Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 23.djvu/384

 378 Southern Historical Society Papers.

McGuire, Miss Mary Donnan, Miss Bessie Catlin, Misses Learv, Miss Lelia Dimmock, Mrs. B. S. Smith, Miss L. M. Knox, Mi^s Estelle Clements, New York; Misses Williams.

PROJECTORS OF THE MUSEUM.

The idea of the establishment of the museum originated with Mrs. Joseph Bryan, to whom, more than any other, is due the honor of success. This statement is made at the very urgent request of many members of the Society. Next to her, no one, says the general voice, has been so indefatigable as Mrs. E. D. Hotchkiss. Mi>^ Isabel Maury, who had charge of the relic department at the bazaar, has been appointed temporary superintendent of the Museum. The permanent appointment will be made later.

AT NIGHT.

The Museum was also open to the public from 8 to n o'clock at night, between which hours the historic structure was packed to its utmost capacity. Hundreds of people, eager to honor the auspicious occasion by their presence, could not get near the doors of the old mansion, so large was the crowd. The standing room of the stair- ways and corridors, as well as of the rooms, was taxed to its utmost. The regents and vice-regents and the ladies composing the various reception committees, were attired, mostly, in evening dress, and this added beauty and inspiration to the scene. The Governor, accompanied by his staff, in full uniform, visited the Museum, both afternoon and evening, but at night they visited all the State rooms, and viewed the relics on display with much interest.

The Richmond Light Infantry Blues and the veterans from the Soldiers' Home also attended the evening reception.

The historic battle-flags on exhibition were objects of considerable attraction and curiosity, and they were gazed upon and discussed by many.

The refreshment-room was merry with laughter and the music of silverware and china the entire evening. The ladies in charge, with Mrs. George M. West as chairman, were kept exceedingly busy, and the results were very gratifying.

The bust of General Lee, presented to the Maryland room by the Confederate Society of the Army and Navy of Maryland, ar- rived, and was placed in position.