Americans Going to Hell in Carload Lots, Says Billy Sunday. Blames Bootleggers, Love of Money, Immigrants, Dec. 31, 1923

Americans Going to Hell in Carload Lots. . . That’s What Billy Sunday Tells His Charlotte Audience, Raps Foreign Immigration

Charlotte, Dec. 30—This afternoon Mr. Sunday said, “The man who buys whiskey from a bootlegger is just as bad as the bootlegger, he is as black as he can be.”

Speaking of apostolic succession, he said:

“If there’s anything that makes me tired it is talk about apostolic succession. Henry the Eighth of England was a Roman Catholic. He wanted to divorce his wife and marry another woman, and the pope wouldn’t let him, so he organized a church of which he was the head, calling it the Church of England, or Episcopal church.”

Mr. Sunday’s text tonight was “Thou Art Weighed in the Balances and Found Wanting.” In describing Belshazzar’s feast, he said “that there was no common lager beer, pretzel, wienerwurst blowout, that was a bunch of high rollers who went to the feast.”

Referring to America’s revels and feast, he said, “America is making money by the bucketfuls, but we are going to hell in car lots on excursion rates, the lying for money, the boarding of money, the envy of money, the adultery for money, is sending America to hell.”

In reference to breaking the Sabbath he said, “we have stopped out ears and are rushing the stampeding cattle down to hell.” There has been a fearful letting down in tis country in 25 years and foreign immigration is largely responsible.

From the front page of the Concord Times, Monday, Dec. 31, 1923

Doyle Moore Kills 5-Year-Old Twin Brother Charles While Playing with Loaded Shotgun, Dec. 31, 1923

Twin Boy Accidentally Kills His Little Brother. . . Little Charles Moore Shoots Brother with Shotgun at Wilson Home

Wilson, Dec. 29—Funeral services over the remains of Master Charles, the 5-year-old twn son of Dr. and Mrs. Karl C. Moore—who was accidentally killed by his twin brother, Doyle, while playing with a loaded .44 shot gun Friday afternoon, was conducted from his late home on West Nash Street this afternoon by Rev. E.W. Baxter, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church. The remains were interred in Maplewood cemetery beneath a mound of fragrant flowers.

(The child was a nephew and namesake of Mr. Doyle B. Privett of Plainsfield, N.J., who is well known in Concord, and is a son-in-law of Mr. J.B. Sherrill. --Editor

From the front page of the Concord Times, Monday, Dec. 31, 1923

Francis Gibson Celebrates 5th Birthday, Dec. 31, 1923

Birthday Party

The fifth birthday of little Miss Francis Gibson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H.G. Gibson, was the occasion of an afternoon of much enjoyment, when on December 22nd, it was celebrated at the home of her grand-parents, Mr. and Mrs. R.E. Ridenhour, on West Depot street. In the den, where the little hostess received her friends, the many pretty gifts were displayed on a table, where a miniature Christmas tree, beautifully decorated, reminded the young guests that Santa time was near.

After admiring the presents the young folks enjoyed games on the yard awhile. Then they were invited into the dining room, which was aglow with the mellow light of red candles in crystal candlesticks. The centerpiece was a big white birthday cake on which were burning five wee red candles.

After everyone had been generously served with ice cream and cake, the little guests were shown int the hall where they stood around a big Jack Horner pie, from which they pulled most attractive souvenirs.

From the front page of the Concord Times, Monday, Dec. 31, 1923

Estate of Wesley Higgins Settled, Dec. 31, 1923

Higgins Will Case Settle

Asheville, Dec. 31—A special term of the Rutherford Superior Court was to convene at Rutherfordton today for the purpose of confirming the terms of an agreement reached at Shelby on Saturday between parties contending over the will of the late Wesley Higgins of Lancy County, who died April 2, `922. The settlement provides for an equal distribution of the estate between the Methodist Church institutions and Joe and David Higgins, nephew and brother respectively, of the deceased financier. The actual value of the estate is not known, but it is estimated to be worth $300,000 to $500,000.

From the front page of the Concord Times, Monday, Dec. 31, 1923

Annie Edwards, 60, Dies of Stomach Cancer, Dec. 31, 1923

Death of Mrs. Annie B. Edwards

Mrs. Annie B. Edwards, widow of the late F.M. Edwards, died at her home in No. 2 township Friday night at 7:15 o’clock, following an illness of more than a year. Death was due to cancer of the stomach.

Mrs. Edwards, who was almost 61 years of age, is survived by 10 children, six daughters and four sons. Her husband died about 12 years ago. The surviving children are I.L. Edwards and Mrs. Verdie Hickman, both of Rocky Mount; Mrs. Gertrude Ball of Mars Hill; Bernice Edwards of Rocky ham; Mrs. Mary Edwards, Mrs. Annie McPhatter, Mrs. Lula Pair, Mrs. Maggie Collines, and Messrs. John and Jamed Edwards, all of this county.

The funeral services were held at the home on Sunday afternoon at 3:30 o’clock, conducted by Rev. R.G. Short, pastor of the West Concord Baptist church, of which church Mrs. Edwards was a consistent member.

From the front page of the Concord Times, Monday, Dec. 31, 1923

B.S. Robertson Died Sunday at Norfolk Hospital, Dec. 31, 1923

Prominent Cotton Man of Greensboro Dead. . . B.S. Robertson Died Sunday Night in Norfolk Hospital After Undergoing Treatment

Greensboro, Dec. 31—B.S. Robertson, one of the best known cotton men in this section, died Sunday night in a hospital in Norfolk, Va., where he had been under treatment. He had been engaged in the cotton business here for a number of years. He will be buried at Norfolk on Wednesday, according to word received here by friends and business associates.

From the front page of the Concord Times, Monday, Dec. 31, 1923

Concord Times, Monday, Dec. 31, 1923

Police Searching for Harry Mitchell After Jesse Wells, 38, Dies of Gunshot Wound, Dec. 31, 1923

Negro Succumbs to Wound in Leg. . . Jesse Wells, 38, Shot by Harry Mitchell on Christmas Eve Morning

Jesse Wells, 38-year-old negro of 609 Chestnut alley, died in Lincoln hospital Sunday from the effects of a gunshot wound inflicted on Christmas eve morning by Harry Mitchell, a negro for whom local police are now searching.

Wells was taken to the hospital at 5:45 o’clock in the morning with a severe wound in his left leg. He made no statement of the shooting and relatives of the wounded man kept the affair silent until three days after, thus making the capture of Mitchell more difficult. The warrant for the negro was not sworn out until Sunday afternoon. The dead man’s relatives declare that they thought his wound was not so serious and for some reason they declined to explain their endeavor to keep the shooting from police investigation.

In the meantime, however, tetanus, or lockjaw, developed and Wells succumbed after much suffering. The wound was infected by powder burns, hospital authorities declare.

Mitchell was described as being a yellow negro of about 45 years of age. He left the city immediately after the shooting, police believe.

Wells will be buried Monday afternoon.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Dec. 31, 1923

Police Send Out Nationwide Alert for Lawrence Gatling, Dec. 31, 1923

Gatling’s Whereabouts Are Unknown to Raleigh Police. . . Description of Young Man Has Been Forwarded All Over United States

Raleigh, Dec. 30—Raleigh police, after broadcasting his description all over the country, were late today without any clue as to where or in what direction young Lawrence Gatling went Saturday night after he had pumped the bodies of his wife and Owen Stevens, her friend, full of steel from an automatic pistol.

A description of Gatling, who bears a conspicuous mark in the center of his forehead, went to every police station in this section of the United States and it was thought impossible for him to get very far away. Some of his cronies in town, however, believe that he has made for Mexico and that he will never be apprehended.

Except for the horrible manner of the double killing, there is little concern in Raleigh about it. Gatling for the past few years has been giving the police a great deal of trouble. At the time of his shooting Saturday night, he was a fugitive and wanted here on other shooting charges—considerably less disastrous.

The surprising thing about the double tragedy, which has involved two well known families of the county, is that Mrs. Gatling, her sister, and the Fespermans, with whom the dead woman and Miss Janie Gatling were living, should have located in one of the fashionable residential sections of the town. They only moved in Friday evening and neighbors had begun ejectment proceedings downtown five minutes before the tragedy. Fesperman, who is a taxi driver, and his wife bore unsavory reputations, having recently been ordered to leave a downtown hotel.

If Gatling is apprehended and brought back here for trial, there is considerable doubt of his conviction in a murder charge, not withstanding the clear-cut evidence against him, His friends say that while he had not lived with his wife for months, he was very jealous of her and had frequently warned her about other men. Stevens, the dead man, is said by the police to have been particularly objectionable to Gatling as an associate of his wife. Both, the police say, have engaged in the liquor business as partners.

Gatling is the eldest son of former Postmaster Bart M. Gatling, now a leading member of the Raleigh bar. The family is socially prominent here but the boy has been the black sheep since boyhood. Mrs. Gatling, dead, was a Miss Griffin from the Zebulon section, and was a very pretty woman. One child, a youngster less than four, survives her.

From the front page of the Durham Morning Herald, Dec. 31, 1923

Lucille Allgood, 7, Killed When Car Runs Over Her, Dec. 31, 1923

Winston Girl Run Over by an Auto

By the Associated Press

Winston-Salem, Dec. 30—Lucille Gray Allgood, seven-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A.H. Allgood, who lives on East 25th street, died at a local hospital this afternoon shortly before 3 o’clock of injuries suffered when she was knocked down by an automobile driven by I.S. Wiles about 12 o’clock. The car passed over the child’s chest, injuring the lungs to the extent that death resulted.

From the front page of the Durham Morning Herald, Dec. 31, 1923

J. Monroe Hall, 55, Has Died, Dec. 31, 1923

J. Monroe Hall Died at Hospital. . . Passed Away Sunday Afternoon at 2:15—Funeral from Residence Monday

J. Monroe Hall, aged 55, a well-known and highly esteemed citizen of this city, died Sunday afternoon at 2:15 o’clock at Watts hospital, after an illness of only a few days. Mr. Hall had been a resident of Durham practically all his life and was associated with W.L. Umstead in the tobacco business for some 12 years. He was square and upright in his dealings; quiet and unassuming in his demeanor, and he has a wide circle of friends who will mis him from his familiar business haunts. He was a good citizen, and his death is mourned by all who knew him.

Mr. Hall is survived by his wife, four daughters and two sons. The daughters are Mrs. M.V. Bart of Rock Hill, S.C., Miss Pansy Hall, Miss Pauline Hall, and Mrs. Georgia Hall, all of East Durham. The sons are Thomas R. Hall of Rock Hill, S.C., and Wm. L. Hall of East Durham. Besides these are his mother, Mrs. J.L. Hall, East Durham; sisters, Miss Mary V. Hall of East Durham, Mrs. L.F. Wilkes of Wendell, N.C., brothers, W.T. Hall of Carpenter, R.N. Hall of Raleigh and Raymond Hall of East Durham.

The funeral will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock at the residence on Reams avenue, East Durham, conducted by Rev. F.H. Brinson. Interment in Maple wood.

The pall-bearers will be R.T. Umstead, W.L. Umstead, Julius Shepherd, S.J. Collins, J.W. McFarland, and W.G. Aiken.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Monday, Dec. 31, 1923

Byrds Announce Birth of Daughter, Born Dec. 29, 1923

Birth of a Daughter

Mr. and Mrs. Allie J. Byrd announce the birth of a daughter, December 29, at Watts hospital. The name of the little lady is Carolyn Hill Byrd. Both mother and daughter are doing well.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Dec. 31, 1923

Durham Morning Herald, Monday, Dec. 31, 1923

Lawrence Gatling Kills Wife and Chauffeur Owen Stevens, Dec. 30, 1923

Raleigh Man Shoots Wife and Chauffeur Companion. . . Lawrence Gatling, Son of a Former Postmaster, Kills Owen Stevens. . . Escaped in an Auto. . . Stevens and Gatling Reported to Have Had Trouble Recently—Mrs. Gatling Was with Her Sister

By the Associated Press

Raleigh, Dec. 29—Lawrence Gatling, son of former Postmaster Bart M. Gatling, of Raleigh, early tonight shot and killed Owen Stevens, a chauffeur, whom he was said to have found with Mrs. Gatlin in a bedroom of a house where she was staying, and then pursued his wife, who ran out of the house and across the street, and shot her to death, firing a volley of bullets into her after she was felled by the first, according to the police version of the affair.

Gatling, who has been evading Raleigh police on account of a charge held against him since November 25, escaped in an automobile immediately after the shooting. Police who arrived on the scene about five minutes afterwards started a pursuit. Stevens and Gatling, the police declared, for a long time were partners and carried on together a large traffic in illicit whiskey. It was reported that they had a disagreement and that Stevens remarked several days ago that Gatling had threatened to cut his throat.

Entering the house were Mrs. gatling was staying with a sister, Miss Janie Griffin, it is thought that the husband became enraged on finding Stevens with his wife. He shot his former partner without delay, it was reported. Death was almost instant. Police found Stevens’ body crumpled up at the foot of a bed. Blood was all over the room. He had on an overcoat and a cap lay at his side. Three bullet holes were found in the walls of the room and five lead pellets were gathered up by police form the floor.

Mrs. Gatling’s body was left in the street by her husband. She lay on her back, er body riddled and torn about the breast.

From the front page of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1923

J.L. Hargrove, 40, Murdered; John Cox Arrested, Dec. 30, 1923

Wilmington Man Is Dead from Wounds

By the Associated Press

Wilmington, N.C., Dec. 29—The body of J.L. Hargrove, 40, employed by a local furniture company, was found by a negro boy lying in the street in a sparsely settled section of the city tonight. A gaping hole in the left breast inflicted by a charge of buckshot was the cause of death, the coroner said. Police say that a small bottle of liquor was found in the dead man’s pockets.

John Cox, negro, was arrested, charged with the murder. Cox, the police say, was carrying a shotgun when apprehended, told several conflicting stories of his whereabouts earlier in the night.

From the front page of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1923

Smallpox Victim Who Broke Quarantine Sentenced to 60 Days Hard Labor on the Roads, Dec. 30, 1923

Broke Quarantine; Given a Road Term. . . A.L. Parrish to Serve 60 Days on the Roads for Violation of Ordinance

Setting a precedent in Durham county court annals, A.L. Parris, young Wake county man who contracted smallpox in this city several weeks ago and then broke quarantine to return to his native cunty, was tried before Recorder P.C. Graham on Saturday morning and sentenced to serve 60 days at hard work on the Durham county roads.

This is the first case of its kind to come up in a local court. It is declared that the young man by his wanderings when broken out with the disease exposed scores of persons. His father resides in East Durham and it was while visiting here that he became stricken. He was found at a Wake county saw mill after a search of several days and brought back to Durham.

Other Cases

Police report that calm after the Christmas holiday storm has set in and few arrests and violations of the law are made. Recorder’s court, therefore, experienced a slack day on Saturday morning.

Emma Carr, charged with obtaining advances, was tried and found not guilty.

Calvin Harris is to be tried on January 4 under three charges, according to continuance granted by the court. He is charged with assault and battery, illegal possession of whiskey, and assault and battery with a deadly weapon.

The trial of Ernest Patterson and Nellie Burnett, negro couple at whose house over 30 gallons of whiskey was found recently, will be tried also on January 4, continuance being made from Saturday morning.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1923

Bailey to Seek Democratic Nomination for Governor, Dec. 30, 1923

Bailey Dissolves Firm Connections

Raleigh, Dec. 29—Announcement was made late today from the law office of Pou, Bailey, and Pou of the dissolution of the firm. It is the formal preliminary to the announcement of the candidacy of the Raleigh lawyer for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination.

“I guess the people will understand it,” Mr. Bailey told inquiring newspapermen. Mr. Pou and his son, James H. Pou Jr., will continue the firm practice, and Mr. Bailey will have separate offices in the Tucker building.

From the front page of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1923. North Carolina had three Democratic governors in the 1920s: Thomas W. Bickett, 1917 to 1921; Cameron A. Morrison, 1921 to 1925; and Angus W. McLean, 1925-1929.

C.W. Lawman, 45, Succumbs to Pneumonia, Dec. 30, 1923

Prominent Farmer Died on Saturday. . . C.W. Lawman Succumbs Case of Pneumonia, Funeral Sunday Afternoon

C.W. Lawman, aged 45 years, a well known and prosperous farmer of the Cole mill section, died on Saturday morning at an early hour at his home. Pneumonia was assigned as the cause of his death. He had been ill for several weeks.

Mr. Lawman was one of the best known and most substantial farmers of his section of the county. He was also well known in Durham, where he came on many occasions.

Surviving him are his wife and three children, as well as other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services will be conducted Sunday afternoon at 3:30 o’clock from the home. Burial will be in Maplewood cemetery.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1923

Second Stroke Takes Mrs. Warren, Dec. 30, 1923

Last Rites for Mrs. M.A. Warren

All that was mortal of Mrs. Martha Ann Warren, who died Friday afternoon from the effects of a second stroke of paralysis, was laid to rest in the burying ground of Pleasant Green Methodist church, in Orange county, at 3:30 o’clock Saturday afternoon.

A large number of the friends of the family made up the funeral cortege, which moved from the home in West Durham at 2:30 Saturday afternoon. The funeral services were held in the Pleasant Green church, of which Mrs. Warren was long a member. The services were conducted in a very impressive manner by Rev. S.S. Bost of St. Phillip’s Episcopal church and Rev. T.M. Green, late pastor of the West Durham Methodist church. The music was rendered by the choir of St. Philip’s church.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1923

Murray Smith Buried Markham Cemetery, Dec. 30, 1923

The Funeral Was from the Home

Quite a number of sympathizing friends attended the funeral of Murray D. Smith, Saturday afternoon, which took place from his home on Angier avenue, at 2:30 o’clock. The burial rights were conducted by Father W.F. O’Brien, according to the Catholic ritual, Mr. Smith being a member of that faith.

Interment was in the Markham cemetery, East Durham, and many followed the remains to their last resting place.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1923

Front Page of Second Section, Durham Morning Herald, Dec. 30, 1923

Otto Wood Begins 30-Year Sentence for Murder of A.W. Kaplan, Dec. 29, 1923

Otto Wood Taken to State Prison

Greensboro, N.C., Dec. 29—Otto Wood, under a 30-year sentence for the murder of A.W. Kaplan, pawnbroker, was taken to the State Prison at Raleigh on December 27th to begin serving his sentence. Wood was convicted of having slain Kaplan in an attempt to rob him.

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1923

Coroner's Jury Rules Droning an Accident, Dec. 29, 1923

Rabbi’s Wife Was Drowned Accidentally, Jury Decides

Wilmington, Dec. 28—A coroner’s jury investigating the death of Mrs. I. Minsky, wife of the rabbi of B’Nai Israel synagogue here, whose body was found in a bathtub of her living apartment Thursday afternoon, today returned a verdict of death as a result of accidental drowning.

The body will be sent to New York for burial tomorrow.

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1923

Willam Graham Succeeds Father as N.C. Commissioner of Agriculture, Dec. 29, 1923

William A. Graham Takes Oath of Office. . . Succeeds Father as Commissioner of Agriculture for North Carolina

By the Associated Press

Raleigh, Dec. 29—Succeeding his father, who died last Monday, Wm. A. Graham yesterday afternoon was sworn into office as Commissioner of Agriculture for North Carolina. The oath was administered by Associate Justice Hoke, of the State Supreme Court. Close relatives and friends of the new official were present.

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1923

Rev. Hiatt Gives $600 to Pay Off Church's Debt, Dec. 29, 1923

Methodist Preacher Gives $600 to Pay Church Debts

Winston-Salem, Dec. 28—Rev. J.S. Hiatt, pastor of Burkhead methodist church, today gave the members and friends of the Hiatt Memorial M.E. church congregation a most unique Christmas present in a check for $600, which completely liquidates the indebtedness on the church building and will mae possible unhampered progress during the new year.

The church was completed a year ago and named n honor of Rev. M. Hiatt, under whose direction it was built.

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1923

Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, December 29, 1923

Mandy Hood's Home Lost to Fire, Dec. 28, 1923

Colored Woman Loses House by Fire

Aunt Mandy Hood, a respected old time colored woman who lives near Mr. A.J. Whitley near Smithfield, had the misfortune to lose her house and its entire contents by fire Sunday night. The fire was discovered about 9 o’clock, but too late to save anything.

From the front page of the Smithfield Herald, Dec. 28, 1923

In Smithfield Superior Criminal Court, Dec. 28, 1923

An Appeal Taken in Leon Hill Case. . . J.E. Lewis Gets a $500 Fine; Other Cases Disposed Of

The December term of Superior Criminal Court adjourned last Saturday afternoon after a full two weeks docket. Chief among the cases tried last week was that of the State vs Leon Hill charged with seduction under promise of marriage. In our last issue a resume of this case was given, with the verdict rendered by the jury which pronounced Hill guilty. The sentence, however, was not given by the judge until Friday, when Judge Daniels gave him an indeterminate sentence of from two to three years in the penitentiary. When the judge pronounced sentence he delivered a very forceful charge to the defendant, which will be published in a later issue. The lawyers for the defendant took an appeal to the Supreme Court, and the case will probably come up in March, the spring term of Supreme Court convening the last week in February, and cases for this district being scheduled for the third week. Mr. Hill is out under a $10,000 bond.

Another case of considerable interest here was that of the State vs. J.E. Lewis, proprietor of The Busy Bee Café, charged with transporting and having in his possession whiskey. This case was tried in Recorder’s Court some time ago, and the defendant was given a road sentence. An appeal was taken with the result that the defendant gets off with a $500 fine on the charge of having whiskey in his possession, and prayer for judgment being continued for two years on the transporting count.

Other cases tried before court adjourned Saturday were:

State vs. Henry Jernigan and Joe Corley, charged with breaking into a car on a siding near the Ivanhoe Cotton Mill about three years ago Jernigan was sentenced from 18 to 30 months in the penitentiary, while Corley was given eight months on the roads.

State vs. W.D. Lee, charged with blockading. Found guilty and sentenced to 18`months on roads.

From the front page of the Smithfield Herald, Dec. 28, 1923

"Rukus Juice" Stills Seized, Dec. 28, 1923

Three Stills with Operators Captured

R.T. Barham, deputy sheriff in Wilders, reports the seizure and destruction of three complete outfits designed for the manufacture of “Rukus Juice’ during last week, and the arrest of three of the operators. His section of the county is to be congratulated upon having Mr. Barham to look after the enforcement of the dry law.

From the front page of the Smithfield Herald, Dec. 28, 1923

C.G. Temple Knocked Down by Automobile, Dec. 18, 1923

C.G. Temple Knocked Down by Automobile

C.G. Temple of near Benson was knocked down by an automobile driven by M. Edgar Watson of this city Monday, but sustained no serious injuries. The accident occurred on Third street, where the traffic was particularly congested at that hour, about 4:30 o’clock. Mr. Temple stepped from behind a car in front of the one driven by Mr. Watson. The accident was unavoidable, but the fact that Mr. Temple sustained no serious injury was no doubt due to the slow moving of Mr. Watson’s car.

From the front page of the Smithfield Herald, Dec. 28, 1923

Local Doings in Four Oaks, N.C., Dec. 28, 1923

Happenings in City of Four Oaks

Four Oaks, Dec. 26—Miss Annie Ford, who is teaching in Fairmont, is spending the Christmas holidays here with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.D. Ford.

Mr. Gilbert Grady, a student at the University of North Carolina, is spending the holidays here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Grady.

Misses Laeta Potts and Virginia Givens are spending the holidays in Montvalle, Va., with Miss Givens’ mother.

Miss Ule Mae Farmer is spending the holidays in Clayton with her parents.

Mr. and Mrs. Garland Alderman of High Point are spending Christmas with Mr. and Mrs. B.B. Adams.

Misses Cynthia and Jean De Ford are spending Christmas in Richlands with their mother.

Messrs. Carl Lewis and Victor Cole visited friends in Youngsville Sunday.

Mr. Cleon Sanders, a student at the State University, is spending the holidays with Mr. and Mrs. D.H. Sanders.

Mr. and Mrs. Sterling Gates of Farmville are spending the holidays here with Mr. and Mrs. J.H. Sanders.

Miss Sallie Adams, who is teaching Public School Music in Oak City, is home for the holidays.

Mrs. Eddie Weatherspoon of New York City is spending some time here with her mother, Mrs. D.W. Adams.

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Myms of Dillon, S.C., are spending Christmas with Mrs. C.W. Bandy.

Miss Zora Woody is visiting friends and relatives in Greensboro this week.

Mr. and Mrs. N.C. Shuford are spending the holidays at their home in Black Mountain.

Mr. Charles Creech of Smithfield was in town Wednesday on business.

Mr. Gilbert Creech of Roxboro, is spending the holidays here with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.B. Creech.

Mr. Edwin Creech is spending the holidays in Pine Level with his parents.

Mr. William Manning of Williamston is spending a few days here with friends.

Mrs. Hubert Johnson of near Smithfield and Mrs. Horace Johnson of Smithfield spent Christmas with Mrs. W.E. Strickland.

Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Massengill are spending Christmas in Fuquay Springs.

Mr. Reid Adams is spending a few days in Richlands with friends.

Mr. Carl Lewis is spending some time in Washington with friends.

Mr. Roby Adams, who is teaching school at Ayden, is spending the holidays here with relatives.

From the front page of the Smithfield Herald, Dec. 28, 1923

Clements-Lassiter Wedding at Bride's Home, Dec. 28, 1923

lements-Lassiter

A beautiful home wedding, simple and impressive, took place here Wednesday at 12:30 o’clock when Miss Luna Lassiter, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Lassiter, became the bride of Mr. Lawrence W. Clements of Roanoke Rapids.

At the appointed hour Miss Martha Bowers of Littleton, wearing lavender georgette with corsage of Parmer violets, took her place at the piano and played soft music while relatives and special friends invited, assembled in the parlor where long leaf pine, ferns and numerous tall white candles combined to make a lovely setting for the interesting event.

As the strains of the Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin sounded, the maid of honor, Miss Flossie Cole Lassiter, sister of the bride, attired in a lovely gown of rose chiffon and satin, descended the stairway and took her place by the side of the improvised altar. The bride and bridegroom then entered the room together, and Rev. S.L. Morgan, pastor of the Baptist church, spoke the words which made them husband and wife. The ring ceremony was used during which Miss Bowers rendered softly “Souvenir.”

The bride, always attractive, was particularly alluring in her wedding costume of white satin crepe with flowing veil fashioned in cornet style with a band of pearls. Her bouquet was white Killarney roses showered with valley lilies.

After receiving the congratulations of those present, the bride changed her costume to a traveling dress of black crepe meteor with grey accessories, and the happy couple left on the north-bound train for a wedding trip to Washington and New York. They will be at home after January 5th in Roanoke Rapids.

The bride is the oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Lassiter. She graduated from high school in Goldsboro where she formerly lived, and then attended East Carolina Teachers College at Greenville. Sinc leaving school she has taught, having been a member of the graded school faculty here for two years before going to Roanoke Rapids to teach.

The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. E.W. Clements of Stancil, Northampton County. For several years he has held a position as accountant with the Roanoke Mills at Roanoke Rapids.

Mr. and Mrs. Clements have many friends who wish them all success and happiness in life.

From the front page of the Smithfield Herald, Dec. 28, 1923

Mrs. H.M. Barber Passes After Long Illness, Dec. 28, 1923

Beloved Clayton Woman Is Dead. . . Mrs. H.M. Barber Passed Away at Her Home Sunday After Long Illness

The funeral services of Mrs. H.M. Barber, who died Sunday at her home near Clayton, was conducted Monday afternoon at the Oakland Methodist Church by Rev. D.H. Tuttle, pastor Centenary Methodist church of Smithfield. The interment was in Oakland cemetery.

Mrs. Barber was a lovely Christian character and had been a patient sufferer for quite a while. She was Miss Emma Sophia Austin, daughter of the late Henry Austin, one of the most prominent families of Johnston county. She was born January 22, 1867, and married to Horace M. Barber November 1, 1891.

Besides her husband she is survived by seven children, Mrs. J. Hugh Johnson of Raleigh, Mrs. John W. Hobbs and Miss Ethel M. Barber of Smithfield, Mrs. Clyde A. Massey of Rosemary, Marshall H, Misses Mary and Ruth Austin Barber of Clayton, R. 1; two brothers and one sister, L.F. Austin of Garner, J.E. Austin of Jellico, Tenn., and Mrs. Vic Austin, Clayton, R. 1. –News and Observer

From the front page of the Smithfield Herald, Dec. 28, 1923

Funeral of Hugh Peacock in Smithfield, Dec. 28, 1923

Funeral of Mr. Peacock

The funeral of Hugh Peacock, who died in Chicago last week, and whose body arrived in this city Saturday afternoon, was conducted Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock from the home of his sister, Mrs. W.L. Fuller, by Rev. D.H. Tuttle, pastor of Centenary Methodist church. After a simple funeral service, the body was laid to rest in the family plot in the old cemetery.

The pall bearers were: Messrs. H.D. Ellington, J.D. Spiers, N.B. Grantham, R.O. Cotter, W.N. Holt, W.D. Hood, W.T. Adams, and W.H. Call of Selma.

The deceased was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. G.N. Peacock. He was born in Smithfield and lived here until about 18 years ago when he went to Chicago. He has lived in Chicago since that time having held a position with the Western Union Telegraph Company during that time. He was married soon after going to Chicago and is survived by his wife and one son. He also leaves three sisters and a brother as follows: Mrs. W.L. Fuller of this city; Mrs. A.S. Chesson of Wilson; Mrs. Guy Willis of Porto Rica; and Mrs. Clyde Peacock of Chicago. The family has the sympathy of the community in their bereavement.

From the front page of the Smithfield Herald, Dec. 28, 1923

Smithfield Herald, Dec. 28, 1923

Aron Stewart, 11, Playing with Shotgun, Kills 7-Year-Old Sister, Dec. 28, 1923

Winston Boy Kills Sister with Shotgun

By Associated Press

Winston-Salem, N.C., Dec. 27—Aron Stewart, 11, playing with a shotgun at the home of his parents in Clemmons today, in some way discharged the weapon and the entire load, taking effect at the head of his 7-year-old sister, killing her instantly.

From page 3 of the Tri-City Gazette, Leaksville, N.C., Dec. 28, 1923

Lee Washington, 20, Electrocuted Today, Dec. 28, 1923

Negro Confessed Guilt; Is Electrocuted

By Associated Press

Raleigh, N.C., Dec. 28—After confessing to the warden, Lee Washington, 20-year-old negro convicted in Nash County for an attack on a white woman, was electrocuted today.

From the Tri-City Gazette, Leaksville, N.C., Dec. 28, 1923

Hamlet Jeweler Arrested for Eloping with Wife of Minister, Dec. 28, 1923

Hamlet Jeweler Elopes with Wife of Carolina Minister

Syracuse, N.Y., Dec. 28—According to The Observer, Eugene Dent Langston, 43, for years a jeweler at Hamlet, N.C., was arrested here Wednesday by Thomas Guilfoyle, department of justice agent, charged with a violation of the Mann act in eloping with Mrs. Gertrude Harrill, wife of Rev. Benjamin Harrill, said to be in a sanatorium at Timberland, N.C.

Langston made a statement acknowledging the charge and making it unnecessary to take Mrs. Harrill into custody as a witness, the customary procedure.

Langston was found at the H.J. Howe jewelry store, the largest here, where he was employed. Mrs. Harrill has a position as a stenographer in the Packard automobile agency. They have been rooming in West Genesee Street, a fashionable residence section, having separate apartments and being known as Mr. Langston and Mrs. Harrill. She paid her own bills. Others in the house believed them only to have become acquainted while dining together there.

Traced by Phonograph

Langston was traced here by a phonograph which he had sent on from Hamlet, first to New York, then to Canastota and then to Syracuse. He told the Syracuse police he had been married 15 years and has a wife and three children. He is said to have disposed of his interest in Langston Brothers jewelry store at Hamlet before leaving, giving his wife the equivalent of $28,000 or $30,000, and taking only about $700 with him.

Langston said he was introduced to Mrs. Harrill in the Hamlet hospital by a physician, and met her again in Charlotte five or six months ago. Their intimate friendship began there. Mrs. Harrill told Langston her husband, formerly pastor of a Baptist Church near Rutherfordton, N.C., was in the sanatorium, and that she had been supporting him six or seven years.

From the front page of the Tri-City Gazette, Leaksville, N.C., Dec. 28, 1923

Local Notes From the Tri-City Daily Gazette, Dec. 28, 1923

Locals

Miss Elizabeth Patterson returned to her home in Greensboro today.

Miss Lucy Blackwell of Spartanburg, S.C., is the guest of Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Giles on Patrick Street. Mrs. Peter Long is the guest of her brother, W.B. Weaver.

Dewey Morris of Greensboro was in town yesterday.

Miss Mary Sue Farrell left yesterday for Thomasville to visit friends for a few days.

E.V. Hobbs returned Wednesday night from a visit with his mother in South Carolina.

Miss Sallie Bell Anderson of Winston-Salem spent Christmas with Mrs. M.G. Wilson on Bridge Street.

J.T. Newman and children, of Roanoke, Va., are visiting in town during the holidays.

John Wilson of South Boston, Va., spent Christmas with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. M.G. Wilson.

Mrs. Griffith and Francis Griffith of Salisbury are guests of Mr. and Mrs. E.D. McCall on Boone Road.

The stenographers have all returned from their homes where they spent Christmas.

Mrs. E.D. McCall entertained a number of her friends yesterday afternoon at her home on Boone Road.

Joseph Turner of Hollins college, Roanoke, Va., was the guest of Mr. and Mrs. E.D. McCall last night.

The History Club met with Mrs. ?? Bishopric yesterday afternoon at her lovely home on the Heights. The regular program of the club was carried out at the meeting.

Ralph Farrell has returned to Gastonia after spending Christmas with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.G. Farrell on Boone Road.

Miss Ruth Setliff entertained quite a number of young people last evening at her home on Railroad Street in honor of her friend, Miss Lucy Blackwell.

Miss Jean Jamieson, who has been the guest of Miss Francis Reid at the Carolina Home, left this morning for Washington, D.C.

The Rotary Club gave a banquet last night at the Colonade Hotel. Joseph Turner, business manager of Hollins College, Roanoke, was the speaker of the evening.

Mr. and Mrs. L.A. Martin and children, of Lexington, have been visiting in town this week. Mr. Martin returned home this morning.

Mr. and Mrs. Jas. S. Trogdon and little daughter, Cora Ann, spent a few days during the holidays with Mr. and Mrs. W.B. Trogdon in Greensboro.

The Loyal Sons and Daughters of the First Christian Church, Spray, were entertained last night at the home of Rev. and Mrs. W.C. Green, on Bryant Street.

Miss Ruth Boyles, who has been the guest of Miss Mary Sue Farrell for a few days, returned to her home in Thomasville yesterday.

From the front page of the Tri-City Gazette, Leaksville, N.C., Dec. 28, 1923

Tri-City Gazette, Leaksville, N.C., Dec. 28, 1923

New Year's Eve Party by Mary Graham Bonner, Dec. 27, 1923

New Year’s Eve Party

By Mary Graham Bonner

It was New Year’s eve. In the big house on hill a party was being given.

There was dancing and talking and laughing and merriment of all kinds.

The mistletoe was still hanging over the door as it had hung throughout the Christmas season, urging shy youths to snatch kisses from shy but eager maidens and encouraging those youths who needed no encouragement.

The music played on, the dancers never wearied. And then suddenly it stopped. All was very still following a trumpet call.

The lights were turned out. A door leading into the big dancing room from the out-of-doors was opened.

And then could be seen an old, old man, with long white beard and long white hair, hobbling along upon a stick, a lantern in his hand.

He threw a light as he walked along and going out of the opened door waved an arm as though in farewell and was just about to shut the door—when, lo and behold, a little lad rushed in, clad n very few garments, all young and excited and bounding with spirits. The door closed. He was within. The lights were turned on.

Dancing began, but only he danced. Around and around, in and out of the people he danced, while the music played, faster, faster, faster. And then he made a low bow and dashed out of the dancing room.

There was applause. All the guests clapped their hands. They called for the little young dancer.

But as they called, in rushed a group of small boys. Under their arms they carried imitation newspapers and as they rushed about they cried.

“Extra! Extra! See about the great new arrival!

“Extra! Extra! The New Year has many packages of joy to scatter over the earth this year.

“He will be with us for 12 months! His stay is to be exactly that long.

“He danced for you now. And he will come in response to the encore you gave him and dance again.

“And after that he will give his encores day by day if you call for him and ask for the happiness, which he has to give, to dance in your hearts!

“Extra! Extra! The New Year is here!”

And around they went with their newspapers to every guest.

Then the little New Year came in and danced once more and then left with kisses and New Year greetings to all.

Once more the dancing began for everyone and way into the New Year they danced.

It was splendid to begin the New Year with dancing!

From the front page of the Moore County News, Carthage, N.C., December 27, 1923

New Soda Fountain Installed at Chas Cole & Company, Dec. 27, 1923

Chas Cole & Co. Install New Soda Fountain

The ever alert management of the Chrles Cole & Co., consistent with the best traditions of their house, last week made a complete renovation of their fountain service. Mr. Cole has had installed a very expensive and most modern and up-to-date new soda fountain. It is undoubtedly one of the finest in any store located in a town of the side of Carthage in North Carolina, and takes up about a third of the length of the drug store proper.

From the front page of the Moore County News, Carthage, N.C., December 27, 1923

Measles Tops News from Jackson Springs, Dec. 27, 1923

Jackson Springs

Miss Walker Woodley, who is a senior at the State College for women at Greensboro, has recovered from the measles. She will return to College after the holidays to make an effort to finish with her class. Her sister, Vyata, who is a freshman at the same college, has come home after having the measles, as she would not be allowed to do any class work for awhile. Other girls from here were under quarantine.

Miss Diayo Walker, who is in school here, was called to her home near Norman Tuesday on account of the death of her infant sister. The other twin sister died a few days before.

Mr. D.F. McKenzie is having his home remodeled and additions made, which will cost $2,500.

The enrollment in school was not as good as we hoped to see last week. However, we expect to see better enrollment this week. Miss Lena Barker of Clayton was unable to return as she developed a case of measles. All other teachers are back.

Mr. J.T. Ellis, the popular hardware man here was confined to his home the past week.

Miss Ruth Patterson is back in the Bank of Jackson Springs after joining others in the “styles,” being confined to her home with a case of measles. Miss Patterson lost all hope in winning the Hupmobile in the Subscription Campaign but has worked same while at home.

Commissioner Haynes of the Internal Revenue Department of Washington called on A.B. Coltrane, director of the Federal prohibition Forces in this State for five of his best men to stamp out bootlegging in a Pennsylvania city some time ago and, according to newspapers, they held up their name for efficiency and made a wholesale of arrests. J.L. Moore of Kannapolis and L.G. Trexler of Salisbury were among those assisting in the raids. Both men are known here, where t hey have made their headquarters some in 1922, in cleaning up blockading in Moore, Montgomery and Richmond counites. The farmers not only received aid from the Federal officers, but the County Officials, in completely stamping out the whiskey business in this section, where there is much woodland to be developed.

Misses Agnes Graham and Birdie Thomas, with L.T. Graham, wen to Clio, S.C., Sunday, to attend the funeral services of A.W. Currie, an aged man who was found dead on his farm near Clio, Saturday.

Several from here attended the hog killing demonstration at Pinehurst Tuesday and were very well pleased with some parts of the demonstrations and lectures, and we feel like it was beneficial to the farmers in some ways.

From the front page of the Moore County News, Carthage, N.C., December 27, 1923

In Memoriam for Mrs. Bettie Adams Stuart, Leland F. Person, Dec. 27, 1923

In Memoriam

Whereas, it has pleased our Heavenly Father to call to rest our beloved member, Mrs. Bettie Adams Stuart of the Carthage M.E. Sunday School, therefore be it resolved:

That the Sunday School has lost a faithful, willing worker, always cheerful, scattering sunshine at home, church, and in her Sunday School class.

The Sunday School will miss her sadly, and is filled with sorrow over her vacant seat, that was always occupied, but her influence still lives.

|That while the Sunday School bows in humble submission to our Heavenly Father’s will, we wish to extend our love and sympathy to her bereaved children and relatives, praying God’s richest blessings upon them.

Mrs. J.E. Waddill

Mrs. J.G. Downing

Mrs. W.T. Jones

Committee.

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In Memoriam

To the numerus friends of Leland F. Person, who passed away on the morning of December 8th, I have a word of personal appreciation.

The sad news of his death brought a sudden shock and sorrow to the people of Carthage as a whole. Those who knew him best are grieved the most. I have been intimately acquainted with Leland Person for several years and I cannot praise too greatly his many fine traits of character. He had the most kind and sympathetic heart I have ever found in any young man. Innumerable have been his deeds of kindness to old and infirm people. He was greatly admired by men in middle life. Children who knew him all loved him. His manners while in the presence of ladies were unexcelled. To know Leland F. Person as the writer knew him was to like him. His many deeds of kindness are doubtless written in his eternal records. My sorrow is mingled with that of his many friends who knew him best.

U.L. Barrett

From the front page of the Moore County News, Carthage, N.C., December 27, 1923

Moore County News, Carthage, N.C., Dec. 27, 1923

17-Year-Old Groom and 48-Year-Old Bride Remarry in N.C., Dec. 27, 1923

Tuckers Remarried in North Carolina

Carthage, Dec. 20—Another chapter has been added to the Tucker-Simpson romance when today the youthful groom and elderly bride from New Jersey were again married by Squire Jesse Fry at Carthage in the office of U.L. Spence, esq., their attorney, in the Page Trust company building, only the necessary legal witnesses being present.

This culmination followed a lengthy conference by the couple and their attorney, and no bought is a move in the direction of resisting extradition to New Jersey.

The license was issued by E.C. Mattheson, register of deeds, this afternoon, the bride giving her name as Susan Simpson, age 48, and the groom giving his name as Burton S. Tucker, age 17.

As no permission of the parents of the young groom was filed, it is understood that they made a deposit with the register of deed of $200 in case he should be sued for the penalty allowed in such cases under the state laws.

The bride, who has bobbed hair and was dressed in the latest style, hardly looked half her admitted age, and the groom looked like a high school boy. They drove over from Southern Pines in their Pierce-Arrow automobile, driven by the same chauffeur who figured in the first marriage at Union Hill, N.J., who drove them back to Southern Pines after the ceremony.

Squire Jesse Fry, who united the couple, is Moore county’s marrying justice, this making his 280th couple.

Among other couples united by him of note was Nat Hurd, Pittsburgh sportsman and multimillionaire, and Miss Pullen, daughter of the late W.W. Pullen, who several years ago drove over from Pinehurst for the ceremony.

Mr. and Mrs. Tucker were first married at Union Hill, N.J., early in October. Shortly after this wedding they came south to spend their honeymoon, but this did not become generally known until day before yesterday, when they were discovered at Southern Pines.

They were informed yesterday by the Associated Press that indictments had been brought against them in New Jersey on charges of conspiracy to violate the New Jersey marriage laws and of perjury. Their reply was that their attorney would take care of the indictments for them.

Evidently, the reported indication of a Jersey City, N.J., assistant prosecutor that leniency probably would come into court, plead guilty to the charges against him to have his marriage annulled had little effect on the youthful husband.

From the front page of the Mooresville Enterprise, December 27, 1923

Logan Stout in State Prison Despite His "Buying" His Way Out; Former Sheriff Up on Charges, Dec. 27, 1923

A Former Sheriff Said Was Bribed

News and Observer

Twelve months overdue and still a little perplexed at the failure of dollar diplomacy to work effectively, Logan Stout, Avery county blockader, arrived at the State Prison yesterday morning to serve a sentence of 18 months, which period will include the time it will take him to go back home and testify against a former sheriff of the county and two of his deputies on charges of accepting bribes.

Stout says he thought he had everything fixed when he paid Deputy Sheriff Oaks $300 to forget to bring him to prison last December and if present Sheriff Pat Vance had not caught Stout wandering the hills of Avery when he ought to have been breaking rock somewhere, things would have been altogether to his liking. He was very much surprised when sheriff Vance hooted at his claim that he had bought himself out.

Deputy Oakes readily confessed when confronted with the charge that he had accepted $300 from Stout with the assurance that nothing more would be said about his case. He elaborated his confession to involve the former sheriff and another former deputy of participating in the division of the bribe. Sheriff Vance, who came into office not long after the trade was made, arrested the whole outfit, former sheriff, two deputies and blockader, bound over the peace officers and brought Stout to Raleigh yesterday.

Avery went through a political upheaval in 1922, and an entirely new set of county officers was brought into office. The former sheriff and all his deputies were sent off into oblivion from which only the apprehension of Stout and his subsequent confession that he had given bribes brought them. They are being held for trial at a session of court early in 1924, and Stout will be taken back to Avery to testify against them.

The blockader claims that he didn’t pay the $300 as a bribe, but on the assurance of the deputy who was about to bring him to Raleigh that such a such of money would square him with the courts, wipe out the prison sentence and pay all costs. He went back to the hills to pursue his profession, and it was there that Sheriff Vance caught him.

From the front page of the Mooresville Enterprise, December 27, 1923. Deputy sheriff's last name spelled Oaks on first reference and Oakes on second reference in the newspaper.

Knowledge Catawba Club Boys Gain Has Paid Off, Dec. 27, 1923

A Successful Year for Catawba Club Boys

Catawba county will have a record hard to beat in its agricultural club work for this year. The poultry club members have set a good pace by making a total net profit on their work of $9,731.10, but County agent J.W. Hendricks reports good records from all the other farm clubs. He has received the cordial support of the business men in his county to foster these other phases of club activity. The First National Bvank of Hickory offered cash prizes in gold for the best records in corn, cotton, calf and poultry work. The awards recently made for these prizes show that Philip Lutz of Newton, R. 4, won the first prize of $25 for making the highest yield of corn on one acre by producing 95.5 bushels. Kernie Cline of the same address won second prize of $20 with a yield of 87 bushels.

Claude Sigmon Claremont, R. 2, won first prize of $20 for making the highest yield of seed cotton on one acre by producing 2,777 pounds. William Heaver of Newton R. 1 won second prize of $15 with a yield of 2,186 pounds.

Pauline Bollinger of Newton, R. 4, won first prize of $20 by showing at the county fair the calf giving evidence of best care and keep. Second prize of $15 went to Edward Washon of Newton, R. 1.

Vinnie Lee McCombs of Conover won the first prize of $20 for making the best display of purebred poultry at the county fair and Louie Baker of Hickory, R. 1, won second prize of $15.

From the front page of the Mooresville Enterprise, Thursday, December 27, 1923

Mooresville Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1923

Preliminary Hearing of Alex Jones, Charged with Killing Alfred Ferebee, Dec. 25, 1923

The Jones Case Set for Friday

By the Associated Press

Elizabeth City, Dec. 24—A preliminary hearing in the case of Alex Jones, Newland farmer of this section, charged with murder in connection with the death several days ago of Alfred Ferebee, negro, was scheduled today for next Friday before Magistrate T.B. Wilson. Jones was being held under $35,000 bail.

From the front page of the Durham Morning Herald, Dec. 25, 1923

N.C. Commissioner of Agriculture Wm. A. Graham Has Died, Dec. 25, 1923

The Passing of Wm. A. Graham Saturday Morn. . . Was the Commissioner of Agriculture of North Carolina for 15 Years. . . Aged 84 Years. . . He Was the Last Remaining Confederate Soldier Holding a State Office. . . Sick a Short Time. . . Funeral Will Be Held from the First Baptist Church, in Raleigh, Tuesday Afternoon

Raleigh, Dec. 24—Maj. William A. Graham, for 15 years commissioner of agriculture of North Carolina and the last remaining Confederate soldier holding a state office, died at 4:35 o’clock this morning at a local hospital of pneumonia following an attack of influenza. Major Graham lacked but two days of being 84 years of age, but had been able to attend to the routine duties of his office until a few days since.

He would have been a candidate for re-election to his office and in all probability would have succeeded to the post again. There was promised opposition, but nerve is required and money to go into a primary against a Confederate soldier who has a job.

Of course, his successor is being discussed, with the consensus of opinion, perhaps, favoring his son, William A. Graham jr., member of the state senate from Lincoln county. This because there was several months ago at a time that Major Grahm appeared feeble talk of his resignation to make way for his son, who is a member of the Democratic state committee and otherwise prominent in party and administrative councils.

If it should be decided to go out of the family, there are T.B. Parker, already an avowed candidate, who has been connected with the department of agriculture for many years; F.P. Latham of Beaufort County, am ember of the state board of agriculture, who is understood to have it in mind to become a candidate; or George Ross of Moore county, trustee of State college and interested in agriculture, especially the educational side. Ross did not care to try to take the Major’ job away from him; he could make it interesting for any candidate in the primary.

Major Graham’s years as head of the department saw North Carolina rise from the 23rd place in the list of agricultural states to fifth, with the main crops estimated this years as follows:

Cotton, $174,960,000;

Tobacco, $74,970,000;

Corn, $59,108,000.

No such growth as that is expected for his successor, for North Carolina’s growth is not so much now inf arming as in industry. However, there is a sizeable job for the new Commissioner of Agriculture, who will be called upon to fit his department more closely into the educational scheme of things and to work with State college.

Major Graham was born December 26, 1839, at Hillsboro, the son of William A. and Susan Washington Graham. His father was a secretary of the navy and governor of the state. The great-grandfather, Jseph Davidson, signed the Declaration of Independent; his grandfather, Gen. Joseph Graham was a noted office of the Revolution. Of Scotch Irish stock the family has been prominent throughout the history of the state.

At the outbreak of the Civil War while his father was one of the chief opponents of secession, Major Grham, just graduated from Princeton, entered the service as captain of Company K, second North Carolina Cavalry. Later he rose to the rank of Major, his father in the meantime becoming a member of the Confederate congress.

Major Graham in 1864 married Miss Julia Lane. Of this union there were 11 children. Mrs. Julia L. Grahm died several years ago.

Five or six years ago Major Grahm married Miss Sallie Clark of Raleigh, sister of Chief Justice Walter Clark. Domestic difference of opinion having arisen, Mrs. Graham the second and the Major agreed to live separately and for the past two or three years Commissioner Graham had paid Sallie Clark Graham an alimony of $100 a month by order of the court.

Major Graham is survived by the following sons and daughters: Mrs. S.W. Huff of New York; Senator W.A. graham Jr. of Lincoln county; Mrs. J.P. Parker of Black Mountain, Miss Caroline B. Graham of Raleigh; Mrs. M.G. Clark of Donalson, Georgia; Mrs. J.S. Calvert of Dunqueska, France; Joseph Graham of Akron, Ohio; and Miss Evelyn Graham of Raleigh.

The honorary pallbearers are Governor Cameron Morrison, W.N. Everett, B.R. Lacy, Baxter Durham, J.S. Manning, A.T. Allen, M.L. Shipman, Stacey W. Wade, W.T. Lee, Geo. Pell, A.J. Maxwell, Dr. E.C. Brooks, Judge W.A. Hoke, Hon. Armistead Jones, Capt. T.W. Davis, Capt. T.W. Fenner, W.N. Jones, T.H. Briggs, Gen. Julian S. Carr and Jas. A. Higgs.

The active pallbearers are: K.W. Barnes, B.W. Kilgore, Dr. Wm. Moore, J.L. Burgess, W.W. Vass, W.M. Allen, Andrew Syme, Dr. Hubert Haywood Jr., W.L. Wyatt, J.J. Taylor.

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Burial Wednesday

Raleigh, N.C., Dec. 24—The funeral of Major W.A. Graham, soldier, author, agriculturist—who died early this morning at a local hospital following an illness of several days with pneumonia, will be held at the First Baptist church here at 2:30 o’clock tomorrow afternoon. After the funeral, at 4 o’clock, the body will be accompanied by relatives to Lincoln county where burial will take place in McPhelia church cemetery at 11 o’clock Wednesday morning.

From the front page of the Durham Morning Herald, Dec. 25, 1923

Ross and Capello Play Against British Open and French Open Champions, Dec. 25, 1923

Paired for First Time. . . British and French Champions Defeat Locals

By the Associated Press

Pinehurst, N.C., Dec. 24—Paired together for the first time on American links, Arthur Havers, the British open champion, and Jimmy Ockenden, holder of the French open title, defeated Alex Ross and Joe Capello, local professionals, one up in a 36-hole exhibition match here today.

The European champions went one down in the morning’s play, but pulled through with two up in the afternoon, playing on a different course. In the last half of the match they had a best ball of 70. The day’s cards read:

Havers and Ochenden 37; 32; 37; 33.

Ross and Capello 32; 36; 37; 35.

From the front page of the Durham Morning Herald, Dec. 25, 1923

Happy Christmas Card

Christmas Greetings from the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

Christmas Greetings

We cannot do less than wish every patron of the Public Ledger the pleasantest possible Christmas. With all the hungry children and old people across the sea in our minds, we dare not say it “A Merry Christmas.” We know, however, that the more we do to make this a happier Christmas for others, the happier our own shall be.

How shall we come to the Christmas of 1923? The answer is simple. Leave Him out of His heaven and out of His world, and Christmas, with its “glorious song of old,” is little less than a mockery. But hold to the faith that has stayed and steadied unnumbered multitudes of earth’s finest spirits in days when those abut them were saying, “Where is now thy God?” and you will greet the dawn of the new Christmas with a deep and satisfying peace. Here is an optimism that will hail the coming Christmas not because it ignores the facts, but in spite of the facts; an optimism that knows that, though mighty empires have come and gone, and darkness settled over many a nation like an impenetrable gloom, the world has steadily, of slowly, rolled out of darkness into light. Look back over human history and trace the upward climb, and mark the larger world into which humanity has come since that first Christmas day, and despair will give place to hope. If we would celebrate Christmas, we must reach out and touch another’s life, perhaps the life of one of the lowliest. Organized charity? Yes, let the poor be fed, but surely each one of us on Christmas needs to spend the impulses of his Christian love. Awake, rejoice! And let your joy gladden the day for another. Merry Christmas!

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

Murray and Dates Begin 15-Year Sentences for Robbing Oxford Post Office, Dec. 25, 1923

Murray and Dates Go to Pen for Robbery of Oxford Post Office. . . Each of the Criminals Draw Sentence of 15 Years. . . What Gregory, the International Detective, Told Postmaster Ben K. Lassiter Came True—The Case Was One of the Most Stubbornly Fought Cases in Federal Court for Many Years

After having remained in jail for over two years while waging a legal fight for their freedom, John Murray and William Dates, described as postal inspectors as professional burglars, Friday were sentenced by Judge H.G. Connor in Federal Court to serve 15 years each in the United States prison at Atlanta for the robbery of Oxford post office of about $34,000 on the night of March 9, 1920.

On Three Counts

The yeggmen were convicted by a jury after a hour’s deliberation on three counts—theft of a Cadillac automobile, in which they fled form Oxford; breaking and entering the post office, and larceny of postal funds and property from two vaults. The judgment was five years on each round.

Heavy Sentence

The combined term imposed on the yeggmen is said by inspectors to be the heaviest sentence for postal yeggmen in this section of the country. Under provisions of the government penal code, however, the prisoners may cut off two-thirds of their term by good behavior.

Described as “Bad Men”

Described as “bad men” with long records in the files of criminologists throughout the country, Murray and Dates began their careers of crime as far back as 1898 when the latter served time in a reformatory in New York State, according to Postal Inspector H.T. Gregory, who gave Judge Connor a history of their past. In addition to his reformatory term, Dates was sentenced to a term of from three to five years in Boston during 1907 for possessing burglar tools, was in prison in Baltimore during 1904, served three years in Sing Sing during 1916 for having burglar tools. The inspector stated that Murray, alias “Michigan Shorty,” served five years in New York during 1909, was sentenced to one year in New Jersey in 1915 for robbing a post office and was arrested in 1916 on a charge of burglary in New York.

It was on the morning of March 9, 1920, that Postmaster Lassiter entered the Oxford post office and found two vaults wrecked and all postal funds gone. Later investigation placed the loss at approximately $34,000.

Good Work

At the time of the robbery four years ago, Gregory, the great international detective, told Postmaster Ben K. Lassiter of Oxford that it would probably take five years to run down and convict the yeggmen. He remarked at the time that the chase would probably take him to London, Paris, and other capitals of the world. “It will take time to run them down,” said Detective Gregory, “but the Government will spare no expense to bring them to justice.”

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923. Yeggman blew open safes with explosives, usually dynamite.

Where Do They Get the Liquor, Wonders Chief Hobgood, Dec. 25, 1923

Where Did They Get the Liquor? There Is More Drunkenness Here Than at Any Time Since the Beginning of the World War

Chief Hobgood and members of the Oxford police force are fearful that an “epidemic of booze” will break out here within the next 48 hours. A half dozen men, both white and colored, and a couple of colored women have been acting rather funny for two or three days, but none of them have become hilarious as yet.

If this unfortunate class of offenders fall into the drag net they need expect no sympathy from Mayor Stem or the policemen. Those who peddle the liquor are as bad, or worse than those who drink it, said Chief Hobgood.

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

Children Have Close Call When School Truck Overturns, Dec. 25, 1923

School Children Have a Close Call. . . Knap of Reeds School Truck Turns Turtle

From all accounts it appears that the Knap of Reeds school truck, which turned over a few days ago while en route to Creedmoor with a load of children, was purely accidental. The truck was being driven by Carl Veazey, who is acknowledged to be one of the most careful drivers in the county.

It was snowing at the time of the accident and the windshield became cloudy. The driver stopped the truck to wipe away the mist, not realizing that he was so close to the edge of the ditch. The embankment gave way, and the truck landed on its side in the ditch. Some of the children were slightly cut with broken glass. Fortunately no one was seriously hurt.

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923. The first school buses were trucks.

Dr. G.S. Watkins Joins Rotary Club, Dec. 25,1923

Dr. G.S. Watkins Is Now a Rotarian. . . Mr. F.W. Hancock Jr. Welcomed the Doctor Into the Club

At the regular monthly meeting of Oxford Rotary Club last Thursday evening, Dr. G.S. Watkins was introduced as a new member by Dr. N.C. Daniel and he was welcomed into the club by Mr. Frank W. Hancock Jr.

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

Officers Seize 75-Gallon Still in Fishing Creek Township, Dec. 25, 1923

Moonshiners in Fishing Creek. . . Officers Capture 75 Gallon Capacity Still

Constable E.N. Bragg and Deputy J.E. Newton invaded Fishing Creek Township last Saturday and returned with a 75-gallon capacity still. The officers are of the opinion that this is the still that has been terrorizing the good people in the southeastern part of the county for some time. The officers have an inkling that it was operated by colored men.

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

G.F. Clark Slaughters Two Fine Shoats, Dec. 25, 1923

Two Fine Shoats. . . One Weighed 553 Pounds on His 553rd Day Birthday

A shoat that grows a pound a day is some pig. Mr. G.F. Clark of Virgilina Route 2, killed two pigs last week. Each of them were 553 days old, and one weighed 486 pounds. Both had the same care and feed, one gaining 67 pounds in weight more than the other one.

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

Dr. B.K. Hays Remembers Friends Who Have Passed, Dec. 25, 1923

Interesting letter from Dr. B.K. Hays. . . The Great National Public Health Official Takes Time to Speak of Friends Back in the Old Home Town--A Tribute to the Memory of Those Who Have Passed Out and Beyond

For a long time it has been my purpose to write of my travels, and to tell the readers of the Public Ledger something of the places which I have visited and of the people with whom I have been thrown. But whenever I undertake to write my memory becomes so occupied with the people in Oxford and with the conditions in the County that other places and peoples are crowded out of mind.

Do you remember the story of the dying gladiator, so beautifully told in one of Byron’s verses? The man had fallen in the arena of Rome. About him were the glory, the splendid, the wealth of the world. He thought not of these, but of his far away cabin home where his wife awaited him, while his children hung about the door in play. Yes, I know just what Sol. Cooper meant when he said, “better to be leaning against a telephone pole in Oxford than to have a million dollars in New York.”

But Oxford is changing. It must change with the passing of the familiar figures who were for so long a time an essential part of the community. Most keenly do I feel the broken health of that beloved physician without whose presence the town could never again be to me the same, and most earnestly do I hope and pray that he may be restored to health and usefulness.

Nor can I forget that many who were near and dear to me when I left Oxford, to be gone, as I thought, but a few weeks, have now passed to the great beyond. How often do I think of a girlish form that passed, moved to and fro, always bright, always cheerful, meeting her friends with a smile, and ever ready with a quick and witty reply to any remark addressed to her; and how keenly do I sympathize with those whose hearts were broken by her untimely death.

How clear in my mind’s eye are the figures of Mr. Zack Lyon and Mr. John Britt as they walked up College Street together; Mr. Britt would stop to play with the little children at the Graded School, while Mr. Lyon, even in a few moments’ conversation, would often let fall some never to be forgotten word of practical wisdom.

And now “Uncle Dick” Usry is gone. Surely he was a more vital part of the town than the buildings he constructed; more to be loved; more to be missed.

And from the County two splendid figures have recently passed—J.J. Allgood and Dr. Eljah Meadows.

Mr. Allgood was a modest and retiring man. I doubt if half the people in Oxford knew him by sight. And yet that man was standing by Lee at Appomattox when Lee handed his sword to Grant. Lee knew him as Oxford did not now him; knew his bravery, his endurance, his loyalty to a cause which he believed to be just and right. Mr. Allgood was a man of sterling character, industrious, honest, a kind husband, father and neighbor, and possessed a keen sense humor. Once, when he was sick, I asked him if he wanted some oysters. “No,” he replied, “I never ate but one in my life and the more I chewed it the bigger it got.”

And “Lige” Meadows! What shall I say of him? Only this, that he belonged to that class of men from which this country draws its strength and stability. He did not seek fame and notoriety; he had no penchant for wealth or power; he never gloated over the conquest of an opponent or the fall of a rival; within his make up there was no trace of selfishness or envy. He threw the force of his moral support and strong personality into a cause when he believed it to be right, and he opposed it when he believed it to the wrong, but there was no jealousy, no bitterness toward those whom he opposed. When fixed in his convictions he was not easily moved. Of such men, when they agree with us, we say they are firm, when they disagree with us, we say they are stubborn. But whether firm or stubborn. Dr. Meadows’ opinions were always based upon moral conviction of truth. Gentleness and kindliness were his dominant traits. In his home, in the home of his patrons, in the church, his lodge, his medical society, these characteristics were always in evidence. His life, from beginning to end, was a constructive force, and this force, and this world is a better place because he lived in it.

Benj. K. Hays, M.D.

Fort Lyon, Colo., Dec. 16, 1923

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

Jefferson Brooks Home for the Holidays, Dec. 25, 1923

Distinguished Son of Oxford

Jefferson Brooks, the fine son of Mr. and Mrs. J.D. Brooks, who is ranging Radioman on the S.S. Savannah, arrived from New York yesterday to spend the holidays at home. Jefferson is an expert electrician and has seen much of the world since he left Oxford a year ago. His greatest thrill, he said, was on a sub-marine in New York Harbor.

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

Christmastide Weddings in Granville Area, Dec. 25, 1923

Marriages

A marriage of interest to relatives and friends in Oxford took place on Saturday evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lucillus Chandler, near Durham, when the daughter, Mabel, became the bride of Mr. Hoy Fuller, son of Mrs. Dudley Fuller of Oxford. The ceremony was witnessed by only a few relatives and friends of the contracting parties. Rev. Williams performed the ceremony using the ring service.

The bride is an attractive young woman of sweet personality. The groom is employed by the Lassiter Construction company and has a host of friends who are congratulating him on winning so fair a bride. Immediately following the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Fuller left for a tour north, after which they will be at home in Oxford.

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The home of Rev. and Mrs. G.T. Tunstall was the scene of a pretty marriage on Sunday night when Miss Elsie May Freeman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. B.F. Freeman was married to Mr. Hamilton Currin. Only a few relatives were present at the ceremony, which was performed by Rev. G.T. Tunstall, pastor of the bride.

The bride is a lovely young woman and has many friends. She has attended the Oxford Public Schools for a number of years and is very talented. The groom holds a position with Perkinson-Green Company. They will make their home with Mrs. A.P. Hobgood.

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Mr. Stanley Averett and Miss Inez Reeves of Mullins, S.C., were married at the home of the bride’s parents Saturday, December 22. They will reach Oxford this evening where they will make their home. From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

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Given in Marriage. . . Batch of Licenses Issues During Christmastide

All previous records were broken last Saturday when Mr. Charles G. Powell, register of deeds, issued 15 licenses, the previous record being 11 on Christmas Eve, 1917.

Among those securing licenses during Christmastide are the following:

White List

Ewell R. Ellington and Hettie B. Yarboro, Granville.

Herley D. Brown and Octava Lloyd of Durham County.

Shirley Loftis and Lois B. Yancey, Granville.

Luther Hogg and Ruth Keesee, Granville.

Wade R. Rogers and Etha H. Whitfield, Granville.

Early B. Cumbie and Jennie F. Newton, Granville.

Ernest B. Duke and Martha B. Longmire, Granville.

Ulysses G. Wilson and Letty Pitchford, Granville.

W.H. Newton and Mary E. Harris, Granville.

E. Ransom O’Neal and Mamie Ross, Wake County.

Maynard M. Chappell and Winnie Davis, Creedmoor.

Fred A. Moss and Josie M. Chappell, Granville.

Eugene Nelms and Burnice O. Fowler, Granville.

Hamilton T. Currin and Elsie M. Freeman, Granville.

Colored List

Joe Wortham and Eula Bell, Granville.

Elbis Winston and Nora Troller, Granville.

Frank Gilliam and Mollie R. Watkins, Granville.

Horace G. Harris and Louise Roberts, Granville.

Andrew H. Landis and Daisy Daniel, Granville.

Henry West and Mary Graham, Granville.

Lorenzo Blackwell and Rosa Harris, Granville.

Thaddie White and Viola Hunt, Granville.

Tas Hargrove and Lellie Cooley, Granville.

From page 4 of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

Martha Lakel, 74, Hon. W.A. Graham, 84, Have Died, Dec. 25,1923

Mrs. Lakel Dead. . . The Mother of Mrs. N.N. Cupp and Mrs. John W. Hester

Mrs. Martha Lakel, aged 74, wife of Samuel Lakel, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. N.N. Cupp at Somerset, Pa., Friday night. Mrs. Lakel had been in bad health for several months but her death came as a great surprise to her loved ones. She was well known in Oxford as she resided here for several years while her daughter, Mrs. Cupp, lived in Oxford. She is survived by her husband, two daughters, Mrs. N.N. Cupp and Mrs. John W. Hester of Oxford; two grandchildren, Mrs. W.L. Livengood of Oxford and Miss Elizabeth Cupp. The funeral will be conducted at Somerset, Penn., on Monday. Mr. and Mrs. John Hester and Mr. Lakel left Saturday to attend the funeral.

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Hon. W.A. Graham Dead. . . The Commissioner of Agriculture Was a Brother of Judge A.W. Graham

Hon. W.A. Graham, for many years commissioner of agriculture, died at Rex Hospital Raleigh last Sunday night, aged 84 years. Pneumonia was the cause of his death.

Judge Graham was at the bedside of his brother when the call came. Mr. A.W. Graham Jr. and other members of the family will attend the burial in Cleveland county, near Shelby, today.

From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Dec. 25, 1923

Oxford Public Ledger, Christmas Day, 1923

Otto Wood Given 30 Years Hard Labor for Murder of A.W. Kaplan, Dec. 24, 1923

Otto Wood Found Guilty of Murder in Second Degree

Greensboro, Dec. 24—Otto Wood was found guilty of murder in the second degree yesterday by a Guilford county jury for the killing of A.W. Kaplan Nov. 3. The verdict was reached about 10 o’clock Sunday morning and was presented to Judge Shaw shortly before 11 o’clock.

With the verdict the jury presented a recommendation that Wood be given the full limit of the law. This is 30 years of hard labor.

Judge Shaw did not pronounce the sentence. He will do so this morning when court convenes. It is believed by those who have followed the case closely that the sentence will be 30 years.

A tense moment came when the foreman of the jury, W.H. Dunbar, reported that the verdict was “guilty.” Otto Wood was standing on his feet. His wife and one child were beside him. Mrs. A.W. Kaplan and members of her family were present Lawyers on both sides sat listening intently and an unusually large number of persons leaned forward eagerly.

Wood did not blink an eye lash. He smiled and said he thought the sentence was about right.

From the front page of the Reidsville Review, Monday, Dec. 24, 1923

Philip Fox Gets Life Sentence for Killing William Coburn, Dec. 24, 1923

Fox Draws Life Term in Prison—Guilty of Killing

A special from Atlanta says “Guilty of murder with recommendation for mercy,” was the verdict returned tonight against Philip E. Fox, Ku Klux Klan editor, who killed William S. Coburn, a klan attorney, in Atlanta on November 5.

The verdict, under Georgia laws, provides a life imprisonment. After hearing evidence and arguments for more than a week, the jury received the case late last night.

At the request of the defense, the jury was polled. It was unanimous.

Fox stood up. He shook his head in the negative when the judge asked if he desired to say anything.

“You shall spend the balance of your natural life in the penitentiary of this state,” the judge said.

Fox trembled and his head drooped heavily on his chest.

Judge Howard directed the defendant to sit down. Two bailiffs steadied the trembling man as he sank into his chair. The court then cautioned all spectators to remain seated. Twenty or more policemen, headed by Chief of Police Beavers, and the bailiffs surrounded Fox and he was escorted from the court room.

Neither Mrs. Fox nor her 8-year-old son was present when the verdict was read. Mrs. Coburn, widow of the slain man, and her daughter, Zoe Coburn, also were absent.

There was not a stir in the court room when the verdict was read. Seven minutes were required for the entire procedure to take place. As the verdict was being read, Fox sat at table, his head resting in his hands. He was pale. His face twitched and his legs shook.

From the front page of the Reidsville Review, Monday, Dec. 24, 1923

White Furniture Company Plant Destroyed by Fire, Dec. 24, 1923

White Furniture Company’s Plant at Mebane Burned

Damage of approximately $300,000, covered by insurance, was incurred when the White Furniture Company’s main plant at Mebane was practically destroyed by fire which defied control for about four hours Friday afternoon.

Four fire companies, Mebane, Durham, Burlington and Graham, fought the fire but with little success until the building was almost consumed.

The entire town was threatened and but for the number of fire companies present it is thought the plant of the Mebane Milling Company would have been consumed.

From the front page of the Reidsville Review, Monday, Dec. 24, 1923

Miss Hunneycut, 16, Miss Hall, 17, One of 20 Pairs of Girls Struck by Wanderlust, Are Home Safe, Dec. 24, 1923

Two Wanderlust Smitten Girls Return Home

“No more for me!” gleefully declared pretty little run-away Miss Huneycutt, aged 16, of Leaksville, Monday when her pa, after a hot chase after his daughter through Greensboro, High Point, Lexington and Salisbury, arrived in Albemarle on the next train after she had struck town on a bus.

“My money is gone, and I’m ready to go home—I’ll tell the world.”

No less pretty and no less anxious to get out of the cold, cruel world to where the home fires burn brightly was her companion, aged 17, Miss Hall.

The epidemic of wanderlust upstate which has led from the home roof something like 20 pairs of dainty little feet within the past month laid its hand on the Huneycutt and Hall homes in Leaksville Saturday—and presto—the daring little flappers hit the road.

The cause of it all was that the Hall girl’s grandma spoke crossly to her—which, these days, is plenty sufficient reason for running away from home. She spoke to her bosom friend of the Huneycutt home and she, too, was ready to leave home because the other girl’s grandma was cross. And—so they did.

Their wanderings took them to strange places, like Greensboro and Lexington. They saw the world. They were free. No restraining home influences—no cross grandmamas—nothing but freedom. But the thrilling pleasure of a wide and rollicking world didn’t come. By the time the run-aways reached Albemarle, their money was about gone and they were looking for work.

Mr. Huneycutt reached Albemarle on the evening train and went straight to the police headquarters with his troubles. Officer Carl Helms had noticed two such girls earlier in the afternoon and within a short time he had located them. They were on the point of going into a movie show. When he had informed them that it was time for them to go home, they were delighted.

--Albemarle Press

From the front page of the Reidsville Review, Monday, Dec. 24, 1923

Lexington Will Get New Orphanage, Announce Junior Order, Dec. 24, 1923

Lexington Chosen by Juniors for the Orphanage

Sunday afternoon at 6 o’clock a telegram was received by the Lexington Junior Order committee stating that Lexington had been unanimously selected as the site for the new Junior Order orphanage.

The telegram is as follows: “The committee on site for National Orphans Home have unanimously selected the site offered by your committee at Lexington. Accept my congratulations. Letter will follow.—J.D. Tunison”

The new home at Lexington will immediately house 500 orphans and later the capacity will be increased to 1,000. The initial expenditure by the Juniors will be $500,000, and the total cost will be a million dollars.

The site selected is three miles from Lexington and contains 200 acres.

From the front page of the Reidsville Review, Monday, Dec. 24, 1923

Caroline Schmidt, 25, Advertises for a Husband, Dec. 24, 1923

Girl Advertises to Get Husband; Crowd So Big Cop Directs Traffic

Pittsburgh, Dec. 24—Carolina Schmidt, 25, a fraulein recently arrived from Wittenberg, Germany, advertised through a newspaper as follows: “Will open bids for my fair hand Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock.”

Hordes of suitors, most of them claiming to be ex-German soldiers who have arrived in this country since the war and who want a German wife adept at German cooking, have besieged Fraulein Schmidt’s home in an effort to put in their “bid.”

So great did the procession become that the cop on the beat kindly consented to “direct traffic among the suitors” for a time.

The sister of Miss Schmidt, in whose home the latter is staying, has set aside a “courtin’” room.

From the front page of the Reidsville Review, Monday, Dec. 24, 1923. I find it interesting that immigrants accepted in the U.S. following W.W.I were the German soldiers we fought against.

Reidsville Review, Christmas Eve, 1923

Kids See Mommy Kissing Santa Claus, 1948

Caught Mother Kissing Santa Claus by J.C. Leyendecker from the cover of The American Weekly, Dec. 19, 1948.

Lionel Train Set, a Dream Gift for a Little Boy in the 1940s

While Some Might Not Want Children Working 10 Hour Days in Factories, Child Labor Laws Are Being Enforced in North Carolina, Dec. 23, 1923

Carolina Behind on Child Labor. . . Conditions in Factory Towns of State Are Shocking, Says Report

By the Associated Press

Raleigh, Dec. 22—North Carolina which is said to be behind in caring for its child labor, is not as black as it has been painted, according to an article published in the Public Welfare Progress bulletin of the Christians and public welfare, which has just been issued. The bulletin draws for the source of its article upon Henry F. Pringle, a special correspondent of the New York World, who a few weeks ago visited the state incognito, to investigate conditions in the factory towns as regards child labor.

“Mr. Pringle was agreeably surprised,” according to the article, “at child labor conditions in the State. He thought, it is true, that North Carolina’s child labor law is defective in permitting the 10 hour day, but he found that the law is being enforced with a thoroughness which surprised him, and that child labor is more carefully supervised in North Carolina than in any other Southern state except Alabama, which has an eight hour day.

“Mr. Pringle was impressed with the North Carolina plan whereby the Department of Education and the State board of Health co-operate in enforcing the child labor law by insisting on compulsory school attendance and by giving medical examinations to children before they are allowed to work. He stated that he had seen no violation of the law during the two weeks he inspected a number of cotton mills in Mecklenburg and Gaston counties, and he also spoke of the good attitude of the mill men whom he met while in the State.”

Before coming to North Carolina, according to the article, Mr. Pringle visited a number of states in which child labor conditions are said to be bad.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 23, 1923

Police Snatch Up Purse Snatcher Before He Leaves the Store, Dec. 23, 1923

Purse Snatcher Caught Saturday. . . Negro Failed to Make Good Escape After Taking White Woman’s Purse

For the first time in some months a purse snatcher was arrested in Durham Saturday night. While out shopping Mr. and Mrs. Dewey Ellis visited the store of S.H. Kress and company. Mrs. Ellis carried a pocketbook containing $45 in cash. Jim Tucker, colored, was also in the store, along with the throng that crowded the store. He saw Mr. and Mrs. Ellis and also the pocketbook, the last with a covetous eye. He snatched the purse and Officers Knight and Massey snatched him before he could get out of the store. He will be given a hearing before the recorder Monday on the charge of larceny from the person.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 23, 1923

Will D. Mooney Accused of Driving While Intoxicated, Injuring T.H. Ellis, Dec. 23, 1923

Declares Driver Was Intoxicated. . . Will D. Mooney Said to Have Driven Auto Which Injured T.H. Ellis

T.H. Ellis of 419 Walker street sustained a sprained angle and injuries about the legs Saturday evening shortly after 9 o’clock when struck by an automobile driven by Will D. Mooney, Durham man, on Main street.

The driver of the car, A Ford, was placed under arrest and required to furnish a bond of $200 for operating a car while under the influence of whiskey.

It was declared that Mooney lost control of the car at the post office intersection of Main and Corcoran streets and ran up on the sidewalk where Mr. Ellis was standing. The pedestrian was knocked down and at first thought to be seriously injured. He was taken to his home where his injuries were treated.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 23, 1923

Ground Superintendent George Pickard Slightly Improved Following Stroke, Dec. 23, 1923

Chapel Hill, Dec. 22—The condition of George Pickard, superintendent of grounds at the University of North Carolina, was described by his physician as “slightly improved.” He suffered from a stroke of paralysis early this week and has lost the use of one side. It is feared he may not recover. Mr. Pickard is well and favorably known to this and other generations of University students who regard him as a campus celebrity. Alumni always make it a point to look him up and chat about old time. From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 23, 1923

G.B. Walls Damages Ford When Backing Out of Driveway, Dec. 23, 1923

Ford Car Damaged Saturday Afternoon

At 4:30 o’clock Saturday afternoon a Ford car driven by G.B. Walls was backed into a Dodge car owned and driven by James Baldwin, with considerable damage being done to the Ford. The accident occurred on Morning Glory avenue when the driver of the Ford car attempted to back the car from the driveway into the street. Adjustment was made between the two participants in the accident and no arrests were made.

From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 23, 1923

Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Dec. 23, 1923

Letters to Dear Old Santa, Dec. 21, 1923

Letters to Old Santa

Dear Old Santa:

The little children whose letters appear below sent them to us so we could tell you what they wanted last week, but because of things beyond our control, we were unable to do so. Please pardon the delay and bring the things they asked for. And we hope also that you will bring all the children in this whole community what they want, whether they have written you or not.

. . . .

Murphy, Dec. 18th

Dear Santa Claus:

I am writing you this little letter to tell you what I want for Christmas. I wish very much that you would bring me a duck. My name is Britt Moore. And I have a little brother four years old, and he wants a train. His name is Lakes. I also have a little sister. She is two years old. She wants you to bring her a sleeping doll. Her name is Lona. I hope you will bring our toys. Yu may please leave them at the Post office for us.

Your Friend, Britt Moore

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Murphy, Dec. 18, 1923

Dear Santa Claus:

I am writing you this letter to tell you what I want for Christmas. I want a doll that can say Mama. My name is Ona Moore. I have three little brothers.

Leonard wants you to bring a little wagon. Glen wants you to bring him a toy duck; and Blain wants you to bring him a horse and wagon.

You may please leave all of them at the post office for me.

Your friend,

Ona Moore

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Murphy, Dec. 18, 1923

Dear Santa Claus

I will write you a little note to tell you what I want you to bring me. I want you to bring me a box of candy. You can leave it at the Post office, please.

Marga Moore

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Murphy, N.C., Dec. 13th, 1923

Dear Santa Claus:

I want you to bring me four books, the names of which are these:

1. Bunny Brown and his Sister Sue and their Shetland Pony.

2. The Bobbsey Twins at School.

3. Dick and Doll.

4. Jole, Tommie, and Kittie Kat.

If you can, I want you to bring me those books and a little Bible, but please bring other little children many things.

Then I want a little telephone and a little bracelet. Please bring it. I want a little swing that you can swing your dolls in and sing, and I want a paint book and some paints and a little sewing machine. If you cannot bring all of these things, don’t do it. I want you to bring a basketball. You know what else to bring.

Good luck to you.

Your Friend,

Edna Patton

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Dear Old Santa:

I guess you think I’m getting my letter in real early. Mother says she hasn’t seen any in the paper yet but I want to be sure and get it.

I am a little boy five years old, live out in the country on P.T. Road. Now I will tell you want I want you to bring me. I want a wagon and a gun. I am not particular about the gun just so it will shoot. I also want some candy, oranges and fire crackers. I would like a harp, too, but I don’t want to ask for too much, because you might think I am a selfish little fellow.

Now I want to tell you my two little sisters. I think they would like a doll, one that can cry and go to sleep. We have all been very good children, so please do not forget us.

Good Bye Santa,

Hall Leatherwood

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Dear Santa:P> I am a little boy eight years old. I go to school every day.

I would like for you to bring me a wagon with a bell. Also some oranges, apples, nuts and candy.

Your friend, Horace Reinhart

From the front page of The Cherokee Scout, Dec. 21, 1923