The Tipton Advertiser

One of Washington's Supporters, led to the Polls by a Young Lady, Votes for Grant.

Great enthusiasm was created at the Davenport township polls, on the Fair grounds Tuesday, by a spectacle which would have stirred the patriotic blood of every true-hearted American in the land.

In the afternoon a low seated buggy was driven up to the polls by a beautiful young lady. By her side was seated Deacon Gilbert, father of E. S. Gilbert, Esq., after whom Gilbert-town was named.

Deacon Gilbert is upwards of one hundred years of age. He cast his first Presidential vote in 1788, in the State of New York, "for George Washington," and has voted at every Presidential election since that year.

Miss Holmes assisted the centenarian and patriot to alight, and placing her arm in his, accompanied him to the polls. He handed an open, straight Republican ticket to the Judges. As he did so the bystanders broke into cheers, which did not cease until three times three had been given for the aged Republican, followed by three more for the young lady who accompanied him. The citizens present gathered about the good old man, and as they did so he said:

"Gentlemen, I voted twice for George Washington. He was the best man for the Presidency in his day. Now, I have voted for General Grant—thank God that I have lived so long—whom I believe to be the best man for President in this day. He was instrumental in saving the government which Washington founded."

It was no wonder that as the venerable supporter of Washington and of Grant—what a leap in time!—made his way to the carriage again, with his beautiful friend upon his arm, many in the crowd uncovered their heads. As he seated himself the crowd again broke into cheers, which continued until Deacon Gilbert and his companion were out of sight.—Davenport Gazette.