Rhetoric in Early Hays City, 1876-1900

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the nature and significance of the spoken word in early Hays City from 1876, to 1900 as shown by accounts contained in Hays City newspapers of this period and interviews with some of Hays’ oldest citizens. Memorial Day and the Fourth of July were special occasions in which public speaking played an important part. The local Grand Army of the Republic was an organization which was responsible for much of the public address in early Hays City. The Camp fires of the G.A.R., Harvest Home Celebrations, and the Farmer’s picnic were always events which were accompanied with various forms of pubic address. Many speaking events were held in relation with the public school. The meeting of the Teacher’s Association, The Normal Institute, and the High School Commencement were events in the school year in which public speaking played an important part. The young city’s enthusiasm for politics was great. Several distinguished politicians visited Hays City. With the formation of a strong third party, the woman orator became a popular figure on the political platform. Public speaking was important in early Hays City. The nature of public address was versatile, and its significance was great.