1874

Two newspaper articles below describe the observance of the Mecklenburg Decarlation of Independence in 1874.

 The Southern Home , 5/25/1874, p. 3

20th of May in Charlotte.—Notwithstanding the absence of one of our fire companies, and a large number of citizens with the various excursions on Wednesday, it was determined to recognize the anniversary of the famous “Declaration” by a parade, &c.  Assisted by their sweet-hearts, or ‘cousins,’ the gallant firemen of the Hornet company, decked their engine and reel in a beautiful manner, and appeared on the Court House square at 4 P. M., in fine style.  Soon afterwards the cadets of the C. M. I., under the command of Superintendent Thomas and Lieut. Lynes deployed through the streets, with a skill and accuracy in their evolutions, that show the efficiency of their military drill.  The procession was formed with the Charlotte cornet band leading, followed by the banner of the Hornet company, with its guard of honor, the engine drawn by horses, the hose reel drawn by the company, and the cadets in platoons.  After parading the principal streets, the Hornets gave an exhibition of the water-throwing capacity of their engine which was witnessed by a multitude of pleased spectators.  Altogether the affair was quite creditable to the city.

The Daily Charlotte Observer 5/22/1874, p.1

The Hornets and Their Celebration

The Hornet Fire Company of this city celebrated the 20th of May in a most becoming manner. A fine looking body of men, their appearance was creditable to them and our city.
 
The company started from their hall about 4 o’clock in the afternoon, and paraded the principal streets of the city. Their hose reel was decorated with flowers, which were furnished by lady friends of the members.
 
The cadets of the Military Institute, under charge of Col. J. P. Thomas and Lieutenant Lynes, paraded with the fire company, and their presence and appearance added to the interest and attractiveness of the occasion. They are a fine and intelligent looking a body of young men as are to be met with. They are splendidly drilled and move in the most perfect order.

After parade a trial of the engine was had. It worked beautifully as usual.

At night a banquet was held at the hall of the company. Quite a number of invited guests were present and a most delightful time was had. Drinkables of every sort and description were abundant, and as the evening wore on “the mirth and fun grew fast and furious.”

Speeches were made in response to calls, by Col. H. C. Jones, Capt. R. A. Shotwell, Col. Chas. R. Jones, and other gentlemen. Brim full, as it was, of the 20th of May, the crowd gave itself up to enjoyment, and certain it was a more enjoyable time could not have been had. We regret that the pressure upon our columns will not admit to our giving a more elaborate notice of the festivities of the evening.