The Torchlight Parade for 'Prosperity'

A grand torchlight parade of the Republicans of Seattle signaled a roar of enthusiasm. The line formed at 8 o’clock at Third and Marion streets, moving to the Armory, where the guests of the evening were received by the torch-bearers. The halls and galleries were packed with thoughtful faces—men, women, and families—all waiting for the Republican sentiment. The streets were lined by thousands, who had assembled on the sidewalks to witness the procession. Among the most conspicuous banners were: 'I follow Lincoln, Grant and Blaine,' 'Let American Industry be Protected,' and 'Republicanism Means Wages and Prosperity; Democracy Means Idleness and Poverty.'

Inside the hall, as the candidates and torch-bearers marched in, the cheers reached a fever pitch. Mr. John L. Wilson and ex-Governor Ferry were the guests of honor. As the crowd was moving out of the hall later, it was announced that a meeting would be held at Fremont to continue the movement. The entire city seemed caught in the fervor, with the political rally serving as both a campaign event and a public demonstration of a city desperately seeking stability and economic promise.