"The Hutchinsons and Lucas sang to quite a full audience at West's Hall last evening. The performance could not, coming from troupes possessing talent varied and of the higher order, be otherwise than good. These bands, when they united, made a palpable hit. Their combined concerts are almost invariably successes."
A Wooster (O.) paper, February, 1859, says,—
"The Hutchinsons and Lucas—these two celebrated troupes—will give together one of their unrivalled entertainments at Arcadame Hall on Saturday evening next. They are spoken of in the highest terms by the press in different directions. Both troupes have been in Wooster before; so that it is unnecessary for us to speak of them favorably. The hall will undoubtedly be filled."
A Cleveland (O.) paper, Feb. 28, 1859, says,—
"The well-known Luca family are now giving concerts in connection with Asa B., Lizzie C., and little Freddy Hutchinson, of the Hutchinson family; and their performances are highly spoken of by Western exchanges. They perform in Elyria on Tuesday evening; and will soon appear in this city, we understand."
Shortly after the return of the Luca family from the tour with the Hutchinsons, Cleveland the pianist, with a noble aim, resolved to go to Africa. This circumstance caused the disbandment of the troupe.
Their father has resided for a long time at Zanesville, O., where, although quite advanced in years, he is still esteemed as a vocalist, singing in a church choir, and where he enjoys the respect of all for his many good qualities of heart and mind.
His two sons, John and Alexander, are now, as ever, devoted to the art of music; the former being a valuable member of the celebrated Hyer sisters concert and dramatic troupe, while the latter is vocal director of another company.
As a fitting close to this sketch, as a corroboration of my own testimony, and as an evidence of the noble qualities possessed by that rare musician and Christian gentleman, Asa B. Hutchinson, I add the following beautiful tribute from his pen:—
Geneva, O., Dec. 15, 1875.