Col. James Edmund Callaway Speech
The Butte Daily Miner, Butte, Montana, January 16, 1885
Following is the speech of Col. James Edmund Callaway (Samuel Taylor, Edmund, James, Joseph Callaway) upon taking the chair as Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Montana Territory.
Gentlemen of the House of Representatives: One of the greatest statesmen and patriots of our country, whose name and whose fame for patriotic deeds will enlighten the pathway of future statesmen, said that this is "a government of the people, by the people, and for the people." The people of Montana Territory are assembled here today in their majesty through their representatives. We are simply their servants, are here to do their will and obey their commands. My efforts, as a member of this House, and your presiding officer, shall do what I believe to be for the interests of the Territory of Montana, tomorrow and for the future.
At the late election the foundation stone for a good commonwealth was laid in this Territory. By a significant majority a constitution was adopted and we are in the attitude of knocking at the door of congress for admission among the states of our fathers. In whatsoever we may do it will be my pleasure and effort to observe the principles laid down for the government of our people in that constitution.
Gentlemen, I am more than grateful to you for the honor you have conferred. I have had but little experience as a legislator - some as a presiding officer - and I assume these duties with a great deal of doubt as to my ability to properly perform them, but trusting to your assistance and in your charity, that you will help me as your presiding officer, I assume the duties. Again thanking you, I am ready to preceed to business.
Following is the speech of Col. James Edmund Callaway (Samuel Taylor, Edmund, James, Joseph Callaway) upon taking the chair as Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Montana Territory.
Gentlemen of the House of Representatives: One of the greatest statesmen and patriots of our country, whose name and whose fame for patriotic deeds will enlighten the pathway of future statesmen, said that this is "a government of the people, by the people, and for the people." The people of Montana Territory are assembled here today in their majesty through their representatives. We are simply their servants, are here to do their will and obey their commands. My efforts, as a member of this House, and your presiding officer, shall do what I believe to be for the interests of the Territory of Montana, tomorrow and for the future.
At the late election the foundation stone for a good commonwealth was laid in this Territory. By a significant majority a constitution was adopted and we are in the attitude of knocking at the door of congress for admission among the states of our fathers. In whatsoever we may do it will be my pleasure and effort to observe the principles laid down for the government of our people in that constitution.
Gentlemen, I am more than grateful to you for the honor you have conferred. I have had but little experience as a legislator - some as a presiding officer - and I assume these duties with a great deal of doubt as to my ability to properly perform them, but trusting to your assistance and in your charity, that you will help me as your presiding officer, I assume the duties. Again thanking you, I am ready to preceed to business.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED - Copyright © 2004 Callaway Family Association
posted by DFM | 6/27/2004
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