1909 Wilkes-Barre Record Almanac, Record of Local Events for 1908 1 Dec 1907 thru 30 Nov 1908 The following information is posted for the sole purpose of family research within the Yahoo Group, The Court House Gang. It is not to be published to any other web site, mailing list, group, etc. without prior written permission and guidelines from the group owner, to ensure that proper credit is given to the group and all of our volunteers that helped with this project. RECORD OF EVENTS Principle Happenings in Luzerne county for the Year Beginning December1, 1907, and Ending November 30, 1908 December, 1907 2. Rev. Dr. Piper lectures on “David Livingston” in the First M. E. Church chapel. North Wilkes-Barre residents organize “The Public Reform Association of Wilkes-Barre,” its object being to “more closely unite the common people of the city, State and nation for their mutual protection and benefit.” 3. Several mad dogs found in Wilkes-Barre in the course of a few weeks. Sword presented to Gen. Ross by the Supreme Council of Pennsylvania 119 years ago comes into the possession of Senator Catlin through the death of another descendant, Sterling Loop. Census of Catholic Parishes in Wilkes-Barre shows a Catholic population of 20,000. 5. County solicitor advises the county commissioners that the Ashley shops of the Central R. R. Co. are not subject to assessment for purposes of taxation, since they are not used for original construction work. Sanitary committee of Wilkes-Barre councils meets to consider the outbreak of hydrophobia among dogs in the Wyoming Valley and orders that a quarantine be established for the city, - all dogs running at large without muzzles may be shot after December 11. Lehigh Valley Coal Co. Wyoming division engineers give dinner for one of their number, H. E. Smith, about to leave the employ of the company. 6. Boys of the YMCA give burlesque circus entertainment. Terms of service of Ben Myers, police clerk; Thomas Gaffney, fireman; James McGinty, mayor’s clerk, aggregate 100 years. Greater Wilkes-Barre meeting held at Lee Park, the first to boom the annexation project. 8. Twentieth anniversary of St. Leo’s Church at Ashley observed. 9. The Record opens a fund for the relief of families of the 400 victims of the mine disaster at Monongah, W. Va. Luzerne court decides against the attorney general of the State with references to fees earned by State troopers for serving warrants and doing such work, the court deciding that the county instead of the State is entitled to the fees. 10. Solomon’s Creek in South Wilkes-Barre and Mill Creek in the northern part of the city overflow their banks, due to heavy rains and melting snow, and do considerable damage. Wyoming League of Boy’s Clubs meets in Scranton. 11. Quarantine relating to dogs in Wilkes-Barre goes into effect, policemen authorized to shoot all unmuzzled dogs seen on the street; Luzerne County Medical Society indorses the quarantine in strong terms. Meeting of citizens in the mayor’s office to organize a plan 0f relief in response to the appeal of the Red Cross in behalf of the widows and orphans made dependant by the mine disaster at Monongah, W. Va. L. C. Honeywell of Wilkes-Barre elected colonel of the Luzerne County P. O. S. of A. regiment. Owing to heavy rains river reaches a height of 18.1 feet, overflowing part of the flats. 12. Smoker of the Board of trade at Hotel Sterling in honor of the new members. Thirty unmuzzled dogs killed in one day. 13. Nineteenth anniversary of William J. Byars Council, Jr. O. U. A. M., celebrated with a smoker, entertainment and lunch. 14. Snow, hail and rain to the depth of about four inches seriously interferes with traffic during the day. Reorganization of the old Brick Church at Plainsville – the oldest building between Carbondale and Plains originally built and still used for Methodist services. William Cosgrove, engineer at Heidelberg No. 2, sticks to his post while men being hoisted, with the engine house collapsing about him. Food show opens at the armory. 16. Railroad companies agree to employ an engineer to come to Wilkes-Barre to devote all of his time to the grade crossing problem; project for the building of a union station also discussed at a New York meeting. Record prints report of visitation appointed by the court to investigate care of Luzerne County’s dependant and delinquent children in various institutions – Elliott P. Kisner, Rev. Marcus Salzman, Rev. R. A. McAndrew, Rev. F. L. Flinchbaugh, William L. Watson and Stephen D. Engle. Conciliation Board meets in Wilkes-Barre. Forty-nine unmuzzled dogs killed in Wilkes-Barre. Charles Boyle, a former Wilkes-Barre resident, killed while at work on New England railroad. 17. Announcement made of the resignation of Rev F. L. Flinchaugh of Calvary Episcopal Church, he having accepted a call to Calvary Church in Cincinnati. Banquet of Kingston Lodge of Masons. Rev. James m. Yeager of Lewistown, Mifflin County, appointed United States Marshall for the district of which Luzerne county is a part. George R. Wendling lectures in YMCA course on Moses. Coroner’s jury charges Central R. R. Co. with negligence because of wreck near Pittston, due to cave over mine working, in which two employees were killed. 18. Opening recital on the new pipe organ in St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Kingston, by Pietro A. Yon. Death of Rev. William Cochrane, one of the oldest members of the Wyoming Conference, Methodist church, at his home at Yatesville. Priests of the diocese of Scranton, Catholic Church, directed to not recognize marriages as valid that are not performed by priests of the church. 19. Record closes its fund for the widows and orphans of the Monongah mine disaster after having collected aa little over $600. Sixty divorces granted in Luzerne County during 1907. 20. Annual dinner of the New England Society of Scranton. Announcement made that Capt. Page of the company of State Constabulary stationed at Wyoming has retired and is to be succeeded by Lieut. Charles F. Fuerstein of Wilkes-Barre. Pro-annexation meeting held in Newtown section of Hanover Township. Firm of Lazarus Bros. Purchases the Wyoming Valley Hotel property from the Stark estate. 21. Edward J Flood ordained to the priesthood in Ashley. 22. Globe Store on Public Square Wilkes-Barre, destroyed by fire. 23. Sanitary committee of councils rescinds the order that unmuzzled dogs shall be shot on the streets and substitutes an order that four dogcatchers shall go about catching the animals and that they shall be disposed of in a more humane manner. Five hundred entertained at St. Conrad\’s Ha;; under the auspices of the United Charities and given mittens, fruit and toys from Mae Turner Conyngham memorial fund. 24. William Action, a former resident of Plains, accidentally killed in New York State. 25. Three murders and several murderous assaults in Wilkes-Barre and vicinity on Christmas Day. 26. Police committee of councils recommends an increase of $5 a month in pay of policeman and an addition of five members to the force. Annual dinner given by Wilkes-Barre citizen for bootblacks, newsboys and messenger boys attended by nearly 240. 27. St. John’s Day banquets of the three Wilkes-Barre lodges. 28. Death at Clyde, N. Y. , of Rev. W. L. Thorpe, a Methodist minister who was well known by reason of his pastorates in the Wyoming Valley. Recorder Hiram P. Kuntz dies at his home in Hazelton. 29. Rev. Dr. B. F. G. McGee announces his resignation as pastor of the First Baptist Church, Wilkes- Barre. Death of William L. Conyngham, one of Wyoming Valley’s most prominent citizens. 30. University of Pennsylvania men meet in Wilkes-Barre and form an alumni association. Wilkes-Barre firemen form pension fund to be paid incase of disability or death from accident. Annual reunion of B. I. A. alumni. 31. The year’s building record the largest in the history of Wilkes-Barre. Marble setters at the new courthouse go on strike; their grievance being that the marble contracted for by the Carlucci Co. with a New York firm was cut by non-union workmen employed by the latter. Annual Assembly ball at the armory a big success. January, 1908. 1. First National Bank ready for business in its handsome new building on Public Square. Water for the Georgetown section of Wilkes-Barre Township turned into new mains, after long agitation. Annual inspection of the Wilkes-Barre fire department results in a recommendation for a new quick-acting fire truck and other improvements. Thousands attend the annual New year reception at the YMCA. Nineteenth annual eisteddfod of Moriah Church at Nanticoke – principal prize won by Plymouth choir. 3. Alexander Shifoski of Dickson City found dead in North Wilkes-Barre, Having eventually been stricken by disease. 4. Rhoades Hotel At Harvey’s Lake destroyed by fire. 5. Rev. Charles Gross of Ansonia, Conn. accepts a call to Calvary Episcopal Church. Official changes in the courthouse as a result of the November election. Maj. James A. Dewey elected lieutenant colonel of the 9th Regt., in place of Col. Pierce, resigned. 7. Record publishes comparative statements of the banks for the year. 9. Local teamsters and team owners organize a union. Local brewery workers meet their employers and make request for an eight-hour day, an increase of $2 a week for inside workers and for teamsters. Gorge of ice in the river at Wilkes-Barre. 10. Modern Woodmen and Royal Neighbors have their first annual banquet at the Flatiron Hotel. 11. Grand jury recommends that the county commissioners make an effort to purchase the North street bridge by arrangement with the company, and failing that to take steps for the construction of a new bridge across the river at Northampton street. Brewery workers of Wilkes-Barre and Pittston reach an agreement with their employers, being a modification of the demands first made, in Wilkes-Barre the advance to be $1 a week for all men except firemen and engineers, who are to receive $2; inside men to work eight hours a day for six months and nine hours for the other six months, with a straight nine-hour day for the drivers. Death of Mrs. Martha Lemin of Wilkes-Barre, aged 96 years. 12. Spring-like weather, with a temperature of 50 degrees. 13. About $40,000 damage by fire at powder mills at Wapwallopen. Opening of the annual exhibit by the Wilkes-Barre Poultry and Pet Stock Association. Wilkes-Barre post office business for 1907 shows an increase of nearly $17,000 in receipts……….. 14. Pringle will dispute, which has been the cause of much litigation, settled out of court. First formal report made by the Wilkes-Barre Park Commission. 15. Annual banquet of the Luzerne County Medical Society. Five girls from Wilkes-Barre and vicinity arrested for committing thefts of pocketbooks in stores of Wilkes-Barre and Scranton. Bachelor’s ball, a leading social event in the Pittstons, held in the new armory. 16. Commission appointed to revise the school laws of the State meets in Wilkes-Barre. Sweeping license ordinances reported to councils. School directors of Luzerne County meet in annual convention in Wilkes-Barre. 18. Post J. National Protective Association, made up of traveling men, have their first annual banquet at Hotel Redington. 19. Poles in mass meeting at Nanticoke protest against the policy of the Prussian government towards the people of that nationality in Prussia. 20. East End St. Aloysius Society takes possession of its new quarters on Scott street. 21. Record publishes a comprehensive chronological history of the first use of anthracite coal in the development of the industry. Clemens Nelkern of West Hazelton, charged with shooting a State Constabulary member, found guilty of felonious assault. Washington Camp, 287, P. O. S. of A., celebrates its twentieth anniversary. 23. Dr. Mason Glee Society concert in the Nisbett, the chorus assisted by Kronold, cellist, and Miss Agnes Noll, soprano. Banquet by Circle No 1 Fraternity of Home Protectors. 24. Election board of the Preston district of Hanover Township convicted of conspiracy to defraud in connection with the election of November, 1907, it being charged that they permitted unregistered people to vote: jury recommends the defendants to the mercy of the court. Shriners entertain the Imperial Potentate of North America, Frank C. Roundy of Chicago. Caledonian Club celebrates the 149th anniversary of Robert Burns. Former Ashley girl, Mary Krone, dies in New Jersey from hydrophobia, over a year after having been bitten. G. W. Thompson’s machine shop destroyed by fire. 25. Michael Knittle of Easton, formerly of Wilkes-Barre, killed on railroad. 27. Encouraging reports submitted at the annual meeting of the Wilkes-Barre YMCA. Three boys drowned by going through the ice on the pond adjoining the North Wilkes- Barre lace mill. Initial smoker in Concordia Hall by the United Germen Singing Societies of Wilkes-Barre. 28. Councils pass ordinance providing for cleaning of the streets by the city. Mayor Kirkendall sends his last message to councils. 29. Increase of $15 a month in salaries of chief deputies in the court house. Twenty-fifth anniversary of Columbus Council, Jr. O. U. A; M., observed. Farewell reception for Rev. Dr. B. F. C. McGee, pastor of the First Baptist Church. Record offers a silver cup for the 9th Regt. Company making the best record at the spring inspections. 30. Nineteenth anniversary banquet of the Wilkes-Barre Lodge of Elks. 31. Adams Express Co. office in Wilkes-Barre robbed of $600. Annual entertainment of the Sorosis Society of the Wilkes-Barre high school. February 1. Independent Society of Wyoming Seminary wins in annual debate with the Amphictyons. Eight people convicted of conducting speakeasies sentenced to imprisonment ranging from three months to one year. 2. Another cold wave, with blizzardy weather. Annual smoker and lunch of the local union of musicians in Concordia Hall. 3. Annual banquet and business session of the Young Woman’s Christian Association. John Hoffman of Glen Lyon, 16 years old, found dead in a mine. 4. Local company produces “Parish Priest” in Scranton. Schumann-Heink at the Nesbitt to crowed house. 5. Annual banquet of Broderivk Conclave of Heptasophs at the Wyoming Valley Hotel. Rev. Dr. Fullerton lectures on “Shakespeare” in the First Presbyterian chapel. Annual banquet of Wilkes-Barre Council, Knights of Columbus. Fortieth anniversary of Conyngham Post, G. A. R. 6. Driving Club organized by horsemen of Wilkes-Barre and vicinity. Woman drops dead in poor director Westfield’s office after being promised aid for her sick husband and children. Banquet in honor of Thompson II. Rowley, leader of Rowley’s band, and presentation of metal. 7. Trio Club and Beatrice Hereford, monologist, appear in entertainment for benefit of Heights Settlement. 9. Board of directors of the Northeastern Saengerbund of America meets in Wilkes-Barre. St. Mary’s male choir presents Father McAndrew with a handsome davenport and leader Hansen with a cane. 10. Annual ball of the Fireman’s Relief Association. Court appoints George J. Stegmaler a member of the poor board in place of Charles Westfield. 11. Historical Society observes the fiftieth anniversary of its organization and the one hundredth anniversary of the Jesse Fell experiment in burning Wyoming coal in an open grate, demonstrating the use of anthracite as a domestic fuel. 12; Annual board of trade banquet in Concordia Hall, celebrating the coal anniversary and the birthday anniversary of Abraham Lincoln. 14 Lafayette Glee and Mandolin clubs give concert in Nelson Memorial Hall. 15. Funeral of Father Brehony of Wilkes-Barre largely attended. Standard Construction Co. secures plant of the Kingston Manufacturing Co. 17. Court denies the petition for a vote on the proposition to annex part of Hazel Township to the city of Hazelton, for technical reasons. Highest point reached by the river, 21.8 feet. 18. Pleasant election weather and much interest in the municipal contest for mayor. 20. George T. Berry lectures before the local branch of the McAll Mission. Official count of the Wilkes-Barre election completed. 21. All day convention in the YMCA building under the auspices of the Anti-Saloon League in the interest of local option. Annual Lafayette banquet at the Westmoreland Club. 22. Fourth annual banquet of the employees of the Wilkes-Barre post office at Hotel Redington. Nesbitt oratorical contest at Wyoming Seminary. Degree of doctor of laws conferred upon Hon. Charles E. Rice of Wilkes-Barre, president judge of the Superior Court of Pennsylvania, by the University of Pennsylvania. 24. Tenth anniversary banquet of Sons of Liberty Lodge I. O. O. F. at the Wyoming Valley Hotel. 25. United Charities donation day results in the receipt of about $4,000 in cash alone. 26. Severe rain and wind-storm – Pennsylvania avenue flooded from Northampton to North streets and part of South Wilkes-Barre. 27. Second National Bank’s handsome new quarters thrown open for inspection. 29. First playgrounds report shows that during the season of 1907 the average daily attendance at the three playgrounds in Wilkes-Barre was 239, a gratifying showing. Annual banquet of the Adelphian Society of Wyoming Seminary at Hotel Sterling. March 2. Wilkes-Barre school board agrees to the opening of a night school in connection with the business department, with the understanding that pupils pay $1 a month for tuition and 50 cents a month for use of instruments. Fire at Wyoming Valley knitting mill at Plymouth causes damage to the extent of about $18,00. Spring convention of the North Branch Conference of the Susquehanna Synod of the Evangelical Church held in Wilkes-Barre. Mallinckrodt alumni give a “Night in Holland”. 3. Contract for the erection of the Poli Theater in Wilkes-Barre awarded. The one hundred and seventy-eighth quarterly convention of the Wyoming District Ministerial Association held in Central M. E. Church, followed by a banquet in the evening. 4. License figures show that 510,213 barrels of beer were brewed in Luzerne County during 1907. 5. Fifth anniversary of the Wilkes-Barre Sisterhood, Dames of Malta, observed with a banquet at the Flatiron Hotel. 6. Thomas Willis, the Negro charged with the murder of Cameron Cool, brought here from Maryland. Dinner given by Robert Brodhead at Hotel Sterling to meet Rev. A. W; Halsey D. D. of the Foreign Mission Board, and other prominent Presbyterians. 9. Death of E. H. Chase of Wilkes-Barre, for many years actively interested in the politics of the city and county. Millard F. Coons, for a number of years manager of the Nesbitt and Grand Opera House, leaves the city to engage in business in New York. 10 Ground broken for the Poll theater to be erected on South Main street. Master Plumber’s Association of Wilkes-Barre and vicinity has it s second annual banquet. Retail merchants and meat dealers decide to get after the delinquents who refuse to pay their bills. Contract for cleaning the paved streets of Wilkes-Barre awarded to Harry. A. Cassidy. 12. Lehigh & Wilkes-Barre Coal Co. purchases from Henry Lazarus the Wyoming Valley Hotel property for the purpose of erecting an office building. Luzerne Civil Service Reform Association sends out circulars to make the project an issue in the legislative campaign. Judge Lindsay of juvenile court fame lectures in Pittston. 13. Wilkes-Barre schools inspected with a view to ascertaining whether there are any such defects as caused the lamentable disaster at Cleveland. David Harris, a Lehigh Valley engineer living in Hazelton, killed at Packerton. 16. Banquet of the Luzerne County Civil Service Reform Association at Hotel Redington. 17. Body of Miss Jeanette Wiley, who disappeared from her home in Wilkes-Barre January 15, found in the river near Harrisburg, St. Patrick’s Day observed with a number of banquets. Sixteenth annual eisteddfod of the Cynonfardd Literary Society of Edwardsville. 18. Louis Dierolf of Wilkes-Barre kills his wife and then himself on one of the streets of Ashley in sight of one of his children. Clerical force of Pennsylvania freight station have a banquet at Hotel Redington. 19. Dr. C. D. Wilkins, assistant superintendent of the Brattleboro (VT) Retreat, elected as successor to Miss West, superintendent at the City Hospital. 20. County W. C. T. U. convention at West Pittston. Katherine Goodson, pianist, appears at the YMCA under Schubert chorus auspices. 21. The new building of the Plymouth National Bank ready for business. M. C. Cleveland takes charge of the Exchange Hotel as manager. Arguments heard in motions to quash indictments in election fraud cases of the fall of 1906, - court reserving its decision. 23. Record prints article showing the sewer facilities in Wilkes-Barre in comparison with other cities of the country, making a decidedly favorable exhibit. Last of the University Extension Lectures in Wilkes-Barre. Mass meeting in favor option in the YMCA auditorium. 24. Fifty years ago the Record of the Times printed its first issue by steam power. Record prints coal production, etc., for 1907 in Luzerne County. 25. Oneonta Hotel at Harvey’s Lake leased for five years to N. L. Fairbairn of the Strand Hotel, Atlantic City. John Heinrich Kramer leases the Egner restaurant in Wilkes-Barre. Entertainment by the V High School Athletic Association. 26. Record begins the publication of a series of illustrations showing Wilkes-Barre’s recent advance in building. 27. After investigating the political trick by which an attempt was made to place the name of a fictitious person upon the Republican primary ballot for the commissionership nomination, Judge Fuller instructs the district attorney to take action and the bar association consider the case against the lawyer indicated. Alderman Edward O. Richards of Wilkes-Barre dies suddenly in his office. 28. Banquet given by the officers of the 9th Regt. To former officers and members at Hotel Redington; plans laid for the formation of a veteran’s corps. Death of ex-Judge D. L Rhone. People of Friwood protest against the location of a garbage crematory near that section. 30. Gang of boys confesses to a number of burglaries committed in Wilkes-Barre. James Smeaton, a former Plymouth resident, killed in mine disaster in State of Wyoming. 31. Fifty-seventh annual session of Wyoming Conference of the Methodist Church opens in Carbondale, Bishop Hamilton presiding. John Mitchell retires as president of the United Mine Workers of America, succeeded by Thomas J. Lewis. Three children of Mrs. Dominick Jematis of Hughestown burned to death after being locked in the house during the absence of the mother. April 1. Death of Dr, Frederick Corss of Kingston, one of the county’s best known physicians. Fine moving weather. YMCA Minstrel Club gives another performance. 2. Luzerne County Medical Society takes action on the death of Dr. Frederick Corss. 3. David W. Edwards appointed general yardmaster of the Wilkes-Barre terminal of the D. & H. 4. Bar association holds meeting to take action on the death of Judge D. L. Rhone. 5. Burglars blow open two safes in Boston Store, but secure only a small amount of booty. 6. Mayor F. C. Kirkendall gives place to Mayor-elect Lewis P. Kniffen and councils reorganize; Maj. Jacob Roberts defeats Dr. A. H. Morgan a s chairman of common council; select council holds up two of Mayor Kniffen’s appointments – Thomas Barrett as street commissioner and Dr. Wolfe as city bacteriologist; J. Grant Long succeeds John Clifford as chief of police. Kingston and Dallas turnpike declared a free county road and collection of tolls abolished. 8. Plans to merge the B. I. A. with the YMCA work given a setback, the argument being that they are not leasible on account of the large expense that would be entailed by altering the Stegmaier residence for that purpose/ 9. Meeting under the auspices of the German-American Alliance to protest against local option held at the armory. 10. Stirring primary campaign closed. 11 Republican ballots intense interest in the primary election – the result for Congress and county treasurer on the Republican ticket in doubt; glaring trickery in Democrats voting. Grand jury approves the manner in which the work is progressing at the new court house, scales down the recommendation of the previous grand jury that not less than $500,000 be spent for sailors and soldiers monument to read not less than $150,000, approves of the movement fro free bridges and roads, recommends that the county begin a systematic plan of road improvement, advises the construction of an improved highway between Wilkes-Barre and Pittston on the east side, and recommends that the court take action relative to tearing away of the Nanticoke dam. Globe Store on Public Square, which was destroyed by fire, reopens for business. High wind in Wilkes-Barre and vicinity causes considerable damage. 13 Bertram K. Finch defeats Alfred Hand for the office of city engineer. 14. Annual banquet of the Amphictyon Society of Wyoming Seminary at the Terminal Hotel. 15. Josef Hoffman appears in concert at the Nesbitt. Great interest in the counting of the primary vote. 16. Burroughs adder machine interests secure a majority of stock of the adder machine company of Kingston. 18. Five miners seriously burned by explosion of gas in the Woodward colliery. Majority of board of county commissioners decides to admit as valid specimen ballots voted at the primaries, against the advice of the county solicitor. Oscar Sturmer, formerly of Pittston, killed by falling from a train in Maryland. 19. Rainey and gloomy Easter weather. 20. Spring session of Lackawanna Presbytery opens at Scranton. Dr. Sarah D. Wyckoff appointed city bacteriologist, to serve until councils and the mayor can agree upon a permanent appointment. 21. Euchre and bazaar under the auspices of St. Mary’s congregation at the armory. 22. Academy boys give play at the Nesbitt – “Higbee of Harvard.” Board of Trade Committee takes first steps toward the abatement of Solomon’s Creek nuisance. Robert Pettebone purchases the old Courtwright Hotel property on West Market street… 24. Miners’ Savings Bank appoints committee to consider new building project. Farewell reception for Rev. Dr. J. T. Griffiths of Edwardsville, who was reassigned, 25. Verdict of murder in the first degree against Thomas Willis, charged with the murder of Cameron Cool at West Pittston. 27. Heavy thunder storm, several houses in Wilkes-Barre struck by lightening. Examination for mine inspectors in Wilkes-Barre. St. Conrad’s Glee Club spring concert. 28. After a contest of several weeks select council confirms Mayor Kniffen’s appointment of Thomas Barrett as street commissioner and of Dr. Wolfe as city bacteriologist. Third annual gymnastic exhibition of the Young Woman’s Christian Association. Northeastern Pennsylvania Association of manufacturers formed at meeting held in Scranton. 29. Farewell social reception in the old YWCA building. Concordia spring concert, with Miss May Mukle, cellist. 30. Fifth anniversary ball of the Eagles at the armory. Polish Independent Church at Duryea destroyed by fire. May 1. First engineering company in the National Guard of Pennsylvania formed at a meeting held in Scranton. County commissioners decide not to erect an independent plant for lighting the new court house. 2. Opening of exhibit under the auspices of the Pennsylvania Anti-Tuberculosis Society in Wilkes-Barre. Parade and races under the auspices of the new Wilkes-Barre Driving Club. 3. Fine new organ opened in the Sacred heart of Jesus Church in Wilkes-Barre, Father Murgas, pastor. Eagles have annual memorial services. Death of John Schmidt, for many years a member of the Wilkes-Barre police force. 5. Frank P. Hopper re-elected superintendent of the public schools of Luzerne County, with an increase of $1,000 a year in salary, making it $5,000. James M. Coughlin re-elected superintendent of the Wilkes-Barre schools at an increase of $500 a year. Musical Art Society concert, with Louis Schultz, cellist and Miss Chandler, soprano. 7. Primitive Methodist Conference held at Avoca. 9. Close of the anti-tuberculosis exhibit in Wilkes-Barre, there having been an attendance of 12,500 during the week. Wilkes-Barre district mining institute formed. 10. Three young men ordained to the ministry at the Primitive Methodist Conference in session at Avoca. 11. May party held under the auspices of the Needlework Guild of St Mary’s Church. Another quarantine against dogs in Wilkes-Barre begins, to remain in force until September 1, all dogs to be muzzled. 12. Knights of Malta of Pennsylvania in annual convention in Wilkes-Barre. Seven men killed outright and about twenty-five injured by an explosion of gas in the Mt. Lookout mine at Wyoming. 13 Five men killed by a fall of roof in the Prospect colliery, Wilkes-Barre. Thirteenth annual banquet of the Cliosophic and Sorosis societies of the Wilkes-Barre high school. First Civic Harmony dinner of the Wilkes-Barre City officials and prominent citizens held at Hotel Redington. Jury in the case of Pierce against the Lehigh Valley Coal Co., for $50,000 damages to the plaintiff’s farm by reason of refuse washings in the flood of 1902, returns a verdict of $1. 14. First annual banquet of the alumni association of the Luzerne Borough high school. Knights of Malta in State convention adjourn 15. Scranton high school wins in annual literary contest with Wilkes-Barre high school. 16. Mr. And Mrs. John D. Kline of Wilkes-Barre observe their golden wedding anniversary. The week’s fearful record of mine fatalities ends by the death of two and serious injury of two others by a trip of runaway cars in the Franklin colliery. Another spell of summer weather, first appearance of the open cars on the traction lines. Dr. J. M. McCormack speaks to physicians and to the public of Wilkes-Barre and vicinity on problems of health and sanitation, having come under the auspices of the American Medical Association. Mr. and Mrs. John W. Patton of Luzerne Borough celebrate golden wedding. 18 Mass meeting of citizens favors removing the Solomon’s Creek nuisance by diverting the course of the stream to Hanover Township. Supreme Court affirms the lower court in giving Kingston Coal Co. the right to mine under St. Vincent’s Cemetery, Plymouth. 19. Mine foreman’s examinations in the Wilkes-Barre district. 20. Diamond City Council Jr. O. U. A. M. instituted in Wilkes-Barre. Twenty-sixth annual convention of the C. T. A. U. of the Scranton Diocese convenes in Wilkes-Barre. Mayor Kniffen sends notice to saloonkeepers that they must keep closed on Sunday and not sell to minors. 21. Visiting newspapermen taken to Laurel Run, Bear Lake and Harvey’s Lake and entertained at the Westmoreland and Franklin clubs by local authorities in anticipation of the hill climb. Semi-annual convention of Northeastern Central Lutheran League of Pennsylvania in St. Peter’s Church, Wilkes-Barre. One hundredth anniversary of the old Wilkes-Barre Academy observed by alumni with a banquet at Hotel Redington. 23. Welsh Baptist Association of Northeaster Pennsylvania meets in Nanticoke. 24. Annual sermon to the veterans preached by Father Balta at St. Nicholas German Catholic Church. Death of Father W. H. Connolly of Hazelton, formerly a Wilkes-Barre curate. 25. Ringling’s circus fills the tent at both performances. Carlucci Co. awarded the contract for the interior artwork at the new courthouse for $74,500. 26. County commissioners decide to macadamize the highway between Luzerne Borough and Dallas. 28. Dinner at Hotel Redington in honor of Rev. Reese Evans of Lllanwrtyd, Wales. First prize of $15 in the Board of Trade’s competition for essay on “Wilkes-Barre, Present and future,” awarded to Esther Creveling; second prize of $10 to Gertrude A. Marvin; honorable mention to Howard Aston. First car run on the Georgetown extension of the traction line from Empire crossing to a point near St. Joseph’s Church. Knights Templar attend Ascension Day services in the First M. E. Church. 29. Scheme to break jail planned by a number of prisoners frustrated by one of them notifying the warden. Twenty-fifth anniversary of Wilkes-Barre Council, 161, Jr. O. U. A. M., celebrated with a reception and banquet. 30. About 25,000 people witnessed the annual hill climb under the auspices of the Wilkes-Barre Automobile Club; record broken by a Chadwick in 1 minute 41 2/5 seconds; the same driver in the same machine went over the course to beat his own record and did so in 1 minute, 38 2/5 seconds. Matinee races by the Wilkes-Barre Driving Club. June 1. Wyoming League of Boys’ Clubs meets in Wilkes-Barre. License board prohibits the sale of hokey pokey ice cream in Wilkes-Barre. Eighteen sets of plans submitted for the proposed new high school building in Wilkes-Barre. Board of viewers reports in favor of the purchase of the two Pittston bridges for not more than $140,422, that plan being preferable to the erection of a new bridge by the county, which it is estimated would cost $191,841. Nearly 100 liquor licenses transferred by the court 2. Julius Sebastien and Mrs. Annie Keute of Kingston suicide because they were in love and the latter could not obtain a divorce from her husband who had deserted her; both attired themselves in their best clothes, penned farewell notes, the young man shot the girl through the temple and then shot himself in the head. Mrs. Annie Strach of Kingston Township fatally shoots her husband after he had broken into the house; had been living unhappily. 3. Work on macadamizing the road between Wilkes-Barre and Nanticoke begun. 4. Mother Francisco of Hazelton re-elected mother superior of the Sisters of Mercy of the Scranton Diocese for three years. 5. Coroner’s jury investigating Mt. Lookout mine disaster, in which twelve men were killed, finds the officials erred in not looking more carefully after the ventilation and in taking so large a body of men into the mine when it was in a dangerous condition. 6. Graduates and students of the stenography department of Wyoming Seminary have a banquet. Father O’Malley of St. Mary’s purchases property on South Washington street be fitted up for cadets and young men of the parish. Annual meeting of the American Federation of Catholic Societies of Pennsylvania held in Wilkes-Barre. 7. John Boner of Wilkes-Barre, who escaped from Retreat Asylum, captured at White Haven. 9. Six0county fireman’s convention opens at Hazelton. Severe windstorm on the West Side. 12. Wilkes-Barre High School, Hillman Academy and Wilkes-Barre Institute commencements. The new president of the United Mine Workers, Thomas Lewis, makes his first visit to V since his election. 13. Viewers appointed to fix a price upon the Market street bridge in Wilkes-Barre agree upon $165,000, - $35,000 less than the bridge company claims the property is worth. Two murders and half a dozen murderous assaults committed by foreigners within a radius of nine miles from Wilkes-Barre. Raid on Wilkes-Barre gambling houses by police force. Twenty-fourth annual banquet of Lincoln Society of Hillman Academy. 14. Baccalaureate sermon to graduates of Wyoming Seminary preached by Rev. Dr. Daniel Dorchester of Pittsburg. 15 Citizens of Pittston hold mass meeting to consider better protection against murders and other lawless acts of criminal foreign element. 16. Seven graduates from the City Hospital nurses’ training school – the address to the graduates delivered by Dr. Solomin Solis Cohen of Philadelphia. 17. Prizes presented to companies of the 9th Regt. For proficiency during the year, including the Record’s silver cup to C. B for making the highest rating at the spring inspections; prizes also presented to individual members of the regiment. Convention of Tri0State Association of News dealers, Booksellers and Stationers held in Wilkes-Barre. Freight and passenger representatives of many railroads east of the Rocky Mountains come to Wilkes-Barre for the second time for a convention and outing. Wyoming Seminary commencement – a graduating class of forty-six. Opening of the playgrounds in Wilkes-Barre for the season. 18. C. T. A. U. regiment reunion at Valley View Park. 20. Spell of torrid weather in the Wyoming Valley. 22. Commencement of St. Mary’s parochial high school. 23. Local option hold meeting in Wilkes-Barre to plan for the legislative campaign. 24. St. Ann’s Academy Alumni Association holds second annual banquet at Harvey’s Lake. A week of extremely hot weather – mercury going as high as 95 degrees. Seven nurses graduate from Mercy Hospital training school. 25. Hollenback mine of the Lehigh & Wilkes-Barre Coal Co. shut down for a long period in order that extensive improvements may be made. William Curley of Duryea appointed to the Annapolis Naval Academy. 27. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show. Opening of Irish fair of Holy Savior Church. 28. Cornerstone of the Margaret Memorial Chapel of the First Presbyterian Church at Kingston laid, to be erected in memory of Mr. and Mrs. T. L. Newell’s two deceased daughters. 29. Hearing begun to determine whether coal property in Luzerne County is assessed proportionately higher than other property. 30. City of Wilkes-Barre, in conjunction with certain residents, begins equity proceedings against the Wilkes-Barre and Lehigh Coal Co. to prohibit the company from diverting its culm and other refuse into Solomon;s Creek and to compel it to remove the stuff already deposited. St. Mary’s choir has an outing and banquet at Harvey’s Lake. July 1. Class of 1906 of the V high school has reunion at Harvey’s Lake. 3. Henry Budd, Esq., of Philadelphia delivers address at Wyoming Monument on “Some Contrasts Suggested by the Massacre at Wyoming.” 4. Threatening weather during most of the day and severe heat. No fatal accidents in Wilkes-Barre or the vicinity but a score or more of minor injuries and three alarms of fire. Flag presented to State Constabulary at Wyoming by the Wilkes-Barre Automobile Club in appreciation of serviced rendered during the hill climb. 6. Board of mine inspector examiners announces that seven candidates in Luzerne County have passed, one more than the number required for election. 7. Meeting of citizens of Forty Fort to protest against the school board’s action in dismissing four teachers from that place and selecting four outside young women. Several heat prostrations in Wilkes-Barre. A couple of week of very hot weather, mercury frequently going to 90 and above, the maximum being 95 in Wilkes-Barre. Court refuses petition of citizens of the Eighth Ward of Nanticoke to have their locality incorporated into a borough known as Hanover. 8. Hot wave of more than two weeks broken by a cool spell, difference of 15 degrees in temperature at midday in twenty-four hours. 9. Viewers hear testimony in relation to the purchase by the county of another toll road – that running from Shickshinny to Grandview in Huntington Township. 10. Pennsylvania Coal; Co. brings equity suit against Jenkins Township and the county, alleging that a blanket assessment on all coal land is unjust and also that each piece of coal property should be assessed separately. 12. Luzerne County branch of Federation of Catholic Societies organized. Hottest day of the summer so far – 96 degrees in Wilkes-Barre. Dedication of new Polish Catholic Church at Dupont. 13. Court refuses to restrain Duryea school board from erecting a school building according to plans and location. 14. Warm discussion in Wilkes-Barre councils over awarding contracts for asphalt resurfacing and repairs and for hose. YMCA boys in camp along the Susquehanna in Wyoming County. 15. 9th Regt. leaves for camp at Gettysburg. County commissioners select Kenyon Cox, William H. Low, Edwin H. Blashfield and William Smedley to paint the four mural paintings for the new courthouse. Organization effected for the new Luzerne County National Bank, formerly the Luzerne County Trust Co. 16. Welsh Day at Sans Souci Park attracts thousands of people from the Wyoming and Lackawanna valleys. Death of Prof. Stadler, for many years head of the music department in Wyoming Seminary. 19. Blessings of St. Mary’s Lithuanian Catholic Church in Kingston. Primitive Methodist camp meeting at Harvey’s Lake. Sisters of Mercy from Wilkes-Barre and other places at Glen Summit Hotel for the summer. 20. Convention of District No. 1 of the United Mine Workers in session in Scranton. 21. Centennial Jubilee Committee selects a sub-committee to choose a memorial to be paid for with the $2,000 fund remaining. Report denied that Mountain Park is to be abandoned as a picnic resort owing to mining operations. Cottagers at Harvey’s Lake meet and take action relative to the lowering of the water of the lake owing to the controversy between Judge Lynch and Dr. Troxell, - the State Department of Heath to be appealed to and in the event of the failure of relief from that body an equity suit is to be instituted. 22. Annual outing of Wilkes-Barre Knights of Columbus at Valley View Park. 23. Two bids for lighting the city received by council committee, one from the old company and the other from R. C. Longnecker and Thomas Dunn. Spring Brook Water Supply Co. takes over the Nanticoke Water Co. plant. 9th Regt. Returns from Gettysburg encampment. 24. More than two weeks of excessive heat, mercury at 90 and above nearly every day. 25. Some changes in the faculty of the Wyoming Seminary announced. Press Club gives a reception for William Leslie, for twenty years connected with the Elmira Telegram. Third annual county convention of the P. O S. of A. held at Plymouth. 26. Rev. James Golden celebrates his first mass in the Catholic Church in Parsons. Cornerstone of St. Anthony’s Slavish Catholic Church at Larksville laid. Central R. R. employees have outing at Mountain Park. 27. Reorganization of City Hospital staff by reducing its size. 28. Wilkes-Barre Board of School Government selects Owen McGlynn as architect of the new high school building. Twenty-one young women take the white veil and eighteen the black veil at Mallinckrodt Convent. Michael Ruane of Avoca killed on a railroad at Middletown, N. Y. 29. Death of Frank Sando of Hazelton makes the thirteenth murder in Luzerne County in the seven months of the year. Death at Ocean Grove of Alexander Mitchell, one of Wilkes- Barre’s best known residents and one of the jail copmmissio0ners. 31. C. T. A. U. regiment leaves for a ten day s’ camp at Lake George. St. Stephen’s choir boys in camp near Vosberg. August 1. Caledonian Day at Sans Souci Park. 5. Merchants’ Day at Sans Souci Park. Death of Mrs. Mary Schreiter for fifty years a resident of Wilkes-Barre. Annie Strauk, who shot and killed her husband at Pringle Hill, judged insane by a commission in lunacy. 7. Penn Tobacco Co. purchases site on Pennsylvania avenue for new factory. About 200 members of Jr. O. U. A. M. regiment leave for encampment at Lake Lodore. 12. B. F. Wyly, Jr. resigns as traffic manager for the Laurel Line. Lawrence Myers estate sells to Lehigh Coal Co. a tract of thirty-two acres of coal land at Forty Fort. 15. The twenty-second murder committed in Luzerne County in twelve months. Charles Herron, formerly of Plymouth Township, killed by accident at Buffalo. 16. Rev. P. M. Mott of Dallas stricken with illness while preaching in the Dorranceton M. E. Church and passes away a few hours later of apoplexy. 18. James C. Johnson, a Wilkes-Barre painter, dies of injuries sustained at Elmira, N. Y. Hot spell broken by cooler weather. 19. Three Wilkes-Barre druggists arrested on the charge of selling cocaine illegally. 20. Prof. Arthur S. Williams, a native of Plymouth, elected to succeed the late Hugo V. Stadler as head of the department of instrumental music in Wyoming Seminary. 22. Frank Artle of Pittston Township dies from having taken Paris green. Welsh Day at Luna Park attended by many people from the Wyoming Valley. 24. Opening of the Luzerne County fair at West Side Park. Herman Durling of Tunkhannock, who was shot in the head at shooting gallery, dies from his injuries. 25. John C. Haddock announces his withdrawal as the Democratic candidate for Congress in the Luzerne County district. Mrs. August Burklin of Wilkes-Barre dies while visiting in Doylestown. Charles M. Jenkins, formerly of Nescopeck, killed on railroad at Packington. Farewell banquet given at Hotel Redington by alumni of the Kingston High school in honor of the principal, George Evans, who leaves for Morgantown, W. Va., to take the superintendency of schools. 26. State convention of the P. O. S. of A. at Hazelton. Eleven cases of typhoid fever reported in one day from Wilkes-Barre and vicinity. Four children of Mr. and Mrs. John Gaughan of Sebastopol die within a few weeks from scarlet fever – only one of a family of nine children left. 27. Action taken in court by certain resident of Hanover Township to quash the petition for annexation to Wilkes-Barre, thon the ground that it does not contain the names of a sufficient number of qualified citizens. 28. Spread of typhoid fever in Wilkes-Barre creating alarm – fourteen city cases reported in three days. Racehorses at Luzerne County fair dash into crowd on the track following the airship; Curtis Coates of Larksville killed and several others injured. 30. Retail Merchants’ Association keeps sharp watch on merchants to detect violations of the Sunday closing law. 31. Judge Fuller decides that the Wilkes-Barre and Hazelton Railway Co. should be relieved from compliance with the two-cent passenger rate, on the ground that it would be confiscatory. Wilkes-Barre dogcatchers accidentally shoot two women and a child, one of the women seriously. Dr. Weaver, a member of the Wilkes-Barre School Board, speaking at the teachers institute, advocates the creation of a teachers’ pension fund, the board to contribute two dollars for every dollar contributed by the teachers. Rev. Father Stopper of Duryea celebrates his silver jubilee and is presented with a purse of money and a loving cup. September 1. Handsome new aerial truck of the Wilkes-Barre department tested. Wilkes-Barre dog quarantine of 100 days at an end; officials report the extermination of 913 canines. Court allows the Carlucci Co. $18,419 in its suit on account of court house work. Death in Missouri of John C. Geyer, who was principal of the Wilkes-Barre high school from 1877 to 1884. 2. Dr. Mason Choral Society captures the $800 mixed chorus prize at the eisteddfod at Richfield Springs, N. Y., the selection being “How Sweet the Moonlight Seems.” Third annual outing of the German-American Alliance held at Mountain Park. 5. Coroner’s jury in inquest in the case of six men who were killed by runaway car in Warrior Run mine finds outside foreman and three employees guilty of neglect. 7. Central Labor Union of Wilkes-Barre celebrates Labor Day at Sans Souci Park. Dedication of Kingston’s new high school building with a parade and speeches. 8. Opening of Wilkes-Barre public schools for the season. Opening of court after the summer vacation. Wilkes-Barre councils vote down propositions to increase salary of certain officials. Opening of Dallas fair. 9. Retail Merchants’ Association of Wilkes-Barre discusses the formation of a building and loan association. Surprise caused by grand jury ignoring cases against alleged gamblers and druggists selling cocaine illegally. Dr. J. B. Carrell and Dr. Charles K. Milles speak before local medical society on the advisability of having a State institution for the care and treatment of inebriates. Councils grant Bell Telephone Co. privilege to build a conduit on certain streets for laying its wires underground, on condition that it be made large enough to hold the city wires and give the city three free telephones. 10. Dr. Mason Glee and Choral Societies, together with some friends, celebrate the eisteddfodic victory at Richfield Springs, N. Y. with a banquet and literary program. 11. Wilkes-Barre & Hazelton Railway Co. announces that it will go back to the fares before the two-cent rate law went into effect, the court having decided that the company need not comply. Severest drought in many years – city and water company officials confer to see what can be done to relieve the water scarcity in the higher sections of the city. 12. Grand jury recommends that steps be taken for the purchase by the county of the two bridges in Wilkes-Barre and the two in Pittston – that $60,000 be paid for the Pittston Ferry bridge, $55,000 for the Water street bridge and $85,000 for the North street bridge. 13. Charles T. Russell lectures in the Nesbitt on “The Overthrow of Satin’s Empire.” 14. River is low as it has been at any time since the establishment pf the new gage, ten years ago. 15. Banquet given by friends of T. L. Newell at the Oneonta, Harvey’s Lake, after his return from a trip around the world. Mrs. Temperance Chahoon of Wilkes-Barre dies in her ninety-second year, born on the Wilkes-Barre Mountain, within sight of what is now the city. 16. Twenty-fourth annual convention of the County W. C. T. U., in session in Plymouth. 17. Ordinance for annexation of part of Hanover Township introduced in Wilkes-Barre common council. “Autorest” cottage at Harvey’s lake destroyed by fire. Delegates to the State League of Republican Clubs guests of Albert Lewis at Bear Creek. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Holden of near Carverton celebrate golden wedding anniversary. 18. Mayor Kniffen issues a proclamation asking people to economize in the use of water. Forest fires in the vicinity of Harvey’s Lake cause considerable anxiety to cottagers and farmers. 19. State Constabulary called to fight forest fires in various parts of the county. Death pf Alfred Smith of Kingston, a superintendent for the D. W. a& L. Coal Co., one of the most prominent mining men of Wyoming Valley. Bench warrants sworn put for arrest of Warrior Run foreman and men charged with negligence. 21. Democrats succeed in nominating a candidate for Congress and one for county treasurer, after weeks of effort. Fall session of the Presbytery of Lackawanna meets at Sayre. Madame Hughes Thomas’s Royal Welsh Ladies’ Choir at YMCA Luther missionary conference in St. Paul’s Church. 23. Reunion of the 53rd Regt. Held in Wilkes-Barre. Opening reception for the season’s work held by the YMCA. Whiles one of the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. T. L. Newell was being married at the Harvey’s Lake mansion of the family, announcement was made that the other daughter was to be married at the same time, much to the surprise of the guests, the married sister acting as her bridesmaid. After an ineffectual attempt to kill his wife David Riley of South Welles street shoots and kills himself. F. M. Kirby gives a luncheon for the continuous contributors to the YMCA fund for the support of two missionaries in China. Members of Lodge 153 give a banquet and dance to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the founding of the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen. 25. Twenty-fourth annual convention of the Luzerne County Sunday School Association in Central M. E. Church. 26. Members of the base ball team of the Hazard Works, together with company officials. Have a banquet at the Redington. J. Fred Frace. For twenty-five years city ticket agent for the D., L. & W., resigns to take a position with the Derr insurance agency. Welsh Ladies’ Choir gives another concert at the YMCA. 27. Prayers for rain in the Catholic churches if the Scranton Diocese. Rally day exercises in a number of the Sunday schools. Rev. Dr. J. M. Lloyd preaches farewell sermon. 28. Judge Fuller decides in an opinion that the North Mountain Water Supply Co. must be permitted to take 3,000,000 gallons of water a day from Harvey’s Lake to supply Nanticoke and other sections in the territory affected b y the drought. George J. Coyne of Kingston killed by dynamite explosion at Tobyhanna. All day rain after the most serious and most prolonged drought in the memory of the oldest inhabitant – very little rain for two months. Arion Maennerchor of Far Rockaway, with wives and friends, at Harvey’s lake for a few days outing. Banquet of “Our Men’s Bible Class” of the Dana Street Evangelical Church at the YMCA. Death of Ormond S. White, for twenty-one years in the mail department of the Wilkes-Barre post office. 29. Annual fall smoker of the Wilkes-Barre St. Aloysius Society. Lehigh Valley R. R. Co. abolished its Pennsylvania and New York division, - the west end, including Sayre, becoming a part of the buffalo division, and the east end from Sayre to Coxton, becoming a part of the Wyoming division. V Automobile Club starts project for building a club house and for making the annual Wilkes-Barre hill climb an international event. 30. Luncheon given at the Wilkes-Barre YMCA to meet the new director of the religious department, O. O. Arnold. Run of quicksand on the river common threatens part of the riprapping just completed. County commissioners award contract for metal furniture for the new courthouse to Carlucci & Co. of Scranton fro $99,000 and contract for the wood furniture to Voorhis & Murray of Wilkes-Barre for $79,244. October 1. Opening of the Preston road from Ashley to the Sugar Notch borough lines, after having been macadamized. 2. First anniversary of Fidelity Lodge, F. and A. M., of Wilkes-Barre, celebrated with a banquet. Immigration officers of the federal government come to the coal region for a prolonged stay to investigate conditions as to the foreigners. 3. Market street bridge in Wilkes-Barre freed from tolls – the first in the county. Jonas Santee of Laceyville killed by train. 4. Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Becker of Wilkes-Barre celebrate their golden wedding anniversary. Annual county convention of the A. O. H. and the Ladies Auxiliary. 5. Gilbert Walker, one of the founders of the firm of Fowler, Dick & Walker, dies at his home in Binghamton. Members of the Wilkes-Barre police force organize a relief association, to be sustained by monthly dues. 7. Rev. C. H. Mutchler, pastor of St. Luke’s Reformed Church in Wilkes-Barre, dies while attending a meeting in G. A. R. Hall. 9. Arguments heard in appeal of coal companies from tax valuation. Death of Father Greve of Upper Pittston at sea while on his way home. 10. Father Mathew Day observed with a parade in Scranton. 11. Forty-hour’s devotion in St. Mary’s Church. 12. Orchestra organized among the students of the Wilkes-Barre high school. Members of the Wyoming Club give dinner for Edward Plumer, one of the organizers, who is to leave the city and located in Philadelphia. Board of trade smoker at Hotel Sterling. Annual convention of the three districts of the United Mine Workers of the anthracite region at Scranton. 13. Supreme Circle of the Fraternity of Home Protectors meets in Wilkes-Barre. One hundred and eightieth session of the Wyoming District Ministerial Association meets in the old church in Forty Fort Cemetery, the first church edifice to be completed in the Wyoming Valley, just 100 years ago. Rev. J. M. L. Eckard, pastor of Plains Presbyterian Church, resigns to take charge of the American Presbyterian Church in Germany. 14. Fifteenth annual convention of the Eighth district of the Women’s relief Corps of the G. A. R. in session in Wilkes-Barre. Opening of Clarke Bros’. new branch store in Wilkes-Barre. 15. Delegates of the United Mine Workers of the anthracite region in session in Scranton present their demands. Annual convention of the Sunday schools of the Wyoming Association of Congregational Churches held in Nanticoke. John A. Mangan of Plains, a well-known member of the Luzerne County bar, dies suddenly. Charles Wales and Joseph Boyer, stockholders in the Adder Machine Co., institute legal proceedings to enjoin trustees from voting on shares of stock transferred to them. 16. Sessions at Hotel Sterling by the Keystone State Library Association and reception and session at the Country Club. 17. A. M. McGill, master mechanic on the Wyoming division of the Lehigh Valley, promoted to be assistant superintendent of motive power for the entire system, succeeded on the Wyoming division by D. D. Robertson of Sayre. Hazelton City starts movement for annexing part of Hazel Township. Junior Bar Association meets and pays tribute to the memory of John A. Mangan. 18. Laying of the cornerstone of the Poli Theatre in Wilkes-Barre. Rev. Dr. Piper delivers address before the Daughters of the Revolution commemorating the anniversary of Yorktown. Officials of the city condemn about forty buildings in the fire limits because of the danger to adjoining property. 20. Roof of Lehigh Valley roundhouse in Wilkes-Barre collapses, killing one man and injuring four others. Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Lang celebrate their silver wedding anniversary. Mountain Ash Male Party from Wales sings in the Nesbitt. 21. Opening of the YMCA entertainment course for the season. 22. Death of ex-Chief Briggs of the Wilkes-Barre police force. 23. First annual banquet of the Northern Pennsylvania Telephone Society at Hotel Redington. Opening of Kirby & Co.’s new store on South Main street. Dedication of new school house in Edwardsville. 24. Former County Commissioner Casper Oberdorfer dies at his home at Harding. Showers of rain after prolonged period of drought lasting about a month. 25. John Knox Commandery, Knights of Malta, holds services in memory of deceased members. Autumn anniversary exercises at St. Stephen’s, Rev. W. R. Harshaw, D. D., pastor of the West Pittston Presbyterian Church, resigns to take charge in Minneapolis. Fifth anniversary of Father Griffin’s pastorate of St. Aloysius Church. 26. Annual session of the county teacher’s institute in Wilkes-Barre. Trolley car runs away on Grove street hill, collides with a telegraph pole and several passengers quite seriously injured. Autumn session of the Archdeaconry of Scranton in Calvary Church. 28. Farewell dinner for some of the members of the State Constabulary located at the Wyoming barracks, who are to be sent to other stations for the winter. Soaking rain nearly all day adds to the breaking of the drought. Police make a raid on alleged male bawds in the tenderloin. Reception at Hotel Sterling to the State officers of the Colonel Dames. Annual banquet of the Stroudsburg Alumni Association at the Wyoming Cafe. Banquet by the Lehigh Valley R. R. officials of the Wyoming division in compliment to A. M. McGill, former master mechanic, transferred to a higher position; presentation of a silver dinner service. Association of Kindergartners of Wilkes-Barre and vicinity holds its first fortnightly meeting. Luzerne County Medical Society decides upon the appointment of five members of the body, to be known as the Milk Commission of Luzerne County, to cooperate with local authorities in purifying the supply. 29. Annual banquet of the Luzerne County Alumni Association of the Bloomsburg Normal School held at Hotel Sterling. Board of engineers on the elimination of grade crossings in Wilkes-Barre submits its report to the railroad officials – three plans embodied in the report. Governor Stuart presides at Gwent Society eisteddfod in the armory – male voice competition prize divided between Dr. Masons of Wilkes-Barre and Scranton Chorus, and chief choral prize won by John Lloyd Evans. 30. Luzerne County Teachers recommend that a bill be passed giving the teachers a monthly salary for the entire year, the minimum to be $40. Street car and coal train come together at the Pettebone switch on Wyoming avenue, crushing the car and injuring about twenty-five people, some of them seriously, the worst accident on the traction system in years. Annual County Christian Endeavor convention at St. Johns. 31. Wilkes-Barre Bond No. 1, Hedonic Universal Brotherhood, organized. Seventy-six cases of diphtheria in Wilkes-Barre in October. Case of smallpox at Gracedale. Laying of cornerstone of new Presbyterian Church at Avoca. November 2. City authorities condemn more old buildings in the fire limits. Nurse employed by the Visiting Nurse Association of Wilkes-Barre begins her duties. 3. Fine election weather. 5. Knights of Pythias lodges of Wilkes-Barre entertain a delegation from Hazelton. 6. James Fullager, formerly of Pittston, killed on a railroad in the South. J. F. Mcguire, formerly superintendent of the Wyoming division of the Lehigh Valley, promoted to be general manager of the railroad, in place of N. B. Cutter, resigned. 7. First Tag Day in Wilkes-Barre, under the auspices of the Florence Crittenton Shelter and Day Nursery. 8. Death of A. H. VanHorn, a well-known Wilkes-Barre banker. 9. Opening of Concordia winter social season. Thomas Willis, charged with murder of Cameron Cool, sentenced to death. Dinner for men of St. Stephen’s parish. 11. Clarence Lieb, formerly of Hazelton, robbed and murdered in New Jersey. 12. Rev. Dr. J. M. Lloyd, who resigned his pastorate, presented with a gold watch and chain by members of his congregation. 14. Opening of the Mohican store in Wilkes-Barre. Four inches of snow, the first of the season. 16. State Highway Commissioner Hunter taken by local automobilists to Stauffer’s to acquaint him with the desirability of extending the State road. Rev. Paul E. Bergeman, a former Lutheran pastor in Wilkes-Barre, dies at his home in Illinois,. Court hands down a decree confirming the petition for the incorporation of Nuangola Borough. Announcement that Mountain Park is to be abandoned on account of danger from mine caves. Wholesale grocers of northeastern Pennsylvania have a banquet at Hotel Hart. Fall concert of St. Conrad’s Glee Club. 17. Druggists of northeastern Pennsylvania hold meeting in Wilkes-Barre to further the plans for co-operative buying on a large scale. Semiannual convention of the Welsh Baptist Young People’s Union of Northeastern Pennsylvania held in the Welsh Baptist Church on Parrish street. Spring Brook Water Supply Co. gives notice that danger from drought is not yet over and that consumers must not waste water. Chauffeurs of Wilkes-Barre and vicinity organize a club. Mr. and Mrs. Phillip McAniff of Plains celebrate their golden wedding anniversary. 18. Members of Irem Temple hold last session in old quarters. Several bear shot by local huntsmen in the Pocono region. 19. Knights of Pythias lodges in Wilkes-Barre form a social organization. 20. Fred S. Hall, secretary of the State Child Labor Association, addresses the Affiliation of Women’s Clubs in Wilkes-Barre. 21. Petition presented to court for the erection by the county of a new bridge between Plymouth and Hanover township. 22. Roof of the Lehigh Valley roundhouse at Coxton collapses. St. Adelbert’s Polish Catholic Church at Glen Lyon destroyed by fire. 23. Two brothers, sons of Nathan Smith, drowned at White Haven by breaking through thin ice. Joseph Weitzenkorn retires from the firm of A. Weitzenhorn & Sons, disposing of his interest to his brother Benjamin; and Con Frank, for many years an employee, taken into the firm. Gwent Glee Society and friends hold a reception in the Edwardsville town hall for the secretary, William Y. Watkins, in appreciation of faithful service. Fall concert of the Concordia Society. 26. Interesting exercises to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the ordination of Monsignor P. C. Nagel as a priest. Mr. and Mrs. Henry A. Evans of Wilkes-Barre celebrate golden wedding anniversary. 28. Co. B of the 9th Regt., the first company organized in Wilkes-Barre after the Civil War, observed its thirtieth anniversary with a banquet at Hotel Redington. Press Club entertains in honor of the Quigley brothers, vaudeville performers and natives of Parsons. 29. Annual convention of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, in session at Ashley, comes to a close. Rev. Dr. Harshaw of Pittston Presbyterian Church, preaches the farewell sermon. 30. George A. Johnson of New York speaks before the Board of Trade on methods of sewage disposal. Opening of the sixth annual exhibition of the Wilkes-Barre Pet Stock and Poultry Association. Transcribed by Miles Davenport, 20 Jan 2009