Humboldt Memorial and Statue Unveiling Festivities: Torchlight Procession

Extremely long review of all the day’s events.

“The rallying point was the Germania Assembly Rooms, and about half-past eight the procession was sufficiently in order for the word of command to be given to form in line. [Lists the order of the procession, of which the bands listed above were all a part.] The fourth [part of the procession] was the most impressive and interesting part… made up, as it was, of all the German vocalists in the city, bearing the banners of their respective societies. As the procession wended its way along the Bowery, Grand street, Broadway, Union square, Fourteenth street, Second avenue, Tenth street, avenue A and Houston street these vocalists struck up their national songs; and, as their united voices were heard pealing out the melody above the plaudits of the crowd and the turmoil of the city, the excitement seemed to become universal and everybody joined in the enthusiasm. ‘The pillar of fire’ wound its jubilant way along, and finally rested, about half-past ten, at the Assembly Rooms, in the Bowery.”

“The torchlight procession in the evening was a most imposing affair. It was estimated that upward of 15,000 persons, representing almost every branch of industry and art, joined the line. There were singing societies, Turners, cigar manufacturers, machinists, clothing-cutters, and a score of other societies and Unions…” No mention of music.