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A Tale of Two Border Cities |
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For four additional nights the Kneass comÂpany presented the Holman prize song, and one or two otherof the pieces submitted for the prize and which have been stamped by popular approval."13 Kneass added that all of these songs "have been copyrighted, and can only be heard, as originally produced, at the Eagle Saloon/'13
As a matter of fact Kneass, who had sung Stephen's song, was blocked in his attempt to copyright it. When he appeared in the United States Court the day after the trial concert and asked for a copyright in his own name, Kneass encountered Morrison Foster who was there taking out a copyright for Stephen. Morrison "informed Judge Irwin oi the fraud."12
In his account of it, Morrison adds: "MatÂters of this kind gave Stephen no concern, however. He was always indifferent about money or fame."12
2.
The prize and copyright episode did not prevent the presentation of a third song of Stephen's at a succeeding concert of the Kneass company. This was Stephen's really great song of its type, the buoyant and joyous "Oh! Susanna." It was sung, probably by Kneass,, who also repeated Stephen's prize
Foster Hall Collection bears the following line: "A magnificent Silver Cup was awarded to the Author of this song by A. Andrews, Esqr., of the Eagle Saloon, Pittsburgh, Pa." |
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