Venue(s):
Madison Square
Event Type:
Band, Choral
Performance Forces:
Vocal
Status:
Published
Last Updated:
24 June 2013
“The largest popular gathering ever held in this City met yesterday afternoon at and around Madison-square, in response to the call of the Loyal League of Union citizens, issued by its President, Lieut.-Gen. Winfield Scott, U. S. A.
The day was rather unpropitious. Dark rain-clouds hung over the City, and clouds of dust whistled windily through the streets; but denser than the former, and more enthusiastically restless than the latter, were the ‘clouds of witnesses’ which by scores of thousands swarmed in front of the Fifth-avenue Hotel to shout Amen to every patriotic sentiment, and cheer with hearty voice each testimony of fealty to the land of the free and the home of the brave…
Four stands were erected, from which, as will be seen in the following report, distinguished gentlemen addressed the vast crowd…
The American colors, in every possible shape, floated gaily from flagstaffs, from long lines stretched across the street, and ornamented all sides of Stand No. 1, from which Dodworth’s Band discoursed the national airs, and in front of which as many as could get within hearing distance were assembled. The coupe d’œil was strikingly beautiful from this point…
The Glee Club now favored the audience with a patriotic song, which elicited general approval. Just as they concluded, the grand turnout of the Express Companies came in front of the stand. It created some confusion, but was, however, warmly welcomed and honored with three cheers…
[Stand No. 4] this stand was generally set apart for ladies, and hundreds of the fair sex had assembled on the platform. The stand was decorated with the American colors, and banners inscribed with appropriate mottoes were suspended from the upper rails. A band of music was in attendance, and played at intervals delightful airs…
The ‘Hutchinsons,’ were introduced and sang a patriotic song, entitled ‘Rally Round the Flag,’ and also ‘Glory, Hallelujah.’”