PREFATORY REMARKS. BY COMMISSION. Wisely considering Michigan's development and advancement during this half century worthy of commemoration, her Legislature adopted the following joint resolution providing for the celebration of the semi-centennial of her admission into the Union. In accordance with the spirit and provisions of such joint resolution, Henry Chamberlain, Henry Fralick, Theodore H. Hinchman, James Shearer and S. T. Read were appointed and confirmed Commissioners, and, with the Governor, were empowered to determine upon a day and to make all proper and suitable provision for celebrating such semi-centennial. Messrs. Thomas M. Cooley, James V. Campbell, Alpheus Felch, Ebenezer O. Grosvenor, Charles D. Lawton, William L. Webber, Charles W. Garfield, James W. Bartlett, James B. Angell, Edwin Willits, J. M. B. Sill, Levi L. Barbour, John H. Bissell, W. C. Ransom, R. H. Horr, John Robertson, John J. Adam, the gentlemen selected to address the people on that occasion, most cheerfully and fitly responded to the invitations extended to them. Upon the subjects severally assigned them, they delivered most interesting and instructive addresses, graphically portraying the progress of our State. The facts presented are more cogent than theory, however specious. The Commission selected the subjects for addresses with refer ence to presenting, in their treatment, the State's civil, judicial, financial and military history; her educational, reformatory and charitable institutions; her railroads, varied industries and resources. To the many thousands attendant, these cultured, mature, practical and distinguished gentlemen presented these matters so important and vital to the State; and for the benefit of the people at large, the Commission deem those addresses eminently worthy of publication. At the request of the Commission, Hon. Alpheus Felch has placed at its disposal the address by him delivered before the Legislative Association; and the same is herewith presented, as supplying an important feature in the programme of the celebration. Whatever is, should show its right to be. The justification for this volume will be found in its subjects, contents, and the need of disseminating the information it contains. Michigan may feel a just pride in her progress, attainments and prospects. The official programme, with the words and music (both original and selected), is herewith presented. We submit this volume with the assurance that the reader will feel a quickened and growing interest in the State of his nativity or adoption. JOINT RESOLUTION. STATE OF MICHIGAN.-File No. 13.-Senate.-No. 19. Introduced by Senator SHERWOOD, February 23, 1885. Reported without amendments by Committee on Appropriations and Finance, and ordered printed, March 13, 1885. JOINT RESOLUTION relating to the semi-centennial celebration of the admission of the State of Michigan into the Union. Whereas, We are near the period when this State will pass the fiftieth anniversary of its admission into the union of States, and in view of the great changes wrought, the wonderful developments and rapid advancement made, during this half century, and while there still remain among us many of those who have contributed so much towards these magnificent results, and by whose wisdom the destiny of this commonwealth has been directed, and for whom we have such great admiration and respect, therefore, Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Michigan, That His Excellency the Governor be and hereby is authorized and requested to appoint five commissioners, the same to be confirmed by the Senate, and that said commissioners be empowered to determine upon a day and to make all proper and suitable provisions for celebrating the semi-centennial of the admission of the State of Michigan into the Union; and that a sum not exceeding five thousand dollars be and hereby is appropriated from the general fund, so much of which as may be necessary to be used by said commissioners for such celebration. And further, That His Excellency the Governor is hereby appointed to act with said commissioners, and shall be the president of such Commission, and shall keep an accurate account of all expenses and disbursements of the same, and shall present vouchers for the same duly certified by him to the Auditor General, who shall thereupon draw his warrant or warrants on the State Treasurer for such sums as may be necessary within said appropriation. Said commissioners will serve without compensation, but their actual expenses shall be allowed and paid out of said appropriation. Ordered to take immediate effect. |