J. to Frederick Douglass, June 21, 1856

For Frederick Douglass' Paper.

NATIONAL DRESS REFORM ASSOCIATION.

GLEN HAVEN, June 21, 1856.

MR. EDITOR:—I have just returned from the Annual Meeting of the National Dress Reform Association, which was held in Homer, on the 18th and 19th inst. It was well attended, and the interest abundantly sustained through four sessions, many feeling reluctant, even then, to adjourn. This meeting will doubtless give the reform an impetus that it has never before received. Its proceedings were characterized by propriety, earnestness, and devotion to principle.

Eight or nine States were represented by earnest men and women, and others by letters.—Letters from Hon. Gerrit Smith, Hon. Wm. Hay, of Saratoga, J. C. Hathaway, of Farmington, and from many other friends of the cause who could not be present, were read. There were letters of encouragement to perseverance, and in commendation of an excellent Tract published by this Association, more than could be read, and allow time for the discussion of principles.

The Business Committee reported a series of Resolutions, which elicited debate, and proved a diversity of opinion in detail, but an agreement on the main principle—the great necessity for a more physiological style of dress for women.

The Congregational Church was well filled on the evening of the 18th inst., to listen to an able address from Dr. James C. Jackson. The attentive and intelligent audience must have been impressed with the truth, that there are great principles underlying this reform, and that its advocates are seeking only the best interests of humanity.

At all the meetings, good earnest words were uttered, and listened to with respect and attention. Women's mouths were unsealed to utter words of truth and soberness, and men who sel-

dom say a word in public, bade us God speed! Three physicians were constrained to tell us that we were in the right, and bade us persevere, if we would render their services needless. It was an occasion long to be remembered, and women who had alone borne this burden and felt that there were none to help, wept tears of gratitude, as they realized that there were kindred hearts and fellow-laborers, and all departed to their several homes, stronger, better, more devoted.

Thanks to the sense of propriety manifested by all the residents of Homer. We were allowed to pass about singly or in groups and in no instance was there exhibited the least mark of disrespect—all were polite, kind and considerate.

With Glen Haven and McGrawville on either hand, they have become familiar with our costume, and have learned that respect for our principles, which an acquaintance with their merits must ever command.

We are earnestly requested by the friends of this reform in Canestota, to hold a Convention at that place during the Autumn. If it is decided to do so timely notice will be given.

For the benefit of those who wish to put themselves in communication with the laborers in this cause, I will say, that Dr. H. N. Austin, Glen Haven, N. Y., is Corresponding Secretary of the Association, and from her Tracts, which are at present our chief instrumentality for the promulgation of our principles, can be obtained.

Truly Yours,

J.