Thursday, November 30, 2023
John McDonald Makes Profit Selling Apples Direct to Public, Nov. 30, 1923
Carload of West Virginia Apples is Sold at Ahoskie. . . Choice Lot Shipped Here by John Y. McDonald of Charlestown, Scene of Famous Miners’ Trial. . . Low Prices Bring Plenty of Buyers. . . Visitors Impressed with General Prosperity of Agricultural Classes Here
For the second time within a month, a carload of apples has been shipped to Ahoskie, and distributed to all comers at such ridiculously low prices as to cause the buyer to believe he was getting something for nothing—a situation that so seldom obtains in these high price times that it creates an opportunity for newspaper comment. Five hundred bushels of choice varieties were sold from the car here, on last Saturday and Monday of this week.
John Y. McDonald, orchard man of Charlestown, West Virginia, brought the carload here, at the instance of James W. Green, linotyper for the Herald. It was Miss Myrtle Swindell, county home demonstrator, who started the ball rolling by ordering a co-operative shipment three weeks ago. The carload ordered through her effort did not meet the demand, and the second carload went just about as fast, despite the fact that a part of the third carload were on sale locally at the same time.
Among the varieties included in the latest shipment were Old Winesaps, Yorks, Ben Davis, King David, Grimes Golden, and Albemarle Pippins. They came in bulk and packed in baskets and barrels. The price for some varieties ran as low as $1 per bushel; and at the prices sold Mr. McDonald says he was completely satisfied at the sales. He thinks Ahoskie will make a good shipping point another season.
Mr. McDonald talks interestingly of the fruit industry in his county, Jefferson. More than 400,000 bushels of apples have been shipped from his county, which embraces a territory of only about 10 square miles. It was an unusually good season for yields, he said, although the price has been low, and a great majority of the growers have not made any money. However, he says his crop has netted a nice profit. The average price this year has been $3 per barrel, which, after paying 75 cents for the barrel and a like amount for picking and handling, nets the grower $1.50 per barrel.
The West Virginia visitor was impressed with what seemed to him general prosperity among the ruralites of this section, and expressed regret that he had not hear of Ahoskie before this late date. “Peaches went begging in my county this summer, and had I known that you people were peachless, it would have been the simplest piece of business in the world to have shipped a carload of them here,” said Mr. McDonald. “I was offered a whole orchard of peaches without cost this summer and wouldn’t take them. Many growers did not even harvest their peaches at all, letting them rot in the orchards.”
He was interested in the boll weevil menace through this territory, in view of the fact that himself and other orchard men were paying unusually high prices for lead arsenate with which to spray fruit. The invasion of the weevil into new territory has caused the poison spray to leap upward in prices. Last year it was 14 cents a pound, while he paid 40 cents a pound this year. “We folks are used to spraying bugs, and it is nothing new—this insect killing business.”
Mr. McDonald was for three years a teacher in Bingham School, Asheville—not the one that is so sadly remembered locally and elsewhere. And, while he is loyal to his West Virginia home, Mr. McDonald did not hesitate to say that he might yet be a Tar Heel. He likes the State and its people.
From the front page of the Hertford County Herald, Ahoskie, N.C., Friday, Nov. 30, 1923
Miss Flax Andrews, Poultry Specialist, to Speak in Harrelsville, Menola, Como, Dec. 4-6, 1923
Poultry Specialist Coming to County
Miss Flax Andrews, poultry specialist, will spend three days in this county next week. She is coming here at the invitation of Miss Myrtle Swindell, home demonstrator, who has been looking forward for several months to Miss Andrews’ visit in the county.
She will be here December 4-6, inclusive, and will make speeches at the following places: Harrellsville, December 4 at 1:30 p.m.; Menola, December 5 at 1:30 p.m.; Como, December 6 at 1:30 p.m.
Both men and women are urged by Miss Swindell to attend these meetings, and Miss Andrews will give everyone her experience in putting poultry work on a money-paying basis.
From the front page of the Hertford County Herald, Ahoskie, N.C., Friday, Nov. 30, 1923
Mr. and Mrs. Parker Attend State College Football Game, Nov. 30, 1923
Attend Football Game
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Parker spent the week end in Raleigh and Jackson. They witnessed the football game between State College and Wake Forest College Saturday. Wake Forest won its first championship game from State College since 1908. The score was 14 to 0.
From the front page of the Hertford County Herald, Ahoskie, N.C., Friday, Nov. 30, 1923
Methodist Missionary Society Holding Food Sale, Nov. 30, 1923
Another Food Sale
For the second consecutive week the ladies of the Methodist Missionary Society will give a food sale next Saturday in front of the Richard Theater building. Their first sale met with a generous buying public which found there many eatables for the Sunday meals. They will open the sale at nine o’clock in the morning.
From the front page of the Hertford County Herald, Ahoskie, N.C., Friday, Nov. 30, 1923
William Harris Family Welcome "Junior", Born Nov. 22, 1923
A Son Is Born
William J. Jr. is the name of the newest arrival in the family of Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Harris of Copperhill, Tenn. It is an 8-pounder and was born last Thursday, November 22. Mrs. Harris is now at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Parker, of this place.
From the front page of the Hertford County Herald, Ahoskie, N.C., Friday, Nov. 30, 1923
Rev. Barker Returns Home After Visit, M.E. Church Conference, Nov. 30, 1923
Returns to His Home
Rev. J.J. Barker has returned to his home here after spending several days with relatives and friends on Roanoke Island. Reverend Mr. Barker also attended the North Carolina Conference of the M.E. church which was recently held at Elizabeth City.
From the front page of the Hertford County Herald, Ahoskie, N.C., Friday, Nov. 30, 1923
Baptist Ladies Holding Fancy Sale Dec. 4, 1923
Ladies Will Conduct Another Fancy Sale
The ladies of Circle No. 5 of the Baptist Woman’s Missionary Society will have a miscellaneous sale next Tuesday, December 4, in the old store next to Sessoms Bros.’ garage. It will open for business at half past two o’clock.
There will be a Doll Booth, a Fancy Work Booth, a Baby Booth, a Miscellaneous Booth and a Candy and Peanut Booth. Supper will be served from 5 to 9. The following menu will be served: oysters, chicken salad, fried chicken, ham, bread, cocoa, coffee, ice cream and cake.
The proceeds from the sale will be used to pay off the debt on the pastorium.
From the front page of the Hertford County Herald, Ahoskie, N.C., Friday, Nov. 30, 1923. The pastorium is usually called the pastorate these days. It’s the house owned by the church that houses the pastor.
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Do Women Understand Football? We Think Not, Say Editors, Nov. 29, 1923
Word comes from neighboring women’s colleges that hundreds of girls will be here in all their finery, and this brings up the be-whiskered question: Why do girls like football? Are they really interested in the game itself, or is it the furs, frills, and feathers that attract them? Do the jerseyed, leather-helmeted warriors attract them more than the fashion display? Can a woman give an intelligible account of the game? We think not.
However, the fact remains that girls, no matter how ignorant of Spaulding’s guide book and the finer points of football, are just thrilled with a big game, the men, the stupid beasts, continue to invite them.
From the editorial page of The Tar Heel, Chapel Hill, N.C., Nov. 29, 1923
Football Overrules Thanksgiving in Chapel Hill, Nov. 29, 1923
This eight-page, blue-ink issue of the Tar Heel is dedicated to the insatiable Monarch Football, who gives over his thrown after the final carnival this afternoon on Emerson field. Football has complete mastery of the situation today; it has routed studies, activities, and classes. It is the sole subject of pedantic professors, listless students, townspeople, and negro janitors. It has drawn 15,000 people to the 1,500-population town, it is the meat of ravenous newspaper editors, it even drives out the Turkey who claims Thanksgiving as its own. We can think of nothing else but football, nor do we care to think of anything else. This issue served up all available dope, historical, present and future. Digest it well and follow the game more intelligently.
From the editorial page of The Tar Heel, Chapel Hill, N.C., Nov. 29, 1923
Old Dominion, Tar Heel Football Team Captains, Nov. 29, 1923
Who has been on the injured list along with quarterback Diffey for a good part of the season. Howeiver, it is expected that he will be able to lead his dashing Cavaliers in an attempt to avenge the defeats of the last two years. Blackford has played for four years on the Old Dominion team.
-=-
CAPTAIN CASEY MORRIS
Who will lead his Tar Heels against the Old Dominion eleven on Emerson field Thanksgivign Day. Morris, on account of his stellar playing as end on the team of 1922, was chosen almost unanimously on the mythical All-South eleven last year. He is playing his last game of his career with eh Tar Heels today.
From the front page of The Tar Heel, Chapel Hill, N.C., Nov. 29, 1923
Virginia Meets Carolina in Chapel Hill, Nov. 29, 1923
(Left to right)
COACH BOB FETZER, Carolina; COACH GREASY NEALE, Virginia; COACH KELLISON, Virginia; COACH BILL FETZER, Carolina
From The Tar Heel, Chapel Hill, N.C., Nov. 29, 1923
Tremendous Crowd Expected to Flood Chapel Hill for the Big Thanksgiving Classic. . . The Stage Is Full Set for the Reception of the Biggest Crowd Ever. . . Alumni Return for Game. . . Numerous Little Groups of Alumni Seen on Campus Talking of Old Days
After a series of pep meetings and numerous other preparations, the stage is full set for one of the biggest Thanksgiving days in the history of the University. A large portion of the expected 20,000 people are already on the Hill full of enthusiasm and anticipation of the afternoon game. Every minute cars are rolling in Chapel Hill from all sections of the state bringing loyal friends and alumni of the University who have come to witness Carolina’s biggest grid clash of the year.
Every possible preparation has been made for making this a great day. In order to handle the traffic there has been detailed a squad of 150 deputized officials. For eating facilities every café, cafeteria and boarding house in town is fully prepared to take care of the rush. The Freshman Friendship Council of the Y.M.C.A. has constructed a lunch counter at the old well in order to relieve the eating situation. Everything is primed for a big day; it is even rumored that the Orange county bootleggers have on hand an extra stock of wares.
With a big dance in Durham last night, a football game between Bingham and Atlantic Christian College this morning and the big game this afternoon the day will be full of excitement. Alumni who are already on the Hill show great signs of interest and enjoyment upon meeting their old class mates. All over the campus numerous groups can be seen in which “the good old days” are being discussed by the old boys. These sessions appear to be a great feature of the day and there are numerous things to indicate that the alumni are amazed at the great growth and expansion of the University since their day here.
As the time for the big clash draws near and numerous cars roll in bringing loads of fair representatives from the neighboring girls’ schools, enthusiasm is keyed to a high pitch. Everyone is anxious to see the two powerful and evenly matched teams lock horns. Amid all the enthusiasm there is a shadow of regret. The students realize that this is the last game in which the generalship of Casey Morris, the machine-like work of Monk McDonald and the sturdiness of Poindexter will ever be seen on the gridiron.
With this keen feeling of interest mingled with admiration for those who have been the backbone of a powerful team for four years, the crowd is eagerly awaiting the outcome of the final contest of the year.
From the front page of The Tar Heel, Chapel Hill, N.C., Nov. 29, 1923
In University Infirmary Nov. 23, 1923
Those in the Infirmary this week are: Ralph Woodruff, tonsilitis; J.R. Blackwell, pneumonia; C.L. Wilson, malaria.
From page 2 of The Tar Heel, Chapel Hill, N.C., Nov. 23, 1923
Dan Gaster, Mrs. Loma Gardiner Wed, Nov. 23, 1923
The consummation of three months courtship on the part of Dan Gaster of Jonesboro culminated Saturday night in wedlock with Mrs. Loma Gardiner, formerly of West Durham. The parties concerned, accompanied by a few friends, motored to Durham Saturday. They visited the Methodist Parsonage and at 10 p.m. the Parson tied the knot. Mrs. Gaster has been with Gooch for the past three years, and Gaster for three months.
From the front page of The Tar Heel, Chapel Hill, N.C., Nov. 23, 1923
W.B. Sanders Shares Facts About N.C. Prisons, Nov. 23, 1923
Sanders Talks About Prisons. . . Gives Very Interesting Facts Regarding Prisons to N.C. Club
The North Carolina Club held its fortnightly meeting Monday, November 19, in Saunders Hall. After the regular business of the organization had been transacted the members listened to a very interesting talk by Mr. W.B. Sanders on “County Prisons.” The information given out in this talk was gathered by an investigation that the department of Rural Social Economics conducted through the prisons of the state. Questionnaires were sent out to 49 representative county prisons seeking information as to the conditions existent in the jails. Also individual questionnaires were sent to 306 prisoners in the various county jails. The results of these question sheets were given out by Mr. Sanders, and they shed an interesting light on the prison conditions in the state.
It was found that 62 per cent of the inmates of the jail were either totally illiterate or could barely read and right; 62.3 per cent were under 30 years of age. As to the offense for which they were charged, 31.1 percent were convicted of violating the prohibition law; 27.2 percent for crimes against property, such as stealing, larceny, burglary, etc.; 22.2 percent for crimes of violence, such as murder and assault; 7.8 percent for sex crimes.
As to the prisoners’ religious affiliations it was found that 50.3 percent did not belong to any church; 46.1 percent belonged to some church; 3.6 percent had formerly been members of churches but had withdrawn for some reason.
Concerning the health of the prison inmates, it was learned that 25.4 percent either had venereal diseases at the time the questionnaires were sent out or had formerly been afflicted with some form of venereal disease.
Interesting facts were learned about the condition, sanitary and otherwise, in the prisons. Only six had as many as five compartments, the number that is required by state law; 19 had only one compartment, no plans being made for the segregation of the races or sexes; 12 prisons had no mattresses for the inmates to sleep on; 13 had no provisions for bathing.
All these facts and more were learned by the investigating committee, and the Rural Social Economics department think that by acquainting the public with this information they will be rendering a service to the state and to the persons who have to recline in those unsanitary places of confinement which are entirely without any influence that tend to change a person from bad to good.
From the front page of The Tar Heel, Chapel Hill, N.C., Nov. 23, 1923.
Freshman Football Team to Play Old Dominion, Nov. 23, 1923
BENNY ARNOLD Switched from halfback to quarter; he kicked a field goal from the 45-yard line in the game against V.P.I.
BILL DETRICK Left end, well remembered on the Hill for his great work as short stop on the Old Dominion baseball team.
THOMAS Coach of the Virginia freshman team which will play the Carolina first year team on Lambeth Field Saturday.
F.H. THESMAR Who is now playing his second year as varsity center for the Cavaliers.
Freshman Team Off to Virginia. . . Game With Old Dominion Expected to be Hard Fought Throughout
Coach Johnston and 23 men of the first year football squad left Friday morning for Charlottesville for the annual game with the Virginia freshman team. This will probably be the last game of the season for the Yearlings and will also be among the hardest.
The Virginia team has been through the season undefeated up until last Saturday when they met the little Flying squadron of V.M.I., the result of which is not known here. The Old Dominion team has been under the direction of Coaches Thomas and Fenwick, former varsity players. The contest is being looked forward to because the systems of the two varsity teams are in use by the youngsters, and the game may prove to be an indication of the style of play that will be employed by the varsity teams in the big Thanksgiving game next Thursday.
The Carolina team goes to Charlottesville somewhat handicapped by the loss of Marks, a fast back, who was called home on account of his mother’s death. Nims, the captain of the young Tar Heels, who had his leg hurt in the game with the South Carolina freshmen, will be in the game but will not be able to punt. His 60 and 70-yard punts will be sorely missed but Coach Johnston has had Dill and Grimsley practicing up on their punts since the South Carolina game.
The Virginia line-up will probably as follows: Dick, right end; Tyler, right tackle; Bariesas, right guard; Hayman, left tackle; Ahner, left end; Reider, quarter back; Laird, right half back; Mudhy, left half back; Rowe, full back.
Coach Pritchard, who leaves tonight for Charlottesville, tonight gave the following line-up to the Tar Heel as the probable team that will take the field tomorrow. Pearsall and Atkinson, ends; Beam and Potts, tackles; Whisnant and Warren, guards; Clont, center; Hacney, quarter; Dill and Nims, halves; and Shuford, fullback. Substitutes who will probably get in are: Hicks, Padgett, McMurray, line; and Steel, Grimsley, Branch, and Schlitz, backs.
From the front page of The Tar Heel, Chapel Hill, N.C., Nov. 23, 1923
Tuesday, November 28, 2023
Atlantic Coast Realty Company Has Two Auctions Nov. 28, 1923
Atlantic Coast Realty Company Have Sale Today. . . Much Valuable Property Being Sold in and Near This City by This Company
There will be two auction sales today conducted by the Atlantic Coast Realty Company of Petersburg, Va.
The first will be the sale of the Sherard farm on the Goldsboro-Raleigh highway, a few miles west of the city. At this sale free barbecue will be served to every one. Cash prizes will be given, and a band will furnish music for the occasion. At 3:30 p.m. the O’Quinn property will be sold. This property is on Carolina and Ash streets. This sale was to have been made last Friday, but due to the fact that it was raining so hard at the time that it was impossible for any one to attend the sale, it was postponed until today. In connection with this sale, there will be a prize of money. This money is now on display in the window of the Goldsboro (Millers) Drug Store. It is placed in a jar, and the individual guessing the nearest to the exact amount of money in the jar will be the winner of this prize.
The Atlantic Coast Realty Company’s activities in this section of Carolina is indicative of the general business conditions. A representative of the Company stated in an interview yesterday that it seemed like old times, to see people in a position to buy again. Property values are on the increase, and without a doubt, said he, the property we are selling today, this property is in a section of the city that is most desirable as residential property. While the farm that is to be sold on the Raleigh highway is in one of the best farming sections in the eastern part of the state.
From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Wednesday, November 28, 1923
Goldsboro Merchants Host Area Farmers with Barbecue, Nov. 28, 1923
Local Merchants Are Splendid Hosts to Co-Op Members . . . Barbecue Is Enjoyed by Over Thousand Persons. . . Splendid Speeches Mark First Attempt at Entertaining Co-op Members. Goldsboro Is First City to Stage Affair of Kind and Event Is a Genuine Success from Every Standpoint.
Acting as hosts to about 1,000 farmers, firm believes in the co-operative plan of marketing, the sterling merchants of Goldsboro did themselves proud yesterday noon, at which time the co-operative tobacco warehouse teamed with the spirit of welcome and cordiality that is hard to describe in mere words. That city and county were united in closer bond as a result of the monster barbecue is an acknowledged fact, and there was no person in attendance who could say that the affair was not crowned with success from every view point. It broadened trading territory for the city’s merchants, for there were farmers who have never been in the city before, tillers of the soil from the far off who had heard of the cordial invitation extended by the merchants of Goldsboro. It strengthened the ties between the farmer and the city merchant, allowing the former to see that the latter is not after his trade alone but wants and needs his friendship and respect. As far as is known, the Goldsboro merchants have been the first in the old North State to entertain the members of the co-operative tobacco and cotton associations and to them is due a world of praise not only for inaugurating the idea, but for the splendid way it was carried out. Early in the morning, even before old Sol had opened his eyes, the farmers began to arrive in town and long before the time set for the program at the seat of festivities, they were all in the city, radiant with anticipation of a big feast, some real talks and a general good time. They were not disappointed. Promptly at noon after the singing of “America,” Mr. John H. Hawley have an address of welcome that was a gem of the first water. In his own inimitable manner, the speaker handed the keys of the city to the visitors and informed them that co-operation was not meant for marketing alone, but that it must exist between men of all walks of life for the good of the community.
The response was given by Mr. Frank Jones, also a speaker of merit. Mr. Wiley Aycock of Fremont handed a well-deserved bouquet to the local merchants, lauding them for their sterling co-operation along business lines.
Sheriff Stevens then introduced Mr. Black, who congratulated Wayne County for her standing in the Co-operative world, describing it as one of the banner counties in the State.
Dr. J.Y. Joyner, former superintendent of schools here, followed with a real convincing talk after which Congressman Abernathy voiced his delight in being able to be present at a meeting held in boosting so worthy a cause. Mr. J.L. Saunders of Smithfield offered a most interesting talk, the gist of which showed the great advantage of marketing cotton the co-operative way, and Mr. George A. Norwood announced that the next payment for tobacco would be made on the 21st of December.
Mr. W.E. Stroud, vice-president of the Wayne National Bank, told the co-operatives that he was glad to see so many of them in Goldsboro, and extended an invitation from the bank to the members to bring their checks to them to be cashed. Stating that the bank would extend every courtesy possible to them.
Much enthusiasm was evident throughout the entire meeting and all in all it is the biggest event of its kind staged in this community in many years. One thousand pounds of meat and thousand pones of corn bread were made away with during the speaking, an assurance that edibles were prepared with plenty of skill. Co-operatives no doubt means a little more today than it did yesterday in the community and plenty of it will spell a lot in the making of a Great, Grander Goldsboro.
From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Wednesday, November 28, 1923
Goldsboro Society Notes by Mrs. W.W. Minton, Nov. 28, 1923
Society
By Mrs. W.W. Minton, Editor
Mrs. Zollie Collins Entertains
Yesterday afternoon at 3:30 at the rooms of the Country club Mrs. Zollie Collins gave a most enjoyable Bridge party in honor of Miss Mary Alice Spear.
Eight tables were arranged in the reception room of the club which was attractively decorated with autumn leaves and flowers. The score cards and almond cups were also suggestive of Thanksgiving.
During the game fruit punch was served. After an interesting series of games were played the hostess, assisted by her sister, Mrs. Floyd Uzzle, and Miss Louise Powell served an ice course and individual cakes, the ices being moulded in pumpkin shapes.
Those present were Misses Mary Alice Spear, Nellie Muse of High Point, Lula Martin McIver of Greensboro, Laura Linn Wiley of Salisbury, Magdaline Hummell, Louise Powell, Bessie Powell, Lillian D. Wooten, and Laurinda Hooks.
Mesdames Cedric Edgerton, W.B. Thompson, Grif Porter, Paul Edmundson, Oscar Lovelace, Kirby Hart, Jno. Council, Mordecai Witherington, Spicer Holmes, Faison Thompson, Robert Jeffreys, Ben Witherington, Paul Borden, Mrs. Scott, J.C. Vanstory, Frank Deaton, and W.W. Minton.
-=-
Thursday Afternoon Bridge Club Meets
The Thursday Afternoon Bridge Club which has recently been organized met with Miss Leah Slaughter yesterday afternoon at 3:30. At the conclusion of the game, a salad course was served. The following members were present: Mesdames W.L. Rawlings, J.C. Boyenton of Norfolk, Va., Norwood Holmes, Tom Holmes, Fitz High Lee, E.R. Warren, Mordecai Witherington, Z.T. Brown, C.D. Groves, J.D. Arthur and W.W. Minton, Misses Mary Slaughter and Mary Michaux.
-=-
Informal Reception
The Country Club last night was the scene of a very beautiful reception given in honor of Miss Mary Alice3 Spear and Mr. Nosco J. Longest Jr., who are to be married tonight at St. Paul’s church at 8 o’clock, by the young men who are to participate in the wedding. The |Club always a delightful place for entertainments of this kind was unusually attractive last night, in its Thanksgiving array of decorations. Music was furnished by an orchestra, and dancing and cards were the features of the evening. Delightful punch was serve throughout the evening, and every one enjoyed the occasion to the fullest.
Among the out of town guests who were present were: Misses Nellie Muse of High Point, Lula Martin McIver of Greensboro, Laura Linn Wiley of Salisbury, and Mr. Ralph Lewis of Greensboro, N.C., and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Draton of Statesville.
-=-
To Entertain
Mrs. W.L. Rawlings will give an informal tea this afternoon at her home on W. Mulberry street in honor of her house guest, Mrs. J.C. Boyenton of Norfolk, sister of Mr. Rawlings.
-=-
Entertainment to be Given
There will be an ice cream supper and basket party given at Casey’s Chapel Friday night at 7 o’clock. The proceeds from the festival will be applied on payments on a piano purchased for the chapel. The public is cordially invited.
From page 3 of the Goldsboro News, Wednesday, November 28, 1923
Goldsboro News Briefs, Nov. 28, 1923
LOCALS
Four Leaf Clover Club
Under the direction of Mrs. Walter Denmark and Miss Katherine K. Parks, the Four Leaf Clover Club met Monday in its regular sewing class and had a most enjoyable and instructive hour. This class was organized by the Community Service and is making rapid strides in advancement. It is planning a little Christmas party to be enjoyed by the Borden cotton mill community.
-=-
Girl Scout Meeting
The Girl Scouts, Troops two and three, will meet this afternoon at the Community Service room at 4 o’clock. All members are urged to be in attendance.
-=-
Will Give Play
The Girls Scouts “Red Rose Troop” of Bests Station will give a little play some time during the holidays, the proceeds to go towards buying their uniforms. The preliminary work is now going on and much enthusiasm is being shown among the members.
-=-
Trying to Decide
The Community Chorus will stage a play some time after the first of the year and the program committee is now at work trying to decide on a play that can be staged in a most pleasing manner by the local talent. “Pinafore” and “The Rosemaden” are being considered, both of which are splendid productions.
-=-
Got Contract
The Dortch Electric has received the contract for wiring of the Fremont Mill, which was burned last November and the re-building of which is nearing completion.
-=-
Selling Some
Onys Pointex week is proving popular at the Weil store and many of the ladies in the community are taking advantage of the opportunity to get these fine hoses at reduced prices.
-=-
Good Picture
The Acme was filled with amusement lovers Monday night where ‘Doug” Fairbanks, the acrobatic comedian, was cavorting in “Robin Hood.” This is one of the best pictures he has appeared in and proved a feature of no mean worth.
-=-
Looks Like the Mint
One of the windows in the Miller Drug Store looks like a section of the min, a big jar jammed full of money standing in the center of it. Brand new one dollar bills to be given away by the Atlantic Coast Realty Co. at its big sale today are conspicuous in the enclosure and our guess is that the lucky person will receive about $26.26.
-=-
Wise Merchants
Many of the local merchants have already spoken for their space in the Christmas edition the News will issue on December 18th, and those who have not seen the ad man should do so at once. This edition will go out in the rural sections in plenty of time for the merchants to reap a golden harvest in holiday advertising. Reserve your space now and get the cream.
-=-
Having Them Taken
Photographer Clement is a busy man these days, the High School building being his regular rendezvous. The Sophomores, Juniors and Freshmen are keeping him at work and in a few weeks the results of his efforts will show splendid photographs of these sterling groups. The photographs will be inserted in the Annual, which will be a work of art this year.
-=-
Market Closed
The tobacco warehouse will close tomorrow and remain so until Monday that the buyers and employees (rest of sentence omitted). The last few days have been busy ones at both houses and there has been a large mount of the weed sold at an average of around 25 cents. Farmers are wearing a look of satisfaction and the merchants are getting the benefits.
-=-
Nothing Plus Zero
Monday passed without the Red Cross office adding a single member to the list for the drive now on for membership. Some of the best sections of the city have not been visited by the solicitors, but they will be combed before the week is over. For the information of those who will and want to give, the Red Cross Office is opposite the Court House.
-=-
Plenty of Cotton
A large amount of cotton was sold on the local market yesterday and the price is still holding up, 35 cents being paid as an average.
-=-
Some Farmers
Our rustic friends were very much in evidence yesterday on the streets and in the stores. Most of them combined business with pleasure, bringing in a load of cotton or tobacco, and then enjoying the barbecue and speaking. It was a big day for the farmer, and Goldsboro accorded him its usual cordial welcome.
-=-
No Paper Friday
The News will not issue a paper Friday morning as its employees will be given a holiday Thanksgiving. Merchants wishing advertising space in the Saturday’s issue are urged to have copy ready early Friday morning.
-=-
Thanksgiving Service
Thanksgiving services at St. Paul’s M.E. Church will be held Thursday morning at 11 o’clock. The offering at the service will be for the Methodist Orphanage at Raleigh. In view of the Thursday morning service, the regular Wednesday night prayer meeting will be cancelled.
From page 8 of the Goldsboro News, Wednesday, November 28, 1923
Goldsboro News, Wednesday, Nov. 28, 1923
Ads on page 3 of the Goldsboro News, 11-28, 23
Dr. Maude E. Widman, chiropractor, fourth floor Grant Building
Your Child’s Future, Jefferson Standard Life Insurance Co., Over the National Bank
Shop for men’s clothing with Solly Kaleel at The Bargain Store
Get your Christmas fruit cake at The Federal Bakery
Buy Your winter coat at Neil Joseph’s Exclusive Shop
Thanksgiving Dinner will be served at the Kennon Hotel, Price per cover for the elaborate menu will be $1.
Ads on page 8 of the Goldsboro News, 11-28-1923
Special Sweater Week at H. Weil & Bros., Clothing Department
Sherard Farm on Goldsboro-Raleigh Highway and O’Quinn Lots on Carolina and Ash Streets at Auction. Free Barbecue Dinner, A Jar of Money Free, Atlantic Coast Realty Co., Joe A. Parker, Agent, Goldsboro, N.C.
Monday, November 27, 2023
What Thanksgiving Dinner Cost in Oxford, N.C., 1923
Your Thanksgiving Dinner Will Come High This Year. . . Turkeys Are Quoted at From 40 to 50 Cents Per Pound, and Oysters for Dressing Will Cost Somewhere Between 75 Cents and $1 Per Quart
Turkey and cranberry time is almost here, for next Thursday, November 29, is Thanksgiving Day. The alert housewife has already learned that the gobbler and all the fixings that go with him will cost a neat little sum total.
Turkeys are quoted on the streets at Oxford from 40 to 50 cents a pound.
Chickens or ham make attractive substitutes or do just as well for a small family, and a tender juicy rabbit is not to be despised. Quotations on hens range from 30 to 40 cents, depending on the way the fowls are purchased and where. One ready for cooking should not cost more than 35 or 40 cents.
Prices for fresh ham range around 30 cents while country cured hams which might be found at a few places for about 40 or 45 cents per pound.
Or brer rabbit is going high and handsome among grocers and meant dealers at 35 cents each, according to size.
The meat course disposed of what comes next. Why not use an oyster dressing to stuff the festive board and garnish the dish liberally with sweet potatoes dripping with juice and thick coated with sugar. Oysters for the dressing will cost something between 75 cents and $1 per quart! The prices vary considerably. The lowest quotation given was 75 cents. Eighty-five cents seems to be the prevailing charge. Sweet potatoes sell for about 40 cents per peck.
Cranberries and celery must be on the Thanksgiving table for the dinner to be complete. Twenty cents will buy a quart of cranberries.
Celery brings from 10 to 25 cents a bunch and the place of purchase. Mince meat is quoted at form 25 to 50 cents per pound.
Fruit cakes bring 75 cents per pound. Pumpkin canned may easily be secured at a wide range of prices, but the fresh article is not offered to any great extent here.
From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1923. A peck is a quarter of a bushel. I remember apples and such being sold by the peck, which weighed around 13 pounds.
Granville County Looking for Shareholders for 10,000 Egg Hatchery, Nov. 27, 1923
To Install Hatchery. . . Capacity 10,000 Eggs. . . Capital Stock of $2,000 Is Being Placed at $5 Per Share
At a meeting of the board of directors of the Granville County Produce Exchange, held last Saturday, Messrs. J.Y. Crews and J.H. Blackwell, county agent, were directed to collect funds to install a hatchery with a capacity of 10,000 eggs. It was stated that the hatchery will be the property of those who own stock, the hatchery to cost $2,000 and the shares are $5 each. It is the desire of the board to place as much of the capitol stock in the hands of the farmers as possible, the hatchery to be known as a community hatchery and there will be a small charge for hatching.
The meeting was very enthusiastic, all agreeing that the hatchery is the only way by which eggs and poultry can be raised for commercial purposes. Messrs. Crews and Blackwell placed some of the capitol stock yesterday and could have sold more for large sums, but the desire is to get as many farmers interested in the enterprise as possible. Those desiring shares will see Mr. Crews or Mr. Blackwell at once, so as to install the hatchery before Christmas.
From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1923.
Folks Looking for "Christmas Cheer" Keeping Oxford Area Moonshiners Busy, Nov. 27, 1923
Christmas Comes But Once a Year. . . The Woods Are Full of Moonshiners
According to the belief of Constable E.N. Bragg and other officers, there will be much activity on the part of the moonshiners from now until Christmas.
Leaving aside all considerations of the rights and wrongs of the Volstead principle, it seems a bit strange that many people should look with some misgivings toward a Christmas season in which they may be unable to get drunk.
Good cheer is what they call the stuff that comes from the back woods of the county.
“How many quarts at so much per quart do you want for Christmas” is a question that is being asked in this community.
You may believe it or not, but there are a number of people in Oxford who are so tightly wound up, so strained in their nervous organizations that they cannot be gay or happy even in the greatest of holiday seasons, without first taking successive doses of alcohol.
From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1923
Fallen Woman Loses Custody of Her Children, Must Leave N.C. by Dec. 1, 1923
The Sad Case of a Fallen Woman. . . She Must Leave the State. . . Her Two Children Are at the County Home of the Aged and Infirm
Lucy Eastwood, 35 or 40 years of age and wrinkled and torn by debauchery, was found guilty in Granville County Superior Court last week of conduct unbecoming a woman while residing in Oak Hill township. Judge Devin gave her an undetermined sentence of two years in the county jail, and later instructed Judge Hunt, clerk of court, to demand the surrender of her two children to his custody and for her to leave the State by the first of December.
This poor fallen woman has two pretty little daughters, 10 and 13 years of age respectively. They were sent out to the County Home for the Aged and Infirm until Judge Hunt can find someone to adopt and care for them. They are bright little girls and if given a half chance they will bring sunshine to any Christian home.
Mr. Sam Daniel, the big-hearted Superintendent of the County Home, relates how the two little girls spent their first night at the County Home. After they had been bathed and properly gowned, Mrs. Daniel gave them a comfortable room and bed with fresh sheets and pillows. Before retiring the two little sisters fell upon their knees and with up-turned faces implored God to return their mother to them. The prayers touched the hearts of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Daniel and they gathered the little ones to their arms and soothed them the best they could.
Again the little girls fell upon their knees and thanked God for their newly found father and mother.
“These children must have a chance in the world,” said Mr. Daniel and what he says goes.
From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1923
Headed to Thomasville for Webb-Johnson Wedding, Nov. 27, 1923
Webb-Johnson
The following from Oxford are leaving for Thomasville to attend the marriage of Miss Ella Johnson to Mr. William Webb of Oxford on Wednesday: Mrs. John Webb, Judge and Mrs. W.A. Devin, Dr. and Mrs. S.H. Cannady, Misses Sallie Webb, Sadie Vinson, B.W. Parham, A.W. Graham Jr., R.H. Webb.
From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1923
W.B. Stimson, Former Oxford Jeweler, Headed Back to Los Angeles, Nov. 27, 1923
Goes to Los Angeles
Mr. W.B. Stimson, a former jeweler of Oxford, who adopted Los Angeles as his home two years ago and gained 60 pounds in weight, has returned to his California paradise after spending three months in Oxford this summer.
From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1923
Mrs. Harte Seriously Ill Following Surgery in Norfolk, Nov. 27, 1923
Mrs. J.D. Harte Is Seriously Ill
Mrs. Harte, the beloved wife of Rev. J.D. Harte, pastor of the Oxford Baptist Church, is critically ill at Norfolk where she underwent an operation last Saturday as a last resort to restore her. Dr. Cannady, the family physician, was advised this morning by Dr. Rawls of Norfolk that there is some improvement in Mrs. Harte’s condition.
From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1923
Mrs. Olive, Alabama Evangelist, Drawing Crowds at Oxford Courthouse, Nov. 27, 1923
Court House Revival. . . Mr. Kilgo Hunt Blew the Saxophone and Mrs. Keene Presided at the Piano
Notwithstanding the rain, a large audience greeted Mrs. Olive, the Alabama Evangelist, at the Court House last night. After a song and prayer service the Evangelist was introduced by this writer. Her text was “Behold the Man.” She has a fine delivery, speaks with ease and is gifted in song and in prayer. She sent out a special invitation to all the ministers of the town to come. The service was a most interesting one, and the people gave the Evangelist a hearty welcome. Mr. Kilgo Hunt blew the Saxophone and Mrs. Keene presided at the piano.
Service every night this week at 7:30. On Thanksgiving there will be services at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
On next Sunay at the Court House the meetings will be held at 11 a.m., at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 at night.
The public is invited to all of these meetings. Bring your hymn book and join in the singing.
--D.N. Hunt
From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1923. To see more stories about Mrs. Willis Lourell Olive, see /ruralnchistory.blogspot.com/2023/10/mrs-olive-drew-large-crowd-sunday-will.html.
R.S. Usry Funeral Today, Nov. 27, 1923
Mr. R.S. Usry Dead. . . Funeral at the Residence This Afternoon
Mr. R.S. Usry, 73 years of age, died at his residence on College street Sunday night after a lingering illness of several years. He was a native of Granville county and spent his early years at Tar River, moving to Oxford 40 years ago. He served on the Board of Town Commissioners for a number of years and was a director of the First National Bank at the time of his death.
“Uncle Richard,” as everybody called him, was very generous and charitable and performed many deeds of kindness that the public was not aware of.
Mr. Usry married Miss Martha Burnett, who died seven years ago. Six daughters and one son was born to the union, namely Mrs. T.B. Pendleton, Richmond; Mrs. H. Gordon of Fla.; Mrs. W.P. Marks of Warrenton, Mrs. R.P. Walker, Mrs. L.J. Dickerson and Mrs. M.D. Oakley of Oxford; one son Addison, who died 20 years ago.
The funeral will be held from the residence at 4 o’clock this afternoon, conducted by Rev. E.M. Snipes. The interment will be in Elmwood cemetery. The pallbearers as announced are: Active: W.H. Hunt, B.S. Royster, A.A. Hicks, G. McFarland, J.P. Hunt, J.P. Frazier, J.M. Baird; Honorary—Dr. Salls, J.F. Meadows, J.T. Daniel, J.F. White, N.A. Maydanis, J.S. Blackwell, Charles Critcher, D. Hunt.
From the front page of the Oxford Public Ledger, Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1923
Sunday, November 26, 2023
A.L. Chesson, 64, Injured When New Boiler Tube Blew at Chesson Saw Mill, Nov. 26, 1923
A.L. Chesson Injured in Explosion at Mill. . . Explosion Comes Near to Wrecking New Boiler Room and Brick Casing Surrounding the Boiler at Plant of Chesson Manufacturing Co. Early Monday
A.L. Chesson, 64 years of age, father of Roy Chesson, owner of the Chesson Manufacturing Company, is in the hospital as a result of injuries which he received when a tube blew out of the boiler of the saw mill at about eight minutes after 7 o’clock Monday morning.
When this newspaper went to press Mr. Chesson was resting quietly and it is not believed that he is seriously injured. There is an ugly scalp wound on the right of the top of his head and a contusion above one eye on the forehead, and a number of bodily bruises, but no serious consequences are expected as a result of any visible injury, and there is no indication of internal injuries.
Mr. Chesson was standing between a tramroad in front of the boiler room and the Norfolk Southern railroad track when he was struck, a distance of 50 deet from the boiler room. A negro, Percy Taylor, working beside him was not injured and four men in the boiler room at the time of the explosion received only a few scratches. Those in the boiler room were T.N. White, fireman, and his young son, Elgin White, Wardell Nooney, mill foreman, and Walter Wright, sawyer. Mr. White has a cut finger, and there are some skinned shins resulting from the scramble to get out of the boiler room, but no one received injuries of consequence sufficient to put them in bed except A.L. Chesson.
The blowing out of a boiler tube is a matter of no unusual significance in a plant operated by steam, but on this occasion the explosion came very near to completely wrecking the new boiler room and brick casing surround the boiler at the plant of the Chesson Manufacturing Company, which only resumed operations on Monday, November 19, following the $15,000 fire which on Tuesday night, September 18, practically wiped out the plant’s saw mill.
One would think, to look at the boiler room now, that a bomb had been dropped through the roof and had exploded just above the firebox. There is a gaping hole in the roof, half the front of the building is blown off, and in the rear the brick casing of the boiler is blown out and a hole torn through the wall of the building big enough for the boiler and casing to pass through. Brick from the casing were hurled all the way across Knobbs Creek, a distance of about 75 yards.
The execution was done in front of the boiler, for through the front crashing through the iron door of the boiler and splintering it, came the offending tube of the boiler. It struck the front wall of the boiler room, tore half of it away bodily and hurled the wall through the air almost to the Norfolk Southern railroad track. The railroad track in front of the boiler room and fully 100 feet away, was thickly strewn with he sawdust that, used a fuel, was on the floor of the boiler room at the time of the explosion. Some of the debris from the building was found in the swamp on the other side of the Foreman-Blades road to their saw-mill, a distance of more than 100 yards from the scene of the explosion.
Mr. Chesson, fortunately, was not in direct line to be truck by the main mass of the hurtling timber with the boiler tube behind it. He is believed to have been hit by some of the shattered pieces of timber that were in the air as thick as shrapnel in a bombardment. He was not knocked own by the force of the impact of any blow that he received, but was seen staggering when the air first cleared. He sank to the ground before assistance could reach him, but was still conscious when picked up.
The cause of the explosion is unknown. The boiler was tested and stood under 175 pounds cold water pressure before operations were resumed. A pressure of 150 pounds was indicated by the steam gauge one day last week. The gauge at the time of the explosion registered a pressure of between 90 and 100 pounds.
Fireman T.N. White tells a coherent story of what actually happened.
“I came down to work about 5 o’clock,” he says, “bringing my son, Elgin, down to lay some flooring. We worked together until the night watchman, who was firing when I came down, knocked off at 6 o’clock. I then turned my attention to the boiler, leaving the boy to complete the flooring job alone.
“At 6:45 the gauge indicated a steam pressure of 60 pounds, and I closed the damper and cut off the draft. The first indication I had that anything was wrong came then when I noticed that the water gauge, which should have shown a rise of about an inch while we were getting up steam had risen about four or five inches. I went back and blew out the water, but the water gauge did not respond. I then blew the water out of the gauge and then out of the column. The water, however, immediately rose to the old level and the glass water gauge cracked. I called for help and ran for the wrench to cut the water off from the gauge. Mr. Nooney, the foreman, and Mr. Wright, the sawyer, came in and we had just succeeded in cutting the water off from the gauge when it burst. The tube blew out almost immediately.”
Mr. Chesson, the injured man, had two pocket knives in his pocket when he was struck and both of them were found on the ground near where he fell. An odd incident was that his eyeglasses were also picked up off the ground, neither lens broken, and the frames nowhere bent or twisted or showing in any way any sign of the accident.
Though the Chesson saw mill resumed operations last week, the carpenter work connected with rebuilding the plant had not been completed and Mr. Chesson was there winding up this work with Percy Taylor, colored, helper, when the explosion occurred.
Mr. Nooney, mill foreman, was on a ladder on top of the boiler with a wrench where he had been working to cut off the water from the glass gauge, when the explosion occurred. None of the men were injured by the explosion as they were all to one side of the boiler and the blowout came at each end.
“I found out how fast I can get down a ladder,” Mr. Nooney said later in the morning to a reporter for this newspaper, with a grim smile.
From The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Monday, November 26, 1923
Church Conference, Annual Appointments by F.W.M. Butler, Nov. 26, 1923
Conference Has Come to a Close. . . With Appointments Read and Other Business Finished—Dr. Blackwell Returns to Mt. Lebanon
By F.W.M. Butler
At the Albemarle Conference Saturday afternoon reports of committees were heard.
At 7 o’clock Saturday night Dr. W.W. Matthews, the missionary secretary who recently returned from work in Liberia, gave a moving picture exhibition of the scenes in Liberia, telling his experiences. He stated that a direct request was made from the natives who are members of our church to come over and help them in enlightening their brethren.
Sunday morning at 9:20 the Sunday school was addressed by Prof. J.W. Eicleberger.
At 11 o’clock so great was the crowd that an overflow service was held in the basement of the church. Morning and evening standing room was at a premium. Bishop Blackwell who was scheduled to preach, stated he felt unequal to the task because of overwork and a severe cold, but, however, he would attempt the same, as that was his mission, and that he felt better when preaching than anything else he attempted to do. The bishop’s text was from Ephesians 14th chapter and 15th verse. Theme, “God’s Spiritual Family.” He stated that in this life many vile and low things of the family should be suppressed that the good name of the family might be maintained. He discouraged the telling of weaknesses of the family to others as it showed our own weakness as a member of the same. In that proportion that the boy or girl is disgraced to that extent is your entire family disgraced.
Keep the family name untarnished if you can.
The bishop closed his sermon amid great shouting and rejoicing.
There were a number of white persons present.
At the afternoon session the bishop presented Prof. J.W. Eicleberger who addressed the congregation form the subject “The Supreme Task of the Church.” He is a well prepared and pleasing speaker and delighted the congregations for about 40 minutes.
A memorial service was held at 6 o’clock in honor of Mrs. Annie W. Blackwell, wife of Bishop Geo. L. Blackwell, corresponding secretary of the home and foreign missionary department, who died during the year, by the missionary women of the Albemarle Conference, assisted by Mrs. Ida Smith, general treasurer of the department.
At 7:30 Dr. F.M. Jacobs, general secretary of the connection, of New York, preached a forceful sermon.
After reading resolutions of thanks to the people generally of the community for their hospitality, the bishop proceeded to read appointments after some brief remarks.
Collection for the day was $303.
Music was furnished by the senior choir, which was very good.
In the reports to the conference it showed that Rev. D.S. Blackwell, pastor of Mt. Lebanon Church, raised more than $10,000 for all purposes. Rev. C.C. Drew was given special mention for having built a new church at Roper, his former one having been destroyed by lightning during the summer.
Rev. D.S. Blackwell was returned to Mt. Lebanon Church. Nest session of the conference is to be held at Cresswell.
Following are the appointments:
Windsor District
Rev. C.C. Hunter, presiding elder.
Mt. Hebron, Plymouth—Rev. H.N. Drew.
Jamesville Station—Rev. W.G. Vincent.
Bethlehem Circuit—Rev. S.S. Johnson.
Lewiston Circuit—Rev. S.M. Etheridge.
Harrellsville Circuit—Rev. J. Sharrock.
Windsor Circuit—Rev. A.G. Dunston.
Macedonia Station—Rev. P.R. Washington.
Roper Station—Rev. C.C. Drew.
Ahoskie Circuit—Rev. J.T. Riddick.
Robinsonville Mission—Rev. A.H. Nixon.
Dr. D.S. Blackwell was the last name called, which brought loud applause at his return to Mt. Lebanon, the first church of the city. It is said to be the best conference since the Albemarle conference was formed.
Elizabeth City District
Rev. J.E. Garrett, presiding elder.
Mr. Lebanon, Elizabeth City—Rev. D.S. Blackwell.
Leigh Temple Circuit—Rev. E.S. Williams.
Good Hope Circuit—Rev. P. McDonald.
Moyock Circuit—Rev. J.N. Cuffie.
Pitts Chapel Circuit—Rev. W.A. Mullen.
Whiteville Grove Circuit—Rev. W.E. Hunter.
Mary Holly Grove Circuit—Rev. W.H.C. Sykes.
New McBride Circuit—Rev. A.S. Edwards.
Snowden Circuit—Rev. C.H. Maline.
Gentile Circuit—Rev. E.L. Burden.
St. James Station—Rev. A.C. Littlejohn.
Coinjock Circuit—Rev. L.J. White.
Okisko Circuit—Rev. Matthew Hyter.
Pilgrim Progress—Rev. J.T. Riddick.
Cedar Hill Circuit—Rev. J. Woodhouse.
Edenton District
Rev. C.W. Winfield, D.D., presiding elder.
Kedesh Station—Rev. J.M. Branch.
Hertford Circuit—Rev. J.M. Draper.
Canaan Temple—Rev. R.C. Councill.
Pleasant Grove Circuit—Rev. J.S. Gurley.
Creswell Station—Rev. E.S. Hassell.
Bay Branch Circuit—Rev. A.W. Garrett.
Winfall Circuit—Rev. B.F. Harrison.
Columbia Circuit—Rev. A.L. Ferebee.
Hawkins Chapel—Rev. S.S. Dickerson.
Hunters Chapel—Rev. I.C. Ackis.
From The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Monday, November 26, 1923
People Want to Shop for Christmas Shopping Before Thanksgiving, Nov. 26,1923
Holiday Shoppers Throng City’s Streets Saturday. . . Gone Are the Days When It Seemed to be Unwritten Law Among Local Merchants That No Christmas Wares Should Go on Display Until After Thanksgiving
Time was when no Elizabeth City merchant thought of displaying Christmas wares or making an advertisement appeal to Christmas shoppers until after Thanksgiving; but “them days are gone forever.”
Last week, and in fact the week before, one by one Elizabeth City stores began to fill their windows and some of their counters with Christmas suggestions and to preach on the shop early text in their advertisements.
Today you can hardly enter any store in the city that caters to Christmas trade without noticing either some Christmas display or at least some radical change in arrangement of stock in way of preparation for a showing of Christmas offerings.
Up to Saturday, however, there were still a few mighty good business men in Elizabeth City who were telling the ad-men something like this: “There’s no use to say shop early. People will not buy until the last minute no matter how much you advertise or what sort of display you put on.”
But the business done Saturday by the stores that are displaying and advertising their Christmas wares puts a Maxim silencer on all such statements. These stores were crowded all day Saturday, and on Saturday afternoon, with Christmas trade clerks already on duty, there were more customers in these stores than could be waited on. At Melick’s, for instance, the crowd resembled that of the week before Christmas. And Melick’s was not the only store that was crowded. There’s Mitchell’s, for instance, advertising in the want ad section of this issue for more sales people.
Those who have studied the Elizabeth City Christmas trade carefully will tell you that every year the number who lay their plans for Christmas givings early is growing larger, and that every year Christmas shopping begins just a little bit earlier than in the year preceding. This is a forcible illustration of the fact that constant reiteration of the shop early preachments is having its effect.
But undoubtedly the swing in the direction of early shopping this year has acquired more than normal momentum. Business is good, and that means that buying in all lines is heavy. The number of customers now thronging the stores to supply their needs in the way of regular lines of merchandise is a warning to Christmas shoppers that they must shop early in the day and early in the week as well as early in the season if they are looking for careful and painstaking service from the sales people in the stores.
Another thing is the factor in creating a desire to shop early. Elizabeth City merchants this year have prepared for an unusually heavy Christmas trade. But with cotton prices advancing as they have done and with favorable weather for harvesting the cotton crop of this section, there seems every reason to believe that Christmas buying will go not only beyond all records but also beyond all expectations. So thrifty and foresighted buyers are making their selections now before stocks are depleted.
Early buying is wise always, from a standpoint of service and satisfaction. Indications are that this year it will be wise also from a standpoint of economy. And, as Santa Claus, no doubt, has seen what’s going on and caught the shop early fever, the ad-man wants to suggest to the little folk of Elizabeth City that it is a wise youngster this year who writes his Christmas letter to old Santa early.
From The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Monday, November 26, 1948
Mrs. Johnnie Bateman, John Boswell Have Died, Nov. 26, 1923
Mrs. J. Bateman Dead
News reached here Monday morning of the death of Mrs. Johnny Bateman at Columbia. She is survived by her husband; by one son, William E., aged 14; by two daughters, aged 13, Lesslie Lea, aged 6; by her father, W.F. Pritchard, Elizabeth City, R.F.D. 3; by one brother, P.A. Pritchard, Elizabeth City Route Five; and by four sisters, Mrs. Emma Harrell, Elizabeth City, R.F.D. 5; Mrs. Gertrude Sample and Mrs. G.D. Pritchard, Elizabeth City, R.F.D. 3, and Mrs. M.P. Jennings, Elizabeth City.
The body was brought here Monday afternoon and the funeral will be held some time Tuesday. The exact date had not been decided upon when this newspaper went to press.
From The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Monday, November 26, 1923. The name of one of the daughters was omitted and it is unclear if Lesslie Lea is the 13-year-old or the 6-year-old. Or maybe Lesslie was 13 and Lea was 6??
-=-
Funeral of J.H. Boswood
Gregory, November 24—The funeral services of John H. Boswell took place in the home at Gregory Friday at 1 o ‘clock, Rev. W.E. Humble, pastor of Perkins M.E. Church officiating.
The hymns “I Am Straying” and “Take the Name of Jesus With You” were sung. There were many beautiful floral offerings among which was a lovely design of chrysanthemums from the family.
Honorary pallbearers were A.F. Toxey, E.M. Stevens, F.M. Grice and T.S. Hughes of Elizabeth City; C.E. Grandy of Fentress, Virginia; B.F. Hale, J.M. McHarney, S.T. Sivills, J.J. Ferebee, G.T. Roberts, and T.M. Roberts.
Active pall bearers were D.D. Dudley and A.M. Midgette of Elizabeth City, Dr. S.G. Wright of Camden, Dr. W.H. Cowell, J.W. Sanderlin and R. Mansfield.
From page 4 of The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, Nov. 26, 1923
Dr. L.B. McBrayer Being Removed from Office of Superintendent of Sanatorium, Nov. 26, 1923
Will Confer Today about Dr. McBrayer
Raleigh, Nov. 26—Governor Morrison announced yesterday that he would confer today with Dr. T.W.M. Long, chairman of the board of directors of the State Sanitorium, and with another member of the board relative to his request that Dr. L.B. McBrayer who pleaded guilty recently to a charge of trading with himself be removed from his office of superintendent of the sanatorium.
From The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Monday, November 26, 1923
Wilbur Biery, 35, Really Is Dead Now, Nov. 26, 1923
Was Legally Dead But Now It’s Real
Allentown, Pa., Nov. 26—Declared legally dead several months ago after an absence of 14 years, Wilbur Biery, aged 35, turned up here at his brother’s home last Wednesday and arrangements had been made for his legal resurrection tomorrow so that he could share in his parents’ estate which approximated $10,000,000, but today Biery was found dead in his bed from heart failure.
From The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Monday, November 26, 1923
Saturday, November 25, 2023
13-Year-Old Runaway Who Stole Car, Chased by Police, Nov. 25, 1923
Small Boy Leads Officers a Chase. . . Henry Fisher, 13, Runaway from Jackson Training School, Caught
Barney Oldfield, Ralph de Palma, and Louis Chevrolet have nothing in the line of speedy automobile driving on Henry Fisher, 13-year-old boy who Saturday afternoon stole an automobile and for many miles gave Durham county officers one of the stiffest chases over the western section of the county that local annals have record of. The boy and the stolen car were eventually overtaken in West Durham, but it was not without much effort on the part of Deputies Bevin and Hall who pursued the lad.
After the boy was brought to the courthouse, it was found that he was a runaway from the Stonewall Jackson Training school at Concord. He was placed under the custody of W.E. Stanley and is being held pending the arrival of the training school officials.
The car which the boy stole is the property of M.F. Ferrill. He was seen driving the machine off. Sheriff Harward was informed of the theft, and deputies quickly sent to the scene. The Ford’s trail was picked up and the chase followed. The lad, aware that he was being followed, proceeded to “step on the gas.” He led the officers out West Durham over some of the roughest roads in the county as far as Orange county, later retracing his route. The deputies declare that the small boy showed extraordinary skill in operating the machine. Finally the officers won out in the chase, and the lad was captured.
Henry is known by officials of the local juvenile court. He is an East Durham boy, and has already spent about 20 months of life at the training school.
From page 18 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Nov. 25, 1923
Salvation Army Preparing Baskets for Needy for Thanksgiving, Nov. 25,1923
Salvation Army to Distribute Number Baskets Thanksgiving
Preparations are being made by the Salvation Army to distribute baskets to a large number of the city’s poor and indigent people. All of the ingredients of a good meal will be included among the articles of food that will be placed in the baskets. They will not be as well stocked as are the baskets distributed at Christmas time each year, however.
Captain S.J. Bivans and his corps of workers have already received requests from approximately 100 families for baskets and all of them have been investigated by members of the army staff to ascertain as to whether or not they are worthy of assistance. There are other families in the city who are thought to be in need and who are worthy of help. Captain Bivans states that he will appreciate if any such persons or families will be reported to him in order that an investigation might be made into their worthiness.
When a family is reported to the Salvation Army as being in need, an investigation is immediately made and a ticket issued to each family found to be worthy of aid. This ticket entitled them to a basket Thanksgiving Day. The baskets will be presented next Tuesday afternoon, it was stated, with the holders of the tickets reporting to the Salvation Army home to receive their baskets.
The schools of the city will help in the work of providing for the baskets. Next Tuesday will be potato ay and every student will be requested to bring a potato, either of the sweet or Irish variety. They will be placed in barrels and receptacles placed at all of the schools for the reception of the potatoes. They will be collected during the day and will be placed in the baskets to be distributed.
From page 18 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Nov. 25, 1923. Thanksgiving was celebrated later in November 100 years ago.
Quarantine for Diphtheria at Wright Refuge to be Lifted, Nov. 25, 1923
Quarantine Sign to Be Removed Soon. . . Boy at Wright Refuge Has Recovered from Case of Diphtheria
The quarantine which has kept the children of the Wright Refuge restricted to their quarters for the past several days will be lifted Sunday or Monday of this week, according to Miss Alice Pirie, superintendent of the home.
The cause of the quarantine was one of the little boys of the home, he having a case of diphtheria. Immediately when it was found that he had diphtheria the Refuge was quarantined. He was placed in a separate part of the building and none of the other children were allowed to go near that section. He was given the very best medical attention and everything was done for his comfort and his rapid return to health.
Should the quarantine be lifted Sunday or Monday morning the children who are attending the Bragtown school will be permitted to return to school. Since they have been restricted to the Refuge they have been continuing their studies.
From page 12 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Nov. 25, 1923. For more information on Wright Refuge, go to Rural North Carolina History: Wright Refuge to Open July 1, 1923 (ruralnchistory.blogspot.com).
New Belk-Hudson Store in Durham, Nov. 25, 1923
With the workmen rapidly completing their work on the new home of the Durham store of the Belk-Hudson chain, plans are being made by the local management to move into the new building either the first of December or the first of January, depending altogether upon the progress made in co mpleting the building.
The new building is three stories in height with a part basement. It was erected according to the plans and requirements of the local firm for their permanent home. I tis constructed of pressed brick and was designed for attractiveness as well as for a model and modern store. Work upon it began on June 15th and since that time the brick masons and other workmen have kept continuously at work in order to have it completed in time for the firm to move into the building in time for the Christmas season.
For 4 ½ years Belk-Hudson has been a Durham institution and has catered to the people in their present home. The business has experienced a steady growth until now it is too large for its present quarters. Seeing the necessity of securing new and larger quarters, the management of the store prevailed upon the owners of the property adjoining the present store to erect a building for them. The plans were drawn in accordance with the needs of the firm and the work of putting up the building began. The new building, when completed, will have cost approximately $60,000. It will contain around 18,000 square feet of floor space and will give ample room for enlarging the store.
The store will add several new lines including men’s clothing and rugs and druggets. On the first floor will be shown men’s and boy’s furnishings, dry goods, shoes, silks hosiery, and notions. On the second floor the ladies and children’s furnishings will be placed, with underwear and millinery also being found on this floor. The third floor will have trunks and leather goods, rugs, druggets and house furnishings of that type.
J.E. Boykin is the manager of the local store.
From page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Nov. 25,1923. According to Wikipedia, druggetts were coarse fabric having a cotton warp and a wool filling, used for rugs, tablecloths, etc.
Durham Morning Herald, Page 2, Sunday, Nov. 25, 1923
The Oxford Orphanage Singing Class will appear in Durham in concert at the Ham-Ramsay Tabernacle, Monday, Nov. 26th, 8 p.m.
Genasco latite Shingles, Sunbeam Furnaces, Amico Asbestos Shingles, Everything in sheet metal—W.K. Dennis Roofing & Mfg. Company, Chapel Hill Street
Hudson Sedan $1,895 on finest Super-Six Chassis Ever Built, Hudson Coach $1,375—Banner Motor Company
Ads on page 2 of the Durham Morning Herald, Sunday, Nov. 25,1923
Friday, November 24, 2023
Tarkington's Routine Check of Ginning Company Prevented Disatrous Blaze, Nov. 24, 1923
Vigilance Prevents Disastrous Blaze
Camden, Nov. 24—Vigilance on the part of C.L. Tarkington, secretary-treasurer of the Camden Ginning Company, last night prevented a disastrous fire in the plant.
Inspecting the place at closing time, as is his custom, about 6 o’clock Friday evening, he detected fire in the press in lint cotton coming from the third gin. The bale had been completed and thrown out. It was taken from the plant to the road and opened up. Fire was found inside the bale. All burning cotton was removed, resulting in a moderate loss of lint.
Had Mr. Tarkington not discovered the fire, a blaze would probably have broken out in the plant in the night with no one present, and the plant and the railway station would have been destroyed.
From the front page of The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Saturday, Nov. 24, 1923
Should Draw Bridge Always Favor Schooners? Nov. 24, 1923
Draw Bridge Bad on Auto Traffic. . . And 20 Minutes Seems a Bit Long to Wait on Schooner Loaded Only with a Chicken Coop
A pair of Bestcitlians drove up on the Pasquotank River State Bridge the other day from the Camden side in a hurry to get back home. The draw was up and with one car ahead of them they stopped their flivver on the bridge to wait for the draw to descend.
When the vessel that had the draw had been lifted for had passed and the draw was coming down and within six inches of the closed position, somebody on the schooner lying at Abbot’s wharf with a tin horn gave a signal for the draw to be raised. The vessel was not under way, but the draw rose again into the air. It went up, as its custom is, to the full height, and stopped. Still the schooner had not got under way.
The draw hung in the air for perhaps five minutes and then started downward again. When the bridge was about two-thirds of the way down the schooner cast off from the dock and sounded her warning signal again. By this time a half dozen cars or other motor vehicles were waiting to cross the bridge. The draw continued all the way down this time and two cars from the Pasquotank side who had the right of way shot across. The two cars that were in front of the procession were next and they started across, but the signal to stop halted them so suddenly that the rear car bumped the b ack fenders of the flivver in front of it, and the draw started up again. Meantime the schooner had shut off its auxiliary engine, under the power of which it had been creeping up the river, and was drifting. As the draw lifted the second time the schooner started up again and this time got safely by. Then the draw descended, and the long line of motor vehicles that had formed waiting for the draw to close crossed over. A count showed nearly 20 of them. Then consulting one’s watch disclosed that the two cars that waited the longest to get across had been delayed 20 minutes.
Suppose they had been making a train, with 15 minute margin, which, ordinarily, would be ample.
The schooner had a crew of two and the only visible cargo was a chicken coop.
A power lift for the draw across the Pasquotank River here has been a recognized need ever since the bride was taken over by the State and toll for crossing t was abolished.
A question occurring to the two Bestcitians who had waited 20 minutes for the crossing was whether modern motor traffic on paved highways does not require some modification of the rule for giving precedence to water traffic.
From the front page of The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Nov. 24, 1923
Marking Birthplace of Virginia Dare, Nov. 24, 1923
Mark Birthplace of Virginia Dare. . . Movement Started to Permanently Designate Historic Spots
By the Associated Press
Manteo, November 24—A movement has been started by a group of citizens to permanently mark historic spots, and one of the places to be designated by a monument, if the plans materialize, is the birthplace of Virginia Dare, the first white child born on American soil. The spot is on Roanoke Island, often referred to as “the cradle of the English race in America.” There is some doubt as to the exact spot where Virginia Dare was born, but it is believed to be near Fort Raleigh, about three miles north of Manteo.
Mounds of earth forming the sides of a pentagon, at each angle of which is a stone post protruding about a foot above the ground, show the location of the old fort. In the center of the fort there is now an unpretentious stone marker on which is inscribed some of the historical records of the place. Unscrupulous relic collectors have marred the present stone marker, but its inscription still can be read.
The county of which Roanoke island is a part is named Dare, in honor of the first English child born in America, and the seat of the county is named Manteo in honor of the Indian chief who was the first person to be baptized in the new land. Manteo enjoys the distinction of being the only county seat in the United States, with the single exception of Key West, Florida, located on an island.
Today, the island is sparsely settled. The inhabitants make a livelihood by fishing. They do little farming. In fact, it is said that there is only one commercial farmer on the whole island, which is 12 miles long and about three miles wide.
The North Carolina State Department of Education and the State Historical Commission in order to present to the people the history of Roanoke Island in pictorial form, in 1921 had the settlement of the island enacted and photographed in 6,000 feet of motion picture film.
August 18, 1902, the first celebration in honor of the birth of Virginia Dare was held at Fort Raleigh. Since then the celebrations have been repeated from time to time. It is said that at these occasions only has the flag of Queen Elizabeth—a red cross on a field of white—been displayed.
From the front page of The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Nov. 24, 1923
Milton Bynum, 42, Killed While Felling a Tree, Nov. 23, 1923
Dies from Injuries from Falling Tree
Greenville, N.C., Nov. 24—Mr. Milton Bynum, 42, of Farmville died in the Fifth Street Hospital from injuries received when struck by a falling tree. The interment took place yesterday afternoon in the Wilson cemetery, Wilson, N.C.
Mr. Bynum who lived on the farm of Mr. Bob Tugwell with several other men, were felling trees at the time of the awful accident. In some way he attempted to get out of the way and ran in the wrong direction.
Immediately after the accident he was rushed to the hospital where an examination revealed a broken arm, a broken leg, and a crushed skull. Medical attention was given but he was so badly crushed that it was impossible to save his life and he died a short while after reaching Greenville.
Mr. Bynum was held in high esteem in the Farmville section and his sad death has caused the deepest sorrow throughout the community. He is survived by his father, Mr. W.B. Bynum of Falkland, three sisters, all of Wilson, and one brother, who resides in Norfolk.
From the front page of The Daily Advance, Elizabeth City, N.C., Nov. 24, 1923
Thursday, November 23, 2023
Raleigh Turner Dead, Jack Canipe, Jake Cochran Injured When Auto Collides with Wagon, Nov. 23, 1923
Auto Collides With Wagon, Killing One. . . Raleigh Turner Killed and Jack Canipe and Jake Cochran Injured
By the Associated Press
Charlotte, Nov. 23—Raleigh Turner is dead, and Jack Canipe and Jake Cochran, the latter a negro, are in a hospital here suffering from injuries as a result of a collision last night three miles from Charlotte, between an automobile driven by Mr. Turner and a hay wagon driven by Cochran. The automobile, eye witnesses said, was traveling at a high rate of speed, and turned over several times.
From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Friday, November 23, 1923.
Jury Finds Pretty 18-Year-Old Innocent of Killing Allen Carpenter, 80, Nov. 23, 1923
Jurors Clear Pretty Girl. . . Stanly Found Woman Driver Not Guilty of Murdering Aged Vet
Albemarle, Nov. 22—The jury having under consideration the guilt or innocence of Miss Mary Melton, the pretty 18-year-old daughter of L.D. Melton of eastern Stanly, upon a charge of manslaughter in connection with the killing of Allen Carpenter on the 15th of last July, returned a verdict of “not guilty” yesterday afternoon after having been out a few minutes, and the girl was released.
It will be remembered that last July, Miss Melton ran over Allen Carpenter, an old Confederate veteran 80 years old, near the Efird school, and killed him almost instantly. She was immediately arrested and put under bond for her appearance at this term of the court. The Grand jury having returned a “true bill” for manslaughter in the case was called Tuesday and after a close contest the case went to the jury just before adjourning time at noon as most spectators believed, as the evidence is said to have disclosed the fearful tragedy purely an unavoidable accident.
From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Friday, November 23, 1923.
Grand Jury Indicts Former Register of Deeds F.E. Sigman, Nov. 23, 1923
Davidson Grand Jury Indicts F.E. Sigman. . . Former Register of Deeds Charged with Failure to Perform His Duties
Lexington, Nov. 22—The Davidson county grand jury late today returned an indictment against F.E. Sigman, former register od deeds, charging him with failure to perform the duties of his office. The indictment is divided into 12 parts but some 20 or more specific allegations of mishandling of forms are made. In addition he is charged with failing to make entries of orders which the indictment says should have been made.
The county commissioners recently brought suit against Sigman and his bondsmen for $5,000, the amount of bond required for this office. The defendant has not yet made answer to the allegations in this action, which claims that approximately $6,500 was improperly handled.
The major portion of the trouble arose over the reindexing of records in the register of deeds’ office, which cost the county over $14,000, which amount the auditor who recently completed a checking of the county books considered an excessive amount.
It is alleged that Sigman made out a number of vouchers to J.B. Thorpe, who has the contract for the index work, indorsing them himself and deposited the funds in banks or took cash.
It is also alleged that the stubs in the voucher books and the vouchers themselves in a number of instances failed to correspond, the vouchers being larger than shown on ?? minutes.
Mr. Sigman resigned the office of register of deeds May 12, 1922, to become postmaster of Thomasville, which office he now holds. Prior to that time he had also been county Republican chairman. He was elected to office in 1920 by over 1,100 majority, perhaps the largest majority ever received by a candidate in this county.
From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Friday, November 23, 1923.
Evidence Suggests Murder in Death of Lindsey Harrell, 76, Nov. 23, 1923
Evidence to Indicate Harrell Was Murdered. . . Buncombe Hermit Found Lying in Pile of Trash and Ashes With Throat Cut
Asheville, Nov. 21—Theories of suicide and murder growing out of the mysterious death of Lindsey Harrell, 76 year old, in Haw Creek several days ago, have failed to offer a solution, Sheriff J.A. Lyerly said today.
Harrell was found lying in a heap of trash and ashes near his two-room log cabin in which he lived like a hermit for some time. No weapon was found, although a close search was made of the area for many hundred yards around.
While relatives of the aged man, living several hundred yards below him in the cove, suggested that he killed himself, the sheriff is inclined to believe the deep knife wounds in his throat and side were inflicted by a younger and stronger hand. The man was stabbed in the throat and twice in the side.
The wounds were evidently inflicted while Harrell was near the spot where he was found later, for a large pool of blood was there.
Following the coroner’s inquest and the verdict of the coroner’s jury that the old man came to his death from knife wounds inflicted by unknown hands, the relatives were permitted to bury the body several days after the tragedy.
From page 2 of the Concord Daily Tribune, Friday, November 23, 1923.
Frances Overton, 19, Missing Since Last Night, Found Visiting C.E. Helms, Nov. 23, 1923
iss Overton Found After Long Search. . . Daughter of Captain Overton of Salisbury Is Found at Home of C.E. Helms, Near Salisbury
Salisbury, Nov. 28—Miss Frances Overton, 19-year-old daughter of Captain and Mrs. W.S. Overton, was located this afternoon at the home of C.E. Helms, several miles south of the city after a search that continued from early last night.
Miss Overton was at her Fulton Street home at 7 o’clock last evening but at 7:30 when she was called to supper she did not respond. Her mother thought she had stepped to a neighbor’s but as the night wore on and she did not return, a search was instituted. Local officers joined in the search and descriptions of the young lady were sent to 15 towns and cities in this section. This afternoon she was found at the home of Mr. Helms, a former neighbor of the Overtons. She had hailed an automobile driven by Ray Sloop and had ridden with him to his grandfather’s where she left the car saying she was going to Florida. Instead she stopped at the Helms’ home for a visit.
Miss Overton had been in ill health for some time and had been in a hospital recently. Her father, Captain Overton, is a veteran passenger conductor on the western division of the Southern.
From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Friday, November 23, 1923. If this is the Nov. 23 newspaper, how can this story be labeled Nov. 28??