Book_iZ/j£^iL_ y^ 58th Congress) 3d Session I House of Representatives ( Document \ No. 469 ' NORTON R OTIS ( Late a Representative from New York ) MEMORIAL ADDRESSES DELIVERED IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Third Session of the Fifty-eighth Congress Compiled under the Direction of the Joint Committee on Printing WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1905 TABLE OF CONTEXTS Page Proceedings in the House 5 Prayer by Rev. Henry X. Couden 7 Address of Mr. Sherman, of New York 9 Address of Mr. Currier, of New Hampshire 12 Address of Mr. Smith, of New York 15 Address of Mr. Rider, of New York 18 Address of Mr. < Joulden, of New York 20 Address of Mr. Cooper, of Pennsylvania 23 Address of Mr. Bouvnge, of Colorado 26 Address of Mr. Stevens, of Minnesota 29 Address of Mr. Dunwell, of New York 35 Proceedings in the Senate 39 Death of Representative Norton P. Otis PROCEEDINGS IN THE HOUSE February 20, 1905. death of representative norton p. otis. Mr. Payne. Mr. Speaker, it becomes my sad duty to announce the death of my late colleague, Hon. Norton P. Otis, which occurred at his home in Youkers, N. Y., this morning. I send the following resolutions to the Clerk's desk. The Clerk read as follows: Resolved, That the House has heard with profound regret of the untimely death of Hon. Norton P. Otis, late a Representative from the State of New York. Resolved, That a committee of eleven members of the House, with such members of the Senate as may he joined, he appointed to attend the funeral. Resolved, That the Serjeant-at-Arms of the House of Representatives be authorized and directed to take such steps as may be necessary for carrying out the provisions of these resolutions, and that the necessary expense in connection therewith be paid out of the contingent fund of the House. Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions "to the Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. The resolutions were unanimously agreed to. The Speaker appointed as a committee to attend the funeral Mr. Sherman, Mr. Currier. Mr. Smith of New York. Mr. Sul- zer, Mr. Douglas, Mr. Bassett, Mr. Golden, Mr. Bonynge, Mr. Legare, Mr. Thomas, and Mr. Dickerman. Mr. Payne. Mr. Speaker, as a further mark of respect to the deceased member, I move that the House do now adjourn. 5 6 Proceedings in the House The motion was agreed to; accordingly (at 7 o'clock and 10 minutes p. m. ) the House adjourned until to-morrow at 12 o'clock noon. February 22, 1905. message from the senate. A message from the Senate, by Mr. Parkinson, its reading clerk, announced that the Senate had passed without amend- ment the following resolutions: Resolved, That the Senate has heard with deep sensibility the an- nouncement (if the death of Hon. Norton I'. OTIS, late a Representative from the State of New York. Resolved, That a committee of five Senators he appointed by the Pre- siding Officer to join the committee appointed on the part of the House of Representatives to take order for superintending the funeral of the deceased. Resolved, That as a further mark of respect to the memory of the deceased the Senate do now adjourn. Resolved, That the Secretary communicate these resolutions to the House of Representatives. And that the Presiding Officer had announced the appoint- ment of Mr. Depew, Mr. Burrows, Mr. F.lkins, Mr. Martin, and Mr. Blackburn as the committee on the part of the Senate to join the committee on the part of the House of Representatives. February 24. 1905. obskouies of the late representative otis. Mr. Sherman. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that Sunday, the 26th instant, be fixed as the time when his associates may express their views on the life and character of the late Norton P. Otis. The Speaker. The gentleman from New York asks unani- mous consent that on Sunday next there be exercises on the life and character of the late Norton P. Otis. Is there objection? There was no objection. MEMORIAL ADDRESSES Sunday, February 26, Jyoj. The House was called to order at 12 o'clock noon by William J. Browning, Chief Clerk, who announced that the Speaker had designated the Hon, William P. Hepburn as Speaker pro tem- pore for this day. Mr. Hepburn took the chair as Speaker pro tempore. The Chaplain, Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D., offered the following prayer: Our Father who art in heaven, we thank Thee for that deep and ever-abiding faith which looks up to Thee as the creator, upholder, and sustainer of all, and for that eternal hope which binds us to Thee by ties which neither time nor space can sever. "For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus, our Lord." For without these angels from Thy heart. O God, life would be indeed a desert without a single oasis to cheer the weary traveler on his way. With these even the mystery of death is solved, so when it comes and takes away our dear ones we can throw ourselves into the everlasting arms and feel the warm pulsations of a heavenly Father's heart and say : There is no death! What seem-, so is transition; This life of mortal breath Is but a suburb of the life elysian, Whose portal we eall Death. 7 8 Memorial Addresses So send, we beseech Thee, our heavenly Father, these angels to comfort the hearts of the colleagues, friends, and families of those for whom we have gathered here to-day in loving remem- brance, and Thine be the praise forever, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. THE LATE HON. NORTON P. OTIS. Mr. Sherman. Mr. .Speaker, I offer the resolutions which I send to the Clerk's desk. The Speaker pro tempore. The Clerk will report the reso- lutions. The Clerk read as follows: Resolved, That the business of the House of Representatives be now suspended that opportunity may be given for tribute to the memory of Hon. Norton P. OTIS, late a Member of the House of Representatives from the State of New York. Resolved, That as a special mark of respect to the memory of the deceased, and in recognition of his eminent abilities as a distinguished and useful public servant, citizen, and man, the House, at the conclusion of these exercises, stand adjourned. Resolved, That the Clerk of the House communicate these resolutions to the Senate of the United States. Resolved, That the Clerk also transmit a copy of these resolutions to the family of the deceased. Address of Mr. Sherman, of New York Address of Mr. Sherman, of New York Mr. Speaker: Norton P. Otis was a Yermonter by birth. He was born in 1840. During his manhood life he demon- strated the possession of those sterling qualities which seem indigenous to Vermont soil. Measured by whatever standard the world may choose, Norton P. Otis was a most successful man. His was not tile success made public by public print, by the manipulation of the so-called "frenzied finance," nor by the notoriety acquired by some unusual accomplishment, but rather it was the success that came by patient plodding, careful thought, and continuous and unceasing effort. What he acquired he worked for, and in every effort of life the same thoroughness that characterized him in business brought him the "well done" of those with whom he was associated. It was to no individual more than to Mr. Otis that the privilege was given of changing the topography and business of our great centers. It was he who first saw the great future of the company of which he was the head. By the complete mas- tery of the details of the business he was able to improve on the "lifts" of the past until they became the fastest elevators of the present. By so doing he made it possible for a whole town to be housed on a small space of ground. It would lie difficult to imagine what our great cities would be were it not for the elevator service of to-day. The values in real estate have been enhanced by the removal of the skyward limit of use of a single plot. The massing of ^reat to Life and Character of Norton P. Otis volumes of business within an exceedingly contracted terri- tory in New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, which has so materially aided the wondrous growth of the great commer- cial centers, is largely due to the practical thought of Mr. Otis and his associates. From early manhood up to the very day of his death Mr. Otis kept close watch of all the details of his business, ever looking for improvements and ever seeking to draw about him the best inventive skill and genius. While perhaps he may not be called a captain of finance, he certainly was a general in business. But the value of Mr. Otis to the community was not con- fined to the great business of which he was master. He was great in his home life, in the community in which he lived, and in public affairs in which he was interested. In many respects he was a model citizen, because he was large enough to give his time and thought not only to the development of his chosen work but to all the affairs which help to build up the community and develop the State and nation. Even while he was busiest in his own work, he was ever ready to respond to the call of his fellow-citizens to the work in city, State, or nation. As a member of the New York State legislature and as mayor of the city of Yonkers he made a record for himself that is a heritage to his family and com- munity. No more painstaking, industrious, or careful public servant ever occupied a public office than he, and every public position which he occupied was always accepted with the perfect knowledge that it was a personal sacrifice upon his part; was accepted in response to duty rather than desire. But he never hesitated, for to him duty was more precious than money. As president of the New York State commission to the Paris Exposition his work was preeminently satisfactory. Address of Mr. Sherman, of New York 11 By personal solicitation and effort he succeeded in favorably impressing the State which he represented upon the exposition juries, and because of his personality and effort he was recog- nized by the French Government with a decoration. His service here was but a single term, and during that period he was battling the disease which finally- became victor in bis death. To many, therefore, he was possibly but slightly known, and the impress he made was slight compared to that made in former public service. Those, however, closely associated with him, who saw most of him, who knew him best, recognized in him those qualities which go to make a real man. Those who knew him will miss him, but we are the richer because of his character, his life, and his worth. It was, however, in his home life that the great strength of his character was particularly noticeable. Those who have had the privilege of catching a glimpse of that life will never forget its beautiful simplicity. Methodical and rugged in business, in his home he was ever a tender, devoted, and thoughtful husband and father. His was an ideal home; he the ideal husband and father. If greatness must contain the ingredient of success, if it must have character in its composition, and if goodness is a sine qua non of its make-up, Norton P. Otis was indeed truly great. 12 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis Address of Mr. Currier, of New Hampshire Mr. Speaker: When Speaker Cannon appointed the com- mittees for this Congress, Mr. Skiles, of Ohio, was named as chairman of the Committee on Patents, and I was made the ranking member. Very early in the second session Mr. Skiles died, and I was appointed by the Speaker as chairman, and Mr. Otis became the ranking member of that committee, and now he, too, has crossed the dark river. Mr. Otis was elected to the Fifty-eighth Congress, from a district previously Demo- cratic, at a time when the political tide was running strongly against his party. Probably no other Republican could have been elected from that district at that time. We, who came to know something of him here, could readily understand his great strength with the people who knew him well. His brief sendee here was altogether creditable to him and to the district he represented. It so happened that I saw little of him except in the committee room, but there I quickly came to rely on his good judgment and sound sense always displayed in any discussion involving matters, often somewhat intricate, pend- ing before the committee. At the head of a great manufactur- ing enterprise, himself an inventor, the work of the committee was congenial to him, and he was peculiarly fitted to act as an adviser regarding the practical working of our patent system. His quickness of apprehension, his exact information, his sound judgment, and the interest he took and the industry he displayed in the work of the committee made him a most valuable member. His kindness, his sincerity and frankness, his perfect courtesv and the charm of his manners made the members of Address of Mr. Currier, of New Hampshire 13 that committee his loving friends. That in all his dealings he was perfectly honest goes without saying — few men ever come to this House who do not possess that quality— but he possessed that rarer quality, perfect intellectual integrity : he never quib- bled or unfairly stated a proposition. The House had the benefit of his services for only the first two sessions of this Congress. Failing health prevented his attending the House this winter and caused him to decline a reelection. Long before he came to Congress he took an active interest in public affairs and served his city and State, as we who knew him even slightlv know, ably and well. It is said that a man who makes two ears of corn and two blades of grass to grow where only one grew before is a public benefactor. If that be true, then certainly there are few fields of human endeavor in which a capable, generous, and high-minded man can lie of more benefit to his fellows than in building up and maintaining a great business enterprise which gives steady employment at good wages, in season and out, to hundreds of men. This Mr. Otis did, and he did more — he took always an active personal interest in the individual welfare of those he employed. He was their loyal friend, realizing to the fullest extent all their just claims upon him and freely granting them, and in all their troubles they had his sympathy and aid. And his men in return were loyal and faithful to him. as men usually are to such an employer, not envious of his success, but proud of it and of the share they had in bringing it about. No lock- outs or strikes ever marred the conduct of his business. When a great manufacturing enterprise or a great railroad lias at its head a man who takes a kindly and generous interest in the welfare of the men in its employ, always ready to listen patiently to their grievances and quick to remedy them as far as possible, there is little danger of developing there any of those senseless agitators who contend that those who do the 14 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis mere manual work produce all and are entitled to all. In his generous heart there was no room for prejudice against the attempt of laboring men to better their condition by organiza- tion. He realized how much of good the great labor organi- zations have accomplished, and with their main aim he was in entire sympathy. The last time I ever saw him he stood upon this floor in charge of a bill asked for by the typographical union, reported from the Committee on Patents, to protect the printers of this country from an unfair foreign competition. I said to him that if there was opposition to the bill, I would see that he had support from both sides of the Chamber, but he needed none, and the bill passed. An able public servant, an exceedingly capable business man, kind, courteous, a gentleman always, he will be long missed and mourned. Address of Mr. Smith, of New York 15 Address of Mr. Smith, of New York Mr. Speaker: At the flood tide of a distinguished and suc- cessful career, when experience had equipped him to render still greater service to his fellow-man; standing on the threshold of a- most promising Congressional life, enjoying to a high degree the confidence and affection of his colleagues; just when his children, of whom he was justly proud, were approaching man- hood and womanhood, at a time when he and his devoted wife could most enjoy the fruits of their mutual devotion to their children, Xortox P. Otis was cut off in the full flower of his usefulness. Surely God's ways are past finding out. We who survive know that from the world's working force has been subtracted a man whose influence was most potent for good, who helped all with whom his life came in touch; and while it is difficult for us to understand why he should have been taken away just at this time we believe that He "who maketh all things to work together for the good of those who love Him " knew best, and that Norton P. Otis's part in God's grand plan of human life had been accomplished. His part was no small part. To him were granted rare opportunities and unu- sual ability to serve his fellow-men in many of the walks of life. As a philanthropist he was most generous, giving not only lib- erally of his means, but out of a very busy life he found time to take a most active interest in many lines of charitable work. In the city of his adoption he was an ever-present force for the betterment of all its civic conditions. He devoted consid- erable of his time to increasing the efficiency of the public schools, served in many of the other departments of city 1 6 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis government, and when called by a large majorityof his townsmen to the chief executive office of Yonkers discharged his duties as mayor of that city with great judgment and skill. In the leg- islative halls of his State and in the council of the nation, as a Member of this body, he was faithful, fearless, and incorruptible. He was a man of large affairs, and in the business world was one of the captains of industry. Bringing to the devel- opment of the Otis elevator a practical and inventive mind, he perfected that lift until it stands foremost in the world. He was especially beloved by his employees, and during the many years that he was the master spirit of that immense business he enjoyed the confidence and affection of those in his employ. So fair and just was he to them that during all those years there was never a strike or any serious disagree- ment between himself and his hundreds of employees. In his own city he was the champion of everything that was progressive and for the best welfare of the entire com- munity. Public spirited, broad minded, he possessed the respect and friendship of all who knew him. By his modest, unassuming manners, by the warmth of his sympathy and the wisdom of his counsel, he won and held men. Mr. Speaker, however high we may climb on the ladder of fame, no matter what success we may achieve in the battle of life, nothing, no, nothing, can compare to the satisfaction of knowing we stand well at home. To have won in so high a degree as did Norton P. Otis the friendship and esteem of those whom he came in contact witli from day to day is one of the greatest of his life's achievements. With a courage that never wavered, he bore patiently and without murmuring the slow tortures of his dread disease, fully realizing that there could be but one ending. At his beautiful home, so appropiately named " Buena Vista," situ- Address of Mr. Smith, of New York 17 ated on the banks of the Hudson River, overlooking the historic Palisades, he awaited the inevitable summons, sus- tained by an unfaltering trust in Providence, by the loving sympathy of wife and children, and by the knowledge that, as with the lamp of memory he turned the pages of his life's work and ran up and down the columns of life's suc- cesses and life's defeats, high, high in the column must prized by him would be found this credit entry: " NORTON P. Otis stands well with his friends and neighbors at home." H. Doc. 469, 58-3 2 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis Address of Mr. Rider, of New York Mr. Speaker: At such a time as this to pay a tribute of respect to a good man and a colleague is a sad and solemn duty. Time and time again amid the hurry and bustle, the excitement and confusion of life, we are brought face to face with the stern reality of its speedy termination. Next to life the most sig- nificant symbol is death. "Death is an uusurveyed land and unarranged science. ' ' The poet contemplates death only for a moment and draws back in terror. The historian recognizes it as an universal fact. The philosopher finds it the basis of much speculation — this great mystery of being not. All contribu- tions to this dread theme are marked by a mystical vagueness, and the shadows dwell heavily on every pathway of approach. Yesterday we accepted as a gift from one of the great Com- monwealths the statues of two of its heroes — men who have left their impress upon the citizenship of their State; men whose names will live for centuries. I sometimes think that in our intense admiration and hero worship for great captains and statesmen we sometimes lose sight of the men who march in the ranks. We are too narrow and exclusive in our notions of what constitutes goodness and greatness. Privates of the army are just as essential to the success of the battle as the general who plans it. This is well illustrated by the life of the man in whose mem- ory we have met to-day. It is an easy matter to summarize the striking incidents and to mention the successes of a man's career. To speak of the Hon. Norton P. Otis as the mayor of the city of Yonkers, as Address of Mr. Rider, of New York 19 a member of the New York State legislature, as one of the members of the commission from New York at the World's Exposition at Paris, as a member of Congress, does not by any means tell us the story of his life. As a representative business man of the city of New York, the head of a great corporation, he stands out as a striking illustration of an employer full of sympathy with those he employed ; an example of fair dealing and high-mindedness in these days of frenzied finance and wild speculation. He has left a lasting impress upon the commercial life of the country and contributed much to the general good of his fellow-man along these lines. His wide and unostentatious charity was the means of relieving hundreds of distress. The charm and purity of his domestic life made his home truly representative. His delightful personality seemed to irradiate goodness. By all these qualities he made for himself an immortality incorpo- rate in the lives of those with whom he was brought in con- tact. His life tended to the betterment of mankind. One oi a vast army who work — That each to-morro\v Find us farther than to-day. It is not ours to measure relative merit or award the palm of virtue; of one thing only are we certain, that for all lovers and servers of humanity (whatever may have been their sta- tion in life 1 there is reserved, not a niche in the grand valhalla of the Northern Gods or a bower in the chill and pallid moon- light of a Greek Elysium, but a welcome ami a home in that beautiful and tranquil world which is the goal of all our earthly aspirations — the world of solved problems, of realized ideals, of yearning affections quenched in the fullness of frui- tions, that world where the spirit is ever willing and the flesh never weak. 2o Life and Character of Norton P. Otis Address of Mr. Goulden, of New York Mr. Speaker: On Monday, February 20, the flags on the nation's Capitol announced the death of a man prominent in the life and activities of the country. Though in his first term, Norton P. Otis had, in his quiet and dignified way, made many friends in Congress. His lovable, kindly disposition drew and held men to him. On account of poor health while here he did not exhibit that energy and force which characterized a busy and suc- cessful life. As his neighbor, representing the city portion of what was formerly the old Sixteenth district, it was my good fortune to meet and confer frequently with him. The interests of the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Congressional districts were identical in many respects. The relations of the people were close and intimate; our residences were but a few miles apart, and our offices for many years less than three blocks distant and on the same thoroughfare. During the first session of the present Congress a con- stituent of mine wanted a place in one of the Departments here. I experienced considerable difficulty in obtaining it. In speaking to Mr. Otis about it, he said, "Why, I can help you accomplish your friend's desire." I asked him when it would suit his convenience to accompany me to the Department having the matter in charge, and his reply was, "Now." We left the House, and within an hour my friend was appointed. Address of Mr. Goulden, of New York 21 This was one of his characteristics, and hundreds of men, and women, too, can bear testimony to his noble-heartedness and prompt action in matters of this kind. The poet had a man of Mr. OTIS'S parts in mind when he wrote: Honor and shame from no condition rise; Act well your part, there all the honor lies. In the business world his honest, straightforward manner of doing things was recognized and respected. As the head oi a large manufacturing establishment he was highly esteemed and his men loved him. No strikes or turmoil ever invaded his works. He was an example to the employers of labor that they might emulate with profit. In his political life, covering a period of twenty-five years, beginning as mayor of Yonkers and ending with Congress, 110 blot or stain ever tarnished his fair name. Always honor- able and fair with those associated with him in the affairs of his municipality, State, and nation, recognizing the duties and responsibilities of the office he occupied, and with the one idea prominently before him to serve the people faithfully and honestly, he was a model official. His motto expressed in deeds was: Let all the ends thou aim'st at be Thy country's, God's and truth's. It was, however, in the home that Norton P. Otis was pre- eminently distinguished. Surrounded by a devoted wife and loving children in his magnificent house on the banks of that famous and classic river, the Hudson, Ik- enjoyed life. In October last, just after he returned from St. John's Riverside Hospital, of which he was president, I had the pleasure of enjoying a visit to this ideal home of an American citizen. I found him surrounded by his interesting family, enjoying the 22 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis comforts and pleasures of home. It reminded me of the poet's description of a home : Home's not merely four square walls, Though with pictures hung and gilded; Home is where affection calls, Filled with shrines the heart hath builded. Home! go watch the faithful dove Sailing 'neath the heaven above us. Home is where there's one to love; Home is where there's one to love us. The members of the committee from this body who assem- bled at the home of Norton P. Otis on Friday morning, February 24, to pay their last sad tribute of respect and love to him, were all deeply impressed with its surroundings. As we filed by the casket and took our farewell of the dead we felt that not only his colleagues and friends, but the nation as well, had sustained an irreparable loss. The simple but impressive service at the home and in the church will never be forgotten by those who were present. The eloquent and touching tribute of his pastor, a masterful eulogy on the life and labors of Norton P. Otis, was worthy of the man. The immense throng — hundreds unable to gain admission to the sacred edifice — the flags all over the city of Yonkers at half-mast, the closed places of business, with sor- rowful faces everywhere, attested the universal respect and affection in which our colleague was held by the people amongst whom he had lived for nearly half a century. Let us cherish his memory as a citizen, as a friend, and as a man, ever mindful of his deeds, which will live Ions; after the marble erected over his last resting place has crumbled to dust. Address of Mr. Cooper, of Pennsylvania Address of Mr. Cooper, of Pennsylvania Mr. Speaker: I desire to join in this last tribute of respect to the memory of our late colleague, Norton P- Otis. In his death there has gone out from among us forever one of the kindest, truest, and most gracious gentlemen it has ever been my good fortune to know. When I selected and occupied my seat at the opening session of this Congress, the friendly, kindly gentleman immediately to my right, whom to my recollection I had never seen before, extended his hand and pleasantly remarked, "As we are to be neighbors we may as well get acquainted at once. I am Mr. Otis, of New York." From that moment we were no longer strangers. The friend- ship thus begun continued and increased as time passed on. His removal from this Chamber and the scenes and activities of this life is not to me as the mere passing of a stranger I may have chanced to meet upon the highway of life. My close association with him during the first and second sessions of the Fifty-eighth Congress gave me an opportunity to become familiar with his life and character, so far as is possible in public life in such a limited time. He was a noble, upright man, eharacteri/.ed by honesty of purpose ami an unfaltering loyalty and patriotism to his country and constituency. His private life was as clean and pure as the snows that fall from Heaven and cover the hills along the banks of the great river that wends its way by his late home. His every thought and action seemed to be controlled by a high and lofty concep- tion of a proper discharge of his official duties. The humblest constituent was the subject of equal concern with those occupy- 24 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis ing the higher stations in life. Kindly in his disposition, the poor and unfortunate always excited his sympathy and were the subjects of his bounteous generosity. A man of broad and liberal culture, he was an earnest advocate of public enterprises and improvements which had for their object the advancement of the public good. A man of business and affairs, he possessed a superior knowledge of the needs of his district and the country. Safe, conservative, and possessing a well-balanced mind he approached every public duty with an intelligence and honesty of purpose which commanded the confidence and respect of all who knew him. He was modest, kind, and unassuming; but few men knew more of the practical questions of the hour or had a clearer conception of the functions of government. Recognizing the power and prestige of long and continuous service in this body, he was content with the field allotted to new Members, but he always investigated questions of legisla- tion for himself, and endeavored to vote and act intelligently and patriotically. He studied every public question with an eye single to the welfare of his constituents and our common country. No selfish purpose found place with him, and in his death the great State he so well represented has lost an honest, upright, patriotic, and valued public servant. But one day during the present session was he able to occupy his seat; the dread disease which had taken firm hold upon him and marked him for its victim was doing its deadly work; but he never complained. Fully aware that a few months, at most, must be the measure of his earthly career he seemed cheerful and scarcely alluded to his illness. The family circle has been broken; a kind and loving hus- band and father having finished his work here has passed Address of Mr. Cooper, of Pennsylvania 25 from the cares and anxieties of this world, let us hope, to the eternal bliss awaiting those who have earned the Master's reward through the accomplishments of a well-spent life. In the career of our deceased friend and fellow- Member we find much to admire and emulate. By his unselfish, useful, and Christian life he contributed materially to his country's good, and has left a priceless heritage to his family and friends. 26 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis Address of Mr. Bonynge, of Colorado Mr. Speaker: It was not my good fortune to have an intimate personal acquaintance with the late Norton P. Otis. A little over a year ago I had the pleasure of meeting him as a member of the Committee on Patents of the House. During the last session of this Congress that committee held frequent meetings. Mr. Otis was a regular attendant at such meetings and took a very active and lively interest in all of its proceed- ings. His open, frank, and charming disposition, his keen and intelligent interest in the intricate questions that came before the committee, and the clear and mature business judg- ment that he brought to their solution won for him the respect and esteem, and, I may add, the love of all the members of that committee. There is not a member of that committee who does not sincerely feel that in the death of their colleague the committee has lost a most useful and able member, whose long and honorable experience in the business world peculiarly qualified him to aid and assist it in reaching correct conclusions upon the business bearing of main- of the questions that from time to time were submitted for its consideration. He led an exceptionally happy and honorable life. Born at Halifax, Vt., on March iS, 1840, he was educated in the public schools of Albany and Vonkers, and at the early age of iS entered his father's elevator works, with which business he was continuously identified to the time of his death. With the marvelous growth and development of the general business of the country, and particularly of the empire city and its suburbs, his business kept pace, and yet he did not become a slave to it. Address of Mr. Bonynge, of Colorado 27 In these days of large industrial enterprises we too often find that the men who direct and control such enterprises become one-sided in their natures — narrow, greedy, and grasp- ing. It was not so with Norton P. Otis. His large and steadily growing business interest claimed and received from him his careful attention, but he did not permit them to absorb his whole life, to make him regardless of the welfare of his neighbors and fellow-men, or neglectful of his duties as a citizen of his town, his State, and his country. For well-nigh fifty years he was connected in one capacity or another with the Otis Elevator Company. Entering the business in his youth, he mastered its every detail and suc- cessively filled the positions of treasurer, vice-president, presi- dent, and chairman of the board of directors of the company. Scarcely any manufacturing concern employing a large num- ber of men has during those years been entirely free from industrial strife between the employer and employee. The best proof of his upright and honorable dealings with his men i-> to be found in the fact that in the past half century, so fraught with strikes and lockouts, Norton P. Otis never had a strike among his numerous workmen. He was loved and respected by those who knew him best, and no better testimonial of a man's character can be found than in his ability to retain the good will, the friendship, the esteem, and the love of his neighbors. His fellow-townsmen delighted to honor him. He was elected mayor of Yonkers, where practically all of his life from boyhood was spent. He represented faithfully and ably the people of his county in the New York State assembly, where he served as a mem- ber of the committee on cities at a time when the present Chief Magistrate of the nation was its chairman. Later he- was chosen as president of the New York State commission to the Paris exposition of 1900. So ably and well did he 28 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis discharge the duties of these various positions that the people of his Congressional district in 1902 selected him as their Representative in the Congress of the United States. Failing health induced him to decline a renomination in 1904, and at the time of his death he was about to close his short but honorable and useful career as a Member of this House. He gave much of his time to charitable and benevolent institutions. At the time of his death he was president of St. John's Riverside Hospital, of Yonkers, where he spent all the days of his active career. His , was a lovable and kind disposition. His life was filled with good deeds, and there are many living to-day who can truthfully say that their lives are hap- pier and more useful and the world, so far as his personal influence could reach, is better because Norton P. Otis lived. What better tribute can be paid to man? He had not lived out his three score years and ten, and it seemed as if so useful a life might have been prolonged for many years. Who can read the inscrutable ways of Providence? Every dav that we live we have new evidence that the finite judg- ment of man can not comprehend the infinite wisdom of the Almighty. In the face of death we can only bow our heads in reverence and say, "Thy will be done." Norton P. Otis had nothing to fear in death. His life had been pure and good, and though he no longer will be with us the in- fluence that he exerted in life for the betterment of man- kind will live and grow with succeeding years. No power, either for good or evil, is ever set in motion and wholly dies The influence of each life that is lived is felt for gen- erations to come. Norton P. Otis has crossed to the other side of the dark river, but the good influence of his manly and lovable character, of his noble and charitable deeds, and of his upright and useful career will never wholly die. Address of Mr. Stevens, of Minnesota 29 Address of Mr. Stevens, of Minnesota Mr. Speaker. It was not ray privilege to enjoy an intimate acquaintance with Mr. Otis, but some of his near relatives are my townsmen and constituents, and lie frequently visited the city of .St. Paid, where I reside. I have in this manner, through mutual friends, become well advised as to his career and general character. It is therefore to me a melancholy satisfaction to join my voice in tribute to his many admirable qualities and to share in the regret which his own colleagues feel over his untimely demise. It has seemed to me proper to present a concise biographical sketch which may appropriately hold a place in the official memorial to his life ami public services. Mr. Otis was born in Halifax, Vt., on March 18, 1840. His father was Elisha (".raves Otis and his mother Susan A. Houghton. He received his early training and education in the public schools at Halifax, Yt., Albany, X. V., and Hudson, X. J., in which places his parents resided at various times. On the removal of the family to Yonkers, he attended district school Xo. 2. Upon attaining his eighteenth year he entered his father's elevator shop, which was then in its infancy. He there learned the trade, and upon the decease of his father in 1861 he, together with his brother, Charles R. Otis, assumed control of the business. In 1864 the company was incorporated under the name of Otis Brothers & Co., Mr. Otis being treasurer. During the next ten years he traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe, introducing passenger and freight elevators. 30 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis His brother retired from business in 1S90, and Mr. Otis became the president of the company. When the various elevator companies were consolidated a few years ago, lie was made president of the board of directors. The Otis firm were the pioneers in the elevator business, and the products of their skill and inventive genius are to be found all over the world. They built the elevator in use in the Washington Monument in the national capital, and also the one in the famous Eiffel Tower at the Paris Expo- sition in 1890. Mr. Otis had always been actively interested in the educational, social, and political life of Yonkers, and he was identified with several philanthropic institutions of the city. In the spring of 1880 he was nominated by the Repub- licans as their candidate for mayor, and was elected 1>\ a large majority. During his administration many important and valuable changes were made in the various departments of the city government. The fire department was reorganized ; the various district schools were consolidated under one board, and . their efficiency was greatly advanced. The waterworks were largely augmented by the introduction of new and improved machinery. Under his practical, businesslike admin- istration, the city's bonded indebtedness was appreciably reduced. His services earned for him not only the approbation of his own party, but the confidence and esteenrof the opposition. At the close of his term as mayor he was elected to the State assembly by a large plurality in what was then an overwhelming Democratic district. As an assemblyman he was the author of many important measures, among the most notable of which was the bill reducing the exorbitant rate charged on railroads and a bill giving power to cities and Address of Mr. Stevens, of Minnesota 31 towns to regulate or refuse admission to excursion parties from New York. He was a member of the cities committee, of which at the time Theodore Roosevelt, now President of the United States, was chairman. Mr. Otis was nominated for Member of Congress in the Westchester district in 1900. The Congressional district at that time included the annexed district of New York, and was Democratic in politics. He was defeated by a small plurality by Cornelius A. Pugsley. Two years later Mr. Otis was again a candidate, and was elected over Mr. Pugsley by a vote of [7,878 to i7,o.v s - He was appointed to the House Committees on Patents and Manufactures. He was to have been named again last spring, but, owing to his ill health, he declined to accept a renomination. In com- memoration he was tendered a complimentary dinner in the Getty House, in Yonkers, two years ago. He was appointed by Governor Odell as president of the New York State commission to the Paris Exposition in 1900, at which several prizes were awarded to exhibitors from his vState. He was president of the board of managers of St. John's Riverside Hospital, in Yonkers; was connected with the First Presbyterian Church, and was a member of the West- chester Historical Society, of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and of the Engineers' and Fulton clubs, of Xew York. He was also a director of the Hollywood Inn. Mr. Otis married, in 1877, Miss Elizabeth A. Fahs, of York, Pa. They had ten children, of whom two daughters died in infancy. The widow and eight children — Charles E., Sydney, Arthur Houghton, Norton P., jr., Katherine Lois, Ruth Ade- laide, James Russell Lowell, and Carolyn Myrtle — survive. In addition to his sterling business qualities, Mr. Otis was a close student, and he kept in touch with the best thought of 32 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis the day. He was sagacious and honorable in all his dealings with his fellow-men, and he discountenanced everything that savored of political trickery and corruption. Whatever duties he had, he discharged with credit to himself and with an eye to the welfare of the community he served. He was preemi- nently a Christian gentleman. The departure of such a man brings deep sorrow to the family circle and widespread regret to the community in which he has lived. But to the weary sufferer himself, sighing for release and rest, there may be exultation in the assurance of a glorious immortality. There's a land beyond the river That we call the sweet Forever, And we only reach its shores by faith's decree. One by one we'll gain its portals, There to dwell w-ith the immortals, When they ring the golden bells for you and me. There will be no sin or sorrow In that haven of to-morrow, When our bark shall sail across the silver sea. There will only be the blessing Of our Father's sweet caressing, When they ring the golden bells for you and me. Mr. Otis died at his residence in Hudson Terrace, Yotikers, N. V., February 20, 1905. About eighteen months previously he endured a severe operation for cancer, from which much temporary relief was received; but the disease again developed, and for nearly two mouths before his decease he had been confined to his room. His sufferings were borne with great patience, and all the members of his family were at his bedside when the end came. The funeral services were held in the First Presbyterian Church of Yonkers, February 24, 1905, and were numerously attended. Among the sincere mourners who helped form the Address of Mr. Stevens, of Minnesota 33 procession at the funeral were 982 employees of the elevator works, of which Mr. Otis was the head, and with which he had had an almost lifelong connection. The pallbearers were William D. Baldwin, president, and A. G. Mills, vice-president, of the Otis Elevator Company; George R. Bunker, vice-president of the board of managers of St. John's Riverside Hospital; Charles E. Gorton, member of the hoard of directors of the Hollywood Inn; Mayor John E. Andrus, Leslie Saunders, James S. Fitch, and Wallis Smith. Representing Congress were Senators Burrows, Elkius. Martin, and Blackburn; Representatives Currier, Smith, Sulzer, Douglas, Bassett, Gouldeu, Bonyuge, Legare, Thomas, and Dickerman. As an estimate of the character of Mr. Otis, nothing could be more appropriate here than the tribute paid to him by the pastor of the church, Rev. Dr. William P. Stevenson, who preached the funeral sermon, from which the following extract is given: This noble man, whom we so deeply mourn to-day, touched the lives of his fellow-men at many points and always helpfully, always with the most gentle kindness and winning modesty. It is the remembrance of his shrinking distaste of praise and publicity which makes it impossible for me to say a tithe of what might justly and truly be said of his life and character. But happilv such is the innate, inherent power of such a life that its deeds render words superfluous and loudest praise sinks into the veriest whisper when placed beside such worthily persistent performance. So many and so varied were the interests and activities of his heart anil hands that each one of us may have his own picture of his helpful per- sonality. Some of you as you sit in this quiet place are thinking of him as the successful business man, inventive, resourceful, energetic, and withal so just and so generous, so fair and so sympathetic, as that in all the years of his controlling great enterprises there was never a strike, never a serious dispute, amongst his many employees. And some of you are thinking of him as a public-spirited, broad-minded citizen, who was deeply interested in all that made for the betterment of civic conditions; who labored intelligently to increase the efficiency of our public schools; who accepted the various high offices to which In- was H. Doc. 469. 58-3 3 34 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis called by his fellow-citizens as a sacred trust, and who discharged his duties as mayor, as assemblyman, and as Congressman faithfully, fearlessly, and with incorruptible, stainless honor. And some of you are thinking of him as the generous-hearted philan- thropist, who ever gave without grudging of his wise counsel and liberal support to any project or to any institution which had for its aim the helping and the blessing of his fellow-men. And others of you, more favored still, knowing him in the social circle and in the home, are thinking of him as the loyal friend, the kind father, the faithful husband, whose latest conscious breath was spent in a loving farewell to her who had loved him longest and best of all. But there are others of us here who, seeing and honoring him in all these relations which he so much adorned, will ever preserve untarnished in our memories a scene which shows him just one year ago standing be- side his stalwart sons in this sacred place where now he lies in quiet state, and with them, in the presence of a hushed and reverent congregation, as simply and as humbly as a little child confessing his personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Not that he then for the first time became a Chris- tian—such he had been long before — but then and there, for his sons' sake, for his own sake, and above all for his Savior's sake, he gave the public testimony of his lips to the faith which for many years he had so truly exemplified in his life. And through that faith he steadily faced death during the past eight months with a courage that never faltered; by that faith he bore sore, slow tortures without complaint; and in that faith he tranquilly and triumphantly died. Address of Mr. Dunwell, of New York 35 Address of Mr. Dunwell, of New York Mr. Speaker: No element in American citizenship since the foundation of the Republic has performed more distinguished services to our country — services which have marked its prog- ress among the nations and which have finally brought it to the proud position which to-day it occupies in the world — than the great middle class among our people, which has ever been foremost in the real work of mankind. It has pushed its way in the industries, the arts, the sciences, inventions; constantly forging ahead in the great march of improvement and civilization, pressing us on and ever on to higher planes of achievement, to nobler and better modes of life. ( )ur esteemed and beloved colleague, Xorton P. Otis, was a conspicuous example of what this plain, unassuming, whole- hearted, and high-minded American citizen can accomplish in the short span of a human life in this great, free land of ours. Born in a little town among the beautiful hills of Vermont, he had no advantages in his youth which are not the common heritage of every American boy. He received his education in the common schools of the country, and at the age of i,S became associated with his father in business, and by honest effort and fair dealing with his fellow-men amassed a lar^e fortune. A greater degree of success than falls to the lot of most men was his; but throughout a long life he never for one moment lost the sweet freshness of spirit and the beautiful Christian graces which were his chief charms. 36 Life and Character of Norton P. Otis Having known him for many years, I feel warranted in saying that no man ever transacted business with him who did not learn to respect his rugged honesty and singleness of purpose. No man ever touched his social side who did not esteem his friendship. No man ever knew him well who did not love him. Engaged in great enterprises, spreading over two continents in their scope, he was never spoiled by success. His heart always abounded in the kindliest feelings toward his fellow- men. It would be strange indeed if such a character should not receive popular recognition in the community in which he lived, and we find that the beautiful city on the Hudson, where for fifty years he made his home, knew his worth and loved him well. Twenty-five years ago he became mayor of Yonkers and ably and honorably discharged the duties of that high office, as he did the duties of every position to which he was ever called. Three years later he was elected by his fellow-citizens a member of the legislature of the State, and became a member of the important committee on cities, of which our illustrious President was at the time chairman. He was afterwards chosen, because of his distinguished business ability, president of the New York State commission to the Paris Exposition of 1900; and, as a fitting crown to his career, the citizens of the Nineteenth Congressional district of New York elected him in 1902 a member of the Fifty- eighth Congress of the United States. As a Member of Congress he was the same earnest, painstaking, able official he had ever been, when called by the people to public place, and his manly worth and public and private virtues have left their impress on his colleagues. Address of Mr. Dunwell, of New York 37 Loyal and true to every trust, modest and sincere in every act of his life, he has passed from earth to those great rewards which our loving Father in heaven ever bestows upon the just and good. LEAVE TO PRINT. The Speaker pro tempore (Mr. Sherman). If there he no objection, permission will be granted for ten days to such Members as desire to print remarks upon the life and char- acter of Mr. Otis. The question is on agreeing to the resolutions. The resolutions were agreed to; and in accordance there- with, and with the order previously made, the House ( at 2 o'clock and 38 minutes p. m. ) adjourned until to-morrow, Monday. February 27, 1905, at 1 1 a. m. PROCEEDINGS IN THE SENATE February 21, 1905. message from the house. The message also communicated to the Senate the intelli- gence of the death of Hon. Norton P. Otis, late a Represent- ative from the State of New York, and transmitted resolutions of the House thereon. DEATH OF REPRESENTATIVE NORTON P. OTIS. Mr. Fairbanks. Mr. President, for the senior Senator from New York [Mr. Piatt] I call up the resolutions trans- mitted from the House of Representatives announcing the death of his colleague in that body. The Presiding Officer (Mr. Kean in the chair) laid before the Senate the resolutions of the House of Representatives, which were read, as follows: In the House of Representatives, February 20, 1005. Resolved, That the House has heard with profound regret of the untimely death of Hon. Norton P. Otis, late a Representative from the State of New York. Resolved, That a committee of eleven Members of the House, with such members of the Senate as may be joined, be appointed to attend the funeral. Resolved, That the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Representatives hv authorized and directed to take such steps as may be necessary for carry- ing out the provisions of these resolutions, and that the necessary expense in connection therewith be paid out of the contingent fund of the House. Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. The Speaker appointed as a committee to attend the funeral Mr. Sher- man, Mr. Currier, Mr. Smith of New York. Mr. Sulzer, Mr. Douglas, Mr. Bassett, Mr. Goulden, Mr. Bonynge, Mr. Legare, Mr. Thomas, and Mr. Dickerman. 39 ^^Usp 40 Life a ud Character of Norton P. Otis Mr. Fairbanks. On behalf of the senior Senator from New York I ask for the adoption of the resolutions I send to the desk . The Presiding Officer. The resolutions will be read. The resolutions were read aud unanimously agreed to, as follows : Resolved, That the Senate has heard with deep sensibility the announce- ment of the death of Hon. Norton P. Otis, late a Representative from the State of New York. Resolved, That a committee of five Senators be appointed by the Pre- siding < >fficer to join the committee appointed on the part of the House of Representatives, to take order for superintending the funeral of the deceased. Resolved, That the Secretary communicate these resolutions to the House of Representatives. The Presiding Officer appointed as the committee on the part of the Senate under the second resolution Mr. Depew, Mr. Burrows, Mr. Elkins, Mr. Martin, and Mr. Blackburn. Mr, Fairbanks. Mr. President, for the senior Senator from New York I move as a further mark of respect to the memory of the deceased that the Senate do now adjourn. The motion was unanimously agreed to: and (at 6 o'clock and 10 minutes p. m. ) the Senate adjourned until to-morrow. Wednesday, February 22, 1905, at 11 o'clock a. m. message from the house. February 27, 1905. The message also transmitted resolutions of the House com- memorative of the life and public services of Hon. Norton P. Otis, late a Representative from the State of New York. O 'flK :