Postcard from the Past: Glorious Fourth for Platte Valley, how Saratoga Celebrated

by Dick Perue

Ballard public library formally dedicated to the free use and benefit of all

Thus reads the headlines in the July 7, 1892 issue of The Saratoga Sun, with the following news item:

Library dedication

Dedicatory exercises of the Ballard public library began at 2:30 p.m. 

Rev. Huntington presided and made a short introductory address. He then introduced Rev. McDonald, who invoked the guidance of the Ruler of All Nations in the selection of books with which the library is to be supplied, in order that readers young and old may find only such food for the mind as is conducive to its preservation and retaining, as a kodak, only such pictures on its plates as will assist in reminding young and old of their duty to God, themselves and their neighbors. 

The building, prepared and now formally dedicated, is to be the storehouse of the greatest and best thoughts of eminent men and women. It may be regarded as the temple where all who desire may worship at the shrine of the muses.

The orchestra, led by Mrs. W.L. Johnson, rendered excellent and appropriate music, a medley of national airs, popular melodies and classic operas. The interpretation was effective and artistic and enthusiastically received by an appreciative audience.

The orator of the day, Rev. E.H. Parnell of Rawlins, began by disclaiming the possession of any of those attributes entitling him to a niche in the temple of fame alongside of such wielders of words as Homer, Cicero, etc. 

Parnell is modest, as becomes his cloth. He is a forceful and experienced speaker and adept in securing the attention of his audience and holding it, by not allowing himself to drift into monotone and sing-song. 

Parnell indulged in a general fusillade of wit, which was flavored with just a slight dash of sarcasm. The description of the old man in the bell tower of Independence Hall, anxiously awaiting the result of the deliberations upon which depended the birth of a nation, was dramatic and called forth enthusiastic applause. 

Parnell claimed to be in position to assert there does not exist today more than two Englishmen who would, if they could, desire the repeal of the Declaration of Independence, and America and England now have the same ultimate object in view, namely, the freedom of the entire Anglo-Saxon race. 

In conclusion, the speaker passed an able, unbiased criticism upon the character of books people should read.

The Star Spangled Banner floated on the waves of melody, supplied by Mrs. H.S. Brodt of Rawlins, assisted by the choral club.

A blessing by Parnell closed the exercises.

Another headline in the same issue proclaimed, “All kinds of sports and entertainment provided townspeople and many visitors with many interesting articles,” but we will share when we next write.