FESTIVAL HALL. WHERE THE NATIONAL NEWSBOYS’ ASSOCIATION WAS ORGANIZED, AUGUST 16, 1904.
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CHAPTER IX.
So great became the interest in the success of the Boyville Newsboys’ Association that many additions were made to add to its prosperity, through which the association became favorably known throughout the United States.
A newsboys’ band of thirty-eight pieces was organized, the sellers being in the majority. The expense of the band was borne entirely by one of the enterprising dailies. The musical talent, discovered by an efficient leader, in the newsboys, was remarkable. In less than a year they were able to play some of the most difficult pieces, and the general deportment of the boys surprised all who saw them.
The organization of the South-end Cadets was an event which proved to be one of the most successful additions to the association. Their fine personal appearance, their remarkable drilling, their good behavior at all times and on all occasions, with the band, made Boyville extensively and favorably known as the home of the best newsboys in the world.
Nothing in the history of the work among the newsboys was as important as the interest taken by the various churches, regardless of sect, through their ministers, in holding special Sunday evening meetings for the members of the association. All through the city the auxiliaries were invited, and particular pains taken in the preparation of a program suitable to all. When the boys were first invited, the expression was frequently heard: “Gee wiz, we gets front rows.” The illustration shows the boys marching to one of these evening entertainments.
The value of these meetings cannot be estimated. The good attendance, the close attention, the good behavior of the boys made them many friends, and people began to look more kindly upon the newsboy.