August 15, 2021
Searching through newspapers to find the most important news clippings for my book, 1870-1920 History of Towns in Missouri Through Newspaper Snippets
was not only educational, but also quite fascinating. Many days I felt as if I was transported to the past. I got to read about horse chases, the transition from candle light to electrity, the building of new towns, but also the decline of less fortunate towns.
With each article I found, I had in the back of my mind the thoughts of what others would want to read. Each article that is in the book was put there for a reason. I want to share with you a few that are my personal favorites:
1. For the amusement of their customers, Anderson & Walters, Westville, have purchased an elephant. Call at their store and see his elephantship. - I had so many questions after reading this article. How big was this elephant? How long did they keep the elephant at the store? I can not imagine going into a store now a days and finding an elephant! This article stuck with me and I decided to incorporate it into my book, The Lady in White Who?
2. The Marceline Journal says incubator parties are the latest fad. An incubator just ready to hatch is brought into the parlor and the guests sit and stand around and watch the chicks break the shells. It doesn't take much to amuse some people. - This is another article I decided to incorporate into my The Lady in White Who?
book. I feel that the article shows how simple things can be highly entertaining.
3. Dear Santa, I live at Pee Dee. I am 12 years old and I think it nice to write to Santa. I would like you to bring me a nice fur and muff, a nice testament, some candy, and some nuts and oranges. Oh! Don't forget my little brother, Delbert, who wants a drum, a rubber ball, and a top, some candy, and nuts. Come early and oblige. - The simplicity of this Christmas list warms my heart and puts life into perspective. I also like how this child ends with Come early and oblige.
I feel like she is being nice, but if Santa doesn't bring what she wants, she may be very upset!
These are just a few of the articles that I found that I quite enjoy. It's always nice to step away from the hustle and bustle of modern times and look back at where we have been.
