Rev. W.W. Willis' Letter About Sights in and Around Augusta, Georgia, 1917

From the Jan. 8, 1917 issue of the Lumberton Robesonian. The play that Rev. Willis attended and so enjoyed, decried the end of slavery and promoted the Ku Klux Klan.

Plans and purposes are subject to changes. We cannot see far enough into the future to know how things will materialize, therefore, we find ourselves doing or not doing the things that come to us unexpectedly.

When I left the “Old North State” on the 13^th of November and came to Augusta, I expected to be in Lakeland, Fla., ere this, but here I am and will remain here until about the 28^th of Dec. The opportunity for seeing new things and visiting strange places, to me, has been good, and I assure you I have enjoyed looking upon the scenery which is unlike that of my home land. The hills are beautiful, the growth upon them small and scattered; and when you ascend the highest you can see for miles and miles in all directions. In North Augusta, just across the Savannah River from the city proper, is the Hampton Terrace Hotel, a magnificent building which contains more than 260 rooms. This is known as “the tourist hotel.” Dr. Deas and I went through the building one day and up into one of the domes. The gentleman who conducted us through said, “Now, if you had glasses you could see into four states, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina and Georgia.” Of course, we were then in South Carolina and could look over into Georgia and see the city of Augusta spread out before our eyes in all its splendor. North Augusta “is beautiful for situation,” using a Bible phrase, as it has many palatial residences with beautiful growth surrounding.

Twenty-five years ago there was no “North Augusta” but today it is a splendid town and a beautiful place in which to live. A trolly line running from Augusta to Aiken, S.C., passes through North Augusta and this is well patronized and must be a money-making proposition. When going from Augusta to Aiken on this line you pass through several small towns. The prettiest and largest are Langley and Graniteville. One Sunday, in the afternoon, Dr. Deas carried us over to Aiken to see the town. Our party was composed of Dr. and Mrs. Deas, Misses Birdie and Leola Deas and Mr. Maxwell Deas, who guided the large car up and down the steep hills, and around the curves, as only an expert at the wheel can do. Aiken is a beautiful and prosperous town and in a few more years will be numbered among the cities of South Carolina.

I went over on the street car to Graniteville some days after and spent the night. About sundown I visited the cemetery, which is located upon the top of a high hill. On reaching the top, almost out of breath—for the ascent is steep—I saw the plateau, or level land, consisting of 12 to 15 acres, perhaps, where the dead are laid to rest. There are many fine and costly monuments here and the grounds are kept in good order. I could not help thinking that the grave, to the living, is very dark; we dread to enter there. The sleep is long; and we are told “there is no knowledge nor devise in the grave whither thou goest” but to stand in the midst of the sleepers and behold the beautiful workmanship of God’s hands, as portrayed in nature, assisted by man’s ingenious skill, I felt in my heart, it is not so bad, after all. Only be particular with the record left behind and the repose will be sweet.

It was too late to see the setting sun and too smoky to obtain the best view, but to my mind I was well paid for my trip.

Christmas will be here and gone before this letter reaches The Robesonian office. As I write, preparations are going on in the city to celebrate the day. Holly is being brought in from the country in great quantities to be sued in various ways to suit the fancies of the purchasers. Many of the stores are beauties to behold, as they display their goods to the best advantage to catch the eye of the purchaser.

There is nothing that can take the place of advertising in the business world. It works well and counts for much in progressive life.

The great play on canvas “The Birth of a Nation” is here for three days beginning at 3 p.m. Thursday the 21^st. I had heard it spoken of when in Lumberton, as being the best ever seen by those who witnessed the performance, so I went to the grand opera and saw it myself. It is worth the price of admission to anyone who cares to see a reproduction of the “dark days” during and just after the civil war.

There is something going on here all the time that will entertain all who feel disposed to take it in. There are other places I have visited, both in the city and country. I would like to speak of, but this letter is too long already and must be closed. I will say, however, that I expect to leave Augusta about the 28^th inst. And go straight to Jacksonville, Fla. After remaining there a week or ten days I will then go to Lakeland, Fla., 200 miles further south.

In closing, I desire to extend to the Robesonian, together with all my friends, my Christmas greetings. So farewell for the present. You may possibly hear from me again later.

                --W.W. Willis, Augusta, Ga.

Catawba County's Gold Mine for Sale, 1916

“May Sell Mine,” from the Hickory Daily Record, January 3, 1916

The famous Catawba gold mine in the southeastern part of the county steps into the spotlight again by reason of an agreement between litigants to sell the property at private sale, if possible by the first Monday in May; or at public auction, if private sale fails, on June 11.

The mine has yielded good returns of the precious metal and a fortune has been spent in machinery, but there has been more or less trouble for years, and finally the place was shut down. Some time since George R. Collins was appointed receiver, but the company was able to restrain him from acting. Now he and W.C. Feimster of this place are made sale commissioners with the instructions to proceed under a consent judgment.

Dr. Westray Battle of Asheville and others have been the plaintiff in the litigation while the Catabwa Gold Mine Company and the bondholders are the defendants. The property while in litigation has been sold once or twice for taxes and bid in by local people who made a bit of money out of it. There is a report that $150,000 worth of machinery has been put in the mine.

Mclaurin, McArthur Win Corn and Cotton Growing Contests, 1950

From Extension-Farm News, published by the North Carolina Agricultural Extension Service at N.C. State University, January, 1950.

E.O. McMahan recently announced the following winners in Scotland County’s three-acre corn contest and five-acre cotton contest for 1949.

John M. Mclaurin of Laurinburg was declared corn champion with a yield of 132.5 bushels per acre. W.W. Thompson of Laurinburg was second with a yield of 109 bushels, and Fletcher Walters was third with 107.3.

C.S. McArthur of Laurinburg won the cotton contest with a yield of 761 pounds of lint per acre. Gilchrist Brothers of Laurinburg was second with 734 pounds, and Z.V. Pate Inc. and Will McLeod of Laurel Hill were third with 717 pounds.

Police News from Lumberton, Jan. 8, 1917

Police News from the Lumberton Robesonian, Jan. 8, 1917

Columbus McCallum, colored, was brought to jail Saturday night from Red Springs after he had dangerously cut Sim Stubbs, another negro, with a knife. It is said that Stubbs’ condition is serious and not much hope is entertained for his recovery. It is not known what the trouble started about. McCallum was brought to jail by Rural Policeman T.F. Boahn.

Robbers entered the store of Messrs. B.H. and J.C. Stancil at Allenton Friday night. Entrance was made through the front door. The money drawer was ransacked. Only a few pocket knives and some cheap watches were missed. No arrests have been made.

An oil stove caused some little excitement at the home of Mr. S.S. Stephens, West Fourth Street, about 9:30 o’clock this morning. The stove did not explode, but was acting “funny.” The fire truck was ordered to the scene. There was no damage.

Sheriff R.E. Lewis was called by ‘phone Friday night about 9 o’clock to look after a bunch of strange negroes who were camping near the home of Mr. W.R. Tyner. Mr. Tyner was away from home and one of the negroes went to the home and started to enter the house. Mr. Davis, who works in Mr. Tyner’s store, drove the intruder away. When the officers arrived the negroes had moved on.

Luke McNeill, colored, was arrested near Maxton Monday of last week by rural Policeman W.W. Smith and brought to jail here. McNeill is charged with being implicated in the murder of another negro near Roland some 12 years ago. McNeill was arrested at McDonald once before, but broke out of a guard house and made his escape. He says he has been living in Philadelpha, Pa.

Two young white men claiming to be from Jacksonville and suspected of having robbed several stores in Clarkton and Abbotsville Wednesday night have been caught in Robeson County and brought back to Bladen. They were overtaken by officers of Bladen and Robeson counties at Lowe, a station on the Seaboard five miles west of Lumberton, Thursday. Bloodhounds picked up their trail at Abbottsburg but lost it near the Robeson County line. People along the railroad, however, reported having seen two men believes to have been the ones wanted and this information led to the arrest of the suspects.

Editor Calls for Gate or Watchman to Protect Public at Railroad Crossing, 1916

“To Protect Public,” from the Hickory Daily Record, January 3, 1916

A gate and watchman at the railroad crossing east of the depot are needed. Sometimes traffic is blocked for a few minutes, as when a freight train lumbers by, and then a stream of humanity pours across the track. There have been narrow escapes from injury or death, for on several occasions another train has come in just as the other was drawing away. A gate and watchman at this crossing would be a sound investment for the railroads and a protection to the citizens of Hickory, nearly all of whom are compelled to cross the tracks.

12-Year-Old Ellen Barrow Raised Chickens This Year Will Pay for Year in College, 1950

From Extension-Farm News, published by the North Carolina Agricultural Extension Service at N.C. State University, January, 1950.

“One hundred chicks will pay a year’s expense at college,” says Ellen Barrow of Jones County, a 12-yearpold 4-H Club girl who has just completed her 1949 poultry project.

Doubting Thomases may raise their eyebrows at Ellen’s statement, but she has the proof, says G.T. Wiggins. Following is an account of her project in her own words:

“The chicks given me were properly taken care of with only three dying. I have furnished chickens and eggs for family use which paid for the grain fed to them. Ten chicks were cockerels which I sold for $15 , and 12 were returned to the farm agent to be sold.

“The remaining 78 have laid 11,016 eggs, 8,719 of which I sold for $365.80. I received $10 prize money. I had enough money to pay for the starting and growing mash.

“After all expenses have been deducted and I sell the remaining chickens, I will have enough money to buy five $100 government bonds, which I believe will pay my tuition, room, and board for one year in college.”

State Profits From Inhumane Treatment of Prisoners Says Roy Trawick, 1917

“Roy Traywick Sprung Sensation at State Capital,” from the Monroe Journal, Union County, N.C., Jan. 26, 1917

Union County Man Charged That State Prisoners Are Inhumanly Treated, and That Gambling and Immoral Practices Are in Evidence at Prison Farm

Roy L. Traywick, a University student who served a sentence in the State penitentiary from this county, made some astounding charges against the penal methods in this State in Raleigh Tuesday.

Mr. Traywick, who is well liked and has many friends despite his misfortune, charged that the lash is used unmercifully in the penitentiary and also that gambling was allowed and immorality practiced. His charges sprung a sensation in Raleigh.

Mr. Traywick left here about 10 days ago, ostentatiously on his way to Detroit to work for Henry Ford, but he stated to a Journal reporter that he intended stopping over in Raleigh to ascertain if he could possibly throw any light on the way our penal institution is conducted.

Wednesday’s News and Observer carried the following account of Mr. Traywick’s charges:

“As the outgrowth of a remarkably graphic story written by an ex-prisoner in which are portrayed alleged frightful practices and conditions existing at Caledonia Farm, a State penal institution, it is probable that the Legislature will order an investigation of all branches of the State Prison organization.

“The ex-prisoner is young Traywick, a University man who some years ago was convicted of forgery and sentenced to a term in the penitentiary. He served three years at Caledonia and was pardoned in December by Governor Craig. The young man’s story was read yesterday by Representative Roland Beasley before a session of the joint committee on penal institutions.

“Among other things, Traywick alleges that prisoners are treated with frightful cruelty, beated at times unmercifully, ill fed and poorly housed. They, according to the story, are herded together and made to sleep together as so many sheep, negroes and whites, sick and well old and young, all huddled together without distinction. The lash in all its frightfulness is plied without compassion, sodomy and immorality rampage, disease ravages the unfortunates who fall under the pall of this great institution so profitable to North Carolina financially but so destructive to the moral fibre of those whom it seeks to correct or punish, he charged.

“Traywick’s article reads like a page from Les Miserables. Hugo’s Jean Val Jean suffered no more from his prison experiences than do the inmates of North Carolina prisons, if the young man’s charges are true. There is not noticeable any venom in Traywick’s article. He does not say that he, personally, was badly treated. His article he says was inspired by a desire to correct evils through which so great a number of his fellow men suffer untold injury.

“Traywick is vouched for by Mr. Beasley. He comes from the Monroe editor’s own county. For several days he has endeavored to have his story printed in the papers of the State. None, however, were willing to let loose such charges unsubstantiated by any but Traywick. Their view was that while the article is extremely interesting reading it might be greatly overdrawn and might work injury to competent and humane officials.

“Traywick charges that the profit accruing to the State from its penal institutions is a disgrace to the State. He says that such profits come at the expense of prisoners who are treated inhumanely in the great effort to make the farms pay.

“The joint committee heard Traywick’s charges with much interest. Practically every member felt that they were exaggerated but that they furnished sufficient basis to warrant the ordering of an investigation of penal institutions. Senators Brenizer and Holderness and Representatives Grier, Renfrow and Beasley were appointed a committee to make the investigation, subject to the action of the General Assembly.

“The meeting was presided over by Senator Wilfred D. Turner, ex-Lieutenant Governor. Mr. Turner said that it was his opinion that much of the existing evils in penal institutions was attributed to the State’s stinginess. This stinginess, he said, tied the hands of men who otherwise would do their best to reclaim to society the unfortunates sent to prison.

“Messrs. Beasley, Jones, Gregg, Holderness, Doughton, Grier and Brenizer and Edward E. Britton, editor of the News and Observer, addressed the meeting. All were of the opinion that an investigation looking to reform was needed.

“Mr. Beasley said that Traywick was actuated by none but purely unselfish reasons in making this charges. He was of the opinion that most of the charges were based on facts and that they made a thorough investigation imperative to the welfare of prisoners.

“Senator Jones was of the opinion that if one-tenth of Traywick’s allegations were true, the state must correct those conditions or doom itself to everlasting disgrace.

“’Prisoners are human,’ he said. ‘For God’s sake, if one half of these things are true, do something! I don’t believe that every man who goes to prison is degenerate. To force white men to drink from a common bucket with negroes!’

“Senator Gregg of Randolph, who won the heartiest kind of applause from the galleries when he defended the resolution of Senator Jones sanctioning Governor Craig’s Christmas gift to the convicts, told the committee that he had served as a guard at the Caledonia farm for 60 days, at the end of which time he resigned because he could not become a party to the treatment of convicts at that time—and he said the farm head was a good man. He would support any man or any party that would remove this condition from the State, which he characterized as a disgrace to civilization.

“Mr. Holderness thought that Traywick had exaggerated, perhaps, but that there was much truth in his statement and said the housing of convicts was a disgrace. He thought the statement that lunatics were worked overdrawn.

“Senator Holderness advocated the removal of the State farm from Raleigh as a business as well as a humane proposition and making the superintendent directly responsible for the prisoners. He did not wholly accept the charges as to food at the farm.

“Mr. Beasley said that he had known of other former prisoners who had tried to shed some light on the treatment State convicts and had been unable to get a hearing, and he was championing Traywick for this reason. He was impressed with his fellow citizen from Union and had undertaken to get the matter before the Legislature. A conspiracy of silence had existed through fear of criticism and he wanted some steps taken to see if the charges were true.

“Upon the motion of Mr. Doughton, the statement of Traywick and his supporting witnesses was ordered filed with the committee.”

Horace Layden, Perquimans County 4-H'er, Wins State Honor, 1950

From Extension-Farm News, published by the North Carolina Agricultural Extension Service at N.C. State University, January, 1950.

Horace Layden, Perquimans County 4-H Club member, is shown above following the announcement that he had been declared state winner of the Better Methods Electric project. The picture was taken during the 4-H Congress held in Raleigh.

Horace won the top honor over club members from 48 other counties. His award included a free trip to the National 4-H Club Congress at Chicago as well as a college scholarship.

Charles Webb Reappointed as U.S. Marshal for Western North Carolina, 1918

“Marshal Webb Reappointed,” from the Jan. 24, 1918 issue of the French Broad Hustler, Hendersonville, N.C.

Washington, Jan. 10—The nomination of Charles A. Webb of Asheville by President Wilson to serve four years more as United States Marshal for the western district of  North Carolina which was confirmed by the senate Tuesday, was not opposed from any quarter, according to a statement made today by Senator Lee S. Overman. Recent reports to the effect that the confirmation would be opposed were without foundation, said the senator. Neither was the nomination of William T. Dortch to be marshal in the eastern district opposed.

Social Doings from Lumberton, N.C., Jan. 8, 1917

Social News from the Lumberton Robesonian, Jan. 8, 1917

Mr. Ernest McPhaul, who lives on R.F.D. Shannon, and Miss Marian Toon of Red Springs were united in marriage at Rowland December 28, Rev. A.J. Groves officiating. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H.S. Toon and is one of Red Springs most popular young ladies. Mr. McPhaul is a son of Mr. and Mrs. J.A. McPhaul and his many friends join us in best wishes to him and his lovely bride.

Misses Fannie, Mabel and Nora Walters entertained a number of friends on the evening of December 29. It was a most enjoyable occasion and fun and merriment reigned the entire evening. The guests reluctantly departed at a late hour voting the Misses Walters most charming hostesses and thanking them for a very pleasant evening.

Misses Bertha and Kate Currie visited relatives near Laurinburg during the holidays.

Mr. Carl and Miss Nora Walters have returned to Columbia, S.C., where they are attending school, after visiting their parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.F. Walters.

Miss Mattie Parish and little sister Lois have returned from Clio, S.C., after spending several days here with relatives and friends.

Mr. Merritt Gibson and sister, Miss Lillian, after spending the holidays at the home of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.D. Gibson, have returned to Charlotte and Maxton, respectively, where they are attending school.

Mr. and Mrs. Spears returned to Clio, S.C., Wednesday after spending several days here visiting their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Ottice Parish.

Misses Ganelle and Myrtle Barnes left this morning for Greensboro to resume their studies at Greensboro College for Women after spending the holidays here visiting at the home of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. K.M. Barnes.

There will be a box supper at Joe Branch graded school Thursday night, Jan. 11.

License has been issued for the marriage of Lattie Parnell and Effie Johnson.

Dr. W.W. Parker is able to be out again after being confined to his room for several days.

Mr. D.N. McGill has accepted a position as salesman in the McAllister hardware store.

Madam Rumor says there will be a wedding in Lumberton tonight. It is understood that the bride and groom are to come from other towns.

Miss Ruth Britt left yesterday for Macclesfield, near Wilson, where she is teaching this year. Her school opened today.

Mr. Jno. Griffin and family moved last week from a farm near Regan’s Church to a farm near Allenton belonging to Mr. E.E. Page.

Mr. J.E. Kinlaw and family moved last week from Raleigh, where they lived some time, back to Mr. Kinlaw’s farm on R. 7 from Lumberton. Mr. Kinlaw was a Lumberton visitor Friday.

Abner Chavis, Indian, of R. 1 from St. Paul, was among the callers at The Robesonian office this morning. He says he found the horse he recently advertised in The Robesonian dead in a ditch near his home. The horse was worth $150.

The item in last Monday’s paper to the effect that Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Ellers had moved into town from just outside the town limits was an error. Mr. Ellers meant that he had changed the place of getting his mail and the remark was misunderstood.

State Commander H.S. Carpenter of the Maccabees of Raleigh will install the officers of Lumbee Tent No. 18 here tomorrow night at 8 o’clock. All members of the tent are urged to attend the installation. After the officers have been installed refreshments will be served and a general good time is expected.

The graded school opened this morning for the spring terms. All the teachers were back at their posts ready for the opening and around 500 pupils were present. Supt. Sentelle says all who have beginners to enter during the spring term must send them in this week, as that grade is already crowded. School will close May 18.

The young men’s Baraca Class of the First Baptist Sunday School elected the following officers yesterday for the first half of this year: President E.M. Johnson; Vice President Stinson Powell; Secretary-Treasurer Guy Townsend; Teacher L.R. Varser (re-elected); Assistant Teachers E.F. Britt and R.H. Taylor; Reporter F. Grover Britt.

Cypress Camp No. 125 W.O.W. installed the following officers last Thursday night for the ensuing year: Dr. R.T. Allen, C.C.; T.C. Maxwell, Adv. Lieut.; Vance Skipper, clerk; J.W. Bryan, banker; K.D. Williams, (can’t read); Carl Bulard, watchman; C.L. Collins, sentry; W.A. McNeill, A.E. Boney and R.M. Collins, board of managers.

Mr. E. McQ. Rowan of the Smyrna section was a Lumberton visitor Saturday. Mr. Rowan told a Robesonian reporter about one of his neighbors, Mr. S.D. Lamb, having a near-serious accident one day recently. Mr. Lamb got his foot caught in a stalk cutter and his leg was right badly bruised before he could get it out. Had the mules become frightened no doubt Mr. Lamb would have been killed.

The Pastime Theatre and the Pope Drug Store entertained all the children registered at the store of Messrs. R.D. Caldwell & Son—about 200 in number—Friday afternoon. The little folks witnessed the picture show, after which they were served with ice cream by the drug store. Pictures of the children were made in front of the Caldwell store, where they assembled, in front of the theatre, and also in front of the Pope Drug Store. The children all received small United States flags and had a great time. The occasion will be long remembered by the children.

Catawba Businessmen Ask General Assembly for Money for Roads, Bridges, 1916

“Proposed Bonds for Roads,” from the Hickory Daily Record, January 3, 1916

Progressive citizens in view of the legislative session have begun discussion of a large bond issue for good roads and modern bridges throughout the country. As much as $400,000 and $500,000 is urged, says the Newton correspondent of the Greensboro News.

It is argued that the county, as a result of flood damage to roads and bridges, will have to borrow this year $100,000. The 20-cent road tax now paid by each township, it is said, is virtually wasted, because it is put into dirt work, which must be renewed and rebuilt every so often, resulting in no permanent benefit.

Under the law providing for the tax each township could issue its own bonds, the county unit having been displaced for the township unit; but outside of Hickory and Newton, no township could issue sufficient bonds for its road needs and under the proposed measure, all these townships could secure the expenditure of more money than the bonds for each would come to. Should an act be passed, it is thought that it would provide for the retirement of the $50,000 of bonds issued by Newton and by Hickory townships for roads some years ago.

That a measure of this kind, provided the people voted for the bonds, would set Catawba County 20 years ahead, is the opinion of a leading business man. While great progress has been made in dairying and general farming and education, Catawba has made little progress in good roads construction, and some of the business men of the town feel that this session of the general assembly ought not to be allowed to expire without the enactment of an act calling for several hundred thousand dollars for bonds for modern road work and the construction of the most improved and lasting bridges.

Cabin Raised in a Single Day at 4-H Club Camp, 1950

From Extension-Farm News, published by the North Carolina Agricultural Extension Service at N.C. State University, January, 1950.

Another cabin was recently added to the 4-H Club camp in Western North Carolina when 62 interested persons, 37 men and 35 home demonstration club women, from Transylvania County drove from Brevard over to the camp site and completed the entire building in one day.

The three pictures above show how rapidly the cabin took shape. The top picture was snapped by J.A. Glazener at 11 a.m., the middle one at 12:45 p.m., and the bottom one at 3 p.m. Before the sun went down, the last nail was driven, the last stroke of the paint brush was made, and the cabin was complete.

All of the materials for the building were donated by interested people in Transylvania, and the labor was entirely donated, including the painting and wiring.

Although the men did the construction work, the home demonstration women did their share by preparing and serving the hungry workers a meal that was fit for a king. The menu included chicken, fried, baked and with dumplings, fried ham, sausage, beans, kraut, and pies and cakes.

Deaths From Measles Top Local News in Bladenboro, 1917

“Bladenboro News Batch” from the Jan. 6, 1917 issue of the Lumberton Robesonian.

Deaths from Measles and Several are Sick—School Begins Again—New Freewill Baptist Church—Personal

We sympathize with Mr. C.C. Carter in the death of his two boys about 11 and 13 years old, who died this week with measles and pneumonia.

Measles is raging in this vicinity and people are dying very fast.

Masters Groves, Branch and Burton are confined to their beds with measles.

Sorry to learn that Mrs. Sam Gore is sick with measles.

Mrs. J.F. Dellinger is visiting relatives at Bladenboro.

Dr. J.S. Norman spent Christmas with his father in Alabama, returning home the 29^th.

Mr. A.B. Freeman went to Hamlet this week on business.

Mr. Tom Nance is all smiles; it’s a boy.

Mr. B.H. Todd accepted a position with the cotton mill at Bladenboro.

Rev. J.M. Fleming of Lumberton filled his regular appointment at Gallead Church. We think this church wise for choosing an able speaker as Mr. Fleming.

Messrs. M.T. Sanford, Curtis Hudson, Corbet Hester and W.H. Hargrove of Bladenboro made a flying trip to Boland Mercer’s Jr. Sunday p.m. They report a good time.

Mr. and Mrs. Jim Mercer of Wilmington are spending some time with friends and relatives here.

Mr. Jim Sikes has accepted a position with Mr. W.W. Hester as salesman in the department store.

Mr. L.R. Davis, principal of Ten Mile High School, is spending the holidays here with his parents.

Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Todd of Bellamy are visiting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jetter Branch.

Glad to know Mr. and Mrs. Will Davis are improving.

Sorry to report that Mr. Lester Ward’s condition is unimproved.

Mr. and Mrs. Ellis Branch spent a part of the week with relatives at Whiteville.

Mr. B.R. Bowin left this morning to visit his daughter, who is sick at Whiteville.

Our school will open January 8^th.

Glad to see Mr. John Britt out again after several days confinement with grippe.

Mr. Erwin Britt spent part of the holidays at Lumberton.

The new Freewill Baptist Church which has been started here is expected to be completed at an early date.

Troubled Marriages and Divorces in 1910

“The Measure of Matrimony,” from the Farmer and Mechanic newspaper, published in Raleigh, N.C., Jan. 4, 1910. Originally printed in the Chicago Record-Herald. For those people who think everything would be perfect if we could only go back in time.

Mrs. Brown is busy

   Getting her divorce;

Was her hubby naughty?

   Certainly—of course!

Still she has a lover

   Waiting anxiously

For the judge to kindly

   Grant her her decree.

Mrs. Gray has left us

   For a little while;

Living out in Reno

   In a modest style;

Couldn’t stand her hubby,

   For his purse was lean:

Presently they’ll tell us

   She is Mrs. Green.

Mrs. Drexel’s busy

   Filing suit today;

She’ll be Mrs. Ellis

   Right away they say;

Mrs. Randolph’s lawyer’s

   Getting evidence;

She’ll be Mrs. Jackson

   In a fortnight hence.

Madison is living

   Down town at his club;

Wife hands each reporter

   Out a haughty snub;

Darborn has been mentioned,

   So has Mrs. Lake;

Keeping matters quiet

   For the children’s sake.

Mrs. P is silent,

   So is Mrs. A.

Both were out consulting

   Lawyers yesterday;

All the judges busy

   Wheels forever whiz;

Bless me what a mix-up

   Matrimony is!

Villines Brothers Have Started Grade-A Dairy in Hurdle Mills, 1950

From Extension-Farm News, published by the North Carolina Agricultural Extension Service at N.C. State University, January, 1950.

Reginald and Nathaniel Villines, young Negro farmers of Hurdle Mills, are planning a new 20-cow Grade-A dairy, says C.J. Ford.

The boys already have a good start on their dairy enterprise, Mr. Ford Says. They seeded 25 acres of pasture this fall. They also have plenty of room in a new $4,000 barn to house the 18 or 20 cows they want. At present they have four good cows, and are interested in locating other good animals.

Nathaniel will finish his studies at A. and T. College next spring with a degree in agriculture.

Social News for Jan. 26, 1922, Is Illness Report in Pee Dee, N.C.

From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, January 26, 1922

Pee Dee No. 1

Paul Hogan, who has had rheumatism badly, is able to be out on crutches.

Henry Gibson’s five children and Dennis Sinclair’s two children are recovering from flu.

Glen Green and mother are recovering from a recent illness.

Bud Tyson’s child is somewhat improved.

Robesonian County Health Officer B.W. Page's Report, 1917

“Health Officer’s Report” from the Lumberton Robesonian, Jan. 8, 1917

Semi-Annual Report of County Health Officer B.W. Page

In Thurday’s Robesonian was given a report of the meeting Monday of last week of the county board of health. The board meets again today to elect a health officer for the ensuing year. Dr. B.W. Page, who no doubt will be re-elected, made the following semi-annual report to the board last Monday:

Post-mortem examinations 3.

Examination for commitment to asylum 17.

Visits to county institution 114

Visits to county dependents 13.

Paupers and hook work cases treated 142.

Examinations for application for aid 27.

Diseases investigated 32.

Diseases quarantined 34.

Visits to schools 67.

Physical defects to school children reported 628.

Typhoid vaccinations 1,683.

Doses vaccine administered 4,689.

Visits to 17 dispensaries for vaccination 83.

Health talks made 128.

Newspaper articles furnished 19.

Health bulletins distributed 8,400.

Miles traveled 3,900.

“Results of health work have been reported from time to time through the columns of newspapers. Comparison of vital statistics with those of adjoining counties indicates that Robeson has prevented more than ten deaths per month for the past three years without considering the amount of sickness prevented.”

Citizens of Elizabeth City Say Water Is Not Fit to Drink, 1910

“Condemn City Water,” from the Farmer and Mechanic newspaper, published in Raleigh, N.C., Jan. 4, 1910

Elizabeth City People in Mass Meeting Take Action

Elizabeth City, Jan. 1—A mammoth mass meeting was held here to discuss the quality of the city water supply. Mayor Fearing presided over the meeting. Superintendent Lewis of the water company admitted that the water was salty and objectionable, and stated that the company has experts at work on the matter. Mr. J.B. Flora, one of the city’s leading citizens, offered a resolution condemning the city water and also the intake, with the recommendation that the citizens refrain from using the water until the intake was changed, so as to give a good water supply. This was adopted.

The sinking of the schooner Minnie and Maude, with a cargo of net stakes in Albemarle Sound is reported. The captain and crew reached the shore safely.

The trips of small freight boats have missed trips on account of the ice in the sound.

The Final Summons for Four Robeson County Residents, 1917

“The Final Summons” from the Lumberton Robesonian, January 8, 1917

Mr. Neill A. Brown, Postmaster at Red Springs, Died Yesterday—Funeral at Philadelphus This Morning

Mr. Neill A. Brown, postmaster at Red Springs and well known throughout the county, died at his home at Red Springs yesterday morning at 5 o’clock. The funeral and interment took place this morning at 11 at Philadelphus.

News of the death came as a shock to friends of the deceased here. Mr. Brown had been in poor health for several weeks but had not been confined to bed. He was down town in Red Springs Saturday but complained of not feeling well, and shortly after going home he became very sick.

Deceased was about 55 years old. He had been postmaster at Red Springs since Wilson’s election four years ago. He was married in Lumberton, his wife, who survives, being a sister of Miss Belle Higley of Lumberton. A daughter and a son also survive—Miss May Brown and Mr. Rowland Brown.

Miss Ina Higley and Mr. M.N. Folger attended the funeral this morning.

Mr. Whiten Stephens, Near Fairmont

Mr. Whiten Stephens, a well known farmer, died yesterday at his home near Fairmont. He had been in poor health for some time.

Daniel M. McRae Died Suddenly in Maxton Saturday

While endorsing a check in the director’s room of the Bank of Maxton Saturday afternoon, Daniel M. McRae, a wealthy farmer living about three miles from this town died unexpectedly without saying a word. Medical attention was summoned, when the deceased was stricken, but the attending physician said death had been instantaneous.

Recently Mr. McRae had been complaining about his health but did not consider his condition serious. He was talking to J.C. Baldwin and had singed his initial to the check when the pencil slipped from his fingers and he sank to the floor.

The exact amount of Mr. McRae’s assets is not known, as he kept most of his money invested in various enterprises. He lived with a sister and was about 65 years of age. The body was taken in charge by Undertaker McLean and prepared for burial.

Mrs. Catherine Marley Thomas

Lumber Bridge, Jan. 6—Mrs. Catherine Marley Thomas died at her home December 30^th, 1916, near Lumber Bridge, age 77 years.

At the age of 16 she married Henry G. Thomas of Marion, S.C., who preceded her to the grave 20 years ago. She then moved to Lumber Bridge where she lived until her death.

She is survived by three brothers—D.J., M.L., and A.J. Marley—and two sisters—Mesdames McKethan and Long.

Mrs. Thomas was converted when a child and was a member of the Lumber Bridge Baptist Church. She spent her whole life doing good to all around her and was loved by all who knew her. Her life was a daily witness of those Christian graces which always mark the way of those living in close touch to the Master. She filled her place as only one of her quiet dignity and loyalty could do.
The funeral was conducted by the writer from the residence. Her body was laid to rest in the family cemetery. The large gathering of friends as well as the floral tributes attest to the esteem in which she was held.

“And I heard a voice from heaven saying, write blessed are the dead who die in the lord.”

Ben Hunter Runs Off With Wife's 16-Year-Old Sister, 1910

“Deserts Wife and Children,” from the Farmer and Mechanic newspaper, published in Raleigh, N.C., Jan. 4, 1910

Then Elopes With His Wife’s Young Sister

Monroe, N.C., Dec. 31—Ben Hunter on Christmas evening carried his wife and two children to his father-in-law’s, Mr. Hilliard Belk of Buford township, stating that he was going to South Carolina to spend Christmas.

During the night he returned and carried off Miss Bright Belk, a sister of his wife, aged about 16 years. They took the train for Atlanta. Though efforts were made to apprehend the eloping couple their whereabouts are unknown.

Gaddysville Welcomes 1917

“Gaddysville Grist” from the Jan. 8, 1917 issue of the Lumberton Robesonian.

Well, it’s New Year. The old year brought us many blessings, lots that we didn’t consider. Now with the New Year let us all start and do better, as there is room for improvement in all of us. Let us do better thinking, better planning and not forget our Creator; and a better year is bound to be.

Farmers are busy with jobs such as pruning trees, taking out stumps and ditching, while some are plowing. You may feel assured that these doings add a new look to things and profit as well.

A little smoke pouring out from every little tenant house chimney tells us that farmers are better stocked with labor than ever. But now is the time to look for that lazy tenant who always puts things that are today’s job off for tomorrow. “Time and tide wait for no man.”

School opened here Monday for the spring session with a larger attendance than heretofore. The patrons seem pleased with the way Mr. Miller manages things.

Pine straw? Yes, pine straw. Did you ever see any? It is getting to be one of the scarcest articles that the farmer seems obligated to have. Of course there are some pine woods left, but some smart two-by-four will stick fire to it, just to see it burn.

We have never seen a finer prospect of collards in people’s gardens. These things make mighty good eating, especially after the heavy frosts. Oh, ain’t the licker good!

Rev. Mr. Powell of Asheboro preached a splendid sermon at Pleasant Grove Sunday p.m. using for his subject “Quench not the spirit.” Mr. Powell is a first-rate preacher of splendid power. We do not know whether he has accepted the call extended him from this field or not, but hope he has.

                --W.V.B.

Lula Cassidy's Home Demonstration Club Had Chant, 1919

By Meta Newcomer, Extension Homemaker, in the January 1994 issue of Tar Heel Homemakers

In 1919, Home Demonstrator Lula Cassidy helped organize community development clubs in Transylvania County. They even had their own chant:

We are the clubs of state-wide fame

Home Demonstration is our name.

Tall girls, short girls, fat girls, thin

The Home Demonstration Club

Takes them all in.

You don’t need money

And you don’t need pearls.

Anybody, everybody,

Just so you’re girls.

“Prior to this time, the men had organized clubs such as the Corn Club, Pig Club, Potato Club, Poultry Club, Wheat Club and other agricultural clubs. Now it was time for the homemakers to learn new ways and to enjoy a new form of socializing. Today’s Extension Homemaker is an informed woman who is headed for a future with a confident knowledge that she is keeping pace, if not one step ahead,” said Meta Newcomer, EH Club member.

4-Year-Old Mary Franklin Biggs Died,1922

From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, January 26, 1922

Mary Franklin Biggs

Little Mary Franklin Biggs died at the Charlotte Sanatorium this (Thursday) afternoon at 3:30. The remains will be brought to Rockingham on the 11 o’clock train tonight.

The little girl, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Biggs, was 4 1/2 years old, and had been sick for about three weeks. She was carried to the hospital 10 days ago and it was found she had spinal meningitis.

The friends of the little girl and of the parents will learn of the death with genuine sorrow.

Past Presidents of the North Carolina Organization of Home Demonstration Clubs, 1920-1966

Past Presidents of the North Carolina Organization of Home Demonstration Clubs, 1920-1966

This organization merged with the State Council of Negro Home Demonstration Clubs of North Carolina in 1967.

1920, *Mrs. W.B. Lamb, Durham

1921, *Mrs. Grace Bradford McDowell, Charlotte

1922-23, *Mrs. J.B. Mason, Durham

1924, *Mrs. J. Lacy McArther, Fayetteville

1924, *Mrs. R.A. Redfern, Wadesboro

1925, *Mrs. E.Y. Lovelace, Tarboro

1926, *Mrs. T.H. Dickens, Louisburg

1927, *Mrs. J.S. Turner, Reidsville

1928, *Mrs. R.A. McCullen, Clinton

1929, *Mrs. W.T. Whitsett, Whitsett

1930, *Mrs. A.E. Hendley, Statesville

1931, *Mrs. N.L. Stedman, Halifax

1932, *Mrs. D.A. McCormick, McDonald

1933, *Mrs. Dewey Bennett, South Hawthorne Rd., Winston-Salem

1934, *Mrs. Gordon Reid, Union Mills

1935-36, *Mrs. J. Brooks Tucker, Grimesland

1937, *Mrs. Hubert Boney, Clark Ave., Raleigh

1938, *Mrs. LeRoy Clark, Milton Rd., Durham

1939, *Mrs. W.E. Neill, Newell

1940, *Mrs. Dudley Bagley, Moyock

1941, *Mrs. Annie Godwin, Godwin

1942, *Mrs. Porter Paisley, Mebane

1943, *Mrs. W.P. Dorsey, Sharon Road, Charlotte

1944, *Mrs. J.H.L. Miller, Marion

1945, *Mrs. Ediston Davenport, E. Third St., Plymouth

1946, Mrs. A.W. Pierce, Jefferson Ave., Goldsboro

1947, *Mrs. Clarice Duncan, Rt. 3, Siler City

1948-49, *Mrs. George Apperson, Mocksville

1950, *Mrs. J.S. Gray, Rt. 2, Franklin

1951, *Mrs. P.P. Gregory, Shawboro

1952, *Mrs. H.M. Johnson, Kinston

1953, *Mrs. R.L. Yancey, Norlina

1954, *Mrs. Cornelia (Charles) Graham, Belmont Rd., Linwood

1955, *Mrs. E.P. Gibson, Elm St., Laurinburg

 1956, *Mrs. J.C. Berryhill, Charlotte

1957, Mrs. Juanita Proffitt, Weaverville

1958, *L.B. Pate, Rt. 2, New Bern

1959, *Mrs. V.I. Hockaday, Rt. 1, Roanoke Rapids

1960, *Mrs. Zeola English, Trinity

1961, *Mrs. David Williams, Rose Hill

1962, *Mrs. H.C. Little, Rt. 1, Denver

1963, *Mrs. George Frady, Clinton

1964, *Mrs. Mary (Ed) Howard, Rt. 3, Washington

 1965, *Mrs. James C. Harris, Rt. 3, Warrenton

 1966, *Mrs. Billie (Henry S.) Walker, St. Mary’s Rd., Hillsborough

*Deceased when this list was assembled in 1998

Measles Outbreak, Other Illnesses Top Social News from Lumberton, 1917

“News Notes and Comments” from J.M. Fleming, Lumberton Robesonian, Jan. 8, 1917

The schools are re-opening for the spring sessions but rather thinned in attendance due to the unmerciful intrusion of measles. We are fortunate, however, in our Meadows school to have enough immunes to keep us busy in spite of the epidemic. It is our sincere hope that all the sick ones may soon be well. Rev. W.D. Combs, pastor of the Gospel Tabernacle, Lumberton, visited our school Friday, Dec. 22, it being the occasion of our holiday closing, and delighted us with a very excellent speech. It will be a privilege to have him visit us again. The following won a place for themselves 2^nd month on the honor roll: Crowson Bryan and Howard McDonald of the 7^th grade, and Mike L. Davis of the 5^th grade.

The Robeson union held with the church at Singletary’s X Roads last week was quite a success in every way. Despite the rains Friday morning, 15 churches answered to roll call. The sermon by Rev. J.F. Davis and the speeches by Revs. I.P. Hedgpeth and J.R. Miller were good and the singing was splendid. Dinner was served on the grounds and was in keeping with all that goes to make a well-rounded Robeson county sumptuous repast. It was super-abundant and almost made us wish we were twins so we could eat some more. We could not stay for the sessions Saturday and Sunday, being under obligations to the union meeting at Center Roads church in Bladen Saturday, and the church at Elizabethtown Sunday, but we heard good things about the services which were indeed gratifying. Our people were highly entertained and well pleased.

Two letters from Alcoln, S.C., bring the sad intelligence that our only aunt was buried Friday. It is sad only from an earthly consideration, for she was a ripe Christian and we feel sure our loss is her incomparable gain. She was in the 81^st year of her age, and had never married. The last conversation with her was most sweetly assuring. She said she was just waiting the call to come up higher.

We are delighted to hear that “Aunt Becky” is improving. An exchange of letters with her since the news of her first illness has been a source of real satisfaction. Our letter was one of encouragement and condolence; hers was an appreciative reply, and was greatly enjoyed. May her sunlight continue golden.

Miss Maggie Pitman of Route 3 from Lumberton, who spent Christmas with her brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. A.S. Pitman, returned home Friday afternoon.

Misses Emma Fleming, Eureka Pitman and Annie Blake went to Fayetteville yesterday on a visit to friends in that goodly city. They will return home tomorrow.

Local News From Hickory, N.C., 1916

Local news from the Hickory Daily Record, January 3, 1916

The funeral of Mrs. James B. Beard, who died Tuesday afternoon, will be held from the Church of the Ascension Thursday morning at 10:30. Interment will follow in Oakwood Cemetery. Rev. S.B. Stroup, rector, will conduct the service. Mrs. Beard’s death came as a shock to her many friends in Hickory, where she was so greatly loved. She will be missed not only from her church, of which she was a devoted member, but from the club and social activities of the city.

Mr. Lewis B. Gwin, cashier for the Southern and C. & N.W. freight depot, is ill at his home with pneumonia, the case developing Tuesday night.

Wheat on the Hickory market advanced today to $2 a bushel and flour will take another upturn. The cause of course is the admitted failure of the peace negotiations to result in any hope of an early cessation of war.

Mr. Avery Baker, on of Catawba’s best farmers, was a business visitor to Hickory today.

The Do As You Please Club will meet with Miss Francis Geitner tomorrow at 4 o’clock.

Rev. J.G. Garth returned last night from Salisbury where he attended the meeting of the Concord Presbytery.

Misses Rose and Frank Martin left today for Raleigh to resume their studies at Meredith College.

Mrs. E.L. Flowers and children returned home this afternoon from Asheville, where they visited Mrs. Flowers’ sister.

Mrs. Geo. W. Killian, Miss Annie and Master Geo. Jr., returned last night from a visit to relatives in Rocky Mount.

Miss Mildred Farris of Charryville arrived in the city today to spend a few days, the guest of Miss Eileene Yorke.

Mrs. D.M. Boyd is visiting relatives in Lincolnton.

Mr. Ben Gaddy of Hickory, who was operated on in Statesville for appendicitis, is improving nicely.

The Needlecraft club will meet tomorrow afternoon at 3 o’clock with Mrs. Guy Cline.

Mrs. A.M. Powell, who has been spending several weeks with her daughter, returned to Raleigh today.

Hickory will entertain a distinguished visitor next Sunday in the person of Dr. George Leslie Onwake, president of the Ursinus College, Collegeville, Pa. Dr. Onwake is a young man but stands among the first of the educators of his church and a coming man in the educational circle of the country. He will deliver an address in the Reformed Church Sunday night and everybody is invited to hear him. While in the city, President Onwake will be the guest of Dr. and Mrs. J.H. Shuford.

Members of St. Paul’s congregation, never tiring of well doing, gave their pastor, Rev. J.E. Barb and family further cause for loving them. They presented him with a purse containing $31 and enough groceries, chickens and other good things to last the family until midsummer. Mr. Barb naturally appreciates the spirit shown by his members and is grateful for their interest.

Dr. J.M. Clark began work in his new office yesterday as superintendent of home missions and evangelism of the Concord Presbytery. Rev. Clark attended the meeting of the Presbytery in Salisbury yesterday. He will be in Cabarrus County this week in the interest of home mission work.

Mr. Ralph Ballew, after spending the holidays at home, left this afternoon for Chapel Hill to resume his studies at the University. Mr. Frank Allen returned Tuesday.

Miss Mary Moose, daughter of Rev. J.R. Moose of Korea, will speak at the Methodist Church tonight at 7:30. Miss Moose, who is a student at the Greensboro Women’s College, is visiting relatives in Hickory. All people are urged to come out tonight to hear Miss Moose speak.

The city council Tuesday night spent the longer part of its weekly meeting discussing the kind and price of motors suitable for driving the pumps in the waterworks and most of the remainder in considering matters connected with the new graded school building, work on which is progressing satisfactorily. There was nothing of importance to come before the board, routine business filling in the intervals.

Last evening the Hickory Music Club was delightfully entertained by Mrs. J.L. Murphy. The topic for the evening was Horation William Parker. Mrs. Bailey opened the program with the Egyptian Serenade and Why. Mrs. C.R. Warlick sang “O Ask Me Not.” Mrs. J.L. Cilley followed with Scherzo. “Loving” by Frank La Forge was beautifully sung by Miss Mary Ramsay, accompanied by Mrs. J.H. Hatcher. Mrs. will Menzies played Novelette and ended the program with a piece of her own composition—“Breath of Lilies.”

Mrs. T.E. Field has moved from her former residence on Fifteenth Street to Thirteenth Avenue, where she will reside pending the erection of a new home near the new graded school.

WEST HICKORY

Everything was unusually quiet in this town during the holidays. NO disturbance of any kind was reported. The mayor didn’t have any warrants to issue nor any cases to be tried during the season.

Miss Lela Cook is spending several days with relatives and friends at Shuford.

Mr. Calvin Lail and family moved to Shelby one day last week.

Mr. P.A. Carpenter of Forest City is spending several days here with the family of Mrs. M.J. Lackey.

Mr. J.M. Freeman, overseer of the weave room, spent several days last week with his father and his two brothers at Lexington. He reports a fine time.

Miss Julia Richard f Granite visited the family of Mrs. P.A. Cook one day last week.

Mr. A. Elmore of Granite was here Saturday and Sunday visiting his daughter, Mrs. Fred Locke.

Mrs. M.J. Lackey is visiting relatives near Morganton at present.

Mr. Julius Abee of Belmont, N.C., was here several days last week visiting his brother J.F. Abee and his sister, Miss Minnie Abee.

Mr. and Mrs. Bowman from Alexander County spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. O.F. Ekard in west Hickory.

There was a mistake about Mr. Obed Eckard selling his house and lot in West Hickory. It was Mr. Obed Shook who made the sale.

The West Hickory graded school began the spring term Tuesday.

Work Begun On Three Bridges in Mountain Counties, 1916

“Commissioners Order Bridge Foundations,” from the Hickory Daily Record, January 3, 1916

Newton, Jan. 3—The board of commissioners has instructed the state highway commission to proceed with the construction of the foundation work in charge of the state engineer for bridges at Horseford between Catawba and Caldwell counties; at Mores, between this county and Alexander; and at Lookout Dam and at Buffalo Shoals, between this and Iredell County. Competitive bids are to be invited on the concrete and on the steel work separately.

Man Asks Woman If He May Walk Her Home and Jealous Boyfriend Shoots Him, 1910

“A Shooting Affair,” from the Farmer and Mechanic newspaper, published in Raleigh, N.C., Jan. 4, 1910

 Young Man Gets In Trouble by Persisting in Going With Young Lady

Wadesboro, Dec. 31—Reports have reached here of a serious shooting affray three miles from Norwood, last Sunday night. A young man named Caudle was shot and seriously injured by William Blalock. Frim the reports it appears that the cause of the shooting was the fact that Blalock objected to Caudle paying attention to Miss Blalock. Sunday night Caudle asked Miss Blalock to allow him to take her home from church, and the two men had a fight, resulting in Caudle being shot twice and cut across the face and in the back.

Automobile Demonstrator James Freeman Dies When Car Overturns, 1916

“James H. Freeman of High Point Is Killed,” from the Hickory Daily Record, January 3, 1916

Raleigh, Jan. 3—James H. Freeman, automobile demonstrator, was killed yesterday in Oberlin, the negro settlement of Raleigh, by the machine he was driving.

Mr. Freeman, who had been in Charlotte as stenographer to the Southern Railway, today signed a contract with Alonzo Parrish of Boston, to demonstrate a car. He was driving through Oberlin and in giving road to another car ran into a ditch which turned the automobile over. He was pinned beneath and so badly hurt that he died 10 minutes later.

He was 24 years old and originally came from High Point. Ernest Young, attorney of Dunn, formerly employed him and said last night that young Freeman gave great promise. He was married two years ago.

Henderson County Farmers Discuss Problems and Opportunities, 1918

“Farmers Enjoy Feast of Talks” by John Ewbank, Secretary, from the Jan. 24, 1918 issue of the French Broad Hustler, Hendersonville, N.C. Sojar beans are soybeans.

The farmers held quite an interesting meeting in the commissioners’ room in the court house last Saturday morning. There were a number of talks by local men. Among them being that of the farm demonstrator, Frank Fleming, who stressed the importance of farmers getting together at once for ordering what fertilizer and lime they want for the 1918 drops to assure its delivery in ample time. 

This matter was urged as very important on account of the car shortage. The matter of a more extensive cultivation of the sojar bean was taken up at length by those experienced in growing this crop. It was certainly the consensus of opinion that this is a very important vegetable and one to be grown extensively in Henderson county. The farm demonstration has data on this crop which is available to any farmer interested. Mr. Cathy, Dr. Morse, and other farmers discussed this matter. Mr. W.A. Smith, while professing to know nothing about soja bean culture, was very anxious to learn something about it in order that he might be of some assistance in getting a more extensive use of this very important plant. And to prove his good intentions in the matter instructed the farm agent to secure, if possible, two bushels or the best seed suitable for this section and he would see it was paid for. The seed to be given out in one peck lots to parties having, in the judgment of Mr. Fleming, the best means of growing them for seed purposes. Mr. Smith also pointed out that the board of Trade was endeavoring to get the farmers interested in a matter whereby more farmers would be members of this organization, and thus bring a closer relation between city and county.

Mr. James Gray, the district agent, gave a very interesting talk that the farmers ought to have a strong organization along the lines of the Board of Agriculture and was sure through such an organization much benefit could be derived in marking the products of the farm. He said that if the newspapers would give space, as he was informed that they would, untold benefit in the way of advertising and stimulating interest in farm work could be accomplished. He complimented the papers for their generosity in offering their assistance in this way.

Mr. Gray took up the matter of hog production and stated that it was the desire of the administration to have the farmers make special efforts to produce more hogs in Henderson county to help relieve the meat and fat shortage now facing the entire world. He pointed out that in the district west of the Blue Ridge and including Polk county the increase asked for during 1918 is 9,601 hogs and in Henderson the increase of 340 hogs is asked for. Rape and soja beans was urged as the best crops for pasturing hogs pending the permanent clover of similar permanent pasture. The farm demonstrator will be supplied with data along the line which will be available to all farmers. As to finishing the product, he pointed out the use of corn and cotton seed meal for hardening, the use of the latter not to exceed 25 days. He appealed to the farmers to get more brood sows and to keep them as the price of pork would be high for years. The farmers were urged to favor a good dog law to encourage sheep production. He said the government was considering action along this line, but that the county could make a good law suitable to itself if the government did not act. He suggested a law fashioned after a law in one of our eastern states, where all dogs were taxed so much, with a tax of from one to five times as much on the females. This tax to be held to pay all losses from sheep being killed by dogs and at the end of the year the remainder to go into the school fund. All money collected to be spent in the county.

The address of Mr. Grey was very clear and comprehensive and was an inspiring one and it is to be hoped that much good will come of it. The farmers will have another meeting—that of the Board of Agriculture—on the first Saturday in February, to discuss the purchasing of fertilizer and lime and such other matters as may be brought up for discussion.

Emancipation Day Celebrated in Raleigh, 'No Africa For Us,' 1910

“’No Africa For Us’ Raleigh All Right,” from the Farmer and Mechanic newspaper, published in Raleigh, N.C., Jan. 4, 1910

Colored People of City on Emancipation Day…Incentives to Progress…Oration of Day Was Delivered by Prof. J.H. Branch, the Emancipation Proclamation and a Poem Were Read, the Meeting Endorsing Negro Semi-Centennial and Urging That Raleigh Be Selected as Place for the Exposition

The colored people of Raleigh take no stock in the suggested purpose of ex-President Roosevelt in Africa, that he has gone there to spy out a land “flowing with milk and honey” to which to deport the negro race. This was evinced yesterday at the Emancipation Day celebration held in the colored Masonic Temple in Raleigh.

The objection to the suggested plan of back to Africa for the negroes of the United States was voiced at the meeting by Col. James H. Young, a leader of his race. He addresses the meeting at the close of the regular address and after some remarks showing the friendly feeling between the races in Raleigh said that it was reported that Mr. Roosevelt was in Africa for the purpose of securing a land to which to deport the American negroes, “That project is all poppycock,” said Colonel Yung. “Mr. Roosevelt or no one else can take us to Africa. We are at peace with the people here and we are going to stay. The white man has brought us to America and he must take care of us in this country.”

The meeting was a largely attended one, and it lasted for over three yours. Yesterday was the 47^th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation of President Lincoln, and it was fully celebrated here, there being an address, reading of the proclamation, the reading of an original poem, adoption of resolutions concerning the day and the progress of the race and the adoption of a resolution setting out that the semi-centennial exposition to be held to mark the emancipation of the race be held in Raleigh.

The meeting was presided over by Dr. L.B. Capehart, president of the day, who introduced the speakers and those who offered resolutions concerning the day and the events connected with it. The general resolutions of the day were offered by W.M. Graves, chairman of the committee, and those concerning the semi-centennial exposition by C.N. Hunter. The poem of the day was by Lula M. Jordan, a teacher in the Washington graded school, of Raleigh, this having as its subject “Rejoicing Over Freedom.”

The Resolutions Adopted

The general resolutions were those in which good feeling was emphasized. In it the colored people were congratulated on the strides being made by the race in education, in finance, and in morals, advising that the colored people to stay in the South and on farms, buy land, pay taxes and cultivate friendship with the white race. In the resolutions thanks were given the white people for their friendship, especial stress being laid on the friendly feeling between the races which now exists.

The resolutions which pertained to the negro semi-centennial exposition to commemorate the Proclamation of Emancipation set out that it had been endorsed by the President of the United States, who had recommended it to Congress, and that as the movement had its inception in North Carolina during the preparation for the Jamestown Exposition in 1906, that therefore the meeting give it hearty support urged the Senators and Representatives to support it, and expressed full sympathy with the purpose to secure the holding of the exposition in Raleigh, saying “That in no State of the American Union have the white people shown a more liberal spirit towards the advancement of the negro, and we have every assurance that favorable action in this instance will meet a response such as will be given by no other State in the Union.”

The Emancipation Proclamation was read by Claudius Haywood and after it came the address of the day by Prof. J.H. Branch of Raleigh. After this Col. James H. Young spoke in praise of the address, told of the friendly feeling of the white people of Raleigh towards the colored people and of the harmony between the races here. A mark of this good feeling he said has been shown when, after the burning of St. Paul’s Church, such men as Messrs. Josephus Daniels, N.B. Broughton, R.T. Gray, John T. Pullen and others had given active aid and assistance in the movement to rebuild that church. 

In the course of his address he declared that the purported purpose of ex-President Roosevelt to secure a country in Africa to which to deport the negroes of this country is all “poppy-cock,” that the negro is getting on well in the South. He urged his race to be industrious, thrifty, law abiding and self respecting, so as to obtain self respect. He moved a vote of thanks to the officers and those taking part in the meeting and this resolution was adopted.

Address of the Day

The address of Prof. J.H. Branch, the principal of Washington Graded School, colored, of Raleigh, was heard with interest. It was a long one and it went into detail with reference to the colored race and its progress. It declared that “we cherish no feeling of bitterness against those who held us as slaves,” and then spoke of the responsibilities which rested on the negro, that “a man to be free must have deep in his soul a desire to be free,” that proclamations and such things are perfunctory outside of this. In the course of his remarks he said in part:

“Those who have fixed habits of economy should assist the negro in contracting the same habits by actual taking hold of the plow with him and assisting him in his efforts. We need, therefore, the assistance of a strong arm of those who have formed correct habits of life and who have the time, patience, and heart to assist us. What the colored people of this country need is not charity but the means to assist themselves. It is a fact, though seldom admitted, that the Anglo-Saxon is, as a general rule, more ignorant concerning the negro than the negro is of him, and naturally so, for having the pride of his own race at heart, the Anglo-Saxon acting on the assumption that the negro because of his previous condition possesses nothing worthy of consideration; therefore he disdains to read negro literature, his papers and books are discarded, his intelligent men ignored and his acquisition despised.

“The negro citizen should be a tax payer. If the negro, therefore, owns and controls property he will be consulted. There is no way to ignore him. Ownership is an essential element of good citizenship, The negro must have as a race, more respect for the women of the race, the same respect and honor that the white man shows to his womanhood. Our home life must be made higher and nobler.

“The young element of our race are committing too many crimes. One of the main causes is that they are idly standing on the streets, loafing around the lowest dives and dens of infamy and crime. To a large extent the parents are responsible for this condition of affairs.

“We have in the South two distinct and widely varying races. They differ in their social makeup. These distinct characteristics can not be changed. Any attempt to alter them fails and produces harm. In their industrial life there is no need of friction; no need of racial antagonism. The negro may prosper. The white man may prosper. No man should fail. Let the strong white man do justice.

“Not long since I read an article to the effect that ex-President Roosevelt is planning to have us go back to our native land to carry the torch of civilization and say to hose of our race in Africa, ‘Arise and shine, for the light has come.’ But we have become so intimately connected with the Americans in so many ways that it would be almost impossible to tell which branch of the negro family should go to Africa or which should remain in America. Then the thing is impracticable and we cannot for a moment think of such a thing. Some say that we must go, that we cannot live in this country, but must return and leave this country for the Anglo-Saxon to inhabit. Now in the name of the intelligence pf the race I give notice to all concerned that we do not intend to leave this country unless it be of our own free will and accord.

“The negro is an indispensable necessity to the growth, progress and civilization of the world. Without the negro, Christianity would be like an equipoise; for while the white man gives its system, logic and abstraction, the negro is necessary to impact feeling; sanctioned emotions, heart throbs and ecstasy. Thus God and nature need the negro, for without him there would be an aching void in earth and heaven.”

The speaker in referring to the destruction by fire of the splendid colored Methodist Church of this city, said:

“When conflagration and destruction seized with hot hands the beautiful edifice of the African Methodist Episcopal Church of this city, the good white people of this community, under the superb leadership and inspiration of Hon. Josephus Daniels and Mr. N.B. Broughton, sympathized deeply with the colored people in their sore distress and contributed liberally for its immediate rebuilding and today we have the assurance from them that in the near future the colored people of this city shall have a grander and greater St. Paul. Make friends with the white people in your community and State, and conduct yourselves in a manner so as to deserve it. There is nothing to be gained by enmity, but there is much to be gained by the cultivation of a friendly spirit. One great regret with me is that the young white people and the young colored people are not as a rule, as friendly as their fathers were. Make friends, I say, both North and South. Be obliging and courteous; be ladies and gentlemen."

Happy New Year