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FROM LOCAL UNIONS

SAN FRANCISCO, CAL.

The padres of Saint Francis have left indelibly on western civilization the imprint of their efforts to guide men's footsteps in right channels. Dotted all over California are crumbling ruins of the churches, or missions, as they were called, of that period. The Mission Dolores, right in the city of San Francisco, is an example of the adobe type of early architecture, and its age and the recollections that are recalled of bygone eras leave the visitor impressed with reverence, and thoughtful as he thinks of the changes that have come down the years.

The mind reverts to the time when these missions were in their glory, before wars came, and when the Indians were instructed in the arts of peace. The land was cultivated, cattle raised, and trade stimulated.

Francis Drake, of traveling renown, stepped on the shores of San Francisco Bay in the year 1579. A cross in Golden Gate Park commemorates the event, and marks the spot where it is said the first Christian service was held. The city remembers and is proud of its early history.

Richard Henry Dana, in his classic of California, "Two Years Before the Mast," gives a glimpse of San Francisco at the close of the year 1835. He refers to the bay "in which trading vessels anchor, and near it the mission of San Francisco, and a newly-begun settlement, mostly of Yankee Californians, called Yerba Buena, which promises well."

Dana spoke prophetic words. A Spanish presidio on the shore of what was afterward named the Golden Gate has kept its name, and today it is called the Presidio, and is a military reservation.

As late as 1846 the place had grown so little that not more than twenty or thirty houses of all descriptions lined the beach. A brief glance at the history of the time is necessary to show the evolution that has come to San Francisco-from the quiet little Spanish settlement into a frontier American town, and then into a great metropolis where the commerce of the Pacific centers.

For years Mexico had been disturbed by revolu tionary upheavals. In 1821 these culminated in the recognition by Spain of the independence of the land from which for centuries she had drawn such store of treasure. Three years later a liberal constitution was adopted, making the country a republic.

The republican government was unfavorable to the church, and though during the first decade there was no hostility shown, in 1833 the Mexican congress enacted a law providing for the dispersion of the Franciscan fathers of California, and

a division of their property among the settlers and Indians.

The Mexican ranchers came into possession of the broad valleys of California. These were the days of boundless hospitality, when every stranger was welcome at the hacienda for an unlimited stay. The brightness of the state's history at this period is depicted in legend, picture and song. The people truly lived unto the day and made

merry.

In 1840 a number of Americans found their way to the remote Mexican border of California. A Swiss settler, Captain John A. Sutter, purchased property, and the visits of the whalers to San Francisco soon added new blood to the population. Strained were the relations between the Mexicans and the Americans. Several overt acts were committed. Efforts to discourage immigra tion had little effect. It was not long until John C. Fremont, the pathfinder, crossed the plains and wrote glowing accounts of his adventures in the new land. Others followed. Descriptions of California attracted the attention of hardy men willing to seek that which was new, and "the coming of the gringo" (the stranger from across the plains) was an accomplished fact.

The American flag was first raised at Monterey by Commodore Jones, of the sloop-of-war Cyane. Hearing that the United States was at war with Mexico, he ran up the stars and stripes and proclaimed the territory the property of Uncle Sam. It was another instance of "jumping cases," but the commodore was only successful for the time being, for next day he saw his error, retracted, and apologized.

In April, 1846, the war between the United States and Mexico, long threatened, broke out. Three months later, only July 4, the Americans at Sonoma declared their independence, made General Fremont governor, and issued a formal declaration of war. Many complications followed during the Mexican war. By the treaty of 1848 the country became American territory, and the last political obstacle to the incoming pioneers was removed.

James W. Marshall, an employe of Captain Sutter, discovered gold in large quantities amid the sand of the American river, a tributary of the Sacramento. The news threw the people of the world into a fever of excitement. They came from the four corners of the earth in quest of the precious metal. Every nationality was represented, and men of all color met on common ground for the time being, at least.

Bayard Taylor, who came to San Francisco by steamer in 1849 as correspondent for a New York paper, wrote descriptive letters of the babel of

tongues, the hastily-constructed buildings, the chaotic state of city streets, and the goods piled in all directions.

Indicative of the city's cosmopolitan character is Mr. Taylor's statement of what he saw: "The streets were full of people hurrying to and fro, and of as diverse and bizarre a character as the houses; Yankees of every possible variety, native Californians in serapes and sombreros, Chilians, Sonorians, Kanakas from Hawaii, Chinese with long tails, Malays armed with their everlasting creeses, and others in whose embrowned and bearded visages it was impossible to recognize any especial nationality."

The winter of the famous year in California's history-1849-was noted for its heavy rains and the strain of the rush to the gold mines. Municipal affairs were in a state of chaos, from which they did not emerge for some time. The crews of nearly all the hundreds of ships that came to the Pacific coast deserted in order that gold might be discovered.

In 1851 and 1856 it became necessary to organize vigilance committees to protect life and property. James King, the editor of the Bulletin, an advocate of order and a tribune of the people, was killed in cold blood. This murder, one of many, resulted in stern repressive measures. Trials were swiftly conducted, and there was no escape for the guilty.

After these stirring times came the era of the railroad and bonanza kings. There was a decline in gold production, although each year saw millions' worth of the metal taken from the earth's surface.

In 1863 the "big four"-Leland Stanford, C. P. Huntington, Mark Hopkins and Charles Crocker-secured enormous concessions from the government, both in land and money, for building the Central Pacific Railroad, while another company received similar grants for constructing the Union Pacific Railroad, starting at the eastern end of the line. In May, 1869, Leland Stanford drove the last spike in the line which united California with the east.

This little history of the state so many will visit for the first time later in the year will, it is hoped, prove interesting. There is so much to tell and describe that one is fearful of meeting Editor Hays' blue pencil!

A. S. Hallidie, an Argonaut (pioneer), successfully solved the problem of climbing the steep hills of San Francisco by inventing the cable car. This was many years ago. Since that time the cable has given way to electric propulsion, and the future undoubtedly holds in store more changes than we can estimate at this time.

Of the many interesting quarters to be visited in San Francisco, perhaps Chinatown attracts the most attention. Right in the heart of the citywhere it has no right to be-Chinatown is at once a source of wonderment and disgust. fumes rise upward, and in all other directions. Its colors are bright, its architecture mixed, with much of a Chinese character, and its inhabitants are as elusive as in the days of Bret Harte. The

Its per

joss houses, the restaurants, and the customs that have come down through the ages, make the quarter of peculiar interest to tourists, although the residents of an American city are unable, after the novelty wears off, to see any good reason why the Asiatics should be permitted to dwell in one of the best sections, naturally, of San Francisco.

Delegates and visitors to the fifty-seventh convention next August should make it their business to see the beautiful scenery within easy travel of the metropolis. Redwood groves in the Santa Cruz mountains, along the Russian river, and over the bay in Marin county, are set amid lovely surroundings. When the sunshine shimmers through the delicate foliage of the trees that grow to a great hight, and the water in the brooklet supplies the music for the occasion, and all out-ofdoors invites revelry in nature, it seems like a new world in which the cityite or traveler has entered. Refreshing in the extreme, uplifting in tendency, and ever to be remembered are these trips to the country in the glorious sunlight of the late summer or early fall.

The committees that are working to make the coming session of the International Typographical Union a success have their labors well in hand. It will not be their fault if all doesn't turn out for the best. To show the care that has been taken to provide for all details, arrangements have been made with J. W. Kelley, formerly recording secretary of the local cigar makers' union, to furnish a special International Typographical Union cigar for next August. It will be called El Practimo-a name typical of the practical, and reminding one of the gentle cadences in the Spanish language.

The Ex-Delegates' Association of California is anxious to have enrolled in its membership all men and women in the state who have been delegates to International Typographical Union conventions, and who are now residents of California. Address President H. L. White, at 787 Market street, San Francisco.

It is noted with pleasure that the unions throughout the jurisdiction are frowning on any proposition to curtail the number of their delegates to the coming convention. Printers and guests are to meet for the first time on the western rim of this country. It may be many a year before a similar gathering becomes history in typographical circles. That being the case, there should be a unanimous decision to make the best of the opportunity at hand. Send full delegations. Have them accompanied by their wives and families and friends. There is plenty of room in this great state of California for them. They will never regret the journey. The sights they will see will be remembered during life.

As on previous occasions, at this time you are reminded that the latchkey hangs on the outside. The cordial welcome is yours. WILL J. FRENCH.

First Vice-President George A. Tracy left this city on March 10, bound for Tahiti and other points in the South Pacific. His trip is one for health, pleasure and business. He will do some

boosting for the Panama-Pacific exposition to be held in this city in 1915.

Duff G. Poole, one of No. 21's oldtime members, who has been domiciled at the veterans' home, Yountville, for the past fourteen years, spent a few days in the city about the middle of March renewing old acquaintances.

F. C. Sefton, formerly of the government printing office, Washington, but who has been a resident of San Francisco and proofreader on the Call for several years, has purchased the Lassen Mail, at Susanville, Cal., and left for his new home on March 7.

the proofroom of the state printing office at Sacramento, died suddenly in that city on February 26, at the age of 54 years. The funeral services were held in San Francisco. Sacramento Union and the state printing office chapel sent beautiful floral pieces.

No. 21 has pledged $2,000 toward the building of a new labor temple in this city. An option has been secured on a site on Sixteenth street, near Mission, and it is the intention to erect a fivestory building, with meeting halls and offices. The total cost of lot and building will approximate $200,000. The work of raising funds is being

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Everybody who has been anywhere or heard anything has either seen or heard J. J. ("Casey") O'Rourke. "Casey" at one time figured in "sessions" when native sons were toasted. But time has worked a wondrous change in "Casey." He is now even more audible than ever-so much so that when any of his numerous friends see him first they steer for the opposite side of the street, for "Casey" is now singing the praises of a native son to every one who will listen. The native came to "Casey's" home February 28, and tipped the scales at eleven and one-half pounds at the time of his arrival. Mother and son are doing nicely, but the "old man's feet are still off the ground."

A. B. Sanborn, for many years an active member of No. 21, but who has of late been located in

done under the supervision of the board of trustees of the Labor Council Hall Association.

J. W. Mullen, chairman of the textbook committee of No. 21, has visited Sacramento several times since the opening of the legislature, in the interest of a free textbook amendment to the state constitution, which is fathered by the union. Several measures of a similar nature have been introduced by others. At this writing the prospects for the adoption of one of them are very bright.

John W. Plant, an oldtime Nevada and California printer, died suddenly in Sacramento on February 12, age 59 years.

The label committee of No. 21 is doing some very effective work at the present time. Large numbers of letters are being sent to merchants and others who have printing done which does not

bear the label. And in nearly all cases courteous replies are received, many promising to demand the label when giving their orders in future.

H. L. WHITE.

The employes of the Recorder enjoyed their third annual banquet February 25 at a prominent restaurant in the Italian quarter. It was just a family party, a sort of an "appreciation dinner" given by the corporation in recognition of the splendid work done by the entire staff in handling the tremendous rush of work incident to the expiration of the McEnerney act.

The entire affair was based upon the McEnerney act. The invitations were in the form of a summons in an action to establish title, entitled, "The Recorder Printing and Publishing Company vs. All Persons claiming any interest in, or lien upon, the provender described herein, or any part thereof," and worded to suit the occasion, the menu being inserted in lieu of the usual property description.

Haseltine, William Rose, John M. Ward, R. V.
Whiting, James S. Mulvey, R. F. Reed, Charles J.
Stark, H. H. Gould, W. U. Bowen, Philip Johnson,
Herman Bernett, H. E. Bennett, W. R. Meredith,
G. W. Stitzer, E. F. Scheneck, Arthur Bickell, G.
F. Deeney, F. D. Burgess, Isidor Gehres, G. Plato,
W. Scherlin and A. Pey.
W. R. MEREDITH.

BUFFALO, N. Y.

Bowling has been the chief topic in this city for some time, owing to the fact that the National Bowling Association held its tournament and convention here. Many printers attended from all over the country. The Detroit five, wearing white suits with a big allied trades blue label thereon, made a hit and advertised the label in fine style. "Bill" O'Neill acted as chairman for this bunch. Among others trying for the prizes were Harry Mills and Frank Hummell, of Wheeling, W. Va. These two gentlemen are well known in Buffalo and ran across many oldtime friends. The promoters of the tournament patronized the label freely, and are to be congratulated on the success of the tournament, which was one of the largest ever pulled off in this country.

out.

Chicago's troubles attracted a great deal of attention in this section, not only among the printers, but trades of every line were astounded when the press dispatches stated that the men had walked Of course, there is always two sides to a story, and it is well to withhold judgment till we hear both sides. Somebody blundered, and, if the dispatches are true in regard to a trade agreement being violated, it gives Chicago Union a black eye. This issue of THE JOURNAL will be awaited with interest.

M. P. Kientz, an old and true member of No. 9, passed away last week. "Mike," as he was known to all friends, was of a quiet and retiring disposition, but when he made a friend he kept him till the end. For a number of years he was foreman of the old Review, and many a young chap got a chance at the machine under Mike's administration. Mrs. Kientz has the sincere sympathy of No. 9's members in her bereavement.

There were demurrers, orders, notices of motion and affidavits drawn in fantastic language. The table was "properly enclosed" with a "substantial fence" of string, long strips of Italian bread known as "grasini" being used for stakes. The summons was properly posted on "each parcel." In fact, all of the provisions of the act were followed in burlesque, to the great amusement of all. John S. Drum presided as toastmaster, and after the provender that was the basis of the action had been entirely consumed, thereby removing it be yond the jurisdiction of the court, proceeded to "try" the case. One of the most amusing features of the evening was the "argument" of Herman Bernett, of the composing room staff, on the demurrer interposed by him. Bernett kept his hearers convulsed with laughter. R. V. Whiting drew a sharp contrast between the staff of the old paper, the San Francisco Law Journal, which consisted of four men, and the present staff of the Recorder of over fifty. He paid an eloquent tribute to the men who founded the old paper and to those whose energy and enterprise had financed and directed the destinies of the Recorder to its present position as the leading official publication of its character in the United States. Other speakers were Russell F. Reed, foreman of the composing room; Frank D. Burgess, foreman of the pressroom; Philip Johnson, linotype machinist; Havelock Fourness, James G. Mulvey and E. C. Luchessa, advertising manager, who gave an amusing Thomas O'Donnell is saving his money, and account of his daily reception at the shop while the force there was trying to dig its way out of threatens to get to San Francisco or bust. the avalanche of McEnerney summons under We thought that W. P. Kilcawley would be on which it buried. was Music Easy street ere this. furnished You know "Kil" sells safes throughout the evening by Hiram H. Gould, linoas a side line, and the impression gained ground that after the increase in scale that there would be typist, who presided at the piano; W. R. Meredith, chief proofreader, who sang amusing coster songs, a boom in his business. and Andrew Y. Wood. A most enjoyable evening was spent, and the affair broke up at a late hour. Those present were:

was

John S. Drum, A. Y. Wood, L. R. Dempster, R. C. Harrison, E. C. Luchessa, R. T. Eddy, Joseph A. Marengo, A. Leigh Claiborne, H. Fourness, L.

Our popular secretary, W. J. McLaughlin, appears to be the only candidate in the limelight for delegate to San Francisco. "Mac" is deserving of the honor, as he has devoted many hours of energy to the cause. While the union has not decided how many delegates to send, there seems to be a sentiment in the ranks that we can only afford to send one.

John Walsh's brother visited him during the month. He is business manager of the Denman Thompson show. Needless to say that John was very popular, as he had the handling of a few ducats.

Ted Welch, of Niagara Falls, took a Buffalo girl

as his bride during the month. Ted is professor of a city vocational school.

Charley Eshbaugh's letters from the Home are very interesting. He speaks in glowing terms of the institution and management. We all look for a speedy recovery. Mr. Eshbaugh mentions our old friends, George Forbes, Jim Cahill, and others that are now residents. The boys here wish them all good health.

MacDonald Johnson, of Toronto, is now subbing in this city on the machinist side.

Sanitary arrangements are improving in the various newspaper offices. It was about time.

Gus Lederer's first game in the two man bowling event was a joke. We would like to tell his score, but it would never do. W. A. COYELL.

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appointments

About twenty-five probationary were recently made by the public printer-an action that has been rare in the government printing office for a good while past. Nearly all the temporary compositors in the establishment were laid off when congress adjourned, on March 4, but these have since been recalled. These facts show a healthy condition of trade in Uncle Sam's printworks and gives the cheerful forecast that business will be all right from the printer standpoint in this city for a good while to come.

Joseph I. Loughran, who died here on February 10, 1911, was another victim of the craft's great foe-tuberculosis. He was 31 years of age and was well known among the downtown contingent of our membership.

Edgar T. Rigg, for several terms chairman of the Washington Herald chapel, has lifted his "traveler" and taken up headquarters at Baltimore. For a year or more he has been on No. 101's membership committee, giving excellent service in that position, in which he is succeeded by Charles J. Graf, of the Herald.

Lewis H. Whitham, a linotype machinist member of this union, died here on March 2, age 45 years. Death was very sudden, heart failure striking him down while at work. He was a native of White Cloud, Kan., working in St. Joseph, Omaha and Denver previous to coming here in 1893. Though the call to close came without warning, it found his house in order, for "Lew" Whitham was an upright man. All who knew him regret the end of such a useful life as was his.

Thomas A. Bynum has announced his candidacy

for the presidency of Columbia Union. He will have as his opponent F. C. Roberts, who is serving his first year in that office.

Werner Koch, editor and proprietor of the Washington Journal, the principal German weekly of this city, died here on March 8, 1911. He was a member of Columbia Union, widely known for his attainments in German literature, and held in high esteem in this community.

Edward J. Hall, a well-known member of our craft, after a long illness and a dangerous hospital experience, is once more at his accustomed place in the night proof section of the government printing office.

A much-traveled printer is Benjamin F. Durr, who is a recent recruit to the government printing office proofroom as a reader. He is originally from York, Pa., and has spent the past seven years as an attache of the bureau of printing in Manila. Leaving the Philippines several months ago, Mr. Durr devoted much time to sightseeing en route. The places included in his itinerary were Hongkong, Singapore, Penang, Colombo (Ceylon), Aden, Suez, Port Said, Naples, Pompeii, Rome, Paris, Cherbourg and London, with many side trips, the time of the tour covering about three months.

Benjamin C. Wright died in this city on February 25, 1911, age 83 years. He had been a member of the union for more than half a century, spending most of his working life as an employe of the government printing office. He was a man of pleasing intellect, companionable ways, and remarkable physical qualities, having worked as a compositor until within a few weeks of his death. In the March issue of the American Federationist appears an article in reply to an attack made on the trade unionists employed by the United States government by the Washington correspondent of the Independent in that magazine in a recent issue. In defense of the unions the editor of the American Federationist publishes a reply to the attack by F. C. Roberts, president of Columbia Union No. 101, and also one from former President Sprague, of the pressmen's union, as well as an interview on the subject from Public Printer Donnelly. The article makes very good reading for trade unionists, and President Roberts is particularly happy in his defense.

Many printers who at some time in their career worked in the specification chapel of the government printing office-and they are scattered all over the land-will pleasantly remember John F. ("Doc") Hauer, who died in Washington on March 11, 1911. For many years Mr. Hauer was attached to that chapel, but after its abolishment, his eyesight failing, he became a helper in the pressroom of the government printing office. He was 54 years of age at death.

At its regular monthly meeting on March 19, 1911, Columbia Union postponed indefinitely the proposition to levy an assessment for current expenses in addition to the amount-1 per cent dues and one-half per cent old-age pension fund-already being paid. The collection of such an as

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