The
Pageant of Schenedady
In Celebration of the
Two Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary
of the Founding of Schenectady
Given in Union College Grounds
May 30th and 31st and June 1st
19 12
Pageant Director Director of Dances
Constance D'Arcy Mackay Gertrude K. Colby
h /Zf
Copyright, May, 1912
By Constance D'Arcy Mackay
All Rights Keserved
GAZETTE PRESS
©CLD 29882
1^1
EPISODES OF THE PAGEANT.
PART I. -Traditional Life.
I. — The Kingdom of Schonowe and the Passing of Hiawatha.
PART II. -Early Settlement.
I. — The Coming of Arent Van Curler.
2. — The Massacre.
3. — Market Day in Old Schonachtendel.
PART III.- Patriot Schenedtady.
I. — The Days of '76.
2. — The Welcome to General Washington.
PART IV. — Development of the Town.
I. — The Founding of Union College.
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3
4
5
-The Welcome to Lafayette.
— Dr. Nott and Early Student Days.
— The Coming of the Railroad.
. — The Civil War.
PART v.— Modern Schenedady.
I. — The Intellectual and Industrial Forces of the City of Today.
The Hope of the City of Tomorrow.
Finale — Review of the Pageant Players.
Old Indian Trail, Union College Grounds.
Photo by White
PART I.— TRADITIONAL LIFE.
Episode I . — The Passing of Hiawatha.*
The pageant field in Union College grounds has for back-
ground on the right a tangle of zvoods suggesting a primeval
forest, and on the left woods that are more open. In the left
background there is a miniature ravine through zvhich a brook
runs, and in the right background there is an old Indian trail
used by the Indians since time immemorial.
The opening scene of the Pageant shoics an Indian encamp-
ment. There is a zvigivam in the far background. Another in
e.vtreme left foreground. Another in the right foreground. A
rude loom in the right foreground. Back toivard stage centre a
small fire. The smoke ascends in a blue haze. B\ the n'igzvam
in the background, stones for corn-grinding.
The Pageant opens ivith the entrance of Mishka, the medicine-
man, and Kikokezi'is, an old fiute player, who are deep in
thought. Tzvo squaivs enter; one begins to grind corn, another
hangs a papoose up in a tree. Children enter and play. Indian
maidens enter; some of them have baskets for zveaving, but
they pay more attention to chattering together than to their
work. Presently comes Maskato, an Indian zvonum of middle
♦"Hiawatha was a Chief of the Onondagas who succeeded in bringing
about a league or union of the Five, afterwards Six, Nations Mr.
Schoolcraft transferred the hero to a distant region, identifying him
with a divinity of the Ojibways. It is to this [:Mr. Schoolcraft's] collec-
tion that we owe the poem of Longfellow." Mr. Horatio Hale in the
Proceedings of the American Academy for the Advancement of Science,
years and of great importance in the camp. On her back is a
bundle of fagots. She looks keenly at the idle maidens.
Maskato.
Star-of-Springtime, take the fagots.
In my youth I was not idle,
Did not spend my time in gazing
Upward at the pine tree branches.
Star-of-Springtime.
Maskato is ever scolding
Like an arrow-head her tongue is.
Maskato.
Children who disturb their elders
Will be turned to little rabbits,
And the warriors will hunt them.
Think of this, oh Skibojewis,
And you, too, O Waskalaska !
An Indian Maiden.
Where is Bright Flower?
Another Indian Maiden.
She is coming; ,
In the brook she saw her likeness,
Paused to watch it, and admire it.
Bright Floiver.
If I told tales on my neighbors
I might say much, Minnewaska.
Star-of-Springtime.
Here comes Winego, the hunter.
He has spent the moon of leafage
In the hills beyond the river.
[JVinego enters by Indian trail, and tosses down a pack of
skins from his shoidders.]
Mas koto.
Win ego.
It is long since we have seen you;
Greetings, friend.
And to you also !
All the Month of Leaves I hunted
In the hills beyond the river.
Furs and feathers I was seeking,
Feathers for the Arrow-maker,
Skins to keep us warm in winter.
And for one who maketh medicine
Bear claws for a magic necklace.
It is good to see our wigwams.
Good to see the smoke ascending,
Pleasant is this place, Schonowe !
Pleasant here Beyond the Pine Plains,
Open Door for the Five Nations.
[Looks about]
But I find the camp deserted !
Maskato.
The young braves have gone to forage.
Win ego.
Tell me, where is Hiawatha?
Maskato.
He has gone into the forest
There to fast and to petition
The Great Spirit for his people.
Later, when the hour is ready.
He will summon to these wigwams
Win ego.
Maskato.
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The great Chiefs of the Five Nations;
He will call a camp-fire council
And the chiefs will smoke the peace-pipe.
On a hill-top far and lonely
Hiawatha keeps his vigil,
While below him in the valley-
Waits Ocheera, the swift runner.
At a sign from Hiawatha
Will Ocheera come to tell us
That the council fire be lighted.
\\'isely Hiawatha rules us,
He, the Son of the Great Spirit.
All this green month of new leafage
He has been apart and silent ;
And toward evening, by his wigwam,
He has sat with face uplifted
Looking toward the Land of Sunset.
Sat as one who hears strange voices
Calling, calling, through the twilight.
And my heart grows very heavy.
[Resumes zvoi'k]
No, I will not think upon it ;
There may be no cause for sorrow;
I will give my thoughts to labor.
In the meantime Indian maidens
Need not let their hands be idle.
[Exit Maskato]
Star-of -Springtime.
She has gone! Oh. in my pulses
I can feel the pulse of Spring-time!
Mr. G!en Smith as Hiawalha
Plioto by White
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Let us dance, O Minnewaska,
To the flute of Kikokewis !
Minnewaska.
Plead with him, then, Star-of-Springtime,
Tell him that we love his music
Better than we love the south-wind.
Star-of-Springtime.
Play to us, O Kikokewis,
You alone who know the flute notes,
That can move our feet to dancing.
Play to us, O Kikokewis !
[He plays, they dance.]
Star-of-Springtime.
Play again, O Kikokewis.
Bright Flozver.
Listen! Is it Hiawatha?
Minnewaska.
No, it is the Braves returning!
They are going on the war-path.
All their tomahawks are ready!
Let us stay and see the war-dance!
[Indian maidens gather in the background. Braves enter
from right.]
Heron's Plume.
Play to us, O Kikokewis !
Mishka, dance for us the war-dance!
Mishka.
Why this war-talk? — we are peaceful.
Heron's Plume.
On the borders of our Nation
Mishka.
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We have seen a tribe of strangers;
They are like to the Ojibways
And —
Peace! How great a tribe? Speak truly —
Great or little? Small or mighty?
Heron's Plume.
But a small tribe may breed mischief.
Mishka.
What are we, the great Five Nations,
That the coming or the going
Of a small tribe should make interest?
Heron's Plume.
We should be upon the war-path.
Kikokezvis.
Mishka, hark ! The Spring is on them ;
In our youth the blood runs quickly.
Let them have their dance, O Mishka,
[Mishka moves toward fire and begins a medicine dance,
Kikokezvis tapping on the drum.]
The Braves.
Medicine ! — Ai yi ! He makes it !
[JVar dance. Braves dart off. A moment after they are gone
and before the camp has settled dozvn again Ocheera is seen
running in.]
Mishka.
Comes Ocheera, the swift runner.
Ocheera. [Panting]
Mishka, where are all the warriors?
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Hiawatha bids me tell you
That he calls the Braves to council,
The great Chiefs of the Five Nations.
Hiawatha's fast is ended.
He will speak to us in council.
Mishka.
Ocheera.
Kikokezvis.
The young Braves are on the war-path,
Turn them homeward, fleet Ocheera.
I will speed me like an arrow !
Come the Chiefs of the Five Nations
Come the Senecas and JVIohawks,
The Cayugas and Oneidas.
And with them the Onondagas,
Last of all comes — Hiawatha.
[All falling back tvith gestures of respect and obeisance.^
Hiawatha, Hiawatha !
Hiazvatha.
Greetings to you, O my people !
Greetings. O you mighty chieftains !
Let us smoke the pipe together.
Let the council fire be kindled,
Place on it the sticks of magic
Where are all the youngest warriors?
Mishka
Hiazvatha.
Fleet Ocheera runs to brine them.
Brothers, I have much to tell you.
When I heard the Spirit call me.
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[As he speaks, the young zvarriors return, Ocheera leading,
and seat themselves in eouncii]
Many days I prayed and fasted
On a hill-top far and lonely.
Till the Spirit sent a message,
Sent this message, '"Hiawatha,
Leave the land beyond the Pine Plains,
Leave the camp fire and the wigwam,
Turn into the Land of Sunset.
Bid farewell to the Five Nations,
For your time with them is ended."
The JVonie)!.
Fliawatha ! Hiawatha !
Hiazvatha. ~
But before I go, my brothers,
I have words to say in parting,
[The chief taifis zvho are sitting in council rise as they are
addressed and then take their places in council again.]
Seneca's Great Chieftan, barken.
Keep contentment in your wigwam,
See your tribes- folk do not wrangle.
Live in peace with one another.
Peace and plenty. I have spoken!
You, the Chief of the Cayugas,
Govern all your people wisely,
Be a light to the Five Nations,
Light is wisdom. I have said it.
You, the Chief of the Oneidas,
See your people li\-e in honor,
[ Let their word be feared and trusted
By the Nations. I have said it.
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(.
You, the Chieftain of the Mohawks,
Teach your people that the war-drum
Is not better than the peace-pipe
Unless war is truly needed.
Grow and prosper. I have said it.
Chieftain of the Onondagas,
Keep alive your nation's valor,
Keep alive the old traditions,
As a fire before your wigwams.
Truth and justice — seek them always.
These remember. I have spoken.
[As Hiazvatha has been speaking, appear mystic figures cloth-
ed in the hues of sunset. They zveave a mysterious dance with
gestures that call and beckon.']
Star-of -Springtime.
Who are these that steal upon us?
Who are these that wave and beckon?
Maskato.
'Tis the Spirits of the Sunset.
Come to summon Hiawatha.
First Spirit.
Hiawatha !
Hiawatha.
I am ready.
The Women.
Do not leave us, Hiawatha!
Hiawatha.
Fare you well. O much loved people,
As I pass, you will pass also
W^hen the Sunset Spirits call you.
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The Tribe.
Fare you well, O Hiawatha,
Never shall your tribe forget you.
The Women. [Wailing softly]
Hiawatha, Hiawatha!
[Hiaivatha follozvs the Spirits of the Sunset, and they dis-
appear in the distance.]
Chief of the Cay it gas.
Come and pray to the Great Spirit.
Exeunt O nines.
Mr. Frank Smith as Arent Van Curler
Photo by White
PART II.— EARLY SETTLEMENT.
Episode 1 . — The Coming of Arent Van Curler.
An Indian encampment one hundred years after the passing
of Hiawatha. A group of Indian maidens run in and seat them-
selves in a semi-circle. Tzvo old Indians seat themselves near
the ivar-drum. An Indian maiden runs in, greeted zvith acclaim
and hand clapping; she makes a sign to the man at the zvar-
drum and begins a dance. "The Dance of the Autumn Leaves."
Then Sawara, the Medicine-woman, enters. The Indian
maidens offer her gifts zvhich she acknozvledges zvith a grave
nod.
Enter Kaszvi, an Indian brave.
Kaswi. Speak — in the tongue — of the Pale-Faces, Sawara,
that I may also learn to speak it. [Sazuara looks straight before
her.] You who have lived near the houses of the Pale-Faces
— and have the gift — of tongues — You who are the Medicine-
women — and very wise — [Pleading.'] As a favor, Sawara —
In the winter Kaswi brought many beaver skins to the door of
the wigwam of Sawara. As a favor for Sawara.
Sawara. A gift for a gift, Kaswi. You are ever-anxious to
speak in the tongue of the Pale-Faces. It bodes ill for one
nation to copy another nation. As for the tongue of the Pale-
Faces, it will soon be the only tongue we shall hear. [Bitterly.]
Our own tongue will be no more remembered than the song of
the cricket when the summer is over.
Kaswi. You who have lived near the houses of the Pale-
Faces —
Sazvara. If I have lived near the houses of the Pale- Faces,
it was not of my own choosing. I can tell you why you are
anxious to learn their tongue, Kaswi. It is so you can do better
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trading. [Risin/j.] A gift for a gift, Kaswi. My gift is given.
[She crosses to x^'igzvam.]
Indian chiefs and braves come in.
Then enter on horse-hark, Arent Van Curler, foUoxved by
Van Valsen, Jan IJ'emp and Van Slyck also on horse-back. Jan
Wemp leads a pack-horse to ivhose saddle are fastened kegs of
gun pozvder. The men tether their horses at left and come
forzvard to center, Van Curler in the lead.
Van Curler. Greeting to the chiefs of the Mohawks.
Kennisgke. The Chiefs will come to give greeting to "their
very good friend" \'an Curler.
Big Chief. Van Curler smoke peace-pipe with ]\Iohawks.
[Chiefs assemble for council; zvomen zvithdrazv to back-
ground.]
Van Curler. Greetings to you, oh Chiefs, from Van Curler
and from the Big Chief. Governor Peter Stuyvesant, with
whose knowledge I have come to you. Not alone have I come
to your council. With me are my friends, Jan Wemp, Van
Slyck and the Miller, Van Valsen. They too, would speak with
you, knowing you friends of the Pale-Faces.
Big Chief. The friends of Van Curler are welcome. There
are none more wise than Van Curler.
Van Curler. There are none greater than the Sachems who
are Chiefs of the tribes of the Bear. Their hatchets are as keen
as the north-wind; and their eyes are as eagle's eyes. [Offers
Wampum.] Will the Big Chief accept a gift from his friend
Van Curler?
[Chief accepts gift and gives a similar one in return.]
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Van Curler. We thank the chief for his gift.
Big Chief. Will the Corlear rest after his long journey? Let
food be brought him and to his friends.
Van Curler. The women of the camp of the Mohawks are
fair and gentle, and the warriors strong.
Big Chief. Umph ! Will the Corlear smoke peace-pipe?
Will his friends smoke also.
Second Chief. Let our White Brother speak his mind.
Van Curler. Friends, it is long since I first came to this new
country to direct that portion of it belonging to Killean Van
Rensselaer, the Patroon, my Uncle. It is twenty years since I
first saw Shonowe. It was fair then; it is less fair now.
Big Chief. We listen.
Van Curler. But we men of Beverwick and Rensselaer grow
weary of the place we dwell in. W'e speak to our brothers, the
Sachems, freely, knowing them to be of our mind, knowing that
they love justice and freedom.
Second Chief. The Corlear speaks truly.
Van Curler. We would found a settlement where all men
could be free and equal, where the men would say, "We" and
"Our" instead of "My" and "Mine."
Several of the Young Braves. Good counsel ! The Sachems
listen.
Van Curler. Furthermore we are not altogether free. There
are those who rule our coming and going, the Great East
India Company of which my brothers have already heard. We
would lessen the weight of that yoke also. We speak to our
brothers in confidence knowing they know us of old.
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Big Chief. What the chieftains have heard with their ears
will not go out by way of their tongues.
Van Curler. Therefore, my brothers, we have come to you
for two reasons. One, because we know you and trust you,
and because your land is fair; the other, because we know that
game is scarce in your borders. The guns of the white men
have killed it. The time will come when you will not dwell in
Shonowe. If my brothers must sell, why not sell to their very
good friends? [Long silence.] What say the. chiefs of the
Mohawks ?
Big Chief. I make answer to the Corlear: Does a man sell
his home? Does he quench his camp-fire for strangers?
All Braves. No ! No !
Van Curler. You will not sell?
Braves. [Loudly.] No.
Big Chief. Brothers, shall we not keep our Castle, the home
of the Great Five Nations?
Braves. [With one accord.] Yes.
Van Curler. Have I ever deceived you. my brothers, or
spoken untrul}^?
Braves. Never, Corlear.
Van Curler. Or cheated you or made a bad bargain?
Second Chief. No. The Corlear is always honest.
Van Curler. Then listen to me now, for I am telling you the
truth. If you do not deal with me the time is coming when you
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must deal with others. There is wisdom in what I say.
Sachems. We will give you a just price for your land, and we
will build our farms on it. Do not be hasty in refusing, for it
will be as I have said. Will my brothers talk with the tribe?
There are new lands for them to the Westward.
[Van Curler and his friends hold a conference. The Indians
do the same.]
Van Curler. [To his follozvers.] If the chiefs consent to
sell their land there will be room for fifteen farms and for each
man a pasture to the east of the village and a garden to the
south of the village and we will call the place Schenectady and
in our tongue it will mean "beautiful valley."*
Van Valsen. What are they doing?
Van Slxck. They are calling out a Medicine-woman to go
before their Gods for them. It is a custom they have. They
may decide by the magic sticks.
Van Valsen. I have heard of her before-time. They say she
has the gift of tongues and once lived with white folks near our
village. The Indians hold her in great honor. They say she
can foretell the future.
Jan IVemp. It is necromancy! I will have none of it.
[Sazvara is called forth to council. It is evident that she
comes imwillingly.]
Big Chief. Speak Sawara. You who have dwelt near the
houses of the Pale-Faces, you who have the gift of tongues.
Shall this land be sold? What will come of it, Sawara?
Prophesy. Speak in the tongue of the Pale-Faces.
• His own words.
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Saivara. The land shall be sold, but for us no good will be-
come of it. But the man who wishes to buy it is a good man.
He will prosper.
Kaszvi, But for us, Sawara.
Sozvara. You have seen the graying ashes of the camp-fire.
When the white man comes only the ashes will be left to us.
Big Chief. Speak in the tongue of the white man.
Satvara. [Bitterly.] What shall I speak when my heart is
as twisted as a willow tree in the wind? Shall I make a
Medicine when my Spirit is gone from me? [Yet she takes the
first fezv steps of the Medicine dance at the camp-fire. A
brave throivs on the fire a bundle of Magic Sticks. Blue and
green flames are seen to rise and flicker.]
Sawara. I sing the song of my people,
I sing the grief of my people!
You will sell the land to the white man,
For what will be will be;
There is no help for it.
He comes with his guns and his powder —
Our hunting grounds are deserted,
There are few fish left in the streams — •
We must go or starve.
We must sell the land to the Pale-Face.
A hundred hundred years have our feet trodden the
We shall tread it no more. trail.
A hundred hundred years has the smoke gone up
The years are over. from these wigwams —
You will sell the land to the Pale-Face —
He will dwell where once was your dwelling.
For a few years you will flourish.
And then there will be no more strength in you than
[there is in a wet bow-string.
u
<J
>
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Our faces are turned toward the Sunset,
The shadows gather around us.
What will be, will be —
There is no help for it.
I sing the grief of my people !
I sing the song of my people.
The Mohawks are depressed.
Big Chief. This is woman-talk, Sawara.
Sawara. It may be a woman speaks truly.
Second Chief. She has the gift of tongues and can prophesy.
What will be, will be. She has said it.
Big Chief. Corlear, it is hard to answer. If we sell to you,
you will deal with us fairly. It is true that game is scarce and
our hunters are long in finding it. It is true that there are new
lands to the Westward. My brothers what must be, must be, let
us sell to our very good friends. What say you?
All Indians. Let us sell.
Van Curler. Great Chief, I will deal with you fairly. For
your lands we will give you four kegs of the gun powder which
the Mohawks so greatly prize.
Big Chief. It is enough. We make our brothers welcome,
we will move our wigwams Westward. We will quench our
camp-fire.
Van Curler. Then let us sign the Charter.
[A role of parchment, ink-stand and quill pen are brought.
The settlers and leading chieftains sign the paper. The kegs of
gun-poii'der are taken by the Indians. The zvigwams are
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taken down; the sqiiaivs and maidens gathering their
blankets, baskets and cooking utensils. Two of the young
braves carry the wigwams betzveen them. The squaws and
maidens form the other burden bearers. The men march first,
single file. The squaws and children follozving. Last of all
marches Saivara looking straight before her. As the Indians
go, the Spirits of the Sunset steal out from behind the trees and
watch the departure of the Indians. It is evident that the
never-ending march Westivard has begun.]
Van Curler. Come. Let us choose a spot on which to build
our farms.
Episode 2. — The Massacre.'
An Indian in full zvar-paint enters. Another Indian steals in
after him, then another. They peer cautiously about them, and
then hide behind some trees. Simon Veeder comes out of the
woods in background with gun and gamebag. The Indians
watch him furtively. Adam Vrooman enters, accompanied by
the Miller, Van Valsen, carrying empty flour sacks.
Veeder. Greeting, friend !
Vrooman. What are you doing beyond the stockade, friend
Veeder?
Veeder. {Indicating hunting paraphernalia.] \\'hat you see.
And you?
* In reality this massacre took place on the ni?rht of February 8,
1690; but as the exigencies of an outdoor stage in summer rmke such
a scene impossible, the episode will be played as a summer instead of
a winter one.
26
Vrooman. I have been with our friend, Van Valsen, the
miller, while he took a sack of flour (long over-due) to
Rensselaer.
Van Valsen. [Points to man on horseback, seen dimly
through trees.] Who goes there?
Veeder. Simon Schermerhorn, returning to the village after
a forage.
Van Valsen. Hark ! I thought I heard something stir in the
thicket.
Veeder. Has the mill wheel set your nerves a- jangling,
Valsen? It was but some rabbit in the underbrush, or a fox,
or squirrel. We have nothing to fear. The Mohawks of this
region are friendly to us. The Onondagas call us brother.
Valsen. That is true.
Veeder. Even the gates of the fort are left open these days,
when Liesler and his men look to our safety.
Vrooman. They look to it from a long distance. Liesler
dwells in New Amsterdam.
Valsen. [Piously.] But his power reaches out to us, true
followers of his faith. Who would harm the Dutch Protestants
dwelling in this peaceful valley where in winter our stockade is
guarded by snowmen.
Veeder. Why all this talk of safety in a time of safety?
Leave talk of safety for an hour more troublous. Even the
Mohawks in league with the French are quiet. Here, in this
valley, we rest at peace. Let us be turning homeward. [Soyne
women and children appear in background.]
27
Vrooman. The women and children will be glad of your
game, friend Veeder. Here come some of them to meet us.
[The settlers go home. Indians steal out from thicket, but
again hide behind trees as a settler appears. They spring upon
him and tomahawk him. An Indian runs forward zvith his
scalp; his body is tossed in the underbrush. With a zvhoop, the
Indians rush the stockade, beating war-drums and waving toma-
hawks. A fusilade of shots, cries. Another fusilade. Strong
smell of burning. Smoke rises and red gloiv appears through
trees. War-drums beating louder and louder. The sound of
shooting still mingles zvith the Indians' savage cries. Enter
Dirk Brant.]
Brant. This way — come quickly! You may escape them.
[A woman in forest green cloak zvith a child in her arms rushes
out of the zvoods, leading another child by the hand. An Indian
steals silently after them. Dirk Brant fires and the Indian
drops, zvounded. Another Indian appears. Sitnultaneous shots,
the Indian is wounded, crazvls off tozvards underbrush. Dirk
Brant has been wounded also. He reels.]
Brant. Go quickly wife — you still have time!
Mrs. Brant. [Passionately.] Dirk, I cannot leave you
wounded.
Brant. The children — quick — ! Down that way!
Mrs. Brant. Hush. An Indian appears, Dirk Brant lies as
if dead. His wife crouches, her forest green cloak an aid in
concealing her and the child that is zvith her. Indian looks
about quickly; does not see her; goes off.]
Brant. Quick— While there is still time. I will hide here.
[He crazvls tozvard underbrush. It is evident he has a shatter-
ed kneepan. The zvife takes the children and flees.]
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Brant. If someone could but take the news to Albany 1
[With evident effort he drags himself to the shelter of some
bushes. An Indian appears. Brant lies still. Indian disappears.
Brant painfully crawls to the shelter of some trees and then
lies still again. A settler pursued by an Indian darts out of
woods. The settler grapples zvith the Indian and struggling,
they disappear into the woods again. Three zvomen run from
background and reaching the Pageant Field flee along by the
wood at right, stooping and crouching as they go. Two other
women under guidance of three settlers are seen to run from
right and make towards left in background. Indians follow and
shoot them at edge of small ravine. A party of fugitives in-
eluding Ian Van Epps, John Wemp and Van Ditmars, as they
flee towards right, are seised by a crowd of Indians.]
An Indian. Hei ! Money for prisoners.
[The settlers are ivheeled about and disappear into the woods
strongly guarded. A sudden horde of Indians siveep onto the
stage and then off again. A fezv return here and there, appearing
betzvecn the trees. All through this time the sound of the war-
drum continues, and the smoke of the burning stockade comes
up from the trees. A man trying to escape staggers to center, a
ghastly wound across his throat. He appears but an instant
then staggers and falls. Two Indians appear out of the woods,
rifle his pockets; then toss his body into the underbrush. Simon
Schermerhorn enters on horse-back. As he rides an Indian ap-
pears from the bushes, shoots him. Schermerhorn clasps his
hands to his breast. He szvays in his saddle but rides on. As
he comes almost abreast of Dirk Brant another Indian appears.
Brant rises with a terrible effort and shoots the Indian. The
Indian falls. Schermerhorn rides on at fidl gallop, and is
finally lost to riezv.]
[A final rush of the Indians on the scene. They are waving
scalps, and beating drums. For a moment they form a mass
in foreground then disappear into background, the din of their
departure grooving fainter and fainter as they are lost to view.]
29
Episode 3. — Market Day in Old Schonachtendel.
The people begin to assemble in groups of tzvos and threes on
the Pageant Field. Tzvo carpenters enter carrying stocks which
they set up in background. At the same time, the women with
the assistance of some small boys set up their market stands
and deposit by them their market baskets.
First Carpenter. Hey, neighbor! This is a fine market day.
A Marketzvoman. It is, surely.
Second Carpenter. The old stocks are so worn with wind
and weather that we've been mending them up a bit.
Marketwoman. And who is to sit in them this time?
First Carpenter. Nick Maartens.
Marketwoman. And for what?
Second Carpenter. For being intoxicated on the Sabbath.
Another Marketwoman. Well, Lisbeth, a fine morning!
Did you have good luck with your cheese?
Lisbeth. I did indeed.
[Other stalls are brought in and set up; children run to and
fro playing games.]
Marketwoman. [To a young matron.] Be not so flighty
Neltje. Your cap blows off with every puff of wind and no
married woman should be seen in Schenectady without a cap.
There is a rule against it.
[A group of Dutch maidens enter and go from stall to stall.
Brisk barter. A few Indians enter with furs to trade.]
la
31
Lisbeth. Here come some of our townsmen to put Nick
Maartens in the stocks.
Second Markct-cvoman. Aye, and the constable is with him.
[Nick Maartens is brought in by tivo young Dutchmen who
place him in stocks.]
Constable. Nick Maartens, I place you here as an example
to sober men. [Turning toward audience.] Take warning
townsfolk of Schenectady. Let not your thirst be greater than
your discretion.
A Toivnsman. Ah! Nick, Nick! How great is your fall.
If you were like me now— I never touch a drop of anything.
Constable. Then why do you go with a bottle in your
pocket? [Pulls a bottle from the tozcnsman's pocket.]
Cro7vd. [JJ'ith laughter.] Ah! Ah! None can get ahead
of our Constable.
Second Marketzvoman. Ssh ! The Justice of the Peace is
coming.
The Justice. Nick Maartens, I fear you are a sorry rogue.
Nick Maartens. I am indeed, and I grow sorrier every
moment.
Neltje. Look! Look! Here is the fiddler. He'll play for
us and we'll all sing.
Sez'eral Maidens. Play for us, Wilhelm Groot. [Thev sina
a song of Holland.] ^
Neltje. [To the fiddler as songs end.] And now, a dance!
32
[The Dutch maidens gather in center of the stage and there
ensues a Dutch dance, the "Dance of the Wooden Shoes^l
Neltje. [As the dance ends.] And now — Home — Market
day is over! But still play, Wilhelm Groot, like the Pied Piper
of old and we will follow!
Exit. [Wilhelm Groot playing. The Dutch folk follow, tak-
ing their stalls, their merchandise and other purchases with
them. Last of all Nick Maartens is released from the stocks,
and the carpenters carrying the stocks form the end of the
retreating procession.
Part III— PATRIOT SCHENECTADY.
Episode 1. The Days of 76.
Enter upon the Pageant Ground, Hugh Mitchell and
Harmanus Wendell. A moment later James Wilson joins them.
Wilson. Good morning, neighbors. What have we here?
Mitchell. An informal meeting of some of the members of
the Committee of Safety. In troublous times such as these, we
can not take too many precautions.
Wendell. We are suspicious that news may be carried to
Johnstown of what is now going on here, and we are about to
place guards both sides of the river to prevent any persons
from passing who are not known to be friends of the American
cause.
[James Ellice, zvith a traveller's pack on his back, comes upon
the Pageant Field. Wilson intercepts him.]
Wilson. Who comes there?
Ellice. James Ellice.
Wilson. Your passport. [Ellice gives Wilson letter.]
Wilson. [Reads.] This is to certify that the bearer Mr.
James Ellice hath signed the General Association and hath not
to our knowledge, done anything against the American cause of
Liberty. Given under my hand.
DIRK VAN INGEN,
Chairman.*
•An actual passport. ,
34
Wilson. Pass. James Ellice. [Ellice goes off stage. Tivo
other men also garbed as travellers appear. They are Robert
Ellice and George Forsith.]
Wilson. Who goes there?
Ellice. Robert Ellice and George Forsith.
Wilson. Let me see your passports.
[The men give up their passports to Wilson.]
Rinier Mynderse. [Jvining the group.] W'ait, Tames
Wilson! [Reads.]
"In Committee Chamber, at Schenectady,
August 13, 1776.
*"Honored Sir: — James Ellice, who was just now with this
board and obtained a certificate that he hath signed the General
Association, informed us that his brother, Robert Ellice, intends
going up the country to settle his business there, and that James
Ellice intends to send his clerk, George Forsith, up the country.
We beg leave to acquaint you that neither of the above-named
persons hath ever signed the General Association, and we look
on them to be enemies to the American cause of Liberty.
"We are, etc.
"To the Hon. Philip Schuyler, Major-General."
[General hubbub. Cries of "Rebels! Spies! Seize them!
Off to jail with them! Search them further!" [The men are
hustled off the scene. John Walton and Nicholas Swart come
out of zvoods, background.]
John Walton. " The whole country must be animated by
one great soul, and all Americans must resolve to stand by one
another even unto death " Great words, neighbor, with a
sound of steel!
•An actual letter.
35
Nicholas Swart. I wish there were news from the front.
For three days there has not been a word to tell us how things
are going. The American troops seem a mere handful beside
the British. Gage has 32,000 men, ^^'ashington has only 18,000.
We're a mere handful, I tell you.
Jolm JValton. There were only a handful of Americans at
Lexington. You know what happened there. It's only a little
over a year ago that Gage sent forth his proclamation — the
proclamation wherein he threatened to hang all traitors and
rebels who continued to resist his Majesty's government. Well
— we're still unhung; and the Declaration of Independence has
been signed ! And we got the greatest man to lead us that ever
stood in a general's boots !
[Enter a man zvith a plozv-Jiorse accompanied by a boy carry-
ing a hoe.]
. Nicholas Swart. That's true. Well, neighbor, I'll be bidding
you good day.
A Messenger. Where is John Walton?
Nicholas Szvart. There.
Messenger. I come with news from the front. More Minute
Men are needed.
John JValton. [To Bow] Run! News from the front.
Call the people together. Ring the Church bell !
The Boy. But
John JValton. Ring it I say. In times like these they will
all know what it means. Ring! Ring! [Boy runs off.] Your
news ?
36
Messenger. Washington is determined to hold New York.
Green and Putman will be with him. There is an urgent call
for more troops. If they start at once the men from Schenec-
tady can meet the relay marching from Oriskany. They can
proceed by forced marches to New York.
[The Church hell begins to ring wildly, peal upon peal.
People hurry in and surround the Messenger.]
Mrs. Walton. What is it? What has happened?
John Walton. It's the call to arms.
The Messenger. Howe plans to get possession of the
Hudson. This will give the British control of the water-way to
Canada. It will cut off New England from the Middle and
Southern States. Schenectady has already given nobly; but
this is a time when every man is needed,
John Walton. And every man will respond!
[Messenger gallops off.]
Mrs. Walton. [Who has run home, and then returned.']
Here's your musket, John. Take it, and God bless you.
A Girl. [To her sweetheart.] My heart will march with
you every step of the way.
A Young Man. [To his mother, zvho is wiping her eyes.]
But mother — You would not have me stay.
The Mother. No, I'd have you go ! There are none too old
to fight for our country, and none too young. She needs you
all, every man of you. I only wish I were a man myself!
An Onlooker. There's spirit for you!
37
A Matron. [To one of the Minute Men, as she watches a
very small Drummer Boy.] Look out for him — he's only a
boy — He's my youngest. Oh, see that he comes to no harm. —
See that
The Minute Man. I promise I will look out for him.
The Captain. Ready all.
[They line up. Middle-age men. Old men. Mere boys.
Their faces alight zvith patriotic fervor.]
The Captain. Forward, march.
[With fife and drum playing Yankee Doodle the men march
from the scene. The ivonien and the few remaining men watch
them for a moment. Then one ivoman picks up the hoe;
another takes the ploiv-horse by the bridle; and all leave in the
direction of their homes.]
Episode 2. — The Welcome to General Washington.
Enter from background upon the Pageant Field Mrs. Duane
and Mrs. Livingston, follozved a moment or tivo later by other
ladies ivho are also to assist in receiving General Washington.
Mrs. Livingston. Can you see General Washington, Mrs.
Duane?
Mrs. Duane. Not yet. Mrs. Livingston! \\'hen he does
come General Schuyler and John Glenn will be with him.
Mrs. Van Rensselaer. Captain Peter Truax and Abraham
Clinch are to be here also. I hear that Colonel Bishop has been
sent for.
38
Mrs. Clement. Oh, they'll come! Not that they are slow,
'tis that we are impatient. I trust that General Washington will
enjoy the fete we have prepared in his honor. The more
stressful the times the more we have need of mirth to keep up
our spirits.
Jilrs. Duane. The town's folk are gathering. Those who are
to take part in the Minuet, and those who will dance in the
Pavane.
Mrs. Livingston. Pavane?
Mrs. Duane. 'Tis an old French dance we have revived for
the occasion. Indeed Schenectady can make a great show of
grace and deportment when it has a mind.
Mrs. Van Rensselaer. Hark ! There's the music ! Washing-
ton is coming!
[By this time the Pageant Field is filled with those who are
to welcome Washington. The music strikes up "Hail Colum-
bia!" The crowd parts right and left, leaving a broad way in
center, and George Washington is seen approaching. He walks
alone. Just behind him walk General Schuyler and John Glenn.
General cheering as Washington appears. He comes forward.]
Mr. Glenn. Ladies and Gentlemen, you know with whose
name our country is ringing. We are thrice happy to have with
us to-day General George Washington. [Cheers.] On behalf
of the citizens of Schenectady, let me assure General Washing-
ton that of all people in the world he is the one most welcome,
and that we hold him first not only on the field of battle, but
in every patriot heart. We hail him as the savior of our
country and the leader of our cause.
George Washington. I request you to accept my warmest
thanks for your affectionate address. In a cause so just and
39
^righteous as ours we have every reason to hope that Divine
Providence will continue to crown our arms with success, and
compel our enemies to grant us that peace upon equitable terms,
which we so ardently desire. May you and the good people of
this town, in the meantime be protected from every insidious
and open foe; and may the complete blessing of peace soon
reward your arduous struggle for the establishment of the
Freedom and Independenceof our common country.*
[Cheers from those present.]
General Schuyler. General Washington — Mrs. Duane.
[Bozvs. Courtesies.]
Mrs. Duane. Sir, the towns-folk have prepared a fete in
your honor.
George JVashington. Madam, although by present necessity
I am now a man of war, I love and prize the arts of peace.f
It will give me great pleasure to witness the more festive spirit
of the people of Schenectady.
[Chairs have been brought to background, and there Wash-
ington and some of the notables of the day gather while on the
Pageant Field a Minuet is danced. Following the Minuet comes
the Pavane. With music playing, and a general air of gayety
and lightened spirits, the people of Schenectady zvith George
Washington leading exeunt slowly from the Pageant Field.]
• His actual words.
t From Washing'ton's letter.
Nott Elm, Jackson's Garden, Union College Grounds
Photo by White
41
Part IV. - DEVELOPMENT OF THE TOWN.
Episode I . — The Founding of Union College.
Bovs bring in tables and chairs for the expected company.
Dominie Romeyn enters the Pageant Field, in time to greet Mr.
James Clark who is entering also.
Romeyn. A splendid afternoon for our conference, Mr.
Clark.
Mr. Clark. It is indeed, Dominie.
Romeyn. Our Citizens are already arriving. John Cuyler, I
give you greeting. [John Cuyler enters.] And here are our
good friends, Dirk Van Ingen and Abraham Oothout. [Dirk
Van Ingen and Abraham Oothout enter.] Sirs, I am glad to see
you. [John Sanders and Peter Vrooman enter. The men
gather about the table.]
Romeyn. I need hardly go into the reasons for our gather-
ing here today, the interest which binds us in a common cause.
But it would seem that sometimes great causes move slowly.
It was in February, 17,85 that the Schenectady Academy was
founded by mutual agreement of our leading citizens. It was,
and is, the child of the Dutch Reformed Church ; but now it is
our wish to make over the Academy to a College, that shall
have Religious freedom, and which, for that reason, shall be
named Union College. For this we have all worked, and
though many obstacles have stood in our way we feel we are
drawing nearer the goal. Four years ago the Managers of the
Academy memorialized the Legislature for a grant of land in
Oneida Reservation.
Van Ingen. Sir, as a trustee of the Academy, I am here to
tell you tiiat the Citizens of Schenectady are weary of waiting
42
for the Legislature. The town will give a tract of 5,000 acres.
And the Citizens will give seventy acres more. [Puts paper on
the table. Murmurs of gratification from those present.]
Oothout. And I am here to say that certain other citizens
will subscribe 1000 pounds. Here is the signed paper. [Puts
it on table.]
Romeyn. And we all know that the Consistory of the Dutch
Church offers to give an Academy. Gentlemen, it seems as if
all things were working together for our good. The Citizens
of Schenectady have proved their loyalty to the cause of
education.
Boy. Dominie, a Mr. Prichard and a Mr. Escomb would
like to see you, Sir.
Romeyn. Prichard — Escomb — I don't know the names.
However [to men] with your permission — ! Tell Mr. Prichard
and Mr. Escomb I await their coming.
Prichard. [A Frontiersman.] I want to speak to Dominie
Romeyn.
Romeyn. I am he. Will you not be seated?
Prichard. [A bit awkwardly.] Thank ye, no. I reckon
what I got to say can be said standing. Fve heard you're
thinking of founding a College.
Romeyn. Yes.
Prichard. My name is Prichard, Dominie. I live in Cherry
Valley. In my youth I never had much chance for book learn-
ing. I'd like my boy to have what I missed. My wife and I,
we've saved $50.00. I'd like to give that toward the founding
of a College. I wish it was more I [Pauses,
confused.]
43
Romevn My dear sir, there are. some things that transcend
money, "and with corner stones of sacrifices and idealism.
Union College may be glad and proud. [Smding.] Well do
our best by your boy when he comes. As Pnchard goes
Escomb comes forivard. He is a sturdy type of the farmer of
those days.]
Escomb My name is Escomb. I'm representing some
settlers and farmers from the North. They want me to say
that they'll give all they can. Maybe it will only be a few
dollars or so. Maybe more. Any how, they want to give it.
They think a College is worth working for. It does a man
good as he hoes his crops, or a woman when she helps with the
harvest, to know that part of their labor is for a cause.
Romeyn. [Heartily.] You're right, sir.
Escomb. [Earnestly.] We don't count anything too hard to
do for that, and ever, if there are miles of river and forest
between us and Union College, we're— we're— all kind ot knit
together by the thing we're working for.
Rome\n. Sir, that's the spirit that build not only colleges,
but nations. Pray convey our thinks to your neighbors in the
North.
Prichard. I will, sir. [Exit Prichard.]
Romevn. Well sir, it is beginning to be more than ever plain
to us that it is not Schenectady alone that holds to this idea of
a College. The frontier farm and the spirit of the pioneer
camp are with us also.
Boy. A message from General Philip Schuyler.
Romeyn. Reverend and Dear Sir*: On Wednesday last
the engrossed charter was submitted to the Regents and ap-
• An actual letter.
Lilac Wa'.k, Jackson's Garden, Union College
Photo by Fulton Studio
45
proved of. and on Friday the seal of the University was affixed
thereto, with the Chancellor's signature, — an event the more
satisfactory to me as I have long since wished to see the
vicinity of my native place honored with such an institution, and
I sincerely congratulate my fellow-citizens of Schenectady in
particular, and the whole of the northern and western parts of
the State in general, on the facility with which they will be able
to obtain a collegiate education for their children. May in-
dulgent Heaven protect and cherish an institution calculated to
promote virtue and the weal of the people. Please to request
the gentleman to whom has been confided the subscription paper
of the funds of the college to add my name to the list for one
hundred pounds. I shall strive to procure a donation on the
part of this State, and as I have already conversed with some
leading members on the subject, I trust my eft'orts will be
successful. The charter, with all the evidences of the funds,
are. by order of the Regents, to be delivered to one of the
trustees of the college. If Chief Justice Yates does not come
down, they will be delivered to one of the gentlemen here, to
be delivered to him as the first trustee named in the act' of
incorporation. I am with great regard. Reverend Sir,
Your most obedient servant,
PH. SCHUYLER.
The Rev. Dr. Romeyn.
Van Ingen. Ah, then we may indeed say that the welfare of
Union College is assured, Romeyn. "In necessariis unitas, in
dubiis libertas, in omnibus caritas." Let us tell our town-folk
of the good news that has reached us.
46
Episode 2. The Welcome to Lafayette.
Enter Mrs. Van Epps, Elsbett Van Epps, Barent Sanders
and groups of children dressed in the quaint fashion of the day,
some carrying flozvers and others hoops of roses.
Barent Sanders. Madam, you look like Flora surrounded by
the flowers of spring.
Mrs. Van Epps. As you well know, this is the day that the
Marquis de Lafayette is coming, and the children are to give to
give him a special welcome.
Barent Sanders. So I understand. And after this reception
there is to be a banquet. Schenectady is becoming quite ac-
customed to the entertaining of heroes.
Mrs. Van Epps. And such a hero! To think of him is to
remember the cause of American liberty.
[Ladies and gentlemen enter. With the first strains of the
Marseillaise, Lafayette appears, accompanied by a number of the
leading citizens. The little girl zvith the frilled bouquet presents
the bouquet to Lafayette and drops him a timid courtesy.'l
Lafayette. I thank you. Mademoiselle.
Henry Yates. Marquis, we bid you welcome to Schenectady,
and see in you a friend of justice and a defender of the op-
pressed. To hear your name is to remember Liberty. Our City
is honored by your presence.
Lafayette. Mr. Yates, I thank both you and your towns-
folk, i am most happy to be with you. The more I travel
through this great country, the more towns and cities I see, the
greater is my realization of what the War of the Rebellion
brought. As to that war, it is I that stand debtor to America.
47
What I learned under General Washington, I am not likely to
forget. To have served under him was a privilege, an honor.
AJy interests in Schenectady is deepened by the knowledge that
Washington has been here, and because I know that he held
your citizens in high esteem. Many of them were his personal
friends, — Duane, Livingston, Schuyler, — at these names what
splendid memories -come thronging. I thank you for the greet-
ing you have given me today, and I can truly say that I am
proud to be welcomed by a city that has welcomed Washington.
[Cheers from those present.]
Henry Yates. With your permission, sir, we will now
proceed to the banquet.
[With Lafayette, and the tozvn notables zvalking first, the
children with their garlands next, and after these the ladies and
gentlemen zvho have appeared upon the scene, the procession
passes from the Pageant Field and disappears from view.]
Episode 3. — Dr. Nott and Early Student Days.
A middle-aged man enters the Pageant Field from right look-
ing about him as he cornes. He meets a student coming from
left.
Duncan Stewart . Were you looking for some one, sir?
Alumnus. No, I was looking at the College grounds. I was
a student at Union thirty years ago, and since then I have been
out on the frontier. It is difficult getting letters out there. I
have not kept up with the College as I should.
Duncan Stezuart. You'll find great changes, sir.
Alumnus. I have seen some beautiful buildings, the South
Colonnade and the North Colonnade.
48
Duncan Stczcart. \\'e are very proud of those. They were
planned by Jacques Ramee, the famous landscape architect,
who developed the city of Washington.
Alumnus. So I hear.
Duncan Stezvart. And the grounds — the great elm where we
hold our class day — Union is very proud of that, too.
Alumnus. Jonathan Edwards was President when I was
here in 1801.
Duncan Stezvart. Ah, those were the days when they had no
college fraternities.
Alumnus. No what?
Duncan Stezvart. No Greek letter societies. You know in
the college world Union is called the mother of the Greek letter
societies.
Alumnus. What are these societies for?
Duncan Stezvart. "They are for the encouraging of friend-
ship, morality and literature;" for creating a bond which shall
last through a man's whole life, and not just through the
college years. It means that wherever a man may be, whether
he's up the ladder, or whether he's down, his fraternity broth-
ers will stand by him. It means the perpetuating of all that is
best in college life.
Alumnus. I see, I see.
Duncan Stezvart. Wait a moment. We are going to make
this one of the most festive afternoons of Commencement
Week. Stay and see it! Mr. Brown of the Class of 1801, let
me present some of the Seniors of the class of 1830. [Seniors
hozv politely. \
Prof. John 1. Bennett as Doctor Notl
Photo bv White
50
Alumnus. Mr. Stewart has been telling me about the Greek
letter societies, and the new buildings. 1 find myself quite an
old mummy and behind the times.
Francis Hamilton. You niusn't say that, sir. Union doesn't
graduate mummies. Far from it ! Have you met Dr. Nott ?
Alumnus. No, but my young friend has just been telling me
of him. I should like to hear more. He's very progressive I
understand.
Francis Hamilton. He is, indeed, sir. Like Benjamin
Franklin he is very sagacious; believes in a democratic spirit,
and has invented a stove.
Duncan Stezcart. [Smothering a laugh.] Also a coach.
Alumnus. [Looking from one to another of the group of
students.] Is there something humorous in the word coach?
Francis Hamilton. Sometimes, sir.
Alumnus. Do you mean
Francis Hamilton. The joke is this, sir. For state occasions
the coach has a great cover, and one day the students thought
it would be rare sport to drag the coach four miles from the
town and leave it there. They knew Dr. Nott was very proud
of the coach, and would miss it sorely. But when they reached
the end of the four miles who should step out of the coach but
Dr. Nott himself. "Since you have dragged the coach so far,"
says he, "you may now drag it back. I have greatly enjoyed
my ride." You can see the coach, without the cover, approach-
ing now, sir, and Dr. Nott is in it. [Ladies and gentlemen zvho
have been arriving on the scene look zvith interest at Dr. Nott,
zvho arrives in his three-zvheeled coach.]
Duncan Stezvart. Mr. Brown, sir, of the Class of 1801.
51
Dr. Nott. I am delighted to meet you, sir.
Alumnus. I am already acquainted with you. sir, through
the praise that goes out beyond these borders.
Dr. Nott. I thank you, sir.
Alumnus. And there is no surer proof of what you are
accomplishing here at Union College than the men the
College is graduating.
Dr. Nott. Sir, that touches me closely; for it has been my
endeavor since I have had the care of youth to make men
rather than great scholars*.
Alumnus. You mean that life learning is better than book
learning?
Dr.^Nott. I do, sir. I am always saying to the students:
"Don't think too much of the slate and pencil ; think of the sum
you are going to work out." Ah, Mr. Stewart, how goes your
work?
Duncan Stezvart. Fairly, sir.
Dr. Nott. I always think that in many ways the Senior
year is the most important year. I sometimes say to my
students, "as you pass this year so will you probably pass your
lives."
Duncan Stezvart. I hate to think of all this being over.
Alumnus. Ah, there is always the pang of parting! Years
hence — as far forward, say, as 1912, I suppose men will still
feel the same about leaving Alma Mater.
• His own words.
Corner of Old Gymnasium, Union College
Plioto by Fulton Studio
53
Dr. Nott. Will you noi- stay and hear some of the songs
under the trees? This is to be a festive afternoon. You may
have heard, sir. that I delight in such occasions. There is too
little mirth in life. I have always held that laughter is the
final cause of health*.
{The people form picturesque groups under the trees.
Groups of fraternity men zcith their banners sing fraternitv
songs. With the final group still singing the people of the
Episode pass in the background. Dr. A'ott drives away in the
chariot and the Episode ends.]
Episode 4. — The Coming of the Railroad.
People begin to gather from the background, and to look zvith
interest toward right. Srz'cral ladies come dozen center to
foreground of Pageant Field.
Airs. Brozvn. Good morning, neighbor, are you coming to see
the train?
Mrs. Scott. Do you think it will really run. ]\Irs. Brown? It
does not seem possible ! A few years ago. the Clermont, our
first Hudson River Steam Boat was a wonder of wonders, and
now — this !
Mrs. Smith. It has been reported that Chancellor Livingston
says that riding on a train is very dangerous.
A Citicen. I understand that Air. Featherstonhaugh and our
patroon, Stephen \'an Rensselaer, are deeply interested in this
venture.
Mrs. Smith. It is reported that Chancellor Livingston says
that it would be impossible to build rails that could carry a
train making such speed as four miles an hour.
• His own words.
54
A Citizen. I understand that Peter Fleming is the construct-
ing Engineer, and let this train be called the DeWitt Clinton.
Mrs. Smith. It is reported that Chancellor Livingston
says
[Her voice is drowned by the talk of iiezv arrivals.]
Mrs. DeGraff. My husband is on the train. I feel quite
nervous about him. He zvoidd go.
Mrs. Smith. Well, all I can say is they are brave and
intrepid souls who dared to ride from Albany to Schenectady
behind an engine. Brave and intrepid souls.
[The' zvhistle of the train is heard, a bell begins to ring,
general commotion. People throng toivards right.]
Mrs. Scott. There is the bell of the train, I do believe! Oh,
let us hurry !
Mrs. Smith. But do not go too near!
[The band begins to plav a medley of patriotic airs. The
DeWitt Clinton appears. The passengers alight from the small
passenger coach. John Hempson, the fireman, leans from the
zvindozv of the engine cab, mopping his brozv. Amongst those
descending from the passenger coach are Governor Enos
Throop, John T. Clark the conductor, and John DeGraff and
John Matthias of Schenectady.]
Mrs. DeGraff. Oh, John, thank Heaven you are safe.
A Citizen. Three cheers for the Mohawk and Hudson!
Three cheers for the DeWitt Clinton. [The cheers are rousing-
ly given.]
55
A Citizen. Well, John Matthias, how did it feel?
Mrs. Scott. Weren't frightened?
John Matthias. Well, it was a great experience! It pays to
risk one's life to have a great experience. I shall always re-
member that I rode on that first train!
Mrs. Smith. [As keen for it noiv as she i^'as afraid of it.]
Well, now that the men have tried it, and we see that they
haven't been blown up it proves that railroad travel is safer
than I thought. I shan't be afraid to ride in a train myself. I
believe I will go over to Albany in it, and buy me a calash.
[The people move azcay in the direction of their hojnes.]
Episode 5. The Civil War.
The people come from left and background upon the Pageant
Field. It is a subdued and pale-faced croz^d of men and women
who gather there.
Mr. Adams. [As he and Doctor Nott come down the center
of the Pageant Field.] These are heavy days, Dr. Nott.
Dr. Nott. You may well say so. You know how many
Southern students Union College has, and you also know how
passionately our Northern students adhere to the Federal cause.
The College, like the Nation, is rent in twain. What is happen-
ing here is happening all over this broad land. It tears the
heart to think of it.
Mrs. Young. You are coming to see the troops muster?
56
Mrs. Jackson. Yes. I am Mrs. Allen Jackson. Companies
A, and B, are mustering this morning. They are to join the
134th Regiment.
Mr. Hendrick. Half the College boys are off for the South.
They nailed a Southern flag to the College flagpole and greased
the pole, and dared the Northern boys to haul it down.
Mrs. Garling. [As "Dixie" is faintly heard, being played
off the scene.] Hark, that must be some of the Southerners
leaving now. Oh, to think that those boys who were in the
same class at College may be fighting each other — killing each
other — ! War is terrible !
Mrs. Brotherton. Terrible for the men ; and equally hard for
the women. The men have action and battles to face, while all
we can do is to wait, and wait, and wait — .
Mrs. Ahrets. Whenever I pick up a paper, I am afraid to
look at the names of the killed and wounded. Whenever I see
a boy running with dispatches my heart seems to stop beating.
Mrs. Bakeman. [Brokenly.] My boy leaves Union College
to fight for the Union. It nearly kills me to part with him ; yet
I know it is right for him to go.
Mr. Abiel. We must face things courageously. If the boys
see you crying, it will make it harder for them. Courage!
Courage! Schenectady will play her part in this war as she
played it in the Revolution.
A Young Girl. [To her mother.] Don't cry mother. You
must wave and smile to Harry when he passes.
Mrs. Jennings. They are coming! I can hear the drums.
[JVord szveeps along the line "They are coming."]
57
Mrs. Young. I can hardly see them. Everythings blurs in a
mist.
[The hand plays the Battle Hymn of the Republic, and the
soldiers march past.]
The Young Girl. Harry! Harry! [JJ'aves her handker-
chief frantically as her brother passes.]
Mrs. Bakeman. [Crying out as her son marches past.]
Good bye, and Heaven bless you!
[The soldiers march aivay. the sound of the music growing
fainter. The group that came to bid them good bye watches
them and then turns slowly to background, neighbor comfort-
ing neighbor.]
Dr. Nott. [Following sloidy. as the people leave for their
homes.] And this is the price of war!
Part V.- MODERN SCHENECTADY.
Episode 1.
Van Curler enters from background with the air of a Rip
Van Winkle. He looks about him da::cdly, rubs his eyes, and
spies a modern Schenectadian approaching.
Van Curler. Friend, what is the name of this place?
Mr. Modern. This is Schenectady.
Van Curler. Yet it cannot be the same — Where is the
stockade? Where is the place where we used to have our
farms? [Ruhs arm across his eye.] I have been at rest so
long, and then came all this stir, — I heard the word Pageantry,
and then my own name called — Arent Van Curler.
Mr. Modern. Arent Van Curler! Why, man, you are
dreaming !
Van Curler. Arent Van Curler, am I, and I heard them call
me. And other names I used to know — Jan Veeder and Van
Valsen, — I heard the tread of feet — Oh, No ! It cannot be the
place I purchased with those kegs of gunpowder. Where are
the Indians?
Mr. Modern. Gone.
Van Curler. And the Indian trail?
Mr. Modern. Oh, that's still there; it is part of the College
grounds.
Van Curler. College grounds! [Eagerly.] And the Patroon,
and the East Indian Company?
59
Mr. Modern. Oh, you're thinking of Holland in the old
days ; this is America — a free and independent nation.
Van Curler. It is so strange ; I left a wilderness and I find
a city — carriages that run without horses, boats that steam on
the river.
Mr. Modern. And ships that float in the air.
Van Curler. How can that be?
Mr. Modern. You had only wooden houses, we have houses
of brick and stone.
Van Curler. Ah! But the spirit that built those houses;
can you match that today? No, no, the past was the best.
Mr. Modern. I tell you. Arent Van Curler, whatever w^as
living in the past is living now in the present if people have
eyes to see. I'll summon modern Schenectady by the College
wireless and let you judge for yourself. Then you'll understand
how the past lives in a new sense.
Van Curler. I cannot believe it. It cannot be. The past
was best. [Mr. Modern reenters.] Think of the wars we had
on the frontier, and how our men faced death times without
number. The soldier spirit of the past. Where can you equal
that?
Mr. Modern. In the soldier spirit of the present. We've
played at war in our Pageant. Now you will see the Real
veterans of a real war. Post Horsfall of the Grand Army of
the Republic, the men who fought to keep the Union whole.
For them we play this episode in tribute. Let them preside over
our scene of modern Schenectady. [As the G. A. R. file in and
seat themselves at left.] Do you still think the past holds all?
60
Van Curler. [Not to be so easily zvon.] Where is the
pioneer spirit?
Mr. Modern. We will show you that in our Boy Scouts.
They know the lore of the woods as the pioneers used to know-
it. They have taken the great outdoors for their kingdom.
[Bo\ Scouts march and go through their drill and return to
left of field.]
Mr. Modern. A moment ago you asked where the Indians
were. Well, our Camp-fire Girls are keeping alive those
traditions. They can build a camp-fire, and a shelter of
boughs ; or can tell you about the rivers and forests ; and their
code also requires a knowledge of simple cooking and nursing.
They are , the Indian maidens — pins! [The Camp-fire Girls
enter and go through their ceremonial. Then they retire to left
background.]
Mr. Modern. Are you satisfied?
Van Curler. Ah, those are your younger folk who are
already here. In our day we had the emigrant spirit. We
crossed the seas to a new land bringing thrift and enterprise
with us.
Mr. Modern. Wait until you have seen our emigrants of
today. For them we are still a new country; the land of
promise. They bring us the same thrift and enterprise that the
Dutch settlers brought, and the arts of their countries as well.
W^hen you have seen their folk dances. [Folk dances.]
Van Curler. It is wonderful. There was nothing to equal il
in my time; but beside our emigrant spirit we had a spirit ol
learning. Who are these?
Mr. Modern. Some Seniors from Union College. They
have been singing "Old Union" on the terrace and will repeat
u
o
62
it for you. [Song. "Old Union."] In your day the universi-
ties were a thing apart ; in our day they are related to the
actual work of the world. Here the College and the Great
Electrical Works cooperate.
Van Curler. [Vaguely.] The Great Electrical Works
In our day we had trading and commerce.
Mr. Modern. And in ours. Why, man, the W^orks of Sche-
nectady are famous. W^e have the largest • locomotive works
and the greatest electrical plant in the world.
Van Curler. Who are these? [The Spirits of Light, radiant,
mystical figures appear.]
Mr. Modern. The Spirits of Light. The heralds of a power
that has put a chain about the globe — a power that runs our
motors and illumines our houses ; and sends our messages across
a thousand miles of space. The power that makes it possible
for one ship to signal another ship across the blackness of the
sea at midnight. [The Spirits of Light weave a dance sug-
gestive of poiver and brightness.]
Mr. Modern. Well. Arent Van Curler, you have seen the
citizens of Schenectady- — the city's most valuable asset. In all
the forces that are gathered here today lies the hope of the
City of Tomorrow"; do you not feel a thrill at its splendid signs
of promise; or do you still cling to the past?
Van Curler. [Nozv thoroughly convinced.] No, no, I see
the past held nothing greater than the present. With new eyes
I behold the city that I purchased. I am content with modern
Schenectady.
[While Van Curler has been speaking there appears on horse-
hack in the center of the Pageant Field the symbolic figure of
Schenectady mounted on a charger. She is young and strong
Miss Elsa Case as " The Spirit of Schenectady"
Photo bv White
WM 91 I3«*
64
and beautiful. She zvears a zvliite robe and over this a robe in
the city colors (purple lined with orange.) In her right hand she
carries a golden staff from zvhich floats the Stars and Stripes.
From the right comes the symbolic figure of learning also
mounted on horseback. She wears a zvhite robe and an over-
robe of the College colors (garnet.) Strapped to her right arm
is a shield bearing the College seal. From the left at the same
time comes Labor also zvhite clad and mounted on a horse, a
green robe floating over her zvhite robe. On her right arm she
carries a shield in semblance like an engine zvheel and in her
right hand a staff starred with electric lights. Before these
three symbolic figures the Pageant players pass in review ac-
cording to their Episodes beginning zvith the Indians and ending
with the more modern. They form a great tableau in the center
of the Pageant Field singing "America." When this is over,
still singing, they march from the Pageant Field at left and
disappear from viezv.]
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