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There seems to be something attractive about centennial anniversaries. Few people have the privilege of celebrating their centennial birthdays, but cities are more favored in this respect, being blessed with a longevity to which the individual may not hope to attain. And when, in the course of time, the centuries of their existence are rounded out, it is only natural that their residents should mark the event in some way. St. John is looking forward, with much interest, to the approaching close of the first century of her existence, and there is considerably discussion as to the manner of honoring the day. The prevailing opinion seems to be that the anniversary should be marked by the erection of something intended as a memorial of the Loyalists who founded the city, and there is, of course, much difference of opinion as to what shape that memorial shall take.
Some advocate a granite monument on Market Square, the editor of the Globe suggests a statue of the first Mayor! And Mr. Jos. W. Lawrence puts in an earnest plea on behalf of Memorial Hall, to be devoted to the Historical Society, the Art Club, the Natural History Society, and the Free Library.
There can be no two opinions as to the choice that should be made between these propositions, if the funds are forthcoming. A building of the kind which Mr. Lawrence proposes must necessarily be of stone, and have some style about it. The cost would be very considerable, even at the lower estimate, for a building of moderate style. If it were begun on the faith of subscription representing half of its cost there might be danger of financial embarrassment before its completion. And it would, most certainly, never do for such a structure to be burdened with debt, as it would have no rental by which to meet the interest. A mortgage, in fact, is the one architectural ornament which must be dispensed with.
Mr. Lawrence is sanguine about the ways and means. He thinks if the corner stone were laid, and men and women went to work in earnest, the money would be raised. The Telegraph, which writes up the proposition without actually endorsing it, mentions individual subscriptions in the City and Province, particularly those of Loyalist stock; a grant by the Common Council; and finally, a contribution from the Provincial chest, as the sources to be depended upon for the necessary funds. The onside subscriptions would probably not be large, and it is hardly safe to trust the Provincial Government to aid the scheme very liberally. “Roads and Bridges!” would be the reply of a majority of members, doubtless, to any proposition of the kind in the Assembly, and even a Government with Mr. Elder as leader might not have the courage to make it. If St. John gets the Memorial Hall, It will have to bear the burden of its costs.