Edward Browning Wants to Marry 15-Year-Old Frances Heenan, March 31, 1926

Man Who Tried to Adopt Poor Little Girl Wants to Marry Now. . . Edward Browning, Elderly and Wealthy New York Real Estate Operator Who Tried to Play Fairy Godfather to Mary Louise Spas, Now Plans to Marry 15-Year-Old Girl Who Was Attacked by Unknown Acid Fiend

New York, March 31 (AP)—Edward W. Browning, elderly and wealthy real estate operator, has again assumed a role in a “Cinderella” tale. This time, however, he is playing the part of the Prince, following his disastrous attempt to be fairy godfather to Mary Louise Spas last year. His secretary today confirmed reports that his engagement to Frances Heenan, formerly of Columbus, O., 15-year-old daughter of a trained nurse, will be announced this coming June when the new Cinderella reaches her 16th birthday.

Frances is suffering from burns on her face, the work, according to Mr. Browning, of “some fiend” who entered her bed room while she slept and threw acid on her. Eight detectives are searching for the malefactor and four nurses are attending the girl.

He refused to confirm his secretary’s admission of the engagement plans, saying “it is a question I can’t talk about at present.” He added that Frances was “a lovely girl—very refined.” Her mother, Mrs. William Heenan, expressed no surprise at the reports of a romance.

The physician, who attended Frances after the mysterious acid throwing, said the burns would not be serious and probably would leave no permanent scars. Mr. Browning said the matter of the scars is “unimportant anyway,” so far as his regard for his new Cinderella is concerned.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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-=-

Reading this made me feel uncomfortable, so I decided to look for more information. How old was the “elderly” Edward Browning? He was 51, which I wouldn’t say was elderly, but would be too old for a 15-year-old.

What about the person who snuck into her bedroom and threw acid on her face? Did those private detectives ever find the person. No.

So did he ever marry her? Yes, and he didn’t wait for a wedding announcement on her 16th birthday either. Edward W. “Daddy” Browning, 51, married Frances “Peaches” Heenan, 15, on June 23, 1926. The marriage didn’t work and they separated within months.

Divorce wasn’t quick and easy in 1926. The divorce trial in 1927 was widely covered with the child bride accusing her husband of bizarre behavior, emotional manipulation and inappropriate conduct.

Before his present wife, Browning had tried to adopt a 14-year-old. He described wanting a “companion” who was “young, cheerful, and lively.” He gave expensive gifts to teenage girls. And he openly said he preferred the company of “young girls” to adult women.

If you’re a parent, how would you feel about someone like this wanting to date or marry your 14- or 15-year-old daughter? If you’re a young person, what would you think about a 51-year-old man who approached you like this?

If you’d like more information, you can read about Edward Browning on Wikipedia. There’s a section on his marriage to Frances Heenan and his the divorce trial. The Library of Congress’s Chronicling America project has articles on “Peaches Browning”:

https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/search/pages/results/?andtext=Peaches+Browning (chroniclingamerica.loc.gov in Bing)

J.W. Bell Found Still, Both Eyes Shot Out, Left to Die, March 31, 1926

Raider Is Not Able to Stand Result of Wounds. .. Free Lance Dry Raider in New Hanover County Succumbs to Injuries

Wilmington, March 31—J.W. Bell, free lance dry raider of Wilmington, died in a local hospital shortly after noon today from gunshot wounds which he suffered while investigating the location of a whiskey still which he had discovered in a swamp seven miles from the city.

Bell was found lying in the swamp by Sheriff G.C. Jackson yesterday afternoon with both eyes shot out and his face horribly powder burned. He had been missing from his home fo over 24 hours when a search was instituted.

He is believed to have been shot down Monday afternoon while creeping up upon the still which showed evidence of having been in operation recently. He lay in the swamp unconscious in a drizzle of rain until yesterday afternoon. His automobile was found at Oleander, a fashionable suburb three miles from the still site, by searchers early yesterday. He is believed to have parked it out of the danger zone since his tires have been cut off in recent weeks by persons who are supposed to oppose the Volstead law.

I.W. Harrellson, deputy United States marshal missing from his office since Monday and believed to have accompanied Bell on the raid, showed up last night. He frequently worked with the raider. He said he had been home since Monday and did not know Bell was raiding.

Search for the missing man was not begun until yesterday morning. Mrs. Bell advised the sheriff at that time that she was worried. Nearly a half hundred persons joined in the search.

County and city officers working jointly in the matter are without any thing of a tangible nature to proceed on and with the exception of one or two slight clues have nothing to work on.

From page 2 of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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Charlotte Chief of Police Ferguson Demoted to Patrolman, March 31, 1926

Charlotte Police Chief Is Reduced

Charlotte, March 31 (AP)—Aleck West was acting chief of police Wednesday and former Chief Ferguson was reduced to the rank of patrolman following a probe of charges against the erstwhile chief. Announcement was made Tuesday night that the accusation of unbecoming conduct had not been substantiated in any degree, but that the demotion was made because of lack of executive ability on the part of Ferguson.

The rank-reducing was not halted with the former chief, however, for along with it came the reduction of Chief of Detectives Dan Bradley, to plain clothesman, because of his “failure to keep down jealousies and rivalries” in his department. Approximately 50 witnesses were heard by the city commission before decision was reached.

Mr. Ferguson refused to comment on the decision or his plans.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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G.F. Jones, RR Switchman, Loses Leg, March 31, 1926

Loses His Leg in Railroad Accident

Wilmington, March 31—G.F. Jones of 313 North Second street, switchman on the Seaboard Air Line railroad, had his left leg severed from his body late this afternoon when attempting to make a coupling between two cars. Mr. Jones was rushed to James Walker Memorial Hospital.

The accident occurred on the Hilton yards, and it is believed that Mr. Jones lost his balance after making the connection. One car passed over his limb.

Mr. Jones is about 29 years of age. He recently came to this city. No further details of the accident could be learned.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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Dare Devil Charlie Vee Promises Free Show, April 1, 1926

Vee Will Give an Exhibition Next Saturday. . . Daring Young Man Will Flirt with Death in Perilous Jump from Speeding Car

Dare Devil Charlie Vee, who on Monday afternoon at 4 o’clock concluded a drive of 100 hours in a Chevrolet stock car, under the direction of the A.H. Handley Motor Company will on Saturday afternoon at 4 o’clock attempt two stunts for the edification of Goldsboro people which are even more daring and grueling than his long drive.

The first event on the program which Vee will attempt will be to jump from the rear of an automobile on a city street, the car speeding at a rate of 60 miles an hour. This stunt has been featured on race tracks where the “victim” has the opportunity of landing on a dirt track but never before has it been attempted on a paved street.

If he lives to tell the story, Mr. Vee will engage in a tug of war with two automobiles, one on each side of him. Providing Vee isn’t all messed up after his jump from the speeding car, he says that he is willing to wager that he can hold the two automobiles pulling in opposite directions at full speed.

The stunt which will take place at the corner of Ash and John street, will be free to the public, no contribution being taken or no charge in any way. Mr. Vee, declaring that he never charges for any of his exhibitions and that he is delighted to take a chance on breaking his neck for the edification of the public.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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Easter Egg Hunt in Park Avenue Circle, April 1, 1926

Easter Egg Hunt to be Held Today

This afternoon at 3:30 o’clock the Park Avenue Circle of the Goldsboro Woman’s Club will hold an Easter egg hunt at Herman Park. This event gives promise of being most interesting and will probably be largely attended.

From page 3 of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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State Supreme Court Says New Bern Failed to Protect Public, March 31, 1926

City of New Bern Must Pay Big Sum for Failure to Protect the Public

Raleigh, March 31 (AP)—The city of New Bern must pay $8,000 for the death of Mitchell Willis, who drove a Ford off Craven street into the Trent river. The supreme court today held that cities must provide adequate barriers at street terminals into rivers for the protection of automobilists.

In the case of D.H. Willis, administrator, against the city of New Bern, Justice Brodgen holds that a city must maintain both the streets and their terminal in a safe condition. In the case at bar, Mitchill Willis drove the car into Trent river and drowned both himself and Clyde Gray, a youth riding in the car with him.

Justice Brogden reduces the question to four proportions:

First: The street terminus was dangerous.

Second: The city should have erected barriers or provided a red light or some danger signal.

Third: Long existences of dangerous situations was legal notice to the city of the danger.

Fourth: Under a proper charge from the judge, the jury found the deceased was using due care.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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April 1st--All Fools Day in Goldsboro, 1926

All Fools Day Arrives Today. . . Those Who Fall to be Bamboozled by the Practical Joker Will be Fortunate

If the bottle of milk which is found reposing in its usual place this morning has a bitter taste, don’t think that it is due to the fact that the cow’s disposition has soured. More than likely the neighbor’s boy has remembered that it is April 1st, or All Fool’s Day, and has slipped quinine in the container.

Or if the telephone rings and one is requested to step over next door and ask Mrs. Brown to come to the telephone and when she answers, the party at the other end says “April Fool,” don’t get excited.

Today it will be remembered is the day for the practical joker to be in his glory and those who fail to be a victim of his pranks will well consider themselves fortunate.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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Future of Tourist Camp, Aviation Field Still Under Consideration, April 1, 1926

No Action Is Taken as to Tourist Camp

Owing to the fact that the majority of the members who had been called to attend the conference found it impossible to be present on account of the auction sale of lots at Oak Heights, the meeting between officers of the Wayne County Fair Association and Chamber of Commerce which was to have been held yesterday morning for the purpose of discussing the probability of establishing a tourist camp and aviation field at the local fair ground was postponed.

This meeting will be held at a later date, probably the first part of the coming week.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Farfour Welcome a Son, April 1, 1926

Son Is Born to Well Known Goldsboro Couple

Announcement is made of the birth of a son yesterday to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Farfour. Mother and little one are reported to be getting along nicely.

From page 3 of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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Mrs. Jane Everett Crawford Buried in Willow Dale Cemetery, April 1, 1926

Many Attended This Funeral. . . Body of Mrs. Jane Everett Crawford Was Interred in Willow Dale Yesterday

All that was mortal of Mrs. Jane Everett Crawford, who died at her home on North George street early on the previous morning, was yesterday interred in Willow Dale cemetery following a simple but impressive funeral service conducted at the home by Rev. Peter McIntyre, pastor of the First Presbyterian church.

The many and beautiful floral tributes which covered the casket and the grave attested the high esteem in which the deceased was held by all those who knew her.

Attending the funeral from out of the city were Mr. and Mrs. M.S. Willard of Wilmington, Mrs. Georgia Hicks of Faison and Miss Bessie McLeanof Maxton.

From the front page of the Goldsboro News, Thursday morning, April 1, 1926

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Appeal for Clemency for Jesse Wyatt, Who Killed Stephen Holt, March 30, 1926

Appeal for Clemency for Raleigh Detective

Raleigh, March 29—Attorneys here are arranging to go before Governor McLean the middle of next month with an appeal for clemency in behalf of Jesse Wyatt, former Raleigh police detective, who went to state prison March 15 under an eight to 18 months indeterminate sentence for slaying Stephen Holt, prominent Smithfield attorney. Wyatt was convicted of manslaughter in Wake Superior Court last November. He killed Holt when he mistook his car for a rum-runner and fired in an attempt to stop it.

Especial interest attaches to news of the forthcoming appeal in his behalf because of the investigation now underway at Charlotte into the shooting of an alleged rum runner by police of that city last week.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Record, March 30, 1926

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Serious Fire in Statesville Business Section, March 31, 1926

Statesville Fire Threatens Large Business Section. . . Blaze Started About 10:30 This Morning and Was Reported Burning at Furious Rate at Noon. . . Furniture Lies in Fire’s Path. . . Lumber of One Concern Already Burned and If Winds Shifts, Another Property May be Burned

Statesville, March 31 (AP)—Fire starting about 10:30 o’clock in the Diamond Hill section of this city has been burning at a furious rate. From the fertilizer house it spread to stacks of lumber nearby. A high wind has been blowing since the fire started, and more than a million feet of lumber and four industrial plants are in jeopardy should the wind shift its course toward these plants. All available fire fighting forces have been fighting hard since the fire started, but for lack of sufficient water facilities, little headway had been made toward extinguishing the flames.

So far only the lumber owned by Hutton & Bourbonnais is affected. The fire rages near a big pile owned by the Morrison Manufacturing Company. About $60,000 is the estimated value of the lumber already burned and that in danger.

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 31, 1926

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Preliminary Trial of A.B. Medlin for Killing Mark Simpson, March 31, 296

The Medlin Hearing

Referring to the preliminary trial of A.B. Medlin for the slaying of Mark Simpson in Union County, the Monroe Journal says:

“A number of people from Concord appeared at the trial as character witnesses for the defendant. These included Rev. Ebenezer Myers, L.A. Talbirt, chief of police of Concord, Sheriff Caldwell of Cabarrus County, J.L. Hartsell, manager of the Hartsell Mill, and a number of others, all of whom gave him a good character.

“The defendant himself was not put on the stand, but the version of the killing which he gave to the Sheriff when surrendering was not greatly changed by the State’s witnesses, all of whom were relatives of the dead man. These were Mrs. Britton Helms, a sister of the deceased, and her husband, J.C. Simpson, father, and Henry Helms, nephew of the deceased.

“The story of the State’s witnesses is similar to the statement made by Medlin to Union County officers with the exception as to the manner of approach made by Simpson, and the black-jack scuffle. Medlin said that Simpson approached in an angry manner and cursing, and that he grabbed the black-jack and was holding on to it when he fired is pistol. The State witnesses say that he did not appear mad on approach and that he only reached for the black-jack.

“Dr. Richardson was called to the stand and corroborated the testimony of the witnesses as to the effect of the bullets.

“The State witnesses were gain called to the stand and questioned as to the knife found under Simpson when his body was being removed. None of them knew about the knife except Simpson’s father, who said that he saw the knife and that it was the property of the dead man. The presence of the knife was corroborated by Dr. Richardson.”

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 31, 1926

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Dr. Mandelos Suing W.C. Murphy for Alienation of His Wife's Affections, March 31, 1926

Is Under Bond in Alienation Case. . . W.C. Murphy Arrested on Complaint of Dr. Nicholas A. Mandelos, Who Has Filed Suit for $50,000

Asheville, March 30—W.C. Murphy, county superintendent of public instruction, who lives at 19 Furman Court, was arrested this afternoon by members of the sheriff’s department and held under $2,500 bond in arrest and bail proceedings, upon complaint of Dr. Nicholas A. Mandelos, 55 Ashland Avenue, who filed suit for $50,000 for alienation of his wife’s affections, alleging that Murphy debauched her, using his office to attain that end while she was a member of the teaching staff of Johnson school.

Murphy was taken into custody by Deputy Sheriff Dave Snelson and Deputy Constable T.R. Parker as he sat at his desk in the county court house annex. He was allowed, by direction of Sheriff E.M. Mitchell, a reasonable time in which to arrange bond. His attorney, J.W. Haynes, visited the home of the clerk of superior court and succeeded in having the bond of $25,000 asked in the complaint, reduced to $2,500, which was furnished.

Charging that while his 21-year-old wife was a member of the faculty of Johnson school, Murphy succeeded in winning her affection by maliciously planning and exerting an improper influence over her, Dr. Mandelos, who is a member of the staff at Oteen hospital, alleges that Murphy made promises to the wife of the plaintiff that he would use his influence to have Miss Ila Johnson, then supervisor of schools in Buncombe County, removed and that he further promised to give this position to the wife of the plaintiff, Elinora Griffiths Mandelos.

Dr. Mandelos further contents that the defendant in this action “contrived maliciously and wickedly to injure the plaintiff, and to wrongfully deprive him of the affection, comfort and society and aid of his wife, and maliciously planned and undertook to accomplish his purpose, acquiring an improper influence over her.”

The defendant in this action was elected head of the school system in Buncombe County in April, 1925,and took over the office which he was holding at the time of his arrest July 1, last year.

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 31, 1926

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Mrs. Nash Recovering from Dose of Carbolic Acid, March 31, 1926

Takes Carbolic Acid; Will Likely Recover

Statesville, March 30—According to her physician, unless complications arise, Mrs. Anderson Nash will recover from the effects of carbolic acid, which she took Saturday night.

Mrs. Nash and others went on a long hike Saturday. That evening on her return she announced that she was tired and would retire. Soon after her husband left the room, she was heard to scream, and investigation disclosed that she had taken the carbolic acid. Doctors were quickly summoned and did what could be done to offset the effects of the poison. She was unconscious for some time. Her condition is better and prospects for her recovery are good. Whether the acid was taken through error or purposely has not been definitely established.

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 31, 1926

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Frank Stansbury, 50, Dies Suddenly After Work March 29, 1926

Engineer Stansbury Drops Dead at Spencer

Spencer, March 29—Frank Stansbury, engineer for the Southern Railway system, dropped dead in the street here tonight while on the way to his home. He had been at work during the day and was apparently in his usual health. He is presumed to have suffered an attack of acute indigestion. He was 50 years of age.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Record, March 30, 1926

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Friends Shocked by Sudden Death of Mrs. Reeves March 30, 1926

Mrs. C.A. Reeves Dies at Albemarle

Albemarle, March 30—The many Albemarle and Stanly county friends of Mrs. Augusta Russell Reeves, wife of C.A. Reeves, were shocked this morning when the news of death, which occurred early this morning, was announced.

Mrs. Reeves was stricken about 9 o’clock yesterday morning with what is believed to have been paralysis, and became unconscious shortly after she was stricken. Up until the time of her sudden illness she was apparently in her usual good health. She was up at the usual hour Monday morning and ate a hearty breakfast.

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 31, 1926

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W.H. Willliamson Has Died in Deland, Fla., March 31, 1926

W.H. Williamson Dies in Florida. . . Former Raleigh Man Passed Away at Deland after Long Illness

Charlotte, March 30—William Holt Williamson, one of Charlotte’s prominent citizens, died at his home at Deland, Fla., Monday at 11 p.m., after an illness of 10 days, following a period of failing health for a year. He had been suffering from kidney and heart trouble.

The funeral will be held at Christ Episcopal Church in Raleigh Thursday at 3:30 p.m. and interment in Oakwood cemetery will follow. Mr. Williamson lived in Raleigh until he moved to Charlotte three years ago.

Mr. Williamson, who was a son of the late J.N. Wiliamson of Graham, was engaged with his father in the management of the Ossippee Cotton Mills near Burlington, afterwards organizing the Pilot Cotton Mills Company at Raleigh. Ten years ago both concerns were sold, and Mr. Williamson retired from active business.

He was, at the time of his death, a member of the board of directors of the American Trust Company here and was an active member of St. Peters Episcopal Church. He had a wide circle of friends in Charlotte.

Mr. Williamson was a nephew of the late W.E. Holt Sr. of Charlotte and was a first cousin of Mrs. R.L. Tate and William E. Holt Jr., now residing in Charlotte.

From the front page of the Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 31, 1926

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James Barbour, 12, Attempts Suicide to Avoid School, March 30, 1926

Young Boy Tries to End His Life. . . Attempts Suicide Because He Did Not Want to Go to School

Just because he did not want to go to school, it is said, James Barbour, 12-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Barbour of Bentonville township, attempted suicide Wednesday by tying a rope around his neck and jumping from a tree which he had climbed.

“I ain’t going to school,” he is said to have declared, and when his parents asserted that he would go, he went out and endeavored to end his life. He climbed the tree, according to our information, and swung off, but missed calculation and was only somewhat strangled. He swung back and though pale and weak from the effort jumped again. This time his mother watched him helplessly as he dangled from a rope 15 feet above until he was black in the face. He swung from the limb until Miss Pauline George, a school teacher, climbed the tree, grasped the tree with one arm and held the boy with the other until someone climbed up and cut the rope.

Medical aid was summoned immediately, but for 24 hours he lay unconscious. He has, however, recovered sufficiently to be up now.

From the front page of The Smithfield Herald, Tuesday morning, March 30, 1926

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Compare to another newspaper's account of the same suicide attempt:

Smithfield, March 26—Fear of a whipping by his school teacher is said to have prompted Richard Barber Jr., 12 years old, to attempt suicide. The boy climbed a tree, tied a rope around his neck and the end to a limb and jumped.

Meanwhile, his mother stood below pleading with the boy not to do it. The youngster’s weight was too slight to break his neck.

From page 6 of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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Both downplay the seriousness of a child's suicide attempt and the injury he did suffer from the attempt. The second jump with the rope around his neck, his hanging there until his face turned black, and his remaining unconscious for 24 hours all suggest injury.

Two Banks Merge to Form Bank of Kenly, March 30, 1926

The Two Banks in Kenly Merge. . . Merged Institution to be Known as Bank of Kenly—Better Banking Facilities

The town of Kenly now has one bank, known at the Bank of Kenly. Recently the Farmers Bank of that city has been merged into the Bank of Kenly, thereby making a stronger institution. The officers of the merged institutions are as follows: president, G.W. Whitson; vice-president, J.T. Edgerton; cashier, E.V. Neighbors. This is the second merging to take place in Johnston County in the last few months, the two Clayton banks having consolidated some time ago.

The officials of both Kenly banks, said a Kenly citizen, had but one object in view in the merging of the two banks, and that was to afford better banking facilities for the town and community. The resources of both together make it one of the strongest banks in that section.

The Bank of Kely was the first established in that town and has been serving that community for about 20 years. It has made a fine reputation among the people of that vicinity, and its depositors are numbered by the hundreds.

From the front page of The Smithfield Herald, Tuesday, March 30, 1926

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Commencement for Negro Schools to be Held April 2, 1926

Lieut. L.A. Oxley to Address Negroes April 2

The last group commencement of the negro schools of Johnston County will be held in Princeton on Friday, April 2. It will be held at the school building and prominent speakers will be present. The outstanding address will be made by Lieut. Laurence A. Oxley of Raleigh, state director of welfare work among negroes, at 12:30 o’clock. W.S. King, principal of the Morehead City graded schools, will also make an address. The program for the day is as follows:

9:30—Grand Parade: School “Boost Song”. Each school grouped around its banner.

10—Opening Song, America.

Invocation—Rev. J.W. Brown, pastor of A.M.E. Church, Princeton.

Chorus—“Lift Every Voice and Sing,” (Negro National Anthem).

Word Recognition Contest—Grades, Primer and First Reader, One contestant from each school.

Spelling Contest (written privately)—3, 4, 5, and 6 grades, winning contestants to appear in the auditorium.

Story Telling contest—First and second grades. One contestant from each school.

Arithmetic Contest—4, 5, 6 grades. One grade selection from each school.

Commencement Address—W.S. King, principal of Morehead City Graded School.

Address by Lieutenant Laurence A. Oxley, state director of welfare work among negroes.

Speaking Contest—One contestant from each school.

Oral Language Contest—One contestant from each school. Selected from grades 4, 5 and 6.

Exhibits examined.

Remarks by Mr. M.P. Young and others.

Report of the Judges, Presentation of prizes.

Dinner at 2:45 p.m.

Note—All perfect attendance certificates to be given at the County Commencement on April 9, 1926.

Schools and Teachers in Group

Princeton—Mrs. Florence Whitley, Misses M. Jeffrys, M. Robinson, L. Hamilton.

Kenly—Mr. J.H. Skinner, Mrs. M.L. Feffrys, Miss Adamson.

Southern Grove—Mrs. Joyce McNeeley.

Pine Level—Mrs. Rosa B. Vinson, Miss C.B. Whitaker.

Micro—Misses Beatrice Wolfe and Frances E. Grissom.

Cedar Grove—Miss Lunada Clarke.

From the front page of The Smithfield Herald, Tuesday, March 30, 1926

Did you notice that sixth grade was the final grade in Johnston County's Negro schools?

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Prof. Vermont Will Speak on "Trip to Paris," March 30, 1926

Prof. Vermont to Deliver Address Here

Prof. A. Vermont, former superintendent of the schools of this city, now professor of Romance languages at Converse College, Spartanburg, S.C., will deliver a lecture on a “Trip to Paris” in the courthouse here Friday night at 8 o’clock, which will be illustrated by colored slides of Paris and other places in France.

An admission fee within the reach of all will be charged, for the benefit of the hospital.

Mr. Vermont gave a lecture at Kenly last night. He will be in Selma tonight and in Princeton tomorrow night. He comes to Smithfield under the auspices of the Business and Professional Woman’s Club.

From the front page of The Smithfield Herald, Tuesday, March 30, 1926

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P.L. Godwin, 80, Has Died, March 30, 1926

Mr. P.L. Godwin Dead

Cleveland township lost an aged and respected citizen when Mr. P.L. Godwin passed away at his home last Saturday night. The deceased was 80 years old. He was thrice married, the last time to Miss Martha Wallace, who together with six children survive him. His children are: Mrs. Stephenson of the Shiloh section; Mr. Ernest Godwin and Mrs. Fonzer Honeycutt of Baptist Center; Mrs. J.W. Jones and Mrs. Pell Benson of the Polenta section; and Mr. JL. Godwin of Clayton.

Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon and interment was made at Baptist Center Church. The service was conducted by Rev. Mr. Jenkins of the Baptist church and Rev. M.Y. Self, pastor of the Methodist church of Clayton.

From page 2 of The Smithfield Herald, Tuesday, March 30, 1926

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Mrs. R.E. Massengill, 37, Died, Leaving Husband, 6 Children, March 30, 1926

Mrs. R.E. Massengill Dead

A sad death occurred at the Johnston Couty hospital at Smithfield Friday afternoon when Mrs. R.E. Massengill of Cleveland township passed away after a brief illness. The deceased was 37 years old. She leaves her husband and six children.

The funeral was conducted Saturday afternoon by Rev. Chester Alexander, pastor of the Presbyterian church, and Elder Jesse Barnes of Smithfield. Interment was made in the cemetery at Oakland church.

She was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church at Four Oaks. She was a good woman and will be missed not only by her family but by her friends and neighbors.

From page 2 of The Smithfield Herald, Tuesday, March 30, 1926

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Trial of N.C.Cranford, Charged with Murder of Two Men on Chain Gang, Delayed until March 30, 1926

Trial of Cranford Will be Started Tuesday Morning. . . State Was Not Ready to Proceed with Trial of N.C. Cranford in Albemarle Court Today. . . Murcer Charge Against Cranford. . . Former “Convict Boss” of Stanly County is Charged with Deaths of Two Convicts

Albemarle, March 29 (AP)—The State was not ready today to proceed with the trial of N.C. Cranford, former “convict boss” of Stanly county, charged with first degree murder in connection with the deaths of two convicts, and the case will not begin before tomorrow.

This was announced by Solicitor Don Phillips shortly before the noon recess.

A large crowd had surrounded the court house here, and at 9 o’clock, an hour before court was scheduled to convene, many persons had already taken seats.

An imposing array of counsel faced each other for the trial, led by Solicitor Don Phillips for the prosecution, while J.R. Price, R.L. Smith, G.D.B. Reynolds, H.C. Turner and the firm of Brown & Sikes represented the defendant.

Albemarle, N.C., March 29 (AP)—N.C. Cranford, “convict boss,” went on trial here today in Stanly County superior court, charged with first degree murder in connection with the death of two negro convicts.

Cranford’s trial grew out of the deaths of James Terry and James Howell, who died while serving on his chaingang crew in 1918.

It is charged that the men were beaten unmercifully by Cranford, who at the time was superintendent of the Stanly county convict system.

Court was convened by Judge A.M. Stack at 10 o’clock. Calling a venire was the first matter before the court, and indications were that he defense would press for a jury from another county.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 29, 1926

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Ralph Safrit, 22, Charged with Attack on Girl with Intent to Rape, March 29, 1926

Safrit Bound Over to Superior Court. . . Waives Preliminary Hearing When Taken Before ‘Squire G.M. Lore at the Court House Today

Ralph Safrit, 22-year-old white man of the Rimer community of this county, waived preliminary hearing this morning and was bound over to Cabarrus Superior Court.

Safrit was carried before ‘Squire G.M. Lore at the court house and his counsel, J. Lee Crowell Sr., waived the preliminary hearing. Bond was fixed in the sum of $1,000 by ‘Squire Lore. Protest to this amount was made by Mr. Crowell but Judge Lore declined to reduce it.

Safrit was charged in the warrant with an attack on a girl with intent to rape. The warrant was signed by her brother, court attaches said.

The girl was in the court room with her mother and other relatives. She appears to be about 14 or 15 years of age.

Safrit conferred only with his lawyer. If he had relatives present they did not speak to hm before the hearing was started. He left the court room once to confer with Mr. Crowell.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 29, 1926

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Felton McMillan, Eugene McMillan, Lacy Evans Died in Fire, March 29, 1926

Three Negroes Perish in Fire. . . Burned to Death in Bed When Shanty is Destroyed

Fayetteville, March 27—Felton McMillan, Eugene McMillan and Lacy Evans, negroes employed by the state highway commission, were burned to death in their beds when a shantytruck in which they were sleeping was consumed by flames at 3 o’clock this morning. The tragedy occurred at a camp southwest from Fayetteville on the Wilmington road, Route 21.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 29, 1926

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Police Looking for Men Who Ambushed Mrs. Melton When She Opened the Door, March 29, 1926

Black Mountain Woman Shot from Ambush. . . Was Fired Upon When She Opened Door to Her Home at 1 o’clock This Morning

Asheville, March 29 (AP)—Mrs. John Melton, who lives near Black Mountain, was shot repeatedly from ambush when she opened her front door at 1 o’clock this morning in answer to a call from a messenger announcing that her son, Harry, had been hurt in an automobile accident.

The person or persons who did the shooting were concealed in a group of pines in the yard near the door, and as the door swung open fourt(?) shots from an automatic shotgun and one from a 32 calibre pistol were unloaded in her direction, the pistol shot entering her abdomen, and others taking effect in her thighs, it is reported.

Mrs. Melton is seriously wounded but alive at her home. Attending physicians are doubtful as to the outcome of her injuries, it is said. It is thought the perpetrators of the crime intended to shoot Mrs. Melton’s husband and sun, but were unable to recognize the figure who appeared at the door and fired into her by mistake, investigators said.

Bloodhounds are being used in an effort to trail the offenders. The shooting probably resulted from activities of Harry Melton in combatting moonshine operations, Sheriff E.M. Mitchell of Buncombe County said.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 29, 1926

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Edgar Lowder Killed in Car Collision; Bud Nichols Charged with DUI, March 29, 1926

Edgar Lowder Killed in Accident on Saturday. . . Was in Collision with Car Driven by Bud Nichols Who Has Been Placed Under Arrest

The following story from Albemarle will be read with interest here, where Mr. Lowder is well known:

Edgar Lowder of Concord was killed instantly about midnight Saturday night in an automobile collision with Bud Nichols, who resides at Oakboro. The tragedy occurred about three miles south of Albemarle on highway number 80 when the Ford runabout in which Lowder and his young wife were riding was struck by the Ford touring car driven by Nichols. Lowder’s car turned over two or three times and in some manner Lowder’s head was crushed and death came instantly. The young wife of Lowder, who was a Miss Hatcher of Lilesville until five months ago, escaped with minor injuries. Nichols and a young man by name of Honeycutt escaped entirely without injury.

Officers rushed to the scene of the wreck and Nichols was taken into custody and was placed under bond of $3,000. It is said that both Nichols and his partner, Huneycutt, were under the influence of intoxicants and that Nichols was driving on the wrong side of the road when the collision occurred. It is also stated that Nichols has formerly been charged with driving an automobile while intoxicated.

Mr. Lowder is a native of Stanly county, being a son of the late Mumphrey Lowder of the Fork section in southern Stanly, but recently he had married and moved to Concord. He was in the employ of the State highway commission and had charge of the upkeep of the highway between Concord and Monroe and a part of highway number 27 between Albemarle and Charlotte and was considered a valuable man—a young man of splendid character and well known among a large number of friends and relatives. He was only about 25 years old. He was a member of the Lowder family which is one of the most prominent in the county.

From page 2 of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 29, 1926

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State Prison Currently Self-Supporting, March 29, 1926

First Time in Six Years the State Prison Has Profit. . . Operations Resulted in a Profit During 1925 According to Report by Scott, Charnley & Co. . . . The Prison Is Now Self-Supporting. . . . The Prison Facilities Now in Excellent Condition—A New Era of Independence Is Begun

Raleigh, March 29—For the first time in six years, operations of the North Carolina State’s prison resulted in a profit during the calendar year 1925, according to the report of the audit made by Scott, Charnley & Co., public accountants of Charlotte, made public today by Governor Angus W. McLean.

The total net operating profits for the State’s prison as a whole for the calendar year amount to $42,543.31, but when the amount paid to prisoners upon their discharge for themselves and their families in commutation, $24,449.88, is subtracted, the profit is reduced to $18,093.43. Strictly speaking, that entire amount should not be deducted, since a large part of that commutation accrued during previous years, but, with the system of bookkeeping now in use, there is no other way to calculate.

But the feature of the entire report is that the prison is now on a self-supporting basis for the first time since December, 1920, the last time a report showing a surplus of income over expenses was made. Not only that, but the balance sheet of assets and liabilities shows $2,748,353.55 worth of assets in excess of liabilities, a gain of more than $600,000 over the figure of 1924, which was $2,117,657.26. That means that a large amount was spent during the year on permanent improvements to the prison system and gives added significance to the net profit shown.

The prison facilities, viewed as an industrial plant, now are in excellent condition, the report show, and there is every reason to believe that a new era of independence is begun for the State prison.

For many years the prison was operated not only on a self-supporting basis but in such a manner that it was able to turn over to the State each year nice sums in profits from operations over all expenses. Little difficulty was experienced in finding profitable labor for all able-bodied convicts; expenses for sustenance were low and, consequently, sizeable profits accrued.

As far back as 1915, however, a change in attitude toward the penal institutions became noticeable. Organized free labor began strenuous objections to the hiring out of convicts in a number of the occupations which had resulted in large profits and it began to be hard to find work for all the men who were able to do gainful labor. Pressure began to be brought for higher standards of living for convicts and the demands had to be met.

As a result of these factors, and others, it became increasingly hard to show profits each year and, since that had become almost a part of the State’s ritual, various kinds of economies were put into practice to meet the decreases in revenue.

By December, 1920, the surplus had been reduced to $19,000, which was the last figure shown in that column in the annual reports. But, not only had the profits been all but wiped out in those last few years of financial independence, but buildings and other facilities had begun to show ill effects from the system of rigid economy and a good share of the revenue in the past six years has had to be devoted to repairs in existing facilities and additional improvements, which, except for the seemingly necessity for scrimping and saving in the earlier years, would have been spread over 10 years instead of being packed into six.

That, and the steady increase in the number of prisoners, accounts in a large measure for the profitless reports of the past several years.

As late as June 30, 1925, a deficit of some $160,000 was shown in operations for the fiscal year, but that was due, in part, to the fact that the crops then were in the ground and, strictly speaking, could not be counted at their full probable value as assets. Incidentally, the cost of putting those crops in the ground was estimated at $198,000 and their total value in the present report, both from actual sales and inventories of stocks on hand, is shown as in excess of $240,000.

Nine of the prison units showed profits for the year, the two farms at Caledonia and Cary and seven of the eight convict camps.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 29, 1926

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Funeral of Mrs. Bettie Brisson and Other Local News from St. Paul, March 29, 1926

St. Paul News. . . Funeral of Mrs. Bettie Brisson—Little Miss Judith Poole Gives Birthday Party—Miss Retha Hester Entertains—Methodist Pastor Pounded—Personal

By Bessie G. Johnson

St. Paul, March 29—Funeral services took pace at 4 o’clock Thursday afternoon for Mrs. Bettie Brisson, 92 years old, whose death was due to the infirmities of age to which she succumbed the previous day at the home of her son, Charlie, who resided in the Tobymore section near town. Interment took place in the family plot in the cemetery near Tar Heel, where other of her relatives were buried. Her husband, the late Joe Brisson, preceded her to the grave several years ago. Besides her son, with whom her remaining days were spent, Mr. Dick Brisson of near town is also among the immediate family of survivors.

Of social interest among the wee tots locally was the party Wednesday afternoon at the home of Dr. And Mrs. C.T. Poole, when their attractive little daughter Judith celebrated her 4th birthday anniversary by inviting several young friends to meet with her from 3 to 5:30. Quite a number took advantage of the occasion and many were the games and other amusements that followed. The little hostess was showered with numerous gifts of various kinds which attested her popularity among the younger set. The happy event was celebrated in the little daughter’s playhouse, which had been arranged with decorations to vie with the Easter season. The table on which the birthday cake with its four lighted tapers formed the centerpiece threw a soft glow of attractiveness over the group as they gathered around for the refreshments, cream and cake, which were served by Mrs. Poole, assisted by Mrs. R.G. Rozier, the favors consisting of dainty baskets of Easter eggs. Those present included little Misses Mary Rozier, Becky Butler, Jean Lentz, Alma Moore, Margaret Wiggins, Lila Moe Baggett and Judith Poole; Masters Billie Rozier, L.J. Moore Jr., and Francis Lentz. Among the out-of-town guests in the Poole home during the afternoon were the little hostess’ aunts, Mrs. Sallie McRae, Misses Dora and Minnie Rozier, in company with Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Calvin of Fayetteville, who motored over to extend greetings. Announcement in the shape of an attractive little “babygram,” submitted just as the bulk of our letter had been written the past issue, bore glad tidings of welcome to Mrs. J.E. McDonald and family of our town, who were recipients of their first grandchild, Wanda Virginia, who arrived on the 19th to make glad the hearts of its parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.E. McDonald Jr., who reside at 199 Broad Street, Newark, N.J., the little daughter’s weight being quoted at 5 ½ pounds. Mr. McDonald is remembered by his friends here as “Jake,” a former St. Paul boy.

Among the Fayetteville visitors Wednesday we note Mrs. John S. Butler of our town.

Visitors Thursday afternoon in the home of Mrs. C.T. Poole were Mrs. Molly Norment and daughter, Mrs. Louis Stovall, who motored over from Lumberton. The Stovalls, in company with Mrs. Norment, who is a sister of Mrs. Poole, are planning to move to Shelby this week, Mr. Stovall having accepted a position with Mr. Max Gardner.

Miss Retha Hester, who came over several days previous from Coker college where she was a student, gave a little entertainment Wednesday evening at the home of her parents, Rev. and Mrs. C.R. Hester, Armfield Street. Numerous of her friends were present and as the evening’s fun was concluded delicious hot chocolate and wafers were served.

Miss Alice Shaw and nephew, Mr. D.C. McEachern, were in Lumberton last Thursday.

Rev. J.A. Dailey, pastor of the local Methodist church, and family were tendered a generous pounding by the congregation following the mid-week prayer service the past week, which was a very agreeable surprise to all, the group gathering at the parsonage. [A pounding is the presenting of useful staples, such as pounds of butter, flour, fruits or sugar.]

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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John Cameron, 59, Died at His "Rose of Sharon" Home March 28, 1926

John Cameron, Sage of Sharon, Answers Call

Kinston, March 28—John E. Cameron, grand master of the grand lodge of Masons of North Carolina, died at his “Rose of Sharon” home at 1 o’clock this morning. He was 59 years of age and the head of a large family. Probably no man in America had held so many Masonic honors, according to grand lodge officers, in so many years. He was prominent in politics having held the offices of deputy United States marshal and deputy collector of revenue for long terms. He was a leader of his party in the second congressional district, and though a republican, he was appointed to the state highway commission as one of its original members.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Monday, March 29, 1926

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Mrs. Powers Died of Pneumonia, March 29, 1926

Mrs. Helen Virgina Powers

Mrs. Helen Virginia Powers, who recently died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Troy Hester in Fayetteville, was well known in Lumberton and throughout this locality, having many friend and relatives here. While she had been in declining health for several months, having undergone an operation at the Highsmith hospital in June, yet her death from pneumonia at this time was unexpected.

Mrs. Powers was born near Orrum, Robeson County, Sept. 28, 1857, where she lived until she was married to Mr. Haynes Powers of Columbus County, and there they made their home near Boardman. She was a woman of most unusual capability, having been left a widow when the youngest of her nine children was only one year old, but alone she courageously reared them to maturity. All of the children are still living and were at her bedside a few hours before her death. Her fortitude during her ill health was characteristic of her whole life, which was one of meeting life’s hard places with a cheerfulness seldom seen and always with a desire to serve others. She joined the Baptist church when quite young, and was always a loyal member and devoted Christian.

Mrs. Powers was a sister of the late R.R. Barnes of Barnesville and of Mrs. L.E. Tyner of Lowe, they later being the only members of her family now living.

The funeral service was conducted at the old home by her pastor, Rev. F.T. Wooten, assisted by Rev. H.W. Baucom of Wilmington, and interment was made in the family cemetery near by where she was laid to rest by the side of her husband.

The many beautiful floral offerings attested the high esteem in which she was held, for her life had truly been an inspiration and sweet benediction to those how knew her.

The following sons and daughters survive: Messrs. O.M. Powers of Fayetteville, L.R. and R.H. Powers of Meridian, Miss., H.L. Powers of Rocky Mount, M.D. Powers of Richmond, Va., T.T. Powers of Boardman, and B.E. Powers of Lumberton; Mrs. Troy Hester of Fayetteville and Miss Ellen Powers of Richmond, Va.

From page 2 of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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Loyd Rogers Charged with Incest with His 15-Year-Old Daughter, March 29, 1926

Daughter Says Father Committed Bad Crime. . . Recorder Kornegay Finds Probable Cause and Loyd Rogers Goes to Jail in Default of $5,000 Bond—One of Worst Cases to Come Before Court, Says Solicitor

Loyd Rogers, white man about 45 years old, was bound over to the July term of Robeson Superior Court for the trial of criminal cases by Recorder P.S. Kornegay Friday when probable cause was found on a charge of incest against the defendant.

“It is one of the worst cases to come before this court,” said Solicitor F.E. Carlyle to the reorder while the hearing was being held behind closed doors. Anie Mae Rogers, 15-year-old daughter of the defendant, told of illicit relations she was forced into with her father on three different occasions. She was threatened with severe whippings if she did not yield to him and with death if she ever told of it afterward. Evidence offered by the State was corroborative in every particular. The defendant asked his daughter, after she had told her story, only one question. This was regarding the first alleged misconduct. He only denied that she was mistaken about where it took place, and later, when asked if he wanted to ask further questions, he said he had nothing to say except that he was not guilty of the charge.

In default of a $5,000 bond the defendant went to jail to await trial. Another daughter, whom it had been alleged he tried to assault or to whom he proposed immoral conduct, testified that about five years ago, before she was married, that he did make such attempts on two different occasions. It was also in evidence that the defendant had been married three times, and that two of the women are living, one being divorced and the other living apart and separate from him.

A large crowd was in the court room when the case was called, and waited until the hearing in the jury room had been completed to learn the result. Rogers is a tenant on one of the R.R. Barnes Co.’s farms near Barnesville.

From page 6 of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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A.B. Medlin, Concord Policeman, Shoots and Kills Mark Simpson, March 29, 1926

A.B. Medlin, Concord policeman, shot and killed Mark Simpson, Union County farmer, on Medlin’s rented farm in Union County Thursday. Medlin gave himself up and was jailed at Monroe. He says Simpson was the aggressor and that he shot in self defense.

From page 6 of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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Alex Jackson Sent to Federal Prison for Concealing Assets in Bankruptcy, March 29, 1926

Fayetteville, March 25—Alex Jackson, well known Fayetteville merchant, was sentenced to one year and a day in the federal prison at Atlanta by Judge Isaac M. Meekins, in the United States district court here today, following his conviction of concealing assets in bankruptcy proceedings. Jackson went in voluntary bankruptcy in 1922, 10 months after opening a store here, and was charged with concealing assets of more than $1,000 and with swearing falsely to goods concealed in another store.

From page 6 of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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Richard Barber Jr., 12, Fearing Whipping by School Teacher, Attempts Suicide, March 29, 1926

Smithfield, March 26—Fear of a whipping by his school teacher is said to have prompted Richard Barber Jr., 12 years old, to attempt suicide. The boy climbed a tree, tied a rope around his neck and the end to a limb and jumped.

Meanwhile, his mother stood below pleading with the boy not to do it. The youngster’s weight was too slight to break his neck.

From page 6 of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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Local News Briefs in The Robesonian, March 29, 1926

Items of Local News

--Born Saturday to Mr. and Mrs. Rowland Lamb, a son.

--Mr. A.J. Steed of Maxton was among the notaries public commissioned by Governor McLean last week.

--Mr. and Mrs. M.A. Odum are moving this week to Hamlet, where Mr. Odum has accepted a position with Bagwell Real Estate Co.

--Mary Florence is the name of the daughter born Friday in the Thompson Memorial Hospital to Mr. and Mrs. Claude Boone of Lumberton. This was the first birth to occur in the new institution.

--License has been issued for the marriage of Miss Ruth Wincy of Cumberland County and Mr. Leslie Owen; Miss Nina L. Parrish and Mr. James C. Smith, both of Robeson County.

--The condition of Mr. J.B. Walters, who suffered a stroke of paralysis at his home near Rowland Wednesday, is unimproved. Mr. Walters is 74 years old and the father of Mr. Ellie Walters of Lumberton.

--Mr. and Mrs. A.E. White returned Saturday from Raleigh, where Mr. White attended a meeting of the State prison board, of which he is a member.

Another meeting of the board will be held Thursday of this week to make final disposition of a vexed matter that is mentioned in the Raleigh letter elsewhere in this issue. [of Chaplain Shacklette’s accusation that Prison Superintendent G.R. Pou and Pardon Commissioner H. Hoyle Sink had been selling pardons.]

--Owing to the failure of stock to arrive, the opening of the Carolina-Willys Light Company’s branch here in the Saleeby building, scheduled for last week, has been postponed until Thursday. An advertisement announcing the opening appears in this issue. [On the bottom of page 6. See: newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn84026483/1926-03-29/ed-1/seq-6/]

--On account of the cooking school this week the regular monthly meeting of Robeson chapter U.D.C. has been postponed from Thursday to Tuesday of next week, April 6, at 4 p.m., when the meeting will be held in the domestic science room at the high school building.

--Mr. Louis Stovall expects to leave Thursday for Shelby, where he has accepted a position in the offices of Mr. Max Gardner. Mrs. Stovall and her mother, Mrs. Mollie Norment, expect to go to Shelby about April 15. Mr. and Mrs. C.V. Baker will move Wednesday into the Beaman residence, Pine and Fourteenth, into Mrs. Norment’s residence, Elm Street.

--Ollie Hamilton’s shows played a week’s engagement here last week and pleased large crowds. The Charleston dancing contest Friday and Saturday night drew large crowds. In the Friday night contest, which was for white people only three took part, the cash prize going to Master Wallace Dunham.

--Two mules belonging to Mr. Fuller Harris who lives about three miles east of town, became frightened this morning and ran from the vacant lot behind the R.D. Caldwell & son store across Third Street up the alley, and stopped behind Mr. A.H. Hinds’ market after the wagon had struck a light-pole. The force of the collision was so great that the mules were thrown to the ground and the pole, near the transformer, was broken. No one was in the wagon. --Rev. Dr. C.H. Durham, pastor of the First Baptist Church, attended in Greensboro Saturday a meeting of the State board of public welfare, of which he is a member. He also heard Friday night the two outstanding addresses before the State social service conference during its annual meeting in Greensboro last week by Bishop McConnell of the Northern Methodist Church and Mr. Newton P. Baker, secretary of war during the Wilson administration. --A town officer driving a Ford the other day ran into another ford driven by a traveling man. It seems that it was an unavoidable accident, some stating that the sun blinded the officer, and when asked about it the officer said the other man got in his way. Very little damage was done, but excitement was stirred considerably. The accident occurred at the intersection of East Fourth and Chestnut streets during a busy time.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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Looking into Pardon-Selling Charges, March 19, 1926

Pardon-Selling Charges to be Sifted This Week

By M.L. Shipman

Raleigh, March 29—The airing of the scandal over selling pardons to prisoners was a highlight in a busy week at the capital. This week also bids fair to be an interesting one for the charges of traffic in pardons will be thoroughly aired. The charges preferred by Prison Chaplain W.S. Shacklette that Prison Superintendent G.R. Pou and Pardon Commissioner H. Hoyle Sink had been selling pardons, dropped on the capital city like a bombshell. B.E. Everett of the board of trustees brought the matter to the attention of that body but Mr. Shacklette declared he had not charged Mr. Poul with selling clemency and refused to discuss other charges until his lawyer was present. The board adjourned until this Thursday when the matter will be gone into thoroughly.

Charges Denied

Mr. Pou characterized the charges as ridiculous, and Mr. Sink said they were absolutely false. Governor McLean declared neither man had ah anything to do with the pardon of W.W. Green, negro army officer of Greensboro. It was this pardon for which these two officials were charged with receiving $1,000.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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R.H. Crichton Won Trapshooting Contest, March 29, 1926

First Prize Goes to Local Shooter. . . Mr. R.H. Crichton Breaks 92 Out of 100 in Trapshooting Contest Held Here—Only One Professional Does as Well—One Lady Among Prize Winners—Mr. F.H. Townsend Gets Second Honors. . . Much Improvement Is Made

Mr. R.H. Crichton took first honors here Thursday in the all-day trapshooting contest by breaking 92 pigeons out of a possible 100, and Mr. F.H. Townsend took the next prize by breaking 46 out of 50. Mr. Crichton’s prize was an Ithaca shotgun given by the Glasgow-Allison Hardware Co. of Charlotte, and Mr. Townend’s was a hat given by the local Efird department store. Three professionals taking part in the contest were not allowed to compete for prizes.

One professional, Mr. W.J. Pickett of Charlotte, died Mr. Crichton. The other professionals, Mr. A. Cuscaden of Tampa, Fla., and Mr. J.A. DesPortes of Ridgeway, S.C., broke 89 and 86 respectively.

Other prizes were won by the following:

--Mr. R.G. Stokely of Wilmington, thermos jar given by Grantham Brothers

--L.M. Currie of Pinehurst, case of gun shells given by N. Jacobi Hardware Co.

--O.C. Duncan of Lumberton, boudoir lamp given by Stephens & Barnes

--J.F. Johnson of Fairmont, fishing tackle box given by Lumberton Cycle Co.

--J.B. Funderburg of Wilmington, windshield wings given by H.A. Page Jr.

--D.W. Biggs of Lumberton, freezer given by J.B. Funderburg

--Miss Claudius of Pinehurst, fountain pen given by Hedgpeth pharmacy

--J.L. Stephens of Lumberton, fishing reel given by L.H. Caldwell

--E.F. Arnold of Abbeyville, S.C., fishing rod given by Monroe Hardware Co.

--E.F. Heinsberger of Wilmington, thermos jar given by the Lorraine hotel

All shooting was from 16 yards distance and the record of local sportsmen is unusually good, many of the visitors speaking of the great improvement since the opening of the local club. Forty-three took part in the contest, which lasted from 9 o’clock a.m. until late afternoon. The shoot was under the manage of Mr. C.N. Wray of Charlotte, and a delicious barbecue dinner was served at the grounds.

Following is the score of local shooters, the first figure showing the number of “deads” out of 200, and the second out of 50:

O.C. Duncan, 73-29

T. McM. Grant, 80-45

J.S. Longfellow, 88-37

D.W. Biggs, 61-x

R.H. Crichton, 92-43

J.A. Seay, 62-39

J.L. Stephens, 73-46

F.H. Townsend, 84-46

W.W. Davis, 89-39

G.M. Tucker, 51-32

L.W. Wicker, 82-40

L.C. Townsend, 63-x

S.L. Whitehead, 72-x

D.H. Fuller, 65-39

Dr. T.C. Johnson, 59 out of 80.

x—did not shoot in the 50-shot contest

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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Friends Visit Rev. Beaman, Former Lumberton Pastor, March 28, 1926

Dr. Beaman’s Condition Slightly Improved but Still Serious

Mr. K.M. Barnes and son, Master John Rhodes, Mr. F.P. Gray and son, Master Pendleton, and Mr. H.E. Stacy spent a few hours in Tarboro yesterday with Rev. Dr. R.C. Beaman, former pastor of Chestnut Street Methodist Church of Lumberton, who has been in failing health for some time. They found Dr. Beaman very thin, emaciated and weak, but Mr. Gray thinks his condition has improved somewhat since he visited him several weeks ago, and that Dr. Beaman is more cheerful. He is confined to bed but sat on the side of his bed a while and talked with his visitors. Owing to the absence of Dr. Beaman’s son, Mr. Southgate Beaman, who was in Norfolk consulting a specialist, Dr. and Mrs. Beaman’s proposed move to Lumberton was not discussed. It is understood that their residence at Pine and Fourteenth will evacuated Wednesday or Thursday of this week and that Dr. and Mrs. Beaman will move to Lumberton as soon as Dr. Beaman’s condition will permit.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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Mrs. Lora Howell, 50, Dies after Long Illness, March 26, 1926

Mrs. Lora Howell. . . Mother of Mrs. G.A. Inman Dies After Long Illness—Funeral and Interment at Back Swamp Church

Funeral services for Mrs. Lora Howell, 50, who died Thursday afternoon at the home here of her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. G. A. Inman, were conducted Friday afternoon in the Back Swamp Baptist Church by Rev. I.P. Hedgpeth. Interment was made in the cemetery near the church.

Deceased had been in ill health for a long time, and her death was not unexpected. A large crowd of sorrowing friends and relatives attended the services, and the floral offerings were many and beautiful. She leaves several children to mourn their loss.

Pallbearers were Messrs. A.E. Spivey, W.O. Thompson, L.W. Wicker, Grover Tyson, Henry Lamb and L.H. Caldwell.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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William Phillips, 92, Died March 28, 1926

Mr. William Phillips. . . Wishart Township Man Dies at Ripe Old Age—Funeral and Interment Yesterday

Funeral services for Mr. William Phillips, who died Saturday at his home in Wishart township at the age of 92 years, were conducted yesterday afternoon at the cemetery near the home by Rev. R.G. Cashwell of Lumberton.

Deceased was one of the township’s best men, and a large crowd attended the services. Infirmities of age was the cause of death. He leaves three sons and three daughters to mourn their loss.

From the front page of The Robesonian, Lumberton, N.C., March 29, 1926

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Ku Klux Klan Forces Catholic Out of Shelby Because He Refused to Join Protestant Church, March 27, 1926

Klan Poses as Czar of Family Washing. . . Eviction of Italian Who Refused to Become Protestant Arouses Press

Norfolk, Va., March 26—Newspapers in Virginia and North Carolina are denouncing Shelby, N.C., members of the Ku Klux Klan, who are alleged to have driven Tony Procelli, an Italian confectioner, out of town.

Porcelli was accused of having burned a bible that was presented to his daughter by her school teacher and of having required her to do a part of the family wash on Sunday. Tony denied the charges and produced the Bible. Then it is asserted, he was told he could not remain in Shelby unless he joined a Protestant church. He is a Catholic. He refused and was ordered to depart, which he did.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, March 27, 1926

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Have Sink and Pou Trafficked in Pardons and Paroles at State Prison? March 27, 1926

Hearing on Charges Against Sink and Pou Is Postponed. . . These Men Firmly Deny Charges Made Against Them by Prison Chaplain Shacklette. . . Case Continued Until Next Week. . . The Chaplain Said to Have Charged Sink and Pou with Trafficking in Pardons and Paroles

Raleigh, March 27—Following a six-hour session of the State prison directors Friday for the consideration of charges of trafficking in pardons and paroles brought by Rev. W.S. Shacklette, chaplain, against George Ross Pou, prison superintendent, and H. Hoyle Sink, commissioner of pardons and paroles, the hearing, like a nickel thriller, was continued to next week, just at the most interesting point. The hearing will be resumed next Thursday, when the chaplain’s attorney will attend.

The afternoon brought forth the following salient points in regard to the sensation:

Chaplain Shacklette, some time prior to March 9th, laid before Ben E. Everett, one of the prison directors, charges that the pardon granted to W.W. Green, negro, convicted in Davidson county for criminal assault, had been “sold” him for $1,000 and that the purchase price had been split three ways.

Superintendent Pou and Commissioner Sink being two of the recipients. The other man named by the chaplain was an attorney in the western part of the state, but Mr. Everett was unable to remember his name.

Before the prison board yesterday, the chaplain exonerated Superintendent Pou of all complicity in the Green case and refused to discuss the remaining charge against Commissioner Sink.

Statements were issued by both the officials figuring in the accusations, citing conclusive evidence to prove that neither had any hand in the issuance of that pardon; that the matter had been handled by Governor McLean alone, due to the fact that Commissioner Sink had assisted in the prosecution of the case in Davidson county before his appointment.

Chaplain Shacklette, before the board, preferred additional charges against Superintendent Pou and Commissioner Sink sufficiently grave in nature to warrant further investigation, in the opinion of the board members.

Chaplain Shacklette retained Attorney J.W. Bailey of Raleigh, candidate against Governor McLean in the last primary election for the gubernatorial nomination, and one of he principal figures in the campaign against the re-appointment of Superintendent Pou, to act as his attorney during the board’s proceedings.

It became generally accepted that Chaplain Shacklett, the stormy petrel of the prison administration, will be replaced unless he should be able to prove the seemingly wild charges he has made against the two officials.

Announcement was made that the recent accusation made by the chaplain that Commissioner Sink has called all ministers “damn fools” had no relation to the present matter.

Superintendent Pou, in a statement issued at the close of the day’s hearing, declared the charges of Mr. Shacklette too ridiculous to merit serious thought.

“The charge Mr. Shacklette made to Director Everett connecting my name with the pardon of W.W. Green is so ridiculous that I have given it no serious thought,” he said. “However, the matter has gotten into the papers, and I feel I should quote an excerpt from a letter bearing on the charges, written by Governor A.W. McLean to Director John M. Brewer and which I feel will exonerate me completely of such charge.”

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, March 27, 1926

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Rev. Shacklette's Allegations of Misconduct by State Prison Officials Investigated, March 27, 1926

Shacklette Reiterates Charges Against Sink. . . Says Letter Stated that All Preachers Are “Damn Fools”

Raleigh, March 27—Rev. W.S. Shacklette, the only prison chaplain who has ever been known to make the front page of North Carolina newspapers twice in one week, yesterday reiterated his declaration that Commissioner H. Hoyle Sink had, in his presence, declared all ministers “damn fools.” He added that the statement had been made in the presence of Dr. R.K. Adams and Dr. H.B. Bracken, of the staff of the State hospital for the insane at Dix Hill.

His first accusation was made more than a week ago in an address before the Kiwanis Club at Scotland Neck and drew from Commissioner sink a sharp denial that he had made such a statement or that he had any such attitude toward the cloth. “The only explanation I can think of for this peculiar charge on the part of Mr. Shacklette is an interchange of reparks I once had with the chaplain in what was, on my part, at least, a wholly friendly mood,” Mr. Sink said yesterday.

“We were arguing some point in connection with pardons and the chaplain remarked that ‘the trouble with you lawyers is that you’re too hard-boiled.’

“Yes,” I countered, ‘and the trouble with you preachers is you’re too damn radical.’ I believe I laughed when I said it. I know I wasn’t either serious or angry. I presume that my alleged ‘damn fool’ remark is simply a garbled version of that statement.’”

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, March 27, 1926

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Chief of Police Ferguson Investigated in Secret Hearings, March 27, 1926

Continue Inquiry in Ferguson Case

Charlotte, March 27 (AP)—Secrecy today cloaked the investigation of charges involving moral turpitude against Chief of Police C.R. Ferguson here, although members of the city commission admitted they were still probing the matter.

Mayor Harvey Moore announced that the secret hearings might not be concluded before Monday.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, March 27, 1926

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Goldbergs, Gaston County Mill Owners, Charged with Trying to Avoid Taxes, March 27, 1926

Charged with Filing False Tax Returns. . . Frank and Robert Goldberg, Gaston County Mill Owners, Will be Tried at Shelby in Fall

Charlotte, March 26—Trial of Frank Goldberg and Robert Goldberg, wealthy Gaston county cotton mill owners, on five charges of conspiracy to avoid payment of income taxes, filing false tax returns and perjury, will be held before Judge E. Yates Webb in federal court at Shelby in September, it was said today at the local office of the district attorney.

Indictments against the mill owners were returned by the federal grand jury sitting at Shelby on March 15, it was learned today with the filing here of a copy of the indictments.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, March 27, 1926

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Beaufort Honors French Hugeunots Who Settled Port Royal Harbor, March 27, 1926

French Huguenots Are Honored by Nation. . . Monument to Settlers at Entrance to Port Royal Harbor Unveiled During Day

Beaufort, S.C., March 27 (AP)—The nation today honored the French Huguenots who in 1562 under the leadership of Jean Ribaut founded the first colony of white men on this continent at Charles Port on Paris Island.

It was the occasion of the unveiling of the monument erected by congress on the site of the old fort not far from the entrance to Port Royal harbor. France and America joined in the exercises which were under the auspices of the Huguenot Society of South Carolina.

The speakers were Curtis D. Wilbur, secretary of the navy; Major General John A. Lejeune, commandant of the United States Marine Corps; Jules Henry, first secretary to the French embassy at Washington; Governor Thomas G. McLeod of South Carolina; W.C. Miller, president of the Huguenot Society in South Carolina; and Major General Eli K. Cole, commandant of the Paris Island Marine training station.

The hands to pull the cord that unveiled the monument were those of Jules Henry, the Frence Representative; Major E.H. Osterhaut for the Marine Corps; and Albert Simons, for the Huguenot Society.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, March 27, 1926

In case you're wondering why we don't celebrate the settlement at Port Royal Harbor as the first settlement it is because the settlement failed. But that doesn't change the fact that it was attempted.

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Mildred Harrington Writes About Mary Martin Sloop's School for American Magazine, March 27, 1926

North Carolina Given a Decided Boost. . . In the April Issue of The American Magazine by Miss Harrington

Raleigh, March 27—North Carolina is given a decided boost in the April issue of the American Magazine through an article written by Miss Mildred Harrington, an old Aberdeen girl, now a member of the American staff in New York City.

Miss Harrington chose as her subject Mrs. Mary Martin Sloop and her school at Crossnore, in Avery county. She wrote her story in the form of an interview with Mrs. Sloop and illustrated it with several pictures. The treatment goes into details as to how this famous North Carolina woman, a sister of President W.J. Martin of Davidson College, happened to land at Crossnore and follows her efforts to the present.

The writer of the article, Miss Harrington, is well known throughout North Carolina. She started her newspaper career in this state and, soon after she went to New York for some special work, she was “discovered” by the American which was not long in securing her as a member of its staff.

Another boost for North Carolina is promised in a special edition of the New York Sun, to appear sometime in April. A feature writer, P.A. Dolan, has been assigned to this job He was in Raleigh Friday and stated that he would cover the entire state.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Saturday, March 27, 1926

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Clyde Irby, T.B. Brane Arrested Driving Stolen Lincoln in Zebulon, March 26, 1926

Young Men Make Fast Time in Lincoln Car. . . But On Arrival Here, Arrested for Stealing Car from Employers. . . Lincoln Car and Two Men Taken Back by Officers

A desire to make a visit to Zebulon where they formerly worked on Highway No. 90, which was under construction by Blythe Brothers of Charlotte, caused two young men to get in the toils of the law.

On Tuesday morning, it is said that Clyde Irby phoned to a garage man in Charlotte and represented that he was one of the Blythes and said let Irby have the Lincoln car. A few minutes later Irby and T.B. Brane were making preparation to leave Charlotte, and Irby stated to a friend that he was fixing to leave and perhaps would never be seen in Charlotte again.

They soon were on the road making headway for Zebulon.

Later in the day, Blythe Brothers went to the garage for the car, but was [were?] told that Irby had gone off with it.

Mr. Blythe soon had the wires—both phone and telegraph—hot in pursuit, and one sent to the Chief of police of Zebulon, S.M. Dickens, and he began to look around to see if he could learn anything. The Chief stationed himself on Highway No. 90 and Arendell streets here in Zebulon. He had not been at the post more than 10 minutes when the large Lincoln car in question came along. The Chief secured a car and began to follow. At the Norfolk Southern Station the Lincoln car had to stop as a train was shifting, and the me in the Lincoln car began to make an effort to turn the car around so as to come back up Arendell street, but the Chief stopped the car.

The chief told the men he wanted them. They immediately surrendered. A wire was sent to Charlotte, and the answer was “hold the men” and officers would come for them.

Officers from Charlotte arrived Wednesday about 2 p.m. and took Irby and Brane, along with the Lincoln car, back to Charlotte.

It is stated that Irby had been in trouble before, having taken a car only about a week ago and went off with it. It is said that the men had prepared themselves with gas, as they had an extra drum of about 20 gallons of gas in the car.

It is said that the men stated that they made the trip from Charlotte to Zebulon in about five hours.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Jenkins and Carpenter will be Tried in Aprils for Burglary, March 26, 1926

To Be Tried in April

The two boys, Jenkins and Carpenter, who burglarized a number of stores in Zebulon some time ago, will be tried in Wake Superior Court in April.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Sodatol Explodes and Kills Frank Kornegay, March 20, 1926

Is Instantly Killed as Sodatol Explodes

Mount Olive, March 20—This morning about 10 o’clock in a field about one-half mile from Calypso, three miles south of here, Frank Kornegay, a young white man about 25 years of age, was instantly killed when several sticks of sodatol that he had in a bucket exploded.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, March 26, 1926

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Sodatol was a high explosive manufactured by mixing T.N.T. with sodium nitrate. It was preapred for use in double dipped parafinned cartridges, which were packed in wooden boxes containing 50 pounds of explosives. Sodatol is moe sensitive than T.N.T. but is considered safe for use in blasitng operations, as it burns without exploding and does not cause toxic effects when handled properly.

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Flu, Whooping Cough Abating in Zebulon, March 26, 1926

Flu Epidemic Abating

The epidemic of flu seems to be abating considerably in our community. We are thankful that no deaths have occurred.

The whooping cough has also about spent its force, and we are hopeful now that spring seems to be here to have good health for everybody.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Call if You Need Garbage Truck Pickup, March 26, 1926

Garbage Truck

The town has purchased a truck for the purpose of moving the garbage from residences. Keep all your trash and other refuse in your can so the truck can get to it conveniently and without delay.

This garbage truck is at your service and when you want refuse moved phone Dr. E.C. Daniel or S.M. Dickens at Mrs. Davis’ boarding house, and the matter will be attended to.

The truck will make regular weekly rounds when not otherwise called for.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Zebulon Ordinance Requires Swept Sidewalks, March 26, 1926

Attention, Mr. Merchant

There is an ordinance that requires all business houses to sweep off the sidewalks each morning. Attention is called to the fact that a great many sweep their store and leave all the trash on the sidewalks. All trash should be swept out the back door, and if not convenient to do this, sweep it off the sidewalk and into the gutter. The trash man will follow and take it away.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Visit of Childhood Friend Brings Back Memories, March 26, 1926

A Pleasant Caller

Mrs. Bettie Tant of Franklinton was a pleasant caller at our office last Wednesday. Mrs. Tant before her marriage was Miss Bettie Jones. About the year 1884, when the Editor was a small boy, he lived in Franklin county, near Julius Timberlake’s store. The Jones’ lived near by, and at that time we were young children together. We were glad to renew our old acquaintance again. Many old friends of ours—in our young boyhood—live in Franklin county, and we would be glad to shake their hands once more.

Mrs. Tant is visiting in Zeublon.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Mules Selling Like Hotcakes at M.C. Chamblee & Sons, March 26, 1926

Good Sale on Mules

M.C. Chamblee & Sons of Zebulon, the well known dealers in mules and horses, have had the best season this year they have ever had in Zebulon. It is said that they have sold something like four cars of mule this season. They have been advertising in the Record very extensively and this shows what advertising will do.

In a joking way we were told the other day that they would have to stop their ads “because they could not keep mules on hand.”

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Mrs. Doane and Mrs. Price, Sisters, Die of Pneumonia a Week Apart, March 26, 1926

The Death of Two Sisters

A little over a week ago Rev. Mr. Davis, pastor of the Baptist church, was called upon to conduct the funeral of Mrs. Doane near Cornith church in Johnston county. Again he was asked to conduct another funeral at the same place last Monday. This time it was a sister of Mrs. Doane, Mrs. Mary Price.

Both died of pneumonia, and were sisters of the Eatman brothers who live in Zebulon. Each leave two children, a boy and girl between the ages of 11 and 17. Their fathers are also dead.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Carolina Coach Company Raising Rates Again, March 26, 1926

Bus Company Again Increases Its Rates

The Carolina Coach Company, an organization controlling the principal bus lines running out of Raleigh, announced another boost in the rates of travel between Raleigh and Greensboro, the new scale of tariff having gone into effect Monday. A general readjustment on the mileage basis, according to the State Corporation commission, was the reason for the increase in the rates.

The new rate from Raleigh to Durham is $1, while the rate from Raleigh to Greensboro, which was formerly $2.50, has been increased to $3. The new rate to Greensboro incidentally, costs seven cents more to travel by bus than the fare exacted by the trains.

Officials filed the petition for the increase in rates with the State Corporation Commission, which temporarily approved the petition, pending the hearing of any complaints that might arise from the suggested increase.

The rates on the Raleigh, Fayetteville line, which is operated by the same company, were given a boost some weeks ago, especially in Harnett county, where each of the towns through which the lines operate has to pay more. However, the rate south from Raleigh to points in Wake county was reduced slightly. Rates from Raleigh to Wilson and Rocky Mount remain unchanged.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Mrs. J.D. Drake Buried at Drake Cemetery, March 26, 1926

Mrs. J.D. Drake died at Raleigh last Thursday and the remains were carried to Rocky Mount for funeral services, and the interment took place at the Drake cemetery near Nashville on Saturday last.

From the front page of the Zebulon Record, Friday, March 26, 1926

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Edward Poole Loses Life in Ditch Cave-In in Spindale, March 25, 1926

Edward Poole Loses His Life in Ditch Cave-In. . . Young South Carolinian Suffocated at Spindale—Negro Also Hurt, But Recovering

Edward Poole, about 35 years old, an employee of Rawling & Co., plumbing contractors of Mt. Holly, was instantly killed Tuesday morning about 8:30 o’clock while at work at Spindale, where the Rawlings Company has contract for the water and sewer system of the town.

Poole and a negro man by the name of Willie Davis had been working in the bottom of a 20-foot ditch, bracing the walls to prevent a cave-in. Placing a ladder against the wall, Poole had ascended about half way, when the walls caved in, burying him beneath a mass of dirt. According to the negro, Davis, when the cave-in happened he ran toward the end of the ditch in attempt to escape and was not so heavily buried as was Mr. Poole.

When workmen hastily removed the dirt form the prostrate man, it was found that Poole had been suffocated and his life was extinct. The negro man was unconscious but showed evidences of faint spark of life. He was hurried to the hospital, where he regained consciousness, but was found to be seriously injured. At the time of this writing, it is said that Davis will recover.

It is said that Mr. Poole, who was a foreman for the Rawlings Company was originally from near Spartanburg, but more recently from Mt. Holly, the home of the contractors. He was unmarried.

Willie Davis, the negro, is about 20 years old and married His home is at King’s Mountain.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Carpenter Falls to Death While Working on Rutheford Courthouse March 18, 1926

Baylus Baynard Is Fatally Injured at Rutherfordton. . . Skull Is Crushed in Fall at New Courthouse—Dies in Hospital

Baylus J. Baynard, well known carpenter of Forest City, fell from the lower floor to the basement of the new Rutherford County courthouse Thursday morning, March 18, at 8:30 o’clock, his head being fractured when coming in contact with the hard floor. It is said that he stepped backward and fell through an opening in the first floor, 10 feet to the basement.

He was rushed to the hospital and died at 11 o’clock, never regaining consciousness. He lost blood profusely before reaching the hospital.

It is claimed that the accident was purely accidental in that Mr. Baynard failed to notice the opening in the floor.

Mr. Baynard was 42 years old. He leaves his wife and seven children. There are three brothers and two sisters, J.A. Baynard, Race Path; W.O. Baynard, Alexander; M.K. Baynard, Forest City; Mrs. Wallace Alexander, near Harris, and Miss Susan Baynard, in Forest City.

Funeral services were conducted at his residence on Broadway, this city, Friday at 2 p.m. Talks were made by Rev. H.C. Sisk, Rev. H.C. Kiser and Messrs. Smith and Roberts. Interment followed in Cool Springs Cemetery. He was a member of the Free Will Baptist Church at Spartanburg, but had recently applied of his church letter with the intention of joining the Missionary Methodist Church in this city.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Cowan and Norville Crash into Cars Parked Outside First Baptist Church, Fined for Driving Under Influence of Whiskey,March 25, 1926

Cane Creek Boys Fined in Recorder’s Court

Sunday night, during services at the First Baptist Church, a crash was heard on the outside that started the worshippers. Police officer hastened to the scene, where they discovered that A. A. Cowan and Wm. Norville, young white men of the Cane Creek section, had run into several cars parked in front of the church. Not much damage had been done, luckily, but the officers, in searching the boys’ car, found a small quantity of whiskey, and they were arrested. Appearing before Recorder Stone, Monday, the driver of the car was fined $50 for driving while under the influence of whiskey. Both young men were fined $25 each for transporting and $5 for being drunk.

If there is any single person who should be severely dealt with, it is the drunken driver, who jeopardizes the lives of innocent persons. They had better be careful to not come within the jurisdiction of Judge Stone, who will fearlessly deal out stern justice in all such cases.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Ku Klux Klan Invites Public to Learn About Ideals of the Order March 26, 1926

K. K. K. Speaking

A prominent speaker has been secured to address an open meeting of the Ku Klux Klan in Pool Hall Friday night at 8 o’clock. Many of the uninitiated will no doubt be present to hear the speaker in order to learn something of the ideals of the order. The public is invited.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Chas. Doggett Has Purchased Blanton & Owens Grocery, March 25, 1926

Change in Firm

Mr. Chas. Doggett, young son of Mr. W.B. Doggett, successful Henrietta merchant, has purchased the grocery store of Blanton & Owens, corner of King and Powell streets, and is now in possession. He is enlarging the stock and making other preparations for an increased business. We are glad to welcome this fine young man into the business circles of the city.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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B.T. Harrill Buys Half Interest in Forest City Electroc Co., March 25, 1926

Buys Interest in Electric Company

Mr. B.T. Harrill, formerly with the Shelby Electric Co. has purchased a half interest in the Forest City Electric Co. Mr. R.H. Long, the other member of the firm, just recently purchased the business, changing the name from the Forest City Electric & Repair Co. to the Forest City Electric Co. The hustling young members of this firm should command a good business in our fast growing city.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Methodists Buy Property for New Forest City Church, March 25, 1926

Methodists Buy Property

It has been known for some time that the First Methodist Church of Forest City has been planning to buy a site suitable for their new church and parsonage they contemplate building. At a special meeting of the Board of Stewards yesterday, they purchased the Ware-McDaniel lots on East Main Street from Mr. J.A. Wilkie, giving them a frontage of 215 feet, at a cost of $25,000. The board, as well as the church, wish to thank Mr. Wilkie for his very liberal donation that he allowed on the purchase price of the lot.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Rev. S.F. Conrad Filled Pulpit for Dr. Wm. Ayers, Ill With Flu, March 25, 1926

Remarkable Pastor

Rev. S.F. Conrad of Charlotte filled the pulpit for Dr. Wm. A. Ayers, who was recovering from an attack of flu, at the First Baptist Church last Sunday morning. At the evening period he gave an illustrated lecture on his travels in the Holy Land.

Rev. Conrad is a remarkable man in many respects. Nearing his 80th milestone, he demonstrated in his sermon Sunday morning that he is in full possession of a keen intellect and physical power that is astonishing for a man of his advanced age. He has spent 54 years in the ministry, served 26 different church and saved thousands of souls in this period. His visit to Forest City was greatly enjoyed, and his many friends he

re hope he will be spared for many more years to carry on his great work.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Mrs. T.F. Oates, 29, Succumbs to Pneumonia, March 25, 1926

Mrs. T.F. Oates of Rutherfordton Pneumonia Victim. . . Wife of Prominent Banker and Leader in Social and Civic Life at County Seat

The many friends throughout this and adjoining counties were grievously shocked when the news flashed over the wires Friday of last week that Mrs. T.F. Oates of Rutherfordton had fallen a victim to pneumonia. She had been ill for less than a week, her death coming with staggering swiftness and a shock to family and friends that will be hard to withstand.

She was Miss Nina Turner before her marriage to Mr. T. Frank Oates, prominent banker of Rutherfordton. Mrs. Oates, who was in her 29th year, was a social and civic leader and one of Rutherfordton’s most prominent and popular young women. She was a most lovable woman of Christian character and during her residence in Rutherfordton had gained a wide circle of friends. She was a devote member of the Presbyterian church and was a leading spirit in all church work. She was widely known throughout this state and her native state of South Carolina. She was a native of Grover, S.C.

Besides her husband, Mrs. Oates leaves two young sons, Buddy and Phillip Oates; two brothers M??? and Ellis Turner of Charlotte; four sisters, Misses Bessie and Lucy Turner of Grover; Mrs. Charles Washburn of Shelby and Mrs. Martin of Richlands, S.C.

Funeral services were held last Sunday at 2:30 p.m. from her late home at Rutherfordton. The living room was almost filled with a profusion of beautiful flowers, and it was here that the Rev. Mr. Woodfin G. Harry, pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Newton, N.C., assisted by Rev. G.R. Gillespie, Forest City, and Rev. Mr. M.A. Adams of Rutherfordton conducted the simple and dignified services.

Mrs. W.C. Twitty, accompanied by Mrs. Arthur Harrell on the piano, sang the hymn “Abide with Me” at the opening of the services and at the conclusion Mrs. Twitty and Mr. Pippin of Shelby sang the hymn “The Christian’s Good Night.”

The interment was in the Presbyterian graveyard of Rutherfordton and was very short, simple and solemn.

The pallbearers were Mr. Claude Miller, Mr. Frederick D. Hamrick, Mr. Deck Wilson, Mr. Keal Simpson, Mr. Angus McFarland and Mr. M.Y. Tate. The honorary pallbearers were Mr. M.O. Dickerson, Mr. H.A. Kutz, Dr. F.H.W. Logan, Dr. Linwood Robinson, Mr. S.E. Elmore, Dr. Robert H. Crawford, Dr. L.B. Morse, Mr. Tan Harris, Mr. K.S. Tanner, Mr. Luther Edwards, Mr. J.H. Thomas, Mr. B.B. Doggett, Mr. N.C. Harris, Dr. Henry Norris, Mr. Charles Hambright and Mr. J.W. Beason.

Many people from Charlotte, Kings Mountain, Grover, Shelby, Forest City, Rutherford county and practically all of Rutherfordton attended the services.

As a mark of respect the Citizens Bank & Trust Company was closed Saturday and The Commercial Bank was closed at once after her death and remained closed all day Saturday.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Pneumonia Fatal to E.L. Whitesides, 64, March 25, 1926

Pneumonia Fatal to E.L. Whitesides Near Caroleen

Caroleen, March 23—A death that came as a severe shock to many friends and relatives was that of Mr. E.L. Whitesides, which occurred at his home near here Sunday morning at 10:30 o’clock, following a short illness of about a week. He was taken ill with influenza and about three days before his death, contracted pneumonia, rapidly growing worse until death ended his suffering.

Mr. Whitesides was 64 years of age. He was born July, 1862, in Polk County, where he lived the early part of his life. He was a good citizen, and a faithful member of the Baptist church, having joined the church in early boyhood. He was married twice, five children being born to each union. Nine children, besides his last wife, surviving, Mrs. Bessie Jones of near Ellenboro; Mrs. Will Alexander of Terry; Mr. Jay Whitesides of Washington, Md.; Wm. Whitesides of Chimney Rock, and Mrs. Carie Lee Gillespie, his first wife’s children. The other children ae Harold, Ethel, Miller and Ruby, one small child being dead.

The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Childers and Rev. Z.D. Harrill, interment being made at Bethel Church, Ellenboro, Monday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock. The deceased was a member of the Junior Order, this order having charge of the funeral services.

From the front page of the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Lots for Sale in Bat Cave Manor No. 2, Chimney Rock, N.C., March 25, 1926

Bat Cave Manor No. 2

Fastest Growing Sub-Division in This Entire Section

Bat Cave Manor No. 2 has 1,200 feet of road frontage and will be on the market at once. Watch for it.

Chimney Rock Realty Company Incorporated, Chimney Rock, N.C.

C.A. Perry, Sales Manager

W.R. Trammell, Asst. Sales Mgr.

Hendersonville Offices Main and Third Avenue, P.O. Box 103

J.F. Flack, President

Asheville Office: 311-312 Flat Iron Building, P.O. Box 1914

The ad includes a photo of Chimney Rock, labeled “The Rock that recently sold for $600,000.”

From the Forest City Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1926

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Durham Building Housing Hurst-Bell Co., Lawrence Mill Co. Destroyed by Fire, March 24, 1926

Durham Building Destroyed by Fire. . . Was Occupied by Hurst-Bell Co. and Lawrence Mill Company. . . Damage $75,000 to $100,000

Durham, March 22—Fire, which broke out about 6 o’clock Saturday afternoon while the streets were filled with late afternoon shoppers and others, completely gutted the three-story building situated on East Peabody Street owed and occupied by Messrs. E.H. and M.V. Lawrence as a grain mill. The wholesale grocery concern of the Hurst-Bell Company occupied a large part of the first floor. Firemen had great difficulty in subduing the flames which spread with great rapidity throughout the building. Practically all the fire-fighting apparatus available in the city was called out by the three alarms.

Yesterday and this morning the owners were busy moving what stock could be salvaged from the ruins. Firemen had remained on duty to prevent a fresh outbreak of the flames. Total damages are estimated to amount to between $75,000 and $100,000. The amount of insurance carried was unobtainable last night, but it was stated that about one-half of the loss was covered.

From the front page of The Roxboro Courier, Wednesday evening, March 24, 1926

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State A&T College Dormitory Damaged by Fire March 24, 1926

State Negro College Damaged by Fire. . . Damage Estimated at $35,000 Done by Blaze at State A. & T. College

Greensboro, March 24 (AP)—Fire originating in the barracks of the A & T. College, state negro institution, did damage estimated at approximately $35,000 Tuesday night.

The barracks were of wood construction and burned rapidly. Fire soon spread to the roof of the South Dormitory, and despite efforts of firemen the structure was practically destroyed by flames and water.

The dormitory was a four-story building, and the flames destroyed the roof and upper floor completely. The losses are covered by insurance, it was announced by President F.D. Bluford. None of the students was injured.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 24, 1926

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Woman Was Lookout for Flat River Township Still, March 24, 1926

Woman Gives Warning

Usually, it is a woman who gives the Sheriff the tip which results In breaking up some moon-shine business, but it was just the reverse last Monday night. Sheriff Brooks and Deputy Gentry had information concerning a plant down in Flat River township and made their way to investigate. They stopped their car and began the search, and when drawing nigh the outfit, a woman got in their car and proceeded to use the horn to its utmost capacity, thus warning the operator. They found the still, which weas turning out the real thing, but the men made their get-away. The still was of about 100-gallon capacity, which was destroyed.

This is the first still they have captured in some time, and it was hoped this business had been just about stopped in this County.

From the front page of The Roxboro Courier, Wednesday, March 24, 1926 newspapers.digitalnc.org/lccn/sn92073208/1926-03-24/ed-1/seq-1/

Child Who Disappeared in 1875 May Have Been Found in Shelby, N.C., March 24, 1926

Believe Man Near Shelby Is Charlie Ross, Long Sought. . . J.P. Gaffney of Shelby Says Affidavit Setting Forth Facts Will be Filed in Shelby. . . Man’s Name Has Not Been Given. . . Story Says He Was Left in Gaffney, S.C., by Couple Which Stayed Few Days

Shelby, N.C., March 24 (AP)—An affidavit professing belief that a man discovered near here is Charlie Ross, whose disappearance as a child in the east in 1875 caused a nation-wide search, will be filed here, according to J.P. Gaffney of this city.

The man says he feels certain that he is Ross.

Mr. Gaffney says he has been asked by the man if he will file such an affidavit. He added that he had remembered the man as a boy, coming to Gaffney, S.C., in 1875 soon after the child’s disappearance with a man and woman. They stopped, he said, a short time in the South Carolina city and disappeared, although he noticed at the time a close resemblance between the child and Ross. An investigation of the visitors was planned when they suddenly departed.

According to Mr. Gaffney he recently received a letter from the man asking if it was he who at that time conducted the investigation in the South Carolina city.

The man, according to Mr. Gaffney, is in correspondence with Walter L. Ross, brother of Charlie Ross, as well as having take up the question with the New York World.

From the front page of The Concord Daily Tribune, Wednesday, March 24, 1926

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