September 23, 1883

The political contest is near at hand, and the colored men of the town should prepare themselves accordingly. They should acquaint themselves with the political status and attitude of the canidates toward them, particularly their representatives. The choice of governor should also demand a good share of their attention. Those who voted for General Butler last year "just to see what he would do," have found it a pretty costly experiment. They will all see that while preaching economy and refusing the necessary appropriations to charitable insitutions, he has spent an immense sum of money on needless invrstigations, such as Tewksbury and the like. The colored men may well ask themselves how they have been benelitted by his adminstration, although he professes to be their friend.

A political office should not be the goal of one's ambitions, but still if anyone wishes an office and is worthy of it, it should not be denied him on account of his color. We has an example of this here a short time ago, when a colored man, along with a number of whie men, applied for the position of night watchman. After an examination the applicants melted down to one white man, a strong Democrat, and the colored man, a Republican. A committee, composed wholly of Republicans was chosen to decide between the two candidates, and they selected the white man.

The colored men of Great Barrington hold the balance of power, and have decided the election of many officers for a number of years. If they will only act in concert they may have the power to become a power not to be despised. It would be a good plan if they should meet and decide which way would be the most advantagous for them to cast their votes.

The debate which I spoke of in my last letter took place last Wednesday evening at the house of Mr. William Crosley. It was contested warmly on both sides and strong arguments where brought up. It was finally decided in favor of the affirmative. After the debate the ladies of Zion Church held its monthly supper.

Mr. Wm Chinn has returned from Washington. The First Congretional Vhurch, which was dedicated here last Friday, is th handsomest church in the county, and compares with any in the State. The organ, which was given by Mr. Timothy Hopkins of San Francisco, is one of the most complete in the world.

Miss Francis Newport has returned from Pittsfield, where she has been during the summer. Miss Hattie Sumea returned to Providence last Tuesday. Mr. R Hines and wife of Norfolk, Conn., stopped here a short time and departed for Petersburg, Va. last Tuesday. Meers. Cooley and Mason will have an eating house at the Agricultural Fair, which is held here the 26th, 27th, and 28th.