Jim Collins, 19, At Peace As Goes to Electric Chair, June 5, 1925

Collins Pays Penalty. . . Was Electrocuted last Friday for Murder of A.C. Sedberry—Was Thankful for Opportunity to Prepare to Die

Raleigh, June 5—Thanking his Master for the circumstances that gave him advance notice of his day of doom, Jim Collins, 19-year-old negro, went to the electric chair at state prison this morning for the slaying of A.C Sedberry, Anson county citizen.

“I think the Lord placed me here,” Collins said when he had been seated in the death chair. “If I had been left to run around, I might a had to go when I wasn’t ready, but since I’ve come here I’ve learned to read the Bible and I think I’m saved from torment.”

Collins came near going off without advance notice twice before they brought him here to await a definite day. A mob scoured Anson county for him the night after he killed Sedberry. He barely succeeded in getting out of its way. Days later, in Stanly county, when officers discovered him hiding in a thicket, they tossed loose a load of buck shot. It blew off his arm when it might have blown off his head, so Collins probably had good reason to be thankful for his opportunity to prepare to die.

This morning he seemed quite confident of his future. After giving his philosophy of death, he repeated the 23rd Psalm unfalteringly and impressive. Then, turning to the prison attendants who had hesitated with the death mask, he called, “All right.”

“Good bye Jim,” said Prison Chaplain Shacklette, grasping the negro’s hand as the headgear was strapped into place. After two shocks of 1,800 volts each, lasting 45 seconds, Dr. J.H. Norman, the prison warden, pronounced him dead.

The electrocution was witnessed by J.C. Sedberry of Rockingham, brother of the slain man. B.T. McRae, chief witness for the prosecution, was also present.

Collins’ case had attracted considerable interest as the result of appeals to the governor for the exercise of executive clemency. Among those most strongly appealing was Assistant Attorney General Frank Nash, who contended that he was not guilty of first degree murder.

Collins claimed to the end that he was justified in the shooting, according to a negro minister, who was with him in his last minutes.

From the front page of the Messenger and Intelligencer and Ansonian, Wadesboro, N.C., Thursday, June 11, 1925

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Jim Collins First Anson County Person to be Electrocuted, June 11, 1925

Collins First Anson Man Electrocuted

The people of Anson county are familiar with the circumstances of the crime committed by Jim Collins, for which he suffered the death penalty last Friday. After a dispute with Mr. A.C. Sedberry over a small amount of money which Collins claimed Mr. Sedberry owned him, but which Mr. Sedberry said had been used up in getting medical treatment for Collins, Mr. Sedberry knocked the negro down, and went on about his business of scraping the road. Collins went to a house and got a gun which was taken away from him by friends, then went back and got a pistol, slipping up behind Mr. Sedberry and shooting him in the back. He was captured after a sensational chase.

Collins is the first Anson county man who has died in the electric chair. Although several have been convicted of first degree murder since the stated started putting to death by electrocution, all have escaped heretofore, either through new trials or through commutation. The last man who suffered the death penalty in this county was Will Boggan, colored, who was convicted some 25 years ago of the murder of Mr. John Sullivan. Boggan was convicted largely on general principles and circumstantial evidence, and there has always been considerable doubt as to his guilt.

From the front page of the Messenger and Intelligencer and Ansonian, Wadesboro, N.C., Thursday, June 11, 1925

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Sleeping Sickness in United States, July 11, 1925

Sleeping Sickness Invasion

The Pathfinder

The shelter of a magnificent home on an isolated isle off Long Island, N.Y., with day and night guards to protect her from outside annoyances did not prevent Mrs. John P. Morgan, wife of the financier, from contacting sleeping sickness. She met few persons and kept in seclusion. The belief is that the winds carried the germ from offshore. It is traced to an old man ill with sleeping sickness in a small house near Glen Cove, N.Y. the disease is a cousin of the dread African sleeping sickness and the same one which caused the death recently of viscount Milner of England. However, a blood transfusion has placed Mrs. Morgan on the road to recovery.

Judge Charles Wood, judge of the U.S. Circuit court of appeals at Richmond, Va., recently died of the same disease. It visited him after a mild attack of influenza, supporting science’s claim that the two ailments are related.

From 7 page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, July 11, 1925

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Editor Joins Carolina Motor Club in Desiring State Police, July 10, 1925

State Police Is Needed

The Carolina Motor Club is endeavoring through the State Highway Department to establish uniformed State Police to patrol the Highways of the State for the purpose of enforcing the laws against reckless driving and all violations of motor traffic regulations. The only way that North Carolina can have a strict and impartial enforcement of the motor traffic laws is through the agency of a uniformed State Police.

Chairman Page and Commissioner Doughton are giving the matter careful consideration and seemingly the only obstacle in the way is a financial one.

It is to be hoped that some way can be found to establish State Police for our highways. It is the one way to make our highways safe for the law-observing motorist.

One more thing is needed in addition to State Police to safeguard motorists on our highways and that is a law compelling every person who drives a car to obtain a driver’s license which may be revoked upon a serious violation of the motor traffic laws and regulations.

The establishing of a body of State Police would be a great benefit, but it would be far better to adopt the driver’s license along with the State Police. Then the motorist would have real protections against the reckless and incapable driver, and the number of accidents would be greatly reduced. It is to be hoped that North Carolina will have both of these measures in operation before many more months go by.

From the editorial page of The Sandhill Citizen, Southern Pines, N.C., July 10, 1925. J.F. Morris, Managing Editor, and Hiram Westbrook, City Editor

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Illiteracy Being Reduced in North Carolina, Say County Superintendents, July 10, 1925

Illiteracy in N.C. Being Reduced. . . Conference of County Superintendents meet at Asheville

Asheville—An address by O. Max Gardner of Shelby featured a meeting of the attendance and illiteracy conference of North Carolina County Superintendents.

Mrs. E.L. McKee, president of the state federation of women’s clubs, presided, and among the other speakers were Carl C. Taylor, dean of the graduate school of the North Carolina State College; and a group of pupils from Buncombe county community schools. Among these were Earl Hollingsworth, M.H. Ledford, Mrs. F.G. Wilson, C.F. Jenkins, W.C. Hutchins, and T.J. Ingle.

Mr. Gardner said that he was glad the state had shown a marked tendency during the past few years to stamp out illiteracy in North Carolina. No state can go far with a large per cent of its population illiterate, he said.

Discussion of plans for increasing attendance and reducing illiteracy occupied the attention of the members of the conference.

With Buncombe county as a model, about seven plans for increasing rural school attendance and reducing illiteracy were mapped out by the chairman. Each of these plans is most applicable to conditions in certain counties of the state. The application of a plan to a particular county will depend on the number of children in the county, taxable property and income available. The committee chairman recommended that a state director of adult illiteracy by named and three district supervisors be appointed to comprise a general committee for the operating of the plans of the counties affected.

The theme of the meeting was a co-operative endeavor to work out practical plans for keeping the children in school and for removing the handicap of illiteracy from their parents. Among those on the morning program were: S.G. Bernard, chairman of the Buncombe county Board of Education; C.H. Bartlett, city commissioner; and Miss Elizabeth Kelly, former state director of adult education. They discussed the practical results of community school work, as seen from their respective viewpoints.

From the front page of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

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State Orthopedic Hospital to Treat Negro Children, July 10, 1925

Proceeds for Negro Children

Raleigh—Fifteen thousand dollars, the price of 258 shares of General Petroleum Company stock, have been given by B.N. Duke of New York to the N.C. Orthopedic Hospital at Gastonia to establish a ward for crippled negro children there, according to Mrs. Kate Burr Johnson, Commissioner of Public Welfare, who suggested the need of such a ward to Mr. Duke and through whom the gift to the hospital was made.

Mrs. Johnson, who has just returned from New York, has transmitted to R.B. Babbington, chairman of the board of trustees of the Orthopedic Hospital, the announcement of Mr. Duke’s gift together with his check for $15,000. This gift is not connected with the J.B. Duke Foundation, the Commissioner points out.

From the front page of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

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Iredell County Needs TB Hospital, Say Local Doctors, July 11, 1925

Hospital for Iredell

Statesville, July 9—At the meeting of the Iredell-Alexander Medical society held at the Vance hotel last night, the doctors went on record as recommending that a hospital for the treatment of tuberculosis be established in Iredell county. The recommendation followed.

From 8 page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, July 11, 1925

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Polkton Local News Briefs, June 11, 1925

Polkton Locals

The copious showers of the last several days have revived dying vegetation and softened the hard, unbroken corn land so that farmers will soon be through breaking land and planting late corn.

We hear some complaint of the boll weevil having already made its appearance.

Mr. Frank Beachum returned to his home in Raleigh Saturday. He was accompanied by his mother, Mrs. D.L. Beachum, who will spend some time in Raleigh.

Misses Louise Smith and Louise Medley and Mr. Wade Kiker are at home from Weaver College.

Dr. T.M. Smith, Mrs. J.W. Cameron, and Messrs. Edward Carter and L.R. Humbert went to Sanatorium Sunday to visit Miss Elizabeth Carter. She is looking well and expects to be at home for late summer.

Mr. L.B. Maske, who is located at Plymouth, came in Friday to spend his vacation with home folks.

Mrs. W.F. Crump received a letter Wednesday, June 3rd, from Lieut. And Mrs. Russell Duff, who left here in April by way of New York, the Panama canal and San Francisco, enroute to Honolulu. They arrived there May 28th. The trip was uneventful but very pleasant.

Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Stroupe and family went to Pineville Sunday. They took Mrs. J.P. Stroupe, who had been their guest for several weeks, to her home at that place.

Misses Inez and Laney Kiker have returned from the blind institute of Raleigh, where they have been students for several years. Mr. Fred Kiker, a brother, who was a student at the institute at Raleigh for some time, graduated from Duke University this week.

A countywide Epworth League meeting was held at the Methodist church here last Sunday and was largely attended. A splendid program was given and excellent reports were read form several leagues.

Mr. and Mrs. T.J. Powers and family have moved to Reidsville.

Circle B of the Methodist church met with Mrs. S.R. Bolch Tuesday afternoon. Mrs. H.F. Moore presided.

Rev. J.W. Ingle left Monday for Duke University where he will take a two-weeks’ course. Mrs. Ingle also left Monday for Shelby where she will be the guest of her sister while Mr. Ingle is away.

Mr. T.R. Troutman and children, Teddy and Mary Strange, are spending the week at Wedgefield, S.C.

Miss Hazel Tucker entertained at a birthday party Saturday afternoon, May 30th, from 3 to 6. A number of outdoor games, under the supervision of the young women, were very much enjoyed by the little folks. Mrs. Tucker served several different kinds of cake, but the birthday cake, with beautiful white icing and 14 pink candles, was the greatest attraction. About 35 guests were recipients of Miss Tucker’s hospitality.

Mr. and Mrs. W.C. McColl have moved to the Simmons house vacated by Mr. T.J. Powers.

Mr. and Mrs. J.L. Griffin of Marshville visited Mr. and Mrs. S.R. Rushing Saturday.

A demonstration of universal interest, given by Mrs. Redfearn and Miss Bradford in jello salads, etc., at Mrs. T.R. Troutman’s residence Monday afternoon was very much enjoyed by 20 or more of the ladies of Polkton.

Invitations reading as follows have been issued: Mesdames Crump and Cameron at the Crump home Tuesday June 16th from 5 to 7. Miss Edith Smith’s miscellaneous shower.

Mr. and Mrs. S.R. Bolch and children, Miss Helen and Master Charles, have returned from a trip to Hickory.

Mr. and Mrs. W.W. Simmons are leaving Friday morning for Wrightsville Beach.

Mr. and Mrs. L.M. Ross and small son and Misses Christine and Elizabeth Ross left Monday on an automobile trip through Western North Carolina and Johnson City, Tenn.

Mr. and Mrs. W.W. Simmons and children spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Boyd Griffin at Unionville.

From page 7 of the Messenger and Intelligencer and Ansonian, Wadesboro, N.C., Thursday, June 11, 1925

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Weightman News in the Messenger and Intellgencer, June 11, 1925

Weightman News

Mr. and Mrs. John Lanier of Norwood were visiting Mrs. Lanier’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.W. Gaddy, Sunday.

Mr. James Thomas and Misses Anna and Rosa Parker were visiting in this section Sunday.

Mrs. P.B. Beachum and children spent Sunday with her mother, Mrs. J.F. Gaddy.

Miss Ramelle Lee is spending a week in Norwood, guest of relatives.

Mr. and Mrs. John Gaddy and Mr. Jimmie Gaddy carried Miss Alice Gaddy to Charlotte Tuesday to enter school.

The Anson County Singing convention which was to have met with the Polkton Baptist church the 31st was held with Weightman church instead, on account of the serious illness of Mrs. Charles H. Martin who lived just across the street from the church. The next convention meets with Brown Creek on the 5th Sunday in August. Any choir in the county is urged to join. The Weightman church welcomed the convention and hopes to have it meet with us again soon.

Mrs. Fleet Lee of Ansonville spent a part of last week with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Gaddy.

Miss Callie Belle Lee of Charlotte was at home for the singing convention.

Mr. and Mrs. Tell Lee visited Mr. and Mrs. Brady Martin Saturday.

Mrs. J.T. Mills had as week-end guests her two sons, Mr. Roy of Chapel Hill and Mr. Jack of Mt. Croghan, S.C.

Mr. Sam Allen and family spent Sunday with Mrs. J.H. Lee. Mrs. Lee also had as her guest for last week Miss Tice of Wadesboro.

Mr. J.E. Efird recently visited his son, Mr. E.L. Efird of Winston-Salem, and attended Billy Sunday’s meeting.

There will be an ice cream supper, also cake and sandwiches for sale at the home of Mr. S.B. Lee next Saturday, June the 13th, from 4 p.m. till 11 o’clock for the benefit of Weightman church. Everybody is extended a most cordial invitation to be present.

Mrs. J.T. Mills recently visited her daughter, Mrs. Wendell Stone of Dobson, also her son, Mr. T.C. Mills of Albemarle.

Misses Nannie Lou Hancock and Ruby smith are home from A.N.I.I. at Albemarle. We welcome them home.

Miss Bema Gaddy entered the Anson Sanatorium to take training last week.

The Burnsville high school students gave a play, “The Path Across the Hill,” at Polkton Saturday night.

Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Ballard and Mrs. Mauney and Mrs. J.D. Parker, all of Ansonville, were welcome visitors at the home of Mr. and Mrs. S.B. Lee Wednesday.

Several from this community attended the funeral and burial of Mr. Martin McKenzie at Norwood Friday, the 5th. He had been ill for quite a while and died at the Charlotte Sanatorium.

Mr. Kemp Turner is spending a while with home folks, also Mr. Guy Turner of Charlotte is home for the week-end.

From page 7 of the Messenger and Intelligencer and Ansonian, Wadesboro, N.C., Thursday, June 11, 1925

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E.B. Smith, 81, Died June 8, 1925

Mr. E.B. Smith

Mr. E.B. Smith died last Monday at the home of his son, Mr. E.K. Smith of Ruby, S.C. The funeral was held Tuesday, and interment was in the family burying ground in Chesterfield county. Mr. Smith would have been 82 years old had he lived until June 29th. He had been in failing health for two years and had been confined to his bed for the last five weeks. Although Mr. Smith was a native of Chesterfield and spent most of his life in that county, he lived in Anson for a while, and had any friends in this county.

He was a Confederate veteran and had an excellent war record. He was an excellent citizen and a good Christian man, having been a member of the Baptist church since his 18th year. His wife, who was Miss Martha Graves, died about 18 years ago.

He is survived by three sons and three daughters, who are: A.S.P. Smith of Hamlet; E.K. and T.B. Smith of Ruby; Mrs. J.A. Ratliff, Mrs. Ed Burch and Mrs. J.A. Burch. He is also survived by one whole sister, Mrs. J.W. Bittle of Marshville and by the following half-brothers and sisters: M.A. Smith of High Point; Rev. A.B. Smith of Ruby; Mrs. Carl Morgan, Misses Nettie and Garfelia Smith of Chesterfield county.

From page 7 of the Messenger and Intelligencer and Ansonian, Wadesboro, N.C., Thursday, June 11, 1925

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John S. Watkins, 71, died June 7, 1925

Mr. John S. Watkins. . . Well Known Citizen Passed Away Last Sunday Night—Was Deputy Sheriff for Many Years

After a long and painful illness, Mr. John S. Watkins fell peacefully on sleep at his home near Wadesboro last Sunday night shortly after 9 o’clock. Mr. Watkins underwent an operation for cancer of the face about two years ago, and since then his health had been gradually failing. Some time ago cancer of the stomach developed, and this was the cause of his death. Although his health had been feeble, Mr. Watkins did not give up, but continued at his post of duty in Sheriff Braswell’s office until last Wednesday, when he was forced to go to bed. He gradually failed until the end came.

John Sidney Watkins was a member of one of the old families of Anson county, and was a son of the late William C. Watkins and of Mrs. Flora McBride Watkins. He was born 71 years ago at the paternal home a few miles northeast of town. In early manhood he married Miss Lucy ‘Threadgill, who survives him, with three sons, Messrs. Charles C. Watkins, who made his home with his parents, John D. Watkins of Rockingham, and J.W. Watkins of Jacksonville, Fla. He is also survived by one brother, Mr. W.S. Watkins of Morven.

Mr. Watkins will be greatly missed in the county. For nearly 30 years he had been connected in one capacity or another with the sheriff’s office, most of the time as deputy sheriff, and until his health began to fail he was very active. For years he had the reputation of knowing more people in the county than did any other person, and the reputation was well deserved. In the course of his duties he met almost everybody, and after he met them he remembered them, and he usually knew something about them. For many years he was tax lister for Wadesboro township, and he was very familiar with the circumstances of the people living in the township.

During his vigorous years he was very active in politics, and he had much political influence. Older citizens of the county well remember the campaign of 1896, perhaps the hottest campaign ever waged in tis county, and in which Mr. Watkins was one of the hardest workers. Anson county was one of the few counties in the state, and the only one between Charlotte and Wilmington, which was held by the Democratic party. At that time Wadesboro township was divided into three voting precincts, that part lying north of the Seaboard tracks forming one, and through the efforts of Mr. Watkins and of Capt. J.A. Boggan, the Democrats carried that precinct, which was considered a very fine piece of work. Soon after that Mr. Watkins moved to town, where he afterwards made his home.

He was a gentleman of high character, dignified in demeanor, honorable in all his relations, charitable and helpful to his fellows, courteous to all with whom he came in contact, and a sincere Christian. For many years he was a member of the Methodist church.

The funeral was held Monday afternoon at 5 o’clock by Rev. J.H. Armbrust, and there was a large attendance. Interment was at Salem church, where other members of the Watkins family rest.

Mr. Watkins was a Woodman and members of the order acted as pall bearers.

From the front page of the Messenger and Intelligencer and Ansonian, Wadesboro, N.C., Thursday, June 11, 1925

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Fort Bragg Presents Impressive 4th of July Celebration, 1925

Big Celebration at Fort Bragg

The upper Cape Fear and Sandhills country celebrated the Fourth of July at Fort Bragg today, making it one of the most elaborate and meritorious observes of the National holiday that has ever been held in this State.

The climax of the day came with the closing daylong feature when 4,000 troops of the garrison, including 1,200 members of the Citizens Military Training Camp and 200 students of the Reserve Officers Training Corps, assembled on the parade ground for the Defense Day exercises and were addressed by Hon. William N. Everett, Secretary of State. Under an intensely hot sun, Secretary Everett spoke briefly but took time to pay his respects to National and State parsimony. Speaking “in all seriousness and measuring my words,” he said, “I want to say to you young men that I am unable to become enthusiastic over a policy of economy and retrogression that denies to organizations like yours the funds necessary to carry on their great work.” And as the crowd applauded heartily, he added, “neither am I able to evince any enthusiasm over a narrowing state policy that would cramp the work of our State government.

Mr. Everett was introduced by General Bowley. The secretary congratulated the citizen-soldiers on the possession of a privilege that was not in existence when he was a boy, that of coming to a great military post like Fort Bragg and receiving the inestimable benefit of its training and patriotism. Throughout, his speech was happily conceived and well received, and followed by an inspiring spectacle.

As the 4,000 troops marched on the field, they presented a sight thoroughly in keeping with the glorious heritage of the day and one that gave a worthwhile thrill to every patriotic American present. The invocation being delivered by Chaplain Zimmerman, General Bowley administered the oath of enrollment to the trainers and they became members of the United States army. Then in less than 20 words impressively spoken, General Bowley presented its colors to the C.M.T.C. and then from its position among the regimental colors, the standards of ancient and famous regiments, covered with battle streamers, and the line of fluttering guerdons, the colors of the youngest of America’s defenders were brought forward and were accepted by their color guard.

The morning events consisted of special exercises in the C.M.T.C. are during which addresses were made by General Bowley, and Lieut. Colonel George K. Freeman of Goldsboro, followed by the annual track and field meet. At noon the National salute of 48 guns was fired by the second field artillery and the post flag was raised to the top of the new staff at Trophy point.

Following the noon hour came one of the most interesting events of the day, the demonstration of aerial adjustment of artillery fire by radio telephone control. This the most advanced phase of supermodern warfare developed since the World War, was demonstrated by field guns firing blank shells under the direction of an airplane observer whose instructions were transmitted to the gunners by radio and telephone and were made audible to the beholders by loud speakers.

In the athletic events, the Fort Bragg polo team won a beautifully played game from the crack Sandhills Polo Club of Pinehurst. The score was 6 to 5.

The annual baseball game between the Fifth and Seventeenth regimental teams was won by the Fifth, 4 to 3, and the Thirty-fourth Ordinance defeated the team from Cloverdale. A concern was given at 3:30 by the Fifth Field Artillery band, which also played selections during the defense day exercises.

From page 3 of The Sandhill Citizen, Southern Pines, N.C., July 10, 1925. J.F. Morris, Managing Editor, and Hiram Westbrook, City Editor

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Adolph Brauer, 6-Month-Old Infant, Killed in Car Accident, July 10, 1925

Baby Fatally Hurt in Accident

Adolph, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Brauer of Ridgeway, died Monday night and was buried from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church near Ridgeway Tuesday afternoon.

The child was fatally injured on Sunday morning when his skull was fractured in an automobile wreck which occurred at the Norlina underpass. Mr. Brauer and his six-months-old son were riding in a car driven by George Herrin, also of the Ridgeway community, when Herrin’s car and one driven by Lewis B. Cawthorne of Norlina ran together. Herrin was coming from Warrenton. Cawthorne entered the underpass from the opposite side, just back of a car driven by Everett L. Hicks, also of Norlina. Hicks turned to the left just out of the underpass and in trying to avoid striking Hicks, Herring turned out on the wrong side and was struck by Cawthorne’s car as it emerged from the underpass.

Mr. Brauer sustained a cut over one eye, Herring had some bruises, but Cawthorne was unhurt.

From page 5 of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

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Restructuring for Federal "Dry" Officers, July 10, 1925

Shake-Up Among “Dry” Officers

Salisbury—While there has been no intimation from Washington regarding the changes that will be put into effect when the two branches of the prohibition enforcement agents are consolidated with headquarters in Atlanta, there is considerable anxiety expressed in Salisbury that both the forces of Ben Sharpe, state director, will be moved or cut to a handful.

Sharpe, in the opinion of several people closely connected with the organization, is slated to have charge of the new division with headquarters in Atlanta.

A move has been made recently to get larger quarters in Salisbury. This move would indicate that the offices were to remain in Salisbury. However, it is understood that facilities were not available.

Whatever changes are contemplated is likely to provide for North Carolina headquarters and as Salisbury is centrally located, it will probably remain here, but it may mean a material reduction in the number of men employed.

From the front page of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

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Girls' and Boys' Clubs Planning Summer Camps, July 10, 1925

Girls’ and Boys’ Clubs Plan Camps

Twenty counties throughout the state have reported plans for summer camps for boys and girls to the home demonstration department, and additional counties are expected to report later on. These camps are in charge of the home demonstration agents and farm agents, and in most cases will be joint camps. Other counties are planning summer camps for women belonging to the rural clubs.

Camping has come to be a reward for work well done. Miss Maude E. Wallace, who is head of the Girls’ Club work in this state, states, and the old idea of strenuous instruction has been largely discarded. A few hours of instruction will be given in the morning, and the rest of the day turned over to recreation. Most of the camps will be on the shore or near lakes where water sports may be included in the amusements. Contact with other boys and girls is the chief object and benefit from the camps.

From page 3 of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925. Girls’ and Boys’ Clubs were the forerunners of 4-H Clubs.

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J.N. Wynn of Ridgeway Shows First Cotton Bloom, July 10, 1925

The First Cotton Bloom

The first cotton bloom of the season was sent to your office by Mr. J.N. Wynn of Ridgeway on Monday, the 6th of July. It was a red bloom, therefore it opened on the 5th, which was just one day late of the 4th. To have a bloom by the 4th of July is said to be an indicator of a good crop year.

From page 5 of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

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Mary Louise McCachren Leaves on European Vacation, July 10, 1925

Won Trip to Europe

Mary Louise McCachren, an orphan whose home has been the Presbyterian Mission School at Concord, N.C., sailed on the Leviathan from New York July 4 on a free voyage which she won in a contest of Bible story-telling. Mary Louise is a 16-year-old mountain girl whose parents died in the flu epidemic some years ago. The contest was open to all Sunday school pupils in the country, and the first prize, won by Mary, was a 57-day trip to Europe.

From page 6 of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925. The article has a nice photo of Mary Louise. You can see it at:

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Haton, Taylor, Stegall Claim Tire-Changing Championship, July 10, 1925

World’s Record Smashed by Three Norlina Boys

On Sunday morning, July 5th, Messrs. Julius H. Haton, Kirman O. Taylor and Frank Stegall of Norlina were traveling by Automobile between Warren Plains and Norlina when delayed by a blowout of one of the tires. As the above were anxious to reach Norlina ahead of the approaching train, they had to do some quick work to satisfy their desires.

Frank Stegall, driver, stopped the car on the side of the road and the boys got out to fix the bad tire. The boys claim that from the time they got out of the car to the time they ad raised the seat, got the jack, jacked up the wheel, unscrewed the taps, taken off the tire, patched it and of course sandpapering the tube, and allowing the cement to dry, put the tire back on, screwed the dust caps, pumped the tire, took the jack out, put it under the seat, and were in the car ready to go in 4 ½ minutes.

The boys deserve much credit.

Any one desirous of such ability may apply to either of the three.

From page 5 of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

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Lightning Strikes Pridgen and Hartoin Homes, July 10, 1925

Electric Storm Monday Afternoon

This community was visited by a severe electrical storm Monday afternoon. The homes of Mr. A.L. Pridgen and Mr. J.H. Harton were struck by the lightning and considerable damage done roofs and screen doors. Fortunately, members of the families were not hurt.

From page 5 of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

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Locals and Personals from the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

Locals and Personals. . . Personal Mention of Our Visitors and Local News Items Gathered

Hot!

Crops in this section are simply fine.

Mr. W.E. Bugg is in town this week.

Judge Kerr was here Wednesday morning.

Mr. and Mrs. W.M. Overby spent Tuesday in Rocky Mount.

Mr. C.F. Whitted spent a day in Richmond, Va., recently.

Rev. W.R. Stephens is spending the work in South Hill, Va.

Mr. G.L. Knight of Hollister was here Saturday and Sunday.

Mrs. L.T. Howard is visiting relatives at Resaca, Ga., this week.

Mrs. Draffin and Miss Mary Draffin are visiting in town this week.

Mr. Chas. J. Katzenstein of New York City was here the past week.

Miss Alice Hardy is spending the week with relatives near Hollister.

Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Hicks of Louisburg visited Mr. A.W. Hicks Sunday.

Mrs. R.S. Register and Mrs. T.J. Jones spent Tuesday afternoon in Henders.

Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Hardy and Mrs. R.D. Hardy spent Sunda afternoon at Thelma.

Mr. and Mrs. G.N. Mumphord spent Sunday and Monday in Nashville and Rocky Mount.

Mr. and Mrs. D.G. Pearce of Louisburg spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. W.G. Overby.

Mrs. C.G. Dixon has returned home from Georgia where she was called on account of sickness.

Mrs. A.G. Spain and children left yesterday morning for Henderson to visit Mrs. A.J. Spain.

Mr. H.M. Palmer is spending the week in Washington, D.C., seeing the sights of our capital city.

Miss Bettie L. Hawks has returned from Richmond, Va., where she visited for several days.

Miss Agnes Edge of Portsmouth, Va., is visiting her brother, Mr. H.L. Edge, this week.

Miss Katherene Spencer and brother, of Richmond, Va., were here to spend the week end with relatives.

Mr. J.H. Jeffress, living just across the line in Virginia, sent us a red cotton bloom Wednesday morning.

Our third cotton bloom came from the field of Mr. Andrew Hundley Thursday morning and was white bloom.

Mrs. H.A. Insco returned on Wednesday from Stuart Circle Hospital in Richmond, Va., where she had been for several days taking treatment.

Mr. James H. Holloway of Ridgeway has been named by Governor McLean a member of the finance committee for the North Carolina Railroad.

The county commissioners will meet in Warrenton next Monday to hear complaints about tax values and to make adjustments and corrections. If you have a complaint you are urged to be present and your case will be heard.

Mr. and Mrs. S.P. Jones left last week for Statesville, where they will make their home. Mr. Jones, who has been manager of the co-op tobacco warehouse in Norlina the past two seasons, transfers to the cotton association, and will be field agent in the Statesville district.

Mr. and Mrs. Jones made many friends while in Norlina, who are sorry at their leaving.

Mr. Brady Traylor is here from Richmond, Va., where he has been for several months.

Mr. and Mrs. M.C. Johnston and children, Winnifred and Franklin, spent the week-end with relatives in Rocky Mount.

Mr. and Mrs. Alfono Hicks, Mr. Green Hicks and Katherine Hicks of Rocky Mt., were in the home of Mr. A.W. Hicks Sunday.

Misses Myra and Olive Bobbitt of Hopeville, Va., and Mrs. Sallie Gillis of Jensen, Fla., are visitors in the home of Mrs. H.A. Insco.

Messrs. W.B. White, E.L. Hicks, E.E. Loyd and W.L. Wood expect to leave to-day for Morehead City, by automobile, to spend a few days with the Warren Guards, B. Company, at Camp Glenn, and also will do some fishing.

From page 5 of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

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Southern Pines Briefs, July 10, 1925

Locals

H.A. Lewis has gone on a business trip to Florida.

Miss Martha Campbell of Bennett Street is visiting friends in Rockingham.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles M. Gray have returned from a vacation trip to Blowing Rock.

Mr. L.S. Poole of near Jonesboro visited Mr. and Mrs. C.S. Swaringen Thursday.

The Misses Sarah and Evelyn Couch of Eualula, Ala., are guests of Mrs. Irene Miller.

David Bower of the U.S. Navy is visiting his mother at the Bower Farm near Southern Pines.

Mr. and Mrs. J.G. Buckley of Boston, Mass., have leased the Hibbard Cottage on Ashe Street.

Born on Friday, July 3rd, to Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Youngblood of Ashe Street, a son, John Clyde.

Little Miss Mary Jane Woodward has returned from a week’s visit with relatives in Fremont, N.C.

Mr. W.I. Brooks of Near Jonesboro motored over to visit his daughter, Mrs. C.s. Swaringen, today.

The opening dance of the season at the Jackson Springs Pavilion will take place on Friday night, July 10th.

Mr. and Mrs. H.J. Betterley and Mr. and Mrs. L.W. Bredbeck spent last week-end in Winston-Salem.

Mrs. Bernard Leavitt is in Rex Hospital, Raleigh, making a satisfactory recovery from a serious operation.

Mrs. R.A. Olmstead and daughter Miss Margaret left for the North on Tuesday, to remain until September.

Quite a delegation of Southern Pines folks attended the Home-coming at Old Bethesda Church last Sunday.

Miss Beulah Dillehay has recovered from her recent illness and is out again enjoying life with the younger set.

A. Montesanti sent in to the Citizen Office on Monday a 14-inch peach twig with eight handsome Carmen Peaches on it.

Mrs. Ruth Carswell, who has been a guest of Mrs. Nettie Ayres, is leaving tonight for her home in Americus, Georgia.

Mr. and Mrs. F.W. Van Camp and Mrs. L.W. Devendorf have returned from a vacation trip to the Carolina Mountains.

Miss Lucile Mudgett have a party on Wednesday night to a number of her young friends at her home on Ashe Street.

Miss Nannie Wicker of Orangeburg, S.C., is visiting at the home of her mother, Mrs. Catherine Wicker of Bennett Street.

Mr. and Mrs. R.N. Page Jr. and family have returned form a vacation trip to New York, Atlantic City, and Wrightsville Beach.

Mr. and Mrs. Milton McNeill of Columbia, S.C., spent last week-end visiting relatives in Southern Pines and Sandhills Township.

Misses Mary and Lucille Swaringen and Miss Monnie Finlayson of Charlotte visited Mr. and Mrs. C.S. Swaringen last week.

Miss Bessie Chandler left for New York City last Thursday night. She will take a special summer course at Columbia University.

Mrs. W.K. Rand and daughter Elizabeth of Durham, N.C., are guests at the home of Mr. and Mrs. J.N. Powell of Bennett Street.

Mr. and Mrs. Carson Blue and Miss Margaret of Petersburg, Va., are guests of Mr. and Mrs. D.F. McAdams at their home on Ashe Street.

Clarence Swaringen of the Economy Market treated the Citizen Force to its first Watermelon of the season last Thursday, and it was a fine one.

Mr. and Mrs. John Jayme, Mrs. Robert Henderson and Miss Jane Henderson of Pittsburgh, Pa., are spending a week at the New England House.

Mr. and Mrs. L.G. Gill and Mr. Edward Gill of Henderson spent last week end with Mr. and Mrs. L.W. Alderman at their home on Bennett Street.

The regular weekly luncheon of the Kiwanis Club will be held on Friday instead of Wednesday as customary. The place of meeting will be the Southern Pines Country Club.

R.L. Hart has returned from the Kiwanis convention at St. Paul, Minn. He says he had a fine trip but did not see anything he liked as good as the Sandhills, and he says he is glad to get back.

The many friends of Miss Eleanor Herndon and Mr. Dan McKeithan, who are both well known in the Sandhills, were pleased to read the announcement of their engagement in the State Papers last Sunday.

The Citizen Office continues to turn out large quantities of peach labels.

The peach packers are arriving in town and may be seen strolling on Broad Street every evening.

The Sunday School Class of Katherine Riggan of the Baptist Church enjoyed a picnic to Lake View on Wednesday.

Mr. and Mrs. Chisolm Vann of High Point are visiting Mr. and Mrs. E.W. Merrill at their home on New York Avenue.

M.H. Tucker, formerly of Southern Pines but who is now located in Hendersonville, spent the Fourth week-end in town.

There has been a steady improvement in the quality of the town water during the past six days and now it is really palatable.

Mr. and Mrs. W.W. Olive are receiving congratulations upon the birth of a little daughter who arrived in the Olive home on Tuesday, July 7th.

Arthur Olmstead gave a dinner party to a number of her friends at the handsome new home of the Holmsteads on Weymouth Heights last Saturday. All reported a fine time.

Bill Jackson of Florida, well known in Southern Pines as Foreman of the Packing Houses in the Highland Terrace and Marlboro Orchards, ahs arrived in town for the peach season.

Eleanor Adams had a birthday party on July 2nd at her home on Rhode Island Avenue. A number of Eleanor’s young friends were on hand to help celebrate her 9th anniversary.

“Bobby” Beck celebrated his 7th Birthday by giving a party to a number of his young friends on July 1st at his home on Maine Avenue. The Kiddies had a fine time and enjoyed the games and ice-cream.

The largest crowd that has ever attended a picture show in the Sandhills gathered at the Carolina Theatre to see “The Ten Commandments.” A great many people who arrived to late to secure seats left the building.

A small company of neighbors and friends arrived at the Burnap apartments about noon on the 4th of July bringing with them a dainty lunch and plenty of iced drinks. This was a genuine surprise to the hostess, and a good time that followed will long be remembered by every member of the party.

From page 2 of The Sandhill Citizen, Southern Pines, N.C., Friday, July 10, 1925. J.F. Morris, Managing Editor, and Hiram Westbrook, City Editor

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Imposter Sells Gas When Owner Is on Vacation, July 10, 1925

Thief Had Nerve

A cool and daring robbery took place at Chapin, a staid little hamlet in New York. While Charles Byrd was visiting in Pennsylvania, an unknown man stood for more than two days at Byrd’s gasoline station and sold gasoline and edibles, cutting prices in order to attract purchasers. He offered for sale the new gasoline station at a low price but did not secure a purchaser.

From page 6 of the Norlina Headlight, July 10, 1925

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Indicted Judge Dies When His Car Runs Off Bridge, July 9, 1925

Indicted Judge Is Killed When Auto Goes Over Bridge. . . Federal Judge Ross Found Dead Under Wreckage of His Car at Point About 5 Miles from His Home. . . Driving Alone at Time of Accident. . . Judge Recently Indicted by Grand Jury in Connection with the Failure of a Bank in Tennessee

Jackson, Tenn., July 9—Judge J.W. Ross of the western Tennessee district federal court, who yesterday was indicted in connection with the failure of the Peoples Savings Bank of Jackson, today was killed in an automobile accident.

Judge Ross was killed when the automobile in which he was riding ran off the bridge about five miles east of Jackson and turned over in a creek, pinning him underneath. It is believed he was killed instantly.

His body was discovered shortly after the tragedy, and an ambulance was hurried to the scene. Examination showed he had suffered a severe blow on the head, and he was bleeding profusely. His body was brought to Jackson.

Judge Ross was said to have started in the direction of his dog kennels about seven miles from Jackson on the Miffin road, maintained by John H. Kirkpatric, whose name the jurist was charged in one indictment with having forged.

At the time he was alone in the car.

Judge Ross was at liberty on bond of $25,000, under charges of being implicated in the failure of the bank which closed its doors recently following the discovery of an apparent shortage in its accounts of more than $300,000.

He was indicted by a Madison county grand jury on charges of being an accessory to embezzlement, forgery and fraudulent breach of trust.

From the front page of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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Judge Finds Both Sides Guilty, July 9, 1925

Brooklyn Brown Arrested Tuesday

Brooklyn Brown, young negro wanted here on a charge of assault with a deadly weapon, surrendered to police officers Tuesday at the solicitation of his uncle, James Holmes. The negro left the farm of Henry Winecoff, who it is alleged he struck with a gun Monday morning, soon after the alleged attack and although officers searched for him for some time, they could not locate him.

Holmes was advised of the case Monday night and he promised local officers he would try to find his nephew. He was successful in his search and he persuaded the negro to surrender.

From page 2 of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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Affray Aired in Police Court Here Yesterday. . . All of the Participants Found Guilty and Fined by the Court—One Defendant to the Chain Gang

The affray which occurred early Monday morning at the farm of Henry Winecoff, near this city, was aired in police court yesterday, and all of the participants were found guilty. Mr. Winecoff was fined $20 and his son, Glenn Winecoff, was fined $15. Hardy Brown, colored, was fined $20 and his wife was fined $15.

Brooklyn Brown, who struck Mr. Winecoff on the head with a gun, was charged with fighting and with assault with a deadly weapon. He was sentenced to serve three months on the chain gang on each count.

Glenn Winecoff told the court he was attacked by the Brown family when he went to the farm Monday morning. He came to Concord for his father and when they returned, they were attacked again, a general fight ensuing when Henry Winecoff took a gun from Brooklyn Brown, whom he believed was about to shoot him.

From page 2 of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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Institutions Will Have to Pay Their Own Way, Warns Governor, July 8, 1925

State Institutions Will Have to Pay Their Own Way

Gov. McLean announced a few days ago at a meeting of the Council of the State that a preliminary report showed that some of the institutions had exceeded their appropriations during the past biennial period and that others had not spent their entire appropriation. The two types of institutions would about balance each other, he said. He stated that the State Auditor would have the definite figures yesterday and at that time the Council of State would decide whether to pay the several institution deficits out of the general fund or require the institutions to repay them out of their appropriates of the next biennium.

From the front page of the North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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Editor Against Minimum Wage, 48-Hour Workweek, July 9, 1925

Warns Against Retrenchment in the Affairs of North Carolina

By the Associated Press

Asheville, July 9—“We must guard against an era of reckless expenditure, extravagance, and waste; and we must avoid the other extreme of miserly, parsimonious, stingy and hard-fisted so-called economy,” H. Galt Braxton told the N.C. Press Association here today.

“I stand for efficiency of administration, and for economy of expenditure, when such frugality does not entail a serious retarding of our worthwhile program,” he continued. He declared in this connection: “I have no faith, my friends, in the proposal to standardize wages and efforts in North Carolina. Theoretically the suggestion may appeal, but analytically and practically it’s fraught with grave danger. I tell you, my friends, men and women of ability and talents who are blazing the way of our progress and material gain will become discouraged and disorganized if our state government undertakes to fix for them a task for the day’s accomplishment and a per diem reward without regard for individual ability and achievement.”

President Braxton’s address, delivered the morning session today, following memorials to deceased members, told of the Association’s activities during the past year. Tributes to deceased members were read as follows: James H. Cowan, Wilmington, by J.A. Sharpe; A.W. Burch, Charlotte, by J.A. Parham; and H.B. Varner, Lexington, by J.B. Sherrill.

Following President Braxton’s address, the Association engaged in shop talk for a while and adjourned for a trip to Brevard.

The Asheville Citizen will tender the members of the North Carolina Press Association a banquet at 7 o’clock tonight. Prof. and Mrs. I.G. Greer of Boone will give a folk-lore program, following which there will be an address by Governor A.W. McLean.

“It is customary for your president message at each annual meeting to bring you a greeting, a report of the year’s activities and such recommendations as he may presume upon your patience and indulgence to make,” said President Braxton, opening his address today. “It is not my purpose to detail the work that I have done as your president for the past year, or to undertake to review the activities of the other officers and members of your executive committee. These reports have already been made to you. In the very outset, I wish to preface what I may say by again expressing my appreciation for the confidence that you have manifested in me. The trust that you placed in my hands at Morehead City last June and the honor that you bestowed upon me have brought responsibilities and cares, and I regret that it is not possible for me to bring a record of achievement for the year’s work of which I could justly feel proud. However, I shall not make any apology to you either for myself or for the members of your executive committee. I sincerely believe we have done the best we could with the material at hand. But I don’t want to leave this phase of my remarks without commending the loyalty and efficient service of our splendid secretary and treasurer, Miss Beatrice Cobb. To her untiring efforts and zeal for the North Carolina Press Association is attributable very largely the accomplishments of the past year. I would not be so unappreciative either as to pass without expressing my feeling of personal obligation to each and every member of our executive committee.” He declared the committee had served most efficiently and had responded to every call made on them during the past year.

President Braxton stated that he felt it his duty to bring before the Association for its consideration matters which, he felt, vitally affected the organization.

From the front page of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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Children of Tenant Farmers Drop Out, Some as Early as Third Grade, July 9, 1925

Tenant Children Drop Out

That children of parents who own their farms remain longer in school than the children of tenant farmers is shown by a recent survey in Jefferson county, Ga. In the first four grades of school, Children of tenant farmers compose 55.5 per cent of the enrollment. After that, they begin to drop out, and the annual enrollment of children of tenant farmers in the fifth grade is only 35.5 per cent of the whole number. During the four years of high school, children of farm-owning parents make up 82.4 per cent of the student body. The enrollment of children of tenant farmers decreases from 33 per cent in the eighth grade to 3 per cent in the eleventh, or last grade.

--School Life

From page 2 of The Graphic, Nashville, N.C., July 9, 1925

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Officials of N.C. Railroad Named, July 9, 1925

Names Officials of the N.C. Railroad. . . Word H. Wood Named President—Major Foil Names on Finance Committee

Raleigh, N.C., July 9—Word H. Wood of Charlotte has been appointed President of the North Carolina Railroad by Governor A.W. McLean and Wiley G. Barnes, Secretary and Treasurer. Confirmation of these appointments is expected at the annual meeting of stockholders in Greensboro today when the state’s vote representing Governor McLean’s wishes will be cast by W.G. Brogden of Durham, named state’s proxy.

The Governor has named the following to be directors: J.F. Bowles of Statesville; Robert G. Lassiter of Charlotte; Gilbert C. White, Durham; A.C. Dickson of Gastonia; M.O. Dickerson, Rutherfordton; C.A. Hunt Jr., Lexington; and Julius cone of Greensboro. Chas. F. Dalton of Charlotte was reappointed expert and J. Bayard Clark of Fayetteville was named attorney.

The finance committee appointed by the Governor is composed of F.C. Lambeth, Thomasville; James H. Holloway, Ridgeway; W.A. Foil, Concord; and E.C. Smith, Raleigh.

From the front page of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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Government Lands in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, Sold for Development of Winter Resorts, July 9, 1925

Government Lands for Winter Resorts. . . Property in Alabama, Mississippi and Florida Withdrawn from Homestead Entry

Washington, July 9—The Interior Department today withdrew from homestead entry all government islands off the coasts of Alabama, Mississippi and Florida, and all public lands within three miles of the coast, and will hold the property for development of winter resorts. General land office will re-classify the land and submit a plan for legislation to Congress to permit the sale of property for town sites and winter homes.

The withdrawals include 49 acres in Baldwin County, Alabama, and 40 acres in Escambia County, Fla. Last December some of the islands off the coast of Florida were similarly preserved.

From the front page of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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U.S. Number One In Cigarette Smokers, July 9, 1925

U.S. Given Lead in Survey of Cigarette Smoking

Berlin, July 9—In a survey of cigarette smoking, the periodical Elxcelsior declared that Americans are the greatest short smokers in the world. The publication estimates that an average of 625 cigarettes a year are smoked by every American. This, of course, statistically includes non-cigarette smokers.

The German annual average is 599 cigarettes per capita; Belgium, 513; Italy, 284; France, 247; and Switzerland, 184.

From the front page of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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Maurillus Foster Addresses State Press Association, July 8, 1925

Press Association of State Opens Meeting. . . Number of Addresses Heard at First Session of the 53rd Annual Convention

Asheville, July 8—Featured by an address by Maurillus E. Foster, publisher of the Houston Chronicle, many remarks of visiting publishers from other states, the 53rd session of the North Carolina Press Association opened here tonight at the George Vanderbilt Hotel. H. Galt Braxton of Kinston presided. The annual poem, an ode dedicated to and entitled “The North Carolina Press,” was read by the author, J.D. Boone of Waynesville. The annual oration was delivered by T.W. Chamblish of Raleigh. The address dealt with the evolution of the modern newspapers which the speaker declared to be a public servant and worthy of remuneration commensurate with its service.

P.M. Burdette, president of The Asheville Times, welcomed the guests and introduced Mr. Foster as an annual visitor to this city. “Asheville,” Mr. Burdette stated, ”is the summer vacation spot for all North Carolina and is fast becoming the hot weather mecca for all the South.”

In a brief talk Walter C. Johnson of The Chattanooga News, newly-elected president of the Southern Newspapers Publishers’ Association, extended a welcome to the state association to call on the larger group for any assistance possible and to co-operate with the S.N.P.A. for a further solution to problems confronting publishers of this section.

Other talks were made by Wiley Morgan, Knoxville Sentinel; Josephus Daniels, Raleigh; Congressman W.C. Hammer and others.

From the front page of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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Kenneth Cook, Just Shy of 2, Died July 7, 1925

Kenneth Cook Died Tuesday Morning. . . Funeral Yesterday Afternoon

Kenneth E. Cook, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jake Cook, died Tuesday morning at 11:40 o’clock at the home of his parents on Magnolia street after an illness of two weeks. He was nearly two years of age, death coming as a result of pneumonia.

Funeral services were held yesterday at 3 o’clock at Forest Hill Church, burial being made in Oakwood cemetery. Rev. T.F. Higgins conducted the services, assisted by Rev. M.L. Kester.

From page 2 of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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Grand Jury Report Flays Rocky Mount Convict Camp, July 9, 1925

Grand Jury Flays Rocky Mount District. .. Remarkable Report of Finding Astounds Those Who Believed Conditions Were of High Standards. . . According to the Report, the Convict Camp Was a Veritable Booze Joint and Hell

Whether the reports of the horrible conditions alleged to have existed at the Rocky Mount road district prison for some time past are true or not, there seems to be no one who will come out in the open and enter any defense of former superintendent Bagom or those entrusted to the safe keeping of the men committed to that penal institution. However, ever and anon some one may be heard to say “the whole affair has been greatly exaggerated.”

In view of former reports made by grand jurors as to the conditions they found to exist at divers times, these reports giving the institution a clean bill, there arises some discussion of the reason why former grand jurors have been so mistaken in their findings, or did they ever really make a “thorough investigation”?

Regardless of former reports, which have been published in The Graphic from time to time, the following report of the investigations recently made by a Nash County grand jury, and which was made public by Judge N.A. Sinclair at Fayetteville a few days ago and which was signed by Foreman Chas. W. Woodward, is a severe indictment against the management of the Rocky Mount road district prison and has caused considerable comment throughout the county:

Grand Jury’s Latest Report

“We the Grand Jury, by your instructions were convened in special session at Nashville at noon, June 12th, for the purpose of investigating all matters having to do with the administration of the affairs of the convict camps in Nash county, and in particular the camp in which are confined the prisoners worked on the Rocky Mount road district. In this special investigation we have examined a number of ex-convicts, convicts now under sentence, guards, others in charge, and citizens of the county who could give us information in order that we might intelligently report the situation to you and have substantial ground for such recommendations as we shall make in this communication.

“It is our unanimous opinion that a deplorable condition existed at the Rocky Mount camp, with no extenuating circumstances, no redeeming features, no justification, rights, or reasons for such brutal, inhuman physical treatment as has been accorded prisoners in this camp or stockade. Added to this treatment, the prisoners have been subject to a most cowardly for of mental moral torture by threats of physical punishment unless willing to perjure themselves on every occasion necessary, and which being deprived of their liberty, have seen those in charge of them disregard any and all laws, observing crimes committed in their presence, in most instances, more reprehensible than deeds for which they, the prisoners, were adjudged guilty.

“Unlawful liquor, in quantities limited only by the desire of those in charge, on hand at all times; the use of county property for unlawful purposes, with frequently nightly visits from associates of those in charge; the dissipation of county property to individuals in the shape of gasoline for their automobiles, stores, vegetables, etc., given away to callers; drunkenness a common occurrence among those in charge and under these conditions discipline administered to prisoners in any form thought proper by those in charge; truly a sad picture for this county to have before us.

Trust Is Betrayed

“A trust has been betrayed and there is nothing we can say to reduce our burden of responsibility.

“We, the entire grand jury, wish it to be thoroughly understood that the Rocky Mount Road Commission were in total ignorance of this deplorable condition, their confidence having been greatly abused and successfully maintained over a long period, by a system of guilty watchfulness and intimidation involving all connected with the camp, including guards and prisoners.

“This grand jury has a very clear and definite ideas as to what should be done in connection with the individual cases that have come before them in this investigation, and this feature is taken care of in privileged communication not a part of this report.

“Further, we have considered at length the recommendation we desire to make, and sincerely hope such direction may be given as will quickly accomplish these ends.

“We recommend the total abolishment of any form of corporal punishment in the camps in Nash county, or to such prisoners as are in the jurisdiction of the Rocky Mount Road Commission or used for any purpose whatsoever.

“In order that the purpose of this investigation may not be complicated with any other issue, we ask you to now dismiss us until we may be of further service.

Respectfully submitted,

Charles Worth Woodward, Foreman

From the front page of The Graphic, Nashville, N.C., July 9, 1925

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Italians and Greeks Getting the Word and Leaving U.S. on Their Own, July 9, 1925

Still Further Reductions Are Essential for Our Good

A sharp reduction in immigration from southern and eastern Europe and an increase from northern and western Europe, declared by immigration to be the chief purpose of immigration legislation for the last 25 years, has been achieved under the new immigration law. W.W. Husband, assistant secretary of labor, after analyzing figures covering the last 10 months operation of the new law, declared yesterday that the result of the new law had been gratifying to the immigration bureau.

The bureau’s figures, he said, showed that almost 87 per cent of all European immigrants admitted to this country during the period were of the northern and western European stock, whereas during the years preceding the war, 80 per cent were of southern and eastern European stock.

This shift in nations was credited by Mr. Husband to the section of the new immigration law which provides that a number of national equivalent to 2 per cent of the number resident in this country of like origin in 1880 may enter the United States annually.

The figures disclosed that during the first 10 months’ operation of the law, only 26,000 immigrants of southern and eastern European stocks had been admitted, while immigrants of northern and western European stocks number 186,000.

Immigration from Italy for the 10 months was shown to have totaled 5,503. During the same period there was an emigration of Italians totaling 24,951. Only 810 persons were admitted from Greece, while emigration of these nationals totaled 5,797.

Of the English, there were 43,504 admissions, and 7,482 left the country while Irish admitted numbered 35,213, against an emigration of 1,165.

From the front page of The Graphic, Nashville, N.C., July 9, 1925

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More County Road Gang Cases, July 8, 1925

Two More County Gang Cases in State

Recently cases of punishment of chain gang officials in Gaston and now two more come up in Nash and Cumberland counties—not a flogging case however in both as the one in Nash is for immoral conduct of the camp.

Walter Jackson and Thomas Skipper, 5- to 8-years and to 18 months in the pen and the county roads each. Jackson seemed to be a man of some wealth.

From page 8 of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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The Story Behind Sightings of the Headless Woman on the Bridge Near Harmony, June 27, 1925

Negroes Still Claim to See Headless Woman on Bridge

By G. Wright Lankford

Harmony, June 27—The change of a bridge location on the North Carolina highway Route No. 26, between Statesville and Elkin, has recalled a gruesome murder which took place near here more than a half century ago, a murder mystery that was never fully solved and which leads many tales and superstitions among North Iredell negroes and ignorant whites.

Some 50 or more years ago the body of a woman, Margaret Seamont, was found near this bridge with her throat cut half way through in front. Two negroes were tried and one of them convicted for the murder and then several years later some lone traveler reported seeing a “ghost” of a headless woman standing on the bridge. Since then various superstitious people familiar with the story have imagined seeing such a ghost and many queer tales have been told. Of course, intelligent people knew better when the first story was told and have known better than to believe any similar “yarns” since, but that does not alter the legend and the mystery. It has now become one of the old ghost stories of this section, believed by the ignorant class of people and laughed at by people who know that such things cannot happen.

There are only a few people living here now who were alive at that time of the murder, and there are only two or three who know the actual knowledge any of the circumstances surrounding the mysterious death of Margaret Seamont.

To the casual traveler along state highway route 26, there is nothing unusual about the little bridge over the Jim Smith branch, a small stream flowing south about halfway between the small town of Harmony and the smaller community of Houstonville, four miles away. The branch is called the Jim Smith branch because a man by that name lives on the northeast of the bridge today. But local travelers seldom pass that way that someone does not remark, “Over there is where that woman was found murdered 50 years ago.”

In those days people traveled through the thinly settled north Iredell in ox carts, wagons drawn by mules and horses, and there were a few buggies. A narrow trail called a road crossed the country over practically the same route now traversed by the state highway. What is now known as the Jim Smith branch was then an ordinary country stream with probably a different name. The road crossed it at practically the same place at which the present highway crosses it, but on either side was a dense thicket which stretched away for a long distance. Three or four hundred yards up the hill in the direction of Elkin and to the left of the road lived Margaret Seamont with her widowed mother. It is said that the woman was a rather striking figure and rustic beauty, but she was poor and her mother was poor.

One spring day early in the morning or late in the afternoon—no one seems to know just what time—a white man and a negro servant drove along the road with a double team of mules. The mules leaped and snorted fiercely and the negro driver had considerable difficulty in controlling them. After he had passed the place where they had become frightened, he returned and found the body of a woman lying near a pile of rock close to the road.

There are two men in Harmony who viewed the body at the time: C.A. Grose, prominent North Iredell county farmer and a member of the merchandise firm of C.A. Grose and Brother, of this place, was on his way home from Statesville soon after the dead woman was found and he saw her body. Mr. Grose is now 62 years of age and he says that he was only about 10 or 12 years old at that time. “Uncle Cass” Dalton, a negro who lives near here, also saw the body.

In those days it was a grave offense to move a dead body found under such circumstances until the coroner could make an investigation. The road was rough and travel hard. By the time the coroner reached the place, the body had remained in the spot for 10 or 12 hours perhaps, and the news of the murder had spread far and near. Great throngs viewed the scene of the murder.

These two men who saw the dead woman say that her throat was cut from ear to ear in one great gash and that it was cut deep. A second gash also had been made, shorter and not as deep as the first. Very little blood was found on the scene, leaving the impression that she had been killed at another place and her body brought to the spot where it was found.

The dead woman had been an expectant mother and this aroused certain suspicions which never materialized. An investigation into the movements of the woman the day before her death revealed that she had visited the home of a negro to borrow some corn meal for bread. A negro at his home, Baldy Gaither, who became one of the best loved old negroes in the country, was arrested under suspicion. George Graham, another negro, told Cass Talton the negro revered to above, on the night of the murder was supposed to have taken place that he had killed a woman. He was arrested and, according to “Uncle Cass” today told that he and Baldy Gaither had committed the murder. Feeling ran high in this county and the two negroes were taken to jail in Wilkesboro. The case dragged along for six or seven months, and friends of Baldy Gaither expected to see him convicted and hanged. They never expected anything else for George Graham. George told that Baldy had held the woman while he cut her throat. The woman’s condition at the time of her death, the gruesome appearance of her body, and the horror of the manner in which she had been murdered stirred the blood of the people. It was the sensation of the whole country for months.

John Tharpe, another well-to-do farmer of this section, is another man who was living here at the time and who remembers something of the case. He is 67 years old and admits that when he had to drive an ox wagon within a mile or so of the place where the woman lay dead awaiting the arrival of a coroner that he was badly frightened. Mr. Tharpe says that the human life was held dearer then than now and that such a murder was must more unusual than today.

The trial of the two negroes was held in Wilkesboro. Up to the time of the trial, according to Uncle Cass Dalton, George Graham stuck to his story that Baldy Gaither ahd held the woman while he cut her throat. As people remember it now, George changed his story and admitted that he had committed the murder alone. It is said by these old people that prominent white friends of Baldy had despaired of his life, but the confession of Graham saved him. According to them, the evidence seemed tangled, and it was believed that certain white men had planned the murder and hired George Graham to carry out the actual killing. This never came up in court, however, and until this day no one knows the true story of Margaret Seamont’s death unless George Graham finally told the truth.

Some of the old people say that George was sentenced to be hanged, others that he was sentenced to 99 years in the state penitentiary. Those who remember it, the former who say that the governor changed the sentence to life imprisonment. At any rate, he was not hanged but died in prison soon after being sent there. According to belief among the people of North Iredell at that time as expressed by the people who were living here then and who still live here, George Graham was not the only ne connected with the murder. The whole truth remains a mystery in the minds of those people who still know the history of the case, and this mystery makes the story and legends connected with it all the more interesting to people who pass over the Jim Smith branch and have the murder recalled to them.

Sensible people take no stock in the ghost stories told about the bridge, but there are negroes in this section who are still afraid to pass alone over the little stream on nights when the moon flits through the clouds and especially on nights when clouds cover the moon and there is a mist.

Going from Harmony to Elkin, the road makes a sharp bend to the right and another back to the left, just as it crosses the Jim Smith branch. Just beyond the bridge and to the left of the road the rocky spot where the body was found is now covered with dirt. But the place is recalled and the new hard surface road will cross the stream about 100 feet higher up the water course. Mrs. Tharpe and Mr. Grose can tell wonderfully interesting stories about the killing and the fright among people after it was over. Young people still with the natural morbid curiosity of human beings, enjoy listening to them when they meet at the stores and loitering places and some one starts talking about the strange murder which took place at the Jim Smith branch many years ago.

From page 5 of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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State Dropping Mothers' Aid Cases, July 8, 1925

Cut 47 Mothers Off Present List

Raleigh—Forty-seven cases of Mothers’ Aid will have to be dropped from the list because of the cut made by the General Assembly of 1925 and the Budget Commission in the State appropriation for this purpose, according to Miss Emeth Tuttle, director of Mothers’ Aid for the State Board of Charities and Public Welfare. The appropriation available for the current biennial period is approximately $28,500, as against $50,000 for 1922-24, a decrease of 43 per cent. Thirty-two counties will be forced to discontinue cases in order to come within their new quotas.

As a result of the cut, the most progressive counties have made good use of the State appropriation in the past are set back, the director says, while applications for Mothers’ Aid come in constantly. Six applications for this help were received in one day recently by the State Board of Charities and Public Welfare, five of the applications from counties that not only cannot take on any more cases but that will have to dismiss some they have.

From page 5 of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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Insane, Deaf, Blind, Delinquent Inmates Must Pay for Their Upkeep, July 8, 1925

Inmates Financially Able Must Pay

State institutions for the insane, deaf, blind and delinquent, under legislation enacted by the 1925 session of the general assembly, are now making a charge for those students and inmates who are able to pay. Further, the law provides that should a person enter one of these institutions an indigent and later inherit or acquire money or property, he would have to pay for his support or instruction as the case might be.

The constitution provides that “the general assembly may provide that the indigent deaf, mute, blind and insane of the state shall be cared for at the charge of the state.” In the next section, however, is the following: “it shall be steadily kept in mind by the legislature and board of public charities that all penal and charitable institutions shall be made as nearly self-supporting as is consistent with the purpose of their creation.” Advocates of legislation making a charge mandatory in every case where the inmates or pupil is able to pay, insisted that this was in line with the provision of the constitution declaring that institutions should be as nearly self-supporting as possible.

The institutions specifically named in 1925 legislation include the state hospital at Raleigh, the state hospital at Morganton, the state hospital at Goldsboro, the state home and industrial school for girls and women (Samarcand), the Caswell training school for boys near Rocky Mount, the Morrison training school for delinquent negro boys in Richmond county, the state school for the deaf and dumb at Morganton, and the state sanatorium for the treatment of tuberculosis.

The law provides that the governing bodies shall fix, at their discretion, the cost to be imposed on each patient or student.

It is specifically provided, however, that at none of these institutions shall the policy of caring for the indigent free of charge to them be abandoned, although it is further provided that any person listed as indigent who afterwards acquires means of payment shall pay. Suit for the recovery of such pay may be entered in the Superior Court of Wake County, the law provides.

It has been pointed out that the chargers of the original institutions for the care of the insane, that is, the asylums at Raleigh and Morganton, made specific provision that preference was to be given indigents and that those who were able to pay should be made to do so.

These institutions, it is said, have charged for the support and care of persons who were able to pay, from that time to the present day. It is only the institutions later created that are said not to have carried out this policy.

Governor McLean recently announced that he intended to appoint a commission headed by Dr. Watson S. Rankin, to look into the affairs of the Caswell training school and to determine definitely what class of patients should be admitted there.

Whether the governor later would conduct similar investigations of other institutions was not stated.

From page 5 of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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All 137 Graduates of State College Already Have Job Offers, July 8, 1925

State Graduates Get Jobs

Within 10 days after commencement, State College had placed every one of the 137 members of the graduating class of 1925, according to information just received from that institution, thus maintaining one of the most cherished traditions, namely, that State men never fail to land jobs.

The problem of placing her men looked more difficult to State College this year than formerly because of the large class of students graduated from the School of Science and Business, the class in business administration being one of the largest in the South. A placement bureau, within the school, under the direction of R.W. Henninger, Professor of Industry, secured the positions.

In each case in which the College helped to place the men, care was taken to see that the applicant had received training which seemed suitable for the position available. There were more openings in the various industries in the State for men training in business subjects than the college could fill. The positions included accounting, store management, industrial management, sales, county agent work, farm management, commercial houses dealing in agricultural implements, and research work in agricultural and economics.

From page 2 of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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Stokes County to Build Four New High Schools, July 8, 1925

School Consolidation Ordered

Winston-Salem—The Stokes county commissioners and board of education met in joint session and voted to consolidate all the county schools. The two boards also appropriated $98,000 for construction of school buildings in Danbury, Sandy Ridge, Francisco and Lawsonville districts which, when completed, will place a high school within reach of every child in the county. High schools have already been established in Walnut Cove, Germantown, King, Pinnacle, Pine Hall and Meadow districts.

From page 5 of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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Mrs. Patterson Encourages Farm Girls, July 8, 1925

A “Success Talk” for Farm Girls

By Mrs. Lindsay Patterson

I do hope that you have a pretty room that is all your own and that you are putting in all the new and attractive furnishings so easy to make today with paint and cretonnes and artistic shapes in furniture.

I am crazy over the pretty clothes the girls of today can wear and I hope you live where you can take domestic science and have learned to make your belongings, so you may have an opportunity to use your own distinctive good taste and have clothes that are really becoming. Girls are the prettiest things in the world, and I just love to see them prance around looking like a flower garden. And that isn’t all. If we didn’t have them to make fun of us older ones and the clothes we wear, and advise us as to new styles, I don’t know what we would finally wind up looking like for the most of us get to the place where we aren’t very much interested in what we wear, only if we are warm in winter and cool in the summer. We need you girls, if anything more than you need us.

And do join all the canning clubs and social clubs and activities like that, so you can bring all the new ideas in housekeeping and entertaining back home. Learn to take the lead in neighborhood pleasures, picnics, meetings of all kinds. The country should be the pleasantest place in the world in which to live, and an up-and-coming daughter can do more to make it than any 50 other people who are set in their ways.

Do try, too, to have your own flower garden and plant enough to spare to the stranger within the gates, the sick and afflicted, and the old people who are not thought of so often as they deserve. No one appreciates a remembrance as much as an old person. They are not intentionally neglected, but the matter is just put aside for convenient season which does not always come. Try to be a girl who is always commended for her thoughtfulness of the aged and infirm.

And finally, little sisters to the roses, please don’t paint—not that it’s wrong, but because it’s an artistic mistake. It covers up your individuality, and individuality is what makes you yourself. When I see a group of girls all painted up, I am always reminded of a bunch of Christmas dolls, all exactly alike—no expression, just color. If you had no sense, you would be forced to paint to hide your lack of expression, but when you are a bright American girl, it seems such a pity to make yourself look like an 89-cent doll.

From page 4 of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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Former Students of Moravian Falls Academy Held Reunion, July 2, 1925

The Reunion of the former students of the Moravian Falls Academy was held last Friday. At the hour of 10 a.m., a large number of students started assembling on the old play grounds extending words of welcome and shaking hands. The number grew and grew, ‘til it was estimated that there were nearly 500 present among thome many were of the former teachers.

Speeches were made by following teachers and students of the once widely known Academy of learning: Hon. Joe F. Spainhour of Morganton; Mr. James Linney of Alexander county; Mr. James Linney of Alexander county; Daniel Washington of Texas; Vance McGinnis of Boomer township; Rufus Hendren of Wilkesboro township. Attorney F.B. Hendren of Wilkesboro was master of ceremonies.

At the noon hour a fine dinner was spread by the ladies, and of course that was greatly enjoyed by all.

After the dinner, old acquaintances were made new again, and the best of wishes were extended to each other for the future.

From page 5 of The North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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A.J. Sims to Head Assn. of Agricultural College Editors, July 9, 1925

Heads College Editors

Raleigh, July 9—A.J. Sims of the University of Tennessee was yesterday afternoon elected president of the American Association of Agricultural College editors in session here. C.E. Rogers of Kansas State College was elected vice president, and J.B. Hasselman of the Michigan State College of Agriculture was elected secretary and treasurer. The association voted to hold the next meeting at Lansing, Michigan.

From the front page of The Concord Times, Thursday, July 9, 1925

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Chief Woodside Captures Ransom Staley with 85 Gallons of Whiskey, July 2, 1925

Police at Mooresville Capture Ransom Staley and 85 Gallons

Mooresville Enterprise, July 2:

Chief of Police O.L. Woodside put one over on the bootleggers Thursday morning just after he had eaten his breakfast, between 7 and 8 o’clock. He was coming out of Moore Avenue and happened along when a Hudson coach turned from Broad Street into Monroe Avenue. The car looked suspicious and it bethought the alert policeman that probably it would not be amiss to see what embraced the cargo. He ran to the jitney station and pressed “Bunnie” Kimmons into service with a fast car. The liquor-laden car turned into Main Street just ahead of the chief. The jitney car passed the Hudson coach after passing the Mooresville cotton mill office and as it did Chief yelled to the driver of the coach to stop. The driver was so frustrated he did not know what to do, but after running he turned into New Town, and after a brief un the street stopped, and there was no place for him to go.

The man with the driver got away. The Hudson coach and the man were brought to the city hall and an investigation was made of the car. The back seat had removed and in the space back of the front seat there were 17 5-gallon cans of liquor. The man in charge stated that 65 gallons of the whiskey was in the very best grade of corn liquor, but 25 gallons was an inferior or “sugar loaf” variety. The liquor runner gave his name first as that of J.B. Robson of North Wilkesboro, but upon investigation the man proved to be named Ransom Staley of Wilkes county, eight miles out from Wilkesboro on the Boone trail. He was given a hearing Thursday afternoon at 3 o’clock and submitted.

He was taxed with a fine of $400 and the cost of $35. Of course he forfeited his Hudson coach, which is a 1924 model with special springs, etc. The liquor was emptied into the city sewers in the presence of the defendant.

From the front page of the North Wilkesboro Hustler, July 8, 1925

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Stolen Ford Traced to Winston-Salem, June 29, 1925

A 5-passenger automobile was stolen off the main street, (B street) Monday 29th. It was traced to Winston-Salem by John Roop and Deputy Sheriff Will Bauguss and E.M Hutchison. They learned that the parties sold a new chain for a quart of oil and 5 gallons of gasoline at Roaring River and learned who the parties are and that they had hid the Ford there and stopped with a relative, probably intending to leave for West Virginia. No arrests were made just then and the officers returned to Wilkes that night.

From the front page of the North Wilkesboro Hustler, July 8, 1925

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Mountain Crest Celebrates the 4th with a Barbecue Picnic, July 4, 1925

Fourth of July Barbecue-Picnic at Mountain Crest. . . Between 500—600 Attend—A.G. Hendren Furnished 205 Pounds of Barbecue Meat

The big crown of people who attended the 4th of July picnic at Mountain Crest will carry with them the memory of a most pleasant day. The weather was ideal for the occasion, there was no unpleasantness or disorder, entertainment in the form of interesting and instructive speeches filled in the time before dinner, and there was a dinner bountiful enough to satisfy the “picnic-complex” of the hungriest guest.

Participants began to arrive about 10 o’clock in the morning, and by 11, when they were called together by Mr. A.G. Hendren to hear the speakers of the occasion, there were between 500 and 600 people present.

The speakers were: Henry Reynolds, representing the Commercial Club of North Wilkesboro; J.G. Hackett representing the Kiwanis Club; A.B. Hayes of Mt. View, principal of the Mountain Crest school; H.I. Niswonger, state extension horticulturist; Mr. Fornham, state dairyman; J.C. Henry, president of the Wilkes County Poultry Association; and Judge T.B. Finley. Mr. A.G. Hendren presided and introduced the speakers. The State experts gave some valuable suggestions on ways of improving farm conditions by more attention to the county’s principal money-making industries, namely: fruit-growing, poultry and dairying. Mr. Fornham pointed out the significant fact that profits from dairy cows would be increased by the use of stock beets, soy bean and alfalfa hay and silage for food, and omission of grain feed for cows. Judge Finely said that in one month $90,000 was sent out of the county for automobiles and automobile supplies and accessories. He emphasized the fact that some money crop must make it possible for Wilkes to get this money back if the county is to prosper.

After the speaking was over, dinner was laid out on a long table which had been prepared. The excellent barbecued meat, pork and beef, was served with bread, pickles, sandwiches, pies, cakes and other good things from the baskets.

From the front page of the North Wilkesboro Hustler, July 8, 1925

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Doings in the Tar Heel State, July 8, 1925

Doings in the Tar Heel State

Lenoir—Guy Sain, young married man and employee of the Sprinkle Oil Company, was drowned at Broyhill Lake, a popular bathing resort just out of town. Sain and Howard Hartley, another employee of the Sprinkle Oil Company, had gone in swimming together.

Kinston—John Koonce, so-called “night rider”, is at liberty after sawing his way through a second-story window in the Lenoir County jail here and authorities of several counties are seeking him. Koonce is under sentence totalling 32 months for larceny, while five or six additional charges are held against him here an done in Pitt county.

New Bern—An aged woman, apparently about 70 years of age, was found watersoaked with blood flowing from a wound in the head on the highway just out of Kinston on the Trenton road by United States Deputy Marshal Roy Manning of this city. The woman was taken to a Kinston hospital.

Gatesville—Jim Ballard, slayer of Vernon Eason, Gates county deputy sheriff, was sentenced to die in the electric chair on July 30 by Judge Henry Grady, who has been presiding over the special term of court here.

Duke—Percy Norris, 17-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Norris, died here, death resulting from an attack of tetanus that came from an infected foot. The foot was injured about three weeks ago when the young man was plahing baseball with a number of his friends.

Fayetteville—Wade Bennett, popular young man of this city, for the second time was vindicated from blame for the death of Mrs. B.A. McKinnon, when he was acquitted by Judge Duncan Shaw in the recorder’s court on indictments charging him with second degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon, reckless driving and driving an automobile while under the influence of whiskey.

Raleigh—Continuing the investigation into county and state prison camps which Governor McLean ordered after the conviction of guards at the Rocky Mount camp a few weeks ago, H. Hoyle Sink, commissioner of pardons, is in the western part of the state inspecting prison camps and conditions surrounding the prisoners.

Salisbury—Henry Hodge, student of the Agricultural and Engineering college, died at the Salisbury hospital from injuries he received when a boiler crown sheet of a threshing machine outfit blew out on the Lisk farm, 16 miles east of Salisbury.

Lexington—A peg leg cost the life of “Wad” Lopp, a negro aged about 40, who was killed at Erlanger when a switch engine of the Southbound railway backed into a truck on which there were seven men. Six of them jumped to safety, but the artificial member hindered Lopp and he was thrown to the sidetrack, where the brake rod under the tender of the engine penetrated is body and brought instant death.

Salisbury—Kerr Kluttz, news boy, age 12, died as a result of injuries sustained when he was thrown from a truck in which he was riding.

Yadkinville—Dr. J.P. Nicholson of Buck Shoals is visiting relatives here. Doctor is 89 years old and spray as a youngster. He and Mr. Rugus Carter of this place are the same age and both active as boys. But J.W. Wooten of this place is in the lead, being 96 years old and is seen up town frequently. He usually walks with a cane but sometimes forgets it.

Laurinburg—William James Martin, aged 17 years, jumped into the water of the Springfield cotton mill pond and was drowned before he could be rescued. The young man was in company with other young fellows who were enjoying bathing, and he decided to get into the water himself. He could not swim and when he jumped into deep water was drowned before he could be rescued.

Salisbury—Five men were arrested, three automobiles confiscated and 50 gallons of liquor destroyed as a result of two days’ raid near Taylorsville by federal prohibition officers working under A.B. Coltrane, state director.

Wilson—Frank Miller and Mr. Harding, the latter an expert, visited the farm of Mr. Miller, located near this city, and found a great many squares punctured and a number of eggs, and several boll weevils over a limited area.

Salisbury—Delma Morris, 22 years old, died following an operation for appendicitis. The funeral was conducted from the home of Fred Coggins and the body was taken to Albemarle for interment. Surviving are the parents and two brothers.

Salisbury—A young white man, Jim Conners, was convicted in county court of an assault, the charge against him being that he unduly whipped his 18-months-old baby. He was given a suspended road sentence of eight months.

Reidsville—J.W. Gillie Jr., the 14-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Gillie, died as a result of injuries and shock sustained while taking a cow to pasture. He was dragged for a considerable distance and was badly injured about the body. A local physician, however, declared that shock caused the youth’s death.

Lenoir—One of the largest families, speaking from the standpoint of avoirdupois, is that of Mr. and Mrs. W.W. McGowan, who live four miles east of here. In the family are Mr. and Mrs. McGowan, 10 children: six girls and four boys. The total weight of the family is a little over 2,200 pounds.

Salisbury—Main Street Methodist congregation is to erect a new house of worship at a cost of $85,000 exclusive of the site and furnishings. The present church site on Main Street will be disposed of and the new building will be on the corner of Church and Chestnut streets, a block from the present church.

Spencer—The burning of a cancelled mortgage in the presence of a large congregation featured the dedication of Trading Ford Baptist Church near Spencer, when an all-day program was given. Members of the congregation clapped their hands for joy as the smoke of the burning notes ascended from the altar in the church.

Red Springs—Rev. G.M. Daniel, pastor of the Red Springs Methodist Church, came to his death in a swimming pool at Lakerim Beach. Lakerim Beach is located on the Raeford-Fayetteville highway about eight miles from Fayetteville. The water at the point where the body was recovered was not more than four feet deep.

New Bern—Marjorie Binson, 16-year-old daughter of Mrs. Annie Brinson of Arapahoe, was drowned at Wilkerson Point while bathing with friends. A telephone message received here said Alton Belgania, who could not swim, narrowly escaped drowning when he attempted to save the girl.

Elizabeth City—The body of Leila Jamieson, 10-year-old daughter of Andrew Jamieson, prominent citizen of Oxford, was brought up from Nag’s Head on the Trenton and taken to Oxford for burial. The little girl was drowned in the sound at Nag’s Head.

Kinston—First curing of tobacco are being made in the territory east and south of here. A grower named Morton, residing near Beulaville in Duplin County, is reported to have been the first to “put in a barn.” At least two barns in the section between this city and Tower Hill have been “fired.” The curings are unusually early.

From page 2 of the North Wilkesboro Hustler, July 8, 1925

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Baseball Game Between Twins and Dobson Ended by Fistfight, July 8, 1925

Ball Game Finished with a Fight—One Cut and One Knocked Down

Down at the fair grounds last Saturday a fast game of ball was played between the Twins and Dobson. At the end of the seventh inning the score stood 5 and 5. At this point in the game a fight between young Norman, a player of Dobson, and Alvin Minton, a Wilkes man, occurred over a decision, in which Norman sustained a cut on the throat by Minton with a knife, it is said. Norman knocked Minton down with his fast after being cut. The fight ended the game.

From the front page of the North Wilkesboro Hustler, July 8, 1925

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Gordon Baptist Church Dedication in August, July 8, 1925

To Dedicate Gordon Baptist Church First Sunday in August

Gordon Baptist church at the Greer cotton mill will be dedicated on the first Sunday in August. Dinner will be served on long tables which we expect to erect. People of the community are expected to come and bring baskets. Everybody is invited and especially every Baptist minister in the county. Special music for the day by one of the livest little cornet bands in North Carolina.

--Charley Coleman, North Wilkesboro, N.C.

From the front page of the North Wilkesboro Hustler, July 8, 1925

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Town and Country News Briefs, North Wilkesboro Hustler, July 8, 1925

Town and Country News. . . Local Items of Interest

The Christian chatauqua community singing was at the school building in Wilkesboro Monday and Tuesday nights.

The protracted meeting closed at the Baptist church Sunday evening. Sixty-one joined the First Baptist Church.

Mr. J.B. Williams says they have issued 1,350 automobile and truck license plates up to Tuesday morning, July 7th, from this office, the total amount of money for these plates being $21,220.

Mrs. Whit Williams, who was seriously hurt some time ago in a jitney bus collision between here and Winston-Salem, has improved after some time. Mrs. Williams has perhaps lost part of the use of one of her arms permanently.

A roasted pig that weighed 125 pounds and two beef hams, which all-told made together 205 pounds of meat alone—aside from what the baskets contained—for the picknickers was not calculated to let any of the crowd go hungry on the Big Fourth at the picnic on the Brushy Mountain.

Mr. Clifford Moore of Straw is the first in the county to sell ripe tomatoes this season. He had a bushel of the fine vegetable in town Monday morning. In the Hustler’s opinion he is doubtless the youngest farmer in the county who has produced so early a crop of tomatoes to the extent of any quantity.

Mr. John J. Russell of Boomer township and one of Wilkes county’s oldest and regular attendant at the annual re-unions of the Confederate Veterans, suffered a slight stroke of paralysis the latter part of June, his many friends are sorry to learn and hope that he is recovering. He is being attended by Dr. A.J. Eller.

Some of us bewail the effects of dry weather in the county but if we had rain only every few days, we would be perhaps sick of the slime and weeds in the crops. Ex-Sheriff Johnson said last week and he is pretty well acquainted with Wilkes, that good upland soil corn has not been hurt by drought but that poor upland corn would not make anything.

You can get a Confederate Memorial Half Dollar by calling at the Bank of North Wilkesboro. Proceeds from the sale of these coins will be used to help pay for carving the great monument to the heroes of ’61-’65 of the South at Stone Mountain, Ga.

In Mulberry township on the Vickery Adams farm a panther has been seen by several people during the past three weeks, it is said. Seventy-five men went on a hut for it one night last week but failed to get it. The people of that section are very much excited over the appearance of this wild animal. Mr. J.C. Adams of that community says that few people in the section travel after the sun goes down.

Mr. P.E. Dancy informs us that on July 24th the National Realty & Auction Company will offer for sale the farm property of Mr. C.C. Gambill one-half mile east of North Wilkesboro on the south side of the Yadkin river. This is valuable property and will bring a good price. A Ford car is being given away to the person holding the lucky number at this big land auction sale. The P.E. Dancy company is the local representative for the sale.

From the front page of the North Wilkesboro Hustler, Wednesday, July 8, 1925

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Coming and Going in the North Wilkesboro Hustler, July 8, 1925

Persons Coming and Going. . . Local and County Items

Miss Mary Gordon Greenlee of McDowell county is visiting kinspeople here.

Mr. Thos. Hubbard of Washington, D.C., is visiting relatives in the Wilkesboros.

Mrs. C.U. Davis of Winston-Salem, spent Thursday to Friday visiting her mother, Mrs. E.M. Welborn, west of Wilkesboro.

Mr. and Mrs. Joe M. Prevette and children of Raleigh spent Sunday in Wilkesboro with his grand-parents, Rev. and Mrs. M. McNeill.

Mr. and Mrs. Cal Spencer and two daughters, of Marion, are visiting Mrs. Spencer’s sister, Mrs. A.G. Hendren at their home on the Brushy mountain.

Attorneys F.B. Hendren, J.A. Rousseau and Solicitor Hayes attended the meeting of the bar association at Asheville last week, returning home last Thursday.

Mr. and Mrs. David Welborn of Winston-Salem spent a few days last week at the home of her mother, Mrs. Williams, west of Wilkesboro, returning home Friday afternoon.

Statesville Landmark, June 29th: Mr. and Mrs. S.O. Lazenby, Mr. E.T. Lazenby of Cool Spring were at Moravian Falls to attend a reunion of the scholars of Geo. W. Green.

Mr. J.C. Reins went across the mountain first of the week to solicit orders for the Reins Marble Works. Mrs. Reins left Saturday for Richmond, Va., to visit her former home.

Mr. and Mrs. W.W. Parlier and little daughter, of Montgomery, Ala., visited Miss Lola Brown at Moravian Falls Monday and Tuesday. They left this morning for Charlotte to visit relatives a few days before returning home.

Mrs. Floyd J. Strupe, who had been visiting in Stokes county, returned last week to their home here where they have rooms in the new Central office building where also Dr. Strupe has office succeeding Dr. McCabe, chiropractor doctor.

From the front page of the North Wilkesboro Hustler, July 8, 1925

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