“200 YEARS AGO” FROM THE INDEPENDENT REPUBLICAN, MONTROSE, PA, FRIDAY, JULY 8, 1825.

“CELEBRATION OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE:” The anniversary of American Independence was suitably noticed in the town of Brooklyn on the 4th instant.—Agreeably to previous arrangements, the Citizens of Brooklyn, and many of our respectable friends and acquaintances from the adjoining towns, met at the large center school house in said Brooklyn. The procession was formed about 11 o’clock by Col. Frederick Bailey and Edward Packer, Esq. who acted as Marshalls of the day, and escorted by appropriate music, marched in beautiful order in an adjoining grove, where seats and a table were prepared. After the numerous assemblage were seated the exercises commenced by an introductory prayer by Rev. Mr. Marsh—the Declaration of Independence was then read by Mr. George M. Gere—an oration delivery by Rev. Mr. Randall, and address by Rev. Mr. Marsh. The following Ode, written for the occasion, was then sung by a goodly choir of singers: (The Following contains the first and last two stanzas): ‘Ye sons of Freedom, now rejoice, In pleasure swell the joyful strain. With joy and harmony of voice, Your gratitude to God proclaim.” “On every natal day proclaim, The blessings shared by Freedom’s laws; And loud extol our Fathers’ names, Who fought and gain’d our glorious cause.” “Let every parent teach their sons, To keep alive the sacred flame; And let it thus be handed down, As long as earth shall here remain.”

It is but justice to say, that the oration and dress were appropriate—did much honor to the speakers, and were received with great satisfaction by the large and attentive audience. The table was then spread by the ladies of the neighborhood, and furnished with provisions in profusion The richness of the provisions, the great variety, the elegance and taste which it was arranged, has given us another proof of the patriotism, spirit and liberality of our wives and daughters. After dinner the following toasts were drank, with such cheering and demonstrations of joy and evidently manifested that all hearts beat in unison.

TOASTS:
The day we celebrate—Let its commemoration by Americans be commensurate with time.

Integrity and true Merit—May we attach ourselves to measures, not to men—to substance, not to sound.

Loaves and fishes—Let the office hunter meet his just deserts, confusion and disgrace.

President J. Q. Adams—Although some division in the election, may his administration meet the applause of all the people.

The memory of George Washington, and all the heroes of the Revolution—Americans cherish and imitate their virtues.

Our sisters, Greece and South America—May they soon become as independent and happy as ourselves.

The American navy—The best protection of our commerce, and the terror of tyrants.

If the British Lion presumes to put his paw on American soil again, may Jackson be alive.

Agriculture & the Mechanic Arts—May they mutually support each other.

Canals and public improvements—May citizens arise in every section of our country for their support.

May Americans ever remember, that unless they prepare the soil by virtuous habits, the tree of Liberty will not flourish.

TOASTS BY VOLUNTEERS:

By Almon Read, Esq. Boliver, LaFayette and Washington—the three great lights in the political horizon.

By Samuel Weston. The Orators of the day—we tender them our respect for their exertions and performances this day. May we respect our friends and forgive our enemies.

By Luther Catlin. May independence ever be the boast and pride of Americans, and its blessings their enjoyment.

By Capt. A. Bailey. May the union and harmony which has prevailed here this day, ever be cherished and cultivated by all people.

The procession was now formed again, and marched back to the school house, where devout thanks were returned by Rev. Mr. Rundall, and the people separated to return to their respective homes, we trust with pleasing reflections on the harmony and enjoyments of the day.

Everything attending this celebration was happy and pleasing. The place of celebration was in a shady grove of pleasant and thrifty trees, emblematical of the still increasing glory of our republic. The fine day, the luxuriant season, betokened the continued kindness of our Heavenly Father. The rural retirement, and the romantic scenery added their influence to draw forth a contemplative admiration of his sublime character, and to inspire a still gratitude for his unsparing kindness to our prospering country. The assemblage of people was larger; their appearance interesting. The pride and foppery of fashion, deformed not the native beauty which lighted up its charms around. Vanity was mute and unseen. Plain simplicity, and a friendly and social intercourse, were the distinguishing characteristics, and appeared to reign in the minds of the multitude. Throughout all the performances of the day, the greatest order and decency prevailed; and while joy reigned conspicuous, innocence was mixed with it. Political party, and religious distinctions, were forgotten in the common gratulation; for one theme seemed to absorb every mind—the theme of patriotism. Union triumphed and the pleasantry of her harmony beamed in the countenances of the assembled throng. It was an auspicious day portending future prosperity; and may future years of American freedom, while it may increase wealth, science and general knowledge, may it promote sincere patriotism which has distinguished this day.

Nothing derogatory to the general character of the people of Brooklyn was exhibited, and no accident occurred to mar the pleasures of the day.