The Great 'Chautauqua' Debate

The committee appointed to locate grounds for the Chautauqua Assembly, after a careful examination of the merits of some half a dozen places on Tuesday, September 13th, made their final decision in favor of Point Defiance, on Vashon Island, just opposite Poxley Point and midway between Tacoma and Seattle. This decision has been delayed to listen to objections made and to receive offers proposed, with the desire that all parties might be satisfied. The following may be mentioned as the chief merits on which the place was selected: First—It is almost exactly midway between the two cities whose population and wealth form the leading patronage. Second—It has a most excellent beach with safe bathing facilities, a smooth sandy bottom, a southwest front and a long shallow spit. Third—It has an excellent landing where boats may run within fifty feet of shore at all stages of tide. Fourth—It has two large streams of beautiful fresh water, sufficient for all intended uses. Fifth—Over two miles of shore line have been secured in a community of effort, making a visit to Quartermaster Harbor, and all pleasant excursions to Chautauqua can be planned out. Sixth—The landowners have rendered liberal donations to the assembly. The board having now authorized the committee to make all necessary arrangements, they will start at once to clear up the grounds and prepare for next year’s assembly. President Hurlbut, of the Pacific Coast Chautauqua, Monterey, and President of Mills Seminary, has already expressed his pleasure at the choice.