This day in 1899 and again in 1905 was one of the coldest days on record in the United States: in 1899, -1ºF (-18ºC)
in New Orleans, -2ºF (-19ºC) in Tallahassee, and -16ºF (-27ºC), in Minden, Louisiana, the latter two being
state records; and in 1905, -29ºF (-34ºC) in Pond Arkansas. -40ºF (-40ºC), in Lebanon, Kansas, and -40ºF
(-40ºC) in Warsaw, Missouri, all of these state records.
The official anthem of Rex is "If Ever I Cease to Love", a hit song of the early 1870's era from a musical comedy named
"Bluebeard". The musical's leading lady, Lydia Thompson, was performing in New Orleans at the time of the first Rex parade.
The visiting Grand Duke Alexis of Russia, who had seen "Bluebeard" during his national tour, was also familiar with the song
and with Thompson, to whom he had once sent a gift bracelet.
Bands in that first Rex parade serenaded the Grand
Duke Alexis with the Russian national anthem as they marched past City Hall. When Rex, having dismounted at the Henry Clay
statue on Canal Street, reviewed the parade, the bands played "If Ever I Cease To Love". Today, this song is played when Rex
enters his Grand Ball and after the meeting of the Rex and Comus courts Mardi Gras night, signaling the end of the Mardi Gras
celebration.
Reigning that day over the parade who's theme was "Triumphal Entry" was Mr. Lewis J. Salomon.
TAFT GIVES GOOD ADVICE TO NEW ORLEANS NEGROES Atlanta Constitution Feb
13, 1909 The reception to the president-elect by the negroes of the city today
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NEW ORLEANS
EDIBILIA Hartford Courant Feb 13, 1909
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STATES OF SOUTH GROW RICE CROPS
Louisiana and Portions of Texas and Arkansas Respond Well to Methods of Culture.
Christian
Science Monitor
NEW ORLEANS--Congressmen Broussard and Ransdell are using their best efforts with the Agricultural
Department at Washington to promote the rice growing interests of this state, Eastern Texas and Southeastern Arkansas
