This essay was originally published in the 1945 OCHS Yearbook. Please note that this essay was published over 80 years ago. While still useful for general education, language may be outdated and at times offensive. The Oswego County Historical Society does not stand by the language used in this essay. To view the original document, please visit NYHeritage.org.
Part I of a Paper Read Before Oswego County Historical Society at Oswego March 20, 1945 by Dr. Charles Wells, Director of the English Department of Oswego State Teachers’ College.
Public entertainment in Oswego a century ago consisted mainly of lectures, concerts, exhibitions, circuses and other forms of amusement. Scarcely a week passed that did not see one or more of these entertainments, and in the course of a year an interesting and varied program of events was presented to the people of the community. Oswego in 1845 was a village of 6,818 people, and was evidently an excellent show town, for many of the entertainments played here two or three days at a time, often for a full week, and certain groups returned year after year.
Formal Drama In 1845
The formal drama of the theatre, however, was practically unknown. It would be obviously untrue to say that the drama did not exist in Oswego a hundred years ago since the first decade of the nineteenth century had brought a growth of the theatre in centers of population such as New York and Philadelphia, and undoubtedly the influence was felt in the smaller towns and villages. However, a careful study of the newspapers of that early period does not disclose much of what is considered to be legitimate drama. Since there were few railroads or good highways at the time, travel in upstate New York was slow, difficult, and often a dangerous venture. The small groups of entertainers that did appear here were forced to travel by boat on Lake Ontario, by packet on the canal, by horse and wagon or, by stage coach over plank roads. This transportation difficulty may explain why large theatrical companies did not play in Oswego until later in the century. After the Syracuse-Oswego railroad was built in 1848, better groups of entertainers began to visit Oswego, and the theatre started to develop.
First Theater in 1875
The lack of a playhouse in Oswego suitable for formal drama was also a reason why acting companies rarely appeared. No theatre in the modern sense of the word was available in Oswego a hundred years ago. There were several halls, such as Academy Hall on West Third street, Franklin Hall on West Second street, Market Hall on Water Street, and a hall over the Woodruff Block, at West First and Cayuga streets, but no well-equipped theatre. Details concerning the architecture, equipment and seating capacity of these meeting places are extremely scanty. As the name implies they were simply large rooms, illuminated by gas light, furnished with chairs, and equipped with a platform upon which the entertainers appeared. The stages were cramped and bare, with very crude scenic and lighting effects; the scenery and costumes were meager and worn, and served for many different productions. Because of the bare stages some of the later acting companies advertised special lighting and splendid costumes as principal attractions. Not until the Academy of Music was opened in 1875 could Oswego boast of a real theatre with footlights, scenery and a roll-up front curtain.
Another factor that discouraged theatrical companies in the middle of the last century was adverse public opinion. The Puritan influence of New England was still strong in Oswego County, as in most of the state at that time, and this influence frowned upon the frivolity and display of the Theatre. Yet the citizens of Oswego could not completely resist the lure of public entertainments, and many novel attractions were offered as “concerts”, a type of entertainment which met with universal approval. A concert was considered to be respectable, whereas a “show” was thought to be detrimental to public morals. Thus it was that a minstrel show published in the “Oswego Palladium”, July 16, 1845, a very discreet advertisement which announced:
“Grand Concert At the Court-House” (Front seats reserved for Ladies)
“Chrysty’s far-famed and original Band of Minstrels have the honor of announcing to the ladies and gentlemen of Oswego that they will give one of their inimitable concerts in this village, which have been patronized by the elite and fashion of all the principal cities in the United States, to an extent unprecedented by any amusement ever previously introduced, on which occasion, they will introduce a variety of new and original songs, duets, glees, choruses, etc. Performance to commence at 8 o’clock.”
This so-called “Concert” by the Chrysty Minstrels met with the approval of the editor of the “Palladium” for he commented in a news item: “The papers in the different parts of the country speak very highly of their performance. We expect lovers of fun and amusement will have a rare time, and that there will be a great bursting of vest buttons.”
Drama Came With War
The legitimate drama, as it is known today, did not appear until about the time of the Civil War when road shows and stock companies began to present formal drama for local audiences, and not until the Academy of Music was opened did the theatre really flourish in Oswego.
Circuses and menageries were frequent visitors to Oswego, and like all other forms of commercial entertainment appeared under the guise of “educational presentations.” To illustrate this subterfuge, and to indicate the size and quality of these early circuses a paid announcement is quoted in full from the “Oswego Palladium” of September 9, 1845:
“IMMENSE MENAGERIE”
“Will visit Oswego, on Wednesday, the 17th of September,1845, the extensive collection of Beasts, Birds and Reptiles from the Philadelphia Institute, consisting of about 100 specimens, 50 people and 80 horses.”
“Elephant-Drawn” Music “On the entrance to Oswego, on the morning of the 17th, about 10 o’clock, the Great Four Elephant Team will appear, drawing the music, followed in train by some twenty wagons, filled with animals and drawn by 70 beautiful horses.
“The science of natural history must, in some degree, have occupied our race in all ages, and in every degree of civilization, as we depend upon the objects around us for food, shelter and amusement. Why should not man, in state of refinement and wealth, explore the great museum of nature, to enhance the temporal gratification, add to his source of knowledge, and increase his veneration for the wonderful Author of all things?
“The advantages derived by a visit to a well arranged menagerie are apparent. It is the concentration of all that is beautiful and sublime in nature’s mighty work; one of the most elevated sources of human enjoyment, and one wholly divested of every moral objection frequently made use of against places of amusement in general.
“Herr Driesbach, the renowned lion king, is also attached to this menagerie, with his carniverous family, caressing, fondling, magnetizing and even driving them in harness.
“Canvass to hold 5,000 people. Elevated seats to accommodate 1,500 ladies.
“Location for pavilion on the hill, first street north of the United States Hotel.”*
Early Circuses
These early circuses were presumably well attended because three or four played in Oswego every season. However, the editor of the newspaper evidently did not approve of this form of public entertainment since he never made editorial comment, or gave any news item to the many circuses that appeared in the village. The only information concerning them is therefore taken from advertisements which may be slightly exaggerated. To illustrate the various types of circuses that came to Oswego a few of these advertisements are quoted. On August 11, 1847, Welch’s National Circus announced in the “Palladium”:
“This splendid equestrian company composed entirely of star performers will exhibit under their superb water-proof pavilion, commodiously furnished for the comfortable reception of 3,000 persons, at Oswego Wednesday, August 11, 1847, afternoon and evening.
“In the evening the Pavilion will be illuminated by the patent Sylvic Gas. It is an entirely new method, giving a superior light, free from all nauseous effluvia, and casting a light scarcely less brilliant than the noonday sun.
“The company will be saluted on their entrance, by Mr. Wallace’s String Band, playing airs from the most popular operas.
“Constituting this company will be found Mr. J. G. Cadwallader, who will ride in his much admired acts of the Russian Envoy on two, three and four horses. Clown Dan Rice whose infinite jest and fun, unstained by rudeness or vulgarity, places him far beyond the reach of imitation.
“Madame Louisa Howard, the great native female equestrian, whose admirable personations on a single horse charm and delight all who behold her, justifying public opinion in awarding her the high position she has so successfully held amidst a host of rival stars.”
*This would have been West Schuyler street, between West Sixth and West Seventh streets, if the direction is correctly stated in the advertisement. Quite likely this was the plot now known as Montcalm Park.
Circus Long Popular
In September of the same year Van Amburgh and Company’s collection of wild animals exhibited in Oswego at the Walton lot on Oneida Street. The cavalcade of horse-drawn vehicles entered the town from Fulton lead by a new “colossal chariot, constructed after the model of the chariots of the ancient Roman conquerors and painted in the most gorgeous style.” The chariot was drawn by eight black Flemish horses, of prodigious size and weight, and was followed by a procession of wagons containing the animals. Dapple grey horses, “purchased regardless of expense,” drew the wagons through the principal streets of Oswego to a spacious pavilion erected for the exhibition of the animals. Mr. Van Amburgh, “whose dominion over lions, tigers, and leopards has been acknowledged in Europe and America,” then presented his death-defying acts for the entertainment of all who paid the admission of twenty-five cents, children under nine years of age, halfprice.
An all-time record for circuses was reached during July of 1850 when three appeared in Oswego in the short space of two weeks:
July 4th, G. C. Quick and Company’s “Mammoth Menagerie”; July 10th, Welch’s National Circus; and July 18th, Robinson and Eldred’s Great Southern Circus. This form of entertainment continued to appear year after year through the century, in good times and bad, in war years and peace time. It is one form of public amusement that has gone on without much change in form or loss of public interest.
July 4th Celebrations
The Fourth of July celebration was another time honored form of entertainment much enjoyed by the citizens of Oswego. A century ago the day was observed with street parades, orations, twenty-eight gun salutes, excursions on the Lake, contests, and displays of fireworks. The celebration of the Fourth of July, 1846, inspired Beman Brockway, editor of the “Oswego Palladium”, to comment:
“The Fourth passed off finely in our village, which was literally thronged with people who came hither to witness the festivities of the occasion, and to unite in the rejoicings which it inspired. The day was ushered in by the roar of cannon and the pealing of bells; and the first rays of the sun were greeted by the ‘Stars and Stripes’ which had been unfurled from our shipping, the Fort, and the public squares. At noon, the procession which had been formed in Franklin Square, West Oswego, under the direction of the Marshall of the day, John W. Judson, Esq., escorted by a detachment of Capt. Barnum’s U. S. Infantry and the Oswego Guards, marched through several streets, during the firing of a National Salute and the ringing of bells, to the Baptist church in East Oswego, where some very appropriate exercises were performed. The music discoursed by the band and choir, was most excellent, sweet, harmonious and inspiring.
“The Declaration of Independence was well read by T. H. Bond, Esq., who made some appropriate and thrilling remarks respecting its adoption. The Oration delivered by Hon. Orville Robinson was eloquent and patriotic, and was attentively listened to by many more persons than could find room or seats in the church. The patriotic sentiments of the orator, and his well timed and happily-conceived allusions, elicited frequent plaudits from the audience, in which a few gray-haired and time-worn veterans of the Revolution united. All the exercises at the church passed off with spirit and in good order.
“During the day, several pleasure excursions were made upon the Lake by steam and sail boats, which were well loaded with passengers.
“At four o’clock in the afternoon, there was target shooting at Fort Ontario, which was witnessed by a considerable number of spectators.
“At sundown a National salute of 28 guns was fired from the Revenue cutter and the Fort, and the festivities of the day closed by a very good display of fireworks in the evening in Franklin Square, and a brilliant torch light procession of the fire companies.
“On the whole, the 70th Anniversary of our National Independence was well celebrated in Oswego. Let it ever be so.”
General Tom Thumb
Charles S. Stratton, better known as “General Tom Thumb,” the famous dwarf, who was exhibited by P. T. Barnum in all the principal cities of the Union, came to Oswego in 1847 to appear in what were called “public levees”. This world-renowned “Man in Miniature” appeared with his pony equipage,* Royal presents and Court costumes, and presented a very elaborate program of entertainment at Academy Hall. The “Palladium” advertisement announcing his appearance in Oswego gave many details concerning the General and his program:
*The pony-drawn carriage in which General Thumb rode resembled in appearance an egg shell cut with doors and windows. In later years Mrs. Thumb rode with the General as a bride.
“General Tom Thumb
“This distinguished man in miniature, weighing only 15 pounds. 15 years of age, but 27 inches high, who has been received with the highest marks of Royal favor by all the principal crowned heads of Europe, and who has performed before five millions of
persons during the last four years, will hold his Public Levees at Academy Hall in Oswego, on Friday and Saturday, August 20th and 21st. “The little General will appear in all his performances, including songs, dances, Grecian Statues, etc; and also represent Napoleon Bonaparte, Frederick the Great, etc. He will also appear in his beautiful Scotch costume, and his elegant Court Dress, worn before Her Majesty, Queen Victoria; the King and Queen of the French; Nicholas, Emperor of Russia; and all the principal crowned heads of nobility of Europe.
“It is now six years since the little General appeared in public for the first time, and his weight is precisely what it was at that time, viz: Only Fifteen Pounds.
“He is perfectly symmetrical in all his proportions; intelligent and graceful beyond belief; and smaller than any infant that ever walked alone.
“The magnificent presents, jewels, etc. received from the Kings, Queens and nobility of Europe, will be exhibited. “His beautiful miniature equipage, presented by Queen Victoria, consists of the smallest ponies in the world, and chariot attended by elfin coachman and footmen, in livery, will promenade the streets each day, and be seen in front of the Hall at 12 and 4 o’clock.
“Notice to the Public: This is positively the last time General Tom Thumb will ever be seen in Oswego, as he retires forever from public life as soon as he has paid a brief visit to the principal cities of the Union.”
This last statement was a slight exaggeration for the General continued to appear in the principal cities of the United States for many more years, and returned to Oswego in 1852 and again later for a repeat engagement which is still remembered by a few Oswegonians.
Commenting on the General’s first visit the editor of the “Palladium” wrote: “Tom Thumb, the greatest as well as the smallest curiosity living, visited us last week. His levees were well attended by our citizens, and the appearance in our streets of his tiny ponies and miniature chariot, accompanied by their elfin attendants, clothed in appropriate livery, attracted crowds of spectators and afforded infinite amusement to the juveniles.
“The General left us on Saturday afternoon, for Ballston, Saratoga County, where he makes his next appearance.” The General must have made a considerable impression on the editor of the newspaper because items concerning the travels of Tom Thumb continued to appear in the local press for many months after his visit.
Aztec Lilliputians
The success of P. T. Barnum with Tom Thumb inspired other showmen to exhibit curious human beings in Oswego. In June of 1851 the famous Aztec Lilliputians, Maximo and Bartolo, appeared for three days at Franklin Hall where everyone could view these “wonderful natural curiosities” for the admission price of only one shilling. A month later Angus McKaskill, “the Nova Scotia Giant Boy,” gave grand reception levees at the old City Hall (Market Hall) for one week. This young giant was nineteen year old, eight feet tall, and weighed four hundred pounds. According to report “he had a truly majestic form, a pleasing and intelligent expression of countenance, and was sociable of his audience.”
First Oswego Balloon Ascension
In August of 1847 one of the most spectacular outdoor entertainments ever witnessed in Oswego up to that time was given for the education and enjoyment of the citizens. For several weeks, early in the month the “Palladium” printed reports of balloon ascensions being made by a Mr. Wise in Auburn, Utica, Syracuse, Rochester, and other cities of upstate New York. On July 27 a half-column news story told of the 60th ascension made the day before in Syracuse. Later stories related the adventures of Mr. Wise in Buffalo when on his 63rd ascension the balloon landed in Lake Ontario near a brig which sent a boat to the rescue, and brought the soaking balloonist and his aerial ship safely into port.
These stories created great public interest, and at last Mr. Wise the aeronaut, arrived in Oswego on August 23 to attempt his 65th “Grand Atmospheric Voyage.” The advertisement, which was decorated with an illustration of a balloon in full flight with many flags flying, announced:
“BALLOON ASCENSION!
From the Public Square, East Oswego
“At the earnest solicitation of the citizens, Mr. Wise has been persuaded to visit Oswego, and takes this opportunity of informing the ladies and gentlemen of
this village and vicinity, that he will make his 65th Grand Atmospheric Voyage on Wednesday afternoon, August 25, between 3 and 4 o’clock, in his new aerial ship the ‘Rough and Ready.’
“Order of Ascension: Doors open at 12, when the inflation commences. At 1 o’clock a small balloon will ascend. At 2 a Pioneer Balloon will be launched. At 2 1/2 a pilot balloon will point out the direction of the wind. At 3 o’clock Mr. Wise will attach his car to the Aerial Vessel, and after floating a few minutes between earth and air by a single cord, will detach himself from the terra firma and ascend to the region of clouds.”
Evidently a balloon ascension was more to the liking of the editor than other types of entertainment that appeared in Oswego for he prepared an editorial in which he made a plea for public support of the enterprise: “By reference to our advertising columns it will be perceived that Mr. Wise, accounts of whose ascensions in various parts of the State we have heretofore published, has made arrangements for an aerial voyage from this place tomorrow afternoon. Our citizens will thus be afforded an opportunity of witnessing in person a scene at once grand and uncommon—one which, in interest and value to the observer, can not be compared with all the circuses and puppet-shows, of whatever name or nature, in creation. The latter are mostly perfect leaches to the public purse, and generally so to public morals; but such a scene as Mr. Wise will afford us, is not only productive of no injury to the public, but is full of the most exciting interest and valuable instruction to all classes, —to the Philosopher, the man of science, the educated and the uneducated,—and we sincerely hope our citizens and those of the adjoining towns will furnish Mr. W. with a large audience— one that will occupy the inside inclosure, and thus aid in defraying the heavy expenses which he is compelled to incur for their benefit. In some places Mr. W. has been honored with a much larger outside than inside audience; but we trust he will not have this to say of the citizens of Oswego. The price of admission to the inclosure is so reasonable that we hope those at least who can afford to pay for admission to a circus, will be willing to do so in this case.”
First Flight Over Oswego
The balloon was described as containing 436 yards of yellow silk, and holding 40,000 gallons of lighter-than-air gas. During the inflation the balloon was covered with a network of fine white cord, from which large cords reached to a number of 56 pound weights on the ground. When the balloon was inflated the cords were disengaged, and the balloon held down by several men while lines were attached to the willow basket in which Mr. Wise was to ride. To the “immense” number of people assembled the spectacle was entirely new. and everyone appeared to be highly pleased with it. The intense excitement, almost breathless eagerness, with which the assembled thousands awaited the moment when the fearless navigator of the air should detach his aerial ship and ascend to the region of the clouds attested to the deep interest which all felt in the experiment.
Nor did the enthusiasm of the multitude cease when after a momentary suspension in the air, Mr. Wise severed the slight cord which held the “Rough and Ready” to the earth, bade his audience “good-bye”, and sailed off in his wicker chariot. As the balloon took a south-westerly direction over the western part of the village, there was a rush of the spectators, men, women and children, in that direction. There was such a crowd of people rushing over the bridge, some on horseback and some in carriages, it was feared the structure would collapse; but the bridge held up and the eager multitude passed on. The wind not being favorable, Mr. Wise did not ascend to the height or travel to the distance which some of his audience had expected. As a result he was severely criticised by a few members of the crowd. In defense of the aeronaut the editor of the Palladium wrote next day. “The height and distance attained were amply sufficient for the success of the experiment, and to prove that traveling in the air is not only practicable, but, to skillful navigators, safe and highly interesting.”
Speaking of what was probably the first flight by man over Oswego, and replying to his critics, Mr. Wise said in an interview: “While over the center part of West Oswego, I threw out considerable ballast in order to keep above the spires and house tops, and sailed off to the south-west in the lower current until I reached open ground on that side of town. While floating over the town the scene below was truly animated. The clattering of vehicles and horses’ feet, and the shouts of the juvenile army that was pursuing the direction of the ‘Rough and Ready’, fairly made the mid-heaven reverberate with the tumultuous sounds that rose from the earth. For the reasons why I did not go out on the Lake. First, there was no vessels out in the direction of the Lake where I would necessarily have been compelled to alight; and secondly, because I did not fancy the idea of a bath in the cold water of Lake Ontario.”
Lectures and Lyceums
Literary, political and scientific lectures were an important part of public entertainment in Oswego a century ago, and were particularly significant because of the educational and cultural values to the community. The annual lecture series began to develop in Oswego about 1845, and continue to develop and flourish through the Civil War period until early in the twentieth century when the lyceum movement gradually faded away. The purposes of these lectures was “to awaken a general spirit of inquiry, and to excite a desire for knowledge.” The lectures did not aim to produce scholars but to disseminate information of interest to the public. Various branches of science, social problems, political economy, practical education and other useful topics were presented.
The lectures exercised a powerful influence upon the political, as well as the social, life of the community.
People from neighboring towns and villages came to hear discussions of the important problems and questions of the time. During the Mexican War agitation, the Oregon controversy, the Missouri compromise, and the Texas annexation the political and social implications of these questions were discussed pro and con by speakers on the lecture series. The anti-slavery struggle of 1850 to 1860 was reflected in many of the lectures given in Oswego, and some of the most prominent abolitionists of the time appeared upon the local lecture platform.
Lectures On Science
There were also science lecturers who made use of simple scientific apparatus, and employed many ingenious mechanical devices to demonstrate and illustrate new scientific theories. Many of these theories are considered ridiculous today in light of modern discovery, but in the 1850s they were thought to be true and extremely important.
The lectures were usually organized and supported by a local organization of people interested in entertainment and self-improvement. Membership was open to everyone in the community, and membership fees were small, the funds being used for such necessary expenses as hall rent, advertising and speaker’s honorarium. A few news items and advertisements from local newspapers indicate the type of subjects and speakers that appeared on the lecture platform. On July 16, 1845 the “Oswego Palladium” carried this advertisement:
EXPERIMENTAL LECTURES On Electro Magnetism, Magneto and Thermo Electricity
“F. A. Hall, A. M., respectfully announces to the citizens of Oswego, his intention of lecturing on this subject, on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, of this week, at the Market Hall, at which place he will exhibit between 30 and 40 machines combining the latest improvements in the sciences. Morse’s ElectroMagnetic Telegraph, conveying intelligence 200 miles in a minute; Colt’s sub-marine battery, designed for blowing up ships. For particulars, see large bills at the several hotels in this place. Admittance 25 cents.”
Commenting on the coming lecture the editor of the Palladium wrote: “The attention of our readers is directed to an advertisement in another column, in which Mr. Hall proposes to lecture on the subject of Electro-Magnetism. We have the pleasure of a personal acquaintance with Mr. Hall, and take it upon ourselves to say that he is every way competent to do justice to the subject. We bespeak for him large audiences. His apparatus is new and in good order, and we anticipate for lovers of science an intellectual feast.”
Lectures on science were very popular and were frequently given in Oswego. In September of the same year a news item announced :
“Lectures on Geology. Rev. Mr. Morse will deliver a course of seven lectures, commencing this evening, on the interesting science of Geology at the Mechanic’s Hall, in the Market Building.
“The lecture this evening will be on the history of the ancient worlds of animals and plants, showing that no less than six have arisen upon this globe and passed away, previous to the creation of the present world.
“Terms 50 cents for the course, for one gentleman and two ladies; 12 1/2 cents each for a single lecture.”
The “Oswego Palladium” of November 23, 1847, carried the following advertisement:
“CHEMICAL LECTURES
“A course of lectures and experiments on the subject of Chemistry and kindred sciences, will be given in the Hall of the Mechanics’ Association, in this village, by Doctor William Mather, of Fairfield, N. Y.
“Doctor M. has been for many years engaged in lecturing upon this highly interesting and useful science. Some years since he filled a professorship in Castleton Medical College, Vermont, and has been recently engaged as a lecturer at the Hamilton Institution*, connected with the Baptist denomination. His apparatus for experiments is extensive; in addition to the usual chemicals it embraces several interesting articles in the subject of Magnetism and Electro-magnetism, some of which will be exhibited at the introductory lecture, such as the Electro-magnet, Magnetoelectric machine, Powder cup, Revolving Armatures, and the Electromagnetic Telegraph. The newly discovered power of electromagnetism will also be illustrated by the use of an Electro- Magnetic Engine moving upon a circular railway.
“The introductory lecture is gratuitous to subscribers, to persons introduced by subscribers, and to all those who are desirous hereafter of becoming patrons of the course. An opportunity to subscribe will be afforded at the close of the first lecture.”
*An early name for the institution now known as Colgate University.
Public Showed Approbation
When a series of educational lectures concluded it was a custom of the audience to pass a resolution commending the speaker for his instructive presentation, and for his gentlemanly behavior. Frequently these resolutions were published in a newspaper for the information of the general public. One such resolution taken from the “Oswego Palladium” of December 21. 1847, comments on the chemical lectures of Dr. Mather:
“At a meeting of the very large class who attended the course of Lectures delivered by Professor Mather during the past four weeks, the following resolutions were reported by D. H. Marsh, Esq., and Drs. Van Dyck and Potter, and unanimously adopted:
“Resolved, That we have heard and witnessed, with much pleasure and instruction, the course of Lectures and Experiments in our village, by Professor William Mather, on Chemistry and its kindred sciences.
“Resolved, That, in his gentlemanly deportment, his intimate acquaintance with the subjects upon which he lectures, and the extensive apparatus and ability with which he exemplifies his theory, he has fully sustained the high recommendations with which
he came among us.
“Resolved, That we most cordially recommend Professor Mather to the confidence and support of the public.
“Resolved, That the above resolution be published in the village papers.
John W. Smith, Chairman”
Tells of Unknown China
As a leader in community affairs the editor of the “Palladium” reminded his readers in December, 1847, that a lecture series for the winter had not been announced, and suggested that a series be organized: “There is scarcely a village in the county containing half the number of inhabitants of our place, which does not manage to get up and maintain a course of Public Lectures during the winter season. To say that the same thing can not be done here, augurs poorly for the literary taste and habits of our people. We believe a series of good lectures would be well patronized. Who will take hold of this matter? It seems to us that Mr. Smith, the indefatigable president of the Mechanics’ Association, is just the man.”
The suggestion was well received for soon a series of seven lectures was advertised, and then presented for the citizens of Oswego. The same winter a lecture on China was delivered by Mr. S. Wells Williams at the First Presbyterian Church. Mr. Williams had just returned from a twelve years residence in China, and in his lecture spoke on the history, manners, customs, and prospects of the Chinese. The editor of the newspaper said concerning the lecture: “No other American has acquired that extensive knowledge of the character, and habits, literature and laws, of this peculiar land, until a few years past, almost unknown people, which this gentleman possesses, and which he is well qualified to impart. We hope he will meet, as he deserves, with a full attendance.”
A Distinguished Galaxy
As time went on public interest in lectures increased steadily, and funds became available to support a series of talks by some of the most prominent literary men, social reformers, and political leaders in the United States. The Franklin Hall* series presented during the winter of 1851-52 probably set an all-time record in Oswego for famous lecturers. On the lecture platform appeared such famous personages as the Reverend Henry Ward Beecher, Horace Greeley, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Season tickets for the course of sixteen lectures were sold at two dollars for gentlemen, and one dollar for ladies; with single admissions twenty-five cents for gentlemen, and twelve and a half cents for ladies.
*Franklin Hall stood on West Second street on the site now (1945) occupied by the Oswego Theatre. It was later renamed “The Tabernacle” and religious services were held there.
Following the lecture by Henry Ward Beecher the “Palladium” devoted two full columns to a summary of the event. A few of the comments made by the editor were:
Henry Ward Beecher
“Franklin Hall was filled to its utmost capacity on Thursday evening by our most intelligent and respectable citizens, to listen to the second lecture of the series now being delivered in Oswego. The lecturer was Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, of Brooklyn; the subject, ‘The True Sources of a Nation’s Prosperity: Its Men, not its Money.’ A subject full of interest, and which was treated in a most searching and masterly manner by the distinguished lecturer. Widespread as is his reputation, and high as were the expectations of his audience, the one was fully sustained and the other more than realized.
“To be fully appreciated, Mr. Beecher must be heard and seen. The mere reader of his productions loses the earnestness of manner, the eloquence and impressiveness of gesture and of accent, for which he is distinguished, and which take the battlements of the mind by storm, compel convictions, enforce the approbation of conscience, and elicit the applause of the heart.
“The subject was divided into three parts or inquiries, viz: 1st What constitutes the elements of national prosperity?, 2nd, What are the institutions which tend to develop that prosperity? and 3rd, What are the duties which citizens owe to these institutions ?
“In regard to the first inquiry, Mr. Beecher entertained the belief that these elements were to be found principally in the men of a nation. These, in his opinion, constituted national greatness and power, these were the true elements of national prosperity. A nation would be poor, indeed, though lined with gold, if it had no men, real men, men of purity and integrity of character, men of intelligence, men capable of understanding the true principles, the true philosophy of self-government.
Family Of First Importance
“As to the institutions best calculated to develop and promote national prosperity, Mr. B. asked his audience to think and answer him which was most important. He had thought, and had come to the conclusion that the family, properly organized, and recognized in the highest, purest, holiest aspect, stood first in importance among these institutions. Where this did not exist and was not recognized, or where it had only a nominal existence, and was employed merely as a cloak for licentiousness, the people were unable to throw off the yoke of tyrants, and to maintain a free and independent existence. The family, organized upon correct principles, is the Nursery of Liberty.
“The Church, too, not this, nor that, not any particular church, but the general institution of the Church was next in importance among these institutions. A nation, said the lecturer, was never ruined by too much morality and conscience; but instances were on record where governments had fallen through a lack of these important requisites.
“Common schools are also great promoters of the welfare and independence of a State. Oppression loves blind men, because they are easily led; but common schools, common school teachers, are the ichneumons that destroy crocodile tyrants in the egg. Let the liberties of a people be destroyed every year, by political excitements or bad laws, but leave us the Family, the Church, and Common Schools, and we would soon begin to see Freedom rising again and blooming like the green meadow over which the scythe had once passed.
“The closing remarks of the speaker, and, indeed, the whole lecture, abounded with beautiful flights of imagery and spontaneous and impressioned outbursts of eloquence, which thrilled and electrified the audience, and brought down the house in frequent and hearty applause.”
Editor Criticizes Seat Oversale
No record is available concerning the seating capacity of the lecture halls a hundred years ago, but evidently they were too small to accommodate the large crowds that attended the more popular lectures. One very pointed comment about the inadequacy of Franklin Hall, and about the manners of the audience, appeared in the “Oswego Journal,” December 6, 1851, shortly after Henry Ward Beecher had delivered his lecture in Oswego:
“The lectures just begun at the Franklin Hall this season, are very popular. They draw better than any former course of lectures. More people are in attendance and the number is on the increase. The first night the house was filled, the second it was crowded, and the third, or last, compelled quite a number of people, who had paid for their tickets, to stand during the evening. Now if the Hall will seat only a certain number, it is wrong to sell more tickets than can comfortably be accommodated. Such a thing as providing an entertainment for which the invited guests pay, and withholding seats, is anything but courteous or an exercise of hospitality. The aisles might be filled with benches, and they should be, or the number of tickets restricted. No gentleman will allow ladies to stand in the aisles while he is seated, and yet when one goes early and secures a seat, and waits a half hour for the lecturerto appear, he reluctantly gives up his position, and stands during the evening. Especially does he do it with ill-grace, if the new female takes possession with perfect coolness, without saying ‘I thank you,’ or bowing in recognition of civility. We saw this done last night. It should not be repeated.”
Horace Greeley
Horace Greeley’s appearance on the lecture platform did not create the same excitement, nor bring forth the same lengthy review in the daily press, as did Beecher’s. The “Daily Palladium” of January 10, 1852 gave the event a brief paragraph:*
“Horace Greeley’s lecture on Thursday evening, was listened to by a very large and delighted audience, and was such as might be expected from so distinguished and able a writer, and one so thoroughly versed in the theme of his discourse, ‘The Crystal Palace, and its Lessons.’ The subject was admirably, graphically elucidated, and its lessons adroitly and eloquently drawn. The close, particularly was beautiful and impressively eloquent and appropriate, being an ‘allusion to the upheaving of the nations of Europe, and the gathering skies that proclaim through Kossuth the progress of Freedom.”
*This could scarcely have been a reflection of any antipathy to Greeley on the part of Beman Brockway, then the Palladium’s editor and proprietor, for Brockway was soon to dispose of his interest in the “Palladium” and take an editorial position on Greeley’s New York Tribune. He did not find that position entirely to his liking, however, and he resigned from it after a few months and took up his residence in Pulaski where he lived for several years before going to Watertown where he was to spend the remainder of his days.
The lecture delivered by Ralph Waldo Emerson, February 5, 1852, was given a column in the newspaper:
“The high reputation Mr. Emerson enjoys as a lecturer, was fully sustained by his effort in this city on Thursday evening. He writes as no other man. His thoughts, if not always original, are presented in a manner peculiarly his own. Though he is not what would be called an eloquent man, he secures attention of his auditors at once, and holds it at will. You become interested, both in the speaker and his subject. You feel unwilling to lose a single word that escapes from his lips. There appears to be diamonds of exceeding value in every sentence he utters, and you seem to regret that he employs so few words. Listening to him we should consider something like the employment of digging for gold. You see little particles of shining dust as he proceeds, and wonder that he does not tarry longer where so much is promised. But he stops with showing you the mine, he leaves you to do the digging. His discourse was upon the subject of Wealth, which he treated in his own peculiar way. He had a new definition of Riches. He considered the wealthiest man to be the individual whose revenues were derived from the greatest number or variety of sources. The poorest man in the State was the one who did the least for the people. Wealth was Knowledge, Virtue, Morality, Religion. Anything which improved the Understanding, enlarged the Heart, and tended to the moral and intellectual growth of man, was an element of Wealth. But we can not follow Mr. Emerson through his lecture. It was a rich intellectual repast, and nothing short of a verbatim report would do it any kind of justice. It was an effort which only a thinking man could appreciate.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
The “Oswego Journal”, February 6, 1852, gave more detail of Mr. Emersan’s remarks, and is quoted here at some length because the story gives an insight into the philosophy which influenced the thinking of Oswegonians nearly one hundred years ago.
“Wealth begins, said Mr. Emerson, with the common necessaries of life, bread to eat, fire to warm, roof to shelter, a good two-wicked lamp to burn, etc. Acquisitiveness he regarded as a virtue, and a good thing for society, as it stimulates men to become independent; forces the beggar to improve his faculties and fight his way to his own loaf. Man should not be content with the mere necessaries of life, and live upon a handful of dried peas; he is born to be rich, and is tempted to the conquest of this and that piece of nature, until he begins to think that this planet belongs to him.
“He is the best man who avails himself of other men’s facilities, and draws benefit from the labor of the greatest number of those who make different articles, both of use and luxury, in all parts of the world. Power is what man wants and not candy. Kings have long arms, it is said, and all men should have long arms, and pluck their living from all parts of the world; from the sun, moon and stars, if possible. He had never seen a man yet so rich as all men ought to be, or having the command he ought to have of all the elements of nature. Only they should own, who can administer, and not they who hoard; those who carve out work for others, and not those who are continually beggars. The accumulation of wealth in single hands is a benefit to society, so far is it is employed in building railroads, manufactories, etc. It is said of party that it is the madness of the many for the gain of the few; and these projects in which capital unites may be called the madness of the few for the benefit of the many. The projectors seldom reap benefits from them, but the community is greatly blessed.
Oswego 53rd City
“He gave an economical analysis of wealth, in its different aspects, showed the relative value of money in different places, and spoke of the various projects to regulate by legislation the descent of wealth. All legislation upon this subject he deemed improper, as such matters would regulate themselves by a natural law much superior to any special enactments.”
The Federal census of 1850 listed Oswego as having a population of 12,205, and being the fifty third largest city in the United States. There were only sixty-two cities in the country with a population over ten thousand, and Oswego was at that time larger than Springfield, Massachusetts; Wheeling, West Virginia and Dayton, Ohio. New York City was then the largest city in the United States with a population of 500,000, with Chicago at only 29,000, and Syracuse 22,000. With Oswego only a small city it is a great tribute to the cultural and intellectual interests of the citizens that such a wealth of stimulating entertainment was made available to the community.
The lecture and lyceum movement continued in Oswego for many years, and resulted in the broadening of intellectual interests and the spread of scientific knowledge. It also developed leadership in public life, and tended to break down class distinctions since all manner of people joined in the common undertaking.
With the arrival of the Civil War period, the wordy style of earlier lecturers was exchanged for one of simplicity and directness. A modification of the ornate style was brought about, and a direct, simple form of oratory developed that was better suited to the discussion of important moral reforms and public questions.
The oratory of this later period was characterized by brevity and simplicity. The learned man of the day, face to face with the plain man, spoke simply and briefly in order to win his point.
Other Lecture Types
Capitalizing on the success of the serious lectures, and the public desire for instruction, many itinerant lecturers began to peddle pseudo-scientific lectures. Talks on clairvoyance, animal magnetism, mind-reading, mesmerism and phrenology were presented to a gullible public eager for more knowledge. In October of 1847 the “Palladium” announced in a news item:
‘Professor Rodgers, who has lectured and experimented for several years, with great success, in all the principal cities of the Union, on Human Magnetism, Phrenology, etc., and who delivered a course of lectures in this place about a year ago, has arrived in town and announced another course of lectures and experiments, different from the former at Mechanics’ Hall.* The first of the series was given last evening, the others to follow in regular order. We have no doubt that the Lectures and Experiments of Professor R. will prove highly entertaining to our citizens.”
*Mechanics Hall was located on the second floor of the old Market House – Oswego’s first city hall. It was here that the first men’s club to be organized in Oswego for serious study and inquiry held its meetings.
Health Lectures
Another news item in November of the same year announced a course of health lectures: “Dr. Pierce, from New York, will deliver to the ladies and gentlemen of Oswego, at the Tabernacle, a course of four free lectures upon the cause, prevention and cure of consumption and other diseases, and the mysteries and fallacies of the faculty.
“His system of practice is founded upon the laws of nature and common sense principles, which accounts for his universal success. He does not convert the stomach into a drug shop, or cover the body with painful sores; but he prescribes natural remedies, which will assist nature to heal the disease, instead of hindering her.”
An Early Winchell
Beginning in the summer of 1847, and continuing at intervals for the next several years, an amazing entertainer by the name of Winchell visited Oswego to present what were sedately announced as “Comic Lectures.” He appeared as a one-man show and played an incredible number of different characters. The paid notice in the “Palladium” gave an idea of the actor’s evaluation of his own work.
“Winchell will introduce a variety of amazing burlesques, comical delineations, enlivening funnyisms, gleesome humors, innoxious jollities, kindling levities, mirthful novelties, queer reminiscences, satirical truisms, ubiquitous voices, wags, Xantippes. Yahoos, Zaneys, etc. at the Academy Hall, on Tuesday evening, June 15th, 1847.
“With a variety of imitations, including Betty Madagain, an itinerant mendicant from the Emerald Isle, with the song of the Angel’s Whisper, which gradually and imperceptibly changes into the crying of an infant, and conclude with Caleb Bundy’s Adventures Down East, being an imitation of an original Yankee, whom the imitator met once upon a time.”
One of the distinguished American Phrenologists of the last century visited Oswego professionally during October of 1849, and favored the citizens with a course of lectures on the ” interesting and important science” of which he was the acknowledged head and teacher in this country. The mayor of the village gave free use of the City Hall for the lectures, and Mr. Fowler, the phrenologist, presented the lectures free to all. This spirit of generosity was duly appreciated by the citizens, and they gave the visitor a hearty welcome and a cordial reception.
The advertisement of Mr. Fowler’s lectures pointed out that:
“The utility of phrenology is new settled beyond question, and all that is necessary to reap its advantages is to become acquainted with its principles and apply them, and those who are desirous of so doing have now an opportunity.
“To know ourselves is a matter of the greatest importance, and there is no means by which we can acquire this knowledge so well as by the aid of Phrenology. It teaches us for what occupations in life we are by nature best qualified, and in what pursuit we may be most successful. It is a powerful lever to selfimprovement, both moral and intellectual.”
The schedule of the lectures as announced in the newspaper indicates the breadth of the science of phrenology:
“Monday and Tuesday: Phrenology as applied to the development of the passions, and the training and government of children.
“Wednesday and Thursday: Analysis of the intellectual facilities, how to educate children and secure good memory.
“Friday and Saturday: The moral organs and moral nature of man, the harmony between man’s moral nature as recognized bv science and as presented in the Bible will be compared.
Phrenology Found Favor
These lectures by Mr. Fowler were so well received by the people of Oswego that a resolution was unanimously adopted “That we fully recognize the claims of Phrenology to be classed among the Sciences, and that therefore worthy of the attention and investigation of the student of Nature and the lover of truth, no less than the philanthropist, and that the successful presentation of these claims to the minds of the community, is an object of importance, as well to the cause of humanity as of science.”
A type of lecturer that must not be omitted from this historical survey was the sidewalk orator who sold merchandise to his audience after he had given his speech. The appearance of one such street vendor brought forth a news item in May, 1851:
“Hastings, the ‘renowned soap vendor’ is in town. He drew a large audience in the street Monday evening, and after entertaining the crowd for some time with his peculiar, humorous, mirth provoking oratory he dealt out any quantity of the famous soap, which, if it is a humbug, ‘is got up’ to perfection. It is completely transparent, richly perfumed, and looks good enough to eat. Notwithstanding the immense sales of this article yesterday, Mr. H. has a ‘few more of the same sort left’.”
Moving Dioramas
Exhibitions of original paintings, scenic panoramas, and moving dioramas were also an important part of public entertainment in early Oswego. These exhibits usually received favorable comments from the local newspapers, and were well supported by the public. In May, 1848, a beautiful moving diorama of the Fairy Grotto, Island of The Fay and Enchanted Palace, and views of Mexico, taken by an officer of the United States Army, were shown at Academy Hall. Following the exhibit the Oswego “Palladium” remarked:
“Johnson and Co.’s Dioramas were exhibited at Academy Hall on Friday and Saturday evenings last, and, we hesitate not to say, were well worth witnessing. The views of different cities in Mexico are vivid and remarkably lifelike, and cannot fail of interesting all who have paid any attention to the events that have transpired in Mexico during the last two years. Other objects of curiosity and interest are introduced during the evening’s entertainment, affording one both amusement and instructions.”
The showing of Dubufe’s original painting of “Adam and Eve in Paradise” at Franklin Hall, April, 1851, inspired the editor of the “Palladium” to write a critique:
“This sublime and unequaled production of art was painted for Louis X, of France, and represents the ‘Temptation’ and ‘Expulsion’ of our first parents. The figures are of the size of life, and from their bold relief, distinctness of outline, graceful of attitude, and tone of coloring, most perfectly resemble a finished statue. In the Temptation, the expression of Eve is the very soul of beauty, simplicity, feeling and loveliness. The Expulsion is terrifically grand; the elements are in fearful commotion, and a feeling of commingled awe and admiration insensible comes over the mind that dispassionately contemplates this exhibition of the holy wrath of Heaven upon the guilty, fallen parents of mankind. All is in perfect keeping and harmony, impressive and graphic in sublimity. The power of language is unavailing in describing this noble work of art, it must be seen to be appreciated.”
Chemical Dioramas
R. Winter’s exhibition of “Chemical Dioramas” of Milan Cathedral, the Funeral Pageant of Napoleon, and the Court of Babylon, with a night view of Belshazzar’s Feast created a sensation among Oswego art lovers because one picture would fade away and another take its place. The newspaper reporter said:
“We do not understand the process by which a view of the city of Rome is transformed into a view of the Bay of Naples, but the thing is done, and all you know about it is, that one fades away and the other appears in its place. The change is very curious, to say the least.” The’ process was never explained in the newspaper, but it is possible that the feat was performed by a stereopticon, or “magic lantern” built with a double projector to produce dissolving views.
County Fairs
The Annual Cattle Show and Fair of the Oswego County Agricultural Society was another popular form of public entertainment a century or more ago. According to the early newspapers these annual events were well attended by people from all parts of the county, and the exhibits of farm machinery and produce were very interesting and instructive. The program of events in 1847 featured a display of animals and implements of farm husbandry on the Oswego show grounds, and of domestic manufactures, mechanical productions, and fruits and vegetables in the Market Hall. The highlights of the second day at the Fair were a plowing match in the morning, and the awarding and paying of premiums in the afternoon.
The County Agricultural Society held the annual Fair of 1853 at Oswego Falls, with the fair grounds immediately adjacent to what is today the Fulton depot of the Lackawanna Railroad, then the station of the Oswego and Syracuse Railroad. The grounds were enclosed, and buildings were erected to house exhibits of mechanical, agricultural and horticultural products. Special train ran from Oswego to Fulton for the convenience of those attending the fair, the railroad fare was reduced to half price, and passengers leaving Oswego at 10 in the morning could visit the exhibition and return to Oswego by 4 that afternoon or 7 o’clock in the evening. The main speaker at the fair was Talmadge Delafield, Esq., of Seneca county, who delivered an address in a large tent erected on the grounds.
Newspapers Aided Fairs
The local newspapers always gave the county fairs their hearty support, and urged the public to attend. A few days before the Fair of 1853 the editor of the “Times” wrote:
“The Fairs of the County Society we have always regarded as more calculated to advance the interests of Agriculture than the shows of the State Society. There is less noise and confusion about the former, and more practical utility. The County Fairs have always been admirably managed, and they have given uniform satisfaction.
“It is to be hoped, that the approaching exhibition will show an advance upon all its predecessors. Certain it is, that our county is steadily growing in all the elements of agricultural wealth and productive industry. Our city alone can and ought to furnish an interesting and attractive display of its manufactories and workshops. Our artisans are not inferior to those of any part of the state, and they cannot do better than cultivate the acquaintance of the people of the county with their wares and themselves, under so auspicious circumstances.
“We hope our citizens, generally, will be induced to visit the fair, for apart from the interest it will afford, there is a reciprocal duty to countenance these agricultural exhibitions, if they encourage our farmers in their efforts to excel! in their profession in which all classes have a direct and deep interests.”
The editor of the “Times” visited the fair and found everything to his liking. He reported:
“Yesterdav we attended the County Fair at Oswego Falls, and though the dav was extremely wet and unpleasant, raining nearly all day, the show of horses, sheen, catte. swine and poultry, was exceedingly fine. A better show, we venture to say, has never taken place in this county, and had the day been fair, few county fairs in this state would have excelled it.
“In fruits and vegetables there was a very fine and large display. The fruits department was particularly well represented, showing that Oswego is far ahead as a fruit growing county of her sister counties. Our friend Mr. Worden had 20 or 30 varieties, or more, of apples and pears on exhibition. “As a whole, we were exceedingly pleased with our visit, and happily disappointed in seeing so large and varied an exhibition.
“The ladies were there in large numbers with specimens of their skill. The officers of the Society were as busy as bees in the discharge of their duties, and to their efforts no doubt the prosperity of the Society mainly depends.”
Strawberry Festivals
Closely akin to the county fairs were church fairs, bazaars, exhibits of bake goods and fancy work, and the annual Strawberry Festival. These events were usualy held in Doolittle Hall* or Music Hall where adequate space for the displays was available, and were given by various church and community organizations as means for raising funds.
The Strawberry Festival of 1854 was staged by a group of churches working together. The public attended in large numbers to view the exhibits, and to consume large quantities of the ever famous Oswego county strawberries.
The food and fancy work at the church fairs were sold to the highest bidders, and the funds given to the church or to the minister. An 1861 news item stated: “The Fair at Music Hall last evening for the benefit of Reverend Mr. Clifft was well attended. There was a fine display of useful and fancy articles, and the tables were filled with choice delicacies. The fair will close this evening with an auction sale of all articles remaining on hand.”
*Mechanics Hall was located on the second floor of the old Market House – Oswego’s first city hall. It was here that the first men’s club to be organized in Oswego for serious study and inquiry held its meetings.
Vaudeville
Vaudeville shows, often called “variety” were a popular form of public entertainment before the Civil war. Acrobats, jugglers, musical acts, and singers presenting topical songs had long existed in the theatre, and had come to be played as a series of acts for the amusement of the less critical, but highly appreciative, members of the public. For a long time ladies rarely went to this form of entertainment because the jokes were considered off-color, and the crowds were often rude and noisy. These were two of the reasons the theater was frowned upon, and was so long in becoming an acceptable form of amusement. The advertisements of the early days often stressed the “polite” entertainment, and its suitability for the “ladies and gentlemen of the elite society.” The attitude of the editor of the “Palladium” towards this type of commercial entertainment was well expressed in a story concerning a concert that had appeared before a very small audience. He wrote:
“We regret that this really meritorious concert was not more liberally encouraged; not only for its own account, but because the fact that it was not is a bad commentary on the taste (of at least some) of our citizens. If it had been a circus, an itinerant theatrical performance, a Negro dance, or anything else of this sort, it would probably have been well patronized for this is generally the case; but a quiet, orderly, respectable musical concert to elevate and improve both the heart and the mind, can be scarcely command an ordinary quorum of spectators.
“Is it indeed a fact that none but that class of performances which we have named, can secure the attendance and receive the encouragement of the citizens of Oswego? This, and other similar illustrations, we confess, almost compels us to believe so.”
Vaudeville was later improved and made acceptable to the more conservative members of the community, and enjoyed a rich and interesting life until recent times when it practically disappeared from the American scene. On July 11, 1848, Mr. Charles Hill, an accomplished actor, with his family, presented a series of theatrical entertainments of a kind approved by the newspaper. The editor wrote:
“Mr. Hill is a gentleman, and has acquired a handsome reputation for his theatre. We understand it is patronized by the elite everywhere, and that the representations are of a chaste and refined character. We bespeak for him a patronage commensurate with his deserts.”
Early Vaudeville Program
The advertisements Mr. Hill published in the newspaper indicated the dignified vaudeville show he presented to Oswegoians:
“Mr. Charles Hill, of the Theatre Royal, Convent Garden, encouraged by the flattering remarks of approbation which have been bestowed on himself and family throughout the United States has the honor to announce that he has, at a great expense, constructed a new and elegant portable vaudeville theatre, painted expressly for him by James Lamb, which will open for two nights only.
“The performance will commence with the vaudeville of A Silent Woman, to be followed by a petite sketch called ‘Capers and Coronets’ and ‘The Marquis and the Opera Dancer’ with the song ‘Vive La Dance! Vive La Guerre!’ “Mademoiselle Flore, (a French opera dance) will introduce a grand dance from the Ballet of La Sylphide.
‘The program to conclude with the laughable farce of ‘The Young Widow.’ “
Another variety show was given in Oswego a few years later by a comedian, known as Yankee Locke, who presented a “great attraction in the shape of wit, humor, Yankeeisms and dancing.” He was assisted by Arline Newton, a celebrated danseuse; and by J. Fontaine, a distinguished violinist, who introduced a great variety of comic imitations on the violin.
Legerdemain and Magic
Closely related to the variety show, and very popular with the public, were feats of legerdemain and magic presented by various wizards, necromancers, and magicians. In 1848, Herr Allen Stuart, a celebrated magician of that period, presented one of his Oriental Soirees at Academy Hall. His performance included a variety of new and surprising experimental wonders based on chemistry, optics, pneumatics and magic. The stage was magnificently illuminated for the occasion, and splendidly decorated to represent a temple of enchantment.
Performances by magicians were always well patronized, and as a result many such entertainments were presented in Oswego. The appearance of a magician at a local theatre was cause for great excitement, and frequently received editorial comment in the newspaper. The “Palladium” of October 30, 1851, announced in an editorial:
“The Great One is Coming. Now, all minor wonders and magicians must hide their heads, for lo! the Great Wizard is about, and may be expected here. All necromancers, who have appeared before him, are indebted to him for their many seeming wonders. He is celebrated the world over, not only as the greatest magician living, but as the inventor of thousands of feats. In the Wizard we see no common performer, but a gifted artist, and a gentleman. He is consulted by wealth, fashion, and beauty. Wherever he appears he creates a tremendous excitement. With an unsparing hand he presents the ladies with choice bouquets, and baskets of delicious confectionary. He makes the old look young, and the ugly pretty. He makes you laugh when he likes, and weep at his command. And not only that, he will make your eyes the fools over your other senses. A gentleman, who has seen this wonderful man, has just been telling us of some of his wonders, and we must say, if they are as great as they are said to be, he must be the D—1 in the the shape of Dr. Faustus.”
The Wizard played to full houses in Oswego for two weeks, and the newspaper continued to express enthusiastic approval of his performances. Among the many comments which appeared in the press one suggested that the magic show was a desirable antidote for a public too excited over a coming election. The item stated:
“His houses have been nightly filled with fashionable and admiring audiences, notwithstanding the intense excitement of the election. We hope our good people will go and see him, and by that means allay any dangerous symptoms resulting from over excitement. He’s some.”
Barnum In Oswego
The celebrated Lancashier Bell-Ringers and the wonderful Chinese Family, brought to this country by P. T. Barnum, gave two concerts and levees at Franklin Hall, March 20 and 21st, 1851. The bell-ringers included five artists, each holding four bells at a time making a total of twenty bells on which the musicians played the popular airs of the day. The combination produced the most astounding and charming peals of harmony which reminded the listeners of a colossal music box.
The Chinese Family consisted of one lady of royal blood with tiny feet only two and one half inches long, a Chinese professor of music, an interpreter, and two Chinese children. The family performed upon various Chinese musical instruments much to the delight of the audience.
Since P. T. Barnum was the manager of the Chinese Family, as well as General Tom Thumb who had appeared in Oswego a few years ago before, the editor of the newspaper reported an incident which may or may not happened in Oswego. A young lady present at the entertainment said aloud, “Is that Barnum?” as a man of large proportions advanced to the front of the stage, “What does he play on ?” To which a gruff voice of an old gentleman a few feet away growled. “He plays upon the people.”
Barnum Discovers Jenny Lind
While this paper does not deal with the history of musical entertainment in Oswego the story of Jenny Lind may well be included since it furnished public entertainment for several years, mostly through the local newspapers. Early in March, 1850, the “Palladium” carried a news story that P. T. Barnum had concluded arrangements with the Swedish Nightingale to visit this country for a series of one hundred and fifty concerts. In September a full column report of Jenny Lind’s first New York concert was reprinted from the “New York Tribune,” and was followed in the same issue by a brief report of her second concert. A news item in December announced that Jenny had sung in Washington, D. C, to a large crowd which included President and Mrs. Fillmore, and many members of both houses of Congress.
Public interest in Jenny Lind was further aroused in May of the next year when the newspaper reported that expenses for the singer and her company were $3000 a day, that Barnum was still making $20,000 a week profit, and that up to them Jenny had accumulated from $800,000 to $1,000,000 in spite of her generous contributions to charity. Interest grew to excitement when the “Palladium” announced in July:
“Jenny Lind sang in Albany on Wednesday and Friday evening, and is to sing in Utica on Monday evening. She should now be invited to Oswego, either upon her route to or from Niagara Falls. Jenny must favor us with at least one concert.”
This excitement mounted when four days later the newspaper added:
“Jenny Lind is to sing at the First Baptist Church in Syracuse this evening. It seems to us measures should be taken to get her here, and now is the time to move in the matter. She will visit the Falls, and doubtless go or return by way of Oswego, if she is asked. Let her be invited to come.”
But on July 17th this excited anticipation was dashed to earth by the announcement:
“Our citizens, we suspect, are not to hear Jenny Lind, unless they go abroad for it. We believe she has decided not to come here, or rather, her agents have done so for her. Well, no matter. She probably loses as much in staying away, as Oswego will. We shouldn’t wonder if she was no great shakes after all.”
Jenny Lind Pays Visit
All was forgiven, however, in August of the same year when Jenny passed through Oswego on her way to another engagement. It is true she did not give a concert, but her mere presence in Oswego inspired the newspaper to comment:
“The Swedish Nightingale honored our city with a flying visit on Saturday morning. She came in on the “Bay State,’ Capt. Ledyard, and departed on the six o’clock train for Syracuse. She walked from the boat to the cars with Capt. Ledyard, who, being a single man, was of course particularly affable and attentive. The morning was a lovely one, and she expressed herself highly delighted with the appearance of our beautiful city. The story that she is soon to return to Europe is all idle. She informed Capt. L. that she did not think of leaving the country earlier than May, 1852; that the more she saw of the country the more she was delighted with it, and the more difficult she found it to get away. The Captain found her an intelligent, unassuming lady, with whom he was well pleased. Of course, she was pleased with the boat and her commander, for the Captain is one of the finest men in the world, and the “Bay State” is a paragon in neatness and order. A better steamer does not float upon the American waters.
“Few of our citizens saw Jenny, for she passed through town before many were up. This is another case illustrating the importance of being up in the morning.”
Traveling Theatrical Troupes
Along with lectures, concerts, magicians, medicine shows, and exhibitions of natural curiosities occasional theatrical troupes began to appear in Oswego shortly before the Civil War. The old prejudice against the stage was slow to die, and during the fifties, when the moral sense of the people was being stirred by the question of abolition, it revived in full force. During this period the usual entertainments were given, and there is a record of a few acting companies. In July, 1851 the Syracuse Theatre Company under the management of W. Henderson, presented a short engagement in the Upper Hall of the Woodruff Block. “BlackEyed Susan” and “Crossing the Line” were the first plays given, followed the next evening with “Honeymoon, or How To Tame a Woman” and “Loan of a Lover.” A stirring melodrama “The Drunkard,” and the play “Perfection” were also included in the repertoire.
As the feeling against the drama died away acting companies visited Oswego with increasing frequency, and the 1850’s witnessed the gradual development of this new form of entertainment. There were traveling companies of actors with one play. These stayed in town for a day or two, or until public patronage dwindled, and then moved on to the next town. Traveling stock companies with a repertoire of many plays stayed until all of the plays had been shown one or more times for the local audiences. The development of these “stock companies” during this period is of particular historical significance because of the later influence on public amusements.
“Stock” Encouraged Versatility
The “stock” system led to versatility rather than excellence in acting, and produced acting groups capable of presenting a wide variety of plays, including new plays and revivals of socalled “stock pieces’ from the older dramatists. One evening the group might give a Shakespearean play, and the next night the latest of the thrilling melodramas or amusing farce-comedies. A stock company was usually a group of players working together under an arrangement known as a “sharing system” by which each performer received a share of the proceeds. The “season” for such a company would be a week or two, or until all of the plays in repertoire had been presented once or twice for the townspeople. At the conclusion of a run, the chief performer would be given a “benefit” from which he would receive the total proceeds of the performance. Frequently the manager of the hall would donate use of the theatre rent free for the benefit. If the performance was a success, benefits would be given for other members of the cast, then a benefit for two or three of the minor actors collectively, and, finally, for some local charity. This system of benefits was profitable for individual members of the company, and often extended the season for a week longer than originally planned.
Hough’s Dramatic Company
Hough’s Dramatic Company, a stock group which had just finished a run at the National Theatre in Syracuse, came to Oswego in 1852 for a limited engagement. The engagement however, lasted two weeks by the time the benefit performanceswere completed. Included in the repertoire were most of the latest New York plays:
“Black-Eyed S u s a n,” “Rising Wind,” “Who Speaks First,” “Irish Tutor,” “Dumb Bell,” and “Charles II.” For the benefit of Mr. A. R. Phelps, the leading actor, the company presented “The Maid of Croissey”; and for the benefit of Mr. A. Ross, another actor the players gave “Delicate Ground” and “Honey Moon.” This stock company was very popular in Oswego, and returned the next year for a longer run. Their season this second year continued from December 19, 1853 to January 6, 1854, and saw the production of a larger repertoire than before. Then for some reason the company disappeared for six or seven years, and re-appeared in the news when the Oswego “Times” announced on April 10, 1861:
“Garry Hough’s Dramatic Company is now performing in Syracuse. We have heard a rumor they are coming to Oswego. Time was when we used to have a theatre here as a regular attendant upon the summer months. If Mr. Hough is well supported, and has a good company, he can, we believe, do a profitable business in Oswego: but if he has a mere association of supernumeraries forced into leading parts, he had better stay away.”
In December 1852 the Abbey Hall, under the management of A. R. Phelps and W. A. Thompson, housed a Shakespearean troupe headed by Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Leonard. During the ten day run in Oswego this company presented “Macbeth,” “Richard III,” “Othello,” and “Hamlet” for large and appreciative audiences.
First Shakespearean Performance
The plays of Shakespeare became increasingly popular so that by 1854 Marsh and Ellsber’s Star Museum Company was able to enjoy packed houses at Doolittle Hall for a month. Among the plays which were given over and over were “Romeo and Juliet,” “Othello,” “Macbeth” and “Hamlet.” To round out the season the usual benefits were given for the actors, and a few modern plays presented for the public. All of the plays received very flattering reviews in the local newspapers. A note on the program printed in the newspaper is interesting because it attempts to assure the public of the theatre’s dignified and proper behavior. The note stated: “The strictest order and decorum will be preserved, gentlemen will readily comply with the request. Ladies are never at fault.”
The behavior of some members of the audiences was long a source of concern for actors, managers, and theatre owners. Unruly spectators often disturbed other members of the audience with catcalls and stamping, and occasionally tried to start a riot or panic. Newspaper editors frequently complained about such ungentlemanly behavior and plead for drastic action to curb the evil. One such item which appeared in the “Palladium” stated:
“It is an outrage that respectable people who patronize shows are to be annoyed and insulted by blasphemy, cat-calls, and stamping of unruly boys. One ruffian in the gallery, when the fire alarm rang, tried his best to get up a stampede by crying out, “Doolittle Hall is on Fire!” A judicious application of locust would have a beneficial effect, until the street Arabs and their larger consorts learn they cannot run everything.”
Doolittle Hall’s Appointments
Doolittle Hall, which was to play an important part in the future history of Oswego entertainment, was opened October 6, 1853. This hall was destined to house most of the important public events for the next twenty years, and then to be changed into the Academy of Music and continue to welcome the great and near-great of the American stage until the Richardson Theatre was built and opened in 1895.
Doolittle Hall was not a theatre, merely a hall, but for beauty, size and general arrangements it was not surpassed by any theatre in the state at that time. The forty-two gas fixtures, installed by Mellen and Bradeen, were reported to be the most costly and showy available, and to have reflected much credit upon the taste of the proprietor.
The new place of entertainment opened with the celebrated Dumbolton Troupe of Ethiopian Minstrels, second only in popularity to the famous Christy Ministrels. The large room was crowded for the opening, and the ministrels well received. The “Oswego Daily Times” reported:
“The Dumbolton Company is decidedly the best that has ever visited our city, as the applause with which they were continually greeted testified. Their delineations of the Negro Character are too much for vest buttons, Cool White, Pell and Emmett being capable of making more fun than any three ‘darkies’ in America.
“Mons. Devani, the contortionist, and Mr. Hooly, the musical director, did not appear last evening, having missed the afternoon train of cars from Syracuse. They will be on hand this evening, however, and it is expected that Mons. D. will be twistyer than ever. The performance of this gentleman is worth the price of admission.
“The Doolittle Hall, lighted by gas last evening, for the first time*, made a very imposing appearance. The Chandeliers are of the most beautiful and costly style, Mr. Doolittle having spared no expense to make his Hall, as it is, one of the finest in theState. It is both an honor to its proprietor and our city.”
*Illuminating- gas became available in Oswego for the first time in 1852.
Advent of Ministrels
Before progressing further into the forms of public entertainment in Oswego during the past century there is a characteristic native theatre form which should be mentioned, the Negro minstrel. It was an American type of entertainment which made its first appearance about 1828, and grew to be among the most important contributions that America has made to theatre art. Negro minstrelsy had its origins in the singing and dancing of the plantations, and was probably introduced to the stage when Thomas D. Rice discovered “Jim Crowe” as an amusing stage character. Minstrel shows developed a definite pattern with a white master of ceremonies as Interlocutor, a chorus seated in a semi-circle facing the audience, and two or three blackface comedians as “endmen”. The first part of the show was generally a series of solos and chorus musical numbers, interspersed with jokes by the endmen. A second part, or olio was usually in the nature of a revue with members of the troupe presenting their musical, dramatic, and dancing specialty acts.
The first minstrel shows visiting Oswego were advertised as “concerts”. Among the first to appear was Mr. Lathrop’s Ethiopian Harmonists who gave “a grand concert” at Academy Hall in February of 1849. The “concert” was well received for the newspaper commented:
“The Concert of the Ethiopian Harmonists last evening, gave universal satisfaction to a large audience. The music of the Harmonists has not been excelled, if, indeed, it has been equalled, in this city by any thing of the kind for a long time. Mr. Lathrop gives another Concert this evening, when all those who admire this species of amusement will do well to attend.”
Two years later another group presented a program in Oswego, and received a press notice that indicated the kind of music provided for the enjoyment of the audience:
“Butler’s Ethiopian Serenaders will give the second and last of their novel and exciting entertainments this evening at Franklin Hall. They will introduce a variety of new songs, duets, overtures, etc., with instrumental accompaniments on the guitar, banjo, and tambourine, presenting a rich and varied program.”
The melodies of Thomas Rice, Dan Emmet and Stephan Foster were used extensively by the minstrels. Of the one hundred and fifty songs written for these entertainments the most popular were: “Old Folks At Home,” “Old Black Joe,” “Nelly Was A Lady,” “My Old Kentucky Home,” and “Way Down South in Dixie”.
Christy’s Minstrels
The most famous band to visit Oswego was known as “Christy’s Ministrels.” This troupe had played in New York City for eight years before they took to the road under the guidance of George Christy who had inherited the show from the founder, Edwin P. Christy. Their first Oswego appearance was announced in the “Oswego Times” in April, 1861:
“Christy’s band of Ethiopian Ministrels will give two entertainments at Doolittle Hall on Friday and Saturday of this week. They are capital vocalists and do not need the extra attraction of burnt cork and plantation extravagances to draw crowded houses.” The “Christys” performed in Oswego as scheduled before a large audience which, according to the report, found parts of the performance good, but the whole show very unsatisfactory. This unexpected failure astonished the audience because the same troupe had recently performed in Syracuse to crowded houses, and had received unqualified approbation from the press of that city. Explaining this sudden change in quality of production the local newspaper reported:
“After the performance at Syracuse, a part of the company left Mr. Christy in the lurch. While deliberating how he should get out of his engagement at Oswego, certain parties at Syracuse, represented that there were performers in that city who could fill the missing places. Mr. Christy consented to give them a trial, and came on here in hopes of being able to give a respectable entertainment. He is sensible that he made a mistake, and is much mortified at the failure of last evening, so much so that he will make no attempt to repeat it tonight.”
Christy Made Good
Christy hastened to Albany and New York to re-organize his troupe, and returned to Oswego a week later to salvage his reputation. The new company was good enough to prompt the reviewer to say: “The company has retrieved its fame: the reunion has been successful.”
The program of the Christy Ministrels illustrates the pattern used by most minstrel shows for the next seventy-five or more years until this type of theatrical entertainment declined in popularity and faded from the scene:
PART I
Overture Instrumental……. Christy’s Ministrels Opening Chorus, operatic – Full band Seeing Nelly Home George Gray -The Irishman’s Shanty. . W. A. Christy Annie Lisle Charles Carple Down In Tennessee Dan Holt I Am Dreaming of Thee . . -. George Gray Anvil Chorus . .. from “II Trovatore” Boss Blacksmith W. A. Christy Blowers,, Choristers, Bellows, etc. – -, the Company
PART II
Dance—Pas de Corsair.. . Master Eugene Florence Ballad—Viva L’America .. . George Gray Stump Speech W. A. Christy The Union is Safe, Banjo Solo , , Dan Holt Polka de Zauave Christy and Florence
Dramatic sketches: “Gaily the Troubador” “Return of the Star of the West” Concluding with the favorite plantation song and dance “Who Struck Billy Patersone” by entire company.
There were innumerable ministrel troupes playing every city, town and village in the United States right up to the time of the First World War, when increased railroad rates and competition from the moving pictures finally killed this form of amusement*
Amateur groups today occasionally produce a ministrel show, and thus help to preserve the music and humorous skits that were an important part of professional minstrels. The once popular negro impersonations of minstrelsy have been succeeded by serious plays concerning the social problems of the Negro.
*A1. G. Field’s Minstrels continued to pay annual visits to the Richardson Theater in Oswego for nearly a decade after the close of World War I before they finally “left the road” the last troupe of traveling American minstrels to withdraw from the field.
Barry Opens Music Hall
Music Hall, located over Gordon & Purse’s store on West First street, was opened as a theatre in March, 1861. John A. Barry, who had leased the hall and made extensive alterations and improvements, announced to the public in a paid advertisement:
“Music Hall, formerly Littlefield Hall, has been leased and fitted up as a first class Hall, and is now ready for use. The room is well ventilated and warmed, and contains comfortable seats for six hundred persons. As a concert or lecture hall it is not excelled, charges moderate.”
The new hall was evidently a success for many public entertainments were thereafter held there instead of at Doolittle Hall, which up to then had been the most popular meeting place. Also with two theatres it was possible for more entertainments to appear in Oswego. It was not uncommon for rival acting groups to be playing here at the same time, one in Music Hall on West. First street, and the other in Doolittle Hall on Water street.
Debate Spiritualism
Just before the Civil War an interest in Spiritualism as a new science suddenly flared up in Oswego. Lectures, debates and demonstrations were presented for the entertainment and enlightenment of the skeptics and the believers. On March 22, and 23, 1861, a Professor Grimes and the Honorable Warren Chase, the champion of modern spiritualism, appeared at Music Hall to debate the subject, “Modern Spiritualism, its Philosophy and Phenomena.” The debate gave all interested Oswegonians a rare opportunity to hear the subject thoroughly analyzed and ably discussed by two gentlemen who had given considerable attention to an investigation of the subject. Concerning the debate the “Oswego Times” reported:
“Music Hall was filled last evening, by an intelligent audience drawn together to hear the discussion of Modern Spiritualism by W. Chase affirming that spirits do communicate, and Prof. J. S. Grimes denying that position. “The two champions sailed into the discussion with a great deal of spirit, not spirits, and the audience was apparently well satisfied with the entertainment. Some truth was uttered on both sides; but we forbear to state our own impressions, preferring that each should judge for himself. Spiritualism is now on trial. It has an able advocate, and an able antagonist. Let the public sift the arguments pro and con, and decide intelligently.”
The editor of the “Times” however, could not refrain from expressing his own views on the subject, and the day after the final debate he wrote:
“Our own opinion is that Spiritualism cannot be proved a fact without the evidence. When, where may the phenomena be witnessed ? Mr. Chase informed us that there are several rapping mediums in this city. What is the reason that we may not hear them? Why hide their light under a bushel? Why shrink from candid examination?”
Spiritualist Convention
The editor and the public probably got more than they cared for in August of the same year when the Spiritualists of Oswego County held a four day convention at Music Hall. The meeting attracted a great deal of attention and provided entertainment to everyone who attended the sessions, or even read the newspaper accounts of the proceedings.
The Oswego “Commercial Times” reported:
“The Spiritualists Convention is in full blast today. Last evening was devoted to the recital of the personal experiences of lecturers, who reported a general state of interest in the cause. This forenoon the Convention was occupied in discussing a resolution so obscure that, although we heard it read four times, we could not comprehend its meaning. The speakers, however, generally argued that ‘Whatever is, is right.’
“The convention is continually subject to the interruptions of a man named Barnes, who is afflicted with a mania for speechmaking and who announces himself as the ‘Angel of the Lord.’ Notwithstanding his high character, the ‘angel’ has been ruled out of order several times, and the Convention manifests a decided repugnance to listening to him.”
Mr. Barnes Explains
Apparently these comments by the reporter distressed the spiritualists for the next day the newspaper account of the convention continued somewhat gleefully:
“At the conclusion of an address, Mrs. Spence arose and alluded to the remarks of the “Times” in reference to the conduct of Mr. Barnes in the convention. She attributed the idiosyncrasies of that gentleman to the control of a spirit for which he was not responsible, but she advised that susceptible mediums should not attend conventions if they were unable to prevent the spirit from obtaining control of them.
“Mr. Barnes then came forward, with much humility, and said his foolish acts were to be attributed to the control of a band of spirits which accompanied him. He was continually subject to their control, and by their aid was able to answer mental questions and give many remarkable tests. The spirits directed him to ‘go to the convention,’ and hence he was here. A year ago the spirits directed him to go to Washington and visit President Buchanan. He said to the spirit, ‘I have no money.’ But soon he received a letter from an unknown source containing money for his journey. Accordingly he went to Washington, what for he did not know. He visited Congress, and then called upon the President. Mr. Buchanan said to him, ‘Mr. Barnes, how do you like the proceedings of Congress? He replied that he was sorry to see a spirit of Disunion there. Buchanan said I think there ought to be Disunion. Immediately a spirit took possession of him (Barnes) and he spoke to Buchanan, ‘By the Eternal, palsied be the arm that attempts to raise Disunion in this country.’ Mr. Buchanan was very much affected and trembled violently.
“At the conclusion of this remarkable narrative, the convention adjourned.”
Spirits of Another Type
Another highlight of the Spiritualists’ Convention was a lake excursion which ended up in a riot and fight in a Canadian port. Efforts were made to procure a large steamboat for an all day trip, but without success, so three small boats were provided instead. Each boat was loaded with as many passengers as it could carry with any regard for the comfort of those on board. The weather was beautiful, the lake placid, and everyone enjoyed the trip. Music and dancing “whiled the happy hours away.” to the immense satisfaction of spiritualists and skeptics who made the trip together.
The first landing of the boats was at Lake of the Mountain, with a stop of one hour and a half, to give the passengers time to climb the mountain and eat lunch on the bank of the lake. From there the party went direct to Picton, where a program of speeches was held. An excursion party from Kingston and one from Bellville joined the Oswego party, and then a very unfortunate incident occurred to mar the trip. A dozen rowdies who had over-indulged in intoxicating liquors started a fight and tried to wreck the Globe Hotel in Picton. The police fought a pitched battle with the rioters, and finally landed five of the leaders in the Picton jail. There was some talk of detaining the boats and searching them for liquor. This possibility prompted the ship captains to take a hasty departure, and in so doing left quite a few of the more worthy passengers behind. All on board congratulated themselves that the persons who started the row were taken prisoners, and hoped the rowdies would each get six months in the penitentiary. It was a great day for the Oswego Spiritualists.
War Had Little Effect
The Civil War affected public entertainment in Oswego to a surprisingly slight degree. Lectures, concerts, minstrels, circuses, stock companies, and other forms of amusement appeared in Oswego as frequently as before. From the number of plays listed in the newspapers, and the length of the engagements, it is possible to surmise that theatre going was increased by the growth of wealth and by the desire for temporary escape from anxiety.
The first entertainment in Oswego after the start of the War came on April 18, 1861, four days after the attack of Fort Sumter, when the Timbuctoo Nightingales, an amateur minstrel organization, presented a grand concert of operatic choruses, songs, dances, burlesques and extravaganzas, including a grand scene from “II Trovatore”. The feature of the evening’s performance was the production on a grand scale of the national anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner,” with the audience joining in the singing.
A few days later “the Fakir of Ava,” a skillful juggler and magician, appeared at Doolittle Hall. In addition to the Fakir’s wonderful feats of magic, presents were distributed to the audience, each person being entitled to an equal chance with the rent. Among the gifts advertised were ladies’ dresses, gentlemen’s shirts, various articles of jewelry, and a “splendid horse” purchased in Oswego at a cost of eighty dollars.
Jim Thayer, the American clown, and Frank Phelps, “the people’s jester,” appeared in a clown show on the old circus lot, at the corner of Third and Erie streets, on May 22 and 23, 1861. Their show included drama, opera, ballet, comedy, pantomime farce, minstrels, educated mules, and acrobats.
Kate Fisher, who had performed in numerous successful engagements with Forrest at Niblo’s in New York City, gave one of her fashionable and unique entertainments at Doolittle Hall in June, 1861. It consisted of Yankee impersonations, recitations from Shakespeare, various humorous pieces, singing, playing, and dancing a special number called “Donnybrook Jig”. A news item announced that the program given by Miss Fisher was both “rare and racy”.
The Webb Sisters, Emma and Ada, presented a “Drawing Room Entertainment” at Music Hall. The two girls impersonated fifteen characters, sang six songs, and danced three dances. Another sister act appeared in June, 1861, when the sisters Susan and Kate Denin and Company presented a program of selections from “Romeo and Juliet,” scenes from “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” and from “A Night at the Club”. Their second program included “Camille” and “A Day in Paris.” The newspaper reviewer did not have much to say concerning the entertainment except to comment on the bareness of the stage and lack of scenery.
Stock Companies Come
Stock companies played in Oswego frequently during the Civil War years. Less than a month after the outbreak of the war O’Harra’s Dramatic Company opened their season with two plays, “In and Out of Place” and “Rough Diamond.” The review in the “Times” next day was very favorable:
“O’Harra’s Dramatic Company opened at Music Hall last evening with a very respectable audience. Our citizens were entertained with some excellent music from the brass band on the balcony, and the gentleman who played the leading instrument was voted a remarkable player, as he certainly is.
“The company is not numerically strong enough to perform heavy tragedy, but is designed for drawing room entertainments of comedy in which they succeed admirably well. Mrs. Frances O’Harra possesses undoubted talents on the stage, of a very versatile character. Last night in the play In and Out of Place, she enacted seven different characters and executed them all, including a Yankee girl, a French lady and an Irishman, remarkably well.
“Mr. O’Harra is a very fair comedian, and the other members of the company sustain their parts well. This evening the plays are ‘Pleasant Neighbor’ and ‘The Yankee Duelist,’ interspersed with singing and dancing.”
Other plays included in the repertoire were: “Loan of a Lover,” “The Secret,” “The Seven Clerks,” “Man, the Good-for-nothing,” “Swiss Cottage,” “The Yankee Peddler,” and “The Bandit Chief.”
At one performance Captain Beardsley’s company of war volunteers was present by special invitation from the management, and at the conclusion of a very graceful dance by Mrs. O’Harra, the recruits gave the players three hearty cheers in which the balance of the audience joined with zest.
Fleming’s Stock Company
The most outstanding of the early stock companies to visit Oswego was probably William Fleming’s Star Acting Troupe which came here early in July, 1861, and played for a full month at Doolittle Hall. The repertoire of this company included most of the popular Shakespearean and modern plays, and introduced to Oswego a new item in theatrical entertainment, the afterpiece. For many years stock companies closed each evening’s performance with a one act farce comedy to relieve the tension or serious mood created by the heavy drama presented first on the program. Since these plays were given after the main piece they came to be known as “afterpieces.” The titles of these short plays suggest that the audience must have witnessed some very ludicrous bits of drama. One cannot help but wonder at the probable reactions of Oswegonians who saw Shakespeare’s great play “Hamlet,” and then sat through a farcical afterpiece entitled “Out On A Spree”: or the feelings of the audience that saw “Romeo and Juliet” followed by a ridiculous sketch called, “A Day After The Wedding.” Such programs must have been acceptable, however, for Fleming and his company were very well received by both the public and the press. Just before Fleming opened in Oswego a newspaper remarked: “We believe our people are really hungry for the drama, having been deprived of it for some time past. Doolittle Hall has been tastefully fitted up as a theater. Let the Hall be filled tomorrow night to greet the manager on his opening.”
The season for Fleming started July 9, 1861, with the great moral drama “The Stranger,” and the farce “The Eaton Boy.” Commenting on the opening the newspaper editor wrote: “Mr. Fleming’s star company was greeted with a large and respectable house last night. We were not present, but we learn from connoisseurs of the drama who did attend, that the performance was of a very satisfactory character. It was voted on all sides that this is the best company that has visited Oswego in many years.”
The reporter was present the next evening when “Honey-Moon” was given with “The Young Widow” as the afterpiece. From this first hand observation he was moved to write:
“We were astonished on visiting Fleming’s theatre at Doolittle Hall last evening, by the uniform excellence of the company. We expected that one or two supernumeraries would be thrown in, of course; but there was nothing of the kind. The pieces were well played throughout, and not an indifferent actor stepped upon the boards. We have seen playing not half as good at the first class theatres of New York City, and we are compelled to say that if the people of Oswego do not patronize Fleming’s company largely, then they will never patronize any, for the probabilities are that many years will pass away before they will see another company equal to it.”
“Richelieu” and “Boots at the Swan” as the third bill played by the Fleming company brought forth another review in the “Oswego Times”:
“We were much pleased to observe the attendance of the ladies, in almost unusual numbers, at Doolittle Hall last evening. The play of ‘Richelieu’ was enacted, Mr. Fleming sustaining the leading character with fine effect. His impersonation of an old man on the verge of the grave, who yet could be aroused to vigor by his country’s danger, was excellent, and brought down thunders of applause.
“The very funny comedy of the ‘Young Widow,’ wherein the versatile A. H. Davenport assumes the disguise of a French dancing master, closed the performance. It was the verdict of the audience that a more laughable farce had never been played upon Oswego boards.
“Superior acting , tasteful scenery, elegant wardrobes and good order make Mr. Fleming’s theatrical representations the finest we have ever had in this city, and we look for increased audiences as his stay is protracted.” The drama “Lady of Lyons” and the farce “The Youth That Never Saw A Woman” appeared as the fourth program by the Flemings, followed by Shakespeare’s “Othello” and a comedy “The Married Rake” as the fifth performance. The sixth evening brought “Hamlet, Prince of Denmark” and the farce, “Out On A Spree”; the seventh. “Ingomar, The Barbarian” and “The Eaton Boy.”
Praise For Fleming Troupe
The Flemings were so well received that the newspaper made an additional observation concerning the merit of the company:
“For a theatrical manager to hazard, in midsummer, a season upon the uncertain boards of Oswego is a best a daring venture. The unusual depression of business and the consequent stringency of the times would seem to render such an attempt at the present more than ever a measure of doubtful success. Therefore we are the more gratified at the encouragement which warrants the protracted stay of Mr. Fleming’s company of stars. Among them there is not an indifferent actor. Mr. Fleming has a reputation won upon the principal stages of the United States. The versatile Davenport has friends from Boston to New Orleans. Miss Eberle is an accomplished actress, who can only be spared from Philadelphia at intervals. Scallan is a comedian of rare merit, who plays well whatever he undertakes. Miss Fanny Broan is charming, though we may get our ears boxed for saying it. Kingsland is a well-mannered gentleman, and plays with good taste. Lanagan is a capital old gentleman. Mrs. Stoneall and Miss Gimber both act with charming naturalness. Holland, Pike, and in fact all the others, are intelligent players, and the company as a whole is superior to any we have ever had before in Oswego.”
With such encouragement the company went on to play “Richard III” and “Irish Lion” as the eighth bill; Dion Boucicault’s great comedy, “London Assurance,” and the farce, “Out on A Spree” as the ninth; “Romeo and Juliet.” and the farce “A Day After the Wedding” as the tenth production; followed by the thrilling play “The Iron Chest” and a farce “The Rough Diamond.”
This series concluded the season for the Fleming Company but Mr. Doolittle, owner of the hall, gave the use of the theatre for a benefit to Mr. Fleming. The benefit was given on July 22nd with the company playing “The Merchant of Venice,” with “Robert Macaire” as the afterpiece.
The first benefit was so successful t the company stayed on for two more days and presented Shakespeare’s tragedy “Macbeth” and the farce “The Irish Tutor” one night, and the Indian play “Pocahontas” and a drama “Soldier’s Return” the second night as a benefit to A. H. Davenport. With these final presentations the Fleming company moved on to Ogdensburg.
Return Engagement
October of the same year saw the Fleming Company back in Oswego with an entirely new repertoire of modern plays. Instead of famous plays by Shakespeare the program now included such sensational dramas as: “The Doom of Deville, or The Maiden’s Vow,” “Three Fast Women.” “Handsome Jack,” “French Spy.” and a burlesque.
“Jenny Lind At Last.”
Why this company changed so suddenly to “modern” drama was not explained, and evidently the public did not support the players as generously as it had two months earlier, for the troupe played in Oswego only one week.
Adah Menken Played Oswego
Adah Isaacs Menken, a famous personage of the Civil War period, visited Oswego in October, 1861, as a featured player with the Denin Troupe. Miss Menken, who led a sensational life as a dancer, actress, poetess and sculptress, was born in Louisiana, the daughter of a Presbyterian minister. She had first gained attention on the stage by allowing herself to be strapped to the back of a galloping horse in the play “Mazeppa.” Concerning her Oswego appearance in the plays “French Spy,” “Maid of Munster,’ and “Black Eyed, Susan,” the “Oswego Times” reporter wrote:
“Miss Menken was loudly encored. Her style of acting is altogether different from those who are counted superior, and yet it cannot be said that she does not possess abilities for the profession she has adopted. She has a style of her own. free, easy, sometimes graceful, but with an air of abandon about it quite fascinating to many. She has always created a furore wherever she has appeared, and has been honored with flattering notices from the press in half the cities of the Union.”
Newspaper writers of the early days were fond of writing reviews and playing with words. When Ball and Mead’s Variety Show played here January first, 1862. the reviewer was so intrigued with the name “Ball” that he wrote a minor masterpiece of linguistic jargon.
Ball
“The individual with the globular patronymic ycleped Ball, is a jovial cove from his Circumference to his center; and from the favor with which his Round of entertainments at Doolittle Hall is received we should judge that in the show business he had found his appropriate Sphere.
“We know that it is rare sport sometimes to play Ball; but it is rare sport always to see Ball play. His fund of comicalities has No End, and his mirth, like a puff-ball, is Without Bound. Some people think that when he is telling his funny Yankee stories, he bears a close resemblance to a Ball O’Yarn which is a tolerable ‘goak’ to Wind Up with.
“We had nearly forgotten the dancing. Have you seen Miss Dupre ? If you haven’t, do pray go and see her. That limb! those appearance! them style! She goes through the motions about as nimbly and as gracefully as lively muric, small skirts and large muscle will allow. She is an extraordinary danseuse , but when we expect to see extraordinary dancing at a Ball.”
Caustic Criticism
Most of the acting companies visiting Oswego had fairly capable actors and adequate scenery, a few had incompetent actors and a slovenly production. The poor acting and staging did not wholly discourage the public whose interest in the drama could not be stifled. For many years the newspapers were inclined to a tolerant attitude toward Door entertainment, but as time went on newspaper reviews and criticism developed sufficiently to force out inferior productions and to encourage the more capable companies. One of the most scathing reviews of a play ever printed in the local press appeared after an actor by the name of John Jack had appeared in Brougham’s latest play “John Garth.” The reviewer wrote:
“There was a large audience at Doolittle Hall to see ‘John Garth.’ We must say that this audience was not pleased with the performance. Mr. Jack as ‘John Garth’ was fine, but, with one or two exceptions, he was badly supported.
“The company, as a whole, is not what we were led to believe. Miss Firman is a doll of a woman, with golden hair, a porcelain face and good clothes. She is not an actress. James M. Cook was excellent, the rest of the company are sticks.”
After such a review the company was bold enough to return a month later, and to announce in their advertisements, “return of the favorites.” For this return engagement the reviewer wrote:
“John Jack with his company closed an engagement last night to an over-crowded house. It is unnecessary for us to repeat what we said about the company in ‘John Garth,’ but rather to speak of the performance of the ‘Hidden Hand.’ Never in Oswego has a play been so cruelly butchered.
“The players become demoralized, and part of the audience seemed to catch the contagion, and for a time it was a question which would contribute the most to make the night hideous.”
Beecher Found Favor Here
Lectures and debates continued to be as popular during the Civil War years as the decade before. National and international topics were the chief subject of the lecturers, and reflected the spirit of nationalism rising throughout the United States. Henry Ward Beecher appeared at Doolittle Hall in March, 1861, under the sponsorship of the Young Men’s Christian Union, to speak on “Young America.” An immense audience crowded into the hall, and even the standing room was occupied. The lecture, however, did not equal the earlier efforts of the gifted orator. Nevertheless, the “Commercial Times” of March 26 devoted four columns to a summary of his remarks.
Mr. Beecher was probably the most popular lecturer ever to speak in Oswego. He returned in January, 1862, to speak on “Past Results and Our Future Policy;” and once again after the Academy of Music was opened. On each occasion he was met by large, appreciative audiences, and given laudatory reviews in the local newspapers.
Other lectures in 1861, included: The Reverend Jacob, who spoke on “Holland;” Mrs. John B. Gough on “Lights and Shadows of London Life;” and Dr. James P. Kimball, who told of his suffering, privations and incredible hardships while a captive of the Snake Indians.
Wendell Phillips’ Lecture
The annual lecture series of 1861-62 brought to Oswego the famous Wendell Phillips, whose sensational speech at Faneuil Hall, Boston, in 1837, had been one of the first indications of a serious break in public opinion against the abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison. Phillips, an almost unknown young man at that time, had given a speech of great eloquence and such sublime invective that he immediately became famous. His speech in Oswego in 1862 met with a very favorable response, and gave the listeners a sample of the new style of conversational loquence which Phillips is credited with introducing to America.
Professor A. O’Leary appeared in Oswego during December of 1861 to present a brief course of lectures on Physiology and Phrenology. The editor of the newspaper wrote that he did not believe in phrenology but that he did enjoy hearing the lectures especially when they were as pleasant and humorous as those of Professor O’Leary. As an extra special feature of his lectures, the Professor dissected a manikin to show the digestive organs and their functions, and to explain the laws of health as affected by food and drink. This particular demonstration made a very favorable impression on the reporter, who suggested that a manikin be used in public schools as an object lesson to save coming generations from a world of misery, quackery and humbug.
When Judge Barlow of Canastota lectured at the Supreme Court room in the old City Hall, on the subject of National History, Dr. Edward Austin Sheldon, first superintendent of Oswego City schools and founder of the Oswego State Normal School, wrote a letter to the editor commending the lecture and urging public support for such a fine educational project. Dr. Sheldon said in his letter, “We particularly hope our teachers, and the pupils of the more advanced schools, will not fail to improve this opportunity of gaining a rich fund of information on this interesting subject.”
Popular Local Debates
In addition to the professional lecturers many Oswego citizens conducted their own debates, lectures and lyceum series, as an opportunity for added intellectual stimulation. In March, 1861, a group known as “The Oswego Lyceum” met at a hall in the Commercial College to discuss the question: Resolved that whatever is, is right. A few weeks later the same group debated the subject: Resolved, That self-interest is the primary cause of human action; and at a later meeting struggled with a question involving the relative merits of Republics and Monarchies as forms of government. The Oswego Lyceum opened a new series in the fall of 1861, with a lecture by Ira D. Brown editor of the “Commercial Times,” on the subject, “The Radical and the Conservative.” At the next meeting the group discussed the topic, “Revolved, That it is expedient for our government to arm the slaves of the South in behalf of the Union.”
Comic Lectures
An example of the lighter type of debate, which served as an excuse for mental gymnastics, is the topic announced by the Young Men’s Debating Society, “Where does fire go to when it goes out? ” At a later meeting this same group argued on “When a house is destroyed by fire, does it burn up, or does it burn down?” To which the editor of the “Times” quietly commented, “There is to be a warm debate on this question.”
Among the comic lecturers who continued to visit Oswego, mention should be made of Whiston, the droll, and Robinson, the comic. These two made their appearance at Doolittle Hall during May, 1861, in a program of comic lectures, burlesque elocutions and dialect readings. Eleven years later Whiston returned alone in a variety show appropriately named an “Olio of Oddities.” The newspaper reviewer recalled the earlier visit of the humorist, and wrote:
“There is something wonderful in his various accomplishments. Not one audience has he failed to please. This is a remarkable record.
“Laugh and grow fat. There are many Oswegonians who can afford to invest a little for the sake of their avoirdupois. Hear him tomorrow night. “If you have lock jaw, Whiston will force open your mouth for a jolly good hearty laugh.”
In June of 1872, a new theatre called the “West Side Opera House” was announced in the Oswego newspapers. This place of amusement, operated by McFarland and Burch, was located on West First Street, and was open every evening to present “the best talent in the profession.” The hall was equipped with a new drop front curtain painted with a scene in the Yosemite Valley, and, as the advertisement discreetly announced, the bar was stocked with choice liquors, wines, brandies, ale and cigars. The local temperance organization did not approve of a theatre with a well-stocked bar and made a vain attempt to close the place. A news item in the “Palladium” reported the incident:
“A subscription paper was industriously circulated this noon to raise money enough to buy the fixtures of the West Side Opera House, and thus retire that place of amusement. It strikes us as a bad precedent, and one, if carried out, will be an incentive to parties to start places distasteful to many.”
Next day the paper mentioned that another subscription paper had been circulated to keep the Opera House open. Thus the matter ended in a tie, and the theatre continued to dispense entertainments and refreshments.
Spelling Bees
The winter of 1874 brought with it to Oswego county folk the development of an interesting and amusing form of entertainment which had spread like wild-fire over the country, the old-fashioned spelling bee. Contests were arranged between various clubs and churches; between prominent individuals; and, as a glorious climax of the winter, a match between the citizens of East Oswego and West Oswego.
One of the first spelling matches that attracted a great deal of local interest was a challenge contest between an Oswego philologist and an editor of the “Palladium”. The Oswego “Times” announced on March 20, 1875:
“An Intellectual Treat”
The spelling mania which has prevailed all winter throughout the country has reached this city. William Rattery, Esq., the distinguished philologist of this city, has challenged our friend B. F. Wells, Esq., of the “Palladium,” to a contest of skill, and the challenge has been accepted.
“W. G. Chaffee, Esq., author of ‘Chaffee’s Phonetic Speller’ is to be umpire and put out the words. Wagers are about even. The editor’s friends back him high because he is an old schoolmaster, while Mr. Rattery’s friends rely upon his well known command of the English language for the faith which is in them. “It will be one of the most interesting tournaments which has come off in Oswego for a long time. Doolittle Hall has been engaged and the contest will come off a week from next Wednesday. In the meantime each of the champions is hard at it, getting his lesson. The prize to the winner, contributed by Mayor Poucher, is the unabridged works of Rev. Petroleum V. Nasby bound in sheepskin.”
This “intellectual treat” may have been given as planned, but the outcome was never announced in the newspaper. Perhaps Mr. Rattery, the philologist, won the sheepskin bound works of Petroleum V. Nasby, and the newspaper decided to say nothing more about the contest.
A Well-Made Point
Interest in spelling continued to a point where citizens were writing letters to the editor commenting on words used in the contests. One such letter, printed in the “Times,” is of interest because it casts some light on the spelling lessons in the public schools at that time. “Editor of the Times:
“As the spelling mania has spread over the country within a few weeks, I wish to make a suggestion through the “Times” that we have something of the kind in this city.
“I propose that the children of our schools be excluded from the exercises, and that it be confined to all professional men, public officers and teachers, and that the spelling book from which the words are taken be the one, I believe, generally used in this city. The contestants shall give the definitions of the words just as the children are required to do in our schools. I will give a few words from the first two pages of that book in words of two syllables, for an experiment: Gyron, byard, dynam, gyral, wyvem, bolus, peon, fecal, sural, and com.
“Now as our children under fourteen years of age are expected to learn the definitions of such words as these, of course it cannot be objected on the part of the older portion of the community to try their hand at the same words.
“Now I will select a few more out the hundreds of words employed in our schools from the same book, many of which are obsolete, in our language: Gaffer, mundit, pyxis, myxon, feoffee, feoffment, oestrum, cassine fabble, pyrgim, syrtis, sorbile, scissile, snaffle, and purfle.
“These examples are from words of two syllables and the reader can judge whether it would not be just as well to select the same number of words from Hebrew and Greek, so far as they can be of any real value to our children.”
Spelling Match Rules
All of the spelling bees were governed by a definite set of rules and regulations which provided for all possible emergencies and differences of opinions. The Oswego rules, patterned after the national rules, included ten items:
1. The referees shall be appointed to man the dictionaries and to determine the accuracy of the spelling if appealed to. 2. The umpire shall be president of the evening and shall decide all questions that may arise and appeals. 3. No word that has been missed shall be given to any other contestant, but the correct spelling shall be given by the pronouncer, and the person who spelled it incorrectly shall retire from the contest. 4. Webster’s or Worcester’s dictionaries shall be accepted as the only authorities, and any spelling authorized by either shall be deemed correct. 5. Each speller shall stand in his place to receive and spell his word. He shall pronounce it distinctly, either before or after spelling it. He shall be entitled to receive its definition before attempting to spell. 6. Spellers as they fail will take their seats, and at the next interval or recess will give place to those who continue to spell, the front ranks being renewed at each recess. 7. No kind of hint by dissent or in any other way should be given to the speller by any person in the audience. 8. Any speller may correct his spelling if it is done before the word is completely spelled. 9. The words will be pronounced to spellers on each side alternately, except, as the sides become unequal in number, in which case the words are to be given to the surplus spellers successively, on the larger side. 10. The pronouncer will exercise great care in giving proper names and technical words, taking care to avoid such as are quite remote from general usage and comprehension.
The spelling bee which closed the 1875 season was a sensational match between the east and west sides of town. With twentyfour contestants on each side, the battle raged on for half the night until the West-siders emerged victorious. The event was given a full column in the “Oswego-Times,” on May 15, 1875:
“THE GRAND SPELX.ING MATCH
“A Four Hour’s Contest—Midnight Wrestling with Polysylablc Puzzles— A Signal Victory for the West Side
“No exigency of the weather deters the aspirant for glory upon the bloodless field of orthography from rallying at the bugle’s call. Although the rain poured down in torrents last night, those who had enlisted in the Websterian war were at their posts like true soldiers, and at eight o’clock they were marshaled upon the stage of Doolittle Hall in battle array. The East side was under the leadership of the gallant Captain Poucher, and the West side under the veteran of many fields, Captain Lathrop.
“The state of the weather considered, the audience was as large as could be expected, many who had secured seats being kept away by the rain.
“The meeting was called to order by Prof. E. J. Hamilton*, umpire and president of the evening, who read the rules which had been agreed upon to govern the match. The rolls of the east and west sides were then called and with a few exceptions those whose names were printed in last evening’s “Times” answered to the call.
*Prof. Hamilton was the head of a private school for boys conducted in a building yet standing on the West side of West Sixth street, just south of Oneida street.
Fifty-six Best Spellers
“After an overture by the orchestra the fun began, with Mr. E. J. Gibson as pronouncer. At the opening of the match there were twenty-eight spellers on a side. They were arranged in four rows and each row stood up until all had spelled, then sat down and gave place to the next row. After several rounds a recess was taken and while the orchestra gave some music the fallen retired to the rear or took seats in the audience.
“For the first round easy words were given out and all was plain sailing. W. J. Herrick, jr., of the West Side was the first victim. He had made up his mind that he couldn’t stand up until the last and get one of the grand prizes so he missed the first word that came to him and was thus entitled to a copy of ‘The Great Industries of the United States,’ one of the prizes offered by E. J. Gibson. He will doubtless “idol-ize” that book as a memento of last evening’s contest.
“Among the words which thinned out the ranks for the next two hours were the following: erysipelas, coercion, acquiescence, admittable, battalion, carbureted, chargeable, corruptibility, crescent, laquer, toxicology, ostracize, and proaulion. The last named word did the business for Scriba and there was loud applause from the west siders when it became certain that they had won the victory.
There were still some seven or eight standing on the West side and the final contest for the grand prizes began. Such outlandish and unheard of words were necessary to bring down the best spellers that we were unable to keep track of them and very few of our readers would recognize them as belonging to the English language if we should print them here. Mr. Charles Sheldon, being the last gentleman on the floor, received the “Picture by Mullready,” which was quite a valuable prize.
“Finally the contest narrowed down to three ladies, Miss Libbie M. Gibbs, Miss E. J. Nichols, and Mrs. W. A. Poucher. Miss Gibbs was the first of the trio to fall and then it was certain that Miss Nichols and Mrs. Poucher would receive the prizes. Mrs. Poucher had spelled some fourteen syllabled monstrosities but immediately after Miss Gibbs went down, she received a word which she missed and Miss Nichols was entitled to the first prize.
“The hour of midnight had arrived when the match was concluded and only a small part of the audience remained to the close. We think the match last night in regard to number of words given out and the number of difficult words spelled correctly was perhaps one of the most remarkable on record. About eighteen hundred words were pronounced and, deducting the fifty-five, which were missed, we have left over seventeen hundred, (many of them the hardest words in the language, and but a few very simple ones,) which were spelled right.”
Amateur Theatricals
There may have been many amateur theatricals in Oswego a century ago, but very little concerning them ever appeared in the newspapers. No doubt the feeling against the commercial theatre also opposed amateur acting. There were many musical entertainments given by schools, churches and clubs, and occasionally a few recitations were included on the program. The growth of school and church play-acting groups, and little theatre companies, however, came along after professional drama had been more or less accepted by the community, and the influence of the professionals had inspired the amateurs.
Tableaux, wax works, and simple dramatizations began to appear in the 1870’s as a transitional step from concerts and recitations to formal plays. The Congregational Church presented an entertainment March 22, 1875, which illustrates the new style in amateur theatricals. This event was reported at some length in the “Times.”
“The basement of the Congregational church was well filled, last evening, and a spicy program of music, tableaux and ‘wax Aggers’ was served to the delight of all present.
“With the exception that the work of the scene shifter was embarrassed by a curtain which obstinately refused to move with that degree of celerity necessary to the smooth and graceful production of tableaux, that part of the entertainment was all that could be desired. The curtain was also made of ton thin and slasy material and the audience was treated to a continual shadow pantomime between acts.
“After the singing of several pieces and the exhibition of some fine tabeaux, Madam Jarley introduced to the audience her unequalled collection of exquisite and life-like ‘wax figgers.’ There was George Washington, who never told a lie with his little tomahawk; Boss Tweed, the biggest rascal of the age; a love lorn maiden, whose disheveled locks and disordered dress indicated that she had it bad; Brother Jonathan, with his jack knife, whittling kindling wood; Betsy Bobbit, who never thought it advisable to get riled at the same time that her better half was sirred up; Oliver Twist, the lad who was so audacious as to present his poringer for more soup, and many other characters celebrated in history and song and all made of the finest wax; none genuine unless bearing the signature of Madam Jarley on the wrapper, beware of base imitations. Madam Jarley introduced each figure, after it had been properly wound up and dusted off, with appropriate remarks. Her exhibition of wax figures was the prominent feature of the evening’s entertainment and created an unlimited amount of amusement.
“The entertainment was concluded by the singing of ‘Auld Lang Syne’ by the entire company, after which Mr. Fort apologized for some shortcomings and announced that one week from next Thursday night the company would present the ‘Magic Mirror’ when he hoped to see another large attendance and hoped to have the stage fixtures so arranged that everything would move off smoothly. We suggest that Madam Jarley’s wax figures be again exhibited on that occasion.”
Mrs. Macready As Shylock
As interest in the drama increased, and acting companies visited Oswego with greater frequency, the inadequacy of the various halls as theatres became apparent. Audiences strained the seating capacity of the halls, and the plays and actors outgrew the tiny stages. When Mrs. Macready, the eminent tragedienne appeared as Shylock, a part never before attempted by a lady, the “Palladium” expressed approval of her efforts but decided that the stage at Doolittle Hall was too small. The editor wrote, in January, 1872:
“Mrs. Macready is famous. But she will not be able to do herself justice. Seven by nine is a small sized stage to present Shakespeare on; we are somewhat afraid that the Merchant of Venice cannot be rendered with due scenic effect.”
The newspaper again commented on the inadequacy of Doolittle Hall in a review of a play given in October of 1872. The item stated: “The play was gone through with fairly, considering the difficulty of mounting a piece in our halls.” From then on similar comments were a part of nearly every review. Plays kept coming to Doolittle Hall, however, in spite of the limited facilities. A news item in 1873, pointed out: “It will be seen by the following engagements that Doolittle Hall is to be kept warm by entertainments: March 15, Lannier’s Theatrical Troupe; March 19, French Opera; March 24, Wallace Sisters; March 25, Lingard; March 29, Amy Stone and Company; April 12, Yeddo Japanese Troupe.”
Question Doolittle Hall’s Safety
By 1874 Doolittle Hall had become such a popular place of entertainment, and accommodated such large crowds at times that the safety of the structure was questioned. Many citizens expressed the fear that the floor of the auditorium would sometime collapse when the theatre was filled with people. To allay this mounting concern Mr. Doolittle, owner of the building, had additional supports placed under the floor. When the alterations were finished the architect and builder published a joint statement certifying to the safety of the hall. The “Oswego Times,” January 4, 1875, printed the statement which read:
“We, the undersigned, were called upon in November last to examine Doolittle Hall. It was found unsafe; but, since then has been repaired, and we believe it to be safe now, for public use. S. Ormsby, architect H. W. Seeber, builder.”
Lackawanna Buys Theatre
Several months later certain events took place which had an important effect upon the future of Doolittle Hall, and upon the future of the drama in Oswego. At that time the D., L. & W. Railroad, as the successor to the Oswego & Syracuse R.R., owned all of the river front on the west side between the upper and lower bridges and was eager to acquire more property from the lower bridge toward the lake. The local newspapers reported negotiations under way for the sale of Doolittle Hall to the railroad company, but printed frequent denials that the sale had actually been made. The editor of the “Times” expressed a hope that the sale would be accomplished, and was finally able to announce on January 6, 1875:
“The transfer of Doolittle Hall property, and docks, by Sylvester Doolittle to the D. L. & W. Company was perfected this forenoon, the price, the terms, etc., having been accepted on both sides, and the sale completed. It is a large transaction, but is one which is no doubt mutually advantageous.”
This real estate transfer was an important event in the history of public entertainment in Oswego. The hall was closed for a few months during which time the old Doolittle Hall was completely remodelled into the modern Academy of Music, and it was there the drama in Oswego rose to its greatest heights.
During the time Doolittle Hall was closed, all public entertainment was held in “Mansard Opera House.” It was there Marston and Stone’s Dramatic Alliance, featuring Amy Stone, presented Dion Bocicault’s new drama “Elfie,” followed by the farce “Sarah’s Young Man” for an afterpiece, and the next evening “Pearl of Savoy” and the farce “Dodging for a Wife.”
Carner In Rip Van Winkle
Mansard Opera House was the scene of a dramatic triumph by J. W. Carner in the title role of the play “Rip Van Winkle.” This was the first appearance in Oswego of the play and the principal actor, and both were to return many times in the years to follow. On this particular occasion Mr. Carner was supported by the famous character actor, D. L. Morris, and by a full dramatic company, orchestra and brass band.
Martino, a clever performer, also played in Mansard Hall to large crowds who came to win prizes as much as to see the entertainment. In fact the prizes received more space in the newspapers than the performance itself. An amusing item in the “Palladium” reported:
“The second prize, a lady’s hat valued at $8, was taken by a balmy sailor, who hitched his trousers and blasted his tarry top lights as he sailed out of the hall with the filigree head gear for his Susan.
“Tonight a living cow worth sixty dollars will be given to the lucky one ,and a pig for second present.”
Most entertainments enjoyed great success in Oswego, and the players received generous financial return from appreciative audiences. However, a few of the inferior companies occasionally met with failure and became stranded in Oswego. To help the unfortunate performers a benefit was frequently given by local artists. One such incident was reported in the “Oswego Times” during the interval when the Mansard was the only playhouse. The story was headlined:
“The Mansard Sufferers Again
“The variety show of Mansard Opera House having ceased, and most of the performers, as usual, being broke, a performance for their benefit under the management of Dan and Josie Morris will take place tonight. Several Oswego volunteers will take part in the performance.”
With this serio-comic note the first period in the history of public entertainment drew to a close.
The era of 1845 to 1875 saw a great variety of interesting, stimulating and amusing entertainment in Oswego. From the simple beginnings of concerts, lectures, circuses, vaudeville shows and exhibitions, the legitimate drama began to emerge. Public sentiment against theatrical performances gradually subsided, and an active interest in the spoken drama took its place. Transportation improved from the slow travel by canal, lake boat and stage coach, to rapid travel on steam railroads. Acting companies appeared in increasing numbers. The audience was ready, the plays and actors were available. Only an adequate theatre was lacking to bring the drama to its fullest development in Oswego. The first act in public entertainment was ended. The time had come for the curtain to rise on the second act. This second act was to be entitled “The Academy of Music.”
