Harry Hill and the Champions Of Water
The Story Of How the Promoter, Saloon Owner and Ex-Champion Wrestler
Helped the Growth Of the Women's Christian Temperance Crusaders In New York
#PWHS #Article #HarryHill #ChampionsOfWater #Temperance #NY #NewYork
March 21, 1874
On March 9, 1874 an article was printed inside the New York Herald triple sheet. It was titled "The Temperance Movement in New York." The word "temperance" is not a common one in this day and age, so, just in case anyone is unaware of what it means here is the Merriam-Webster definition:
"1. The practice of drinking little or no alcohol.
2. The practice of always controlling your actions, thoughts, or feelings so that you do not eat or drink too much, become too angry, etc."
It is the latter meaning that is applicable to the bulk of this article. The movement had actually started several decades prior to the 1870s in and around the Northeast of America and eventually became an international movement in English speaking countries at least. It started as an outcry as hard liquor only. With the civil war breaking out in the 1860s that lead to the quietening of those in support for various reasons. Other parts of the country picked back up where they had left off before the war, but by then they were against all alcohol. It took a while for the vastly populated New York City to get back on board. That's not to say there were had not been people who still believed in the movement, they were just not as forceful nor taken as seriously in getting their beliefs across with lectures being confined to private places. Now they were holding a meeting in new territory. Right in the middle of enemy ground you could say.
Pretty much as you would expect, the main two reasons for this movement being backed in the big apple were that alcohol caused crime and lowered the moral values of those who consumed it. Of course, as we all learned in school the Temperance Movement did end up winning the fight in America for a little over a decade with a nationwide prohibition in place. That happened close to fifty years after the March 9 article was printed and over twenty years after the man who housed that first meeting in New York City passed away around the age of 70 years old.
By now you're probably wondering why I am jabbering on about all of this. Well, those of you reading this who know anything about the early history of professional wrestling you will have have heard of Harry Hill. Most likely if you have read a little about him, two things would have stood out:
1. He was a famed, respected and once a champion wrestler in the Northeast of America.
2. He promoted wrestling and boxing at the venue he owned. The one named Harry Hill's Variety Theatre, but known to the locals as Harry Hill's Saloon.
Yes, it was a real bonafide saloon for the time period. It had a bar which sold liquor, a stage, female waiters and held various kinds of entertainment and functions. Hill's venue was opened in 1854 after making a name for himself in sporting communities. He continued to wrestle after he purchased the saloon, even winning the "Collar & Elbow Championship" from Lieutenant Ainsworth on April 14, 1863. His victory was followed with a speech to the audience from Hill telling them that this would be his last wrestling match match. He did wrestle again, seemingly as all wrestlers do. The occasions he did were very sparse though and stopped completely by the end of the decade. Around 1867 he acquired a sporting entertainment licence and began to promote boxing and wrestling bouts from his saloon. Also owning a stable just around the corner from his establishment, Hill did not need to actively perform anyway from a financial standpoint.
Hill was an advocate of drinking and gambling. Given the two properties he made his living off of that is hardly surprising. So, why would Harry Hill want to host such a gathering in his saloon and why would backers of the Temperance Movement want to hold it there? For the T.M. lot it was pretty straight forward and they believed that the best way to convert boisterous booze hounds was to preach to them directly in their own environment. As for Hill, publicly it was said he just wanted to give them a platform to speak on. The Herald journalist was not convinced by this though and saw it as a way for a rum-seller to drum up publicity and thus more business for the sale of dram. Although over time those cries of a sham were dropped from print.
The meeting held on March 8, the day of the Sabbath, was not the first time Hill had offered to cater for the needs of them, in fact, originally the room had been booked for the prior Sunday. It's worth noting that the group who booked the hall were the "Ladies of the New York Temperance Movement." The original movement in the early 1800s had actually been started by middle-class women and groups for women were still common in the 1870s, however, many men from other groups had also joined what they called the crusade. At this point in time the men were more numerous in New York City.
March 21, 1874
The venue had been "beautifully lighted" for the evening of March 1. Unfortunately the women no-showed and Hill had to announce to a packed house that he did not know why, but the "hymn singing ladies" had disappointed him, but anyone in attendance who wished to speak on the subject of temperance was welcome to speak as everyone was here. A gentleman profusely thanked Hill for the opportunity and went as far as saying that he hoped Hill, "Would one day abandon the liquor business and become a preacher of the gospel." The evening continued in a friendly manner with an orderly debate taking place between people with views from one side of the fence or the other. Proceedings went so well that the head of the New York Union Temperance Prayer Meeting booked the room for a prayer meeting on March 8.
There were many temperance women in attendance on the second occasion. The Herald reports, "Harry had his saloon in ship-shape order by six o'clock and the 'full gas,' as he termed the light which streamed brilliant from the chandelier over the bar, and from the one which serves to make the stage visible from the furthest corner of the 'theatre,' made the saloon quite attractive in appearance." A point is made by the writer to state that a section was set aside for reporters at the rear of the stage. He also points out that Hill was "exceedingly gallant" with seeing to everyone in attendance.
One incident occurred early in the evening while Hill was showing a lady to the upstairs seating. She is described as having "a plain face and a wild look about the eyes." Before she could get to her seat though she had to pass through a door way, due to the writing on the sign above she stopped dead in her path. Clearly by her body language she was unhappy, even angry at what it said. At that very moment Hill had gone to offer her his arm in a gentlemanly manner. It was not taken she was so offended.
"She exclaimed, 'How dare you presume' -
'Madam,' said the wily saloon keeper, 'I think you will be better at your ease up stairs, where all the young ladies are to meet, and I only offered you my to' -
The words 'young lady' had a mollifying effect, and the fierce little lady replied, 'I don't mind your arm, but I don't like the idea of entering under a sign like that. People will think"
Hill again cut her off before she could finish her sentence. Those in the lounge that had been enjoying a drink could not help but chuckle as they all realized she was offended by being taken into a "Wine Room" as the sign above the door stated.
"I assure you there is no wine open in the room just now," replied Harry as they finished climbing the stairs. Not done there he took a chair for the lady and placed it carefully in the entrance of the door so only half of it was inside the room. That way she could feel slightly more comfortable with the seating arrangements. It is not noted, but I can't imagine he kept a straight face while rearranging the furniture for her. Not that Harry took the occasion lively, he spent the night on the platform with the temperance members to make sure order was kept. In an opening speech he stated, "I want order kept," once finished he received a loud applause.
The ladies sang hymns accompanied by a piano and a prayer was given to help their cause. The NYUTPM president, Frank McMullen, read from his Bible. When some members in the crowd got restless in listening and decided to entertain themselves, true to his word, Hill yelled his distinctive cry of, "HORDER, gentlemen." A few more times the English born ex-wrestler had to make the same demand, especially when McMullen stated he did not consider it wise to sell and drink wine, "'Ow habout the beers, you know?" Undeterred McMullen explained that Hill even though selling liquor was actually doing good by going against his own beliefs in allowing people of a completely opposite one speak on the matter in his establishment. He also expressed that he did not see spreading the word of the Bible and it's causes to try and convert people a "desecration of the Sabbath" as some "fastidious Christians" might.
In a shocking moment, McMullen acknowledged that churches had refused to let them inside to hold their meeting, so how could "Hill not be doing good?" Or at least that was his perspective. To close he thanked the audience for listening and keeping good order. A lady called Mrs. Lawrence followed him by reading out letters that were to be sent to various important people ranging from the editor of the New York Times to the President's wife, Mrs. Grant. Even Hill's shouting of "HORDER" could not quell the uproarious laughter from those in the crowd at the asking of Mrs Grant to pass a message on to her husband. They quietened down after a minute or two and had got it out of their system.
The night ended with a rendition of "Doxology." The reporter from the Herald who was there to witness the whole thing said that as soon as the women were gone the punters who were left started back up their criticisms of the temperance movement. They said among themselves that it was they and Harry Hill who had the backing of their Bible in drinking booze and not those religious folk. As he left the building the same reporter said he could hear one man exclaim, "Them temperance talkers have made me awful thirsty; give me this one stronger than the other, please."
It is doubtful many people were converted on that day, but the members of the T.M. certainly were pleased with the night and how they were treated in Hill's joint, Hill had many people in the place and it's said a thousand or so were inside. Yet the Herald took real exception to Hill's involvement in the whole thing.
In the same March 9 edition of the newspaper, but a different article, they said the following of Hill, "The opening scene of the temperance war took place last night in the saloon of the notorious Harry Hill, a sport well known as the resort of pugilists, rowdies and the fancy." It goes on to say he offered his hall to them as he was a "wide-awake proprietor," then they refer to him as a "shrewd rumseller" and his customers as "gibing roughs." The whole article is very clear in it's purpose to paint barrooms as horrible places full of disrepute, not just Hill's, every single one of them. His argument is that by good, clean women going to such places rather than them converting the male patrons, they will end up becoming regulars instead.
There were many temperance women in attendance on the second occasion. The Herald reports, "Harry had his saloon in ship-shape order by six o'clock and the 'full gas,' as he termed the light which streamed brilliant from the chandelier over the bar, and from the one which serves to make the stage visible from the furthest corner of the 'theatre,' made the saloon quite attractive in appearance." A point is made by the writer to state that a section was set aside for reporters at the rear of the stage. He also points out that Hill was "exceedingly gallant" with seeing to everyone in attendance.
One incident occurred early in the evening while Hill was showing a lady to the upstairs seating. She is described as having "a plain face and a wild look about the eyes." Before she could get to her seat though she had to pass through a door way, due to the writing on the sign above she stopped dead in her path. Clearly by her body language she was unhappy, even angry at what it said. At that very moment Hill had gone to offer her his arm in a gentlemanly manner. It was not taken she was so offended.
"She exclaimed, 'How dare you presume' -
'Madam,' said the wily saloon keeper, 'I think you will be better at your ease up stairs, where all the young ladies are to meet, and I only offered you my to' -
The words 'young lady' had a mollifying effect, and the fierce little lady replied, 'I don't mind your arm, but I don't like the idea of entering under a sign like that. People will think"
Hill again cut her off before she could finish her sentence. Those in the lounge that had been enjoying a drink could not help but chuckle as they all realized she was offended by being taken into a "Wine Room" as the sign above the door stated.
"I assure you there is no wine open in the room just now," replied Harry as they finished climbing the stairs. Not done there he took a chair for the lady and placed it carefully in the entrance of the door so only half of it was inside the room. That way she could feel slightly more comfortable with the seating arrangements. It is not noted, but I can't imagine he kept a straight face while rearranging the furniture for her. Not that Harry took the occasion lively, he spent the night on the platform with the temperance members to make sure order was kept. In an opening speech he stated, "I want order kept," once finished he received a loud applause.
The ladies sang hymns accompanied by a piano and a prayer was given to help their cause. The NYUTPM president, Frank McMullen, read from his Bible. When some members in the crowd got restless in listening and decided to entertain themselves, true to his word, Hill yelled his distinctive cry of, "HORDER, gentlemen." A few more times the English born ex-wrestler had to make the same demand, especially when McMullen stated he did not consider it wise to sell and drink wine, "'Ow habout the beers, you know?" Undeterred McMullen explained that Hill even though selling liquor was actually doing good by going against his own beliefs in allowing people of a completely opposite one speak on the matter in his establishment. He also expressed that he did not see spreading the word of the Bible and it's causes to try and convert people a "desecration of the Sabbath" as some "fastidious Christians" might.
In a shocking moment, McMullen acknowledged that churches had refused to let them inside to hold their meeting, so how could "Hill not be doing good?" Or at least that was his perspective. To close he thanked the audience for listening and keeping good order. A lady called Mrs. Lawrence followed him by reading out letters that were to be sent to various important people ranging from the editor of the New York Times to the President's wife, Mrs. Grant. Even Hill's shouting of "HORDER" could not quell the uproarious laughter from those in the crowd at the asking of Mrs Grant to pass a message on to her husband. They quietened down after a minute or two and had got it out of their system.
The night ended with a rendition of "Doxology." The reporter from the Herald who was there to witness the whole thing said that as soon as the women were gone the punters who were left started back up their criticisms of the temperance movement. They said among themselves that it was they and Harry Hill who had the backing of their Bible in drinking booze and not those religious folk. As he left the building the same reporter said he could hear one man exclaim, "Them temperance talkers have made me awful thirsty; give me this one stronger than the other, please."
It is doubtful many people were converted on that day, but the members of the T.M. certainly were pleased with the night and how they were treated in Hill's joint, Hill had many people in the place and it's said a thousand or so were inside. Yet the Herald took real exception to Hill's involvement in the whole thing.
In the same March 9 edition of the newspaper, but a different article, they said the following of Hill, "The opening scene of the temperance war took place last night in the saloon of the notorious Harry Hill, a sport well known as the resort of pugilists, rowdies and the fancy." It goes on to say he offered his hall to them as he was a "wide-awake proprietor," then they refer to him as a "shrewd rumseller" and his customers as "gibing roughs." The whole article is very clear in it's purpose to paint barrooms as horrible places full of disrepute, not just Hill's, every single one of them. His argument is that by good, clean women going to such places rather than them converting the male patrons, they will end up becoming regulars instead.
March 21, 1874
All credit has to be given to the Herald as they printed both a letter from Harry Hill and words from the temperance followers who were at the theater on Sunday in the March 10 edition. Mrs. Lawrence called the accusations that the performance was unsuccessful and that nobody had heeded their word, simple lies. She said some people drank to keep up their bravado, but pledged the next day. Others she said vowed to "never drink in Harry's again.' A man by the name of Mr. Molliet referred to certain newspapers in New York being like the Dublin News Letter in Ireland. Who he said was run by an editor that liked to get drunk and print philippics against temperance for his own satisfaction.
On the same page of the newspaper it was reported that the Methodist Episcopal church in Astoria held a temperance meeting on March 9. During the proceedings the president, W.C. Steele announced that they should reject the idea that the meeting held in Hill's building as a true part of the movement, believing that it was impracticable. What exactly he meant by that was not provided in the write-up.
Hill expressed his unhappiness in regards to the picture painted of him in the March 9 article mentioned above. The term "notorious" was specifically listed in the letter he wrote, feeling that they did not mean it in a flattering manner. The slight against his saloon and the sporting activities held within it seemed to do the most damage to his "equanimity" as he put it. Three paragraphs made up the letter with the whole of the second one being about sports. So, I've included the whole thing for you to read:
"My saloon may be 'the resort of pugilists and the fancy,' but it never was, and, so long as I remain it's landlord, it never shall, become the 'resort of rowdies.' My doors are always open to everybody, being in this respect on the same footing with theatres and other places of public amusement - to say nothing of churches - but my visitors conduct themselves in an orderly, quiet manner, or they have forthwith to quit the establishment. The entertainment nightly presented to my patrons is similar to many given in Broadway and like fashionable localities, with the addition, occasionally, of sparring, wrestling and other athletic exercises; while the entire proceedings are conducted with the utmost decorum. The HERALD, I am sure, has long been cognizant of this fact. Whether pugilism, wrestling and similar feats of skill and strength be disreputable or otherwise I will not at present argue. They form part of many highly patronized entertainments in London, Paris and other European cities; and scholarly men have been accustomed to speak of them with admiration when taking place in the Isthmian games or the much be-lauded arenas of ancient Rome. Does the mere change of scene make these exercises disreputable which formerly were considered worthy of the sculptor's chisel and the undying songs of poets?"
Side Note: Isthmian Games
Were held in honor of the sea God Poseidon during Spring and would fall the year prior to the Olympic games and then again the year after them. The Isthmian games featured athletic events (chariot racing, boxing, pankration and wrestling) mixed with both poetical and musical competitions. They appear to have been started either in the 6th or 7th century B.C.
Again Hill is adamant that he let the ladies make use of his premises, he thinks that "these people should have a fair chance of being heard." A reminder is made that he made sure order was kept throughout the night which is something he will continue to do so ongoing until the ladies decide to no longer use the saloon as a platform to be heard from. Apparently he knew before he made the offer that once he did he'd be left open to accusations of "interesting motives." Here he points out that he actually closed the bar during the meeting and thus took no money while the hymn singers were present. He finishes up the letter with the following final statement:
"Although opposed to the full platform of the 'temperance crusaders,' I yet, sympathize with them in their efforts to check the evils of intoxication. 'Rumseller' I am, and therefore in the same category with the landlords of the Fifth Avenue, Windsor and other palatial hotels; but I believe that vinous and alcoholic stimulants are given to us for a wise and beneficent purpose, and that no wrong attaches to the judicious use of such beverages, but solely to their abuse."
February 1874
Strangely, the outspoken newspaper actually had no reply for Hill. In fact, they did not mention his name again until March 16. They gave a review of the second meeting to actually happen of the temperance women at Hill's place. Unlike the previous two there was nothing in the paper to advertise it was taking place. It is noted that less women from the movement were present, but there were many females friendly to the alcohol had been at hand in the saloon for a long time prior to the meeting started. The write-up is also much shorter this week. Then again what is said is that nothing new was said by those of a temperance persuasion and the crowd was well behaved. With the exception of a parrot (yes, as in the bird) who made habit of repeating the speakers.
Once again Harry's name does not appear on the pages of the newspaper until the following Sunday's review is printed in the March 23 edition. They start things off with the following conversation:
"'I tell you, boy,' said a fanciful-looking fellow, with a shabby pin in his shirt bosom, which was rather the shade of cafe au lait, 'that this Harry Hill is a smart man. He knows which side of his bread is buttered, and no mistake. Don't you think so?'
'Well, I don't know about that,' answered the more philosophical of the two roughs, one of whom was a middle-weight, while the first speaker could not have been more than 112 pounds. 'You see as 'ow the matter stands. Them wimmen up stairs is all right on sartin things. Some on 'em is a little hoff habout wot you and I knows; but, Lord bless your soul, if we were all to think the same way there wouldn't be a sparring exhibition in the blessed country. So, I says, let them 'ave it hout; it 'elps the bar, blessed if hit don't.'"
An assemblage of people so large was present on this night that while awaiting the doors to be opened cars (horse draw carriages) were actually blocked from continuing down Houston street. They are described as a motley lot and ranged in social standing from the homeless to "honest looking and earnest women, with hymn books in their hands", to boxers and prize fighters. At least one hundred of the latter were present and another six or seven hundred of others.
Apparently any issue between the Herald and Hill has been resolved as there is a different kind of look at him for this article, "The foremost figure on the stage was Harry Hill, his close, compact and admirably athletic figure, attired in the black clothes of a deacon, and his ruddy face close shaven. To the writer of this he said, in a stage whisper: -
'Hif you 'ave to speak to me tonight, haddress me as Brother Hill; I'm registered.'" Following this is a transcript of the evenings events which I am going to type up for you as it...well, you'll see why:
"Mr. McMullen stated also that there had been various erroneous reports in the newspapers to the effect that while those Sabbath temperance meetings had been held strong liquor had been sold in Harry Hill's, and he was there to deny it. (At this point Harry smiled a beautiful smile and then subsided.) Harry Hill, the speaker went on to say, had met the crusaders with strict courtesy and the propriety, and his behavior had been that of a gentleman to the ladies. (Harry Hill here tried to look awfully modest; but the boys laughed a little solemn laugh, at which Harry seemed to be very much shocked, and glanced around at his auditory with an admonitory glance.)
Mr. McMullen - As Mr. Hill says himself, the Christian and carpeted churches refused us to deliver the doctrine of temperance to the unfortunate, and he gives us his place free and with a good will to let the people hear that which they should hearken to.
Harry Hill, (to the HERALD reporter), in sotto voce) - You see, I got a letter from these people to preside at their meeting at Association Hall last week before the Young Men's Christian Association; but, conscientiously, between you and me, I could not preside. I want to give them a show, and all that; but there is my conscience, you know. Are you dry?
Mr. McMullen (continuing) - I tell you, ladies and gentlemen, that Harry Hill has done more than all the churches put together, and let the credit be given to him.
Harry Hill (again to the reporter in a whisper) - I gives you my word this is no cap. He's doing it all hissself. (Out loud.) Horder, gents!
Mr. McMullen - We have been told that it is sacrilegious to come to Harry Hill's and speak temperance. But we have worked wonders, and we shall go on to the end until the rumsellers will have to close their dens. And before we leave this place finally we shall drive Harry Hill out of his rum trade. (Cheers.)
Harry Hill (in a whisper) - They'll 'ave up 'ill work, I think, to do it. I've got some fine old ale down stairs when they go 'ome.
Mr. McMullen - Now, Harry Hill says that hie does not believe in drunkards, and that it is the abuse and not the use of liquor that ruins mankind. Now, that's where I differ with my friend Harry.
Harry Hill (aside) - He's my friend, he is. Well, he's a good talker.
Mr. McMullen - I am certain that I would as soon see a moderate drinker put a red hot poker down his throat as to see him take one drink of rum.
Harry Hill (aside) - But the moderate drinker would rather 'ave the drink than the poker."
At this point it is pointed out by the Herald a few of the signs that lay around Hill's joint:
"Grand boxing testimonial to be held next Thursday in honor of the esteemed citizen and eminent scientist, 'Butt Reilly.'"
"LOVERS NOT APPRECIATED"
One along the lines of, "after each dance the gentleman was expected to treat his lady.'
"Hot Apple Toddy & Hot Whiskey" followed by the benefits of them printed below.
Also part of the evening was a double quartet of "colored young men and women" and they sang songs which were described as "very musical." The songs all pertained to the lives they had been born into in the swamp and rice-lands back in South Carolina as slaves. So impressed was Hill he even told the reporter that he would be signing them up to perform at his establishment.
Once again Mrs. Lawrence was on the stage this week, she had been part of the prior ones also and was considered the "life and soul" of this group of temperance folk. She gave what she thought a horrifying statistic that there were 700 churches in New York, but almost three times the amount of saloons that sold liquor (8,000). She went on to exclaim that the women had taken hold of the movement and no longer would it be sneered at like it had while it was only the men. Next she managed to draw an uneasy look from Hill as he tried to give a "ghastly smile," by stating that she knew the day would soon come when he would go to the cellar and punch holes in all the barrels of ale he had. The crowd reacted with a mixture of cheers and laughter.
Harry Hill was then given a letter to read out from the temperance meeting. It was addressed to Hill on behalf of "Mrs. P.R. Lawrence and many ladies." It went as follows:
"Dear Sir - Cooper established the Institute, Astor his library, Vassar his college, Stephen Girard his university for boys, but you can do more than all. You can be the first man to benefit all mankind. Those donations were local: Yours can be national and cosmopolitan.
Side Notes: Cooper Institute
Is the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art founded in 1858, built in 1859, by Peter Cooper in Manhattan, New York.
Astor and His Library
Founded by John Jacob Astor and Joseph Cogswell. First discussed 1839. Established in 1848 and opened in 1854 as a free public library. Later abanoned by the New York Public Library and purchased by the city to be made into the The Public Theater. It is still in Manahatten and is a registered landmark.
Vassar and His College
This is the first ever degree granting instution for higher education in the USA. It was and is housed in Poughkeepsie, New York. It is now coeducational. Founded by Matthew Vassar in 1861.
Stephen Girard His University For Boys
The Girard College located in Philadelphia now a coeducational and all race college. Built as per the will and testament left by Stephen Girard who died in 1831. His wish was for the bulk of his $7,500,000 fortune was to build a school for poor, white, male, orphaned children in Philadelphia, plus to fund its running costs. It opened in 1848.
Once again Harry's name does not appear on the pages of the newspaper until the following Sunday's review is printed in the March 23 edition. They start things off with the following conversation:
"'I tell you, boy,' said a fanciful-looking fellow, with a shabby pin in his shirt bosom, which was rather the shade of cafe au lait, 'that this Harry Hill is a smart man. He knows which side of his bread is buttered, and no mistake. Don't you think so?'
'Well, I don't know about that,' answered the more philosophical of the two roughs, one of whom was a middle-weight, while the first speaker could not have been more than 112 pounds. 'You see as 'ow the matter stands. Them wimmen up stairs is all right on sartin things. Some on 'em is a little hoff habout wot you and I knows; but, Lord bless your soul, if we were all to think the same way there wouldn't be a sparring exhibition in the blessed country. So, I says, let them 'ave it hout; it 'elps the bar, blessed if hit don't.'"
An assemblage of people so large was present on this night that while awaiting the doors to be opened cars (horse draw carriages) were actually blocked from continuing down Houston street. They are described as a motley lot and ranged in social standing from the homeless to "honest looking and earnest women, with hymn books in their hands", to boxers and prize fighters. At least one hundred of the latter were present and another six or seven hundred of others.
Apparently any issue between the Herald and Hill has been resolved as there is a different kind of look at him for this article, "The foremost figure on the stage was Harry Hill, his close, compact and admirably athletic figure, attired in the black clothes of a deacon, and his ruddy face close shaven. To the writer of this he said, in a stage whisper: -
'Hif you 'ave to speak to me tonight, haddress me as Brother Hill; I'm registered.'" Following this is a transcript of the evenings events which I am going to type up for you as it...well, you'll see why:
"Mr. McMullen stated also that there had been various erroneous reports in the newspapers to the effect that while those Sabbath temperance meetings had been held strong liquor had been sold in Harry Hill's, and he was there to deny it. (At this point Harry smiled a beautiful smile and then subsided.) Harry Hill, the speaker went on to say, had met the crusaders with strict courtesy and the propriety, and his behavior had been that of a gentleman to the ladies. (Harry Hill here tried to look awfully modest; but the boys laughed a little solemn laugh, at which Harry seemed to be very much shocked, and glanced around at his auditory with an admonitory glance.)
Mr. McMullen - As Mr. Hill says himself, the Christian and carpeted churches refused us to deliver the doctrine of temperance to the unfortunate, and he gives us his place free and with a good will to let the people hear that which they should hearken to.
Harry Hill, (to the HERALD reporter), in sotto voce) - You see, I got a letter from these people to preside at their meeting at Association Hall last week before the Young Men's Christian Association; but, conscientiously, between you and me, I could not preside. I want to give them a show, and all that; but there is my conscience, you know. Are you dry?
Mr. McMullen (continuing) - I tell you, ladies and gentlemen, that Harry Hill has done more than all the churches put together, and let the credit be given to him.
Harry Hill (again to the reporter in a whisper) - I gives you my word this is no cap. He's doing it all hissself. (Out loud.) Horder, gents!
Mr. McMullen - We have been told that it is sacrilegious to come to Harry Hill's and speak temperance. But we have worked wonders, and we shall go on to the end until the rumsellers will have to close their dens. And before we leave this place finally we shall drive Harry Hill out of his rum trade. (Cheers.)
Harry Hill (in a whisper) - They'll 'ave up 'ill work, I think, to do it. I've got some fine old ale down stairs when they go 'ome.
Mr. McMullen - Now, Harry Hill says that hie does not believe in drunkards, and that it is the abuse and not the use of liquor that ruins mankind. Now, that's where I differ with my friend Harry.
Harry Hill (aside) - He's my friend, he is. Well, he's a good talker.
Mr. McMullen - I am certain that I would as soon see a moderate drinker put a red hot poker down his throat as to see him take one drink of rum.
Harry Hill (aside) - But the moderate drinker would rather 'ave the drink than the poker."
At this point it is pointed out by the Herald a few of the signs that lay around Hill's joint:
"Grand boxing testimonial to be held next Thursday in honor of the esteemed citizen and eminent scientist, 'Butt Reilly.'"
"LOVERS NOT APPRECIATED"
One along the lines of, "after each dance the gentleman was expected to treat his lady.'
"Hot Apple Toddy & Hot Whiskey" followed by the benefits of them printed below.
Also part of the evening was a double quartet of "colored young men and women" and they sang songs which were described as "very musical." The songs all pertained to the lives they had been born into in the swamp and rice-lands back in South Carolina as slaves. So impressed was Hill he even told the reporter that he would be signing them up to perform at his establishment.
Once again Mrs. Lawrence was on the stage this week, she had been part of the prior ones also and was considered the "life and soul" of this group of temperance folk. She gave what she thought a horrifying statistic that there were 700 churches in New York, but almost three times the amount of saloons that sold liquor (8,000). She went on to exclaim that the women had taken hold of the movement and no longer would it be sneered at like it had while it was only the men. Next she managed to draw an uneasy look from Hill as he tried to give a "ghastly smile," by stating that she knew the day would soon come when he would go to the cellar and punch holes in all the barrels of ale he had. The crowd reacted with a mixture of cheers and laughter.
Harry Hill was then given a letter to read out from the temperance meeting. It was addressed to Hill on behalf of "Mrs. P.R. Lawrence and many ladies." It went as follows:
"Dear Sir - Cooper established the Institute, Astor his library, Vassar his college, Stephen Girard his university for boys, but you can do more than all. You can be the first man to benefit all mankind. Those donations were local: Yours can be national and cosmopolitan.
Side Notes: Cooper Institute
Is the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art founded in 1858, built in 1859, by Peter Cooper in Manhattan, New York.
Astor and His Library
Founded by John Jacob Astor and Joseph Cogswell. First discussed 1839. Established in 1848 and opened in 1854 as a free public library. Later abanoned by the New York Public Library and purchased by the city to be made into the The Public Theater. It is still in Manahatten and is a registered landmark.
Vassar and His College
This is the first ever degree granting instution for higher education in the USA. It was and is housed in Poughkeepsie, New York. It is now coeducational. Founded by Matthew Vassar in 1861.
Stephen Girard His University For Boys
The Girard College located in Philadelphia now a coeducational and all race college. Built as per the will and testament left by Stephen Girard who died in 1831. His wish was for the bulk of his $7,500,000 fortune was to build a school for poor, white, male, orphaned children in Philadelphia, plus to fund its running costs. It opened in 1848.
March 14, 1874
1. Close your bar.
2. Let the crusaders smash in the heads of your whiskey barrels, in the presence of 100,000 people, in Union Square.
3. Donate from the wealth you have acquired $100,000 to establish a college for children of drunkards shipwrecked by the rumsellers.
Sneerers at our holy cause say you are making fun of the crusaders - that you only open your saloon to us as an advertisement for your bar. Prove, dear Mr. Hill, by acts, that your nature is nobler than those who can laugh over a drunkard's grave. In behalf of the crusaders."
No response was given immediately from Hill, he did however have the following to say to a Herald reporter later in the evening:
"Why, wot can I do? Here hI 'ave 100 people depending on me, getting bread and butter from me, and about sixty of them are orphans and some of them are blind and cripples. Why, don't you see its against nature - such a request? I'd have a nice looking circus in Union square, knocking the heads out of my rum barrels, wouldn't I? Just fancy! It would take the whole National Guard to keep the place clear, and it would make all the bilious sour in the neighborhood for a week. And besides all the blessed hackmen around Union square would be so shamefully drunk that Mr. Matsell would have to double his detectives. No, not if I know it I don't start no lunatic asylum up town at Fourteenth street."
The meeting held on March 30 did not go so well as the previous ones. There were still upwards of 800 people in the venue, but there was one incident that soured the whole thing. At the beginning of the evening Hill pointed out to the Herald journalist that he was somewhat suspicious about what was going to happen due to the fact McMullen wasn't going to be there and he had been at every single one, even the night where the ladies failed to show. He suggested maybe there was a split between the temperance groups as well as that he had not received enough money from the collection last week to cover the costs of paying the staff who helped during the lectures and singing.
The reporter asked him, "You don't that big diamond breastpin of yours tonight, Harry; how is that?"
"Well, you see, this is a heavy undertaking, and my heart's bowed down with a weight of woe. Did you never 'ear the story of 'Awkins, as didn't know an 'awk from a 'andsaw? No! Well, I'll tell you after the bacon and greens comes on."
I must admit the meaning of that goes somewhat over my head, but maybe someone reading this can help me out there. "Bacon and greens" was a famous dish mainly eaten in the south, but as Hill was originally from England, although not London, it could have been rhyming slang for something.
Anyway, Hill stood in for McMullen as the chairman for the proceedings. Even if he was not too happy about it, which he shared with the reporters in a whisper, "Do I look hanything like Andy Johnson? People 'as remarked as 'ow hi featured 'im a good bit."
As with the meetings which came before, Hill found himself another form of employment being suggested as a benefit to him. He replied for the reporter's ears only, "That would be a nice bizness for me to go into, wouldn't it, selling of sandbags? What would that buy I wonder? Well I'm blessed, if that isn't a notion?" Just a short time later Hill had to jump into action:
"Horder, gents; horder, please. After nine o'clock I propose to give this room, when the temperance folks have got through, to those who wish to debate on this 'ere matter. I like me beer, as you hall know - (cheers) - so I don't want too much radical talk either way. If it was in a church I would behave myself in a church if I was hin one, and I wants hevery one 'ere to behave hisself, too. (Cheers.)"
The incident occurred a little later in the evening when the place erupted with laughter at the mention of a temperance paper called the "Crusader" was announced as available for five cents. This is what happened next:
"Mrs. Lawrence now came forward, and with her hair streaming behind, in an excited manner said:- O, my God! The interest I have felt in Harry Hill's meetings is gone, for no sooner had we left off praying here last Sunday night than Harry Hill began to deal out at that bar the cup of eternal damnation to the peril of your immortal souls - (laughter) - the cup which will send you all to hell. O, my brethren, can you not see what you are doing?
Harry Hill - (looking very mad) - That's a nice way to speak of my best brandy. I don't sell no kerosene; blessed if hi do.
Mrs. Lawrence - in a few hours I shall leave you forever - never to come back to you. I have made my last appeal to you, Harry Hill, until I shall meet you on the blessed shores of immortality. I have been maligned and slandered because I have endeavored to plead unto Harry Hill to give up his infernal rum trade.
A Bystander - It would take a tough man to make her shut up.
Harry Hill - Indeed, I believe you. She is crowding me on the ropes.
Mrs. Lawrence - I saw a man the other day with his shirt split down his back, and I asked him to give up the rum drinking. He said, 'My God, how can I do it,' and he bared his breast and showed me the mark of a rum bottle that was given to him by his mother before his birth.
Harry Hill - I'm blessed if I didn't think that it was pricked in with the India ink.
Mrs. Lawrence - Alexander wept when he sat down and found that he had no more worlds to conquer, but rum conquered that great hero. I appeal to you, Harry Hill, to wash your hands clean of this infernal business. The Angel of Death is watching for you and, he stands at your door."
Order became restored when a member of the temperance group and Harry Hill got Afterwards the pledge of the temperance was read allowed to give people time to sign it. Hill reminded everyone to sign it in their own name as it was a mockery of the whole thing last week when people in attendance decided to sign a name which did not belong to them. During this the reporter says that he was asked to sign the pledge, but already had a long time ago.
Nonsense broke free again not long after which saw a voice from the audience debate with Lawrence about drinking win. Lawrence declared that wine drank in the Bible was not fermented to which the voice replied, "Well then, it was no miracle if it was not fermented. (Cheers.)"
Order was eventually managed and Hill introduced a young man named Johnny:
"He is a good temperance man, he is. Come up and take it.
Reporter - Who is the young man, Harry?
Harry Hill - Oh, he's some likely lad from Brummagem. I don't know what his name is, but he preaches at seven stone ten. (Laughter.)"
I'll let you decide on which meaning of the Brummagem was used. It was either the slang for Birmingham, England or used to say he was from the more criminal parts of society.
A little more was spoken, nothing of enough importance as to be included in the article and then the meeting was adjourned until the following Sunday.
Just as she had said Mrs. Lawrence did fail to show up for the meeting on April 5. There is no mention of women being present at all actually, only those of male dominated temperance groups. The whole evening went well as a whole. It was said to be very orderly indeed. Yet, this was the last meeting held here that I can find. There was one other by a Brooklyn based group on May 3, but, that was it for the Temperance Crusaders at Harry Hill's Variety Theatre located at number 26 East Houston Street.
There was more to happen on that April 5 night though:
Hill's "Fat Old Cook
was very troublesome. He had discharged her and took her back as she took the pledge. Rum was her ruination. She drank more than ever, and like all drunkards, swore she drank nothing. He fixed up a bottle of gin by the icebox with ipecac and julap. She was very bad. He had a ribbon round the bottle and in her hearing asked the bartender if he'd sold any out of that bottle. 'It's carbolic acid, said Harry: 'If any one's touched that they're dead, sure!' That fetched the cook. They sent for the Coroner (a well known large German reporter, with gold eyeglasses), took her ante-mortem, got Harry under bogus bonds to await results, and the cook has several bogus physicians now attending her."
Which is just a really unique look at the kind of practical joke Harry was keen on playing. His dark sense of humor which actually had an underlying meaning to it in showing the cook the error of her ways with drinking too much. That happened at the very end of the evening, but I thought it would be nice to finish this article with the final words between Harry Hill and the temperance members that had made waves and started a movement in New York which would continue to grow throughout the state.
In my opinion this shows for any wrongdoings that Hill may or may not have been culpable of including being a part of wrestling matches which most likely were not exactly straight-up affairs, he was a good-hearted man who liked to have fun, watch (now he couldn't perform in) sports, and a nice cup of cold beer to drink:
"'[McMullen] thanked Harry Hill for burning his gas and going to so much trouble to help them to try and break down his business. 'If I could only persuade Mr. Hill - this honest and truthful man - (thunders of applause) - to give up this business and open a Holly-Tree Coffee House!' (Applause.)
A collection was taken up, a hymn was sung and pledges offered. Mr. Hill then made a few remarks. He said he was not with them, but liked to give every one a hearing. As for drunkards, he was sorry for 'em. He didn't believe in pledges. If his his bartenders would keep 'em it would please him."
Unique content strictly for the Professional Wrestling Historical Society.
Harry Hill and the Champions Of Water.
Author: Jimmy Wheeler.
Published: September 7, 2016.
Article: #152.
Editor: Jimmy Wheeler.
Harry Hill and the Champions Of Water.
Author: Jimmy Wheeler.
Published: September 7, 2016.
Article: #152.
Editor: Jimmy Wheeler.
Other articles by Jimmy can be Read Here.