From early morning till late night the American community Shanghai and their friends celebrated the Fourth of July, Independence Day, last Wednesday with a series of public and private events which rivalled in magnitude and enthusiasm any similar observance held in former years.
"Starting as a purely national occasion, the celebration of Independence Day' has now become one on which the whole world gathers with their American friends "to celebrate, and to congratulate the great country which In the short span of just over a century and a half has become one of the world's leading nations.
curious to recall that the really decisive act in America's de-loration of independence took place fon July 2 when the various states Ju congress voted on and passed the resolution. Thomas Jefferson's tamous "Declaration" was, however, Published on July 4, and from this has grown the celebration in. which Shanghai will join to-day with other American communities around. the lobe.
It was indeed a "Glorious Fourth" from the time the Fourth Regiments of the United States Marines paraded at the Race Course at 8 am. until the last' dance at the Columbia Country Club late at night and it showed, as perhaps never before, the alacrity with which the Shang-hal spirit responds to all great national occasions, the many separate communities assembled here uniting, success. happily to make each celebration a
The first event was the Marine parade and. flag-raising ceremony, held at the polo grounds on the Race Course and attended by civil and military leaders and members the American colony generally. This demonstration started at 8 o'clock, the entire Fourth Regiment " particlpating. The salute was taken by Col. John C, Beaumont, commanding officer: Mr. Paul R. Joseiyn, American Consul; and Capt. Walter F. Jacobs of the US, Navy Chautransport mont.
After the reception the American Club in Foochow Road held open house to several hundred invited guests, serving a typically American cold tifin which included "Boston daked" beans and American-style les. Before tifin was served, Judge Helmick offered a toast to the president. The Marine Band -also played at this event.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.