The Committee of Public Safety, co-operating with the selectmen of the town, provided most complete arrangements for the preservation of order and the safety of property throughout the days and nights of the Celebration.
The work of the Historical Committee was difficult and important in a high degree, and the task of collecting all the historical facts needed, and presenting the whole in attractive and interesting form, kept all the members extremely busy up to the opening of the Celebration. The committee received most practical and valuable assistance from The Grafton Press of New York City, which not only contracted to publish the book of the Bi-Centennial, but in many ways facilitated the preliminary work. This firm agreed to report, for the book, the entire proceedings of the four days, and, to this end, established a representative on the spot some days in advance, to remain throughout the Celebration. The reportorial work was under his direction.
The Loan Exhibit Committee were tendered the use of Grand Army Hall, through the kindness of Upton Post, and began early to look up all articles of historic value and interest. The amount of work involved was very great, but was most successfully accomplished.
The Committee on Colonial Features made preparations which contributed very greatly to the interest and success of the parade, spending a great deal of time and thought in representing the scenes of old Colonial days.
The Committee on Colonial Reception prepared the hall and made all arrangements for one of the most pleasurably anticipated events of the Celebration.
The Committee on Vocal Music, under the direction of Professor Edwin G. Clemence, prepared an elaborate musical programme and gave abundantly in time and efforts to perfect this most important portion of the exercises.
Rest Houses for women and children were established at various convenient places, in readiness for the crowds anticipated.
James C. Barker, M. D., and T. B. Merrin were appointed a Committee of Public Health and Comfort.
Owing to ill health, Mr. Henry O. Warner was unable to serve as Marshal, and Walter C. Hine was appointed in his stead.
The Marshal’s aides appointed for the Parade were: