TERRE HAUTE —
On a Sunday in July 1893 – about 120 years ago – the Chicago Inter Ocean newspaper devoted an entire page to the City of Terre Haute, written by artist James Farrington Gookins, one of its native sons.
The feature story, accompanied by Gookins’ sketches of Chauncey Rose, Mayor Fred Ross and State Normal School, was titled, “On Terre Haute Velvet, a Social Study.”
An artist of national renown in charge of designing the lakefront plans for the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, Gookins offered his impressions of the city where, on Dec. 30, 1840, he was born.
While noting that “the dusty roads” of his youth are “trim asphalt streets now, edged with flowers and lovely lawns instead of dog fennel and jimson,” there still was “the same old time spirit of transcendant subtlety in the atmosphere and water . . . that gives the grand king trotters of the turf fire and speed . . . and a certain delicious tang, like the faint suggestion of wild honeycomb, in the beer so well named ‘Terre Haute Velvet.’”
“But there are many kinds of Terre Haute velvet other than beer,” Gookins noted. “When Nancy Hanks had made up her mind and body to go a mile in 2:04 (at Terre Haute’s Four-Cornered track last September), Mr. (Budd) Doble did not hang onto her fly brush for fear she would get ahead of him and do something he could not do.
“On the contrary, he encouraged her and was as proud when the people went crazy over the result as though he had trotted that mile himself. It is not the custom of its businessmen to sit in any kind of game whether it be building a hotel or railroad, planning a car works or a cemetery.
“When John Collett was made State House commissioner some 15 years ago, he made his debut with the motion, ‘Gentlemen, I move that every action of this board shall be unanimous.’ The motion was carried, and its adoption as a guiding principle built Indiana’s State House within the $2 million appropriation and saved the state from repeating disastrous history made by other states in connection with public works.
“Royal and silken in luster and colors are the blue velvet and silver skies and blue grass at the fairgrounds in these perfect summer hours. And Axtell, Stamboul and Nancy Hanks show all their graciousness and beauty, surrounded by the aristocrats of peerless strains in splendid retinue. Here is the trotting center of the world.
“Nowhere else on earth as an every day occurrence can millions of dollars worth of horses be found gathered and dwelling together, or any morning over a million dollars’ worth be seen exercising around one track. . . .
“It is the land of coal, where steam coal can be had on ten-year contracts, with never a famine, at 20 cents a ton on track or 40 cents delivered. It is where the finest lubricating oil pours from the oil wells in some back yards, making it possible for the local companies to furnish fuel and illuminating gas of the finest quality at a maximum price of 35 cents a thousand. . . .
“Here men can live well, learn well and make money.
“‘By their fruits ye shall know them’ may not have had prophetic reference to Terre Haute unless you consider watermelons, for they are plentiful, enormous and incomparable . . .
“The country (around Terre Haute) is as superior for small fruits as it is for horse raising. (The great driver-trainer) Budd Doble says the combination of the blue grass, as fine as that of Kentucky, water that is pure but contains lime, the climate and firm sandy roads permit more days of jogging the horse for exercise then he has found anywhere else for raising high blood horses. . . .
“As for spiritual yield, it can boast what people say in the biggest distillery in the world and, though less commercially profitable, an organized and efficient charity.”
Gookins paid tribute to Chauncey Rose and Herman Human for their philanthropy. He described how the community, through stock subscription, supported the establishment of a fine female college in 1857 but, after several years of success, it lost prestige and closed. Hulman bought the buildings and grounds and converted them into St. Anthony’s Hospital, munificently endowed in memory of his wife.
He also lauded the system of schools, “unsurpassed anywhere,” and “the great State Normal School with over twelve hundred teacher students.”
In passing, Gookins mentioned that Terre Haute was the home of Col. Richard W. Thompson, “a grand old statesman whose head is crowned with silver .... has formulated nearly every Republican platform from that of the Philadelphia.”
He recalled “the thrilling reception” Col. Thompson received at the last 1892 Republican National convention as Chauncey Depew led him down the aisle (to second the nomination of Benjamin Harrison), “which found a responsive echo in every true American heart because it honored a patriot.”
Gookins also noted that Terre Haute once was the home of Orlando Jay Smith, “the Greenbacker whose song, like that of the grasshopper, became a burden.”
“It also was once the loved home of George W. Cutter, who wrote ‘E Pluribus Unum’ by the bivouac fires of Buena Vista and that wonderful lyric of time, ‘The Song of Steam.’
“And it still is the home of United States Senator (Daniel Wolsey) Voorhees who, as chairman of the committee on finance, has now before him the grandest opportunity of modern times.
“So in politics or war, in gaiety, patriotism or grace, she has been eminent and, as for the beauty of her women, it was of one born and raised here that (artist Karl von) Ploty said hers was the most beautiful face he had ever seen (who this woman is I am unable to report) in the courts of Europe.
“So may not this queenly little winsome city well claim to wear royal velvet? With the Wabash for her jeweled zone and the flowery prairie for her dias, she steps daintily down the golden stairs of time as any queen that ever wore a velvet train.”
History
HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE: 'On Terre Haute Velvet' by James F. Gookins
- History
-
-
Historical Treasure: The 1947 Terre Haute Phillies and the history of baseball in America’s Crossroads
As another spring blossoms, it is time for another season of baseball to descend upon the city of Terre Haute.
-
HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE: George Lance dominates intercity golf rivalry in 1927
What was expected to be a close match between two Terre Haute golfers for the 1927 Indiana Amateur Golf championship turned out to be a cakewalk.
-
GENEALOGY: Follow ‘Tips on Caring for Documents and Photographs’
I recently read an article called “Tips on Caring for Documents and Photographs,” by Tamara Hemmerlein, Hoosier Heritage Alliance Coordinator for the Indiana Historical Society
-
LOOKING BACK: 1988: Teachers issued rubber gloves to use in management of blood, other body fluids
Dorothy Jerse looks back at local history from 10, 25 and 50 years ago as reported in the Tribune and Tribune-Star.
-
Historical Perspective: Wabash Valley is home to prominent comedy opera stars
Comic opera, a genre consisting of light hearted musicals, was introduced in Europe during the 17th century.
In the 19th century, several female vocalists from the Wabash Valley, earned national celebrity by using that art form to excel. -
Looking back: In 2003, Storm rips off half of Honey Creek Fire Department’s roof
A Saturday morning storm ripped off half of the Honey Creek Fire Department’s roof and caused heavy damage in Allendale. Wind gusts topping 60 miles an hour brought down power lines and trees throughout the county. Hail almost an inch thick and 1.5 inches of rain fell in less than an hour.
-
Abundance of shoe stores existed downtown
Spring to me means putting away heavy winter sweaters and bringing out fun lighter sundresses. It also means the possibility of shopping for a new dress or even new shoes.
-
Genalogy: Handwriting in 1700s-1800s Copperplate or English Round Hand
The primary style of old handwriting in the mid 1700s through the 1800s is sometimes called Copperplate or English Round Hand. This style of writing is much more recognizable and readable than the older Secretary Hand style discussed last week, and it is much less ornate as well.
-
The death of Irish Kate Preston
The lifeless body of Catherine Preston, commonly referred to as “Irish Kate,” was found Saturday morning, Oct. 5, 1895, on a sandbar at the western edge of the Wabash River wagon bridge.
-
Looking back: 2003: Sherertz sets nine-hole school record
Terre Haute North Vigo High School’s nine-hole record at Hulman Links was broken by golf team member Matt Sherertz who shot a 4-under-par 32 in a team-record win over Northview.
-
Historical perspectives: Railroads were models of innovation and growth in Haute
Railroads have played an important part in the building of our nation and in the history of Terre Haute. It is no small wonder that these amazing machines were turned into children’s toys, as well as models for the more mature train enthusiast.
-
‘Foreign’ letters to confuse a genealogist
Any serious family researcher will at some time or another encounter old documents in an older handwriting style that need to be read and deciphered.
-
1988: 700 teachers unite in protest
At least 700 teachers were absent from their Vigo County School Corp. schools as part of a job action to protest lack of progress in contract negotiations.
-
Genealogy: Vigo County Gold Star Honor Roll
FamilySearch International recently announced “the release of significant new enhancements to its web services that allow visitors to collaboratively build their family tree online, preserve and share precious family photos and stories, and receive personal research assistance–all for free.”
-
‘Far-sound’ rings in a new era
This week’s Historic Treasure is an invention that changed life, as we know it in a great way, the telephone.
-
Historical perspective: Venard: soldier in the War of 1812
His name was Stephen Venard. For more than 50 years he resided in Terre Haute, without fanfare, with his wife and a daughter. Much of that time was spent in the 400 block on N. First St.
-
Looking Back: 2003: Mark Cook brings blues home
Mark Cook returned to Terre Haute to play with fellow musicians in the Cook-N-Blues group at Brazil and Terre Haute.
-
Historical perspective: Attempted carriage-jacking thwarted
Nineteenth century newspapers covered several topics that might astonish current readers. For example, the front page of the Terre Haute Weekly Gazette on Nov. 16, 1878 – 135 years ago – reported on the bold attempt by four “villains” to rob two women riding in a carriage immediately west of the fairgrounds at Brown and Wabash avenues:
-
Genealogy: Dutchman seeks family of missing soldier
Query: I live in the Netherlands and recently I have adopted the name of American PFC Joseph P. Nelson at the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten. He was killed in action on Dec. 5, 1944, and his name is on the Walls of the Missing.
-
Sewing Society keeps hospital in linen, supplies
When Tracy Pruitt came across a small box of old ledgers and receipt books recently, his first impulse was to throw it away. But he decided to sit down and examine its contents. In doing so, he discovered a story.
-
Looking Back: 1963: Officials prepare for disaster
City officials were studying survival plans in case of a natural disaster or attack by an enemy source. Gilbert Leonard was the director of Vigo County Defense.
-
Genealogy: Gold Star Honor Roll: Vigo County
This week continues with the Gold Star Honor Roll (those who died in WW I) from the Wabash Valley. The Vigo County list is long and will be run in three parts.
-
River boat models capture glory of former culture
In the River portion of the latest exhibit at the Vigo County Historical Society museum are two models of river paddle boats created by Alfred F. Nehf.
-
Historical perspective: Babe Holland: advocate for equality
Wherever Terre Haute native William Sylvester Holland roamed, he made an impact.
-
Historical Perspective: Terre Haute’s architectural heritage
Much more than is commonly recognized, Terre Haute has a rich and diverse legacy of landscapes designed by some of the nation’s most talented architects.
-
Genealogy: A search for names from broken stones
This week there is a query about an old cemetery in Parke County, that is believed to have been destroyed:
-
Hidden treasures: Laborers phased out by machines
Today’s historical treasure will intone to many people an early experience of practical labor. For others, this artifact might lack a contextual notion.
-
Looking back: 2003: Two men rob Terre Haute First National Bank
Two men robbed Terre Haute First National Bank’s banking center at Southland Plaza, South Seventh Street and Margaret Avenue. It was the first bank robbery in Terre Haute since November 2000.
-
Interurban makes city Crossroads of America
Electric transportation is not a new technology. With the arrival of the electric car we are reminded that electric technology has a long history in Terre Haute.
-
The tale of the Wabash River
On March 14, 1913, the Indiana General Assembly adopted “On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away,” by Terre Haute native Paul Dresser, as Indiana’s state song.
- More History Headlines
-
Historical Treasure: The 1947 Terre Haute Phillies and the history of baseball in America’s Crossroads
Johnson: Don't Blame Islam or UK Policy
Okla. Teens Get Video of Deadly Tornado Overhead
Raw: Aftermath of Deadly Attack in London
Texas Students Coach Teachers on Fitness
Raw: Scuffles in London After Hacking Death
Chain-Reaction School Bus Crash Injures About 50
Britain Attack Believed Linked to Radical Islam
Raw: 80-Year-Old Climbs Mount Everest
Wash. State Man Arrested Following Ricin Scare
Meet MJ, the Bike Riding Tabby Cat
Man Shot While Questioned in Boston Probe
New Forecasting Tool Eyed for Hurricane Season
Raw: Kevin Durant Tours Moore After $1M Pledge
Weiner Launches Bid to Become NYC Mayor
Oklahoma Family Reflects on Lost Son
Today in History May 23
School Storm Protection Spotty in Tornado Zones
Moore Native Toby Keith Tours Tornado Damage
9-year-old Tornado Victim Loved Family, Singing
Oklahoma Survivors, Heroes Survey Damage
AK-47-wielding thug may be the most bumbling crook ever
Trout's cycle a boost for Angels
Raw: New Video of Deadly Oklahoma Tornado
Kim Kardashian Flaunts Pregnant Bikini Body in Greece
NBA star pledges $1M to help tornado recovery
Shakira's Shocking Talent
Morgan Freeman falls asleep on air
GRAPHIC: Blood-Soaked Machete Killer Caught on Tape
Elin Nordegren Furious With Lindsey Vonn For Parading Kids in Public
Camera Captures Climber As He Loses Grip And Falls
Helen Mirren Meets with Dying Boy in Queen Elizabeth's Place
Crowd Chants '¡Si, Se Puede!' After Passage of Immigration Bill
DWTS Crowns a Winner
Police Ram House to End Hostage Standoff
Demi Moore a Rocks Bikini at Harry Morton's Family House
Anthony Weiner: I'm running for New York City mayor
Kate Middleton's Dress Flies Up
VIRAL: Baby makes epic soccer goal
The Hangover Baby All Grown Up
