Page:History of Barrington, Rhode Island (Bicknell).djvu/691

 THE CENTENNIAL. 663 and for the decision of the taxpayers as to the expediency of making an appropriation for defraying a portion of the expenses connected with such a celebration, The expressions of the people had previously been so strong and hearty that the School Committee in their annual report to the town, said: "As this year is the hundredth of the town's his- tory, and may therefore secure some public observance, it has seemed to us suitable that our schools should participate in whatever advantages such a civic celebration should afford. In the absence of other imposing organizations, we have material of just the sort to form a pleasing part of the procession. The pupils can march, and they can sing, and other- wise mingle in the festivities of the occasion, with as lively an interest as others, at least; and will remember the year and the day long after, to speak of it as a proud one for the good old town. As Barrington is just entering upon its second century, let it be with a harmonious face to the front, forgetting all local feuds and rivalries, and aiming mutually to im- prove the future. Inasmuch as the youth and children of to-day are to be the men and women of a period not far future, let us incite them as far as possible to exalted aims, and welcome them to the privileges right at hand. As they shall listen to the chronicles of former times, and hear good report of their fathers who subdued the wilderness, and laid the foundations for popular intelligence and prosperity, will they not be inspired with dispositions and purposes to leave as fair a record for themselves.' " Whatever, indeed, of healthful influence, either moral or mental, the faithful historian may have to impart, the young in years will be likely to remember as incentives to a noble life." The town, at its April meeting, unanimously voted to celebrate the One Hundredth Anniversary of its second incorporation, and appropriated $500 for the expense. The following Committee was elected to carry out the wishes of the people : Centennial Committee, 1870. Lewis B. Smith, Rev. Francis Horton, Rev. S. Brenton Shaw, D. D., Nathaniel C Smith, John B. Humphreys, Benjamin Martin, Asa Peck, Nathaniel Peck, Lewis T. Fisher, David A. Waldron, Allen Brown, *Allen C. Mathewson, Earl C. Potter, Charles C Smith, Joseph Bowen, H. H. Richardson, Leonard S. Bosvvorth, George R. Kinnicutt, Benjamin F. Drown, Rev. Francis Wood. The Centennial Committee organized by the election of Rev. Francis Horton as Chairman, John B. Humphreys, Esq., as Secretary, and Hon. bility to serve.
 * Thomas W. Bicknell was elected to fill the vacancy caused by Mr. Mathewson's ina.