THE TEMPERANCE CRUSADE—THE VICTORY WON
By Merritt E. Cornell
THE TEMPERANCE CRUSADE—THE VICTORY WON.
The city of Oakland is situated across the bay about eight miles, or a ride of about forty minutes by steamer and cars, from San Francisco. It has a population of about eighteen thousand. The literary, scientific and military institutions located here are very popular, ranking among the first on the Continent. Its natural advantages of location, climate, etc., are unsurpassed. And it is every way worthy of the title it has obtained, “The Athena of the Pacific coast.” But, like other cities, it has a dark side. It supported one hundred and thirty-five saloons, or places where intoxicating liquors were retailed! The friends of temperance becoming alarmed for the morality and reputation of the city, decided to avail themselves of the opportunity afforded by the Local Option law, to regulate, and if possible to abate this great evil. The women seemed to take the lead in the crusade, and for several weeks they labored under many discouragements. But finally the City Mayor, several clergymen, one of the daily papers, and several of the leading citizens and business men, came to the rescue. Having thoroughly organized, the Executive Committee planned for a series of mass meetings, which were held in our large and commodious tents. They worked night and day, until the whole city was roused to action. A strong and healthy sentiment was created by the public speeches, and the printed documents which resulted in a glorious victory. The majority against license was two hundred and fifty-three! It was estimated that over five hundred ladies were personally engaged during the decisive day. When the result was declared the public rejoicing knew no bounds. Church bells were rung, bonfires lighted, and a rousing mass meeting at the tent which did not break up until eleven o’clock at night. The following from the Oakland Daily News, shows how the victors feel toward us: We feel that public thanks are due to the Elders who have placed the use of their tent at the disposal of the Local Optionists. Saturday is regarded by their denomination as the true Sabbath, and they evinced a most exalted idea of the temperance cause when they joined with the temperance people in doing good work on their sacred day. The Elders have the thanks of the community, and it affords us pleasure to give public expression to the feelings of the thousands who cannot thank them in person.”