The Life and Times of Lizzie Handley (Part Four)
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(PART FOUR)
The Life and Times of
Lizzie Handley

by Jim Wheat


June 7, 1900

     Lizzie Duke's third brothel -- Annie Wilson's former mansion -- was managed, in 1900, by Anna Pepper, who, along with her boarders, appears on the Dallas County federal census,41 residing at 100 Sam Cross St., as follows:

PEPPER, Anna, head of household, white female, single, age 31, born August 1869[?], in Kentucky, as were both parents; occupation: Boarding house.  She was renting the house.

PARIS, Cora , boarder, white female, single, age 23, born November 1876[?], single, born in Missouri, as were both parents; occupation: none.

STEWART, Myrtle, boarder, white female, single, age 24, born July 1876[?], born in Texas, as were both parents; occupation: none.

WYNN, Katie, servant, black female, widowed (age and date of birth are illegible), one child born, and not living at time of census; born in Texas, both parents born in Louisiana; occupation: chambermaid.

ROGERS[?], Charlie, black, servant (age and date of birth are illegible), born in Texas, father in Alabama, and mother in Texas; occupation: porter.

GRIFFIN, Delia[?], servant, her age and date of birth are illegible; she was the mother of two children, both still living at the time of the census; born in Texas, as were both parents; occupation: cook.  Her two children, one of whom was Sallie, were living in the household, and attending school. Their age and date of birth information is also illegible.

(view 1900 census schedule for 100 Sam Cross St. )


June 7-8, 1900

     Lizzie Wilson was in charge of Lizzie Duke's operation at 118 Sam Cross St., in 1900, and was enumerated in the census,40 along with her boarders, as follows:

WILSON, Lizzie, white female, head of household, born September 1866, in Kansas, age 33, widowed; 0 children born; occupation: boarding house; both parents born in Kansas.

PORTER, Olga, white female, boarder, born January 1873, in Kentucky, age 27, widowed, 2 children born, 2 still living; occupation: dressmaker; both parents born in Kentucky.

COLLINS, Allie, white female, boarder, born November 1876, in Texas, age 23, widowed; 0 children born; occupation: dressmaker; both parents born in Texas.

ROSSA, Trixie, white female, boarder, born April 1878[?], in Missouri, age 23[?], widowed; one child born, one still living; occupation: milliner; both parents born in Missouri.

DAVIS, Hazel, white female, single, boarder, born November 1875, in Texas; number of children born/living: column left blank; occupation: saleslady; both parents born in Virginia.

MONTAGUE, Roma, white female, marital status illegible; boarder, born January 1875, in Canada (French), one child born, 0 still living; occupation: hairdresser; year of immigration to U. S.: 1878; # of years in the U. S.: 22; both parents born in Canada (French).

CLAYTON, Francis, white female, boarder, born June 1876, in Florida; widowed; 0 children born; occupation: manicurist; both parents born in Florida.

FISHER, Effie, white female, single, boarder, born October 1877, in Missouri; # of children born/living column left blank; occupation: music teacher; both parents born in Missouri.

(all of the above occupants could read and write)

DIXON, Mary, black female, servant, born December 1872, in Georgia, age 27; marital status illegible; 0 children born; occupation: cook; could not read or write; both parents born in North Carolina.

FRANKLIN, Fannie, black female, single; servant; born January 1880, in Texas, # of children born/living: columns left blank; occupation: chambermaid; could read and write; father born in Texas, mother born in S. Carolina.

FULTON, Henry, black male, single; servant; born December 1878[?], in Kansas, age 21; occupation: porter; could read and write; both parents born in Kansas.

(Note: Even though there are no blatant indications in the census reports of the dwellings at 100 and 118 Sam Cross St.
being brothels, they have the earmarks,
in my opinion, of being such)

(view 1900 census schedule for 118 Sam Cross St. )


June 12, 1900

     Lizzie Duke appears in the 1900, Borough of Manhattan, New York Co., New York federal census,39 at 255 W. 72nd St., as follows:

DUKE, Lizzie, white female, head of household; age 42, born April 1858 in Kentucky; widowed, years married: 26 years, 1 child born, 0 still living; occupation: furnished room house; reads, writes & speaks English; rents her home; parents born in Kentucky; 10 boarders/servants in house, as follows:

McMULLEN, Roger B., white male, boarder; age 55, born January 1845 in Canada (Eng.), married 9 years; occupation: Bicycles; immigrated to U. S. in 1850; # of years in U. S.: 50; naturalized; parents born in Canada (Eng.).

McMULLEN, Mary, white female, boarder; age 40, born April 1860 in Massachusetts, married 9 years, 0 children born; occupation: left blank; reads, writes & speaks English; parents born in Massachusetts.

LEIGHTON, George, white male, boarder; age 45, born May 1855 in New York, married 20 years; occupation: Buyer for dry goods house; reads, writes & speaks English; parents' place of birth: left blank.

LEIGHTON, Elizabeth, white female, boarder; age 43, born February 1857 in Pennsylvania; married 20 years, 0 chldren born; parents' place of birth: left blank.

O'REILLY, Edward, white male, boarder; age 33, born June 1866 in Canada (Eng.); single; occupation: Belden(sp) Bros. silks[?]; immigrated to U. S. in 1880; # of years in U. S.: 20; parents born in Ireland; reads, writes & speaks English.

AYRES, [blank], white male, boarder; age 40, born January 1860 in Vermont; single; occupation: insurance agent; reads, writes & speaks English; parents' place of birth: left blank.

HULSE, William, white male, boarder; age 25, born February 1875 in Pennsylvania, single; occupation: Clerk, woolen goods; reads, writes & speaks English; parents born in Pennsylvania.

SLOAT, Grace V., white female, boarder; age 28, born August 1871 in New Jersey, single; occupation: left blank, reads, writes & speaks English; parents born in New Jersey.

McNAMARA, Mary, white female, servant; age 26, born April 1874 in Ireland, single; occupation: cook; immigrated to U. S. in 1894, # of years in U. S.: 6; reads, writes & speaks English; parents born in Ireland.

FARRELL, Mary, white female, servant; age 22, born January 1878 in Ireland, single; occupation: Housemaid, immigrated to U.S. in 1899, # of years in U. S.: 1 year; reads, writes & speaks English; parents born in Ireland.

(view 1900 census schedule for Lizzie in New York)


_

1900-01
1900/1901 Trow's General Directory of the
Boroughs of Manhattan & Bronx City of New York:

Duke, Elizabeth Z. (widow of Bartley), householder @ 255 W. 72nd St.


_

1901
John F. Worley's & Co's. Dallas Directory for 1901:

Wilson, Miss Kitty, residence: 777 Sam Cross.
Wilson, Miss Lizzie, residence: 118 Sam Cross.


_

_

June 22, 1902
Lizzie returns to Dallas for a visit -- presumably, to finalize the real estate transaction with the Rock Island Railroad -- and registers at the St. George Hotel, apparently in company with Bill Dugan, a fellow New Yorker.

_

PERSONAL.
...
At the St. George -- ... Mrs. L. Z. Duke, Bill Dugan, New York.
...

- June 22, 1902, The Dallas Morning News, p. 32.
- o o o -

 

Lizzie bids farewell to her
two brothel properties
_

July 22, 1902
MRS. LIZZIE DUKE TO CHICAGO ROCK
ISLAND & GULF RAILWAY COMPANY

     Mrs. Lizzie Duke (widow), of the City and State of New York, sold to Chicago Rock Island & Gulf Railway Co., two tracts of land, both being situated in Block 425, south of Sam Cross St., and bounded on the east and west by S. Austin and S. Market, respectively, on July 22, 1902, for $20,000.43

(Note: Lizzie was one of the first
property owners to sell their properties
to the Rock Island Railroad for right
of way purposes.)

_

BOUGHT BY ROCK ISLAND.
_____

Three Tracts of Land Are Purchased
in the Neighborhood of South
Market Street.

     Yesterday, the Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railroad Company filed deeds recording the purchase of land for $28,000. Mrs. Lizzie Duke of New York sold the following two tracts; consideration, $20,000:
     1. An irregular tract, 130 feet fronting on Sam Cross street, 400 feet deep, extending to Town Branch, block 425, according to Murphy & Bolanz's map.
     2. 100x140 feet on the corner of Sam Cross and Austin streets, block 425, according to Murphy & Bolanz's map.
     Celeste Fond, of Dallas, sold the Rock Island, 100x100 feet at the corner of Wood and Market streets, block 44-37, according to Murphy & Bolanz's map; consideration, $8,000.

- July 30, 1902, The Dallas Morning News, p. 10.
- o o o -

 

DALLAS DIRT
IN DEMAND.

_____

Heated Term has not De-
creased Number of
Sales.

_____

Probable Co-operation of Dealers
to Insure Equitable Assess-
ments -- Aiding Right-of
Way Agents.

     It is surprising to note the tendency of property owners to inflate values directly they ascertain that a railroad or an enterprise of a public nature desires to purchase a portion of their holdings. Avarice at once asserts itself in the majority of cases, and as a result, court costs are necessary. Citizens who pose as liberal and progressive tax payers act in the most surprising manner under such conditions. They want all that their land is worth and demand more.  These conditions have confronted real estate dealers who are interested in securing the right of way for the Rock Island road, and in addition, have worried the county commissioners in extending important driveways. The solution is gradually being reached by condemnation proceedings, although valuable time is being wasted. As a rule, the real estate dealers are standing shoulder to shoulder in opposition to such hold-ups and thus merit the praise of the entire community.

- August 17, 1902, Dallas Daily Times Herald, p. 3, col. 6-7.
- o o o -

_

October 1902

     The Kentucky Confederate Home was opened for the reception of disabled and aged Confederate veterans in October, 1902, in Pewee Valley, Oldham Co., Kentucky.45

_

1903
PLUNGERS AND PONIES
ARE NOT DISTURBED.

_______

Commissioners to Place Money
When the Pool Rooms Go. Men
Who Have Made Money and Men
Who Have Saved It.

     Next Wednesday, the pool rooms of Texas will close their doors for the first time in the history of Texas since pool selling was invented. The Hancock anti-pool room law becomes operative July 1, and the leading pool room proprietors will not fight the law. It was stated in one of the public prints a while back, that Dan A. Stuart had decided to fight the law in the courts. This was a roorback, as the veteran sporting man hasn't been interested in Texas pool rooms since 1900, according to men who are in position to know. He has other fish to fry. At present, he is interested in pushing the work on the finest office building in the state of Arkansas. In the city of Hot Springs, known as the Carlsbad of America, as well as its Monte Carlo. This building is to cost $200,000, is fire-proof and up-to-date in every respect. Mr. Stuart has large interest in Hot Springs. His home is in New York, and he is the owner of considerable property in Dallas. Hence, the winding up of the pool rooms doesn't affect him in the least. Seven years ago, he pulled off the Corbett-Fitzsimmons prize fight at Carson, Nev., after three years' hard fighting with state governments and reformers, who were professional, and reformers who were sincere. The kinetoscope pictures were perfect. They were exhibited in the leading cities of Europe and America and placed Stuart several hundred thousand dollars to the good. He is away up on Easy street now and permits others to chase the ponies.

- June 28, 1903, Dallas Daily Times Herald, p. 18, col. 3-4.
- o o o -

 

1905
DAN STUART
IN THE CITY

_______

Denies That He Will Form Texas
Circuit.

________

OTHER INTERESTS
________

Stuart Says He Has Enough to Do
to Look After the Hot
Springs Track.

     Dan Stuart, the well known Texan, who owns a race track at Hot Springs and who has been connected with big sporting events in all parts of the country, is in Dallas spending a few days looking after his private business here. Mr. Stuart arrived in Dallas yesterday morning from Hot Springs.
     When seen by a reporter this morning, Mr. Stuart said: "No, I do not know of any racing circuits that I intend to organize in Texas."
     He denied emphatically the truth of the reports sent out from Arkansas that he would start a racing circuit in this state. "I have half a million dollars invested in a track in Garland county, Ark., and I think that is about enough for one man to attend to."
     Mr. Stuart stated that his track was one of the finest in the country and that the grand stand was enclosed in glass and steam heated. "Something that no other track in the country has," remarked Mr. Stuart.
     The race track owner stated that he had no interest in the tracks at New Orleans. He will remain in Dallas several days.

- April 24, 1905, The Dallas Daily Times Herald, p. 10, col. 3.
- o o o -

 

March 3, 1906

     Lizzie was residing at 110 Central Park West (The Barnard), New York, when she applied for membership in the New York Division of the United Daughters of the Confederacy.7



Confederate Veterans Home, Pewee Valley, Kentucky

 Postcard showing the Confederate Home in Pewee Valley, Kentucky, circa 1908.  The
separate wooden structure on the right may be L. Z. Duke Hall, or the sanitarium.

_

CONFEDERATE HOME MESSENGER49
Newsletter extracts

October 1907
MRS. L. Z. DUKE.

     We present in this number, the picture of Mrs. L. Z. Duke, the donor of the splendid Assembly Hall, which has just been erected on the grounds of the Kentucky Confederate Home at Pewee Valley, for the use of the Veterans there.  It will add something to the pleasure which attends this magnificent gift to know that the donor is a Kentuckian.
...
     Seventeen years ago, Mrs. Duke moved to New York, following out the plans which she and her husband had formulated before his death.  Although not permitted to enjoy the social pleasures of life in the South, Mrs. Duke's heart is ever turning toward her native Southland, and there is no work for the honor, comfort or pleasure of the men who wore the gray, that does not find a quick and generous response in her heart.
     Her splendid gift to the Home came about under peculiar circumstances.  She was acquainted with a Confederate soldier, Chas. W. Russell, of Louisville, and mentioned the fact to him that she would like to visit the Confederate Home.  Mr. Russell communicated her wishes to Gen. Bennett H. Young, President of the Board of Trustees, who promptly called upon Mrs. Duke, who was stopping at the Galt House, but he found that she had left the city. Gen. Young, thereupon wrote her a letter, hoping that she would visit Louisville during Home Coming week, which she finally consented to do.
     On this occasion, Mrs. Duke visited the Confederate Home with Miss Florence Barlow, then President of the Confederate Home Chapter, U. D. C., and she was so much impressed with what she saw, that she conferred with Gen. Young and Miss Barlow, in regard to making a gift to the Home, and how the money could be best used, and they suggested the "Assembly Hall."
     The Hall will be dedicated on the occasion of the Annual Reunion at Pewee Valley on October 31, and the cordiality and heartiness of the welcome, which will be accorded Mrs. Duke will, in some measure, repay her for what she has so generously and unselfishly done for the Veterans at the Home.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 1,
October 1907, pp. 1-2.
- o o o -



- Confederate Home Messenger 

L. Z. DUKE ASSEMBLY HALL (exterior),
presented by Mrs. L. Z. Duke of New York City


_

- Confederate Home Messenger 

L. Z. DUKE HALL (interior)


_

THE L. Z. DUKE HALL.

     Some months since, through the solicitation of Gen. B. H. Young and Miss Florence Barlow, Mrs. L. Z. Duke, of New York, donated some $2,000, with which to build a hall for entertainments and exercises of all kinds. This will fill a long felt want.
     The Home Chapter is already planning for Hallowe'en and Christmas festivities for the amusement of the veterans, and there is no doubt, that many happy hours will be the result of this good woman's generous gift.
     Mrs. Duke is a Kentuckian by birth, and her big heart is full of tender love and sympathy for the Confederates of her childhood home. She spent an evening at the Home, and expressed a desire to do something to brighten the lives of the old men, and cause them, for the time, to forget the scars and wounds, the aches and pains incident to the infirmities of old age.
     The veterans and their friends, owe and feel, a debt of gratitude to Mrs. Duke, that words fail to express.
     It is hoped that Mrs. Duke will again visit the Home on some festive occasion, and thereby enhance the pleasure with her presence.

- Confederate Home Messenger,
Vol. I, No. 1 (Trial Issue),
October 1907, p. 2, col. 1-2.
- o o o -

 

KENTUCKY CONFEDERATE HOME.

     When, in April, 1901, Capt. Daniel G. Parr made a donation of about $5,000, as a nucleus from which to build up a Home for helpless and infirm Confederate Veterans, it was little thought that one so commodious, so beautiful and complete in all its appointments, would grow from the comparatively small beginning. But, Kentucky is never lacking in appreciation of the valor, bravery and sacrifices of her sons.
     When the call was made for additional funds, there was a quick and generous response from the Veterans and Daughters of the State, and the beautiful property, which had cost $90,000, was purchased for $9,000.
     The Home was opened to Veterans in November, 1902. By Dec. 27, 1902 - in two months' time - 66 men had been received in the Home; in December, 1904, 164 were received, and up to the present time, over three hundred and eighty have accepted of the benefits provided for them.  With this increase, far beyond the expectations of the promoters, and with an average age of 72 years, and many invalids, it was found necessary to add a hospital and greater water supply. The Legislature very generously voted $57,000 for this purpose, and the Home now has an abundant supply of water and one of the most modern and splendidly arranged hospitals in the State, with accommodations for about sixty invalids. The hospital is full nearly all the time.
     With all these necessities, there was still no convenient place to hold assemblies or any kind of amusements. Funerals and religious exercises were held in the lobby, with the minister standing on the stairway. Now, this long-felt want has been provided for by the beautiful generosity of Mrs. L. Z. Duke, of New York City. While on a visit to the Home, she expressed a wish to do something to brighten the lives of these old Veterans. It was made known to her that an Assembly Hall would contribute more to their pleasure than anything else she cold do, as well as almost a necessity. She soon afterwards sent the necessary amount; and one of the most beautiful little assembly halls in the State, capable of seating about three hundred, is the outcome of her noble generosity, and, we hope, will stand for many years as a monument to her tender sympathies for the Confederate Veteran.  This is to be known as "The L. Z. Duke Hall," and will be opened for the first time, on the 31st of October, and is made the occasion for the meeting of the State Division of Veterans at the Home.
     Mrs. Duke, herself, will enhance the pleasure of the occasion with her presence, and many a heart will swell with pride and affection towards this good woman for her consideration in the welfare and happiness of others.
     The Home is managed by a Board of Trustees of fourteen Veterans from different parts of the State, who are appointed by the Governor. They meet three times a year. The Executive Board meets monthly. Reports are made to the Board every months of supplies purchased, used and on hand.  Food, clothing and expenses of all kinds are reported once a month to the Board.
     The Home is supported by an appropriation from the State of $175 per capita. This is expected to cover every expense of fuel, light, heat, clothing, laundry, servants, salaries of officials, doctors and employes -- every expense, except insurance, which is carried by the State.
     A supply of tobacco is given out once a month.  Smoking in their rooms and the Infirmary is forbidden.  Every protection against fire is provided, and most approved fire escapes are placed at each end of the building.  Whisky is not permitted on the grounds, except in the drug room, where it is given when necessary by the physician. Drunkenness is prohibited, and a third offense is sufficient cause for expulsion from the Home by the Board.
     The Home is intended only for such Veterans as served in the Confederate army and were honorably discharged for inability, from sickness or wounds, or at the cessation of hostilities, and who are now incapable of supporting themselves from feebleness or wounds and have no means of support.  Applicants for admission are recommended to the Board by comrades from the county of the applicant, who are supposed to know their record and worthiness to become a beneficiary of the Home.  No man should be endorsed for consideration by the Board if he is at all able to make his own living, or has any income or support from any source. There are enough decrepit, worthy men to more than fill the Home, and if at any time, unworthy applicants are admitted, their county-men are responsible for it.
     All the Veterans are provided with gray uniforms. The Home owns a lot in the Pewee Valley Cemetery, where are buried those who are not taken back to their former homes.  A beautiful monument, fourteen feet high, presented by Col. Briscoe Hindman, stands in the center of the lot.
     Everything is done for the comfort and care of the inmates that it is possible to do, and all should be happy and contented in this beautiful and bountiful care given them in their declining years.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 1,
October 1907, p. 4, col. 1-3.
- o o o -

 

GENEROUS GIFT OF COL. YOUNG.

     The beautiful stained-glass Confederate flag window in the L. Z. Duke Hall was presented by Col. Bennett H. Young.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 1,
October 1907, p. 4, col. 3.
- o o o -

 

STATE REUNION OF U. C. V.

     The State Division of United Confederate Veterans held their annual reunion at the Confederate Home, Oct. 31.  The day was ideal for such an occasion. Bright and warm, the crowd of some fifteen hundred had a rare opportunity for enjoying the beautiful grounds and roaming through the buildings at their pleasure.  The beauty and conveniences of the Home were the subjects of many favorable criticisms from the visitors, who explored every nook and corner -- from the splendid reservoir of water, to the sun parlor, where, amid hot-house plants, the canary and mocking bird sang a glad welcome to all.
...
     At 1 o'clock, the doors of the beautiful new L. Z. Duke Hall were thrown open, while Mrs. Duke stood on the front porch to receive the Veterans.  She was escorted to the stage by the Commander of the Kentucky division, where she was presented to the crowd which quickly filled the hall to overflowing.  Applause after applause greeted the presentation of Mrs. Duke, and several in the audience paid glowing tributes to this gracious little lady for this generous gift and substantial expression of her love and interest for the Veterans of the Lost Cause.
     Mrs. Duke was deeply moved by this outburst of sentiment, but in a few well chosen remarks, expressed the great pleasure she derived in being able to do something to add to the pleasure of the declining years of the men who wore the Gray.
     Mrs. John H. Sale, daughter of Capt. Parr, who gave the first $5,000 toward establishing the Home, then presented Mrs. Duke with a very handsome bunch of red and white roses, tied with red and white ribbon.  Gen. Simon Boliver Buckner was then introduced, and addressed the audience in the interest of converting the birth-place of President Jefferson Davis into a park, which was most favorably received.
     The annual election of officers resulted in the re-election of all the officers.
     After prayer by Chaplain Deering, the crowd was given an opportunity to shake Mrs. Duke's hand, which was eagerly sought. After which, the beautiful decorations, the interesting pictures on the walls, the handsome piano presented by Gen. H. A. Taylor and the many appointments of the Hall attracted the attention of the visitors.
...

BEAUTIFUL L. Z. DUKE HALL.

     The L. Z. Duke Hall was most elaborately and artistically decorated for the dedication by the Confederate Home Chapter, U. D. C. Handsome lithographs of ten Generals were neatly framed and hung on front of the gallery.  On the wall, back of the stage, were large, handsome oil portraits of Gen. J. C. Breckinridge, Gen. J. H. Morgan, and Capt. Milton Barlow, three distinguished Kentuckians, and a handsome, large photograph of Mrs. L. Z. Duke, the donor of the Hall. On the side walls were handsome pictures of Generals R. E. Lee, Fitzhugh Lee, Stephen D. Lee, "Stonewall" Jackson and President Jefferson Davis; Gen. Wade Hampton, Gen. Cooper, Gen. H. A. Tyler, who donated the piano, and others prominent in Confederate service. Flags and bunting were used in profusion and most effective manner. Palms and ferns banked the front of the stage, and were artistically arranged on the table and the beautiful new piano.
     All visitors were profuse in their compliments of the interior beauty of the Hall.  In the evening, Baldwin & Co. had a pianola concert, which was well attended by those in the Home.
     The next morning, Mrs. Duke called a meeting of the Veterans in the Hall, and in a little talk, expressed her pleasure in being able to contribute something to their happiness.  The Veterans sang, "We Are Old-Time Confederates," composed by Capt. "Tip" Harrison, of Atlanta, and to the tune of "Old Time Religion."  The veterans then marched in line to the station with Mrs. Duke, and with their "God bless you!," gave her a rousing send-off with three "Confederate yells."

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 2,
November 1907, p. 1, col. 1-3.
- o o o -

 

[No Heading]

     A letter from Mrs. L. Z. Duke, of New York, sends a Christmas greeting of good wishes for a happy Christmas to all the Veterans in the Home, and a renewed expression of her interest in them.  She hoped to be with us again soon -- a hope that is echoed by every Veteran in the Home.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 3,
December 1907, p. 4, col. 1.
- o o o -

 

1908
[No Heading]

     The many friends of Mrs. L. Z. Duke were very much distressed to learn she had been so unfortunate as to break her left arm and sprain her wrist.  She is much improved.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 5,
February 1908, p. 3, col. 2.
- o o o -

 

[No Heading]

     A message from Mrs. L. Z. Duke tells us she has recovered the use of her broken arm, which news is received with great pleasure by her host of friends in the Home.  She sends her loving regards to all, and expects to visit the Home, early in the spring.  Nothing delights the Veterans more than to have Mrs. Duke come to the Home.  We feel she is ours, and wish she would come often and stay long.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 6,
March 1908, p. 3, col. 2.
- o o o -

 

[No Heading]

     Mrs. L. Z. Duke is having a picture of her great-uncle, Gen. John B. Hood, enlarged, to hang in the Confederate Home.  This gift from Mrs. Duke will be very much appreciated.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 7,
April 1908, p. 2, col. 1.
- o o o -

 

MRS. L. Z. DUKE
______

A GUEST AT THE HOME.

     The Home has had the distinguished pleasure of a week's visit from the loved "Patron Saint" of the Home, Mrs. L. Z. Duke, of New York City.  The pleasure of the anticipation of her visit was more than realized in her gracious presence.  She held a reception in the L. Z. Duke Hall, that she might again express her love and interest in the men who wore the gray, and have an opportunity to shake the hand of every Veteran in the Home.  After the singing of "We Are Old-Time Confederates," by the Veterans, she was eloquently presented by Col. Henry George, Commandant of the Home.  A welcome was extended by the Veterans through the standard-bearer of the Home, Mr. Holloway, in a most terse and feeling address.  Mrs. Duke, with a heart full of emotion, responded in her sweet, unassuming way that touched the hearts of all of her hearers, and they realize more than ever, that her munificent gift to the Home of L. Z. Duke Hall, was a gift of love for the comrades of her only brother, who gave his life on the battle-field of Shiloh for the cause of the South.
     Mrs. Duke has always wished, in some way, to express her loyalty to her native State, and love for the Confederate cause, and she must have realized, while with us, that she could not have done so in a more acceptable or handsome way, than in presenting to the Home, L. Z. Duke Hall.  The pleasure, the convenience and comfort it has been to the Home, is immeasurable, and her name is ever on the lips of her beneficiaries that God will bless her and spare her yet, many years for His good work.
     Mrs. Duke joined the delegation of Confederates from Louisville to Birmingham as Matron of Honor of the Kentucky Division of U. C. V., being appointed by Gen. Bennett H. Young.  After enjoying the magnificent hospitality of Birmingham, and the many gracious attentions conferred upon Kentuckians, she returned to the Home for a couple of days' rest, on her way to New York, bringing with her, the beautiful State Sponsor, Miss Pearl Haggard, of Winchester.
     It is the hope of all connected with the Home, that Mrs. Duke will make at least semi-annual visits to the Home, where a hearty welcome will always be extended to her.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 8,
June 1908, p. 1, col. 1-2.
- o o o -

 

[No Heading]

     Mrs. Duke is a relative of Gen. John B. Hood, and presented to the Home, a handsome crayon portrait of her distinguished Kentucky relative, which we are most happy to have.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 8,
June 1908, p. 2, col. 3.
- o o o -

 

[No Heading]

     It is the desire of the MESSENGER to have as many pictures of Kentucky Confederates as possible to hang in the L. Z. Duke Hall.  It is a great pleasure to the Veterans in the Home, to see the pictures of their comrades, most of whom, have answered the last roll-call, and any one sending us such pictures, will please accept our most grateful thanks.  We would like, specially well, to have a good picture of Mr. Jefferson Davis.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. I, No. 8,
June 1908, p. 4, col. 2-3.
- o o o -

 

PORTRAIT OF MRS. DUKE.

     The Home is the recipient of a very handsome pastel portrait of Mrs. L. Z. Duke for the L. Z. Duke Hall.  The portrait is not only a fine likeness, but a work of art, as well.  The management of the Home has been very anxious for a good likeness of this gracious little woman to hang in the Hall, which she so generously donated, and thank her very much for responding to their request in the same generous, handsome spirit which inspired her gift of the Hall, whose walls it so beautifully adornes.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. II, No. 1,
October 1908, p. 3, col. 2.
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LETTER FROM MRS. L. Z. DUKE.

     Every week, delightfully interesting letters come from Mrs. Duke, always expressing the greatest interest and affectionate regard for the old soldiers in the Home.  In one letter, she says, "In the many thousands of dollars I have spent in pursuit of pleasure, none has ever given me so much pleasure as the mite I put in the Hall for the pleasure and convenience of the old veterans in the Home."  She expresses the hope that a delightful, happy Christmas time is in store for the "old soldiers."  Surely, it is "more blessed to give, than receive."

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. II, No. 2,
November 1908, p. 4, col. 1.
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GENEROUS DONATIONS.

     Mrs. L. Z. Duke, of New York City, sent a generous check, flavored with such tender expressions of love and sympathy for "those dear men," as she loves to call them, that the Oyster supper it furnished on New Year's evening must have been enjoyed with a relish not ordinarily experienced.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. II, No. 2,
December 1908, p. 2, col. 1-2.
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1909
WELCOME TO MRS. L. Z. DUKE.

     Mrs. L. Z. Duke, of New York, wrote she will visit the Home the last of May, on her way to attend the reunion in Memphis.  Mrs. Duke's coming is always a pleasure to all in the Home, and she is made most welcome.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. II, No. 4,
February 1909, p. 1, col. 2.
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ENTERTAINMENTS AT THE
HOME.

     The Columbia Graphophone Co., of Louisville, has kindly agreed to bring one of their best instruments and a collection of music, and give the Veterans a delightful musical treat.  On account of having their best instruments placed for exhibits in the Louisville Exposition, they are compelled to defer they coming until the Exposition closes, after which, we hope they will come out, not only once, but several times during the summer.
     Efforts are being made to prevail upon the Electric Line Railroad to allow the Home to tap their line and run wires into the gallery of the L. Z. Duke Hall, so as to enable us to have moving picture and stereopticon entertainments.  The Home is lighted with acetylene lights, which are not strong enough for moving pictures, and if we succeed in getting electricity in the hall, we can often have attractive entertainments, of which we are deprived of now, for want of it.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. II, No. 5,
March 1909, p. 3, col. 2.
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PERSONALS.

     Mrs. L. Z. Duke, of New York City, to whom the Home is so much indebted for the L. Z. Duke Hall, spent two weeks a most welcome guest at the Home.  She passed on to Memphis to attend the reunion of U. C. V. as Honorary Matron of Honor for the South, a compliment well placed by General Clement A. Evans.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. II, No. 7,
May 1909, p. 2, col. 1-2.
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[No Heading]

     Mr. Andrew Broadus gave the Veterans a treat on the afternoon of the 21st in music from a fine graphophone, giving records from many of the finest singers of the world, with a little sketch, in connection with each song or singer, making it doubly interesting.  "My Old Kentucky Home" was sung in compliment to Mrs. L. Z. Duke's visit to Kentucky, her former home.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. II, No. 7,
May 1909, p. 3, col. 2.
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November 13, 1909
Dan Stuart dies in New York City

(related articles follow the Confederate
Messenger newsletter extracts)

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1910
[No Heading]

     The following note from Mrs. Duke was read to the Veterans at roll call and elicited a hearty applause from them:

NEW YORK CITY, Dec. 22, '09.

DEAR COL. GEORGE:
     I cannot let the Christmas pass without sending you and your household, Yuletide greetings.  I think of no place that I would so love to spend the Christmas, as I would with you all at the dear "Old Home."  I do so hope that you may all be joyous and happy throughout the holidays.  Will you kindly announce to those dear old soldiers, that I send them greetings, and that my heart is with them, and as I cannot be with them in person, I send them all good wishes, that they may have a most delightful and peaceful Christmas, and a very happy New Year, and say to the poor old sick soldiers, that I shall share with my prayers, blessings and good wishes for Christmas. Hoping that this may find you all well and happy as it leaves me, I am most cordially and faithfully,
     Your friend,
     L. Z
EBBEON DUKE.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. III, No. 3,
January 1910, p. 1, col. 2.
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DONATIONS.

     We are indebted to Mr. A. J. Nye, of Orlando, Florida, for a box of oranges sent to the Home, Christmas.  Mr. Nye, as a friend of Mrs. L. Z. Duke, chose a very delightful way of remembering the old Veterans, and his treat was most thoroughly enjoyed by them, for which we thank him very much.
...

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. III, No. 3,
January 1910, p. 2, col. 3.
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[No Heading]

     Mrs. L. Z. Duke of New York, who donated the L. Z. Duke Hall to our Home, has been appointed by Gen. G. W. Gordon, Honorary Matron of Honor for the Army of Tennessee, composed of six States, for the Reunion of the U. C. V. in Mobile, April, 26th.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. III, No. 5,
March 1910, p. 4, col. 1.
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The Veterans in the Home Make
Their Bow to Mrs. Sale and
Mrs. Duke.

     On the afternoon of May 4th, from 3 to 5 o'clock, the Veterans in the Home tendered a reception to Mrs. John H. Sale and Mrs. L. Z. Duke, as an expression of their appreciation and gratitude to these two good women for what they have done for the comfort and pleasure of the men who wore the grey.  Their work has been truly a work of love, which they declare, has brought them larger returns in real pleasure than any investment they ever made.
     The reception was held in L. Z. Duke Hall, which had been elaborately decorated in a profusion of vines and flowers.  Harp and violins gave forth sweet strains of music, and delicious lemonade and cake was served.  Friends from Louisville, and neighbors, came and joined in with the Veterans in one of the most delightful afternoons ever spent in the Home.  These two women have always shown the most sincere love and interest in the Confederate Veterans, and while one lives on the Atlantic coast, and the other goes to make her home on the shores of the Pacific, the continent will not be wide enough to separate their love for the old Veterans in the Kentucky Confederate Home, but will be wafted on breezes, one from the turbulent Atlantic shore, the other from the peaceful Pacific coast, until they meet and rest like a sweet benediction over the Kentucky Confederate Home. As they leave for their distant homes, they carry with them, the grateful love and remembrance and best wishes of the Veterans in the Home.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. III, No. 7,
May 1910, p. 1, col. 1.
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[No Heading]

     Mrs. L. Z. Duke was a guest in the Home for some three weeks. Her stay at the Home gave great pleasure to the Veterans and all connected with the Home.  She is one of those rare women who never say unkind things of other people; whose heart is filled only with love and kindliness for human kind, and responds in an eminent degree to the generous impulses of a kind heart.
     While in the Home, she treated all connected with the Home to a bountiful repast of strawberries, and to the invalids in the Infirmary, the second time.  The following resolutions of appreciation were adopted by the Veterans:
     W
HEREAS, Mrs. L. Z. Duke has been an honored guest in the Kentucky Confederate Home on numerous occasions; and
     W
HEREAS, She has shown a noble generosity in building for the use of the inmates of the Home, the beautiful Hall that bears her name; and
     W
HEREAS, She has, this day, added to her former benefactions, a repast of the most luscious berries that grow; therefore
     Resolved, That we hereby place on record, a sense of our deep gratitude for the repast of strawberries; also, for all former benefactions with which she has honored the Home; also
     Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be tendered to the C
ONFEDERATE HOME MESSENGER for publication.
     Unanimously adopted May 12, 1910.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. III, No. 7,
May 1910, p. 2, col. 3.
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PERSONALS.

     Mr. C. W. Russell, from the Masonic Home in Shelbyville, spent a couple of days at the Home, the guest of Mrs. Duke, as an old friend of her father.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. III, No. 8,
June 1910, p. 2, col. 3.
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[No Heading]

     Mrs. L. Z. Duke, who usually makes a handsome donation to the Home every Christmas, sends this year, her heartfelt greetings and good wishes to all those dear Veterans, saying, I know they are all made comfortable, and will be well remembered, while, many even who wore the gray, are less fortunate, and I am trying to help them. She received the following telegram from Oklahoma:
     "Plead for fifty absolutely helpless, homeless Confederate men and women cared for in poor houses and by providence associations and chapters.  Three thousand dollars needed to make available twenty thousand appropriated by the State."
     This plea came for an addition to the Home in Oklahoma, to which Mrs. Duke responded, instead of a contribution to the Kentucky Home. We are glad Mrs. Duke diverted her donation to Oklahoma, where it was more needed, and feel sure always, that the Kentucky Home holds the biggest place in her heart and affections.  Our love and best wishes go out to her for her always kind considerations for our Home.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. IV, No. 2,
December 1910, p. 3, col. 1.
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1911
[No Heading]

     Major W. Gaylor Hamilton, of Louisville, presented to the Home, a very handsome decorative banner, a portrait in oil of General R. E. Lee on canvas, and mounted on two heavy brass rods.  It hangs on the wall in L. Z. Duke Hall, and we thank Major Hamilton very much for this handsome gift.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. IV, No. 3,
January 1911, p. 3, col. 1.
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OLD SOLDIER FIDDLERS.

     Col. Pattee and his Company of Old Soldier Fiddlers, consisting of two boys in blue, and two in gray, very generously came out to the Home and gave the Veterans a wonderful exhibition of their skill on the fiddle and the bones.  It was a morning entertainment.  The Duke Hall was crowded with the Veterans, their friends and neighbor who had been hurriedly notified of the event.  They took dinner with us and declared it was one of the best they ever had, and thoroughly enjoyed the Kentucky corn-bread and good buttermilk.  After dinner, they went into the Infirmary and played for the invalids who could not get out to the hall.
     We are indebted to Mr. and Mrs. John H. Sale for the generous kindness of bringing these old soldiers to the Home and giving the Veterans such a treat.  The Company consist of Col. Pattee of the 24th Michigan "Iron Brigade," G. A. W. Ford of 27th Connecticut Infantry; W. V. Van Dell, 12th Pennsylvania Reserves.  The Confederates are Geo. P. Dillian, 34th Virginia Cavalry, and C. H. Hamersley of Virginia State Militia.  Their ages range from 66 to 76 years.  They play all the old time "fo de war" tunes, and their performance is truly wonderful.  They are touring the country from coast to coast, visiting all the large cities.  They are drawing large crowds every night this week at the Mary Anderson.  They promise to make annual trips, and to come to the Home, whenever they come to Louisville, where they will always find a most cordial, hospitable Kentucky welcome.
     Our most sincere thanks and best wishes go out to those old comrades who have fiddle away all their differences and dwell in a peaceful comradeship that is truly delightful to see, and we wish for them, a cordial welcome and a happy journey in whatever direction their pleasures call them.

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. IV, No. 5,
March 1911, p. 1, col. 3.
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IN COMPLIMENT TO
MRS. L. Z. DUKE.

     The Confederate Home Chapter, U. D. C., always delight to pay tribute to those who have been kind to the Confederate soldiers, especially those in the Home, and so, when Mrs. Duke made her promised annual visit to the Home, the Chapter gave a most beautiful picnic in her honor, on October 6th.  The day was ideal, frost not yet come to strip the trees of their foliage, and a gentle, zephyr-like breeze playing through the branches, the lawn still like a green carpet.  What could be more perfect than a day in June, except a day in October, for such an occasion.
     Each member of the Chapter was privileged to invite a guest, so there were some fifty-five members and their friends present.  They arrived at noon, and all joined in with the Chapter at their regular monthly meeting held in the L. Z. Duke Hall.  Exercises were cut short, and most of the business dispensed with, so as to enter into the festivities of the occasion.
     Mrs. Montgomery Hunter gave several beautiful numbers on the piano.  Mrs. A. M. Sea, wife of Captain Sea, Secretary of the Home, was presented, and responded in a plea for the support and encouragement of the Jefferson Davis Boulevard.  Mrs. Lillie Flournay Worthington, of Miss., and Chairman of the Arlington Monument Fund, was presented and spoke on this subject, which was nearest to her heart.
     Mrs. L. Z. Duke, the donor of the beautiful hall which bears her name, was presented, and an adjournment declared that all might take the hand of this good little woman, who we delight to honor.
It was a pretty sight, as they filed two and two through the lawn to the picnic grounds, where four tables, most tastefully decorated in fall fruits and flowers, and loaded with most delicious eatables of every description.  All were comfortably seated in chairs, grouped about to promote the sociability of the occasion.  They were served by committees, who took charge of each table.
     There was never a happier crowd, who declared it to be one of the most delightful days of their lives.  They were loath to break the spell of the entrancing surroundings, and lingered until late in the afternoon, in the shadows of the wide, spreading oaks and magnolias.  These splendid women, some of them nearing seventy years young, entered into the frolic of the day with a genuine juvenile spirit that was most delightful to behold, and took part in Sir Roger de Coverly, danced in the L. Z. Duke Hall in the closing hours of the afternoon, with all the grace and ease of a belle of the fifties.  It was really a beautiful sight to see these women, most of them with locks frosted by years, but with hearts still young, rejuvenated by the bracing country air and spirit of the occasion.
     As the sun was sinking in the West, and the shadows a little longer grown, we reluctantly bade "God speed the parting guest," and hoping that some day, we may again enjoy a repetition of so delightful a day.
     Mrs. Duke was a guest at the Home a week; in that time, she was entertained in the home of General Bennett H. Young, President of the Home; Mrs. Judith Marshall, Mrs. G. T. Blackley and Mrs. Emmett Field. She then left for Lexington, Ky., to attend the unveiling of the Statue of General John H. Morgan and his men, and on to Richmond, Va., as a delegate from her New York Chapter, U. D. C., to the general convention of U. D. C., on November 7th.
     Our best wishes always attend Mrs. Duke, with the hope she will continue to make her annual visit to the Home, where she is always so welcomed.
...

- Confederate Home Messenger, Vol. IV, No. 12,
October 1911, p. 2, col. 1-3.
- o o o -

(Note: The Confederate Home Messenger ceased publication in December 1911. The above-mentioned visit was Lizzie's last one to the Confederate Home)

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Compilation Copyright © 2006 by Jim Wheat


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