For the Democrat.
A VISIT TO THE OLD VIRGINIA HOME.
The Trip — Beautiful Valley — Robust Hackmen — Poor Rigs — Mountain Scenery — Luray Cave, Etc.
We had a very quiet pleasant trip to our old home in Virginia, leaving here on Monday afternoon and reaching our destination — after twa o hours' delay in Washington — at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning.
After spending several days pleasantly with R. E. Smith, Esq., and making a few short visits, and, accompanied by our dear old mother, now 83 years old, we took the cars for Harrisonburg, Rockingham Co., crossing the Blue Ridge at Manassas Gap, and are soon ushered into the great valley of Virginia, rendered historic by the many bloody battles fought there during the late unpleasantness. On reaching Harrisonburg we found the people there, as well as in Fauquier very enthusiastic iu regard to the
NEW CAVE
in Page county, regarded as one of the marvellous wonders of the world. After resting ona day we determined to visit this wonderful cave; and, being joined by some friends we took the cars for New Market, 15 miles distant from Luray, the county seat of Page, near which is located Luray Cave. As soon as we landed from the cars we were beseiged by hack drivers anxious to take us to the cave, and for some time it looked like we were to be taken by force and thrust into one of the other of the hacks in waiting; one crying out he would take us the round trip for two dollars, another for $1.50, another for $1, and the fourth one for fifty cents. This seemed to be very cheap when we remembered that Luray was 15 miles distant and our road run across the top of Massunutten mountain, the highest point of which is about 1500 feet above the stream that flows along its base. Well, one thought before deciding, we would take a look at the conveyances; we scanned first one then the other and upon our expressing dissatisfaction at these conveyances, they assured us they were the very best the market afforded; after much hesitation we took the $1.50 rig, thinking that was best, but had gone but a few miles, when one thought of the traveller who on reaching the forks of the road, enquired the best road to a certain place, the man replied: "take either one you wish and before you get half way there you will be sorry you had not taken the other;" the vehicle was miserable, the horses were much worse, there was scarcely any flesh visible on the latter except about the shoulders, where we noticed several very large lumps of raw flesh; we could not help thinking it wouhl be a good thing for Mr. Bergh to visit the cave.
Our road up the mountain was winding and zigzag in its course, sometimes doubling on our track so we could throw a stone to a point we had passed half a mile back; on reaching the top of the maintain we stopped the hack and looked over the beautiful valley; from this point we had the most beautiful landscape view our eyes ever beheld; almost as far as the eye could reach north and south lay this beautiful rich valley in the highest state of cultivation.
We reached Luray after dark being over four hours travelling these fifteen miles. The next day the ladies of our company were too much fatigued to undertake a visit to the cave without rest, and we concluded to spend it in visiting friends, and set apart the day following to visit the cave.
LURAY CAVE.
This cave is situated about one mile from Luray, the county seat of Page, the entrance to which is near the base of a large hill (not a mountain); was discovered about a year ago, and has not yet been fully explored, nor is all of the explored parts open to visitors yet, there being much work and expense required to make various parts east to access. This hill has a patch of timber near the top, the balance is clear, smooth land and has been in cultivation for a great many years, and the great wonder is, this cave was not discovered long ago.
When Campbell & Stebbins, the present proprietors discovered this cave, they closed up the entrance and kept their own secret, waiting for the land to be sold (it being at that time advertised for sale under a decree of court); they became the purchasers and went to work preparing it for visitors. The former owner on learning of this wonderful discovery brought suit to have the sale set aside, the suit being in progress when we arrived in Lutay and the decision in favor of Campbell & Stebbins announced to them while they were going through the cave with us.
A two story frame building has been erected over the mouth of the cave. We prepared for the descent; each visitor is provided with a tin-flector with two or three candles in it; there were about 20 candles in our company. We commence the desecent by going down two flghts of stairs about 75 feetlong; this stairway is walled up on either side with stone, this lands us in a room with low ceiling, gradually descending until we find ourselves in a very large room with ceiling about 50 feet high; here we see hundreds of sponge like formations hanging from ceiling and sides, from the size of a hhd. to that of a man's fist, and so much resembling sponge that nothing but a touch with the finger will convince you that it is rock. Going a little further we come to Washington's monument, a large fluted column rising about 50 feet high, of brown color; turning to the left we see a good representation of a large elephant; looking up about midway between floor and ceiling on the brown wall we see a formation as white as snow representing a perfectly shaped human hand of large size; a little further we see a large fish about two feet long against the wall. Just here one of the ladies of our party becoming a little nervous, concluded to return as "a cave was not worth seeing nohow," our little Willie catching the fever concluded he had rather play in a pile of sand just outside the building.
Our course still being a gradual descent, through long halls and large rooms, we pass many beautiful columns, some as white as snow and as well formed as if cut with the chisel; we see on many of the shelving rock good representations of candlesticks; down the sides of some of the rooms we see a white substance looking for all the world like water had been flowing and had suddenly congealed. We now begin to approach the beautiful part of the cave; passing along a hall our attention is called to a pyramid of cake, capped with a pine apple and looking so natural we almost felt tempted to try it with our knife; every step presents new objects of interest.
We next pass the blacksmith shop, with two anvils, forge, & with cinders and ashes lying around as tho' it had actually been used as such; then comes a large spring with cannon balls lying in the water.
The ladies of our party are now in raptures over a beautiful flower garden, where hundreds of brilliant stalagmites are wonderfuly arranged to represent plants and clusters of flowers. near which is a quantity, of statuary white as snow, one of whici is a good representation of two babes embracing.
We pass on through a long hall under the natural bridge, then up a flight of stairs, at the head of which is the fish market; here is a long row of bunches of fish hanging on the wall, and looking as fresh and plump as when first taken out of the water.
We then pass on to a large open space of several acres, the roof of which is so low that we frequently had to stoop; after this we came to the edge of Pluto's chasm; this is a dark, dismal looking place, said to be 75 feet deep, 2600 long; to our left rises the spectral column, ghost-like in appearance; to our right is the little angel with outstretched wings, at first glance seeming to be floating; in the air; at the head of this chasm is Empress column, a large snow-white fluted column, about 3 feet in diameter, and probably 50 high.
Turning from this we pass a beautiful spring, and are startled by seeing a prostrate lion in the distance; then we see the Angel's wing, about 6 feet long and 3 wide; on this formation you almost imagine you see the feathers, all pure white. We are now in what we consider the most beautiful part of the cave; here is the throne room overhung with drapery, and to the right is a large armed cushioned chair, fringed with this drapery.
Next we were ushered into the ball room, a large circular shaped room, with ceiling 90 feet high, from the center of which hangs a fair representation of a chandelier; a platform has been laid in this room, with seats around, where the young folks are wont to trip the light fantastic toe. While seated here we were startled by music in the distance; we look across and see a lady at the organ; this is an excellent representation of the pipe organ, music being made by striking on the pipes; the first three notes are perfect, but the rest do not come in in exact order, but this lady, who played part of a familiar tune, thought with practice she might play a whole tune. Then we were shown the tower of Babel, an immense stalagmite, probably four feet in diameter, and 60 or 70 feet high; the outside formations of this column very much resemble ladies tuck combs of very large size, and is of a brown color.
Giants' hall is full of statuary, some brown, others pure white; on the far side is an Indian squaw in sitting posture, an excellent representation; leaning against the wall is Goliah's staff, about 15 feet long and 4 inches in diameter, looking as though made out of a series of balls cemented together. Next we see an immense double column, one a stalaltite, the other a stalagmite of pure white; we see another brown column full of holes as if made by wrens; we then pass under an immense hanging rock of many tons weight, looking as if we might break it off with a hammer. While in the large amphitheater, at our request the lights were all blown out, and oh! the blackness of darkness! seemed like we could feel it. While in the darkness it was proposed to remain silent for a few moments, during which no sound could be heard save the dripping of water here and there; it; made a peculiar, indescribable impression upon our minds. I was forcibly impressed by a remark one of our ladies said was made by a gentleman who had visited the cave a short time before. He said, "it is the tomb of skepticism aud the grave of infidelity; that no one can visit this cave and say there is no God!"
We then pass the cemetery, with white tombstones; to the left are two vaults.
We are ushered into rooms hung around with drapery, some from a ceiling 50 feet high. This drapery is very beautiful — some of it is so thin that our lights shone through it.
Our attention is here called to a drapery partition dividing two large rooms. Then comes the Saracen's tent, circulat in form, about 20 feet in diameter, made of the same style of drapery hanging as loosely as if carelessly thrown over line; some of this is of a beautiful tint, resembling the inside of sea-shells;, some is solid brown, others spotted, and in one room it was beautifully bordered with white, looking much like a lady had neatly sewed white lace on the bordres. In one of the rooms our attention in called to a beautiful riding whip, hanging on the wall, white and perfectly shaped, on the large end of which are the features of the human face as perfect as tho' they had been cut with a knife.
Passing through one room we see thousands of glistening stalactites, from the size of a pipe stem to the sie of your arm, varying in length from one to six feet. Somewhere along here saw several beautiful stars; none of the rest of our party saw them; this you may think very strange. The explanation — our head suddenly came in contact with a large stalactite. We saw them but an instant. There is a large hollow column some six feet in diameter, and probably 69 feet high. Our guide informed us that he had passed up on the inside of this column and come out at the top.
The "wet blanket" looks as natural as can be. Take a blanket, dip it in a tub of water and throw it carelessly across a clothes line and you have a picture of this.
We pass the ladies toilet, white dressing table, of this. ladies toilet around which hangs rich white drapery, and on top are bottles and other toilet articles; not far from this we see a female figure in full dress, with long trail and looking so natural, at first glance, you almost imagine you hear the rustling of her dress, which is of pure white.
Imperial spring is clear as crystal, about 10 feet in diameter and twelve inches deep; this is partly surrounded by a brown, sloping wall, on one side of which is a formation looking very much like a wagon load of light snow had been poured down this wall and had run down to the water's edge. Probably there is nothing more beautiful in the cave than the Crystal Spring, situated on the side of a hill, somewhat, circular in shape; the interior of the basin is lined with a formation like white coral, its sides beautifully scalloped, and all looking as though it had been carefully done with the chisel. Overhanging this spring are beautiful white stalactites, tinged with pink and brown.
Mr. Editor, this is but a poor description of this marvelous wonder, and we have not told you of one-half we saw, but lest you readers may think it is a fish story, we will close. We were amused at a story told us of an old gentleman who, after visiting the cave, met his son and called to him and told him that if he had a half dollar to take it and go at once into the cave. The young man said it did not suit him to go then, but that he would go the next day. Says the old gent: "that will not do; you might die before to-morrow, and it would never do to die without seeing the cave." A distinguished traveller after visiting this cave, in speaking of its beauty and grandeur, says, "it equals if it does not excel the falls of Niagara; it equals if it does not excel tho view of the Alps; it equals if it does not excel the storm at sea."
We were fortunate in having for our guide Mr. Stebbins, one of the proprietors, who was very courteous and took great pains in calling our attention to the thousands of objects of interest. After coming out we were informed that we had travelled about three miles and had been 300 feet below the surface. — W. A. R.
Shelbina Democrat, Shelbina, Missouri • Wed, Oct 15, 1879, Page 2
(Contributors: Shelby County Historical Society & Pam Witherow)
WILLIAM A. REID
(Of Reid & Taylor, Bankers, Shelbina).
Mr. Reid has been identified with Shelbina almost from the birth of the place, and, indeed, secured the establishment of a post-office at this place. He came to Missouri in the spring of 1858 and located at once at the present site of Shelbina. The most convenient post-office for this town was then at Hannibal. While there were other post-offices in the county, arrangement was made with the baggage-master to bring the mail every day from Hannibal, and one of his first moves was to have a post-office established here. He engaged in merchandising and continued it without interruption and with good success, all things considered, until the spring of 1865. On the post-office being established at Shelbina he was appointed postmaster, and held the office until after President Lincoln's inauguration, when he was removed, or rather superseded for political reasons. Mr. Reid, although naturally sympathising [sic] with the South in the late war, took no active part in the struggle, but was severely preyed upon by unscrupulous soldiery on both sides. Bill Anderson's men plundered his store and inflicted heavy loss. For the burning of Salt river bridge and depots by the Southrons, with which of course he had nothing to do, or knew nothing until after it was done, he and several other men in the vicinity, who sympathized with the cause of the South, were assessed $20,000, but the collection of this was never enforced. In 1866, after being out of business for about a year, Mr. Reid resumed merchandising and continued until he became cashier of the Bank of Shelbina in the spring of 1874. This bank was succeeded in business four years afterwards by the banking house of Reid & Taylor, which has since continued the business. Mr. Reid, as is well known to the people of Shelby county, is a man of superior business qualifications, personally agreeable and pleasant, and of unquestioned character and worth. It is largely due to his business ability and the esteem and confidence in which he is held that the career of the bank with which he is connected has been so prosperous and gratifying. The bank has a capital of $50,000 and has a large patronage in deposits from the business men of Shelbina and throughout this part of the county. It does a general banking business, a business that is steadily increasing. It is one of the solid and prosperous banking institutions of North Missouri, and is so regarded in banking circles and by the public generally. Like his partner, Mr. Reid is a native of Fauquier county, Va. He was born January 24, 1829, and was a son of Alfred Reid and Patsey, nee Rector. His mother was of the Virginia family for which Rectortown was named. William A. spent his early youth on the farm, but at the age of 15 obtained a position as salesman in the dry goods store at Rectortown. He was clerking in Virginia until he came to Missouri in 1858. On the 22d of April, 1862, he was married in this county to Miss Elizabeth Minter, a sister of Judge Taylor's wife, and the youngest daughter of Dr. Minter. Mr. and Mrs. Reid have seven children: Lillie and Jessie, educated at the Shelbina Collegiate Institute, and both also thoroughly accomplished in instrumental music; Lena, Maggie, William A., Victor M. and an infant. Mr. and Mrs. R. are church members; Mr. R. is a member of the M. E. Church South, and Mrs. R. of the Baptist Church. Mr. R. is also a member of the Chapter of the A. F. and A. M.
History of Monroe and Shelby Counties, Missouri; St. Louis: National Historical Company, 1884, Pages 1019 and 1020
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
A VISIT TO THE OLD VIRGINIA HOME.
The Trip — Beautiful Valley — Robust Hackmen — Poor Rigs — Mountain Scenery — Luray Cave, Etc.
We had a very quiet pleasant trip to our old home in Virginia, leaving here on Monday afternoon and reaching our destination — after twa o hours' delay in Washington — at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning.
After spending several days pleasantly with R. E. Smith, Esq., and making a few short visits, and, accompanied by our dear old mother, now 83 years old, we took the cars for Harrisonburg, Rockingham Co., crossing the Blue Ridge at Manassas Gap, and are soon ushered into the great valley of Virginia, rendered historic by the many bloody battles fought there during the late unpleasantness. On reaching Harrisonburg we found the people there, as well as in Fauquier very enthusiastic iu regard to the
NEW CAVE
in Page county, regarded as one of the marvellous wonders of the world. After resting ona day we determined to visit this wonderful cave; and, being joined by some friends we took the cars for New Market, 15 miles distant from Luray, the county seat of Page, near which is located Luray Cave. As soon as we landed from the cars we were beseiged by hack drivers anxious to take us to the cave, and for some time it looked like we were to be taken by force and thrust into one of the other of the hacks in waiting; one crying out he would take us the round trip for two dollars, another for $1.50, another for $1, and the fourth one for fifty cents. This seemed to be very cheap when we remembered that Luray was 15 miles distant and our road run across the top of Massunutten mountain, the highest point of which is about 1500 feet above the stream that flows along its base. Well, one thought before deciding, we would take a look at the conveyances; we scanned first one then the other and upon our expressing dissatisfaction at these conveyances, they assured us they were the very best the market afforded; after much hesitation we took the $1.50 rig, thinking that was best, but had gone but a few miles, when one thought of the traveller who on reaching the forks of the road, enquired the best road to a certain place, the man replied: "take either one you wish and before you get half way there you will be sorry you had not taken the other;" the vehicle was miserable, the horses were much worse, there was scarcely any flesh visible on the latter except about the shoulders, where we noticed several very large lumps of raw flesh; we could not help thinking it wouhl be a good thing for Mr. Bergh to visit the cave.
Our road up the mountain was winding and zigzag in its course, sometimes doubling on our track so we could throw a stone to a point we had passed half a mile back; on reaching the top of the maintain we stopped the hack and looked over the beautiful valley; from this point we had the most beautiful landscape view our eyes ever beheld; almost as far as the eye could reach north and south lay this beautiful rich valley in the highest state of cultivation.
We reached Luray after dark being over four hours travelling these fifteen miles. The next day the ladies of our company were too much fatigued to undertake a visit to the cave without rest, and we concluded to spend it in visiting friends, and set apart the day following to visit the cave.
LURAY CAVE.
This cave is situated about one mile from Luray, the county seat of Page, the entrance to which is near the base of a large hill (not a mountain); was discovered about a year ago, and has not yet been fully explored, nor is all of the explored parts open to visitors yet, there being much work and expense required to make various parts east to access. This hill has a patch of timber near the top, the balance is clear, smooth land and has been in cultivation for a great many years, and the great wonder is, this cave was not discovered long ago.
When Campbell & Stebbins, the present proprietors discovered this cave, they closed up the entrance and kept their own secret, waiting for the land to be sold (it being at that time advertised for sale under a decree of court); they became the purchasers and went to work preparing it for visitors. The former owner on learning of this wonderful discovery brought suit to have the sale set aside, the suit being in progress when we arrived in Lutay and the decision in favor of Campbell & Stebbins announced to them while they were going through the cave with us.
A two story frame building has been erected over the mouth of the cave. We prepared for the descent; each visitor is provided with a tin-flector with two or three candles in it; there were about 20 candles in our company. We commence the desecent by going down two flghts of stairs about 75 feetlong; this stairway is walled up on either side with stone, this lands us in a room with low ceiling, gradually descending until we find ourselves in a very large room with ceiling about 50 feet high; here we see hundreds of sponge like formations hanging from ceiling and sides, from the size of a hhd. to that of a man's fist, and so much resembling sponge that nothing but a touch with the finger will convince you that it is rock. Going a little further we come to Washington's monument, a large fluted column rising about 50 feet high, of brown color; turning to the left we see a good representation of a large elephant; looking up about midway between floor and ceiling on the brown wall we see a formation as white as snow representing a perfectly shaped human hand of large size; a little further we see a large fish about two feet long against the wall. Just here one of the ladies of our party becoming a little nervous, concluded to return as "a cave was not worth seeing nohow," our little Willie catching the fever concluded he had rather play in a pile of sand just outside the building.
Our course still being a gradual descent, through long halls and large rooms, we pass many beautiful columns, some as white as snow and as well formed as if cut with the chisel; we see on many of the shelving rock good representations of candlesticks; down the sides of some of the rooms we see a white substance looking for all the world like water had been flowing and had suddenly congealed. We now begin to approach the beautiful part of the cave; passing along a hall our attention is called to a pyramid of cake, capped with a pine apple and looking so natural we almost felt tempted to try it with our knife; every step presents new objects of interest.
We next pass the blacksmith shop, with two anvils, forge, & with cinders and ashes lying around as tho' it had actually been used as such; then comes a large spring with cannon balls lying in the water.
The ladies of our party are now in raptures over a beautiful flower garden, where hundreds of brilliant stalagmites are wonderfuly arranged to represent plants and clusters of flowers. near which is a quantity, of statuary white as snow, one of whici is a good representation of two babes embracing.
We pass on through a long hall under the natural bridge, then up a flight of stairs, at the head of which is the fish market; here is a long row of bunches of fish hanging on the wall, and looking as fresh and plump as when first taken out of the water.
We then pass on to a large open space of several acres, the roof of which is so low that we frequently had to stoop; after this we came to the edge of Pluto's chasm; this is a dark, dismal looking place, said to be 75 feet deep, 2600 long; to our left rises the spectral column, ghost-like in appearance; to our right is the little angel with outstretched wings, at first glance seeming to be floating; in the air; at the head of this chasm is Empress column, a large snow-white fluted column, about 3 feet in diameter, and probably 50 high.
Turning from this we pass a beautiful spring, and are startled by seeing a prostrate lion in the distance; then we see the Angel's wing, about 6 feet long and 3 wide; on this formation you almost imagine you see the feathers, all pure white. We are now in what we consider the most beautiful part of the cave; here is the throne room overhung with drapery, and to the right is a large armed cushioned chair, fringed with this drapery.
Next we were ushered into the ball room, a large circular shaped room, with ceiling 90 feet high, from the center of which hangs a fair representation of a chandelier; a platform has been laid in this room, with seats around, where the young folks are wont to trip the light fantastic toe. While seated here we were startled by music in the distance; we look across and see a lady at the organ; this is an excellent representation of the pipe organ, music being made by striking on the pipes; the first three notes are perfect, but the rest do not come in in exact order, but this lady, who played part of a familiar tune, thought with practice she might play a whole tune. Then we were shown the tower of Babel, an immense stalagmite, probably four feet in diameter, and 60 or 70 feet high; the outside formations of this column very much resemble ladies tuck combs of very large size, and is of a brown color.
Giants' hall is full of statuary, some brown, others pure white; on the far side is an Indian squaw in sitting posture, an excellent representation; leaning against the wall is Goliah's staff, about 15 feet long and 4 inches in diameter, looking as though made out of a series of balls cemented together. Next we see an immense double column, one a stalaltite, the other a stalagmite of pure white; we see another brown column full of holes as if made by wrens; we then pass under an immense hanging rock of many tons weight, looking as if we might break it off with a hammer. While in the large amphitheater, at our request the lights were all blown out, and oh! the blackness of darkness! seemed like we could feel it. While in the darkness it was proposed to remain silent for a few moments, during which no sound could be heard save the dripping of water here and there; it; made a peculiar, indescribable impression upon our minds. I was forcibly impressed by a remark one of our ladies said was made by a gentleman who had visited the cave a short time before. He said, "it is the tomb of skepticism aud the grave of infidelity; that no one can visit this cave and say there is no God!"
We then pass the cemetery, with white tombstones; to the left are two vaults.
We are ushered into rooms hung around with drapery, some from a ceiling 50 feet high. This drapery is very beautiful — some of it is so thin that our lights shone through it.
Our attention is here called to a drapery partition dividing two large rooms. Then comes the Saracen's tent, circulat in form, about 20 feet in diameter, made of the same style of drapery hanging as loosely as if carelessly thrown over line; some of this is of a beautiful tint, resembling the inside of sea-shells;, some is solid brown, others spotted, and in one room it was beautifully bordered with white, looking much like a lady had neatly sewed white lace on the bordres. In one of the rooms our attention in called to a beautiful riding whip, hanging on the wall, white and perfectly shaped, on the large end of which are the features of the human face as perfect as tho' they had been cut with a knife.
Passing through one room we see thousands of glistening stalactites, from the size of a pipe stem to the sie of your arm, varying in length from one to six feet. Somewhere along here saw several beautiful stars; none of the rest of our party saw them; this you may think very strange. The explanation — our head suddenly came in contact with a large stalactite. We saw them but an instant. There is a large hollow column some six feet in diameter, and probably 69 feet high. Our guide informed us that he had passed up on the inside of this column and come out at the top.
The "wet blanket" looks as natural as can be. Take a blanket, dip it in a tub of water and throw it carelessly across a clothes line and you have a picture of this.
We pass the ladies toilet, white dressing table, of this. ladies toilet around which hangs rich white drapery, and on top are bottles and other toilet articles; not far from this we see a female figure in full dress, with long trail and looking so natural, at first glance, you almost imagine you hear the rustling of her dress, which is of pure white.
Imperial spring is clear as crystal, about 10 feet in diameter and twelve inches deep; this is partly surrounded by a brown, sloping wall, on one side of which is a formation looking very much like a wagon load of light snow had been poured down this wall and had run down to the water's edge. Probably there is nothing more beautiful in the cave than the Crystal Spring, situated on the side of a hill, somewhat, circular in shape; the interior of the basin is lined with a formation like white coral, its sides beautifully scalloped, and all looking as though it had been carefully done with the chisel. Overhanging this spring are beautiful white stalactites, tinged with pink and brown.
Mr. Editor, this is but a poor description of this marvelous wonder, and we have not told you of one-half we saw, but lest you readers may think it is a fish story, we will close. We were amused at a story told us of an old gentleman who, after visiting the cave, met his son and called to him and told him that if he had a half dollar to take it and go at once into the cave. The young man said it did not suit him to go then, but that he would go the next day. Says the old gent: "that will not do; you might die before to-morrow, and it would never do to die without seeing the cave." A distinguished traveller after visiting this cave, in speaking of its beauty and grandeur, says, "it equals if it does not excel the falls of Niagara; it equals if it does not excel tho view of the Alps; it equals if it does not excel the storm at sea."
We were fortunate in having for our guide Mr. Stebbins, one of the proprietors, who was very courteous and took great pains in calling our attention to the thousands of objects of interest. After coming out we were informed that we had travelled about three miles and had been 300 feet below the surface. — W. A. R.
Shelbina Democrat, Shelbina, Missouri • Wed, Oct 15, 1879, Page 2
(Contributors: Shelby County Historical Society & Pam Witherow)
WILLIAM A. REID
(Of Reid & Taylor, Bankers, Shelbina).
Mr. Reid has been identified with Shelbina almost from the birth of the place, and, indeed, secured the establishment of a post-office at this place. He came to Missouri in the spring of 1858 and located at once at the present site of Shelbina. The most convenient post-office for this town was then at Hannibal. While there were other post-offices in the county, arrangement was made with the baggage-master to bring the mail every day from Hannibal, and one of his first moves was to have a post-office established here. He engaged in merchandising and continued it without interruption and with good success, all things considered, until the spring of 1865. On the post-office being established at Shelbina he was appointed postmaster, and held the office until after President Lincoln's inauguration, when he was removed, or rather superseded for political reasons. Mr. Reid, although naturally sympathising [sic] with the South in the late war, took no active part in the struggle, but was severely preyed upon by unscrupulous soldiery on both sides. Bill Anderson's men plundered his store and inflicted heavy loss. For the burning of Salt river bridge and depots by the Southrons, with which of course he had nothing to do, or knew nothing until after it was done, he and several other men in the vicinity, who sympathized with the cause of the South, were assessed $20,000, but the collection of this was never enforced. In 1866, after being out of business for about a year, Mr. Reid resumed merchandising and continued until he became cashier of the Bank of Shelbina in the spring of 1874. This bank was succeeded in business four years afterwards by the banking house of Reid & Taylor, which has since continued the business. Mr. Reid, as is well known to the people of Shelby county, is a man of superior business qualifications, personally agreeable and pleasant, and of unquestioned character and worth. It is largely due to his business ability and the esteem and confidence in which he is held that the career of the bank with which he is connected has been so prosperous and gratifying. The bank has a capital of $50,000 and has a large patronage in deposits from the business men of Shelbina and throughout this part of the county. It does a general banking business, a business that is steadily increasing. It is one of the solid and prosperous banking institutions of North Missouri, and is so regarded in banking circles and by the public generally. Like his partner, Mr. Reid is a native of Fauquier county, Va. He was born January 24, 1829, and was a son of Alfred Reid and Patsey, nee Rector. His mother was of the Virginia family for which Rectortown was named. William A. spent his early youth on the farm, but at the age of 15 obtained a position as salesman in the dry goods store at Rectortown. He was clerking in Virginia until he came to Missouri in 1858. On the 22d of April, 1862, he was married in this county to Miss Elizabeth Minter, a sister of Judge Taylor's wife, and the youngest daughter of Dr. Minter. Mr. and Mrs. Reid have seven children: Lillie and Jessie, educated at the Shelbina Collegiate Institute, and both also thoroughly accomplished in instrumental music; Lena, Maggie, William A., Victor M. and an infant. Mr. and Mrs. R. are church members; Mr. R. is a member of the M. E. Church South, and Mrs. R. of the Baptist Church. Mr. R. is also a member of the Chapter of the A. F. and A. M.
History of Monroe and Shelby Counties, Missouri; St. Louis: National Historical Company, 1884, Pages 1019 and 1020
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
For the Democrat.
A VISIT TO THE OLD VIRGINIA HOME.
The Trip — Beautiful Valley — Robust Hackmen — Poor Rigs — Mountain Scenery — Luray Cave, Etc.
We had a very quiet pleasant trip to our old home in Virginia, leaving here on Monday afternoon and reaching our destination — after twa o hours' delay in Washington — at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning.
After spending several days pleasantly with R. E. Smith, Esq., and making a few short visits, and, accompanied by our dear old mother, now 83 years old, we took the cars for Harrisonburg, Rockingham Co., crossing the Blue Ridge at Manassas Gap, and are soon ushered into the great valley of Virginia, rendered historic by the many bloody battles fought there during the late unpleasantness. On reaching Harrisonburg we found the people there, as well as in Fauquier very enthusiastic iu regard to the
NEW CAVE
in Page county, regarded as one of the marvellous wonders of the world. After resting ona day we determined to visit this wonderful cave; and, being joined by some friends we took the cars for New Market, 15 miles distant from Luray, the county seat of Page, near which is located Luray Cave. As soon as we landed from the cars we were beseiged by hack drivers anxious to take us to the cave, and for some time it looked like we were to be taken by force and thrust into one of the other of the hacks in waiting; one crying out he would take us the round trip for two dollars, another for $1.50, another for $1, and the fourth one for fifty cents. This seemed to be very cheap when we remembered that Luray was 15 miles distant and our road run across the top of Massunutten mountain, the highest point of which is about 1500 feet above the stream that flows along its base. Well, one thought before deciding, we would take a look at the conveyances; we scanned first one then the other and upon our expressing dissatisfaction at these conveyances, they assured us they were the very best the market afforded; after much hesitation we took the $1.50 rig, thinking that was best, but had gone but a few miles, when one thought of the traveller who on reaching the forks of the road, enquired the best road to a certain place, the man replied: "take either one you wish and before you get half way there you will be sorry you had not taken the other;" the vehicle was miserable, the horses were much worse, there was scarcely any flesh visible on the latter except about the shoulders, where we noticed several very large lumps of raw flesh; we could not help thinking it wouhl be a good thing for Mr. Bergh to visit the cave.
Our road up the mountain was winding and zigzag in its course, sometimes doubling on our track so we could throw a stone to a point we had passed half a mile back; on reaching the top of the maintain we stopped the hack and looked over the beautiful valley; from this point we had the most beautiful landscape view our eyes ever beheld; almost as far as the eye could reach north and south lay this beautiful rich valley in the highest state of cultivation.
We reached Luray after dark being over four hours travelling these fifteen miles. The next day the ladies of our company were too much fatigued to undertake a visit to the cave without rest, and we concluded to spend it in visiting friends, and set apart the day following to visit the cave.
LURAY CAVE.
This cave is situated about one mile from Luray, the county seat of Page, the entrance to which is near the base of a large hill (not a mountain); was discovered about a year ago, and has not yet been fully explored, nor is all of the explored parts open to visitors yet, there being much work and expense required to make various parts east to access. This hill has a patch of timber near the top, the balance is clear, smooth land and has been in cultivation for a great many years, and the great wonder is, this cave was not discovered long ago.
When Campbell & Stebbins, the present proprietors discovered this cave, they closed up the entrance and kept their own secret, waiting for the land to be sold (it being at that time advertised for sale under a decree of court); they became the purchasers and went to work preparing it for visitors. The former owner on learning of this wonderful discovery brought suit to have the sale set aside, the suit being in progress when we arrived in Lutay and the decision in favor of Campbell & Stebbins announced to them while they were going through the cave with us.
A two story frame building has been erected over the mouth of the cave. We prepared for the descent; each visitor is provided with a tin-flector with two or three candles in it; there were about 20 candles in our company. We commence the desecent by going down two flghts of stairs about 75 feetlong; this stairway is walled up on either side with stone, this lands us in a room with low ceiling, gradually descending until we find ourselves in a very large room with ceiling about 50 feet high; here we see hundreds of sponge like formations hanging from ceiling and sides, from the size of a hhd. to that of a man's fist, and so much resembling sponge that nothing but a touch with the finger will convince you that it is rock. Going a little further we come to Washington's monument, a large fluted column rising about 50 feet high, of brown color; turning to the left we see a good representation of a large elephant; looking up about midway between floor and ceiling on the brown wall we see a formation as white as snow representing a perfectly shaped human hand of large size; a little further we see a large fish about two feet long against the wall. Just here one of the ladies of our party becoming a little nervous, concluded to return as "a cave was not worth seeing nohow," our little Willie catching the fever concluded he had rather play in a pile of sand just outside the building.
Our course still being a gradual descent, through long halls and large rooms, we pass many beautiful columns, some as white as snow and as well formed as if cut with the chisel; we see on many of the shelving rock good representations of candlesticks; down the sides of some of the rooms we see a white substance looking for all the world like water had been flowing and had suddenly congealed. We now begin to approach the beautiful part of the cave; passing along a hall our attention is called to a pyramid of cake, capped with a pine apple and looking so natural we almost felt tempted to try it with our knife; every step presents new objects of interest.
We next pass the blacksmith shop, with two anvils, forge, & with cinders and ashes lying around as tho' it had actually been used as such; then comes a large spring with cannon balls lying in the water.
The ladies of our party are now in raptures over a beautiful flower garden, where hundreds of brilliant stalagmites are wonderfuly arranged to represent plants and clusters of flowers. near which is a quantity, of statuary white as snow, one of whici is a good representation of two babes embracing.
We pass on through a long hall under the natural bridge, then up a flight of stairs, at the head of which is the fish market; here is a long row of bunches of fish hanging on the wall, and looking as fresh and plump as when first taken out of the water.
We then pass on to a large open space of several acres, the roof of which is so low that we frequently had to stoop; after this we came to the edge of Pluto's chasm; this is a dark, dismal looking place, said to be 75 feet deep, 2600 long; to our left rises the spectral column, ghost-like in appearance; to our right is the little angel with outstretched wings, at first glance seeming to be floating; in the air; at the head of this chasm is Empress column, a large snow-white fluted column, about 3 feet in diameter, and probably 50 high.
Turning from this we pass a beautiful spring, and are startled by seeing a prostrate lion in the distance; then we see the Angel's wing, about 6 feet long and 3 wide; on this formation you almost imagine you see the feathers, all pure white. We are now in what we consider the most beautiful part of the cave; here is the throne room overhung with drapery, and to the right is a large armed cushioned chair, fringed with this drapery.
Next we were ushered into the ball room, a large circular shaped room, with ceiling 90 feet high, from the center of which hangs a fair representation of a chandelier; a platform has been laid in this room, with seats around, where the young folks are wont to trip the light fantastic toe. While seated here we were startled by music in the distance; we look across and see a lady at the organ; this is an excellent representation of the pipe organ, music being made by striking on the pipes; the first three notes are perfect, but the rest do not come in in exact order, but this lady, who played part of a familiar tune, thought with practice she might play a whole tune. Then we were shown the tower of Babel, an immense stalagmite, probably four feet in diameter, and 60 or 70 feet high; the outside formations of this column very much resemble ladies tuck combs of very large size, and is of a brown color.
Giants' hall is full of statuary, some brown, others pure white; on the far side is an Indian squaw in sitting posture, an excellent representation; leaning against the wall is Goliah's staff, about 15 feet long and 4 inches in diameter, looking as though made out of a series of balls cemented together. Next we see an immense double column, one a stalaltite, the other a stalagmite of pure white; we see another brown column full of holes as if made by wrens; we then pass under an immense hanging rock of many tons weight, looking as if we might break it off with a hammer. While in the large amphitheater, at our request the lights were all blown out, and oh! the blackness of darkness! seemed like we could feel it. While in the darkness it was proposed to remain silent for a few moments, during which no sound could be heard save the dripping of water here and there; it; made a peculiar, indescribable impression upon our minds. I was forcibly impressed by a remark one of our ladies said was made by a gentleman who had visited the cave a short time before. He said, "it is the tomb of skepticism aud the grave of infidelity; that no one can visit this cave and say there is no God!"
We then pass the cemetery, with white tombstones; to the left are two vaults.
We are ushered into rooms hung around with drapery, some from a ceiling 50 feet high. This drapery is very beautiful — some of it is so thin that our lights shone through it.
Our attention is here called to a drapery partition dividing two large rooms. Then comes the Saracen's tent, circulat in form, about 20 feet in diameter, made of the same style of drapery hanging as loosely as if carelessly thrown over line; some of this is of a beautiful tint, resembling the inside of sea-shells;, some is solid brown, others spotted, and in one room it was beautifully bordered with white, looking much like a lady had neatly sewed white lace on the bordres. In one of the rooms our attention in called to a beautiful riding whip, hanging on the wall, white and perfectly shaped, on the large end of which are the features of the human face as perfect as tho' they had been cut with a knife.
Passing through one room we see thousands of glistening stalactites, from the size of a pipe stem to the sie of your arm, varying in length from one to six feet. Somewhere along here saw several beautiful stars; none of the rest of our party saw them; this you may think very strange. The explanation — our head suddenly came in contact with a large stalactite. We saw them but an instant. There is a large hollow column some six feet in diameter, and probably 69 feet high. Our guide informed us that he had passed up on the inside of this column and come out at the top.
The "wet blanket" looks as natural as can be. Take a blanket, dip it in a tub of water and throw it carelessly across a clothes line and you have a picture of this.
We pass the ladies toilet, white dressing table, of this. ladies toilet around which hangs rich white drapery, and on top are bottles and other toilet articles; not far from this we see a female figure in full dress, with long trail and looking so natural, at first glance, you almost imagine you hear the rustling of her dress, which is of pure white.
Imperial spring is clear as crystal, about 10 feet in diameter and twelve inches deep; this is partly surrounded by a brown, sloping wall, on one side of which is a formation looking very much like a wagon load of light snow had been poured down this wall and had run down to the water's edge. Probably there is nothing more beautiful in the cave than the Crystal Spring, situated on the side of a hill, somewhat, circular in shape; the interior of the basin is lined with a formation like white coral, its sides beautifully scalloped, and all looking as though it had been carefully done with the chisel. Overhanging this spring are beautiful white stalactites, tinged with pink and brown.
Mr. Editor, this is but a poor description of this marvelous wonder, and we have not told you of one-half we saw, but lest you readers may think it is a fish story, we will close. We were amused at a story told us of an old gentleman who, after visiting the cave, met his son and called to him and told him that if he had a half dollar to take it and go at once into the cave. The young man said it did not suit him to go then, but that he would go the next day. Says the old gent: "that will not do; you might die before to-morrow, and it would never do to die without seeing the cave." A distinguished traveller after visiting this cave, in speaking of its beauty and grandeur, says, "it equals if it does not excel the falls of Niagara; it equals if it does not excel tho view of the Alps; it equals if it does not excel the storm at sea."
We were fortunate in having for our guide Mr. Stebbins, one of the proprietors, who was very courteous and took great pains in calling our attention to the thousands of objects of interest. After coming out we were informed that we had travelled about three miles and had been 300 feet below the surface. — W. A. R.
Shelbina Democrat, Shelbina, Missouri • Wed, Oct 15, 1879, Page 2
(Contributors: Shelby County Historical Society & Pam Witherow)
WILLIAM A. REID
(Of Reid & Taylor, Bankers, Shelbina).
Mr. Reid has been identified with Shelbina almost from the birth of the place, and, indeed, secured the establishment of a post-office at this place. He came to Missouri in the spring of 1858 and located at once at the present site of Shelbina. The most convenient post-office for this town was then at Hannibal. While there were other post-offices in the county, arrangement was made with the baggage-master to bring the mail every day from Hannibal, and one of his first moves was to have a post-office established here. He engaged in merchandising and continued it without interruption and with good success, all things considered, until the spring of 1865. On the post-office being established at Shelbina he was appointed postmaster, and held the office until after President Lincoln's inauguration, when he was removed, or rather superseded for political reasons. Mr. Reid, although naturally sympathising [sic] with the South in the late war, took no active part in the struggle, but was severely preyed upon by unscrupulous soldiery on both sides. Bill Anderson's men plundered his store and inflicted heavy loss. For the burning of Salt river bridge and depots by the Southrons, with which of course he had nothing to do, or knew nothing until after it was done, he and several other men in the vicinity, who sympathized with the cause of the South, were assessed $20,000, but the collection of this was never enforced. In 1866, after being out of business for about a year, Mr. Reid resumed merchandising and continued until he became cashier of the Bank of Shelbina in the spring of 1874. This bank was succeeded in business four years afterwards by the banking house of Reid & Taylor, which has since continued the business. Mr. Reid, as is well known to the people of Shelby county, is a man of superior business qualifications, personally agreeable and pleasant, and of unquestioned character and worth. It is largely due to his business ability and the esteem and confidence in which he is held that the career of the bank with which he is connected has been so prosperous and gratifying. The bank has a capital of $50,000 and has a large patronage in deposits from the business men of Shelbina and throughout this part of the county. It does a general banking business, a business that is steadily increasing. It is one of the solid and prosperous banking institutions of North Missouri, and is so regarded in banking circles and by the public generally. Like his partner, Mr. Reid is a native of Fauquier county, Va. He was born January 24, 1829, and was a son of Alfred Reid and Patsey, nee Rector. His mother was of the Virginia family for which Rectortown was named. William A. spent his early youth on the farm, but at the age of 15 obtained a position as salesman in the dry goods store at Rectortown. He was clerking in Virginia until he came to Missouri in 1858. On the 22d of April, 1862, he was married in this county to Miss Elizabeth Minter, a sister of Judge Taylor's wife, and the youngest daughter of Dr. Minter. Mr. and Mrs. Reid have seven children: Lillie and Jessie, educated at the Shelbina Collegiate Institute, and both also thoroughly accomplished in instrumental music; Lena, Maggie, William A., Victor M. and an infant. Mr. and Mrs. R. are church members; Mr. R. is a member of the M. E. Church South, and Mrs. R. of the Baptist Church. Mr. R. is also a member of the Chapter of the A. F. and A. M.
History of Monroe and Shelby Counties, Missouri; St. Louis: National Historical Company, 1884, Pages 1019 and 1020
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
A VISIT TO THE OLD VIRGINIA HOME.
The Trip — Beautiful Valley — Robust Hackmen — Poor Rigs — Mountain Scenery — Luray Cave, Etc.
We had a very quiet pleasant trip to our old home in Virginia, leaving here on Monday afternoon and reaching our destination — after twa o hours' delay in Washington — at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning.
After spending several days pleasantly with R. E. Smith, Esq., and making a few short visits, and, accompanied by our dear old mother, now 83 years old, we took the cars for Harrisonburg, Rockingham Co., crossing the Blue Ridge at Manassas Gap, and are soon ushered into the great valley of Virginia, rendered historic by the many bloody battles fought there during the late unpleasantness. On reaching Harrisonburg we found the people there, as well as in Fauquier very enthusiastic iu regard to the
NEW CAVE
in Page county, regarded as one of the marvellous wonders of the world. After resting ona day we determined to visit this wonderful cave; and, being joined by some friends we took the cars for New Market, 15 miles distant from Luray, the county seat of Page, near which is located Luray Cave. As soon as we landed from the cars we were beseiged by hack drivers anxious to take us to the cave, and for some time it looked like we were to be taken by force and thrust into one of the other of the hacks in waiting; one crying out he would take us the round trip for two dollars, another for $1.50, another for $1, and the fourth one for fifty cents. This seemed to be very cheap when we remembered that Luray was 15 miles distant and our road run across the top of Massunutten mountain, the highest point of which is about 1500 feet above the stream that flows along its base. Well, one thought before deciding, we would take a look at the conveyances; we scanned first one then the other and upon our expressing dissatisfaction at these conveyances, they assured us they were the very best the market afforded; after much hesitation we took the $1.50 rig, thinking that was best, but had gone but a few miles, when one thought of the traveller who on reaching the forks of the road, enquired the best road to a certain place, the man replied: "take either one you wish and before you get half way there you will be sorry you had not taken the other;" the vehicle was miserable, the horses were much worse, there was scarcely any flesh visible on the latter except about the shoulders, where we noticed several very large lumps of raw flesh; we could not help thinking it wouhl be a good thing for Mr. Bergh to visit the cave.
Our road up the mountain was winding and zigzag in its course, sometimes doubling on our track so we could throw a stone to a point we had passed half a mile back; on reaching the top of the maintain we stopped the hack and looked over the beautiful valley; from this point we had the most beautiful landscape view our eyes ever beheld; almost as far as the eye could reach north and south lay this beautiful rich valley in the highest state of cultivation.
We reached Luray after dark being over four hours travelling these fifteen miles. The next day the ladies of our company were too much fatigued to undertake a visit to the cave without rest, and we concluded to spend it in visiting friends, and set apart the day following to visit the cave.
LURAY CAVE.
This cave is situated about one mile from Luray, the county seat of Page, the entrance to which is near the base of a large hill (not a mountain); was discovered about a year ago, and has not yet been fully explored, nor is all of the explored parts open to visitors yet, there being much work and expense required to make various parts east to access. This hill has a patch of timber near the top, the balance is clear, smooth land and has been in cultivation for a great many years, and the great wonder is, this cave was not discovered long ago.
When Campbell & Stebbins, the present proprietors discovered this cave, they closed up the entrance and kept their own secret, waiting for the land to be sold (it being at that time advertised for sale under a decree of court); they became the purchasers and went to work preparing it for visitors. The former owner on learning of this wonderful discovery brought suit to have the sale set aside, the suit being in progress when we arrived in Lutay and the decision in favor of Campbell & Stebbins announced to them while they were going through the cave with us.
A two story frame building has been erected over the mouth of the cave. We prepared for the descent; each visitor is provided with a tin-flector with two or three candles in it; there were about 20 candles in our company. We commence the desecent by going down two flghts of stairs about 75 feetlong; this stairway is walled up on either side with stone, this lands us in a room with low ceiling, gradually descending until we find ourselves in a very large room with ceiling about 50 feet high; here we see hundreds of sponge like formations hanging from ceiling and sides, from the size of a hhd. to that of a man's fist, and so much resembling sponge that nothing but a touch with the finger will convince you that it is rock. Going a little further we come to Washington's monument, a large fluted column rising about 50 feet high, of brown color; turning to the left we see a good representation of a large elephant; looking up about midway between floor and ceiling on the brown wall we see a formation as white as snow representing a perfectly shaped human hand of large size; a little further we see a large fish about two feet long against the wall. Just here one of the ladies of our party becoming a little nervous, concluded to return as "a cave was not worth seeing nohow," our little Willie catching the fever concluded he had rather play in a pile of sand just outside the building.
Our course still being a gradual descent, through long halls and large rooms, we pass many beautiful columns, some as white as snow and as well formed as if cut with the chisel; we see on many of the shelving rock good representations of candlesticks; down the sides of some of the rooms we see a white substance looking for all the world like water had been flowing and had suddenly congealed. We now begin to approach the beautiful part of the cave; passing along a hall our attention is called to a pyramid of cake, capped with a pine apple and looking so natural we almost felt tempted to try it with our knife; every step presents new objects of interest.
We next pass the blacksmith shop, with two anvils, forge, & with cinders and ashes lying around as tho' it had actually been used as such; then comes a large spring with cannon balls lying in the water.
The ladies of our party are now in raptures over a beautiful flower garden, where hundreds of brilliant stalagmites are wonderfuly arranged to represent plants and clusters of flowers. near which is a quantity, of statuary white as snow, one of whici is a good representation of two babes embracing.
We pass on through a long hall under the natural bridge, then up a flight of stairs, at the head of which is the fish market; here is a long row of bunches of fish hanging on the wall, and looking as fresh and plump as when first taken out of the water.
We then pass on to a large open space of several acres, the roof of which is so low that we frequently had to stoop; after this we came to the edge of Pluto's chasm; this is a dark, dismal looking place, said to be 75 feet deep, 2600 long; to our left rises the spectral column, ghost-like in appearance; to our right is the little angel with outstretched wings, at first glance seeming to be floating; in the air; at the head of this chasm is Empress column, a large snow-white fluted column, about 3 feet in diameter, and probably 50 high.
Turning from this we pass a beautiful spring, and are startled by seeing a prostrate lion in the distance; then we see the Angel's wing, about 6 feet long and 3 wide; on this formation you almost imagine you see the feathers, all pure white. We are now in what we consider the most beautiful part of the cave; here is the throne room overhung with drapery, and to the right is a large armed cushioned chair, fringed with this drapery.
Next we were ushered into the ball room, a large circular shaped room, with ceiling 90 feet high, from the center of which hangs a fair representation of a chandelier; a platform has been laid in this room, with seats around, where the young folks are wont to trip the light fantastic toe. While seated here we were startled by music in the distance; we look across and see a lady at the organ; this is an excellent representation of the pipe organ, music being made by striking on the pipes; the first three notes are perfect, but the rest do not come in in exact order, but this lady, who played part of a familiar tune, thought with practice she might play a whole tune. Then we were shown the tower of Babel, an immense stalagmite, probably four feet in diameter, and 60 or 70 feet high; the outside formations of this column very much resemble ladies tuck combs of very large size, and is of a brown color.
Giants' hall is full of statuary, some brown, others pure white; on the far side is an Indian squaw in sitting posture, an excellent representation; leaning against the wall is Goliah's staff, about 15 feet long and 4 inches in diameter, looking as though made out of a series of balls cemented together. Next we see an immense double column, one a stalaltite, the other a stalagmite of pure white; we see another brown column full of holes as if made by wrens; we then pass under an immense hanging rock of many tons weight, looking as if we might break it off with a hammer. While in the large amphitheater, at our request the lights were all blown out, and oh! the blackness of darkness! seemed like we could feel it. While in the darkness it was proposed to remain silent for a few moments, during which no sound could be heard save the dripping of water here and there; it; made a peculiar, indescribable impression upon our minds. I was forcibly impressed by a remark one of our ladies said was made by a gentleman who had visited the cave a short time before. He said, "it is the tomb of skepticism aud the grave of infidelity; that no one can visit this cave and say there is no God!"
We then pass the cemetery, with white tombstones; to the left are two vaults.
We are ushered into rooms hung around with drapery, some from a ceiling 50 feet high. This drapery is very beautiful — some of it is so thin that our lights shone through it.
Our attention is here called to a drapery partition dividing two large rooms. Then comes the Saracen's tent, circulat in form, about 20 feet in diameter, made of the same style of drapery hanging as loosely as if carelessly thrown over line; some of this is of a beautiful tint, resembling the inside of sea-shells;, some is solid brown, others spotted, and in one room it was beautifully bordered with white, looking much like a lady had neatly sewed white lace on the bordres. In one of the rooms our attention in called to a beautiful riding whip, hanging on the wall, white and perfectly shaped, on the large end of which are the features of the human face as perfect as tho' they had been cut with a knife.
Passing through one room we see thousands of glistening stalactites, from the size of a pipe stem to the sie of your arm, varying in length from one to six feet. Somewhere along here saw several beautiful stars; none of the rest of our party saw them; this you may think very strange. The explanation — our head suddenly came in contact with a large stalactite. We saw them but an instant. There is a large hollow column some six feet in diameter, and probably 69 feet high. Our guide informed us that he had passed up on the inside of this column and come out at the top.
The "wet blanket" looks as natural as can be. Take a blanket, dip it in a tub of water and throw it carelessly across a clothes line and you have a picture of this.
We pass the ladies toilet, white dressing table, of this. ladies toilet around which hangs rich white drapery, and on top are bottles and other toilet articles; not far from this we see a female figure in full dress, with long trail and looking so natural, at first glance, you almost imagine you hear the rustling of her dress, which is of pure white.
Imperial spring is clear as crystal, about 10 feet in diameter and twelve inches deep; this is partly surrounded by a brown, sloping wall, on one side of which is a formation looking very much like a wagon load of light snow had been poured down this wall and had run down to the water's edge. Probably there is nothing more beautiful in the cave than the Crystal Spring, situated on the side of a hill, somewhat, circular in shape; the interior of the basin is lined with a formation like white coral, its sides beautifully scalloped, and all looking as though it had been carefully done with the chisel. Overhanging this spring are beautiful white stalactites, tinged with pink and brown.
Mr. Editor, this is but a poor description of this marvelous wonder, and we have not told you of one-half we saw, but lest you readers may think it is a fish story, we will close. We were amused at a story told us of an old gentleman who, after visiting the cave, met his son and called to him and told him that if he had a half dollar to take it and go at once into the cave. The young man said it did not suit him to go then, but that he would go the next day. Says the old gent: "that will not do; you might die before to-morrow, and it would never do to die without seeing the cave." A distinguished traveller after visiting this cave, in speaking of its beauty and grandeur, says, "it equals if it does not excel the falls of Niagara; it equals if it does not excel tho view of the Alps; it equals if it does not excel the storm at sea."
We were fortunate in having for our guide Mr. Stebbins, one of the proprietors, who was very courteous and took great pains in calling our attention to the thousands of objects of interest. After coming out we were informed that we had travelled about three miles and had been 300 feet below the surface. — W. A. R.
Shelbina Democrat, Shelbina, Missouri • Wed, Oct 15, 1879, Page 2
(Contributors: Shelby County Historical Society & Pam Witherow)
WILLIAM A. REID
(Of Reid & Taylor, Bankers, Shelbina).
Mr. Reid has been identified with Shelbina almost from the birth of the place, and, indeed, secured the establishment of a post-office at this place. He came to Missouri in the spring of 1858 and located at once at the present site of Shelbina. The most convenient post-office for this town was then at Hannibal. While there were other post-offices in the county, arrangement was made with the baggage-master to bring the mail every day from Hannibal, and one of his first moves was to have a post-office established here. He engaged in merchandising and continued it without interruption and with good success, all things considered, until the spring of 1865. On the post-office being established at Shelbina he was appointed postmaster, and held the office until after President Lincoln's inauguration, when he was removed, or rather superseded for political reasons. Mr. Reid, although naturally sympathising [sic] with the South in the late war, took no active part in the struggle, but was severely preyed upon by unscrupulous soldiery on both sides. Bill Anderson's men plundered his store and inflicted heavy loss. For the burning of Salt river bridge and depots by the Southrons, with which of course he had nothing to do, or knew nothing until after it was done, he and several other men in the vicinity, who sympathized with the cause of the South, were assessed $20,000, but the collection of this was never enforced. In 1866, after being out of business for about a year, Mr. Reid resumed merchandising and continued until he became cashier of the Bank of Shelbina in the spring of 1874. This bank was succeeded in business four years afterwards by the banking house of Reid & Taylor, which has since continued the business. Mr. Reid, as is well known to the people of Shelby county, is a man of superior business qualifications, personally agreeable and pleasant, and of unquestioned character and worth. It is largely due to his business ability and the esteem and confidence in which he is held that the career of the bank with which he is connected has been so prosperous and gratifying. The bank has a capital of $50,000 and has a large patronage in deposits from the business men of Shelbina and throughout this part of the county. It does a general banking business, a business that is steadily increasing. It is one of the solid and prosperous banking institutions of North Missouri, and is so regarded in banking circles and by the public generally. Like his partner, Mr. Reid is a native of Fauquier county, Va. He was born January 24, 1829, and was a son of Alfred Reid and Patsey, nee Rector. His mother was of the Virginia family for which Rectortown was named. William A. spent his early youth on the farm, but at the age of 15 obtained a position as salesman in the dry goods store at Rectortown. He was clerking in Virginia until he came to Missouri in 1858. On the 22d of April, 1862, he was married in this county to Miss Elizabeth Minter, a sister of Judge Taylor's wife, and the youngest daughter of Dr. Minter. Mr. and Mrs. Reid have seven children: Lillie and Jessie, educated at the Shelbina Collegiate Institute, and both also thoroughly accomplished in instrumental music; Lena, Maggie, William A., Victor M. and an infant. Mr. and Mrs. R. are church members; Mr. R. is a member of the M. E. Church South, and Mrs. R. of the Baptist Church. Mr. R. is also a member of the Chapter of the A. F. and A. M.
History of Monroe and Shelby Counties, Missouri; St. Louis: National Historical Company, 1884, Pages 1019 and 1020
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
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