIN, Attorney and Counsellor-at-Law Room 22, 34 School Street, Boston ------------------------------------------------------- THE CELEBRATED Witch-Hazel Velvet Cream Does not contain corrosive sublimate, lead, arsenic, mercury, or any poison. As a toilet article for tan, sunburn, moth, freckles, etc., its excellence cannot be too well recommended. Put up in 60c. and $1.00 Sizes, sent postpaid on receipt of Price. AGENTS WANTED EVERYWHERE. For Sale by Druggists and Dealers in Toilet Supplies. All correspondence should be addressed to the New England Agents, W. F. & J. S. Kingsbury, Randolf, Mass ---------------------------------------------------- NOTICE! THE WOMAN'S ERA is on sale and can be obtained of BUNKE, STATIONER, MAIN ST., CAMBRIDGE. 22 THE WOMAN'S ERA. THE SUCCESS OF THE SEASON MRS. N. F. MOSSELL'S BOOK, THE WORK OF THE AFRO-AMERICAN WOMAN The first Edition has been nearly exhausted! An edition of 5000 is to be issued March 1st. "Above all, let the negro know that the elevation of his race can come only and will come surely through the elevation of its women." ---Senator Geo. F. Hoar. Miss Emma K. White, one of Chester's most successful teachers, says: "The volume entitled The Work of the Afro-American Women is a great success at this point." Miss Julia Songow, Germantown, Pa.: "I have sold seventy-five copies of the Work of the Afro-American Woman within two weeks." Mrs. Jennie Euola Johnson of Camden, N. J.: "I have been very successful in my canvass of The Work of the Afro-American Woman." Agents Wanted. Liberal Inducements Offered. Let students at colleges, teachers who desire to canvass during the summer, apply at once. Very many agents in these two fields of effort have already done well. Price, Red or Brown Cloth, 75 cents, White and Gold, $1. Apply to Mrs. N. F. MOSSELL, 1432 Lombard Street, Philadelphia, Pa. HOUSEKEEPERS SHOULD SEE THE NEW Fibre Carpet. A Soft, Pliable, Odorless Matting, Warm in Winter, Cool in Summer. An Ideal Sanitary Chamber Carpet For ALL THE YEAR ROUND. Sews together and turns under. Does not break or require binding. No odors or germs of disease. Insects do not trouble it. Double faced -- double wear. Artistic colors - stylish designs. HODGES FIBRE CARPET CO. Manufacturers and Patentees, 50 Essex St. (cor. Chauncy) Boston, Mass. Why Not Advertise in the Weekly Journal of the Lodge ? With a circulation of 4,000 Write for terms and space. Address JOURNAL OF THE LODGE, NEW ORLEANS, La., Box 105. GEORGE L. RUFFIN, VOCAL CULTURE, Lamperti Method. 103 Charles Street, - - Boston, Mass. BUTLER R. WILSON, ATTORNEY AND COUNSELLOR AT LAW, NOTARY PUBLIC, 34 School Street, (Room 33.) BOSTON. Robert L. Carter, M. D. PHYSICIAN & SURGEON No. 722 Kempton Street, NEW BEDFORD. Diseases of Women a Specialty. Telephone 329-4. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 23 Homes for the People ! IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, THE ITALY OF AMERICA. LANDS WITHIN REACH OF POOR MEN'S MEANS. The Fruitland Colony Company, Of LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, Have placed upon the market 20,000 ACRES 20,000 Of the finest land on earth, which they intend to colonize with colored people, and at prices within reach of men of small means. In order to induce investments in these lands we offer 2,000 acres to the first settlers at $20 per acre and guarantee to deliver water to each 20 acres sold, sufficient for irrigation. These lands lie 60 miles north from Los Angeles, and 7 miles from the Southern Pacific R. R., and consist of a rich friable loam, being of sedimentary formation mingled with decomposed granite. The soil is from 4 to 50 feet deep, and is capable of producing everything on earth that grows in this land of wonderful production. It lies at an altitude of 2,500 feet above sea level and is peculiarly the land of the olive and almond. SMALL FARMS are the rule in Southern California and more profit can be realized from 20 acres her than on 160 acres in the East. AFTER 2,000 ACRES HAVE BEEN SOLD the price will be $35.00 per acre. It is not an unusual thing for trees in bearing to yield From $100 to $1000 per Acre. These lands have perfect title and will be sold for one-third cash, balance one, two and three years, with interest at 6 per cent annum. Full information will be given by applying to H. A. PIERCE, President, or T. M. GIBSON, Secretary, Room 37, Bryson Block, Los Angeles, California. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 27 THE SUCCESS OF THE SEASON MRS. N. F. MOSSELL'S BOOK, THE WORK OF THE AFRO-AMERICAN WOMAN The First Edition has been nearly exhausted. An edition of 5000 is to be issued March 1st. "Above all, let the negro know that the elevation of his race can come only and will come surely through the elevation of its women."--Senator Geo. F. Hoar. Miss Emma K. White, one of Chester's most successful teachers, says: "The volume entitled The Work of the Afro-American Women is a great success at this point." Miss Julia Songow, Germantown, Pa.: "I have old seventy-five copies of the Work of the Afro-American Woman within two weeks." Mrs. Jennie Euola Johnson of Camden, N. J.: "I have been very successful in my canvass of The Work of the Afro-American Woman." Agents Wanted. Liberal Inducements Offered. Let students at colleges, teachers who desire to canvass during the summer, apply at once. Very many agents in these two fields of effort have already done well. Price, Red or Brown Cloth, 75 cents, White and Gold. $1. Apply to Mrs. N. F. MOSSELL. 1432 Lombard Street, Philadelphia, Pa. HOUSEKEEPERS SHOULD SEE THE NEW Fibre Carpet. A Soft, Pliable, Odorless Matting, Warm in Winter, Cool in Summer. An Ideal Sanitary Chamber Carpet For ALL THE YEAR ROUND. Sews together and turns under. Does not break or require binding. No odors or germs of disease. Insects do not trouble it. Double faced -- double wear. Artistic colors -- stylish designs. We cordially Invite Inspection. HODGES FIBRE CARPET CO. Manufacturers and Patentees, 50 Essex St. (cor. Chauncy) Boston, Mass. BOARDING AND LODGING, FIRST CLASS MRS. W. H. YOUNG, No. 1208 Pine Street, Philadelphia. PRIVATE DINING ROOM. "Violets and Other Tales." A collection of Short Stories and Poems. By ALICE RUTH MOORE. In Paper Covers, 50c.; Cloth, $1.00. AGENTS WANTED. Apply to ALICE RUTH MORE, 1924 Palmyra Street New Orleans, La. COPIES FOR SALE AT Office of Woman's Era. 103 Charles St., Boston. HOWARD UNIVERSITY Washington, D. C., July 1 1895. Furnishes instruction in the following departments and courses: Theological, Medical, Dental, Pharmaceutical, Legal, College, Preparatory, Normal, Musical, and Manual Training, including practice in carpenter shop, printing office, book bindery, tin shop and sewing school. All students have the privilege of library and reading room without extra charge. Tuition free in all courses except Medical Dental and Pharmaceutical. Term opens September 18. J. E. RANKIN, D.D., L.L.D., President. J. B. JOHNSON, Secretary. 28 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Homes for the People ! IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, THE ITALY OF AMERICA. LANDS WITHIN REACH OF POOR MEN'S MEANS. The Fruitland Colony Company, Of LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, Have placed upon the market 20,000 ACRES 20,000 Of the finest land on earth, which they intend to colonize with colored people, and at prices within reach of men of small means. In order to induce investments in these lands we offer 2,000 acres to the first settlers at $20 per acre and guarantee to deliver water to each 20 acres sold, sufficient for irrigation. These lands lie 60 miles north from Los Angeles, and 7 miles from the Southern Pacific R. R., and consist of a rich friable loam, being of sedimentary formation mingled with decomposed granite. The soil is from 4 to 50 feet deep, and is capable of producing everything on earth that grows in this land of wonderful production. It lies at an altitude of 2,500 feet above sea level and is peculiarly the land of the olive and almond. SMALL FARMS are the rule in Southern California and more profit can be realized from 20 acres here than on 160 acres in the East. AFTER 2,000 ACRES HAVE BEEN SOLD the price will be $35.00 per acre. It is not an unusual thing for trees in bearing to yield From $100 to $1000 per Acre. These land have perfect title and will be sold for one-third cash, balance one, two and three years, with interest at 6 per cent per annum. Full information will be given by applying to H. A. PIERCE, President, or T. M. GIBSON, Secretary, Room 37, Bryson Block, Los Angeles, California. P3_ My poem_ The Woman's Era. VOL. II. NO. 4. BOSTON, MASS., JULY, 1895 PRICE 10 CENTS NOTES AND COMMENTS. A wee "new woman" came to town last Sunday evening at the home or Dr. and Mrs. Grant, Charles St. The young stranger is said to be of such strength of lung and limb that already the prospect of her casting her vote for president of the United Sates in 1916 is a settled fact. Mrs. Mary Church Terrell delivered the address to the graduating class of the Wilmington, Del., High School June 25. The address was commented upon by the newspapers of the town as being the best ever delivered in that city by a woman. Mr. W. E. B. DuBois' short stay in this city will probably be forgiven by his many friends when they learn that it was a sufficient time to secure for him the honored title of Ph.D. at Harvard. This is the first time a colored man has attained this title, and it is needless to say that Dr. Dubois has our best wishes and congratulations. The picnic given for the benefit of St. Monica's Home on the 1st f July, although an eminent success socially, owing to the uncertainty of the weather in the early part of the day was not the financial success it should have been. The hard and intelligent work put into the effort by the committee of ladies deserved to win for them the large financial returns hoped for. About two hundred people went out. It required many times that number to meet the desire of the committee, which was to raise enough money by the picnic to keep the home open through the summer season, when most of its friends and donors are away from the city. The affair was projected by an independent committee composed of the following ladies: Mrs. Hattie Ruffin, Mrs. L. Pope, Mrs. Hemmings and Mrs. Fannie Johnson. The Hon. "Jack" Durham, minister to Haytii under the Harrison administration , has been recently admitted to the Philadelphia bar. CONFERENCE NOTES. Widespread interest is being shown in the coming conference, communications from clubs all over the country showing that interest in and sympathy with the movement will have substantial recognition in the presence of its delegate4s. As the RA goes to press before a complete list of delegates can be arranged, we append but a few names of those whom we may expect to have with us. Later, programs will be arranged and mailed to clubs desiring them. First, the Woman's Era Club, and we are sure all other clubs represented will be glad to welcome among them Mrs. Ida B. Wells Barnett, who has been invited to attend. Being with them at their formation, and also being in every sense of the word a club woman, the congratulations waiting to be showered upon Mrs. Barnett will be heartfelt indeed. The W. L. U. of New York will send three accredited delegates and six at large, Mrs. Victoria Matthews, Mrs. Katie Carmand and Miss Tarner being the three regular representatives. Miss J. Imogen Howard, one of the N. Y. State Board of Women Managers of the World's Fair at Chicago, will probably come on and tell us of what was done for that exposition by the women of N. Y. and N. E. Philadelphia will be represented by Miss Dora Cole and Mrs. N. F. Mossell, who will read papers. It is also hoped that Mrs. Fannie Jackson Coppin, principal of the Philadelphia Institution for colored youth, will be with use. Mrs. Coppin was the first to introduce manual training in the Philadelphia schools, a system which is being successfully pursued in the institution of which she is now principal. That sweetest of all poetic singers and lecturers among us, Mrs. Frances W. W. Harper, will probably be hears. From the west comes cheerful news that Los Angeles, Cal., will be represented, and resolutions passed in three churches in that city will be sent for reading. Although it will be impossible for Mrs. Terrell [???] 2 THE WOMAN'S ERA. of Washington to be present, it is hoped that the National Woman's League of that city will be represented wither by its president, Mrs. John F. Cook, or Mrs. Cooper, its secretary, that finest of all our essayists. From Tuskegee, Ala., Mrs. Booker T. Washington is expected. Miss Ella Smith, B.A., M.A.., of Wellesley, will read a paper, subject to be announced later. New York and Washington will each have entire control of one session of the conference, carrying out programs of their own arrangement. Another special session will be devoted to "Social Purity," when papers pertaining to subject as factors to social purity will be read - such subjects as "Hygiene diet as a factor," "Business education as a safeguard," etc. In this connection a valuable suggestion from Mrs. Alice S. Felts, that of circulating for signature a social purity pledge, will be carried out, Mrs. Felts having been requested to present in a paper some phase of the subject. Another session will be in charge of an eminent worker of the W.C.AT.U. Mrs. Fannie Barrier Williams of the Chicago Women's Club will lend interest by her presence. From New Orleans one or more delegates, has been promised by the Phyllis Wheatley Club, and Mrs. R.G.L. Page, representing that new and flourishing club recently formed in Berkeley, Va., will come as its delegate. A new club recently formed in Salem, Mass., through the exertion and interest of Miss Annie Blanchard, will be represented. This by nor means shows all the delegates expected, but simply give an idea of communication that are being received in accord with an desiring to participate in the conference. Of local clubs there are many, and many yet far away, some members of which we hope to greet. Later an official programme will be prepared, showing the exact line of work, the fulfilment of which we hopefully expect will result in our object, showing by our actions what and whom we are. Berkeley Hall, including banquet hall, dressing rooms, etc., will be engaged for all the sessions of the conference, also for the closing feature, which will be a social one, taking the form of a reception of the delegates and promenade concert. Regular delegates will be lodged free by the members of the W.E.C., and dinners will be furnished at the hall at moderate cost to delegates and others desiring them. NEW YORK. VICTORIA EARLE, EDITOR. The man Jacks, seeing the way, doubtless, of getting his name before the public, estimating the possible free advertisement he could get from the reflex action of sending a sensational communication to England concerning a scarcely known class, adopted a method so thoroughly unfit for usage among honorable men that any wholesome-minded person finds it difficult to stay repugnance for such things long enough to enter a protest, or an appeal to universal reason. Such an attack on womankind as his, so noisome and foul, is merciless in marking to the world the standard of man that the Missouri State Press Club has seen fit to elect as its presiding officer. He has not only slandered the women of negro extraction, but the mothers of American morality and virtue, when he says in his letter to the Hon. Florence Balgarnic: "Until such literature as your society (anti-lynching) sends out made an impression, and until the northern women came among us with their degraded views of chastity of women," etc., etc. Let reasonable minds ask what this means. It is plain that it begins with the negro woman, but let reason say where it ends. "Until the northern people came among us with their degraded views of Chastity of women"! Where do Maria Lydia Childs, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Fanny Kemble, Harriet Martineaux, and hundreds of others who in pure lofty womanhood upheld the moralists of the nineteenth century - the abolitionists - stand in this lewd fellow's sweeping statement? When truth-loving minds understand and acknowledge that the thing is slavery which destroyed the peace of mind of the ever-to-be-appreciated northern woman was in toto the demoralizing effect of the institution slavery on each succeeding generation - when this is considered, the only conclusion is a boundless pity for the depravity that flagrantly vents itself on the self-sacrificing labors of the women who taught southern men what chastity meant! While no sane person will accept any statement of morals on such general lines as this individual THE WOMAN'S ERA. 3 has outlined, and while it is repellant in every way to the chase mind to dignify such foul thoughts and expressions by a public refutation, yet allegiance to virtue leaves but one course open, to warn the indifferent against permitting such an one as this man Jacks must be to think and speak for them. I mean particularly the Press Club of Missouri. While it is not to be expected that any good effect can be made by our utterances on the class that the defamer represents, yet the courageous women should speak through the WOMAN'S ERA that the world may feel the power of the chaste mentality of the true negro woman. At least, this is no time to treat a vilifier in the manner only comprehended by a true man. As consistent women, jealous of our good name, we should not hesitate through mistaken ideas as to wise policy, etc., in sending broadcast our burning contempt for any creature who can assail with viperous touch a subject that involves the innate mystery of hidden life out of our reverence for those who preceded us, made a place in history, song and story for us. Our indignation should know no limit. We as women have been too unobstrusive, too little known ; we have been hidden by our close adherence to high endeavor. The dross has forced to the front too long. We should realize, and let the world know that we realize it, that America, and the south in particular, owes a deathless bond of gratitude to the now slandered class, that the fair sons and daughters of the south were not corrupted or demoralized during their young and tender years. This is no shallow claim. History can be out in evidence to prove that decency existed most generally among the negro women of the south, for they only were forced by iron law and brutish control to live under the harrowing conditions by the chivalric ( ? ) progenitors of possibly Jacks and his class. If there were enough negro women found at that time to who the tender youth was entrusted, not only for training at the very time of life when the moral character pre-eminently is formed, but for nourishing the same, which is an indisputable fact, what possible claim to truth can Jacks and his class hope to establish by such malignant charges as are published in his letter to a noble English lady? No man capable of reverencing his mother, or protecting the unsullied fam of any woman, would have written or forwarded such a communication to any woman ; much less, one whose life entitles her to the respect at least of progressive and wholesome minds, regardless of sex, wherever principle and unselfish efforts to uplift struggling humanity exists. The Women's Loyal Union will do all inits power to support the position taken by the Woman's Era Club of Boston in calling upon the women of the race to meet in convention. The matter is being pushed vigorously, other clubs and bodies of women being appealed to ; and there is every reason to look forward to the convention as an epoch marking event in our history, for it can be made such, if every individual woman will realize that, as it is the first of the kind, much depends on the undertaking as a precedent. If successful, the organized bodies of women throughout the country will note it, and their respect for us as a body will rise correspondingly ; thereby an advance will have been accomplished. The brightest of our women should come together, for regardless of success or failure, it will afford an opportunity not only of educating public opinion as to our status as women, but will be a test of the broadmindedness and zeal in the matter of mutual advancement existing between the women of the races. If the women will only read and think this matter over, we will have no fears as to the ultimate result. WASHINGTON MARY CHURCH TERRELL, EDITOR. O that I could express in words Every emotion that I feel, And sweeter than the song of birds Each of my hidden thoughts reveal. Within my soul they're fettered fast, Although they long to be released, And nobly struggle, till at last, From vain endeavors they have ceased. Then as a caged bird sings, tho' bound, Still caroling its sweet refrain, So in my soul, though bars surround, My thoughts sing forth their sweetest strain. Two women engaged in an interesting discussion which I overheard the other day. The ques- 4 THE WOMAN'S ERA. tion to be settled was whether it is wiser for the average Afro-American to be so politic as to avoid antagonizing Anglo-Saxons by dissenting from their opinions, or whether he should boldly assert himself, when the occasion arises, and have the courage of his conviction. "I believe that the reason why we make no more progress in securing our various rights is because all of us, men and women, are too weak-kneed," said a fiery little sister, fairly bristling with independence and earnestness. "Some of our most intelligent men counsel such allopathic doses of diplomacy in dealing with their brothers in white as to cure forever the tendency wither to challenge accusations or resent insults offered by them. As long as we submit quietly just so long will the apostles of oppression and tyranny continue to insult and abuse us. According to my opinion, we have been too long-suffering and have given too little evidence of possessing back bone. Patience ceases to be a virtue after it reaches a certain limit, and too much so-called christian submission is the virtue either of cowards or fools, I believe," she continued, boiling more and more with indignation as she proceeded. "Well, what do you advise, for instance?" said a level-headed woman whose pulse beat at least twenty times less in a minute than that of her friend. "You would have our men go through the world with a chip on their shoulder, I suppose, offering fight to all Anglo-Saxons who differ with them. A more hair-brained course could not be imagined, because it would fall so far short of accomplishing the end at which you aim. Policy and diplomacy will effect more than pugnacity as we are situated at present, according to my opinion." "I do not advise going to extremes in asserting ourselves and maintaining our manhood," said the little advocate of resistance. "I want our intelligent men to be more ready to resent insults and stand up for the rights that are denied. I want to see them less willing to preserve the silence they call "golden" when a word of many independence and righteous indignation would raise them so much higher in the estimation of themselves and everybody else. We need to cultivate self-respect as a race. From the very nature of the case we have too little of that in our composition. The fact that it is not our fault that we lack this prerequisite to a dignified manhood and womanhood does not alter or help the matter. The effect upon ourselves is just as fatal in every particular. I want to see men of spirit possessing too much self respect to play the role of cowardice under the cloak of diplomacy. I want to see the number of men not afraid to denounce wrong increasing." "That is all very well from a theoretical standpoint," said she of the slow pulse and the cool head, " but practically such a course would be suicidal to the progress of the race, as I look at it. We are as yet too dependent upon the masters of the situation to strike the attitude of defiance. We need money above everything else before we are in a position to make demands effectually. Such a bold expression of opinion as you advise would simply mean less of position to the average Afro-American who indulged in this pastime to any great extent. Here in Washington, for instance, some of our brainiest men are in the employ of the government, and their lips must be sealed when it comes to fault finding or denouncing wrongs inflicted by the dominant race. Our men of intelligence, who are for the most part independent of spirit, frequently refrain from taking an active part in the war against oppression because such a course would deprive them of means of subsistence. They do not want to take bread out of the mouths of their families, and so they keep silent." "This state of things is indeed discouraging," said the little Joan of Arc, "for it is a species of slavery more galling to men and women who have tasted freedom than to those who have never known the joys of liberty. But I do not believe that an exhibition of bold, fearless manhood in the race would result so disastrously as you imagine. Even tyrants admire courage in the victims of their oppression. If our men displayed more pluck and independence in their dealings with the Anglo-Saxon brothers the latter would have more respect for them. We can never command respect from others until we possess a sufficient quantity ourselves, and no man or woman can respect himself or herself who dares not stand up for what he or she conceives to be right. In the struggle for complete liberty some must be sacrificed. If each one considers only what will be to his advantage as an individual, and is subservient because it will advance his personal interests I doubt seriously that we shall ever attain that dignity and independence as a people without which we can amount to nothing." THE WOMAN'S ERA. 5 ILLINOIS. FANNIE BARRIER WILLIAMS, EDITOR. The July number of the ERA will find many of our readers among the teaching class in the cool retreats of their vacation season. To no class of workers is a brief respite from service so happily welcome. In their eagerness for this grateful season of change from the worries and bad air of the school room to the open air of freedom and exhilaration many of our teachers give but little attention to the best means of spending this vacation time. Of course, I would not attempt to give either instruction or advice as to how the vacation period ought to be spent. This is a matter of individual determination to be governed largely by circumstances. It is interesting, however, to note and understand what important changes are going on in the popular mind with reference to the use of summer vacations. While railroads and steamboats are doing everything in the line of improvement in traveling facilities, and while the watering places are all wonderfully joyous in the things that delight soul and body, there has been a steady growth in popular favor of the summer schools, and other assemblies for intellectual recreation. Many of the great universities and centers of learning have become popular summer resorts for the increasing thousands who find no rest and strength in idleness or dissipation of time. These summer schools are largely in the nature of lecture courses and embrace a wide range of studies that in many cases are in the nature of post-graduate work. The most eminent men and women in all departments of human knowledge are engaged in this new department of education. The Chicago, Madison, Lake Forest and Michigan universities are notable among western schools for the thoroughness and extensiveness of their sum- mer work for 1985. The prospects of attendance from all parts of this country and Canada are exceedingly encouraging to the cause of education. Many eminent men from the universities of the older world have been secured for the summer course of Chicago university, and teachers and others who are eager to hear the authoritative word from the original thinkers of the day would do well to avail themselves of these rare opportunities. It is to be hoped that large numbers of our southern teachers will feel inclined and be able to refresh themselves with these larger inspirations of vacation season. People in the North can help the cause of education in the South to a considerable extent by affording a hospitable welcome to such of our overworked and underpaid sisters in the South who come North to drink from these fresh founts of inspiration and high knowledge. Exhilaration of soul, as well as a renewal of physical strength should be the aim of the men and women who for two or three months are released from the service of teaching. To thus enlarge the boundaries of the mind means as much to the schools as to themselves. It is a long time since Chicago has been in such a tip toe of eagerness over social events. The announcement of June weddings has fairly taken us off our feet with their startling surprises. The approaching marriage of Miss Ida B. Wells to Mr. F. L. Barnett has an interest that exceeds all local bounds. The public has become so interested in the unique career of Miss Wells that her determination to marry a man while still married to a cause will be a topic of national interest and comment. The public has been so accustomed to think of Miss Wells' remarkable zeal for the cause of law and order that, I suppose, no one ever reads of a case of lynching without associating with it the indignant protest of our plucky little friend. Aside from being an attorney of established reputation at the Chicago bar, the fortunate groom has manifested a chivalric interest in the cause of his estimable bride. All Chicago unite in blessing the matrimonial union of two persons whose most conspicuous traits of character have been an unstinted interest in the cry for help and justice from an unfortunate people. The I. B. W. Woman's Club will tender the wedded pair a reception that promises to be a notable event. Another wedding of only local interest but pleasantly suggestive of happiness to the estimable couple is that of Miss Lulu Wiley to Adelbert H. Roberts on the 20th inst. Miss Wiley is a young woman possessed of so much exquisite good sense and sweet amiability that every one shares her 6 THE WOMAN'S ERA. happiness in marrying a fine type of the new generation of colored gentlemen. Mr. Roberts is a recent graduate of the Chicago law school and is a high-minded, capable and companionable gentleman. These June marriages chime in quite fittingly with the gladsome festivities of these school closing days. They both lend a joyous zest to this season of congratulation and good will. It is the season of flowers, music, bright expectations and love's triumphs. There is an optimism in the air we breathe, a melody in opening bud and bursting flower, and an inspiring opulence in this season when Hymen is the sovereign gay, and diplomas bring sweet messages to anxious hearts. MISSOURI. JOSEPHINE SILONE YATES, EDITOR. POSITION OF NATIONAL W.C.T.U. IN RELATION TO COLORED PEOPLE Certain misunderstandings on this question render expedient the publication of the following statements, drawn up in Boston, Feb. 6, 1895. Every reader who notices the prominent names attached will be interested to learn that the signature of Frederick Douglass was almost the last one that he made. It has come to our knowledge that wrong impressions concerning the attitude of Miss Willard toward the colored people in America have been made in certain quarters, and as an act of justice we desire to put it on record that no such criticism would be for a moment received in her own country by those who have any adequate knowledge of Miss Willard's character and career. Her ancestors were Abolitionists, her childhood's home was on the line of "the underground railway" for fleeing fugitive slaves ; her father was one of the founders of the Free Soil, afterwards the Republican party ; and her convictions and sympathies as proved by her speeches, books and editorial articles are with those who from the beginning of the great anti-slavery agitation have been devoted to the cause of the colored people. As president of the National W.C.T.U. and founder of the World's W.C.T.U., Miss Willard has always maintained the position that no colored line could be drawn by either society, and the women who have thus far guided and controlled these great national organizations have never sought to establish any distinction in either, but have freely and gladly accepted the colored women was officers and delegates to the convention of both. Within a few weeks Miss Willard publicly declared that if a certain woman's club of Chicago, oh which she is a member, declined to receive colored women on terms of equality, so should resign her membership. The National W.C.T.U. is organized on the basis that each state has a right to manage its own internal affairs. In some of the southern states colored unions have been formed with the hearty concurrence of leading colored women. When these unions send their delegates to the World's or National W.C.T.U., they are received on terms of perfect equality with white women. It is due to the white ribbon movement that this statement be widely made and thoroughly understood, as the work of that society is one of wide range and womanly beneficence. In view of these facts we feel that for any person or persons to give currency to statements harmful to Miss Willard as a reformer is most misleading and unjust. Through her influence many of the state unions have adopted resolutions against lynching, and the National union has put itself squarely on record in the same way, while the annual addresses of the president plainly indicated her disapproval of such lawless and barbarous proceedings. [Signed] FREDERICK DOUGLASS, WILLIAM LLOYD GARRISON, FRANCIS J. GARRISON, THOMAS WENTWORTH HIGGINSON, ELIZABETH STUART PHELPS-WARD, JULIA WARD HOWE, EDNAH CHENEY, JOSEPH COOK, LYMAN ABBOT, HERBERT D. WARD, BISHOP H.M. TURNER, Atlanta, Ga. Bishop of the African M.E. Church, representing two million communicants. It is a sad mistake for the future of our race that the great mass of our colored children are coming up without sufficient training to early impress and induce to habits of sobriety, temperance THE WOMAN'S ERA. 7 and morality. Since the object of all churches is to work for Christ, and the accomplishment of this end, I have thought to ask each church to form Temperance Mission Bands, and each Saturday or semi-monthly gather the children and given them short, spicy talks on the church's mission work, temperance, honesty, etc. With a few pretty songs these meetings could be made very interesting and helpful. Once a quarter an entertainment could be given and on-half the proceeds used for mission work as the church would direct, and the other half given to the temperance work under the W. C. T. U. Each church has a number of intelligent young women who would gladly do this work for their church and race if requested by their pastor. The future of the race depends on the training of the children of to-day. I will be glad to hear from any one, especially ministers and teachers who are willing to help "train the children in the way they should go." Yours for Christ and humanity, For further information address LIBBIE C. ANTHONY, State Superintendent Colored Work, Missouri W. C. T. U., Jefferson City, Mo. A very interesting meeting of the Woman's League was held at the residence of Mrs. Bishop Handy Wednesday, June 5th, at which time it was decided to ratify the constitution of the National League of the Colored Women of the United States. Interesting letters were read from Mrs. Charlotte Grinkle and Mrs. Helen Cook of Washington, D. C., and from Mrs. S. Dupee of Jefferson City, Mo. Papers and documents from other points were also presented. A program of work for the summer was mapped out, the ladies concluding to maintain the sewing school and make over-garments which might be of use to the needy in winter. The "Fourth of July" issue of the [italics]Kansas City Journal[/italics], a Republican paper of wide circulation, will be edited by the ladies of the city, and the corresponding secretary of the League has been requested to prepare for that edition a few statements concerning the nature and work of this organization of colored ladies. I, Garland Penn, Chief of the Negro Department of the Cotton States and International Exposition, has created a Commission for the "City of Kansas City, Mo., and Kansas City, Kansas, whose duty it shall be to collect, forward, instal and supervise the colored exhibit from the two cities." Six young people graduated from Lincoln High School at the tenth annual commencement of this institution, and fifty promotions were made from the various ward schools to the High School. On Monday night, June 11, Sidney Woodward, the Boston tenor, delighted a large and appreciative Kansas City audience with his matchless voice. COLORADO ELIZABETH PIPER ENSLEY, EDITOR WOMEN IN CONVENTION BY IDA DE PRIEST "Nothing succeeds like success." The enfranchisement of the women of Colorado brings to them the knowledge that they are a power in the political world. That earnest women can do almost anything was thoroughly demonstrated at the Republican State League Convention held in Denver May 28. They went there with the intention of electing one woman delegate out of the fourteen to be sent to the National Convention at Cleveland, Ohio. That they succeeded in sending not one but three, is another proof of what earnest women can do. Promptly at ten o'clock the president of the State League, which numbers nearly one thousand, called the convention to order. To one who has attended conventions the usual preliminaries are familiar. This one differed from others only in having a majority of women voters and a greater number of colored delegates. When a candidate was elected in whom the women were particularly interested, there were no shouts and throwing up of hats, but only a clapping of hands, and that not very demonstrative for fear of bursting kid gloves. Those who think of women voting only in connection with reforms should have visited the convention and have seen the adroit proceedings of cl 8 THE WOMAN'S ERA. the two leading women of the party. Both were anxious to receive the highest honors within the gift of the league. How they and their followers did work, not for the best good of the people in convention assembled, but for their own personal interests. One side went so far as to put in the resolutions to be read before the convention, that a certain woman should not be allowed to vote because she was not what she would have the world believe her to be. The men considered this a good joke and had a hearty laugh over it. Already too much glimmer has been thrown over the real. Articles have been written from superabundance of self conceit, in which opinions are given instead of facts. We women of Colorado are proud of our liberty. If we would clear and make better the political atmosphere of which we have so often boasted of doing when we should gain the franchise, we must carry our womanhood there. Let true womanhood enter into every part of politics and be used as the instrument of all reforms. If the ideal of woman suffrage is still in advance of its realization, if its theories are still ahead of its practical accomplishments, if that which it has done pale by comparison with what it will do, then and not till then will woman suffrage be a grand achievement. _____ Mrs. Ida De Priest was elected third vice president of the Colorado State Republican League. She has done excellent party service and merits the honor. The literary department of the Woman's League gave a pleasant entertainment at the home of Mrs. Irving Williams Monday evening, June 17. _____ CALIFORNIA. S. WILLIE LAYTON, EDITOR _____ Early one morning of last month, despite the mists that obscured the bay, the overland train pulled on to the Oakland pier and safely landed its passengers, among whom were the two distinguished women, Miss Susan B. Anthony and Rev. Anna H. Shaw, who had crossed the continent to meet with the second Woman's Congress of California. It was said by some of the "legal-minded men" that the subject ("Home") under consideration this year was not broad enough in scope and would prove tame. After the subject had been discussed politically by Miss Anthony and Rev. Shaw, and by the other brainy women who considered it from domestic, social, evolutionary or hygienic standpoints, the men - not even conservative Rabbi Voorsanger of San Francisco - dared criticise the verdict of Mayor Sutro, " That there had assembled in Golden Gate hall an aristocracy higher than ever assembled in any place in Europe - an aristocracy of brains. Women have finer brain power than men and will improve government. Let them step in and restore the patriotism of the revolutionary fathers and all will be well." It was apparent that the new woman was not to be distinguished by any frightful logic dress reform attire, neither was she bereft the divine and sweet influences that characterize the mother and wife. The new woman, as she appeared in Golden Gate hall, demonstrated her intellectual fitness and cleverly proved herself able to use her brain and appear attractive, for said the press, "Oh, this is no Woman's Congress, this is some sort of swell reception." Yet her personal appearance was secondary to the vital question under discussion. If brains quickened with progressive thought, balanced by sound judgment, enthusiasm, crowded halls, from which has gone forth an impetus for greater effort in the elevation of woman and humanity, if these are indications of success, then this Woman's Congress was a success. The presence and practical talks of Mrs. Stephen Matthews (known at the Woman's Congress as the little English woman with the big voice) has inspired to action the colored women of this place. The Woman's Club for the special interest of our own people has been organized. The possibilities are large for a grand work by this club, the women are of the class teeming with enthusiasm and bright thought and lots of "stick ability." I only wish you might be present at our next meeting to hear the Rev. Jones "plea for the one man membership in the Woman's Club." While some of us favor co-relative work the majority are vindictive and decree that what has been sauce for the goose shall now be served to the gander. When it shall be aye and nay, the nays will carry. We are on the verge of an educational war. Supt. Search tried to introduce and advised the THE WOMAN'S ERA. 9 individual system of instruction in the public schools as superior to the old class system. The school board is divided, the superintendent's situation challenged, common sense requesting silence for the present from teachers, the citizens en mass for enlightenment, personalities so bitterly flung that as yet we don't know just where we are. It is to be hoped this very serious question of education may be wisely and carefully considered. Let the individual system have fair and impartial trial. If the present class system can be improved, teachers allowed opportunity for using a little more originality in giving until each pupil his instruction as and when most needed, instead of the old way of cramming a prescribed course, mental capacity or none, such a system would be more helpful alike to teacher and pupil. Ohio Sada J. Anderson, Editor. Sunday, the19th ult., at 4 P.M., the parlors of the Y.W.C.A. were filled to overflowing with the members and friends of the association to hear your representative's address on the condition of the colored people of the south. Frequently throughout the address were the friends in tears as they listened in a sacred stillness to the condition of these dear people of the balmy southland so well delineated. The singing of the sextette added much to the meeting, as they told the sad story in song. Mrs. Emma S. Ransom of Cleveland, one of the editors of Woman's Light and Love for Heather Africa, one of our missionary periodicals, and the only one published by our women, spent a few days with us. Mrs. Ransom is but to be seen to be loved. Though young in years she is making the world know she is in it. During Bishop Wayman's stay in the city, he was entertained by Mrs. Hattie Hicks, the enthusiastic little president of the Woman's Mite Missionary Society. Of course the dear bishop gave us quite a spiritual and intellectual feast. The Dicken's Club has been taking a vacation. At a late meeting Mrs. Hattie Cannon delivered a fine paper on mental culture. In speaking of mental improvement, she recommended mental food which best serves our needs, and mingling in refined and cultured society. She said there was no excuse for ignorance except indolence and indifference, so long as the public libraries were opened to the world. The Henrietta Society had quite a pleasant literary and social meeting last week, and we regret very much that it was our misfortune to be absent. This society has done and is doing much for the people at large. Now that the weather is pleasant, the King's Daughters have changed their meetings from the homes of the members to the church, and all Daughters are earnestly requested to be about their King's business, for it requireth haste. Tennessee Sylvia Mason Maples, Editor Though at the eleventh hour, the Trilby fad has come to town. One East Tennessee maid, even at the exorbitant cost of one follow and a quarter, possessed herself of this peculiarly pathetic story, and read it forthwith. Whatever her mental verdict may have been, her verbal criticism was "horrible." If by venting this acrid term before her friends, she thought to curb their eagerness to read De Maurier's fancy, when too late she learned that the wrong term was unhappily employed in condemning it. Instead of serving the purpose she had intended, it "o'erleaps itself and falls on other." The consequence is that her quondam clean, cloth-bound copy of "Trilby" has been borrowed and read so much that, ere being read more, it must come in close contact with the glue pot. Having read a book, one must in reason have some opinion of it. Giving my honest, conscientious conviction of the much thought of, much written of, much talked of literary sensation of the times, I must say that I have failed to see in it so much of dross and shame as some of my more punctilious friends; I have failed in toto to see it in the alleged light of a "corrupter of morals." To the contrary, I think, though the work is fraught with objectionable features-- many-- (by the way, that no girl of modest bearing would do well to imitate, unless, like Trilby, 10 THE WOMAN'S ERA. she err through ignorance) it carries, in the end, a moral of purity and innocence. Sheeted and sleeping in the grave's cold embrace are innumerable mothers, good , old-fashioned mothers, such as the world is in need of today. Not that there are fewer good mothers now than in times past, but that there are more corrupting influences abroad, abasing the minds, the hearts, the morals and manners of the times. Mothers were once not so foolishly ambitious of their daughter's social popularity as now. Instead of being precipitately paraded before public notice, the girls were wont to be kept in obscurity too long, so long as to engender a shyness and awkwardness difficult of riddance, when from their hiding they emerged. Then, in those dear, forever-gone days, girls were less prone to forwardness, less addicted to flattery and less susceptible to its seductive influences. When mothers were more watchful of their daughter's incoming and outgoing, more zealous of the company kept, more observant of the haunts frequented, more careful of their manners and behavior, girls were more sincere and less deceptive. There was a time when young women would not knowingly entertain young men who were morally, socially or intellectually their inferiors; but now, sad to say, the reverse is conspicuously prevalent. In many places a man requires no family prestige, no brains, no money, and - worse than all - no morals; nothing save a 'gift of gab" and a stylish apparel to admit him into high and respected circles. Poor requisites these for a man's entrance into the sanctity of our homes. In may be a sweeping assertion - an assertion born of ignorance, through inexperience of maternal duties, for one from whom God has withheld his greatest blessing, the blessing of becoming a mother - to make, nevertheless I charge you who have been so expressly favored, you who are mothers, with countenancing and abetting this deadly growing evil. I charge you with neglect of your offspring's welfare. I charge you with the good or bad qualities of which your child is possessed. It is not altogether the fiat of inheritance that a man must necessarily be profligate because his father was a libertine, or that a woman must need be the second edition of her mother's untowardness. By virtue of the power of blood, the tendency may exist - must exit, for blood will tell ; it is sure to come out, if not in the present generation, in the next or the next ; but as in nature it is possible to overcome the center-fleeing forces by the center-seeking, or vice versa , it is also possible by prayer, christian endeavor and christian determination to overcome the evil tendencies that are your child's inheritance. Mothers, vast, immeasurable, never-ending are your responsibilities; your nursery songs, your daily lessons, your words, your thoughts, your deeds, your walks, your maternal influences, all make or mar, elevate or degrade the child. The commencement exercises of the Austin High School, which took place at Staub's Theatre Friday, June 7, was, in the estimation of your correspondent, the best ever given by that school. The class was small, being composed of only two young ladies, Misses Eva Kidd and Minnie Smith. Miss Kidd was as usual, happy in the delivery of her well written thesis, "Unheeded Opportunities," which she treated under the guise of "Ships That Pass in the Night." Miss Smith, in a few well-chosen, impressive words, delivered the valedictory. The four well-rendered recitations by as many young women were most entertaining. Another noticeable feature, and one worthy of commendation, was the total absence of ostentation; simplicity, sensible and pleasing, reigned instead. The young ladies, with but a few exceptions, wore white wash goods. Much credit is due Professor J.W. Manning and his able corps of teachers for the year's course of instruction and its happy termination. VIRGINIA. ROSA D. BOWSER, EDITOR. The Fifth Baptist Church of Richmond, Virginia, is spreading a feast of religious inspiration for the church lovers, by securing the services of some of the most able and gifted divines in the state. Rev. W.H. Brooks, whom everyone here loves to hear, preached at the above named church on the morning of June 16, and at the First Baptist Church in the afternoon of the same day. It is needless to say that on both occasion the audiences listened to soul-reviving, animating sermons, THE WOMAN'S ERA. 11 and the name of Rev. Brooks of Washington, D. C. (formerly of Richmond) will be sufficient announcement to gather a large congregation. The Fifth Baptist Church of Sidney, or the western section of the city, occupied a small frame structure until about two years ago. Now the church has purchase a beautiful site and has built one of the most beautiful houses of worship in the city. Under the direction of the pastor, Rev. Clarke, dedicatorial services will continue for several weeks. Rev. Gullins, of 33rd St. A. M. E. Church, has won the hearts of the people of all denominations, and very many are enthusiastic in praises of his fine sermons and a very instructive address to the young men at the Y. M. C. A. building a few weeks ago. Several State Institutes and Peabody Normals will be conducted in different portions of Virginia during the month of July. Three of these normals are for the benefit of colored teachers. So the question of the day is, where are you going? "Are you going to the Institute?" comes next. Many teachers from the cities and counties attended last year, but the outlook does not seem so bright this summer as far as Richmond is concerned. The Second and First Baptist Sunday schools hold commencement exercises the 18th and 20th of June respectively, at which time the students of the normal class receive their diplomas. The plan may be a very excellent one, and perhaps could be improved by putting each S. S. graduate in charge of a class. But I am sorry to confess that I have not been able to perceive the benefit to the S. S. from S. S. graduation. I have in mind cases of students who walked with their certificates out of S. S. and have only attended the church services since that time. They seem to have outgrown the Sunday school. Mr. T. Thomas Fortune, editor of the New York Age, visited this city about the middle of June. The hospitality of his friends must have convinced him that they appreciated his visit. He was the guest of Dr. and Mrs. Dismond. Prof. J. E. Jones delivered a very fine address at the commencement of the High and Normal school on the evening of June 15. This address added interest to the exercises which, as a whole, were pronounced a decided improvement on last year's entertainment. The school session closed by a literary and musical entertainment by the Richmond Normal School Alumni, June 17, at the True Reformers' Hall. NOTES FROM THE TUSKEGEE NORMAL AND INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTE. Tuskegee, Ala. Notwithstanding the fact that the school has closed, the busy hum of machinery and the general activity about the shops go on as ever. There has been made in the wheelwright shop this year twenty wagons and two buggies. The annual address delivered by Mr. S. Laing Williams was an able and powerful one. The beauty of it was that he did not discuss the "negro problem" or any phase of it, but all he said was sound common sense. A friend has contributed $12,000 to the school, to be used in erecting a large chapel at this place. Our dairying department is progressing nicely. The following appliances have been added to it: One Sharples Russian hand separator, ripening vat, butter worker, churn, and one Babcock milk test. Some of our graduates are here to take postgraduate courses at some of the trades. Isaac Fisher. CLUB NOTES The last social meeting of the season of the Woman's Era Club was in charge of the Current Events Committee, Mrs. Mary Dandridge chairman. A very pleasing programme was carried out. Miss Harriet Smith read a paper on the "influence of clubs on the home." and an unusually fine programme of music was rendered by Mrs. Sparrow, Mrs. Harris and Mr. Moses Hodges. The afternoon wound up with a club tea. It was decided to continue business meetings of the club through the summer on account of the coming conference. The action of Miss Florence Belgarnic at the recent World's W. C. T. U. convention in London will always stand out as one of conspicuous bravery, and the fact that she stood alone proves nothing so much as that Miss Willard is a great leader as well as what we claim for her--a great temporizer in matters pertaining to southern sentiment. 12 THE WOMAN'S ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA, the organ of the Woman's Era Club, and devoted to the interests of the Women's Clubs, Leagues, and Societies throughout the country. Published monthly, in Boston, by JOSEPHINE ST. P. RUFFIN, FLORIDA R. RIDLEY 103 Charles Street. SUBSCRIPTIONS Per Annum, - - - - - $1.00 Single Copies, - - - - - .10 Club Rates, one hundred copies, - - 7.00 Subscriptions Payable in Advance EDITORIAL "BE BOLD, BE BOLD, BUT NOT OO BOLD." "He that feeds men serveth few, He serves all who dares be true." - Emerson. To dare be true to one's self respect and dignity should not be too hard a task to set for even the most timorous when it is remembered that self respect and self pride will halt and waver when it does not compel respect, and must finally die of wounds made by the contempt of others unless active means are taken to keep it alive. In a crisis, ability to see the right thing to do and courage to do it must command respect, at least for the effort. A crisis demanding a display of such qualities is upon us, and no plea of sensitiveness to making public slanderous insults can excuse the traduced from seeking vindication from unjust accusations, especially as these accusations are made and scattered broadcast. Will not longer pretending to ignore these things look like either a tacit admission of their truth, or a fear to honestly face the charges so sweepingly made now? At the conference it is not proposed to make this refutation by boisterous denials of the accusations, but by earnest affirmations and showings of what we are, our aims, aspirations and hopes. The slanderous letter referred to in last month's ERA, while it has served as a spur to action in a matter long considered and frequently suggested in the ERA, will not be the keynote of the discussions of the whole conference. One session will be devoted to "social purity" and what can be used as factors in promoting it. At that session the answers to inquiries sent out to prominent and reliable educators, and missioners among colored people, as to the moral conditions among these people as they find them, will be read. This subject should properly receive most careful and delicate handling, but with courage enough to compel condemnation of vice wherever it exists, and vindication for the innocent victims of a widespread slander. MISS WILLARD AND THE COLORED PEOPLE. In the Kansas department this month appears a circular letter explaining Miss Willard's position on the color question. The defence is timely, and it is a question if even now, since its publication, the majority of colored people will have their opinion that Miss Willard is a "temporizer" materially altered. The fact is, Miss Willard is at the head of a tremendous organization, and in that capacity and in order to keep everything and everybody harmonious, is obliged to be politic, and for the welfare of the W. C. T. U. not to antagonize any section of this country. Doubtless Miss Willard is a good friend to colored people, but we have failed to hear from her or the W. C. T. U. any honest, flatfooted denunciation of lynching and lynchers. The London Daily News, in commenting upon the resolution passed at the June convention upon lynching, says that the resolution saying "We deplore the taking of life without trial," is a practical condonation of the practice and an evasion sprung by the Americans, of which every honest-minded British woman upon second thought should be ashamed. We have great respect for the signers of the circulars, but it will take more than this and more than Lady Somerset's scoring of Miss Wells to convince us that the W. C. T. U. does not hedge. DR. DONALD AS A SIGN OF THE TIMES. It seems as if Dr. Donald's speech at Tuskegee has stirred up more commotion in Massachusetts than in Alabama. It is true that private letters from the Institute, expressing the deep resentment of the pupils and teachers, had been received in Boston long before the sermon was published, but no open comment upon it had been heard from that quarter ; we did not expect it. Not so here in Boston. While we admit the truth of some of the Dr.'s remarks, we condemn THE WOMAN'S ERA. 13 the whole spirit and motive, and frankly acknowledge that our chiefest concern is that Dr. Donald represents the growing spirit of the times - sympathy with the south and its methods, a growing belief in the inferiority of the negro, a disposition to put him down and back - these are the sentiments which are growing daily stronger in the North as well as the South. It is useless to blind ourselves to the fact that our position grows worse; we progress in education, in character and in the acquisition of money, but while in some cases these must tell, they do not bring that universal respect that they should. As long as identified with the race, the negro is regarded and treated as an inferior except in individual cases. The prospect could hardly be gloomier. South Carolina will doubtless disenfranchise the black man and very shortly restrict his educational privileges. Florida has recently passed laws making it a penal offence for black and white to study together, and in Georgia a black man can't even buy an Atlanta Constitution to show the ridiculous side of the situation. We must acknowledge that there is nothing left for us but to strike for ourselves. We have a few staunch friends, but only a few, and even public sentiment at its best is bored with us. We can no longer wait for the problem to solve itself. Away with the doctrine of humility. As Mr. Higginson says, let us "be bold." Life is more than meat. Let the people of South Carolina leave a state which gives them no good thing but food. If extinction awaits us finally, let us go to meet it like men, not lie down for it to overtake us. Here in the North the spirit of the times is felt, but here a black man is a man, and if forced to it can physically force the respect which is his due. In the South we are powerless to strike for ourselves with everything against us. But there are more ways than one. The negroes can leave and end a situation which grows worse rather than better. The time for resistance, wise resistance, has come. Our hope for creating public sentiment grows dimmer and dimmer, and patience and humility have ceased to be virtues. THE ATLANTA EXPOSITION We have stated why we do not endorse the Atlanta Exposition. It is a significant fact that most of the leading women and men of the North hold our views. We hope to arrange a sym- posium giving the opinions of well-known people upon the matter. We do not see how the colored exhibit can escape being very meagre, and the world should know the reason for it. LOUISIANA. ALICE RUTH MOORE, EDITOR. Hurrah ! If one could only be a boy to throw up one's cap and shout out in the middle of the streets ! School, the long, tiresome ten months' session of the public schools is over at last, and one can rest for a few weeks at least. Rest, sleep and mental dormancy before the long term of hard work begins. Hurrah ! The air was full of school entertainments. The public school child demands a picnic or party and an exhibition during the last two or three weeks, and as children rule the world nowadays, suffering teachers must comply with the demand. Then the teachers from the other schools would come and look on and eat ice cream and smile, remembering their past experience, or sigh, dreading the future. Southern University wound up in a brilliant blaze of musical glory. The orchestras there, under Professor Nickerson's direction, are trying hard to rival the outside orchestras. The baccalaureate sermon and commencement were revelations, especially the former, in sacred music, and the possibilities of instruments in the hands of mere students. Another brilliant social as well as musical success was the promenade concert given by the Eddie Moore Conservatory committee July 1 at Loeper's Park. The name Eddie Moore committee serves as a talisman always, and as about a thousand invitations had been issued, there was a great and generous crowd assembled. Interspersing the dances, the Students' and Ida Club orchestra played classic overtures, as also did the mandolin club. So then, every one voted the affair a success in three ways, musical, social and financial. The Phyllis Wheatley Club held an interesting 14 THE WOMAN'S ERA. meeting during the month. Some good papers were read, some good plans discussed and some good reports received. N. B. The editors regret that they are obliged to leave until another issue an excellent paper by Miss Leila Moore of New Orleans on "How Women Read Newspapers." TEXAS Cora L. Smith, Editor. Texas, the largest state in the Union, has a most interesting history, one with which no other state can compare. A stranger coming upon Thrall's or Pennybacker's history of Texas for the first time is lost in wonder and admiration of the daring deeds and almost superhuman accomplishments of its brave patriots in their struggles for freedom. How many Texans have stood within the portals of the Alamo Mission in San Antonio and felt a glow of pride, not unmixed with sorrow, as the scene of cruel massacre of that little band, composed of 172 courageous men, by the savage Mexicans under their cruel leader, Santa Anna, rises before them. How one's heart burns with indignation when he remembers that these martyrs were piled in a huge heap and burned! Every one of that noble band killed and burned! Every scene rises vividly before our eyes as we gaze upon the beautiful Alamo monument erected within the precincts of our capitol grounds in Austin. "Thermopylae had her messenger of defeat, but the Alamo had none," has a meaning of intense interest to every Texan, whether he be white or black, young or old. The State Teachers' Association, which convened at Austin Tuesday, June 11 to June 14, was one of the most successful in its history. The attendance was larger than that at Galveston last year, and the papers read showed careful preparation and were both instructive and helpful It is to be regretted that more of the young teachers do not take an interest in this association. These inexperienced workers are just those who need the aid of such instruction, and yet they are slow in taking the advantage of the opportunity of meeting and comparing notes with our leading educators of the state. We, as a race, labor under most adverse circumstances, and there are things which the young teacher, who is to succeed, must know. These cannot be found in text-books; they can only be imported by those experienced educators who have worked in this particular field; they, only, can aid and strengthen these young birds which are, for the first time, about to essay their tiny wings and soar away. Too soon they will discover that they are not teaching the model boy or girl spoken of in the different educational journals, who always gives the expected answers. One the contrary, their boys and girls seldom or never give the correct answer, and they so discourage the young teacher that he often silently vows to let their morals, at least, severely alone. Theory is one thing, but practice is quite another. Let us urge our young educators to meet with us, join us, visit us, and learn how we have groped in the dark and reached--not perfection, but a plan for better and more effective labor. Teachers from all over the state were in attendance. All of the great schools were well represented. Dr. I. B. Scott, of Wiley University, at Marshall; Prof. H. T. Kealing of Paul Quinn College at Waco; Prof L. C. Anderson of Prairie View State Normal School at Prairie View; Prof. M. H. Broyles of Hearne Academy at Hearne; and Prof D. Abner, Jr., of Sequin College at Sequin. Besides these, all of the largest cities were represented by the principals and assistants of the different schools, as well as the army of teachers from the rural districts. What an array of intelligence and culture! Nothing but great good can come from such a gathering. The day sessions were held in the chapel of Tillotson College, and the night sessions at the Third Baptist Church, Wesley Chapel and the Metropolitan A. M. E. Church. It all ended in a blaze of elegance and beauty at Turner Hall, where the citizens had prepared a most sumptuous banquet, which was partaken of with much enjoyment, while the orchestra discoursed sweet strains of music. Just a word to my friends. You see that Texas has joined this grand array of states, and she has come to stay. We wish to make the Texas department one of which all Texans may be proud. This can only be done with your assistance. Do not wait until your school re-opens to give us your subscription, but subscribe at once, so that you may not miss anything. The paper is such as to need no encomiums; one needs but to see it to like it, and only to read it in order to praise it. I ask you to give me your aid by passing the paper on to some friend. Texas must not be behind the other states. I rely upon you to assist me in making it second to none. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 15 SOCIAL NOTES. Boston. The events of the month of course have been graduating and commencement exercises. Among the graduate were included Miss Genevieve Lee from the Newton High School, Miss Gertrude Peake from the Boston High, and Miss Mary Lewis from the Everett school. Out at Harvard Mr. W. H. Lewis took the degree of LL.B., and Mr. Munroe Trotter finished the academic course, a winner of two degrees in four years, B. A. and M. A. Both Mr. Lewis and Mr. Trotter entertained on Class Day. Mr. Trotter an especially large company of buds and belles and matrons. Of course "it goes without saying," although said many dozens of times, that everything was "perfectly lovely." The day was perfect, the girls radiant in their fresh and appropriate costumes, and "the spread" most satisfactory. Conspicuous among the girls present were Misses Maud Trotter, Cromwell, Marsh, Glover, Grant, Lillian Lewis, Cartwright, Scotron and Bessie Mitchell. The closing of the schools brings home our college girls are well as our teachers. Miss Hemmings comes back from Vassar, Misses Baker and Trotter from Wellesley, all fresh refutations of the theory that pretty girls are not students. Miss Florence Smith and Mr. Parker Bailey are at home on their annual vacation, and Miss Ella Smith is paying her yearly respects to her Alma Mater, and making a round of visits in Boston and vicinity. The friends of Miss Hattie Howard of Philadelphia are in receipt of invitations to her wedding which takes place on the 3d of July. Miss Howard is well remembered here as a girl of especial vivacity, intelligence and attractiveness. She marries the Rev. John W. Johnson of Virginia, and will make her home in Richmond. Rev. A. C. Garner, of Paris, Texas, and Mrs. H. E. O'Neil of Hot Springs, N. C., are in Knoxville attending the bedside of their sick sister, Miss Marion Garner, a young elocutionist of much promise. In its last home, the Statesman Exponent showed a flattering degree of appreciation of the efforts of our women in the field of literature by its liberal clippings from the columns of the Woman's Era. This weeks mail brought quite a pleasant surprise in the invitation of the Ida B. Wells Club of Chicago to the marriage of its president. THE OPEN COURT. Mrs. N. F. Mossell, Editor. The first quarter of the editorship of the Open Court has reached its limit with this, the July issue of the Era. The list of subscribers is still expanding. I can but express my heartfelt gratitude to those who have shown and are still showing by every means in their power the interest they take in the uplifting of the womanhood of the race by their labors on behalf of the Woman's Era and "The Work of the Afro-American Woman." One of the most gratifying facts of my experience in this work is the deep interest taken in these publications by the men of race. Many of the progressive professional men of Philadelphia, such as Drs. Jackson and Cox, dentists, Dr. George R. Hylton and Dr. N. F. Mossell have secured copies of these works for use in the waiting rooms at their offices. Other gentlemen have subscribed for these works at birthday, graduation and wedding gifts, and also assisted in the sale at many points. These facts prove conclusively that if a just cause be properly presented, the men of the race will show themselves loyal to the work in hand. A dear unknown white friend in the south sends me a letter stating the fact of her having come in possession of the last three copies of the Era containing the Open Court. She is engaged in work among the colored people. She desires to present and has already presented me with pamphlets of Bible readings. For all this I appreciate the dear lady, but her letter continues and I can not forbear giving the readers of the Era an extract from the closing pages: 16 THE WOMAN'S ERA. "I love your people, and while others are working especially for their intellectual advancement, I trust that I may be used by the Lord to bring that which will tend to spiritual advancement, for I want to meet and live with many brethren and sisters of color in the kingdom of our God. Please banish even the suggestion of a thought that I think of you as a heathen, or as having no Christianity. No, indeed, I do not ! I have found many true, earnest Christians among those for whom I am laboring, but I believe God has special light for us all nowadays. As the Lord in his infinite goodness and love, through his chosen instruments, has brought it to me, so now I wish to pass it on, and to as many as I can reach." Now, gentle reader, what shall we reply to the assurance that we are not considered heathen, or without the pale of Christianity, and that the dear friend wants to "meet and live with many brethren of color" in heaven. One can readily see that this dear sister means well ; she even out-Herods Herod and surpasses our own race in love for us, for I don't think many of us have thought of formulating a very decided wish to meet with many brethren and sisters of any special color in heaven. The editor meets in the course of years with many proofs of kindness, but this assurance that our people, as represented by the editors of the various departments of the ERA, are not looked upon as heathen, surpasses all others thus far received. By all means let us continue this work of convincing our white friends of our merits. ============== LITERATURE DEPARTMENT MEDORA W. GOULD. ----------- "What America Owes to Women" is a handsomely bound book by Lydia Hoyt Farmer. The introduction is by Julia Ward Howe, and it contains many full page portraits. The general subjects embraced are: Women in the Home, Women in Professions, Business and Trade, Women in Literature, Women in Art and Music, Women in Education and Science, Women in Philanthropy, Women in Church work, Missions and Charities. It contains many interesting anecdotes and personal sketches as well as brilliant articles from the pens of Mrs. U. S. Grant, Jessie Benton Fremont, Mrs. Frank Leslie, Jane G. Austin, Mrs. Henry Ward Beecher, Mary A. Livermore and many others. Someone who knows whereof he speaks, says, in regard to the countless number of books being published at present, "The quality of the paper is so poor that at the beginning of the twenty-first century, not one of them will be in existence." Mr. Swan, the Massachusetts Commissioner of Public Records, after a thorough investigation of the subject concludes that there is as good, if not better, paper made today than ever before, as well as poorer, but that neither good paper nor good ink can be had at bargain counter prices. It has been suggested that public libraries be supplied with books of superior material that can be warranted to outlast those now in general use. Bret Harte is said to be about to publish a fairly long story, but whether it is a romance of California or London is not known. What a pity he did not save his very euphonious title, "The Bell Ringer of Angels," for a long story instead of applying it to such a short one. This story, "The Bell Ringer of Angels," contains a deep romance in spite of its brevity. Its attractive but worthless heroine, and its two good men and true, particularly he who sacrifices himself, recall the plot of Hall Caine's best novels. Freeman G. Miller, a native of Indiana, farmer, teacher and, now, Professor of Literature in a western college, is attracting attention by his poetry which has a picturesqueness and dash that is extremely captivating. The following is the first verse of a charming little piece called "At Eventide." At eventide when glories lie In crimson curtains hung on high, And all the breast of heaven glows With mingled wreaths of flowers and snows, The dearest dreams of life draw nigh. S. R. Crockett, author of "The Raiders," has resigned his pastoral charge and intends to devote himself to literary work. He explained to his congregation that the same Lord who called him to preach the Gospel had revealed to him the possession of a literary talent which he desired him to use. Major Calhoun, the editor of The Standard, the new Boston Daily, is the same Major Calhoun who is author of "Marching Through Georgia." He was an officer under General Sherman and lost a leg in battle. John Brisben Walker of the Cosmopolitan is soon to start a weekly newspaper after the style of Harper's Weekly. Thomas Hardy is said to be dramatizing "Tess." THE WOMAN'S ERA. 17 ATLANTA UNIVERSITY, ALTANTA, GA. REV. HORACE BUMSTEAD, D. D. President. THIS Institution trains and sends out a superior class of teachers and leaders for work among the Freedom of the South. It solicits the attendance of intelligen and earnest young men and women, and contributions from those who are willing to help towards their education. Write to the President. ----------- SUBSCRIBE FOR MRS. CASNEAU'S GUIDE TO ARTISTIC Dress Cutting and Making. It is entirely original and is sure to satisfy a long felt want of young dressmakers, women who do their sewing at home, and those who anticipate learning the trade as the means of gaining a livelihood. The book is self-teaching and can be used with any system or with paper patterns. The order of arrangements places the rules where they will come in regular order for cutting and making a gown. In fact, the aim has been to make the work eminently practical for the average women. Liberal inducements to agents everywhere. For further information and circulars, send stamp to Mr. Elmer E. Casneau, MANAGER, 9 Greenwich St., BOSTON, MASS. BOSTON Condensed Milk Co's Plain condensed (unsweetened) Milk is the best known food for infants. Best article in the world for a cup of coffee. Sold in jars at the office, 2½ Park Sq., Boston Delivered three times per week. ENDORSEMENT. I have used the plain condensed milk and found it worked like a miracle in transforming my weak, puny baby into a strong, plump one, after all other foods had failed. MRS. McGILL, 10 Lindall Place, Boston. -------- THE AMERICAN WRINGER CO. BRANCH STORE, 13 & 15 BROADWAY EXTENSION, Boston, Mass. Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers. All kinds of Wringers and Sweepers repaired. Orders by mail promptly attended to. ------- What is this A. P. A. ? What its Plans ? Who its Candidates ? What its Principles ? Where can we join ? For full information, send 2-ct. stamp for -- or ask your newsdealer for -- or send 50 cts. for 3 mos. trial subscription of -- the paper which advocates straight A. P. A. principles -- THE AMERICAN CITIZEN, 7 Bromfield St., Boston. ------------ Mrs. J. F. A. GARDINER, 128 Alder St., Pittsfield, Mass. Will accommodate a few private boarders during the summer months. Five minutes walk from maple woods. Terms reasonable. ----------------- F. A. GREENLEAF, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in PAPER HANGINGS, 51 Court Street, Near Scollay Square, BOSTON. ------------------ MRS. H. L. KEMP, Artistic Dressmaking and Millinery, 179 FRANKLIN AVENUE, Near Myrtle, BROOKLYN, N. Y. Imported styles always on hand, Competent dressmakers always in attendance. 18 THE WOMAN'S ERA. TRY A PERFECT ICING FOR YOUR CAKES, &c. Will not spoil or foment in heat or cold, covered or exposed to the air PERFECT ICING never dries out or crumbles, all other Icings draw the moisture from the cake and dry it up. A PERFECT ICING will keep your cake from drying out. PERFECT ICING should be put on in a very thin coating, like a varnish; it will give your cakes a beautiful gloss as well as flavor, Can be cut soon as put on my dipping your knife in cold water. a 25¢ Jar of PERFECT ICING will go further than 25 centis on Egg and Sugar Icing as you use it, is more healthful. and gives a superior flavor. PERFECT ICINGS are put up in Screw Top Jars, also in Mason quarts, and in wooden pails of 25 lbs. each. DIRECTIONS. Remove the top, set the Jar in a moderate oven or warm place, until the contents are thin enough to spread. Take your knife, stir it up and spread on a cold cake, just as thin as possible,. Set your jar away to sue again. Ask Your Grocer for PERFECT ICING. Almond, Coffee, Wild Grape, Orange, Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate, Pistash. PREPARED ONLY BY A.H. PELOUBET & CO., New York. See our Trade Mark A.H.P. is on every Label. PERFECT ICINGS used in making Sherbets or Water Ices, Ice Creams, Sauces, Home Confections, &c. Will give their rich flavors and save work. B. P. RAY, Agent, 2 Chatham Row, BOSTON, MASS. BOARD AND ROOMS. PRIVATE BOARD. MRS. ELIZABETH E. COOLEY will accommodate a few select boarders, Transient or permanent. At 62 PHILLIPS STREET, BOSTON. BOARDING AND LODGING, FIRST CLASS. MRS. W. H> YOUNG. No. 1208 Pine Street, Philadelphia. PRIVATE DINING ROOM. POINT PLEASANT Wil be opened June 1 to accommodate a few select boarders. For terms address MRS E. E. CRISPELL, WEST STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. P.O. Box 45. ATTENTION LADIES. Our Dress and Garment making is perfect; Prices reasonable; Fit, Style, and Finish unsurpassed. Millinery: Hats and Bonnets made and trimmed, 50c. to $1.00. Our Millenery and Dress Cutting Schools are the best in the world Young Ladies should come at once and learn. HARVEY, 29 Temple Place, Boston. E. A. LIBBY, New goods received by steamer every week. We never have an opening. Always ready to show goods. MILLINERY The old reliable house retains the same stuff. 19 Temple Place, Boston. THE NEW WORLD TYPEWRITER. Price, $15.00. A useful and elegant present for ladies and gentlemen. Over 100,000 in use. Perfectly simple, practical and durable. No $100 machine can do better work. Writes 77 characters. Capitals and small letters. Never gets out of order. Perfect alignment always. No instruction required. SEND FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE The Typewriter Improvement Co. 4 K Post Office Square, BOSTON, Mass. Agents Wanted. EDGAR, P. BENJAMIN, Attorney and Counsellor-at-Law Room 22 34 SCHOOL STREET, BOSTON. THE CELEBRATED Witch-Hazel Velvet Cream Does not contain corrosive sublimate, lead, arsenic, mercury, or any poison. As a toilet article for tan, sunburn, moth,, freckles, etc., its excellence cannot be too well recommended. Put up in 60c. and $1.00 Sizes, sent postpaid on receipt of Price AGENTS WANTED EVERYWHERE For Sale by Druggists and Dealers in Toilet Supplies. All correspondence should be addressed to the New England Agents. W. F. & J. S. KINGSBERY, RANDOLPH, MASS. NOTICE! THE WOMAN'S ERA is on sale and can be obtained of BEUNKE, STATIONER, 500 MASSACHUSETTS AVE. CAMBRIDGE. THE WOMAN'S ERA 19 THE SUCCESS OF THE SEASON MRS. N.F. MOSSELL'S BOOK THE WORK OF THE AFRO-AMERICAN WOMAN The First Edition has been nearly exhausted, An edition of 5000 is to be issued March 1st. "Above all, let the negro know that the elevation of his race can come only and will come surely through the elevation of its women."—Senator Geo. F. Hoar. Miss Emma K. White , one of Chester's most successful teachers, says : "The volume entitled The Work of the Afro-American Women is a great success at this point." Miss Julia Songow, Germantown, Pa.: "I have sold seventy=-five copies of the Work of the Afro-American Woman within two weeks." Mrs. Jennie Enola Johnson of Camden, N.J.: " I have been very successful in my canvass for The Work of the Afro-American Woman." Agents Wanted. Liberal Inducements Offered. Let students at colleges, teachers who desire to canvass during the summer, apply at once. Very many agents in these two fields of effort have already done well. Price, Red or Brown Cloth, 75 cents, White and Gold $1. Apply to Mrs. N. F. MOSSELL. 1432 Lombard street, Philadelphia, Pa. HOUSEKEEPERS SHOULD SEE THE NEW Fibre Carpet. A Soft, Pliable Odorless Matting. Warm in Winter, Cool in Summer. An Ideal Sanitary Chamber Carpet FOR ALL THE YEAR ROUND. Sews together and turns under. Does not break or require binding. No odors or germs of disease. Insects do not trouble it. Heavy furniture does not break it. Double faced — double wear. Artistic colors — stylish designs. We cordially invite inspection. HODGES FIBRE CARPET CO. Manufacturers and Patentees, 50 Essex St. (cor. Chauncy) Boston, Mass. Why Not Advertise in the Weekly Journal of the Lodge? With a circulation of 4,000 Write for terms and space. Address JOURNAL OF THE LODGE, NEW ORLEANS, La., Box 105. "Violets and Other Tales" A Collection of Short Stories and poems. By ALICE RUTH MOORE. In Paper Covers, 50c.; Cloth, $1.00 AGENTS WANTED. Apply to ALICE RUTH MOORE, 1924 Palmyra street New Orleans, La. COPIES FOR SALE AT Office of Woman's Era, 103 Charles St., Boston. HOWARD UNIVERSITY. Washington, D. C. July 1, 1895. Furnishes instruction in the following departments and courses: Theological, Medical, Dental, Pharmaceutical, Legal, College, Preparatory, Normal, Musical, and Manual Training, including practice in carpenter shop, printing office, book bindery, tin shop and sewing school. All students have the privilege of library and reading room without extra charge. Tuition free in all courses except Medical Dental and Pharmaceutical. Terms open September 18. J.E. RANKIN, D.D, L.L.D., President J.B. JOHNSON, Secretary. 20 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Homes for the People ! IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, THE ITALY OF AMERICA. LANDS WITHIN REACH OF POOR MEN'S MEANS. The Fruitland Colony Company, Of LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, Have placed upon the market 20,000 ACRES 20,000 Of the finest land on earth, which they intend to colonize with colored people, and at prices within reach of men of small means. In order to induce investments in these lands we offer 2,000 acres to the first settlers at $20 per acre and guarantee to deliver water to each 20 acres sold, sufficient for irrigation. These lands lie 60 miles north from Los Angeles, and 7 miles from the Southern Pacific R. R., and consist of a rich friable loam, being of sedimentary formation mingled with decomposed granite. The soil is from 4 to 50 feet deep, and is capable of producing everything on earth that grows in this land of wonderful production. It lies at an altitude of 2,500 feet above sea level and is peculiarly the land of the olive and almond. SMALL FARMS are the rule in Southern California and more profit can be realized from 20 acres here than on 160 acres in the East. AFTER 2,000 ACRES HAVE BEEN SOLD the price will be $35.00 per acre. It is not an unusual thing for trees in bearing to yield From $100 to $1000 per Acre. These land have perfect title and will be sold for one-third cash, balance one, two and three years, with interest at 6 per cent per annum. Full information will be given by applying to H. A. PIERCE, President, or T. M. GIBSON, Secretary, Room 37, Bryson Block, Los Angeles, California. [* ?Page 15? - Resolutions about Jacks P 4 Have 20 clubs P 13 First National Conference P 2 [Elias?] Ruffin's address to first N. Y. Bethel Church Women Express strong National Convention -- opinion about Jacks P 8 P. 6 *] CONFERENCE SOUVENIR NUMBER. TWENTY-EIGHT PAGES. The Woman's Era. VOL. II. NO. 5. BOSTON, MASS., AUG., 1895 PRICE 10 CENTS. ============== BERKELEY HALL. ============== NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF COLORED WOMEN HELD IN BERKELEY HALL, BOSTON, MASS, JULY 29, 30, 31, 1895. --- PROGRAMME. MONDAY. 10 A. M. Organization (Not open to Public). 2 P. M. Formal Opening. Reports from Leagues and Clubs. 8 P. M. Address of President, Mrs. J. St. P. Ruffin. Address, Mrs. H. A. Cook, Washington. Woman and the Higher Education, Ella L. Smith, A. B. A. M. Need of Organization, Mrs. A. J. Cooper, Washington. Poem, Miss A. T. Miller, Boston. TUESDAY. 10 A. M. Secret Session. 2 P. M. Industrial Training, Miss L. C. Carter, New York. A Plea for Justice, Miss C. E. Hunter. Address, Mrs. E. E. Williams, New York. Address, Mr. B. I. Washington, Tuskegee. 8 P. M. Individual Work for Moral Elevation, Mrs. B. T. Washington, Alabama. Value of Race Literature, Mrs. Victoria Matthews, New York. Political Equality, T. Thomas Fortune, Henry B. Blackwell, William Lloyd Garrison. WEDNESDAY. 10 A. M. Social Purity, Mrs. Agnes Adams, Boston. Temperance, Mrs. A. G. Brown, Boston; Mrs. L. C. Anthony, Missouri; Mrs. Butler, Atlanta, Ga. 2 P. M. Business Meeting. 8 P. M. Reception. THURSDAY. ALL DAY. Business. 2 THE WOMAN'S ERA. MINUTES OF THE FIRST NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF COLORED WOMEN. The First National Conference of Colored Women of America held in Boston, Mass., opened its session on Monday, July 29, at 10 A. M., Mrs. J. St. P. Ruffin, President of the Woman's Era Club, calling the meeting to order. Miss Eliza Gardner, of the Era Club, offered prayer. The call was read by the Recording Secretary. A motion was made to elect officers for permanent organization, the chair to appoint the committee on nomination, with the following result : Nominating Committee - Mrs. Aldridge, of Pittsburg, Pa. : Mrs. Jeffries, Rochester, N. Y. ; Mrs. Sampson, Boston ; Mrs. Garner, New York ; Mrs. Pitts, St. Louis, and Mrs. Mahammitt of Omaha, who reported the following as officers for the convention : Mrs. J. St. P. Ruffin, of the Woman's Era Club, President; Mrs. Helen A. Cook and Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Vice-Presidents; Mrs. Pitts and Mrs. Eliza C. Carter, Secretaries. Mrs. Pitts declined and the Secretary of the Woman's Era Club, Mrs. H. Smith, was elected in her place. A committee on resolutions was appointed to forward to Miss Impey the expressions of sympathy from the convention, Mrs. Pitts, Miss Gardner and Mrs. Williams comprising the committee. The following committee on address to establish the platform of the convention, was appointed : Mrs. Victoria Matthews, Mrs. B. T. Washington, Mrs. Aldrich, Miss Ella Smith, Mrs. Pitts, Mrs. U. A. Ridley and Mrs. Mahammitt. The chair then gave a few simple rules to govern the convention, which were adopted. Pages Ernest Kenswill and Franklin Carmans were appointed. Motion to adjourn. Rules presented and adopted. 1. That speakers be limited to five minutes. 2. No person to speak more than twice on the same subject without unanimous consent of conference 2 P. M. -- The convention met at 2 P. M., and continued business by listening to the reports from the delegates. 14 states and the District of Columbia, 53 delegates, responded. It was voted to defer the president's address until the evening session. Voted, that the report of Committee on Resolutions and Reports not responded to be read at next session. Adjourned to meet at 8 P. M. 8 P. M. -- The platform of the Convention was read by the Secretary, and the address of welcome was delivered by the President, Mrs. J. St. P. Ruffin. The programme for the evening was carried out with the following additions : Mrs. Arianna Sparrow and Mr. M. M. Hodges singing solos. A collection was taken -- $9.11. Adjournment. 10 A. M., Tuesday morning, July 30. -- The Convention opened with devotional exercises. Arrangements were made, as Mr. Henry Blackwell, husband of Lucy Stone, would be present at the evening session, to sing "Blest Be the Tie That Binds" before his remarks. The Convention went into secret session and discussed Jack's letter. Resolutions were offered by Mrs. Ardelia Hill, Mrs. Anthony and Mrs. Mahammit, followed by discussions by all the women, the whole culminating in a set of resolutions by Mrs. Mathews which were adopted by the Convention. Leaflets on Jack's letter to be sent to England. Letters were also read from Gen. O. O. Howard, Rev. Therkield, Berea College, Talladega College, George W. Cable and others. Mrs. Mathew, Mrs. Dickerson and Mrs. Mahammit were appointed to draw up resolutions to be forwarded to Judge Albion W. Tourgee, who is now ill. Voted that collections be taken for the printing of whatever matter the Convention, in its deliberation may decide to have printed. 2 P. M. -- The programme for the afternoon was carried out, with the exception of Mrs. Victoria Mathews' paper, which was laid over until evening. Miss Hunter read a paper, " A Plea for Justice," and a song was rendered by Miss Goings, also a paper read by Mrs. Williams of New York. 8 P. M> -- The order of original programme was changed by the introduction, before the regular programme, of a paper on "Individual Work for Moral Elevation," by Mrs. B. T. Washington, and a paper on "Race Literature," by Mrs. Victoria Mathews. 10 A. M., Wednesday, July 31. -- The morning session of the First National Convention of Colored Women was opened with prayer by Mrs. Agnes Adams. Singing by the Convention. Minutes of Monday and Tuesday sessions read and approved, with the necessary corrections. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 3 Dr. Crummell was invited to make some remarks and a rising vote of thanks was tendered him by the Convention. The exercises for the morning were reversed so that the remaining time could be given up to business. Subject of Social Purity was discussed and a paper by Mrs. Agnes Adams was read, Mrs. Dr. Butler and Mr. Chas. Morris making remarks on the same subject. The subject of Temperance was then taken up, Mrs. A. G. Brown reading a paper, followed by Mrs. Anthony. Resolutions endorsing Miss Wells' work and congratulations on her recent marriage were offered by Mrs. B. T. Washington, and adopted. Committee on the Impey letter and resolutions to be sent to Judge Albion Tourgee reported and reports adopted. Committee was appointed to draw up resolutions on the Georgia convict system, lynching, and the Florida state law making it a crime to teach white and colored children at the same time in the same schools, and other atrocities. Voted, that this body support the Congregational church in its action in matter of the Florida law. After singing the Battle Hymn of the Republic in honor of Julia Ward Howe, the convention adjourned. 2 P. M. -- No papers were read on this afternoon. Mrs. Ridley of Boston, Mrs. Maxwell of New York, and Mrs. Cooper of Washington, were appointed on the committee on resolutions relating to the Georgia convict system, Florida state school law, lynching, and other atrocities. The Convention then took up the business of national organization. Mrs. Cook was allowed time to make the necessary explanations regarding the National League. Mrs. Mathews presented resolutions asking that a national organization be now formed. The Convention adjourned to meet to finish business Thursday morning, at 10 A. M., in Charles St. Church to complete organization. Thursday, Aug. 1. -- The extra session of the Convention opened at 11 A. M. in Charles St. Church. Devotional exercises were led by Miss Gardner, Chaplain. Minutes read and approved. Mrs. Ruffin asked for time to make an explanation in regard to a false statement made in the Boston Journal, after which the docket was cleared for new business. Mrs. Ridley proposed that a national organization be now formed, with its own laws, officers, constitution, etc. Mrs. Mathews offered resolutions agreeing with Mrs. Ridley's proposition, which were adopted, and a committee on organization, consisting of one delegate from each delegation was appointed. A discussion followed as to the clause looking to a union with the Colored Women's National League. A committee was then appointed to perfect organization, and the following names reported to be balloted for by the Convention : Mrs. B. T. Washington, Alabama, Pres. ; Mrs. F. Y. Ridley, Boston, Cor. Sec. ; Miss L. C. Carter, Brooklyn, Rec. Sec. ; Mrs. Ruffin, Treas. Mrs. Ruffin positively declining to serve, Mrs. L. C. Anthony of Jefferson City, Mo., was substituted. The Vice Presidents were chosen by the Convention as follows : Mrs. Dickerson, Newport, R. I. ; Mrs. Helen Crum, Charleston, S. C. ; Mrs. Ella Mahammit, Omaha, Neb. ; Mrs. Mabel Garner, New York. Voted that the WOMAN'S ERA be made the organ of the national organization through which to gain all information regarding the organization. Mrs. Mathews' resolution to frame a constitution adopted. Voted, that the name of the new organization be laid over; a collection to be taken to defray the expenses of the leaflet ; the clubs to be taxed pro rata ; a new committee to be formed to gather up the loose ends of the Convention ; Mrs. Mathews, Mrs. Carmand, Mrs. Casneau, Mrs. Agnes Adams, former committee on atrocities, discharged. That this Convention gives a rising vote of thanks to the pastor for allowing us the use of the church ; to Mrs. B. T. Washington's resolution to Era Club ; a rising vote for entertainment ; vote to Franklin Carmand. That printed minutes be left in the hands of the ex-committee ; officers and ex-board Washington National League toward a union with the Colored Women's National League. To adjourn, subject to the call of the Pres., Mrs. B. T. Washington. That we thank the press generally for their courteous, kind and dignified report of the Conference, with the exception of the Boston Journal. Convention adjourned, singing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again." Miss Gardner dismissed with prayer. HANNAH SMITH, L. C. CARTER Secretaries of Convention. 4 The Woman's Era. Letters and Resolutions. ------- Whereas, a most indecent, foul and slanderous letter, traducing American womanhood, has been sent to Miss Florence Balgarnie of England, by one Jno. W.Jacks, Pres. of the Mo. Press Association, Be it therefore resolved, that this National Conference of Colored Women denounce this man as a traducer of female character, a man wholly without sense of chivalry and honor, and bound by the iron hand of prejudice, sectionalism and race hatred, entirely unreliable and unworthy the prominence he seeks. That no man capable of reverencing his mother or protecting the unsullied fame of any woman, much less Miss Balgarnie, whose life work entitles her to the respect at least of progressive and wholesome minds, regardless of sex, where ever principle and unselfish efforts to uplift struggling humanity exists. And as the man has not only slandered the women of negro extraction but the mothers of American morality, on a question that not only involves the good repute of the present generation, but generations yet to come, Be it resolved, that our condemnation be expressed in leaflet form and forwarded to England, with the request that a copy of each be enfolded in all the publications sent out by the Anti-Lynching society. Be it further resolved, that we hereby express our appreciation of Miss Balgarnie and the whole English people for their unselfish interest in the cause. ------- Whereas, it occurred to the Era Club of Boston to issue a fraternal call to the Colored Women's Clubs of America to meet in this city to discuss the needs of the race, And, whereas, the result of that call has brought together many of the noblest women of the race, who might otherwise never have met, and whereas the meeting has been one of profit and pleasure to the individuals and the race, Be it therefore resolved, that we do now extend to the Era Club and its honored president our deepest appreciation of the pleasure, profit and courtesy extended to us as a conference and as their guests. ------- Resolved, That we, the representative women of our race in United States, have witnessed with great admiration the noble and truthful advocacy of Mrs. Ida B. Wells Barnett, defending us against the lying charge of rape, and we take this opportunity of congratulating her upon her recent marriage, and are glad to hail her, in the face of all her assailants, as our noble "Joanna of Arc." ------- Boston, Mass, July 30, '95. Miss Catherine Impey, Street, Somerset, Eng., Dear Friend --- The National Conference of Colored Women now assembled in Boston in the interest of the race and in the cause of oppressed womanhood, now turn from our deliberations, on hearing of the serious illness of your dear mother, to express to you our deepest and sincerest sympathy in your distress. To us you are inexpressibly dear, and we wish you to feel that your sorrow and anxiety are ours, and that the prayers of the colored women of America are that God, in his infinite mercy, may "let the cup pass" and spare your parent for many years, so that her watchful love and care may continue to guide you and help you in your noble work for humanity. But to one of your abiding faith there is no sweeter consolation than that "He doeth all things well." May the blessings of God rest upon you, may the Lord bless you and lift the light of His countenance upon you and give you peace. Yours, in deepest sympathy, Mrs. M.F. Pitts, Mrs. M.E. Williams, Eliza Gardner, Committee. ------- Boston, Mass., July 30, '95. Albion W. Tourgee, Mayville, N.Y., Esteemed Friend and Co-worker --- The National Conference of Colored Women now assembled, being informed of your illness, voted unanimously to extend to you the heartfelt sympathy of the body and their earnest hopes for your speedy recovery. And further desire to express to you their appreciation of your life-long efforts in the cause of oppressed humanity. Yours sincerely, Victoria Mathews, Mary Dickerson, Ella L. Mahammit. The Woman's Era. 5 Report of the Women's Loyal Union of New York and Brooklyn. ------- Feeling the need of our women coming in closer contact with one another to discuss matters of vital interest to the race we represent, and which can only be done by organization, the Women's Loyal Union was formed December 5, 1892, with Mrs. Victoria Matthews as president, which office she now holds, and to whom much of the success of the Union is due. We have for our watchwords, "Vigilant, Patriotic, and Steadfast." Our object is the diffusion of accurate and extensive information relative to the civil and social status of the colored American citizen, that they may be directed to an intelligent assertion of their rights, and unite in the employment of all lawful means to secure and retain the undisputed exercise of them. The methods of the Union are, First, full and free discussion of existing evils, moral, physical, and political. Second, the circulation of printed matter relating to the colored American, whether written by them or not. We have a membership of over seventy women, pledged as willing workers. Many have proven themselves, zealous, earnest, and always ready when called upon to contribute not only their time, but their means. Among our members we claim professional women, doctors, school-teachers, literary women, writers of poetry and prose, tradeswomen, artists, home-makers and house-keepers. We have formed chapters, or branches, in Charleston, S.C., Memphis, Tenn., Philadelphia, Penn., and Brooklyn, N.Y. Since our organization, we have called public meetings in our churches to discuss topics affecting the interests of the race in the Southland and in our own section, with beneficial results. At one of our meetings we had the honor of having present as our guest, the President of your club, Mrs. Josephine Ruffin, who read a very interesting paper. We have contributed clothing and money to the Sea Island sufferers; presented a very fine Mason and Hamlin organ to the Colored Hospital and Home of this city. To stimulate race pride, we held in the parlors of a private residence an exhibition of art, work done by colored men and women, with marked results; so much so that an organization now holds an art exhibit every year. Sent petitions on the Blair Resolution to Congress, signed by over ten thousand men and women. Through the untiring energy of our President, distributed hundreds of circular letters through the South and West, asking for information concerning the moral, intellectual, physical, and home life, generally, of families. Assisted various causes by giving entertainments. Presented Miss Hallie Q. Brown with a purse of money toward her mission in England, to solicit funds to establish a library at Wilberforce College, to be called Frederick Douglass Library. Presented to Miss Jennie Dean the sum of fifty dollars for the Manassas Industrial School. In the death of the Honorable Frederick Douglass, we felt that the women of our land had lost a great advocate and staunch friend, and as a token of our appreciation of his efforts in our behalf and sorrow for our bereavement, our Union presented to his widow and family a handsomely engrossed, bound, memorial resolution. In the early part of June last we gave an entertainment at Bethel Church, where Mr. Richings exhibited his views of people, places, industries, and progress made by the colored people, especially in the South, despite the oppression and disadvantages they labor under. The race problem seems to be solving itself. Give us a chance! We are now turning our time and attention to the circulation of printed matter in the form of leaflets, which have been suggested to us by the answers contained in the replies to the circular letters. We have already printed for distribution, at a small price within the reach of all, leaflets addressed to "Parents and Guardians," and will soon have another, "The Sanctity of Home," to be followed by others --- all of which are written by members of our Association. In this way we hope to reach the masses, and do more effectual good than spoken words to the few. We have not always had the helping hand extended to us that an organization and such an object calls for and demands, but by persistent effort in the future, as in the past, we hope to merit the good will and ready assistance of all good women throughout the land. Katie V. Carmand, Corresponding Secretary of the Women's Loyal Union. 6 The Woman's Era. Report of the Woman's Club of Jefferson City, Mo. ------- Under the name of Harper W.C.T.U. a few of our women have been organized and work along reformatory lines for the past five years, the object being to better the condition of the colored people of the community by a gradual training of the mind to higher aims and purposes of life. Realizing the value of the words of Solomon, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it," we early opened a training school, and each Saturday afternoon gathered the children and gave them about an hour's instruction in plain sewing, after which short talks on temperance, truthfulness, honesty, etc., were given by some of the women of the Union. Pretty songs were also taught which the children delighted in. At length a fair was held, and each article made by the children, together with fancy articles made by members and friends were placed on exhibition with the maker's name attached. Each child delighted to point out to parent or friend any article she had made, and a parent delighted to buy because her child made it. This training school proved very helpful to the children. The Union also held mothers' meetings, and special talks were given on "Child Culture," "Social Purity," "Value of Example," etc. Our much beloved and esteemed Mrs. F.E. W. Harper was brought to Jefferson City to lecture, and the great zeal and inspiration of this race-loving woman is still bearing fruit, from seed sown when she was with us years ago. In fact, any zeal that I, or most of the colored women of Missouri have today for the uplifting of humanity, we owe to Mrs. Harper, who came to us and turned our thought to the great need of earnest effort by our women. At Jefferson City, Mo., there was a number of women who, for various reasons, we could not enlist in our W.C.T.U. work, so in a meeting of the Union we decided to extend our borders, and admit women who were not specially pledged to temperance work. Therefore, the Woman's Club was formed, the special object of which is to work more earnestly for the purity of our homes and the general advancement of colored women. The first week as a club was to bring Miss Ida B. Wells-Barnett to Jefferson City to lecture, June 18. By her graphic descriptions of the wrongs upon our race, she won the applause of all who heard her. The Era and other colored papers are read and discussed at our meetings. When the call for this Conference was made through the Era, to refute the charge of immorality by one of J.W. Jacks of Missouri, on hearing his slanderous letter our women became aroused as never before. Committees were appointed to confer with ministers; as a result, three large public meetings were held and strong resolutions adopted and sent to Montgomery City, Mo., his home, to England, and the press. Nothing has ever called forth such just indignation from the citizens of Jefferson as did this base letter, coming as it did from our own state. When this call for a Conference was read, they decided to send a delegate, at any cost, to utter their protest. And never did women work more earnestly than did these slandered women to raise the money which makes it possible for me to be with you today. Their prayer is that we may yet bring good out of this great evil done us, by resolving here to so unite ourselves and concentrate our forces that we may be able to show to the world that we, as colored women, are struggling for a higher, nobler, and purer life. The following resolutions were adopted and sent to this Conference: --- Jefferson City, Mo., July 23, 1895. National Convention of the Women's Club, Boston, Massachusetts: At a recent meeting of the Women's Club, located at Jefferson City, Missouri, in Cole County, a committee was appointed to draw up resolutions denouncing certain slanderous statements which were written in a letter to Miss Florence Balgarnie, London, England, dated March 6, 1895, by one J.W. Jacks, president of the Missouri Press Association. Whereas he says, first, that the Negroes of this country are wholly devoid of morality; second, that the women are prostitutes and all are natural liars and thieves. Therefore be it resolved, That we denounce him publicly to the entire country as a falsifier, and his statement as wholly devoid of truth. M.E. Dorsey, L.H. Wooldridge, S.A. Dupee, M.E. Capelton, Committee. The Woman's Era. 7 The Woman's Club of Omaha. ------- In answer to the call of Mrs. Ophelia Clenlaus and Mrs. Laura M. Craig, eighteen women assembled in Omaha, Feb. 14, '95, to discuss plans for organizing the progressive women of the city into one united body, whose aims and purposes might be the education of the heart, hand and mind of the individual members and the promotion and advancement of all race measures. Realizing the fact that the best success results from concerted action, and that not individual effort, nor the efforts of the few, but rather the united efforts of the masses must win the desired end, the women unanimously agreed to organize themselves into a body that should be liberal in its principles, broad, charitable and far reaching. The result was an association called "The Woman's Club of Omaha," which aims to serve a three-fold purpose. First, to stimulate intellectual development; second, to promote unity and good fellowship amongst its members, and thirdly, to strengthen by organization, individual, philanthropic and reformatory effort. The club is strictly nonsectarian in its principles and offers its advantages to any respectable woman who is in sympathy with the work and may present herself for membership. Already the number enrolled has increased from 18 to 45 active workers, and the club enjoys the happy distinction of possessing the approbation and endorsement of nearly every broad-minded, race-loving, progressive citizen of Nebraska. As a further mark of recognition, the club has received greetings from the Omaha Woman's Club, an organization composed of 600 white women; resolutions of endorsement from the Afro-American League of Nebraska, an institution operated by the negro talent of the state, and numerous letters of approval from the clergy, literary societies and private citizens. It is the hope of the women to soon establish themselves in permanent club rooms where they may hold their regular meetings, lectures, etc., and conduct a library and reading room for club members and any other women who may desire to take advantage. A committee is now negotiating for such rooms and until the plans are completed the club will continue to hold bi-weekly meetings at the homes of the members. For intellectual development the club work is divided into three departments, viz., Political Economy and Civil Government, Current Topics and English Literature and History. Every member of the club must register in some one of these departments, all of which, under competent leaders, are doing excellent work. In all reformatory efforts affecting mankind generally and women particularly the club enters enthusiastically. At the last general assembly of the state of Nebraska it was engaged earnestly in the effort to stop the manufacture and sale of cigarettes in the state, and joined heart and soul in the social purity question, sending down to the legislature a petition, bearing the names of 150 colored women, praying that body to raise the "age of consent" from 15 to 18 years. In many ways the association has helped individual advancement, and much credit attaches to it for its unceasing and untiring efforts in securing the appointment of a negro teacher in the public schools of Omaha. While the club was organized primarily for intellectual improvement, social affairs are not entirely neglected, and the members strive to create and foster a spirit of kindliness and sociability amongst women generally by bringing them in friendly touch with one another, but the lighter amusements of life are discouraged in that the club as a club does not engage with them. To supply the diversion necessary to healthy social life, a series of lectures, followed by an hour's social intercourse, has been inaugurated and is yielding excellent results. The annual lecture course consists of eight numbers, the most of which are to be gratuitiously furnished by local talent, in which Omaha happily abounds, and as the club can arrange to do so the remaining numbers will be filled by the best imported talent the race affords. Together with the prescribed club studies and readings and the lecture course the Woman's Club of Omaha is thoroughly enjoying its initial year. Perfect harmony and good will prevail amongst the members, and the women seeking to "touch life with upward impulse" are quietly executing their desires to make our girls better women, our women better wives, our wives better mothers. ------- The western delegates were typical western women, bright and alert, and thoroughly at home on the floor. Unfortunately their stay was so limited, and the sessions of this congress so prolonged and fatiguing that Boston saw little of them socially. All of the westerners, Mrs. Pitts, Miss Anthony, and Mrs. Mahammit were at Mrs. Ransom's. 8 The Woman's Era. Letter of one thousand women of Bethel Church, New York. ------- To the Women's Convention, Boston, Mass.: The call sent out by the Era Club proposing a gathering of Afro-American women in deliberative convention simply put in words what has long been the wish of thousands. We are sorry that the "Jack's letter" should seem to be the prick which stung to activity. We would not have it to appear that we are aroused to action only by the irritation of external circumstances, but would be glad for the world to know that, in reality, our women are taking intelligent cognizance of the inner life of the race, and that the desire to be actually noble is more potent than the impulse to resent insult and seek vindication. What we think of ourselves is always more important than what others think of us, that is to say, self-respect based upon truth is the foundation we seek to lay. We would desire the world to know that long before the base slanders, born in the vile mind of a common Missouri white man, were uttered, our women were actively at work among the masses of our people, seeking to ground them in the fundamental principles of true progress. The existence of such a sheet as The Woman's Era, the existence of such organizations as the Women's Loyal Union, the Women's Afro-American League, the Women's Meeting of Bethel Church, the work which these various enterprises have laid out and the earnestness with which it has been pursued, are in themselves a complete vindication against all slander. We trust that the vile "Jack's letter" will not give color to your deliberations nor in any sense become the spur under which you lay out the work of the future. We would have the world to see that there is a large element of our women who, in convention assembled, can show complete freedom from the imaginative and mercurial disposition which has been the fatal defect in so many conventions of our men. We believe that it would be unwise to permit this convention to be made the sounding board of mere "agitators." We recognize in the "Jack's letter" and other such slanders the natural results of the resentment provoked by the fierce denunciations of "southern white women" that have been injudiciously indulged in by some of the "mercurial persons" of the race. We look with more hope to the conservative workers who seek to lay true foundations and who employ such means as the well-edited Woman's Era and the well-conducted organizations referred to above. The truly representative women of the race can never be enlisted in any movement that is lead by the ignorant enthusiasts or the fiery agitators, whose incentive to action is the intoxication of excited sensibilities, full of the chimeras of distempered fancy. We know the character of those under whom this convention is called, and we have faith in the calm sobriety which has always characterized their endeavors. We send to you Mrs. Hannah Jones, who will represent the one thousand Afro-American women of Bethel congregation. Our work is among the masses and our motto is "true progress." We can and will lend powerful support to such enterprises as promise true good to the race. May God prosper your great undertaking. The Women of Bethel Church. New York City. ------- New York, July 24, 1895. To the Woman's Conference in session in Boston, Mass., under the auspices of the Woman's Era Club: Greeting. "Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good" Rom. 12:9. We, the Cleave Circle of King's Daughters of the Antioch Baptist Church, New York city, regret very much that we find it impracticable to be represented among you in person, and take great pleasure in conferring with you by letter. We heartily unite with you in all good in behalf of the object of your work. We think it a very timely move, and hail with joy the "era" of woman's activity amid the many interests which should demand the attention of every "energetic" woman, for upon each rest greatly individual thought, expression, and action, which can and shall do much toward revolutionizing the present state of affairs existing in this the most enlightened age of all time -- the dawn of the twentieth century -- and believe much can be done in this direction by working in conference for the improvement of law, leading to equity in the administration of the rules of government, without partiality. The Rev. Granville Hunt, pastor of Antioch Baptist Church, kindly called our attention to the infamous letter written by John W. Jacks of The Woman's Era. 9 Missouri to Miss Florence Balgarnie of London, England, regarding the characters, etc., of colored women. After having considered it thoroughly, we are prepared to say emphatically that it is erroneous and contradictory as a whole; and we are inexpressibly sorry that enlightened America has a citizen in public service, who manifests in plain English his lack of that sensibility, love for neighbor, which teaches us to consider both sides, yes, all sides of man's condition, especially when treating on character. As members of an organization striving for the betterment of humanity along all lines impartially, we would advise John W. Jacks to read Prov. 28 and digest its contents; and we pray that he, through Christ, may be lead to think and act according to God's own words as written in his Book. May he be saved! And as to the disposition of his letter, we are content that your mature judgment will, with divine guidance, manage it aright. After this manner, we pray for you in all your deliberations, and most co-operatively sign ourselves, Yours, In His Name, the Cleave Circle of King's Daughters. Miss Josie B. Hunt, Leader. Mrs. Granville Hunt, Sec. ------- From Ohio to her sister states represented. ------- Women's Mite Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Toledo, Ohio, July 29, 1895. To the National Conference of Colored Women now in session in Boston, Mass.: Greetings. My dear Sisters, -- This is a very trying ordeal for me to undergo, this of not being able to be with you. However, I pray God's guidance in all you do. I feel that I voice the sentiment of all of the noble women of the grand old Buckeye State, in saying that in the galaxy of states represented in the Conference, none are more loyal to the cause of justice than Ohio, "the fairest among ten thousand, and the one altogether lovely." May the grace of a triune God overshadow you as a cloud by day, and when the shades of night appear may this same grace protect you as a wall of fire. God bless you! Yours for the protection of our women, Sada J. Woodson Anderson, Cor. Sec. Omaha, Neb., July 21, 1895. To the National Convention of Colored American Women assembled in Boston, Mass.: Greeting. It was proposed in local circles -- too late, however, to become practicable -- that joint resolutions and a general letter endorsing your Convention and expressing sympathy with its motive and tenor be prepared by the various religious bodies and other altruistic organizations in this vicinity, and sent by the hand of the Nebraska Delegate to your Convention. In lieu of such general documents from my congregation, I send you most gladly a personal letter, less authoritative, perhaps, but none the less sincere, as an individual expression of my deep interest in this advance movement among the women of our race, which issues in your Convention. This is the age of centralization and unification: concentration of forces, unity of purpose. You show yourselves children of the age by assembling in convention for "devising liberal things" for the advancement of the interests of and for the protection of the womanhood of the Negro race in America. National conventions are not necessary, however, to vindicate the honor and good name of Negro womanhood from libellous attacks by obscure Southern journalists, such as the unknown individual from Missouri, whose letter to Miss Balgarnie was in part responsible for your Convention. What vindication needs Negro womanhood? Look at our happy and virtuous homes. If our womanhood is depraved by what miracle are our homes preserved? National conventions of Negro women are necessary, however, to demand such legislation as will protect comely colored girls and women from the insults and rapacity of Southern chivalry. Your deliberations will be, I trust, marked with wisdom, and fruitful in results. Awaiting with interest reports from your Convention, I am with cordial sympathy and good will, Yours faithfully, Jno. Albert Williams, Rector Ch. of St. Philip the Deacon. ------- One of the interesting features was a delegate from "the thousand women of Bethel Church, New York," Mrs. Jones. Mrs. Jones was a calm and dignified delegate, and representing so many women, attracted much attention. 10 THE WOMAN'S ERA. ST. LOUIS COLORED ORPHAN'S HOME. One of the departments of work taken up by Harper W. C.T.U. is the care of orphan and neglected children. In October, 1888, the ladies of the union opened a home for homeless children. Since that time it has fed, clothed, and for a time, schooled 110 children. The management consists of a board of fifteen ladies chosen from the W.C.T.U., under whose entire charge is the care of the Home. The Home is unendowed, our means support being by donation, subscription, and entertainment. Our current expenses are from $100.00 to $115.00 per month. We keep regularly employed a matron, nurse, and cook. While non-sectarian, it is emphatically a religious institution. While we try to meet the physical and mental wants of our children, we also give them religious instructions and a reverence and love for God's word. Friends or strangers are welcome to make inspection of our Home at any time. We have 42 children in our Home at present. We receive no children under two years of age or over twelve years. At the age of twelve years we find homes for the, as we know the individuality of each child can better be preserved, its character studied and molded and more freedom granted in a private home than in an institution. We place children out for adoption on three month's trial. If, at the end of that time, the party and institution are both satisfied, we make the stay permanent by adoption ; if either is dissatisfied the child is recalled. When adopted, so far as possible, we keep in communication with them and know their welfare. As to our resources, we have none. All of our expenses are met by donations from a generous public and entertainments, without which out Home would long since have closed its doors, but with which we have thus far been able to receive and properly care for all its inmates. It will be readily seen that upon a Board of fifteen ladies there is entailed in this work of soliciting a very arduous task. With great cause for gratitude in the past, we look earnestly into the future, hoping the time is not far distant when the St. Louis Colored Orphan Home, which has proved itself a necessity in the community, will not be allowed to struggle on without an endowment fund, the income of which will be sufficient to relieve us of the outside and humiliating work of securing money to feed and care for the helpless orphans who appeal to our sympathy. We cannot measure the good it reaches into eternity. Respectfully submitted, MRS. M. F. PITTS, Pres. MISS L. CARTER, Sec. Copy of resolutions passed at a meeting of the Afro-American League of Omaha held July, 1895: OMAHA, NEB., July 20, 1895. To the Honorable President of the Woman's National Convention, Boston, Mass.,– WHEREAS, one John W. Jacks, President of the Missouri Press Association, has written a letter to Miss Florence Balgarnie, Honorable Secretary of the Anti-Lynching League of London, England, whereby he attempts to traduce the womanhood of the American negro, and whereas the future of every race of people is entirely dependent upon the intellectual and moral status of its womanhood, and Whereas, the letter referred to is a wilful misrepresentation of facts, originating from a morbid brain and a lack of appreciation of truth and justice, Therefore, resolved, that we hereby denounce and brand the Southern gentleman as a wilful and malicious falsifier and traducer of womanhood. That no gentleman worthy of the name could afford to lay aside his dignity to indulge in such language as that contained in the letter to Miss Balgarnie from John W. Jacks ; that we entertain no fear for the anti-lynching cause through such agencies or methods. Be it further resolved, that we heartily endorse the action of the Colored Woman's Club of Omaha in sending a delegate to the National Convention to be held at Boston, that they have our sympathy and will have our co-operation in all they may do for the elevation of mankind, regardless of race or nationality. Be it further resolved that a copy of these resolutions be sent to the Woman's National Convention through the representative of the Colored Woman's Club of Omaha. W.H.C. STEPHENSON President Afro-American League, Omaha. M. L. WILSON, J. W. LONG, W. H. SCROGGINS, Committee. Mrs. Carmand and Mrs. Garner of New York, Mrs. Dickerson of Newport, Mrs. Crum of Charleston, were among the intelligent "reliables." THE WOMAN'S ERA. 11 ST. LOUIS, Mo., July 24, 1895. To the Conference of Colored American Women assembled in Boston, Mass. : The colored women of St. Louis have received with pleasure the call issued by their sisters of the Woman's Era Club for a Conference to be held in Boston. We recognize the fact that there is a pressing need for such a conference, since never in the history of our country has prejudice against our race been more active, and in certain directions more influential and more regnant. We recognize the fact that we are no longer wards of the nation ; the time when we ask for special legislation in our behalf, either by the national Congress or the state legislatures, has passed ; that to ourselves, and ourselves alone we must look for progress must come through the cultivation and exercise and virtues proper to a Christian civilization. Living in the state from whence has recently emanated a foul slander upon our people, we emphatically protest against the truthfulness of the same, and joyfully join our sisters of the whole country in vindicating the womanhood of our race. Hoping that deliberations of the Conference may be moderate in tone and wise in purpose, and that the plans of action proposed may be prudent and practicable, we pledge ourselves to the extent of our ability to aid in carrying out the work which it may propose. Signed by the Committee, REV. W. J. BROWN, Pres. LAVINIA CARTER, Sec. [[left page]] [[margin]] 12 THE WOMAN'S ERA. [[left column]] PITTSBURG, July 27, 1895. To the First National Conference of Colored Women, Boston, Mass. : GREETINGS. We, the members of the Belle Phoebe League of the twin cities, namely Pittsburg and Allegheny, beg leave to submit the following report to your noble body : -- We were organized November 20, 1894. Object : Self culture, and to advance the interest of the women of our race on all lines pertaining to the development of a nobler womanhood and the securing of our rights in every legitimate way, and to second the efforts of our leading women such as Mrs. Ida B. Wells-Barnett and others. Number of members, nineteen ; monthly taxation, five cents. Our league is in a flourishing condition. Signed on behalf of said league, MRS. REBECCA ALDRIGE, Pres., MRS. S. A. BENTLEY, Vice-Pres., LILLIAN S. DORKINS, Sec., LIZZIE H. MONROE, Rec. Sec. July 25, 2895. Women of the Era Club: The Woman's League of Denver, Col., send you greetings ! We have received your call and respond in spirit, if not in presence. We are not lacking in progressiveness neither in indignation at the slur cast upon our mothers, sisters, daughters, and ourselves by Mr. Jacks' letter, but circumstances involving finances prevent us from sending a delegate. Our women have held meetings, read and re-read the articles sent by your club, and we assure you that every sentence of Mr. Jacks' letter--the most infamous ever written by a man possessing the attributes of manhood--has been literally burned in each and all hearts. Whatever action may be taken by the women who will meet you to discuss present conditions and how best to elevate the race, you can count upon our co-operation. We wish you a pleasant and satisfactory gathering. I am very cordially yours, IDA DEPRIEST, Cor. Sec. LOS ANGELES, CAL., July 25, 1895. To President and Members of Women's Conference, Berkeley Hall: Greetings. Owing change date Conference regret inability to send Miss Veno, our delegate. Rev. D. R. Jones, Rev. S. A. Hawkins, M. E. Syke, M. D., Mrs. Lillia Williams, Mrs. H. M. Spiller, Mrs. E. A. Talbot, Citizens' Committee. [[/left column]] [[right column]] [[image]] FLORIDA RUFFIN RIDLEY. Cor. Secretary of National Organization. [[/image]] EXTRACTS FROM LETTER FROM MISS BALGARNIE. ANTI-LYNCHING COMMITTEE. OBJECTS : To objects of this Committee are to obtain reliable information on the subject of Lynching and Mob Outrages in America, to make the facts known and to give expression to public opinion in condemnation of such outrages in whatever way best seem calculated to assist the cause of humanity and civilization. LONDON, ENG. July 19, 1895. MY DEAR MRS. RUFFIN RIDLEY, I shall think of you and your friends in your convention beginning on the 29th, and only wish I could be there. You have done just what I expected brave, true-hearted women would do, that is, put on a bold front to the traducers of your race and sex. I am sure great good will come out of your discussions. Please let me see your paper if it contains accounts of it. I am most anxious to learn all particulars. Please also convey my expressions of sympathy to your friends, and make it quite clear to them that in sending you the letter I was convinced of its utter and dastardly falsehood from the first. You have a hard fight before you in America, but never fear, right must triumph, and with God on your side you are in a majority. Your loyal comrade in the cause, FLORENCE BALGARNIE. CHICAGO, ILLS., July 29, 1895. To Women's Conference, care of Mrs. Josephine Ruffin, Berkeley Hall : Our earnest greetings ! Success to your endeavors ! Our letter later. IDA B. WELLS, Woman's Club. [[/right column]] [[/left page]] [[right page]] [[margin]] THE WOMAN'S ERA. 13 [[/margin]] [[left column]] LIST OF DELEGATES TO NATIONAL CONFERENCE. Washington Colored Women's League--Mrs. Annie J. Cooper, Miss Ella L. Smith, Miss Lucina Cook, Miss Marion P. Shadd, Mrs. Helen A. Cook. Omaha, Neb.--Mrs. Ella Mahammitt. Golden Rule Club, Cambridge--Mrs. James E. Wilson. Salen, Mass--Mrs. Lucy Washington, Miss Annie Blanchard. Boston--Ruth Circle, Mrs. Ruth Turner, Mrs. J. Hopewell. Working Women's League, Providence, R. I.--Mrs. Hannah Greene. Female Benevolent Firm, Boston--Miss Elizabeth Smith, Mrs. M. Stephenson. W. A. A. U., New York--Mrs. E. E. Williams, Flushing, N. Y. St. John, N. B.--Mrs. Whetsel. Women's Loyal Union of New York and Brooklyn--Mrs. Matthews, Mrs. Garner, Miss L. C. Carter, Mrs. Carmand. Alabama--Mrs. B. T. Washington, Miss Porter. B. T. Tanner Club, Chelsea--Mrs. M. C. Bond, Mrs. Matilda Delt, Mrs. Carrie Roberts, Mrs. Carrie Hopewell. Woman's Era Club, Boston--Mrs. J. St. P. Ruffin, Mrs. Richardson, Mrs. R. P. Ransom, Mrs. Hannah Smith, Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. U. A. Ridley, Miss Eliza Gardner. Wayman Club, Everett--Mrs. M. C. Bond, Miss Ida Price. Newport League--Mrs. Mary Dickerson. Woman's Club of St. Louis, Mo., Citizens of St. Louis, Harper W. C. T. U.--Mrs. M. F. Pitts. Concord Baptist Church of Christ, Brooklyn, N. Y.--Mrs. Katherine Maxwell, Miss Charlotte Berry. Woman's Club of Jefferson City, Mo., Citizens of Jefferson City--Mrs. Libbie B. Anthony. Women's Protective Club, Rochester, N. Y.--Mrs. Jerome Jeffrey. Belle Phoebe League, Pittsburg, Pa--Mrs. Tayler Aldrich. One thousand women of Bethel Churck, New York--Mrs. Hannah Jones. Cavalry Circle of King's Daughters, Boston--Mrs. G. W. Smith. E. M. Thomas Lodge, I. O. G. T., Boston--Miss Rachel Thompson. Lend-a-Hand Circle of King's Daughters--Mrs. Arianna Gould. Gloucester A. & I. School, Cappahosic, Va.--Miss Susie E. Edwards. Woman's Club, Charleston,S. C.--Mrs. Ellen Crum. Club sending greetings--Woman's League, Kansas City, Mo.; Woman's Club, Los Angeles, Cal.; Woman's Club, Chicago, Ill.; Women of Toledo, Ohio; Woman's Club, Denver, Col.; W. C. T. U., Charlotte, N. C.; Cleave Circle of King's Daughters, New York. [[/left column]] [[right column]] [[image]] ADDRESS OF JOSEPHONE ST. P. RUFFIN, PRESIDENT OF CONFERENCE. [[/image]] It is with especial joy and pride that I welcome you all to this, our first conference. It is only recently that women have wake up to the importance of meeting in council, and great as has been the advantage to women generally, and important as it is and has been that they should confer, the necessity had not been nearly so great, matters at stake not nearly to vital, as that we, bearing peculiar blunders, suffering under especial hardships, enduring peculiar privations, should meet for a "good talk" among ourselves. Although rather hastily called, you as well as I can testify how long and how earnestly a conference has been thought of and hope for and even prepared for. These women's clubs, which have sprung up all over the country, built and run upon broad and strong lines, have all been a preparation, small conferences in themselves, and their spontaneous birth and enthusiastic support have been little less than inspirational on the part of our women and a general preparation for a large union such as it is hoped this conference will lead to. Five years ago we had no colored women's clubs outside of those formed for special work ; to-day, with little over a month's notice, we were able to call representative from more than twenty clubs. It is a good showing, it stands for much, it shows that we are truly American women, with all the adaptability, readiness to seize and possess our opportunities, willingness to do our part for good as other American women. The reasons why we should confer are so appar- [[/right column]] [[/right page]] 14 THE WOMAN'S ERA. ent that it would seem hardly necessary to enumerate them, and yet there is none of them but demand our serious consideration. In the first place we need to feel the cheer and inspiration of meeting each other, we need to gain the courage and fresh life that comes from the mingling of congenial souls, of those working for the same ends. Next, we need to talk over not only those things which are of vital importance to us as women, but also the things that are of especial interest to us as colored women, the training of our children, openings for our boys and girls, how they can be prepared for occupations and occupations may be found or opened for them, what we especially can do in the moral education of the race with which we are identified, our mental elevation and physical development, the home training it is necessary to give our children in order to prepare them to meet the peculiar conditions in which they shall find themselves, how to make the most of our own, to some extent, limited opportunities, these are some of our own peculiar questions to be discussed. Besides these are the general questions of the day, which we cannot afford to be indifferent to : temperance, morality, the higher education, hygienic and domestic questions. If these things need the serious consideration of women more advantageously placed by reason of all the aid to right thinking and living with which they are surrounded, surely we, with everything to pull us back, to hinder us in developing, need to take every opportunity and means for the thoughtful consideration which shall lead to wise action. I have left the strongest reason for our conferring together until the last. All over America there is to be found a large and growing class of earnest, intelligent, progressive colored women, women who, if not leading full useful lives, are only waiting for the opportunity to do so, many of them warped and cramped for lack of opportunity, not only to do more but to be more ; and yet, if an estimate of the colored women of America is called for, the inevitable reply, glibly given, is "For the most part ignorant and immoral, some exceptions. of course, but these don't count." Now for the sake of the thousands of self-sacrificing young women teaching and preaching in lonely southern backwoods for the noble army of mothers who have given birth to these girls, mothers whose intelligence in only limited by their opportunity to get at books, for the sake of the fine cultured women who have carried off the honors in school here and often abroad, for the sake of our own dignity, the dignity of our race, and the future good name of our children, it is "mete, right and our bounden duty" to stand forth and declare ourselves and principles, to teach an ignorant and suspicious world that our aims and interests are identical with those of all good aspiring women. Too long have we been silent under unjust and unholy charges ; we cannot expect to have them removed until we disprove them through ourselves. It is not enough to try to disprove unjust charges through individual effort, that never goes any further. Year after year southern women have protested against the admission of colored women into any national organization on the ground of the immorality of these women, and because all refutation has only been tried by individual work the charge has never been crushed, as it could and should have been at the first. Now with an army of organized women standing for purity and mental worth, we in ourselves deny the charge and open the eyes of the world to a state of affairs to which they have been blind, often willfully so, and the very fact that the charges, audaciously and flippantly made, as they often are, are of so humiliating and delicate a nature, serves to protect the accuser by driving the helpless accused into mortified silence. It is to break this silence, not by noisy protestations of what we are not, but by a dignified showing of what we are and hope to become that we are impelled to take this step, to make of this gathering an object lesson to the world. For many and apparent reasons it is especially fitting that the women of the race take the lead in this movement, but for all this we recognize the necessity of the sympathy of our husbands, brothers and fathers. Our woman's movement is woman's movement in that it is led and directed by women for the good of women and men, for the benefit of all humanity, which is more than any one branch or section of it. We want, we ask the active interest of our men, and, too, we are not drawing the color line ; we are women. American women, as intensely interested in all that pertains to us as such as all other American women ; we are not aleniating or withdrawing, we are only coming to the front, willing to join any others in the same work and cordially inviting and welcoming any others to join us. If there is any one thing I would especially THE WOMAN'S ERA. 15 enjoin upon this conference it is union and earnestness. The questions that are to come before us are of too much import to be weakened by any trivialities or personalities. If any differences arise let them be quickly settled, with the feeling that we are all workers of the same end, to elevate and dignify colored American womanhood. This conference will not be what I expect if it does not show the wisdom, indeed the absolute necessity of a national organization of your women. Every year new questions coming up will prove it to us. This hurried, almost informal convention does not begin to meet our needs, it is only a beginning, made here in dear old Boston, where the scales of justice and generosity hang evenly balanced, and where the people "dare be true" to their best instincts and stand ready to lend aid and sympathy to worthy strugglers. It is hoped and believed that from this will spring an organization that will in truth bring in a new era to the colored women of America. GREETING TO THE CONVENTION. ALICE T. MILLER, BOSTON. We greet you with glad welcome who have come To share with us the fruit of garnered years, To share our joys and griefs, our hopes and fears, To join us in this -- Wisdom's harvest -- home! Now may the truth we gather here become A treasured store, -- like the golden ears The farmer safe bestows, ere winter nears, To feed his flocks withal, -- that we to some Sad heart may comfort give, some want relieve, Lend hand or voice to aid some strife for Right; And learn we with our gifts ourselves must give. So may we hail with joy the dawning bright On the fair days when all their rights receive. Once more, we welcome you this summer night. TO THE WOMAN'S ERA CLUB. They say the woman's era dawns at last, When now this century draws near its end, Old notions of man's lordship, fading fast, Make way for woman's aid to help to mend Affairs that sorely need her presence bright; Nor can it be denied, when fairly tried, Suffrage has proved a lover for the right Equally shared; for unto neither side Reason and sense belong, but unto both; And where on sex doth supplement the other, Causes are weighed more wisely than the truth, Laws surely made more just for wife and mother. "Union is strength"; let all, not half, unite Bravely to war against all foes of Right! A NOTEWORTHY CONVENTION. Boston was a fitting place to hold the first conference of colored women that has ever been held in the history of the country. No one could look at their bright, intellectual faces and listen to their earnest words without feeling a new hope for the race witch has such mothers and teachers. As the colored woman has been the most oppressed and downtrodden, so now as she comes into the light of the new era, she will be the leader not only to those of her own sex who have not yet been so favored but to the other. The colored race like every other, will rise of fall, be honored or degraded, according to the status of its wives and mothers, daughters and sisters. We are sure that this convention will be an inspiration to the colored women of our country, and that the electric impulse will be felt North and South, East and West. If Phyllis Wheately could only have seen this day! She whose star went down early in the eclipse of an unfortunate marriage, but whose short life was a dim earnest and prophecy of the heights in literature, science, and philososhy, which the Afro-American woman is yet to attain. -- Woman's Voice, Boston. WOMAN'S ERA CLUB RESOLUTIONS. The following has been received at the Journal office: "At a special called meeting of the Woman's Era Club, held Monday evening, Aug. 5, it was voted that inasmuch as an article which appeared in the Boston Journal of Aug. 1, and headed, 'It Made Talk,' in which article the President of the convention is incorrectly reported 'to have said she was proud that she had no Southern blood in her veins,' and as the said misstatement is calculated to work harm to the cause the conference was called to promote, it was, therefore, "Resolved, that the Woman's Era Club call upon the Journal to correct the statement, and give the same prominence to the retraction as was given to the false report. (Signed) "ARIANNA C. SPARROW, "Asst. Cor. Sec y." (The Journal willingly publishes the foregoing. It can only sat that the article to which it refers was printed in good faith, and was based on a positive statement to its convention reporter by a person wo claimed to have been present at the meeting referred to. -- Ed.) Mrs. Matthews of New York stopped with Mrs. Comer at the Highlands. To many minds Mrs. Matthews was the "star" of the convention; so devoted was she to the interests of the Conference that Boston saw comparatively little in a social way of this gifted woman. 16 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Editorial TO THE WOMEN OF THE COUNTRY. There has just closed in Boston a conference of the colored women of America. This conference was held three days, and during that time there were read papers as fine as any ever produced at any gathering; important matters were discussed earnestly and sensibly, and the large body of women brought together dissolved with the most amicable feelings toward each other. It is you, women north, east, south, and west, who made it possible to hold this convention, which has been a marked event of the times; it was your ready response, your intelligent appreciation of the situation, your singleness of purpose, which made the success of this gathering. You may well feel pleased with the outcome of it all. The callers of the convention reckoned wisely, they knew your temper better than those men who, in the light of their own experience, predicted disastrous failure. But this is only a beginning. We want our national organization to be a model, an ideal body. We want it run on the broadest lines and conducted in the most intelligent manner. You have done well; now prepare to do better than well, and in this, as in all things, prove yourselves a shining light to your brothers. OUR PRESIDENT. Mrs. B. T. Washington. The selection of Mrs. B. T. Washington, of Tuskegee, Ala., as the president of the National Federation of Afro-American Women is going to prove beneficial in more ways than one. Putting aside Mrs. Washington's personal fitness for the position and the advantages for the work which her position and the advantages for the work which her position as a co-worker with her husband will give her, this choice will go further than anything else in uniting the intelligent women of the North and South. It will cement the friendly feelings already existing. (It will be the means of building up in the South large clubs for culture and race work such as already exist in the North.) It is an earnest of the single-mindedness of our women and a good omen of the future efficiency and prosperity of our organization. Under the leadership of Mrs. Washington, who has devotion, energy, intelligence, and a large charity, no colored woman who has the interest of her race at heart can find excuse not to enlist. The Woman's Era desires that its position in regard to the W. C. T. U. should be clearly defined. At the conference lately held in Boston a resolution endorsing the work and methods of the W. C. T. U. was introduced by Mrs. Anthony of Missouri, and an effort made to "rush" it through the convention. Mrs. Ridley, realizing that the majority of women present were unacquainted with the facts in the case, made an explanation, and in order that time might be gained to lay the matter squarely before the women, supported the president in her voting of the resolution as out of order. However, the Washington delegation pushed the matter, the resolution was presented and carried with half the women not voting and our dissenting voices. The resolution, though passed, never appeared for record and is still missing. However, the matter was brought up at a special meeting of the Woman's Era Club. The following resolutions were presented by Mrs. Ridley and unanimously endorsed. In closing let it be understood that the editors of this paper stand by Mrs. Wells-Barnett squarely in her position on this matter and fully endorse her work. RESOLUTIONS PASSED BY THE WOMAN'S ERA CLUB, AUG. 5, 1895. Resolved, That this club, while it recognizes and appreciates the good work done by the W. C. T. U., does not hesitate to condemn that body for its position upon the lynch law questions and to deplore that the latest resolution passed at London convention should be in effect a condonation of lynching. That, in the light of the recent action of the W. C. T. U., the circular addressed to colored people and sent out first some two years ago, is misleading and should be withdrawn. That this club, believing the attitude taken by the W. C. T. U. is calculated to mislead foreigners as to the true state of affairs in the United States, calls upon representative colored women of the W. C. T. U. to be careful not to allow themselves to be included in the company of "apologists for lynch law," but, in the prosecution of their good work, let their loyalty to their race be known, not taken for granted. That this club believes that in Miss Florence Balgarnie, of England, who stood so valiantly for our cause in the London Convention, the colored people have a brave and devoted friend. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 17 If any one doubts that Lady Somerset and Miss Willard are "apologists for lynching," let him read the following marked editorial, from their English organ, The Woman's Signal, sent to Mrs. Ridley, with the above-mentioned ladies names as editors underscored: "The Battersea tragedy follows close upon the Walthamstow horror; in each instance a little girl, a child, is the sacrifice to man's brutality and cruel passion. Are these crimes growing in England? And if so, as it seems to us they are, where are we to look for the reason? Is it not in the failure to mete out justice to such offences? Look up the records and see how often capture of the offenders has utterly failed, and how often sentence has been commuted to inadequate punishment. It is such crimes and such travesties of justice that have made lynching possible in the United States. There is little likelihood that England will relapse into barbarism; but how should we like to hear of societies in America formed to secure Safety of Person to English Female Children?" We feel much satisfaction in being able to publish this; it settles the disputed question as to the position of these ladies of the W. C. T. U. on lynch law. The argument set forth in this republished note has been made so many times that it hardly calls for an answer now. What interests us most is the fact that these ladies, out of their own mouths, convict themselves and stand self-confessed endorsers of lynch law. We only make room in our already overcrowded columns for an extract from remarks on the lynching question by Mr. Moncure D. Conway, and published in the London Daily News of July 30. Mr. Conway's remarks meet this matter, and with his refutation we let the matter pass for this issue, only making these points in passing: 1. Only one fourth of the negroes annually lynched in these United States are ever accused of rape. 2. The majority of these cases have been found to be "trumped up." 3. No negro has ever escaped punishment for this offence. 4. If this lie were true, that the law fails to punish the negro, then the law should be attacked and the energies of the people directed to good government. 5. "Two wrongs never did nor never can make one right." It is at least expected of reformers to recognize this truth. "LYNCHING IN THE UNITED STATES. "Mr. Moncure Conway has presented to the Anti-Lynching Committee his report of observations on this subject made during his six months' sojourn in the United States. Mr. Conway, who is a native Virginian, says that his visit generally strengthened his conviction of the value and importance of the English Committee. There is a combination of forces in America tending to induce torpor with regard to the lynchings in the South. He has not seen in any daily paper of New York for several years a single editorial protest, of any earnestness, against these atrocities. In Boston, the Boston Transcript, an influential evening paper, has, however written powerfully on the subject, and in Chicago, the residence of Miss Wells, now Mrs. Barnett, the services of the Chicago Inter-Ocean have been very great. But the American Conscience has not been fully aroused. At the late meeting in London of the British Women's Temperance Association an American speaker Mrs. Rounds, said. 'If we in America could only feel that when a criminal has been brought to trial and condemned, his sentence would be carried out, we should feel very different on this question of lynching.' 'This,' says Mr. Conway, 'was a mere imposition on the English women. Where are the instances of pardons contrary to public feeling? In all American history there has never been an instance of pardon for a negro violator of a white woman or child. That any one making such a misleading statement in the presence of leading American women should not have been checked, illustrates what I have said, that my countrywomen are not yet awakened to this frightful wrong.'" Our August number has been delayed in order to give our readers the news from the conference. We wish that we were large enough and rich enough to print altogether the splendid papers read on this occasion. We can only give them a few at a time, and feel that even in this way our readers will be eager to get them. We did not aim to be, but we were and object lesson and a revelation to the men. We hesitate to speak of the compliments received, but in the interest of the spread of intelligence, we must. We believe the high tributes paid us by Dr. Crumwell, T. T. Fortune and Booker T. Washington were heartfelt, and just as welcome and just as sweet were the hearty but inelegantly expressed commendations of the males of our own household, who did not hesitate privately to tell us "You girls are daisies," "we men have got to hustle." It was hoped to print in this issue the address of Mrs. B. T. Washington to the Conference. Although promised, the copy has not yet been received, and after waiting several days we go to press without it. 18 THE WOMAN'S ERA. SOCIAL NOTES. BOSTON. _____ The Inventive Age says: "The most unique of all inventions which will be placed on exhibition at Atlanta by the colored people is Miss Miriam E. Benjamin's device known as the 'Gong Signal Chair.' This young lady inventor is at present a medical student in one of the colleges of the District of Columbia. She was born in South Carolina, and educated in Massachusetts. In 1888 the patent was issued to her, and soon after an improvement was added in order to cheapen as well as to add to the utility of the appliance. "The invention is one of those useful novelties suitable for chairs in hotels and restaurants, on steamboats or railroad trains. It can also be used in theatres or legislative halls, and for invalids' chairs in the hospital. "The object of the invention is to mainly reduce the expenses by decreasing the number of attendants usually required for the convenience of guests; also to obviate the necessity of hand-clapping and loud calling, where the service of a page or waiter is needed. The present system now in vogue is to have one attendant for about every three or four guests. By the use of this invention, it is claimed, one waiter will be enabled to attend to the wants of from twelve to fifteen guests." The young and flourishing Newbury Association of Boston held a delightful dinner and smoke talk at the suburban residence of Mr. J.B. Tatum, West Medford, early last month. A score or more of the members were present, and shared Mr. Tatum's hospitality in the way of a bountiful course dinner. Covers were laid for sixteen. Among the guests were Lawyer Clifford Plummer and Mr. Samuel Hodges, both of whom made encouraging and instructive addresses. Mr. Shirley Liggins, toastmaster, introduced the members in a particularly witty vein, and hearty responses were made to the toasts. The young men composing the Association are for the most part so progressive as to be already well known in connection with successful business enterprises, Mr. J.B. Tatum being manager of the well-known catering establishment of J.R. Young, Mr. Clarence Robinson, associated with his father in the express business, and Mr. W.H. Scott occupying a trustworthy position with the Washington Street stationer, Mr. R. Warren. Besides these gentlemen the Association included Mr. W.H. Wilson, president, Messrs. Dane and Phillips, Stith, Hipkins, and E.S. Hodges. Miss Emma Wariner will remain away from Boston during the summer months. Boston has been a veritable Mecca in this, the summer of '95. The C.E. brought a small army of visitors, and later the Conference swelled the number. During the early part of July, Misses Miranda Vening and Carrie Compton of Philadelphia were in the city, the former the guest of Mrs. Lewis Terry ; Misses Cora and Gertrude Smith of Washington, who visited Mrs. B.R. Wilson ; Mrs. Ellen Cruns and Miss Ingalls of Charleston ; the Misses Williams of Washington ; Mrs. Clough of Worcester, Miss Murphy, Miss McCloud, and Miss Param of St. Louis. So many of the young and shining lights necessarily called forth something in the way of social festivities. Among the occasions was a reception by Mrs. Terry and the Misses Smith ; a musicale by Miss Glover ; a large harbor party managed by Mrs. J.H. Lewis, and "At Home" by Miss Grant, and a supper by Miss Lilian Lewis ; besides these were numerous smaller teas, luncheons, theatre parties, and excursions. Miss Marion Shadd is spending the entire summer with Mrs. B.R. Wilson. Miss Shadd is studying geology at Harvard and most of her recreation is in this manner as excursions taken by the class in the study of rocks, etc. Mrs. Wilson has also entertained her brother, Mr. Bruce Evans, and Mrs. J.F. Cook and Miss Cook of Washington. Mrs. Cook was a delegate to the Conference, and both she and her daughter have been the recipients of much attention. Mrs. G.F. Grant entertained Miss Smith and Miss Hunter during the Conference week. Mrs. R. Jerome Jeffrey of Rochester, formerly of Boston has surprised and pleased her old friends by a visit to Boston, where she has taken up things just where she left ; not only has she been prominent socially, but was also one of the active workers in the Conference. The Misses Baldwin have been entertaining Mrs. Cooper and Miss Barier of Washington and Miss Florence Lewis of Philadelphia. It would be hard to get together a group of brighter women than these, and it goes without saying that the group of pleasure trips planned by the Misses Baldwin for their guests which included pilgrimages to Concord and to Plymouth, and trips down the harbor and drives through the country were in every respect delightful. Miss Edwina Kruse of Washington is also in Boston ; Miss Kruse is one of those general favorites who is welcomed wherever she goes. Miss Marie L. Burgess has only just left the work she is so devoted to in the hospital at Hampton Institute, and come on to Boston to enjoy the few remaining weeks of her vacation. 19 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Among the best known and most conspicuous women of the women of the convention were Mrs. Cook, Mrs. Matthews, and Mrs. Cooper ; all of these are women of unusual ability, and yet each is essentially different from the other. Mrs. Cook, intelligent and practical, and although versed in parliamentary tactics - always a cultured lady ; Mrs. Matthews, full of fire and intensity, with natural gifts as a speaker and writer ; Mrs. Cooper calm, thoughtful, and analytical, - a woman to mould opinion, rather than a leader of men. Mrs. Cooper, the student ; Mrs. Matthews, a born leader ; Mrs. Cook, the trained leader. Another conspicuous figure was that of Mrs. B.T. Washington. Mrs. Washington wins love ; she is warmhearted and largehearted, practical and earnest. Miss Hunter and Miss Smith were among the younger members of the council, and were conspicuous for their culture and intelligence. Mrs. Williams of New York was also a notable figure. Mrs. Williams was ready in debate, and in her paper on the race work was one of those who "caught" the conference. _____ The alacrity with which our gentlemen friends responded to an invitation to address the conference once evening on "political economy" proves what we have always asserted, that intelligent people who are earnestly and honestly seeking to advance the humanities, are not divided by either race or sex or section. T. Thomas Fortune, whose position as chief editor of the New York Age , special writer on the New York Sun and Age-Harald , makes him easily the foremost among colored journalists, ran over from New York to show his interest in the woman movement, and immediately ran off again to his work, thus depriving the ladies of the W.E.C. of the chance to show him some of the attention they thought he deserved and they had planned to give him. Henry B. Blackwell hastened back to Boston from a Chautauquan engagement in New Hampshire to tell the ladies, as no other could, their duty and opportunity in the coming crises in the cause of woman suffrage. His speech was thoroughly appreciated and made converts to the cause he always advocated, both among the men and women present. Wm. Lloyd Garrison promptly accepted the invitation, and as usual honored the gathering with an address as carefully prepared as would have been done for delivery before the U.S. Senate. To show the position of the "new" man on the subject of woman suffrage, Stanley Ruffin had been invited and was prepared to deliver an address on that topic, but in the pressure for time home folk had to take a back seat. _____ The Courant's excellent report of the convention deserves especial notice. MRS. MATTHEWS. Chairman Executive Committee. _____ The WOMAN'S ERA is not satisfied with Miss Willard's rather mild treatment of the lynching outrages at the South, while it recognizes the fact that "Miss Willard is at the head of a tremendous organization, and in that capacity and in order to keep everything and everybody harmonious, is obliged to be politic, and for the welfare of the W.C.T.U. not to antagonize any section of this country. No one yields to the Woman's Voice in its admiration of Miss Willard, but a little more vim and fire in her utterances on this and kindred subject would be refreshing. The milk and water resolution passed at the London W.C.T.U. Convention that "We deplore the taking of life without trial," must strike our Southern brethren in much the same light that "Miss Feely's whips" did Topsy, as more amusing than painful. - Woman's Voice _____ HANNAH C. SMITH. Recording Secretary of Conference. Texas Cora L. Smith, Editor Tillotson College at Austin has added a regular nursing department and will soon be turning out trained nurses. It is to be hoped that many of our young women will grasp this opportunity to make themselves proficient in this most useful occupation. I believe this is the only school in the state which makes a speciality of nursing. Why do not our other large schools attempt something in this line? It does not require the expenditure of any amount of money and is far more useful and practical than so much fancy work and drawing, for few, very few, ever become skillful in either of these arts. Since the meeting of the Teacher's Convention at Austin everything has settled down into a monotonous routine and the teachers are scattered to the four winds. Now is the hard part of the teacher's lot. The all-absorbing question is, "Shall I be successful in procuring a summer Normal certificate?" Those who are not spending these hot days in teaching in some Normal are studying for the examination, occupying every spare moment in trying to master all the technicalities of each subject. It is certainly hard that teachers have to be called up at the most inopportune moments for examinations. The time which should be given to light reading and pleasant recreations must be spent in the hottest weather in hard study. In no other profession is this the case. There is little time for reading, for the text book must be one's constant companion. Why cannot successful teachers, who have taught a certain number of years, be given permanent certificates? The last legislature repealed this act before it had been given a fair trial The election of officers of the State Teachers' Association seems to have given entire satisfaction. There were few dissenting voices and little or no caucusing, which was somewhat unusual. The following officers were elected: Prof. M. H. Broyles, Pres/ ; F. W. Gross, W. M. Taylor, Miss Hattie E. Lee, B. T. Wilson and Mrs. D. Abner, Jr., Vice-Pres. ; Miss Cora L. Smith, See., and Mr. W. R. Taylor, Asst. Sec., with Mr. E. L. Blackshear, Treas. The next meeting of the Association will be held at Corsicana. All of the large cities in most of the other states are having woman's clubs, whose objects are to elevate and better the condition of women both morally and intellectually. Why cannot we, in Texas, have a few clubs? Let the leading women of each city get together and organize and go to work for ourselves. We must be taught to be good mothers; must learn how to train up our sons and daughters, for the future of our race depends upon the rising generation. Much good is being accomplished all over the union by the women's clubs, and Texas must not be behind in the march of progress. The last of the summer Normals opened on the 16th of July and will close on the 16th of August. It was a happy thought of Mr. Carlisle's to have two examinations, one in July and one in August. It gives teachers two chances to win certificates which is certainly encouraging to those who fall by the way. We are all glad that our little friend, Mrs. Wright Cuney, is at last convalescing. She has been so ill as to cause grave fears of her recovery, but now there seems little doubt that she will soon be around among us again. Miss Maud is already looking much more cheerful, as is also Mr. Cuney and Lloyd. June weddings were numerous and aristocratic this year. That of Dr. W. T. Green, of Bryan, to Miss Lenora Bowers, of Galveston, was one of the most pleasing affairs of the season. The bride was most charming and even more graceful than usual. The presents were most costly and numerous. Many fine papers prepared for the conference remained unread; we might have been in session a week and then not have exhausted ourselves. Mrs. Luellan Williams, who is known to our readers as an able writer, sent a paper; Miss Ella Spencer's interesting paper on Art remained unread, as also did Mrs. Felts' on Social Purity, Mrs. Anthony's and Mrs. Pitts', both on Race Work, and Mrs. Ridley's on What We Need for a More Equable Development. The papers especially prepared for the conference would make a credible book, and although it is only possible for the ERA to print them singly, or at most doubly, it is hoped that in some way or other, at some time or other, they may all be collected in on volume. The sessions of the conference were brightened and lightened by some excellent music. Among contributors were Mrs. A. C. Sparrow, Miss Fisher, the WOMAN'S ERA protege, Miss Goines, Mr. Moses Hodges and Mr. Geo. L. Ruffin. The Woman's Era. Illinois Fannie Barrier Williams, Editor Colored graduates from western schools, colleges, and universities this year seem to be exceptionally numerous and have excited an amount of favorable comment from the public press that cannot fail to affect public opinion to a considerable extent. The one thing to be especially noted is the fact that those great journals which were once so hostile or disrespectful in all their references to colored people are now eager and pronounced in their encouragement and splendid estimate of the present worth and possibilities of the Negro race. As to the rights and wrongs of colored people, there is no longer any distinction between Democratic and Republican journals in the North. In this respect we have made a decided gain in our struggles to cultivate and win a favorable public opinion. This growing habit on the part of hitherto hostile and unfriendly papers of telling the truth about us will inevitably beget among their readers the practice of doing justly. The public is being gradually educated up to the feeling that the American Negro is a very interesting person in his self-emancipating efforts. There is so much of pathos, of desperate triumphs and tragic disappointments in every achievement of the race that the onlooking world cannot fail to be moved with wholesome interest. This interest will certainly increase and deepen with each year of our advancement, and become more and more allied to the kindly forces that are subtly working out our destinies. Referring again to colored graduates from western institutions, especial mention should be made of Mr. Charles Winter Wood who received a B. A. from Beloit College, Wisconsin. This is a case where a college degree contains more meaning than can be expressed in its perfunctory Latin and official signatures of president and faculty. When Charles Winter Wood was gathered from the street gammins of Chicago and sent to Beloit College some years ago, hope of his recovery from the blight of his associations seemed ridiculous. When he left Beloit the other day, polished, fluent, full of honors, and with the unstinted acclaim of the gathered thousands about him, his degree seems trifling when compared to his achievements. To say that Mr. Wood's especial distinction is his histrionic powers, may seem to cheapen his worth, because false standards have given a wearying prominence to so many "barm-storm-ers"! It is not too much to say that these so-called "dramatic readers" can sustain no sort of comparison to Charles Winter Wood. Eight years ago the present Mr. Wood was discovered as "Charley" by Judge Jarvis Blume of this city, a man of fine literary state, and a man full of chivalric kindness of disposition. At the time of discovery Mr. Wood was a hopeless and almost homeless little urchin, but could imitate Irving with wonderful accuracy and appreciation. Judge Blume immediately decided that he had found a rough diamond. He took the boy to his office and got him to recite from Shakespeare to a company of gentlemen. Every one was astonished, and after that actors and literary men, notably the late Prof. David Swing, heard him in parlors and testified to his exceptional gifts. Interest in his education became manifest and finally a Mr. Hanson, a wealthy gentleman of this city, gladly assumed all responsibility for his proper education and has kept him in the Wisconsin Institution during the past seven years. While in college he won nearly all the prizes in the college oratorical contests. In the Greek tragedy, "Oedipus Rex," performed by the students at Beloit and Chicago, Mr. Wood took the title role and scored an extraordinary triumph. The dramatic critics in Milwaukee and Chicago papers pronounced his rendition "phenomenal." In voice, facial aptitudes, grace of movement and dramatic feeling, Mr. Wood is surprisingly gifted. It is not enough to say that he is not equalled in America by any of his race. In deference to the wishes of his generous benefactor, Mr. Wood has decided to take a theological course in Princeton. To those who have seen and heard him there is an instant wish that he might be given the utmost opportunity to develop his dramatic gifts. He is a gentleman of such splendid rectitude of character, so refinded in taste and culture-bent, that nothing would be too high to hope for him on the stage, were he but untrammeled by the tyranny of American prejudice. 22 The Woman's Era. We Chicago women feel more or less ashamed in not being represented in the Boston Conference. The coming together of our representative women for high purposes is important enough to make us feel deeply concerned in the outcome. The character of the women who have been able to respond to the call inspires the absent ones with confidence that the Conference will mean much to every cause of peculiar interest to colored women. With such women it is not too much to hope that the Conference will set in force influences that will reach in their helpfulness the farthest confines of colored women's needs. The Woman's Clubs throughout the country are furnishing our women with the right kind of training for organic work. Out of these clubs must come women strong in the elements of leadership for any cause having in it the spirit and purpose of reform. Heaven grant to our sisters in council the inspiration to see and point the way that leads to a sweeter realization of the blessed privileges of a purer womanhood! The foulness of the Missouri scribbler may be the ignoble cause of a combination of womanly influences that will mark an epoch in the advancement and moral assertion of Negro womanhood. ------- Pennsylvania Dora J. Cole, Editor. ------- Pittsburg, July 13, 1895. July 4th to 7th was of unusual interest to the colored people of Pittsburg and vicinity. The occasion of this interest was the convention of the Woman's Mite Missionary Society of the Third Episcopal District. Some of the most distinguished divines of the A.M.E. church, noted professors and many of the brightest women of the race were in the city; 114 delegates were present. The secretary reported over $1,000 collected during the year by small contributions. Reports from the various societies were most encouraging and marked great advancement in the work during the past year. At the first session welcome addresses were made by Rev. I. W. Ross, Mrs. Gracie P. Offer, Mrs. D.S. Bently, Rev. W.H. Brown. These were responded to by Rev. Ransom of Cleveland, Mrs. S.T. Mitchell of Wilberforce, Mrs. Rosa Johnson of Cleveland, Bishop Arnett, Dr. Derrick. A letter of welcome from Mayor McKenna was read. Most of the next three days was spent in hearing papers and discussing questions relative to the work of this society. That the association is far from partial in its missionary efforts needs no further proof than the importance paid the subjects, "Our West Indian," "Our Indian Mission," "Our Librarian Mission." Very able papers on these subjects were read by Miss Anderson, Mrs. Caliman and Mrs. Hicks. "The Short Line to the Redemption of Africa" was treated in a very original way by Mrs. Ransom of Cleveland. She said the ladies are collecting money to bring native Africans to this country to be educated and return to teach their own people. She lived in joyful anticipation of the time when the colored women of Africa and the colored women of America would clasp hands at the foot of the cross. A very beautiful talk, full of inspiration to the younger women, was that of Miss Lizzie Jackson of Wilberforce, who told of "Woman's Work in the Mission Field." Mrs. Draper and Mrs. Thurman were always entertaining and instructive in any discussion. It was a rare treat and one fully appreciated to have at the same time and for three successive days our own Bishop Arnett, Dr. Derrick and President S.T. Mitchell of Wilberforce. One very noticeable feature of the convention and worthy of commendation was the harmonious spirit that prevailed throughout the meeting. It was undoubtedly a gathering of Christian workers intent upon doing the bidding of the Master. We are glad to have had such a gathering of intelligent, zealous, Christian women among us. Their presence has been cheering and inspiring. The following are the officers for the ensuing year: Pres., Mrs. Gracie P. Offer; Cor. Sec., Mrs. Anderson of Drayton, C.; Rec. Sec., Miss Lizzie Jackson of Wilberforce; Asst. Rec. Sec., Mrs. D.S. Bently of Allegheny; Treas., Mrs. S. T. Mitchell of Wilberforce. Mamie S. Dammond. -------- The Woman's Era is on sale and can be obtained of Beunke, Stationer, 550 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. The Woman's Era. 23 Ohio. Sada J. Anderson, Editor. -------- July was a month of conventions. We have been busily engaged every day since the glorious Fourth. Our Woman's Mite Missionary Convention which met in Pittsburg, Pa., was well attended and grand success followed our meeting. Surely this organization of women of the Third Episcopal District is doing a noble work for humanity. We were highly honored with our own fearless Bishop Arnett and the indefatigable Dr. Derrick. These two were our timely counsellors when our own storehouse of knowledge failed to meet the demand. After a very pleasant four day's session of reviewing the work of the past year and formulating plans for the future, we very reluctantly took leave of one another, feeling that the convention was a success from the opening song to the fond benediction. We had no more than reached home and become partially rested before we were ready to be off again to our S.S. Institute at Hamilton, Ohio. This institute is not composed of women alone, but to lookers on it would seem as though the women had the day there. Owing to the absence of our president, Rev. Priolean, the first vice, Miss Jessie Henderson, presided, and for the impartial way in which she ruled she was elected president for the ensuing year. Miss Henderson is quite young, a graduate of the high school and normal of Springfield, Ohio, and a student of Wittenberg College of the same place. She is a power for good among our people and as bold as a lion in upholding the right. On the second day of our institute it afforded us unbounded pleasure to welcome the fraternal delegate from the Southern Ohio Institute in the person of Miss Minnie Moore, who came bringing greetings from the sister institute. After three days' successful labor the convention adjourned to the banquet room, where, beneath palms and among flowers and happy faces, we lingered until the approach of the "wee sma'" hours. Time is fleeting. The conference of noble women is now a thing of the past, and although it was not our good fortune to clasp the hand of those who dare stand up for our womanhood, when recording the names of all the rest may ours stand out in bold relief as that of Abon Ben Adhern. ------- Literature Department. Medora W. Gould. ------- The scene of Hall Caine's latest novel, "The Shadow of a Crime," is England, and the time is the English Restoration. It is a story of the many lives upon which the shadow of the crime has has fallen, and though perhaps not quite as good as his three celebrated novels, "The Deemster," "The Bondman," and "The Manxman," is sufficiently good to make a name for its author had these never been written. The hero, Ralph Ray, like all of Hall Caine's heroes is a fine, strong, self-sacrificing man, who is ready to surrender his happiness to another; and his heroine, after deciding which of the two brothers she loves, sets about delivering him from a fearful suspicion in which she finally succeeds. Says the "Twentieth Century": "The cause of social reform in this country is immensely indebted to Howells. His work is of priceless value. He has the ear of all that is best and most cultured in this republic. In preaching socialism to his countrymen our greatest living author has conferred a service upon his native land of which the value cannot but increase with the passing years." "A Madonna of the Alps," a recent publication of German fiction is translated into English by Nathan Haskell Dole. Its deep romance and dramatic episodes together with its exquisite local descriptions make for its author, B. Schultze-Smidt, a high place in the ranks of the novelist. It is a story of an artist who in his travels in the Alps, falls in with a couple over whom a cloud of mystery and trouble has fallen. The wife is accused of having killed her child, which in reality died by accident, and she by her sweetness of disposition and patient embrace of false accusation awakens a more than passing interest 24 The Woman's Era. on the part of the artist-hero. He finally brings about a reconciliation between her and her husband, whose love had also become estranged. To the husband, too, he renders great service by removing from his mind the fear that he, in his duties as an Alpine guide, was responsible for the loss of one of a party whom he was conducting on a dangerous expedition. "The Girl from the Farm," an English story by Miss Gertrude Dix, is the story of a young woman with a university education, and a great longing for some sort of philanthropic work in which to distinguish herself. She, however, cannot see work ready to her hand in her own family which she could have done with great benefit to herself and others. The International Education Series has been augmented by a translation of Frederic Froebet's "Pedagogies of the Kindergarten," by Josephine Jarvis. It is designed to aid mothers as well as teachers in developing the mind of the young child. Mr. Crawford's latest novel, "The Ralston's," is better liked in England than in this country. It has run through its first edition there. "One Fair Daughter," by Mr. Frank Frankfort Moore, is an interesting love story, though somewhat sentimental and sensational. "The Woman's Manual of Parliamentary Law" is a safe-guide and great comforter to women in their efforts to know more of the management of public affairs. Every club woman should have one for reference. ------- California. S. Willie Layton, Editor. ------- California is so far away, and from Boston seven days' mail, therefore news by mail, which has become stale in eastern circles, is fresh to us behind the Rockies. To here offer good wishes for the success of the convention would be out of date, for before this appears in print the convention will have adjourned and the life of its good work begun. Jacks' letter here and probably elsewhere received as much consideration as the laudable call to convention --- possibly that too was wisdom's way. Said one of our women: "No one better knows than Jacks that the assertions in his letter are false. I do not fear his power to proselyte to his letter wording, believers from those who have not 'grown up in the wild and woolly west,' as I do fear the intimidation of many who might become part and parcel of public sentiment, condemning the unjust treatment of the negroes of this country. Our own boasted locality has recently demonstrated the sort of intimidating influences on a small scale that I argue." "I neither agree nor fully comprehend your argument," interrupted our dear little enthusiast, tiptoeing to a covert height. "To a certain extent Jacks' letter is true. A story that is partly true is harder to contradict than one wholly untrue. I think individual efforts to higher and better living, voiced here and there in a quiet way through the medium of the press, will more effectually overcome the belief in such charges than these short-lived excitements. Though the convention may do some good, it is a splendid opportunity." "Jacks' reflections are no more true of us than of other races, not as much," continued the first speaker in our group, tenacious of her view of the situation, and as if interrupted. "We are aware of what followed the lecture of Rev. O. Summers, first negro chaplain of the late Cal. Assembly, protesting against the one blot now on the statute books of our state, the law making unconstitutional mixed marriages. At the close of the lecture one of our influential white divines, stirred by honest conviction and approval for every effort to elevate the moral condition of our state, in bold and strong words condemned class legislation and evidenced his influence to assist in striking from the California code the word 'black' or 'negro and mulatto' as it actually reads. In a few days after, you remember, appeared in one of our dailies a letter from an M.D., not as vile in slander of our morals as Jacks', but every whit as deeply colored with contemptible prejudice, I may even say blasphemous, for he attempted to base his illogical logic on God's word. The white divine knew then, I believe he feels yet, that he spoke truth, but the M.D.'s criticism was stinging and severe, he became personal; the white divine had to reply. He did not entirely retract his former statements, neither did he sustain them -- was intimidated. Expediency in his situation The Woman's Era. 25 wrote a different explanation. Do you sabe my argument now?" While we were for the second silently absorbed in thought, an old '49er looked over her specs and said: "Girls, I dunno how that Jack's letter hez struck other places, but my 'pinion is, that letter should be follered by er few mo jess like it; it'll do good yit; bitter medicine is sometimes the best. That letter hez struck Los Anguls frum centre to circle in the way uv studin our gineral good. It shows you it is more'n talk an' rezolutions. Nothin' but lively intrust, hard work, backed with dollars, 'll overcum sich things. An' anuther thing no good, that letter hez borned more 'race' (?) men and womin then ever we knew we hed, since I crossed the plains." The press has attracted a great deal of attention to the defense of a notorious criminal of Philadelphia, whose mother has tried to secure executive clemency for him on the plea of inherited criminal tendency. She pleads that he is not responsible for his acts, that she, the mother, is; that she was forced by cruel treatment from his father, before the son's birth, to steal from the father's pockets money for her actual sustenance. She writes: "Thus I went through all the brain sensations of a daring burglar, even such as I am informed you have become. Shortly after that you were born, and I firmly believe you came into the world a thief, owing to that crime-like though necessary practice of mine." Medical science asserts and has proven that mothers influence the character of their children before they are born, and such a plea, while new as an argument of defense, is worthy of serious consideration, especially to colored women in view of the fact of the serious charges made against us. Sacred should be esteemed the privileges of motherhood and jealously guarded, that only the noblest and best influences be exercised in the formation of the child's character before its birth. As some one has said, "The successful reformation of a nation is begun before 'it is born.' The comments of the local press on the successful rendition of the sparkling operetta, "New Flower Queen," classes it so far above ordinary social events, that our letter would be incomplete without its mention. Those of us bemoaning our "crow feet" age signs are elated over compliments, "you girls were just lovely." How could it have been other than a success under the able direction of Mrs. Harry Reed? The Open Court Mrs. N.F. Mossell, Editor. ------- To the various friends who have kindly subscribed for the Era through this department, I desire to say that the receipts for all subscriptions will be mailed or otherwise placed in their possession sometime during the month of September. A number of petty illnesses and absence from the city for two months has prevented me attending promptly to various business matters, and has also prevented my attendance at the National Womans' Convention, or even representation by a paper on some subject worthy of the occasion. It is my very earnest hope that many friends will send in their names as subscribers for the Era, beginning with the September issue. Those desiring to secure the Convention or August issue may state the fact when sending their subscription. ------- Mrs. J.F.A. Gardiner, 128 Alder St., Pittsfield, Mass. Will accommodate a few private boarders during the summer months. Five minutes walk from maple woods. Terms reasonable. ------- F.A. Greenleaf, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Paper Hangings, 51 Court Street, Near Scollay Square, Boston. ------- Mrs. H.L. Kemp, Artistic Dressmaking and Millinery, 179 Franklin Avenue, Near Myrtle, Brooklyn, N.Y. Imported styles always on hand. Competent dressmakers always in attendance. 26 THE WOMAN'S ERA. ATLANTA UNIVERSITY, ALTANTA, GA. REV. HORACE BUMSTEAD, D. D. President. THIS Institution trains and sends out a superior class of teachers and leaders for work among the Freedom of the South. It solicits the attendance of intelligen and earnest young men and women, and contributions from those who are willing to help towards their education. Write to the President. ----------- SUBSCRIBE FOR MRS. CASNEAU'S GUIDE TO ARTISTIC Dress Cutting and Making. It is entirely original and is sure to satisfy a long felt want of young dressmakers, women who do their sewing at home, and those who anticipate learning the trade as the means of gaining a livelihood. The book is self-teaching and can be used with any system or with paper patterns. The order of arrangements places the rules where they will come in regular order for cutting and making a gown. In fact, the aim has been to make the work eminently practical for the average women. Liberal inducements to agents everywhere. For further information and circulars, send stamp to Mr. Elmer E. Casneau, MANAGER, 9 Greenwich St., BOSTON, MASS. BOTON Condensed Milk Co's Plain condensed (unsweetened) Milk is the best known food for infants. Best article in the world for a cup of coffee. Sold in jars at the office, 2½ Park Sq., Boston Delivered three times per week. ENDORSEMENT. I have used the plain condensed milk and found it worked like a miracle in transforming my weak, puny baby into a strong, plump one, after all other foods had failed. MRS. McGILL, 10 Lindall Place, Boston. --- THE AMERICAN WRINGER CO. BRANCH STORE, 13 & 15 BROADWAY EXTENSION, BOSTON, MASS. Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers. All Kinds of Wringers and Sweepers repaired. Orders by mail promptly attended to. --- E. A. LIBBY, New goods received by steamer every week. We never have an opening. Always ready to show goods. - MILLINERY - The old reliable house retains the same stand, 19 Temple Place, - - Boston. --- THE NEW WORLD TYPEWRITER. Price, $15.00. A useful and elegant present for ladies and gentlemen. Over 100,000 in use. Perfectly simple, practical and durable. No $100 machine can do better work. Writes 77 characters. Capitals and small letters. Never gets out of order. Perfect alignment always. No instruction required. SEND FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE. The Typewriter Improvement Co. 4 K Post Office quare, BO TON, Mass. Agents Wanted. --- POINT PLEASANT Will be opened June 1 to accommodate a few select boarders. For terms address MRS. E. E. CRISPELL, WEST STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. P. O. Box 45- [* Page 13 - P. 13 Union with League proposed. *] The Woman's Era. VOL. II. NO. 6. BOSTON, MASS., OCT., 1895 PRICE 10 CENTS. ===== NOTES AND COMMENTS. ----- First meeting of the season of the Woman's Era Club Saturday afternoon, Oct. 5. The editor of the woman's club column in the Boston Journal has asked the secretary of the Woman's Era Club to send monthly reports to her for publication in that paper. The committee of five appointed by the officers of the Massachusetts State Federation to arrange for a reception to Mrs. Ellen M. Henrotin, president of the National Federation of Clubs, announce a luncheon and reception will be given in her honor at Hotel Vendome, Boston, October 17, at 2 P. M. Mrs. Henrotin will address the ladies. The managers of the high tea to be held in Madison Square Garden, New York, have requested Mrs. Victoria Matthews to secure for exhibition as large a display as possible of books, music and pamphlets written by colored people. Members of the N. E. Women's Press Association will start on an excursion to Atlanta about October 1. The Wellesley Hills Woman's Club invites the president and vice-president of the Era Club, or substitutes, to a reception and lecture in the Unitarian Church, on Wednesday, October 23, at two o'clock. William Ordway Partridge will be the lecturer. It is hoped that one of the first things to engage the attention of the first annual meeting of the federation will be a change of its name. "Afro-American" is a mis-nomer. While trying to be exact, we should be correct. --- TO OUR SUBSCRIBERS. Two causes have operated to prevent the re-arrangement of our paper and the carrying out of plans for which the September number was held back. Sickness and death have been busy in the families of all the expected helpers in the work of preparing this number, and the working force has been reduced to one. The critical, long-continued illness of the junior editor and corresponding secretary, and the sad death in the family of the chairman of the executive committee of the Federation, cut off their co-operation, and increased the work of the one ten-fold; these with births, deaths and sickness among our regular correspondents, make up a list of hindering happenings such as seldom fall to the lot of one worker to overcome. Nevertheless, had the clubs promptly responded to letters sent asking for programs of their intended work for the coming club year, this explanation would not have been needed. Subcribers will in time get all they pay for, however. --- MRS. B. T. WASHINGTON. CALL TO THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF AFRO-AMERICAN WOMEN. ORGANIZED IN BOSTON, MASS., JULY 31, 1895. President, Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala. ; vice-presidents, Mrs. Mary Dickerson, Newport, R. I., Mrs. Helen Crum, Charleston, S. C., Mrs. Ella L. Mahammit, Omaha, Neb., and Mrs. Mabel Garner, New York ; corresponding secretary, Mrs. F. R. Ridley, Boston, Mass. ; recording secretary, Miss L. C. Carter, Brooklyn, N. Y. ; treasurer, Mrs. L. C. Anthony, Jefferson City, MO. ; chairman executive committee, Mrs. Victoria Matthews, New York. TUSKEGEE, Ala., Sept., 1895. "Unity in Diversity," the greatest good of all, an that which will serve to link the heart and hand of 2 THE WOMAN'S ERA. every woman in a common cause, should become the watchword of all in this nineteenth century. American history has passed through the varied changes of one hundred and twenty years. Our country stands today strong, mighty and powerful - a verified solution of the "One in many." A casual glance at the history of the nations of the world proves the superior strength of those who are united in purpose over those who are eyeing each other with covert suspicion, delving and scheming for petty, selfish ends, and stirring up anarchy and that strife that "divides man from man and makes him unmerciful to his brother." As the united mothers of ancient Sparta felt the necessity of resolute action in order to develop a vigorous constitution and make strong the emotional natures of their sons, so do our women of America need to feel the importance of a united fixity of purpose in reference to the affairs that relate to the development of the members of our sex; for with unity of purpose and resolute action, our women will receive an impetus that will urge them to a higher plane of mental, moral and physical life. Thirty years ago, over two millions of our women were set free from bondage of soul and body. With few exceptions, such as had been gained by instinct, spiritual instruction, or a kind owner, none had been taught lessons that tended to improve womanhood or motherhood, and their condition was most miserable. Without homes, and with no deep realization of their deplorable condition, many drifted here and there, often falling by the wayside, too helpless amidst their environment to have a desire to lead purer, nobler lives. Not many years and the American Missionary Association and a host of noble workers began to open the doors of their schools to these people. They were stunned and bewildered by the reaction of their freedom from slavery, but the hearts of these former slave mothers began to quicken with the hope of securing the advantages of an education for their children. With those born upon a more favored soil, many of these daughters stand today eager to lead a voice and a helping hand that will gain a reaction from the insidious influences of years of homeless bondage to the tempter, years in the thraldom of indifference, and years in the depths of some teachings that give us discount to lost virtue, degraded motherhood land the consequent tainted atmosphere of hundreds of our homes. True, honored womanhood, enlightened motherhood, and happy, comfortable homes can only be secured by concerted effort of the part of the women of our land. Individual effort has accomplished some good in this direction, but the mighty effect upon the masses unreached will be the result of our future united effort. In the month of July, 1895, Mrs. Josephine St. P. Ruffin of Boston called a three days' conference of colored women for personal exchange of greetings. This meeting did much to inspire and give life to the women whose privilege it was to be present; and the result of this gathering is a national organization of colored women, who have for their purpose the general development of women. In the name of the National Federation of Afro-American Women, I call upon the women of the United States of America to lend us their influence, their interest and their aid. Our poor need to be fed and clothed. Our women must be taught to study for their own advancement. They need inspiration and encouragement to keep a brave heart. Homemaking must be thought about, child rearing needs attention. Our girls need social purity talks. They must be warned of evil company. They must be brought in closer touch with more that is good and pure. They must be taught to realize that they have a vital part to enact in developing the womanhood of their country. All topics of social, economic and intellectual reform must in turn receive a share of our interest. For these and other reasons we need to forum local organizations for local reforms in the cities, in the towns, the villages and country districts of our land. We hope that this call will touch many chords of hidden forces that will vibrate and respond, and thus our power as women of a national sisterhood will be strengthened and made more effective. Let every delegate of the national organization answer to this by her individual effort "to uplift, to inspire, to do, to look for the noble purposes of life, and hold them aloft as al banner where those who see its folds waving shall say, 'Behold the influence of goodness, of knowledge and of truth.'" In organizing our forces, we ask the hearty co-operation of the wives of our bishops and ministers, our professional women and other women who see the needs of our sisters and will seek to find a remedy. Any woman or body of women, after forming an organization with this end in view, founded upon a definite plan of work for a definite purpose, and having a president, secretary and other officers, if needed, may become a part of our National Federation by notifying the secretary, Mrs. Florida Ridley, 103 Charles St., Boston, Mass., or the president, Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala. Let us take the words of Milton who said, "We go through weakness to the greatest strength," and we as a race of women may contrast progress attain that goal. Our gain shall be "Concentration of purpose, forgetfulness of self, interest in the social, educational and moral reforms of the day, enlightened motherhood, intellectual development, individuality, and with all a steady growth in development of noble womanhood." MARGARET WASHINGTON, Pres. N. F. A. A. W. 4 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Boston; that these women were all the descendants of a race who, less that three hundred years ago, first appeared in this country as a ship-load of pagan savages and slaves, and is now only thirty years out of an estate that even its defenders must acknowledge was an enforced prolongation of perpetual childhood. no other people on earth can point to such a record. in view of this our colored sisterhood may reasonably "thank God and take courage" in their noble adventure at the education of their people into a citizenship of which the republic need not be ashamed. — The popular Educator Written for the WOMAN'S ERA. GOOD-BYE. What word is there That will compare In bitterness of tone, When heart from heart Is forces to part From loving ones and home? Tears dim the eye Howe'er we try With courage brave to meet The sad ordeal ; We keenly feel The words though sad yet sweet. Of fortune great, Or fickle fate, Children of destiny ; God knows the end Our ways portend, To us a mystery. If it might be That we could see The life that lies between, Or what the fate That doth await Through days that intervene. God wills it so ; We may not know, No human power descry ; On sea or land Within His hand Our destined way must be. Hope fills the breast And lulls to rest The burdened heartfelt sigh ; The Mizpah be Twixt Thou and me When we have said good-bye. JOSIE D. HEARD. Greystone Crest, Phila., Pa. RECENT DEATHS/ Mrs. Nell. Among recent deaths of interest to ERA readers is that of the widow of William C. Nell. Having been born and nearly always lived in New Hampshire, she was well known to but few in Boston, to them always as the bereft and ever sorrowing widow of a distinguished man. She was a woman of sterling character and worthily ambitious for her husband and two sons, One by one they went before, until all her interest followed and she gladly joined them Lamartine Matthews. Few of those present at the recent conference of women here in Boston whho noticed and admired the untiring industry and unflagging interest in the work of the convention shown by Mrs. Victoria Matthews of New York, were aware of the severe mental strain and depression she was subjected to from anxiety about an adored only child , who at that time was sick. Since then she has lived between hope and fear concerning him, until Thursday, September 19, when her boy suddenly slipped away, and left his parents dazed with the force of the blow, unlooked for at that time, Lamartine Matthews was fifteen years old, high minded, ambitious and of much promise. It should comfort his parents to remember that the unfolding of the promise will now be done in the presence of his Maker. At a meeting of the Woman's Loyal Union of New York, held Sept. 25, 1895, the following preamble and resolutions were adopted: — WHEREAS , the unsearchable ways of Providence have removed from your kind care and protection your son, Lamartine, a youth of much promise and of pure and noble character, one in whom was centered the fondest hopes and aspirations of a yearning mother-heart, and whose life was linked to yours by tender affections, Therefore be it resolved, That we, the members of the Woman's Loyal Union, in meeting assembled, desire to express to you, Mrs. Victoria Matthews, our honored president, the mother of him whose loss we so deeply deplore, our sincere sympathy in this, the saddest affliction that could have come to you, realizing as we do that he was your only child, cut down in youth just when the THE WOMAN'S ERA. 5 future opened most brightly before him, Yet inscrutable are the ways of Providence. Resolved, that we earnestly trust that you, his sorely distressed mother, may try to think of him as of one who has been transplanted to this e celestial gardens where he may grow and blossom into immortal loveliness, that you may look forward hopefully to a glorious reunion with him whose memory will now bind you closer to this "heavenly mansions" where he has gone; that in this mysterious bereavement you may be richly comforted by him who notes the sparrow's fall, and who says, " Suffer them to come , and forbid them not." "Leaves have their time to fall And flowers to wither at the North wind's breath, And stars to set—but all— Thou hast hall seasons for thine Own, O Death!" [Extracts from minutes.] KATIE V. CARMAND. Cor. Sec. REPORTS FROM THE CLUBS TUSKEGEE WOMAN'S CLUB. With the beginning of the academic year of the Tuskegee Normal and Industrial School, began the revival of the club of lady teachers that Mrs. Booker T. Washington organized last year. On the evening of Sept. 13th forty-six women, of whom thirty-two were of the faculty of the school, and fourteen the wives of its members, were enrolled as members of Tuskegee Woman's Club. Nine were new, and the entire body represented institutions of various sections of the country,— the college departments of Fisk, Atlanta, Clark, and Howard University ; the normal department of the same schools ; the high schools of Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Ohio, and the normal schools of Massachusetts, Hampton, Va., Tuskegee, and the State Normal of Alabama. The general topic for the evening's discussion was "Woman and her Work." "Woman in Literature," by Mrs B.T. Washington; "Woman in Business," by Miss L.L. Chapman ; and "Woman in the Home," by Miss M.M. Fleming. Because of important business matters this part of the programme was deferred until the next meeting. Miss Leonora L. Chapman paid a fitting tribute to our women who have been foremost in the movement of a united sisterhood that will see, will feel, and do for others less fortunate. To the chosen President of the Afro-American Federation of Women, she offered the congratulations of the club that honor her as their leader also. Mrs. Washington in response, spoke feelingly of the unexpected honor conferred upon her by the Federation, and expressed her resolution to do what she could in the best possible way to advance the common good of all. "In consideration of this it was decided to have a department of clubs of the Tuskegee Woman's Club. First, a club of ministers' wives of the city and adjacent country that had been organized under Mrs. Estelle Penney fir the purpose of giving the members practical suggestions for their work in their churches. Second, a club of city girls under the direction of Mrs. N.B. Young, for lessons in domestic economy. Third, Mrs. Washington's Club of city and country women organized for the general welfare of the woman, her children, and her home. Fourth, A Dorcas club of town girls, the daughters of these mothers who will be interested in sewing by Miss Elizabeth E. Lane. Fifth, an "Ednah Cheney Club" of young women in the upper classes, who will be under the direction of Mrs. F. B. Thornton in matters pertaining to health, cleanliness, and the preparation of food in humble homes. Sixth, a social purity club of older girls under Miss M.M> Fleming. Seventh, a social purity club of older girls under Miss M.M. Fleming. Eighth, a W.C.T.U. circle, organized by Miss S.H. Porter. Its members will be young women of the school who will organize auxiliary clubs outside with the help of Miss Porter. Ninth, a current history club, under Mrs. Warren Logan. Through these departments avenues will be open that it is hoped will accomplish much good. The badge worn by the members of the Tuskegee Woman's Club is a gold pin in the unique form of the state of Alabama, having a "Black Belt" of enamel across the center with the initials of the club and a star to mark the situation of Tuskegee. The literary programme for the club during the coming year will be announced later. E.E. LANE. 6 The Woman's Era. BELLE PHEBE LEAGUE. ---- Pittsburg, PA., Sept. 13, 1895. It is a fact worthy of note that Pittsburg has been the seat of many conventions this year, of special importance, both to those interested in public morals and Christian reforms and in educational advancement. The conventionists began early in the summer to come in, among them men of brain and culture, leaders in all departments of thought, bringing with them what they had produced after years of observation and study. What glorious meetings they held ! Everyone was brimful of earnestness and enthusiasm. What stirring addresses were those delivered at the various sessions, and such practical methods of work were developed that these conventions have not failed to arouse their members to greater effort along the lines for which they met. The impulse that has been given will act as a stimulant to the performance of still greater work for God and our country. But at this juncture let us not fail to note that the women played their part. About eight hundred women, under the head of the Presbyterian Women's Mission Convention, were in session at the close of the General Assembly of Presbyterian Ministers. Then followed the Colored Women's Mite Mission Society of the Third Episcopal District, awakening our women to a graver sense of their duty and devising new plans by which more money without greater labor may be had. Lastly, and of special interest this month, the Allegheny Co. W.C.T.U., which was in convention from September 9th to the 12th. In resolutions they condemned Sunday trains and street cars as "desecrating the Sabbath, destroying the peace of home, demoralizing the summer resorts, and robbing railroad men of their day of rest." They favored the organization of the anti-cigarette leagues in the schools, the abolition of living pictures, nude figures and indecent postures. They further declare that without equal suffrage this is not a government of the people. And lastly, the members took a brave step for their own elevation and as an example to others, in resolving to turn from theater-going, card-playing and dancing. This city has felt the weight of these organizations, and already a livelier interest in being taken in noble works. So great has been the influence that our children feel the effects and there is an increased desire among them to go more regularly to school and to take advantage of the higher grades. Their active minds have been aroused by what they have heard and seen, and their interest in school books quickened. So they have started out with a determination to do more this year than they did last. And our brave and stalwart President, who so boldly represented our society at the conference and showed so forcibly by word and deed what one woman can do, brought back with her the life and earnestness felt there, and inspired us with more zeal and greater determination. As a result, our membership is increasing, the attendance is better, there is more thought about the real object of the League, and the members are striving to a more perfect carrying out of this purpose. MADELINE BARNUM. ------- WOMAN'S PROGRESSIVE CLUB, SALEM, MASS. -------- As a small and recently organized club, we have not thought it best to make out a very extensive program for our winter's work. We have chosen committees on the following subjects: Education, music, entertainments, current topics. Under the head of education will come the study of local history and American literature; and papers will be written by the different members of the club on topics pertaining to those subjects. A small class has been formed for the study of music. A series of literary and musical entertainments will be given, and the committee hope to secure from time to time able speakers who will address us on questions of the day. Each member of the committee on current topics will bring in a brief mention of important news items and literary notices, and will be expected to contribute a paper on some specified subject, either religious, political or moral, to be discussed by the members of the club. This is of course but a small work, but we hope that by doing this little well, interest in us may be increased and our membership enlarged, so that another year we may work on broader lines. A.M. BARBADOES, Secretary. THE WOAMN'S ERA 7 A PLEA FOR JUSTICE. --------- READ BEFORE THE CONFERENCE BY CHARLOTTE E. HUNTER. --------- I heartily disapprove of consuming much time in merely discussing the southern, problem, but during a recent visit to a charming New England home, my attention was called to several articles that seem to me an apology to you and to myself for occupying even one moment of your time. One of these articles, though emanating from a so-called "friend" of the negro, and clothed in pure English, evinces a degree of ignorance and prejudice which is astonishing. Until the reverend gentleman referred to can divest himself of a sufficient amount of his blind prejudice to bring himself into personal contact with some of the elegant and refined colored women who preside at American firesides, and ceases to hunt for our exponents in the crowded slums and alleys of southern cities, we deny that he has given the subject sufficient attention to enable him to fix our status. This is neither the time nor the place to expatiate upon the elements making up the inhabitants of these places, nor upon their excellent instructors in vice, whose examples they have, alas, but too successfully followed. But it would be well for him and all his following to remember that we do not need him to tell us what virtue is; we have the decalogue, even though our southern brother says we shall not defile his august presence while listening to its expounding in the church; and then, thank God, history gives us many noble examples both of manly courage and integrity and of womanly purity. These examples, especially the latter, have called forth the admiration and emulation of the negro, both before and after the civil war, in the very midst of the revilers, who, like the gods of the Gentiles, have eyes and see not, ears and hear not. Another thing which seems to me to give the doctor's "friendship: a peculiar stamp, is his firm belief in the efficacy of the patient practice of humility on the part of the negro. Would it be subjecting the character of his sympathy to too severe a test if we compare it to that which the doctor would probably have expressed to a class of boys an girls in 1776? Would he have recommended the practice of humility to the colonists who had grown weary of English tyranny and injustice and resolved to strike a blow for their deliverance? Let him remember what the reply would have been had he dared to suggest such a course; and then let him know that the same indignant cry of "Down the traitor-friend!" that would have fallen on his ears the, is hurled at him today from our midst. In another paragraph he presents us with the startling statement that the blacks are not the equals, much less the superiors, of the whites. As for the latter part of his statement, the doctor must have drawn upon his very fertile imagination to have concluded that any man able to gain and hold the confidence of the blacks ever uttered such a sentiment, or that any thoughtful man ever considered it; as for the former part of it, neither he nor any other man can justly make any comparison until, equal chances having been afforded both, each shall have proved his inherent capacity by success or ignominious failure. If it be true, as our friend implies, that negro inferiority is an established fact, why are his white brothers so afraid of giving him an opportunity to demonstrate conclusively to all the world their oft repeated assertions? Why is every colored boy, no matter how few the drops of negro blood that flow in his veins, rigorously excluded from that which is open to every emigrant landing upon the shores of this republic? How dare the canting sophists who call themselves his friend, urge upon him the necessity of being honest, while they persistently shut in his face every door leading to the very avenues by which he can honestly earn his bread and become a self-respecting, law-abiding citizen? Let us cease to invite among us, to address our youth, men whose utterances but serve to humiliate and give them false ideas. Let us call upon those true friends of humanity, brave and courageous men, and women of lofty aims and pure aspirations, and let them show to the young man about to begin life, that crime is henious in its very nature, and not as practised by this or that people; let them impress upon him the beauty of virtue, the pure medium that making possible communion between man and his Creator, knows neither race nor condition, nor sex nor creed, and let it be branded upon his soul in characters indelible that chivalry presupposes courage and self-respect, and that no man's chivalry can be other than the cringings of a vile slave unless, practising it, he sees in himself-- not a Negro, not a Jew, not an Italian--but a being made in the image of his Creator, striving after virtue for virtue's sake, striving after excellence for love of it, and trampling under foot all 8 The Woman's Era. those vile, pernicious statements that he may be this or that very well for what he is, but pure, abstract excellence he may never hope to attain. Freedom is the gift of God to every fowl of the air and beast of the field. In giving man dominion over all these, God never intended him to be less free than they, but man abused the power given him of God and set up for himself a code which put at defiance the divine law embodied in the injunction, "Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them." Since that time, the strong have ever established supremacy over the weak, and whatever nation would enjoy freedom and compete for the advantages which civilization confers, has been forced to establish its right to be and to do by the power of arms. The history of the black man in America has differed somewhat from this. He did not indeed strike the blow which gave him the degree of freedom which he enjoys today, but he must, if he would become a respected factor in this nation, bring forth some of the fruits which he has surely been nurturing amid the struggles and trials that have beset him since 1866. And we should not be discouraged if our friends seem fewer. If the public has become bored with our long continued sighs, it is time to stop sighing! May this assembling here acquaint you of the strength that is yours, and give you the incentive to do that which will forever paralyze the power that denies to your children the right of honestly earning bread by the exercise of whatever talents God has given them. And to future generations, who in their weakness and inability to compete for place, shall rise up and demand of you their birthright, you can not offer the excuse: "Everything was against us; everything was so difficult." These same excuses did not hinder Newton nor Columbus; neither did they prevent the obscure Corsican from rising to the throne of France, and placing her by the power of his genius, the tremendousness of his persistency and the strength of his all but almighty will at the head of European powers. Shall oppression then, which has but served to develop greatness in all nations and all ages, but serve to kill all that is best in so many of America's freedom-loving daughters? If they close all trades to your boys in order that, lacking the skilled artizan, you may lack the strongest elements of a nation's power and greatness, surely you have the example of Napoleon to guide you; he did not give up the idea of crossing Mt. Cenis when he found no road; he set to work and constructed one, and thus compassed his ends. Surely the glory of France was not dearer to the heart of Napoleon than is the future well-being of children and children's children to the mothers of America? The refusal of the men who rule all the trades to admit your boys to apprenticeship in their workshops will be as powerless to do you real harm in the future as were the glaciers and avalanches to prevent the progress of Napoleon's army, if you establish a national school in which these boys may learn, not simply to tinker with tools, but in which they may learn trades as throughly as other boys are taught them in master's workshops. And if you ask me how this is to be done when we, as a people, have so little money, I can give you no better answer than by pointing you once more to France. Once in her hour of peril she called upon her children for succor. They had already suffered all the pangs of war and the devastations which wars bring; mothers and wives, sweethearts and sisters had not ceased to mourn the dear ones whose corpses had bestrewn the battlefields of Paris, Metz and Sedan; the brands thrown by the enemy had not ceased to smoulder on the spots where once had stood their homes, and yet, when the beloved country asked for money to conclude the terms of a peace already so dearly paid for, feeble women parted with small sums saved at the sacrifice of the meager necessities of daily life; aye, more than this, poor little trinkets were brought, and among them were not infrequently the rings which were the tokens of pledges that, alas! could never be kept because the loved ones who had made them had been sacrificed upon the altar of patriotism; and when all the mites so gathered were counted, the sum was found not only sufficient to meet the demands of Bismarck, but thousands and thousands of francs surplus remained. So much as this is not demanded of you by a thousandth part. You can establish such a school as the one I have indicated without the sacrifice of your wedding and betrothal rings; and by so doing you will accomplish a measure which will be the just cause for your pride and the gratitude of future generations, and one which will effectually contradict the assertion that you are incapable of self-help. C.E.H. The Woman's Era. 9 Illinois. Fannie Barrier Williams, Editor. The August number of the Woman's Era is a notable souvenir of woman's enterprise. Its twenty-eight pages so glow with the interesting words and acts of the great conference of our women that those of us who were forced to be absent feel some compensation in reading the full message of it all through the Era. No woman can read the Era for August without a reassuring sense of hope and confidence in the future. The excellent reports of the various sessions of the conference exhibit a display of good sense, courage, loyal spirit and devoutness of purpose that is worthy of a body more experienced in the work of parliamentary gatherings. It is not surprising that the press of the country gave such splendid mention of the conference when one reads of the dignified good sense and exalted earnestness that characterized the proceedings and results. The election of Mrs. Booker T. Washington as president of the new organization is a graceful acknowledgement of the needs of our sisters in the south. She enjoys in a large measure the confidence of southern women, and her position as president of an organization destined to be of such far-reaching importance gives her an opportunity for splendid usefulness. Those who know the new president are enthusiastically sure of her aggressive qualities and her peculiar advantages for enlisting in the work the college influences of the southern states. The colored women of the country are to be congratulated that the woman for the hour and the opportunity was at hand. In this connection, it is only fair to say that many of us were at first disappointed in the failure of the convention to choose the estimable editor of the Era, and the leader of the conference, as president of the organization -- an organization that has been realized largely through the superior thoughtfulness, zeal and experience of Mrs. Ruffin. While the large body of the women of the country would have been gratified to see Mrs. Ruffin honored with the first presidency of the new organization, the convention knew what was best and evidently made no mistake in its choice of one who can command the confidence and co-operation of our New England and western colleagues, as well as the thousands of bright women of the south. Having committed ourselves to a united effort for bettering the condition of colored women of the country, it is to be earnestly hoped that our women everywhere will be imbued with the proper degree of interest and zeal to make real the prophecies of our first national conference. It will perhaps be a pleasing surprise to the readers of the Era to know that not less than twenty colored young women are teachers in the Chicago city schools. These young women have all made good records as teachers. In addition to these teachers, there are probably nearly as many more young men who teach in the night schools of the city. ------- Pennsylvania. Dora J. Cole, Editor. Our first words must be those of commendation and congratulation for the successful and interesting Conference of Women held in Boston in July. The respectful and appreciative press comments were very gratifying to those interested in the movement. Although debarred from personal attendance by a variety of causes, the August issue of the Era was eagerly looked forward to, and anticipations were pleasantly realized in reading of the proceedings more minutely reported than in the daily papers. The dignity, self-restraint and harmony displayed gave a fine tone to the conference and added weight to the utterances of these able women. May time only serve to cement the bonds thus woven between the women of our race in various sections of our country, and may this National Organization show in many useful ways the strength that union gives. Before the Chautauqua assembly we note with pleasure the papers read last week by two colored women from Augusta, Ga., Misses L.C. Laney 10 The Woman's Era. and M.C. Jackson. The subjects were "The Educational Progress of the Negro in the South," and "The Effort of the Negro to Help Himself." In introducing the speakers Chancellor Vincent said that the Chautauqua platform gave opportunity for all races and creeds, and he felt that the negro race deserved a representation. The papers were very well written and evoked much interest. Miss Ada Sweet tells a story of the New Woman which she says actually came within her own experience. She had occasion to appeal, on a matter involving the interests of a third woman, to a prominent representative of the New Woman school. The unfortunate was assisted in many ways, and finally was adjured to invoke Divine assistance. "Pray," said the New Woman, "pray night and morning, and sooner or later your petitions will be answered, for God hears our prayers and in good season SHE answers them." "This," says Miss Sweet, "was the first time I had ever heard the Deity referred to as feminine, and I will admit that I was shocked." The disciple of New Womanhood was a reverent, Christian woman, and I doubt not was sincere in her belief that in the light of recent intellectual and spiritual growth there is every propriety in contemplating the Deity as feminine. It is worthy of note the interest taken in physical culture by women of middle age. By energetic gymnastic exercises and judicious bicycling they reduce the too abundant flesh which middle age is prone to put on, strengthen the muscles of the back, thus allowing them to desert the alluring support of the front corset bone. When the flesh is reduced and the muscles toned and invigorated the mind is clearer, and a woman past the heyday of youth is able to use her ripened powers of thought and observation for a long period of time. At Cape May, where I have spent the month of August, the beach is a bicycle school. All sorts and conditions of women, from morn till dewy eve are in various stages of learning, from the beginner to those brave spirits who can make circles and ride hands off. The sensation of flying along the grand old ocean for miles, breathing in draughts of life-giving, tonic air, is a rare pleasure and must be enjoyed to be appreciated. Many of our friends who are teachers have taken advantage of the courses offered by the various summer schools, much to their profit. It is, however, a mooted question whether summer study is wise, except in special cases. In view of the exhausting nature of their winter and spring work, and the fact that during all the time that school is in session many teachers are regularly attending classes in various branches, it does seem that when vacation comes it is better for them, in Walt Whitman's words, to "Loaf, and invite my soul." Better to invoke the inspiration of sky and rock and sea, and go back to their work refreshed and renewed by this contact with nature. Just about fifteen minutes ride from Philadelphia in the steam cars, is a lovely spot, Cynwyd. Here, at the Silver Lake House, amid romantic surroundings, beautiful drives, a charming wooded country, a silver lake, many Philadelphians have spent a delightful summer. It was an unexpected pleasure to have so lovely a summer residence opened this year and it has been filled to its utmost capacity. News of the varied pleasures of the guests have come to us from time to time. Last week a really brilliant entertainment was given which is noteworthy, as it was entirely managed by very young people. Living pictures, tableaux and sketches formed the entertainment. The sketches hit off the characteristics and peculiarities of prominent Philadelphians, and were delicately and wittily done. The musical members of the programme were of a very high order, I am told, and altogether the occasion showed, in a gratifying way, the culture and ability that is possessed by the younger element of society. ------- Have You Registered? ------- Remember the referendum. Remind all your friends that registration closes in Boston and other Massachusetts cities October 16. Let every woman who thinks her opinion worthy to be counted in the government of her town and city say so. Let every woman who respects herself and her sex register and vote yes. Let every woman who loves her country and values good government and honest politics go herself and get all her neighbors to go with her to the registrars this week. The Massachusetts Referendum is not well understood. In brief, it is a chance for men and women to express their opinions upon the question, "Is it expedient that municipal suffrage be granted to women?" Woman's Journal. The Woman's Era. 11 Virginia. Rosa D. Bowser, Editor. ------- In my last article I mentioned the fact of the incarceration in the prisons in Richmond of three colored women charged with the murder of a white woman in Lunenburg County. The case has created great interest even beyond the borders of Virginia. The lawyers for the women, who will be paid by general subscription, assisted by the Woman's League, have been untiring in their efforts to secure a new trial. The counsel applied to Judge Coleman at Amelia, C.H., on September 12, for a new trial, and being refused by him, they at once sought the aid of the Supreme Court, then in session in Staunton, Va. We are rejoiced to say that a writ of error has been granted by the Supreme Court, and they are almost sure of a new trial. Time has been granted in which the matter may be thoroughly investigated. It is hardly probable that the new trial, if granted, will occur before January. The Woman's League, of which your correspondent has the honor of being president, raised between August 9 and September 16 the nice little sum of $429.11, to assist this case, and expect by woman's effort to reach $500 in a few days more. The Independent Order of St. Luke held its annual session in the Navy Hill Hall at Richmond, for four days, beginning August 27. The session was a harmonious one, and much business was transacted for the order. The annual meeting for 1896 will be held in Baltimore, Md. The Grand Fountain U.O. of T.R. convened in their hall, 604-608 No. Second street, from September 3 during the remainder of that week. From the reports of the Grand Master, General Secretary, Cashier of the Bank, and Real Estate Chief, much success has attended the work of this order during the past year. Their business transactions for the year amounted to over $295,000, showing an increase over the previous year of more than $116,000. This organization will be represented in all of its departments at the Atlanta Exposition. The armory for colored soldiers, built by this city, has been completed and turned over to Major Johnson. The building is a credit to the city fathers, and an ornament to the portion of Leigh street in which it is located. The public schools are at work, having opened September 16. Though there is a cry of hard times, yet the booksellers are kept very busy in supplying the demands upon them. ------- Ohio. Sada J. Anderson, Editor. ------- "When do you leave for your school?" seems to be the question of the day. Teachers from a distance have found Toledo, the "Lady of the Lakes," quite a pleasure resort during the last month, and now they are bidding adieu to friends and pleasant scenes, and will soon be at their own busy life. Our own boys and girls are hunting up their books preparing to begin labor with "Mr. Toil." Five of our young ladies are hieing themselves off to Wilberforce University, as one has well said, the "Oxford of the race." These all seem to be on books intent, while others stand as "reluctantly on the threshold" of knowledge as did the graduates of last June stand on the threshold of a new life. May there be no "Hugh Idles" among our boys and girls this year; but our hope is, that they and "Mr. Toil" will become the best of friends in the pursuit of that which will make them men and women. The streets of Toledo have been looking quite military-like for the past month, as two regiments of soldiers have encamped within her borders. The boys in blue bid adieu to Toledo, vowing to ever cherish fond memories of the city whose summer resorts and attractions are coveted by many of her sister cities. The tramp of the hundreds of feet had scarce ceased to echo, ere the machinery of the Tri-State Fair was set in motion. The city has put on another appearance, and now exhibitors are vieing with each other in the richness and beauty of the products of their own labor. After the fair, then? We know not what will be the program in general, but the event nearest 12 THE WOMAN'S ERA. our hearts is the celebration of the Emancipation Proclamation, for which we are making great preparations. After this is over, then I suppose Toledo will relapse into the same busy city as of old. Some of the steamers plying between different summer resorts and the city have made their last trip for the season, and those beautiful “moonlights” on the inviting waters of the Maumee alright thing of the past. “The lost to site, to memory dear.” Thus life goes on! September, 1895. The many readers of Ohio will, I know, give this issue of the ERA a cordial welcome. So many of the subscribers say that they are anxiously awaiting every number. We are striving to get our woman's Journal into every home, and we earnestly ask every Ohio reader to assist us in this well begun work. Let us retain for our grand old state the position that she has always held in every progressive movement, that of being in the front ranks. Dear readers, will you help me by sending me the names of those whom you think would enjoy reading the mouthpiece of so many noble women? We cannot afford to stand with arms akimbo and hope for the advancement of our women, but we must pitch into the battle with an earnest prayer for success and such a glorious cause, and the reward will be ours. Who will be the first to help me in making the Ohio department a great success? Send the desired information to my address, P. O. Box 360, Toledo, Ohio. Mrs. Lottie Jackson, the amiable and dignified artist of the Bay City, Mich., spent quite a while with her friends, Mrs. Hattie Hicks. Mrs. Jackson is one of whom we all feel proud, because of her achievements in the line of art. She has had her work on exhibition throughout Michigan and is now exhibiting at the Atlanta Exposition. Now that the warm season is over the clubs of Springfield and Toledo will resume work. It is a very good work that these clubs are doing for the development of the race. It is our misfortune, however, not to be able to get these clubs in the federation before this issue, but our Ohio women are busy women and their duties so manifold that some things have to wait. However, none can outstrip these energetic, ambitious women when once started. Prof. Mayzeek, the nephew of Mrs. Blackwood, our champion in the cause of woman suffrage, made a flying visit to relatives and friends in this city, and then was off again to fill his position in the high school of Louisville, Ky., where he is professor of natural science. Our own Bishop Arnett has been with us again. He delivered the address at our emancipation celebration on "The Duty of the Hour." It would seem there could be nothing left for us to say that would add anything to the commendatory comments so generally expressed on the address of Booker T. Washington at the opening of the Atlanta Exposition. And yet we must add our tribute of gratitude for the dignity his sensible speech lent to the cause for which his nice discrimination, fine sense of the fitness of things, his tact and moderation fit him to be a safe and reliable advocate. A RARE OPPORTUNITY The best known preventive to consumption is climate, and it is generally conceded that Colorado has the best anti-consumption climate in America. Hundreds come every year to Denver, hoping to prolong life or regain health; many of them do so who would otherwise meet early death. The climate of Denver, dry, pure and sunny, with its elevation of one mile above sea level, effectually cures all incipient lung diseases. Therefore parents having children predisposed to lung trouble are advised to send them to Denver to pursue their studies. The fine public schools and the Denver University afford unsurpassed educational facilities. mrs. Ensley will take into her home a limited number of girls and young ladies desiring to get the benefit of the climate while attending school. She will give special attention to home training and physical culture, particularly to chest expansion, diet, and healthful dressing, while superintending their course at the public schools/ When private instruction is preferred the best teachers will be secured. For further information address MRS. E.P. ENSLEY, 1755 Ogden St., Denver, Col. Refers by permission to Mr. Nathaniel T. Allen of West Newton English and Classical School. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 13 THE WOMAN'S ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA, The organ of the National Federation of Afro-American Women, and devoted to the interests of the Women's Clubs, Leagues and Societies throughout the country. Published monthly, in Boston, by Josephine St. P. Ruffin, Florida R. Ridley, 103 Charles Street. SUBSCRIPTIONS. Per Annum, - - - - - $1.00 Single Copies, - - - - - .10 Club Rates, one hundred copies - - 7.00 Subscriptions Payable in Advance. EDITORIAL WHY AND WHEREFORE. Letters continue to come in from our regular correspondents containing inquiries about the result of the conference—why some things went as they did, and how some other things are expected to go in the future. This method is taken of answering all at once. From the first question, and the one most often asked—"Why was not the caller of the convention made the president of the permanent organization formed?"—it would seem that the idea prevails that the convention owed a debt it failed to pay. This is wrong; any debt of courtesy owing the promoter of the meeting was cancelled, and the ambition and desire of the Era Club president fully satisfied, by the opportunity given her to direct the work as she had planned it. She neither desired nor would accept any further official responsibilities. Doubtless the choice of the nominating committee was a surprise to most of the members, to the recipient of the honor of the office of President of the Federation as much as any, and perhaps for a time a disappointment to those who honestly felt that the success of the movement depended on the experience of the leader, while in is formative state. But "Vox populi, vox Dei" we now believe will be shown to be true in the choice made; and that the convention builded better than it knew, will be shown by the good work emanating from that hive of intellectual, moral and industrial activity, Tuskegee. Mrs. Washington, surrounded as she is by a corps of capable, enthusiastic lady teachers, has a larger field and better equipment for the work to be done than any other possible candidate for the office to which she was chosen, and we will all hold up her hands and help the good work along. The other question as to whether there are to be tow national federations is easily answered. No! The convention unanimously voted that from this delegate body a national organization be formed. "looking to a union with the Woman's League of Washington," which in order to meet an emergency and grasp an opportunity to make a creditable showing for themselves, their race, and the cause they were invited to represent, had been obliged to call themselves "national"? to be eligible to membership in the council held in Washington in March last. This action had to be taken hurriedly, and nothing but praise is due the Washington League for rising to the opportunity and using any fair means to make the most of it. This was expediency necessarily used for reasons given. The convention held in July was the first one ever held by our women, and as most of the states and territories were represented, either by delegates or letters, can honestly be termed national in its scoped, and the only legitimate source from which a national organization could spring. A few of us saw and appreciated the embarrassment of the situtaion, and had more confidence been shown in the presiding officers's attempt to show impartial justice to all, a plan would have been suggested that possibly might have settled the whole matters, without the compromise of the dignity of any individual or organization. There is still no reasonable bar to a harmonious union, and only those who are not honest in their professed desire to help along this woman's movement will erect one. A meeting of the executive committee of the new federation was being arranged for, but an unusual number of sad happenings in the families of the chairman of th brad and the secretary of the federation, has retarded the work When a meeting is held, it is hoped the action of the board will so straighten out, harmonized matters, and cement the union that at the annual meeting the fact may be announced that the country is girded by a band of earnest, unselfish workers for the the cause that needs us. Names for our subscription list continue to pour in. If only the cash accompanied all these names, the work could be enlarged and strengthened and life be made easier for overworked editors. Among the recent subscriptions sent in are many from free, college, school and club libraries/ We should be pardoned for recording this fact with pride. OUR ILLINOIS EDITOR. An Opportunity to See and Hear Her. Beside being a regular contributor to newspapers and other current literature, Mrs. Fannie Barrier Williams has adopted lecturing as a profession, and is now under the management of the Slayton Lyceum Bureau of Chicago. As usual, she delivered one in the midsummer course of Sunday lectures given each year in ALl Souls' Church, Chicago, Aug. 25, when she took for her theme "The Strength and Weakness of Religious Teaching in the South." Circulars are at hand containing a list of subjects to be treated through the season of '95-'96, also extracts from leading newspapers highly commendatory of the lectures and her addresses, of which the most popular are "What will you do with our women?" "Religion and the American Negro"; "Prudence Crandall, or a Modern Canterbury Tale"; "Opportunities of Western Women"; "Opportunities and Responsibilities of American Colored Women." An opportunity will soon be afforded New Englanders to hear Miss Williams, when she will lecture (probably in Park Street Church) under the patronage of a committee selected from a number of Women's Clubs. Miss Libbie C. Anthony, who was made treasurer of the new federation is superintendent of department colored work of the Missouri W. C. T. U. She came to the conference as a representative of that union, and her earnest interest for the temperance cause, together with her general all-round capacity for public work, won for her the respect and confidence of all who met her, and the stating of the fact that the res- olution endorsing the work and methods of the W.C. T.U. was not found in any way to reflect upon her. The copy of the Era sent Mrs. Anthony marked in a way to give a false impression, was evidently done with malicious intent by some one who, ever since the calling of the women together, has been actively en- gaged in trying to hurt the Era and the cause it lives to advance. Ward Nine, Boston, has not always been proud of her representatives to the Massachusetts Leg- islature. "Our" candidate has sometimes made us wish he represented anybody rather than us. In William L. Reed, the young man nominated at the caucus, Sept. 25, it is thought we have a nominee who, from what is known of his good from sense, intelligence and tact, will not misrepresent nor mortify constituents. We will give him our vote by proxy, because he stands for woman suffrage and other good causes. The advertisement of "The Fruitland Colony Co.," which has appeared for several months in this paper, having attracted considerable attention and many inquiries from possible investors, the editor of the California department of the Era at our request has carefully investigated the matter, and in a letter, which came too late for publication this month, gives a glowing, graphic description of the possibilities to investors in these fertile lands, either for speculation, fruit culture, or for homes. She emphasizes the fact that, for mod- erate sum, investors living at a distance may have their acres cultivated by experienced farmers, and need to be present only on time to receive profits. We consider this a rare chance for small investors. What is this A. P. A. ? What its Plans? Who its Candidates? What its Principles? Where can we join? For full information, send 2-ct. stamp for -or ask your newsdealer for-or send 50 cts. for 3 mos. trial subscription of -the paper which advocates straight A. P. A. principles-THE AMERICAN CITIZEN, 7 Bromfield St., Boston. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mrs. J. F. A. Gardiner, 128 ALder St., Pittsfield, Mass. Will accommodate a few private boarders during the summer months. Five minutes walk from maple woods. Terms reasonable. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- F. A. GREENLEAF, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in PAPER HANGINGS, 51 Court Street, Near Scollay Square, Boston. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MRS. H. L. KEMP, Artistic Dressmaking and Millinery, 179 FRANKLI AVENUE, Near Myrtle, BROOKLYN, N. Y. Imported styles on hand. Competence dressmakers always in attendance. THE WOMAN'S ERA COLORADO Elizabeth Piper Ensley, Editor -------------------------------------------- After the spring election many women who had been foremost in advocating equal suffrage were heard to exclaim,"I wish women never had the ballot!" They had began to fear the verification of what had been predicted, that woman suffrage would add to the political difficulties which were already sufficiently complicated. The realization of their powerlessness to improve the mode of political warfare at once, discouraged them from the moment, but to their credit be it said they lost little time in vain regrets. The earnest women who truly desire municipal reform, conferred together as to the best means of bringing it about. The Civic Federation of Denver was the best results of that conference. In the declaration of its principles the Federation knows no creed, party or nationality, and welcomes to its assistance all organizations that make for order, philanthropy and right. The object of the Federation into investigate the condition and needs of out city, and to promote by education and cooperation a higher public spirit and a better social order; to separate city and county affairs from state and national politics; to endeavor to secure the nomination and election of competent and trustworthy persons for public office, irrespective of party and creed, and to see that appointive offices are not used for political purposes; to tis, and to federate the moral forces of the city, and to promote in all ways the welfare, order and prosperity of the city of Denver. The Federation seeks to accomplish these ends on philanthropic and industrial affairs, committee on public morals, committee on resolutions. The women of the Federation are not spending their time theorizing only, but have begun to work practically. Instead of trying to sweep " The cobwebs out of the sky, " as is too often the case, they have begun right here on earth, and then not at the front door, but even at the alley gate. A woman, a good suffragist and a housekeeper, had notices that the garbage collector, in his tour through the alley, turned the contents out of the can not into the wagon but out on the ground, where it was left. Complaints of this kind led to an investigation by the women, which resulted in their learning upon what an economical plan the garbage contractor was running his branch of the work, not in his favor of the city, however, but in his own interest. The drivers of the wagons, instead of removing from all premises the refuse there deposited, had been insteucted to take away only certain kinds which could be sold to hog ranches. The sale of this paid all running expenses, thus leaving the contractor fee to enjoy his salary of $9,800 yearly. Dr. Mary Bates has made a bid for the contract at $8,000. She promises to turn over to the city all over $3,000, with which to build a much-needed addition to the insane asylum. If Chicago can award this contract to a woman, why should not Denver, the capital of an equal suffrage state. Whoever has the contract is supposed to own the wagons which, according to the ordinance, must be made of uniform size with all sanitary improvements. Its is not for drivers to discriminate as to the kind to be removed, but to remove all refuse that threatens life or health. MISSOURI Josephine Silone Yates. Editor [This issue edited by Mrs. Luellen Williams] Trusts and Monopolies - How to Correct the Evil There are so many problems of gigantic proportions confronting the American people - problems the settlement of which will entail immeasurable outlay of brain power and the expenditure of countless dollars, it, indeed, they all can be settled without bloodshed. The labor problem, immigration problem, negro 16 THE WOMAN'S ERA. problem and the monopoly problem are among the chief ones that are puzzling the brains of statesmen. The monopoly problem takes pre-eminence, because it oppresses not only some of the people, but all of the people. Trusts and monopolies are simply anther form of taxation -- taxation in disguise; and disguised taxation is a mild form of oppression. When the few are oppressed, we should sympathize ; when we are oppressed, we should be alive to the danger menacing us, and, with united effort and determination, impede the growth of that which endangers liberty and prosperity. Nay, more; the resistance should be carried on with the view of ultimately rooting out the great evils. To these particular evils may be traced half the ills that the American people have to bear. The have obtained their foothold through questionable manipulation on part of legislators and politicians, as well as by the cajoling of towns and cities into granting great privileges at the people's expense. When these monsters have gained foothold, they proceed to get in possession of every dollar possible, no matter how hard the people are squeezed and ground down. This has gone on from year to year until peace in driven out, one class of citizens is arrayed against another, and war between capital labor seems imminent. Strikes and riots show the unrest of the people, and point to a time when anarchy will supplant good government. The removal of trusts and monopolies will remove the source of much that irritates the people. No nation can be prosperous and happy when the very life blood is being sapped from the laboring class, which is, and forever must be, the foundation of a country. There must be something wrong when the toiling millions are stricken with poverty and crying ever for succor. Here is a case in which the fate of a nation cannot differ long from the fate of her individuals. What right have a few men to control the gas supply, electric lighting, street car service, railways, telegraphy lines, canals, wharves, docks and harbors? A practical business man, not long ago, illustrated to an association of gas companies how gas can be manufactured and sold at 50 cents a thousand feet, and that, too, with a handsome profit. Mrs. James H. Crews, a member of the Women's League, was called away from here family and friends, Aug. 7. Mr. Crews, his aged mother-in-law, and his four motherless children have the sympathy of the community. Mrs. Crews was, indeed, a helpmate to her husband and a benefit to those about her. In church work she did whatever her hands could find to do and lent all the aid she possibly could to the work of the League. At her funeral Allen Chapel was crowded with friends, come to pay their last respects. Kansas City, Mo. Many will be glad to know that a little boy has come to the home of the editor of this department, and that mother and son are doing well. Mrs. Frances Jackson and Miss Cora Brady, having spent a very pleasant visit here, returned on the 11th of their duties in the office of the recorder of deeds at Washington, D. C. St. Louis, Mo. St. Paul A. M. E. Church is in a good condition financially. From a boat excursion and a rally last month more than $800 was realized. The Central Baptist Church gave an excursion that was well attended, despite the rain storm. The Orphans' Home is now upon a very good basis. A collection is taken up every fourth Sunday at all the churches for its benefit. All the children will be taken on an excursion the 26th of this month. The Keystone Y. W. C. T. U. is still alive, but is taking a vacation from socials and banquets. The summer school conducted by Prof. O. M. Wood and Mr. A. J. Gossin is doing good work. The Epworth League and the Central Baptist Literary Society each is overcrowded every Wednesday and Monday evening, respectively. The Trilby Club took an outing at Fruit Hill Garden, Aug. 7. Just as we go to press the sorrowful news comes by telegram of the death of Mrs. N. W. Cuney at Galveston, Texas; and also that of Mrs. Impey, mother of Miss Catharine Impey, at Street Somerset, Eng. THE WOMAN'S ERA 17 CALIFORNIA S. WILLIE LAYTON, EDITOR. ONE WEEK IN THE PARIS OF AMERICA. [photograph] "Go girdle the face of the globe, yet you will find no such waters as those that thrash and thunder here." San Francisco is every whit the gay, cosmopolitan city it is reputed to be, and is essentially "the city of the sea," with its magnificent array of waters, grand and glorious. The awe-stricken beholder sees and feels, but cannot express the "tremendousness of the waters here." During our sojourn the weather was on its best behavior, and withheld fog and chilling winds. After being welcomed by our genial host and hostess, our attention was paid to the business that call us to 'Frisco, the Afro-American Congress, the first assemblage of its kind ever held in California. Mayor Sutro welcomed the delegation, President Morton responded; then followed three days of excellent programme, diversity of opinion, and business. The work of the Congress was commended and sustained by the press and citizens. To quote from the San Francisco Call and Examiner: "There is no doubt that the colored people of the state are prosperous and progressive.... An observer at any of the meetings would have seen a deep comprehension of the position the colored race holds among the dominant whites of the country, their elevation and patriotism and determination to share in the benefits of our government and civilization. The Negro, unlike the Oriental, is not an alien. Not only is he politically equal to the white man, but when he is either educated, wealthy, or behaved, he commands the same respect and wields an influence. More than that, he is thoroughly assimilable and assimilated and knows no life or customs different to the white race, has a sweetness of temper, a kindliness, a geniality, unselfish devotion to friends, unequalled in any other race in the world." Mrs. C. Pearson's paper on the "Aims of the Association for a Home for Aged and Infirm Colored People," was well received, and responded to by a liberal subscription. Another excellent paper by Mr. Magee, on the "Public Waiter," ERA'S correspondent, "Powers of Convention Work," - in which the term, "Afro-American," was questioned, - brought forth the following press comment: "This brings up the great question as to whether or not they should regard themselves as a class; whether that is the highest expression and patriotism, and whether it would not be best for them to depend solely, as all citizens should, on individual merit and the right and expediency of discouraging any tendency to constitute them a class. The existence of classes means a separation of tastes and pursuits, and exclusion its manifestation. As the Negroes constitute only a twelfth of the country's population, it might be well for them to consider seriously the wisdom of recognizing any principle that would bring exclusion to operate upon or against them." The following statistics were compiled: Negro population in California, 36,500, (this is considered a boom view); voters, 7,500; value real estate, $9,420,000; professional men, 324; students, 5,000; merchants, 213; farmers, 526; churches, 53; civic societies, 12; newspapers, 4; mechanics, 620; electricians, 12; capitalists, 9; mine owners, 81; civil engineers, 3; federal officers, 6; civil service, 5; artists, 130; transfer and express, 293; mill owners, 1; manufacturers, 3; musical, bands, 15; women's enterprises not reported. During the session of the Congress the A.O.F. celebrated their fifth anniversary. This order knows neither race nor creed. As we sat there viewing the splendid audience, order, and array of officers, of mixed races (though by no means a novel picture), the question would force itself: the work of our Congress or this quiet individual fitness according fellowship, - which will soonest make no more a Negro problem? LITERATURE DEPARTMENT. MEDORA W. GOULD. The career of Henry Oscar Houghton, who died at his home in Cambridge lately, at the age of seventy-two, furnishes a striking illustration of what the world calls success. He began his business life at the age of thirteen, as an appren- [Left Page] 18 THE WOMAN'S ERA. tice in the printing office of the Burlington, Vt., Press. In 1849 he opened the printing office in Cambridge, which under his excellent management, afterwards became the widely known Riverside Press. His hard common sense was his most distinctive quality, and this, with his large, broad conception of business and his intellectual widening of his business into a profession, was what placed him in the foremost rank of American publishers. He was a good judge of literature, and for publication selected only the best books and such that were in demand by the public. He also knew how to educate the public up to an appreciation of the books he published. The Whittier dinner, the Longfellow dinner, and other gatherings and projects of which he was the promoter, have done much to show his appreciation of our eminent authors. His aim was that the composing room, the press room and the bindery of the Riverside Press should be unexcelled, and one can feel assured that a book bearing on its title page "Riverside Press" represents the best matter, the best printing and best binding of its kind. Mr. Houghton was not only a successful business manager, but was also a beloved employer, whose workmen remained with him for many years, a circumstance which not only emphasizes his excellent business methods, but testifies to the esteem in which he was held. Among the man enterprises originated by him was a cooperative bank for the benefit of his employes, which paid its depositors an interest of from six to ten per cent. The estimation with which he was held extended to the city of Cambridge, which has chosen him mayor, and many years will elapse before he will cease to be remembered and honored. A recent writer discussing books and reading says, "That an exclusive diet of novel reading is extremely debilitating is proved by one series of facts, which is observable in part of the civilized world. Men and women among the reading classes no longer marry in anything like such numbers as they formerly did, and the reason is, they have no pluck in them to face lives of Spartan simplicity on limited incomes. The result is particularly disastrous to women, inasmuch as it prevents many of them ever marrying at all. The physiological moral is that it would be vastly better to read novels for recreation only, and to read solid books which exercise and develop the mind, and both men and women would have better [Top of Page] and stronger brains, would marry earlier, and face the world more hopefully and successfully." The American Publishing Company of Hartford, Conn., announce for early publication, "Joining the Navy, or Abroad with Uncle Sam," by John H, Paynter, formerly of the U. S. Navy but now in the government's employ at Washington. It is the first race contribution to Navy literature and will undoubtedly have a very large sale. It will be fully illustrated and sold only by subscription. Dr. Jerome H. Riley's new book, "The Philosophy of Negro Suffrage," will soon be issued by the American Publishing Company, Hartford, Conn., and will make a most attractive and readable volume. An English sculptor has completed a bust of Robert Louis Stevenson, for which the novelist gave sittings shortly before his death. Alphonse Daudet says of Henry M. Stanley, "He is the largest reservoir of human energy known to me since Napoleon. I admire him more than anything in the world." It is prophesied that Rudyard Kipling is to write the great American novel - a novel that will embrace all sections of the country, every class of people, and discuss all the leading questions of the day. The Bohemian Club of Pittsburg is about to erect a memorial to Stephen G. Foster, the author of "Old Folks at Home," "Old Kentucky Home," and other well known songs. George Meredith has lately become almost wholly deaf. During the past week it was stated that Miss Miriam Benjamin, a Washington school teacher, was the first colored woman who had applied for and obtained a patent. The invention is a gong and signal chair for hotels. She hopes to have it adopted by the U. S. House of Representatives. The member pushes an electric button on his chair and calls the page to him by means of an index which attracts his attention. The invention will be popular in hotels, as one waiter will be able to wait on twelve of fifteen guests. In congress it is expected to do away with the clapping of hands around the speaker's desk. [Right Page] THE WOMAN'S ERA. 19 TEXAS CORA D. SMITH, EDITOR. [Photo of woman] Hurrah! The successful normalites are many and full of rejoicing. The large number who were successful and secured certificates attests the efficiency of the work done and does great credit to the instructors throughout the state. Those who did not take advantage of the chance for such preparation for the coming season are now regretting it. Moral: Never fail to attend some normal every year. Even if you do not wish a certificate, you get the newest ideas, and a teacher must keep abreast of the times or be left far in the rear in the onward march of progress. The better you are prepared, the better salary you can command; and no one in these degenerate days can pretend to despise the filthy lucre, even if he is devoted to his profession. The schools have opened and both teachers and pupils are hard at work. We. in the south, labor under peculiar difficulties. The cotton patch is our inveterate foe to rapid advancement. Parents who manage well all the winter and spring without the money which their children cannot earn in the cotton fields at those seasons, cannot be made to understand that to give their children the benefit of a whole nine months' session would be more profitable in the end than to keep them out from three to five months picking cotton. In this way the majority of children here get only four or five months' schooling. The Congregationalist is publishing a number of interesting letters from women in all walks of life discussing marriage - why they do or do not marry. Some of the reasons are rather ludicrous. [Top of Page] Men generally assign the reason for non- marriage to the ideas advanced by the "new woman." I have been discussing this question with a number of friends and fine that the new woman has nothing to do with it. It is simply the fault of the age in which we live. There are few woman who would not marry under favorable circumstances, but in this age on cannot accept what her grandmother or great-grandmother was proud to take; not that one disdains it, but that she would lose caste. The society in which she moved before marriage would turn its back upon her if she could not afford to have a nicely furnished house and entertain once in a while. In the good old times of our grandmothers the habits of the people were simple. Fine dress was almost unknown. But now these things are all changed. This is the age of luxury, and even the poorest nowadays have some habits which in those days would have been considered luxurious. We should not be blamed for not marrying. This matter is in the hands of the "lords of creation," and unless they take the initiative steps, we must perforce wait, and, as Mariana in the Moated Grange, sigh, "My life is dreary. He cometh not!" (Though few of us have the time now to sit and sigh.) The one good thing which the new woman has done for us is to emancipate us and give us employment in every field of labor, so that if our wandering half fails to join us on this side of the river Styx, we are so busy that we fail to note the omission. Again, a man who has an income of only six or seven hundred dollars finds this not much more than he can live on economically, and so hesitates to offer himself to a woman who is making four or five hundred dollars a year. They both have tastes hard to overcome, in which his limited income will not permit them to indulge; so he stands off, casts a longing glance, and passes by on the other side; or he puts his fate to the test, is accepted , and they begin the fight to keep the wolf from their door. In nine cases out of ten, the wolf enters anyhow, perhaps through the illness of one or both, and they soon discover, too late, that they made a mistake. But it is nevertheless the fault of the age. The secretary of the State Teachers' Association is preparing to get out the minutes of the association so as to have them in Atlanta at the opening of the Cotton Exposition. We regret that we shall have the honor(?) of the Corbett-Fitzsimmons fight. No other state seems to want it. 20 THE WOMAN'S ERA. SOCIAL NOTES. BOSTON. Cards have been receive this month announcing the marriage of Miss Maggie Robinson to Mr. Frank Hyman, at Washington, D. C. Of Sarah Caroline, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel T. Allen, to Mr. Patrick Henry Cooney, at West Newton, Mass. Of Grace Forrest, daughter or Mrs. Agnes Gordon, to Dr. James Marshall, at Brookline, Mass. And of Mary Adelaide, daughter of Mr. and Rms. Osroe W. Phillips, at St. Paul, Minn., the present home of the Phillips family, to Mr. Theodore Lyman Southack. Mrs. Phillips, the mother of the bride, belongs to an old Salem, Mass. family, and will be recalled by the school girls of twenty-five years ago, to whom Salem was the intellectual Mecca to which their ambitions led them, as a handsome, bright girl of unusual independence and individuality. She studied music abroad under the best masters, and her home is now the center of the best musical culture at St. Paul. Congratulations to all these grooms, for we personally know all these brides to be charming. Congratulations to our Kansas editor, Mrs. J. Silone Yates, on the advent of a boy into the family. If the law of heredity holds good in this case, this youngster should in time make a deep impression upon the intellectual life of his day and generation. To Captain and Mrs. Williams of Chelsea, for another boy--tow in two years. Looks as if the Captain had decided upon having an infantry company all his own. Miss Annie Blanchard of Salem has received an appointment as teacher in the Normal and Industrial College at Tallahassee, Florida. Mrs. Arianna C. Sparrow has gone on to Brooklyn, N. Y., to be the vocal soloist in a piano recital given by Miss Florence Johnson of the New England Conservatory. Friends and admirers of the sterling character and poetic talent of Elija W. Smith will be pained to learn of his critical illness. An unusual number of visitors came late to Boston this summer, among them Mrs. Rainey, widow of Congressman Rainey, who came up from her present home to place her daughter in Wellesley College. Nearly the whole of Miss Rainey's class entered Wellesley with her. Mrs. Williams, president of the Phyllis-Wheatley Club, and principal of the High school of New Orleans, and Miss Williams of the same city (a distinguished looking pair) tried hard to see all of Boston in a stay of ten days. Mr. and Mrs. DeSoto Tucker, of Florida, impressed all who met them with their refined manners and christian character. Mrs. Tucker is a sister of Rev. Hutchins Bishop, rector of St. Phillips Church, New York. Mrs. Richardson, of St. John, spent two days in Boston with Mrs. Sparrow. Mrs. E. A. Duffield, of Washington, D. C., has been spending some time in Boston, quietly looking over the field for further educational advantages. Miss Jennie Hyley, sister of Mr. Andrew Hyley, has entered actively upon the profession of a trained nurse in one of the hospitals of Washington. Rev. Father Field went on as a delegate to the conference of colored Episcopalians at Washington, Sept. 25. rev. O. M. Waller was elected president. Miss Julia Allston spent a part of her vacation with her friend, Miss Florence Smith, at Jamaica Plain. Mr. Fred. C. Dickerson, formerly in the War Department at Washington, has opened an office in the Carter Building on Somerset street, near beacon, where he is preparing to do a big business in fancy illuminated lettering on cards, etc. Mrs. J. H. Lewis has placed her daughter Mary at Bradford Academy, while her oldest son, Harry, has gone to Andover to further pursue his education. Mr. Joseph Lee of Auburndale has charge of both the upper and lower cafés at the Mechanic Association's Centennial Exhibition. He is an exhibitor as well. Beside the lunch quarters in Machinery Hall stands his patent bread mixer, which, while showing off its utility and speed, mix s bread for the consumption of the hundreds of employers and visitor to the fair. "Lee's Bread Crumber" is another of his useful inventions on exhibition there. Another new invention that attracts attention at the fair is the fibre carpet. Hassocks and pillows are now filled and made of the fibre, a material which has sprung into favor because of its durability and sanitary properties. A very pleasant gathering took place last Friday evening at the residence of Dr. Stanford, 649 Shawmut avenue, when the committee who furnished his house were entertained by the Dr. and Mrs. Stanford. NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS. You are interested in the advancement of the race and want to do something to help on the work? Then pass the paper along and urge your friends to subscribe. You can no do better work than this. Any one sending a two-cent stamp will receive a sample copy of the ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 21 J. R. YOUNG & CO. Will be glad to serve afternoon teas, spreads, wedding breakfasts and dinners, salads, croquettes, ice creams, ices and confections. Polite waiters. All orders promptly attended to. will call to arrange for parties on receipt of Postal. 15 Bow Street, Cambridge. TELEPHONE 23-2 27 Jerome Street, W. Medford. TELEPHONE, ARLINGTON 27-2. FIRST CLASS HELP, With good recommendations, for all branches of work in Private Families, Hotels and Boarding Houses supplied from MRS. J. S. KEMP'S EMPLOYMENT OFFICE, Office, 103 Revere St., BOSTON. FEMALE HELP A SPECIALTY. MRS. ELIZABETH COOLEY Is prepared to give First Class Accommodations to a few boarders at reasonable rates at the old stand 62 Phillips St., Boston. MISS C. L. HOWARD, Fashionable Dressmaker, Latest Paris Fashions. All Work Strictly First Class. Button Holes Made. 37 Buckingham St, BOSTON. MISS L. M. STEWART, Artistic Dress Cutting and Making. Also Corset Making by Measurement. First Class Recommendations and Terms Reasonable. 19 Brewery St., CAMBRIDGE. MRS. E. DOMINIQUE, Dressmaker and Fur Sewer. Fur Cleansing and Repairing a Specialty. Best of References. Work Solicited. 64 PHILLIPS ST., BOSTON. MRS. L. FOSTER, Fashionable Dressmaker. Strictly First Class. Terms Reasonable. Cutting and Basting by the M. E. Quinn System. 1 A MELROSE ST., BOSTON. MRS. M. BLACKMAN, INTELLIGENCE OFFICE. Colored Help a Specialty for Private Families, Hotels, Etc., at Reasonable rates. 193 Cambridge Street, - BOSTON. Near North Grove Street. Belt Line Cars pass the Door. Cambridge Cleansing and Repairing Establishment. We clean by Steam and Naphtha. Dyeing in all its branches. Kid Gloves and Slippers Cleaned. Give us a Trial. C. J. MOORE, 433 Main St. Emerson College of Oratory. Largest School of Elocution and Oratory in America FIVE HUNDRED STUDENTS. Has a thorough and systematic course of study, including a complete system of Physical Training and Voice culture, Natural Rendering. Fall term opens October 15. Address for illustrated Catalogue, HENRY L. SOUTHWICK, Sec'y, Cor. Tremont and Berkeley Sts., Boston, Mass. A. G. McKENZIE OPTICIAN. 156 CHARLES ST., BOSTON. ARTIFICIAL EYES A SPECIALTY THREE DOORS FROM EYE INFIRMARY. TELEPHONE, 219-3 TREMONT. 22 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Industrial Building. Boys' Hall. Stone Hall. Girls' Hall. ATLANTA UNIVERSITY, Atlanta, Ga. Collegiate and Normal Courses. Enlarged corps of teachers. Industrial training in domestic and mechanic arts, including printing. Instruction in both instrumental and vocal music and in elocution. High grade in every respect. A few deserving and needy students can be aided. Term begins Wednesday, October 2. For catalog, address President HORACE BUMSTEAD. SUBSCRIBE FOR MRS. CASNEAU'S GUIDE TO ARTISTIC Dress Cutting and Making. It is entirely original and is sure to satisfy a long felt want of young dressmakers, women who do their sew- ing at home, and those who anticipate learning the trade as the means of gaining a livelihood. The book is self-teaching and can be used with any system or with paper patterns. The order of arrangement places the rules where they will come in reg- ular order for cutting and making a gown. In fact, the aim has been to make the work eminently practical for the average woman. Liberal inducements to agents everywhere. For further information and cir- culars, send stamp to Mr. Elmer E. Casneau, MANAGER, 9 Greenwich St., BOSTON, MASS. BOSTON Condensed Milk Co's Plain condensed (unsweetened) Milk is the best known food for infants. Best article in the world for a cup of coffee. Sold in jars at the office, 24 Park Sq., Boston Delivered three times per week. ENDORSEMENT. I have used the plain condensed milk and found it worked like a miracle in transforming my weak, puny baby into a strong, plump one, after all other foods had failed. MRS. McGILL, 10 Lindall Place, Boston. THE AMERICAN WRINGER CO. BRANCH STORE, 13 & 15 BROADWAY EXTENSION, Boston, Mass. Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers. All kinds of Wringers and Sweepers repaired Orders by mail promptly attended to. E. A. LIBBY, New good received by steamer every week. We never have an opening. Always ready to show goods. MILLINERY The old reliable house retains the same stand, 19 Temple Place, Boston. THE NEW WORLD TYPEWRITER Price, $15.00 A useful and elegant present for ladies and gentlemen. Over 100,00 in use. Perfectly simple, practical, and durable. Writes 77 characters. Capitals and small letters. Never gets out of order. Perfect alignment always. No instruction required. SEND FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE. The Typewriter Improvement Co. 4 K Post Office quare, BOTON, Mass. Agents Wanted. POINT PLEASANT Will be opened June 1 to accomodate a few select boarders. For terms address MRS. E. E. CRISPELL, WEST STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. P. O. Box 45. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 23 THE SUCCESS OF THE SEASON MRS. N. F. MOSSELL'S BOOK, THE WORK OF THE AFRO-AMERICAN WOMAN The First Edition has been nearly exhausted. An edition of 5000 is to be issued March 1st. "Above all, let the negro know that the elevation of his race can come only and will come surely through the elevation of its women."--Senator Geo. F. Hoar. Miss Emma K. White, one of Chester's most successful teachers, says: "The vol- ume entitled The Work of the Afro-American Women is a great success at this point." Miss Julia Songow, Germantown, Pa.: "I have sold seventy-five copies of the Work of the Afro-American Woman within two weeks." Mrs. Jennie Euola Johnson of Camden, N.J.: "I have been very successful in my canvass of The Work of the Afro-American Woman." Agents Wanted. Liberal Inducements Offered. Let students at colleges, teachers who desire to canvass during the summer, apply at once. Very many agents in these two fields of effort have already done well. Price, Red or Brown Cloth, 75 cents, White and Gold, $1. Apply to Mrs. N. F. MOSSELL. 1432 Lombard Street, Philadelphia, Pa. HOUSEKEEPERS SHOULD SEE THE NEW Fibre Carpet. A Soft, Pliable, Odorless Matting, Warm in Winter, Cool in Summer. An Ideal Sanitary Chamber Carpet For all the year round, Sews together and turns under. Does not break or require binding. No odors or germs of disease. Insects do not trouble it. Heavy furniture does not break it. Double faced -- double wear. Artistic colors -- stylish designs. We cordially invite inspection. HODGES FIBRE CARPET CO. Manufacturers and Patentees, 50 Essex St. (cor. Chauncy) Boston, Mass. BOARDING AND LODGING, FIRST CLASS. MRS. W. H. YOUNG, No. 1208 Pine Street, Philadelphia. PRIVATE DINING ROOM. "Violets and Other Tales." A Collection of Short Stories and Poems. By ALICE RUTH MOORE. In Paper Covers, 50c.; Cloth, $1.00. AGENTS WANTED. Apply to ALICE RUTH MOORE, 1924 Palmyra Street New Orleans, La. COPIES FOR SALE AT Office of Women's Era, 103 Charles St., Boston. HOWARD UNIVERSITY. Washington, D. C., July 1, 1895. Furnishes instruction in the following de- partments and courses: Theological, Medical, Dental, Pharma- ceutical, Legal, College, Preparatory, Nor- mal, Musical, and Manual Training, includ- ing practice in carpenter shop, printing office, book bindery, tin shop and sewing school. All students have the privilege of library and reading room without extra charge. Tuition free in all courses except Medical Dental and Pharmaceutical. Term opens September 18. J. E. RANKIN, D.D., L.L.D., President. J. B. JOHNSON, Secretary. 24 THE WOMAN'S ERA. Homes for the People! IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, THE ITALY OF AMERICA. LANDS WITHIN REACH OF POOR MEN'S MEANS. The Fruitland Colony Company, Of LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, Have placed upon the market 20,000 ACRES 20,000 Of the finest land on earth, which they intend to colonize with colored people, and at prices within reach of men of small means. In order to induce investments in these lands we offer 2,000 acres to the first settlers at $20 per acre and guarantee to deliver water to each 20 acres sold, sufficient for irrigation. These lands lie 60 miles north from Los Angeles, and 7 miles from the Southern Pacific R. R., and consist of a rich friable loam, being of sedimentary formation mingled with decomposed granite. The soil is from 4 to 50 feet deep, and is capable of producing everything on earth that grows in this land of wonderful production. It lies at an altitude of 2,500 feet above sea level and is peculiarly the land of the olive and almond. SMALL FARMS are the rule in Southern California and more profit can be realized from 20 acres here than on 160 acres in the East. AFTER 2,000 ACRES HAVE BEEN SOLD the price will be $35.00 per acre. It is not an unusual thing for trees in bearing to yield From $100 to $1000 per Acre. These lands have perfect title and will be sold for one-third cash, balance one, two and three years, with interest at 6 per cent per annum. Full information will be given by applying to H. A. PIERCE, President, or T. M. Gibson, Secretary Room 37, Bryson Block, Los Angeles, California. The Woman's Era. Vol. II. NO. 7. BOSTON, MASS., NOV., 1895 PRICE 10 CENTS NOTES AND COMMENTS A new department will be opened next month —Indiana, conducted by Lillian Thomas Fox, impersonator and dramatic reader, late of the Indianapolis Freeman. Mrs. Fox is now at Atlanta, Ga. The last club to be admitted to the Federation is the Phyllis Wheatley, a report from which, by its able president, Mrs. Williams, appears in this issue. So many fine papers come to us from the women of Kansas City. It is indeed unfortunate that we are not able to print them all, it is said that the literary centre is going west. In the loss of her beautiful baby boy Mrs. Terrell has the sympathy an condolence of her host of friends and admirers. Representatives from the different New England clubs will shortly hold a meeting for the purpose of forming a local federation to co-operate with and be a component part of the national organization formed in July last. The gathering will be in response to a call from the national vice president for New England, Mrs. M.A. Dickerson, and will probably be held in Newport, R.I. A number of the members of the Era Club will make this meeting the excuse for a trip to that beautiful city by the sea, which in the autumn is at its best and balmiest. Mrs. Mathews, (Victoria Earle) president of the Woman's Loyal Union of New York and Brooklyn, is in Boston visiting the Woman's Era Club president, Mrs. Sada J. Anderson, of Toledo, Ohio, is expected soon as a guest in the same house, both she and Mrs. Mathews coming on for a consultation over ways and means for forwarding good works. The next meeting of the Woman's Era Club will be held in the parlors of the Cooley House, Saturday afternoon, Nov. 2. The first hour will be devoted to business, after which an informal reception will be held in honor of the visiting president of the W.L.U. of New York. What promises to be a most interesting occasion is the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the United Daughters of Zion, Thursday evening, November 7, at Zion Church, when there will be congratulatory speeches, music, a collation, and other festive features. A most felicitous time is expected. This beneficent organization , in its fifty years of vigorous existence, has been a prime factor in the prevention of suffering and pauperism among colored people, and as such should receive public recognition. The Mammy Pleasance, referred to by many of our exchanges, and our California correspondent, will be recognized by a few old Bostonians as the mother of Miss Emma Stewart, the adopted daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peyton Stewart. Mr. Stewart had the distinction of starting and successfully carrying on the first gymnasium established in Boston, with the daughter as teacher of the small, select ladies' class. Miss Stewart was greatly admired for her fine personal appearance and sweetness of disposition. All of the old girls will recall the good times at the Boylston Gym over the old Boylston Market, and the departure of the Stewart family to join Mrs. Pleasance in California, where one after another they passed away, a grandson being now the only survivor and heir-at-law to the great wealth accumulated by Mrs. Pleasance. Miss Mabel Grant is organist at the newly organized Congregational Church, of which the Rev. Peter Stanford of Birmingham, England , is pastor, The choir is made up of a large number of young people, and this, with the winsome sweetness of the pastor's English wife, is of great potency in gathering a flock together at Berkeley Temple , where the services are temporarily held. Old Southac, now Phillips St., is keeping pace with the rest of growing Boston. More activity is being displayed in improvements in that street of four short blocks than in any other of the same length in the city, Two school houses and two handsome new churches act as a spur to improvements by property owners on that historic thoroughfare. 2 THE WOMAN'S ERA. MRS BOOKER T. WASHINGTON. CALL TO THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF AFRO-AMERICAN WOMEN. ORGANIZED IN BOSTON, MASS., July 31, 1895 President, Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala.; vice-presidents, Mrs. Mary Dickerson, Newport, R. I., Mrs. Helen Crum, Charleston, S. C., Mrs. Ella L. Mahammit, Omaha, Neb., and Mrs. Mabel Garner, New York; corresponding secretary, Mrs. F. R. Ridley, Boston, Mass.; recording secretary, Miss L. C. Carter, Brooklyn, N. Y.; treasurer, Mrs. L. C. Anthony, Jefferson City, Mo.; chairman executive committee, Mrs. Victoria Matthews, Yew York. TUSKEGEE, Ala., Sept., 1895 "Unity in Diversity," the greatest good of all, and that which will serve to link the heart and hand of every woman in a common cause, should become the watchword of all in this nineteenth century. American history has passed through the varied changes of one hundred and twenty years. Our country stands today strong, mighty and powerful- a verified solution of the "one in many." A casual glance at the history of the nations of the world proves the superior strength of those who are united in purpose over those who are eyeing each other with covert suspicion, delving and scheming for petty, selfish ends, and stirring up anarchy and that strife that "divides man from man an makes him unmerciful to his brother." As the united mothers of ancient Sparta felt the necessity of resolute action in order to develop a vigorous constitution and make strong the emotional natures of their sons, so do our women of America need to feel the importance of a united fixity of purpose in reference to the affairs that relate to the development of the members of our sex; for with unity of purpose and resolute action, our women will receive an impetus that will urge them to a higher plane of mental, moral and physical life. Thirty years ago, over two millions of our women were set free from bondage of soul and body. With few exceptions, such as had been gained by instinct, spiritual instruction, or a kind owner, none had been taught lessons that tended to improve womanhood or motherhood, and their condition was most miserable. Without homes, and with no dep realization of their deplorable condition, many drifted here and there, often falling by the wayside, to helpless amidst their environment to have a desire to lead purer, nobler lives. Not many years and the American Missionary Association and a host of noble workers began to open the doors of their schools to these people. They were stunned and bewildered by the reaction of their freedom from slavery, but the hearts of these former slave mothers began to quicken with th hope of securing the advantages of an education for their children. With those born upon a more favored soil, many of these daughters stand today eager to lend a voice and a helping hand that will gain a reaction from the insidious influences of years of helpless bondage to the tempter, years in the thraldom of indifference, and years in the depths of some teachings that give us discount to lost virtue, degraded motherhood and the consequent tainted atmosphere of hundreds of our homes. True, honored womanhood, enlightened motherhood, and happy, comfortable homes can only be secured by concerted effort on the part of the women of our land. Individual effort has accomplished some good in this direction, but the mighty effect upon the masses unreached will be the result of our future united effort. In the month of July, 1895, Mrs. Josephine St. P. Ruffin of Boston called a three days' conference of colored women for personal exchange of greetings. This meeting did much to inspire and give life to the women whos privilege it was to be present; and the result of this gathering is a national organization of colored women, who have for their purpose the general development of women. In the name of the National Federation of Afro-American Women, I call upon the women of the United States of America to lend us their influence, their interest and their aid. Our poor need to be fed and clothed. Our women must be taught to study for their own advancement. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 3 They need inspiration and encouragement to keep a brave heart. Homemaking must be thought about, child rearing needs attention. Our girls need social purity talks. They must be warned of evil company. They must be brought in closer touch with more that is good and pure. They must be taught to realize that they have a vital part in developing the womanhood of their country. All topics of social, economic and intellectual reform must in turn receive a share of our interest. For these and other reasons we need to form local organizations for local reforms in the cities, in the towns, the villages and country districts of our land. We hope this call will touch many chords of hidden forces that will vibrate and respond, and thus our power as women of a national sisterhood will be strengthened and made more effective. Let every delegate of the national organization answer to this by her individual effort "to uplift, to inspire, to do , to look for the noble purposes of life, and hold them aloft as a banner where those who see its folds waving shall say, 'Behold the influence of goodness, of knowledge and of truth.'" In organizing our forces, we ask the hearty cooperation of the wives of our bishops and ministers, our professional women and other women who see the needs of our sisters and will seek to find a remedy. Any woman or body of women, after forming an organization with this end in view, founded upon a definite plan of work for a definite purpose, and having a president, secretary and other officers, if needed, may become a part of our National Federation by notifying the secretary, Mrs. Florida Ridley, 103 Charles street, Boston, Mass., or the president, Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala. Let us take the words of Milton, who said, "We go through weakness to the greatest strength," and we as a race of women may by constant progress attain that goal. Our gain shall be "Concentration of purpose, forgetfulness of self, interest in the social, educational and moral reforms of the day, enlightened motherhood, intellectual development, individuality, and with all a steady growth in development of noble womanhood." Margaret Washington, Pres. N. F. A. A. W. REPORT OF THE NEWPORT WOMAN'S LEAGUE. "Whatever our hands find to do" is our motto. We shall endeavor to work accordingly. Whenever and wherever we see a possible opportunity. Our plan for the winter's work: For our own improvement we will devote our time to reading what matter we may secure relating to the race and its interests, and will impart all the good we can by doing benevolent and charitable work wherever and whenever we see it needed. Among the objects calling our attention is the Home for Aged Colored Women at Providence. Entertainments will be given for the purpose of procuring funds by which worthy objects coming before us may be assisted Mrs. T. H. JETER, Pres. AID ASKED FOR A WORTH INSTITUTION. EDITOR OF THE WOMAN'S ERA: Kindly allow me space in your widely circulated paper to call the attention of the public to a worthy institution in South Carolina which I have the honor to represent, the Lowry Institute and Industrial School at Mayesville, S. C. This institution was organized in 1889. It was founded by a few poor families who felt the necessity of a longer term in school for their children. We began teaching in a rented house with seventy-five pupils and two teachers. The number increased so rapidly that more teachers were employed. The present enrollment of pupils is two hundred, with three teachers. The indebtedness of the school is $1,000, and seeing the utter impossibility of paying off this debt without help on the first of July, 1895, I was elected and sent out to solicit aid for the institution, that the work so well begun may go on successfully. I was one of the founders of the Institute, and have worked very hard in its interest. I shall be glad of an opportunity to visit all the churches in and around this city for the purpose of asking all friends and well wishers of education to assist in pay off the present indebtedness, or to receive books, money, clothing, etc., that friends may see fit to give for the work. I have recommendations from the leading citizens of my town, which will attest to genuineness of my work and purpose. EMMA J. WILSON, 55 Kendall Street, Boston, Mass. We gladly make room for this plea. Miss Wilson's endorsements are good, and her simple, modest manner will, we predict, make friends for the cause she so earnestly presents. - ED. 4 The Woman's Era. Tuskegee Woman's Club. ------- October 4, on the return of Mrs. B.T. Washington from the Atlanta Exposition she called a meeting of the club to discuss the propriety of a barroom in the Negro Building there. She described the bar, gave the supposed cause of its presence there, the present evil effects, those that will follow, and the lasting disgrace that the sale of intoxicants in this building will reflect upon the entire race. In the discussion that followed it was agreed that the barroom should be condemned, expressions made public and a sentiment created by the public against this evil that should be righted. A committee was appointed to draw resolutions denouncing the bar. It was decided further to send a copy to Commissioner Penn of the Negro Building, to others in charge of Exposition, and to certain papers for publication. Mrs. Josephine T. Washington was appointed chairman of committee, with Mrs. A. Logan and Mrs. Martha Hurd Willis. The names of president and secretary of the club were affixed. The Executive Committee of the Tuskegee Woman's Club, Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Mrs. Josephine T. Washington, Mrs. N.B. Young and Miss M.M. Fleming, have arranged under various heads the following subjects for consideration of the club this first quarter: "Woman and her Work," "Education of Negro Girls," "The Temperance Movement," "The Status of the Negro Ministry," and "Robert Browning" -- life, characteristics of style, Browning Clubs in England. At the first literary meeting of the current year two phases of women's work were discussed. First, "Women in the Home," by Miss M.M. Fleming. She gave but little latitude for the woman in her house outside of the sacred precinct; but pictured the ideal woman in a home -- worth having. "Woman in Business," by Miss Leonora L. Chapman introduced facts and portrayed the business capacity of the new woman with a zest that created a fervor in the breasts of those who are advocating some of her principles, if not her dress. On the evening of Oct. 7 the subject for discussion, "The Education of Negro Girls," was divided under eight heads. First, "The Early Education," by Miss Mattie Child, who recalled the days of toil and pain that attended those who struggled in secret for a little learning. "Present Methods," by Miss Milla Hadley gave a marked contrast over that of years ago and a corresponding feeling of thankfulness was aroused in her hearers. "Defects in Present System," were strongly pointed out by Mrs. Young, who gave the danger of extremes, onesidedness, and the lack of simple thoroughness in small things. "Suggestion for Future Improvement," by Miss Sarah Hunt were timely. Miss Hunt gave her hearers some of the benefits she received from her summer course taken at Cottage City. "Home Training," by Mrs. Irene Bond, struck a keynote that gave no uncertain sound, but vibrated throughout with the idea of its vital importance. "School Training," by Miss S. Belle Bransford prompted each member to the serious duties that are involved in the work of training our student girls. "Training for Society," by Miss Eliza Adams brought out more duties for mothers and others in training the daughters in habits of economy, in modesty, in uprightness and honesty in dealing with others. The discussion of current news of the week, introduced by Mrs. Sara Peake Greene, was deferred. Reports from the various departments of the club evinced an interest that no doubt will strengthen as the days go by. Elizabeth E. Lane. -------- Resolutions of the Tuskegee Woman's Club. ------- Whereas, in connection with the restaurant in the Negro Building at the Atlanta Exposition is a barroom, characterized by the usual paraphernalia and conducted according to the methods common to such places, and Whereas, the presence of such a resort in the building bearing the name of the Negro and set aside for his especial use, is a stigma upon the entire race and gives rise to scenes tending, in their disgracefulness, to counteract, in a large measure, whatever favorable impression the Negro exhibits may make, and Whereas, in the existing condition of things, this building is the only one in which our women, as well as our men, can feel perfectly at home, and this restaurant, which has the barroom attachment, is the only one which they are at liberty to patronize, therefore be it Resolved (1) that we, the members of the Tuskegee Woman's Club, having at heart the highest interests of the race, do hereby condemn the selling of whiskey in the Negro Building and that we The Woman's Era. 5 feel it an insult to at least the womanhood of the Negro race. Resolved (2) that we do hereby appeal to the authorities having these matters in charge to close this barroom and so to remove from us the disgrace, which, despite all the evidences of industry, of ingenuity, of intellect, of culture, and of general progress displayed in the Negro Building, must bring to the face of every self-respecting member of the race the blush of shame, as he enters the doors darkened by the shadow of this disreputable traffic. Resolved (3) that copies of these resolutions be sent to the Chief of the Negro Department, to the Directors of the Atlanta Exposition, and to the public press. Signed: Josephine T. Washington, Adella Hunt Logan, Martha Hurd Willis, Committee. Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Pres. Elizabeth E. Lane, Sec. ------- Resolutions passed by the English Anti-Lynching Committee. ------- To the Editor Woman's Era: At a meeting of the Anti-Lynching Committee held on October 10, Mr. Moncure D. Conway in the chair, it was unanimously resolved "That the Anti-Lynching Committee having heard in the early part of this year of the marked diminution of murders known as lynchings in the United States of America, nevertheless observe with profound regret that within the past few months cases of an aggravated nature have taken place, more especially in Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, and Ohio. "While uniting with the friends of humanity in the United States in indignant protest against atrocities in eastern countries, they fear that such protest is greatly weakened by the participation of persons of their own race in burnings, shootings, hangings, mutilations, flayings, and dragging by the neck on the ground until choked to death by the dust of the street, which are characteristics of torture practised in America, upon persons innocent or guilty, without trial, or after due sentence has been pronounced by Court of Law. "The therefore appeal once more in the name of Justice and Mercy, to all Governors, Judges, Sheriffs, Senators, Representatives, Editors, Ministers of religion and other leaders of Social, Temperance, and Philanthropic bodies, praying them to co-operate in a vigorous and determined effort to end this terrible disgrace." Permit me also to add a few personal words of sympathy, and to say with what deep interest and concern I am watching the heroic struggles of your race against the shameful tyranny of Senator Tillman and those bent upon the disfranchisement of colored men in South Carolina. I have also noted with pained surprise the passing of a retrograde law in Florida, rendering the co-education of the two races penal. With most heartfelt wishes for the success of your efforts on behalf of Justice and Human Freedom, I am, Yours respectfully, Florence Balgarnie, Hon. Sec. Anti-Lynching Committee, 14, Tavistock Square, London, W.C. October, 1895. ------- California S. Willie Layton, Editor. ------- There should be a united effort in the study and discussions of the reforms necessary to the progress of our people. The practical usefulness of a National Federation of our women is eminent. I hope the women's clubs and organizations of California may respond to the call of the president. This federation means so much toward the emancipation of women, our women, and the general good of humanity. At the state meeting of the W.C.T.U., Oct. 3d, the Demorest Gold Medal offered in the elocutionary contest was awarded Mrs. Aimee Murrels-Ray. The eligibles to compete for the grand gold medal were those who had won silver medals in their respective districts. With at least six competitors, Mrs. Ray won in her district. These medal holders contested for the county; Mrs. Ray won, then the counties contested for the state; this accomplished woman was again the success 6 THE WOMAN'S ERA. successful competitor, and will be California's representative in New York for the National Diamond Medal. The only reference to this young woman's color was when congratulations were being offered; a lady stepped forward and said, "I am a Southerner. Proud am I that by ability you've won, but prouder still to know your people sent such a matchless exponent. 'Tis no longer color that is the total barrier -- be qualified and competent." Probably the most important event before the Los Angeles woman in October was the Woman's Parliament. The first day was devoted to a symposium on dress: artistic dress, maternity dress, bicycle costume. A striking feature of the programme was an exhibition of a bicycle costume by Dr. Rose Talbot Bullard, showing the convenience and utility of her suit. The second day, woman suffrage was discussed from seven standpoints: Does the Wife Need It? Does the Mother Need It? Does the Unmarried Woman Need It? Does the Working Woman Need It? Does the Business Woman Need It? Does the Professional Woman Need It? Does Politics Need Woman Suffrage? I am certain no woman listening to these logical arguments longer questioned the need of the ballot for women. Mrs. Locke, of Pasadena, very cleverly handled the subject of artistic house furnishing, emphasizing the vital importance of making home beautiful and the available means within reach of all to beautify their homes in this wonderfully beautiful land. At the close of the parliament women find themselves better fitted for the duties of home and the outside world, having gained by contact, social and intellectual, inspiration. The men, too, should have learned, at least, that questions of importance can be thoroughly and intelligently discussed, and the point carried, without filibustering and confusion. At the last meeting of the Woman's Club the following officers were elected: president, Mrs. Katie Williams; vice-president, Mrs. Amanda Jones; secretary, Mrs. Lilla Williams; corresponding secretary, Miss J.B. Fry; treasurer, Mrs. Mary Harris. Eureka! San Francisco boasts of originating something "new under the sun" -- a "bloomer cafe," where the best of service is given the patrons by girls attired in bloomers. It is said the waitresses were at first shy, but have found their costumes convenient for work. The advantages seem many, at any rate the girls have declared in favor of bloomers. "Mammy Pleasance," of the Sharon divorce case notoriety, is reported dying. Rumor insinuates that she carries with her many secrets that if known would cause many of the high heads of 'Frisco to hang in mortification. She came to the coast from Boston early in the '50's, and has acquired great wealth, estimated to be way up in the hundreds of thousands and some hint at a million. Although having agents to collect her rents and look after her investments, she always supervised and was recognized as one of the shrewdest and successful financiers of San Francisco. Mrs. Pleasance was lavish with her money and has educated and supported several girls of good birth and saved from failure a number of business men. This old colored woman, in her alapaca dress and worn bonnet, was one of the familiar and prominent characters of San Francisco. ------- MISSOURI. JOSEPHINE SALONE YATES, EDITOR. ------- NATURE OR ENVIRONMENT. --- MARY V. BASS. --- Few, perhaps, doubt the existence of the law of heredity; to do so is to doubt the very law of life, the propagation of species. The psychological, physiological effects of the law, conditions which modify it, man's power to direct the law and his duty to himself and his race in so directing it, are indeed matters of question. Nature uses this means to visit the sins of the fathers upon the children, likewise his virtues. Among the strongest of human sensibilities is the love of parents for children, and when the law of heredity is accepted in its full force and, through this love observed, prison walls shall tremble, reformatories and refuges shall be institutions of the past, and man shall live in the full enjoyment of the Godliness within him. Numerous astute minds have dealt with the question, among them Mr. Galton, who has tabulated the judges of England through two hundred years, the prime ministers through one hundred years, and so on through three hundred families THE WOMAN'S ERA. 7 consisting of poets, musicians, divines, scholars, oarsmen and wrestlers. Of these three hundred families one thousand persons are eminent, four hundred and fifteen illustrious, and the general result is that one-half the eminent men have one or more eminent relations. Another striking example is given of a family of five hundred and forty members, traced through seven generations; all descended from a common thief, the greater number of whom died on the scaffold for theft or assassination. On one side of this family shameful death on the scaffold or torturing imprisonment stood a constant menace, on the other the reward of a free, honorable and respected life, yet neither was so powerful as to overcome that inborn tendency to crime. Distinctive genius or traits of character do not always appear to descend in a direct line; a generation or two may seem to lose the family bent, then a child is born giving evidence of the peculiarities of his grandparent or great grandparent. One way to account for this is by the law of cross descent, that, as a rule, the mental qualities of the male progenitor descend to his female progeny, while the mental qualities of the female progenitor descend to her male progeny. It is often remarked that great men are seldom fathers of great sons. Another way to account for this is that the parent having the advantage of youth, health and mental activity will be reproduced in his child. Ribot says that injudicious marriages are the cause of much of the degeneration in many families. In families of distinguished intellect it is found that there is a regular increase of power up to a culminating point, and as regular a decrease from that point. In the first case, marriages were consistent to its production, and in the latter they were incapable of preserving it. The history of the races of man shows that physical and mental laws coincide in their action. The Jew is today what he was in the time of Moses. True his complexion is modified under different climatic conditions, but it is only by a long course of training, under entirely new conditions, that the Hebrew becomes other than the typical son of his forefathers. Frederick William I., king of Prussia, recognized the fact that our peculiar bony structure, shape and size are an inheritance when he made it obligatory upon his soldiers to marry wives equal to themselves in stature, that he might secure a guard of giants. Certain diseases of the mind and body are set down by the medical profession as hereditary, such as insanity, gout, rheumatism, consumption and scrofula. Science attempts to regulate but does not promise to cure. These words occur in a leaflet from the Moral Education Society: "Conscientious physicians, who consider the moral as well as the physical hygiene, are perplexed and in despair over the problem." It is true that environment and training may modify the natural condition of mind, but always at the expense of greater energy and time than is necessary to overcome acquired habit. Hereditary traits have the great advantage of time. What circumstance of a life of twenty-five or fifty years could be so powerful as to overcome centuries of training? The most effectual training which the human soul can possibly receive is given before birth. If this be of such a nature as to counteract probable evil tendencies, the labor and time consumed in creating a new mental condition is much lessened and possibly rendered unnecessary later on. In his treatise on the subject, Le Bon says: "Heredity governs the form of our body and its tendencies, the mind with its bent and its powers. It has placed in us those sentiments without which no society is possible, those intellectual aptitudes without which no civilization could have arisen. All the generations which sleep in the dust are living today in us. Among the various influences which draw men on, the most powerful of all is that of the dead." ------- ILLINOIS. FANNIE BARRIER WILLIAMS, EDITOR. ------- The work of the National Art Association for the promotion of the love of art among the masses signalizes an important movement in the realm of the aesthetics. It is a most gracious recognition of the refining and chastening influence of art in the life of the nation. The fierceness of politics, the strife of commerce, and the severities of religion all need the softening touch and ennobling influence of the kindred arts. I wish that I might say a helpful word as to how art may be brought into our home life and 8 THE WOMAN'S ERA. made to minister graciously to the higher needs of our better selves. No woman sufficiently realizes the sacredness of her trust and privileges as a home maker who is not always ambitious to make her home bright, beautiful and refined, as well as comfortable and convenient. The world of art, with all its joyousness, moral suggestiveness and purities, is now within the reach of any home that would appropriate some of its treasures. Indeed it seems as if the entire art world, by the use of the decorator's skill, is assisting woman to understand and appreciate the uses of art in the simplest articles of home furnishing. The time was when art was haughty and exclusive and had no interest in or sympathy with the common people. It then lent itself only to palaces, churches and temples. The great masters felt that art was exalted only when the ceilings of some great cathedral or the walls of princely dwellings were decorated by their genius. Then it was that only the faces of saints, kings and the nobility were worthy to inspire the portrait artist. Then it was that art found more glory in portraying the triumphs of war than the laughing faces of childhood. But thanks to the growth of liberality in all things -- thanks to the potencies of science and the humanizing influences of education — art is no longer the exclusive servant of the rich and noble. It now finds as much inspiration in the cottage as in the palace ; it is as much glorified in portraying the face of a pure woman or an honest man as in painting the faces of saints or sickly princes. In short, art has become the ardent lover of humanity, seeking in every way to glorify our lives. As an illustration of this fact, the pictures of the Columbia Exposition will at once come before the mind, and we will recall that the most popular and prized pictures in all the departments were those which represented the most ordinary incidents in human life. Take, for example, the picture entitled "Breaking Home Ties," made particularly pathetic by the recent heroic death of the celebrated artist who painted it. The artist here has seized upon one of the saddest incidents in family life — that is, the first break in the family union. The universal interest in this canvas was not so much due to its size, coloring or artistic finish as to the powerful representation of one of the tenderest sorrows of family experience. The artist has told here in a wonderfully impressive way the simple story of the power of a mother's love and the sacred influences of a good home. If any of us have denied to the Indian any feelings of sentiment, there was a small picture in the United States section capable of correcting this opinion. The artist here represents an Indian stooping to take a water lily from the pond. This seems a very simple incident to claim the attention of an artist, yet the idea sought to be conveyed is a large and instructive one. The grim visaged brave is returning from a hunt with all the evidences of his savage butchery of bird and beast about him, yet the sight of the lily seems for the moment to change his whole nature, transforming his savagery into tenderness and his thirst for blood into a love for the beautiful. The spirit of humanity in this picture appeals to us so powerfully that we lose sight of the savage and feel only the touch of kinship with all who are moved to pay homage to God's gifts of the beautiful in nature. TEXAS CORA L. SMITH, EDITOR. [PICTURE] The lands are lit With all the autumn blaze of golden rod ; And everywhere the purple asters nod And bend and wave and flit. Helen Hunt. Just at this time our woods and prairies are particularly beautiful. Here in the lovely southland tired Nature seems loath to close her eyes and rest. She lingers and hovers around us, putting on every day a different dress, which, in gorgeousness, eclipses that of the previous day. The long red grasses, waving beneath trees whose leaves are bright with a variety of colors which defy the painter's art to reproduce, and the bright THE WOMAN'S ERA. 9 sky bending above us, enclosing us in a blue haze, all form a picture upon which no eye can gaze without a feeling of reverential awe for the Giver of all good and perfect gifts. How proud we have all felt over the achievements of our great orator, Mr. Booker T. Washington, whose address at the opening of the Cotton States Exposition excited more comment than any other of the day. Being a typical Negro, his great qualifications cannot be attributed to his Caucasian ancestors. It was a sight to gladden the hearts of his race, to see him standing upon the platform, the cynosure of all eyes and surrounded by the pride and chivalry of the south, delivering an address to the very people who thirty years ago held his people in bondage and refused to believe that they were made for anything but serfdom. Truly, a new era is dawning upon us, and we should be glad and eager to recognize it. Of course, some of us do not agree altogether with some of his utterances, but every man has a right to his own convictions and they should be expected. For instance, Mr. Washington warns us against trying to spend our dollar in an opera house, Now, while it is certainly the best thing for us to be economical and less profligate, yet I can't see why we should be debarred from spending our money to see a good play, such as Shakespeare's tragedies, in which there is a world of instruction, any more than our more fortunate Caucasian brother. We certainly should be allowed to spend our money which we have earned, in any harmless way we may see fit, even though it be an opera house. Nevertheless, we all know that it is best to save all that we can, for there is no doubt but that the much talked of negro problem can only be solved by our growing intelligence and wealth. A man with money can do much more for his country, his race and himself than one without this necessary adjunct. Therefore we must get wealth. Get wisdom, but with all our getting, get wealth. It was a day for much rejoicing when our legislature in extra session declared against prize fighting. We need our great state advertised, but not in that way. We repudiate the advertisement which other states refuse and which Dallas seemed determined to thrust upon us. Texas has too long been considered a haven of refuge for the disreputable classes from her sister states. It is time that we should let it be known, far and wide, that we have as good government here and as law abiding citizens as any in the Union. The death of Mrs. N. W. Cuney, last month, left a vacancy in our midst which cannot be filled. She died in Austin, where she had gone for her health. THE COMING WOMAN. Just look! 'Tis a quarter past six, love, And not even the fires are caught. Well, you know I must be at the office, But, as usual, the breakfast 'll be late. Now hurry, and wake up the children, And dress them as fast as you can, Poor dearies! I know they'll be tardy! Dear me! what a slow, poky man! Have the tenderloin broiled nice and juicy; Have the toast browned and buttered all right; And be sure you settle the coffee; Be sure that the silver is bright. When ready, just run up and call me; At eight to the office I go, Lest poverty grim should o'ertake us — 'Tis bread and butter, you know. The bottom from stocks may fall out, My bonds may get below par ; Then, surely, I seldom could spare you A nickel to buy a cigar. All ready? Now while I am eating, Just bring up my "bike" to the door; Then wash up the dishes, and mind now, Have dinner promptly at four, For tonight is our Woman's Convention, And I am to speak first, you know; The men veto us in private, But in public they shout, "That's so!" So bye-bye. In case of a rap, love, Before opening the door you must look. O, how could a civilized woman Exist without a man cook! MRS. M.F. FORDHAM. A combined reception to Rev. Father Page of England and welcome home to Father Field, pastor of St. Augustine's, was arranged and successfully carried out by a committee of ladies in the lecture room of that church Thursday evening, October 24. Butler R. Wilson, Esq., made a graceful and eloquent address of welcome, to which both of the reverend gentlemen fittingly responded. The flower decked tea table was graciously presided over by Mrs. Sparrow, Mrs. Lewis, Miss Bailey and Miss Lillian Lewis. 10 THE WOMAN'S ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA. THE WOMAN'S ERA, the organ of the National Federation of Afro-American Women, and devoted to the interests of the Women's Clubs, Leagues and Societies throughout the country, Published monthly, in Boston, by JOSEPHINE ST. P. RUFFIN, FLORIDA R. RIDLEY, 103 Charles Street. SUBSCRIPTIONS Per Annum, $1.00 Single Copies .10 Club Rates, one hundred copies 7.00 Subscription Payable in Advance. EDITORIAL WE DECLINE TO NAME THIS CHILD. It might have been expected that Mr. Fortune of the New York Age, the proud paternal parent of the hyphenation, Afro-American, would buckle on his armor and go forth to do battle in defense of his cherished offspring, and in his zeal for the perpetuity of the thing he has given life to, call upon any who object to it to "face the music," or admit that they are "in a bad box." His most recent agitation is caused by a modest hope expressed by the WOMAN'S ERA that at the first annual gathering of the newest federation of women's clubs, now known as the National Federation of Afro-American Women," the name will be changed, as it is a misnomer. Now it is much easier to give reasons for our objection to the name, "Afro-American," than to give the correct "form," as is demanded of us "honor bright." Boston people, who are accused by the Age editor of insisting "that they are something else than what they are," are too busy to give the time to rolling unnecessary words around under their tongues, be they ever so euphonious, and too conscientious to put counterfeit labels on anything. So because the appellation is cumbersome, unbusinesslike, and the use of it will help create proscription by more widely dividing and serregating a class that has as much right as any in the country to be known as Americans, without affix or excuse, we decline to be a party to this latest stamp act and decline to name this child until the coming leisure age gives time for the ethnologists to examine, divide, sub-divide and name the rest of the component parts that help make up the conglomeration known as the great American people people. It is . however, earnestly hoped that it will not be necessary to wait for the critical analysis to be made before convincing those who now seem so anxious to prove themselves less American than others, that a people with two or three generations of ancestors born on the soil, many with an admixture of the blood of the Aborigines coursing through their veins, have as much, if not more right than any to be known simply as Americans. Until it becomes necessary to particularize (as it often does) the descriptive affixed "colored" will fill the bill and cover the ground. So, with due respect for the antiquities, we must continue to reject the hyphenation, Afro-American, even though it is "a Latinization used by the Assyrians before the time of Christ," and still is it a misnomer when applied to all Americans who are colored. A CLUB MODEL. Many women are desirous of forming clubs who, from lack of time or opportunity, have not been able to study the methods of successful clubs now in good working order. From such many requests have come. In giving a "club model," not a "model club," we can do no better than to cite the methods of our own club, referring our readers to the reports from such clubs as the Loyal Union, the Washington League, the Kansas City League, for other and different models. Every club must work out its own salvation ; adapt itself to the peculiar needs of its members. As has often been said, the Woman' S Era, which is composed of nearly one hundred and fifty women, is divided into committees, every member being put upon some one of the committees, of literature, civics, philanthropy, domestic science, race work, etc. Each committee takes charge of a meeting in turn, selecting an essayist, and these are to discuss the particular matter which is to be put before the club. The club has the usual officers, with an executive board, which maps out the work of he year and presents it to the club in the form of a printed programme. Some one committee may choose to have a public meeting, with public speakers, some one to have a "tea," some an entertainment to raise funds. "The ways they are many, the end it is one." Many of the clubs of other cities carry on large and flourishing industrial classes, where cooking , darning, patching are done ; some , including the era, have classes in literature, music, etc. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 11 Any body of women will find so many avenues opening to them that, having once started, they will need no leading. Of course, much that is discouraging will be met with, but the work, in the main, will be found delightful. COLORED WOMEN AND SUFFRAGE. There is no class in the United States that suffers under such disadvantages as the colored women. This class has everything to gain and nothing to lose by endorsing the woman suffrage movement, Race prejudice is expressed in many ways, but the exhibition of it is often crushed when a vote is wanted. Colored women are prepared and would be very glad to be eligible for state and city positions as clerks, stenographers, etc., and might be considered once in a while if possessed of a vote. It is reported that the colored women of Kentucky outregistered the white women two to one in tier ambition to get a colored man on the school board. In commenting upon this, the Boston Herald cites it as an instance of the ignorant class outvoting the intelligent class. To the unprejudiced person, this movement on the part of the colored women to obtain representation on the school board is an evidence of their earnestness and intelligence, and he sneer at ignorance is misplaced. One of the most interesting incidents of the suffrage movement here in Boston is the desire to vote expressed by two inmates of the Home for Aged Colored Women, one of whom is ninety-two years of age and the other eighty-eight, and the spirited intelligent letter sent by these old ladies to the suffrage leaders speaks volumes, particularly when it is realized that they have had no advantages in the way of education and environment. with the suffragists the colored woman is in good company ; it is more often true that she is " in the house of her friends" with this class than with any other. ADMISSION INTO FEDERATION. Any number of women forming themselves into a body for general culture, advancement and uplifting is eligible for admission into the National Federation. In the great bereavement that has come upon the chairman of the executive board, all further steps toward organization have been postponed, For the present, all clubs desiring admission need only to send their request to the president to have it acted upon. COLORADO ELIZABETH PIPER ENSLEY, EDITOR. COLORADO CLUB WOMEN. "Where are you going, my pretty maid?" "to the convention, kind sir," she said. "What will you do there, my pretty maid?" "Engage in grave discussions," she said. "What will you talk about, my pretty maid?" "Oh, ethics and economics,: she said. "Altruism and such like things, And the social changes the future brings. "Civics, you know, till the air gets blue, And the naughty, modern novel, too. "Heredity, atavism, do n't you know, And how the young idea should grow." "Then I won't marry you, my pretty maid." "I'd wait till I got a chance, " she said. The first annual meeting of the Colorado federation of Women's Clubs was held in Colorado Springs, Oct. 1 and 2. There was a large attendance and great interest was shown in the proceedings. The morning session of the first day was devoted to business. The report of the president, Mrs. E. M. Ashley, was read. Mrs. Henrotin, president of the General Federation of Women's Clubs, opened the afternoon meeting, The keynote of her address was, "As you rise to triumph, what a host of women mount. Among other things she reminded the women of Colorado of the close attention being paid to their course, and begged them not to think for an instant that they do not want the suffrage or any of the privileges or duties which that implies. She felt like saying to them," What manner of women are you that this magnificent thing should come to you?" 12 THE WOMAN'S ERA. The topic under "Trend of Popular Literature" —"To what extent may we accept," etc., the conclusions of others without personal investigation, was discussed by Mrs. Ida DePriest, one of the two colored delegates sent form the Woman's League of Denver. This was considered one of the hardest, if not the most difficult subject under discussion. Mrs. DePriest was equal to the occasion. She spoke with ease and crowded much thought into her five-minute paper. The subject was treated from an ethical standpoint, showing in many instances why the conclusions deduced from reading magazine articles, reviews, and newspapers were false and not conformable to true progress. Mrs. DePriest said in part : "Only when the motive, intention, and apparent purpose of an act is known, and when a calm and comprehensive survey of the subject is taken, have we any right to express conclusions and then they must be placed on the broad ground of right." Mrs. DePriest, who was an agreeable surprise to the women, is a graduate of the Denver High School, and is corresponding secretary of the Woman's League. Among the other papers was one by Mrs. Lizzie Olden, the other colored delegate, who is president of the Women's League. She talked upon "The Club as a Factor in Bettering Social and Civic Conditions." Mrs. Olden said that grave problems were pressing upon society with such a force that one almost looks to the future with fear. In the day when the republic was in danger from rebellion, the moral support of the woman was not less efficient than the bayonets of the men in settling the difficulty. In the new conflict of mental and social forces the woman must come to the front again. Social conditions will never be better or purer than the best women of a community. She said: "Those who are called our best women have little right to their title unless they make use of their talents and their leisure for the benefit of the community." Mrs. Olden's address was frequently applauded. The two ladies were the guests of Mrs. Dr. Silly, one of the wealthiest and most prominent club women of Colorado Springs. Thursday afternoon, August 3, the Woman's League gave an informal reception to the teachers and visitors who still remained in Denver. It was a most pleasing affair. The visitors were asked by way of encouragement to the league to tell of the organizations of women in their respective cities. Mrs. Julia Hubbard, our own vice-president, welcomed the guest in a brief and appropriate address. Fourteen different cities were represented. Miss Carrie Syphax , Principle of the Industrial Department of the schools in Washington, D.C., made the address of the afternoon. Possessing a thorough knowledge of her subject, she speaks with the utmost ease. All the mothers must have been impressed with of giving their children industrial training. Among the others who spoke was Miss Coleman of St. Louis. She told in a very interesting manner of the Orphan's Home maintained wholly by the efforts of colored women. Mrs. Maguire of Kansas City made a pleasing address. Mrs. Braxton of Omaha, Neb., in a very graceful speech spoke encouragingly of women - thought she had awakened to a knowledge of her power and how best to use it for the betterment of humanity. Mrs. Cassell of New Mexico congratulated the Denver League on what it had already accomplished. All present were highly entertained and instructed. Surely the women of Denver feel that they have grown by contract with fresh, bright spirits that have lingered a while among the Rockies. OHIO SADA J. ANDERSON, EDITOR. [photograph] Indian summer has come to the Maumee. We doubt if our own Hallie Q., in picturesque Switzerland, has gazed upon a more lovely bit of landscape than can be seen here in the Maumee Valley. Squaw winter has paid her fleeting yearly visit, and Indian summer, with it draperies of scarlet and gold, now reigns a queen upon her throne. Perhaps no city in the Union is provided with the means of entertaining visitors at this season of the year in Toledo. A trip around the Maumee belt, through a living panorama of river and autumn tinted forest views, is not a experience THE WOMAN'S ERA. 13 to be had everywhere. Going around this belt, one passes the historical Fort Meigs, one of the endeared spots in the hearts of the Buckeyes. For several miles side by side runs the belt line with the sparkling waters of the Maumee; then almost ere we aware, we go spinning through the forest, which at this season of the year is glorious in scarlet and gold and alive with the busy nut hunters who make the wood wood ring with their merry making. This is the season to bring the blood to the cheeks and the frost sparkle to the eye of those who love life and the world in which they live. It was our good pleasure last week to take a flying trip down through the oil fields a short distance south of here. For miles the eye could behold nothing but huge oil tanks, and derricks to hoist from the interior of the earth that which God has placed there for the benefit of mankind and only obtainable by the "sweat of the brow." After a run of two hours or more we were in Findlay, the city that sprung up in a day during the great gas boom some few years ago. Things seem dead there since the boom has subsided, but we found our people alive enough to appreciate the good, beautiful and true, and on making known to them our special business - the ERA's interest - scarcely one failed to give the paper the proper support. For a small town, we dare say, that in intellectual aggressiveness many larger cities do not surpass Findlay. Here is a musical club called "The Sisseretta Jones Club." Mrs. Emma French is the president. She will soon graduate in music from the Findlay College, an institution broad enough to make no distinction, throwing wide its doors to all for intellectual advancement. We bespeak for the ERA progress in Findlay among white as well as colored people. If any of the readers of the ERA have never heard Rev. J.M. Henderson of New York City on "Our Certain Destiny," be advised by one who has, and hear him at your very first opportunity. He has been with us this past week and delivered his excellent lecture in Warren Chapel to a small audience. On his return to Toledo, standing room will be at a premium, for he has reached the hearts of the people through those who heard him. Now, dear sisters, the Ohio department remains to be made what you will make it. I am sure that I am doing all that one can do to make it a success, and I ask your hearty co-operation so that we can all enjoy the fruits of united labor, for the further advancement of our countrywomen. It is not so much the new woman as it is the awakened woman. "To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven... A time to keep silence and a time to speak." By the necessary changes of time, this is our time to speak and do. Let us ask God to grant us that gift whereby we may not abuse this glorious privilege extended us now, by taking all the honor to ourselves. Let us act in the living present. VIRGINIA ROSA D. BOWSER, EDITOR [photograph] A petition was circulated in Lunenburg County, praying Judge Orgain to order the removal of the charged murderers of Mrs. Pollard from the Richmond Jail back to Lunenburg County. The interest manifested by white and colored in the case, and the benevolent acts and expressions in regard to the prisoners seem to be rated as undue influence upon the poor condemned mortals. The order has been issued that the sheriff of Lunenburg produce the prisoners in the Lunenburg Court on Nov. 11. It has also been stated that no military escort will be desired by the sheriff. A bazaar in in progress at the new Armory, and will continue for two weeks. Many attractions are presented for each night. The bazaar is conducted by the First Battalion Club, a committee of ladies who are assisting the soldiers to raise means in order to elect a drill-shed in the rear yard. Rev. Johnson the Episcopal rector, is superintending the erecting of a nice church for his flock. Rev. Wells' twenty-fifth anniversary as pastor of the Ebenezer Baptist church was celebrated on the first Sunday in October. On Monday night following, the committee in charge presented him with valuable gifts and provided a rich repast for the ministers of the city and their friends. Memorial exercises will be held at the First Baptist Church on Sunday evening, October 27, 14 THE WOMAN'S ERA. in memory of the late Prof. D.B. Williams, who held the chair of Greek and Latin at the Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute. The memorial will be held jointly by the First Baptist Sunday school, of which he was once assistant superintendent, and by the Alumni of the Richmond Normal School. The Friday Evening Literary, of which Mrs. Bowser is president and Miss K.J. Cooke, secretary, has commenced work for the season. In connection with a varied program from time to time, civil government will be discussed during the term. Each member is expected to study the subject thoroughly. The Y.M.C.A. conference meets in this city November 1,2, and 3. A committee of ladies, of which Mrs. R. T. Hill is chairman, are preparing to give the visiting Y.M.C.A. members a right royal reception. The Woman's League has raised in five meetings $541. ____________________________ THE PHYLLIS WHEATLEY CLUB. ____________ NEW ORLEANS, La., Oct. 11, 1895. The club originated in the necessity which I saw all around me, of doing something to elevate the race, especially its women. I have been, for twenty years, principal of a public school for girls, and try as I would, I could not succeed to my entire satisfaction in making true women of many of my girls, because my influence did not extend far enough into their lives. I therefore thought of working upon the moral of the mothers, the majority of whom were poor and ignorant and could not give to their girls the home culture proportionate to their educational advantages. For years I have felt that something ought to be done, but just how to reach them I did not know. I wanted to help, but did not know where to turn to find it. At last the club idea dawned upon me. It was a happy one. I consulted some of my personal friends, and by coaxing and begging others, we succeeded in getting enough together to organize. The object is plainly stated in the first article of our constitution, wherein we declare that we will do all that our hands find to do toward elevating and helping our women. Every intelligent, respectable woman is eligible to membership ; the dues are only five cents per month, with no initiation fee. The dues were purposely made so small that no one could offer the expense as a plea for not joining us. The result is that we now number seventy good responsible women. The club is divided into twelve committees, every member belonging to one or more of them. The appointments are not arbitrary ; each one chooses the committee she prefers. This is allowed so that each one will work with more zeal when interested in the work. The Temperance, Anti-Cigarette, Suffrage, and Social Purity committees preach their respective doctrines, scatter reading matter and form leagues of all who take anyone of the pledges. The Literature, History and Law committees form classes in the club, for our own benefit and improvement, The Self Help committee are organizing free sewing schools all over the city to teach poor girls how to sew, but especially how to mend, darn and patch, for I find that many of them go in rags because they do not know how to use the needle. Each member of the club pledges herself to furnish two ready made garments during the year, and we propose to solicit aid from our friends so as to be able to have, at least, one new made garment to distribute to each one of our poor by Christmas. The Philanthropy committee devote their time to prisons and houses of correction ; they give sympathy, advice and reading matter to the inmates. We propose to enlist the interest of the colored lawyers to look into cases where we have reason to believe that injustice or undue severity has been exercised in their sentences. The Hospital committee has charge of visiting the sick in the hospital and at their homes, where they give whatever aid they can. Of the free night schools we had one in operation all last term and will soon open others. They are open to all young people who are compelled to work in the day and cannot afford to pay for their schooling. The Committee on Newspapers and Current Events search the papers and magazines for articles, either commendatory or derogatory to us as a race or as women. These are brought to the notice of the club, which endorses or condemns them as the case requires. I have given you an outline of our work. Of course we are somewhat hampered for want of funds, but as we have considerable talent among us, we are preparing to give an entertainment for the benefit of our treasury. SYLVANIE F. WILLIAMS, Pres. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 15 LITERATURE DEPARTMENT. MEDORA W. GOULD. ____________________________ Mr. Zangwell, whose letters in the Cosmopolitan are such a fund of information, is thus described by a friend. "Mr. Zangwell has a lovable personality and is a delightful companion. He is a brilliant talker, for he does not save all his good things for his books, and he likes to listen as well as talk. His sweetness of disposition remained untouched by the hard grind of his youth, and it is unspoiled by his present success. He possesses the quaintest of humor, the dryest of wit and the keenest appreciation of good qualities in others. In spite of his enthusiasm in anything in which he is interested, and an often childlike enjoyment of little things, the sorrows and the injustice of human lives have sunk deep into his heart. He is in his thirty-second year. It is not strange that people think of him as much older. Personally he might be described as an ungainly man, awkward and unconventional in dress and movements with dark, irregular features, a mop of curly black hair, and large, pathetic, near-sighted eyes." Walter Besant is an advocate of the theory that novel writing can be learned like any other profession by anyone of ordinary ability, with due exercise of intelligence and industry. He is much interested in a sort of school conducted by prominent novelists, in which the manuscript of young authors is read and criticised, defects pointed out, and helpful and practical advice given toward improvement. In some cases the writer is advised to withdraw from a hopeless struggle. "Religion in Common Life," a volume of sermons by various ministers, indicates that the pulpit is giving to the people something other than creeds and dogmas. Among the topics presented are "Individualism and Socialism." "Phases of Idleness," "Problems of the Poor," and "Religion and Politics." "Ave Maria," by Miss Marie Louise Burgess of Boston, is an interesting story of love and devotion. It is a tale of the conflict between love and duty, in which love is sacrificed on the altar of faith. The neatness and correctness of the printing and the taste displayed in the binding make it an attractive little volume. Edgar Allen Poe possessed the power of prophecy, for in a letter written by him in 1844 occurred this passage: "I perceived that the country could not fail of affording in a few years a larger proportionate amount of readers than any upon earth. I perceived that the whole energetic, busy spirit of the age tended wholly to magazine literature—to the curt, the terse, the well timed and the readily diffused, in preference to the old forms of the verbose and ponderous and the inaccessible." Queen Victoria is about to establish a literary order of merit for the recognition of those who, as journalists and writers of books, have done good work. A RARE OPPORTUNITY. The best known preventative to consumption is climate, and it is generally conceded that Colorado has the best anti-consumption climate in America Hundreds come every year to Denver, hoping to prolong life or regain health; many of them do so who would otherwise meet early death. The climate of Denver, dry, pure and sunny, with its elevation of one mile above sea level, effectually cures all incipient lung issues. Therefore parents having children predisposed to lung trouble are advised to send them to Denver to pursue their studies. The fine public schools and the Denver University afford unsurpassed educational facilities. Mrs. Ensley will take into her home a limited number of girls and young ladies desiring to get the benefit of the climate while attending school. She will give special attention to home training and physical culture, particularly to chest expansion, diet and healthful dressing, while superintending their course at the public schools. When private instruction is preferred the best teachers will be secured. For further information address MRS. E. P. ENSLEY, 1755 Ogden St., Denver, Col. Refers by permission to Mr. Nathaniel T. Allen of West Newton English and Classical School. ______________ NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS. You are interested in the advancement of the race and want to do something to help on the work? Then pass the paper along and urge your friends to subscribe. You can not do better work than this. Any one sending a two-cent-stamp will receive a sample copy of the ERA. 16 The Woman's Era. Father Field is jubilant over the result of his labors in behalf of a West End branch library. The alteration and embellishment of the old West Church at the head of Cambridge street are nearing completion, and it looks now as if DR. Bartol, who nearly ten years ago retired from the pastorate of that church, after fifty years of continuous service, will live to see the temple dedicated to broad culture and liberal views in religion, rededicated to still wider culture and larger possibilities as a well equipped public library. WANTS. To supply any of these Wants apply at office of WOMEN's ERA. Private family will receive music student to board and lodge. Reasonable terms. Pleasant home. Kranich & Bach piano to practice on. Easy access to the musical life and institutions of Boston. References given and required. Miss M. W. Gould will give lessons by mail in English composition, grammar, use of capitals, punctuation, formation of sentences, etc. A woman of business experience and ability will act as confidential agent in taking care of or settling up the estates of women and children. Advice free. What is this A.P.A.? What its Plans? Who its Candidates? What its Principles? Where can we join? For full information, send 2-ct. stamp for or ask your newsdealer for or send 50 cts. for 3 mos. trial subscription of the paper which advocates straight A.P.A. principles THE AMERICAN CITIZENS, 7 Bromfield St., Boston. Mrs. J. F. A. Gardiner, 128 Alder St., Pittsfield, Mass. Will accommodate a few private boarders during the summer months. Five minutes walk from maple woods. Terms reasonable. F. A. GREENLEAF, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in PAPER HANGINGS, 51 Court Street, Near Scollay Square, Boston. MRS. H. L. KEMP, Artistic Dressmaking and Millinery, 179 FRANKLIN AVENUE, Near Myrtle, BROOKLYN, N. Y. Imported styles always on hand. Competent dressmakers always in attendance. TRY A PERFECT ICING FOR YOUR CAKES, &c, Will not spoil or foment in heat or cold, covered or exposed to the air. PERFECT ICING never dries out or crumbles, all other Icings draw the moisture from the cake and dry it up. A PERFECT ICING will keep your cake from drying out. PERFECT ICING should be put on in a very thin coating, like a varnish; it will give your cakes a beautiful gloss as well as flavor. Can be cut soon as put on by dipping your knife in cold water. A 25c far of PERFECT ICING will go further than 25 cents in Egg and Sugar Icing as you use it, is more healthful, and gives a superior flavor. PERFECT ICINGS are put up in Screw Top Jars, also in Mason quarts, and in wooden pails of 25 lbs. each. DIRECTIONS. Remove the top, set the jar In a moderate oven or warm place, until the contents are thin enough to spread. Take your knife, stir it up and spread on a cold cake, just as thin as possible. Set your jar away to use again. Ask Your Grocer for PERFECT ICING. Almont, Coffee, Wild Grape, Orange, Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate, Pistash. PREPARED ONLY BY A. H. PELOUBET & CO., New York. See our Trade Mark A. H. P. is on every Label. PERFECT ICINGS used in making Sherbets or Water Ices, Ice Creams, Sauces, Home Confections, &c. Will give their rich flavors and save work. B. P. RAY, Agent, 2 Chatham Row, BOSTON, MASS. ATTENTION LADIES. Our Dress and Garment making is perfect; Prices reasonable; Fit, Style and Finish unsurpassed. Millinery: Hats and Bonnets made and Trimmed, 50c. to $1.00. Our Millinery and Dress Cutting Schools are the best in the world Young Ladies should come at once and learn. HARVEY, 29 Temple Place, Boston. EDGAR P. BENJAMIN, Attorney and Counsellor-at-Law Room 22, 34 SCHOOL STREET, BOSTON. NOTICE! Why Not Advertise in the Weekly Journal of the Lodge? With a circulation of 4,000 Write for terms and space. Address JOURNAL OF THE LODGE, NEW ORLEANS, La., Box 105. NEW PAGE THE WOMAN'S ERA. 17 J.R. YOUNG & CO. Will be glad to serve afternoon teas, spreads, wedding breakfasts and dinners, salads, croquettes, ice creams, ices and confections. Polite waiters. All orders promptly attended to. Will call to arrange for parties on receipt of Postal. 15 Bow Street, Cambridge. TELEPHONE 23-2. 27 Jerome Street, W. Medford. TELEPHONE, ARLINGTON 27-2. FIRST CLASS HELP, With good recommendations, for all branches of work in Private Families, Hotels and Boarding Houses supplied from MRS. J. S. KEMP'S EMPLOYMENT OFFICE, Office, 103 Revere St., BOSTON. FEMALE HELP A SPECIALTY. MRS. ELIZABETH COOLEY Is prepared to give First Class Accommodations to a few boarders at reasonable rates at the old stand. 62 Phillips St., Boston. MISS C. L. HOWARD, Fashionable Dressmaker, Latest Paris Fashions. All Work Strictly First Class. Button Holes Made. 37 Buckingham St., BOSTON. MISS L. M. STEWART, Artistic Dress Cutting and Making. Also Corset Making by Measurement. First Class Recommendations and Terms Reasonable. 19 Brewery St., CAMBRIDGE. MRS. E. DOMINIQUE, Dressmaker and Fur Sewer. Fur Cleansing and Repairing a Specialty. Best of References. Work Solicited. 64 PHILLIPS ST., [?] BOSTON. MRS. L. FOSTER, Fashionable Dressmaker. Strictly First Class. Terms Reasonable. Cutting and Basting by the M. E. Quinn System. 1 A MELROSE ST., BOSTON. MRS. M. BLACKMAN, INTELLIGENCE OFFICE. Colored Help a Specialty for Private Families, Hotels, Etc., at reasonable rates. 193 Cambridge Street, BOSTON. Near North Grove Street. Belt Line Cars Pass the Door. Cambridge Cleansing and Repairing Establishment. We clean by Steam and Naphtha. Dyeing in all its branches. Kid Gloves and Slippers Cleaned. Gives us a Trial. C. J. MOORE, 433 Main St. Emerson College of Oratory. Largest School of Elocution and Oratory in America FIVE HUNDRED STUDENTS, Has a thorough and systematic course of study, including a complete system of Physical Training and Voice Culture, Natural Rendering. Fall term opens October 15. Address for illustrated Catalogue, HENRY L. SOUTHWICK, Sec'y, Cor. Tremont and Berkeley Sts., Boston, Mass. 18 THE WOMAN'S ERA. [Image] Industrial Building. Boys' Hall. Stone Hall. Girls' Hall. ATLANTA UNIVERSITY, Atlanta, Ga. Collegiate and Normal Courses. Enlarged corps of teachers. Industrial training in domestic and mechanic arts, including printing. Instruction in both instrumental and vocal music and in elocution. High grade in every respect. A few deserving and needy students can be aided. Term begins Wednesday, October 2. For catalog, address President HORACE BUMSTEAD. ______________________________________________ SUBSCRIBE FOR MRS. CASNEAU'S GUIDE --TO-- ARTISTIC Dress Cutting and Making. _____ It is entirely original and is sure to satisfy a long felt want of young dressmakers, women who do their sewing at home, and those who anticipate learning the trade as the means of gaining a livelihood. The book is self-teaching and can be used with any system or with paper patterns. The order of arrangement places the rules where they will come in regular order for cutting and making a gown. In fact, the aim has been to make the work eminently practical for the average woman. Liberal inducements to agents everywhere. For further information and circulars, send stamp to Mr. Elmer E. Casneau, MANAGER, 9 Greenwich St., BOSTON, MASS. BOSTON Condensed Milk Co's Plain condensed (unsweetened) Milk is the best known food for infants. Best article in the world for a cup of coffee. Sold in jars at the office, 2 1/2 Park Sq., Boston Delivered three times per week. ENDORSEMENT. I have used the plain condensed milk and found it worked like a miracle in transforming my weak, puny baby into a strong, plump one, after all other foods had failed. MRS. McGILL, 10 Lindall Place, Boston. _______________________________________ THE AMERICAN WRINGER CO. BRANCH STORE,13 & 15 BROADWAY EXTENSION, Boston, Mass. Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers. All kinds of Wringers and Sweepers repaired Orders by mail promptly attended to. ___________________________________________________________________________ E. A. LIBBY, New good received by steamer every week. We never have an opening. Always ready to show goods. MILLINERY The old reliable house retains the same stand, 19 Temple Place, Boston. THE NEW WORLD TYPEWRITER Price, $15.00 A useful and elegant present for ladies and gentlemen. Over 100,00 in use. Perfectly simple, practical, and durable. No $100 machine can do better work. Writes 77 characters. Capitals and small letters. Never gets out of order. Perfect alignment always. No instruction required. SEND FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE. The Typewriter Improvement Co. 4 K Post Office Square, BOSTON, Mass. Agents Wanted. POINT PLEASANT Will be opened June 1 to accomodate a few select boarders. For terms address MRS. E. E. CRIPELL, WEST STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. P. O. Box 45. THE WOMAN'S ERA. 19 THE SUCCESS OF THE SEASON MRS. N. F. MOSSELL'S BOOK, THE WORK OF THE AFRO-AMERICAN WOMAN The First Edition has been nearly exhausted. An edition of 5000 is to be issued March 1st. "Above all, let the negro know that the elevation of his race can come only and will come surely through the elevation of its women."--Senator Geo. F. Hoar. Miss Emma K. White, one of Chester's most successful teachers, says: "The volume entitled The Work of the Afro-American Women is a great success at this point." Miss Julia Songow, Germantown, Pa.: "I have sold seventy-five copies of the Work of the Afro-American Woman within two weeks." Mrs. Jennie Euola Johnson of Camden, N.J.: "I have been very successful in my canvass of The Work of the Afro-American Woman." Agents Wanted. Liberal Inducements Offered. Let students at colleges, teachers who desire to canvass during the summer, apply at once. Very many agents in these two fields of effort have already done well. Price, Red or Brown Cloth, 75 cents, White and Gold, $1. Apply to Mrs. N. F. MOSSELL. 1432 Lombard Street, Philadelphia, Pa. HOUSEKEEPERS SHOULD SEE THE NEW Fibre Carpet. A Soft, Pliable, Odorless Matting, Warm in Winter, Cool in Summer. An Ideal Sanitary Chamber Carpet For all the year round, Sews together and turns under. Does not break or require binding. No odors or germs of disease. Insects do not trouble it. Heavy furniture does not break it. Double faced -- double wear. Artistic colors -- stylish designs. We cordially invite inspection. HODGES FIBRE CARPET CO. Manufacturers and Patentees, 50 Essex St. (cor. Chauncy) Boston, Mass. BOARDING AND LODGING, FIRST CLASS. MRS. W. H. YOUNG, No. 1208 Pine Street, Philadelphia. PRIVATE DINING ROOM. "Violets and Other Tales." A Collection of Short Stories and Poems. By ALICE RUTH MOORE. In Paper Covers, 50c.; Cloth, $1.00. AGENTS WANTED. Apply to ALICE RUTH MOORE, 1924 Palmyra Street New Orleans, La. COPIES FOR SALE AT Office of Women's Era, 103 Charles St., Boston. HOWARD UNIVERSITY. Washington, D. C., July 1, 1895. Furnishes instruction in the following departments and courses: Theological, Medical, Dental, Pharmaceutical, Legal, College, Preparatory, Normal, Musical, and Manual Training, including practice in carpenter shop, printing office, book bindery, tin shop and sewing school. All students have the privilege of library and reading room without extra charge. Tuition free in all courses except Medical Dental and Pharmaceutical. Term opens September 18. J. E. RANKIN, D.D., L.L.D., President. J. B. JOHNSON, Secretary. 20 The Woman's Era. Homes for the People! IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, THE ITALY OF AMERICA. LANDS WITHIN REACH OF POOR MEN'S MEANS. The Fruitland Colony Company, Of LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, Have placed upon the market 20,000 ACRES 20,000 Of the finest land on earth, which they intend to colonize with colored people, and at prices within reach of men and small means. In order to induce investments in these lands we offer 2,000 acres to the first settlers at $20 per acre and guarantee to deliver water to each 20 acres sold, sufficient for irrigation. These lands lie 60 miles north from Los Angeles, and 7 miles from the Southern Pacific R. R., and consist of a rich friable loam, being of sedimentary formation mingled with decomposed granite. The soil is from 4 to 50 feet deep, and is capable of producing everything on earth that grows in this land of wonderful production. It lies at an altitude of 2,500 feet above sea level and is peculiarly the land of the olive and almond. SMALL FARMS are the rule in Southern California and more profit can be realized from 20 acres here than on 160 acres in the East. AFTER 2,000 ACRES HAVE BEEN SOLD the price will be $35,000 per acre. It is not an unusual thing for trees in bearing to yield From $100 to $1000 per Acre. These lands will have perfect title and will be sold for one-third cash, balance one, two and three years, with interest at 6 per cent per annum. Full information will be given by applying to H. A. PIERCE, President, or T. M. GIBSON, Secretary, Room 37, Bryson Block, Los Angeles, California. Transcribed and reviewed by contributors participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.