Local History: Part II - Altoona Mirror's Souvenir, Containing an Account of the Semi-Centennial Celebration of the War Governors' Conference. Altoona, PA: Mirror Printing Company, [January 1,] 1913. OCRed, proofread and contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by Judy Banja jbanja@msn.com ___________________________________________________________ USGENWEB NOTICE: Printing this file by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged, as long as all notices and submitter information are included. Any other use, including copying files to other sites, requires permission from the submitters PRIOR to uploading to any other sites. We encourage links to the state and county table of contents. ____________________________________________________________ [35] CAPTAIN W. T. MILLER, Grand Army Division, Military Parade EDWIN M. AMIES, Marshal of Military Division. REV. DR. MORGAN M. SHEEDY, Marshal of the Parochial Schools. CHARLES F. ANDERSON, Wholesale Merchants' Parade. [36] W. L. LONGENECKER, Retail Merchants' Parade. H. K. McCAULEY, Manufacturers' Parade. C. L. NONEMAKER, Marshal, First Division. J. B. STOUCH, Chairman Badges and Privileges. [37] Big Industrial Pageant. Civic and Industrial Display Was the Most Pretentious Affair Ever Planned by People of Altoona. Business Men Put Forth Extra- ordinary Efforts. From Altoona Mirror September 26, 1912. EVEN surpassing the splendid parade of yesterday, when the military and school children marched before the president of the United States, the civic and industrial parade, which was the crowning feature of the War Governors' celebration, was held this morning an and, while preparations had been made for the finest pageant in the history of the city, not one of the many thousands of people who thronged the streets to witness it had the slightest idea of the scope and magnificence of the exhibition prepared by the city. Practically every sidewalk, window and roof along the entire route of parade, from the east to the west side of the city, was packed by a crowd that numbered far more than yesterday's, when it was estimated that at least 100,000 saw the parade. The parade for which the merchants had long been preparing moved from the starting point promptly at 10 this morning, traversing the East Side and then the West, the head of the column reaching the official reviewing stand at Eleventh avenue and Twelfth street, on which were Lieutenant Governor John M. Reynolds, Judge T. J. Baldrige, Mayor S. H. Walker, General Chairman J. D. Hicks and many other distinguished personages, at 10:30 o'clock. Of all the parades of the Semi-centennial, this was the one on which the most work had been put and the results reflected great credit upon all who had anything to do with the arrangements. The parade, reaching the reviewing and judges' stand at 10:30, was led by a troop of heralds, dressed in mediaeval costumes, followed by a platoon of city patrolmen, under the command of Lieutenant McIlvaine, while the band leading the parade was the Repasz band of Williamsport, a band that got an ovation all along the line. Following a troop of color bearers, mounted, came Chief Marshal W. C. Westfall and some thirty aides, all mounted and uniformed in serge coats, white trousers, light leggings and campaign hats, they being followed by another troop of color bearers. THE FIRST DIVISION. Civic and Fraternal Societies Turn Out in Large Numbers. The first division of the parade was led by Marshal C. L. Nonemaker and consisted of the civic and fraternal organizations of the city, the first division proper containing the semi-military organizations. Following the markers of the division, the Boy Scouts' band of Lewistown, Pa., preceded the marshal of the sub-division, Charles R. Simpson, and aides, and the Sons of Veterans' drum corps, which followed him, receiving an enthusiastic reception. Marshal Simpson's division of companies of the Sons of Veterans Reserves from Johnstown, South Fork and Altoona and the Boys' Brigade of this city, followed by a troop of Boy Scouts, the whole division numbering some 300 men, all in uniform. SECOND DIVISION. Fraternal Organizations Deserve Much Credit for Big Demonstration. The men who belong to the various fraternal organizations of the city have been looking forward to today's parade for some time, and the many thousands who witnessed the excellent marching in this division were delighted with the demonstration. Not only was Altoona largely represented but several of the surrounding cities sent some of their fraternal men here. The famous Tyrone band headed this division. This band enjoys the reputation of being among the best musical organizations in the state and it certainly deserves the reputation. The boys from the Central City never acquitted themselves better. The Knights of Pythias were the first 38 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. organization in line and they made a fine showing. The Uniform Rank of Johnstown with about thirty men were accorded first place. The Pythian lodge of Bedford sent a large representation here. Captain Levi Smith was in charge. Among the Bedford Pythians in line was Morselle W. Corle, chief burgess of the town. He is foreman in the Gazette newspaper establishment in his home town. The Uniform Rank of Altoona came next with a fine representation. The Uniform Rank is a military division of the organization and both the Johnstown and Altoona ranks executed a number of manoevers along the line. The other members of the three lodges of the Pythians in Altoona followed, there being about 125 who wore kahki uniforms with white stripes. The men for the most part marched twelve abreast and made a very fine appearance. The Pythians had some of their most distinguished officers in line, among the number being Lieutenant Colonel Davis of Pittsburgh, Colonel Ryan of Latrobe and Colonel William Sheeler of Johnstown, all connected with the Uniform Rank. The Friendship band of Frankstown, with thirty-six men under the leadership of T. H. Smith, came next in line. The men were attired in black uniforms and their music was in keeping with their fine appearance. Knights of Maccabees presented a fine appearance. The Uniform Rank, No. 12, of this city with thirty some men in line, executed a number of drills that excited the wonderment of the spectators. The men wore blue uniforms and carried swords. The lieutenant colonel of the Uniform Rank of the state, which is the military department of the Maccabees, came here especially for the parade. He is Charles Garlick, who holds the office of state boiler inspector, being appointed by Governor Tener. He resides in Pittsburgh. Brigadier General W. E. Blaney, also of Pittsburgh, was in the parade. Edward Irwin of Tyrone, a member of the Sheridan troop, was standard bearer. Woodmen Turn Out In Force. The Woodmen made a hit all along the line. The members of Altoona camp wore green uniforms which attracted every eye. The other two Modern Woodmen of America organizations in this city, Camps Logan and East Side, were well represented. They marched in a most soldierly manner and came in for much applause. The Woodmen had a float, representing two periods in history, the float being divided into two living compartments. Probably no fraternal organization brought forth more applause than the Patriotic Order Sons of America. The organization had its own band in line and a fine body of musicians they are. The three camps united in the demonstration. They bad over 300 men in parade and the line reached almost as far as the eye could carry. The men were attired in white duck trousers with white shirts and across the breast was the insignia of the order, a sash made of the stars and stripes. The men marched four abreast and kept good time. Odd Fellows' Division. The Citizens' band of Hollidaysburg, an organization of which the county capital people may justly be proud, headed the Odd Fellows' division. The members of the Patriarch Militant were first in line, being led by the mounted officers. The members wore black uniforms brilliantly trimmed. The coats came to the knee and the plumed hats added to the effect. Each carried a sword. The Odd Fellows have a strong membership in Altoona and the various lodges were strongly represented. Each of the men carried a cane across his shoulder. They marched in an admirable manner and the Odd Fellows' demonstration was one of the big features of the parade. The Daughters of Rebekah were also represented. The Red Men of the city were there with the paint and feathers. The many brave warriors made a distinct hit all along the line. There are five tribes of this organization in the city and there was a creditable turnout. The Red Men had two floats in line, the members of the Degree of Pocohontas occupying the floats. One float represented an Indian scene before the days of the white man. The squaws were sitting around on the ground in true Indian fashion. THIRD DIVISION. The third division of the parade came in order, headed by its markers, the Jaffa Temple band and Marshal W. B. ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 39 Ward and his aides on horseback, eight splendid flags and banners being carried by the troop of color bearers that followed the marshal, this division being composed of clubs and societies. The first in line were the Knights of St. George, clad in neat uniforms distinguished by helmets and white plumes, while the ununiformed members of the order, a hundred or more, wore white caps. Monitor Proves Popular. The Monitor, the celebrated battleship of the rebellion, appeared next in line, and was built under the supervision of the Swedish citizens of Altoona. The boat is patterned after the original in every particular, although much smaller in size. The plans were taken from a blue print by A. S. Vogt of the Pennsylvania railroad mechanical department. The turrets revolve with the mounted cannon and lifeboats swing on the davits. The boat is equipped with machinery and the whistle and blow-off pipes are of brass, with all minor parts perfect. A pennant bearing the word "Monitor" floated over the turret from the stern. From the bow was unfurled a flag, the blue jack. The sides of the vessel are adorned with photographs. On one side is the photograph of President Abraham Lincoln and Ericsson, who had charge of the vessel. On the other side is painted the battle between the Monitor and the Merrimac. The Congress is also shown just as she is sinking. The ornamental and papier-mache and decorative work was done by J. C. Lofgren. The pictures are reproduced in oil, and were painted by Mr. Lofgren. Germans Represent Navy. Two floats portraying the battleships of the navy, one representing the United States navy, the other the German navy, appeared in the parade under the auspices of the German citizens of Altoona. One of the battleships was constructed on the pattern of the battleship "Maine." It was designed by J. F. Lofgren. The ship was built by Contractors D. Counsman & Son. The length of the Maine is twenty-five feet with eight foot beams. It is thirteen and one-half feet in heighth. The two turrets stood out prominently. The armament of sixteen metal guns was arrayed on each side of the vessel. The name was painted on the front of the float. Flags of the German and American navy floated from the masts. The other vessel was constructed after the pattern of the German ship "Isis," which means "Our Friendship." This is also twenty-five feet in length with the lines of a graceful vessel. Two turrets are erected on the ship, and two lifeboats are suspended from the davits. The vessel carried the same armament as the Maine, with a different arrangement of guns. Both vessels were manned by crews of ten sailors, each attired in the suits of the representative countries. The floats were followed by members of the society, clad in full uniform, while the Altoona Turngemeinde, which formed a sub-division of this society, wore white caps, their officers riding in carriages. St. Donata society was headed by President Guiseppe Martino, Vice-president De Bernardis and Secretary Canio Miraballi and aides. The U. S. flag was carried on the right and the Italian flag on the left of line, and the banner of the society next. Their own band of twenty-six men rendered patriotic music as they marched along. A hundred men marching carried small American and Italian flags with a small balloon attached. The men marched in a very creditable manner and marked time to perfection. The Christopher Columbus society, John DeBarber, president; Tony Fateganac, vice-president, and L. Deangelis, secretary, was followed by the McAllisterville band, Juniata county, of thirty-two pieces. About 150 men were in line, dressed in full regalia, the ship was drawn by six horses and trimmed in purple and white with curtain around the long base with purple letters, the name "Santa Maria." The characters were the Goddess of Liberty, Mrs. Marrocco; Queen of Spain, Miss Irzi; Queen of Italy, Mrs. Pannone; Christopher Columbus, W. Grassi. Also, a Monk, Captain of the Santa Maria, was Juivi Grassi. Three attendants in front and three in rear of the ship - also, six mounted aides accompanied. The ship and all aboard presented a very pleasing appearance. The cavalcade of ladies was a surprise to everyone along the route, few being aware that the county had so many horsewomen. There were thirty 40 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. ladies riding and, led by Mrs. A. R. Grier of Birmingham, they brought out a storm of applause all along the line. Mrs. Grier herself rode her Kentucky thoroughbred mare, "Queen Bess," a bright mahogany bay, which took two blue ribbons in the open class at the Pittsburgh show and is considered one of the finest riding mares in the state. FOURTH DIVISION. The division was led, following the markers, by the Roaring Spring band, H. O. Weaver and his aids being mounted. They were followed by a delegation of the Signalmen, in full uniform, the banners at the head of the division representing many organizations, the B. of R. T., B. of L. E. & F., letter carriers, etc. One of the unique features of this division was a parade of a delegation of some twenty of the city's mail carriers, all members of the National Postal Carriers' union, and, as all of them are widely known personally about the city, they received a great reception at the various reviewing stands. This portion of the parade also contained one of the regular mail wagons of the city and a buggy containing Carriers Haggerty and Costlow, who were unable to walk with the others. The division closed with a large representation of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen, who marched two-abreast, being clad in their regulation uniform and, led by the B. of R. T. Drum corps, one of the finest in the city, marching so well that they were much admired. FIFTH DIVISION. Fire-Fighters of Altoona and Surrounding Towns Present Popular Display: The firemen's division was a most creditable showing, as in addition to the Altoona fire department, there were a number of organizations from the surrounding towns and cities. The Reed band of Johnstown composed of thirty-five musicians under the leadership of Professor Otto Sann headed the division. The musicians were attired in a natty uniform of black and the Flood City is to be congratulated on having such an excellent organization. Chief Theodore Alleman rode at the head of the marchers. He was followed by his aides also mounted, who represented the paid department and the old volunteer department of former days. The Volunteer Firemen's organization of Altoona was the first body of march. ers. They were a hundred strong and could easily be distinguished by the red shirts, the prevailing uniform during the old volunteer days. The helmet, another insignia of the olden days, was likewise worn and each man carried an ax, a most necessary implement under the old fire-fighting system. The old volunteers came in for many cheers along the way. Several of the number were on a float. Little Loraine Kerkler, wearing the helmet, was on the float with the old boys. The Juniata fire department made a most creditable showing as the fighters of the borough just below us and which in time will be a part of the city, mayhap, were out in force. Rogers No. 1 had twenty-five men in line, with a hose wagon. The men were dressed in green uniforms. Rogers, No. 2, had a good representation and had a hose reel in line. Blue uniforms were worn. Juniata company No. 2 had thirty-six men in line, together with a reel. They wore the blue uniform. The Juniata contingent brought their drum corps with them and the boys gave excellent satisfaction. The Bellwood fire department, known as the Excelsior company, likewise made an excellent showing and the citizens of the sister borough should feel proud of their boys. These men attired in blue uniforms marched four abreast and they marched with the experience of drilled soldiers. There were forty-five men in line together with men on the hose wagon. The Bellwood company has the distinction of having the oldest fireman from point of service in the Pennsylvania State Firemen's association. He is J. W. McCloskey, aged 72 years, and he was in the parade, riding on the wagon. The East End fire company came in for a large amount of applause. The East Enders had forty-five men in line; fourteen being members of the famous East End drum corps who can fight fire as well as make the fife thrill and the drum roll. They had a hand-drawn ladder and hose truck in line. ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 41 Huntingdon fire company, No. 2, came here for the celebration. These flame fighters wore the proverbial red shirts with white trousers. The figure "2" in large size was seen on the breasts of their shirts. They had a fine steamer in line. These boys left an excellent impression with the thousands of spectators. Tyrone Proud of Their Boys. Tyrone made a fine demonstration and there were thousands of Tyroners in the city today to see how their firemen, as well as their famous bandmen, would acquit themselves. The people of Central City who saw the demonstration probably never felt prouder than they did when they saw their fellow townsmen pass by. The Neptune company from this town was well represented and the Blazing Arrow company likewise had a large number of men in line. Both companies had appartus with them. The Blazing Arrow had an old wagon ladder on a float which, during the Centennial celebration in Philadelphia in 1876, took a prize. The firemen were attired as Indians. Following these companies came our own paid fire department, the pride of our city. The big new motor truck headed the local department. Following this were the steamers and hose wagons from the railroad fire companies who work in conjunction with the city when needed, and then came the various companies of the city proper. The big truck A, kept at the Tenth avenue house, excited the admiration of the populace as it was manuevered around the various turns. Three horses abreast were needed to pull this heavy piece of apparatus. All of the companies were represented. No. 4 company as a mascot had a little dog on the wagon which was decorated gaily with ribbon. He barked at the many spectators along the line and seemed to have a good time. Truck B, located at Sixth avenue and Thirteenth street, brought up the rear of the firemen's division. SIXTH DIVISION. Retail Merchants Show Some Great Work in Float Decorations. The division was marshaled by W. L. Longenecker, who was assisted by twenty-five mounted sub-aides, in addition to a rear guard of eighteen aides. The Ebensburg band, of thirty-five pieces, furnished the music for the division. Preceded by a gorgeously decorated automobile, a glittering golden hillock edged in azure and dotted with blue snow balls, in and around which delicate green vines creep, clingingly, moving to the slow tread of eight gorgeously caparisoned horses, was W. S. Aaron, the well known furniture dealer's contribution to the big parade. Truly, this was one of the notable shows of the occasion, stretching, as it did, fully 200 feet in length. The adopted colors of the big furnishing house, a golden yellow and dark blue, covered the train completely from the forehead of the first horses clear along the line to the rear of the great float, which resembled a huge pyramidal shaped bank of yellow snow, over which had dropped numerous large blue balls, sufficient of which had sprung into orderly array, to spell out the names. "W. S. Aaron, Furniture," in five foot letters. In charge of H. E. Westbrook, "chief of staff," and K. B. Young, "commander of horse," the superb train majestically moved along, pulsating from end to end, even the gaily caparisoned horses seeming conscious of their duties and the importance of the occasion. Unfeigned admiration marked the features of spectators on every hand. The float was a pretentious affair, twenty feet long, ten feet wide and ten feet high, with a square base from which it rose to the apex in the shape of a pyramid. The background was of yellow excello, the scalloped bottom edged in blue. The yellow was sprinkled with blue snow balls, relieved between with green vines. A large blue star with yellow centre, gave tone to the rear. The same color scheme was carried out in decorating the horses. Large fluffy blankets of yellow, blue dotted, covering each horse completely, including head and neck, was a sight suggesting the gorgeous, to say the least. The automobile, which lead the train, and was a revelry of yellow and blue, was occupied by Mr. Aaron, founder and proprietor of the store, and three small girls. The girls were dressed in white and wore a yellow rosette in their hair and carried umbrellas matching the predominant color of the scheme. 42 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. The attendants wore special uniforms made for the occasion of blue with yellow band on the coat and yellow stripe on the trousers. Caps were also blue with yellow band, "Commander of Horse" Young, mounted on a horse which seemed to enter into the pomp and gayety of the occasion, was a fitting escort to the brilliant scene. Grant Sheffer's book and stationary store came next in line and the float presented an elaborate display of wall paper, in addition to containing a number of paper hangers. Some fine samples of paper were shown. The float was divided off into a compartment of rooms, with a different sample of paper in each room. The base of the wagon was draped in white. The horses were plumed. A number of flags floated from the posts supporting the paper. Jeweler Louis Lippman's float was one of the most attractive in the parade. The main feature was a large clock that was striking the hours. On one side of the clock was a handsome bronze statue of a hunter on his Arabian steed, with game fastened to the back of the saddle. On the other side stood a tree illuminated by electricity. White and green decorations were worked in artistically. On both sides and at the end of the float was the firm name, "Lippman Bros." Along the line of march tasty souvenirs were distributed. Silk ribbons of different colors bearing the name, "Lippman, Jewelers and Opticians, Altoona, Pa.," fluttered into the hands of the crowd. A watch dial, the same as used by the Elgin company, was another souvenir design. The float was drawn by two grey horses, richly comparisoned, with the firm name on the saddles. The display of the Altoona Brewing company, owned by Wilhelm, Schimminger and Ramsey, came next. The float was one of the most elaborate in the display. It was built on a flat base, and contained four large pillars, one at each corner. In the bowl was seated four young ladies attired in white. In the center of the float, seated on a high platform, were two more young ladies. The color scheme was white, and the body and sides were covered with white drapery. The Pennsylvania, State Poultry association was represented by a unique and attractive display. The large float, which was drawn by four grey horses, was thirty feet in length. It contained coops in which some prize poultry, pigeons and animals were displayed. The coops were intermingled with drapery. A canopy hung over the poultry display and the trimmings were in white and blue. A number of attendants were in charge of the display. They were attired in white caps and white suits. The Ancient Order of Hibernian float followed in this division instead of coming in the second division. The characters hereon impersonated "Queen Erin" extending a helping hand in the time of need in the shape of over three hundred thousand of her sons, led by her generals. Four of them were represented, namely, Sheridan, the hero of Winchester and Cedar Creek; Gen. Geo. G. Meade, who won the battle of Gettysburg, the greatest battle in modern history, and the decisive battle of the Civil war. Cochran, who was under General Scott at the battle of Bull Run and Thomas Meagher, leader of the Irish Brigade of whom a number of historians speak in brilliant words of their gallantry. Thirty yards of excello and other decorative material were used to trim the float, the red, white and blue were prominent. The American and Irish flags were in evidence. A picture of Arch Bishop J. J. Hughes of New York was shown on the rear of the float. During the rebellion he was sent by President Lincoln to France and England as special ambassador to induce the nations to remain neutral. This important measure brought victory to Seward's diplomacy. Queen Erin was impersonated by Miss Sarah Poran, who looked every inch a queen. She wore a beautiful green gown trimmed in gold braid with a gold crown and celtic cross. Columbia wore a white satin gown trimmed in silver braid and wore a liberty crown. Miss Martha Hickey, Columbia, was stately and acted her part well. Four aides or guards of honor marched with the float. They received frequent applause along the line, which they deserved. Porch Bros. piano house had the next display in line and an elaborately decorated float represented the music house. A number of uprights were placed on the float and a piano of the firm was placed in the middle. Music was furnished over the entire route by one of the young ladies. Ferns and potted plants adorned the corners of the float. ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 43 A huge basket, such as none but an Amazon or a Hercules could carry, surrounded by four massive columns, resting on a structure 24 feet long and 9 feet in width, made of white excello and purple trimmed, with just a suggestion of green, the Rothert Furniture Company's massive float, was one of the "hits" of the parade. The groundwork of this float represented a small elevated garden, square in shape, except for a graceful "swell" at the centre of each side of lattice work. With a background of fluffy white, edged off by a wide purple scroll border and sprinkled with lilacs on delicate green vines, a most striking effect was obtained. Across the white lattice in neatly worked letters of purple, the name "Rothert Co.," appeared. The centre of the stage was occupied by a huge basket, eight feet from end to end, five feet in width and probably six feet in depth. This was of white excello, with purple handle, purple band around the top and dotted with lilacs. From each of the four corners of the float there arose massive white columns around which lilacs climbed to the purple capitals. Crowning the columns and smiling from the big basket, eight fairy like little girls, one on top of each column and four in the basket, dressed in white, and carrying white parasols trimmed with lilacs, presented a fairyland scene of unusual and unequaled beauty. The float was drawn by four horses clad in white blankets, with a large purple "R" ingeniously worked into the side. Each horse was accompanied by an attendent in white uniform with purple stripe on trousers and coat. The driver and a rear guard occupied large Roman chairs on the float, one in front and the other immediately in the rear of the huge basket. In the sixth division came the float of H. C. Sperry, the retail piano dealer of Thirteenth avenue and Eleventh street. The float represented a music house. Pots of ferns adorned the room. A Howard piano was carried on the float, this being played while passing the reviewing stands. National tunes were rendered. Mr. Sperry showed his artistic skill in the decorations. Uncle Sam was impersonated on the float. He was represented by S. L. Sperry, a son of the proprietor. Sheets of music and booklets were distributed along the line of march. Four young ladies, the Misses Maud Springer, Naomi Sheets, Ethel Griffith and Ortha Nicodemus, stood at each corner of the float. They were attired in white, with a gold crown on the head. Each held a pink and green banner. Four horses drew the float. The drapery on the float extended almost to the paving, hiding the wheels of the wagon from view. W. L. Longenecker's float came next in line, and represented the time of 1862 and the present. E. P. Scotten, a war veteran aged 74 years, represented the period of 1862. He was attired in the Union blue. His little grand-child accompanied him and represented the present generation. James McLain and Charles Lauver were also attired as soldiers of the Civil war. The wagon was drawn by one horse. The decorations were elaborate and contained a profusion of green maple leaves. The uprights were filled and the roof completely covered. The body was draped in red, white and blue. The coal firm of L. P. Kline was next in line. This team was a two horse delivery wagon of the firm. It bore a huge sign, and in the center on a slightly raised platform was displayed samples of coal sold by the firm. The wagon was neatly decorated. The horses were covered with American flags and bunting. The Germania Brewery, John Kazmaier, proprietor, float came next in line. The float was an elaborate one and contained five uprights which were decorated with white bunting. Six young ladies attired in white occupied places on the float. Potted plants and ferns adorned the floor. The Independent Fife and Drum Corps of this city marched next in line after which came another float of Brewer Kazmaier. The float was even more elaborate than the first and on a high platform, in the rear was seated Columbia, attired in red, white and blue. Fourteen young ladies attired in white with bride's caps, holding banners bearing the names of the fourteen loyal war states occupied seats on the float. Ribbons were strung from each of the banners to Columbia, who guided the destinies of each state. The Westfall company float, one of the finest in the line, deserves special 44 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. mention. Weeks of labor and study by the artist and skillful mechanic, who conceived the idea and built this beautiful conveyance, are deserving of all possible praise. After the parade had passed the Westfall Co. float seemed to be the common point of talk. It was 26 feet in length, 7 feet wide and drawn by four white horses having robes of purple and gold that reached to the knees and trimmed with gold fringe and tassels. On each horse's bridle was a handsome red, white and blue plume. The Keystone, the trade mark of the firm, was made of royal purple velvet with the name of the company in gold letters. The float represented the number of states at the time of the convention of loyal war governors. Along the body of the float were shields to represent each state. The central figure on each side was the coat of arms of Pennsylvania. The states were also represented by girls dressed in gold with a purple sash across the breast with the name of the state represented and holding a banner with the name of the governor of the state represented at the time the meeting was held here. A throne covered with purple plush mounted with a canopy and upon the throne sat Pennsylvania with streamers in hand extending to each of the loyal states, inviting them to meet in Altoona, showing that she was the one who called the meeting. The top of the canopy was richly ornamented with gold lace and tassels. A ribbon along the base of the float with the inscription, "The Loyal War Governors' Conference," on the center and sides of the float a fine picture of President Lincoln and Governor Curtin with the state flag on one side and national flag on the other. On the front end of the float was a huge American eagle, perched with out-spread wings. Uncle Sam, the teamster, rode on the eagle's back. A shield on the breast of the bird and a ribbon in its mouth bore the inscription "E Pluribus Unum." Each end of the inscription ribbon was ornamented with a gold scroll in high relief made of papier mache and gilded. A scroll in bright relief, 8 feet high and 9 feet wide, ornamented each side of the throne. Miss Estelle Owens represented Pennsylvania on the throne and was handsomely dressed in a gold gown with the train falling over the steps of the throne. Walter B. Wagner, decorator for the firm, designed and made the float equipment. The eagle, coat of arms and gold scrolls were first moulded out of clay, plaster was then made into these patterns. Papier mache was formed and when completed, gilded. All this was prepared in the store. The approximate cost was possibly between four and five hundred dollars. Boyd, Glenn & Co., had a unique display in line and on the company's float the conditions that prevailed at the close of the Civil war. In the rear of the float there were two tombstones, one designated as the grave of the wearer of the Union Blue, and the other as the "Gray". In the center was a small maple tree, while at the front end of the float sat two ladies attired as widows, in addition to a number of small children as orphans. Resembling outwardly one of those delightful little be-columned and fairy like bowers one reads about in Roman lore, but inwardly representing a modern reading room which master furniture builders have given an air of quiet luxury and comfort undreamed of in former times, the float of the Standard Furniture Company showed rare skill and remarkable ingenuity. Under skillful hands of expert workmen a square base 18 feet long, 8 feet wide and 4 feet deep, of ordinary cloth and wood, was magically turned into four crimson edged sunbursts, one on either end and on each side. This formed a base for the structure which rose above to a height of about 13 feet. Towering above the surface of the float, four large columns formed a room eight feet square and supporting a canopy covering, which was a riot of autumn leaves on the top. At each corner of the float, three smaller columns were deftly formed into classic pedestals bearing urns and a variety of flowers. Crimson edged white panels connected the columns forming the room, which was fitted up in modern fashion for a reading room or library. Across the white field forming the panels, the words, "Standard Furniture" appeared in blue. The scene laid within the room is a most attractive one. A large mahogany library table of colonial design occupied the centre. Around this, in large comfortable leather chairs, four young girls were seated, each dressed in a white gown. The horses drawing the ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 45 float were richly caparisoned, presenting an appearance of remarkable gayety in their harmonious colorings. The exhibit gave evidence of a well thought out plan coupled with skill in both design and workmanship. The autumn leaves covering the canopy were oak, suggesting the wood which enters more largely into the manufacture of furniture than any other. The shining and fluting and paneling with cloth was skillfully executed, while the various colors were blended with a model of neatness and harmony. Kline Bros., float followed in line. The float was drawn by four horses and contained six young ladies, who were seated in the center of uprights from the floor of the wagon. Two young men attired in white suits occupied the center of the wagon. Two girls also occupied seats on a raised platform. All were attired in white. The wagon was also attired in white. Goldstein's float displayed a court scene with a large number of fashionably attired young ladies. A huge American flag formed the back ground. The covering was trimmed with autumn leaves, while the uprights presented a mass of yellow and white bunting. Many potted plants and bouquets of flowers occupied the stage. George O. Dilling's float appeared next in line. The display portrayed on the float was a unique one and extremely pleasing all along the line of march. Simon's Shoe Store float was one of the finest in the parade. The Simon auto was decorated in white and yellow throughout, and a bare spot could not be found. On the top of the auto was a hugh shoe decorated in yellow and white bunting. The features of the shoe were perfect, and the buttons were displayed by white ribbon. Kline & Company's float was featured by eight young ladies attired in white. On each corner of the float sat a youngster on a pedestal. The pedestals were decorated in white and pink. In the center an arch was erected and two young ladies were seated on each side. John Bellis' grocery team was next in line. The wagon was covered with blue and white bunting, and the sides were draped with small flags. Elway & Mattas had something unique in the line of floats, and the body of the wagon contained a cage containing two prize sheep, owned by the butchers. The cage was fitted out in red, white and blue. The float was drawn by two spirited animals, arranged in the tandem style. Each horse was led by a hostler. McEldowney Bros.' big automobile delivery truck appeared next in line. The big truck was covered with red. white and blue ribbon, and the sides were practically hidden from view. Grocer C. C. Roudabush had a nicely decorated wagon in line. H. Sabathne, the tinner, displayed a modern heater on a float. The Germania bakery establishment was represented by a wagon. The Pleasant Valley stock farm, the home of certified milk, B. B. Hileman, proprietor, had a display which was as unique as it was splendid, and there was not an eye along the entire line that missed the spectacle. Two of the prize winning bulls owned by Mr. Hileman were hitched up and pulled the float along. The animals did not seem to mind the large crowds a bit. In fact they are used to crowds as one of the annimals has been exhibited at seventeen state fairs while the other has taken in eleven, winning prizes right along. In the float was a live cow of the famous Swiss breed. Bossy looked contentedly at the big throngs along the line. The float was trimmed in the national colors and at the corners were found stalks of corn, several of which were fourteen feet in heighth. Mr. Hileman, mounted on a fine grey horse, rode ahead of the float. The Pleasant Valley dairy came next with a live milch cow on a float. The S. H. Keith and Shady Meadows milk wagons came next. J. H. Raines, the plumber, had an exhibit that brought forth applause everywhere. It was a modern bathroom fitted up on a float. Little Sarah Sweet, aged 6 and Allie Miller, aged 5, were riding on the float, along with an older person. The Grand Union Tea company had five floats and wagons in line. The first float presented a Japanese scene. Four beautiful girls attired in Japanese costume was the cynosure of all eyes. The Wolfe Sporting Goods establishment presented a unique exhibit. The two Porta brothers, said to be the youngest prize fighters in the world, gave exhibitions of sparring and bag punching along the way. Frank is aged 8 and Paul is 9. They reside at 2509 Eighth avenue. In the portion reserved for auto 46 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. trucks, George M. Auriek, the well known butcher, had a fine automobile delivery truck that was beautifully decorated with ropes of red, white and blue tinsel and colored plumes. The exhibit of the Singer Sewing Machine company was an interesting one, they showing a number of old style sewing machines in contrast with the latest models. The company had four buggies and an automobile in line, all prettily decorated with flags and colored ropes, and, on the rear of each buggy was a sewing machine, representing the different stages in the manufacture of the machines. The oldest machine was that on the automobile, which was a machine sold in 1850. SEVENTH DIVISION. Wholesale Dealers of City Elaborate on Floats. Headed by the markers carrying the banner of the Seventh division came the Osterburg band, and C. F. Anderson, the chief marshal. He had two sub-aides who marched in the rear of the marshal. Next came the squad of ten assistant aides. First in the line of march came the float of the Anderson Paper and Twine Company. The firm's largest wagon was used to present the display. The wagon was covered with white colored bunting, and this was draped nearly to the ground. The float contained samples of the different sizes of paper sold by the firm. The scheme of placing the rolls was the shape of an "X". The largest roll formed the center, and the varied sizes were placed at right angles from the center. The float was covered, an awning being suspended on four large white pillars. "A peach of a float" describes the float in the line of parade that represented the produce firm of Albright Bros. The float attracted much attention all along the line. It was an immense pyramid of peaches which were shipped to the firm from Prevo, Utah, the land of the finest peaches in the world. The float was decorated in the national colors. The name of the firm was featured in a novel manner with the fruit. The name was inscribed in gilt letters on the wagon, and the letters were intermingled with the peaches. About 4,000 peaches were distributed along the route. T. J. Armstrong & Son's float followed in line. The float was drawn by four horses and the wagon represented a candy stand. It was square and contained four counters. Two young ladies attired in white acted as clerks and they dispensed good "sweets" all along the line of march. A number of jars of candy was placed at intervals on the counters. Fourth in line was the floats of the W. W. Blake Tobacco company. They were three in number. The first was the miniature wagon drawn by two donkeys in charge of a clown. The body of the wagon contained a large amount of bunting and advertised "Happy Sam". The other two wagons were the two general delivery teams and they were draped with a profusion of red, white and blue. The J. Blumenthal Sons' wholesale cigar house had a most appropriate float in line. The bed of the float, which, was fifteen feet long and eight feet wide, was trimmed artistically in blue and yellow. From the bed rose six circular columns which were made of empty cigar boxes. There was one column at each of the corners and two in the centre on which was surmounted a model of a huge cigar. The "big smoke" was seven feet in length. Two horses decorated in white drew the float. Crysanthemums were used extensively in the decorative scheme. An elaborate float represented the A. Benzel bakery. The float was decorated in white and contained six bakers, in the long white coats and white loose rimmed cap. Large pretzels formed part of the decorations, and a large array of youngsters found the display popular owing to the free samples of the baking art. E. D. Clark's float was filled with sacks of flour. The sacks were arranged in an attractive style. The float was on an auto truck. The bags of flour were piled high in the rear of the machine, with small assortments arranged in the rear of the drivers seat. Four decorated floats and wagons represented the Reid Tobacco company, wholesalers. The first float in line was drawn by four horses covered with white blankets and plumed. The float contained a large number of American beauty roses, which formed the name of ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 47 the firm. The roses were distributed over the body to a heighth of two feet. At each corner of the float was a tobacco plant, just before it is ready to be harvested. On a pedestal was seen one of the largest cigars ever exhibited in this city. It was a Reid cigar, with the tobacco motto on it. Cloyd Kerlin headed the procession and announced the approach of the float. The second float was decorated in red, white and blue, and was divided into two compartments. It contained four young ladies. They were Margaret M. Irwin, Thelma Mathews, Olga Neffan and Jennette Shaffer. They gave out "permits" to smoke. The third float was one of the firm's new wagons with the roof gaily attired. The decorations represented the liberty bell on a cross bar. The fourth float portrayed the close of the Civil war, with the Blue and the Grey shaking hands. A tent was erected on the top of the wagon. Curry, Canan & Co. Ltd., wholesale grocers, were represented in the parade by an elaborate rectangular float. A canopy was erected on the float, and it was supported by four white pillars. The color scheme throughout was blue and white. On the sides of the canopy was the name of the house with the date of establishment and the present date. The float was drawn by four bay horses. Klepser Bros., were represented in the division by two elaborate floats which contained bags of flour. The bags were artistically arranged and presented a neat appearance. The horses attached were gaily decorated. The body of the wagon was attired in blue and white ribbon. One of the wagons represented the Goddess of Liberty on an elevated platform. Sheaves of wheat were fastened to the rear of the wagon. A "King Midas" sign was used to advantage on the Wray, Moore & Co. wholesale grocers' float. The largest wagon of the firm was planned with a fiat surface, the top being three feet above the wheels. The top was twelve feet long and six feet wide. It was draped with a covering of bright orange bunting three feet wide, in addition to having dark blue trimmings. On the middle of the float was a pyramid of King Midas flour in the original sacks. On each corner of the float was a steel cut figure of a little girl five feet in heighth. The float was drawn by two horses and two mules, An orange colored blanket covered each animal. An exhibit that gave the spectators a peep into the days of the aborigines was presented by the float of the William Weil company wholesale tobacco firm. The bed of the float was artistically formed of oak leaves and branches and at each corner was a shock of corn, a plant given to the white man by the Indians. In the midst is seen the commanding figure of "Sleepy Eye," a warrior brave whose many deeds of valor have gone down in history and after whom a famous brand of cigars bas been named. A typical tepee is nearby and all the surroundings are in keeping with the general scheme. The float was most realistic and drew forth much favorable comment all along the line. EIGHTH DIVISION. Conestoga Wagon and "John Bull" Train Among the Interesting Features. One of the most unique and attractive demonstrations was that of the Pennsylvania railroad company, whose floats gave a good idea of the means of travel as found in the "Conestoga Wagon," "Canal Packet - 'Old Pittsburgh Line," "John Bull Train - Camden and Amboy Railroad - 1831," "First Steam Train to the West, 1834," and the "First Passenger Car with Elevated Roof, 1836," as compared to the "Eighteen Hour" train that spins through valley and city and climbs the mountain side. The coming of these important auxiliaries to the industrial parade was preceded by a mounted herald bearing a banner emblazoned on which was: "The Pennsylvania Railroad Presents Early Transportation," and immediately following the marshal of these floats was the Altoona City band with 35 pieces, led by Prof. Jule Neff. Float No. 1 was a Conestoga wagon drawn by six horses, while on its canvased sides was the sign, "Philadelphia and Pittsburgh 20 Days." This means of transportation pushed the pack horses and ox carts to the side as a more up-to-date means of travel. This wagon was borrowed for the occasion from Nathaniel Groff, of East Petersburg, Lancaster county. The second float represented was a fac-simile of the passenger boat used on the "raging canal" in 1836 and named 48 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. "Red Rover." A number of young ladies and young gentlemen, dressed in styles of that time were on the packet, while on either side marched young folks costumed as travelers were in those days when their belongings were carried in a "carpet sack," similar to our ladies' minature hand bag of today. The "Red Rover" plied over the slack waters of the canal between Lancaster and Safe Harbor until 1833, and the miniature packet was a good representation of the original built in Lancaster in 1828. "John Bull" locomotive float with two coaches, not only showed the original engine as constructed for the Camden and Amboy railroad, but the two passenger cars of the stage body pattern, thus making up the first steam train in the state of New Jersey, November 12, 1831. On both sides of this exhibition were several young ladies and gentlemen representing travelers of that day. Following this was a model of the "First Train to the West - 1834." and was a reproduction of a type of engine known as "Lancaster," built by M. W. Baldwin, of Philadelphia, for the Philadelphia & Columbia railroad and was the first practical locomotive put to use on that road. The two stage body cars were a reproduction of the original cars, which were constructed to be drawn by horses, but modified to adapt them to the locomotive. Another float that pleased many along the line of march was the "First Passenger Car with Elevated Roof" and was an exact pattern of the first coach equipped with an elevated roof and had a capacity of twelve passengers inside. These models of other days were in marked contrast to the huge steam and electric locomotives, and all steel passenger coaches that are found threading their way over our country. This humble beginning of the great Pennsylvania blazed the way for greater conquest as the following statistics show: 1802. 1912. Miles of single track, 882 3,810 Locomotives, all classes, 255 3,021 Pass. equipment, cars, 158 2,502 Freight equipment, cars, 4,010 140,989 NINTH DIVISION. Manufacturers Show Rolling Mill in Operation and Other Exhibits. The ninth division, one of the most interesting in the parade, was headed by the Hastings band, with ex-Mayor E. F. Giles as marshal and his aids on horseback. One of the most interesting exhibits in the parade was that of the Altoona water department, designed by Superintendent S. A. Gailey and Secretary C. B. Campbell. It consisted of two large floats, one representing the Kittanning Point and impounding reservoirs and the second, Lake Altoona, the wonderful new dam just being built by the city near Kittanning Point. A showing that is in keeping with the ever evident business enterprise and the civic pride displayed by S. Morris and his associates, represented the Wosononock and Roselawn projects in the line. The two floats elicited most favorable applause from the many thousands. The Wopsy float was nothing less than the famous mountain resort in miniature. The creation was one of the most realistic of the day. The towering mountain, the winding railroad leading to the top, the unsurpassed mountain scenery, the rustic summer cottage, all were there. The design was conceived by Mr. Morris and most cleverly developed by artists. The Roselawn float was every bit as clever in design and execution. The bed of the float was real greensward, representing a lawn. By the artistic employment of American Beauty roses, the word "Roselawn" was brought out with beautiful effect. On the lawn was found a small cottage, happy children, chickens, a dog, all typifying the pleasures of suburban life. Contractor J. S. Fleck had a very attractively decorated float upon which he had a corps of men at work undertaking some building operations. The Altoona Iron company's exhibit was a most interesting one, they having a large flat float upon which was erected a model rolling mill. It was in full operation, four workmen being engaged in tending the fires, and the whole of a mill of this character was depicted so that the full operation could be seen. J. C. Orr had a float on which was found building materials which enter into modern dwellings. ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 49 On a float put out by Contractor P. W. Finn was represented a stone quarry. Men were at work, getting stone in shape for building purposes. A large derrick was to be seen on the float. J. W. Shoenfelt, the tinner, had a float on which was a modern house heating system. T. W. Gearhart had a pretty float representing "Mapledale," a suburb. A cottage with trees surrounding was to be seen. The Knob Supply had a number of floats in line. Building material of various kinds were to be seen. One of the best of all the exhibits was that of the Baker estates, Mr. Beckman, the manager, having depicted the work of the estate on two large floats. The first, drawn by four horses with red, white and blue plumes, showed an ordinary field laid out, with grass actually growing upon it and, at either end, large quantities of the products grown on the Baker farms were piled. The second float represented the Baker pony farm, it being a beautifully decorated float, boarded upon the sides and having six fine Shetland ponies riding in it, in charge of several keepers. The Salvation Army industrial home was represented by three floats. They were in charge of the employes of the home. The first contained five men portraying the conditions of the inmates when they arrive at the industrial home. The second represented the men as they are after a few months in the home, and as they are when ready to leave. Banners were carried on each float. The third float contained two banners which showed the statistics of the industrial home since its institution in this city. All the floats were attired in the national colors, and the men on the teams carried American flags. The Germania Brewery had a large float trimmed in white, with "Lady Germania" the central figure, representing the trade mark of the brewery. On each corner of the float was a floral nest, four feet above the floor, each with a tiny girl representing purity. Beautiful morning glories were twined around the nests. A stand above "Germania" was trimmed with bottled beer, the product of the brewery. The curtain around the base was trimmed in white excello with pink floral letters, the word Kazmaier" standing out prominently. Four fine horses drew the float, decked with plumes and fancy trimmings. Mr. Kazmaier rode in advance of the float. A useful souvenir, a bottle opener with the compliments of Mr. John Kazmaier inscribed, was given out. TENTH DIVISION. Bicycles, Pony Carts, Fantastics, Unas- signed Wagons and Other Vehicles. Marshaled by Charles E. Weller, who was assisted by a corps of sixteen aides came the miscellaneous display. The division was one of the most unique in the parade, and was marked by a large number of pony carts and decorated bicycles, and ship styles were in evidence. The division was headed by the Mountain City band. The first in line was the two-pony team of Earl Seward, which was gaily decorated. The driver sat incased in a basket of flowers, while an American flag formed an umbrella. The ponies were decorated in the national colors. Next came the two-pony team containing Mr. and Mrs. Philip Brunner of 2306 Sixth avenue. The wagon was covered with bunting and an American parasol covered the pair. A half dozen other pretty decorated pony wagons followed. All were covered with bunting, and only the drivers were shown. W. Gerhart's "quick delivery" was one feature of the division. The display consisted of six of the employes attired as clowns and each leading a donkey. The animals were covered with bunting. They were attached to a wagon that bore the inscription "Gerhart's Quick Delivery." A small boy drove the sextette of ponies. The wagon was a small miniature express team. Twenty-five bicycles followed in order after the pony wagons. The first represented Pennsylvania. An airship design, showing the two wings and connected by all the necessary wires, was erected on the handle bars. A doll baby was used to represent the aviator. The wheel was in charge of Raymond Wherley. The bicycle was trimmed in national colors. Following came Uncle Sam attired in the stars and stripes, and surrounded by long poles which were covered with bunting. Raymond Bart followed on wheel No. 6. The decorations were arch 50 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. shaped and the color scheme was yellow and blue. James Dixon rode a wheel representing a battle ship. The ship was twenty feet long and surrounded the rider. It was built of canvas, elaborately decorated. He was No. 9 in the line of parade. Flags of all nations hung from the masts. Sam Keiser also represented a ship with his wheel, and his efforts showed a large amount of work. The wheel was carefully trimmed and the decorations elaborate. George Riggin rode a bicycle portraying the hunter scene. With a gun strapped over his shoulder he rode behind a large tree fastened to the handle bars. The two wheels were trimmed with branches. On the trees a number of stuffed squirrels were hung. A rabbit was suspended from the hunter's belt. He wore a hunting uniform of brown khaki. David Reighart drove his pony in the division. The animal was covered with bunting and wore two large blue plumes attached to the bridle. The wagon was arched so as to cover the driver. A mass of bicycles rode by the younger element followed in the rear. All came single file and they displayed a goodly amount of bunting of the national colors. A platoon of twelve mounted riders on ponies followed the riders. A quartet of horsemen attired as cowboys brought up the rear guard. THEO W. ALLEMAN, Marshal of Firemen's Division. W. B. WARD, Marshal of Clubs and Societies. [51] Many Cars in Auto Parade. Finely Decorated Machines Excite Wonder of Populace as They Pass Over Streets of City. Large Amount of Money Expended in Decorative Effects. From Altoona Mirror, September 27, 1912. THE automobile owners were the most unfortunate of all those who had planned for the celebration of this week, over 120 auto owners having elaborately decorated their cars for the parade, expecting it to take place on Tuesday. However, after rain spoiled it that day, and again yesterday afternoon, many of the owners had to tear off their decorations and were not seen in the parade. Undismayed by the misfortunes that had so far attended, 100 autoists assembled at 1:30 this afternoon at Fifth avenue and Nineteenth street and, starting promptly at 2 o'clock, moved over the route of parade as originally laid down, covering both sides of the city twice and consuming only a trifle over an hour in finishing the entire parade, the average speed of the cars in line being twelve miles an hour. The city police kept the streets well cleared for the parade and the trolley company helped out by having their cars on the parade route stopped while it was passing. The parade opened with the passing of the enormous auto truck owned by B. P. Wilkinson & Co., proprietors of the Blair Car Co., upon which had been erected an enormous stand, containing chairs for the 40 musicians of the Jaffa band, this being one of the largest numbers of persons ever carried on a single automobile in a public parade anywhere. The whole truck was also very nicely decorated in colored bunting and cheese cloth. The parade, following the band, was led by the large touring car of Chief Marshal J. E. Shute. When the parade was first called off on Tuesday, Marshal Shute, who then had nearly 200 cars ready to take part, was called up by dozens of owners who wanted to take off their decorations and cancel their entrance, but he stuck to it and urged all to take part, it being due alone to his efforts that so many cars turned out today. Marshal Shute's own car, which was the first of the automobiles, was also one of the most beautiful in the entire line. It was driven by Mr. Shute and occupied also by his wife and children, all dressed in white. The entire car was covered, the background of the decorations being a field of orange colored paper, with a beautiful intertwining of wisteria vines over the whole, while the outlines of the car were covered with purple fancy paper and flowers of purple. All the occupants were dressed in white save Mr. Shute's baby girl, Virginia, aged 2, who sat on the top of the car, dressed in purple and white. The whole made a most beautiful exhibit. Among the other cars in the line of parade that were splendidly decorated were the following: The big touring car containing John Lloyd, sr., and party was so completely decorated that not a portion of the wood work of the car was visible. The base of the car was first painted white and the entire body and top of the car draped with white excello, pink roses and rose vines covering the whole, while the car was outlined with an additional trimming of pink crysanthemums, these also covering the spokes of the wheels. On the front of the car were a number of white doves, from whose wings streamers of ribbon spread back to the car itself. The car of Mal. H. Neuwahl, manager of Simon's shoe store, containing himself and chauffeur, was entirely covered with pink and white excello paper, artistically draped, while, on the top of the car was an immense shoe, with the "Old Woman in the Shoe" and her many children represented by toy figures. The back and sides of the auto were also trimmed with American flags. J. M. Woodcock's car was elaborately trimmed with natural flowers of various kinds, flags and bunting, the wheels forming stars in the national colors and the interior of the car carrying bouquets of flowers. H. F. Faber trimmed his car entirely 52 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. with the colors of the Altoona Motor club, blue and yellow, the draping, which covered the car, being of cloth, while there were two large flags on the forward end of the car. The touring car owned by John Kazmaier, proprietor of the Germania brewery, was one of the prettiest in the parade. A big car, it was trimmed over the entire surface with white excello, every part being covered, while, over all, was a covering of pink flowers, the floral decorations containing several thousand blooms, beautifully arranged. E. E. Greene's car contained Mr. and Mrs. F. B. Greene, Miss Bessie Greene and the three grandchildren of Mr. Greene, while the body of the car was entirely covered with pink and orange paper. The trimmings, which covered the body and top of the car, consisted of artificial chrysanthemums, the whole presenting a very fine appearance. Robert Fay of the firm of Fay, Hutchinson & Co. had an attractive float in line. The car was trimmed in white papier-mache and not a vacant spot was left on the car. Only the lights showed through the decorations. Intermingled between the white decorations was a number of red roses, in addition to a number of strings of large lilies. Two doves were perched on the uprights of the wind shield. The wheels were trimmed with vines of roses. Three American flags adorned the front of the car, while the hood contained a few little pennants, in addition to the white papier-mache. The fender was also draped. A mass of white completely covered the features of the P. W. Finn car. Bunting was used for the body, and long lines of blue drapery were strung around the top of the car, and along the steps and fenders. A number of white plumes were placed at different places on the car. Two white doves, with extended wings were perched on the lamps on the front of the car. Both were secured by two ribbons fastened on the wind shield. Blue streamers were used to decorate the wheels and back of the car. Two small flags also adorned the back. Four young ladies rode in the tonneau of the car of George A. Klesius, each one attired in a white dress and holding the ribbons attached to two white doves which were displayed above the wind shield. The car was trimmed in papier-mache. The top rim contained a streamer of red colored roses and green leave, while around the base was a long one of blue flowers. The wheels were also interwoven with flowers. The car was driven by Mr. Klesius. The young ladies in the tonneau were Agnes, Jennie and Teresa Klesius and Irene Snyder. A. H. Brady's car appeared in the line of parade with the hood covered by American flags. A long pole six feet in heighth was shown in front of the wind shield. At the top floated a flag. Three streamers extended from the pole to the rear of the car. The streamers also extended to the front of the machine. Red, white and blue bunting graced the front and back of the car, while each space between the doors on the side was closely decorated in the national colors. Small flowers were woven about the bunting, and a long string of roses covered the front fender and continued along the sides. In the rear of the machine was a long frame, containing a half dozen different pictures of Abraham Lincoln. John Haller, the Fifth avenue baker, had his car covered with papier-mache, colored green, yellow and white. A triple arch was erected over the tonneau and front of the machine. These were trimmed heavily with green colored paper. The body of the car was also well filled with vari-colored paper, and not a portion of the machine showed through the extensive decorations. The wheels were also decorated and contained the bright colored paper bunting. The car was driven by Mr. Haller's son, William. In the tonneau were the members of the Haller family. W. W. Blake, the wholesale tobacconist and one of the most prominent boosters of the jubilee, repeated his big success of yesterday. In yesterday's parade, a number of floats represented this well known business establishment, one in commemoration of William Penn, which has given a name to a famous brand of cigars, being especially pleasing. Several large American flags were draped over the tonneau and brought up over the splashboards of the car in such a manner as to produce a very handsome effect. The wheels were hidden by red, white and blue paper and the extra tire carried at the side had been made twice its natural size by the decorations. A large flag covered the top of the car and around the sides were found tas- ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 53 sels, all red, white and blue. On the hood was found a large fern; the green leaves contrasting with the brilliant colors of bunting and paper, producing a very fine effect. The float that had been arranged by Wolfe Bros., the sporting goods men, was typical of the establishment. A hunting scene was presented. One of the big automobiles was covered with a bank of ferns, bushes and moss, representing a forest. In the tonneau sat a number of hunters, attired in the clothing generally worn by nimrods and each having a gun. On the hood of the car was a large wild turkey, the king bird of the forest. It was, a fine specimen. At the rear of the forest bed was a large wild cat, which has been mounted so skilfully that one could hardly realize that it is not alive. On every side were pheasants, squirrels, rabbits and other game birds and animals found in this vicinity. The float was undoubtedly one of the best in line. Grant Sheffer, the well known painter and wallpaper man, had a car in line that was exceedingly attractive. The car was almost completely covered with white crepe which formed an admirable background for the trimmings. When it comes to a matter of taste in decorations of any kind, Mr. Sheffer is an expert and his car today showed his ability along that line. It is a difficult matter to describe the decorations, the shades of beauty being most too subtle to be painted in words. Pink chrysanthemums with plumes of various kinds were used with telling effect and that the car made a distinct hit with the spectators was shown by the applause as it passed by. In the car were three generations. Mr. and Mrs. Amos Sheffer of Williamsport, parents of Mr. Sheffer, rode in the car. Beside Mr. Sheffer, who drove, was his son, Carl, aged 13. Joseph Kunkle had an original car in line. The body of the car was trimmed in red asters, the blossoms being on a background of green. The best part of a thousand blossoms were needed and several flower gardens were denuded. Over the seat a huge umbrella was built, the outside of the rain-protector being formed of asters, while the inside was white. Yellow ribbon was used with good effect. The auto was a two-passenger size. S. Morris, head of the Wopsy and Roselawn projects, spared neither pains nor money in equipping the big Thomas touring car which he owns, for the parade. The car itself is probably the highest priced in the city. Its value was increased by the elaborate decorations The nosegay of American Beauty roses which stood high in the tonneau represented a $100 bill. There were just 135 of the fine blossoms, the finest that could be secured in this part of the state. Stretching from the leaves. Along the sides of the car were streamers of chrysanthemums and fern leaves. Along the sides of the car were banks of ferns. On the hood of the car was a large cannon pointing forward. Thousands of small red flowers make up the muzzle while fancy colored ribbon was used in forming the wheels. Several dozen yards of five-inch ribbon was used in tieing the mammoth nosegay, and in other decorative effects. Myers Bros. were the artists who made the car the veritable beauty car in the parade. The auto owned by Mrs. F. M. Christy presented an attractive and neat appearance. It was in charge of C. F. Sheedy, as chauffeur, and beside the driver sat Raymond Joseph Sheedy, attired as the King of Spain. In the tonneau of the car sat the following young persons: Josephine Jones-Casender and Florence Pearl Morgan, and John Clayton Brenneman. All the youngsters carried a basket of red flowers, decorated with small flags. The top was folded in the back and was hidden from view by a neatly drapped American flag. Two large flags were suspended from the rear of the car. Two smaller ones adorned the front. Louis Keller, proprietor of the Aldine hotel, had his seven passenger touring car neatly decorated. The machine was in charge of C. B. Hinton, as chauffeur. Mrs. Keller, Mrs. Daniels of Wilmington, Mrs. Warren Potter and Miss Orpha Hinton were riding in the machine. Artificial roses formed the main part of the decorations, and the hood of the machine was well filled. The fenders in front of the auto were draped with rose vines, and the spokes of the wheels were interwoven with the flowers. A string of flowers also adorned the side. The top was folded on the back of the car and the roses were fastened closely together, and festooned on a white back- 54 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. ground. Three white doves were perched on the top. Two were situated at opposite ends of the wind shield and one at the rear of the tonneau. A large number of American flags adorned the car of Dr. J. U. Blose. The hood of the machine contained three small flags, and the wind shield two. Large festoons of draping hung from the sides and back. The top was covered by a huge American flag. A number of plumes also floated to the breeze from the side of the car. A morning glory design was used to advantage on the automobile of W. S. Aaron. The car was literally filled with yellow cords of excello and rich tassels, and intermingled with the yellow were the vines and flowers of the morning glory. Three young ladies occupied the tonneau. They were Helen Aaron, Helen Magee and Mary Pennepacker. All carried large yellow decorated umbrellas, with blue tassels. W. B. Moser's auto contained long streamers of red, white and blue bunting. A number of large paper flowers were strewn about the hood and rear of the car. Flags and plumes also floated from points of vantage on the machine. Daniel A. Sharkey's automobile was as patriotic as could be seen in the parade. To begin with the fender across the front contained fifteen small American flags and three more followed on the front of the hood. Two pennants floated from the wind shield, while four plumes of different colors, added greatly to the appearance of the car. Two autos were contributed by James S. Fleck. The first was a two-seated runabout and was trimmed entirely with excello, arranged in an attractive appearance. A number of good-sized flags were also shown, as were a number of plumes. Red, white and blue was the color scheme on the other five passenger car of Mr. Fleck. Eight plumes of different colors were paired off along the sides. Four ladies occupied the car. They carried red, white and blue umbrellas. A large flag covered the hood of the machine. W. W. Burbank's car had a unique feature, the uprights in the front of the car having handsomely framed portraits of Washington and Lincoln, while the entire car was decorated, along all the lines of the framework, with ropes of red, white and blue cording, the whole being set off with clusters of small flags. The car of Elmer C. North was trimmed entirely with American flags, they forming the sole decoration, but being attractively arranged at every vantage point of the car. N. E. Gee had a handsome car, driven by himself and containing two ladies and a child, all in white. The body of the car was decorated with white paper, covered all over with autumn leaves and trimmings of blue flowers. The whole body of O. L. McCartney's auto was draped in white, the trimmings being in pink chrysanthemums while in the front of the car a beautiful white dove was mounted, from which streamers of white floated back to the occupants of the car. There were three ladies and two children in the car, all dressed in white gowns and hats. Penrose S. Boyer piloted a party of seven gentlemen in the parade in his auto which was trimmed entirely with large and small American flags. Mrs. Richard Beaston of Tyrone operated the two passenger runabout that was decorated entirely in white. The top and sides as well as the wheels were decorated in white. The occupants were also attired in white. A small flag floated from the hood of the machine. The car driven by W. L. Nicholson was one of the prettiest in the parade, the body of the car being covered with white paper, the trimmings being pink and the car being filled with ladies and children, all dressed to match the trimmings of the car. J. E. Elway's car was another that was unique in its decorations, it being decked entirely, from wheels to cover, in ferns. They were natural ferns, gathered from the mountains, and were of every size and style, several thousand pieces of fern being required to cover the whole machine. The auto was also filled with small children, suitably dressed to match the decoration scheme. S. A. Hite's car represented an arbor effect. Lattice work was built around each of the sides, the work being in white. From the top of the lattice was erected an arbor, with twelve different strings of decorations, forming a centre. A large American flag draped the rear of the machine. Andrew Kipple had his car decorated with excello of white, mixed with small red tassels. A number of roses were ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 55 also draped along the sides and hood of the car. Four white, blue and pink plumes adorned the aides. The wheels and lights, as well as the other minor fixtures, contained a number of roses. Little Miss Margaret Shank occupied the throne erected on the top of the meat delivery truck of Carl S. Stayer. The truck was attired in red, white and blue, with yellow excello dotted along the sides. Miss Shrank was attired as a queen and wore a gorgeous robe. R. B. Vaughn's touring car was covered, about the body, with white and pink paper, ropes of flowers, the pink and white alternating, running horizontally along the car. There were eight ladies in the car, all clad in white, while they each carried white and pink parasols to match the trimmings of the car. The car of Otto Klein was one of the most unique in the parade, he having erected four uprights at the corners and, from the grounds to the tops of the uprights, the whole was one vast grape arbor. G. W. Shaffer, the well known grocer, turned out in great style. In addition to the body of the car being tastefully decorated, a huge umbrella arose above the passengers in the tonneau. The umbrella which was made of bunting and flowers, presented a canopy effect. Mr. Shaffer, the man of eleven stores, was driving. The car made a big hit. James A. Elder, the contractor, had the body of his car bedecked in pink flowers, roses and chrysanthemums. The blossoms had a green background, and the contrast was effective. Fringes of green and pink intermingled, enhanced the decorative scheme. A. B. Snow had a two-passenger car in line. At the rear a throne of flowers had been erected. Little Pearle Snow, four years old, reigned majestically on the throne. She held white lines which reached down to the front of the car. Pink chrysanthemums on a background of pink formed the decorations. The car driven by H. F. Breth, had on each side the semi-centennial celebration shield. Bunting artistically arranged completed the decorations. H. M. Klepser, the feed man, had the body of his car covered entirely in white. Flags were used in the decorations. John Geig used blue and gold bunting in a very effective manner. K. B. Young piloted a three-wheel motorcycle. A woman rode in the side seat. The machine was trimmed in gold and blue chrysanthemums. J. B. Rouzer and H. W. Butts rode regular motorcycles, the machines being decorated in blue and gold. Former Councilman Charles E. Rhodes had a car in line that made a tremendous hit. White cotton was used in making a background and almost every part of the machine was covered. White chrysanthemums were used artistically. In the car in addition to Mr. Rhodes were three ladies, their attire being in keeping with the decorative scheme. They were attired in white gowns with white hats, the later being trimmed in white carnations. The J. C. Elway car had a white body trimmed in white and yellow chrysanthemums. In the rear rode two women, their hair powdered, adding considerable effect to the scheme of white. L. A. McIntyre had his car covered with a roof. On the sloping sides was worked out a flag, the stars and stripes being brought out in flowers of red, white and blue. Hydrangeas were used with beautiful effect on the car of J. T. Baltzell. The body of the car was covered with the fine blossoms, and nothing but a mass of flowers was to be seen. G. J. Vaughn, a son of Robert Vaughn, piloted a car that represented a boat. The driver was almost hidden by the sides of the craft. It was an original idea. William Dougherty had his car trimmed with pink chrysanthemums and yellow plumes on a yellow background, the contrasting effect being very striking. The automobile owned by Charles G. Mattas, of the firm of Elway & Mattas, butchers, at 1512 Eleventh avenue, was trimmed to represent a motor boat. The trimmings were designed by William Gearhart. The boat was complete in every detail and was over 16 feet long. Both sides were perfect and the sides were drawn to a point in an artistic manner. The rudder in the rear was also perfect, and was designed from a blue print. The entire boat was composed of natural flowers, astors, dalhias and hydrangeas being used in profusion. At the wheel was A. E. Mattas, a son, while the occupants of the motor boat were, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Mattas, Miss Margaret, Miss Dorothy, Miss Elizabeth, and two other ladies. [56] Prize Winners Announced. Both Public and Parochial Schools Come in For Consideration at the Hands of the Judges. Human Flag is Pronounced the Best Feature of Its Kind Ever Presented. From Altoona Mirror, September 28, 1912 THE judges, with W. S. Hammond as chairman and John R. Bingaman, as secretary were composed of the following well known citizens: W. L. Nicholson, I. C. Mishler, W. H. Bartle, Rev. A. E. Wagner, W. W. Blake, J. G. Davis, Rev. M. J. Kline, A. W. Beckman, J. R. Bingaman, Fred Bendheim, Rev. H. L. Bowlby, W. M. C. Craine, H. A. Davis, W. H. Bennett, Dr. J. C. Nugent, W. R. Ramsey, Rev. E. R. McCauley, W. C. Brennecke, S. M. Griffith, W. S. Hammond, M. R. Keesey, Isaac Bender, Frans Eger, Colonel Theodore Burchfield. The awards of the prizes were made with the following results: Automobile Parade. For most artistically decorated automobile - To Charles G. Mattas; prize, a handsome clock. The second most artistically decorated automobile - To Gerald Vaughn; prize; an electric parlor lamp. The third most artistically decorated automobile - To W. H. & L. C. Wolfe; prize, beautiful picture. Military and School Parade. School making best appearance in line - To Emerson school; prize, Pennsylvania State flag. School having largest percentage of enrollment in line - To Madison school, which, out of 317 pupils, had 312 in line, five others being ill in bed; a handsome picture. School having the best float in line - To St. John's parochial school; a picture. School having best illustration of subject assigned in display - To Central Grammar school, having the Human Flag, considered by the judges the finest thing in the parade; a picture. School having best alignment and best marching - To the Altoona High school; a picture. Civic and Industrial Parade. Organization having best band in line - To Knights of Pythias with the Tyrone band; prize, book-case. Organization with best and most elaborate banner - The Knights of the Maccabees; a clock. Organization best drilled in regulation military drill - display movements not being considered and not permitted - To the Uniform Rank, Knights of Pythias; a silver cup. Organization with largest number of men in line - To Washington camp No 60, P. O. S. of A.; a clock. Organization having the most artistically decorated float - Swedish society showing "The Monitor;" a clock. Organization presenting best appearance in line - To Altoona fire department; Loyal War Governors' flag. Organization having the largest number of men in line, exclusive of organizations in Blair county - To Huntingdon fire department; a silver cup. Fire company having largest number of uniformed men in line - city department excluded - To Juniata fire companies, who marched as a body; a handsome clock. Fire company making best appearance, number of men and apparatus considered - To P. R. R. fire department; rocking chair. Retail merchant having largest number of elaborately decorated floats in line - To. W. S. Aaron; prize, walrus bag. Retail merchant having the most artistically decorated float in line - To W. C. Westfall; silk U. S. flag. Retail merchant having second most artistically decorated float in line - To Rothert company; traveling bag. Retail merchant having third most artistically decorated float in line - To Standard Furniture company; traveling bag. Wholesale merchant having largest number of elaborately decorated floats in line - To Curry, Canan & Co.; leather rocker. Wholesale merchant having the most artistically decorated float in line - To T. J. Armstrong & Son; traveling set. Manufacturer having largest number ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 57 of elaborately decorated floats in line - To Germania brewery; gentleman's traveling bag. Manufacturer having the most artistically decorated float in line - To Altoona brewery; rocker. Special Tenth Division. Most artistically decorated bicycle - To pony cart No. 20, owner not known to judges. Most artistically decorated bicycle - To boat bicycle, owner not known to judges; sweater. Second most artistically decorated bicycle - To aeroplane bicycle, owner not known; lamp. Third most artistically decorated bicycle - To box canopy bicycle, owner not known; silver cup. Most unique and grotesque individual makeup on foot or mounted - To Ross Hoyer; traveler's toilet set. Most unique and grotesque company or organization on foot or mounted - To combined tribes of Red Men; a cloak. QUICK CHANGE MODEL 8 LINOTYPE. The Latest Addition to the Mirror's Battery of Linotypes. [58-69] 1913 Calendar - [Here omitted.] [70] Sketch of The Mirror Office. Our New Building, Now Occupied, is One of the Best Equipped Plants, of Its Kind, in Central Pennsylvania. THE Mirror Printing company's new building, located on the northwest corner of Green avenue and Tenth street and which has been occupied since the first of April of the present year, is one of the most complete newspaper and job printing plants in the state, the structure being the outgrowth of many years of consistent effort on the part of its principal owner and president, Harry Slep, who started in this city many, many years ago as a job printer on a small scale and who today, is head of Central Pennsylvania's greatest newspaper, published in the finest plant between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. The Mirror's new home, ground for which was broken on July 12, 1911, is the pioneer in, re-enforced concrete construction among the business buildings of the city and county, it being a fine, three-story, solid brick and concrete building, with walls 24 inches thick and built by Contractor Clifford Hughes, is pronounced one of the most substantially constructed buildings in this section of the state. The building is noted for its extensive natural light features, it having two sides, on Green avenue and on Tenth street, that are practically all glass, the window space being greater than in any other building in the city, in comparison to its size, and it is only on the very darkest days that artificial light has to be used in any of the many departments of the plant's work. However, for need, the artificial lighting system of the building is also entirely complete, a fine system of Tungsten lighting being installed on every floor, while the heating and ventilating systems are the most perfect that money could procure. The interior equipment of the building, selected by experts in the various lines of newspaper work, both with regards to machinery and furniture, leaves nothing to be desired and no expense has been spared to make the new Mirror plant the finest within a radius of over a hundred miles. The weight of the new building is carried on concrete columns, which, resting on piers four feet square in the cellar, extend end to end to the roof, there being no weight on the brick walls, and the columns have been made strong enough to carry the weight of an additional story or two when the occasion requires. All the floors are of concrete and all the interior walls are of buff brick, with some 50 tons of cement used in the construction. The general business office of the Mirror, which is furnished throughout with all-steel furniture, counters, cases, partitions, etc., occupies the front portions of the first story, fronting on Green avenue, and here the entire business of the plant is transacted, including the big general office, where the wants of customers, advertisers, etc., are attended to, while about a third of this room, partitioned off, is devoted to the private offices of the general manager, business manager, book-keeper and stenographer, the circulation manager and superintendent of machinery having their desks in the main office, with the clerks. In this room there is also the Bell telephone private exchange, from which two separate trunk lines run to all parts of the building. The rear of the first floor is occupied mainly by the press room, where is ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 71 located the magnificent, big press that daily turns out nearly 15,000 Mirrors in the space of about 45 minutes. The press is of the Goss manufacture, of the type known as the Goss Straightline Perfecting press, capable, by means of its four decks, of printing an entire edition of 32 pages at one operation, and was installed with the building of the new plant. The press occupies the centre of the room, on a special foundation of brick and concrete, built separately from the foundations of the building on account of the great weight of the machinery, and so complicated a piece of machinery is it that it required experts from the manufactory and the Mirror employes five weeks to complete its installation. In the sterotyping room, which is an adjunct of the press room, the mats that represent the final efforts of the workmen in the composing room are reproduced in curved metal plates, so that the reproductions of the different pages can be placed on the cylinders of the press, where it comes in contact with the paper. Before the mat comes from the composing room it is "built up" by the use of a composition material which is pasted on the back of the mat at various places and brings out the low places prominently. The paper mat then comes to the stereotyping room and is placed on the inside of a combination automatic plate casting box which is curved. Hot metal is then poured into it and the characters from the face of the mat are impressed on the metal plate, one of which can be cast every minute, ready for the press. A month ago an additional one-story building was added for the convenience of the Mirror's newsboys - regular carriers and the many independent carriers and sellers of the Mirror. It was built on the same line of the main building and has a floor space of 11x19 feet, well heated and lighted. The second floor of the building, front, is occupied by the editorial room, a large, splendidly lighted room, fitted with suitable desks and other furniture, in which the editorial and reportorial staffs of the paper shape up the news of the day, both local and foreign, as it comes in, preparing everything so that the operators in the composing room can place it in type in the shortest possible space of time. Adjoining the editorial room is the room occupied by the United Press association telegraph operator, over whose wire the news comes direct to the Mirror office from all parts of the world. The remainder of the second floor is occupied by the composing room force, where much of the most important work of the plant is carried on, here being located all the machinery that puts into type the material furnished by the editorial room, as well as setting up the advertisements for each day's issue. In this room are located five linotype machines, at which skilled operators quickly convert the copy into slugs, while the large display advertisements are set by hand, and here also are located the new electrical tables for making and drying the mats, the impressions on paper of pages of type as they are made up into forms. The entire third floor of the building is devoted to the job department of the office, a department capable of handling any amount of job, book or catalogue printing. Since the building of the new plant much modern machinery has been installed in this department and its presses are able to print 32 pages of a book at a time and to turn out any kind of job work done anywhere. [72] Eighteen Years of Steady Growth. People do not want, nor will they buy, a poor newspaper. They demand a good newspaper - the best newspaper. And they will support it. The acid test is an increasing circulation. Below is given the circulation figures of the ALTOONA MIRROR for the past eighteen years. Examination shows that the average annual gain has been over 500 NEW SUBSCRIBERS A YEAR. This growth has been steady and substantial, and is not the result of premiums or voting contests. It is the reward that comes to the publisher who keeps his columns clean, wholesome, newsy, educational, uplifting and optimistic. The figures follow: 1895 1896 1897 1898 No. Daily No. Daily No. Daily No. Daily Days Average Days Average Days Average Days Av'ge January 27 4,034 27 4,458 26 4,489 26 5,143 February 24 3,987 25 5,037 24 4,642 24 5,212 March 26 4,148 26 4,915 27 4,857 27 5,568 April 26 4,094 26 4,923 26 4,839 26 5,838 May 27 3,981 26 4,767 26 4,820 26 5,999 June 25 3,954 26 4,716 26 4,708 26 5,635 July 26 3,957 26 4,592 26 4,727 25 5,584 August 27 3,990 26 4,708 26 4,799 27 5,347 September 25 3,907 26 4,442 25 4,859 26 5,336 October 27 3,930 27 4,481 26 4,785 26 5,646 November 26 4,054 25 4,532 26 4,965 26 5,406 December 25 4,064 25 4,443 26 5,008 26 6,337 Average for Year 4,009 4,667 4,809 5,506 1899 1900 1901 1902 No. Daily No. Daily No. Daily No. Daily Days Average Days Average Days Average Days Av'ge January 26 5,330 27 6,282 27 6,832 27 7,329 February 24 5,788 24 6,434 24 7,027 24 7,622 March 27 5,921 27 6,547 26 7,159 26 7,750 April 25 5,941 25 6,515 26 7,142 26 7,622 May 27 5,990 27 6,443 27 7,043 27 7,625 June 26 5,919 26 6,511 25 6,906 25 7,624 July 25 5,938 25 6,550 26 6,873 26 7,528 August 27 5,944 27 6,499 27 6,844 26 7,538 September 26 6,009 25 6,441 24 7,154 26 7,483 October 26 6,013 27 6,661 27 7,216 27 7,625 November 25 6,130 26 6,637 26 7,186 25 7,687 December 25 6,135 25 6,637 25 7,201 26 7,616 Average for Year 5,938 6,513 7,047 7,587 [73] 1903 1904 1905 1906 No. Daily No. Daily No. Daily No. Daily Days Average Days Average Days Average Days Av'ge January 27 7,718 26 8,242 26 9,577 27 10,739 February 24 7,982 25 8,645 24 9,703 24 10,962 March 26 8,093 27 8,648 27 9,972 27 11,080 April 26 8,119 26 8,525 25 10,001 25 11,536 May 26 8,050 26 8,384 27 10,030 27 11,208 June 26 8,089 26 8,644 26 10,026 26 11,008 July 26 8,204 25 8,621 25 10,151 25 10,940 August 26 8,227 27 9,004 27 10,193 27 10,872 September 26 8,278 26 8,950 26 10,131 25 10,819 October 27 8,602 26 9,241 26 10,234 27 11,013 November 25 8,630 26 9,722 26 10,096 26 11,193 December 26 8,251 26 9,259 25 10,158 25 11,144 Average for Year 8,187 8,825 10,024 11,041 1907 1908 1909 No. Daily No. Daily No. Daily Days Average Days Average Days Av'ge January 27 11,449 27 11,502 26 11,935 February 24 11,627 25 11,703 24 12,244 March 26 11,742 26 11,828 27 12,626 April 26 11,578 26 11,608 26 12,408 May 27 11,543 26 11,360 26 12,103 June 25 11,664 26 11,201 26 11,972 July 26 11,706 26 11,111 26 11,694 August 27 11,348 26 11,038 26 11,666 September 25 11,144 26 11,185 26 11,838 October 27 11,320 27 11,259 26 11,853 November 26 11,357 25 11,395 26 12,003 December 25 11,288 26 11,546 26 12,047 Average for Year 11,480 11,390 12,032 1910 1911 1912 No. Daily No. Daily No. Daily Days Average Days Average Days Av'ge January 26 12,538 26 13,523 27 13,475 February 24 13,104 24 13,701 25 14,014 March 27 13,385 27 13,849 26 14,156 April 26 13,372 25 13,756 26 14,210 May 26 13,241 27 13,786 27 14,170 June 26 13,279 26 13,438 25 13,959 July 25 13,472 25 12,938 26 13,884 August 27 13,212 27 12,888 27 13,862 September 26 13,014 26 13,102 25 14,133 October 26 13,319 26 13,287 27 14,486 November 26 13,395 26 13,523 26 14,530 December 26 13,257 25 13,638 25 Average for Year 13,215 13,451 14,079 *During the year 1912 the Circulation Manager has given the public the NET circulation figures only - deducting returned copies and all free papers. [74] What Our Canvasser Has To Say. Reports That the Altoona Mirror Has 446 More Subscribers in This City Than All Other Local Daily Newspapers Combined. Altoona, Pa., November 16, 1912. Mirror Printing Company: Gentlemen - Herewith is the report of the canvass of the city, which, I believe, is as nearly correct as is possible to obtain. My report of the circulation of the several dailies has been fair and impartial. The people were, with a few exceptions, kind and willing to give the information desired. The working class - in fact nearly all, from a side-door view - show every indication of prosperity. The furnishings of the laborers - carpets, clothing, furniture, etc. - are of far superior quality to those I have noted in other cities or towns. Libraries, musical instruments and evidences of refinement are noticeable, all of which we may attribute to the advantages we have on educational lines. Over EIGHTY PER CENT. of citizens read the Altoona Mirror, the paper with no waste circulation. Very truly yours, GEORGE F. FRESH. Altoona Mirror a Home Newspaper. That the Altoona Mirror is a Home Newspaper - one that goes into the homes and is read by all members of the family - has always been known to its publishers. For the purpose of establishing this fact beyond the peradventure of a doubt to all others, a house-to-house canvass of the city was made. The result is very gratifying, indeed. It proves what we have long suspected - that the Mirror enters more homes in Altoona than all of the other daily newspapers combined. The accompanying table is illuminating; it tells its own story. Of the 12,242 business places, dwellings and apartments in the city, 229 were found to be temporarily unoccupied, and 1,324 were not served with any paper. Of the 10,689 remaining, the Altoona Mirror is a daily visitor in 8,713 of them, which is 446 more than the Times, the Tribune and the Gazette - the three combined - visit. The reason the canvass was limited to the confines of the city is this: We were anxious to learn exactly what percentage of the homes in Altoona are reached by the merchants who advertise in the Mirror - what percentage of the buying public reads in this newspaper about the things our business men have to sell. We find that over 80 per cent. of the popu- [75] lation see the Mirror - four out of every five. That record certainly has few equals, and we doubt if it is excelled anywhere. Now, it should not be supposed that 8,713 papers represent all the sales in Altoona. Eight thousand seven hundred and thirteen go into the homes alone each evening. Many people who work in the city and live outside of it buy Altoona's Favorite Newspaper, and carry it home with them. We were trying to ascertain the total number of persons living in Altoona who take the Mirror. And we have the correct figures. The letter preceding is self-explanatory; so also is the tabulated statement following: Comparative Circulation Statement. DISTRICT A B C D E F G H First Ward 4135 1039 25 953 1140 102 25 2 Second Ward 5034 1144 15 869 904 73 18 2 Third Ward 3877 965 15 842 903 92 12 1 Fourth Ward 5196 1175 22 745 722 162 80 - Fifth Ward 5896 1279 24 866 785 252 164 - Sixth Ward 8625 1946 36 1353 1054 222 55 - Seventh and 11th W's. 5724 1367 20 902 682 36 38 3 Eighth Ward 4956 1239 20 819 850 155 86 2 Ninth and 12th W's 5236 1229 36 848 715 168 22 - Tenth Ward 3566 859 16 516 512 62 9 - Totals 52245 12242 229 8713 8267 1324 499 10 Residences and business properties 12,242 New and vacant properties 229 ______ 12,013 Families not taking any daily 1,324 ______ Served with dailies 10,689 Taking Altoona Mirror 8,713 ______ Taking dailies other than Altoona Mirror 1,976 English speaking families not taking a daily 825 Don't speak English and not taking a daily paper 499 ______ 1,324 Official Copy of Above Statement on File at The Mirror Office. 76 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. Altoona Fire Alarms 12 - Green Ave. and 11th St. 56 - 6th Ave. and 16th St. 13 - 11th Ave. and 12th St. 57 - 8th Ave. and 15th St. 14 - 11th Ave. and 14th St. 61 - 4th Ave. and 15th St. 15 - 11th Ave. and 16th St. 62 - 4th Ave. and 13th St. 16 - Willow Ave. and 1st St. 63 - 7th Ave. and 13th St. 17 - Howard Ave. and 2nd St. 64 - 8th Ave. and 12th St. 18 - Walnut Ave. and 4th St. 65 - 5th Ave. and 12th St. 19 - Lex. Ave. and 4th St. 66 - 2nd Ave. and 12th St. 21 - 12th Ave. and 12th St. 67 - 4th Ave. and 11th St. 22 - How'd Ave. and 18th St. 71 - 7th Ave. and 11th St. 23 - Chest. Ave. and 9th St. 72 - 8th Ave. and 9th St. 24 - How'd Ave. and 10th St. 73 - 5th Ave. and 9th St. 25 - 15th Ave. and 11th St. 74 - 1st Ave. and 8th St. 26 - 13th Ave. and 12th St. 75 - 3rd Ave. and 7th St. 27 - 17th Ave. and 12th St. 76 - 6th Ave. and 7th St. 28 - 15th Ave. and 13th St. 81 - 8th Ave. and 6th St. 29 - 12th Ave. and 13th St. 82 - 7th Ave. and 4th St. 31 - 11th Ave. and 10th St. 83 - 1st Ave. and 4th St. 32 - 16th Ave. and 15th St. 84 - 3rd Ave. and 2nd St. 33 - Wash. Ave. and 16th St. 85 - 4th Ave. and Lloyd St. 34 - 14th Ave. and 18th St. 91 - Craw'f Ave. & Lloyd St. 35 - 10th Ave. and 18th St. 92 - 19th Ave. and 13th St. 36 - 12th Ave. and 20th St. 122 - Logan House. 37 - 11th Ave. and 21st St. 123 - P. R. R. Freight Station. 38 - Marg't and Union Aves. 124 - W. Ches. Ave. and 27th St. 39 - 20th Ave. and 11th St. 125 - Broad Ave. and 30th St. 41 - Broad Ave. and 23rd St. 126 - Wal. Ave. and 30th St. 42 - Maple Ave. and 25th St. 127 - Maple Ave. and 4th St. 43 - 8th Ave. and 25th St. 131 - 22nd Ave. and 4th St. 44 - Car Shops. 132 - 23rd Ave. and 9th St. 45 - 6th Ave. and 24th St. 133 - 19th Ave. and 16th St. 46 - 7th Ave. and 22nd St. 134 - Altoona City Hospital. 47 - 3rd Ave. and 21st St. 135 - 2nd Ave. and 16th St. 48 - 8th Ave. and 20th St. 141 - 11th Alley and 12th St. 51 - 5th Ave. and 19th St. 152 - 6th Ave. and 26th St. 52 - 3rd Ave. and 18th St. 143 - 17th Ave. and 10th St. 53 - 7th Ave. and 17th St. 144 - Green Ave. and 7th St. 54 - Marg't Ave. and 17th St. 145 - 13th Ave. and 14th St. 55 - Machine Shops. 151 - 20th Ave. and 18th St. ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 77 152 - 1st Ave. and 14th St. 162 - Orpheum Theatre. 153 - Altoona High School. 333 - L. V. Ry. Power House. 154 - 5th Ave. and 5th St. 212 - 22nd Ave. and 10th St. 155 - 6th Ave. and 2nd St. 214 - Jaffa Temple. 161 - Mishler Theatre. 215 - Mercy Hospital. P. R. R. Fire Alarms MACHINE SHOPS. 71 - Passenger Car Shop. 12 - Oil House. 72 - Freight Shop. 13 - Engine House No. 3. 73 - Truck Shop. 14 - Sand House. 74 - Steel Car Shop. 15 - Brass Foundry. 75 - Dry Kiln Lumber Yard. 16 - Pattern Store House. 44 - Connected with City Dept. 17 - Hammer Shop. JUNIATA SHOPS. 21 - Boiler Shop. 122 - Paint Stock Room. 22 - Frame Shop. 123 - Paint Shop. 23 - Wheel Shop. 124 - Power Plant. 24 - Smith Shop. 125 - Smith Shop No. 2. 25 - Power Plant. 132 - Office and Store House. 26 - Erecting Shop No. 1. 133 - Smith Shop No. 1. 31 - Erecting Shop No. 2. 134 - Boiler Shop. 32 - Machine Shop. 141 - Erecting Shop. 33 - Flue Shop. 142 - Machine Shop. 34 - Store House. 143 - New Store House. 35 - Erecting Shop No. 3. 151 - Carpenter and Scale Shop. 41 - Paint Shop. SOUTH ALTOONA. 42 - Tank Shop. 312 - Wheel Foundry - South End. 55 - Connected with City Dept. 313 - Wheel Foundry - North End. CAR SHOPS. 314 - Pattern Shop. 51 - Paint Shop. 315 - Pattern Store House. 52 - Stock Room, Paint Shop. 322 - Power Plant. 53 - Planing Mill No. 1. 323 - Soft Iron F'dry - South End. 54 - Pullman Shed. 324 - Soft Iron F'dry - North End. 56 - Power Plant. 325 - Office. 61 - Planing Mill No. 2. EAST ALTOONA. 62 - Smith Shop. 212 - Ash Pits. 63 - Machine Shop. 213 - Coal Wharf. 64 - Cabinet Shop. 214 - Engine House. 65 - Trimming Shop. 215 - Office and Store House. 66 - General Foreman's Office. 221 - Power Plant. 78 ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. Building Association Directory. ALLEGHENY N0. 3 - Meets Fourth Saturday in March's Hall; B. J. Murphy, secretary; Dively & Dively, solicitors. ALTOONA - Meets Third Thursday in Wolf building, 1128 11th Ave.; Frank E. Jamison, secretary; M. M. Morrow, solicitor. ALTOONA MECHANICS - Meets Third Thursday in Nicholson building; P. M. Swanger, secretary; W. C. Fletcher, solicitor. ALTOONA MODEL - Meets Third Friday in C. B. Clark's law office; C. M. Piper, secretary; C. B. Clark, solicitor. BLAIR COUNTY - Meets Second Thursday in Wolf building, 1128 11th Ave.; S. C. Walker, secretary; Thos. C. Hare, solicitor. CITIZENS - Meets Fourth Friday in March's Hall; W. H. Burd, secretary; E. H. Flick, solicitor. COMMERCIAL - Meets Third Wednesday in Wolf building, 1128 11th Ave.; Homer M. Singiser, secretary; H. W. Culp, solicitor. ECONOMY - Meets Third Monday in Wolf building, 1128 11th Ave.; R. M. Lewis, secretary; Harry F. Walters, solicitor. EIGHTH WARD - Meets Third Tuesday in St. Mark's School Hall; Ira 0. Keagy, secretary; Thos. C. Hare, solicitor. ENTERPRISE N0. 2 - Meets Third Wednesday in March's Hall; Frank E. Jamison, secretary; J. Banks Kurtz, solicitor. FAME - Meets Third Thursday in March's Hall; A. E. Sheller, secretary; W. Frank Vaughn, solicitor. FIDELITY - Meets Third Saturday in March's Hall; R. S. Landis, secretary; J. Banks Kurtz, solicitor. FRANKLIN - Meets Third Saturday in March's Hall; A. E. Sheller, secretary; W.. Frank Vaughn, solicitor. GERMANIA N0. 3 - Meets Third Tuesday in Frohsinn Hall; Leonard Geig, secretary.; H. T. Heinsling, solicitor. HOME - Meets Third Tuesday in Market Hall; H. L. Murray, secretary; W. Frank Vaughn, solicitor. INDEPENDENT - Meets Third Friday in Central Trust, Room 1; Miss Annie K. Miller, secretary; Thos. C. Hare, solicitor. JEFFERSON - Meets Third Friday in Wolf building; E. F. Dunn, secretary; C. J. McCullough, solicitor. KEYSTONE - Meets Third Tuesday in March's Hall; Eugene Blake, secretary; W. Frank Vaughn, solicitor. LOGAN - Meets Third Monday in March's Hall; W. L. Hahn, secretary; W. Frank Vaughn, solicitor. MUTUAL - Meets Third Monday in March's Hall; W. B. Miller, secretary; D. Lloyd Claycomb, solicitor. PENN N0. 2 - Meets Fourth Wednesday in Wolf building; E. G. Hoover, secretary; W. S. Hammond, solicitor. PEOPLE'S - Meets Fourth Thursday in H. A. Davis' Office, 1321 11th Ave.; D. S. Keith, secretary; H. A. Davis, solicitor. PHOENIX - Meets Fourth Monday in J. D. Hicks' Law Office; I. W. Smith, secretary; J. D. Hicks, solicitor. PROVIDENT - Meets Third Friday in H. A. Davis' Law Office; F. M. McCullough, secretary; H. A. Davis, solicitor. SECURITY - Meets Fourth Thursday in March's Hall; R. M. Lewis, secretary; W. B. Manley, solicitor. STANDARD - Meets Fourth Monday in March's Hall; D. S. Keith, secretary; J. F. Meek, solicitor. TEUTONIA - Meets Third Thursday in Frohsinn Hall; Leonard Geig, secretary; Dively & Dively, solicitors. UNION - Meets Third Wednesday in H. A. Davis' Law Office; C. M. Piper, secretary; H. A. Davis, solicitor. VIGILANT - Meets Third Monday in Frohsinn Hall; S. C. Walker, secretary; J. Banks Kurtz, solicitor. WASHINGTON - Meets Fourth Wednesday in March's Hall; H. J. Davis; secretary; John F. Sullivan, solicitor. WORKINGMAN'S - Meets Third Wednesday in Wolf building; E. F. Dunn, secretary; C. J. McCullough, solicitor ALTOONA MIRROR'S SOUVENIR. 79 Building and Loan Association 6 Per Cent Interest Table. - [Here omitted.] [80] 50,000 Lines of paid advertising more than our nearest Altoona competitor during the month of November is the record of the Altoona Mirror Most merchants have reduced their space buying to a business basis. They no longer go it blind. They are from the "show me" country. Inflated claims are not exchangeable for hard cash. The merchant must know, be shown, what kind of circulation goods he is buying and how much. The Mirror is a paid for visitor at nearly 500 more Altoona homes every day, than all other Altoona daily newspapers combined. During November, purchased more advertising space in the Mirror than any other newspaper - exceeding our nearest competitor by over 50,000. lines, next nearest by over 100,000 lines, and the third by over 150,000. Corner Green Avenue and Tenth Street ~~~*~~~