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This text has been proofread but is not guaranteed to be free from errors. Corrections to the original text have been left in place.
Title: The Woman's Era, Volume 3, an electronic edition
Author: Ruffin, Josephine St. P. Ridley, Florida R." 
Publisher: Woman's Era Club
Place published: 
Date: [1894-1897]
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The Woman's Era.Vol. III. No. 2.BOSTON, MASS., JUNE, 1896.  PRICE 10 CENTS.SOME FEATURES OF THE ERA SOUVENIR PROGRAM NUMBER.The most important feature of this number, after the programme of the three days' convention, will be the advertisements of men and women of business in the different cities. Many of the agents interested in this Souvenir, are asking for a whole page upon which to show up the successful business people of their section, and all are taking a local pride in the result. As this number is to have handsome covers, and fine cuts, it will be a lasting ornament, as well as a good business Directory for future reference. All our business people failing to be in evidence in this triumphant showing of successful effort, will have cause for regret when too late to remedy. All orders for space must be in the Boston office by July 10th, to insure insertion ill this great free edition. Among the cuts promised is one of Harriet Tubman, of the latest statue presented to the city of Boston, that of John Boyle O'Riley, and in reception of which Mayor Quincy said, "it is the fittest piece of sculpture erected in all Boston," of the building where the first convention of women was held in Boston, and the church where the first annual meeting will be held in Washington, in July.STATEMENT TO ADVERTISERS.The WOMAN'S ERA, now in its third year, is published monthly in Boston; it is the organ of the N.F. of A-A.W. which organization extends over a dozen states including fifty Clubs, whose united memberships reach far into the thousands.At the first Annual Convention of this national organization to be held in Washington, D. C., July 20, 21, 22, the WOMAN'S ERA SOUVENIR NUMBER, will be distributed free, as it will also at the Christian Endeavor Convention, which immediately precedes this.This number containing the Program of the Convention, many cuts of prominent people and places, original sketches and stories, will be a desirable Souvenir and consequently an unusually valuable advertising medium.A mammoth edition will be issued and will not only be mailed its usual to regular subscribers, but will also be sent in large batches to local agents for FREE distribution in their respective localities and scattered broad cast among delegates and visitors at both conventions.Advertisements will be classified according to cities and indexed.Applications for terms must be made AT ONCE to the regular authorized local Agents, or to the Office of the WOMAN'S ERA, 103 Charles St. Boston.Cash must accompany orders.For good and sufficient reasons all advertisements are omitted from this issue of the ERA. Because of this omission all our standing yearly ads. will be carried in the Souvenir Program Number free. The great advantage to our patrons from this arrangement must be obvious.The Royal Blue Line is endeavoring to secure special rates for the meeting and if successful announcement will be made in due course. This line operates the finest system of trains between New York and Washington, and delegates and their friends are assured of a pleasant trip in travelling under their auspices. This line issues a handsomely illustrated "Guide to Washington" which will be of interest to those intending to be present at the Convention. A copy may be secured free by addressing A. J. Simmons, New England Agent, 211 Washington street, Boston.CONVENTION NOTES.The Loyal Union of New Bedford has all the health and vigor of youth. We believe it was the fittest to respond financially. Its president, Mrs. Soulis came to Boston to help form the N.E. Federation and together with Miss Scarborough
will go as a delegate to Washington.The women who will come together at Washington are representative in every way; north, south, east, and west will have full and intelligent representatives -- Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Dr. Butler, Mrs. Maples from the south, Mrs. Tyler, Mrs. Napier Kemp, Mrs. Wells Barnett from the west, Mrs. Dickinson, Mrs. Soulis from the east, and numbers of bright women from New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington. This shows what the character of the prospective convention will be.Beside the two delegates to be sent by the club (the president, Mrs. Ruffin, and the Secretary, Mrs. Hannah Smith,) six members will represent the club at their own expense. This is a good showing.Since the last issue of the ERA several new clubs have applied for admission into the Federation. Among the number are the following: The "Ida B. Wells Club," Chicago, Ill. The "Woman's Club," Los Angeles, Cal. The Julia Hooks School, Memphis, Tenn. The Woman's Club, Buffalo, N.Y.Clubs are requested to send their list of delegates with name of the delegate who is to make the club report to Mrs. Matthews, 9 Murray St., New York.Mrs. R. Jerome Jeffrey, president of the Woman's Club of Rochester, N. Y., will represent that body at Washington.All business men find women should advertise in the Souvenir number -- there will be a splendid showing by cities. Send your business cards at once. The Souvenir Number will he distributed free.THE WOMAN'S ERA LITERATURE DEPARTMENT.During the past winter, in Boston, there was organized and conducted a class for the study of the novel. A few of the best novels were selected and studied carefully, the aim being not quantity but quality. Each member of the class was given a set of questions on the novel to be taken up, to which answers were to be formed according to one's opinion after careful reading. These questions and answers were afterwards discussed in the class. The chief benefit derived from the study was through this discussion and being able to form and hold one's own opinion . The questions used in this class will be presented to the readers of the "ERA" from time to time as an incentive to pleasant and profitable study. No answers will be given, for many can simply be a matter of personal opinion.THE STUDY OF THE NOVEL.
IVANHOE.1. In an historical novel what should the novelist reject and what reproduce? 2. What is the artistic effect of the introduction and notes? 3. What is the dominant and what are the subordinate objects of historical interest in Ivanhoe? 4. State as fully as you can from the data given in Ivanhoe, the relations between the Normans and the Saxons, and between the Christians and the Jews. 5. Point out the chief elements of contrast between the characters of Richard and John, Ivanhoe and Athelstane, the Jolly Hermit and the Cistercian Monk, Rebecca and Rowena. 6. What aesthetic purpose is accomplished by the introduction of Womba the Jester and the Jolly Hermit? 7. Compare Isaac of York and Shylock as delineations of Jewish character. 8. What are the special excellencies of' Rebecca's description of the storming of Front de Boef's castle? 9. Mention the most important dramatic situations in the novel. 10. What improbabilities appear? Are they justifiable? 1. What instance of Nemesis in Ivanhoe. 12. How can we excuse ourselves for sympathizing with Locksley and his followers? 13. Why does the author so long conceal the identity of Ivanhoe and Richard? 14. What is Scott's justification for the sacrifice of Rebecca to Rowena?MRS. FANNIE BARIER WILLIAMS IN BOSTON.The long anticipated lecture by Mrs. Williams of Chicago was given at Gilbert Hall, Tremont Temple on June 20. Mrs. Williams lectured on "The Strength and Weakness of the Christian Religion as Believed, Preached and Practised in the United States" and spoke in her usual thoughtful and finished style. Mrs. Ednah D. Cheney presided and the lecture was listened to by a fine sized audience. Unfortunately the afternoon selected was the one upon which the closing exercises of the "Perkins Institute for the Blind" was held; as this is one of the pet institutions of Boston it drew away a large number who would otherwise have attended the lecture, among them Mrs. Julia Ward Howe who personally expressed her disappointment at not being able to hear Mrs. Williams. On this afternoon also, the Cantabrigia Club held open house in Cambridge in celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of that city. All these kept away a large number who met Mrs. Williams and regretted the circumstances which deprived them of the pleasure of hearing her.ANNIVERSARY WEEK AND VISITORS.The last week in May was a full and delightful one to Boston club women; the annual anniversaries which are a distinctive feature of New England life and work were carried on in the same quietly delightful way as usual, the intellectual features, were as ever faultless, the best minds in New England contributing to these occasions and, amid sunshine and flowers, music, wit, and beauty, yes beauty, too, Anniversary Week of '96 took its place in the long line of anniversaries gone before.The Woman's Era Club was fortunate in having in its midst, as guests of its president, Mrs Mathews of New York, Mrs. F.B. Williams of Chicago and Mrs. Dickerson of Newport. Each of the Iadies took part in one or more of the many intellectual gatherings of the week, Mrs. Williams being heard in a lecture in Tremont Temple, at one of' the suffrage meetings and at the Free Religious Banquet, where she and Mrs. Mathews were the guests of Mrs. Ednah D. Cheney, while Mrs. Mathews was the speaker at a special called meeting in Charles St. Church, and at the Moral Educational Association meeting at Tremont Temple. All the visiting ladies were guests of Mrs. Ruffin at the Suffrage Banquet in Music Hall. Other social features were, the reception tendered the ladies by the Woman's Era Club at the house of the president. This was in every way a delightful success in spite of the throng which filled the house from chamber to basement, and overflowed on to the porch for air. There was some very fine vocal music by Mrs. A.C. Sparrow, musical director of the club, and recitations by Miss Florence Williams of Newton. The committee having the reception in charge took possession of the house early in the day and literally banked the parlors with potted plants, wild flowers and ferns. The following ladies served at the different tables: Mrs. E. Benjamin, ices and cake, Mrs. Bailey, lemonade and Mrs. Foster, frappe; Miss Eva Lewis, Mrs. Lottie Sampson, Mrs. Dandridge and Miss Etta Tolliver acted as ushers. Memorial day was spent in driving around beautiful Mt. Auburn visiting the tombs of distinguished dead. The last day the visitors were guests at the Cantabrigia Club Reception in the "Newtown Club House" and took part in the festivities consequent upon the fiftieth anniversary of the birth of Cambridge as a city.The Ladies' Auxiliary, Mrs. B. K. Bruce, chairman, is taking great interest in the Convention and are doing much to make the visit of the delegates a pleasant one; Mrs. Lawson, secretary of the Ladies' Auxiliary has a large committee on hospitality, and has been and is tireless in her efforts to do all that can be done towards assuring a hearty and enthusiastic reception to the women who will be there from all parts of the Union.EDITORIAL.VOL. III. Boston, Mass., June, 1896. No. 2.Our readers need not be told that the paper has been very irregular, doubtless, many of them have expressed their opinion of this irregularity in a more or less vigorous manner; however, we beg their favor and ask further indulgence. In attempting to do the work of the Federation and to adequately represent that body, the management took upon itself new and great responsibilities, and until the Federation has had its first convention and gets into better running order, everything concerned is necessarily more or less irregular. We know this condition is irritating but it is always one of the necessary  concomitantsconcommittants of young and struggling institutions. With the Federation well started, with the work running smoothly so that workers will not be "run to death" and then criticised because some things have been omitted, we hope to do better things. Until that time we ask that indulgence which we are obliged to exercise in large measure in doing what we can in carrying on this work for our women and our race.Institutions like the Federation, papers like the ERA, not only call for self-sacrifice, devotion and enthusiasm on the part of those who conduct, but also a large charity, patience, and sympathy on the part of those who "stand and wait."WINNING CAUSES.The causes or movements that have the elements of assured success *  *  *  belong to the history of the human race and not to a mere handful of people from a remote corner of the earth, and must be tested by three supreme tests: the test of right principle, the test of endurance, and the test of growth."THE CONVENTION OF THE N.F.A.-A.W.That the Federation of colored women should have in one year grown to twice its original size, that it should awaken interest in, and receive responses from the women all over the country, speaks well, not only for the future of organized work among us, but also for the energy, intelligence and self-sacrifice of the officers.The convention promises to be a remarkable one, not only for the characters of the women who will assemble and be represented, but also for the scope of the work which has been planned.*      *      *      *      *      *  The decision of the Supreme Court of the United States on the Separate Car Law, comes as a disappointment, but hardly as a surprise to millions of loyal American citizens.It cannot be denied that sentiment against the Negro and his rights is growing rapidly. As the black man acquires money and education new barriers are raised against him, sometimes old obstacles which pity for helplessness and ignorance caused to be removed are being rebuilt and it is only to a few enlightened minds that the cause of the Negro has any interest at all.In time the problem must work itself, and in the meantime the Negro has got to make himself felt. There is no wisdom, virtue, policy or manhood in bearing everything put upon one. Appeals for justice by voice and pen go very little ways at present, practically no attention whatever is paid to them; the time is come when they must be backed by aggressive action and a physical as well as mental resistance to every abrogation of manhood rights.If laws are unjust, they must be continually broken until they are killed or altered. The thing to do is to force the recognition of manhood by any and all means.The heroes of the South who are meeting cowardly lynchers with a shotgun and the courage of true manhood, the men of the North as well as the South who are meeting insinuations against character and efforts to humiliate them with a strong and ready fist, are doing as much towards the forcing of a right condition as any. The world is turning a callous ear to appeals for justice; it is evident that the only way now to get what we want is to take it even if we have to break laws in getting it.The need of Christian homes for wayward and erring girls, will be an issue.The Separate Car law will be generally discussed and drastic measures adopted for having it expunged from the Statute of the states in which the system operates, it is hoped.Delegates to the convention are assured of a hearty welcome by the pastor and people of the19th St. Baptist Church, where the session will be held. This welcome will show itself in many substantial and pleasant forms. Among other things, the pastor, the Rev. Walter Brooks will give an address of welcome and the ladies of the church have offered themselves to serve luncheon to the delegates.CLUB NEWS."ADA SWEET PIONEER CLUB," MINNEAPOLIS.The officers elected for the coming year are as follows:President, Mrs. Jasper Gibbs.1st Vice President, Miss-Josie Morgan.2d Vice President, Mrs. S. A. Hardison.Recording Secretary, Miss Mary Morgan.Corresponding Sec'y, Mrs. J. Napier Kemp.Treasurer, Miss Margaret Marshall.Critic, Miss Cora Napier.Editor, Miss Cora Napier.Chaplain, Mrs. Sadie Williams.Board of Councilors { Mrs. J. Napier Kemp, Mrs. Sadie Williams, Mrs. N. Mason.The Club has been admitted into the "Woman's Council" in this city and two delegates have been elected and will take their seats in that body Saturday, June 27. The two delegates are Mrs. R. J. Coleman and Mrs. J. Napier Kemp; they will be the first Afro-Americans ever represented in that body.Mrs. Fannie Barier Williams, of Chicago, lectured under the auspices of the Club on the 10th of the month on "Prudence Crandell, a Modern Canterbury Tale."In the latter part of May the Club held an interesting and successful public meeting. Papers were read by Miss Cora Napier, Mrs. Plummer and Mrs. Hardison; addresses by Mrs. Napier Kemp and Mrs. Russell, and music was furnished by Mrs. Sadie Williams and Miss Rice.The Ada Sweet Club will be represented on the program of the Convention.THE OMAHA WOMAN'S CLUB.The officers elected to serve this Club for the year ending June, 1897, are as follows:President, Laura M. Craig.1st Vice President, Anna Bowler.2d Vice President, Anna Woodbey.Recording Secretary, S. Lillian Coleman.Corresponding Secretary, L. Irene Sley.Treasurer, Ophelia Clenans.*      *      *      *      *      *  Dear Madam: --- The Woman's Club, of Omaha, wishes to know if the they can have space in your paper, the WOMAN'S ERA, once a month. How much space can be had, and how much will it cost?Answer: --- Until after the annual meeting of the Federation in Washington next month -- when it is expected some equable and uniform hasis of support for the official organ will he settled upon -- inquiring Club correspondents are referred to the answer made to the same question from the Los Angelos Club, in the May ERA.   ED.The last meeting of the season of the New England Women's Press Association took the form of a June outing at the Ocean Villa of Miss Floretta Vining, at Hull, when Miss Vining opened her spacious summer home for a two days' gathering of the members of the Abbott Academy Club, the Daughters of the Revolution, and the N.E.W.P.A.*      *      *      *      *      *  The Japanese Tea given by the Ways and Means Committee of the W.E.C. was an unqualified success in every way, but too late to give details in this issue.A NEW ENGLAND FEDERATION.Mrs. Mary Dickerson, of Newport, Vice President, representing New England, came to Boston the last week of May and was the guest of Mrs. Ruffin. While here, Mrs. Dickerson met the president and officers of New England clubs and
succeeded in forming a New England Federation. This step is a good one, and is expected to be productive of great results. All the clubs represented are already members of the National Federation, interested and enthusiastic supporters of the National body who hope by this special organization to awaken the women of New England to a keener interest in united work and to organize for harmonious, vigorous and united work for the cause in general. In the fall the work of the New England Federation will be pushed with zeal and watched with interest.ATLANTA DOTS.Once more our city has taken on her summer aspect; the colleges and seminaries have all closed, and teachers and pupils have wended their way home.The commencement exercises of all the schools were exceptionally fine this year.Miss Mamie Mason, one of Spelman's, "Sweet girl Graduates" read a well prepared paper on "The Need of a Reformatory for Georgia." When she had finished there was a most hearty appreciation and approval, not only from the magnificent audience, which filled spacious chapel, but Gov. W.Y. Atkinson rose from his seat on the rostrum, and not only endorsed the sentiments of Miss Mason's paper, but expressed in strong terms, his sympathy for the movement. The next day a reporter from the Atlanta Journal, (daily) was sent to Spelman Seminary, to secure Miss Mason's paper for publication in its columns; now, this paper, three, yes, two years ago considered it an unpardonable sin, to allow an article from the pen and brain of an educated Afro-American, to appear in its sacred (?) columns. Miss Mason has started the ball, and ere long we hope to have a reformatory for our youthful criminals like the splendid one in Concord, Mass.ATLANTA WOMAN'S CLUB.Selena S. ButlerThe regular meetings have been well attended, and full of interest and inspiration. The reports read from the different committees were gratifying. The First Ward sewing circle, with Miss M.F. Pullen as chairman, has been at source of education, to all who have attended. The girls do plain sewing very creditably.The sewing circle in the third ward, with Mrs. Agnes Pitts as chairman, is taught plain sewing and fancy work. The sewing circle in the fourth ward, under Miss Janie Crane now numbers 41; at present the little girls are making a quilt, which is to be sold when finished, and the proceeds donated for charitable purposes.The pupils of these different circles look forward with childish delight to the afternoon when they are to assemble. A most pleasing picture indeed, to see their happy faces, sparkling eyes, and listen to their merry chatter as they "ply the needle and thread."The Lawn Party given by the club at the beautiful residence of Mrs. D.T. Howard, our faithful President, was an agreeable success in every phase.The A.W.C., is an active organization, and is doing much good in many ways. The assessment of $2.00 has been forwarded to Mrs. L.C. Anthony, and a good delegation will be sent to the National Federation.Selena S. Butler.CONVENTION NOTES.The program for the Convention will be in the form of a "Woman's Era Souvenir Edition;" these will be issued the early part of July and will be for free distribution.Many people labor under the mistaken idea that there are differences between the National Federation of Afro-American Women, and other organizations. Distinct lines of work should not be conflicted with causes for antagonism. We fear this has been done unwittingly by many who have not begun to realize the proportions of the Woman's Movement. We are rejoiced over the moral effect thus far of the efforts to arouse our women the country over. Until the movement inaugurated by the women of Boston, which resulted in the formation of the National Federation was pioneered to success, the colored woman as a factor in club life was unknown, except locally. Not so now, and the National Federation feels justifiably encouraged. At the coming Convention efforts will be made to accomplish tangible results by bringing together the women who have founded homes, orphanages and hospitals, that our coming women may gather inspiration and the public be educated as to the actual work our women are striving against odds to do.Mrs. Tyree and Miss Chanie Patterson, Miss E. Nowell Ford, and the members of the Lyceum presided over by Rev. Jesse Lawson will assist in providing music for the Convention.Mrs. F.J. Coppin and Mrs. Frances E.W. Harper will speak for Philadelphia.The gifted authoress, Miss Alice Ruth Moore will attend the Convention.Every day reports come of new clubs, aroused to action. The latest to be heard from is two out in Kentucky where Miss Mary V. Cook is doing splendid service in arousing the women.The women of the Northwest are especially interested in the great Paris Exposition. The President of the Ada Sweet Club will open the question. She is the brilliant Mrs. J. Napier Kemp.Our faithful friend Mrs. Lyles will carry on her plucky efforts in favor of the Joint Brown Memorial. Her cause is a noble one and should have the undivided support of our women.Miss Mason of Atlanta, will treat the Georgia Convict System. By an address delivered some time ago, on this subject in her native city this lady won the hearty congratulation of  Gov. Atkinson of Georgia, on the very able and comprehensive way in which she handled the subject."WOMAN'S LOYAL UNION OF NEW YORK AND BROOKLYN."The Woman's Loyal Union of New York and Brooklyn, will be represented very largely at the Convention. It has been decided to solid two regular delegates; the possibilities are that a large number will attend from that body.The birthday of Harriet Beecher Stowe, was upon motion of Mrs. K.V. Carmand remembered, and a letter written in that lady's most touching and sympathetic vein was voted sent to the famous author of Uncle Tom's Cabin; also an original poem by Miss H. Cordelia Ray, secretary of the W.L.U. There is something eminently fit in selecting these ladies to perform this pleasing task. Mrs. Carmand's mother was a noted woman -- Mrs. Jennings, -- whose best years were spent, far from the great centres of population, educating the Plantation youth of Virginia.Miss H. Cordelia Ray, a poet by nature and cultivation descends from a family noted for talent and integrity. Her father, Dr. Charles Ray, was long known as one of the most zealous workers for the emancipation of his people in the South. He was especially beloved by Wendell Phillips.OPEN LETTER FROM CHAIRMAN OF EX. COM. OF N.F.A.-A.W.Victoria MatthewsSince the publication of the letters sent by the officers of the National League, many persons have written for information as to "why the National Federation refused to unite with National League?" and other questions implying that the officers of the National Federation were cognizant of the plans of the League to hold a separate convention before the announcement was made in public print. As my correspondence is voluminousvoluminious, and everything connected with this matter is not private but public concern, I am forced to adopt this means of answering many who have requested information concerning the matter. I beg all included under this head of personal correspondents will consider this explanation a personal reply to their queries: -- The facts in the case are simply these. At no time did the officers of the National League notify or invite the National Federation to participate in its convention through any officer connected with The National Federation. The National Secretary, Mrs. F.R. Ridley, having never received any communication whatever. The only intimation Mrs. B. T. Washington had of the date or plans of the National League was from the announcement contained in Colored American of April 25th. Mrs. Washington nor the Chairman of Executive Committee, was not notified that the League would not meet the Federation in Joint Convention. No notice of this important fact was sent to the official organ of the Federation. No invitation has been sent to the National Federation, to carry out the terms of the vote of the Conference committee, i.e. that a joint convention be held this summer; a joint session and a joint convention, are two widely differing affairs; lastly the letter published in last issue of THE WOMAN'S ERA, is absolutely the last communication received by the Chairman of Executive Committee, from the officers of the National League. Our coming convention represents not a "difference" of any kind with the National League or any other body. It will be held in accordance with article V of the Constitution.Respectfully,Victoria Matthews,Chairman Executive Committee National Federation of Afro-American Women.LOUISANA.Alice Ruth MooreThe Phyllis Wheatley Club is doing a lot of work lately. The Sanitarium scheme is taking on what seems to be something of a very definite nature. There was a special meeting to discuss its plans into something like real work.The committee which was appointed to make reports and confer with the different authorities in charge of the Charity hospital relative to the establishing of a Phyllis Wheatley Ward therein, reported at the previous monthly meeting, that Dr. Lewis and Sister Agnes in charge of the Hospital work had stated most emphatically and plainly that under no circumstances whatever would colored physicians and nurses be allowed to practice in the Hospital, even under such conditions as the Club wished imposed. Under such circumstances there was nothing for the P.W.C.'s to do but withdraw their offer of endowing the ward, and turn their attention to other matters.At this juncture, the committee conferred with Dr. Atkinson, president of New Orleans University, and with the Medical Faculty of the New Orleans Medical Department, with the object of placing their funds, and energy in some work for the medical department of this school. To this end, a special meeting was called, and Dr. Atkinson and Dr. Newman invited to address the Club. As president of the University, Dr. Atkinson stated his opinion as to the help the club could give, the needs of the medical department in regard to a sanitarium, clinic, and nurses, gave interesting statistics of probable costs, and suggested plans of management, rules of admission and other necessary little details. Dr. Newman, as one of the principal lecturers in the department, and a physician of wide experience, followed, with supplementary information.The upshot of the whole matter is, that the Phyllis Wheatley club is about to start a sanitarium and training school for nurses to be established in the New Orleans Medical School Building. There are to be pay wards, and free wards, a matron, head nurse, and facilities for the training of a limited number of young women who wish to become perfected in the noble art of caring for the sick. Of course, there will be limitations to the whole affair, at first. The work will begin on a small scale, but it is hoped that when everyone sees the reality of the talked of plans, the public spirited colored citizens of the city will come to its assistance as nobly as they have done in other charitable institutions.Dr. Atkinson has promised to have the building ready for the wards and rooms by the early part of September, and now the members of the club have their hands full of summer work in perfecting plans of organization, arranging rules, boards of directors, raising sufficient sums of money, and other such work.The first gift to the new cause was made by the Peabody Alumni, which kindly turned over to the Sanitarium Fund all the ready money it had in its treasury. The corner-stone just laid was highly appreciated by all club members.At the May meeting, the members of the club were addressed on the "Legal Status of Woman in Louisiana" by the Hon. L.A. Martinet. It was an interesting lecture, not only from the earnestness of the speaker, but that it threw some light on darkly mysterious position of woman's legal status in the state.The club has appointed its delegate to represent it at Washington in July.ALICE RUTH MOORE.HARRIET TUBMAN.Victoria EarleEfforts are now being put forward to bring before the young generation the last of the grand characters identified with the "uprising of a great people." The woman whom the great-hearted Mrs. Sarah H. Bradford of Geneva, said, is "worthy to be handed down to posterity side and side with the names of Joan of Arc, Grace Darling, and Florence Nightingale.""In my opinion" says Wendell Phillips, "There are few Captains, perhaps few Colonels, who have done more for the loyal cause since the war began, and few men who did that before that time, more for the colored race, than our fearless and most sagacious friend, Harriet Tubman. The last time I ever saw John Brown was under my own roof, as he brought Harriet Tubman to me, saying, 'Mr. Phillips I bring you one of the best and bravest persons on this Continent. General Tubman, as we call her.'"This wonderful woman became famous before the fall of Sumter, by conducting hundreds of slaves to freedom, through the system known as the "Under Ground Railroad." So daring and intrepid was she, that sums averaging from 12 to 40,000 dollars were offered for her capture by the slave oligarchy. During the rebellion, she was employed as scout, guide and nurse, and served all through the war, acknowledged and appreciated by all the great characters having charge of the affairs of state and war at that time. At the conclusion of hostilities, she quietly retired into private life and a short while ago gave her modest dwelling over to be a "home for the aged and homeless of her race."It will be an inspiration for the rising generation to see and clasp hands with this noble mother in Israel! She has attained the advanced age of 80 years, and should God in his providence bless the efforts now being put forth toward having her present at the Convention in Washington, we hope our people will give her a true Chautauquan welcome. We expect to reproduce her photograph on our souvenir programme. This alone will make them valuable. We hope to bring such pressure to bear upon our grate body of Afro-American Women, that a great unrest will seize our women, that the cry, "What shall we do to elevate, purify and upbuild our race?" will burst spontaneously from thousands of earnest hearts, all over this land. All over our country, thousands of women are awakening to the fact that a new day is, dawning of our people, and that a tidal wave of deep heartfelt anxiety for better and purer homes, healthier and better trained children, broader and more helpful educational missionary work is sweeping over the great body of Afro-American Women. So at the very beginning of this new day let us all meet in the benign presence of this great leader, in days and actions, that caused strong men to quail this almost unknown, almost unsung "Black Joan of Arc," to whom the lamented Frederick Douglass once wrote - "Most that I have done and suffered in the service of our cause has been in public, and I have received much encouragement at every step of the way. You on the other hand have labored in a private way. I have wrought in the day - you in the night. I have had the applause of the crowd and the satisfaction that comes of being approved by the multitude, while the most you have done has been witnessed by a few trembling scarred and footsore bondmen and women, whom you have led out of the house of bondage, and whose heartfelt 'God bless you' has been your only reward. The midnight sky and the silent stars have been the witnesses of your devotion to freedom and of your heroism.The primary object of the Federation is to bring our women together, we owe it to our children, to uncover from partial oblivion and unconscious indifference the great characters within our own ranks. The fact that we know so little that is creditably and truly noble about our own people constitutes one of the saddest and most humiliating phases of Afro-American life. Every woman who feels that is so, should rally now, and aid the great Cause, represented by The National Federation of Afro-American Women, and so nobly championed by our own Mrs. Booker T. Washington.Victoria Earle.The Woman's Era.
Souvenir NumberN.F.A.A.M. Convention Program
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Ice Cream Soda, Pineapple Gem, Miner's Fruit Nectar.
Prescriptions Compounded day and night.Dr. W.S. LOFTON,
DENTAL PARLORS,
Dentist.
Crown Work and Bridge Work a Specialty.
No. 1543 M. Street, Northwest.J.S. Koonce.  L.L. Koonce.
The Delmo Koonce,
Bakers and Confectioners,
Established 1890.
7th Street, Chevy Chase, Brightwood, Tacoma and 9th Street.
Cars will bring you within a few feet of our door.
Ice Cream and Cakes furnished to the trade at reduced rates. Wedding, Birthday and Dinner Parties served at short notice.JOSEPH H. STEWART,
Attorney-at-Law,
Office, 619 F. Street, N.W.
Residence, 1012 R. Street, N.W.  Washington, D.C.,
Legal business of every description conducted in all the Courts of the District of Columbia. Secures Pensions, Patents and Prosecutees Government Claims. Real Estate matters a Specialty.McKENZIE & SCOTT
- - FUNERAL DIRECTORS - -
438 Second Street, S.W., Washington, D.C.
Telephone Call 1102.
Embalming and all orders promptly attended to. Hearses and Carriages for Hire.T.W. DODSON,
First-Class Dyer and Scourer,
Twenty-five Years Experience.
No. 815 4th St., N.W. Washington, D.C.
Ladies' Dresses, Ribbons, Gloves, etc., Dyed and Cleaned in first-class style, without ripping or tearing.
Work Called for and Delivered, and Finished on Short Notice.This page features ads for the Washington Business Calendar. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.Obstetrics, Gynecology, Surgery, Medicine, Rest Cure.
Office Consultation and all Obstetrical Cases, CASH.
DR. JOHN R. FRANCIS'
PRIVATE SANITORIUM
2112 Penna. Avenue, N.W.,
Residence, 2106 Penna. Ave., N.W.  Washington, D.C.
Telephone Call 988
This institution is established for the care of sick persons whose home environments, as is well known, so often prevent proper treatment and rapid convalescence. The object is to guarantee to such persons the careful scientific tratement of the hospital, combined with the comforts of home. Any physician in good standing will be permitted to enter and treat her proper cases, from his private practice, the compensation being as usual, a matter of agreement between himself and his patient. In such cases, a fee will be charged only for room, board, nursing, and ordinary medicine. A corps of trained nurses is constantly on hand by day and night. No insane, contagious, or objectionable cases admitted. FEES: -- All surgical operations will be charged for according to agreement made in advance. The usual fee will be charged for obstetrical cases. The other charges will be a fee of $15 to $50 per week to include board, nursing, medical attendance, and ordinary medicine, especially such as can be reasonable furnished in that safe and most desirable form, tablet triturates.
Special nurse, $15 per week extra.
All fees must be invariably paid in advance.
VISITING HOURS DAILY FROM 3 TO 5 P.M.BENJ. J. EDWARDS,
Real Estate, Loan and Insurance Broker,
Ohio Bank Building, Room 42.
Cor. Twelfth and G Streets, N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Insurance placed in reliable companies. Investments carefully made
Money loaned on the installment plan.PERCIVAL C. HALL,
"Be in the Ring" and Smoke the
FINEST HAVANA CIGARS FOR 5 CENTS.
Sold by all Dealers. A full line of Tobacco of all kinds always on hand.
GIVE US A CALL.
101-41/2 Street and Main Avenue, - - Washington, D.C.C.C. DODSON,
Dyeing, Scouring, Altering and Repairing,
No. 1700 7th Street, N.W.
Suits Cleaned, $1.00. Suits Cleaned and Dyed, $1.50.
Coasts, 50c. Pants, 25c. Vests, 25c.
Goods Called for and Delivered. Orders by Mail Promptly Attended to.
First-class Work.GEO. W. POE
General Agent of

The United Banking and Building Co.,

808 F. Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.

Stock for Sale. Money to Loan on Real Estate.REAL ESTATE.
L.G. FLETCHER, Sr., Solicitor.
Houses and Lots for Sale. Rents Collected.
Money Safely Invested.
Loans. Insurance.
Office, 609 F. Street, N.W.,
Residence, 1322 B. St., N.E.  Washington, D.C.UNDERWRITERS
No. 1617 Twelfth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Coffins, Caskets and Funeral Goods Served at Short Notice.
Prices Reasonable.
Experienced Men. Satisfaction Guaranteed.
EMBALMING.
All Orders promptly attended to, in any part of the city, night or day.
Fine Hearses and Carriages Furnished.EUREKA DINING ROOM,
Mrs. E.H. Hughes, Prop. Successor to John A. Hughes.
MEALS AT ALL HOURS.
FISH AND GAME IN SEASON.
1100 C. Street, Northwest.MRS. HATTIE GRAY,
HAIR CULTURIST.
No 1627 O Street, N.W.
Shampooing and Fashionable Hair Dressing.
Flowers and Landscape Painting.John R. Lynch.   Robt. H. Terrell.
LYNCH & TERRELL,
ATTORNEYS AT LAW and CLAIM AGENTS.
Will practice in the U.S. Courts of the District of Columbia, and before the Departments. Real Estate. Loans Negotiated. Money invested. Life and Fire Insurance placed in the most reliable companies.
Room 5, Capital Savings Bank Building,
No. 609 F Street, N.W.  Washington, D.C.WILLIAM BRAXTON,
TEACHER OF PIANO and ORGAN.
Organist at Metropolitan A.M.E. Church.
Call or Address, 2025 Vermont Avenue, N.W.,
Music furnished for Dances and Parties.  Washington, D.C.ACAPULCO DINING ROOMS,
William C. Ross, Proprietor.
Meals Served to Order.  Regular Meals, 15c. and 25c.
Cigars. Ice Cream.
1134 15th Street, N.W.  Washington, D.C.REUBEN S. SMITH
ATTORNEY AND COUNSELLOR AT LAW,
Office, 609 F. St., N.W., Washington, D.C.
Rooms 5 and 7.
War Claims, Pensions, Arrears of Pay, Bounty, Insurance, Real Estate.
Practice in all Courts of the District of Columbia, and before the Government Departments.Everybody goes to
ODD FELLOWS' HALL PALACE CAFÉ, 
1606 M Street, N.W.
Where they get everything served first-class including 15 and 24 cent meals. Ice cream, water ice and all the delicacies of the season. To all of our many friends we extend a cordial invitation to visit our establishment and inspect our new soda water fountain which is filled with all kinds of syrups that the season affords. Give us a call and see what we are doing.
VENIE & WATKINS, Props.The Woman's Era.
               Organ of The National Federation of Afro-American Women.
               Vol. III. No. 2.BOSTON, MASS., JULY, 1896.  PRICE 10 CENTS.NATIONAL FEDERATION OF AFRO-AMERICAN WOMEN.Membership List.Officers.Pres., Mrs.B. T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala.
Vice-Pres., Mrs. Mary Dickerson, Newport, R.I., Mrs. Helen Crum, Charleston, S. C., Mrs. Ella L. Mahammet, Omaha, Neb., and Mrs. Mabel Garner, New York.
Rec. Sec., Miss L.C. Carter, New Bedford, Mass.
Cor. Sec., Mrs. U.A. Ridley, Brookline, Mass.
Treas., Mrs. Libbie C. Anthony. Jefferson City, Mo.
Ch. Ex. Com., Mrs. Victoria Matthews, 9 Murray street, New York city.CLUBS AND SOCIETIES.ALABAMA.Greensboro Woman's Mutual Benefit Society -- President, Mrs. S. A. Christian.
Montgomery Sojourner Truth Club - President, Miss M. Agnes Jenkins; secretary, Miss Kate V. de Jamette, 617 High St.
Montgomery Woman's League - President, Mrs. E.C. Wilson, 615 High St.
Mt. Meigs Woman's Club - President, Cornelia Bowen, Waugh, Ala.
Selma Woman's Club - President, Mrs. M.A. Dillard.
Tuskegee Woman's Club - President, Mrs. B.T. Washington; secretary, Miss. E.E. Lane.
Tuskegee Notasalga Woman's Club - President, Miss Anna Davis.CALIFORNIA.Los Angeles Woman's Club - President, Mrs. C.I. Clarkson; corresponding secretary, Mrs. Mary Washington, 336 S. Alameda St.Mlb>
Eufaula Woman's Club - President, Mrs. C.L. Wells, P.O. Box, 115. NORTH CAROLINA.Biddle University Club. SOUTH CAROLINA.Charleston Woman's League - President, Mrs. J.P. Dart; corresponding secretary, Miss Hattie Marshall, Bayard St.
Charleston W.C.T.U. - President, Miss Marion R. Birnie; secretary, Miss Ellen E. Sanders, 1 Liberty St.GEORGIA.Atlanta Woman's Club - President, Mrs. D.T. Howard; secretary, Mrs. M.E. Ford, Mitchell St. School.ILLINOIS.Chicago Ida B. Wells Club - President, Mrs. I. Wells Barnett; secretary, Mrs. Julia L. McDonald, 4537 Chaplain Ave.
Chicago Phyllis Wheatley Club - President, Mrs. W.H. Davis; secretary, Miss. L.M. Carter, 5005 Dearborn St.KANSAS.Lawrence Sierre Leone Club - President, Mrs. J.H. Young, 810 Main St.; secretary, Mrs. C.C. JamesLOUISIANA.New Orleans Phyllis Wheatley Club - President, Mrs. Sylvania Williams, 1438 Enterpe St.MASSACHUSETTS.Boston Woman's Era Club - President, Mrs. J. St. P. Ruffin; secretary, Mrs. F.R. Ridley, Brookline, Mass.
Boston Lend-a-Hand Circle - President, Mrs. Hannah Smith, 371 Northampton St.
Boston Female Benevolent Firm - President, Mrs. Emma Gray, 24 Phillips St.
Boston E.M. Thomas Lodge - President, Miss Eliza Gardner, 29 North Anderson St.
Boston Calvary Circle - President, Mrs. G.W. Smith
Boston Ruth Circle - President, Mrs. Ruth Turner.
New Bedford Woman's Loyal Union - President, Mrs. M.E. Sulis; secretary, Miss J. Scarborough, 155 Hillman St.
Salem Woman's Protective Club - President, Mrs. N.R. Freeman, 20 English St.; secretary, Miss. A.M. Barbadoes.
Cambridge Golden Rule Club - Presidents, Mrs. Nancy Lewis; secretary, Miss Adelaide Grandison, P.O. Box 327, Norwood, Mass.
Chelsea B.F. Tanner Club, President Mrs. M.C. Bond.MINNESOTA.Minneapolis Ada Sweet Pioneer Club - President, Mrs. Jasper Gibbs; secretary, Mrs. J. Napier Kemp, address Registry of Deeds, Hennepin County.
Minneapolis and St. Paul Twin City Woman's Era Club - President, Mrs. T. Rodney King; secretary, Mrs. J.N. Kemp.
St. Paul Woman's Loyal Union and John Brown Industrial Club - President, Mrs. T.H. Lyles, 782 Selby Ave.; secretary, M.D. Pattis.MISSOURI.Jefferson City Woman's Club - President, Mrs. L.C. Anthony; secretary, Mrs. Celia Roberts.
St. Louis F.E.W. Harper League - President, Mrs. M.F. Pitts, 215 N. Seventh St., East St. Louis.
St. Joseph F.E.W.H. League - President, Mrs. Lillian M. Jackson, 714 North 24th St.NEW YORK.New York and Brooklyn Woman's Loyal Union - President, Mrs. Victoria N. Matthews; secretary, Miss. H. Cordelia Ray, 311 East 62d st., N.Y.
New York Cleave Circle - President, Miss J.B. Hunt, 228 West 41st St.; secretary, Mrs. H.A. Hunt, 101 31st St., N.Y.
Buffalo Woman's Club - Mrs. A.H.C. Thomas, 97 West Ferry St.
Harlem Woman's Sympathetic Union - President, Catharine Maxwell, Elmsford, N.Y.; secretary, Mrs. Amy Griffin.
Rochester Woman's Club - President, Mrs. R. Jerome Jeffrey, 10 James St.; secretary, Mrs. J.W. Thompson.
New York and Brooklyn W.A.A.U. - President, Mrs. E.E. Williams; secretary, Miss E.D. Spencer, 65 State St., Flushing, L.I.NEBRASKA.Omaha Woman's Club - President, Laura M. Craig; secretary, L.Irene Sley, 2824 Douglass St.PENNSYLVANIA.Pittsburgh and Alleghany F.E.W.H. League - President, Mrs. Rebecca T. Aldridge, secretary, Mrs. Gertrude L. Brooks, 67 Franklin St.RHODE ISLAND.Newport Woman's League - President, Mrs. Mary H. Dickerson; secretary, Miss Margaret Kinlock, 89 Levin St.
Providence Working Woman's League - President, Mrs. Hannah Greene, 85 Winter St.TENNESSEE.Knoxville Woman's Mutual Improvement Club - President, Mrs. Sylvia M. Maples; secretary, M.L. Floyd, 712 Mabrey St.
Memphis Coterie Migratory Assembly - President, Mrs. F.P. Cooper, 18 Goslee St.; secretary, Mrs. F.L. Williamson, 204 Hernando St.
Memphis Hooks School Association - President, Mrs. Julia Hooks; secretary, Miss Cannon, 462 Lauderdale St.VIRGINIA.Richmond Woman's League - President, Mrs. Rosa D. Bowser, 1573 North Adam St.; secretary, Miss M.L. Chiles, 114 West Leigh St.
Cappahoosie Gloucester A. and I. School - President, Miss Susie E. Edwards.
Urbanna Club - President Gertrude A. Jones.
Washington, D.C., Ladies' Auxiliary Committee - President, Mrs. B.K. Bruce; secretary, Mrs. R.E. Lawson, 2011 Vermont Ave.
Washington Lucy Thurman W.C.T.U. - President, Mrs. A.G. Gray; secretary, Louise Early Hawkins, 35 Patterson St.The number of prosperous lawyers in Boston is the subject of remark. Edwin G. Walker is distinguished for being the oldest practitioner among the colored lawyers, and for bearing an honored name, his father having started the agitation that ended only in the abolition of slavery, by his "Walker's Appeal," the first published protest against that evil.Harriet Tubman.
Woman's Era Eminent Women Series.Victoria Earle.It will be an inspiration for the rising generations to see and clasp hands with this noble mother of Israel! She has attained the advanced age of eighty years, and should God in his providence bless the efforts now being put forth toward having her present at the Convention in Washington, we hope our people will give her at rue Chatauquan welcome.We hope to bring such great pressure to bear upon our great body of Afro-American women, that a great unrest will seize our women, that the cry, "What shall we do to elevate, purify and upbuild our race?" will burst spontaneously from thousands of earnest hearts, all over this land. All over our country, thousands of women are awakening to the fact that a new day is dawning for our people, and that a tidal wave of deep, heartfelt anxiety for better and purer homes, healthier and better trained children, broader and more helpful educational and missionary work, is sweeping over the great body of Afro-American women. So at the very beginning of this new day let us all meet in the benign presence of this great leader, in days and actions that caused strong men to quail, this almost unknown, almost unsung "Black Joan of Arc."The primary object of the Federation is to bring our women together. We owe it to our children to uncover from partial oblivion and unconscious indifference the great characters within our own ranks. The fact that we know so little that is creditable and truly noble about our own people constitutes one of the saddest and most humiliating phases of Afro-American life. Every woman who feels that is so, should rally now and aid the great cause.VICTORIA EARLE.Boston Business Calendar.This page features ads for the Boston Business Calendar. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.James H. Wolff   Edward Everett Brown.
WOLFF & BROWN,
ATTORNEYS AT LAW,
No. 1 Beacon Steet, Room 72,
Boston, Mass.
Probate and Insolvency Business Promptly Attended to.HENRY YOUNG,
Clothing Cleansed, Dyed, Repaired,
Altered and Pressed.
No. 9 City Hall Avenue, Boston, Mass.
All Orders promptly Attended to.DR. SAMUEL E. COURTNEY
98 W. Springfield  Street.   Boston, Mass.
Telephone, Tremont 1095.
Office Hours Until 10 A.M. to 1, 6 to 8.A. GROHE,
Dealer in
Ladies' and Gents' Fien Boots and Shoes.
Fine Repairing Done.
954 Tremont St., South End Shoe Store, Boston, Mass.C. SHARMAN,
Provisions, Poultry, and Game.
54 and 56 Buckingham Street, BOSTON, MASS.
Sole Importer of the Celebrated
QUEEN ELIZABETH SAUCE.J.H. LEWIS,
Merchant Tailor,
417 Washington Street, BOSTON, MASS.Gilbert & Co.
Practical Workers in Hair Goods.
Theatrical and Street Wigs for Sale and to Let,
Ready Made and To Order.
732 Washington St., bet. Harvard & Kneeland, Boston, Mass.
Wigs Cleaned and Dressed. Meyer's Make Ups.Mrs. J. Patterson Rollins,
Contralto Soloist and Vocal Teacher,
12 Grove Street, Boston, Mass.Stanley Ruffin, Geo. S. Barnes.
RUFFIN & CO.,
Contractors and Street Railway Builders,
Boston, Mass., U.S.A.Faulkner & Smith,
DRUGGISTS
No. 675 Shawmut Avenue, - - Boston, Mass.F.C. Dickerson,
Advertising Labels, Show Cards,
Price Tickets.
3 Somerset Street, -  -  -  Boston, Mass.E.G. WALKER,
Attorney and Counsellor at Law
No. 27 Pemberton Square,
Room 8.  Boston, Mass.Visit E. M. Beck's
Dry Goods Store,
For Best Goods at Lowest Prices.
958 Tremont, cor. Hammond Street,
Boston, Mass.CASNEAU'S GUIDE
for
Artistic Dress Cutting and Making
Self-teaching.
Teaches how to Baste, Fit, Press and Finish a Gown Correctly.
Price, -  -  -  Two Dollars.
E. E. CASNEAU,
Nol 9 Greenwich Street, Boston, Mass.
Agents Wanted.New York Drug House,
No. 233 Cambridge Street,
Cor. N. Anderson St.
Boston, -  -  -  Mass.
Entire new stock of Goods selected with great care to be sold unadulterated. Prescriptions a specialty. All to be sold at prices within the reach of all. Our motto is: Pure Drugs, fair dealings, punctual and polite clerks at all times in attendance.FIRST ANNUAL CONVENTION NATIONAL FEDERATION AFRO-AMERICAN WOMEN, NINETEENTH STREET BAPTIST CHURCH, WASHINGTON, D.C.PROGRAMMonday, July 20, 9 A.M.Formal Opening of the Convention.Devotional Exercises.Presentation of Credentials by delegates.Fraternal Greetings.Minutes of Organization of the National Federation of Afro-American Women, Boston, July 31, 1895.Reports from Clubs.Appointment of Committees.Music.Adjournment until evening.3 P.M. - Executive Committee meeting, not open to the public.7:30 P.M. - Devotional Exercises.Grand Chorus of one hundred voices, Prof. J.T. Layton, director.Address of Welcome on behalf of the Members of the Church, Rev. Walter H. Brooks.Address of Welcome to the city, Hon. John W. Ross, President of the Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia.Music, Capital City Orchestra, Mr. George E. Brown, Leader.Response, Mrs. Josephine St. Pierre Rufflin, Boston.Annual Address, Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala.Grand Chorus, Prof. J.T. Layton, director.Short addresses by distinguished guests.Tuesday, July 21, 9 A.M.Devotional Exercises. General Topic, Philanthropic and Evangelical Work. Fraternal Greetings from Various Societies, Religious and Secular.  "Orphans and the Care of Them," Mrs. M.F. Pitts, St. Louis Colored Orphan Asylum, St. Louis, Mo.  "Abandoned Waifs," Mrs. Carrie Steele Logan, Carrie Steele Orphanage, Atlanta, Ga.  "More Homes for Our Aged," Harriet Tubman, Harriet Tubman Home, Auburn, N.Y.  "Aged and Infirm," Mrs. Ann Hale, Hale Infirmary, Montgomery, Ala.  "Mountain Women of Virginia," Miss Jennie Dean, Founder Manassas Industrial School, Manassas, Va.  "Rescue Work," Miss Sarah J. Thomas, Sarah Thomas Home and Industrial School for Girls, Macon, Ga.  "The Douglass Monument," Mrs. R. Jerome Jeffrey, Rochester, N.Y. 3 P.M - Devotional ExercisesGeneral Topic: Reformatory Work.  "John Brown." Mrs. T.H. Lyles, John Brown Memorial Association.  "Temperance," Mrs. Lucy B. Thurman, National Superintendent W.C.T.U. work among Afro-Americans.  "Reform," Mrs. Ida Wells Barnett, Chicago.  "The Separate Car System as it Affects the Dignity of Afro-American Womanhod," Mrs. Lillian Thomas Fox, Indianapolis, Ind.  "Prison Reform." Mrs. Marie S. Foster, Cambridgeport, Mass.  "A Plea for a Reformatory," Miss Mamie Mason, Atlanta. Ga. 7:30 P.M. - Devotional Exercises. General Topic, Moral and Educational Work. "The Necessity of a Course of Training for the Elevation and Improvement of Domestic Service," Mrs. Fanny Jackson-Coppin, Philadelphia, Pa.  "Woman's Work," Mrs. B.K. Bruce, Washington, D.C.  "The Afro-American Child and Patriotism," Miss Alice Ruth Moore, New Orleans, La.  "Defects in the training of Colored Girls," Mrs. L. B. Stephen's, Lynchburg, Va.  "The Ideal Home," Mrs. Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, Philadelphia, Pa.  "Moral Influences," Miss K.N. Hughes, Somerville, N.J.; Miss Elizabeth Smith, Boston, Mass.Wednesday, July 22, 9 A.M.Devotional Exercises. General Topic, Enterprising and Co-Operative Work.  "The Great International Exposition to take place in Paris 1900 - the Part our Women should take," Mrs. J. Napier Kemp, Mrs. Jasper Gibbs, Minneapolis, Minn.  "A National Afro-American Woman's Paper," Mrs. J. St. Pierre Rufflin.  "Plan for raising Money for the Support of a National Afro-American Woman's Paper," Mrs. Victoria Matthews, New York. Discussion, open to delegates only. 3 P.M. - Devotional Exercises. Election of Officers for Ensuing Year. 7:30 P.M. - General Topic, Organization.  "The Needed Woman of the 19th Century," Mrs. Selena Butler, Atlanta, Ga.  "Our Country Women and Children," Miss Georgiana Washington, Central Alabama.  "How Can the National Federation of Afro-American Women be made to Serve the Best Interests and Needs of Our Women?" Mrs. F.R. Ridley, Massachusetts; Miss Mary V. Cook, Cane Springs, Ky. Miss L.C. Carter, Massachusetts; Mrs. Dillard, Selma, Ala.; Mrs. J. St. Pierre Rufflin, Massachusetts; Mrs. R. E. Lawson, Washington, D.C.; Mrs. V. Matthews, New York.Boston Business Calendar.This page features ads for the Boston Business Calendar. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.AGENTS WANTED
In Every Town to Sell
The Life of

Harriet Beecher Stowe,
Author of "Uncle Tom's Cabin,"
For Terms and Territory Apply to
Houghton, Mifflin & Co.,
No. 4 Park Street, - - - - - Boston, Mass.
Reduced Rates for Delegates.
Trunk lines have made a rate of one fare and a third (certificate plan) to Washington and return on account meeting of Afro-American National Federation. New England delegates can secure tickets at --------
211 Washington Street,
Boston.
A.J. Simmons, .  .   .  .  New England Agent.
Delegates from New York can secure tickets at -----------
415 Broadway, New York.U.A. RIDLEY,
Merchant Tailor,
184 Boylston Street,
Boston, Mass.
E.A. Pickard,
Dealer In
Choice Family Groceries,
966 Tremont Street, Boston, Mass.Elite Hair Dressing Parlor
G.A. Simpkins, Proprietor.
53 Buckingham Street, . . . . . . . Boston, Mass.
First Class Workmen.  Prompt Service.
A full line of Choice Cigars and Tobaccos.GEORGE L. RUFFIN,
Season 1896-7.
Baritone Soloist. - - -
Organist
Church of the Unity, Allston, Mass.
St. Augustine's Church, Boston, Mass.
Now filling concert engagements. For Fall dates apply
Permanent Address,
103 Charles St., Boston, Mass.THE FOWLER is the most
highly finished Bicycle
in the world - When
you see a high grade
wheel with a TrussFrame
you know it is a Fowler.
J. HARVEY CONOVER.
Member L.A.W.
Dealer in Bicycles.
Agent for the Fowler and Greyhound.
Repair Work Guaranteed. Wheels to Rent by the Hour.
Bicycle Sundries.
13 Camden, near Washington Street, Boston, Mass.General discussion open to delegates only.Instruction of newly elected officers.Music. Program subject to modifications. Many religious institutions will send greetings and report of work.NOTES AND COMMENTSTHE WOMAN'S ERA has been kept alive only through courage and self-sacrifice. It is now in its third year and speaks for itself. Every man and woman can judge whether there is need for such a paper and whether that need has been met with any degrees of ability.The N.F.A.A.W. takes especial prid ein the conferring of a degree upon B.T. Washington by Harvard College. Through the president, the wife of Mr. Washington, some of the glory depends upon our organization.The advertisements in the souvenir number of the ERA have more than the usual significance. A large number of our principal business men of the different cities are here represented. This is not the ordinary advertising scheme, but was designed for a business showing. Because of the limited time, the showing is not as representative as it might have been, and is, in fact, what might be called a sample only.Never before in the history of our women has there been such deep and widespread interest in club work. The woman of all sections have been aroused and are deeply concerned about the proper disposition of many questions bearing upon the practical upbuilding of character, and all that pertains to home. An effort has been made to bring to the front women who are not only doing good work along philanthropic lines, but those who have founded and maintained orphan asylums, homes and infirmaries for the aged, infirm and unfortunate. In this particular the program is most unique. It also calls attention to the fact that though the Afro-American is recorded as being the most religious of people, yet he does not provide systematically for the weak and erring of the racial family. The women are alive to this great failing, and will not rest until a rescue brigade shall have been inaugurated by black women, for the upbuilding of struggling human kind. The isolated log cabin women and children will have a place upon the program. This is as it should be, for until the masses of our women know that there is such a thing as an Afro-American woman's organization anxious to better their condition, little good will result. The south has been well canvassed, and it is the aim of the National Federation of Afro-American Women to carry sympathy and enlightenment to the masses.The National Virginia Baptist S. S. Union, with over a thousand members, will be represented by delegates. The True Reformers will be represented by the distinguished founder of the order, Mr. W.W. Browne. Mr. Browne and Harriet Tubman will be the romantic figures of the convention.The Hon. John W. Ross, president of the Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia, will deliver the address of welcome to delegates. In reply to an invitation presented him by Mrs. Rosetta Lawson, he wrote as follows:
              RS. JESSE RAWSON,2011 Vermont Ave., N.W., City.Dear Madam: -- I acknowledged with pleasure your courteous invitation to be present on the evening of the 20th of July, and make a short address of welcome to the national organization of women at the Nineteenth Street Baptist Church.I appreciate this invitation very highly, and assure you that I will be present unless some unforeseen emergency will prevent.Very respectfully,JOHN W. Ross.Too much praise cannot be bestowed upon the assistance rendered our woman's cause by the Afro-American press throughout the country. Editors Fortune, Hagler and Cooper are especially to be commended.The ministry, without regard to denominational lines, have been most responsive to our appeals, and we fell to extend in this way our warm thanks to them.Carrie Steele Logan Orphanage of Atlanta, the St. Louis Colored Orphan's Home, the Hale Infirmary of Montgomery, Ala., the Jennie Thomas Home, for young girls, of Macon, Ga., are among the worthy institutions sending delegates to the convention.Wolf & Brown is a law combination that has been successful from the start, and the firm is now one of the substantial institutions of Boston.NEWPORT, ETC., BUSINESS CALENDAR.This page features ads for the Newport, Etc., Business Calendar. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.D.B. ALLEN'S
Easton's Beach. Café. Newport, R.I.
Shore Dinner a Specialty, 50 Cents.
Dinner and Lunch Served on European Plan.
Clam Chowder.
Fish of all Kinds and Salads. Oysters in Every Style.
Home Made Pies, Cream and Cake.
Dinner Ordered by Telephone.
Also The Newport Restaurant,
Telephone Connection.  20 Broadway.D.A. SMITH,
RESTAURANT.
Bateman Building,
237 Thomas St., Newport, R.I.
Lunch Room on Commercial Wharf Landing.
Lunch Room at 103 John Street. Meals served good and prompt at reasonable prices. Open from 6 A.M. to 12 P.M. Ice Cream during the season.
J.E. SPINKS.Andrew J. Tabb,First Class Horses and Carriages To Let.
By the Season, Month or Hour. Passengers conveyed to all Boats and Trains. Expressing in all its Branches.
28 Edgar Court, off Bath Road,  Newport, R.I.
Order Promptly Attended to.MRS. J.E. SPINKS
Wishes to inform her friends and the public that they can find First-class Board and Lodging at 82 William Street. Meals served prompt and reasonable. Ice Cream in private dining room.ARMSTEAD HURLEY,
Practical Painter and Glazier,
All work Promptly and Neatly Done at Reasonable Prices.
27 3-4 Pond Avenue, Newport, R.I.Mrs. E.B. Fayerweather,
Fashionable
DRESS AND CLOAK MAKER,
No. 14 Spruce St., Newport, R.I.MRS. VICTORIA RICE,First Class Lodging,
By the Day or Week.
20 Thomas Street, Newport, R.I.Market Square Coffee Rooms,
GEO. J. JOZEFF, Proprietor.
No. 5 Market Square, Newport, R.I.
Regular Dinner Every Day.  Catering of All Kinds.DENVER, COLO.
ARAPAHOE CAFÉ,
Mrs. Phillips, Proprietress.  W.D. Phillips, Manager.
1804 Arapahoe Street, Denver, Colorado.
Short Orders Served All Day. Regular Dinner at 12.When you go to Denver call at . . . 
FANE'S BOUQUET
2147 Larimer Street,
It's headquarters for all the "sweets of life" . . . . . . 
Ice Cream, Confectionary, Etc.ATLANTA, GA.NO CURE! NO GOLD!
But I guarantee a permanent cure for Dandruft, Scrutt and stop the itching of the scalp, the falling of the hair. It also thickens, softens and glosses the hair. Send and get
REED'S HAIR INVIGORATOR.
If it fails to cure money will be refunded.
Price, $1.00 a Bottle.
GEO.H. REED,
No. 12 Peachtree Street, - - - - - - - Atlanta, Ga.Miss Beatrice Sumner Thompson.Miss Beatrice Sumner Thompson was born in Boston, Mass. In 1880 her parents moved West and settled in Denver. Miss Thompson graduated from the Denver High School at the age of seventeen, the youngest of a class of 75 members. In January, 1892, after much difficulty and discouragement, she secured a position in the county treasurer's office as general clerk. Since entering the office she has held the positions of filing clerk, corresponding clerk and in 1895 was promoted on merit to the position of assistant bookkeeper, which position she still holds. Notwithstanding changes in administrations, Miss Thompson has been successful in retaining her position with credit.Miss Thompson is also accomplished, being a pianist and the possessor of a rich contralto voice. CLUBDOM.E.P. EnsleyAmong the notable clubs that have entered the Federation recently is the Richmond Club, which is composed of 250 women, with Mrs. Bowser as president.The Twin City St. Paul and Minneapolis Woman's Era Club and the Phyllis Wheatley Club of Albuquoque, N.M., are among the latest to enter the Federation and show how interest is spreading geographically at least. The Twin City Club is unique; it is formed to support the ERA, one of the provisions of the constitution being that every signer must be a subscriber to our paper.The many  eastern women investors in the woman's mine, "The Bonita," will take an added interest in this woman's enterprise when it is known that Mrs. E.P. Ensley is now one of the directors of the business. Mrs. Ensley's well-known intelligence and business integrity being a guarantee to them of the watchful care she will take of the interest of investors. The following letter just received brings other good news besides Mrs. Ensley's selection to help direct a woman's enterprise that the ERA heartily endorses because it has confidence in the projectors of it."I was notified this morning by Mrs. Phelps, president of the Bonita (the woman's mine) that I have been appointed one of the directors in place of one who had moved away from Denver. She also showed me a letter from Mr. Phelps who personally superintends the mine, in which he stated that they are near the contact as it is called, will reach it this week and is sure that they are very near the mineral or ore body. There were two rich strikes in the camp quite near this last week.E.P. ENSLEY."HARRIET BEECHER STOWE.Lewis Howard LatimerWhy should we mournThat thou art gathered to thy rest, Thy work accomplished, And in abundance blessed? And full of years, Which now may ceaseAt God's own fiat, In the blessedness of peace? No, let us layA fragrant blossom on the moundWhere thou dost sleepBeneath the hallowed ground: And breathe a prayerThat He who made thee not in vain - The humble instrument -Will take His own again. And bid thee wakeFrom this thy last, and final sleep, Where is no sorrow, And where eyes may never weep.Lewis Howard Latimer
New York, July 2, 1896.Mr. George Glover is a Boston tailor who is building up a large business and proving there is always room for the best.ATLANTA BUSINESS CALENDAR.This page features ads for the Atlanta Business Calendar. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.DR. JAMES R. PORTER,
DENTIST.
Office Hours: 8:30 A.M. to 12 M.; 1 to 5:30 P.M.
49 1 2 Peachtree Street,
Atlanta, GA.DAVID T. HOWARD,
UNDERTAKER AND EMBALMER,
12 Piedmont Avenue, Odd Fellows Hall,
ATLANTA, GA.
DEALER IN FINE CASKETS ROBES AND COFFINS.ALEXANDER HAMILTON,
CONTRACTOR AND BUILDER,
Office and Residence,
No. 125 Hilliard Street,
Atlanta, GA.DR. T. H. SLATER,
204 AUBURN AVENUE, ATLANTA, GA.
Telephone 1944.
Hours, 8 to 9 a.m.; 1 to 2 p.m.; 7 to 8 p.m.FRANK WIMBERLY,
Dealer in
ALL GRADES OF COAL AND WOOD,
No. 198 Auburn Avenue,
Telephone 1944.  Atlanta, GA.F.H. CRUMBLEY,
Dealer in
STAPLE AND FANCY GROCERIES,
Stationary, Cigars, Country Produce, Etc.
246 Auburn Avenue, Altanta, GA.THE KELLEY DRUG CO.
Successors to Butler, Slater & Co.
DRUGS, TOILET ARTICLES AND PATENT MEDICINES.
204 Auburn Avenue.
Telephone, 1844.  Atlanta, GA.PETER DILLARD,
Artistic Tilings, Wainscoting and Marble Setting
NEATLY DONE.
Work Done in All Parts of the United States.
Office and Residence:
105 HOUSTON STREET,  Atlanta, GA.PEOPLE'S BARBER SHOP,
75 Decatur Street, -- -- Atlanta, GA.
Polite Attention and First Class Work.
H.A. Rucker, Proprietor and Notary Public.LITTLE BONANZA BARBER SHOP,
W.J. WHITE, Proprietor.
12 Peachtree St., Atlanta, GA.H.R. BUTLER, M.D.,
PHYSICIAN AND SURGEON,
Office and Residence, 269 Auburn Avenue, -- -- -- -- Atlanta, GA.
Office Hours, 7 to 9 A.M., 2 to 3 P.M.  Telephone 1944.BOB STEEL,
Tonsorial Artist,
No. 4 Marietta Street, Atlanta, Ga.A.J. DELBRIDGE.
The Anatomical and Premium
BOOT AND SHOE MAKER,
No. 23 Alabama Street, Atlanta, Ga.C.C. CATES,
Dealer in
STAPLE AND FANCY GROCERIES,
Produce, Hay, Corn and Oats.
201 Auburn Avenue,  Atlanta, Ga.PLEDGER, JOHNSON & MALONE,
Attorneys at Law,
12 1 2 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta, GA.FIRE AND LIFE INSURANCE.
9 1-2 Marietta Street, -- Atlanta, Ga.
R.J. HENRY,
Represents the Best Companies.G.H. FARMER.
HORSESHOEING & GENERAL REPAIRING,
No. 14 Piedmont Avenue,
Atlanta, GA.FIRST CLASS DRESS MAKING
Done ByMRS. J.K. DARDEN,
245 Auburn Avenue, Atlanta, GA.Doctor Teed.E.P.E.Dr. Teed, author of "Solution of the Race Problem," whose portrait is herein presented, was born in Delaware County, New York, in 1839.He served eighteen months in the northern army, after which he practised his profession in Utica and subsequently New York City. At Utica, in the winter of 1869, he projected what is known as the Koreshan System. This is a universal design, embracing physical science as a basis of social construction and government, with such an economic arrangement of society as to equitably distribute the products of industry.Dr. Teed is a friend of the colored race, and includes in his system the purpose of insuring to the race all the rights to which they, as citizens, are entitled, both in the north and south. He has established a number of colonies, among which is one in South Florida, where he has gathered many believers. At Estero, Lee County, Florida, his colony has a saw and planing mill in operation, also a shingle mill, machine shops and ship yards.They are developing on many lines of industry, and his intent is to place his colonist in all branches of industry. Their educational system is of the most advanced order. The colony in Florida is located beautifully on the mainland, and on the islands of Estero Bay, where climate soil and latitude are in every way favorable to the project of building up a great commercio-maratime city. Judging from the progress already made, after an effort of only about two years in Estero, the indications point to the ultimate success of the doctor's plans: and his success implies a great advancement in the moral development, general education, practical mechanical application and social elevation of the people he desires to aid.Dr. Teed is now visiting his people in Denver. Through his visits here an dour acquaintance with his people we have been made somewhat familiar with him and his work.E.P.E.Mr. J.H. Lewis.Mr. J.H. Lewis, whose advertisement appears in this issue of the ERA, hardly needs an introduction to our readers. His splendid tailoring establishment on Washington street, Boston, is one of the finest of its kind in the country, and has opened up business opportunities to numbers of colored boys. Mr. Lewis has the genius of business, and has proved that he can successfully run more than one large establishment at the same time."Solution to the Race Problem."Dr. TeedThe fact that the progressions of racial development depend upon ethnic filtration does not require argument to establish. The only question to the problem is, What are the physiological conditions essential to the amalgamation of the colored with the white races?It is a commonly apprehended truth that in the mixing of the colored with the white blood there is a projective nonviability to progeny which militates against the possible transmission of a vital and viable stamina and that a strict fidelity to the laws of physiology precludes any conscientious effort towards the settlement of the racial problem by amalgamation.The negro race is destined to take a most prominent part in the future civilizations of the world. Its animal viability is pronounced apparent, and the religious and emotional nature carries with it an enthusiasm of power and devotion that scarcely has an equal among any of the nations of the earth.While the religious principle is intense the moral character requires the discipline and development of culture and refinement.This cannot come through example merely. Something must enter the race to impart to it a moral tone which it can only derive through the introduction of a force from a more advanced plane of development. As the blood of the Lord Jesus was transplanted in a spiritual way for the elevation of the Character of those who received him, so the black race must receive in a natural way the essential force for its own elevation. In other words through ethnic filtration the black
race must modify its complexion and ethnic character. This can be done only through the enforcement of a specific understanding and the application of definite principles.These factors in the problem of ethnic development are extremely radical, so much so that it is very questionable whether the colored people themselves are prepared in any measure at present for suggestions in the direction of a scientific modification of the anatomical structure and thence an advancement in functional power and capacity.The Jewish race owes its greatness to the application of the principle and ceremony of male circumcision. The present commercial nations of the world represented by the Anglo-Saxon, owe their commercial greatness to the fact that through ethnic infiltrament the lost Israel was absorbed in Media, Persia and Assyria and thence produced the Germanic family the Anglo-Saxon being one of the principle lines of ethnic progress. The commercial greatness of the Anglo-Saxon comes directly from the Jewish male circumcision.The coming infiltrament of the black with the white will owe its possibility to the application of the principle and ceremony of female circumcision introduced as a scientific religious rite. The character of this ceremony must belong to a mind scientific enough to comprehend it in all its bearings upon female life and the progeny of miscegenation, as the intellectual prescience of the mind who ordered the enforcement of male circumcision comprehended that ritual in all its possibilities for the resurrection of the son of God in humanity. Had it not been for the circumcision of the Israelites the Christ could not have come to the world.This paper is merely suggestive of racial possibilities. It may be influential in causing one man to think. The multitude is not yet sufficiently ripe to comprehend its force.Dr. Teed.Samuel E. Courtney.Doctor Courtney, who was brought into much prominence at the Republican convention at St. Louis, has recently graduated in medicine, and in the fair practice he has built up in Boston, is proving that it is possible to build up a successful business in Boston.The name of Harriet Tubman (and we say it advisedly and without exaggeration) deserves to be handed down to posterity side by side with the names of Joan of Arc, Grace Darling, and Florence Nightingale, for not one of these women has shown more courage and power of endurance in facing danger and death to relieve human suffering than has this woman in her heroic and successful endeavors to reach and save all whom she might of her oppressed and suffering race, and to pilot them from the land of bondage to the promised land of liberty. She has been a leader and deliverer unto hundreds of her people.Mrs. Sarah H. Bradford,
Author of the "Life of Harriet Tubman."[The thrillingly interesting article from the pen of Victoria Earl to which the above quotation is the introduction, came too late to appear this issue; it with some Tennessee centennial notes and other interesting matter must now go over for next month's ERA.]Mr. U.A. Ridley is another of the successful merchant tailors of Boston. Mr. Ridley's business is of the quiet order, the patronage being almost entirely confined to a certain exclusive set.THE POET.Ida Evans LuckieNo mighty deeds of fameAre thy bequest,But that thou gavest usWe prize not less.Thy simple lays, thy cheering sympathyAnd joyous smiles are to usA gladsome memory.Oft in our fancy passThe by-gone hours,Happy and fleet of wing,As 'mid the bowers0f life's Elysian fields again we stand,The while thou singest to usIn tender, hopeful strain.All restless sounds discordantAnd turmoil wildFor us are hushed to silenceBy thee beguiled;And shadows change to sunshine at thy will.Enchanted thus we linger,And waking linger still.And then, remembering,We turn awayFrom flowery paths whereinWe fain would straySlowly we turn to life's dull task again,In fields where toiling everBrings weariness and pain.But still within our soulsThere lingers yetThy sweet, enchanting spell,And we forgetOur task, while softly come the zephyrs blowingThe bird songs and the fragranceFrom where thy sweets are growing.Rosebuds of promise brightAgain we seeBlooming for dimpled handsLilies of purityFor youth's inspiring; heartsease for those who weep,And grateful balm of healingFor sorrows more and deep.Ah, better then hath beenThis life of ours,Since we could stop our toilTo cull the flowersThat grew for us where thou, 0 poet sweet,By thy own restful pathsDidst lead our, weary feet.IDA EVANS LUCKIE.NOTES ON ADS.Among our advertisers the younger business men of Boston make a good showing. Messrs. Baldwin and Dorsey conduct a real estate business that is complete and first class in every particular. The location, the office appointments, the handsome turnout of this establishment are all the subject of remark and speak for themselves.Most of our readers have probably heard of the inventions of Mr. Joseph Lee. Mr. Lee is not only the prosperous proprietor of' one of the finest suburban hotels of' Massachusetts, but has greatly added to his fame and fortune by his bread-mixer and bread-comber. These machines which are not identical are his own inventions, and because of their practical value and adaptability are being called for by the leading hotels of the United States. (See ad.)A RARE OPP0RTUNITY.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 addressMrs. E.P. Ensley,1755 Ogden St.
Denver, Col.Refers by permission to Mr. Nathaniel T. Allen of West Newton English and Classical School.This page features general ads for this issue. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.THE ERA'S PORTRAIT GALLERYBeginning with this issue of the ERA, we propose to publish a series of portraits of women distinguished for good works in any direction. At the end of the year subscribers will have a valuable picture gallery. Subscribe for the ERA at once if you would own the pictures and sketches of the lives of these eminent women.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.This page features general ads for this issue. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.MRS. MARY SULIS
Teacher of
POINT RENNAIZANCE AND HONITON LACE.
Samples Always on Hand.
Residence, 193 Elm Street.
New Bedford, Mass.MANHATTAN MARKET,
Arthur H. Smith, Prop. 
604, 606, 608 & 610 Massachusetts Ave., 
Cambridgeport, Mass. MME. M. CRAVATT SIMPSON, 
Contralto Soloist
And Teacher of Vocal Culture, 
Is Open for Engagements for Concerts, Churches, etc. 
For Terms Address, 186 Ash St., Chelsea, Mass. 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. MRS. ELIZABETH COOLEY
Is prepared to give First Class Accomodations to a few boarders at reasonable rates at the old stand. 
62 Phillips St., Boston. Miss Florence A. Johnson, 
Teacher of Piano and Organ. 
769 Herkimer Street, 
Brooklyn, N.Y. R.G.L. PAIGE, 
Attorney at Law and Notary Public, 
State and Federal Courts. 
13 Williams Street, -- -- -- Norfolk, Va. MADAM PENNAMON, 
MILLINER. 
No. 275 Piedmont Avenue, Atlanta, GA. 
Hats Made and Trimmed to Order. MARGUERITE COTTAGE, 
Margarat Johnson, Prop.  William Russell Johnson, Man. 
Liberty Street and Central Avenue, 
Long Branch, N.J. 
P.O. Box 47. Reasonable Rates, Good Service, Boating, Bathing, Fishing, Croqueting, Driving, Etc. Laundry on Premises.THE AMERICAN WRINGER CO. 
Branch Store. 
Nos. 13 and 15 Broadway Extension, 
Boston, Mass. 
Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers. 
All kinds of Wringers and Swoopers Repaired. Orders by Mail promptly attended to. E.M. ALLEN, 
TAILOR
11 City Hall Avenue, Boston, Mass. 
Entrance Below Stairs on the Right. 
Gents' Clothing Made, Altered, Cleansed and Repaired in the neatest manner, at Short Notice and Reasonable Terms.
No. 11 City Hall Avenue. EDGAR P. BENJAMIN, 
Attorney and Counsellor-at-Law
34 School Street, Boston.  Room 22ADVERTISE
in the
WOMAN'S ERA
THE ONLY PAPER IN AMERICA PUBLISHED IN THE INTEREST OF WOMEN'S CLUBS.The Literary, Musical and Domestic Departments are under the control of competent writers and critics. With its large circulation among women, and particularly among women of the refined and educated classes, it offers peculiar advantages to advertisers of household articles, wearing apparel, books, magazines, musical instruments, and so forth. Its rates are exceedingly liberal. Try it, and you will not regret it.This page features general ads for this issue. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.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.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, -- Boston, Mass.
AGENTS WANTED.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."A SINGULAR LIFE"
The Last and the Greatest Story by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps, author of "The Gates Ajar," "Jack the Fisherman," etc.Miss Lillian Whiting says: "No American novel since 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' has approached 'A Singular Life.'"Price, $1.25. Sold by all Booksellers. Sent postpaid by HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN & CO., 4 Park St., Boston, Mass.HOWARD UNIVERSITY.Washington D.C., July 1, 1895Furnishes 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.This page features general ads for this issue. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.EMERSON COLLEGE OF ORATORYLARGEST 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, and the principles of the Philosophy of Expression. Scientific and practical work in every department. Chartered by the State.Address for illustrated  catalogue,
HENRY L. SOUTHWICK, Sec'y.
Corner Tremont and Berkeley Sts.,
Boston, Mass.
Summer session at Martha's Vineyard.THE FIRST WOMAN'S MINE.The Bonita Cold and Silver Mining Company,
OPERATING IN NEW MEXICO AND COLORADO.
OFFICERED AND CONTROLLED BY WOMEN.
No Assessments.  No Stock Holders' Liabilities.
STOCK 50 CENTS A SHARE SOLD ON INSTALMENT PLAN. Patent Applied for.The Great Mineral Basin it Pitkin covers an area as large as that of Leadville, Aspen and Red Cliff combined. Professor Sadtler, of the Chair of Metallurgy and Mineralogy of the State School of Mines, speaking of this district, says: "This camp, with proper and systematic development, will be made a second Aspen, if not better."The output of the Leadville district has been, up to the present time, in value over $200,000,000;  that of Red Cliff more than $35,000,000, and that of Aspen, $100,000,000, or more, and the mines of these places show no signs of exhaustion.What, then, shall we expect of Pitkin and the Quartz Creek District, which has a mineral bearing area as large as these three districts combined, when so far the developments there have proved the mineral deposits to be fully as rich and extensive?We can come to but one conclusion: Its wealth is limitless, and no more safe or profitable field for investment can be found.The property of the Bonita Gold and Silver Mining Company consists of three groups, in all nine claims, or a little over ninety acres, located in the most favored portion of this great mineral basin. Special care has been taken in the selecting to cover apexes, timber and water, all of which are of such vital importance in any mining property, and the greater portion of it lies only from one-fourth to three miles away from the railroad and the town of Pitkin, with good, down-hill roads leading from every portion of it, accessible every day in the year.The ore is high grade, netting from fifty to one thousand dollars per ton, average two hundred and fifty. The Company has undisputed title to the entire property, which is free from any incumbranceencumbrance, and will be kept so. Any further information will be cheerfully furnished by thePresident, MARY E. PHELPS, or  MRS. L. K. DANIELS, Secretary.ADDRESS: POST OFFICE BOX 3, DENVER, COLO.This page features general ads for this issue. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.LESSONS IN BUSINESS PENMANSHIP
BY
J. W. WASHINGTON, Artist Penman,
SALEM, MASS.Twelve (12) Lessons by mail, only $3.00 in advance. Sample Lesson, 25 cents. Satisfaction guaranteed. Send for circular.Visiting Cards elegantly written, 12 for 20 cents. Agents wanted. Big commission. Sample book, 20 cents. Rapid Addition Method, 12 cents.A.G. McKENZIE
OPTICIAN
156 Charles St., Boston. 
Three doors from eye infirmary. 
Artificial Eyes a Specialty. 
Telephone, 1198 Haymarket.This page features general ads for this issue. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.Are You Looking for a Home Among Friends?If You are Consult the
NEW ENGLAND FARM AGENCY.There are in the states of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island and Connecticut many good farms that can be purchased for a reasonable sum of money, and on easy terms of paymentWe offer our assistance in aiding colored farmers to leave the South and to come and make their homes in the North.We propose to procure farms in any of the above named states for as many of our race as desire, to come North and make their homes among us. We shall give them all the aid in our power, and be only too glad to look them over and see that they obtain all the advantages possible in the respective neighborhoods, until they become accustomed to their new homes and neighbors.It is our intention in procuring these farms to have them near cities and towns in various states, so as to be convenient to school houses, railroard stations and churches.The farms of the North differ from those of the South in that they are more compact, better cleared and attended to in general. Being smaller they are easier to care for. About anything that can be raised on farms in the South can be raised in the North.On these farms are comfortable frame houses, cottage style. Terms of payment will be made to suit.For further information, Address,
CLIFFORD H. PLUMMER, Esq.,
Manager New England Farm Agency,
60 PEMBERTON SQUARE
BOSTON, MASS.PLEASE NOTE REFERENCES:
We, the undersigned Ministers of the City of Boston and vicinity, cordially recommend to those of our race in the Southern States, Lawyer Clifford H. Plummer, the Manager of the New England Farm Agency. He is a man of our race and has their interests at heart: and we recommend those that desire to improve their condition to accept the opportunity presented him.REV. J. HORATIO CARTER, Pastor of the Metropolitan Baptist Church, Boston Mass. REV. W. H. SCOTT, Pastor of the Calvary Baptist Church, Boston, Mass. REV. JESSE HARRELL, Pastor of the Union Baptist Church, Cambridge, Mass. REV. P. THOMAS STANFORD, Pastor of the William Lloyd Garrison Memorial Congregational Church, Boston, Mass. REV. JOSEPH H. MORGAN, Pastor of the N.E.A.M.E. Church, Chelsea, Mass. REV. J.H. WILEY, 14 Kendall Street, Boston, Mass. REV. J.R. RANDOLPH, Boston, Mass. REV. PETER RANDOLPH, Boston, Mass. P.M. HENDERSON, M.D., Boston, Mass. REV. J. ALLEN KIRKE, D.D., Boston, Mass.This page features general ads for this issue. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.THE ELECTROPOISE Trade MarkCURE WITHOUT MEDICINE.A SIMPLE HOME TREATMENT OF UNEQUALED VALUE, administered by attaching an instrument to the flesh which aids the system to take on oxygen from the atmosphere, to the utmost amount the system can use.IN SIMPLICITY. Those of ordinary intelligence can use it, even in very serious and severe sickness, like diphtheria, pneumonia, scarlet fever, etc.IN EFFECTIVENESS. It is always curative and eradicative of disease to a degree never before attained by the highest skill in other methods of treatment in like cases.NEVER DANGEROUS OR INJURIOUS, as the treatment is simply an assistance to nature to do its work effectively and in its own way.IT IS A TREATMENT OF THE BLOOD, and by purifying, revitalizing and loading it with Nature's Nerve Food, ejects disease by removing its causes. It applies of necessity to all diseases as no other treatment ever has.THE OXYGEN COSTS NOTHING, the price of the instrument being all the expense necessary for years. It can be used by the entire family.IT IS NOT A NEW THING. It has been in use in New England nearly seven years, and is endorsed by thousands, many of them among the most intelligent and influential citizens.AS A RESTORATIVE OF VITAL ENERGIES in enfeebled and exhausted physical conditions it has no equal within the limits of human knowledge.THE ELECTROPOISE IS A DISCOVERY of hitherto unknown effects of well known natural laws, which are always active in the ordinary progress of physical life.DURING THE SEVEN YEARS that the Electropoise has been before the public, it has been met by criticism and disbelief, which it has answered by facts and cures of the most remarkable and permanent character, and has made its way, step by step, until probably 12,000 persons in New England alone have made use of it with greater or less success, according to the faithfulness and perseverance of using.THE UNANSWERABLE PROOF of the extraordinary success of this treatment is furnished by the endorsement of its patrons, among whom will be found judges, lawyers, clergymen, physicians, professors, business men, and many others, whose names would be given only on account of exceeding merit.The following extract is from ananeditorial in the "Christian Witness" of September 3, 1891, by Rev. Dr. McDonald, editor:"AND NOW, AFTER A YEAR, we have this to say in its favor: (1) We have taken no medicine for the year. (2) All traces of la grippe and our old sunstroke troubles have disappeared, and no symptoms of either remain. Once or twice, from severe overwork, we have found it necessary to hold up for a few days, but in no time for fifteen years have we been better than during the past year."We have seen testimonials of most remarkable cures, and they can be seen by calling on the agent, 36 Bromfield street."This notice of the 'Electropoise' is without solicitation and entirely gratuitous. We do it for the good of the afflicted. We have no personal interest in it, and are not paid for what we say in its favor."Another writes:"I SOUGHT THE AID OF A DOZEN of the best physicians I could find, but they helped me very little. I also tried Compound Oxygen thoroughly, and the electric battery, but they helped me very little. On December 17, 1891,  commenced using the Electropoise and continued it about four months. During this time my disabilities were greatly removed. In this course of year from the time I commenced using it, I enjoyed almost perfect health, which has continued to this date. I know persons who were afflicted with quinsy sore throat, rheumatism, general debility, nervous prostration, and liver trouble, who have been greatly helped by it. It have great faith in it.REV. JOHN H. MANSFIELD.  Athol, Mass.AND HUNDREDS MORENO HOME SHOULD BE WITHOUT IT.  Send for Book of New England testimonials Free.L.A. BOSWORTH, 36 BROMFIELD ST., Boston, Mass.General Agent for the New England States.M. Elliot, Room 42, Insurance Building, NEW HAVEN, Conn.,
Sole Agent for Connecticut West of Connecticut River.
When you write please mention The Woman's Era.The Woman's Era.Vol. III. No. 3. BOSTON, MASS.,   PRICE 10 CENTS.CLUBS.The res women's cstudying among us.a comparative  where winncause of the  that they st of the clubs  tried out with that are >refreshest hopes. The  better sustained th earnest women bent  development of all that is  life of the colored race.These clubs all have well defined purposes for their existence, but these purposes are not all self confined. Some of them are helping to educate indigent students in Southern colleges, others are doing this and also taking an active interest in every reform in which women and children are especially concerned. They are all cultivating a beautiful sensitiveness to every outcry of harm or danger that come to the less fortunate in their respective communities.In our city the I.B.W. Woman's Club, and the more recently organized Phyllis Wheatley Club, are doing a remarkable work in members cultivating a sense of duty and responsibility among its members. Here, as in other cities, there is scarcely an interest that does not feel the gentle hand and generous helpfulness of these organized women. The public is beginning to trust these clubs as the most responsible agents to undertake and do any of the many things that need for their accomplishment the united hand, heart and intelligence of our best women.The character of the work in which most of our clubs are engaged is begetting a spirit of open  club's  president, Mrs. J. St. P. Ruffin, is almost too much pleasure for one week.The club's hospitality to strangers could scarcely be more beautifully manifested than it was in the reception it gave in the ample home of its president. The joy of flowers and music and the wit and beauty of women gave a charm to the occasion that will always be intimately associated with the name and memory of the club. The aggressive spirit of this club as well as the gracious personality of its president and associate officers, made it possible for the club to broaden its hospitality so as to enable Mrs. Matthews of New York, Mrs. Dickerson of Newport and your correspondent to be present at the Cantabrigia  Reception, one of the most important and delightful women's gatherings of the Anniversary Week.The Ada Sweet Pioneer Club of Minneapolis will be a delightful surprise to any of our women who may be fortunate enough to visit the beautiful city of Minneapolis. There is a gallantry of spirit about this new organization that is most refreshing. Conscious of their own earnestness, they do not hesitate to dare many things thatNATIONAL.BOSTON, August, 1896.On the 22nd day of July, 1896, at Washington, D.C., the two large bodies of colored women known respectively as the National Federation of Afro-American Women and the National League of Colored Women united their forces and became the National Association of Colored Women. This union resulted in one of the largest and most significant organizations of women in the world. The WOMAN'S ERA, which had been the official organ of the Federation, was chosen by the joint commission on union as the official organ of the united body with a special department to be edited and controlled by department editors, who were then and there elected by the same committee.In a vast body like ours, numbering as it does two hundred clubs, an organ as a communication is an absolute necessity. Preparation for the next annual meeting should begin at once, on the reassembling of the various clubs in the autumn. To do this systematically and thoroughly the clubs must be kept in touch with each other and in  ers of the  N.A. of  but should   ithly club That the prize be given by the club to a young person of either sex, ambitious to fit for either the pulpit, platform, or stage; for all of these places, as will be seen by reference to the advertisement in the ERA, this famous college fits pupils.) The low, time-limit subscription rates will begin with the next number, which will also contain matter of great import to members of the united organization. Subscription blanks for those not desiring to vote can be had upon application to club presidents and at the office of the WOMAN'S ERA, 103 Charles street, Boston.Presidents of clubs are earnestly requested to use their efforts to circulate the ERA in their associations. The reduced rates are for three months and should bring us in many subscriptions.N.A.C.W. DEPARTMENT.Mary Church TerrellEditors:
Mrs. B.T. Washington,Dr. Rebecca Cole,Ida Wells Barnett,Rosa D. Bowser,Frances Jackson.We, the Colored Women of America, stand before the country today a united sisterhood, pledged to promote the welfare of our race, along all the lines that tend to its development and advancement. As the National Association of Colored Women we were christened one short month ago, in the nation's capital, where all lovers of progress and peace and true friends of the race stood sponsors. Surely no one conversant with our present status, and concerned about our future, can doubt that there is a crying need of just such a union of forces as our association represents.As individuals, our women have already accomplished much for the education and cultivation of the race. How much more will they be enabled to effect when, working conscientiously, zealously and intelligently toward the same end, they are one in thought, one in purpose and one in power for good. While as a unit we shall bend our energies to compass the ends for which we have banded together, as diverse and varied will be the plans adopted as are the individualities of the different organizations of which the association is composed. Union of forces is not construed to mean monotony of ways and means, in presenting the work to which we are solemnly and irrevocably pledged. Through the instrumentality of the various members of our united sisterhood, we hope to run the whole gamut of human progress and reform.In leaving each organization to fulfil the mission to which it feels especially called and peculiarly adapted, we feel confident that the greatest amount of good can be accomplished with the smallest expenditure of labor and the least sacrifice of time.Being neither infallible nor omniscient, if we make an occasional mistake, let us rectify it with all the speed and candor of which honest, earnest women are capable. Having overcome as a race and a sex so many obstacles that to the fainting, faltering heart seemed insurmountable in the past, we shall neither be discouraged at the temporary failures of our friends, nor frightened at the apparent success of our foes.In accepting the position of honor and trust which my sisters have seen fit to confer upon me, I am keenly, almost painfully alive to the great responsibility assumed. In myself I am nothing, but with the loyal support of conscientious, capable women, all things are possible to us. The duties of my office shall be discharged faithfully, the friends of the association may rest assured, and efficiently, let us trust, for the sake of our common cause. Forgetful of the past, hopeful for the future, let us work in the present with undaunted courage and untiring zeal. With so many heads that are thoughtful and hearts that are true enlisted in our service, how impossible is failure, how inevitable success!The magnitude of the work to which we seem divinely called and are solemnly pledged, far from affrighting and depressing us, inspires to greater effort, for we feel in undertaking it that 
Humanity with all its fears,
With all the hopes of future years,
Is hanging breathless on our fate.MARY CHURCH TERRELL,
President National Association.THOMAS CLARKSON'S SEAL.Victoria EarleOne of the most interesting of the ante-bellum articles written by the late Harriet Beecher Stowe was her account of a day spent at "Playford Hall," home of Thomas Clarkson. After giving a most charming pen-picture of the house, and the gracious hospitality of the venerable widow of the great abolitionist, Mrs. Stowe described some of his sacred mementos, gifts from friends and associates in the cause of freedom, treasured by the family, making special mention of the seal used by Mr. Clarkson. She wrote: "His seal attracted my attention. It was a kneeling figure of the Negro with clasped hands, which was at first adopted as the badge of the cause, when every means was being made use of to arouse the public mind and keep the subject before the attention. Mr. Wedgewood, the celebrated porcelain manufacturer, designed a cameo with this representation, which was much worn as an ornament by ladies. It was engraved on the seal of the Anti-Slavery society, and it was used by its members in sealing all their letters. This of Clarkson's was handsomely engraved on a large, old-fashioned cornelian, and surely if we look with emotion on the sword of a departed hero, which at best we can only consider as a necessary evil, we may look with unmingled pleasure on this memorial of a bloodless victory."The great Clarkson's methods in bringing about the emancipation of the bondmen on English soil possess many sterling lessons for us who would carry on the present day work of emancipation among our struggling people, and should be carefully studied. One of his first steps was the formation of a committee of twelve persons for the collection and dissemination of evidence on the slave traffic. We would do well to follow in his footsteps, by the establishment of such committees to collect and disseminate evidence on the legislative enactments inimical to our interests. This could be done with great propriety in connection with the chain-gang system and the separate car law.THE FREDERICK DOUGLASS MEMORIAL AND PILGRIMAGE ASSOCIATION.This is the name adopted by a party of impromptu visitors to Anacostia on the day following the adjournment of the Federation meetings. Perhaps it was from inspiration from the surroundings; certainly it was from no prearrangement that the twenty odd callers suddenly decided to band themselves together to work for the securing of the Douglass homestead for a Mecca to which pilgrimages may be made, and in which an historical collection of anti-slavery literature and other race data may be kept. Mr. Douglass' widow was made president of the new association. A secretary and treasurer were elected, the nucleus of a fund contributed, and each club representative pledged herself to see to it that her own club kept green the memory of Mr. Douglass by fittingly celebrating his birthday on the 22nd of each February. Then the association adjourned to the vine clad porch overlooking the Potomac, and succumbed to the omnipresent and irresistible photographer.THEY ENTERTAINED THE FEDERATION AND PROMOTED THE SUCCESS OF THE CONVENTION.Josephine B. BruceThe Ladies' Auxiliary Association of Washington, D. C., while one of the youngest members of the Federation, having joined its ranks only a few weeks prior to the assembling of the convention, was notwithstanding one of the most enthusiastic among the large and highly creditable membership of the Federation. The auxiliary felt, in a large degree, that the Federation was its guest, and the pleasure and pride in having so noble a gathering in our home city was evinced on every hand by the ceaseless and untiring activity of our ladies.The local citizens' committee, composed of both ladies and gentlemen, were persistent in their zeal to promote the comfort and entertainment of the convention. The two ladies worked in unison to the best of their abilities, with what results the visitors must decide. We can only testify to the hearty good-will and generosity of spirit coupled with the earnest desire to make every visitor feel perfectly at homeThe lunches for the three days' sessions, the decorations and the reception held on the closing night were the work of the two named bodies.The citizens of Washington will always recall with unbounded satisfaction the convention of the N.F. of A.A.W. Such a glorious hand of earnest women must always, even in memory, be an inspiration. The great organization, as a whole, as well as the members as individuals, were possessed with the mighty purpose to relieve the stress and burden of life, which continue to exist largely on account of inactivity, ignorance or the disposition to accept whatever is, without
murmuring. The wrongs and injustices which afflict the many spring from a misconception of the relation of man to man. Now, as ever, is it true that,"Man's inhumanity to man
Makes countless thousands mourn.'The assistance which is springing up in many quarters, notably among women, betokens a readjustment of mankind's relations, which must consciously or unconsciously go on until the last vestige of inequality has been removed.Such love-laden labor, such devotion to self-imposed duty, so far-seeing a purpose give the assurance, even to the dubious ones, that the women have a cause to which they have brought persistence, resoluteness and intrepidity.The sisterly affection that had grown up in the single year of the existence of the Federation was as marvelous as it was admirable. What wonder was it then that some heads were bowed in silence when the announcement was made of the passing away of the Federation -- its name, not its purpose -- and the ushering in of the new body. The feeling thus exhibited must not be misunderstood; it was not regret because of the union -- not at all -- for I believe that one and all cordially endorsed the principle involved in union, but it was simply expressive of the beautiful devotion to the

first love and marks a depth of soul that is a gift rather than the result of cultivation.There is but one refrain now to be sung, and that is, "Long live the National Association of Colored Women!"JOSEPHINE B. BRUCE,
President Ladies' Auxiliary.Washington, D.C.THE BERLIN INDUSTRIAL EXPOSITION.Helen Elise VillardWhile Berlin is gradually acquiring the reputation of a European capital well worth seeing, it is nevertheless itself often left out of the traveler's itinerary, despite its manifold attractions.The Industrial Exposition which was opened there on the first of May has, however, brought an unusually large number of tourists to the city this summer. The Exposition is laid out in a suburb of Berlin known as Treptow, which was formerly a playground for children. The most enjoyable way of going there is by mail-coach, although this mode of conveyance is considered too expensive by most of the visitors who visit the Exposition. The approach to the grounds is a long avenue, with booth after booth, show after show on either side, ending up in the night with the Cairo Exhibit, which is decided the most realistic and successful part of the Exposition. It ought to have been called Egypt rather than Cairo, because quite as much of life on the Nile as of life as seen in Cairo is represented there. The temple, like the pyramid, is an excellent piece of workmanship, albeit both have too new and clean an appearance to strongly resemble the originals. The most advantageous time in which to see Cairo is at twilight, or after dark, when the gay bazaars with their wily salesmen, and the well imitated Egyptian horses wear a truly oriental aspect. The Egyptians themselves are unmistakably genuine, and their noisy ways and curious antics, and the camels and donkeys which they tend, render the illusion a perfect one. A truly imposing sight is the Egyptian circus which goes on all the evening in the large arena upon which you look down from the top of the Pyramid. The ascent is made by elevator, the Pyramid being hollow; you unconsciously fancy yourself in the desert, while intently watching the ever moving mass of human beings and of animals, and the motley array of color which stands out so strongly against the gray background.The Cameron Exhibit is both interesting and amusing, but is soon exhausted. The natives show off their hats and the way in which they prepare their meals with great glee. They are particularly proud of their scanty knowledge of the German language which, however, they pronounce uncommonly well. By far the most entertaining inhabitant of the Cameron village is a mite of a baby whose comical ways and friendly hand-shakes win all hearts.The Berliners, of course, think a great deal of their Exposition, but to those who have seen and enjoyed the wonders of our World's Fair, it is difficult not to make detrimental comparisons, even while bearing in mind that this is the effort of one city alone -- since the principal buildings, the lake, the boats and so on are so evidently an attempt at direct imitation, in miniature, of the Chicago Exposition.The industrial exhibits vary in interest and in value, and the pleasure grounds - the Midway Plaisance of this Exposition -- contain but a collection of cheap, bawdy shows. Of these, the hall devoted to automatic machines and instruments is the best, the automatic orchestra being a very musical and ingenious toy on a large scale.Old Berlin is considered a great success. Seen from the water it looks very well, but it is really much inferior to old Vienna of Chicago fame and not nearly as well carried out as the old Dresden part of the small industrial exposition now in progress in Dresden.The Chicago Fair covered so large an area that the throngs of people were no more than groups in the landscape when scattered over the grounds. In Berlin the space used for the Exposition seems so small a one that one is impressed by the vast multitude of people which assembles there on a fine evening. The place to see the fashionable world of Berlin and the foreign element is not Bressel's restaurant which faces the chief building at the other end of the lake, but the whole lake is surrounded by swarms of people full of the enjoyment of out-of-door life that is so pleasant a characteristic of the German people. They sit at tables drinking beer, listening to the music and watching the boats glide about. The weekly illuminations naturally attract the largest crowds of people, who are never other than well behaved. The colors used in illuminating are too gaudy to be beautiful, particularly when compared with the exquisite harmony which made illumination nights at Chicago a never-to-be-forgotten memory.-- Dresden.THE CONVERSAZZHYONY.Eugene FieldThe maynoo that wuz spread that night wuz mightyhard to beat.Though somewhat awkward to pernouuce, it wuz notso to eat;There wuz puddins, pies an' sandwidges, an' fortykinds uv sass,An' floatin' Irelands, custards, tarts an' patty dee forgrass;An' millions uv Cove oysters wuz a-settin' round inpans,'Nd other native fruits an' things that grew out Westin cans.But I wuz all kufflummuxed when Hoover said he'dchoose "0on peety morso, see voo play, de la celte CharlatteRooze!"I'd knowed three-fingered Hoover for fifteen years ormore'Nd I'd never heern him speak so light uv wimminfolks before!Bill Goslin heern him say it, 'nd uv course he spreadthe newsUv how Three-fingered Hoover had insulted CharlotteRoozeAt the conversazzhyony down at Sorry Tom's thatnight;An' when they asked me, I allowed that Bill for oncewuz right,Although it broke my heart to see my friend go up thefluke.We all opined his treatment uv the girl deservedrebuke.It warnt no use for Sorry Tom to nail it for a lie --When it came to sassin' wimmin, there wuz blood inevery eye;The boom for Charlotte Rooze swep' on an' took thepolls by storm,An' so Three-fingered Hoover fell a martyr to reform!Three-fingered Hoover said it wuz a terrible mistake,vAn' when the votes wuz in, he cried ez if his heartwould break.We never knew who Charlotte wuz, but Goslin'sbrother DickAllowed she wuz the teacher from the camp on Roarin' Crick,That had come to pass some foreign tongue with themuv our alite,Ez wuz at the high-toned party down at Sorry Tom'sthat night.We let it drop -- this matter uv the lady -- there an'then,An' we never heerd, or wanted to, of Charlotte Roozeagain,An' the Colorado wimmin-folks, ez like ez not don'tknowHow we vindicated all their sex a twenty year ago.THE FORTHCOMING MINUTES OF THE FIRST ANNUAL MEETING OF THE N.F.A.A.W.Victoria MatthewsAll persons holding papers prepared for the first annual convention of the National Federation
of Afro-American Women will please forward them without delay to the secretary, Miss L.C. Carter, 311 Middle St., New Bedford, Mass.The committee having the work of the forthcoming pamphlet in charge will meet shortly, for the purpose of completing the work without unnecessary delay. All matter must be in hand by September 25 to be included in the printed minutes.VICTORIA MATTHEWS,
Chair. Com. on Printing.A DESERVED HONOR.An invitation has been extended to Miss Maria L. Baldwin to deliver an address before the Brooklyn Institute of Arts and Sciences upon the "Life and Services of the Late Harriet Beecher Stowe."It is the custom of the Institute to fulfil the wishes of its first benefactor by having an address on each 22nd of February upon some distinguished American, and it was thought most fitting that Mrs. Stowe's services be commemorated on the first Washington anniversary following her decease. Miss Baldwin has accepted the invitation.It is the first time in the history of the Institute that the invitation for the annual address has been given to a woman, and the ERA is glad and proud that the choice has fallen upon Miss Baldwin.We know of no one better fitted by intellectual and spiritual insight, and by power and grace of expression to deliver this address.As usual, Boston has been the Mecca this summer of many southerners, who have found the city to be in some respects almost an ideal summer resort. From Macon, Ga., came Miss Sarah Pitts. Miss Pitts, who is principal of one of the Macon's schools, has been an interesting and interested visitor. Her quick intelligence and ready insight made her visit a pleasure to herself and friends. She is an enthusiastic club woman and one from whom we expect to hear much in the future.THE WOMAN'S ERA, PUBLISHED AT 103 CHARLES ST., BOSTON, MASS.ORGAN OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COLORED WOMEN.OFFICERS:Pres., Mary Church Terrell, Washington, D.C.1st Vice Pres., Josephine St. P. Ruffin, Boston, Mass.2nd        "      ., Frances Jackson Coppin, Phila. Pa.3rd         "      ., Frances E.W. Harper, Phila, Pa.4th         "      ., Josephine Silone Yates, Kan. City, Mo.5th         "      ., Sylvanie Williams, New Orleans, La.6th         "      ., Jennie Chase Williams, So. Carolina.7th         "      ., Lucy Thurman, Jackson City, Mich.Rec. Sec., Alice Ruth Moore, W. Medford, Mass.Cor. Sec., A. Victoria Thompkins, Washington, D.C.Treas., Helen A. Cook, Washington, D.C.Nat. Organizer, Victoria E. Matthews, New York.Chairman Ex. Com., Mrs, B.T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala.The joint committee appointed by the League and Federation respectively to consolidate the two bodies with one aim, was considered the one with the most important duty to perform. The ERA desired to give to its readers the portraits of each member of the two committees, but repeated efforts have thus far failed to locate any of the League members, most of them being teachers spending their vacations away from home. Mrs. Butler and Mrs. Hunton, whose pictures are given this month, represented the Federation on the commission with intelligence and gracious zeal. Both are soft voiced and gentle mannered, albeit they are women of affairs in their respective localities, veritable helpmeets to their husbands.A DANGER AND A DUTY.The issue of sound and stable currency, involved in the present national campaign, is of vital importance to the colored people of this country. The success of Bryan, and the subsequent free coinage of silver, would not only affect the purchasing power of the present wages and salaries of the wage earners, to which class the colored people of this country mainly belong, but would decrease by almost one-half the value of the little stock of money that the thrifty among them have been able to lay aside and entrust to savings or co-operative banks. Those of them who, by incessant industry and much deprivation, have been able to meet their payments in life insurance companies, believing that, if anything should happen, some comfort and even some small luxuries of this life would be assured their widows and orphans, should arouse themselves in opposition to threatening legislation of free silver. Their widows would receive just fifty-three cents for every dollar of their life insurance. Under the authority of the United States, in the even of free silver, the savings banks, for an invested dollar of one hundred cents, would pay back a dollar worth fifty-three cents. Are the colored people of this country so rich or so indifferent to their future welfare that they can see their accumulations for a rainy day cut almost in halves, one portion only to remain theirs, while the other be given to the silver mine owners? Yet this is just what the success of Bryan, Tillman and Altgeld means. It is a solemn duty for every mother, wife and sister to arouse their husbands, sons and brothers to a realizing sense of the terrible results that will surely follow in the wake of the success of the free silver heresy. The woman should take as  active an interest in this question as possible. Only a small number are allowed to show their interest by voting themselves, directly, but they all know their power and should see to it that no voter over whom they have any influence is on the wrong side of this question.All of the clubs in the national organization should, upon their reassembling in the early au-

tumn, take up the study of current politics. Educational work is what the women's clubs are formed for, and the most important educational need just now, among all women, is systematized, careful instruction in American politics. The present campaign, called a campaign of education, offers opportunities for all who desire an intelligent understanding of current issues; and what club woman does not?Now that the new association is launched and all eyes are fixed upon the new officers who are to order the great craft, and all hearts are wishing them success and good weather, it is well that a thought should be given to the old officers, the women of the National Federation and National League who made this thing possible -- the women some of whom have been in their self sacrifice and devotion to the interests of their associations models for all successors.The work that has been done in the last year has been in some ways almost marvellous, and our women should not forget that it did not do itself, but represents intelligence, industry and devotion. All honor to the leaders of the old associations! All success to those of the new!Paul Laurence Dunbar is recognized as a true poet by the first critics of America, and his little volume "Majors and Minors" will be welcomed as a contribution to real literature. There is hardly a recent circumstance which means more to the race than this. As Mr. Howells says it is probably through the arts that nations are to be brought together and hostilities and prejudices to disappear. Genius forces recognition and knows neither race nor sex. More poets, more artists, more musicians will develop among us in time, and the world will be forced to acknowledge them and the people from whom they spring.The union of the two great national bodies of colored women, which was consummated at Washington in July, was and is still the subject of much talk of a congratulatory nature. It would seem as if there were little left to be said on the
matter. That union was the general desire, no one can doubt, and that in effecting union many concessions had to be made will also be acknowledged.HAIL AND FAREWELL - THE NATIONAL FEDERATION AND THE NATIONAL LEAGUE UNITE AND BECOME THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COLORED WOMEN.That union was the ardent desire of all interested in the two national organizations which met in Washington in July was very evident; nevertheless, real tears were shed by some of the Federation members when its consummation compelled the giving up of a name that represented so much done in so short a time. Now with the added strength of the 113 clubs contributed to the association by the National League, the power and influence of the united bodies makes possible a report of even greater results this year than last. Let the mourners comfort themselves with the thought that the name will be to them what they make of it - either a diadem upon their brows, or a millstone about their necks.SOCIAL NOTES.All Boston went out to Arlington Heights on the afternoon of the 26th to the summer home of Dr. and Mrs. Grant, who were holding a garden fete. The affair was both delightful and unique; the house had been elaborately decorated with sweet ferns and golden rod, and the lawn with lanterns; these, combined with the natural attractions of the place, the fine views, the shady walks, the clear, bracing air, were the foundation for an almost ideal fete champetre.There were the usual features of a garden party - music and red lights, tableaux and dancing, moonlight strolls and flirtation. There were many beautiful light costumes; conspicuous among them were those worn by Miss Param, Mrs. J.H. Lewis and Mrs. McCov. The whole bud contingent was out, augmented by Misses Angelina Grimke, Therese Lee, Mary Lewis and the Misses Baker; and among the visiting gentlemen were Mr. A.H. Grimke from San Domingo, Dr. Wheatland and Mr. Bertram Jamieson from Newport and Prof. George Cook of Washington.The Newport Woman's League arranged and carried out a most successful lawn party on the afternoon and evening of August 26. Mrs. Mary F. Dickerson is the energetic president of this vigorous club.CONVENTION NOTES.Alice Ruth MooreThere was one noticeable feature of the recent convention of the National Federation of Afro-American Women; that was the utter absence of frivolous personalities among the women present. The average cynical man would have expected that in such a large and -- if I may use the term -- varied assemblage of women of all ages and personalities, frivolity and gossip would naturally creep in; but not so. Every woman present seemed to feel that she had gone a long way to discuss matters of gravest importance, and that it behooved her as a representative of other earnest women to stick to her text. The all important question, "Is my bonnet straight?" was never even dreamed of.History is made of little things, after all. It was a pretty little scene in one of the committee rooms, that ought to go down in the history of the Afro-American woman - if one should be written. Mrs. Ida Wells-Barnett, whom every one knows, is positive and determined in her opinions, and her expression of them, gracefully and gently, yielded to the pleasure of Mrs. Lucy B. Thurman when the question of endorsing in an unqualified manner the work of the W.C.T.U. was raised. Considering the differences of opinion between Miss Willard and Mrs. Barnett, and the utterances of the former in regard to the work of the latter, the introduction of such a resolution was somewhat after the fashion of a slap in Mrs. Barnett's face. But she gracefully gave her approval to its passage, and thus added another heroic act to the list of self-sacrificing acts done at Washington.Heroines are not entirely the products of ancient days. Every hour that Mrs. Washington stood on the platform during the days of the convention stamped her as a heroine of the purest type. Ill and physically in no condition to be out, she stood the strain of the entire proceedings, with an unflinching calmness that a less brave woman could not but envy. There is no use denying that it takes great mental, physical and nervous force to preside over any body at any given time, and the fact that Mrs. Washington stood calmly through it all in her illness, is something for which we all should feel it our duty to throw up our hats and cheer.The office of national organizer, which was created by the joint commission from the two organizations, is unique only in its name. It is an office which no national organization should be without. In the Woman's Relief Corps, which is one of the largest of this country, the work is done by a national instituting and instaling officer, who has an assistant in every state, this assistant in turn having assistants in the state corps. The work is thus brought to a finesse which constantly enlarges the ranks of the organization. It was a wise thought on the part of the commission to create such an office, as we need more systematic methods and more enthusiasm in organization. It was, perhaps, as wise, too, that they should have chosen Mrs. Matthews to fill the office, for she is particularly interested in that branch of work, and by her splendid amount of personal magnetism cannot but succeed in bringing into the ranks of the association many new and vigorous clubs.Will we succeed in perfecting the proposed scheme of departmental or state work? Of course it is for the executive and constitution committees to say that, but it is to be hoped that we will, for the present system will soon become, as new clubs are enlisted, cumberson and heavy.This year was the crucial one, and now that the great feat of consolidation has been accomplished, we can draw a long breath and settle into plans and schemes for great deeds to be accomplished ere July, 1897. With such a body of women, all of whom have already shown their power in many different lines, the weight of the organization should be felt in more ways than one. It is to be hoped so.ALICE RUTH MOORE.FIRST MINUTES OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COLORED WOMEN.Mary Church Terrell and Frances JacksonWashington D.C., July 21, 1896Mary Church Terrell and Frances JacksonThe joint commission, consisting of seven members of the National League of Colored Women and an equal number from the National Federation of Afro-American Women, assembled in the parlor of the 19th St. Baptist Church to consider the advisability of union. The commission from the Federation retired to receive instructions and be given full power to act, in conjunction with the committee from the League, to whom plenary powers had already been delegated.Mrs. Terrell moved that the commission resolve itself into a committee of the whole. Carried.Mrs. Terrell was then chosen chairman, and Mrs. Jackson secretary. Mrs. Matthews moved that we consider a name for the new organization. Carried.Mrs. Anthony moved that the new organization be known as the National Association of Colored Women. Carried.Miss Jones moved that each half of the commission stand equal in strength. Carried.It was moved and carried that no financial liabilities incurred by the separate bodies prior to union be assumed by the National Association of Colored Women.It was moved and carried that the chairman appoint a committee to draft a constitution for the N.A. of C.W. The chairman then appointed Misses A.V. Thompkins, Anna H. Jones, Coralie Franklin, Mesdames Victoria E. Matthews and Rosa Bowser. It was moved to adjourn till Wednesday, July 22, 1.30 Carried.MARY CHURCH TERRELL,Pres.FRANCES JACKSON, Sec.Washington D.C., July 22, 1896Mary Church Terrell and Frances JacksonThe joint commission met in the parlor of thc Second Baptist Church to further complete the business of union. The minutes of the first meeting of the National Association of Colored Women were read and approved. It was moved and carried that we proceed to elect officers. After balloting for several candidates, Mrs. Mary Church Terrell was elected president of the N.A. of C.W.Seven vice presidents were then elected in the order named: Mrs. Josephine P. Ruffin, Boston, Mass; Mrs. Fannie J. Coppin, Philadelphia, Pa.; Frances E.W. Harper, Philadelphia, Pa.; Josephine S. Yates, Kansas City, Mo.; Sylvanie Williams, New Orleans, La.; Jennie Chase Williams, South Carolina; Lucy Thurman, Jackson City, Mich. Miss Alice Ruth Moore was elected recording secretary; Miss A. V. Thompkins, corresponding secretary; Mrs. Booker T. Washington, chairman of the executive committee; Mrs. Helen A. Cook, treasurer. It was moved and carried that the office of national organizer be created. Mrs. Victoria E. Mattthews was then elected national organizer. It was moved and carried that the executive committee consist of 21 members. Moved and carried that the chairman of the executive committee be empowered to select her own committee, whose members shall be as representative as possible. It was moved and carried that the executive committee be empowered to draft temporary rules by which the Association shall be governed the coming year. It was moved and carried that the Association endorse the WOMAN'S ERA as its official organ, provided we may control a department of it, to be edited by a board appointed by the commission.The following members were then appointed on the editorial staff of the Association department of the ERA: Mrs. B.T. Washington, Dr. Rebecca Cole, Mesdames Ida Wells Barnett, Rosa Bowser and Frances Jackson. It was moved and carried that the editorial staff be empowered to provide for the necessary support of our department of the ERA. It was decided to appoint a ways and means committee, on which the following persons were elected to serve: Mrs. J.N. Kemp, Miss Lulu Chase, Mrs. E. Mahammett, Miss Julia Jones, Mrs. Addie Hunton. Moved and carried that we rise and report.MARY CHURCH TERRELL,Pres.FRANCES JACKSON,Sec.List of NamesMary Church Terrell and Frances JacksonList of names of the committee on union appointed by the League: Miss Anna H. Jones, Miss Coralie Franklin, Miss Emma Merritt, Miss A.V. Thompkins, Miss Julia Jones, Mrs. Frances Jackson, Mrs. Florence Barker.List of names of the committee on union appointed by the Federation: Mrs. Victoria E. Matthews, Mrs. Mary C. Terrell, Mrs. Josephine St. P. Ruffin, Mrs. Rosa Bowser, Mrs. Addie Hunton, Mrs. Selina Butler, Mrs. Libbie C. Anthony.Mrs. Bertram Jamieson of Newport, who has been studying at Armour Institute, Chicago, is now contemplating finishing at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.TENNESSEE CENTENNIAL NOTES.Tennessee desires to proclaim to the world in general and to the United States in particular that on the 1st of June, 1896, she celebrated the one hundredth anniversary of her admission as a state of the Union. It was at first proposed to celebrate this occasion by the opening of an Exposition, so far reaching as to even become international in its character. For many excellent reasons this plan was not carried out and the opening of the Exposition was postponed until May 1, 1897; it will continue for six months, closing October 31 of the same year. The anniversary was celebrated by ceremonies extending over two days, June 1 and 2, and consisted of the firing of guns, street parades, composed of state and federal troops, federal, state and city officials, social, benevolent and industrial orders, municipal departments, bicycle brigades, citizens in carriages, on horseback and on foot, and exercises at the centennial grounds, in the auditorium and woman's
building.The centennial grounds are already in excellent and beautiful condition and several of the buildings are completed. The management propose to have everything in complete readiness for the opening of the Exposition on May 1, 1897.It has been divided into sixteen departments, each with a chief and working committee, and among this number is the Negro department with J.C. Napier as chief and a committee of sixteen. Chief Napier desires it fully understood that this department is not a case of discrimination but was a choice, that the negroes might secure a better showing and receive full credit for their industry and advancement. It is entirely optional as to whether the exhibitor will place his exhibit in the Negro building or the one designated for his line of exhibits. Since his appointment Chief Napier has not only been supported by the heads of the different divisions and their committees but has met with great encouragement from residents of other states. One of the divisions is designated as a Woman's Board and has a membership of forty of our most energetic women. Mrs. Ella S. Moore is its president; Mrs. C. Napier 1st, Mrs. Preston Taylor 2nd, Mrs. S. J. W. Early 3rd, Mrs. G. A. Shelbon 4th vice-president; Mrs. P. R. Bumes, secretary; Miss J.B. Cheatham, corresponding secretary; Mrs. W.0. Tate, treasurer.The executive committee is made up of the officers of the board and transacts most of the business, but places it before the board for its approval or rejection. A spirit of complete harmony pervades each meeting, and the united desire seems to be the advancement of any aim that will promote the welfare of the Negro building, but more especially make the woman's exhibit the feature of the department. Everything that is skilfully and well made by a female is desired, and the women have no fear as to what they can accomplish. Not only have they the assurance from Nashville and other places in Tennessee, but Mrs. Moore is traveling in the north and east and is never forgetful of the Tennessee Centennial, and Mrs. Napier has received hearty co-operation from many of our leading women all over the country.Many large bodies have been invited and are arranging to hold their meetings here during the Exposition, and among the number will be the second meeting of the Woman's Congress which met for the first time at Atlanta during the holding of its Exposition.TUSKEGEE NORMAL AND INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTE.Isaac FisherTUSKEGEE, ALA.School opens on the 8th of September.Night school closed on the 31st of July. The work will be resumed in the fall.Printed matter and information for organizing Negro conferences, similar to those held at Tuskegee, may be had by addressing Principal Booker T. Washington.It was very gratifying to note the endorsement which the work of the National Federation of Afro-American Women, of which organization Mrs. Booker T. Washington was president, received from both press and public.ISAAC FISHER.SHE IS A DIRECT DESCENDANT OF "ADVANCED" ANCESTORS.It will interest many of our readers to know that the account of the Berlin Exposition, published this month, was written by a grand-daughter of William Lloyd Garrison. Miss Helen Villard is the daughter of Fanny Garrison Villard,

whom old Bostonians will remember as the handsome and only daughter of the original Garrison family. Miss Villard, as might be expected from heredity and environment such as hers, is public spirited and an enthusiastic reformer. She is a subscriber to the ERA, and intensely interested in the cause it seeks to promote.ADDITIONAL CONVENTION NOTES.From the platform, the auditorium of the Nineteenth St. Baptist Church was a delight to the eye, on the evening of the first day of the gathering of the late Federation of Afro-American Women for their first annual convention. The audience, which was an immense one, was made up about equally of men and women of all colors and ages. As is customary in that latitude in the summer time, many of the ladies came to the meeting without head covering of any kind, radiant in white and vari-colored costumes, trimmed with ribbons and much lace, which seemed to soften and tone down the almost too eager and anxious look of the matrons and maids gathered to be a part of the great object lesson. At Mrs. Washington's request, Mrs. Matthews presided upon this occasion, and in presenting the speakers she was at her best. Her incidental plea, made just here, for greater interest and sympathy for the women and children of the southern cabins, did credit to both her head and heart. The address of welcome by District Commissioner Ross was impressive from its earnest heartiness. The Era Club president was honored by being selected to reply to this eloquent greeting, and embraced the opportunity to tell something of the inception of the one year old movement that was showing such astonishing results.The resolutions adopted were strong, comprehensive and pathetic in the recount of the many needs of a much hampered people. The pathos was emphasized by the reading of them by Mrs. Ida B. Wells Barnett, in the musical monotone peculiar to that polished reader. The resolutions are to be published in full, with the minutes, in book form. This work was placed in the hands of a competent committee, of which Mrs. Victoria Matthews is chairman, and is now being edited by her.All of the members of the Auxiliary Committee did nobly in their hospitable endeavors to make their guests, the conventioners, comfortable and happy, but Mrs. Rosetta Lawson was so conspicuous for her self sacrificing zeal and courtesy as to merit special mention, and more substantial recognition even by those who profited by her unremitting efforts in behalf of unity and fraternity.Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Gray were also enthusiastic workers in the convention. Mr. Gray and Mr. Andrew Hilyer both made stenographic reports of the meetings for leading Washington newspapers.Mrs. Jennie Napier Kemp, secretary of the Twin City Woman's Era Club, St. Pau and Minneapolis, was the only lady newspaper correspondent sent to report proceedings. She represented the leading daily paper of' Minneapolis.Miss Georgia Washington's plea for the plantation women, written and delivered by one who is herself an example of what education will do for this class, was the most encouraging feature of the whole exhibition.When the "Boy of the Convention," Master Charles Aked Barnett, was presented to the convention by Mother Harriet Tubman the scene was impressive and thrilling. it was as though one was standing at the intersection of a tiny stream just bubbling from its source, and of a great useful river about to glide with easy fulness into the sea. It was as the clasping of hands of the early nineteenth and twentieth centuries.If crowded night sessions, an attentive throng of serious faces in the galleries and hearty applause in the right place be a sign of interest taken by the Washingtonians in the proceedings, then indeed was the interest great. Altogether we have stood before the public, attracting an attention on all sides that was perhaps never dreamed of, even in the most sanguine expectations of the projectors of the organization.If there was no downright frivolity during the continuance of the sessions there were many mirth-provoking incidents and personages. The photographer was one of the latter. No one ever thought of asking his name or calling him anything but "the photographer." He was omnipresent, omniscient, omnipotent. He seemed to have always in his mind the passage in the prayerbook, "Whenever two or three are gathered to-

gether in thy name -" for wherever and whenever two or three of the delegates were found at any given point, the photographer was there, camera, battered derby and all, and in less than two minutes perhaps there was a group posing. Even at the last moment when a crowd of us were gathered at the Pennsylvania railroad depot ready to go the photographer was there with a profane suggestion of a parting group. Long rest his piece of mind for the bad pictures he turned out!Some of the most enjoyable moments of the days spent in Washington were those of the noon lunch in the church basement. It was always a lively scene of kaleidoscopic interest. A shifting of faces, forms and an incessant buzz of voices, hungry voices and eager ones. It was during the noon hour that old acquaintances were renewed and new ones made; engagements and parties made up and plans, convention and otherwise, formulated and decided upon. lt was a pleasant little social oasis in the desert of the day's work.CLUB NOTES.Florida R. RidleyThe Era Club had the largest number of representatives of any one club outside of the District. Eight members arose and responded to the roll call the first day of the convention.The club will resume its regular meetings on Friday evening, September 4, when the delegates will report.Members are reminded of the necessity of immediate preparation for the New England Hospital Fair. The Era Club table must be a credit to the club. Work for the fair stands at the head of this season's calendar.So many questions are constantly being asked, and so many conflicting statements made concerning the cause fot eh call for the first national convention of colored women, held in Boston, July, 1895, it is deemed advisable to republish the circular letter sent out by the secretary of Woman's Era Club, which plainly states the case, and should set at rest forever the charge, often repeated, that that convention was called to discuss one phase of the race question only.DEAR SISTERS: --Accompanying this letter is a circular which will explain itself; we respectfully call your attention to it. Although apparently precipitate, the matter of a conference has long been considered by us an we have been led to set the date because of many and peculiar advantages possible at this time. The Christian Endeavor Society brings to Boston fifty thousand delegates in July, railroad rates all over the country are constantly reduced. Many colored women come to Boston at that time as delegates to this convention. The assured presence in this city of so many representative women is too good an opportunity for a coming together to be missed, and although we do not hope that this our first conference will in all respects meet our ideal, yet we trust that it will be the beginning of a movement for creating a community of interest among al earnest women who love purity and demand justice.The letter of Mr. Jacks which is also enclosed is only used to show how pressing is the need of our banding together if only for our protection; this is only one of the many matters upon which we need to confer. We do not think it wise to give this letter general publishing and ask you to use it carefully.Will you call your society together at once and attend to the appointing of delegates and let us hear from you immediately?Circulars giving program, dates, etc., will be mailed to you as soon as you signify your intention to attend.This invitation is extended to all colored women of America, members of any society or not.Signed, FLORIDA R. RIDLEYCorresponding Secretary.NOTES AND COMMENTS.Miss Maud Cuney of Texas came to the city the first of August, and was heartily welcomed by her host of friends. Miss Cuney is dividing her time among many friends, Miss Glover, Miss Hare, Miss Duncan and Mrs. Ridley all claiming a portion of her time before her return to New York, when she will again be the guest of Mr. and Mrs. T. B. Francis.The intense heat has caused people to take their pleasure rather mildly this summer. There have been few gatherings of any size. A basket picnic at Downer's drew out quite a number, and a musicale at Miss Glover's was thoroughly enjoyed by the young set.Miss Alice Ruth Moore is with her sister, Mrs. Young, at West Medford. As Miss Moore has been quite seriously ill since her arrival, her

friends as yet have had little opportunity to see her. Accompanying Miss Moore is Miss Allain, another charming New Orleans girl.Dr. Furman Shadd of Washington came through Boston on his way home from Martha's Vineyard, where his family is summering, and waked up his friends in his usual hearty, jovial way.Miss Gertrude Baldwin is spending the month of August at her home in Cambridge, or rather that part of it which she does not spend on her wheel.Great preparations are being made for the centennial celebration or Zion's Church. The event calls for wide and general interest; it is one of the evidences of the strength and character of the race, and a record that makes good our claim to be numbered among true Americans.Mr. Archibald II. Grimke, our consul at Santo Domingo, is spending his thirty days' leave in the U.S., and is at present, together with his daughter, the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Lee of Auburndale. Mr. Grimke evidently carried to his life abroad all the enthusiasm and receptivity of the student of life, and the accounts of his experiences abroad are more than delightful to the friends who hear them.MRS. B.T. WASHINGTON'S ILLNESS.Friends will be glad to know of Mrs. Washington's improved health. She has passed through a dangerous ordeal, but is now on the sure road to restoration and perfect health. As chairman of the executive committee, Mrs. Washington had hoped to be ready to announce the names of the twenty-one members of her committee, in the association's department of this issue of the ERA. For obvious reasons this announcement must be deferred for another month. Meanwhile, in accordance with power given her by the commission, six ladies have been appointed by Mrs. Washington to draw up temporary rules for the governing of the organization until the next annual meeting, these rules to be submitted for ratification to the whole executive body.This, the latest news received form the Woman's Mine, will be good news to the many investors in this section of the country. Development work to uncover the ore bodies is now being actively pushed, and there will be no cessation or delay until is an accomplished fact that the Bonita Gold and Silver Mine is a steady producing, dividend paying property. At the suggestion of eastern friends, Mrs. E.P. Ensley has been made one of the directors of the Mining Company, and will faithfully look after the interest of eastern investors.This page features ads for Mrs. Mary Sulis, J.R. Young & Co., The American Wringer, Taylor & Co., Harris and Barbour, and Franklin A. Denison. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.MRS. MARY SULIS,
TEACHER OF
Point Rennaizance and Honiton Lace.
Samples Always on Hand.
Residence, 193 Elm Street,
New Bedford, Mass.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.THE AMERICAN WRINGER C0.BRANCH STORE.
Nos. 13 and 15 Broadway Extension,
BOSTON, MASS.
Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers.
All kinds of Wringers and Swoopors Repaired. Orders by mail promptly attended to.Preston Taylor.  Telephone 895.
TAYLOR & CO., 
FUNERAL DIRECTORS & EMBALMERS, 
Carriages for Hire. 
449 No. Cherry Street, Nashville, Tenn.HARRIS & BARBOUR,
"RED HOUSE"
New and Second Hand Furniture,
General Household Goods, Parlor Sets, Bedroom Sets, Etc.
Nos. 412, 414 and 416 Cedar Street,
Nashville, Tenn.
Telephone 703.FRANKLIN A. DENISON, 
---- LAWYER ----
Suite 411, 59 Dearborn Street, . . . Chicago. 
Telephone, Main 1690. 
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, 61 City Hall, 
Telephone Main 280.This page features ads for Dr. R.F. Boyd, Greene F. Anderson, J.L. Good's Hair Balm, J.W. Grant, George E. Jackson, Howard University, Wm. H. Jackson, H.J. Bowers, D.A. Smith, and Atlanta University. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.Office Hours:
8 to 10 A.M.; 1 to 3 P.M.;
7 to 10 P.M
Office Open All Night
Dr. R.F. Boyd,
Physician . . . . . .
--- And ---
. . . . . . Surgeon,
417 Cedar Street,
Nashville, Tenn.
Telephone 967.GREENE F. ANDERSON,
Notary Public . . . . . LAWYER,
Solicitor of Claims.
Office: 419 Cedar Street.  Room No. 17 Boyd Building.
Telephone: 1171-3 RINGS.
Will Practise in all the Courts.  Your Business Respectfully Solicited.Try the Champion of the World.
J.L. GOOD'S HAIR BALM.It removes all dirt and dandruff, and stops falling hair and itching of the scalp. It makes the hair grow. We guarantee to cure dandruff and falling hair, and to restore hair. Write for our circular and read what many of our customers say about it. Price $1.00 per pint bottle.Half pints, 50 cts. No soap or water needed. Ladies and gents treated at the manufacturers parlor, No. 15 Plymouth place. Open evenings until 9. sold by A.M. Rothschild & Co., all druggists and by J.L. Good, 15 Plymouth place, 3 doors from Jackson st., Chicago.AGENTS WANTED.J.W. GRANT,
Attorney at Law, Notary Public,
And Deal of Law Department Central Tennessee College,
Office, 411 N. Cherry St., Nashville, Tenn.GEORGE E. JACKSON
REAL ESTATE AGENT,
Negotiates the Loan of Money. All business entrusted in my hands will receive prompt attention.
Room 2 Boyd Building, 417 Cedar Street,
Nashville, Tenn.Howard University,
Washington, D. C.Howard Universitv furnishes superior facilities for higher education. Nine different departments, with sixty professors and instructors.  . . . . . . . . . .Theological. Medical, Dental, Pharmaceutical, Law, College, Preparatory, Normal, Industrial, the latter including Printing, Carpentry. Bookbinding, Tinning and Sewing.Academic Departments opens September 23; Professional, September 28 to October 1.For particulars address the President or Secretary.WM. H. JACKSON,
TAILOR
18 Province Court, Boston.
Opposite Boston Tavern.
Clothes Cleaned, Dyed, Altered and Repaired in the neatest manner at short notice. All orders promptly attended to.H.J. BOWERS,
Proprietor
BOWER HOTEL & CAFÉ,
2722 State Street,
Chicago, Ill.D.A. SMITH
RESTAURANT,
Bateman Building,
237 Thames St., Newport, R.I.
Lunch Room on Commercial Wharf Landing.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.This page features ads for D.B. Allen's, The Newport Restaurant, Andrew J. Tabb, Mrs. J.E. Spinks, Mrs. J. Patterson Rollins, Armstead Hurley, Gray- Artist & Photographer, S. Laing Williams, Edkardt Catering Co., R.W. Adams, J.C. Napier, P.A. Ewin, and Mrs. E.B. Fayerweather. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.D. B. ALLEN'SCAFÉEASTON'S BEACH.
NEWPORT, R.I.Shore Dinner a Specialty, 50 Cents.Dinner and Lunch Served on European Plan.CLAM CHOWDER.Fish of all Kinds and Salads. Oysters in Every Style
Home Made Pies, Cream and Cake.
DINNERS ORDERED BY TELEPHONE.Also THE NEWPORT RESTAURANT,
Telephone Connection.    20 Broadway.LUNCH ROOM at 103 John Street. Meals served good and prompt at reasonable prices. Open from 6 A.M. to 12 P.M. Ice Cream during the season.J.E. SPINKSANDREW J. TABB,
First Class Horses and Carriages to Let.By the Season, Month or Hour. Passengers conveyed to all Boats and Trains. Expressing in all its Branches.28 Edgar Court, off Bath Road, Newport, R.I.
Orders Promptly Attended to.MRS. J.E. SPINKS
Wishes to inform her friends and the public that they can find First-class Board and Lodging at 82 William Street. Meals served prompt and reasonable. Ice Cream in private dining room.MRS. J. PATTERSON ROLLINS, 
Contralto Soloist and Vocal Teacher, 
12 Grove  Street, Boston, Mass.ARMSTEAD HURLEY,
 Practical Painter and Glazier, 
All work Promptly and Neatly Done at Reasonable Prices. 
27 3-4 Pond Avenue, Newport R.I.GRAY . . .
Artist and . . . 
Photographer.Studio, 1030 Tremont Street,
B0STON, MASS.
The only Studio in Boston having Reception and Operating Rooms on the Ground Floor.
Telephone. 198-4, Roxbury.S. LAING WILLIAMS,
ATTORNEY-AT-LAWPension Claims Prosecuted . . . 
Depositions of all kinds taken.Room 430, 113 Adams St., Chicago.Edkardt Catering Co., . . . . .
JOHN B. FRENCH & CO., Props.
. . . . . FINE ART CATERERS,
Office and Manufactory:
135 Ashland Boulevard, Chicago.
Telephone, West 168.R.W. ADAMS,United States Claim Agent
No. 411 North Cherry Steet,
Nashville, Tenn.J.C. NAPIER, 
ATTORNEY-AT-LAW,
Nashville, Tenn.
Real Estate and Collecting Agent. Negotiates the Loan of Money, etc.
Telephone 1477.
(Napier Court) 411 Cherry Street.P.A. EWIN,
Attorney at Law, Solicitor in Chancery
and Notary Public
Second Floor, Boyd Building, 419 Cedar St.,
Nashville, Tenn.MRS. E.B. FAYERWEATHER
FASHIONABLE
DRESS AND CLOAK MAKER,
No. 14 Spruce St., Newport, R.I.This page features ads for business penmanship and A.G. McKenzie. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.LESSONS IN BUSINESS PENMANSHIP
BY
J. W. WASHINGTON, Artist Penman,
SALEM, MASS.Twelve (12) Lessons by mail, only $3.00 in advance. Sample Lesson, 25 cents. Satisfaction guaranteed. Send for circular.Visiting Cards elegantly written, 12 for 20 cents. Agents wanted. Big commission. Sample book, 20 cents. Rapid Addition Method, 12 cents.A.G. McKENZIE
OPTICIAN
156 Charles St., Boston. 
Three doors from eye infirmary. 
Artificial Eyes a Specialty. 
Telephone, 1198 Haymarket.This page features an ad for the New England Farm Agency. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.Are You Looking for a Home Among Friends?If You are Consult the
NEW ENGLAND FARM AGENCY.There are in the states of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island and Connecticut many good farms that can be purchased for a reasonable sum of money, and on easy terms of paymentWe offer our assistance in aiding colored farmers to leave the South and to come and make their homes in the North.We propose to procure farms in any of the above named states for as many of our race as desire, to come North and make their homes among us. We shall give them all the aid in our power, and be only too glad to look them over and see that they obtain all the advantages possible in the respective neighborhoods, until they become accustomed to their new homes and neighbors.It is our intention in procuring these farms to have them near cities and towns in various states, so as to be convenient to school houses, railroard stations and churches.The farms of the North differ from those of the South in that they are more compact, better cleared and attended to in general. Being smaller they are easier to care for. About anything that can be raised on farms in the South can be raised in the North.On these farms are comfortable frame houses, cottage style. Terms of payment will be made to suit.For further information, Address,
CLIFFORD H. PLUMMER, Esq.,
Manager New England Farm Agency,
60 PEMBERTON SQUARE
BOSTON, MASS.PLEASE NOTE REFERENCES:
We, the undersigned Ministers of the City of Boston and vicinity, cordially recommend to those of our race in the Southern States, Lawyer Clifford H. Plummer, the Manager of the New England Farm Agency. He is a man of our race and has their interests at heart: and we recommend those that desire to improve their condition to accept the opportunity presented him.REV. J. HORATIO CARTER, Pastor of the Metropolitan Baptist Church, Boston Mass. REV. W. H. SCOTT, Pastor of the Calvary Baptist Church, Boston, Mass. REV. JESSE HARRELL, Pastor of the Union Baptist Church, Cambridge, Mass. REV. P. THOMAS STANFORD, Pastor of the William Lloyd Garrison Memorial Congregational Church, Boston, Mass. REV. JOSEPH H. MORGAN, Pastor of the N.E.A.M.E. Church, Chelsea, Mass. REV. J.H. WILEY, 14 Kendall Street, Boston, Mass. REV. J.R. RANDOLPH, Boston, Mass. REV. PETER RANDOLPH, Boston, Mass. P.M. HENDERSON, M.D., Boston, Mass. REV. J. ALLEN KIRKE, D.D., Boston, Mass.This page features an ad for the Emerson College of Oratory and the Bonita Woman's Mine. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.EMERSON COLLEGE OF ORATORYLARGEST 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, and the principles of the Philosophy of Expression. Scientific and practical work in every department. Chartered by the State.Address for illustrated  catalogue,
HENRY L. SOUTHWICK, Sec'y.
Corner Tremont and Berkeley Sts.,
Boston, Mass.
Summer session at Martha's Vineyard.THE FIRST WOMAN'S MINE.The Bonita Cold and Silver Mining Company,
OPERATING IN NEW MEXICO AND COLORADO.
OFFICERED AND CONTROLLED BY WOMEN.
No Assessments.  No Stock Holders' Liabilities.
STOCK 50 CENTS A SHARE SOLD ON INSTALMENT PLAN. Patent Applied for.The Great Mineral Basin it Pitkin covers an area as large as that of Leadville, Aspen and Red Cliff combined. Professor Sadtler, of the Chair of Metallurgy and Mineralogy of the State School of Mines, speaking of this district, says: "This camp, with proper and systematic development, will be made a second Aspen, if not better."The output of the Leadville district has been, up to the present time, in value over $200,000,000;  that of Red Cliff more than $35,000,000, and that of Aspen, $100,000,000, or more, and the mines of these places show no signs of exhaustion.What, then, shall we expect of Pitkin and the Quartz Creek District, which has a mineral bearing area as large as these three districts combined, when so far the developments there have proved the mineral deposits to be fully as rich and extensive?We can come to but one conclusion: Its wealth is limitless, and no more safe or profitable field for investment can be found.The property of the Bonita Gold and Silver Mining Company consists of three groups, in all nine claims, or a little over ninety acres, located in the most favored portion of this great mineral basin. Special care has been taken in the selecting to cover apexes, timber and water, all of which are of such vital importance in any mining property, and the greater portion of it lies only from one-fourth to three miles away from the railroad and the town of Pitkin, with good, down-hill roads leading from every portion of it, accessible every day in the year.The ore is high grade, netting from fifty to one thousand dollars per ton, average two hundred and fifty. The Company has undisputed title to the entire property, which is free from any incumbranceencumbrance, and will be kept so. Any further information will be cheerfully furnished by thePresident, MARY E. PHELPS, or  MRS. L. K. DANIELS, Secretary.ADDRESS: POST OFFICE BOX 3, DENVER, COLO.The Woman's Era.Organ of The National Federation of Afro-American Women.Vol. III. No. 4.BOSTON, MASS., OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER, 1896.  PRICE 10 CENTS.STUDENT DAYS AT THE NEW ENGLAND HOSPITAL.Anne DilletAfter the business of the annual meeting was over at the New England Hospital for Women and Children on Tuesday, the 27th Oct., all were invited to the Goddard Home by the president, where light refreshments were served. Many of the graduate nurses were present, and one who could remember when there was no home for the nurses' exclusive use. At that time what is now the nurses' home was used as the maternity. The nurses of that period had no such pleasant evenings as we of '95, '95 and '96 have had in the long hall where the piano now stands. I think they certainly deserved their diplomas, for having the heroic courage to pull through the term without the Goddard Home and the piano, which has added much to our happiness. After a hard day of work and discouragements - which we all have - a whirl around the hall did much to cheer our drooping spirits and tired limbs, giving us new zest for tomorrow's work: and those spreads in the Goddard, when some girl has returned from her vacation bringing the good things from home, such as pickles, jams, cakes, apples, etc., or sometimes brought on half days by the more fortunate ones who have their mothers near by, or from the corner store of "odds and ends." Those delightful summer evening spreads of '95, served on the great table-like boulder west of the maternity wards, with iced lemonade, did much to refresh us for the coming morrow, and to say the least the lively band in the adjacent picnic grounds has done its mission. I try to look back and wonder how the pioneer nurses lived through the term. They surely deserve our admiration and love. I was pleased to have the superintendent of nurses ask me to show the improvements of '95 and '96 to one of our graduates of nineteen or more years' standing - the new heating arrangements for keeping the patients' food hot, new sterilizing room at the maternity, the enlargement of the nursery, new boilers and what not - and tell her of many new methods in our work, such as the "floater," etc.: and our new class pin, which was only ready at the last annual meeting, which is composed of a blue enamel Maltese cross, with a wreath of laurel in gold, "New England Hospital Training School - 1863"; and in the center in gold, the bust of Mrs. Ednah Cheney, the president.It is pleasant to feel on returning to Boston that there is the Goddard Home to go to and spend a few hours or an evening, and see familiar objects and loving friends. I do not think that time nor surroundings will ever alienate my affections from the dear N.E. H. The nurses' rooms looked particularly attractive, with the sun streaming in on this beautiful October day, so homelike, and each so characteristic of its occupant.Now that we have our new dispensary building, I hope that time is not far distant when we shall have our new surgical building, with the hope that many of us who love the work and the hospital will be enabled to take a post graduate course.ANNE DILLET.HARRIET BEECHER STOWE MEMORIAL.Those who turned aside from their ordinary line of duty to attend the memorial exercises of Mrs. Harriet Beecher Stowe, given by the Woman's Club of Mutual Improvement at Brown's Chapel, A.M.E. Church, on the 22nd ult., were abundantly rewarded for their labor. The church was handsomely decorated for the occasion. The stage was covered with beautiful plants and flowers. In the center of the platform was a large

portrait of Mrs. Stowe, beautifully draped, and surrounded by pots of green choice plants. Miss A.E. Martin presided at the organ.At 8:15 o'clock the president, Mrs. M.A. Dillard, called the meeting to order. After prayer by Mr. John Sims the club sang, "When the Mists Have Rolled Away." Other selections were also sung, including a solo, "Jesus, Lover of my Soul," which was rendered by Mrs. Benj. Moffett, a member of the club.Unfortunately Mrs. J.H. Eason was detained at home on account of illness, therefore the paper which she was to have read had to be omitted. Then the president, after a few preliminary remarks, in which she showed up the falsity of the claims made by those in sympathy with slavery thirty-five years ago, introduced Rev. Charles L. Harris, the orator of the evening, who said in part:"The monuments of Egypt, Greece and Rome, as others of less renown, the temples, religions and superstructures of all nations, are based upon some public benefit, fancied or real, derived from the persons whose deeds they commemorate. The gratitude of mankind stands with uncovered head and weeping eyes and burdened heart at the grave of a public benefactor, whose life, though long, seems but a span when once its beneficent rays are quenched. When beneficence, as boundless as eternity, leaps the barriers of race and creed, every emotion of the human heart dictates that gratitude, unfettered and strong, should embrace good deeds wherever found."The development of the anti-slavery movement produced no stronger character than Harriet Beecher Stowe. Of strong moral character, clear-sighted, warm-hearted, courageous and talented, her pen was mightier than millions of swords. She never suffers by comparison with others. A woman, yet wielding the most incisive pen of the day - a wife, a mother, untrammeled by caste or shackles, yet not so deeply immersed in her own duties as to forget her less fortunate sable sister. A lover of liberty for herself, she finds no rest while this priceless boon is denied the most humble of mankind. She thought if her people knew the hideousness of slavery they would worship at its shrine no longer."She had a story to tell - a story of great and grievous wrong unredressed and active, whose agents north an perpetrators south had chained the truth and barred the Temple of Liberty. She sung her song: she told her story. The inspiration of heaven dictated it. The mysterious warrior - 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' -- leaped full-armed from her brain to the battle field. Uncle Tom entered the public conscience as no preacher, orator, statesman or press had ever done. It carried conviction. People read and shuddered. It was published in more than twenty different languages. Millions wept with Aunt Chloe at Uncle Tom's departure, laughed with Topsy, prayed with Uncle Tom, or cursed the brute Legree.Great reforms have their flood-tide. When sudden success seems certain, then they ebb, when all gains seem lost. Then with irresistible force a tide wave floods out all opposition, and victory is assured. A Supreme Governor guides human affairs. He fits instruments, and when He wills the blow falls with unerring certainty, and human sagacity cannot evade it. We must "learn to labor and to wait." Mrs. Stowe labored, she waited; she was crowned with success."Beneficance is sexless. A woman may not inquire, 'What may I, a poor, weak woman do?' But with willing mind, cheerful hands, and a heart aglow with love, do good under all circumstances, -- cheer the faint-hearted, open the door for the returning prodigal, visit the sick, and held the needy whose just pride prevents public aid. Mrs. Stowe's contribution was needed to advance the cause of freedom. We cannot have another like her; but why should not others carry on the work begun by her? Are we too enthusiastic if we expect a continuation of the good deeds already reported of the Woman's Club of Mutual Improvement? Will you forgive the heart-throbs of contemplation with which we view the National Association of Colored Women? From north to south, from east to west it is pledged to the welfare and development of our women along all lines."The ashes of Mrs. Stowe are buried, but she is not dead. She cannot die. We need no Peter to raise this Dorcas. Her clothing for the poor need no display: for millions of willing hands and loving hearts, responsive to her good deeds, are emulating them: and these good deeds have clothed countless millions in the impenetrable panoply of liberty. Mrs. Stowe's life and labors demonstrate that one woman that wills, can accomplish  more good than many men who willnot."The club then sang a hymn written by Mrs. Stowe - "Knocking, Knocking, Who is There," after which further remarks were made by Rev. 

T.J. Bell and Rev. S. F. Kingston, pastors of the Congregational and Presbyterian churches. Mrs. Dillard also told a story from "Uncle Tom's Cabin" for the benefit of the children in the audience.The whole affair was very enjoyable throughout, and every one went home well pleased with what they had heard.GOLDEN RULE CLUB.The Golden Rule Club held its regular meeting Wednesday evening, Nov. 4, at the residence of Mrs. Wendell Tucker, 5 Jay St., Cambridge. This organization was formed about thirteen years ago. At that time there were no clubs in Cambridge, and the need was felt of something of the kind to bring about unity and sociability. The Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would they should do unto you," was taken for a motto. A monthly fee is paid, and a sick fund is maintained from which the members draw during illness. They aim to assist charity's cause whenever possible. Their efforts have been crowned with success from the beginning to the present time. The officers are: President, Mrs. N.E. Lewis; vice president, Mrs. M. James; treasurer, Mrs. H.C. Lewis; chaplain, Mrs. D. Hayes; secretary, Miss Adelaide Grandison; assistant secretary, Mrs. E. Wilson.TUSKEGEE NORMAL AND INDUSTRIAL INSTITUTE.Isaac FisherTuskegee, Ala.Recently Mr. B.T. Washington delivered an address before the Faculty and students of Trinity College, Durham, N.C. This is the first southern white college that he has been invited to address.A club of our girls is planning to raise money to pay some one to teach the night school that was organized last year in the town of Tuskegee by one of our teachers.Mrs. B.K. Bruce arrived here on Oct. 20th, and delivered a very interesting lecture to the school on the evening of the 21st.The next session of the Tuskegee Negro Conference will be held at Tuskegee, February 21, 1897. The Worker's Conference convenes the next day.ISAAC FISHER.N.A.C.W. DEPARTMENT EDITORS:MRS. B.T. WASHINGTON, DR. REBECCA COLE, IDA WELLS BARNETT, ROSA D. BOWSER, FRANCES JACKSON.TEMPORARY RULES ISSUED BY THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE N.A. OF C.W.In July, 1896, the National Federation of Afro-American Women and the National League of Colored Women met in the city of Washington, and by means of a joint commission, consolidated their forces.Women in both organizations were wise enough to see that more and better work could be done if the two organizations were united. All personal ambitions and petty jealousies were laid aside, thus making the union possible.The new organization is new only in the name it has assumed. It stands as did the two separate halves, as a whole, for the uplifting of womankind.It was decided by the commission that the executive committee draw up rules for the conduct of the association for one year, and so give the committee on constitution ample time to perfect and make that instrument strong.THE WORK SUGGESTED BY THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATIONTo attack the chain gang system of the South, the separate car law, to do rescue work in the alleys and slums of our great cities, and for the plantation woman and child, the founding of homes for our indigent, and to show greater interest in the fallen and wayward. There are some of the things clubs in the association are pledged to consider this year, and decided improvement along these lines should be shown at the next annual meeting.The National Association asks the local clubs to commemorate the birthday of Frederick Douglass, (February 14th), and to send contributions to the treasurer of the Frederick Douglass Monument Association of Rochester, N.Y.They also urge the clubs to commemorate the 9th day of May, John Brown's birthday, and to send contributions to the John Brown Memorial

Association to be used in building a reformatory home for colored boys.The following rules have been adopted by the executive committee for the conduct of the National Association for the present year.RULES GOVERNING THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COLORED WOMEN.NAME.The name shall be known as the National Association of Colored Women.DUTIES OF OFFICERS.The duties of officers as defined by "Roberts Rules of Order" will be adhered to.OBJECT.The elevation of the race, the ennobling of womanhood, and the concentrated effort toward improving the standard of home life among the masses.ELIGIBLE.All women's clubs organized for the development of woman along moral, religious, and intellectual lines, are eligible to membership in this association.POWER.The National Association will assume no direct jurisdiction over the local clubs, each club being free to carry out its own plan of work.TAX.All clubs entering the association hereafter will pay to the national treasurer the sum of one dollar ($1.00 as entrance fee; the same to be enclosed with application blank, which may be had from the national president, national secretary, or national organizer. Each club in the association will be taxed $5.00 annually to carry on the business of the association, this to be paid to the national treasurer, Mrs, Mary Frisbie Handy, 1341 No. Carey street, Baltimore, Maryland.GOVERNMENT.All matters of a business pertaining to the management of the National Association, must be deferred to the executive committee.OFFICIAL ORGAN.The paper known as the WOMAN'S ERA, of Boston, shall be the organ of the National Association, and local clubs must look to the official department of it for information, thus lessening the cost of individual correspondence.COMMITTEES.Standing committees will be appointed by the executive committee.Clubs in the association must look to the Association's Department in the WOMAN'S ERA for all information concerning clubs, thus obviating the expense of direct correspondence for which no provision has been made as yet.EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.Mrs. B.K. Bruce, Washington, D.C.Mrs. F.R. Ridley, Brookline, Mass.Mrs. Jesse Lawson, Washington, D.C.Mrs. Eva Aldrich, Pittsburg, Pa.Mrs. Selina Butler, Atlanta, Ga.Mrs. Libbey C. Anthony, Jefferson City.Miss Julia Jones, Philadelphia, Pa.Mrs. Lizzie Rainey, Norfolk, Va.Mrs. Minnie Plummer, Deluth, Minn.Miss E.M. Jackson, Tuskegee, Ala.Mrs. E.P. Ensley, Denver, Col.Mrs. M.A. Dillard, Selma, Ala.Mrs. Rosa Bowser, Richmond, Va.Miss Anna Jones, Kansas City.Miss Cornelia Bowen, Waugh, Ala.Mr.s T.H. Lyles, St. Paul, Minn.Mrs. Florence R. Cooper, Memphis, Tenn.Mrs. Lena Titus, Norfolk, Va.Mrs. Ruth Collette, Baltimore, Md.Mrs. Annie E. Taylor, Washington.Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Chairman.FIRST MEETING OF THE WOMEN'S MISSIONARY SOCIETY OF PHILADELPHIA.Rebecca J. ColeThe October meeting of the Women's Missionary Society brought together a large and interested audience. It was the first meeting since the convention, and the long-promised time had come when the delegates would tell about the stirring events of July, 1896.They lived it all over again while recounting something of the women who came together to tell the reason of the faith that is in them; how through a torturous course of addresses, papers, debates and business meetings they reached the grand conclusion that even a Negro's life is worth living, and that the tendency of all things, even

the Negro's history, is toward the ideal. An important feature of the occasion was the presence of Dr. Du Bois of the Pennsylvania University, who came to tell us something of the work that he has undertaken in Philadelphia for that institution. He gave a rapid sketch of the steps that have developed the science of sociology, and he showed us what is to be gained by the colored people of this city by permitting a free investigation into their sociological condition, that the causes of certain dangerous tendencies may be discovered and, if possible, averted.He has been furnished with a number of figures which say that the Negro contributes an immense disproportion of deaths from consumption, and that he crowds the police courts as does no other class in the community.Now who made these figures but men of a class who are so warped by that strange American disorder, colorphobia, that before accepting their verdict we must be excused for saying we are not ready for the question.On the point of deaths from consumption, I would say this: hosts of the poor are attended by young, inexperienced white physicians. They have inherited the traditions of their elders, and let a black patient cough, they immediately have visions of tubercles. Let him die, and though in the case there may be good reason for a difference of opinion, he writes "tuberculosis," and heaves a great sigh of relief that one more source of contagion is removed.And who makes up the police records? To what class do most of the men in this department belong but to Irish democracy? Who can tell how many white offenders go free, either by bribery or by their own aptitude to escape the consequence of their actions?You see it is the question of disproportion that I am answering. There can be no doubt that the number is large and is steadily increasing, and hence we are glad that a man whose sympathies are with us is seeking to gain information which will answer, among many other things, these two important questions: 1. Are colored people largely forced to live in unsanitary districts, and are they more ignorant and careless about the laws of health, or are they suffering the fate of all exotics?  2. Are the streams of poor and shiftless Negroes that are constantly pouring into Philadelphia responsible for the high criminal records, or do all classes contribute to fill the penal institutions?While I have not implicit faith in these statistics, I recognize a state of affairs which needs the thought and help of those who belong to this accused class.We must teach these people the laws of health; we must preach this new gospel, that the respectability of a household ought to be measured by the condition of the cellar; that to prolong the hours of toil or study or pleasure habitually into the night, when we must be up betimes in the morning, is to rob our offspring of vitality, and invite epilepsy, consumption, and a train of other evils.We must attack the system of overcrowding in the poorer districts by urging our men to contend for laws regulating the number in one dwelling - "Cubic Air Space Laws," we can call them -- that people may not be crowded together like cattle, while soulless landlords collect fifty per cent on their investments.These are the things that we can do to attack vice, disease and crime in their strongholds, for they have no complexion and they always yield to such and to no other treatment.REBECCA J. COLE.THE UNION OF OUR FORCES.Frances J. JacksonIn the latter part of July of this year of our Lord, there assembled in Washington two bodies of women, a few days intervening between the meetings. Both bodies were composed of earnest women, who were working along different lines to accomplish the same result, the betterment of the women of the race, physically, morally and intellectually. It was something new under the sun to see assembled in convention two bodies of intelligent colored women, who had no axes to grind, who were not seeking their own advancement to the utter disregard of the masses that were behind, below or beneath them. It was not only a new, but refreshing sight to see women imbued with higher thoughts, motives and aspirations, than personal aggrandizement. There was only one thing lacking to make the harmony perfect. There were two bodies with the same aims and purposes. Why two bodies and not one was the cry that went up all along the line. Why divide our strength, when the union of our forces will mean the accomplishment of so much more good for the ones we are trying to help? So earnest, so pure of motive were the leading mem-

bers of both organizations, that they were willing to yield to the demand for union, if by so doing the women of the race might be benefitted. So the union was consummated; that there was dissatisfaction, some disappointment, goes without saying. There never yet has been any organization so perfect, that every person connected with it was perfectly satisfied with everything pertaining to it. It is human nature to think and feel that we could have done it so much the better than A or B; that under the same circumstances results would have been different.But we feel no loyal women to the cause will cease her efforts in this great work because everything did not go as she would have wished. That if the work is dearer to her than self, she will buckle to with renewed energy, and next year there will be one grand Te Deum filled with triumphs of the past year. Nothing was every accomplished by sulking or complaining of what some one else has not done. The thing that should concern us most is, what am I doing? Let us profit by the example of our brothers; too much ambition, self seeking and "ways that are dark" have been the death of every organization gotten up by men for the good (?) of the race, and yet they would advice us what and how to do to make a success of our organization - Physician heal thyself. The summer is past: we are all once more back at our various occupations. Have we brought back to the work renewed strength, zeal and enthusiasm? Did our meetings last summer mean anything to us? Let us begin the practical work at once, let our efforts be redoubled. Let us begin to spread the work, start the sewing schools, the mother's meetings, the kindergartens, the efforts to raise means for charitable work, the literary clubs, everything that means work, earnest, helpful work. If we do this we will forget that there is anything that does not exactly commend itself to us as individuals. Our success or failure depends on the individual: there is no one without his influence and following. Let your influence be wholesome, broad and liberal: let charity take possession of every woman in the organization, and we can write success in bold, glowing letters for the coming year.Always for the cause,FRANCES J. JACKSONWAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COLORED WOMEN.Mrs. J. Napier Kemp, chairman, of Minneapolis, Minn.Mrs. Addie Hunton, Richmond, Va.Mrs.,. Julia F. Jones, Philadelphia, Pa.Mrs. E. Mahammett, Omaha, Neb.Mrs. S. Lillian Coleman. Omaha, Neb.Mrs. C. S. Shadd, Los Angeles, Cal.Mrs. J. Pierre Dart, Charleston. S. C.Mrs. R. Jerome Jeffrey, Rochester, N. Y.Miss Lulu Chase, Washington, D. C.Mrs. R. Hill, Richmond. Va.Mrs. Lucy B. Stephens, Lynchburg, Va.Mrs. L.E. Titus, Norfolk, Va.Miss H. Cordelia Ray, New York City, N. Y.Miss Emma R. Williams, New Orleans, La.Miss Elizabeth E. Lane, Tuskegee, Ala.Miss Cora Napier, Minneapolis, Minn.COURTNEY-DAVIS.The marriage of Miss Lilla V. Davis to Dr. Samuel E. Courtney, which took place at Trinity Church on Oct. 21st, was one of the noticeable weddings of the season. The bride has for years been a teacher in the American missionary field, and the high esteem in which she is held was evidenced by the presence of members of the association from all over the state. Many of Dr. Courtney's political associates were also present.The bride was attended by Miss Miriam Woodbury, assistant treasurer of the American Missionary Association, and was given in marriage by Dr. Beard, secretary of the association. Dr. Courtney was attended by his brother, Mr. Henry Courtney.The wore a gown of seafoam silk, with lace and pearl trimmings: the bridesmaid, a simple, graceful costume of white muslin over pink silk.After a short wedding journey, Dr. and Mrs. Courtney are at home at 98 West Springfield St.The fair for St. Monica's Home, under the auspices of the Woman's Era Sewing Circle, will follow immediately after that of the N.E. Hospital opening on December 8th, in St. Augustine lecture room.LITERATURE DEPARTMENT.In the Atlantic Monthly for September is a most excellent article by Mr. Booker T. Washington, "The Awakening of the Negro." It is a very graphic picture of the present condition of the race, its weakness, its progress, its ambition, and its great needs. In reading it, one is impressed not only by the broad and practical common sense of the author as the institutor of the great work now being carried on, but also by his deep insight and keen observations. One of' the best thoughts or suggestions in the article is this:"Let us go on for a few more years knitting our business and industrial relations into those of the white man, till a black man gets a mortgage on a white man's house that he can foreclose at will. The white man on whose house the mortgage rests will not try to prevent that negro from voting when he goes to the polls."Dodd, Mead & Co. are about to publish a volume of poems by Paul Lawrence Dunbar, with in introduction by William Dean Howells. Mr. Dunbar is a full-blooded American Negro. He has a pleasing, manly and refined face, and until recently was an elevator boy in Dayton, Ohio. His best work is in the dialect of his race. A few of his verses have been appearing occasionally in the magazines, and coming to the attention of Mr. Howells, he discovered in him a poet of undisputed talent. Mr. Howells says of him: "What struck me in reading Mr. Dunbar's poetry was what had already struck his friends in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois. They had felt as I felt, that however gifted his race had proved itself in music, in oratory, in several other arts, here was the first instance of an American Negro who had evinced innate literature . . . . So far as I could remember, Paul Dunbar was th only man of pure African blood and American civilization to feel the Negro life aesthetically and express it lyrically. It seems to me that this had come to its most modern consciousness in him, and that his brilliant and unique achievement was to have studied the American Negro objectively, and to have represented him as he found him to be with humor, with sympathy, and yet with what the reader must feel to be with entire truthfulness. I said that a race which had come to this effect in any member of it, had attained civilization in him; and I permitted myself the imaginative prophecy that the hostilities and the prejudices which had so long constrained his race were destined to vanish in the arts; that these were to be final proof that God had made of one blood all nations of men. I thought his merits positive and not comparative, and held that if his black poems had been written by a white man I should not have found them less admirable. I accepted them as evidence of the essential unity of the human race, which does not think or feel black in one and white in another, but humanity in all."The following is one of Mr. Dunbar's poems:WHEN DE CO'N PONE'S HOTPaul Lawrence DunbarDey is times in life when NatureSeems to slip a cog an' goJes' a-rattlin' down creation, Lak an ocean's overflow; When de worl' jes' stahts a-spinin'Lak a pickaninny's top. An' yo' cup o' joy is brimmin'Twel it seems about to slop; An' yo' feel jes' lak a racahDat is trainin' fu' to trot, When yo' mammy ses de blessin'An' de co'n pone's hot. When yo' set down at de table, Kin o' weary lak an' sad, An' you se jes' a little tiahedAn' puhaps a little mad, How yo' gloom tu 'ns into gladness, How yo' joy drives out de doubt, When de oven do is openedAn' de smell comes po' in' out. Why, de 'lectric light o' HeavenSeems to settle on de spot, When yo' mammy ses de blessin'And de co'n pone's hot. When de cabbage pot is streamin'An' de bacon good an' fat, When de chittlin is a sputterin'So's to show you whah dey's at, Take away yo' sody biscuit, Take away yo' cake an' pie, Fu de glory time is comin'An' its proachin' very nigh: An' yo' want to jump an' holler, Do yo' know you'd bettah not, When yo' mammy ses de blessin'An' de co'n pone's hot. I have heered a lots o' sermons, An' I've heered a lots o' prayers, An' I've listened to some singin'Dat has took me up the stairsOf de Glory Lan' an' set meJes below de Marster's th'one, An' has lef' my haht a-singin'In a happy aftah-tone; But dem wuds so sweetly murmuredSeems to tech de softes' spot, When yo' mammy ses de blessin'An' de co'n pone's hot.THE WOMAN'S ERA, PUBLISHED AT 103 CHARLES ST., BOSTON, MASS.ORGAN OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COLORED WOMEN.OFFICERS:Pres., Mary Church Terrell, Washington, D.C.1st Vice Pres., Josephine St. P. Ruffin, Boston, Mass.2nd        "      ., Frances Jackson Coppin, Phila. Pa.3rd         "      ., Frances E.W. Harper, Phila, Pa.4th         "      ., Josephine Silone Yates, Kan. City, Mo.5th         "      ., Sylvanie Williams, New Orleans, La.6th         "      ., Jennie Chase Williams, So. Carolina.7th         "      ., Lucy Thurman, Jackson City, Mich.Rec. Sec., Alice Ruth Moore, W. Medford, Mass.Cor. Sec., A. Victoria Thompkins, Washington, D.C.Treas., Helen A. Cook, Washington, D.C.Nat. Organizer, Victoria E. Matthews, New York.Chairman Ex. Com., Mrs, B.T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala.The sensation of the hour in Massachusetts politics is the election (altogether unexpected) of a colored man, Mr. Isaac Allen, to the Governor's Council. If the evidence against Mr. Allen can be trusted, it would seem that his election is not creditable to his race, his party or his state. Yet distressing as is this aspect of the case, public attention will hardly fail to note another view a thousand times more deplorable. It is of far less significance that the councilor-elect may not be fit than that the political management of the state should use her highest offices for such questionable ends. It makes it no better that in this case the nomination was supposed to mean nothing. The motive is as contemptible from this point of view as it is from any other. Whatever the election of Mr. Allen may prove, the political "power that be" must shoulder it.The WOMAN'S ERA club table at the N. E. Hospital for women and children will be a stationary table with photographs and autographs of distinguished women and men. A feature will be a collection of the best books and photographs of colored authors. Notably those of Frederick Douglass, Dr. Wm. E. B. Duboise, Hon. Archibald Grimke, Paul Dunbar, Miss Alice Ruth Moore, Miss Rachel Washington, Mrs. Casneau, Dr. Wm. W. Brown.REPORTS FROM THE CLUBS.TUSKEGEE WOMAN'S CLUB.Elizabeth E. LaneAt the last meeting of the year, ending May 15, 1896, all the old officers of the club were reelected for the year ending May, 1897. For president, Mrs. Booker T. Washington; vice president, Miss S. Helene Porter; secretary, Miss Elizabeth E. Lane; treasurer, Miss Sarah Hunt; librarian, Miss Mattie Childs; executive committee, Mrs. Josephine Turpin-Washington, Mrs. Adella Hunt-Logan, Mrs. Emma Garret-Young.Owing to the enforced absence of the president, who has been in an invalid state for four months, the vice president presided at the first club meeting of the year, on Friday evening, Sept. 14.Miss Elizabeth Morse, of Framingham, Mass., Miss Lilian Rochan, of New Orleans, and Miss Lizette Pinn, of Zanesville, Ohio, are valuable accessions to the faculty of the school this year, therefore to the club, and they delighted hearers, seen and unseen, with instrumental and vocal solos.The executive committee had presented a subject of vital importance for the discussion of the club, and many members, new and old, were there to carefully consider "The Mortality of the Negro." Miss Lilian Heywood of Boston talked in an impromptu way on intemperance as a cause; Miss L. Rochan discussed the subject from the point of negligence; Mrs. A. M. Craig, who comes to us as a voter from Kansas, and a bride of a member of the faculty, gave some very suggestive and telling remarks on poverty as a cause. Miss Estelle Penney, in a touching manner, spoke of the alarming rate of infant mortality among the colored people, and urged each member of the club to sound the alarm among the many inhumane mothers who, from causes for which they might find a cure, bring into the world so many weak, puny infants, born to die before a few months pass over their heads. Miss Pinn said that she was sure that the root of the matter lies in the dense ignorance of the masses, and the alarming rate of mortality will be lessened wherever they are in
large numbers, north, south, east or west, when they have taken the advantage of education and heeded the laws of health.Along this line Mrs. Josephine Turpin-Washington gave some opinions of Prof. F. L. Hoffman on "Race Traits and Tendencies of the

American Negro." There are doubtless some prejudices existing in the mind of the author, still he gives some facts that are startling to the sober mind, and yet some of the traits and tendencies should be brought home to the mind for consideration and extraction, if necessary.The discussion was intensely interesting and profitable, and will doubtless result in good seed being sown in the departments in the club.Mrs M. F. Melvin will devote her spare moments in the interest of the ERA this year. Plans for the year's work for the club are in abeyance until the president, Mrs. Booker T. Washington, has returned "to her own again." In the meantime the executive committee will be planning a literary program for the current quarter.ELIZABETH E. LANE.THE LADIES AUXILIARY.WASHINGTON, D.C.One beneficent result of the July conventions is the general awakening created. Human nature will always be human nature, and it needs a little prodding now and then. The spirit of emulation has been thoroughly aroused, and the desire to do something worth while is in many quarters, plainly evident.The certainty that the time when we must give account of our stewardship will soon come around again furnishes the stimulus for increased activity. If this were the only result the conventions were not held in vain.Washington clubs are all astir again. Plans are being laid and are put into execution as rapidly as possible.The Ladies' Auxiliary has held two interesting meetings and has projected work along several lines. One branch of the charity work will be mothers' meetings. In this city, where there is so much suffering among the poor during the cold months of the year, there is no calculating the good that is done by gathering in the older women from homes of desolation and strife into a warm room to receive a work of cheer and advice. Necessary garments are cut for them, and they are taught in many cases how to put them together. The cup of coffee and biscuit which furnishes the repast is thoroughly enjoyed by them, and no doubt these meetings help many to better ways of life: at any rate a little sunshine is thus thrown into their empty lives. That somebody does care for them is in itself an uplifting thought, and eases many a worn and weary soul. I believe in helping the children, but there is a wonderful amount of satisfaction in doing something for these older ones. This branch of the work falls under the Loving Service Section. The literary feature for the winter will be to study the lives of characters of our own race to whom only casual attention has been given: as for instance Sojourner Truth, Phyllis Wheatley, Crispus Attucks, Harriet Tubman and others. This is a matter which should commend itself to all, but it is of especial importance to the rising generation that they should be familiar with the valorous lives and self-sacrificing deeds of those in their own ranks, so that in an interchange of views, a Douglass may be placed beside a Washington, a Harriet Tubman beside a Joan of Arc, and so on to the end. This lack of knowledge of our own distinguished people was forcibly impressed upon me on one occasion when in a company of highly intelligent women the name of Amanda Smith was mentioned, and of them all only the one who mentioned the name had ever heard of Amanda Smith.In addition to the two sections named there is a Social Purity Section and a Culture Section, the work of which will at some future time be outlined.AND STILL ANOTHER CLUB.Mamie L. McMechenWheeling, W. Va.A number of ladies of our city have very recently organized a Woman's Fortnightly Club. We wish to connect ourselves with the National Association of Colored Women.Our members are very much interested in the work, and we hope to make our club work a success.I was elected president of the club, Elizabeth S. Moore, secretary. We urged the members as much as we could to subscribe for the ERA. At our meeting last night we secured ten subscribers to take advantage of the reduced rates ending Nov. 1, 1896.As soon as I hear from you, we will send our application with the membership fee, which we understand is two dollars.Very respectfully,MAMIE L. McMECHEN.0PPORTUNITY AND PRIVILEGES OF CLUB LIFE.[Extract from a paper read at the first Sunday afternoon meeting of W. E. C. by Mrs. F. R. Ridley, Secretary.]The woman's club, that broad institution devoted to general advancement and cultivation, has made itself so much a part of the life of today that the time will soon come when we will accept it as it necessary adjunct of our civilization, and forget that there was ever a time when we were clubless. And yet the movement is almost fin de siecle. Fifty years ago the average woman knew nothing of life save as she saw it from her own fireside, and her participation in public affairs was extremely limited. Today the average woman is studying the currency question, and has an active interest in at least one home or hospital. A movement so comprehensive, so spontaneous and so general must necessarily be grounded upon deep and vital principles and have grown out of actual needs and necessities. As much as the club movement means in the way of new opportunities and privileges for women, it has a deeper meaning and a higher significance: it is in its way a recognition and realization of the oneness of the race and of our common brotherhood. In this respect it is a worthy movement of the time and of the country, founded upon the principles of the democracy; it is in line with the great movements and one of the steps toward the time when man shall love his neighbor as himself.Consider the scope of the subjects considered and work undertaken by the woman's clubs of the country: Better homes for the poor, more Homeshomes for the unfortunate, shortened hours and better sanitary surroundings for laborers, temperance reform, moral education, domestic economy, the spread of general culture. To all these questions the women are bringing enthusiasm and interest. They are questions which especially appeal to them, and which they are fitted by nature and by enlarged opportunities to consider. Thoughtful consideration along these lines cannot but have great influence upon public sentiment, and in time bring about the desired reform. How shallow, how without thought the criticism that the woman's clubs mean nothing but "talk, talk." "Why don't they do something?" Some people's measure of good is an entirely material one; they recognize little that cannot be seen or handled, and consider nothing an advantage that does not add to material prosperity. We are all too much under the control of material things, and too slow to recognize the power of thought. A woman's club may not build a home for the unfortunate, but if it opens the eyes and the hearts of its members to the condition of these unfortunates, if it considers ways in which their misfortune might be averted, if it extends its intelligence and influence over the conduct of those who have the institution under management, it is fulfilling its mission, and a noble one, too; and the woman who cannot see it is sadly in need of the enlightenment she could find in the club. The essence of club life is talk, but it is talk that is the result of thought, and it is peculiar, to say the least, that those who will talk most assiduously about nothing should make such objections to the talk, which is of something, and it is a tribute to the intelligence of women that she has come to a realization of her power and is using it along the line of her greatest talent, her ability to talk. It is almost an inspiration that has opened up club life to her and given her the opportunity to use her influence through her strongest medium, her general felicity of language.It is true the club is all talk; it was created to furnish opportunities for talk, but it is talk that means something: it may be pure fun or wit, but never vapidity.However, in the conduct of life, each must he largely a law unto himself. Our needs, our duties are varied, and it is possible that in some lives clubs should have no place, and yet clubs tire so broad in spirit and catholic in taste, and elective in subjects of study, that it would seem that through them every woman might be reached, and surely a woman could receive little from them that is not beneficial. There are those who will carry anything to extremes, and because some abuse their privileges and neglect other duties for club work, it does not prove that club work is not beneficial. In considering the value of woman's clubs, we have dwelt largely with the more direct and apparent advantages. It is well that we should give some thought to club life in its deepest significance.We are all children of our Father, traveling, one road dependent upon one another, not only for social life and diversion, but for inspiration, education and an opportunity to call into life and activity the virtues that are dormant within us. This getting out and mingling together is bringing us to a realization of our common humanity; it brings us face to face with our own deficiencies

and the worth of others. It is one of the longest steps toward our salvation.There is no factor in modern times so active in bringing about a universal brotherhood or sisterhood. It is supplementing the work of the public school and the church, for the clubs have opened the doors of the homes and found a common meeting ground based on worth and a common humanity.There are still those who consider exclusiveness a virtue and are proud of a limited acquaintanceship. Women's clubs are helping to bring us to a recognition of the truth that true dignity does not need barriers in order to preserve itself; that snobbishness is a vice, and that while friendship should be bound by congeniality, neighborliness should know no bounds. The club means the spirit of neighborliness with the world, the recognition of our duty toward our neighbor, and not only of our common humanity but our common divinity; the club helps us not only to make the best of that within us, but to see the best of that in others. In this aspect it is the embodiment of a great principle; a principle which may not be always worked out in this form, but which nevertheless will never die; a principle with which we are to enter in and partake of everlasting life.NEBRASKA CLUB NOTES.S. Lillian ColemanThe club continues to grow in interest, work and numbers. At every meeting for the last two months there has been from one to three applications for membership.At our last regular meeting, Sept. 22, 1896, the club discussed parliamentary rules and usages. The club meets in its own club rooms.Mrs. E. S. Clenlans, the treasurer of the Woman's Club, gave a delightful reception in honor of Miss Baker and Miss Haynes. Miss Baker is a graduate of Omaha, and is now principal of one of the schools in Corsicana, Texas. Miss Haynes is a teacher at Beatrice, Neb. There are few homes more perfectly appointed for the giving of a large afternoon or evening party. Assisting Mrs. Clenlans were the president of the Woman's Club, Mrs. Craig, the recording secretary, Mrs. Coleman, the corresponding secretary, Miss Sley, Mrs. Wade, Mrs. Johnson, Mrs. Spencer and Mrs. Danna.Mrs. Clenlans wore a rich costume of black satin, trimmed with passementerie.Miss Baker appeared in an elaborate toilette of old rose silk, trimmed in thread lace.Miss Haynes graced it lovely costume of white brocaded satin.Mrs. Craig looked particularly beautiful in a costume of corn-colored silk with pearl trimming. Mrs. Coleman was gowned finely in a Paris creation of emerald green velvet.Mrs. Coleman was gowned finely in a Paris creation of emerald green velvet.Miss Sley, who dresses with rare taste, wore a gown of pale blue silk, decollete, and butterfly knots.Mrs. Johnson wore a reception toilette of black silk.Mrs. Spencer wore a dainty gown of red silk.Mrs. Danna a white mull over orange silk.Mrs. Wade looked charming in a black and white satin.The guests numbered about a hundred, but time and space prevent mention of the rest of the names and costumes.S. LILLIAN COLEMAN.A NEW KENTUCKY CLUB.Beulah Thompson DavisIt is with pleasure I renew my subscription to the ERA, also send you a few new subscribers, hoping in the near future to send more new ones. Glad to take advantage of the club rates.I am happy to announce to you that we have just organized a club here, to be known as the Frankfort Woman's Club. We have twenty-four members -- women who are willing and anxious to do something assist in the upbuilding of our women especially, and the race in general. Alice Scott is president; Mrs. Kate Thomas, vice president; Miss Lizzie Clark, secretary; Miss Clara Coleman, treasurer. Ere long we shall apply for admission into the National Association. We shall also be glad to have some space in the columns of the ERA. Will you please inform me of the terms or conditions, so I may report to the Club?Yours for success,BEULAH THOMPSON DAVIS.AN UP-TO-DATE CLUB.On the evening of October 13th the latest woman's club of New Bedford, the namesake of the president of the Woman's Era Club of Boston, held a political reception and flag rising at the residence of Miss Mary A. Jackson. A McKinley

& Hobart flag was thrown to the breeze by the president, Mrs. John Freedom. Then followed many good speeches and some fine instrumental and vocal music. Finally a delicious supper was served.In early December Mrs. Ruffin goes down to New Bedford to address the club that has honored her by taking her name.CLUB SUBSCRIPTIONS TO WOMAN'S ERA RECEIVED DURING OCTOBER.
Newport Woman's League, 18 subscriptions.Ida B. Wells Club, 13 subscriptions.Frankfort, Ky., Club, 1O subscriptions.Salem, Mass., Club, 8 subscriptions.Memphis Coterie, 6 subscriptions.Rochester, N.Y., Club, 6 subscriptions.Pittsburg & Allegheny City Club, 7 subscriptions.Selma, Ala., Club, 5 subscriptions.Wheeling, W.Va., 7 subscriptions .Jefferson City, Mo., 5 subscriptions. "Phyllis Wheatley" (New Orleans), 4 subscriptions.St. Joseph Club, 3 subscriptions.We congratulate Mrs. Dickerson, the president of the Newport League: hers is the banner club, despite the fact that it is one of the smallest clubs in the association.The Woman's Era Club of Boston subscribes for all its members and furnishes the paper free to them. If clubs continue to send in subscriptions in this manner there will be fewer delays in getting out the paper.Reports of club subscriptions will be made from time to time.Mrs. M.A. DillardSELMA, ALA.,Oct. 26, 1896.MY DEAR MRS. RUFFIN: --I was very much pleased with your letter of the 12th inst., and thank you very much for giving me so much of your time, every moment of which must be very precious to you. We are now planning for a course of lectures by the different ministers, professors, and others of the city. We hope to have one every month. The first one comes off tomorrow evening.I enclose money order for $2.50, together with the names of five subscribers for the WOMAN'S ERA. I hope to have more to send later on.Wishing you success in every way, I amVery truly yours,Mrs. M.A. DILLARD.CLUB NOTES.Alice Ruth MooreThe inauguration of a new feature in the work of the Woman's Era Club was a complete success. The first of a series of public Sunday afternoon meetings was held on the 17th of October at the Twelfth Baptist Church. It was a novel feature in its way, and drew a large crowd of women interested in the work, and men, curious to know just what the work meant. The latter were skeptical and quite prepared to smile with superior indifference, but changed their minds before the afternoon was over.After the opening prayer Mrs. Ruffin spoke, explaining the scope, ends and aims of club work among women, the work of the July convention in Washington and the winter plans for the Woman's Era Club. Mrs. Hannah Smith and Mrs. Agnes Adams, delegates to the Washington convention, presented each an able and interesting report.The main feature of the afternoon, however, was a paper by Mrs. Florida Ridley on club life among women. It was a splendid effort and was deeply appreciated by the audience. Mrs. Ridley's paper did more, perhaps, towards dispelingdispelling from the minds of the cynically disposed present, all doubts as to the efficacy of woman's clubs than any other feature of the meeting.Music was furnished by a well-chosen choir under the direction of Mr. George Ruffin. The collection taken till was turned over to the church.The next in the series was held Sunday afternoon, Nov. 15, in the interest of the Manassas Industrial School. Miss Jennie Dean, the principal, and Mrs. Whitman from the Lend-A-Hand Club, spoke, and Mrs. Nellie Brown Mitchell
sang gloriously. A generous collection was given Miss Dean.The Phyllis Wheatley Club of New Orleans, after laboring earnestly during all the heated summer term, have succeeded in opening their sanitarium and training school for nurses in connection with the medical department of New Orleans University. The opening exercises were largely attended and quite interesting. The members of the P.W.C. deserve great credit for having, in so short a time, succeeded in establishing a work that must eventually grow and prosper.ALICE RUTH MOORE.The next public Sunday meeting of the Woman's Era Club will be a mothers' meeting. Miss M.L. Baldwin will read a paper on "A

Mother's Duty," from a teacher's standpoint. Time will be allowed for a short discussion of the paper.The young ladies of Morris Brown College, Atlanta, Georgia, have an excellent literary society named in honor of the wife of Bishop Abraham Grant. It is a rival of the young men's fraternity for literary honor.CONSTITUTION OF THE NATIONAL JOHN BROWN MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN.HEADQUARTERS, ST. PAUL, MINN.The object of this association is to erect as a memorial to John Brown, the hero of Harper's Ferry, and his faithful followers, John Copeland, E.Anderson, Shields Green, Dangerfield Newby, Steward Taylor, Watson Brown, Oliver Brown, Louis Leary, Henry Kaigai and Edward Coppock, a building to be used as an industrial training school and home for indigent colored boys. This building to be located somewhere in the Southland, including the District of Columbia, the location to be determined at the next convention of the First National Association of Colored Women, or at any other time as fixed by said convention.The officers of this association are: National president, Mrs. T.H. Lyles, 782 Selby Ave., St. Paul, Minn.; first vice president, Mrs. L.A. Robison; second, Mrs. Ralph Gray, Minneapolis, Minn.; third, Mrs. J.Q.A.Wilson; rec. sec., Mrs. S.B. Jones; cor. sec., Mrs. Jas. A. Thomas; fin. sec., Mrs. Anna Belle Harris; nat. treas., Bishop B.W. Arnett, Wilberforce, Ohio; ch, advisory board, W.R. Morris, Esq., Minneapolis, Minn.; ch. ex. com., Mrs. M.J. Brown; sec., Mrs. J.Q. Adams. The vice presidents in other states are: Mrs. Helen Cook, Mrs. Rosetta Lawson, Miss Charles Douglas, Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Booker T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala.; Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, Miss V. Thompkins, Mrs. A.F. Hilyar,  Mrs. B. K. Bruce, Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Victoria Matthews, New York; Mrs. Lucy Thurman, Jackson, Mich.; Mrs. J. Saint Pierre Ruffin, Boston, Mass.; Mrs. Fanny Jackson Coppin, Philadelphia; Mrs. Francis Harper, Mrs. B.F.Gross, Allegheny, Pa.; Mrs. Rebecca Alridge, Pittsburg, Pa.; Mrs. Abe Hall, Pittsburg, Pa.; Mrs Julia Mason Layton, Washington, D.C.; Mrs. Ella Mahamitt, Omaha, Neb.; Mrs J.B. Shorter, Wilberforce, Ohio; Mrs. Hannah Green, Providence, R.I.; Mrs. W.D. Crum., Mrs. Lucy B. Stevens, Miss Clara Alexander, Mrs. Rosie D. Bowser, Richmond, Va.; and Mrs. Addie W. Hunton, Richmond; Mrs. Dr. Mask, Mrs. Christmas, North Carolina; J. Hill, Mrs. Jas. II. Handy, Mrs. John Jones, Chicago Ill.; Mrs. Robert Gray, Mrs. L.L. Davis, Mrs. I. Hill, Mrs. Sylvanie T. Williams, New Orleans, La.; Mrs. G.M. Johnson, Little Rock, Ark.; Mrs. J. Silone Yates, St. Louis, Mo.; and Mrs. T.W. Henderson of Philadelphia and Mrs. J.M. Henderson of New York.It is earnestly requested that all monies coming from churches, lodges, societies, etc., be sent to the national treasurer, Bishop B.W. Arnett, Wilberforce, Ohio.CHICAGO'S PROVIDENT HOSPITAL AND TRAINING SCHOOL. - SOCIAL MATTERS.Fannie Barrier WilliamsOne of the most notable events in local affairs is the completion of the new and beautiful building for Provident Hospital and Training School for Nurses. The existence and noble purposes of this institution have been mentioned more than once in the ERA, but people not living in Chicago can scarcely appreciate how much it means to the progressive spirit of the colored people of this great city.Provident Hospital and Training School was conceived in the brain and heart of Dr. Daniel H. Williams, now Surgeon in Chief of Freedman's Hospital, Washington, D.C. When he suggested the idea of such an institution six years ago, he instantly had the co-operation of many of the very best people of the city. But at best, Provident Hospital was but an experiment. It began modestly in a small rented building. Soon, however, the importance and noble usefulness of this institution was recognized by all Chicago. By clean, careful and economic management, the institution grew in favor and demand beyond the most sanguine hopes of its generous founder.Among the friends attracted to it are such men as P.D. Armour, Geo. M. Pullman, H.H. Kohlsaat, Geo. H. Webster and Marshall Field. It is a splendid evidence of the shrewdness and

efficiency of the management of the institution that they were able to win the interest and confidence of these men of wealth.Mr. Armour became so much interested that he gave $20,000 for a new building, ad the other gentlemen gave nearly $20,000 more for furnishing and endowment. The building was completed and turned over to the people October 29th.The building is four stories in height, constructed of red brick and terra cotta, in the style of the Italian Renaissance. It is pronounced by architects, engineers and physicians to be the most perfectly equipped and most beautiful institution of its kind in the country. It is no exaggeration to say that, outside of schools, no institution in the country, owned and managed by colored people, is so thoroughly up to date in all of its appointments and possibilities as Provident Hospital and Training School. The opportunity offered for the training of nurses as a profession and for young colored physicians is unexampled. Many of the best physicians and surgeons of both races are on the medical staff. Indeed, the institution is so broad in its aims, sympathies, and opportunities that it is something more, even, than a colored hospital and training school.  It has served an excellent purpose in bringing both races together, and has been one of the best modifiers of race prejudice in the city.The opening celebration of the new building, on the 28th inst., was a great social event. There was such a mixing up of millionaires and poor people in terms of social equality as is seldom witnessed outside politics. The officers of the institution are Lloyd G. Wheeler, president; Dr. C.E. Bentley, secretary; and J.S. Madden, treasurer. These well known business men, together with other representative citizens of Chicago, have been connected officially with Provident Hospital ever since its creation, and to them belong the credit for its remarkable success.I scarcely know how to write about social matters in Chicago. Mere personalities and society functions are not very safe things to indulge in by correspondents. It may be said, however, that Chicago is peculiarly independent in social matters. Here there is more of sociability than "society." The conventionalities and artificialities of society life generally are less important in Chicago than in most cities. This condition seems to be due to several distinct causes; among them are the churches, clubs and other organizations that have sprung up in response to new duties to civic interests. We are particularly fortunate in having an exceptionally progressive and intelligent ministry. The majority of our city ministers are college-bred men. They have all been in touch with the very best forces of the day. They are all liberal to the extent of making their church influence important and salutary in every thing in which the people generally are interested. It is not an unusual thing to see representative laymen, and even non-church going men and women, occupying the pulpits in behalf of some cause which, while not exactly religious, yet needs the moral helpfulness of church influence.Then such clubs as the women's clubs, the King's Daughters, and the women's auxiliaries to the hospital are all doing much to infuse into the social life a more inclusive spirit of sympathy and fellowship among all the people. In no community will personal worth alone give a person better social recognition than here in Chicago.The passion for education and culture among our young people is a matter of much gratification. In nearly all the professional schools, in medicine, law, theology, in both the great universities, in the business colleges and conservatories of music, art and oratory, may be seen young colored men and women diligently at work. To Miss Cora Jackson belongs the distinction of being the first of the colored race to receive a university degree from the Chicago University. Her work in the university has been a matter of great pride to us all, both because of its influence and of her personal worth and charm as a young woman.Miss Mabel, the winsome daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L.G. Wheeler, expects to follow Miss Jackson by entering the university in December. She has had exceptionally good preparation for university work, and we bespeak for her a sure success.Her many friends throughout the country will feel like extending greetings to Mrs. Theodore Lee Purnell of Washington, but formerly our own Theodora. Interest in her as a proud young mother will be no less cordial than was the interest in her as the most charming and popular young woman in the western Metropolis.FANNIE BARRIER WILLIAMS.WHERE IS JOHN BROWN'S DAUGHTER.The committee appointed by the W.E.C. to investigate and report upon the reliability of a 

story, published in many papers, concerning the reputed destitution of the daughter of John Brown, in order that the clubs might take immediate steps to help relieve that distress, reported that they had been unable to learn anything further about the matter, although they had sent letters of inquiry (with stamp for reply enclosed) to three different papers that had contained the story, and one of which The Colored American of Washington had at the time a standing appeal for money to be sent in to be applied to the relief of Mrs. Anna Brown Adams and her children. No reply had been received, even the agent of the Associated Press being unable to say where or from whom the widely circulated report had come. The whole matter was therefore reported back to the club.SOCIAL NOTES.Mrs. F.P. Clary of Cambridge was agreeably surprised by her many friends at her home, Baldwin street, Oct. 27, 1896, the occasion being her 80th birthday.Miss Ethel Lewis, recent graduate of the Cambridge Latin School, is attending Bryant & Stratton Commercial School.Mrs. G.W. Lewis and Miss E.M. Clary will give their first assembly on Nov. 19, 1896, Roberts Hall, Cambridge.The WOMAN'S ERA Eminent Women Series should be in every household.All members of the National Association, as well as many others, will be interested to know that a daughter was born to the president, Mrs. Mary Church Terrell.  We are sorry that we are obliged to add that the little stranger only lived a couple of days. Mr. and Mrs. Terrell have the sympathy of hosts of friends.Mr. and Mrs. B.R. Wilson are receiving congratulations on the birth of a son."Noah's Ark," the coming entertainment by the Charity Club, is expected to be a brave social function as well as to put lots of money into the treasury for the Charity Hospital. Jos. Lee, of Woodland Park Hotel, who catered for the Food Fair just closed at Mechanic's Building, will also serve the more select host of charity workers in the same place.THE WOMAN'S ERA AND AMERICAN KITCHEN MAGAZINE ONE YEAR FOR ONE DOLLAR.The publishers of the WOMAN'S ERA offer that paper and the American Kitchen Magazine, both for one year at the price of each, one (1) dollarThis is an opportunity for our readers. The American Kitchen Magazine is well known as the best magazine in the country, dealing with household and domestic economy: its managers and staff of writers include those who are authority on these subjects: Mrs. Ellen Richardson, Mrs. Sarah Rover, Mrs. Lincoln.Send in subscriptions at once.WOMAN'S ERA EMINENT WOMEN SERIES.Subscription Premiums.From time to time this paper has published portraits of well known women; these portraits, because of the interest of the subjects and the excellence of workmanship, have given general satisfaction. They are now to be collected in souvenir form, tied with art ribbons and issued as premiums to subscribers.Terms.Every paid up subscriber sending in the name of one yearly subscriber and $1 will receive one of theses souvenirs. Subscriptions must be received through a paid up subscriber, and must be paid in advance.This series of portraits includes many of our women now before the people as authors, lecturers and public workers: the collection is valuable as well as beautiful, and this opportunity to secure it, placed as it is within the reach of all our readers, should be eagerly grasped.This page features ads for Mrs. T. Patrie, Franklin A. Denison, Howard University, Greene F. Anderson, J.W. Grant, George E. Jackson, D.A. Smith, The Woman's Era, and Atlanta University. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.. . . . ART . . . .
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THE ONLY PAPER IN AMERICA PUBLISED IN THE INTEREST OF WOMEN'S CLUBS.The Literary, Musical and Domestic Departments are under the control of competent writers and critics.With its large circulation among women, and particularly among women of the refined and educated classes, it offers peculiar advantages to advertisers of household articles, wearing apparel, books, magazines, musical instruments, and so forth.Its rates are exceedingly liberal.Try it, and you will not regret it.Did You Ever Make Money Easy?Mr. Editor. - I have read how Mr. C.E.B. made so much money in the Dish Washer business and think I have beat him. I am very young yet and have had little experience in selling goods, but have made over eight hundred dollars in ten weeks selling Dish Washers. It is simply wonderful how easy it is to sell them. All you have to do is to show the ladies how they work and they cannot help but buy one. For the benefit of others I will state that I got my start from the Mound City Dish Washer Co., St. Louis, Mo. Write to them and they will send you full particulars.I think I can clear over $3,000 the coming year, and I am not going to let the opportunity pass. Try it and publish your success for the benefit of others.   J.E.C.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.This page features ads for D.B. Allen's, Mrs. J. Patterson Rollins, Armstead HurleyMrs. E.B. Fayerweather, J.R. Young & Co., Gray, P.W. Adams, J.C. Napier, The American Wringer Co., Mrs. Mary Sulis, and Mrs. Cornelia Jamison. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.D. B. ALLEN'S
CAFÉ
EASTON'S BEACH.
NEWPORT, R.I.Shore Dinner a Specialty, 50 Cents.
Dinner and Lunch Served on European Plan.
CLAM CHOWDER.
Fish of all Kinds and Salads. Oysters in Every Style
Home Made Pies, Cream and Cake.
DINNERS ORDERED BY TELEPHONE.MRS. J. PATTERSON ROLLINS, 
Contralto Soloist and Vocal Teacher, 
12 Grove  Street, Boston, Mass.ARMSTEAD HURLEY,
 Practical Painter and Glazier, 
All work Promptly and Neatly Done at Reasonable Prices. 
27 3-4 Pond Avenue, Newport R.I.MRS. E.B. FAYERWEATHER
FASHIONABLE
DRESS AND CLOAK MAKER,
No. 14 Spruce St., Newport, R.I.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.GRAY . . .
Artist and . . . 
Photographer.Studio, 1030 Tremont Street,
B0STON, MASS.
The only Studio in Boston having Reception and Operating Rooms on the Ground Floor.
Telephone. 198-4, Roxbury.P.W. ADAMS,
United States Claims Agent,
No. 411 North Cherry Street,
Nashville, Tenn.J.C. NAPIER, 
ATTORNEY-AT-LAW,
Nashville, Tenn.
Real Estate and Collecting Agent. Negotiates the Loan of Money, etc.
Telephone 1477.
(Napier Court) 411 Cherry Street.THE AMERICAN WRINGER C0.
BRANCH STORE.
Nos. 13 and 15 Broadway Extension,
BOSTON, MASS.
Manufacturers of Clothes Wringers.
All kinds of Wringers and Swoopors Repaired. Orders by mail promptly attended to.MRS. MARY SULIS,
TEACHER OF
Point Rennaizance and Honiton Lace.
Samples Always on Hand.
Residence, 193 Elm Street,
New Bedford, Mass.Mrs. CORNELIA JAMISON, 
Dressmaker, 
227 Spring St., Newport, R. I.This page features ads for business penmanship and A.G. McKenzie. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.LESSONS IN BUSINESS PENMANSHIP
BY
J. W. WASHINGTON, Artist Penman,
SALEM, MASS.Twelve (12) Lessons by mail, only $3.00 in advance. Sample Lesson, 25 cents. Satisfaction guaranteed. Send for circular.Visiting Cards elegantly written, 12 for 20 cents. Agents wanted. Big commission. Sample book, 20 cents. Rapid Addition Method, 12 cents.A.G. McKENZIE
OPTICIAN
156 Charles St., Boston. 
Three doors from eye infirmary. 
Artificial Eyes a Specialty. 
Telephone, 1198 Haymarket.This page features ads for Baldwin & Dorsey. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.Over their Tea these LadiesARE discussing how easy it is to own a home by adopting the latest methods of enterprising agents. By making a small payment down, and the balance to he paid as rent.In any of the suburbs desirable homes may be obtained, and far-sighted people are taking advantage of the opportunities  thus offered, and investing in homes for themselves. Join the number who are fast accumulating property and who have none but words of praise for the firm with whom they dealt.BALDWIN & DORSEY
Real Estate, In all its branches.
545 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridgeport, Mass.BALDWIN & DORSEY
Real Estate, In all its branches.
545 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridgeport, Mass.This page features ads for the Emerson College of Oratory and the Bonita Woman's Mine. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.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, and the principles of the Philosophy of Expression. Scientific and practical work in every department. Chartered by the State.Address for illustrated  catalogue,
HENRY L. SOUTHWICK, Sec'y.
Corner Tremont and Berkeley Sts.,
Boston, Mass.
Summer session at Martha's Vineyard.THE FIRST WOMAN'S MINE.The Bonita Cold and Silver Mining Company,
OPERATING IN NEW MEXICO AND COLORADO.
OFFICERED AND CONTROLLED BY WOMEN.
No Assessments.  No Stock Holders' Liabilities.
STOCK 50 CENTS A SHARE SOLD ON INSTALMENT PLAN. Patent Applied for.The Great Mineral Basin it Pitkin covers an area as large as that of Leadville, Aspen and Red Cliff combined. Professor Sadtler, of the Chair of Metallurgy and Mineralogy of the State School of Mines, speaking of this district, says: "This camp, with proper and systematic development, will be made a second Aspen, if not better."The output of the Leadville district has been, up to the present time, in value over $200,000,000;  that of Red Cliff more than $35,000,000, and that of Aspen, $100,000,000, or more, and the mines of these places show no signs of exhaustion.What, then, shall we expect of Pitkin and the Quartz Creek District, which has a mineral bearing area as large as these three districts combined, when so far the developments there have proved the mineral deposits to be fully as rich and extensive?We can come to but one conclusion: Its wealth is limitless, and no more safe or profitable field for investment can be found.The property of the Bonita Gold and Silver Mining Company consists of three groups, in all nine claims, or a little over ninety acres, located in the most favored portion of this great mineral basin. Special care has been taken in the selecting to cover apexes, timber and water, all of which are of such vital importance in any mining property, and the greater portion of it lies only from one-fourth to three miles away from the railroad and the town of Pitkin, with good, down-hill roads leading from every portion of it, accessible every day in the year.The ore is high grade, netting from fifty to one thousand dollars per ton, average two hundred and fifty. The Company has undisputed title to the entire property, which is free from any incumbranceencumbrance, and will be kept so. Any further information will be cheerfully furnished by thePresident, MARY E. PHELPS, or  MRS. L. K. DANIELS, Secretary.ADDRESS: POST OFFICE BOX 3, DENVER, COLO.The Woman's Era.Vol. III. No. 5.BOSTON, MASS.,  JANUARY, 1897.  PRICE 10 CENTS.A PUBLIC CALAMITY.The failure of Mr. Joseph Lee, the proprietor of Woodland Park Hotel, Auburndale, Mass., has carried consternation all over the country.  This failure is one to be particularly deplored, and it is in the nature of a public calamity.  For twenty-one years Mr. Lee and his wife have put money, brains and industry into their work, and this hotel had become one of the famous ones of this neighborhood.  In every respect it was first class and entertained many distinguished people.  In its way it was unique, for it is seldom that a suburban hotel, with all the accompaniments of parks, tennis grounds, stables, etc., can find a large winter patronage, but so attractive was the table and inner appointments that rooms were in demand here throughout the entire year.The Woodland Park Hotel was a source of pride to the whole race, and the large number who have been entertained there cannot but feel a personal loss in this failure.However, Mr. Lee has a couple of lucrative patents upon the market, and these together with his name and fame as a caterer must offer opportunities for the future.In the restaurants conducted by Mr. Lee in several large fairs recently, it was decided novelty to see the help mixed, colored and white waitresses, clerks, cooks, etc.  The work that was being done by him was so valuable that we feel, to repeat, that his failure is a great public calamity. FAIRS AND RUMORS OF FAIRS.Three fairs have engaged the attention of the Woman's Era Club throughout the past autumn.  To the "Noah's Ark," for the benefit of the Charity Club Hospital, as a club they contributed only the president as one of the reception committee, although many members showed their individual interest by frequent visits to that gorgeous show.At the fair for the New England Hospital for Women and Children, a Woman's Era Table helped in a modest way to make up that grand total of $13,000, which has gone into the treasury of the hospital as the financial result of many weeks of preparation by enthusiastic charity workers all over New England, and one delightful week of barter, sale and social intercourse in Tremont Temple, where the fair was held. The Rhode Island was the banner table, turning in to the treasurer of the fair about $1,700 net.Following immediately upon the heels of the Hospital fair came the Woman's Era's special effort for St. Monica's Home, for sick and destitute colored women and children, tht was held in the lecture room of St. Augustine Church for three days only.  Nevertheless and despite adverse happenings (for the fair), in the shape of big weddings and other parties coming upon each evening the fair was running, the receipts were more than sufficient to supply the Home with all of its fuel for the year.  An Ednah D. Cheney Table was a feature of this fair.  This table was named in recognition of the large interest taken in and contributions given to it by Mrs. Cheney.  The articles from this table still unsold are to e used as a nucleus for still another effort for St. Monica's benefit.  Some time during the winter a supplementary sale will be held in the parlors of the Home, when it is expected that a good sum will be added to that already standing to the credit of the W.E. sewing circle.Boston, Dec. 24, 1896.Martha W. NashAt a meeting of the executive committee and heads of tables of the fair in aid of the New England Hospital for Women and Children, a vote of sincere thanks was passed in appreciation of the valuable service rendered the fair by the president of the Woman's Era Table and those associated with her.  Will you please convey to these ladies the sentiment expressed in this vote?Very truly yours,MARTHA W. NASH, Secretary N.A.C.W. DEPARTMENT.EDITORS:MRS. B. T. WASHINGTON, DR. REBECCA COLE, IDA WELLS BARNETT, ROSA D. BOWSER, FRANCES JACKSON.OFFICERS:Pres., Mary Church Terrell, Washington, D. C.1st Vice Pres., Josephine St. P. Ruffin, Boston, Mass.2d         "          Frances Jackson Coppin, Phila., Pa.3d         "          Frances E. W. Harper, Phila, Pa.4th        "          Josephine Silone Yates, Kan. City, Mo.5th        "          Sylvanie Williams, New Orleans, La.6th        "          Jennie Chase Williams, So. Carolina.7th        "          Lucy Thurman, Jackson City, Mich.Rec. Sec., Alice Ruth Moore, W. Medford, Mass.Cor. Sec., A. Victoria Thompkins, Washington, D.C.Treas., Helen A. Cook, Washington, D. C.Nat. Organizer, Victoria E. Matthews, New York.Chairman Ex. Com., Mrs. B. T. Washington, Tuskegee, Ala.AN OPEN APPEAL TO OUR WOMEN FOR ORGANIZATION.Victoria Earle Matthews9 Murray St., New York, Dec., 1896.SISTERS:With the hope of establishing a truly National Association, representing all conditions of, our women, a department of organization was created, when the National Federation of Afro-American Women and the National Colored Women's League united, last July, in Washington, D. C. The object of the National Association of Colored Women is the development and protection of our womanhood, our homes and our history, as an integral part of the great American nation. The department begins its work burdened with many obstacles. In the first place the expense of carrying on necessary correspondence, printing and numberless incidentals pertaining to active and conscientious work must be borne personally by the national organizer during this first year, and those who shall, for love of the work, and what in the providence of our Heavenly Father we hope it may mean to us as race, volunteer to help her. It is too early in the history of the association to expect it to be otherwise. It will take at least a year to get in regular order to begin taxations for departmental work. This must be apparent to all. Women have been taxed only for the maintenance of local clubs, and the expenses attached to the holding of annual conventions, consequently there is no money in the treasury for this work. Therefore, I beg our loyal, race-loving women to rally to this call, and assist in putting our association on as firm a basis as any among American women.The honor and dignity of our cause will permit no hesitation or lack of interest without entailing upon us the sneers and contempt of those who have preceded us in movements of this kind. As .I partially organized body, we can have no hope of permanency. Without state organizations we are not representative. As we stand today, we represent about five thousand members -- the nucleus of a splendid force. We are too far apart -- we must be concentrated, as to purpose and method of procedure. The work of the Department of Organization is ten-fold. It must not only strive to add new clubs to the National Association, but must labor wherever practicable and consistent for the deepening of the interests and activities of the women already within the fold. As a means to this end, every club in the National Association will receive a copy of this open letter, which is addressed to them as a personal appeal urging upon their officers the great necessity of engaging in some form of practical work that the same may be done in an orderly and business-like way, and the details of any successful undertaking to be sent to the WOMAN'S ERA, our official organ, so that others anxious to work may be benefited in the matter of method and starting. Every locality needs a woman's club -- there can be no question about that. The vital question is, will the women do the work that they see is needed close to their very doors in every locality where our people live?Owing to the absence of regular appropriation to cover traveling expenses, the work must be carried on by correspondence, except in instances where women will call meetings and raise traveling expenses for organizer, either state or national. In no case will charges be made for personal service. As fast as women can be found who are willing to undertake state or section organization, such will be appointed. Advice and suggestions on this head will be gladly received. Where no state organizer has been appointed, the officers of any club in good standing may be of great assistance to this department. Any energetic woman desirous of aiding the work can call a number of women together for the purpose of organizing them. After the officers are chosen and the object decided upon, a correct list of members'

names, officers' names and addresses, with object, should be mailed to national organizer, who will supply application blanks for club membership in the National Association.It is a matter of very grave concern, not to say humiliation and discouragement, that a great number of our women, favored in many ways beyond the masses, thus far seem inclined to regard indifferently the advantages accruing from thorough and harmonious organization. There can be no doubt that in organization woman has come into closer contact with woman, which unquestionably leads to the more perfect development of the useful woman, and through the intermingling of the universally united sympathies, a nobler, broader-minded woman. The latent activities of our women must be aroused, the almost universal indifference of our young people to things uplifting and ennobling must be checked, and the true missionary spirit must be developed and encouraged for the good of future generations. Organization dominated by judgment and necessity must be our watchword. We know the evils threatening the welfare of our people. Systematic organization will not only afford relief but will prevent retrogression, by the establishment of new and wholesome interests among our young people. It is the hope of your national organizer to report, at the convention of 1897, a vigorous club in every state in the Union, and in a majority of the cities and towns, and to that end I call upon my sister women throughout the country to help by a mighty exhibition of' womanly determination and race pride. Sisters! in all earnestness let me ask, will you actively take hold with heart and brain and place our association on a foundation second to none in America? We can do it if we will to do it! Any communication addressed to me at 9 Murray street, New York City, will receive prompt attention. I beg aII before whom this letter falls will consider it in the light of a personal communication.Fraternally yours,VICTORIA EARLE MATTHEWS,National Organizer, N. A. C. W.The Christmas holidays have, on the whole, been quietly observed in Boston, there being little of any general interest, save the party at Arcade hall, under the management of Mrs. J. H. Lewis, and a children's party at the same hall under the same manager, assisted by Mrs. Geo. Glover.REPORTS FR0M THE CLUBS.THE WOMAN'S IMPROVEMENT CLUB.S.E. BellLouisville, Ky.To the Editor:From the October and November ERA I gleaned the fact that clubs are still being formed in different sections of the country. I am more than proud to add to the list another organization of women in our city, trying to work along the lines you are working.After hearing a lecture by Mrs. Ida B. Wells Barnett of Chicago, in our city, last September 25, we resolved to form among us a woman's club. So, calling a number of ladies together, we organized what is known as "The Woman's Improvement Club," electing Mrs. Frank L. Williams, pres.; Mrs. Jno. Birney, vice-pres.; Mrs. J. J. C. McKinley, sec.; Mrs. William Kelly, assist. sec.; Miss A. M. Bowman, treas.: Miss S. E. Bell, cor. sec. Miss G. A. Nugent has been elected secretary on the reception of Mrs. McKinley's resignation. We number between thirty and forty, and are thriving.Very respectfully,S.E. BELL,Cor. Sec.TUSKEGEE WOMAN'S CLUB.Elizabeth E. LaneThe questions on the literary program for discussion for the past. quarter have been: "Mrs. Harriet B. Stowe. Sketch of Her Life," Miss Caroline Williams.  "Influence of Uncle Tom's Cabin," Mrs. J. D. McCall.  "Child Study," by Misses Hunt, Porter and Mrs. Estelle Penney.  "Strength and Weakness of Public Schools of Alabama," by Mrs. Louise Jenkins and Adele Hunt-Logan.Music has been exceptionally good.  Misses Hadley, Morse and Rochan are artist in this particular, and members of the club have enjoyed musical treats given by them and other members of the club who assisted them.The last club meeting of the quarter, held November 20th, was presided over by the president, Mrs. B.T. Washington, for the first time this year. The exercise was unique in its way, for it was wholly devoted to the presentation of "motions," "rules," "amendments," bills nonsensical and otherwise.  They were "ruled out,"

and "tabled," "passed," etc., by strictly parliamentary usages that gave credence to the proceedings as being "a Parliamentary Drill," as had been planned by the executive committee. Much benefit and pleasure were derived from the exercise.The questions for discussion the present quarter are: "Is Woman Suffrage Desirable?" "The Separate Car Law," "Social Life Among Afro-Americans," "Paul Dunbar and Poems," "Training for Domestic Service," and "Frederick Douglas."The first program for this quarter was given on December 4th. Miss Mary Melvin and Louise Cooper discussed the suffrage question.  The discussion brought out many reasons why our women should be encouraged to agitate the question among the clubs.The reports of club departments show an increase of the number over last year, and advance in the line of work done. Some have not been reorganized for this year. Two Social Purity Clubs and the Club of Ministers' Wives are in this list. The Vesta Club of thirty-five town girls is being trained in domestic economy by Mrs. N.B. Young. This club has a charity fund from which members drew to give a Thanksgiving dinner to twelve old ex-slaves whose cabins are being made comfortable by these young women and their teachers.The Ednah Cheney Club, under Mrs. F.B. Thornton, numbers forty young women who are working in the same direction as the Vesta, and whose results bespeak conscientious work. The Department of Band of Mercy, Humane Society, under direction of' Miss L. L. Chapman, numbers fifty young people who are as readv to protect their friends "in feathers and fur" as themselves.The W.C.T.U. gained fresh impetus from the visit of Miss Frances Willard; and the president, Miss S. H. Porter, has been exceedingly successful in enrolling seventy-five members to wear the white ribbon badge.  The semi-monthly meetings do not lag, nor has the outside work among the "hard drinkers" been without effect.The Woman's Conference held weekly in the town of Tuskegee by Mrs. B.T. Washington has its weekly sewing classes among the members this year.  Facilities have been arranged for baths in rooms rented for the work.  Night school is being carried on for the boys, old men and young.  Cooking classes are being taught, a regular course being given in the kitchen that has been fitted for the purpose. Members of the Dorcas Club, an offshoot of conference, attend these classes. Three graded classes are taught here in sewing once per week. A Penny Savings Bank has been established. Depositors are not allowed to draw but once a year. The bank has a number of depositors who seem bent upon having a good "stock."The Margaret Murray Washington Club, under Miss E. E. Lane, is composed of thirty young women to meet the obligations that they have willingly undertaken for the year. The Current History Club, under the direction of Mrs. Adele Hunt-Logan, was not reported because of' her absence.ELIZABETH E. LANE.Mrs. N. JohnsonRoanoke, Va., Dec., 1896.Dear MADAME:Will you kindly advise us as to how we can put ourselves in communication with the Woman's National Association. We should like to obtain its literature and keep ourselves in touch with it.We have formed ourselves into what is known as the Women's League of Roanoke, and we anticipate accomplishing much work this winter.  We have opened "mothers' meetings," something we feel to be so much needed here.Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience, and also with a sincere wish that you may supply any useful knowledge unasked for, I have the pleasure of remaining,Yours respectfully,MRS. N. JOHNSON,Corresponding Secretary of the League.THE WOMAN'S NEWPORT LEAGUE.In a staid and respectable old burg like Newport there is little or no reformatory or charitable work demanding the attention of that much overworked party in other and more frisky communities -- the woman with a mission - consequently the Woman's Newport League, after doing all its hands find to do for the public weal, has still time to devote to cultivating and encouraging more social life among all classes in that community. To that winter "sleepy hollow," the League is a most beneficent institution in more ways than one.  The next effort of the League is to be a social one

of roseate color, "a leap year pink tea."  Mrs. Dickerson, the organizer of the League, is also general promoter of all the good efforts made by it. WOMAN'S FORTNIGHTLY CLUB.Wheeling, W. VA.The club is anticipating a very pleasant and interesting evening at its next meeting, discussing the poems of our poet, Paul Lawrence Dunbar.The club continues to grow in interest; each member does her duty with all earnestness. We very recently prepared a box of clothing and sent it to the indigent students of Gammon Theological and Clark Universities. An interesting and encouraging letter was received from Mr. J. W. E. Bowen, wishing us great success with our work.THE APRON PARTY AND MYSTERY TEA.The first mystery which the young men had to solve was to find where the entertainment was to be given, as the invitations read, "Guess where and come there." Two prizes were given, one for the best or neatly hemmed apron, the other for the worst looking one. These were both given to gentlemen.Some of our girls have been smiling sweetly since December 27th, when the gentleman from Altoona, Pa., paid us a short visit.There were several visitors in the city during the holidays, all of whom, we trust, had a Merry Xmas, and we wish all a happy New Year.ST. LOUIS WOMAN'S CLUB.Haydee Campbell and Alice Brown ThompsonSt. Louis, Mo., December 18, 1896.The Woman's Club of St. Louis held its regular meeting Wednesday evening, December 2, at St. Paul's Chapel, Mrs. Haydee Campbell presiding. The meeting was well attended and enthusiasm ran high. Very glowing reports were read
from the five sections into which the club bas been divided, viz: the industrial, charity, study of child nature, literary and social.We wish that each reader might see and feel how far reaching has been the work of this new organization. It has made glad the hearts of many, who have just come to realize how easy it is to broaden out into united usefulness. The industrial section has gone to work with might and main to secure a home. The charity section has given quite a substantial donation to the Colored Orphan Horne from the proceeds of their entertainments to that end. The study of child nature calls for ready interest and co-operation from the hearts of scores of mothers. From our literary work we are hoping to gain much intellectual development. The social section is ever alert to the pleasure of our home friends and the entertainment of all strangers who are lending a hand in the elevation of our womanhood all over this broad land. This section deserves special mention for the efforts they put forth in the reception tendered Mrs. Lucy Thurman, our beloved and honored guest. Mrs. Thurman addressed the club on this occasion, and in her speech made some very graceful remarks on Frances E. W. Harper, whom the club, as a mark of appreciation, made an honorary member at its organization. The next meeting of the club will be on Feb. 14, 1897, to commemorate the birthday of Frederick Douglas.We hope from time to time to drop a word to your excellent paper, in order that we keep in touch with the important work women everywhere are doing.HAYDEE CAMPBELL,Pres., ALICE BROWN THOMPSON, Cor. Sec. OMAHA WOMAN'S CLUB.S. Lillian ColemanNebraska, December 25.The festivities of the Xmas season "flung their shadows" long before.  On the highways and byways, on the city's crowded pavements, and in the country poultry yard, were seen and heard the avant couriers of this great holiday.  Everywhere hearts were stirred and pulses quickened by the pleasant anticipation.  At this time everybody keeps holiday but the cook, and all sounds known to the human ear seem mingled in a merry paean - save the gobble of the turkey.In the earlier half of the century the pageantry of feasting at Christmastide was carried to its greatest degree of splendor. At the time Christmas was celebrated from All Halloween, October 31, until Candlemas Day, February 2, and the houses of gentry were, during this time, open to all the countryside. The expenses of such entertaining and festivity were enormous.In the diary of the Reverend John Ward, Vicar of Stratford-on-Avon, from 1648 to 1679, it is stated that the Duke of Norfolk expended twenty thousand pounds in keeping Christmas.

Later the good old customs languished, and in Ben Johnson's "Mask of Xmas" is found:"An hue and cry after Xmas. -- Any man or woman that can give any knowledge or tell any tidings of an old, old, very old gray-bearded gentleman, called Christmas, who wanted to be a very familiar guest and visit the rich and the poor -- whosoever can tell what has become of him, or where he may be found, let them bring him back again to England."He must have been found, although the Puritan fathers did not bring him over in the Mayflower, and it was not until many years later that, emigrating, he found warm welcome in America. But his home is now here, and when the earth silently wraps herself in her white mantle, symbol of immortality, the fires of' hospitality are lighted on the hearths of countless homes, and the spicy odor of the burning Yule log creeps upon the frosty air, mingled with the savory odors of theCHRISTMAS DINNER MENU.Blue Points on the Half Shell. Clear Soup.Creamed Fish Served in Paper Cases. Turkey Stuffed with Chestnuts, Cranberry Sauce. Browned Sweet Potatoes. Peas. Macaroni au Gratin. Mayonnaise of Celery. Wafers.  Cheese. Plum Pudding. Fruit. Coffee. S. LILLIAN COLEMAN.WOMAN'S CLUB.Christine S. SmithNashville, Tenn., Dec. 11, 1896.My Dear Mrs. Ruffin:We have organized a Woman's Club in this city with the following officers: President, Mrs. C. S. Smith; vice president, Mrs. Eugene Harris; secretary, Mrs. Preston Burrus; treasurer, Mrs. Preston Taylor; executive committee, Mrs. Georgia Sheeton, Mrs. W. H. Hodgkins, Miss Ellen A. Allen, Mrs. Lewis Winter, Mrs. T. B. Caldwell.We hope soon to send a list of subscribers to the ERA.Our first work will be to send in a petition to the legislature to repeal the "Jim Crow Car Law," or to make first and second class fares. If we do not succeed in having the law repealed, we shall at least show them we are not satisfied with conditions as they exist. Pray for our success.Sincerely yours,CHRISTINE S. SMITH.Mrs. A.W.Thomas and I.A. TerryCOLUMBUS, GA., December 29, 1896.EDIT0R OF WOMAN'S ERA:Dear Madam: -- We have among us here what was originally known as the Douglass Circle. We organized with the object of cultivating an interest in intellectual work among our women. So far we have progressed verywell; with the money collected from time to time we have entertained our friends who were interested in the work. But we have thought to do other work instead of benefitting those with whom we are immediately connected. With this idea in view it was thought best that we connect ourselves with others, that we may no longer be strangers to other workers in the good cause.We have read with much interest of the National Association of Colored Women, and seeing that it was made up of local clubs, desired to connect ourselves with it. We at once wrote Mrs. B. T. Washington requesting that she would instruct us as to what steps we must take by which to make application for membership. Mrs. Washington wrote us to send for a copy of the WOMAN'S ERA, the organ of the Association.We therefore write for a copy of' the same, with terms of subscription, and if there be need for any further information, that it may be given.We shall appreciate it very highly.Assuring you of our interest in the work and our desire to unite with the effort, we are,Very truly yours,MRS. A.W. THOMAS,Pres.I.A. TERRY,Sec.St. Louis, Mo., December 30, 1896.To the Editor of the Woman's Era:A few women of St. Louis, engaged in club work, would like to report occasionally through

the columns of your paper. And by helping us, we will also help you by subscribing for the ERA.The Suffrage Club No. 2 held a meeting on Thursday night, December 17, at 2606 Mill street. We had a very interesting meeting, having Rev. S. W. Bachlor to give us a short talk on 'Woman Suffrage. Meeting every first Thursday in the month. Mrs. Maggie Still, 2606 Mill street, president; Mrs. L. V. Carter, 2843 Montgomery street, secretary.The Phyllis Wheatley Club has organized a Sewing School for the children. We have fifty children enrolled on the book; and we have amongst the children a Band of Mercy, not only learning them how to sew, but to love and serve one another. We are not going in our own strength. We remember that the Scripture says, "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord."A consecrated meeting is held at the residence of Mrs. Carter, 2843 Montgomery street, every Thursday afternoon. The Lord has wonderfully used us as his missionaries. The work is carried on by Maggie Still, Sister Shavous, Sister Comb, Sister Robinson, for visiting the jail, workhouse, hospital, and anywhere duty calls us.PAUL DUNBAR'S NEW BOOK.Chicago ConservatorIn good time for the holiday season has come the issue of Paul Dunbar's new volume of' poems entitled "Lyrics of Lowly Life." The work is issued by Dodd, Mead & Co., of New York, and contains an introduction by W. D. Howells. It is to be regretted that notice was not made in our race journals of its expected appearance, for a host of colored people who love their race and who believe in encouraging aspiring manhood would have been most glad to include this book
in their holiday purchase.We do not forget that we owe much to one another. If a colored man writes a good book he should find a large reading constituency among his own people. We should make our patronage so certain and remunerative, that publishers will be glad to put our books upon the market.In that way we can open a way for our aspiring young men and women, which to them thus far has been practically closed. The volume under consideration contains the latest and best of Mr. Dunbar's poems. With only a few years spent in tempting the muse, he spreads before us a feast of poetry and song, inspiring, comforting and satisfying. He has a range which wins commendation from the most severe critic, and gives to the searcher after genus a bounty to draw upon. While his dialect poems constitute a distinctive feature of his work, they by no means overshadow in point of merit the other contributions to his book. His English is chaste, his sentiment exalted, and his verse finished in point of literary excellence. "Lyrics of the Lowly " is destined to hold a high place among the best poetical contributions of the year.Speaking of the new book, the Inter-Ocean's literary critic says" "Scarcely has a book of poems come to our table during the year more profoundly entertaining than is "Lyrics of Lowly Life."Mr. W. D. Howells writes the introduction to the volume, and says he makes no prophecy for the future, "but if Mr. Dunbar should do nothing more than he has done, I should feel that he had made the strongest claim for the Negro in English literature that the Negro has yet made." Mr. Howells adds: "Had these poems been written by a white man I should not have found them less admirable. I accepted them as an evidence of the essential unity of' the human race, which does not think or feel black in one and white in another, but humanly in all." The poems are elegant in construction, and ringing and musical in every line. The dialect poems are more remarkable and flow so easily and naturally from his pen as to be masterpieces of their kind.-- Chicago Conservator.QUEEN LlLIOUKULANI NOW LIVES IN BROOKLINE, MASS.Chicago ConservatorBrookline is honored by the presence of royalty in the person of the ex-queen of the Sandwich Islands. Queen Lil is stopping on Sewall avenue, to be near her husband's relatives, Mr. and Mrs. Lee. Considerable social attention has been paid to the queen in the way of dinners, sleighrides, etc.The queen is reported to be a woman of education and talent. She brings a number of followers with her, and will undoubtedly be able to hold her own in this, the most aristocratic of Massachusetts town.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, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -$1.00Single Copies, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - .10Club Rates, one hundred copies, - - - - - - 7.00Subscription Payable in Advance. MRS. RACHEL SMITH In the passing away of Mrs. Rachel Smith, who for twenty-five years was the matron of the Home for Aged Colored Women, the Woman's Era Club has lost a loved co-worker, the Home an intelligent, devoted Christian head, and the community a useful and ornamental member. At the regular meeting of the club immediately following the death of Mrs. Smith, the tributes of respect were paid her memory by the president and other members of the club, followed by five minutes of silent prayer and contemplation of' the virtues of  the deceased. The club's floral offering was a
large bunch of white chrisanthemums and English violets, tied with violet satin ribbon, which was laid upon the bier by a committee from the club in attendance upon the funeral ceremonies. NO "RACE ISSUE" IN THIS.Councilor-elect Isaac B. Allen continues to vindicate the judgment of those who regret that he was ever put forward as a representative of his race for a high station.-- Boston Sunday Herald.It is a well known fact that if Isaac B. Allen was put forward "as a representative of his race," it was never intended that he should represent them in the governor's council; he was set up as a man of straw to encompass certain ends and then be knocked down. His election is due to a miscarriage of a game of bluff - an old game played against the colored people so often successfully  that the political wire pullers had become reckless and this time got caught in a web of their own weaving. It is the legitimate outcome of a pernicious practice of using unfit candidates simply for effect, before election, with only the shortlived notoriety gained of having been a candidate for their reward, after election. The result justifies an "I told you so," to the "Napoleon of politics in Massachusetts."Nevertheless and in spite of the alleged moral shortcomings of Mr. Allen and the altogether discreditable exhibitions he has made of himself since his election to a "high station," he is undoubtedly elected, and therefore entitled to the honors and emoluments of the office to which he was chosen; and as the recount and the appeal to the supreme court have failed to prevent his receiving his credentials, it would seem that the latest move of the other contestant and present occupant of the place -- that of carrying his case to the incoming legislature -- will not avail to keep Mr. Allen from taking his place among Governor Wolcott's councilors, not as a "representative of his race," however, but as an unexpectedly successful tool of political tricksters of both parties. That the situation is in embarrassing one all round cannot be denied. There is but one right way out of it, and we predict that Massachusetts will not stultify herself by refusing to adopt that way. She cannot afford to set a dangerous precedent that will some day redound to her confusion, and at once bring down upon her the sneering comments of a waiting, watchful south, to whose methods ill matters political the throwing out of Allen would give encouragement, and countenance by the greatest endorsement possible -- that of imitation.Let it be emphasized that this is no "race issue," and demagogues black and white, north and south, should be thwarted in their attempts to make one of it. It is simply a painful political episode."Work before Our Women" is the title of a circular issued by the national organizer of' the N. A. C. W., Mrs. Victoria E. Mathews. In it an eloquent appeal is made for activity among all the clubs in the union along all the lines  of work projected and recommended by the two national conferences, the one held in Boston in July, 1895,  and in Washington in July, 1896.  Clubs in the union, and those desiring to become part of it, not having received the circulars, should  send at once to Mrs. Mathews, 9 Murray St., New York, for copies.JOHN BROWN'S DAUGHTER LOCATED.By letters recently received and printed elsewhere, it will be seen that at last, direct and correct information of the whereabouts and condition of the only daughter of old John Brown has been obtained. An article in the last issue of the ERA brought out letters supplying the desired information in time for the Woman's Era Club of Boston to do its share in the pleasant duty of assisting the daughter of the one modern martyr, but not in time to carry out the plan devised by them upon first hearing of Mrs. Adams' needs. Of the letters and their writers, Mrs. Adams tells the whole, pathetic story. Mr. Allen's but emphasizes the well-known, long-continued interest taken by him and all his family in all anti-slavery, anti-justice, humane measures. Mrs. Lyles is the energetic president and founder of the John Brown Memorial Association, and it is suggested that each club in the National Association of Colored Women send to her five dollars, to be forwarded by her to Mrs. Adams. The Woman's Era Club of Boston will immediately forward their contributions  to the fund.Miss Lyles will return receipts to club secretaries for the monies received from them.T.H. LylesST. PAUL, MINN., Dec. 16, 1896.Please permit me a little space to answer an inquiry of the ERA, of November, about the whereabouts and conditions of Anna Brown Adams, the daughter of old John Brown, who kept house for him, and with Martha, the girl-wife of Oliver Brown, went down and helped in the preparation for the raid on Harper's Ferry. Martha died shortly after.Anna is now living in Petrolia, Humboldt County, California. She wrote to me and told me about losing her home by fire a short time ago, and is now in want.She is now an old woman, who gave the best of her young life for the colored people, and I feel that we have a right to help her for the sake of her father, brothers, and the other friends who gave their lives for the liberation of the slaves.I am proud to say that my club, the "John Brown Woman's Loyal Union," gave an entertainment and sent her fifteen dollars, and a large box of clothing, bedding, etc. I earnestly hope that other clubs will do likewise.Yours very truly,Mrs. T. H. Lyles.Annie Brown AdamsMY DEAR MRS. LYLES:I have just received yours of November 9th, with the inclosedenclosed fifteen dollars, also the package and pictures so kindly sent. Please accept my most sincere thanks for yourself, and also express my gratitude to the others who so kindly helped.I should be pleased to comply with your request for a picture of myself, but I cannot indulge in such luxuries as having pictures taken.You asked me to tell you how many children I have, and their ages. My two oldest are girls, aged twenty-six and twenty-four years, then two boys, aged twenty-three and nineteen years, then two girls, aged sixteen and fourteen, and two boys aged ten and twelve years, making eight living and two little girls who died, makes ten in all. My oldest daughter works in an overall factory in San Francisco. The next one is working at a hotel in Petrolia. The youngest one is with me. The boys all work all the time, and earn all they can to help along. They have split out timber and built a small sort of a house, but it is not near large enough to accommodate us, and is so full of cracks that the "wind  bloweth as it listeth," through it. I have 300 acres of land, but I owe a debt that will soon yawn and swallow it. I have offered all my letters, pictures, and little keepsakes for sale, to raise the money to pay this off, but as times are hard, people can do without old relics. Our crops were almost a perfect failure last year, so we neither had anything to sell, nor have we seed for planting next year's crops. Please accept my thanks for the offer to send a box of clothing, but as the winter rains have set in early, we are shut out of the world for months to come. It would not reach here until late next spring. We live five miles from town and one mile from the nearest neighbor, in a wild, moutainous country, nine miles back from the sea shore. It has rained nearly all this month, so the roads are now impassable to the nearest seaport town, which is about sixty miles from here. We are so shut in from all the rest of the world that any reading matter is welcomed and duly appreciated by us. I will enclose a slip from a paper sent me by my old friend, H.K. Rust. He was an acquaintance of my father's, and has been a good friend of our family for a great many years.The weather has been so cold and stormy that I have been unable to finish this letter and send

it to the post office. Please pardon the delay. Nothing can now reach me, except through the post office, for several months to come. It is weeks and sometimes months at a time that I never see a woman during the rainy season, and seldom at any time in the year, so I have no social life whatever.I would be pleased to see some of the Afro-American papers once in a while, that I might know something of the progress the people are making. My children have all had to go to work as soon as they were old enough to earn anything, so they have to be satisfied with small wages, and any kind of work they can get.The money you so kindly sent has bought me a much needed pair of stout shoes to keep my feet dry, and will help me to get some more things that I need. God bless you all.Sincerely yours, ANNIE BROWN ADAMS.Nathaniel T. AllenMY DEAR MRS. RUFFIN: In reading the WOMAN'S ERA, just received this evening, I noticed on pages 14 and 15 the inquiry concerning the location of Mrs. Anna (Brown) Adams, daughter of John Brown of heroic memory and world wide known. When in Pasadena, Cal., in 1893, visiting my friend, Prof. T.S. C. Lowe, projector and chief owner of the electric railway from the foot to the summit of Mt. Lowe, by which one can pass, in thirty to forty-five minutes, from orange laden groves to a sleigh ride upon the summit. Professor Lowe introduced me to Hiram Brown - I think his name was Hiram -- a younger brother of the famous John Brown, who (Hiram) was an employeemployee of the professor. I had quite a conversation with Hiram, both Professor L. and myself having been Garrisonian abolitionists, sympathizers with John Brown, fully as cordial as with Lafayette in his heroic efforts in our country's behalf during our revolution, notwithstanding my peace principles.If I remember correctly, I learned that John Brown's widow, or other members of his family, were living in California, near Pasadena. By communicating direct with Prof. T.S.C. Lowe, at Pasadena, Cal., the whereabouts of the person you sought can no doubt be ascertained at once, if Hiram still lives, and if dead, through Professor Lowe.Always your friend, NATH'L T. ALLEN.SOCIAL NOTES.One of the most delightful receptions of New Year's day was that held at the home of Mr. and Mrs.  William Lee, Beacon street, Brookline, where ex-Queen Lilioukulani was the guest of honor. The old colonial mansion house was bright with flowers and full of guests during the reception hours from 3 to 5. The receiving party formed a pretty picture, as, grouped in the bay window, they greeted with charming cordiality the many friends who expressed so much pleasure at the opportunity offered to meet a charming woman, who was most womanly and cordial in her greetings in this lovely home.In the receiving party were ex-Queen Lilioukulani, with Mrs. Lee on her right, Mrs. Kia Nahsolelin  on the left, with Mr. Lee, Miss Lee, J. Haleluke and Capt. Julius Palmer in the line. The ushers were Misses Flora and Donalena MacDonald and F.M. Goss. Most delightful music was rendered during the afternoon by Miss Sarah MacDonald, harpist. The ex-queen wore a gown of black velvet, with thread lace garniture, caught with rare jewels, and prominent was the badge of the Mystic Shrine, of which she was made a member in 1887. Mrs. Lee was radiantly beautiful in a costume of French gray and lace, with a circle of gold on her arm, which the guest presented as a token of friendship, a golden band with the letter "L" in plain gold, a dainty trifle which Lilioukulani wore during the days of her recent imprisonment, and Mr. Lee also wore a New Year's gift from the same source, a heart-shaped pin of pearl, with centre of amethyst.The tea room was very dainty where Mrs. Walter M. Farwell poured tea. Mrs. F. M. Goss of Melrose presided at the chocolate table, while Miss Annie Morse served frappe.Another and larger New Year's reception was that of Catabrigia Club, held in Odd Fellows Hall, North Cambridge, when six hundred gayly dressed women and a few men turned out to listen to a charming lecture on Michael Angelo, by Prof. Wm. G. Ward, of Harvard College, and incidentally to shake hands with Mrs. May Alden Ward, vice-president of the club, Professor Ward, Mrs. Julia Ward Howe, Mrs. Estelle M. Merritt, and the handsome and genial ex-Mayor Bancroft, of Cambridge, all of whom made up the receiving party, and then to partake of dainties served by the lovely girls of the club. The University City

Club is distinguished for the recognition given it by the husbands, sons and brothers of its members. At every social function of this club a considerable number of' Harvard professors and other cultivated gentlemen are always in evidence.South Carolina has an Afro-American novelist. His name is Kennett Young. Mr. Young is 36 years old and is a barber by trade. "Silene " is the title of his book, and thrilling is an adjective that can be applied to every chapter from the first to the last.Mrs. Anna E. Walker, a graduate of the New York Art School, who went to Paris, France, to further perfect herself in the art of painting, has returned to her home in Washington, after a most successful course in one of the highest art schools in Europe. After Mrs. Walker had studied in Paris only four months she painted a picture from life, which was accepted by the French Salon, where it was put on exhibition, and it must be remembered that an art student is considered fortunate to get a pastel into the Salon, after having studied for years.Messrs. Jolm F. Cook and M. M.Holland, of Washington, have been given places on the executive committee for the inauguration ceremonies, while  the following have been appointed to the committee on public comfort: R. H Terrell, chairman; E.E. Cooper, Wyatt Archer, L.C. Bailey, R.S. Smith, L.H. Douglass, Major C. A. Fleetwood, Captain James Perry, Wm. H.A. Wormley, W.C. Martin, Major F. Revells, Dr. T. Lee.Miss Azale Thomas of New Orleans, a recent graduate of Hampton, Va., will be in Boston two years for the purpose of taking a course at the Posee gymnasium. Miss Thomas is a fine gymnast, and is junior centre rush in the basket ball team. After finishing her studies here Miss Thomas will return south and have charge of a gymnasium for women. She is boarding at the Y.M.C.A. on Berkeley Street.Mrs. Luther Dandridge has returned from her extended trip through the south, made for recuperation from a long siege of physical prostration. Miss Dandridge, among other places, visited Hampton and Livingstone College in Salisbury, N.C., and is loud in her praise of the systematic way in which work is carried on in both institutions. Mrs. Dandridge, being an active Era Club woman, gave a little talk and a solo to the Phyllis Wheatley Club.SOME "OFF-COLOR" HAPPENINGS AT THE HUB.All of the central figures in most of the month's excitements in and around Boston have been a little  off color, and the interests involved varied enough to embrace all classes of her citizens.The patriotic sympathizers  with the Cuban cause have been shocked by the dethroned queen of the Sandwich Islands, with a retinue of attendants of mixed colors. Religious circles, aroused by the preaching of the child Clarissa Avery. Educational and philanthropic circles have been responding to the annual pleas of Miss Jennie Dean for her school at Mannassa, Va., and of B.T. Washington and ex-Senator B.A. Bruce, in behalf of the Tuskegee Institute.The legal fraternity and general public have been kept excited and anxious by the trial and conviction of Mate Bram, the accused perpetrator of the Herbert Fuller horrors, while candidate Allen has kept political circles at fever heat.TOM. - AN INCIDENTAlice Ruth MooreTom stuck his toes into the warm mud and laughed for very joy. The sun beat down upon the brown earth and baked it hard in wagon furrows that could cut small toes and cause wofulwoeful stumbles. But Tom didn't care for that; he blinked up at the yellow orb in the cloudless skies and hummed a ditty carelessly, the while he swung his small body to and fro on the fence.Tom was a small, black boy, one of the brood which was like that of the unfortunate old shoe woman of undisputed fame. His small life of ten years had been passed about Harvey's Canal in Jefferson's parish, just across from and within sight of the big city. The small, fussy, inconsequential ferryboat laboriously puffed and tooted its way from Louisiana avenue over to the landing every hour, and occasionally landed someone besides the blackberry merchants who lived in and about Amesville. The canal lay peacefully green and placid, reflecting huge oaks and lazy boats on its surface, and rippling with a knowing wink over the occasional flip of a fish's fin. There

were never such fish in the world as those that glided lazily through the green waters of Harvey's Canal."Hey diddle de diddle, de fiddle am broke
Oh, what am I gwine to do?"crooned Tom, blinking in the hot December sun and wondering when he was going to ride on the
crab-like ferry to see the wonderful Christmas windows in New Orleans. Then he slid from his perch on the rail fence and danced away, his heterogeneous garments flapping in the soft, damp breeze.Tom's cabin, or rather the cabin this latest old shoe woman, marked the southern boundary of the great sugar plantation which had formed the town of Amesville. Beyond, the blue smoke of the sugar house curled into the bluer skies, and the odor of the kettles reached in succulent deliciousness far and wide. Like waving billows of promised sweetness the fields of cane extended far, green topped, red stalked, rustling vaguely as they whispered together of molasses and la cuit. The dusty road that wound in dazzling, furrowed whiteness along the levee, was bordered by rustling weeds, with wonderful feathery heads, and an occasional giant oak with tender acorns. Tom's bare feet carried him swiftly by the snake fence toward the overseer's house. An idea had struck him.A half hour later Aunt Mina, looking from the window of her cabin, saw a sight that made her heart stand still. On the narrow plank bridge which spanned the canal at the foot of the levee sat Tom and Nellie, the flaxen-haired little daughter of the overseer. Black feet and white ones, bare alike swing gaily over the placid waters, and black hands and white ones alike gaily trolled long strings of baited cord, with pin-hook attachments; tousled gold and crinkly black heads alike eagerly peering into the water after the recreant fish.Tom and Nellie had been chums from the time that the big turkey had chased the little  girl down the field and Tom had valiantly stood before him, alone, unaided, and heroically driven him into the sugar house yard, there to meditate grimly on an ignominious defeat. From that day, Nellie had been Tom's especial charge and confidential advisor, and though her years were fewer, she was none the less a most matronly and self-possessed little person. There was no secret about it; your plantation child knows no white or black, even in these days.The pin-hooks trailed in the waters; the crab ferry tooted its arrival;  and the big French steamer anchored just outside the levee in the yellow waters of the Mississippi heaved lazily, while the sailors bristled about getting the ship trim for the Christmas day's festivities.Aunt Mina stood holding her breath; one turn of the foot, one gesture too violent, and the unconscious children might fall into the canal, placid, green, beautiful, but fatally deep. Singing down the road, now lightened by the first pink premonitions of sunset came Nellie's father and two hunters, cheerful under empty game bags. Around the bend which curved about Aunt Mina's cabin they trudged, then paused in horror.With one bare white foot upon the rude bridge and the other swinging free, Nellie was pulling with all her small might at the pin-hooked line and"Nellie !" cried the overseer. His voice beat against the skies and rang around into every bush and tree in anguish indescribable.The child turned her head in fright, the string loosened suddenly, and she fell, a white curled-up heap into the water.There was an awful moment of shrieks and curses, of running and boat getting, of moans, low, and of sobs, and wails. Then Tom was seen with the sobbing white form in his arms, manfully swimming to the post of the bridge. The overseer caught them both in his arms and rushed into the shoe woman's cabin, his face white, haggard.It was Nellie who spoke first; "You see," she volunteered between sobs and shivers,  "me'n Tom wuz goin' to ketch fish and sell 'em, so's we could buy things in town. Tom wuz goin' to buy Aunt Mina an' me a present, an' I wuz goin' to buy papa and Tom somethin', an' - an' I fell in."But Tom's little form lay gray and still save where a patch of red clotted in his curly hair showed the cut of the bridge post as he jumped in the water. Outside, the crab-like ferry tooted goodbye to the hazy ocean steamer, while the setting sun crimsoned alike with caressing fingers the yellow water of the river and the green canal. A mocking bird  called one long note of wailing sweetness from the reeds by the bridge. The gathering shadows in the cabin shrouded the curious forms of the shoe woman's family, and

veiled the uncovered heads of the overseer and the hunters."Poor Tom," sobbed Nellie.And who knows but what it was best?THE WOMAN'S ERA AND AMERICAN KITCHEN MAGAZINE ONE YEAR FOR ONE DOLLAR.
The publishers of the WOMAN'S ERA offer that paper and the American Kitchen Magazine, both for one year at the price of each, one (1) dollar.This is an opportunity for our readers. The American Kitchen Magazine is well known as the best magazine in the country, dealing with household and domestic economy; its managers and staff of writers include those who are authority on these subjects: Mrs . Ellen Richardson, Mrs. Sarah Rorer, Mrs. Lincoln.Send in subscriptions at once.This page features ads for Mrs. T. Patrie, J.R. Young & Co., The American Wringer, Mrs. Mary Sulis, Howard University, and D.B. Allen's. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.. . . . ART . . . .CONSERVATORYMrs. T. PATRIE, 15 Elm St., Nashua, N.H.Is prepared to show specimens and give instructions in the following works of art: all branches of French flower making, funeral wreaths and decorations, modeling in clay and leather, photograph painting.Terms Moderate. Orders Solicited.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
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All kinds of Wringers and Swoopors Repaired. Orders by mail promptly attended to.MRS. MARY SULIS,
TEACHER OF
Point Rennaizance and Honiton Lace.
SAMPLES ALWAYS ON HAND,
Residence, 193 Elm Street,
New Bedford, MASS.Howard University,
Washington, D. C.Howard Universitv furnishes superior facilities for higher education. Nine different departments, with sixty professors and instructors.  . . . . . . . . . .Theological. Medical, Dental, Pharmaceutical, Law, College, Preparatory, Normal, Industrial, the latter including Printing, Carpentry. Bookbinding, Tinning and Sewing.Academic Departments opens September 23; Professional, September 28 to October 1.For particulars address the President or Secretary.D. B. ALLEN'S
CAFÉ
EASTON'S BEACH.
NEWPORT, R.I.Shore Dinner a Specialty, 50 Cents.
Dinner and Lunch Served on European Plan.
CLAM CHOWDER.
Fish of all Kinds and Salads. Oysters in Every Style
Home Made Pies, Cream and Cake.
DINNERS ORDERED BY TELEPHONE.Also The Newport Restaurant,
Telephone Connection. 20 BROADWAY.GRAY . . .
Artist and . . . 
Photographer.Studio, 1030 Tremont Street,
B0STON, MASS.
The only Studio in Boston having Reception and Operating Rooms on the Ground Floor.
Telephone. 198-4, Roxbury.This page features ads for business penmanship, A.G. McKenzie, Armstead Hurley, Mrs. J. Patterson Rollins, Mrs. Cornelia Jamison, and Franklin A. Denison. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.LESSONS IN BUSINESS PENMANSHIP
BY
J. W. WASHINGTON, Artist Penman,
SALEM, MASS.Twelve (12) Lessons by mail, only $3.00 in advance. Sample Lesson, 25 cents. Satisfaction guaranteed. Send for circular.Visiting Cards elegantly written, 12 for 20 cents. Agents wanted. Big commission. Sample book, 20 cents. Rapid Addition Method, 12 cents.A.G. McKENZIE
OPTICIAN
156 Charles St., Boston. 
Three doors from eye infirmary. 
Artificial Eyes a Specialty. 
Telephone, 1198 Haymarket.ARMSTEAD HURLEY,
 Practical Painter and Glazier, 
All work Promptly and Neatly Done at Reasonable Prices. 
27 3-4 Pond Avenue, Newport R.I.MRS. J. PATTERSON ROLLINS, 
Contralto Soloist and Vocal Teacher, 
12 Grove  Street, Boston, Mass.Mrs. CORNELIA JAMISON, 
Dressmaker, 
227 Spring St., Newport, R. I.FRANKLIN A. DENISON, 
---- LAWYER ----
Suite 411, 59 Dearborn Street, . . . Chicago. 
Telephone, Main 1690. 
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, 61 City Hall, 
Telephone Main 280.This page features ads for Baldwin & Dorsey and Atlanta University. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.Over their Tea these LadiesARE discussing how easy it is to own a home by adopting the latest methods of enterprising agents. By making a small payment down, and the balance to he paid as rent.In any of the suburbs desirable homes may be obtained, and far-sighted people are taking advantage of the opportunities  thus offered, and investing in homes for themselves. Join the number who are fast accumulating property and who have none but words of praise for the firm with whom they dealt.BALDWIN & DORSEY
Real Estate, In all its branches.
545 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridgeport, Mass.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.This page features ads for the Emerson College of Oratory and the Bonita Woman's Mine. Click here to view the ads on this page as they appeared in the Era.EMERSON COLLEGE OF ORATORYLARGEST 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, and the principles of the Philosophy of Expression. Scientific and practical work in every department. Chartered by the State.Address for illustrated  catalogue,
HENRY L. SOUTHWICK, Sec'y.
Corner Tremont and Berkeley Sts.,
Boston, Mass.
Summer session at Martha's Vineyard.THE FIRST WOMAN'S MINE.The Bonita Cold and Silver Mining Company,
OPERATING IN NEW MEXICO AND COLORADO.
OFFICERED AND CONTROLLED BY WOMEN.
No Assessments.  No Stock Holders' Liabilities.
STOCK 50 CENTS A SHARE SOLD ON INSTALMENT PLAN. Patent Applied for.The Great Mineral Basin it Pitkin covers an area as large as that of Leadville, Aspen and Red Cliff combined. Professor Sadtler, of the Chair of Metallurgy and Mineralogy of the State School of Mines, speaking of this district, says: "This camp, with proper and systematic development, will be made a second Aspen, if not better."The output of the Leadville district has been, up to the present time, in value over $200,000,000;  that of Red Cliff more than $35,000,000, and that of Aspen, $100,000,000, or more, and the mines of these places show no signs of exhaustion.What, then, shall we expect of Pitkin and the Quartz Creek District, which has a mineral bearing area as large as these three districts combined, when so far the developments there have proved the mineral deposits to be fully as rich and extensive?We can come to but one conclusion: Its wealth is limitless, and no more safe or profitable field for investment can be found.The property of the Bonita Gold and Silver Mining Company consists of three groups, in all nine claims, or a little over ninety acres, located in the most favored portion of this great mineral basin. Special care has been taken in the selecting to cover apexes, timber and water, all of which are of such vital importance in any mining property, and the greater portion of it lies only from one-fourth to three miles away from the railroad and the town of Pitkin, with good, down-hill roads leading from every portion of it, accessible every day in the year.The ore is high grade, netting from fifty to one thousand dollars per ton, average two hundred and fifty. The Company has undisputed title to the entire property, which is free from any incumbranceencumbrance, and will be kept so. Any further information will be cheerfully furnished by thePresident, MARY E. PHELPS, or  MRS. L. K. DANIELS, Secretary.ADDRESS: POST OFFICE BOX 3, DENVER, COLO.