More than 2,000 persons gathered at Rose Hill Cemetery here at exercises marking a pilgrimage to the grave of Thomas Kennedy, Washington County legislator, whose efforts succeeded in removing proscriptions against Jews holding office and giving the race other civil rights.
Governor Ritchie, the principal speaker, dwelt at length on the history of Maryland since its founding, and pointed out the successive steps taken to guarantee freedom to all races. He paid high tribute to Kennedy, who, in the face of bitter opposition, steadfastly pursued his course until he succeeded in getting for the Jews what they rightfully deserved.
Representative Jennings Randolph, of West Virginia, also made an address. Mrs. James Findlay, of Hagerstown, granddaughter of Kennedy, was introduced and spoke briefly.
SEN. ALTFELD PRESIDES
The address of welcome was delivered by William Preston Lane Jr., Attorney General of Maryland, and State Senator E. Milton Altfeld presided. Other speakers included George Henderson, former mayor of Cumberland, Md.; Mayor I. M. Wertz, Hagerstown; Leo Weinberg, Frederick, Md., and Caesar L. Aiello, commander of the Maryland Department of the American Legion.
The pilgrimage was sponsored by the Maccabean Post of the American Legion, Baltimore.
Wreaths were placed on the grave by the Morris Frock Post, American Legion, Hagerstown; Independent Order of B’rith Sholom, Baltimore, and the Maccabean Post.
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