Fw: From Days Gone By, Jan 4, 1912

January 4, 1912.
Warthen College will begin the spring term on Monday, the 8th. A new boiler has been put in position and everything will be in fine condition for the most succeesful term in the history of the school. There will be many new pupils from out of town this term. Prof. Charles E. Clarkson of Marshall, Missouri will be added to the college department and Miss Bridges of Roberta, Ga. has been added also. Two new courses will be added this year. A preparatory course to the study of piano, offered to the first four grades, and a class in the Tonic Sol Fa System, which will lead to sight singing. These courses will be the key to "a talent in music."A welcome service was held at the Christian Church by Rev. E. W. Pease, the pastor. The object was to extend a christian welcome to the new pastors who have come to Wrightsville. These are Rev. J. B. Holly of the Baptist Church; Rev. J. C. Griner of the Methodist Church and Rev. Bridges of the Wrightsville Circuit. Miss Bronnie May Tanner will enter Bessie Tift College at Forsyth. Miss Rosa Blackshear will teach at Cochran. Miss Maude Lou Sterling will teach at Doerun. Miss Sara Lovett,graduated LaGrange Female College and will teach music at Harrison. Miss Nevada Johnson will teach at Sylvania high school. At the home of the brides parents, Mr. & Mrs. W. R. Jackson at Harrison, Miss Bessie Jackson married Mr. Henry Wilson. Mr. Wilson is assistant agent in the W. & T. Railroad office at Wrightsville. Mr. Edward Hicks married Miss Belle Brown of Macon on Dec. 26th. Mr. Hicks is the brother of Mrs. Tom Snell and Misses Janiebell and Nookie Hicks of Wrightsville. The merchantile business of J. E. Page at Orianna, five miles below Adrian,
on the Wadley Southern Railroad, burned to the ground. Mr. Page lives just over the line in Montgomery County and is a progressive farmer and merchant. The fire was considered arson.
Preston Norris formaly announces his candidacy for Johnson County Clerk of Court in the white primary of 1912. Judge J. E. Burch announces as a candidate for the judgeship of the Dublin Circuit. He is a son-in-law of Judge A. F. Daley. Mrs. Jas M. Bryan and little son Ralph are much better from their case of pneumonia. Mrs. H. M. Smith has been in Atlanta visiting her ill husband at the private sanitarium there. Mrs. J. F. Norris is in Eastman at the bedside of her
daughter Mrs. W. Fitzgerald who has pneumonia. The death of William W. Anthony was a blow to Johnson County. He was stricken with pneumonia on Dec. 18th and died on the 23rd. He was the eldest son of Rev. J. D. Anthony and was 60 years old. He lived in Wrightsville over 30 years and was a long time Clerk of Court and member of the firm of D. G. Blount & Co. The funeral was held Christmas Day and he was buried in the Anthony burying ground in sight of his home "Glenwood" just outside of Wrightsville. A telegram was received by the city announcing the death of Capt. Richard L. Hicks who died on the 31st in Mexico where he had been to recuperate his health. "Dick" Hicks was a native of Johnson County. He was once editor of the Dublin Post, then went to Thomasville and then to Bainbridge, his late home, where he is survived by his wife and two daughters. Capt. Hicks was the youngest son of Major James Hicks, and a brother of Mrs. C. A. Moore and Mrs. Jane Snell. He served on the honorary escort at the funeral of Gen. Robert E. Lee. His remains were brought back to Bainbridge. "The eventful year of 1912 is now before us; the year 1911 has passed into history. We stand today between two eternities, the past and the future, upon the threshold of the old and the new, Janus-like face, two ways. Let us forget the past with all its wrongs and disappointments. This is a new year; begin it right; enter upon our work fully prepared in the right spirit, and with the proper conception of our duty." A. F. Ware, President, Warthen College.

From Days Gone By Dec. 29, 1911

December 29, 1911.
Christmas past off quietly here, there are no casualties to report, notwithstanding the rain, the mud and slush of the streets. The town was crowded with people. The continuous rain gave opportunity for the eager boy to shoot fire poppers and other fire works, and this we were constantly reminded that the Christmas holidays were on. Everyone was glad to see the sunshine out bright and clear again, after a week of continuous rain. The weather now is crisp and cold, just such as is needed to save the recently killed meat. The merchants all did fairly a good trade here, it is said that Tanner & Cox sold literally out of everything good to eat that they had. Moving and removing has begun, and there will be a good many changes, both in our town and in the country for another year.
While out target shooting on Monday with a number of young persons, J. V. Chapman was accidentally shot in the abdomen by Lee Gregory, a youth. Young Gregory was out hunting and shot at a bird, the bullet missing the mark and hitting Mr. Chapman. The wound was not of a serious nature. On the first Tuesday in January 1912, to the highest bidder on the court house in Wrightsville, the J. D. Webb place containing 100 acres, more or less, three and one-half miles from town will be sold, terms cash, by J. Z. Webb. The sudden and unexpected death of Honorable W. W. Anthony, which occured at his home in the city, after a brief illness of pneumonia, threw a gloom over the entire city. Adrian will hold a big auction sale of all of the personal property of the late Thomas Jefferson James on January 3rd, 1912. Many things will be offered from the estate of this wealthy man, including one standard bred stallion, Tennessee jack, 32 mules, 16 horses including colts and mares, oxen, milk cows, 80 cattle, Berkshire boars, thrashing machine, McCormick reaper, mowers, carrages, plows, wagons, electric light and water works plant in Adrian and a seven passenger Chalmers 40 automobile, fully equipped. The sale is by Mrs. Alice A. James, Executor. A veterans meeting was held at the court house for the local United Confederate Veterans with the following veterans present: J. T. Snell, Thomas Jefferson Brantley, Benjamin F. Martin, D. R. Underwood, John L. Martin, J. F. Price, T. F. Price, T. W. Walden and Lee Mosley. The object of the meeting was to petition the ladies of the county to organize the Daughters of the Confederacy which had recently been disorganized, so that they can operate with the veterans of Camp Martin in any and all enterprises pertaining to the welfare of those veterans of Johnson County. It is essential to the preservation of the camp. A committee was appointed and will report back at the next meeting on the first Wednesday in January 1912.

Fw: From days Gone By Dec. 22, 1911

December 22, 1911.
This weeks issue of the 1911 newspapers are not available. This column is from a December 1911 issue written by S. J. Gabbert, Dearborn, Mo., in the American Hereford Journal but appeared in the Wrightsville papers entitled "Why Boys Leave The Farm". "Sometimes I would like to turn myself loose on the subject of "why farmer boys leave home and go to the city," or "how to keep the boys on the farm." I may be mistaken, but I think I can give some pointers along this line that will appeal to many farmer boys. Having been born and raised on a farm, and never leaving it, I have had some of the foolish longings, trials and hardships of many good, useful boys who would have made excellent farmers and stockmen had they the proper training from their farmer fathers. If nine-tenths of the farmers and stockmen would give one-tenth as much attention to their boys as they do to their farm or stock, there would be fifty per cent less boys leave home and go to a life unsuited to them, and to which they were unsuited. There would be fewer failures, fewer broken hearts and fewer unmanly men, if fathers would take as much interest in their son's welfare and happiness and progress as they do in their live stock. I breed cattle and love them. I also breed fancy saddle and driving horses, and like them almost as well;but the same time I am raising sons and daughters. I have two of each, and I love them more than all the cattle and horses. Profiting by my own longings when a growing boy, for the allurements of city life and its pleasures, I shall endeavor to make the farm life more attractive
than the city. I shall try to make them feel that they are more essential to my happiness and pleasure than fat cattle and fancy saddlers. I shall endeavor to enthuze into them the same attractiveness that good cattle have for me. The horses, I shall teach them, are for theirpleasure, use and profit, as well as for mine. Too many old stingy farmers love the "almighty dollar" better than their wives and children, and use their boys as they do 'Gld Dabbin,' for work only. You can treat a dumb brute that way, for he cannot resent it, but you go too far with a boy, especially if he is bright, and the only protection he has is to get away from the "old man" and hard work.The result is that the fancied leisure life of his city cousin, and the pleasures therein lead him to the city. Treat the boy as if he was part human; give him an interest in the stock or farm; let him make his money and spend it as he likes, but encourage him to use it judiciously, economically and for some article that will grow into more money. Then your boy will develop faster than the best show calf, pig or colt on the farm. The subject is so big and so needed that I feel as though more should be written about it. We spend large sums of money in the papers, advertising our
stock to sell, but do not give the two-legged animals, that are worth thousands more than the four-legged ones, a single penny or thought above their work as money-savers. About three-fourths of the farmer are "grafters," and when they cannot graft some other man or men they take it out on the boys with hard labor for eighteen hours a day. Every time they lose money on a trade, the boys suffer most, for the old saying comes then, "boys, you will have to work a little harder and without a new suit," etc., etc. My heart goes out to the poor, hard-working money-less farm boy, living in the backwoods, working from daylight until nine o'clock at night with no cheer at home, no entertainment of any kind; nothing but the country school house with its hard desks, and the old frame church on Sunday, with six long year hard eighteen-hour-long work days. Who can blame some boys for going to the city?

From Days Gone by Dec. 15, 1911

December 15, 1911.
Mr. James Mitchell who was accused of stabbing Mr. H. P. Hicks in last weeks column, tells his side of the story. "As I was coming from the show, making my way to the fire that had broke out, I came across Mr. Hicks and he raved out at me, telling me to stop cursing in the presence of his children. I told him that if I had cursed I did not notice it, and he raved out again, and told me to shut my mouth, and do it now. I told him that I had not cursed before his children, and he said in a loud voice, "You are a d---- lie", and came on me with his knife and cut my coat, and would have done me much damage, but I caught his hand and we fell to the ground and was pulled apart." The stockholders of the Citizens Bank of Adrian met. There was a nice profit made by the bank and it was ordered that the stockholders be paid a 10 per cent dividend, and the balance be set aside as a surplus. The officers elected were: C. R. Williams, President; E. J. Sumner, Vice-President; and A. Woods, 2nd Vice-President. Board of Directors were C. R. Williams, E. J. Sumner, E. W. Carter, S. J. Sumner, W. S. Burns, C. C. Pope, A. Woods, J. E. Webb, Ed Ellison, M. T. Riner, J. W. Smith, and F. C. Gillis. Cashier, John T. Henderson, Asst. Cashier, R. C. Powers. The statement of condition of the Bank of Wrightsville was $167,718.85. The report of the condition of the First National Bank was $150,140.59. Preston Norris announced he will be a candidate for Johnson County Clerk of Superior Court in the 1912 primary. Col. B. H. Moye and family have moved to their new home on South Myrtle Avenue, recently occupied by W. A. Mixon and family. Jas F. Flanders of Sylvester was in the city this week. "Our Jim" is as handsome and distinguished looking as ever, a magnificent specimen of young manhood. W. C. Brinson, J. W. Cook and B. R. Blount, accompanied by their friend, W. Pritchard, a traveling salesman from Atlanta, enjoyed a hunting expedition on the Savannah River. R. Z. Sterling, accompanied by Mrs. Sterling, Mrs. Ferguson and Mrs. L. J. Claxton, went to Gibson in an automobile to attend the funeral of Mrs. H. G. Kent. Mr. & Mrs. Louie Kent announced the birth of a daughter, and "Grandpa Luther" is wearing a smile that won't come off. John R. Grice has rented his home to Rev. J. R. Kelly and family who will take possession January 1st and continue to operate the same as a boarding house. Mr. & Mrs. Grice are much beloved by their boarders, and have maintained a splendid house, and an excellent table, which have made the Grice House very popular. Mr. & Mrs. Grice will leave in early January for an extended visit to their son, Cleo, in New Smyrna, Florida. Last Sunday morning Mr. Charles W. Maddox of Scott, fell from his buggy dead. Mr. Maddox was a well known farmer of this section, and his friends and relatives regret very much to learn of his sudden death. In a memorial obituary of Mary T. Meeks who died Nov. 3, 1911 after a brief illness. She was born in Hancock County Jan. 12, 1837. She joined Bethel Baptist in that county in 1856, from there she moved it to Rehobeth in 1865. On Nov. 23, 1865 she married Rev. D. L. Meeks and was blessed with 46 years of marriage. In another memorial obituary of Miss Dicey New who was born April 24, 1856, married to John H. Hall at the age of 20, was left a widow with 4 children on Feb. 11, 1889 and departed this life Nov. 23, 1911. She spent her last days in Wrightsville. At age 16 she joined Pleasant Hill Baptist in Washington County, afterwards moving it to Liberty Grove where she was a member at her death. She left 3 sons and 1 daughter. In a letter to Santa Claus from William Parker he writes, "Please bring me a wagon, drum, horn, a toy horse, a tool chest and some letters to print with. Now Santa don't bring me a doll, Grandpa said you was. But I don't want it. You can
give it to sister."

From Days Gone By Dec. 8, 1911

December 8, 1911. On last Saturday night, while Mr. P. H. Hicks was returning home from the circus with his little son and daughter, and when near the residence of Dr. Haines, on Court Street, he was overtaken by a white man named Mitchell. It was said he was drinking, and was cursing to such an extent that Mr. Hicks remonstrated with him, and asked him to desist using such language in the presence of his little daughter. The rebuke so enraged Mitchell that without a moments warning he attacked Mr. Hicks and inflicted a severe wound on the back of his neck with a knife, after which Mitchell and his brother came on in town, got in their buggy and left. Mr. Hicks succeeded in reaching the residence of Dr. S. M. Johnson, which was near by, and had Dr. Johnson to dress his wound. After which he was taken home. A warrant was at once taken out for Mitchell and he was arrested and brought to town where a peliminary trial was held. Also last Saturday night some vacant shanties belonging to the Robinson Planning Mills, near the W. & T. Railroad, in the southern portion of town, caught fire from some unknown cause, and was soon destroyed. The planning mill near by was in jeopardy but the fire companies quenched the flames so the loss was not much. In the last issue of the Wrightsville Chronicle, the suspension of that paper was announced, and the plant will be converted into a job office. Editor F. A. Sinquefield and manager Frank Jackson, deserve credit for the efforts they have put forth to make the Chronicle a success, and it was regreted their departure from journalism. The Dan Kelly Vaudiville Company is now playing at the Vivola. For one night only, December 14th the comedy success of the century "The Chorus Lady", a comedy by James Forbes. Prices are 50 cents, 75 cents and $1.00 on sale at H. C. Tompkins store. Little Elizabeth Stephens is convalesing after a severe illness. Mrs. C. A. Moore is recovering from a fall. Claudius, the little son of Mr. & Mrs. Albert Beall, of Dublin is ill with pneumonia at his grandmothers, Mrs. Sinquefield. Donnie Mayo, the 12 year old daughter of Mr. & Mrs. M. D. Mayo, died at their home near Wrightsville. The little girl had been in feeble health for some time, though she died suddenly. She was interred at Beulah Baptist Church cemetery by Rev. W. E. Harville. Charlie Wilson and George Gannon went to Swainsboro making the trip in Tanner's auto, with Otho at the wheel. W. A. Mixon and family have moved back to their old home on Belmont Avenue. Santa Claus is making his annual visit to Wrightsville, and the stores are a veritable scene of beauty and brightness. Handsome and simple gifts are here in abundance, and one has only to go and select what they want. No town in the state handles a better selected or a larger stock of Christmas goods and novelties than Wrightsville.

From Days Gone By Dec. 1, 1911

December 1, 1911. The elegant colonial home of E. A. W. Johnson on Elm Street will soon be formally presented to the owner by Contractor W. C. Chester, whose splendid capacity and architectural talent are strongly portrayed in this really beautiful structure. The residence is built on the colonial plan. Spacious verandahs, supported by immense white columns are remarkably attractive. The lower floor embraces reception hall, library, parlor, guest chamber, dinning room, butlers pantry, store room, lavatory, etc. The second floor consists of four well-arranged bed rooms, linen closets, lavatory, dressing rooms, etc. Handsome mantles make it most inviting and the house is supplied with all modern conviences in way of water, lights, etc. The Johnsons hope to take residence before Christmas. J. H. Rowland and C. H. Moore have moved their offices to the new building on Bradford Street recently erected by Mr. Rowland. The pretty bungalow now being built by Contractor Chester for cashier Daley, of the Exchange Bank will be completed in a couple of weeks. The stores are full of Christmas goods, and everything is beginning to assume a holiday appearance. There is not a town in Georgia the size of Wrightsville, that can claim any handsomer or more up-to-date stores. The charter for the Bank of Adrian has been granted by Hon. Phil Cook, Sec. of state. The new bank is now established, and begins business with very bright prospects. The officers and directors are experienced financiers. Contractor Chester has the contract for erecting the new bank building. Sun Brothers Shows will soon be here and will assemble its forces on the Luther Blount field. The show will arrive by special train via the W. & T. Railroad. Over 100 men, women and children performers take part in the show. The Cresent Concert Company, the third of the Lyceum Attractions will appear at the Vivola Opera House Dec. 4th. It is a first-class musical organization. Mr. H. M. Smith, brother-in-law of Col. A. L. Hatcher, is critically ill in Atlanta with no hope of recovery. He married his wife, Miss Sara Hatcher only one year ago. Mr. & Mrs. W. C. Tompkins were called to Tarrytown on account of the death of their sister-in-law, Mrs. Robt. Anderson. Ella Wood, a well known colored woman of the town, died suddenly at her home here. Creen Hayes, the former well-known colored plasterer and brick mason of Wrightsville, died at his home in the country from a stroke of parallysis. Lila, the 6 year old daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Herschel Hightower, died at her grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. J. T. Henderson. The little one was ill only a few days of congestion of the lungs. She was buried at Westview. Thomas Jefferson James, the man behind the beginning of the town of Adrian, died at a sanitarium in Atlanta at age 65. He was at one time a prominent resident of Atlanta, and one of the largest real estate holders in Georgia. He once had vast tracts of land in Jefferson, Emanuel, Laurens, Bibb, Johnson and Montgomery counties. He ran a sawmill business at Adrian and was a railroad magnate at one time. He was a well known Confederate soldier, seeing his first service at Gettysburg, captured at Spottsylvania and a prisioner at Elmira, New York for a year. Mr. John Hicks, of Thomas County spent the week with his brother H. P. Hicks and family. John had not been here in 14 years and was surprised at the growth of his home town. He left a small town and came back to a beautiful little city. Mr. & Mrs. C. H. Moore received a Thanksgiving present in the way of a fine son, Homer Moore, Jr. The cane grinding season is now on hand, and the young folks are enjoying their annual juice drinking. T. F. Brown of Donovan brought a fine bottle of syrup to town and it was all right. The hog-killing season is on now also. Mr. William G. Davis, a prominent and veteran farmer of the county brought a freak potato to town, in a class by itself owing to its shape. Aside from being mammoth in size, its shape was the leading feature, resembling very much in appearance to a squash or muskmelon. This potato was grown by Mr. Davis, who, though "eighty-odd years young". is still hale and hearty, and is as active on the farm as the next man.

From Days Gone By November 24, 1911

November 24, 1911. Yesterday morning in Dublin, City Court Sheriff, B. M. Grier arrested Doyle Welch who was charged with stealing a horse and buggy from Mr. Will Rayley in Wrightsville last Sunday night. The black man stole the horse and buggy and Mr. Grier was notified to watch out for him. At about 8 or 10 o'clock Welch drove into the stables of Dupree & Childers. Sheriff Grier was just across the street when Welch pulled up and he was arrested a few minutes after his arrival. Welch acknowledged that he took it and is now in jail. An erroneous impression is out that doves can be shot on Thanksgiving Day, according to President J. D. Taylor of the Game Association. This is not true. Deer, squirrel and migratory ducks are the only animals and game that can be shot on that day. Persons shooting doves or other game will be arrested. All persons in the woods with a gun Thanksgiving Day will be required to have a license which can be secured from Warden Walker. Persons hunting in their militia district do not require a license, but all others must have a county license. Next week, "The Arrival of Kitty" will be presented at the Vivola. But the biggest day of amusement in the history of Wrightsville will take place on December 2nd with a visit by the famous Sun Brothers' World's Progressive Shows. This popular tented exhibition now on its 20th annual tour. This seasons Big Top performance will eclipse all others. The Zoologic and Wild West display is a mamoth one. No fakirs, gamblers or purple attractions are ever countenanced about this show. It is the purest and cleanest conducted show ever organized. The suspension of school at Warthen College, does not often occur, but for several days during the late cold snap, the exercises were abbrieviated to some extent on account of the heating apparatus being out of order. There were about 20 teachers to attend the special examination held at the court house by county school superintendent A. J. M. Robinson and all passed and will receive thier license. W. P. Norris will take charge of the school at Arline's Chapel. Mrs. N. L. Thomas is up now from a broken limb several weeks ago. Tom Davis is on the road to recovery. Sarah Evelyn, the youngest daughter of Dr. & Mrs. Johnson has been sick the past week. Tanner & Kent's Furniture Emporium hosted a demonstration of "White Crest Flour". Hot cakes and biscuts made with this flour was served with hot coffee free of charge. The flour is sold at Hayes Brothers in Wrightsville. White Crest cookbooks were given as souvenirs. Mr. E, A. W. Johnson and family expect to move into thier handsome new home just before Christmas. The old residence which they now occupy has been rented to T. M. Jordan for next year. Miss Ruth Hall and Mr. John M. Meeks were happily married at the bride's parents home near Danville. Mr. Meeks is a highly esteemed young man of near Wrightsville. Miss Ruth is daughter of Mr. L. L. Hall of Wilkinson County. Mrs. Dicey Hall died at her home in the city after an illness covering several months. She is survived by one daughter and three sons, two of which are James and John Hall of Wrightsville. She was buried in the family graveyard near the Hall Plantation. Mr. A. J. Bush who died a few weeks back was born on Febuary 1st, 1852 and was married to Miss Sallie Ann Heath, daughter of William Henry Heath of Johnson County on October 26, 1876. He joined the baptist church at Bethlehem in Laurens County in 1874 and was baptized by Brother Turner Smith. He died on October 31, 1911 and was buried at Beulah Baptist Church near Donovan.

From Days Gone By Nov. 17, 1911

November 17, 1911. "Sew your buttons on tight, and go to the Vivola tonight, to the minstrel show." The Vivola Theatre is still very popular. Crowds of "grown ups", and little folks attend the moving pictures, which are exhibited every night. Many of these pictures are instructive, while others are in a lighter view. The pictures are all pleasing, and there is nothing in them to offend the feeling of the most fastidious. Coburn's Minstrels will be at the Vivola tonight. Charley Gano is the leading man, as a blackface artist, Mr. Gano is in a class to himself. In fact, the company is a combination of laugh-fetchers and fun-producers. Then on Saturday night the Vivola presents the Carlos Inkeep Attractions, offering that joyous, jolly, jingling, jollier, The Girl and The Tramp, The Laughing Comedy success with an excellent cast and a senic production. The colonial columns which adorn the front of E. A. W. Johnson's new home are the handsomest in the city. They are immense in proportion, and artistically finished. Contractor Chester is rushing the work, and expects to complete the residence within a few weeks. Mr. Johnson and family hope to take possesion of their beautiful new home in early January. Dr. E. W. Oliver of Tampa, Florida has accepted a position of prescription clerk with the Wrightsville Drug Company. Dr. Oliver is a Georgian and he graduated from the pharmacy school in Atlanta. Miss Brown of Marshall, Mo. who has been teaching voice at Sparks Collegiate Institute, is now in our city and has organized a vocal class, and will be in Wrightsville for several weeks. C. M. Schwals of Kite is now running a big department store at that place. Eugene Tanner, late with Cox & Tanner, is now with the Farmer's Merchantile Company as a salesman. Jas B. Hicks was appointed Judge of City Court of Dublin. Wrightsville continues to contribute her sons, to the citzenry and growth of her sister city, the "Gem of the Oconee!" The Post Office Department has established a postal savings system at the Wrightsville Post Office. The funeral of Mrs. Nancy Smith will be preached at Maple Springs. Mrs. M. D. Lanier of Waynesboro is visiting her sick daughter, Miss Clyde Lanier. Mrs. William Faircloth is with her mother, Mrs. Kennedy at Rawlings Sanitarium. Mr. Tom Davis, head salesman of the Empire Store has pneumonia. Mr. B. M. Dent, Sr., an aged and well known citizen of the county died at his home near here. He was 84 years old and survived by one brother, Mr. W. J. Dent, Sr. and neices and nephews. He was buried at the Dent burying grounds. Mr. Mellie Downs and Miss Bessie Kitchens were happily married at the bride's parents near Scott, Rev. J. R. Kelly officiating. Mr. Downs is a promising young man, a son of Mr. L. D. Downs. Last Saturday morning at the methodist church Miss Gertrude Williams and Mr. Creselle of Atlanta were married by Rev. W. L. Wright. The bride is a sister of Mrs. N. Braddy of Wrightsville. Miss Ruby Johnson and Mr. Roy Jackson, both of Lovett were married by Rev. Geo. H. Walker, pastor of the Brewton Methodist Church. The wedding came as quite a surprise to the friends of the young couple, as no announcement had been made. Mrs. Jackson is the daughter of the late Dr. P. M. Johnson and neice of Dr. S. M. and Mr. E.A.W. Johnson. She attended Warthen College and later Bessie Tift College at Forsyth.

From Days Gone By November 10, 1911

November 10, 1911. Wrightsville's newly elected mayor, Dr. T. L. Harris is one of Wrightsville's prominent physicians and enterprising citizens. Dr. Harris has been a resident of the city for a quarter of a century and has a natural interest in the town. The five aldermen, Messrs. Lord, Jordan, Cobb, Cook and Claxton are all safe men and their service will no doubt better the city of Wrightsville. It was not a large audience which greeted Coburn's Minstrels at the Vivola but it was an appreciative one. The Coburn Company presents an old-fashioned minstrel show. Mr. Coburn was unfortunate in being booked in with six shows which are coming this week, for his organization is one for which no apoligies have to be made. On last sunday night about six, the alarm of fire was given and upon investigation it proved to be at "The Oaks", the home of Mrs. V. B. Robinson on West Court Street. The roof of the kitchen caught fire from a defective flue and but for timely aid the pretty residence would have been destroyed. Mr. J. B. Long, a surburban farmer living on the southside of Wrightsville had his barn and contents destroyed by fire. He had $300 insurance. Hon. G. T. Mason was stricken with apoplexy last monday at the court house at Lyons. Mr. Mason was born and reared at the old family home at Mason's Bridge near Wrightsville. He was a man of integrity, noble character and his sudden death is morned by a wide circle of family and friends. He moved to Lyons ten years ago and at the time of his death was the Ordinary of Toombs County. He is survived by his wife and eight children, four sisters and four brothers: Mrs. Raiford Mason, Mrs. Moye, Mrs. W. H. Bland, Mrs. E. New, Dr. R. M. Mason, C. A. Mason, Dr. W. G. Mason and Jos M. Mason. Mrs. Elizabeth Trawick and Mrs. J. L. Kent went to Tennille to the funeral of their relative, Mr. Charlie Roberson. Mr. E. A. Lovett is confined to his room sick. Col. E. L. Stephens is ill with malarial fever. Mr. Don McColsky came over from Vidalia in his car accompanied by Mrs. J. W. A. Crawford and Miss Lucile Manning. Mr. J. W. A. Crawford recently moved his family to Vidalia to a newly built residence. He is employed there with the coffin manufacturing company. Mr. T. D. Holt and family have moved to the J. W. A. Crawford home on College Street. Jim Hawkins is now clerking at Cox & Tanners. Mr. L. A. Collins and family after a years residence here has moved to Sandersville. Mr. & Mrs. H. M. Smith of Atlanta are happy over the arrival of a little daughter this week. Mr. & Mrs. Ivey Tanner went to Davisboro to attend the funeral of the latters grandfather, Mr. J. T. Gross who was buried at New Hope church. Elders Lee Hanks and J. E. Townsend will preach at Price's Springs if the weather is suitable says Mr. D. J. Smith. At the home of Mr. W. D. Rowland, Mr. S. A. Attaway and Miss Annie Rowland were happily married by Rev. J. R. Kelley. Mr. Attaway is a young man of sterling ability, a prosperous farmer of Johnson County. The beautiful bride is a daughter of Mr. J. R. Rowland and a sister of Messrs. J. H. and W. D. Rowland. They together with Mr. E. J. Sumner and Miss Zaida Snell left in Mr. Summers car for Augusta and will visit relatives at Aiken and Chester, South Carolina. After a long illness, Mrs. Mary McWhorter Meeks, wife of Rev. D. L. Meeks passed away at her home near Wrightsville. She was survived by her husband and two sisters, Mrs. T. W. Kent and Mrs. Anna Shurling. Services were provided by Rev. Jordan Norris with interment at the family cemetery. On last Sunday, Mr. Volentine Stephens died at his home in Scott after being ill with pneumonia for several days. He was buried at Pullen's burying ground. He was a brother of Messrs. Isham, William and Henry Stephens of near Kite and an uncle of Rosier Stephens of Wrightsville. After an illness of weeks with gripp, Mrs. Eliza Crawford died October 26th at the home of her son, Mr. J. M. Crawford near Wrightsville and buried at the Crawford cemetery. She was 88 years old and a member of the methodist church. She was totally blind and one of the oldest residents of Johnson County.

From Days Gone By Nov. 3, 1911

November 3, 1911.
The Industrial Index of Georgia had an interesting description of
Wrightsville and Johnson County and its rich agricultural section in which it is
located. "Wrightsville is one of the splendid, progressive cities of central
Georgia that offers advantages to the homeseeker and the possible investor.
There has been much development at and around Wrightsville, but the resources
have hardly been touched, comparing what has been done with what may be done.
The smaller cities of this kind need substantial new citizens for their
development more than they need money. There are opportunities for the
establishment in Wrightsville and the adjacent section of manufacturing plants
for which the raw materials are at hand and which can be secured at entirely
resonable cost. There are good opportunities for the investment of money with
every prospect of highly-satisfactory returns. New citizens will be welcomed,
new business enterprises of every character encouraged and local capital joined
under proper conditions with outside money in the establishment of new
factories."
The Vivola Theatre held a large audience tuesday evening, eager to hear
Creatore's Band, one of the most superb musical organizations in America.
Wrightsville is the only town of its size in Georgia that has ever had the
priviledge of hearing Creatore's Band, and in years to come the young people and
children will tell with pride of the night they heard Creatore. Sandersville,
Tennille, Bartow, Swainsboro and others attended with a special train came from
Tennille and their praises of Wrightsville's new theatre and greatly surprised
to see such a handsome play house as the Vivola. A great debt of gratitude is
owed manager Tompkins for the opportunity to hear such a band. Conservative
estimates places receipts at $500 for the show. The next attraction will be the
Parland Newhall Company on Nov. 8th.
Rev. J. B. Holly and family have arrived from Louisville to reside at the
Baptist parsonage. Mrs. D. G. Blount went to Vidalia to work at the Home Mission
Society of the South Ga Conference. Mr. & Mrs. Elmer E. Daley are entertaining a
very distinguished guest in the person of "little Miss Daley" she arrived
tuesday for an indefinite visit. Little Miss Isabel Blount celebrated her 6th
birthday.
By far the most important event in the history of Wrightsville's social world
was the Golden Wedding Anniversary of Rev. & Mrs. C. A. Moore at the residence
of Dr. & Mrs. S. M. Johnson. Uncle Charlie Moore has been a minister here for
more than 50 years and they have 6 children: J. Ira, R. A., C. H., Richard
Moore, Mrs. W. E. Arnold and Mrs. S. M. Johnson.
At the late primary on the 25th for mayor and aldermen for Wrightsville,
after a tie for mayor Dr. T. L. Harris was the victor over Col. W. C. Brinson.
Dr. W. J. Flanders of Telfair County formally a member of the Georgia
legislature from Johnson is considering a run for prison commission. He is
currently an inspector of convict camps. City tax books are now open for the
collection of advalorem taxes and will remain open only a short while.
Mr. J. K. McAfee is recovering from an attack of blood poison caused from
being bitten by a hog. Mr. O. A. Kennedy returned from Rawlings Sanitarium much
improved from his recent surgery.
The Wrightsville Merchantile Company has just opened an undertaking parlor
and will carry a complete stock of coffins, caskets, robes, burial gloves,
everything from the cheapest coffin to solid mahogony state caskets. Can also
provide nice horses, hearse and careful drivers.
While driving the car of her uncle, Mr. T. G. Holt, Miss Eloise Hood met with
an accident. In trying to avoid a mudhole near Mason's Bridge, the car skidded
on the clay and partially overturned in the ditch. With her was Misses Rebecca
Harris, Nora and Ola Johnson all of whom escaped injury. Mr. I R. Tanner
happened upon it and returned the girls to town. On last monday the two-story
wooden building owned by the negro masonic lodge was destroyed by fire. When
discovered it was fully engulfed. The first floor was used by Rabe Harris for a
shoe and barber shop and sale of soft drinks, fruit, etc.
After a long illness Mr. A. J. Bush, one of Johnson's oldest citizens died
near Wrightsville. Mr. Bush leaves a wife and several grown children one being
Mr. Jim Bush. The burial was at Beulah Cemetery. Mr. James Sheppard died at his
home near Moores' Chapel. He was well known in that community. He was survived
by a wife and five children including Mrs. E. N. Hitchcock of Wrightsville.

October 27, 1911. A primary election for mayor and five councilmen to serve Wrightsville for 1912 was pulled here last wednesday. The following is the ticket of the final vote: For Mayor- T. L. Harris, 92; W. C. Brinson, 92. For Councilmen: B. H. Lord, 171; L. J. Claxton, 162; J. M. Cook, 149; B. E. Jordan, 146; A. T. Cobb, 137; W. W. Anthony, 114. Of the council the first five were elected, in mayors race was a tie. This produces some complication and the matter was put in the hands of the Executive Committee who called for another election on November 2nd announced by committee chairman, Wm. Faircloth. The attractions at the Vivola continues to draw crowds nightly. The moving pictures and a clean Vaudeville performances this week, Manager H. C. Tompkins sold $140 worth of tickets in an hours time for Creatore's Band. The people of Wrightsville were entertained this week by two very distinguished people, one of whom was Miss Laura Ida Booth, the neice of the great actor Edwin Booth, and daughter of John Wilkes Booth who shot President Lincoln from the stage while playing in the American Cousin at Ford's Theatre in 1865. The other was L. A. Howard, a relative of Gen. Oscar Oliver Howard. There is no better farming lands in the state of Georgia than here in Johnson County as the following figures prove: On 2 acres of our land there was produced this year 5,893 pounds of seed cotton which has already been picked and ginned with not less than 300 pounds still in the field. This means 4 bales weighing not less than 535 pounds each. There was used on this land 10 2-horse wagon loads of stable fertilizer and 1000 lbs of commercial fertilizer. This fine yeild was made by Mr. Ben Walker on the plantation of Mrs. W. A. Sinquefield, better known as the James F. Thompson old place. Cox & Tanner, a new staple and fancy grocery firm recently organized here, composed of two hustling young men, Grady Cox and Otho Tanner are making competitors "sit up and take notice". R. Z. Sterling our popular livery stable man has just invested in an automobile in order to meet the demands of his patrons and afford them rapid transit to adjoining towns. If "Bud" is as good judge of machine, as he is a horse, it is safe to say his investment is ok. Several young ladies here have organized an Embroidery Club and have weekly meetings for the purpose of doing fancy work and handmade Christmas gifts. N. B. Miller of route 2, a good farmer and member of the Farmers Union paid a visit to town. Little Margaret Wright and brother, Edward, have returned home from Macon where they had throat operations. Mrs. Will Mixon is quite ill at home. Her condition is very precarious. Master L. A. Kennedy fell and broke his arm. Dr. Brinson set the broken member and the little fellow will be fine. Dr. E. New of Dublin, in consultation with Dr. T. S. Page on the critical illness of Page's sister Mrs. Dicey Hall. She is somewhat improved. After an illness of Pellagra of several months, Mrs. Callie Killebrew Hightower died at her home in Dublin. Mrs. Hightower was formally of Wrightsville. Mrs. Jenkins, widow of the late W. J. Jenkins, died at her home near Harrison from heart trouble. She had been apparently well, and while sitting in a chair she was stricken by death which was quite a shock to her family. She was buried in the family cemetery near her home. She was the mother of Dr. and Mrs. Herschel Jenkins of Harrison, and Aunt of Mr. E. A. W. Johnson and Dr. S. M. Johnson and grandmother of Mrs. Gordon Brantley. After an illness of 6 weeks Mrs. Maggie Snell Stephens, wife of Mr. J. D. Stephens died at her home in Scott and buried at Bay Springs. She was the daughter of the late James Snell, one of the most prominent families in the county, and a sister to Mrs. J. H. Rowland, Mrs. R. R. Martin and J. V. Snell. She was survived by her husband and two children. C. H. Hicks, administrator of Jacob Hicks filed a petition to be dismissed from the estate having fully administered his estate. Philip Cook, Secretary of State certified the charter of the Bank of Adrian, first chartered December 20, 1893. The new charter states a capital stock of $25,000 divided into 250 shares of $100 each. Term for 30 years. Signed by A. J. Peddy, G. H. Barwick from Adrian, Emanuel County; G. E. Youmans, J. Brown Hutchinson, J. B. Williams and T. A. Cheatam, Adrian, Johnson County.

From Days Gone By Oct. 20, 1911

October 20, 1911. This weeks newspapers from 1911 are missing from the Historical Society's collection. The following is a somewhat humorous story from a 1911 Wrightsville paper called The Preachers, by Rex. "An annual conference is always a great time with the Methodist preachers, a time of meeting after a year separation, when and where they get together and recount experiences, and swap yarns, and where they have good homes and plenty to eat. A crowd of preachers is the jolliest sort of crowd. No long faces, no clouds to faltfinding, no grumbling, all sunshine. Not only a jolly crowd, but men who know how to dispose of business. Why, a Methodist Conference would put a Georgia Legislature to shame in the disposition of business. They do more in one day for the good of the state, than the legislature will do in a whole session. Perhaps its because they get no "per diem." They are a set of fellows that can be trusted, as many of them handle thousands of dollars during the year, and are required to give no bond. A Methodist preacher knows more people than any other man, or class of men in the state. They gather more to talk about than the average man, and their social intercourse at the conference brings out some of the richest experiences, and most assuring anecdotes that can be heard anywhere. I remember jotting down a few of their stories at one of the conferences. The conversation drifted into sanctimonous religion, which was very common a few years back, and as an illustration, the following incident was mentioned: Down in Screven County many years ago, there was an old preacher that wore a high collar and a long coat, and a long face. The children were all afraid of him, and would hide out when he came to spend the night. On one occasion he came to a certain home, as he often did and spent the night. Next morning there was not a child to be seen on the place, except a little girl about four years old. After breakfast, she climbed up on the knee of the old preacher and began running her little fingers over his face. Finally she said, I love you, and the old preacher said, "you do my child," what makes you love me?" She said because you got a face just like old Sam." Old Sam was a mule in the lot. Another old preacher, down in Montgomery County, had a particular place to spend his Saturday nights before his appointment in the neighborhood. In that home was a boy about twelve years old. Whenever he came his (the boy's father) would say, "Johnnie, run and take out the preachers horse, run and feed the preacher's horse, run and get the preacher a bucket of fresh water." Well, the thing went on till Johnnie got tired of waiting on that preacher, and so one day the preacher drove up and the father said, "Johnnie, run and take out the preacher's horse and feed him," and when they had come into the piazza the father said, "Johnnie, run and get the preacher a bucket of cool water." Johnnie took the bucket and started, but his eyes fell on the preacher's feet. Johnnie stopped in front of him and said, "Was you called to preach?" The preacher answered, "Yes, I was called to preach." Johnnie said, "Are you're sure you were called to preach?" "Yes," said the old preacher. "I am sure I was called to preach," "Well," said Johnnie, "if I prove to you that you was not called to preach will you come here anymore?" "Yes," said the old man; "if you can prove to me I wasn't called to preach I'll not come here any more." "Well," said Johnnie, "don't the Bible say 'how beautiful are the feet of them that are called to preach the gospel;' your feet ain't beautiful." The old man's feet were knotted and twisted with corns and bunions.

From Days Gone By October 13, 1911

October 13, 1911. A light frost was seen on East Elm Street tuesday morning; the first in Wrightsville, so early in the season. The municipal primary is only a few days off, and so far we have heard very little politics discussed; candidates are very scarce, only one having publicaly announced. The big sign of the closing out sale at the Empire Store which spans the street is attracting alot of attention. Mr. T. G. Holt, proprietor understands the art of advertising and his unique method is been quite a success. The display windows at H. C. Tompkins department stores have elicited much admiration from its artistic design. The work done by expert artisan from Baltimore reflects the store windows seen on Broadway in New York. Mr. Jordan Sinard left for Albany to work for the firm of Reid & Carter. Mr. Sinard has been in Wrightsville the past 2 years with the Tanner Grocery Company. Material for building an office for J. H. Rowland is being placed on his lot, corner of Bradford and College Streets. The popular depot agent, B. H. Lord is very sick. Mr. Shelly of Sandersville is in charge of the W. & T. office until Lord Returns. Miss Rosa Blackshear went to Dublin with her little brother and sister, John and Dulcet who are both with the fever. The Rev. Mr. Holly has been called to the pastorate of the Baptist Church. Miss Chastain of Blue Ridge is the guest of Mrs. G. W. Cochran. She has accepted a position to teach at New Home. A peach tree in the yard of Mrs. J. T. Furgerson has several clusters of blooms. Quite an unusual sight for this season of the year. The new garage which Mr. A. T. Cobb is having built by contaractor Chester, on Marcus Street is near completion. This is quite an addition to our city and automobile owners in general. On saturday October 31st at the Vivola, Creatore, and his splendid band will be heard in Wrightsville for the first time. Special trains will run from all points along the W. & T. Railroad. This is the best concert band in America today. On last wednesday afternoon at the methodist parsonage, Miss Venie Holt and Mr. Geo. W. Gannon were married by Rev. W. L. Wright. Mr. Gannon came to Wrightsville about 3 years ago from Ironton, Oregon. Last sunday morning at the home of the brides parents, Rev. & Mrs. H. G. Everitt in Wrightsville, Miss Mattie Everitt and Mr. Thad Ivey were married by her father. The couple will live at Moores Chapel. Mrs. Nancy Smith, widow of the late W. R. Smith died at her home near Sumner's bridge. She was 80 years old and been in feeble health. She was survived by several children and was a sister of Dr. J. W. Flanders. She was buried at the family burying grounds. Mr. John B. Acree died at his home in Camilla at the age of 83 having a stroke of paralysis. He was well known in Mitchell County. He was the father of Mrs. J. M. Mason of Wrightsville. After a long period of failing health Mrs. Zadie Booker Ivey, wife of Mr. W. B. Ivey died at her home near Moores Chapel from organic heart trouble. She was buried in the family graveyard. Mrs. Ivey was raised in Glascock County, but had resided here for several years. She was a christian woman and loved by all who knew her. She was survived by her husband and nine children including Mrs. W. D. Rowland, Miss Bessie Ivey and Mr. John Ivey of Wrightsville. Rev. John T. Webb passes over the river from his home near Bethel on October 6th. He was a local methodist preacher for more than 50 years. He was buried at Bethel church. Mr. Webb was loved by all who knew him, he was never to busy nor the distance to far for him if he was needed. On the 9th of September he had reached his 87th birthday. Mrs. Kate Carroll, wife of Patrick Carroll, and daughter of Mr. Shurlock, members of a band of gypsies located a couple miles east of Wrightsville died at the camp after a continued illness of diabetes. A mahogany casket, encased in metalic, was ordered from Macon and the remains, after being embalmed were taken to Atlanta and placed in the family vault at the cemetery of this oriental class of people, with the ritual of the catholic church. J. M. Walker, Johnson County's new game warden will be at the clerk's office in the courthouse every saturday in october for the purpose of issuing state and county license to our hunters and fishermen. Yesterday morning the automobile of J. H. Rowland killed Frank, the little pet dog of W. P. Tribble. Frank had been with the Tribble family for many years. A valuable milk cow, belonging to Col. B. B. Blount, accidentally fell into a ditch in the pasture and broke her neck. So, for the present, Buford is forced to resort to lactal fluid of the "tin cow".

From Days Gone by October 6, 1911

October 6, 1911. H. C. Tompkins has leased the Vivola Opera House owned by E. A. W. Johnson and will be manager for the next 12 months. Mr. Tompkins intends to bill many popular attractions for the present season, and will see that Wrightsville has some really first-class shows. He has booked for October 31st Creatore's Great Italian Band. Creatore, with his corps of magnificant musicians, toured the south last winter and won great eclaim, and it is quite a compliment to our little city that they will come here. Work on the buildings of A. T. Cobb and W. G. Burns is now being rapidly pushed and they will be ready to occupy in a few weeks. Cashier Elmer Daley of the Exchange Bank has begun the erection of a bungalow on Elm Street, on the corner lot adjoining the property he purchased from L. S. Cox. J. H. Rowland is in Adrian in the interest of the W. A. & L. Railroad. The need of a night train is pointed out by the Dublin Courier Dispatch. There can be no gainsaying, the fact of its being a necessity, but whether the patronage would justify it is the question. Already the W. & T. Railroad operate a "Cotton Special", and the experiment could be made without much trouble or expense to the railroad. We firmly believe that it would be a profitable venture. Make-up the train - Sleeper in Dublin, and hitch it on the Cotton Special. This train passes Wrightsville about 9 and this would give our people plenty of time to finish their days work, retire here, not be disturbed in Tennille, and awake in Atlanta. On the return trip, one can take berth in Atlanta at 9, and sleep until 8 the next morning, the usual time the morning train gets here. Warthen College now enrolls about 250 pupils and has ten teachers. The finiacial condition of the institution was never better. Every entrance ticket having been paid up. In the list of newly appointed Game Wardens, Joseph M. Walker has been appointed for Johnson County. A primary election for mayor and council for Wrightsville will be held on the 25th. The qualifying fees are, for mayor $5; for councilman, $1. The Mount Vernon Baptist Association will convene next week at Pleasant Hill near Pringle. Master Albon Hatcher celebrated his 7th birthday. A good, improved plantation of 150 acres, dwelling and all outbuildings with good water is for sale. It is situated 5 miles east of Wrightsville and is a good place and a bargain for somebody. Apply to Gabriel Kittrell of route 3. Dr. I. H. Archer notifies his patients his office is moving to the Vivola Building in rooms no 3, 4 and 5. Mrs. E. T. Pounds applied for permanent letters of adminstration on the estate of Ernest T. Pounds. Mrs. A. L. Hall, widow of E. A. Hall and Leila Carter, widow of J. V. Carter filed for year's support. Mrs. Chas Wood, of Baker County is here with her daughter Mrs. Will Mixon who is quite ill. Mrs. N. Braddy is ill and is unable to leave her room. Pauline, the 14 year old daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Morgan Snell died at her home and was buried in the family burying ground. She had been afflicted for a long time. Miss Gracie Dixon, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Hansell Dixon died at her home and was buried at the Kent burial ground. She had been an invalid the greater part of her life. After a few days illness of acute indigestion, Mr. J. B. Tharp died at New Home and was buried in the church cemetery. He was survived by his wife and 11 children. He was an uncle of J. T. Tharp. Mrs. Delia Page died at her home near Spann after an illness of several months and was buried at Westview. Rev. Father Latiolais of Macon officiating. She was Delia Caneega before her marriage and was converted to the Catholic church and has been a strict member since. She was sister to Miss Susan and H. H. Caneega and half sister to J. T. P. F. and J. J. Duff and Mrs. Kate Duff. She was sister also to S. M. Veronica and Mrs. W. E. Page. She was survived by two sons and a daughter. The extreme hot weather that we had in september, and that we are still having up to this october 6th, has broken all records and is unprecedented. It is said by old weather prognosticators to be the indication of a very severe winter.

From Days Gone By, September 29, 1911

September 29, 1911. The opera chairs have been placed in the Vivola Opera House and the scenery and drop curtain are now being installed, prepatory for the initial attraction "The Vassar Girls", on the evening of october 21st, by the Lyceum Course. By the purchase of more rail for the extension from Wrightsville to Lyons the new railroad project for this section seems even more a certainty. The route is from Wrightsville to Adrian to Lyons, to Waycross. It is proposed that this road will be extended in each direction until a new route will be established from Florida through Waycross to Athens and northeast Georgia, the route to go either via Milledgeville or Sparta and connect with a branch of the Seaboard Airline. There is a possibility of a connection also with the Georgia Coast and Piedmont, which proposes an extension to Vidalia. Notice was hereby given that on the 15th day of September the firm of Martin Bros. (T. L. & J. B.) were duly adjudged bankrupt in the District Court for the Northeastern Division of the Southern District of Georgia at Augusta. Submitted by Joseph Ganahl, Referee in Bankruptcy. W. R. Kemp of Route 1 Wrightsville will pay a reasonable reward for the arrest of two colored boys named respectively Charles Carter and Beverly Kemp, each about 16 years old. Kemp has a scar on the side of his face. For their arrest I will pay a suitable reward. Mr. & Mrs. John Mayo, and Mr. Henry Mayo and family have rented the Daley residence on Marcus Street and will take possession next week. Milledge Claxton of Kite is now filling the position as bookkeeper at the H. C. Tompkins stores. Misses Lena and Mamie Rowland entertained a number of the younger set at their home on Belmont Avenue. Preston, the little son of Mr. & Mrs. Jim Bryan is ill with malarial fever. Misses Maud Lou and Zeta Hightower are sick with fever. J. M. Blackshear, Jr. and his sister Dulcet are improving after several weeks of malaria fever. Mrs. Mary Duggan has it too. The friends of Mrs. J. M. Blackshear, who is now in the hospital at Rochester, Minnisota, will be glad to learn she is improving. Mr. Blackshear says it is quite cold there with the ice is two inches thick. The Wrightsville friends of T. H. Jackson of Dublin learn that he is critically ill at Blue Ridge where he was carried for the benefit of his health. Mrs. R. B. Chapman was called to Dublin by the illness of her sister, Mrs. Frank Brantley who's death occured tuesday night from fever. Andrew T. Clark, our clever and popular fellow countyman has been very feeble but was back in town this week, a guest of his son, Gordon Clark and family. Miss Lizzie Lee Johnson has been elected teacher in the 5th and 6th grades of Warthen College. She is conscientious and capable, and will doubtless fill the position in a satisfactory manner. Rev. W. A. Parker who has been pastor of the Baptist church for the past 2 years will move to Washington County where he has bought the Doc Waller farm, one mile and a half from Tennille. On last thursday 21st, at the home of the brides' parents, Mr. & Mrs. Gid Raines, near Wrightsville, Miss Nora Raines and Mr. Carlus Harrison were united in marriage by Rev. J. R. Kelly. J. R. Edwards, who lives on the Vicker's place, a few miles from town, brought to town a stalk of corn, on which there were ten well developed ears. The "fireless cooker" has made its appearance in Wrightsville. Mrs. D. G. Blount has been using one for several weeks, and is delighted with it in every way. New inventions are constantly coming to us. The horseless carriage, wireless telegraph, tasteless medicine and the like. Perhaps some of us may live to see "talkless women".

From Days Gone By, Sept. 22, 1911

September 22, 1911. Mr. Lee Lumley, the Marshal of Kite, while on duty last Sunday night, shot Mr. William Cordry inflicting wounds from which he died Tuesday morning. It is said that Mr. Cordry was drunk, and disorderly, and defied the Marshal, and attempted to draw his gun when he met him, whereupon he was shot. Marshal Lumley was arrested and brought to Wrightsville, given a commitment trial and put under bond which was readily given. The Superior Court convened here this week with Judge B. T. Rawlings presiding, with Alfred Herrington, Solicitor. The criminal docket was taken up on Wednesday afternoon. The Lee Lumley case was continued until next term, 1912. Clifford Dixon was tried for the killing of Marshal Lindsey at Kite several months ago. The jury brought in a verdict of voluntary manslaughter. The case of his brother, Sherman Dixon was continued to the next term. The attorneys for Clifford Dixon have applied for a new trial. The Judge assessed his bond at $2500. Sherman's bond was set at $3000. The Dixon boys have since given bond and left for their respective homes, near Wrightsville. The crowds in attendance upon Superior Court this week have been swelled considerably by the presents of gypsies and neighborhood horse-swappers, who are in evidence round-about the horse racks on our streets. The exterior of the second story recently added to the National Bank is about completed, and now that entire block, including the Vivola building presents an attractive and up-to-date appearance. J. Y. Keen, a prominent merchant of Dublin was here this week with indications of opening a millinery store. The stockholders of the Wrightsville, Adrian and Lyons railroad will meet at Adrian on the 26th. Very vital business is to be transacted according to J. H. Rowland, superintendant. Dr. Ford Ware returned to his studies at the Medical College at Augusta. Emmitt Butterly left for Athens to study pharmacy at the University. R. Erle Brinson left to resume his studies in the medical college in Atlanta. Dr. W. J. Flanders, now of Atlanta, and a member of the state Board of Prison Examiners was here inspecting the convict camps. Mrs. R. L. Kent is at Rawlings Sanitarium for treatment. Mr. Gordon Kent of Adel was here with his wife who was suddenly taken ill and is at Rawlings also. Mrs. William Faircloth brought her mother, Mrs. J. P. Kennedy home with improved health. C. S. Blankinship, manager of the City Market has been tustling with a severe case of mumps. The five month old twin boys of Mr. & Mrs. J. E. Peddy of Harrison, died Wednesday night, just within a short while of each other. The cause of death is not known. Much sympathy was extended to the bereaved parents in the untimely death of their little boys. Mrs. Donie Cary Fortner, wife of Mr. J. M. Fortner, who resides near Kite was found dead in bed early yesterday morning at the home of her uncle, Mr. William Cary. Mrs. Fortner had accompanied her husband to Wrightsville for a visit during court, and she was as well as usual on retiring Wednesday night. Early Thursday morning, her relatives were attracted by the crying of her infant that was sleeping with her, and calling to her, and receiving no response, they hasten to her bedside and found that she was apparently dead. Dr. Harris was quickly summoned, but when he reached her, life was extinct, and all efforts to resuscitate her failed. Her death was the result of heart failure while asleep. Her husband was not present when she died, he being one of the jurors in the Dixon trial, had been locked in with that body for the night. The news of the death of his wife was quite a shock to him. Mrs. Fortner was a comparatively young woman. She was a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and was buried at the Fortner burying ground. She was survived by her husband, her mother and an infant three months old.

From Days Gone By Sept. 15, 1911

September 15, 1911. The tragic death of Mr. Ernest T. Pounds of Johnson County, which occured last sunday night in Savannah, from being shot by patrolman Charles Fennell, of the Central Railway force a few moments before he was to board the train for home was quite a shock to his relatives and friends here and elsewhere. Mr. Pounds came to Wrightsville four years ago from Sandersville and lived on a farm two miles from town. He was a successful farmer and doing financially well. Mr. Pounds, accompanied by C. H. Sheppard and S. T. Tanner of Sandersville, R. L. Downs of Davisboro and others from here left home sunday morning on a Tybee Special for Savannah to spend the day at the beach. The following is the account produced by the Savannah News: '" E. T. Pounds of Wrightsville, a sunday excursionist, was shot and instantly killed last night at the Central Railway passenger station, a few moments before the time for the train to depart, by patrolman Charles H. Fennell of the Central Railway's police force. Pounds was resisting arrest at the time he was killed, and according to witnesses had drawn a pistol on the officer. The shooting occured about a 100 yards west of the passenger station proper and near the engine of the train which was to take Pounds and his friends to their homes. The dead man was killed by a bullet which entered above the left eye and passed through the brain and emerged from the back of the head. Mr. Pounds fell in his tracks and died without speaking. The patrolman, with J. O. Wallace, special agent of the Central met Pounds near the engine. While on the train Pounds made a motion as though to take a pistol from his hip pocket, and the officer was told on his trip back to get him, that Pounds had made the statement he would not submit to arrest and had displayed a revolver. As the patrolman and Wallace approached their man, Fennell called on him to throw up his hands as he passed into the light from the engine. He replied that he would not, and produced the pistol. Fennell had prepared his pistol for use, fired 3 times and Pounds fell." On request of the attorneys for the prosecution the case of Charles Fennell, who shot and killed Mr. Pounds, was continued by Recorder Schwarz until the next day. Twiggs & Gazan who have been employed to prosecute asked for the continuance because they had not had time to investigate the case and summon their witnesses. On wednesday Recorder Schwarz dismissed the case deciding he shot and killed Pounds in self-defense and not murder. Judge Twiggs argued that Fennell should be held for a higher court, but Schwartz refused. Relatives of Mr. Pounds are making haste to prosecute policeman Fennell, saying Pounds was shot down without provocation and without any chance to defend himself from the murderous assualt of the policeman. It has been expected all summer that the sunday excursion trains to Tybee would result in a tragedy. A passenger from Sandersville states he will never go again and asserts that drinking beer and playing cards take place on the trains and once in Savannah are indulged to have all the beer and whiskey they care to buy, without restrictions, especially at Tybee. It has become a sunday debauch and a shame that the state of Georgia does not stop it. The spanish bull fight is a sunday school picnic compared to a sunday coast excursion in Georgia. When people assemble to depart for home many are boisterous by the sale of illegal intoxicants. If the police would do its duty to prevent this instead of standing ready to shot the unfortunate excursionist who becomes to noisy it would not be necessary to arrest someone. It is claimed by those who were with Pounds in Savannah that he was not intoxicated, that he only remonstrated with Fennell because he was placing another man under arrest, and that the officer became angry because he did so, making threats to arrest him. Mr. Pounds left the train so as to get out of reach of Fennell, walked down the track so as to catch the train as it pulled out and that Fennell followed him and shot him down. Mr. Ernest T. Pounds was survived by a wife and three children. He was buried at Sisters Church in Sandersville.

From Days Gone By Sept 8, 1911

September 8, 1911. Warthen College opened for business on Sept. 5th under the most flourishing and promising condition. The enrollment at the beginning is the largest in the history of the school. It was necessary to add two more teachers to the faculty. Great improvements have been made upon the college campus by grading and sodding. There is a movement now to construct two large dormitories at once. A beautiful tiled pavement has been laid in front of the Vivola building on Marcus Street and Mr. E. A. Lovett has had the sidewalk in front of the Express Office and Bank of Wrightsville tiled and is appreciated by pedestrians all. H. C. Tompkins has had his entire stock of groceries moved to the corner store, beneath the telephone exchange. The vacant section formerly for groceries is being renovated for millinery, ladies furnishings, notions, etc. while the adjoining store will still be devoted to shoes, clothing, gents' furnishings, etc. Col. B. H. Moye has moved his law office to the Vivola building. Clifford Robinson left to attend the military college at Dahlonega. Mr. & Mrs. Mac Shurling have a distinguished visitor in their home, a diminutive son, who is now claiming all of their time and attention. Among the batch of pardons granted by Governor Smith last week was that of William Ayers, colored, from Johnson County. It will be remembered that about 12 years ago one Dan Outlaw, colored, was found dead in his house, near the railroad depot in this city. Suspicion pointed to William Ayers who was arrested, convicted, and received a life sentence. The application for pardon was presented to prison commission and the Governor by Col. E. L. Stephens of this city the same attorney who defended Ayers at his trial in March 1901. J. W. A. Crawford has just completed his new residence at Vidiala and will move his family to that city at an early date. Mr. Crawford has been a resident of Wrightsville from childhood and his old friends and business associates regret to part with him and his estimable family. Rev. W. A. Parker, Jr. who has served as pastor of the Baptist church in this city for nearly 2 years, tendered his resignation last sunday night and will move from Wrightsville. On last saturday morning Mrs. D. L. Lindsey, widow of the late David Lindsey of this county, was found dead in her bed, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A. S. Mayo near New Home church passing away sometime during the night. Mrs. Lindsey was over 70 years old and was in feeble health but sudden death was unexpected. She was buried at New Home with Rev. M. R. Little, pastor of the Baptist church at Wadley. On last wednesday week while Mrs. Vena Colston who lives about a mile from Providence Church, was walking out in a cotton patch which is about 100 yards from her home, she came suddenly upon a huge rattlesnake, which without the aid of anyone, she instantly killed it. The snake measured four and a half feet in length and had eight rattles. Mrs. Colston who is 72 years old is indeed a most nervy woman to have tackled a monster that some men would have shrunk from.

From Days Gone By September 1, 1911

September 1, 1911. The fall term of Warthen College 1911 will open September 5th. The college opens at night to give the patrons, as well as the public, an opportunity to meet teachers, hear the lectures and the outline of the year's work. Nothing means more to Wrightsville than the opening exercises at the college. The school exists alone for the children and the teachers are here to help you help your children meet the great issues of this great age. Hon. E. L. Stephens of Wrightsville, representative in the Genera Assembly from Johnson County; announces that he will be a candidate for Solicitor General of the Dublin Circuit at next years election. He has practiced at the bar here for a number of years and is well known in Wilkinson, Johnson, Laurens and Twiggs. He is a strong lawyer, is popular with the people and would make a good solicitor if elected. He is in his first term as state representative. The Empire Store will begin its Great Sale tomorrow. T. G. Holt, proprietor has returned from the northern markets with goods galore. Gainor Burns, one of the best known and most popular salesmen in this section, has bought an interest in the firm of Vickers- Williams Co. He was formally employed at Hayes Bros. where he has sold "stacks of goods". The ladies committee will be selling ice cream and cake on the court house lawn with the proceeds going to pay for the piano just purchased for the methodist church. A tiled pavement is being laid in front of the Lovett Building, corner of Marcus and College streets, and will be quite an improvement when finished. Little Winnifred Scott has been quite sick. The friends of Mr. & Mrs. Virgil Kent will be glad to learn that their children, Alice and Louise are recovering from a recent severe illness of diphtheria. Mr. & Mrs. Lee Franklin Smith announce the birth of a 12 pound boy, who has been given the name of Edward Eugene. Last sunday Mr. W. B. Moorman was united in marriage to Miss Amanda A. Johnson of Kite. The ceremony was performed by Rev. W. D. Walker, Sr. at his home at Tom. Mrs. John Underwood died at her home in Wrightsville tuesday morning after a lengthy illness of pellagra. She was buried at Pleasant Grove. Mrs. Henry Price died wednesday morning near New Home. She had been in poor health for sometime though her death was unexpected. She was the mother of Mrs. Silas Powell of Wrightsville. On last saturday there was a half bushel bucket of rattlesnakes on exhibition on our streets. There were 27 in number, 26 young ones from 12 to 18 inches long, and the mother snake, a formidable looking old creature. This interesting family of snakes had their home in a log near the Johnson Dairy Farm. They were found and killed by some of the farm hands. Mr. Charlie G. Rawlings has placed an order for a gasoline plow, and as soon as the crops can be gathered will begin operating it about november. The plow costs $3000 and will consume 50 gallons of gasoline per day. An average day's work will be 24 acres. If it can be kept constantly at work it is capable of breaking 600 acres per month. Disc plows will be used and will cut in the earth 15 inches. "Do not marry the young lady who allows herself to float around the neighborhood in a top buggy or automobile until 2 in the morning with a counterfeit sport with a weak jaw and weaker morals," was the advice given young men by the Rev. E. N. Askey of the Oakland Avenue M. E. Church in a sermon on "When shall a young man marry?" "Do not marry the young lady who insists on changing partners six nights a week in the front parlor with the lights turned low. Don't marry the young lady who has been pawed over by every yap in the community."

From Days Gone By August 25,1911

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August 25, 1911.
On monday afternoon, about 5:30, a terrific downpour of rain and hail,
accompanied by severe wind and vivid lightning came very suddenly. In the midst
of it all came a fire alarm and the volunteer company responded promptly to the
home of M. M. Davis on Belmont Ave. Chief Starling discovered no fire but
considerable damage to the roof where lightning had entered and passed out near
the rear of the house. The family was absent at the time or possibly one or all
would have been killed. Mrs. J. R. Wilson who was standing on the front porch
next door was shocked so badly that a doctor was summoned. The rain was falling
in torrents but the firemen did their duty bravely.
This electric storm also did considerable damage to Warthen College. Ten or
more of the heavy plate glass windows were shattered by the wind, and also the
glass panels in the outside doors. Besides the loss of these, the interior was
exposed to the heavy rain. The storm came from the southeast and passed rapidly
over the city.
Warthen College will open September 5th. The college stands for all that is
pure, holy and good. Character, culture and purity of home life, for God and
Christian religion. The school and the home should stand together.
W. C. Tompkins is having a second story added to the First National Bank
building(Johnson Journal), which will be a fine addition. It will contain
several offices, well lighted and ventalated and equipped with all conviences.
Contractor Chester will do the work. The W. A. & L. Railroad Construction
Company contracted with the Glenn County Construction Company of Virginia to
negotiate the sale of thier first morgage bonds, and to construct the road from
Lyons to Wrightsville. Active work with a large force of hands in the next 30
days it is hoped that trains will be running from here to Lyons by early spring.
The state Chamber of Commerce, traveling in the state car will be in
Wrightsville at an early date. The businessmen of the city are encouraged to
give them a rousing welcome.
After an illness of 2 days of malarial fever, Herschel Wood, the 11 year old
son of Mr. & Mrs. M. B. Wood died at the home of Mr. J. M. Outlaw near Moores'
Chapel. He was buried at Westview with Rev. Pompey Flanders officiating. Rev. B.
H. Ivey died at his home in Warrenton and was buried at Tennille his death due
to appopllexy and was very sudden. He was at one time the preacher of the
Baptist church here.
Mr. B. J. James, a naval stores manufacturer of Ennis was in the city
attending city court. White Wheeler, a "live wire" farmer of Kite was here too.
Prof. Paul Bryan left for Conneticut to Yale College. Miss Wylantie Hicks moved
her millinery stock to Vickers & Williams store. Hon. & Mrs. E. L. Stephens
announced the birth of a daughter on August 15th. Mr. W. J. Dent, Sr. is up
again after several weeks of severe illness. Frank Jackson has been named
associate editor of the Wrightsville Chronicle. L. J. Pournell files for divorce
from his wife Esther Pournell.
J. T. Ferguson asks how long the citizens of Wrightsville will continue to
spend $800 to $1000 each year on the streets. The work each year only gets
washed away. This is our home,and the home of our children after we are dead and
gone. When we work our streets it should not be temporary. The money spent this
year should benefit us next year. Why not have our streets paved with brick or
stone each year as far as the money for that year will pave it?
Mr. A. H. McRae, staff correspondant to the Industrial Index is here
preparing a write up of Wrightsville & the agricultural and horticultural
resources of the county. He says that no town of its class in the state has
shown greater progress in commercial and industrial growth than Wrightsville and
he predicts continued expansion that will attract capital and people.
An epidemic of cholera among hogs is raging seven miles east of Wrightsville.
Already fifty or more fine ones are dead and the list is growing each day.

From Days Gone By April 18, 1911

April 18, 1911. Contractor Chester informs that the Vivola Opera House will be opened in October. Six hundred and fifty opera chairs have been shipped out of Chicago will be installed shortly. The drop curtain, scenery and other stage properties are ordered. The Vivola is a handsome play house, well ventalated and conveniently arranged, supplied with lights, ample seating, fire escapes and all other modern conviences. The Vivola building embraces opera house and offices on the second floor, while on the ground floor a mammoth store room to be occupied by the Wrightsville Furnature Company. The building is owned by E. A. W. Johnson, planned and built by W. C. Chester, the most experienced architects and builders in the state. This fills a long-felt want in Wrightsville, and a splendid addition to our town. An automatic drinking fountain for the benefit of both man and beast has been placed on the west side of the square by the city fathers. It is a very unique piece of cas-iron, with two basins. The lower basin for mules and horses, and the upper for people. It is much needed. Other fountains are to be installed in other parts of town. Seventeen convictions in city court is a record for one day. The greater number of these were blind tiger cases. Chief Ferguson is having some much needed work done on the streets and it is well appreciated by the pedestrians who have found the walks anything but straight and narrow, owing to the super abundance of weeds and grass. Prof. Julian Cook will open a singing and instrumental school at Gethsemene Church. Misses Vivian and Ola Johnson will enter Brenau College at Gainsville. Mr. Julius Jenkins is assisting at the post office in the absense of postmaster J. F. Renfroe. J. D. Bush has accepted a position as salesman in the grocery department at Hayes Bros. where he wants all his old friends to come see him. Jim is a bang-up good fellow, and is reliable and pleasant to trade with. The Farmers Union Gin has ginned 12 bales of cotton and stored 15 bales this week. The Lovett Gin has ginned 12 bales and the City Warehouse has stored 15 bales also. Miss Rosa Lee Sumner, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. G. F. Sumner has married Mr. T. F. McGahee, a successful young county farmer. Misses Vola and Dola Claxton, twin daughters of Mr. & Mrs. L. J. Claxton celebrated their 15th birthday. Mr. A. T. Clarke of New Home is sick. Miss Bronnie May Tanner is convalescing after two weeks illness of bilious fever. Mrs. J. M. Blackshear is headed to Macon for the sanitarium. Growing on the sidewalk in front of J. V. Snell's residence, near Lynhurst, are several beautiful pecan trees loaded with fruit. Mr. Snell has a nice orchard and his crop of peacans bids to be a prolific one. Geo. M. Rhiner, guardian of Ida, Clinton, M. T. Rhiner and A. L. Neal applied for discharge of his guardianship. Mrs. Claude McEntyre, administratrix of R. H. McEntyre asked to be discharged from the estate. W. T. Scarboro, guardian of Pauline Tapley asked for discharge. Mrs. M. E. Taylor files application for year's support. John Vanlandingham files for Letters of Administration on the estate of Julia E. Vanlandingham. Yesterday morning, about 8 am a fearful auto accident occured at Adrian, resulting in serious injury to two of the occupants, and possibly the death of the third. The car was owned by John Smith of Lumber City, and at the time of the accident was in charge of his two young sons, accompanied by their uncle, George Smith of Adrian. While crossing the track of the Brewton & Pinora Railroad, the auto was struck by a freight train and thrown some distance from the track and completely demolished. The occupants were pinned beneath the wreckage, from which they were extricated as quickly as possible. The two boys were carried to a near by drug store, where it was found that one of them was severly scalded, and the other sustained a crushed leg and other injuries and there is little hope for his recovery. Mr. George Smith was taken to his home, he is very painfully injured about the head and is in a serious condition. Mr. J. H. Rowland of Wrightsville visited the scene shortly after it occured.

From Days Gone By Aug 11, 1911

August 11, 1911. Wrightsville will soon be the "City Beautiful" as Judge Wiggins is making things hum with the county's property. Chief Ferguson is making every lick count on the streets, and Contractor Chester is putting the finishing touches to the Vivola block. The first bale of cotton for Johnson County was brought in by Henry T. Downs. It was ginned at Fulford's gin. The bale weighed 479 pounds and sold for 12 - 18 cts per pound. It was stored at the City Warehouse. The cotton warehouse of C. H. Moore, agent for the Virginia-Carolina Chemical Company will be ready for business in a few days. E. A. Douglas will be manager. Mr. J. T. Tharp has been chosen weigher and manager of the City Warehouse. He is quite familar with the business, a careful, good man and will manage it well. The Farmers Union Gin and Warehouse opened for business ginning its first bale weighing in at 481 pounds. Messers Lovett Claxton and Ed Jordan are in charge of the business. Mr. T. G. Holt, proprietor of the Empire Store left for the eastern market to buy fall and winter stock. H. C. Tompkins is in New York and going to Baltimore to buy an extensive line of clothing and Elmo Hayes, an experienced buyer is up there too, stocking up on dry goods, shoes and groceries to ship back. Mr. R. Z. Sterling and several others have formed a Lyceum Course for Wrightsville and have secured a list of attractions from the Alkahest Lyceum. "The Vassor Girls" will be the first entertainment at the Vivola Opera House. Seventy-five season tickets have already been sold for this year. Mr. B. B. Tanner & family visited Palatka, Lake City and other Florida towns. The trip was made in Mr. Tanner's new car, in which they went from Wrightsville to Valdosta, 200 miles in one day. Mr. Tanner was pleased with the Georgia highway but the roads to Jacksonville are not suitable for "autoing". John Thomas McAfee, the 4 year old son of Mr. & Mrs. J. T. McAfee died at his home after a few days illness of hemorrhagic fever. He was buried at Westview. Mrs. Stella Harrison Vanlandingham, wife of Mr. John W. Vanlandingham died after a several day illness of puerperal fever and was buried at Beulah. She was a daughter by the former wife of W. H. Harrison. She was a young woman with good character and faithful in her church duties. She is survived by her father, husband and seven small children, the youngest an infant ten days old. Senator W. N. Kight of Johnson County representing the 16th district including Laurens and Emanuel gives the "Tale of a Kite" which dates back 1000 years. Every Kite should have a tail, and this tale goes back to the time when the Saxons and Danes were fighting for supremacy in England. The Kight's have been in this area for 100 years. They have been traced back to Alfred 1, a Saxon king. A Kite bird alighted on the banner and in the next 3 battles he was victorious. He adopted the Kite bird as his emblem and named himself Kite. This is where the family started. In the 17th century George Kite came to America as one of William Penn's colonist who settled in Pennsylvania. This was the beginning of the American Kite's. In 1610 the grandfather of Sen. Kight came to Georgia from there establishing the name to this state. Until 50 years ago it was spelled Kite, but Sen. Kight's uncle went to Virginia and found that branch changed the word to Kight. So he adopted the spelling as well. When Sen. Kight named his home town it was questioned by the postal service of that spelling being confused with Knight. So he went back and changed the spelling to Kite. Sen. Kight, who is 60 years old is a prominent merchant, lumberman, naval stores operator, banker and farmer. He is now serving his first term as senator. He was the mayor and postmaster of his town, Kite, Georgia. The recent raids on the blind tigers seem to have put a quietus to this line of business. Judge Kent is doing a great job giving them the chaingang. The kind of booze sold by them, it is said, will make a jack rabbit walk up and spit in the face of a bulldog.

From Days Gone By August 4, 1911

August 4, 1911. A big glorious rain throughly wet portions of Johnson County, and now some of our farmers are exceedingly well pleased. Jack Henderson of the firm of Tanner & Henderson, prominent suburban farmers brought to town buckets of large, lucious peaches and all kinds of vegetables. E. L. (Babe) Smith came with fine specimens of watermelon and muskmelons. Then George A. Smith, the popular tax receiver of the county brought some of the best and sweetest roasting ears. The Headlight has put a pen behind its offices for 25, week-old white leghorn chicks. The are lively and chipper as you please. These little white-feathered orphans are now flourishing. They were shipped here from the celebrated White Leghorn Poultry Yards, located at Smyrna, Georgia where they sell only the best and purest breed of that variety. The old home place of the late J. D. Webb, containing 100 acres, all under fence; 85 acres in cultivation is for sale. The plantation is located about three and one half miles from Wrightsville on the Dublin road. All parties desiring to invest in a good plantation will find it to their advantage to see R. F. Webb who will be selling within 30 days. The court house grounds are being greatly improved by the addition of a coping being placed by F. F. Flanders. This enclosure will not only beautify the grounds, but will also protect the hedge and grass which Judge Wiggins has put in such a splendid condition. John R. Grice has just completed 2two commodious rooms which have been added to his residence on East Elm Street. Also a cold storage, bathroom, and other convienices which makes his already popular home for boarders one of the most desirable in the city. Mr. E. T. Andrews and family are leaving Wrightsville for Dublin to take a position as manager of the Farmers Union Cotton Warehouse with a handsome salary. Mr. & Mrs. W. J. Manderville announce the birth of a daughter thursday morning. Yesterday at the home of the brides parents, Mr. & Mrs. A. T. Clark of near New Home, Miss Willie Clark married Col. Lee Price. The bride is a young woman of pleasing personality and was a pupil of Warthen College and a sister to Mr. Gordon Clark. Col. Price is a rising young attorney in a law practice with his brother, Col. Rufus Price in Swainsboro. Miss Louise and Master Tom Luther Lovett entertained at a birthday party with a large number of little friends. N. Braddy took a photograph of all the children in a group. Judge J. C. Wiggins our popular ordinary has been wrestling with an attack of rheumatism for a week or ten days, causing him much pain. In his absence clerk W. C. Brinson is serving the public promptly. W. F. Dent and family left for the Indian Springs for the health of Mrs. Dent. Capt. J. L. Martin carried his nephew, Mr. W. S. Thomas to Augusta to consult with Dr. Hull, an eminent specialist in regard to Thomas' eyesight which has almost completely failed him. Mr. J. Virgil Carter of Scott died at an Augusta hospital where he was operated on for gall stones. The operation was a success but he died soon after it was performed. His remains were interred at Scott with Masonic honors. The Knights Templars served as honorary escort. Mr. Carter was the son of James Carter of Scott. He was cashier of the Scott bank and held in high esteem. When Mr. J. R. Vickers was driving into town near the residence of W. A. Sinquefield, the mule he was driving became frightened at an approaching automobile and ran some distance upsetting the buggy and throwing Mr. Vickers to the ground with such force that he was unconsious when assistance reached him. He had no broken bones but was badly bruised about the body. The name of the party driving the machine was not learned, but they instantly stopped and rendered assistance. Mr. V. is fast recovering from his injuries.

From Days Gone By July 28, 1911

July 28, 1911. The steam shovel is now at work cutting down the grade on the W & T Railroad leading north from town. The officials of the railroad are sparing no money in the betterment of the road and substantial improvements are being made all along the line. The operation of the steam shovel is a very interesting sight and a novelty to many in this section. It is a "ponderous" machine, and the rapidity with which it removes dirt is amazing. I. R. Tanner is now in charge of the force who is grading the W. A. & L. Railroad. Supt. McKenzie is pushing the work as rapidly as possible and things are moving along well. The Rowland Merchantile Company, in spite of a dull season, is doing a big share of the trade. They have extended their business by establishing a branch store in the Kennedy block, next door to Peoples Hardware Co. (Bank of Wrightsville bldg). Staple and fancy groceries are sold with H. W. Kitchens general manager. Agreeable to a business deal recently made, the gin plant owned by the Dixie Oil and Cotton Co. has gone into the hands of Messers E. A. and W. H. Lovett, Jr. who are now sole owners. Partial new machinery has been installed, everything else has been overhauled leaving everything in perfect order when the ginning season opens. Farmers can carry their cotton to Lovett Ginnery and get prompt service with W. H. as manager. He is a safe, pains-taking young man who will deal fair and square with all. The city is having the pesky weeds dug up from the sidewalks in the residence portion and will cut some of the lower limbs of the shade trees which the good ladies will be thankful for. J. V. Snell is having his home on South Marcus street remodeled and enlarged. Ole Virge will soon have a very desirable home. Councilman E. T. Andrews is the first to bring an open cotton boll for this season. Will J. Raines brought in 8 peaches of the "cling-stone" variety. They were a product of a special tree he paid a fancy price for several years ago. W. D. Hatcher is ahead on big watermelons. He recently plucked one from his patch which weighed 65 pounds. Miss Maude Lou Sterling has been elected to the faculty of the high school at Doerun. Dr. Ford Ware received an appointment from Gov. Hoke Smith to attend the medical college at Augusta. A. F. Ware, president of Warthen College is sending out the 1911-12 annuals containing 24 annual sessions for the college. It contains photos of our public buildings, street scenes, etc and is tied with the college colors, Violet and Gold. It was published by printers, Foote & Davies of Atlanta. Miss Laura Daley is improving. Mr. W. J. Dent, Sr. is ill and owing to his advanced age and weak constitution, his condition is regarded as extremely critical. J. T. Blankenship, our popular dairyman, is able to be out again after a severe attack of mumps. Wade, the 6 year old son of Mr. & Mrs. J. D. Outlaw, died near Pringle after a short illness of tonsilitis. He was buried at Pleasent Hill. Mrs. Elizabeth Williams, widow of Rowan Williams died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. William Spell. She had been in poor health for some time and a few days before her death had a stroke of paralysis which hastened her taken away. She leaves her children, Rev. O. R., J. M., Willie and Mrs. Spell. In her younger days she lived a very active life. She raised 5 sets of children; two of her own and three for her sons and daughters. She was a faithful member of Arline's Chapel and was buried in the old family cemetery. The home of W. C. Tucker, in the southern part of Adrian, near the methodist church burned. The congregation was just being dismissed. The Tuckers left early that morning by train to their old home at Garfield to spend a few days. It was among the best buildings on that end of town and was the property of Capt. T. J. James. Most of Tuckers belongings were saved. The residences in that section are quite close together and with a stiff western breeze it took hard work by the citizens to save that portion of town. While bathing in the swimming pool at Idylwild Miss Thelma Harp came near drowning. Several were there but no one noticed she had ventured where the water was too deep. When noticed she was going under the third time. Messers. V. Chavous and G. H. Ware jumped in to save her as she went under a fourth time. They carried her out of the pool and with restoritive measures she regained conciousness. An interesting game of baseball was pulled off here between Pringle and Wrightsville. The score was 8 to 9 in our favor which shows that there was some expert playing on both sides.

From Days Gone By July 21, 1911

July 21, 1911. On last friday evening at 8:30 the Wrightsville volunteer fire department gave a banquet at the Lovett Hotel, complementary to the mayor, board of aldermen and police force. Col. W. C. Brinson who is a famous "after-dinner speaker" entertained the crowd. Then somebody busted up the party. As the fire team was gathered at the dinner some "smart alecs" who are trying to achieve notoriety as "fake" incendiaries, set fire to an old abandoned shack near the Marcus Street railroad crossing endangering the adjoining property. The long distance cable of the Bell Telephone Company was damaged before the flames were extinguished. This was the third "fake fire" in the last few months and sensible people are tired of it. A real fire is bad enough, and these pranks that continue to be played by some in town should receive strong disapproval from our people and harsh punishment if caught. The Burns building on the corner of Court and Marcus, which was destroyed by fire last year is being rebuilt. It will be ready for occupancy in a few months. This will add to the looks of that portion of town as the debris presented an unsightly appearance. Mr. E. T. Andrews who has been in charge of the City Warehouse resigned as manager and has accepted that position at the Farmers Gin Company. The pay of the R.F.D. carriers which was raised $100 per annum, began July 1st and they are all smiles now. W. S. Williams of the firm of Vickers & Williams & Co. has been at the bedside of his mother who is quite ill. While returning from Idylwild with a party of cyclists, Miss Hilda Blount fell from her wheel near the railroad crossing and painfully bruised her face and arm. Dr. Johnson gave her quick medical attention and she should be fine. Mr. & Mrs. Silas Powell are happy over the arrival of a daughter this week. Miss Alma Blount celebrated her 8th birthday. Prof. W. L. Bryan who is now reading law at Columbia University, New York City, writes of his stay in Gotham. He is having a birds-eye view of the city from the 45th story of the tower on the Metroplitan Building from which it is said that over 1 -16th the homes in the U. S. can be seen from the 50th floor, which is the tallest substantial structure in the world. Today at Savannah, the Oglethorpe Light Infantry will commemorate the semi-centennial of the 1st Battle of Mannassas, and of the 50 men who left Savannah May 21, 1861, 11 are known to be living, and Capt. John L. Martin of this city is one of that number to be present on this occasion. This company was a part of the 8th GA Regt. commanded by Francis S. Bartow who was killed at Manassas while planting the colors of the brigade. Mr. Stephens, Johnson County's lower House member introduced a bill to abolish the city court of Wrightsville. Many favor this move while just as many oppose it to make it a lively debate. Mrs. Annie Bell Jackson Tanner passed away at "Ingleside" her home near here. Her health had been declining for some time. She went upstairs to lay down when a few minutes later she was discovered dead. She was the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Jackson of Donaldson and the wife of Bartow B. Tanner. Mrs. S. G. McCoy, widow of the late Alex McCoy died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. D. A. Brown in Cochran. Her death was quite a surprise as her illness was short. She was buried at Kittrell. Mr. J. R. Edwards, the notoriously successful truck farmer, brought to town a cabbage head, that heads'em all. This cabbage had a cluster of heads (22 in number) growing from one single stalk. The heads were perfect in shape and maturity, each about the size of a lemon. Last saturday Charlie Linder, a well known colored man, was tried before Judge Kent for selling whiskey and sentenced to 10 months on the chaingang. On Sunday Sheriff Davis pulled 5 more coloreds, 3 men and 2 women for selling whiskey. These tigers were placed in jail for the next trial. So the ranks of the whiskey dealers are being thinned out.

From days Gone by july 14, 1911

July 14, 1911. During the thunderstorms last week it was found out that the Wrightsville Methodist Church was not the only one struck by lightning. Two more methodist churches were hit in the Dublin District the same day. In addition to Wrightsville, the methodist churches at Brewton and Adrian were struck also. Local legislation was introduced in this session of the Georgia Legislature, entitled an Act, to create a Board of Roads and Revenue Commissioners for the county of Johnson. It will sub-divide the county into three road districts consisting of three members, electing a commissioner from each district. The Act provides for the appointment of three commissioners whose term of office shall be until the election and qualification of their successors at the next general election. It will also describe their jurisdiction and powers. This legislation was submitted by Messers. H. T. Downs, P. B. Bedingfield, J. C. Cave, J. T. Fulford, M. C. Carter and C. T. Bray. It is estimated that there were about 1500 people at Idylwild Sunday attending the all day sing. The trains over the W. & T. were loaded, all taking advantage of the cheap rates. Jas M. Cook went to Savannah to get his car which had been sent there for repairs. E. A. Lovett and family are visiting Lithia Springs. They made the trip in their automobile, W. H. Lovett at the wheel. Mrs. W. A. Sinquefield is quite ill here in the city. Rev. S. A. Hearns of Sparks is here by the illness of Mrs. Hearns who is sick with billious fever at the home of her parents, Mr. & Mrs. W. W. Anthony. After an illness of several days Samps Johnson is up and out again. Mrs. G. T. Vaughn died here friday of pallagra. Her remains were taken to Avera in Jefferson County. She is survived by her husband and two children, one an infant five months old. T. J. Williams and J. S. Bell applied as executors of the estate of the late W. F. Taylor. J. H. Rowland asks for letters of dismission from the estate of J. C. and L. V. Chester. On tuesday Miss Gussie Wall Mathias and Mr. Leslie Claxton were married by the grooms brother, Rev. James Claxton. They left to honeymoon at Tallulah Falls. They will reside in Kite. Dr. W. F. Quillian of Monterey New Mexico will be the new president of the Methodist Training School in Nashville. He graduated Emory College and at the age of 21 he accepted the presidency of Warthen College. Prof. Paul Bryan who has been teaching at Emory College the past year, and is now at the University of Chicago, has accepted a scholarship to attend Yale College at New Haven, Conneticut this fall. Bryan graduated Emory with distinction and has taught at prominent institutions in Georgia and Texas, and while at Yale, he expects to fit himself for the degree of Ph. D. Policeman J. T. Ferguson and J. W. Ausbon are hearing complaints in regard to the bad condition of the hog pens located in the different sections of town. This is notice to get your hog pens in a good sanitary condition. It is necessary to the health of the town that these hog pens should be kept clean. We will be making a round of inspections and without regard to race, color, wealth, poverty or previous condition of servitude, we are going to make cases against those whose hog pens are not found in a clean, healthy condition. So get busy and look after this matter now; it may save you some money!