Cambridge in the "centennial"; proceedings, July 3, 1875, in celebration of the centennial anniversary of Washington's taking command of the Continental Army, on Cambridge Common - Softcover

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1875 Excerpt: ...been sending forth to the world men who have been distinguished in science and in letters. It has furnished men who have made our history from the foundations of our State and Republic,--men who have carried the banners and blessings. of a Christian civilization from ocean to ocean; and from her own citizens Cambridge has furnished men who have been distinguished as scholars, soldiers, and statesmen. Indeed, I know of no one place in the country which has furnished so many men who have been leaders in the cause of religion, morals, science, and patriotism. To-day she celebrates the coming within her borders of the great leader of the American army of the Revolution,--a man upon whom the language of eulogy has been exhausted. His fame is sure, and he needs not the aid of our lips; but we, by admiring and contemplating his character, may become wiser, stronger, and better. Such I understand to be the meaning of this celebration: and such a purpose needs no commendation; for it carries with it its own justification, and even eulogy. And even at this time, when there is an opportunity for making our Federal Union more compact and united than ever, it is well, by celebrations like these, to contemplate the actions of men of preceding generations, in whose glory and fame all sections of the country have a common interest and pride. Then the celebration ceases to be a pageant, and is full of significance and meaning. I express much for old Cambridge when I hope that she will give to the future as much as she has given to the past. A hundred years ago, a Virginian came to Massachusetts: he came as the leader of our armies. The man and the event were alike majestic. He was welcomed to Massachusetts. Massachusetts and Virginia were then friends. I trust that kindred ...