Thursday, December 31, 2020

J.T. Parker Gets 6 Months on County Roads for Beating Wife on Christmas Eve, 1920

J.T. Parker, a house painter of Raleigh, was sentenced to six months on the roads of Wake county for beating his wife while under the influence of Christmas Eve liquor. (From The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, Dec. 31, 1920)

Clarence Painter Guilty of White Slavery With 12-Year-Old Girl, Dec. 31, 1920

Clarence O. Painter, alias E.V. Cameron, is held in Richmond, Va., on a charge of white slavery, he having taken a 12-year-old girl from Manson, N.C., to Richmond in violation of the Mann Act. (From The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, Dec. 31, 1920)

Police Find Sexton's Scotch Whiskey Hidden in Church, Dec. 31, 1920

Raiding the basement of the First Presbyterian Church in Asheville the other day, the police found a quart of Scotch whiskey belonging to the sexton. (From The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, Dec. 31, 1920)

Susan Bishop's Son Shoots, Kills Her While Cleaning Gun, Dec. 31, 1920

Mrs. Susan Bishop, aged 60 of Durham, was shot by her 12-year-old son while she was sitting before the fire. The boy was getting the gun ready to go hunting. Mrs. Bishop died a few hours later. (From The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, Dec. 31, 1920)

Lone Young, Cecil and Dock Hefner Found Guilty of Murder, Dec. 31, 1920

The much prolonged trial of Lone Young, Cecil and Dock Hefner for the murder of Glenn Lippard, a young man of Morganton, came to an end when the jury rendered a verdict of guilty of murder in the second degree. Lippard was found brutally murdered by the roadside and it is thought the cirme was committed over liquor. (From The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, Dec. 31, 1920)

G.W. Creef To Open Manteo's Movie Theater, Dec. 31, 1920

G.W. Creef is building a movie show house at Manteo which will have a seating capacity of 300. The building is located just back of County street, at the rear of Dr. Gates’ office. (From The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, Dec. 31, 1920)

W.O. Saunders Wishes You a Peaceful, Happy, Profitable New Year, Dec. 31, 1920

The Independent wishes you a peaceful, happy, profitable New Year. I purposely avoid wishing you a prosperous New Year. We have had too much prosperity and profited too little by it. I like the word profitable better. Let us profit this year by the mistakes of the years behind us. Let us learn to live less hurriedly, to work more patiently and conserve our resources. Let us make the best of what we have and covet nothing that is the other fellow’s. Let us be industrious without overworking, economical with being stingy, joyful without getting frivolous; and let’s find more time to be socially helpful and kind. With such a program we could make any year a profitable year. An so I wish you a profitable New Year. (From the editorial page of The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, Dec. 31, 1920, W.O. Saunders, Editor

Negroes Deserved Medal for Thrashing George Moore, Dec. 31, 1920

Negroes Fined $1 Each for Thrashing White Man. . . But in This Case They Should Have Been Awarded Medals for a Good Deed-- George Moore, a white man, was taken into a cornfield near Wilson, N.C., by four Negroes one day this week and given a sound thrashing. The black men tanned his hide in the good old fashioned way and then turned him loose. They had caught Moore in bed with a woman of their own race and instead of lynching him, the what folk’s way of dealing with such cases, they gave him a liberal dose of strap oil and told him to let their women alone. The Negroes were arrested and tried for assault. The judged fined them $1 each. (From the front page of The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, Dec. 31, 1920)

Mysterious Grave Holds Adam Etheridge's Hog, Dec. 31, 1920

Considerable speculation over the contents of a mysterious grave found in the woods near the farm of Gus Etheridge agitated many citizens in the “Log Town” section last week. Some were sure that one of the many revenue men recently visiting Roanoke Island had been murdered and done away with. Others were of the opinion that some negro offspring had been secretly buried. Flowers on the grave confirmed this theory. The mystery was not solved however until two young men aided by a collored man took it on themselves to investigate and found it to be one of Adam Etheridge’s hogs which had died and was buried with much ceremony, for a joke. (From The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, Dec. 31, 1920)

Wednesday, December 30, 2020

John Odom Beats Wife Christmas Morning, Dies Accidentally When Gun Goes Off, 1920

John Odom, aged about 65, was killed early Christmas morning at his home about four miles northeast of Hamlet. The coroner’s jury investigated the death a few hours afterwards, and rendered a verdict to the effect that he killed himself accidentally. Odom was about 65 years old, and his wife is about 35. They have five children, the oldest about 16, named after his father. According to the evidence of Mrs. Odom, her husband went to bed drunk Friday night. About 1 o’clock they were awakened by a knock at the door. She opened it and admitted three men who said they had come for some whiskey. One of the men asked her what sort of Christmas she was going to have; she told him “none at all.” He threw a quarter into her lap. After the men left, her husband, who was still drunk, began beating her. She ran into the yard. He got his gun and placed it beside the cot. The evidence of the son followed that of the mother. The boy told of his mother being driven from the house, and how his father got a knife after her. That his mother was finally pulled back into the house by his father who had her by the hair. That his father threw Mrs. Odom across the cot and was on top of her with his knee pressed down on her chest when the gun fired and the man fell over dead. The gun was a single barrel hammer gun, with short sawed-off barrel. The coroner’s jury consisted of R.L. McDonald, W.W. Smith, M.D. Smith, J.H. McDuffie, J.M. Sedberry, C.H. White. They rendered a verdict that “John Odom came to his death by an accidental discharge of a gun in his own hands.” (From the front page of the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 30, 1920)

George Stuttz Acquitted in Murder of Torrence Melton, Dec. 30, 1920

Charlotte—After deliberation lasting more than 40 hours, the jury in the George Stuttz murder case acquitted the 22-year-old North Charlotte mill hand in superior court of the charge of murder of Torrence Melton. (From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 30, 1920)

Freight Train Kills Bill Williams, 40, Dec. 30, 1920

Haw River—A freight train running ahead of eastbound Southern train No. 16 killed Bill Williams, age 40, an employe of a local mill. (From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 30, 1920)

Rev. W.R. Jenkins Seriously Injured Day Before His Wedding, Dec. 30, 1920

Rev. W.R. Jenkins, Methodist pastor in Davidson county, was seriously injured on Wednesday of last week when a Southbound train struck his automobile. He was to have been married the next day. Automobiles and trains simply cannot meet without something happening. (From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 30, 1920)

Lynn Anderson, 80, Dies After Spending 76 Years in Monroe Almshouse, December 1920

There died at the county home a few days ago a woman remarkable in one respect and that is that she in all probability held the world record as to successive days spent in an almshouse. Her name is Lynn Anderson and she was about 80 years old and about 76 of these years had been spent in the Union county home for the aged and infirm. When the county home, the poor house as it was then called, was established three miles east of town about 76 years ago, Lynn Anderson, her mother and her sister were its first inmates. From that day to the day of Lynn’s death she never spent a day away from the county home and there was not a single night she did not spend under its roof. She moved twice during those long years, the site of the county home being changed that many times. Lynn Anderson was weak in mind but physically strong and she had just enough sense to do the hardest kind of drugery and in the days of her strength she did that willingly. If all the water that Lynn Anderson drew from a deep well out at the county home could be turned into a stream it would be large enough to float a gunboat and if all the wood she carried in her arms from the wood pile to the fireplace could be put in one pile it would be as high as the court house. Poor Lynn, she is better off. (From the Monroe Enquirer as reprinted in the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 30, 1920)

Arch Manor, Charged With Stealing Car, Out on Bond, Dec. 30, 1920

Mr. Arch Manor was released from jail here at Rockingham Wednesday night about 7 o’clock under a $2,000 bond which had been signed by his father, Mr. John Manor, W.P. Ingram, L.M. Williams, J.A. Porter, Homer Baldwin and W.A. McDonald. He is charged with the theft of a Ford Coupe from H.H. Anderson of Hamlet on Sunday night, Dec. 19th. A preliminary hearing was held before Squire Gordon at Hamlet the 21st, who after hearing the State’s side of the matter bound Manor to Superior Court under $5,000 bond. He was unable to raise such a large bond and so was placed in jail. (From the front page of the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 30, 1920)

Garner & Hinson Store Burned Thursday Night, Dec. 30, 1920

Night Officer Hamer on Thursday night of last week got a whiff of smoke about 12:30 as he was passing the court house. He investigated and found that the rear of the Garner & Hinson store was on fire. He gave the alarm and after the usual delay incident to poor equipment and still poorer water pressure, a line of hose was put in play. The flames were kept to the one-story building, but the $20,000 stock of men’s and boys’ clothing, etc., was badly damaged by fire, smoke and water. Mr. Kenny Garner and several others left the store the night of the fire at 11:15; there was no fire in the stove, and so he is at a loss to account for the blaze. It seemed to start in the northeast corner, at the rear. A hole two yards square was burned in the floor, and a small hole in the ceiling. The flames licked the shelves of shoes, clothing, shirts, etc., without burning up the shelves themselves. Many people turned out for this fire as the store is in the center of the business part of town. Adjoining on the west side is the post office, and on the east is Lowry’s grocery store, with The Post-Dispatch office next to Lowry’s. It was feared lest the flames should gain such headway as to endanger the adjacent buildings, and the handsome court house building 50 feed distant across the street. The building is owned by W.B. Cole, who, it is understood, has about $2,000 insurance on it. The stock is owned by Kenny Garner and Minor Hinson, and was valued at about $20,000. They had $16,000 insurance on it. The “salvage” man from the insurance companies came here Wednesday to see what he could do with the stock, and the adjuster came last night. (From the front page of the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 30, 1920)

Tuesday, December 29, 2020

Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 29, 1920

Hickory daily record. Image provided by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Library, Chapel Hill, NC. Persistent link: https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn91068423/1920-12-29/ed-1/seq-1/

Charles Bailey Killed at Shiloh Dance, Dec. 29, 1920

Statesville, N.C., Dec. 19—Glenn Wood shot and killed Charles Bailey at a negro dance in Shiloh township, eight miles from here, last night and escaped, the officers were informed today. The negroes had quarreled and Weed is said to have gone home and returned with a gun. Bailey was killed instantly. (From the front page of The Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 29, 1920)

John Hefner Caught With Liquor, Again, Dec. 29, 1920

John Hefner was arrested last night by Hickory police officers on the charge of transporting liquor and later released under a bond of $500, which was signed by Ode Russell of Granite Falls. Hefner and Emmett Mitchell came into the city on a wagon of fodder about 6 o’clock and as they turned the corner on Federal street, Chief Lentz, Sergeant Sigmon and Night Officer Pope accompanied them. Hefner advised the chief to read his search warrant, and this satisfied him. A 10-gallon keg with about eight gallons of liquor was found in the bottom of the wagon. When the search had started, Mitchell found he had business elsewhere, but Hefner retreated a few paces and then told the officers that he reckoned they would find the liquor. They fulfilled his expectations. In explanation, he said that he found the booze as he was coming to town with some provender for his stable. He was driving a team belonging to the Henkel stables and this was not seized. Hefner conceded that he was playing in hard luck. In Burke superior court two weeks ago John Hefner was placed under a $1,000 bond to guarantee his good behavior and violation of any of the state laws would cause him to forfeit the money, he was told. He has been indicted several times for selling liquor but conviction in the superior court, to which he appealed, has not been possible. The last time he was up, the state’s witness, Bob Cannon, was in the state of Washington where he had gone for his health, it was said. After Hefner was picked up the officers paid a call at Emmett’s home on the Brookford road. They were met at the door by the hostess, but the host departed by a rear door and was seen no more last night. Mrs. Mitchell was pouring oil on a smouldering fire with the officers arrived. The arrest of Hefner, coming as it did a few days after the conviction of Cecil and Dock Hefner for themurder of Glenn Lippard, created a mild sensation in Hickory. The father stayed with his boys throughout their trial. (From the front page of The Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 29, 1920)

Perjury Charges to be Brought, Says R.L. Huffman, Dec. 29, 1920

Solicitor R.L. Huffman came to Hickory from Morganton today to begin an investigation into a dozen or more witnesses against whom charges of perjury will be preferred at the March term of Burke superior court. The solicitor said that Lone Young, after hearing of Dock Hefner’s statement, said it was all a falsehood so far as he was concerned and that he knew nothing about the murder of Glenn Lippard. Solicitor Huffman said, however, that he was confident the three men who did the killing were in the Burke county jail and that they would go to the penitentiary. Baxter Hilderbrand was not arrested on any statement little Dock might have given, but on other evidence, the solicitor said. Witnesses in Hickory, Burke County and Rhodhiss will be caught in the net the solicitor is preparing for them and the Record was told that Carroll Eckard, Emmett Mitchell and his wife Fannie, and Cora Crouse would be charged with perjury along with Hanes Parham, Marshall Cook and Coy Hodge of Rhodhiss, Waverly Rudisill, Gene Hilderbrand and a number of others from the Henry River section of Burke county. . . . . . (From the front page of The Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 29, 1920)

Hubert Yoder, 16, Dies After Shot to the Hip, Dec. 29, 1920

Hubert Yoder, the young man shot in the hip by a small boy late yesterday, died at the hospital here shortly after noon. Hubert Yoder, 16 years old, died in the Richard Baker Hospital this afternoon from a wound inflicted yesterday after by a shotgun in the hands of a small boy in the public road near Blackburn, this county. Hubert was on his way home from a store and Jerry Wood and two other lads, Weaver and Leonard by name, walked along with him with a loaded single barrel shotgun, the Weaver boy it is said, carrying the weapon. In some manner the gun discharged and sent a load of shot and packing through Hubert Yoder’s right hip. He bled terribly before he could be carried to the hospital here and Dr. Shuford considered an operation in his case would be fatal. The boys with the gun were about 12 or 13 years old. He is the youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. Colon M. Yoder, of the South Fork section, and is a splendid youth. The parents, who are among the best people in the county, have the sympathy of hundreds of friends. (From the front page of The Hickory Daily Record, Wednesday evening, Dec. 29, 1920)

Dewey Lowman, 18, Dies After Rifle Shot, Dec. 29, 1920

Dewey Lowman, 18-year-old son of Mr. Robert Lowman, who lives two miles east of Connely Springs, Burke county, died in the Richard Baker Hospital at 5 o’clock yesterday afternoon as a result of injuries inflicted last Thursday afternoon when he fell with a 22 calibre rifle in his hand and the bullet entered his stomach. The intestines were perforated four or five times and his recovery was despaired of as soon as the seriousness of the wounds was determined. Dewey Lowman was one of the brightest young men in his whole section and was handsome and courteous. Those who knew him said he gave promise of a bright future and his deth will cause sorrow among a host of friends. Just how the accident occurred is not known. The funeral will be held tomorrow morning at 10:30 from Friendship Methodist church. (From The Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 29, 1920)

L.L. Ramseur Gives County Home Residents Christmas Treat, 1920

Prof. L.L. Ramseur, principal of the colored graded school of Hickory, gave the inmates of the county home a nice Christmas treat. (From The Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 29, 1920)

Monday, December 28, 2020

V.T. Chears, Former Member of State Legislature, Dies at Age 85, Dec. 28, 1920

Esq. V.T. Chears, a former member of the Legislature from this county, many times chairman of the county democratic executive committee, church moderator, and a leading citizen, died Friday evening at his home in Lanes Creek township after an illness of several weeks duration. He was 85 years of age, and was the last of his father’s family. The funeral services were conducted Saturday at the Philadelphia Baptist church by Rev. R.M. Haigier, and interment was in the cemetery there. A large concourse of friends, relatives and neighbors were present to pay their last respects to this fine old citizen. Surviving Esq. Chears is his faithful wife and the following children: Mrs. J.C. Baucom, Mrs. G.B. Walters, Mrs. W.F. Funderburk, Miss Mary Chears, and Mr. Tracy Chears, all of this county, and Mr. Charles Chears of Georgia; Mrs. A.R. Nisbet of Greensboro; and Mr. W.F. Chears of Sanford. Although the deceased had been confined to his bed but a short time, he had been in failing health for the past year. However, he made occasional visits to Monroe up until a few weeks ago, always making it a point ot call upon some of the older people, who were identified with him in the great political movements following the close of the war, and during the widespread of the 90’s. (word left out of original story) Born in 1845, Esq. Chears first saw the light of day while war clouds were shadowing the country, later to develop into a conflict with Mexico. When he attained the age of 15, the Confederate war, in which he participated towards the close, began; and before his end came he had lived through two other wars, the Spanish-American war and the World War. Ever since he attained manhood, the deceased has been an important factor in the life of Union County people, both in a religious and political way. He was several times moderator of the Baptist association; and in politics he not only acted as chairman of the democratic executive committee for a number of years, but served his county in the legislature. Esq. Chears, in the opinion of the writer, came very near approaching the ideal type of a citizen. He manifested great interest in all movements, was a loyal churchman, and was ever ready to serve his fellow citizens in any capacity. He was a man whom everyone respected, both for his native ability and honesty of convictions. He was sincere, square with his fellow men, and in his death this section has lost a good citizen. (From the front page of the Monroe Journal, Tuesday, Dec. 28, 1920)

Berry Hensley Killed, Charles Hare, Vernon Bailey Seriously Injured by Prohibition Officers, Dec. 28, 1920

Berry Hensley, was shot and instantly killed, his brother-in-law, Charles F. Hare, and Vernon B. Bailey, were seriously wounded by prohibition officers in Asheville Friday. (From the front page of the Monroe Journal, Tuesday, Dec. 28, 1920)

Purvis Pleasant, 19, Murdered, Silas Messer, Percy Barber Robbed, Dec. 28, 1920

Purvis Pleasant, 19, was murdered three miles east of Raleigh when four negroes held up and robbed him and two companions, Silas Messer and Percy Barber, while the three where en route to Angier, Johnston county, from Raleigh in an automobile. (From the front page of the Monroe Journal, Tuesday, Dec. 28, 1920)

Suspected Murder at Shute's Pond Ruled Out, Dec. 28, 1920

Would the removal of the water from the abandoned cistern in the pasture at Shute’s pond and about a hundred yards from the depot reveal the victim of a gruesome crime or infanticide? This was the question which was being asked on the streets here Saturday afternoon and Sunday as the work of pumping the water from the cistern under the direction of the police, following the discovery of several partly burnt quilts in the old water hole, went steadily on. The mystery of how the quilts came to the place still remained unsolved at dark Sunday afternoon when the water had been lowered to a depth of two feet and consistent grappling by the officers with a fire hook failed to reveal anything indicating a crime. On Friday a negro employed by Mr. J.T. Shute in passing the cistern noticed a quilt floating on the surface of the water. His observation was reported to the police who carried a fire hook to the scene and made a search in the 215 feet of water in the old well. Their efforts brought forth three other quilts and these similarly burned. Strengthening the suspicion that some crime had been committed and an effot made to hide it in the depth of the water was the discovery on the bed clothes of several dark spots, declared by some who saw them to be splotches of blood. The preserved state of the quilts showed that they had not been in in the water but a short time, while their conditin indicated that they wouldnot have been thrown into the well because they were too old for use. Considering these facts, the officers concluded that the water should be removed to ascertain if the cistern held a hidden crime. Pumps were set to work Saturday afternoon and continued all day Sunday. A morbidly curious crowd surrounded the scene of the operations the most of the time and voiced wild guesses as to what the removal of the water would bring to light. By dark Sunday afternoon the water had been lowered to two feet. It was then that the officers concluded that if a crime was hidden in the old well that they should be able to locate it with the fire hook. A minute’s searching of the bottom in this manner failed to reveal anything to confirm the former suspicions. The most commonly accepted explanation of how the bed clothes came to be in the cistern is that the quilts were used by laborers employed by the railroad and living in shanty cars at a little distance from the spot. These quilts, officers now believe, became infected with vermin and an effort of burning them failed as the day was very damp, they were cast into the old well. (From the front page of the Monroe Journal, Tuesday, Dec. 28, 1920)

Ad of Efird's Sale, Monroe, N.C., Dec. 28, 1920

The Monroe Journal, December 28, 1920. Image provided by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Library, Chapel Hill, NC. Persistent link: https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn91068476/1920-12-28/ed-1/seq-2/

Alice Bassett, County Public Health Nurse, Report, Dec. 27, 1920

. . . . Fortunately we today know many precautions which may be taken to secure good health, but these precautions should begin even before a child is born into the world and should deal with the health of the parents. While few diseases are actually carried from parent to child through direct inheritance, yet children of diseased parents have weakened bodies which readily become a prey to disease. If on the other hand, the community concerns itself with the health of the school child, with the health of the adult and if proper sanitation is had, if the water supply is watched and kept pure, if the food supply is clean, if the streets are kept free from dust, if flies are regarded as the deadly menace which they truly are, if the death dealing mosquito is made impossible by the oiling of stagnant water spots, if vaccination is offered to all the people, if emergency and hospital relief facilities are universal, then we hope for a better race in the future and for greater efficiency through the preservation of community health in the present. No better investment could possibly be made for the advancement and progress of a community than securing good health for the people and every effort directed toward that end is an effort that should enlist the cooperation and support of every person in any given territory. --Alice T. Bassett, County Public Health Nurse (From The Hickory Daily Record, Monday evening, Dec. 27, 1920)

Dr. and Mrs. F.B. Hicks Have a Son, Their Ninth Child, Dec. 27, 1920

Born to Dr. And Mrs. F.B. Hicks, a son. This is the ninth child this good family has been blessed with. (From the front page of The Hickory Daily Record, Monday evening, Dec. 27, 1920)

Hickory Dancing Club Dance in Armory, Dec. 27, 1920

The Hickory Dancing Club will give a dance in the armory tonight. (From the front page of The Hickory Daily Record, Monday evening, Dec. 27, 1920)

Baxter Hildebrand Re-Arrested in Murder Case of Glenn Lippard, Dec. 27, 1920

Morganton—As a result of new evidence gathered by Solicitor R.L. Huffman, a warrant was issued today for the re-arrest of Baxter Hildebrand, one of the five men first arrested for the murder of Glenn Lippard in Burke county on Saturday night, November 20. Hildebrand and Bill Tallent were the other two men held with Cecil Hefner, Dock Hefner and Lone Young in connection with the murder, but Hildebrand and Tallent were released on Wednesday evening after their arrest on Monday, November 22, for complicity in the crime. The evidence on which Hildebrand will be jailed again was not disclosed today, but the solicitor stated that he expected to be able to divulge it in a few hours. Solicitor Huffman said that he had not seen Lone Young when he ordered the re-arrest of Hildebrand but that he had additional information that caused him to have him arrested. Chief of Police Lentz of Hickory was otified by the solicitor to make the arrest. Baxter Hildebrand was released when Lou Lynn, the State’s witness, told the officers that she did not see him at the place of the killing. Most people inferred that Hildebrand had gone after some hidden liquor when Lou Lynn appeared on the scene, and they accounted for his release on this assumption. Solicitor Huffman stated several days ago that he would indict several persons for perjury, and it has been rumored that another Hickory man would be arrested in connection with the killing. . . . . (From the front page of The Hickory Daily Record, Monday evening, Dec. 27, 1920)

Sunday, December 27, 2020

Fire Destroyed High Point Motor Company Including 80 Autos, Dec. 27, 1920

High Point, Dec. 27—A fire which is expected to have been of incendiary origin early Saturday morning destroyed the High Point Motor Company plant here. The loss, including 80 automobiles, wll aggregate $150,000. Many of the cars destroyed wee not insured. A large number of High Point citizens lost their automobiles. (From the front page of The Hickory Daily Record, Monday evening, Dec. 27, 1920)

C.B. Armstrong, President of 13 Cotton Mills, Has Died, Dec. 27, 1920

Gastonia, Dec. 27—Col. C.B. Armstrong, prominent capitalist and textile manufacturer, died at his home at 1 o’clock this morning. He was president of 13 cotton mills. The funeral will take place Tuesday afternoon at 3 o’clock. (From the front page of The Hickory Daily Record, Monday evening, Dec. 27, 1920)

William Harrison Bradley, 47, Railroad Conductor, Has Died, Dec. 24, 1920

Captain William Harrison Bradley, for many years a conductor in the service of the Seabord Air Line Railroad, residing at 515 Fourth Avenue, Cottage Place, died at 1:12 o’clock yesterday morning in a Norfolk hospital after an illness of eight weeks’ duration. Captain Bradley was 47 years old. He is survived by a widow, Mrs. Bessie M. Bradley; two daughters, Misses Ruth K. And Virginia B. Bradley; a son, Bruce B. Bradley of Northampton County; and five brothers, John, Jesse, Thomas and Grover Bradley, all of Northampton County, and Marcus Bradley of Wilmington, Del. Captain Bradley was a member of Seaboard Lodge No. 56, A.F. and A.M., and also the Scottish Rite bodies—Lodge of Perfection, Rose Croix and Auld Consistory. He was also a member of Kehdive Temple, Mystic Shrine, and R.E. Lee Lodge, No. 205, Order of Railroad Conductors. The body was removed yesterday to the residence. It will be forwarded tomorrow over the Seabord Air Line Railroad to Thelma, N.C., where the funeral service will take place. Burial will be made in the family plot near Thelma. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Fannie Taylor and Percy Tanner Married Dec. 20, 1920

On Monday night, Dec. 20, Mrs. Fannie B. Taylor and Percy Tanner were united in holy wedlock by Rev. R.L. Topping, minister of the First Christian Church, at the minister’s residence on Carolina Avenue. The bride and groom are residents of Roanoke Rapids. Their many friends wish them a long and happy life. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Wee Baby Girl Born to Mr. and Mrs. Ed G. Farthing, Dec. 23, 1920

A wee baby girl has taken up her abode at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ed. G. Farthing. (From the Watauga Democrat, Boone, N.C., Dec. 23, 1920)

Saturday, December 26, 2020

Miss Hardison, Mr. Finch Wed Monday Night, Dec. 20, 1920

On Monday night, Dec. 20, exactly 17 years from the date of the marriage of the bride’s mother, Miss Mary Hardison became the bride of Mr. Dalton L. Finch. The ceremony was performed by the pastor of the couple, Rev. R.L. Topping, minister of First Christian Church, at the home of the bride. Both are members of the First Christian Church and active workers. The bride is one of the leaders in the silver chain society. Mr. Finch saw active service on the fields of France in the World War, returning home after being honorably discharged he was baptized in August, 1920, by Rev. R.L. Topping. The bride was a member of the Christian Church before moving to Rosemary but immediately moved her membership. Both are employed by The Rosemary Manufacturing Company and plan to make Rosemary their future home. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Flythe-Bryant Wedding at Rosemary Opera House, Dec. 19, 1920

On Sunday night, Dec. 19, immediately after services were dismissed, Miss Grady Bell Flythe of Severn and Mr. John L. Bryant of Rosemary were united in holy wedlock in Rosemary Opera House. The ceremony was performed by Rev. R.L. Topping, minister of First Christian Church. Mr. Bryant is conducting a restaurant. Their many friends wish for them a long and peaceful voyage over the sea of life. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Prohibition Officer Arrests 7 Men, Seizes 50 Gallons of Whiskey, Three Cars, Dec. 24, 1920

Rutherfordton—Federal Prohibition officer G.R. Rhyne, assisted by Deputies E.W. Dixon and T.F. Morrison of Cleveland county captured seven white men, 50 gallons of whiskey, and three automobiles near the three county corner of Cleveland, Berke and Lincoln in upper Cleveland. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Capt. Frank Brown Dies of Infection Following Rat Bite, Dec. 24, 1920

Salisbury—Captain Frank Brown, who won his title of captain in the war between the states, where he fought valiantly for the Confederacy, died at his home in Salisbury, death coming as a result of being bitten on the hand by a rat. Several weeks ago the small animal bit Captain Brown, and blood poisoning set in, later pneumonia appearing. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Miss Hancock, Mr. Denson Marry at Bride's Home, Dec. 19, 1920

On Sunday afternoon, Dec. 19, Miss Nellie Mae Hancock and Mr. Willie D. Denson were united in the holy bonds of matrimony by Rev. R.L. Topping, minister of the First Christian Church. The ceremony was performed at the home of the bride, 528 Five Hundred street. The bride is an attendant of First Christian Church though not a member. The bride and groom will likely make their home in South Carolina. They have the best wishes of all their friends. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Friday, December 25, 2020

All Good Wishes for Christmas

Los Angeles in December From North Carolinian's Eyes, 1920

To my friends in Hickory: I will make an effort to tell you a few things about California. First, I will tell about the climate. It is a wonderful climate out here, flowers are blooming all the while and the grass is just looking its best now, especially up in the hills, because it has been raining. Also all kinds of fresh vegetables here now, and watermelons are sure good to us now, for it is something unusual for us. Anyone can be down in the valley of Los Angeles and look up in the hills and see the beautiful white snow, and it is warm in the valley. Second: The schools here are wonderful, the only fault to the schools here is that negroes are going to school with the white children, also Japs and Mexicans. Third, I will say a few things about the parks. There are 18, and they are all very beautiful. The beaches are great, words cannot express the wonderful times anyone can have at the beach. The telephone Company is very good here, there are 15 large offices in Los Angeles and the one I work at is not so large as the others. There are about 75 girls working here. The salary is very good. Now about the people: The people that have been raised here are very distant, but the people from the east and south are nice and kind to you. They will say to you, “Aren’t you from the east or south?” and then “I thought you were. I could tell by your talk.” They like to hear a southerner talk. The mountains here are very large and high, but they are bare, no trees or bushes, but they have cactus all over them. They are not called mountains here; they are called hills. What the young folks enjoy most of all in the summer is taking hiking trips, and hike for 15 or 20 miles. The birls and boys dress in khaki and wear hiking boots. 4336 Eastern Ave., Los Angeles, Calif., Leia Cook. T.J.L. (From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 13, 1920)

Seaboard Air Line Gives Christmas Gifts to Worthy Children, Families, 1920

The Fourth annual Seaboard Air Line and Community Christmas Tree this year promises to surpass that of last year, when over 300 young folks were served with candy, nuts, oranges, apples and a souvenir, also 12 lots of flour, bacon, potatoes and beans were sent to the unfortunate and sick. All friends and employees are requested to donate to this worthy cause. All donations can be sent to W.G. Ebey, train dispatcher, at Hamlet, N.C. (From the front page of The Pilot, Vass, N.C., Friday, Dec. 10, 1920)

Maimie Vass Weds Roscoe Britt, Dec. 10, 1920

Mrs. Mary Blue of Vass, Route 1, announces the marriage of her daughter, Maimie, to Mr. Roscoe Britt, which took place on Tuesday, December 7th. They will be at home December 20th at Lumberton, N.C. (From the front page of The Pilot, Vass, N.C., Friday, Dec. 10, 1920)

Sexton-Williams Wedding, Dec. 3, 1920

A very quiet wedding was solemnized on Tuesday morning at 10:45 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W.O. Williams Sr. on Maple street, when their daughter, Miss Mary Ruth Williams, became the bride of Mr. Talbert Vann Sexton of this city. The ceremony was performed by Rev. H.K. Williams. Immediately following the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Sexton left on the 11:45 train for a short wedding trip. On their return they will reside for the present with the bride’s parents on Maple street. (From The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, December 3, 1920)

Newland, Poplar Branch, Moyock Schools Praised, Dec. 3, 1920

Dr. Charles E. Low of the U.S. Public Health Service and Director E.C. Beil of the North Carolina Landowners Association who have been conducting a series of meetings this week, concluding in a big mass meeting here last night, are loud in their praise of the fine interest in education they found at Newland in Pasquotank and at Poplar Branch and Moyock in Currituck county. They were pleased with the school equipment found at each of these places, particularly with the new consolidated High School building at Poplar Branch. The Poplar Branch school compares favorably with the best high school plants found in the best counties in the state. An audience of more than 200 greeted the speakers at Poplar Branch Tuesday night. Dr. Low spoke on “The Hazards to Health and Prosperity” and designated the cattle tick, the open privy, malaria, typhoid and bad roads as great hazards. Mr. Bell explained the work of the N.C. Landowners Association, the object of which is to make eastern North Carolina more desirable for new settlers by removing the very hazards of which Dr. Low spoke. Dr. Low and Mr. Bell, in company with Secretary L.D. Case of the Elizabeth City Chamber of Commerce were at Newland Monday night and Moyock Wedensday night. (From The Independent, Elizabeth City, N.C., Friday, December 3, 1920)

Thursday, December 24, 2020

Santa Welcomed at South Rosemary School, Dec. 24, 1920

South Rosemary School has been frequently visited by Santa Claus during the last week. He left five beautifully decorated Christmas trees. The Christmas tree for the High School was deposited in the auditorium on Monday evening at 8 o’clock, each member of the High School had invited a guest and had made plans for entertaining them. Oranges, nuts and candy were served. Many parents and friends were present at the first grade Christmas tree on Tuesday afternoon. Santa Claus surprised each little first grader with a bright colored stocking filled with nuts and fruit and candy. A Christmas play was presented by the primary department. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

A.J. Honeycutt Guilty of Receiving Stolen Merchandise, Dec. 24, 1920

After less than 30 minutes’ consideration, a jury in the United States district court rendered a verdict of guilty in the case of A.J.Honeycutt, wealthy merchant of the Neuse, who was charged with having received merchandise stolen while in the course of interstate commerce, knowing it to have been stolen. Judge Henry G. Connor reserved sentence, pending the trial of other connected cases, but remanded the defendant to the custody of the marshall for safe-keeping. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920. He would be sentenced to five years in the Atlanta prison and fined $5,000.)

S.J. Taylor Resigned From Police Department, Dec. 24, 1920

Asheville—In the face of an official investigation into the police department called by Mayor Gallatin Roberts, S.J. Taylor, whose handling of the office of chief of police is said to have caused the investigation, tendered his resignation. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Sgts. Wilfong, Marshall Released, Were On Official Business, Dec. 24, 1920

Winston-Salem—Judge Hartman announced in city court he had found law supporting the action of Sergt. W.D. Wilfong and Sergt. J.T. Marshall, members of the cavalry troop at Hickory, in coming to Winston-Salem in search of government stolen property. The young men were arrested for carrying pistols but the cases were dismissed after it was shown that they were here on a lawful mission, being sent by their company commander, Capt. Wade Bowman. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Tobacco Growers Consider Reducing Acreage Next Year, Dec. 24, 1920

Tarboro—Mr. O.F. McCrary, district agent and organizer for North Carolina Tobacco Growers Association, visited Tarboro to address the tobacco growers of this county. Mr. McCrary said that he visited Pitt County last week and more than 200 tobacco growers attended the meeting and the sentiment was strong for the reduction of tobacco acreage next year one-third, and the farmers agreed to sign pledges to that effect. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Mrs. Charlie Johnson Improving After Operation, Dec. 24, 1920

Mrs. Charlie Johnson, who has recently undergone an operation at the Roanoke Rapids Hospital, is now improving. (From the Roanoke Rapids Herald, Dec. 24, 1920)

Wednesday, December 23, 2020

F.A.O. Schwartz Christmas Catalog Cover, 1920

Reformed Church, Hickory, To Hold Usual 6:30 a.m. Service Christmas Day, 1920

The annual Christmas service will be held at the Reformed church on Christmas morning at 6 o’clock. An unusually good musical program has been arranged. This beautiful custom of celebrating the birth of the Christ child with exercises on Christmas morn at 6 o’clock was established in the Reformed church 35 years ago and followed each year. The public is cordially invited to attend this service. (From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 23, 1920)

Frank Pietro Sentenced to 30 Years For Stabbing Maud Latham to Death, Dec. 23, 1920

Frank Pietro, Italian, who stabbed Maud Latham to death at the home of her mother, Mrs. Charlotte Hagley, 110 Ward street, High Point, on the night of July 15-16, 1920, was permitted Thursday afternoon through his attorney, H.L. Koontz, to enter a plea of murder in the second degree by Judge J. Bis Ray, presiding over the criminal term of Superior court. The court sentenced the defendant to a period of 30 years at hard labor in the state penitentiary at Raleigh. Pietro, stockily built, between 35 and 40 years of age, wept copiously after sentence was passed. He spent six or seven very anxious hours during the day, and when the judgment was read to him he was unable to restrain himself longer. He stated that he was born in Panna, state of Naples, Italy, and had been living in the United States for the past 17 years, most of the time in Philadelphia, Pa. He was unable to understand or speak English, necessitating an interpreter, Mrs. Gus Pappas. On cross-examination Pietro admitted that he stabbed Maud Latham several times while she was sitting on the side of the bed. He admitted that he continued stabbing while she was hollering and screaming. (From the front page of The Review, High Point, N.C., Dec. 23, 1920)

No Paper in High Point Next Week, Dec. 23, 1920

As is our usual custom, no paper will be issued next week, the time being taken up in straightening up things for another year. (From the front page of The Review, High Point, N.C., Dec. 23, 1920)

J.M. Downum Describes Beauty of Winter in Boone, N.C., Dec. 23, 1920

By J.M. Downum of Boone, N.C. – A scene of indescribable beauty lies out before me as far as I see. A sheet of snow covers all. An unusual calm prevails. Not a breath of air disturbs the quiet. The symmetrical and majestic white pines dropping gracefully beneath their alban burden present a scene of rare and wondrous beauty. On mountain, hill and dale almost a holy hush lies, as though fearful that the slightest breath might cause the fairy-like scene to vanish from view. The crystal forests in their numerous varied forms present a panoramic scene that words cannot describe, and the artist’s brush would be but a futile means of portraying, as lying in the bright sunlight they glitter like millions and millions of diamonds upon the fingers of nature fair. Such scenes as these must be seen to be fully appreciated. If the great God of the universe makes such scenes for us here to lead us on to understand something of his fatherly goodness, what has He prepared for those who love Him in the Great Country beyond the river? (From the editorial page of the Watauga Democrat, Boone, N.C., Dec. 23, 1920. Alban is Latin for “white.”)

Single Passenger Train at 6:30 a.m. Out of Boone, Dec. 23, 1920

Our Station agent, Mr. Richard R. Johnson, tells The Democrat that there will be no business transacted at the depot on Christmas day after the departure of the passenger train at 6:30 a.m. There will be no local freight out from Boone on that day. (From the Watauga Democrat, Boone, N.C., Dec. 23, 1920)

Program of Carols at A.T.S. Much Enjoyed, Dec. 23, 1920

As a closing program before the holidays, at the A.T.S., the chorus class, under the efficient instruction of the Musical Director, Miss Cox, gave a number of Christmas carols of a very high order, which were very much enjoyed by the student body and others present. (From the Watauga Democrat, Boone, N.C., Dec. 23, 1920)

Tuesday, December 22, 2020

Merry Christmas

Dastardly Thieves Steal All Children's Presents From Rockingham School, 1920

About the meanest and lowest down act probably ever perpetrated in Richmond county occurred in Rockingham on Thursday night of last week. Christmas trees had been arranged Thursday afternoon with decorations and gifts on them, one tree in each room of the Rockingham school. Exercises were to be held Friday morning, and the gifts distributed to the children. Every pupil knew of the delights awaiting them next morning, and many a heart beat faster with anticipation. But they were doomed to disappointment, for during the night a thief or thieves broke into the school building and stripped every tree of its presents. It is estimated that fully a wagon load of stuff was carried away, all to the value of three or four hundred dollars. So far no clue has been obtained to the thieves. But when they are apprehended (and it is to be helped they will be), for the full power of the law should be visited upon them. It was a dastardly act, and one unworthy even a thief. (From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 22, 1920)

Wilkes Sisters Write Santa, 1920

My Dear Santa Claus: We have moved from Ellerbe to Jackson Springs and you will find us on Maple street corner, on West End road. We want you to bring us each a baby doll, a little trunk and smoothing iron. I, Louise, want you to bring me a kitty in a basket and a spotted puppy that barks. Bring all of us some fruit, nuts and candies. We still have our doll carriage and piano that you brought us last Christmas. Lots of love, Lottie Pearl, Margaret Elizabeth, and Virginia Louise Wilkes (From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 22, 1920)

King's Daughters To Have Christmas Tree, Presents at County Home, 1920

The King’s Daughters will have a Christmas tree at the County Home Sunday afternoon at 3:30. It will be lighted with candles and have all the trimmings of the best of such trees. The aged and unfortunate will be bountifully supplied with fruits, and a present for each will of course be given. (From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 22, 1920)

Musical Program at Baptist Church Christmas Morning, 1920

A special Christmas musical program will be rendered at the Baptist church Sunday morning, with sermon by Mr. Benton appropriate to the occasion. (From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 22, 1920)

Rockingham Cotton Mills Closed Dec. 23, 1920, to Jan. 3, 1921

The various cotton mills surrounding Rockingham will close down Thursday night, December 23rd, for the Christmas holidays. They will start up again on Monday, January 3rd. (From the Rockingham Post-Dispatch, Dec. 22, 1920)

Union High School Play Offered Dec. 23, 1920

The public is invited to attend the play “Miss Topsy Turvey” to be given on the evening of Dec. 23rd at the Union high school in Sandy Ridge township. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 21, 1920)

Christmas Exercises, Picture Show at Jerome School House Dec. 23, 1920

There will be Christmas exercises and a picture show at Jerome school house Thursday evening, Dec. 23rd, beginning at 6:30. Everybody is invited. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 21, 1920)

Christmas Entertainment, Tree at Union School Dec. 24, 1920

A Christmas entertainment, with Christmas tree, will be given at Union school in Sandy Ridge township, Friday night, Dec. 24. The public is cordially invited. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 21, 1920)

Santa Claus, Christmas Tree, Presents in Goose Creek Township, Dec. 21, 1920

Old Santa Claus, with a Christmas tree, will be present at the exercises to be given Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock at Piney Grove in Goose Creek township. Rev. Hoyle Love will deliver an address. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 21, 1920)

Box Supper at Center Grove School, Dec. 23, 1920

A box supper will be given at Center Grove school house Thursday night, Dec. 23. Everybody is cordially invited to bring a box if they wish. The proceeds will go to the benefit of the school. Come and bring a pocket full of money with you. (From The Monroe Journal, N.C., Dec. 21, 1920)

Monday, December 21, 2020

No New $2.50 Pieces for Christmas Gifts This Year, Dec. 21, 1920

Washington, D.C., Dec. 21—National and other banks have been requested by John Burke, Treasurer of the United States, not to distribute gold coins for holiday purposes. The request is in line with the policy of the treasury to conserve the gold reserve, it was explained today, but when gold is demanded upon gold obligations the demands will be met. Old gold will be paid, however, and no $2.50 gold pieces will be issued, as the coining of these pieces has been stopped. (From the front page of The Commonwealth, Scotland Neck, N.C., Dec. 21, 1920)

Girl's Auxiliary to Give Christmas Program, Dec. 21, 1920

The Girl’s Auxiliary of the Pleasant Plains Baptist church will give a Christmas program Thursday night, Dec. 23, beginning at 7 p.m. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 21, 1920)

Newborn Found Abandoned in Shoebox, Dec. 21, 1920

A dispatch from Greensboro says that the lifeless body of a new-born babe, wrapped in no clothes at all and lying in a shoebox, was found about 121 o’clock yesterday in the ladies’ rest room on the second floor of Gilmer Bros. Store, on south Elm street. It was discovered by three employees at the store when they entered the room to eat their lunch. They immediately notified W.T. Herrin, manager of the store, who in turn notified police officers, and the body was turned over to a local undertaker. The shoebox was tied with a cotton string, according to Manager Herrin, and was lying beside a cot in the rest room. When the box was opened it was discovered the putrifaction had set in; and it was therefore impossible to tell whether the child had ever breathed or not. It had apparently been dead three or four days, according to physicians who saw the body, and indications were that no attention whatever had ever been given it since it came into the world. The body was fully developed. (From The Monroe Journal, Dec. 21, 1920)

Former Monroe High School Principal Is President of N.J. Socialist Party, Dec. 21, 1920

The fact that 12 votes were cast in the last election at the Euto precinct for Eugene Debs, the socialist candidate for president, who is in the Federal prison at Atlanta, occasioned much surprise here. And now a former Monroe boy, who is home for the holidays, brings news that Mr. H.J. Hendley, one-time principal of the Monroe high school, is president of the Patterson, N.J., local of the socialist party. At least he was when he saw him last, which was some months ago. He is also superintendent of the Patterson schools. Mr. Hendley, it is understood, lost his job here about 10 years ago on account of his radical views, but it was not generally known that he was a pronounced Socialist. Regardless of his political views, which he certainly has a constitutional right to entertain, Mr. Hendley was recognized as an excellent teacher, and he is kindly remembered by scores of this old pupils, one of them being this writer. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 21, 1920)

Monroe Watts Leave Scotland Neck After Helping Build 12 New Aladdin Kit Homes, Dec. 21, 1920

Mr. Monroe Watts will leave for his home at Huntersville, N.C., on the 7:30 train this evening. He has been with the Aladdin people here since in April and helped construct the 12 new houses of various sizes and designs of that name. Mr. Watts spent 11 months in France with the engineers of the 81st division and had some thrilling experiences on the fornt as well as in other sections. Mr. Watts has made many friend while in Scotland Neck who will be glad to see him back here soon. He took The Commonwealth while here and (words obscured) for it to go to Huntersville. This shows he appreciates the newspaper and its work by contributing a share to its support. A Merry Christmas to you. (From the front page of The Commonwealth, Scotland Neck, N.C., Dec. 21, 1920. Aladdin offered a variety of kit homes. )

Burglars Swept Through Five Dormitories Robbing Sleeping UNC Students, Dec. 21, 1920

Chapel Hill, N.C., Dec. 20—Burglars swept through five dormitories at the University of North Carolina Thursday night, taking from students’ rooms more than 30 watches and several hundred dollars in cash. In nearly every instance the watches and money were taken from rooms in which two and three students were sleeping. Several times students were awakened by an intruder, but when the stranger explained that he had blundered into the wrong room in the dark, they went back to sleep. The robbers escaped in an automobile. (From the front page of The Commonwealth, Scotland Neck, N.C., Tuesday, Dec. 21, 1920)

Sunday, December 20, 2020

Eight Fires Reported in State in First 15 Days of December, 1920, Total Loss of $390,000

Raleigh, Dec. 20—Every one of the eight fires reported to the state insurance department for the first half of December were isolated localities where there was little or no fire protection. The following fires in the state in the $10,000 class and over for the first 15 days of the present month have been reported, making a total loss of $390,000. Mt. Olive, two dry kilns of Enterprise Lumber company, $105,000; Elkin, tobacco sale warehouse and adjacent supply store, $80,000; Greensboro, four story brick dormitory of Bennett College, $40,000; Battleboro Oil Company seed and hull house with quantities of raw seed and sacked meal, $35,000; Roxobel Supply Company building and goods, $25,000; Ayden Midway Garage, including autos and accessories stock, $40,000; LaGrange garage and Norfolk and Southern passenger station, $35,000; Hickory Catawba Creamery Company, packing and refrigerator rooms, $30,000. (From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 20, 1920)

Farmers Warehouse, Stores Burn in Reidsville, Dec. 20, 1920

Reidsville, N.C., Dec. 20—Fire believed to have been of incendiary origin early today destroyed Farmers Warehouse and several small stores, causing damaged estimated at $75,000. (From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 20, 1920)

Employees of Union Iron Works to Get All Profits, Dec. 20, 1920

New Bern, N.C., Dec., 20—Effective today and to continue for an indefinite period the employes of the Union Iron Works and Supply Company will receive all the profits from the concern in accordance with an agreement reached between the men and the management on Saturday. The plant employs about 100 men. (From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 20, 1920)

Conditions Bad in the North, Says E.L. Shuford, Dec. 20, 1920

Mr. E.L. Shuford, who has just returned from a business trip to New York and Philadelphia, reports that business conditions in the north are dull but that indications point to a gradual picking up of business after the first of the year. He says the crime wave that is sweeping over New York is serious. Bold robberies are committed in broad daylight on the streets and in the hotels and that it is a common thing for jewelry and even earrings to be snatched from persons passing along the streets. A number of these crimes are attributed to the fact that thousands of persons were thrown out of work when manufacturing plants and other industries closed down for a period. (From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 20, 1920)

Sophie Abernethy Down With the Measles, Dec. 20, 1920

Miss Sophie Link Abernethy, the young daughter of Mr. And Mrs. R.O. Abernethy, is ill at the home of her parents on Fourteenth street with measles. (From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 20, 1920)

Saturday, December 19, 2020

Airplane Lands in Powells Pasture, Dec. 17, 1920

Powelltown was the center of excitement last week when a daring Aeronaut landed his machine in Powells pasture. Some of the Powelltown people seized this opportunity to take their first air flight. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

Miss Morrison Takes Job at Patterson Mills Co., Dec. 17, 1920

Miss Morrison of Franklin has accepted a position with the Patterson Mills Co. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

G.A. Harris Takes Job at Roanoke Rapids Power Co., Dec. 17, 1920

Mr. G.A. Harris has taken a position with Roanoke Rapids Power Co. as assistant to Mr. J.T. Chase. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

Tom Jordan Has Died, Dec. 17, 1920

Mr. Tom Jordan died at his home near Weldon Thursday. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

Claude Willey Back at School, Dec. 17, 1920

Master Claude Willey has returned to Garner School after having been under quarantine for chicken pox for several weeks. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

Ab Garrison, Who Died Dec. 6, 1920, Was Railroad Engineer

The late Ab Garrison, who died at his home in Abbeville on Monday, Dec. 6, ran the engine which placed the rails from Monroe to Chester on the Georgia division of the Seaboard, according to the Abbeville Press and Banner, which gave the following account of his death: “Death called Absolom Leonidas Garrison this morning while he slept. He passed away quietly and evidently without pain and suffering. Mr. Garrison has not been in the best of health since about a year ago, but the past few weeks he has seemed to be in better health, and he was feeling better until about a week ago when he suffered an attack of acute indigestion. He seemed to rally from this attack and while he had not been out his physician and friends were not anxious about him, as there was nothing in his condition to cause alarm. His death which came early this morning was therefore not expected and it caused profound sorrow in the city where Mr. Garrison had so many friends. “Mr. Garrison was born at Burlington, N.C., 60 years ago. He was a son of Joseph and Rachel Garrson. As a young man he turned to the calling of a locomotive engineer. Serving first as fireman and then as engineer on the Carolina Central, Mr. Garrison about 1882 was assigned to duties on the Georgia, Carolina & Northern Railway, now the Seaboard Air Line. He ran the engine which placed the rails from Monroe, N.C., to Chester, and was the first engineer to bring a train into Abbeville. All his life since that time he has given to this railroad. And a conscientious and faithful worker for those whom he served he always proved himself to be. “In 1885 Mr. Garrison was married to Miss Henrietta Gray of North Carolina. For the last 25 years Mr. And Mrs. Garrison have made their home in Abbeville, and here they have made many friends. Mrs. Garrison survives her husband. They have no children. The deceased is also survived by his brother, Mr. John P. Garrison, of this city. “Funeral services will be conducted at the residence of Mrs. Minshall this afternoon at 4 o’clock by Rev. A.J. Derbyshire of the Episcopal church of which Mr. Garrison had been a member for a great number of years. Tonight the body will be taken over the Seaboard to Peachland, N.C., where it will be laid to rest in the cemetery with Mrs. Garrison’s people. A number of friends will accompany the body to its last resting place. “And thus passes a quiet unassuming gentleman.” (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 17, 1920)

Friday, December 18, 2020

Tumpsy Riggan Saws Wood for Aurelian Springs School, Dec. 17, 1920

Mr. Tumpsy Riggan brought his engine to the Aurelian Springs school house and sawed wood for the school on Tuesday, Dec. 6th. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

Local Woodmen of the World Banquet, Dec. 17, 1920

The members of the local camp Woodmen of the World held their annual feed in their hall Wednesday night complimentary to all members of the camp, members of the order in Rosemary, visiting Sovereign and to several of the ladies of the town. Music appropriate to the festivication was furnished by the Roanoke Rapids Band under the leadership of Mr. Shaw, in their own inimitable manner. Speeches to the purposes and foundation principles of the Woodmen of the World with touches of humor in keeping with such occasions were made by Rev. Messrs. L.N. Taylor, T.S. Crutchfield and L.B. Jones and Messrs. J.T. Killibrew and J. Myrick. A tempting menu of oysters, barbecue, fruits and accessories to match satiated the appetites of all present, even to the most corpulent. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

Why Union County 'Possums Are the Best, Dec. 17, 1920

The ‘possums of Union county are nightly prancing in kittenish frolicsomeness up and down the bows of the oaks and hickories of the forests primeval. A Union county citizen brought three robust and smiling ‘possums to Charlotte for sale. They were much fatter and sleeker than the marsupials of Union county usually are and their appearance drew quite a crowd to the sidewalk on the West Trade street, where the citizen of Union had parked his wagon. He said in all soberness, in answer to inquiries as to why the ‘possums being offered for sale from the forests of Union county are fatter than usual, that it was because they got much mash and swill from the stills that are being operated in that county. The man from Union painted a fine word picture of the prolixity of stills and the disposition of the hereto purely “dry” citizens to try their hand at making home brew of some kind or other. He said the remote fastnesses of the woods of the county are likely places for operating stills “unbeknownst” to the officers of the law and that the opportunity has been embraced to make all kinds of home brew. The ‘possums steal forth at night from their lairs in a hollow tree, a hollow log, a clay bank or elsewhere and seek the places out of the stills after a “run” of liquor has been made, it is declared. The man alleges that all over Union county ‘possums are unwontedly slick and fat this fall and that they are as playful and frisky as a cat with a ball of yarn about the hearthstone on a winter evening. Whether they ever attain stages for real intoxication, the man from Union did not undertake to say authoratatively. He strongly suspects they do, judging from the un-’possum-like behavior of some of those captured. (From the Charlotte Observer as reprinted on the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 17, 1920)

Pritchard Tucker, Luke Hannah, Blythe Irby Enlist in Army, Dec. 14, 1920

Messrs. Prichard Tucker, Luke Hannah and Blythe Irby have joined the army, and are stationed somewhere in Texas. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 14, 1920)

Santa Claus Visits Marshville Saturday Afternoons, Dec. 14, 1920

Marshville—Santa Claus came again Saturday afternoon and drew his usual crowd. If there are any children about the county who have a desire to make Santa’s acquaintance just come to Marshville next Saturday afternoon and he will surely meet you here. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 14, 1920)

Thursday, December 17, 2020

Harrison and Thomas, Roanoke Rapids, Ad, Dec. 17, 1920

Image provided by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Library, Chapel Hill,  https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn91068748/1920-12-17/ed-1/seq-4/

Christmas Tree Cancelled at S. Rosemary School, But Students to Present Program at Smith's Church, Dec. 17, 1920

The Christmas tree at South Rosemary School has been given up for many reasons. Each room, however, will have its own form of Christmas entertainment and if any parents wish to come they will be welcomed. On Sunday afternoon at Smith’s Church the South Rosemary school children will give a short Christmas program of stories, carols and dramatizations at 2 o’clock. After this program Attorney Knight of Weldon will make an address. (From the front page of the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

Essex 4th Grader Bettie Wells Write Santa, Dec. 17, 1920

Dear Santa Claus, I am going to tell you what I want you to bring me. Santa Claus, I have all the toys you have ever brought me. If you don’t know the way to my home I will tell you the way, guess you will be at Essex, you go out the back door and turn to your left, keep straight on until you come to two roads one to your left and one to your right, you take the right, then come straight on, you will come through a man’s yard don’t stop but keep the straight road, you will come to a woods come straight on, when you have come for about a half mile look right in front of you and you will see a big white house and a large grove. Santa Claus I will be sure and have our chimneys burnt out so you won’t get your clothes dirty. Santa Claus I want you to bring me a money box to keep my money in. Santa Claus I don’t guess I will see you at Essex, but I will put my money in my Santa Claus box. I want you to bring me a music book of all kinds of notes, well Santa Claus I will be a real good girl for I want you to bring me something nice. Oh! Santa Claus I want you to bring me a doll bed too. Well I guess I better close for this time, for it is nearly time for my English. Santa Claus be sure and bring me some confectioneries too, well good by. From yours so truly, Bettie E. Wells 4th Grade (From the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

Vela Qualls, 4th Grader, Writes Santa, Dec. 17, 1920

Dear Santa Claus, Guess you are well on your way to see the children in this county by now and I will be so very glad when you get here. I want you to bring me a music roll as I am very interested in my music and I want a music roll to protect my sheet music. I also want you to bring me a nice raincoat so that when I have to go to school in the rain I’ll not get wet. There are a great many things I would like to have but I don’t want you to think that I am greedy so I am only going to ask you to bring me things that are really useful as I realize that times are somewhat hard here and guess it is the same way with you. I am going to school every day now. I am in the fourth grade and I like my teacher just fine. I would like very much to see you and hear your reindeers but guess you haven’t the time, as I am sure you have to hurry to get to so many places in one night. I am so anxious for Christmas Eve night to come I almost count the hours. Say Santa Claus, would you like for me to make you some nice candy for Christmas? If you would like to have some I would be glad to make you some. From your little friend Vela Qualls (From the Roanoke Rapid Herald, Dec. 17, 1920)

Robbers Entered Marshville Bank, Only Steal Still, Dec. 17, 1920

After picking a lock in the rear door, robbers entered the Bank of Marshville Monday night and stole a 40-gallon still that had been placed in an empty room the day previous by Chief of Police Barnes Griffin. No effort was made to open the vault, which contained thousands of dollars in currency of the realm and negotiable paper. The still was found on the place of Cephas Mullis, near Marshville, and not caring to come on to Monroe with the confiscated liquor making outfit, Mr. Griffin had placed it in the Bank of Marshville for safe keeping. It is believed that entrance into the bank was effected by picking the lock on the rear door with a piece of wire. The key, which was in the lock on the inside of the door, had been pushed out. Scores of burned matches, which littered the floor, were the only signs of disorder to be found the next morning when the bank officials opened up for business. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 17, 1920)

Wachovia Bank, Matton's Drug Store, High Point Candy Co. Ads, Dec. 16, 1920

Ads for Wachovia Bank & Trust Company, High Point; Atlantic Store Inc, Matton's Drug Store, High Point Candy Company, Dec. 16, 1920 advertisements

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Ernest Rudisell Gets Two Years for Shooting Bessie Lineberger, Dec. 16, 1920

Ernest Rudisell, negro, was convicted in municipal court on Monday on assault with intent to kill Bessie Lineberger, his sweetheart, and was sentenced by Judge O. Arthur Kirkman to be confined in the Guilford county jail for a period of two years to be worked out on the county roads. Notice of appeal was given and a $1,000 bond named. Rudisell was charged with assaulting the Lineberger girl at Justice’s store on the afternoon of November 27. According to evidence, three pistol shots were fired, two of which took effect in the girl’s body. Witnesses testified that Rudisell went to Justice’s store, where the Lineberger girl was spending the day, called her to the front. Asked if she loved him, the girl is said to have told Rudisell that she did not. At this juncture, according to the girl’s statement, the negro said, “If you don’t go with me, you cannot go with anybody else,” pulled a pistol from his pocket and fired. A number of witnesses were placed on the stand by both the state and the defense. Attorney L.B. Williams represented the defendant and conducted vigorous cross examination. Thomas J. Gold assisted Prosecuting Attorney C.A. York. The case attracted considerably more than passing interest, the courtroom having been crowded with people. Rudisell pleaded guilty to the charge of carrying a concealed weapon and was fined $50 and the costs in the case. The pistol will be placed in the hands of the police by order of the court. The negro was also indicted on the charge of assault on Bertha Duff, but was found not guilty of that charge. (From the front page of The Review, High Point, N.C., Thursday, Dec. 16, 1920)

Malther Creakmore, 45, Died at High Point Sanatorium, Dec. 16, 1920

Malther Creakmore, a well known Guilford county resident, died at the High Point Sanatorium, where he had been a patient for one week. Mr. Creakmore was 45 years of age and lived on the Greensboro high, about two miles from High Point. He is survived by two daughters and one son. He was a brother of Mrs. E.J. Welch of High Point. The funeral was held at the home. Rev. J.M. Hilliard was in charge of the services and the interment was made in the Deep River cemetery. (From the front page of The Review, High Point, N.C., Thursday, Dec. 16, 1920)

Dugan Embler, 86, Prominent Farmer, Has Died, Dec. 16, 1920

Dugan Embler, a prominent and influential farmer, died Friday afternoon at 1 o’clock at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Lula Mendenhall, in Davidson county, five miles from High Point. Mr. Embler had been in declining health for several days and his death, while not unexpected, will cause deep regret among his friends in this section. He was 84 years of age, having been born on December 25, 1836. His entire life had been spent in Davidson county. He was a frequent visitor to High Point and was known by a large number of friends and acquaintances here. For many years Mr. Embler had been a man of influence in his community. The funeral was held at Zion church, of which the deceased was a member, Sunday morning at 11 o’clock. Rev. Dugan Cox was in charge of the services. The interment was followed in the church cemetery. Mr. Embler is survived by his widow and one daughter, Mrs. Lula Mendenhall. (From the front page of The Review, High Point, N.C., Thursday, Dec. 16, 1920)

B.H. Dyer, 76, Dies of Apoplexy, Dec. 16, 1920

B.H. Dyer, father of Mrs. F.C. Sharp, of this city, died Sunday night at 7 o’clock at his home in Leaksville. Apoplexy was the cause of death. Mr. Dyer was 76 years of age. Mrs. Sharp visited her parents Sunday, leaving Leaksville at 4 o’clock that afternoon, and received the news of her father’s death shortly after reaching home. Mrs. Sharp left Monday morning for Leaksville. (From the front page of The Review, High Point, N.C., Thursday, Dec. 16, 1920)

J.K. Hill Died Friday at His Daughter's Home, Dec. 16, 1920

J.K. Hill died Friday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Flossie Jarrett, at the Highland cotton mill village. Mr. Hill was born in Randolph county on September 28, 1858, and had resided there until four months ago when he came to High Point to visit relatives. He is survived by one son, William Hill of Cumberland county; four daughters, Mrs. Sarah Coltrane, Mrs. Dora Nelson, Mrs. Pearle Bowers, and Mrs., Flossie Jarrett, all of near High Point; and two half brothers, Tom Staley of Randleman and Sam Staley of Troy. Funeral services were conducted Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the Holiness church at Randleman by the pastor, Rev. Mr. Wray. Interment followed in the church graveyard. (From the front page of The Review, High Point, N.C., Thursday, Dec. 16, 1920)

Lillie Burns Beckerdite Died Saturday Morning, Dec. 16, 1920

News of the death of Mrs. Lillie Burns Beckerdite, wife of E.R. Beckerdite, wife of E.R. Beckerdite, who died Saturday morning at 3 o’clock at her home in Winston-Salem, was received in High Point Saturday. Mrs. Beckerdite was a sister of Charles and Carson Burns, of this city. Miss Annie Burns, another sister, also lives here. Mrs. Beckerdite was well known in High Point, where she lived for a number of years, having been born in the old Gurns house, which once stood on North Main street, where the new hotel is now being constructed. Mrs. Geckerdite was 56 years of age. The funeral was held at the home in Winston-Salem Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock. The remains were brought to High Point and the interment occurred in Oakwood cemetery here. Rev. J.S. Hiatt was in charge of the services. Mrs. Beckerdite was a woman of lovable disposition and the news of her death will be learned with regret. She is survived by six brothers, A.L. Burns, J.H. Burns, Lindon Burns and Hurdis Burns, of Winston-Salem; Carson and Charles Burns of High Point. She also leaves two sisters, Miss Eugenia Burns of Coburg, Va., and Miss Annie Burns of this city. (From the front page of The Review, High Point, N.C., Thursday, Dec. 16, 1920)

Tuesday, December 15, 2020

Daniel Efird Hahn, 63, Died Last Night, Dec. 15, 1920

Mr. Daniel Efird Hahn, aged 63 years, died last night at 6 o’clock at his home on Twelfth street. He had been in declining health for seven years and during the past 10 days his condition was very critical. He bore his illness with remarkable fortitude and during the years when he was shut in he was bright and cheery always looking on the brighter side of life. Before his health failed him, he was actively engaged in farming and in business interests in the city. He was well liked and stood among the highly esteemed citizens of the town and county. The funeral service took place from the home this afternoon and interment followed in Oakwood cemetery. Rev. C.R.W. Kegley, pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran church, of which the deceased was a consecrated member, had charge of the funeral service. Besides his wife, formerly Miss Laura Yoder, the deceased is survived by three children, one daughter and two sons, Mrs. R.L. Gibbs of Hickory, Rev. Sam Hahn of Burke Garden, Va., and Dr. Gaither Hahn of Saranac Lake, N.Y. One brother, Mr. Poly Hahn of Hickory, also survives him. (From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 15, 1920)

Community Club Selling Aprons for Little Girls, Dec. 15, 1920

An apron sale under the auspices of the Community Club will be held tomorrow at the Yoder Grocery Company. There are dainty little aprons of many colors and they will make an ideal Christmas gift for little girls to give to their friends. They will just fit dolly and are as cute as can be and every little girl will want one. (From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 15, 1920)

Fire Closes Ice-Making, Packing Plants of Catawba Creamery, Dec. 14, 1920

Fire of undetermined origin early this morning put the ice-making and packing plants of the Catawba Creamery Company out of commission, causing water damage to the butter making plant and the offices and entailed a loss estimated at between $20,000 and $30,000. The building and contents were covered by insurance. Manager W.J. Shuford announced before the fire had been entirely put out at 6 o’clock this morning that he would begin shipping his dressed poultry to other markets before noon, that workmen would be put on the job of repairing and that all departments would be in operation within a few days. The creamery will be the first to resume operation. The fire was discovered at 4:15 o’clock this morning in the center of the packing department. The cause of the blaze was hard to determine. A hard rain fell all yesterday and last night it was believed by firemen that water likely oozed through the roof, saturated a wire and caused a short circuit. This was merely conjecture, however, and there was no means of determining the exact cause. Owing to the presence of ammonia used in the manufacture of ice, the difficulty of fighting the fire was intensified, but the firemen waded right into the job and several streams of water were kept on the flames until they were under control an hour after the fire was discovered. It was daylight befor ethe fire was thoroughly out and during the forenoon vigilance was exercised to prevent a new start. Both motor trucks were kept on the job. A stiff wind blew the flames eastward and several times the residence of Mr. D.F. Cline, with 75 feet of the creamery, was endangered. The heavy rains made it difficult to ignite, however, and the firemen had this much to be thankful for. The Chero-Cola building, the second story of which is occupied by the Coast-Brand Overall Company, is immediately to the west of the creamery, but no damage was caused here. If investigation shows the ice machines not seriously damaged, the loss will be reduced to a minimum of $20,000, it was believed early today, and it was expected that the entire plant might be in operation within a few weeks. Certainly the creamery will be running in a few days. The poultry house in the rear of the creamery was not damaged. (From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 14, 1920)

Bakers, Grocers Charging Too Much, Dec. 14, 1920

Do you think the good old days will ever return when we can buy a full pint of peanuts for a nickel, or a standard loaf of bread for a dime? When we go to the bakery and buy a loaf of bread, which weighs only a few ounces, and are asked to shell out from 15 to 20 cents, we feel like the bakers are in the same class that some merchants were, up until a recent date, who had failed to read the papers and be advised that the war prices were no longer in order. We feel that the time has come for the bakers to reduce their prices just as everybody else is having to do, and we hope they will do this at once without pressure from the public. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 14, 1920)

H.A. Deese, and T.A. Richardson Moving, Dec. 14, 1920

Corinth, Dec. 13—Mr. H.A. Deese has rented a farm near Matthews from Mr. DeWitt Funderburk and will move to it some time next week. Mr. T.A. Richardson is also leaving this community, having rented a place in Goose Creek township near Benton’s Cross Roads, from Mr. Gus Haigler. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 14, 1920)

Monday, December 14, 2020

Union County Drops Home Demonstration Agent Position, Used Money for Hospital, Dec. 14, 1920

The need for economy caused the Union county board of commissioners to drop the home demonstration work, to which it has been contributing $420 a year, the balance of the funds having been secured from state and federal sources. The board had promised a donation to the Ellen Fitzgerald hospital, and it preferred to expend the money usually set aside for the demonstration work to fulfill this obligation. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 14, 1920)

J.W. Chaney, Jay Helms Will Have Bright Christmas, Dec. 14, 1920

Messrs. J.W. Chaney and Jay Helms, both of Cedar Grove, have right recently put in electric lights. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 14, 1920)

Updates on Cedar Grove Ill, Dec. 14, 1920

Mr. J.E. Chaney of Cedar Grove is very ill at present. Mrs. W.E. Taylor, who has been very sick, is improving. Mildred, the 2-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Chaney of Cedar Grove, underwent an operation today. Her tonsils and adenoids were removed. She is doing nicely. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 14, 1920)

Bowman Gets Other People's Telegraph, Telephone Calls, Dec. 14, 1920

Mr. R.L. Bowman, who installed a wireless telegraphy receiving apparatus several years ago, recently put in new and more sensitive instruments and now not only receives telegraphy but also telephone messages, says the Wadesboro Messenger and Intelligencer. Almost every night he hears parties far out at sea sending telephone messages, and he can hear them distinctly. He says there is one man whom he recognizes by his voice who talks frequently. This man is first on one ship and then on another, but his voice is very recognizable. The other night Mr. Bowman heard a conversation between a young lady in Boston and a man on a boat which was just at the time rounding Cape Cod. A few nights ago Mr. Bowman heard noises of a party on the steamship Montgomery, bound from New York to Savannah. He could hear the phonograph playing and the sounds of dancing, etc. Telephone and telegraph messages are received through the same instruments, and both may be heard at the same time. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 14, 1920)

Mud Creates Opportunity for Tractor Owners, Dec. 14, 1920

If someone wants a good job, get a Fordson tractor or a derrick or something that can pull, and take their stand just outside of town on the Monroe road where the highway force is at work, and pull the cars out as they get stuck. They are sticking up so fast as they can be pulled out, so one can be assured of steady employment there while the rains last. (From the front page of The Monroe Journal, Dec. 14, 1920)

Sunday, December 13, 2020

Principal of Hickory School to Rest His Nerves in Asheville, Dec. 13, 1920

Mr. W.C. White, principal of the West Hickory graded school, left today for Asheville, where he will spend some time resting. His physician advised him to quit teaching for a few weeks because of nervousness, but Mr. White expects to be back after the holidays. In the meantime the school will be conducted until his return. (From the Hickory Daily Record, Monday, Dec. 13, 1920)

Don't Forget Injured Vets at Oteen, Kenilworth Hospitals This Christmas, Dec. 13, 1920

Christmas is almost here and the canteen calls upon the people of Hickory for assistance in making the season as glad and happy as possible for the men in the P.H.S. hospitals at Oteen and Kenilworth, confident in the light of former experience that no one will turn town their appeal. Our men marched off to uphold in Europe, not only the prestige of our flag but the safety of our shores, and everybody was enthusiastic, open hearted and open handed. However, since their return an attitude of indifference has fallen upon us. We forget that these men who came back to us as crippled and ill, cruelly handicapped in their careers, are still paying the price of the glory which is ours; and they are doing it cheerfully. Let us not add the bitterness of neglect to their wretched existence. Each ward will have an Xmas tree, a lady of Asheville will contribute them, but the decorations of these trees will be left for others to do. Hickory canteen will undertake to trim those in wards 18 and 14, and to hat end they ask contributions of decorations of tinsel and toys, candles, etc. In many homes there may be toys, etc., which the children of the household have outgrown. These will be gratefully received. Also for stockings they ask handkerchiefs, pocket knives, scissors, pens, safety-razors, hot water bags and foot warmers (woolen bed slippers). These are greatly needed, as nearly all complain of suffering with cold at night, when all windows and doors are opened wide. Caps and sweaters too are necessary. These things and any other articles which may suggest themselves to you, with cakes, candy, nuts and fruit are desired. Please send contributions to any one of the following ladies: Mesdames K.C. Menzies, Geo. Yoder, G.N. Hutton, W.L. Abernethy, Misses Gertrude Finger, Frances Field and M.E. Geitner. (From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 13, 1920)

3 Jurors Selected So Far in Murder Trial, Dec. 13, 1920

Morganton, Dec. 13—Three jurors had been selected at 4 o’clock this afternoon in the case of state gainst Cecil and Dock Hefner and Lone Young, charged with conspiracy and murder of Glenn Lippard called for trial this morning at 10 o’clock. It will require all of the day to obtain a jury. The jurymen chosen are A.A. Daie, Alexander Bennett and J.W. Shull. Of the special venire of 100 men summoned last week by the sheriff, 10 had been exhausted in the selection of the three jurors. A large crowd is in attendance on the trial, many witnesses and spectators being here from Hickory and the lower end of Burke county. Judge Thos. J. Shaw of Greensboro is presiding. (From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 13, 1920)

4-Year-Old's Skull Fractured When Plane Hits Car, Dec. 13, 1920

Charlotte, Dec. 13—Rising from the ground but failing to attain the proper altitude, an airplane driving by Pilot Clark yesterday afternoon struck an automobile at a landing field in Myers park, injuring Mrs. Copsas and her 4-year-old daughter, Grace Jackson. The child’s skull was fractured and she was last night unconscious in a local hospital. The airplane is one that has been flying here with “dare devil” performers pulling hair-raising stunts on the wings. The car was parked on a road near the field and was some distance from the standing point of the plane. The top was hit by the wheels of the machine, it being crumpled up like a sheet of paper. The child was struck at the base of the skull by pieces of the top. The mother of the child is an American woman, widowed, who married a Greek here. (From the front page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 13, 1920)

Saturday, December 12, 2020

Jane Beatty Dies of Pneumonia, Dec. 10, 1920

Newton, Dec. 10—Mrs. Jane Beatty died Thursday at her home near Sherrill’s Ford, this county, of pneumonia. Mrs. Beatty was about 70 years of age. She was Miss Jane McColl of Mecklenburg county before her marriage to the late G.M. Beatty in 1880. Mr. Beatty died in 1902. Mrs. Beatty’s only child died in infancy. The deceased was the step-mother of Mrs. W.F. Rader of Newton and Mr. C.M. Beatty of Mountain Creek. The other step-children are Lock Beatty, Mesdames B.A. Gabriel, A.E. Sherrill, J.P. Cornelius, of this county, and Mrs. J.A. Gabriel of Lincolnton. The interment took place today at Rehoneth in the presence of a large concourse of friends and relatives. Mrs. Beatty was one of the founders of Sherrill’s Ford Presbyterian church, of which she remained a most devoted member till death. Mrs. Rader and son, Mr. Edgar Rader of Newton, attended the funeral. Prof. A.C. Sherrill of Catawba College is a nephew of the deceased. (From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 10, 1920)

Will Herman Sentenced to the Roads, Dec. 10, 1920

Will Herman, whose bar room near Catawba Springs was broken up on Wednesday night, November 24, was sentenced in county court Tuesday to six months on the public roads on the charge of selling liquor. He was caught with the goods. Sheriff Isenhower and Mr. C.R. Brady of Conover and two other officers raided his alleged store and found barroom fixtures. He was evidently preparing for a busy Thanksgiving trade. As Herman learned what was happening, he made off with two jugs of liquor, spilling the juice as he fled. Mr. Brady and a Newton officer grabbed him. Herman is about 60 years old and has a family. His age saved him from a longer sentence, County Judge Sigmon said. For several days it was believed that Herman, who was out under bond on charge of selling liquor, would expose a score or more of blockaders and bootleggers in Catawba, Caldwell and Alexander counties, but somebody “worked” on him before the day of trial. A Hickory man, who went his bond, is said to have told him the consequences of uncovering the liquor dealers, while Mr. Brady pointed out to him the good he could do his own family and several counties by telling of the rottenness that he knew about. Herman considered a light sentence and a clean breast of the rotten business or closed lips and a term on the roads. He chose the roads. (From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 10, 1920)

Lakeview Power Company Updating Equipment, Dec. 10, 1920

We understand that the Lakeview Power Co. Is going ahead with its work of putting in new machinery at the upper plant. This plant was built in 1910-11 by a company composed of Messrs. F.R. Danley, J.R. McQueen, Jack Eastwood, and others, and was run by this company for a while, when Mr. Eastwood sold his interest to Messrs. Danley and McQueen. Later Mr. Danley sold his interest to Mr. McQueen, who still owns and operates the plant together with another up to date plant about five miles further down the river. The first plant was run night and day and the machinery was getting some what worn, and now they are replacing this old machinery with modern and up to date new machinery, and when complete will be one of the most up to date plants in Hoke county, if not the best in the State. From those two plants light is supplied to Vass, Lakeview, Cameron, Pinehurst and Raeford, and power is furnished the Vass Cotton mills, the Vass Roller mills, the Pilot press, and numerous other enterprises, and reflects credit to the community, and a nice income to the county, and gives a lot of men steady employment the year round. (From the front page of The Pilot, Vass, N.C., Friday, Dec. 10, 1920)

Winners In Swine Judging Contest at Pinehurst Fair, Dec. 10, 1920

The Troy team won the first prize of $15 with a score of 8,333 at the swine judging contest at the Pinehurst fair. The Mt. Gilead took second prize, $10, with a score of 6,875, and Sandhill third prize, $7, with a score of 6,833. For the highest individual score, O.B. Denton with 95 won a purebred boar pig. Eugene Reynolds was second and won $3 with a score of 80. (From the front page of The Pilot, Vass, N.C., Friday, Dec. 10, 1920)

Hardy-Doss Wed in Cameron, Dec. 10, 1920

Mr. J.C. Hardy and Miss Lima Doss were quietly married at the home of the bride in Cameron on Thursday evening, Dec. 2nd , Rev. L.H. Joyner officiating. Mr. Hardy has recently purchased the place known as the John Muse home at Walnut Grove where he, with Mrs. Hardy, will make their home. Since moving to Cameron last Christmas, Mr. And Mrs. Doss have given two of their daughters in marriage. (From The Pilot, Vass, N.C., Friday, Dec. 10, 1920)

Friday, December 11, 2020

Herbert Futrell, Former Constable of Wayne County, Shot by Mob, Dec. 9, 1920

Goldsboro—Herbert Futrell, former constable of Wayne county, was shot when a mob stormed the Wayne county court house in an attempt to take five negroes held there for murder of a white man. He was removed in an automobile by members of the mob and whether he was killed or not could not be learned. According to reports, Futrell led a body of men against the west door of the court house when he fell, shot in the abdomen. (From the Hoke County Journal, Raeford, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

Richard McLaughlin Attempts Suicide, Dec. 9, 1920

Statesville—Richard B. McLaughlin, one of the leading lawyers and best citizens of Statesville, attempted to commit suicide here. He was in his law office and fired a 32 caliber pistol in his forehead. (From the Hoke County Journal, Raeford, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

Blind Pig, A Colored Man, Found Dead Near Montrose, Dec. 9, 1920

“Blind Pig,” a colored man, well known in this county, was found dead on the road near Montrose this morning. It is probable he was hit by a car, or he may have died from exposure. He was in Raeford late yesterday. (From the Hoke County Journal, Raeford, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

W.H. Andrews Critically Ill, Dec. 9, 1920

Mr. W.H. Andrews is at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E.C. Koonce, near Rockfish critically ill. His death is expected at any time. (From the front page of the Hoke County Journal, Raeford, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

Miss Mary Ann McArthur, 76, Died of Pneumonia, Dec. 9, 1920

We clipped the following from The Laurinburg Exchange of last week: Miss Mary Ann McArthur, one of Scotland’s well known and highly esteemed women, died Wednesday afternoon at 3 o’clock at the home of her brother, Mr. C.S. McArthur, following a short illness of pneumonia. Funeral services and interment took place Thursday afternoon at 2:30 at Caledonia Methodist church. Miss McArthur was 76 years of age. Surviving are two brothers, Mr. C.S. McArthur of this county, and Mr. John McArthur of St. Pauls, the latter having suffered a stroke of paralysis several days ago and is seriously ill at this time. (From the front page of the Hoke County Journal, Raeford, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

Amanda Currie, Antioch Township, Died Last Friday, Dec. 9, 1920

Mrs. Amanda Currie who lived near the county line in Antioch township died last Friday and her remains were interred at Antioch Saturday, her pastor, Rev. J.W. Goodman, conducting the funeral services. Mrs. Currie was in her 72nd year; she had lived consistently the Christian life, a life adorned by many Christian graces, which were productive of many of the peaceable fruits of redemption in her conduct. Before marriage she was a Miss McInnis, and she was the fourth member of that family to die within a period of less than three years. She will be sadly missed in her community. (From the front page of the Hoke County Journal, Raeford, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

Thursday, December 10, 2020

High Point Industry Shut Down, Dec. 9, 1920

High Point—The furniture industry at High Point is at a standstill, according to Fred B. Rhoades of Rhoades Furniture company. “Forty-two furniture factories have shut down,” said Mr. Rhoades. “One furniture factory and coffin concern are the only two doing any business. I will shut down my plants when we knock off for Christmas.” (From the Hoke County Journal, Raeford, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

Benjamin Brantley's Letter to Santa, Dec. 10, 1920

Dear Santa Claus: I am a little boy 4 years old. I want a little car. I want a little doll. I want a little rifle. From your little friend, Benjamin Brantley (From The Commonwealth, Scotland Neck, N.C., Dec. 10, 1920)

Editorial Praises Arrest of Leaders of Wayne County Mob, Dec. 10, 1920

Judge W.A. Devin, who is presiding over Wayne county superior court, is betting on the theory that the people of North Carolina provided means for bringing to justice persons who violate the laws, and as a result four of the alleged leaders of the Goldsboro mob which stormed the court house the other night have been arrested. It may be difficult to convict them, even though their guilt be proven, but they have learned that the courts are not impotent. The sensational attack on Wayne county court house made everybody sit up and take notice; it brought to the sensible people of the state a realization of what mob rule means. Here was a mob of nearly 2,000 men shooting into the court room. The point we would like to make is that every day in the year, especially on Saturday, there are men storming the laws of North Carolina in Hickory and all other towns in this section of the state. The bootleggers and blockaders are busy. They are digging a tunnel under our civilization that will give way one of these days. It will be the cause of worse tragedies than the Lippard murder. (From the editorial page of the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 10, 1920)

Miles Springs Suffers Second Broken Leg This Year, Dec. 10, 1920

Mr. Miles Springs, who has been laid up for a week or more with a broken leg, is making good progress toward recovery. An X-ray picture made of the break showed that it is healing straight and it is hoped that the young man will soon be on his feet again. This is the second broken leg that Mr. Springs has suffered this year. The first occurring in June laid him upo for many months and the second break came just a few weeks after he had received his discharge from the hospital. (From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 10, 1920)

Load of Birdshot Strikes Etta May Dula, Dec. 10, 1920

Etta May Dula was not mistaken for a rabbit yesterday at noon, but she had a right to think her end had come when a load of birdshot went screeching through the window of Mr. H.C. Lutz’s kitchen, where she was preparing the midday meal, shattering the glass and filled her arm and side with fine missiles. It was estimated that between 50 and 60 shots found lodgement, and Dr. Blackburn removed a number of them. Master Rorance Lutz Jr., who was in the kitchen, was scratched by flying glass, but his wounds were not as painful as those of the colored woman. She was game, however, and is back at her post today. Joe Shell and some other boys were tracking rabbits in the snow back of Seventeenth Street about noon yesterday when one ran into the Lutz woodhouse. One of the boys scared it out and Mr. Shell lunged at it with his gun. It was then that the weapon was discharged, sending its load through the kitchen window. The young man, who was as frightened as the woman, expressed his sincere regrets. The rabbit escaped. (From the Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 10, 1920)

Wednesday, December 9, 2020

Gift Suggestions for 1920 From Parks-Belk-Broome Company, Hickory, N.C.

Hickory Daily Record, Dec. 8, 1920, page 5. Image provided by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Library, Chapel Hill, NC. Persistent link: https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn91068423/1920-12-08/ed-1/seq-5/

John Kernodle's Ossippee Home Burns, Dec. 9, 1920

The home of Mr. John T. Kernodle at Ossipee was burned Tuesday night, also his cribs containing the year’s crop of corn a few yards to the rear of the residence. The fire originated in the rear part of the residence where there was some fire during the morning. It was about 11 o’clock when some member went on the back porch and discovered the fire. A line of hose was laid from the Ossipee mills, but not soon enough to keep the home from being a total loss, but it helped to save other near-by buildings. Only a part of the furnishings in the front of the house was saved. The home was built by Mr. K.’s father before the civil war and at that time was one of the best country homes in that section. (From The Alamance Gleaner, Graham, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

William Kernodle, 79, Died, Dec. 9, 1920

Mr. William S. Kernodle, about 79 years of age, after a brief illness, died about noon last Sunday at his home on Haw river in the northwestern part of Morton township, and the burial was at Bethlehem, near Altamahaw, at 1 o’clock Monday. Deceased was a veteran of the Civil War and was wounded at the battle of Gettysburg. He is survived by a son and a daughter, and a sister, Mrs. I.N.W. Garrison of Morton township. (From The Alamance Gleaner, Graham, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

T.P. Bradshaw of Graham Suffers Stroke, Dec. 9, 1920

Mr. T.P. Bradshaw, one of the oldest citizens of Graham, suffered a slight stroke of paralysis Monday morning. He has been in bed since and unable to speak. His condition is critical, we regret to state. (From The Alamance Gleaner, Graham, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)

Gamblers Fined in Superior Court, Graham, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920

C.H. Lee, Jerry Harrell, Lewis Lark, Jim McCauley, Lacy Cook and Doc Wilson pleaded guilty to gambling in Superior Court last week. Lee, Harrell, Lark, McCauley were each fined $25 and Cook and Wilson were each fined $10 and cost. (From The Alamance Gleaner, Graham, N.C., Dec. 9, 1920)