NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHES.

July 2, 1898.

A large number of delegates en route to the meeting of the national council of
Congregational Churches to be held at Portland, Oregon, stopped at Omaha to
visit the exposition and the local society made their visit the occasion of a
special gathering and demonstration at the Boys' and Girls' Building on the
Exposition Grounds.

There were about 150 prominent clergymen from eastern cities, besides many of
their friends and laymen and the auditorium of the Boys' and Girls' building
was well filled when they gathered at 4 o'clock for the brief exercises and
exchange of formalities.

Reverend S. Wright Butler presided and by his many witticisms kept the audience
in good humor.  He introduced President Wattles, who extended a hearty welcome
to the distinguished guests.

Ex-Governor Coffin, of Connecticut, responded briefly.  A vote of thanks was
then moved by Dr. Hazen to the people of Omaha and to the exposition management
for the generous entertainment which had been accorded.  Dr. Lamson of Hartford
closed the speaking.  The music of the day was rendered by Mrs. G.W. Johnson,
Miss Kellogg and Mrs. A.G. Edwards, all of Omaha.